The Ubiquitous Elton John

[My friend posted this video on my Facebook wall recently, reminding me of our love of singing "Bennie & the Jets" in the car. The story turns in 27 Dresses after James Marsden and Katherine Heigl karaoke the song on a bar.]

As long as I've known what music is, I've known who Elton John is. I remember my mom singing along to his songs when they'd come on the radio during car rides when I was little. On a sadder note, I can even recall seeing his performances of "Candle in the Wind" after Princess Diana's funeral. Fast forward 15 years, and I've developed my own love and appreciation for the icon. Maybe it's because he seems to be everywhere, especially in my favorite shows and movies. But I'm not complaining. Here are as few ways Elton John is entwined into some of the things I love most in life.

One more thing: 2 of my posts (here and here) in the last week have featured Elton-inspired titles. 

The Lowdown: In Moulin Rouge!, Ewan McGregor's Christian woos Nicole Kidman's Satine with his campy yet pitch-perfect version of "Your Song."

The Significance: Moulin Rouge! just happens to be my favorite film. If you are one of those straight-shooters who can't stomach Baz Luhrmann's theatricality, at least buy the soundtrack.

The Lowdown: "Circle of Life" is the theme song of The Lion King. If you have eyes to watch and ears to hear and any room in your heart for a Disney movie, you know this.

The Significance: This is the first movie I saw in a movie theater! I was only 3 at the time, so I'm not sure if I even knew what was going on.

The Lowdown: In "Family Guy," an injury forces Peter to use a wheelchair. This saddens him as he cannot partake in his typical activities like chasing after and berating his daughter Meg. The tone is set with "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" playing in the background.

The Significance: I undoubtedly consider "Family Guy" to be one of my favorite shows, and I've seen every episode (at least the ones in seasons 2-8) about three times.

The Lowdown: Jim's unrequited love for Pam is just being established in an early episode of "The Office." At the interoffice awards show, the Dundies, Michael performs his version of "Tiny Dancer" by changing the lyrics to "tiny Dundy." Later, Jim watches Pam leave while Elton John's rendition plays.

The Significance: Not only is "The Office" tied for one of my favorite shows, but hearing "Tiny Dancer" play in the scene is one of the rare moments that this mockumentary-style show features background music. Moreover, Jim and Pam are the cutest fictional couple in existence. And John Krasinski by himself isn't too bad either.

xo Heidi

Rewind and Unwind

After a nearly 85 degree day (and the past few 75 degree days), the summer mindset of taking it easy and savoring every minute seems to be leaking into the brains of the general population on my campus. And I'm not immune. The steamy days and cool June-like nights have me fooled into thinking summer's only weeks away. I can't help but dream about road-tripping to Tennessee to visit my friend, going on morning walks, chatting outside of Starbucks with my girlfriends, and enjoying grilled meals of corn on the cob and steak with my family. But it's merely March, and those activities will have to wait a little longer. However, relaxation doesn't have to be tied to the summer months only. One way to play up the lovely weather and take a breather from the reality of winter: music. I'm sure everyone has a few songs on their playlist that reflect the mellowness of summer nights relaxing by a bonfire or getting ice cream. Here are some of mine...

"Oxford Comma" by Vampire Weekend

"Blister in the Sun" by Violent Femmes

"Dancing in the Moonlight" by Toploader

"Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers

"The Joker" by Steve Miller Band

"Send Me On My Way" by Rusted Root

"Us" by Regina Spektor

"Baby I Love Your Way" by Peter Frampton

"Champagne Supernova" by Oasis

"About Mr. Brown" by O.A.R.

"Yellow Ledbetter" by Pearl Jam 

"Somebody Like You" by Keith Urban

"Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley

"Bubble Toes" by Jack Johnson

"See the World" by Gomez

"Hide Me Babe" by Garrett Hedlund

"Bennie and the Jets" by Elton John

"Shine" by David Gray

"Where Are You Going" by Dave Matthews Band

"Sea of Love" by Cat Power

 All available on iTunes.

xo Heidi 

Spring Staples

Spring moves way too fast for a season with so many lustworthy trends. I tend to make lists of the seasonal must-haves as I sift through monthly magazines, and here are the pieces that I consider essential for spring. 

