Your Mission

Hello out there lovelies,

Your mission for today: challenge yourselves. Do something that's exciting and scary for you! Start a conversaton with a total stranger, wear an insanely huge and obnoxious hat, learn a new skill (sewing, making awesome coffe, changing a tyre, riding a motorcycle perhaps?), take a class (pottery, film-making, massage?) or dive out of a plane if that's your thing! I started small: I wore shorts today. Short ones. I haven't worn shorts this short since I was a newly-teenage teenager. Hey white legs!


Get out there and live your lives! Just go crazy - life is too short to sit around wishing you were out doing exciting things. Don't settle for normal and don't just get by. Be the most amazing person you can be, everyday of your whole damn life. You owe it to yourself to enjoy every interaction, every moment, every breath. Challenge yourself to make every day exciting, and better than the last. You won't regret it, I promise. You'll feel like a whole new person. And, you will be.

Until next time, xo.

Yeezy Gets Dubbed

Not too long ago, man-of-the-hour Kid Cudi rapped over a choice beat sampling Lady Gaga's infectious acoustic version of "Poker Face". Kanye and Common came in for backup and A-Trak dropped by for some cuts (which got credited on the single cover art with "Scratches By A-Trak" - a first in my eyes). Fools Gold sent out the call for remixes and what came back has been blowing up. First - Afrojack's edit keeps the vocals intact and tears in on the bassline. It's a fun record for the club but the change-up from the breakdown gets a little distracting. Take a listen and I think you'll get it. 

The real gem of the remix package is Nadastrom's "88 Dub" (which, for fear of reprisal, I'm not posting, but you can download via the link here on the FG blog). The boys throw the song in a dark, heavy direction, and it bangs. It's going to be hard on my fall rotation and I think it's one of the best edits this duo's done to date (which, after their remix of "Juke Dat Girl" this year, is saying something)

Now, time for a quick shameless plug - for those at Burning Man this week, swing by Root Society at 10:00 and Esplanade. We've got three domes this year and I'll be DJing alongside the likes of Bassnectar, Rabbit in the Moon, Josh Gabriel, DJ Dan and Donald Glaude, Hatiras, Jelo, Joachim Garraud, and electro-house ballers, Santiago and Bushido. There will be dancing until the sun comes up and you might catch me dancing around in a furry pink boa. Might, but probably not.

Love Your Body: Belly Dancing!

Hello there my beautiful readers,

Since I've been having so much fun with my belly-dancing lately, I'd thought I'd do a little write-up about what it is, and why I think it's so damn great. So, here we go.

"Belly dance" is a western term for a traditional arab dance known as raqs sharqi, or "oriental dance". It is native to the Middle-East, but is now popular world-wide. In popular culture, the rise of belly dancing is probably attributable to the Latin American singer Shakira, although a range of pop stars have used belly dancing moves in their film clips. I know I was one of many teenage girls who vowed to learn to belly dance after seeing the film clip for the hit song Whenever, Wherever . I was totally intrigued! Check out this little video of Shakira strutting her stuff to see what had me so hooked:

Most of the movements in belly dancing involve isolating different parts of the body (hips, shoulders, stomach etc), and one of the most famous moves is the shimmy (which, I was suprised to learn is created by moving the knees past each other at high speed). It all looks pretty complicated, right? One of the reasons it's taken me this long to try belly dancing was because I thought it must be really hard to do. While it is in some ways - for example, co-ordinating the movement of only one part of your body at a time - the basic movements are actually pretty easy to learn. In fact, if you've got a few minutes you can learn some basic moves right now:

Belly dancing is a non-impact, weight-bearing exercise, which puts minimal stress on the knees and feet. It is suitable for all ages and all body types, so no excuses! You're not too old, and you're definitely not too fat - some of the sexiest belly dancers have plenty of meat on their bones! Plus, the level of intensity in the movements can be adjusted to suit the individual. Belly dancing can burn as many calories as light jogging, swimming or riding a bike, depending on the level of intensity you use.

Other advantages of belly dancing include:

• Reducing the risk of osteoporosis
• Strengthening the heart
• Increasing circulation
• Strengthening trapezius and abdominal muscles
• Ability to move muscle groups independently
• Increased flexibility in torso and back
• Hip movements strengthen the legs and long muscles of the back

Awesome right? Plus, women who belly dance tend to become more positive towards their sexuality and their bodies. I know that belly dancing makes me feel unbelievably sexy. It is also believed that the belly dance was traditionally taught by the wise women of the group to prepare women for preganancy and childbirth - the movements strengthen the abdominal and pelvic region, apparently making childbirth less painful. Not that I'm planning to give birth anytime soon, but I can still appreciate all the positives!

