All that Jazz

Hey, it’s me! I feel like that dead beat friend that comes around when the wind blows in heavy. I take some pictures for  the intended post, write out my thoughts and feelings and leave my poor blog to steady on until I come around again. I say this to those who actually take their time to read through my lengthy posts and I say this to my first project baby (my blog), I’m sorry! I wonder if me saying that I mean well will hold any weight? Okay, no excuses. I need to get better at managing my two projects. If you don’t see me writing candidly on here, then you’ll catch me on Tracey Edmonds’ website www.alrightnow.com (the link tab isn’t working ) under the “Lookgood” tab. God works in mysterious ways, let me tell you! That’s the only thing I can say about how I was given that opportunity. I’m not promoting on my own blog here like some pretentious bugger, I just wanted to put it out there that I’m not some come and go-jive turkey. 

Speaking of jive turkey, the holidays are coming. I had to make a post for my favorite season. You know I’m basic so I love the Fall season like everyone else out there. But, if I had to try to set myself apart from the masses, I’d say the Fall season to me is special  because it gives me hope. Hope that a new beginning is ahead. As trees shed leaves, I can’t help but to see the changes in the greenery as one big metempsychosis. Shedding the old to bring in the new. Making room for the things to come. Listen, I’m no tree hugger, okay! I’m saying everything around us in the Fall season signifies, perhaps, that we can all do ourselves some good by shedding some dead layers off.  What doesn’t suit you anymore? What signs have you been getting from the Universe? I’m one to talk; your girl has yet to take that trip to the women’s shelter to donate clothes. Or hell, even try a new hair color. However; I am on the PTA board committee. Did I just deflect? Okay Okay!!! All, I know is that I’ve been feeling like a change is coming and this Fall season makes it feel all the more sweeter. I hope whoever is reading this finds a way to center themselves, listen to your assigned Angels and recognize the signs they lay out for you when they’re trying to guide you through change. Oh and listen to some Jazz! That always helps me !!

Love you guys and thanks for reading!

Xoxo, 

Catherine

Alrightnow

The Gift of Nostalgia

This season I thought I’d finally have my thoughts in order to be able to put together a flawless Christmas: sending out Christmas cards, baking a new Christmas cupcake every weekend, or even posting more during this time of year. Did I do any of those things?....... No. Time ran away from me like I’m sure it does to most of us out there. But, as I was strolling around my favorite part of town (Uptown Whittier) and I saw the beautiful Christmas decorations and was humming along to the carols being played I realized that it wasn’t too late to feel the excitement of Christmas.

 I know that we get caught up in the, “what am I getting so and so”, and the proverbial, “how am I going to afford all of this?”. Once you’ve played those thoughts in your head over and over, Christmas almost begins to feel like a chore in a sense. I know all too well from growing up in a single parent household as the middle child that certain compromises during this time of year would have to be made. My mom would say,”Do you guys want gifts or our traditional Seafood Gumbo?”.  Of course my sisters and I would vote for our traditional Gumbo because that’s a tradition we hold close this time of year. But, my mom being the Super Hero she is, some how would find a way to still give us gifts for Christmas. Like I’ve said in previous posts, there’s a special place in Heaven for my mom. While we didn’t have the lavish Christmases our friends did, we had each other. Corny, but true.  

This year we had a loss in our family during  the worst time of year to experience something so sad. Grief is a very strange emotion. You think you know how you’re going to handle something, but then BOOM !! There you are.... a wreck. You can’t speak to that person anymore when the thought of them comes to mind. But, through everything you have to see the beauty in things. That’s the only way to live. I mean that with my entire being.  You see, my Mother, Aunt and Uncle haven’t spent Christmas together  in their entire adult years. This year, with the passing of their Mother (my Grandma), they’ve finally reunited and are being given the gift of .... each other. My heart is so full with the experience of being able to spend this holiday season at my Grandma’s table sharing childhood stories with my Mom, sisters, cousin, Aunt and Uncle.  My Grandma really gave us all the best Christmas gift ever through her passing. She gave us each other and with that was the gift of Nostalgia. For that I will forever be grateful. Thank you Grandma. 

With love to you all,

Cathy

End of Season

As the last weekend of Summer approaches, it's time to say goodbye to the colorful wardrobe. I'm usually not one to go full on with loud colors, but I couldn't resist pairing my new "Mary Poppins" dress with some  loud accessories. I get a "Cuba" vibe from my ruffled dress, so I wanted to create the idea of a "Hot Havana Night in L.A.". My yellow feathered earrings pulled that idea together seamlessly and my Michael Kors purse was the exact color that would throw everything off; just the way I like it. 