1. The Easy, Fringe Tee

Perfectly encapsulating the essence of spring and its carefreeness, a loose-fitting fringe t-shirt in a fun print is equal parts boho and grunge, a suitable balance to the season's ultra-feminine pencil and midi skirts.

Fringe Tribal Top, $15.80, forever21.com

2. The Fun yet Versatile Clutch

A neutral pouch purse with a quirky punch adds interest to your wardrobe without throwing practicality out the window. Bonus points for hints of neon snuck into otherwise simple designs, an up-and-coming Spring 2012 trend.

Zipped Clutch, $89.90, zara.com

3. The Tropical Print Skirt

Okay, so this look screams summer, but it undoubtedly displays enthusiasm for the spring months as well. Bright, botanical, and a little bit kitschy, a scenic tropical skirt plays up the I-don't-care-and-just-threw-this-on vibe of the warming temps.

Asymmetric Chiffon Skirt, $49.90, zara.com

4. The Lively Shorts Suit

Take it from me: you don't have to be a working girl to wear a shorts suit. Especially one as vibrant as this. Think of the style as merely an alternative to a skirt and sweater. I'll attempt to bust one of these out when I'm having a "classy" day and a t-shirt and shorts just won't suffice. Best part is, mixing and matching is completely encouraged.

ASOS Premium Biker Jacket in Boucle, $107.43

ASOS Premium Knicker Short, $53.72

Both at asos.com

5. The Sheer, Non-Black Tights

Let's face it--we won't be seeing the thermometer hit 80 degrees (or even seventy) for another couple months. But that's no reason to keep your shorts, skirts, and dresses locked up in the back of your closet. The solution: sheer tights, a springy update on the usual opaque kind. And retailers like American Apparel offer plenty of colors to choose from, ensuring that every outfit you put together keeps your legs a tiny bit toastier.

Sheer Luxe Pantyhose, $20, americanapparel.com

6. The Tortoiseshell Wayfarers

Wave buh-bye to bug eyes and open your pockets to the latest It-shades: the wayfarers. These sunnies have been around for some time now but are reentering their heyday now. And a light tortoiseshell color complements the greater abundance of daylight coming our way.

Aerie Icon Sunglasses, $15.50, aerie.com

7. The Midi Wrap Dress

             Nope, it's not a bathrobe, I swear. But it is as comfortable as one. A wrap dress in the currently hot midi length is non-fussy yet ladylike. For day, flat sandals and a sunhat complete the ensemble; when the sun goes down, just add a pair of heels and some loud jewelry for a pluckily unique look.

Wrap Dress, $100, TopShop stores, topshop.com for locations

8. The Simple Chain Necklace

                       Think a little extra shine, not a whole hip-hop star's worth of bling, when you picture this trend. A long, slightly thicker gold or silver chain infuses a breezy white blouse with polish or acts as a layering base for other thinner necklaces if you're into heavy accessorizing. Just be sure to alternate thicknesses and colors to avoid looking like you're in a rap video.

Curb Chain Necklace, $6.80, forever21.com

9. The 90's Floral Wedge

              Ah, remember the 90's and all those oddly colored floral patterns? Well they're back. And I'm kinda glad. Not only does the time period bring back fond memories of being a kid, but there's something darkly feminine about 90's floral. It's graphic yet elegant, dainty yet brazen. Full of contradictions, this somewhat grungy and totally nostalgic look will ground even the most diaphanous sundress.

Kimchi Blue Quarterstrap Wedge, $49, urbanoutfitters.com

 10. The Basic Denim Vest

                   This unassuming topper also acts as a sturdy balance to the femininity of spring dressing. Layered over a delicate dress or a sheer t-shirt, its boxiness downplays girlishness for a tough-chick air that I'm so into right now. Because let's be honest--one can only handle so much pastel pink and intricate lace in such a transient season.

Levi's Denim Trucker Vest, $68, urbanoutfitters.com

xo Heidi

To the Nines: Michelle Williams

 This weekend, Michelle Williams will attend the Academy Awards due to her well-deserved Best Actress nom for her role in My Week with Marilyn. To congratulate the star on this honorable achievement, I've selected her nine best looks throughout the years. Best of luck, and can't wait to see what you wear on Sunday, Michelle!