Well, there you have it - belly dancing is a fun, fabulous exercise that makes you feel sexy and confient, while giving you great abs. So, what are you waiting for?

Until next time, xo.

What I Wore Today, Volume 15 (With A Helping of DIY On The Side)

Hello lovelies,

I'm dressed to suit my true nerdy nature today - because, it is imperative that the world knows that not all nerds are middle-aged men who live in their parents' basement, playing Halo 3 all day instead of getting a real job. I, in fact, have a real job, and am not middle-aged, or a man. And, I can kick your butt on Halo if you let me get the rocket launcher.

Outfit Rundown

"OMG PWNIES" T-shirt: Think Geek, $18.99
Belt: Jay Jays, 2 for $15
Jeans: Target, $20, DIY'ed by yours truly.
Boots: Target, $40

On another note, I made a few adjustments to these jeans in the hope of getting them back into wardrobe rotation. They were bought a few years back, and are now way too big for me, which is never a good look for skinny jeans. So I attacked them with "Denimolition - Denim Distressing Gel", and turned them into baggy capri-like pants. You can't really see in the pictures, but the rips continue all the way down the legs of the pants. I'm not 100% happy with how they turned out - I was hoping for more of a worn look than flat-out holes in my jeans. I think in the future I'll just stick to sandpaper. Still, these babies are fun to prance around in, and that's what really matters right?

Until next time, xo.

Things I love Thursday!

Here's what's crankin' my chain this week:

• That Fat Nerd - a friend of mine has just started a blog, documenting his efforts to reach a healthy weight using video game exercise (Eg. WiiFit, WiiSports, Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Hero), in part to prove that being a gamer doesn't automatically mean you must be fat. I think it's the best idea ever, and I wish him all the luck in the world.
  


• Belly Dancing! - Belly dancing is the latest thing I've tried from my list of new things to try, and I love, love, love it. It gives your abs a great workout, is heaps of fun and makes you feel pretty damn sexy. The Boyfriend is also a fan of my newfound belly dancing obsession.


• Going through old magazines and ripping out the DIY pages - I have a huge collection of these pages now. A rather invaluble resource for the days that I decide to tie dye, play with bleach & fabric paint or redesign my own shoes because they're far too boring.
  


• The First Wives Club - Book or movie, take your pick. The book is decidedly more serious, but the movie has Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler and Diane Keaton. And, I have to admit that I'm a sucker for it, and the whole "sisters are doing it for themselves" vibe.
  


• Reading American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis - This man is an amazing writer. Absolutely amazing. And also disturbing. I only recommend reading this book if you have a strong stomach and a twisted sense of humour - or are just incredibly unfazed by violence. If you are one of those people though, I would whole-heartedly recommend it. It is a dark (and did I mention disturbing?) look at the mindless preoccupations of our society.
  


• I can touch my head to my knees when I touch my toes now!

• My life - I'm just in such a good place at the moment, and everything seems to be falling perfectly into place. Like my life is suddenly decided to align itself with my desires, or something equally mystical. Anyway, I'm having so much fun right now, just living.
  



spotlight on you by alais photography

Other assorted happiness gems: feeling inspired, creative and driven; drinking way too much iced coffee; borrowing library books; researching business avenues; finding a decent pair of work pants for $12.95; thinking of slogans to put on a groupie sign (another friend of mine is playing his first live gig Saturday night!); sewing at 3AM; ducking responsibility and spending the night watching Daria episodes on youtube; Vinyasa Yoga, sun salutations and shoulder stands; accidentally falling asleep during the relaxation section after a good yoga workout, getting Tim Minchin tickets right near the front of the stage; amazing supportive friends and love, glorious love.

Urban Decay by yARebirth

Until next time, xo.

Jokers of the Scene - "Baggy Bottom Boys"

Ten blog years ago, I fell in love with Nacho Lovers' "Acid Life" and Jokers of the Scene's "Baggy Bottom Boys." And though much has happened and a whole slew of huge new cuts have been released since these tunes first found their respective ways into my sets, I still play both out on the regular.

But to make sure y'all didn't somehow forget about our Canadian friends, the crew over at Fool's Gold went out and did up a video for the J.O.T.S. hit. And the flick rules. Granted it took me a good five or so tries to watch the whole thing (so as to avoid a seizure), but still. Everything rules. This video falls under the umbrella of "everything." Thus, this video rules.