Seasons change as do some people. Something I've learned this past year is that change is inevitable. I tend to fear change because I like the comfort of my day to day. But, I've come to realize that in order to grow as a person and in spirit, change is necessary. 

Until next time guys, take care!

Xoxo, 

Catherine 

Sunday Granny

Sunday's are usually my favorite days. For some odd reason I like to listen to old jazz or sometimes I switch it up and listen to 80's Pop music while I  walk around in a circle with my cup of coffee before I figure out what I'm doing for the day; which is more than likely laundry and taking my Millie to see her YaYa, my Mom. Boring; just the way I like it!! I get total pleasure out of my daughter hanging out with her YaYa on a Sunday while I watch the two of them be silly and love on each other. Something I get to relive from my childhood with my PaPa. 

So there you have it: Sunday's are meant for Grandparents, laundry and hits from the oldie's station. At least for me anyway. 

See you guys soon!

Xoxo, Catherine

She BANGS

It's become a joke around work how getting bangs can either make or break you. Why is that a joke? Because my first reaction to getting bangs was rather DRAMATIC! So now everyone says "I got bangs and you're just jealous because of the risk I've taken by getting bangs!" A little comedy routine my sweet coworkers thought of as I was going through my little crisis. Oh and just an FYI I got over my DRAMATIC moment the second I realized it cuts my makeup routine down by 30 minutes because I can hide behind them. 

Anywho, that's what's going on with me!!

I've been a bit busy with work/life balance so that's why I've been MIA, but I'll try to keep you guys up to date on my current affairs!

Take care guys!

Xoxo,

Catherine

Top: H&M

Jeans: Zara

Mules: F21

OOTD

Just a quick and easy outfit to rush off to work. I grabbed the first thing I could find in my closet and threw on some knee high boots to liven up the fact that I didn't bother to comb my hair. Luckily I had my trusted trench coat in my car to throw the whole look together. Speaking of throwing things together, I found my choker in my purse as I was putting on my lipstick in traffic. Talk about a total come up!!

Any who, gotta run!

Take care out there and see you soon,
Xoxo

Trench: F21
Hoodie dress: F21
Knee high boots: F21
Backpack: street vendor

In The Waiting Line

I know all too well that good things come to those who wait. Growing up I was always inpatient until one day my mom asked me, "If the line to Heaven was too long, would you just walk off and quit?" You just gotta love my mom and her way of thinking!

 I say this on today's post because I know my little blog has come a long way. While it's been slow and steady in progressing, I stand in the waiting line of whatever God has in stored for it patiently.

Have a beautiful Sunday!

Xoxo

Moto Jacket: F21
Plaid woven: H&M
Distressed Jeans: H&M
Booties: Steve Madden
Purse: Louis Vuitton speedy 35
Hat : vintage LA dodgers cap

The Girl On Catalina

Paying homage to my favorite song in the ENTIRE WORLD "The Girl From Ipanema", by Astrud Gilberto and Stan Getz. The mix of jazz along with Latin notes does something to my spirit that I cannot describe. I remember the first time I heard this song a while back, not only did it captivate me, but it melted my heart. It's not only the melody that gives this song a special place in my heart, it's the story within the song that I fell in love with. The lyrics tell a story of a girl who is unaware of what's going on around her as she strolls around town carelessly as she is in her thoughts. As a person who is often in their thoughts (sometimes over thinking), I can relate.

On a rare day off I was able to stroll along Catalina island and take in the little pleasures we sometimes forget to stop and pay attention to. Like the pink and purple sky as the sun sets, the smell of Star Jasmine at the end of the day, or even feel the cool breeze on your skin after a hot day. I was so far off in my thoughts that once I realized where I was and what was around me, it hit me: "I'm living out a part from my favorite song!"
That moment alone made my summer complete. I truly hope that my readers find their bliss this summer in whatever they hold dear.

The outfit choice for the island was a no brainer! This summer's hottest go to piece is off the shoulder dresses and tops. They're effortlessly glamorous and give you instant sex appeal. You can play with this style however you see fit. Whether you wat to throw on a couple of accessories like bracelets or statement earrings, or you just want your shoulders to do all the talking...its up to you. I played  it simple with just my usual pop of color with my red and gold sandals along with my white tote. I didn't play with my accessories for this look because it was hot and I didn't want to take away from my dress. I find that when something is a real treasure, you shouldn't have to over compensate. ;)

I hope you have an easy blissful summer, guys! Thanks for reading.