Far Left: Vera Wang, 2006

Top Row, L-R: Chloe, 2009// Chanel, 2010// Jason Wu, 2010// Givenchy, 2006

Bottom Row, L-R: Christian Dior, 2011// Sonia Rykiel, 2010// Prada, 2012// Azzaro, 2010

xo Heidi

[PRESS PLAY: "It Had to Be You" by Motion City Soundtrack. Available on on iTunes.]

NYFW '12: Rebecca Taylor-Vivienne Tam

Already shoulder-deep in the fashion shows taking place across the pond, I have yet to finish discussing the best looks from New York's shows. Well, it seems like this is going to be one chic fall!

The final installment of my favorite NYFW trends:

 Rebecca Taylor

[The perpetually feminine Rebecca Taylor continues impress with her understatedly unique pieces. Always wearable but never bland, her clothing stands out with cool details. This season, sheer-paneled slits and fuzz-adorned sweatshirts delight my girlish eye. But what sticks with me most are the perplexing sheer pants layered under shorts in the third picture. A more comfortable alternative to tights, perhaps?]

Suno
[When Rachel McAdams wore this blue dress last year, I hurriedly set out to find who was responsible for such a fun, offbeat look. That's when I first learned of Suno, and the name has been on my mind ever since. And after seeing the label's latest collection, it goes without saying that its designers are the masters of print. Mismatched florals, stripes, or botanical scenes, it's all good if it's Suno.]

Tadashi Shoji
[Having burst into the fashion scene after Oscar nominee Octavia Spencer wore his gowns this awards season, Tadashi Shoji didn't hurt his newfound popularity with his recent fall runway show. Emerald sheer, two-toned tulle, gold glitter, and floral silk all sashayed down the catwalk ready to be worn to the next big awards show (Oscars, maybe?)--you would never guess the maker was fairly obscure until now.]

Thakoon
[If I had to describe Thakoon's fall line using only one word, it would be "fresh." With the models' clean makeup (save for bold red lips), the shiny red and black fabrics, and the minimal accessorizing, Thakoon makes being chic look so easy. But my favorite part of the new collection is the 3/4 sleeve sheath dress (1st and 3rd pictures). It calls to mind the mid-20th century but at the same time looks so untried and original.]

Tory Burch
[Sometimes I fear aging; not for typical reasons like wrinkles and menopause (hey, I can say "menopause" on here if I want), but because I'm afraid I'll have to forfeit stylish dressing. But Tory Burch proves that is surely not the case. She clearly doesn't design for a set age group, because I fell in love with each one of her pieces as a 20 year-old--everything from the tight plaid trousers to the chain-strap, flower-adorned purses--but I can also see myself wearing the same ensembles when I'm forty.]

Tracy Reese
[Wow, does this woman have a way with color! Turquoise and purple, orange and gold, green and royal blue, she somehow assembles her pieces to make any combination work. Another relatively wearable line, I can see myself wearing her t-shirt/skirt combos with flat sandals to class and with heels and added jewelry at night. Bonus: with hues this bright, my friends would never lose me in a crowd.]

Vivienne Tam
[Whether the task is creating a party-ready LBD or a lazy Sunday brunch outfit, Vivienne Tam is up to it. She can make sexy, slinky gowns with cutouts along the torso and soft, printed sweatshirts look equally appealing. Right now, though, I'm really just wishing I could crawl into those loose gray trousers, a much more polished alternative to my uniform of sweatpants.]

xo Heidi

[PRESS PLAY: "Through the Dark" by Alexi Murdoch. Available on iTunes.] 

NYFW '12: Jason Wu-Oscar de la Renta

New York Fashion Week is over (the shows continue over in Europe), but I'm still reeling over the all of the beautiful sartorial creations debuted last week. So, naturally, my list of favorite collections continues.

The second set of reasons I'm looking forward to fall:

 Jason Wu

[The young newcomer continues to stun with his unparalleled designer's eye. This season he took cues from the far East, boasting colorful brocade pantsuits and draped silk skirts. Red and black add a major dose of sex appeal to an otherwise conservative gown, while a simple cape is made exotic with heavy embellishment.]

Jenny Packham

[After seeing Kate Middleton strutting around in Ms. Packham's design last year, I can't help but picture the Duchess wearing each gown sent down the runway this past week. While the elegance of the dresses are an obvious choice for Kate, the interesting details (like choker necklines and sequin-studded shoulders) remind me that Blake Lively and Carrie Underwood are also fans of the brand.]