Jokers Of The Scene "Baggy Bottom Boys" from Mr Goldbar on Vimeo.

EDIT: Another of those old movie videos. This time courtesy of DJ Ayres and one of his pals. This one popped up half a year ago, but I'm pretty sure I never saw it till this afternoon. (Thanks to our friends at Electric Zoo for the heads up.)

Dani Deahl - "Poppin' Bottles"

We here at Panda Toes love miss Dani Deahl. Her tunes rock socks off, her mixing's on point, and she's an all-around splendid gal. Thus, it comes as no surprise that I find myself ignoring a movie about Italian fascism, opting instead to post up the video for her "Poppin' Bottles."

A few things struck me throughout the video.

1) The man in the video is chubby.
2) I wish I had his mustache.
3) I need more Dani Deahl shots in her next flick.

And that's about it. Elementary observations to say the very least, for the Dartmouth love for Dani can't be summarized, can't be quantified, etc. So yea, I'm not even gonna try. Enjoy the tune, enjoy the video, and be sure to catch Dani if she ever rolls through a town near you.

Ke$ha + Uffie

And this is where y'all lose what little respect you for some reason or another still have for me. But this has to happen. I honest to goodness wish it didn't, but it does. 'Cause when you school in New Hampshire and consequently end up DJing at fraternity parties and sorority formals two or three times a week, sometimes you've gotta play a little Ke$ha. And as much as I'd like to tell y'all that I hate it, y'all know I'm 100% down with the snippets that sound like Uffie. (Guess that's another credibility killer, but so it goes. Don't ever try to make me renounce my love for Lady Uff.) So in conclusion, this track kills it. Try playing this to a bunch of girls in their late teens and early 20s. Huge. Glad to get that off my chest. Thanks for understanding.



P.S. New Uffie material. I need it. Like really, really need it. I remember getting a MySpace message from her in mid-2008 telling me that an album was gonna drop by that Christmas. Sadly, no. Please Uffie, hook it up!

EDIT: Download the track for free here.

Calling All Polyvore Enthusiasts!

Hello there lovelies!

Now, if any of you are like me, and completely obsessed with Polyvore, I've got big news for you. There's yet another website where we can now waste our time/procrastinate by making lots of crazy outfits. Only this one lets you put them on actual people! Well you know, assuming that actual people are tall, skinny and perfectly proportioned. Anyway, it lets you put the clothes on mannequins with faces at the least. Welcome to Looklet! (I know I know, I'm far too excited about a website that lets me dress people up.)

It's a pretty sweet set up - you can choose between different models and backgrounds, put different faces on the models, and have a bit of flexibility in the way that items are worn. You can put jackets on your models open, or buttoned up, put boots over or under the jeans and a whole lot of cool shit like that. It gives you a great deal of versatility to design outfits, and see how they might look when they're being worn.

On the "con" side of things, Looklet does have far less items to choose from than Polyvore. But, they are a newer website and seem to be updating their selection fairly often, so this may change in the future. I also think they could do with having more diverse models to choose from - perhaps an option to change their size/body shape? - as putting clothes on these girls will really give me no idea how they'll look on me, as my body shape is completely different.

Still, despite these drawbacks I've still spent an entire morning on this website. If you check it out, you can find me here.

Until next time, xo.

DIY Madness!

Hello out there lovely readers,

Ok, so The Boyfriend is working another night shift, and I can't sleep. So, I turned this:

Into this:

It only seems right to make something summery considering the recent heat wave, and I'm so happy with how it turned out. Once again, modified from one of the designs in Generation T: 108 Ways To Transform a T-shirt. The black on the front is a pocket, and it's got a drawstring waist. Ignore the vacant facial expression - it is almost 3AM after all. I think I may make more skirts in the near future - my amazing grandmother has gifted me an almost-brand-new overlocker. Hurrah!

Until next time, xo.

What I Wore Today, Volume 14

Hello lovelies!

My, look how time flies. It's already been a few days since my last gratuitous shots of my outfit, so here we go! The weather is absolutely disgusting here in Queensland, Australia. Summer has come so early that it's here right now, when it should still be the middle of Winter. The top temperature for my suburb yesterday was 35 degrees Celsius. It's so hot that really all there is to do is lay about in the shade, and drink dangerous amounts of iced coffee/flavoured milk/soft drink. Even doing yoga in this heat is almost unbearable. So, without further ado, here is my It's-Summer-but-I-haven't-shaved-my-legs-in-awhile outfit.