Sincerely,
Xoxo

Dress:H&M
Sandals: Chinese Laundry
Purse: Anne Klein
Puff balls: H&M
Scarf: Old Navy

Déjà Vu

Ever put an outfit together and wonder where the idea came from or thought something in particular about the outfit looked familiar? Today's look embodies total "déjà vu". I instantly thought of the "Supreme" look from American Horror Story  (the entire cast was dressed in all black in New Orleans heat and still managed to look chic.) Crazy what the subconscious can do.

Often times I like to add random pops of color to oufits that are too matchy-matchy. A quirk of mine that I can't seem to help. The black western hat and black slip dress matched too perfectly together that I had to add a touch of color with my red fringe sandals. While the entire color palette may be a little off to some; the idea is still cohesive. The fringe goes with the western appeal of my hat which all ties together with my simple black slip. I like to play with themes, but still add a piece of my own identity to the over all look.

Thanks for stopping by for a read. Sorry I've been MIA. I've been busy with work and pursuing another passion of mine. But, don't worry! I'll never forget to come back home to you guys at Fashion_Cassonade.

Until next time,
Xoxo

Hat: F21
Slip dress: F21
Fringe sandals: F21

Photographer: Jorge Benitez

Simple Sundays

Snuggled up on my favorite chair in the house on this rainy day with some coffee and comfortable socks makes for the perfect Sunday afternoon. Yes, I'm one of those people who loves gloomy weather. I know, I'm so basic. But, I live for days like this when I can just listen to the "Telepopmusik" station on Pandora and drink coffee out of my tea set and do absolutely nothing...except maybe bake.

See you guys next time!

Xoxo

Dress: H&M
Socks: F21
Tea set: special gift from BFF

Comfort Zone

Thick knit sweaters on a gloomy day just sound so right. Days like this should be spent curled up on the couch with a thick blanket while eating chocolate and watching "Bridget Jones' Diary". Oh wait... I have to run errands... I guess my simple pleasures will have to wait.

Until next time loves,
Xoxo

Sweater: H&M
Blazer: F21
Purse: Louis Vuitton speedy 35
Shoes: Nike 5.0

Wanna be

The aphorism "clothes do not make the man" strongly applies to today's post. Wearing nice clothes are never a bad thing and no one should be made to feel bad for taking pride in their appearance, but once you strip away your clothes; who are you? I take pride in being able to say I know my inner self. It took me a long time to get here and be comfortable in my own skin. After all, in my eyes I'm still the buck toothed girl who is terribly bow legged. But, I've had strong/positive female influences in my life who taught me about self love, so that may have something to do with me being able to walk with my head held high. Often times some people confuse those who dress nicely and are self aware with being conceited or stuck up, which is not fair. Especially when you know the humility that lives within your heart. I'm a middle child who grew up in a single parent house hold, that alone should tell you I had to grow up with a sense of humor all while maintaining a stiff upper lip.

I definitely do not take myself or the clothes I wear seriously. Yeah I like nice clothes, who doesn't? But, clothing can only take you so far. A sense of self is what makes the overall look come together. Case in point: if the shirt I was wearing didn't say BALMAIN and was a basic T-shirt, I would still be the same person. I know that when I throw this shirt back in my closet I'm still the girl who used to stuff her training bra with her mom's shoulder pads until puberty hit. I know I'm still the person who sobs while watching certain Disney movies.

Clothes and designer labels do not make you who you are. They're nice, but they are things. And beauty is only skin deep. True beauty comes from the core of one's self.  Remember, you are the main piece to your wardrobe. You wear your clothes, not the other way around.

Until next time,
Xoxo

Shirt: Balmain H&M
Belt: F21
Pants: H&M
Jacket: F21
Necklace: F21
Watch: Michael Kors

Walk in the park

I would love to say the weather has been consistently cool and the Fall season never looked prettier, but I live in Southern California and that is a luxury we do not have. So on days like this when the weather permits a cool breeze and you actually see the leaves change colors; that is the moment when you HAVE to take a minute for yourself and go for a walk. Now, of course you would want to be wearing something season appropriate and fashionable. I don't know about you, but I can't get in a good meditation state without feeling cute.  Weird... I know.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret: when leisurely walking through the park, I like to listen to certain songs on my playlist, sit on a bench or swing set with a cup of coffee and imagine little scenarios. Really weird... I know! Right now my song and scenario is "Life in Mono" and I'm in New York, Central Park, and I'm wearing today's outfit choice (obviously) and I'm watching life happen. Watching elderly couples be affectionate with each other, watching kids play and watching the sun set off the lake. As you already know from posts I've done in the past, I like to bring some of my scenarios to life. Why limit yourself to imagining when you can make it happen?

The only thing to make this whole scenario come together would be me actually in New York, but sometimes the best of things come later. At least that's what's always proven to be true to me.