Marchesa

[Ever the connoisseurs of intricacy, Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig of Marchesa yet again baffle and woo me with their complicated, one-of-a-kind confections. Gilded satin ball gowns and ethereal, feathery mermaid silhouettes can really make a Midwestern girl wish she had some fancier weekend plans. And hey, check out the eagle on the third dress pictured! The trend lives on.] 

Michael Kors

[Oh, how this line makes me want to cuddle up next to a fireplace in a cabin in Aspen! But since I have neither a Colorado chalet nor the money to buy these lustworthy Kors pieces, I will commit to memory this coziness--turtleneck sweaters, relaxed checkered trousers, long-sleeved maxi dresses, and long menswear vests--and hunt it down at more reasonably priced retailers.]

Milly

[Bright and eclectic, the ensembles at Milly can easily add a pop of fun (and neon pink) to any girl's everyday wardrobe. The flouncy metallic skirt, the tweed short suit, the lace print frock--all of these are totally wearable with a pair of black tights and a layered coat or tee. Best part: there's no way an inexpensive seller like Forever 21 will be able to pass up recreating such lively looks (with much lower price tags).]

Monique Lhuillier

[Red, black, and gold are the go-to colors for Ms. Lhuillier this year. Although she exhibited a darker, sultrier collection than typical, she didn't leave behind her signature romance, as proven by the floaty gowns, sheer panelling, and lace trim. It's the blood red and use of heavy metal that are fresh for fall. Bravo! She's invented a gothic I want to try.] 

Oscar de la Renta

[Oscar de la Renta has purely amazed me this season. I've really only regarded him as a gown designer in the past, but with working-girl sets and Jackie O-worthy shifts, he has clearly proven his talent extends beyond the realm of Red Carpet. How a man can design such unapologetically feminine, ladylike pieces, I don't know, but looking through his collection, I am oh-so happy to be a girl.]

xo Heidi

[PRESS PLAY: "Only If for a Night" by Florence + the Machine. Available on iTunes.] 

Valentine's Day for Suckers

[While this (a scene from Love Actually) would be a great way to spend V-Day, 

not everyone has the pleasure of living a romantic comedy version of a life.]

Ah, it's here again. The day of love and all things couple-y. But I'm not crying and neither should you. I plan to take advantage of Valentine's Day; it's my excuse to watch chick flicks and eat (a lot). Are you with me?!

 My Picks...

TO WATCH: 

Love Actually

...is actually a perfect Valentine's Day movie, even though it's typically marketed as a Christmas flick. Come to think of it, it's a perfect "any day" movie.

What's Your Number?

...surprised me with its romantic charm. I had it pegged for more of a stupid/funny comedy, but my roommates and I can attest to the fact that it's got a lot of heart--we watched it about 3.5 times this weekend.

(500) Days of Summer

...has a specific reason for viewing on the 14th. It's so real and raw, but--SPOILER ALERT--the ending is truly happy and promises that life goes on after heartbreak. So quit your moping, fellow singletons!

TO EAT:

Shrimp-Stuffed Shells

...are hearty enough to fill the empty stomach of a dateless (and thus dinnerless) girl on a Tuesday night, but they also happen to be from Cooking Light magazine. No worries, diet skeptics: tried and true, my friends and family will tell you not to pass on this recipe. 

P.S. Use a spicy sauce for extra flavor. 

Pink Peanut Butter Hugs

...are the ultimate combination of festive and easy. You still get the pink and sparkly without wasting your time baking a complicated confection for your nonexistent significant other. A definite plus to being single: no sharing. Recipe here.

TO WEAR:

Pajamas (duh)

...like these Cotton Mayfair ones from Victoria's secret are cozy without sacrificing the cute. I already have a version from a few seasons ago that I will be wearing, but this butterfly print set is utterly adorable and just screams spring. At $39.50, I guess a second pair isn't that unreasonable...

AND WHY NOT...

...indulge in some nail art?

One of my favorite things about the rise of Pinterest? All of the awesome nail ideas. Pull out your polish collection and log into Pinterest while watching your movie. 

Here are my favorites:

Night Sky

Scrabble Letters

Jewelry Inspired

xo Heidi

[PRESS PLAY: "The World Should Revolve Around Me" by Little Jackie. Available on iTunes.]