Outfit Rundown:

Sunglasses: Local Service Station, $10 (According to The Boyfriend they make me look like the creepy Asian man from one of The Matrix sequels, hence my martial arts-esque pose)
Scarf (wrapped round head): Jeans West, 2 for $10
"Help Me Paris" Necklace: Emily The Strange keyring, recrafted by The Boyfriend
Singlet: Trade Secret (Living Doll), $6.95
Belt: Jay Jays, 2 for $15
Pants: Jay Jays, $10

Until next time, xo.

Eli Escobar + Emynd + Flamin' Hotz + Party Favors

O.K., I'll be real - I'm really not all too into the video for Eli Escobar's "Glass House." Perhaps I've just seen too many song + old movie combinations in my life to still get excited about such a thing. But I'll be real again - super down with the track itself. Dunno what to say other than "yum," "awesome," and "super duper." Yea, I'm borderline illiterate. So as per usual, I'll let the track do the talking. Check it:



And for a little something that knocks a little harder, check out Emynd's "We Gon Make It." It's off a record Flamin' Hotz is putting out in support of the party advertised above. $15 gets you beer, food, party favors, etc. - not a bad look at all. And of course the cut's hot (it is an Emynd joint, after all. Honestly, when's the last time this dude put out out anything that wasn't fantastic and useful as all heck?)



EDIT: Well apparently this party went down a minute ago. Oh well. That hardly makes the track irrelevant. Sorry. Late pass.

Finding Your Personal Style

Hello lovelies,

I'm going to ask you what may be a difficult question - what do you think it means to be stylish?Think about it for a minute. Now ask someone else what they think it means to be stylish. Ask your best friend, your boyfriend, your elderly neighbour. Chances are every single one of those people will give you a different definition. That's not a bad thing. It actually illustrates what I think about personal style. I think you can be just as stylish in casual clothes as you can be in a dress and high heels. Style isn't necessarily about being as fancy as you can, or only rocking designer clothing. Finding your own style is more about being true to yourself, pushing the boundaries, wearing things that make you happy, and wearing the things that make you look and feel good. However, even though our style is all about us as individuals, it's actually pretty hard to figure out exactly what your personal style is. Here's a few ways to help:

Think about what you like. Do you hate stiletto heels? Tights? Oversized boyfriend shirts? Two-piece bathing suits? If the answer is yes, then banish them from your wardrobe. Don't spend a minute longer wearing things that you hate because they're fashionable. On the other hand, if you're loving suspenders, chunky boots, tie dye and pinstripes, but no one else seems to share your enthusiasm, don't let that stop you. If those things make you happy (I know they make me happy), then stuff everyone else. Your personal style is all about you, not some fashion editors idea of what is hot this season. Don't be bullied into wearing things that you hate. When it comes to style, the most important person is you - it doesn't really matter if everyone else isn't happy.

Be inspired. Get out there and find some inspiration! Read books about style, go to the library and flip through old copies of magazines, spend some time people-watching, hang out on alternative fashion forums, hire out some movies with strong aesthetics, google-search your style icons, or imagine how you'd dress today if you were Dita Von Teese, Courtney Love, Beyonce or Daria. Take note of things you like, and try to find some ways to incorporate those looks into your wardrobe. I like to browse through pictures of people wearing outfits with a really strong aesthetic - such as steampunk, goth or japanese street style - and find ways to bring a little bit of their strangeness and confidence into my own ensembles.

Think outside the box. Wear that scarf as a hat, that top as a skirt, or that long skirt as a dress. There's very little limit to the things that you can do with clothes - and a little creative thinking makes everything in your wardrobe go much further. Plus, thinking creatively about the things you own helps you determine what you like, and what suits you. It's also helpful in situations where you run into someone wearing the same outfit/item as you - duck into a bathroom, turn your scarf into a turban and you are twins no longer! Or, think outside the box in other ways. For example, if you're going to a party where you know everyone will be wearing a certain kind of outfit, wear something completely different. You might feel uncomfortable at first, but it's a helpful exercise to show you that you are capable of pushing boundaries all on your own, and you don't need someone to follow.