Until next time,
Xoxo

Jacket: H&M
Sweater: Zara
Jeans: F21
Purse: F21
Strappy heels: Aldo
Necklace: H&M 

September Issues

As you've already gotten to know based on my previous posts; I have zero act right when it comes to fur and anything shiny. Now, I know it's way too early to break out the faux fur and other heavy layering pieces for the Fall season. It's 98°F outside as we speak... in September! But, who said anything about being outside? I've stated before that I enjoy playing dress up in the comfort of my home. Today's post is no different. While lounging around, I like to still keep it classy with a nice robe and some sort of jewelry. Today I opted for this fur coat I bought a while back. I never really have the chance to wear it because I don't have anything in my daily wardrobe that goes with it. So now I just wear it around the house. I have air conditioning, I can strut around in fur if I want to.

Trust me when I say I'm not high maintenance. I just remember this one nice lady I admired when I was young who would strut around her house in kitten heels, fur, red long nails and all of her gold jewelry. Her name was Ms. Lula. I loved that lady! She would take me to Bible Study with her and she taught me how to pray. She was the nicest lady and she was absolutely fabulous!

Just when you thought I was this 'bougie'  chic; now you see I'm simply emulating one of my favorite people who was dear to me.

Thanks for stopping by and tuning in.

Until next time,
Xoxo

Fur coat: H&M
Sweat pants: F21
Tank top: Hanes
Necklace: F21

Fabulous Too

On today's post I'd like to feature my beautiful daughter, Millie, with her amazing self. Yes, this 2 year old with wild curls and that devilishly beautiful smile holds my entire heart! I know she's only been on this earth for only a couple of years, but I'm very certain she's an old soul. She's very much her own person; she knows what she wants and doesn't take no for an answer. Or wait... maybe I'm just confusing her ability be so strong minded with her just being really good at throwing tantrums. Yes, terrible twos are a real thing! But, I challenge anyone to resist her charm when she kisses you after one of those world class tantrums. All is forgiven in my book.

Aside from her curly hair and her stubbornness, she also has my fashion sense.  Style isn't something you can just teach someone, especially someone as young as Millie. She does her own thing when it comes to looking fabulous. Every time we get ready to leave the house, she has to put on her sunglasses and have  whatever her favorite toy is for the moment. For the time being, those toys are her princess car keys and her Pepa Pig. Another staple piece Millie needs to wear almost everyday are her dresses. When I dress her for the day she'll tell me, "Mommy I'm wearing a dress today". Who am I to argue with her when she's talking to someone who wore ruffle panties at the age of two. The killer for me is when I get her dolled up and ready to go, she goes to the full length mirror and does a full inspection of her overall look. As if she has to make sure I styled her accordingly. Yeah... She's a mess. But, I believe it goes without saying that she didn't steal that sass. Now if only I could get her to be as enthusiastic about me running a comb through her hair as she is about getting dressed up. However, that's a whole other topic... something she didn't steal from me, that's for sure.

I have a sneaking suspicion that I may have my work cut out for me with this little one. But, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Thanks for tuning in once again!
Until next time loves,
Xoxo

(Song for this post dedicated to my Millie Pies is One Republic: I swear I lived)

Haven't dedicated a song to a post in a very long while; thought it would be fitting for my baby girl ;)

Dress: H&M
Shoes: Crocs
Sunglasses: H&M
Smile: My Genes :)

Boho Mojo

Feeling a little under the weather? If so, that makes two of us. As the weather changes from extreme heat to cool nights, my body tends to go haywire. Unfortunately, the only thing I can do to shake this cold is take lots of Musinex and drink hot tea. That and put on a pretty dress to mask how I feel. The worse thing you could do when you're sick is dress dowdy. Have you ever noticed when you wear sweats and an over sized shirt your mood is a little on the lazy side. Yes, you're comfortable, but you're also accepting the fact that you're not feeling good. I've noticed that when you wear something that makes you feel good and confident, you're more likely to get over your cold a lot sooner. Trust me!

Today I pulled out this little bohemian number to give me a boost. This dress is easy to wear; it's comfortable and it takes ZERO effort to put the rest of your outfit together. Since this dress has a pattern, I don't have to indulge in accessories to spice things up. Little add-ons  go a long way with this piece. A long necklace, sandals that compliment the colors in the dress and a nice purse give this look the mojo I need.

I may feel feverish, but the rest of the world shouldn't have to witness the horror. We'll just keep that our little secret... wink wink.

Until next time,
Xoxo

Dress: F21
Sandals: Aldo
Purse: Thrifted
Necklace: F21
Sunglasses: Street vendor
Cocktail ring:F21