Keep records. Because you don't want to have some amazing epiphany about your style and then forget it a week later. There's so many ways to document your style. Start keeping a pen and paper notebook - fill it full of magazine pictures that inspire you, photos of things you wear that you love, lists of items you want to add to your wardrobe and anything else that makes you feel good. Create a new picture folder on your computer, and use it solely for outfit inspiration (mine may or may not be three-quarters full of Gala Darling pictures). Keep track of your favourite outfit pictures on flickr, lookbook, polyvore, or other similar websites. This way, whenever you're having a bum day, you can flip through these, get cheered up and end up with a whole lot of new ideas.

Be confident. The most important one of all! One of the best ways to help your style develop is to be confident. I mean, there's no point knowing that the things you like to wear are 50's inspired gowns if you don't have the confidence to wear them out of the house. If you're having trouble with confidence remember, it can be faked. Even if your knees are knocking together in your new crazy ensembles, just stand up straight, throw your shoulders back and walk down the street like you own it. Now, everyone else will assume you own the street too, and even if they hate your outfit, they'll be too intimidated to say anything about it. Remember, you are amazing and there's no reason why the rest of the world shouldn't know it, so don't make apologies for being exactly who you are.

Now, if you want some extra tips on developing your own style from some very stylish people these two (Rocking Your Style With Confidence & How To Cultivate Your Personal Style) are the very best articles I've been able to find on the subject. Enjoy!

Until next time, xo.

A Dose of Style

Hello out there,

Here's a little bit of style inspiration to start your week off in a good way.

Agyness Deyn, whom I want to kidnap and keep on my mantlepiece. If of course, I actually had a mantlepiece. There is nothing I don't love about this outfit.

An oldie, but a goodie. Lily Allen at some awards ceremony a while back. I just had to put it in, as I love this dress to pieces. Every time I see a picture of it, I crack up laughing. Plus, what's not good about having colourful hair?

Pixie Geldof - how one family ended up with so much style (and a seemingly endless wardrobe), I'll never know. Anyway, tomboy chic rocks anytime.

And last, but not least Taylor Momsen, better known as Little J from Gossip Girl. Maybe I wouldn't wear it myself, but this chick knows how to strut her stuff.

Until next time, xo.

Wale + Lady Gaga + Wideboys

I got sick of "Chillin" pretty quickly. I got sick of the successive Benzi and Skratch Bastid remixes even faster. While Wale has released some great mix tapes (100 Miles & Running and The Mixtape About Nothing), his latest commercial effort with Allido/Interscope is less than memorable. Where is the dude who rapped about spreading go-go music, wearing camo shorts and flip-flops with a Grammy dangling around his neck (to clarify: I do not support go-go music in any way)? Where others have failed to remix this into a memorable drop, Wideboys have given this track energy and a progression that is catchier than a Taylor Swift hook.

Just a little reminder...

People are all the same
And we only get judged by what we do
Personality reflects name
And if I'm ugly then
So are you.

Until next time, xo.

Swedish House Mafia + Laidback Luke

O.K. Seriously. How did I go this long without posting this? Not a good look on my part, sorry guys. 'Cause let's be real - this is more or less exactly what I want my life to be. I just wanna make big house tunes and get paid thousands upon thousands of dollars to play songs to thousands upon thousands of beautiful women in thousands upon thousands of epic clubs in thousands upon thousands of outrageous cities. Not to mention the fact that you're getting flown on next level jets and drinking wildly expensive champagne all the while. Swedish House Mafia + L.B.L. = hero status.

Things I love Thursday!

Happy Thursday lovelies, and welcome to my Thursday love list!

Mitch Dowd PJ's & underwear; starting to enjoy my uni lectures; feeling my posture & balance improving from yoga practice, and having far less bruises from bumping into things; The Boyfriends' Mum liking me enough to buy me fabulous things from op shops; having a 10% discount at a store that already discounts quality clothing; old ladies at the shopping centre who wear outfits that are all one colour, which match their outrageous hair colour; creating an invite list for my 21st birthday party, attending the 21st birthday of one of my best friends from my primary school days; mental clarity; being able to afford to finance my trashy magazine addiction; having a new friend who is a girl; tie dye; Mum buying me Tim Minchin tickets; My Chemical Romance playing Soundwave along with Janes' Addiction and Faith No More; muscles aching in a good way; hearing The Boyfriend laugh; snuggling up in a blanket with my laptop during the last few weeks of Australian Winter.

Follow Your Dreams by aeon - 100

What are you loving on this glorious Thursday?

Until next time, xo.

What I Wore Today, Volume 13

Hello there world,

Ok, you caught me - I wasn't wearing this all day. But after another day of strenuous retail work, I figured there was nothing better to do than jump around my living room like a complete fool wearing my new robot pyjama pants. I suppose I could be celebrating working at Trade Secret long enough to start receiving my employee discount. Yes, that's the reason. It couldn't possibly be because I'm just a complete wierdo. Nope, no way.

Singlet: Trade Secret (Living Doll), $6.95

PJ Pants: Trade Secret (Mitch Dowd), $4.00

Yes, you read that price right - I paid four bucks for these awesome robot-covered pants. Before the robot-pants dancing I did wind down with some yoga, and rolling around my living room on a stability ball. So, how do you guys wind down after a hard day's work? Anything as crazy as this?

Until next time, xo.

What I Wore Today (Night) Volume 12

Hello hello,

Here's what I wore to a fancy dinner with my parents at the local RSL earlier tonight. I am now sleepy, and full of chicken. Also, we won $8 from Keno. Pretty nifty, am I right?

Outfit Rundown:

Shrug: One Teaspoon, gift from Mum (it was marked down to $9.95, go Mum!)

Singlet: Trade Secret (Living Doll), $6.95
Black cords: Kmart, $29.95

Belt: Jay Jays, 2 for $15

Boots: Target, $40
Bracelets: Gifted by The Boyfriend
"Help Me Paris" Necklace: Emily The Strange Keyring, recrafted by The Boyfriend

Also, a few days back I was given a blog award by Jamie from this is me; consequently. Thanks Jamie, I'm glad you like what I do! I've also decided it's high time that I pass this on.

So, without further ado, my One Lovely Blog awards go to:

Em from Lick My Cupcakes - because she is crazy (in a good way), has amazing (and insanely colourful) style, and is a twenty year old who eats cupcakes, wears tutus and likes glitter. Also, if you have an anonymous secret to share, go here. Em features them on her blog every week.

Corrine from Frock and Roll - because she is a lovely girl with a heart of gold, and lots of nice dresses to match. Her blog always leaves me feeling happier than before, and usually quite a bit more inspired.

Death Wears Diamond Jewellery -because her posts are so well-written, interesting and I can always really relate to, or find interest in the topics. Plus, she's learning to deal with her own issues in the same way I am, and it's good to know I'm not alone.

Gemma from Half Accidental - because she is a writer, she keeps me interested and she tends to inspire me. I look forward to seeing she has updated her blog, because I know there will be something there that I want to read.

Jennee from Cheap Therapy -because she seems like an amazing person, and this comes out when she lets herself write. She makes me feel like I'm experiencing things as she does, which is a talent. She's all around great.

I know I was supposed to pick 15 bloggers for this, but I figure that because these women are all so good, they count for 15 bloggers.

Until next time, xo.

Horrifying Trends That I love #2 - Gossip Girl

Hello there lovelies,


I can't believe it's Sunday already, and here I am with another shocking confession. I'm totally addicted to this utterly horrible television show/phenomenon. That's right, I'm talking about Gossip Girl. It all started with a free DVD on the front of Dolly magazine. I mean I had to watch it, it was free! After that I spent the next week counting down until the first series was released on DVD, then ran out and bought it on the day it came out. THEN, I spent the entire weekend while The Boyfriend was at work watching the entire series back to back. Oh the shame, oh the horror. I think I've watched the whole series another ten times since then. I am in serious need of a GG Anonymous Meeting, or an intervention or something. There's just something about shocking drama, impossible lifestyles and freaking fabulous outfits all thrown together with an evil edge that makes this show better than the average teen offering. Without further ado, (and before I make much more of an ass of myself), it's gratuitous pictures of what makes me love Gossip Girl time. Enjoy!

"I'm Chuck Bass."

"Haven't you heard? I'm the crazy bitch around here."

Maybe Jenny isn't the most exciting character, but she does get the best outfits.

Did I mention outfits?

Until next time, xo.

Things I love Thursday!

Gasp! I just realised that I forgot to do a TILT post. So, here's a Things I Love Thursday - On Friday. Better late than never, haha. Here's what's been rocking my world:

Visiting friends and playing Monopoly until early hours of the morning, laughing at my poor kittys' ridiculous shaved patches from doing hospital time, taking random pictures of The Boyfriend, being organised, days at work where I do ten different jobs at once, being over my crazy sickness, crazy bags (Exhibit A & B), daydreaming about my bright future, being invited to baby showers by people from work, smiling randomly because the world actually seems pretty awesome for once, playing with "denim distressing gel", how much yoga is helping my clumsiness, being well enough to exercise, fresh strawberries, The Boyfriend being sad because I finished work earlier than he thought so he couldn't cook me surprise dinner, funny movies for $4.95, Ladieswear keeping me in the loop about markdowns at work, and Dragon's Blood incense.

Rainroom II by xxnever-namedxx

Aaaaand, here's a few funny videos of things that have kept me laughing this week.

Cal Wilson kicks ass on Thank God You're Here.

Comedian Tim Minchin performing his "poem" Angry (Feet). Warning - language, violent themes. Most certainly not safe for work, unless your boss is quite strange.

Until next time, xo.

A-Trak @ The Do Over

This set is depressing for a couple of reasons: first A-Trak's scratching is sick (doesn't fuck with the flow of the set and makes me hate myself). And second, the classic tracks he drops make me feel like hip-hop is two decades past its prime ... either way A-Trak's definitely come into his own ... also the girl in the green shirt is ridiculous.

Positivity Goals

Hello there lovelies,

You know, one thing I don't think many people realise is that maintaining a positive outlook takes a shitload of work. Optimism has been a rather steep learning curve for me. I suffered from depression for most of my adolescent life, and recently I've been through a rather heavy rough patch that forced me to confront some painful personal demons. I know there is a great deal of debate about the merits of blogging about your negative experiences going on at the moment. It's all good in theory - but no one really wants to hear the gritty details of your struggle with mental illness, or your failing relationship. Or at least I don't really want to hear about it, and I can't say I expect anyone to really want to know how many days I spent in bed sobbing, unable to drag myself out from under the covers. I think the real attraction is hearing how people have picked themselves back up from these experiences, as it makes us feel that the world may not be such a hopeless place after all. Now I'm no shining example of positivity. But I'm trying, because I feel being positive is a much healthier way to live. So rather than dragging my readers down by detailing how much things have sucked in recent months, I'd rather tell you all about how I'm picking myself back up. Basically, I like glitter, I eat cupcakes, I wear tutus - and shit has happened to me. I just don't think you really need to hear about it. I'd rather you left my blog smiling. So, without further ado, here are my personal positivity goals (or, things I'm doing to keep a smile on my face, expand my horizons and generally make the most of my life):

1. Read more often, as it relaxes me.
   Next on the reading list:
   The Subtle Knife - Phillip Pullman
   The Amber Spyglass - Phillip Pullman
   American Psycho - Bret Easton Ellis
   Ninteen Eighty Four - George Orwell
   Fight Club - Chuck Palahniuk
   The Clan of the Cave Bear - Jean M. Auel
   


2. Try new types of exercise to find some that makes me feel good, instead of dragging myself though the "I don't want to gain weight" ritual .
   This quest has led me to yoga, pilates and hip-hop dancing - all of which I was afraid to try, and now completely adore. Next I want to try Tai Chi, some of the Les Mills fitness classes, and perhaps capoeira?
   


3. Develop my sewing skills, with the intention of opening a business.
   I'm really going to give this business thing a shot. I've always wanted some kind of creative occupation. I've been sizing up sewing classes, fashion courses, business courses and prices for overlockers all over the joint.
   


4. Don't take my friends for granted.
   I tend to isolate myself when I get upset, and then beat myself up about having no friends. However, when you never respond to messages, phone calls, or invitiations it makes sense that they stop arriving, no?
   


5. Change my thought patterns & control my emotions better.
   I'm working really hard on this one, as I can be very critical of myself. I'm also a very "all over the place" person. I can go from being happy to sad and back again in the space of ten minutes. Really, I just want to be a bit more balanced, and a bit less tempermental.
   


6. Resume my healthy eating patterns.
   I just want to pay a little more attention to what I'm putting into my body, as it has such an influence on my energy levels, and how I feel.
   


7. When I see something and think "that'd be cool to try", try it.
   I'm one of those people who will find things that I think would be really cool to try, but I feel silly about trying them, or I don't know anyone else doing them, so I don't do them. Basically, I want to start saying yes to doing more of these things - I did it with Yoga, and now I really love it, so I'm hoping I might find some more hobbies in the process.
   


8. Accept more invitations & bother less with negative people.
   I want to start getting my social life back on track, so I figure I have to start accepting more invitations and stop making excuses. I've been doing it lately, and gotten to know a new friend in the process. Also, along the same line, I want to waste less of my energy trying to be friends with people who really can't be bothered giving me the same effort.
   


9. Pay more attention to personal grooming.
   Just to clarify, I haven't stopped showering or anything like that.
   Start this with:
   Taking better care of my skin
   Taking better care of my hair
   Brushing my hair more often
   Doing my nails
   Dying my hair more regularly
   Etc. etc. etc.
   Just little things that make me feel more confident out in public.
   


10. Learn to forgive & accept myself.
    The hardest thing of all in some ways. I want to learn to let go of my past mistakes, and stop dwelling on them. I am not the same person now that I was then, and that is alright. I don't have to worry about that person reappearing, and I don't have to beat myself up about things I can't change. Just accepting that everyone makes mistakes is easy - but accepting that I make mistakes is really hard for me. And of course, just remembering that I am who I am, and I don't need to make excuses or feel bad about that.

Here's to a better and brighter future, ay? Apologies if my musings are a little heavy for this time of night, haha.

Until next time, xo.

Keri Hilson + Electrolightz

It's been five months since the single dropped, and, in the tradition of every Top 40 track these days, an overabundance of shitty remixes have been made. This Electrolightz remix is far above the pile of suck ... Rye Rye's verse probably has something to do with it as well as the fact that Ne-Yo's contribution has been axed.

What I Wore Today, Volume 11

Hello there!

Be very very grateful everyone out there who isn't sick right now! Believe me, you don't want this sneezing, coughing, dizzying, tiring mess. I ended up missing classes today because I couldn't really stand up and do things for more than five minutes at a time, and every few hours I needed a nap (Perhaps the real question is sick, or simply reverting back to infancy?). So here's what I wore for my third day of house confinement.

T-shirt: Kmart, $19.99
Cargo Pants: Jay Jays, $10
Bare feet: Free, I came with them.

Until next time, xo.

Fabolous + Keri Hilson + Drank

Not gonna lie - never was a huge Fabolous fan. Yet the other day I heard a track on M.T.V. Jams that had me absolutely twitching with excitement. (Rather, I heard it three times in two hours. But still.) And as y'all might have deduced, it was a Fabolous cut. Surprising to say the least. I mean it's not that I ever disliked the dude, but none of his songs had ever tickled my fancy quite like this one. But this one - oh, this one. Killin' it.

Everything Everyday Everywhere from Robin Hood on Vimeo.

"Somebody better tell 'em that we in this [expletive] like an unborn baby."

Anyways, y'all probably noticed the lovely Keri Hilson in the above video. And yea, I'm a big fan of hers. Anywho, check out the Drank product placement in her video for "Turnin Me On." Really gotta try that stuff. No New Hampshire vendors? No surprises.

DIY Madness!

Hello hello,

Have to admit, at least one good thing came of being sick - I finished this top after lounging around researching how to put darts in the bust. What do you think? It was made from a baggy, poorly cut women's t-shirt that I bought for $2 from the Lifline warehouse. Hello new Summer top.

PS: These sweatpants are the most comfy things I own. They're Reebok and they cost me $14.95. Not bad, not bad.

Until next time, xo.

Things I love Thursday!

Yes, it's that time of the week again! Here's everything that I've been loving:

• Hip-hop dance classes - I went to my first on on Tuesday afternoon (for free), and I loved it so much I'm doing the 10 week course. Apparently white girls can crump.
  
• "It's just like what the Greeks did at Troy. 'Cept they was in a horse instead of dresses." Watching the first Pirates of the Caribbean - I'd forgotten how good Johnny Depp is.
  
• Being incredibly boring in Psychological Research - Interpretation and Evalution lectures and accidentally designing a logo for my future online business.
  
  

La Terasse by pelaria

• Having my beautiful kitty home again! Even if he does look slightly ridiculous due to the shaved patches that are all over him.
  
• $10 camoflage cargo pants. I've been looking for a pair that aren't Men's pants for a long time now.
  
• Visits from my Mum and Dad - I actually do miss them, and Mum makes my favourite dinners every time she is here.
  
• The beautiful, amazing Boyfriend - well, he is beautiful and amazing, and trying really hard to set up a chainmaille-selling business. He's also taking me on a trip on a heritage steam train. We are going to wear top hats, and smoke pipes that make bubbles. Or at least I am.

Fractal Love by Lindelokse

• Wearing boots everywhere. I don't think I've stepped out of the house without my boots, except to go to work. It took me so long to find the perfect pairs, and now I'm in love.
  
• "After all, he is a blacksmith." "No, he's a pirate." Oh, did I mention Pirates of the Caribbean already?
  
• Finishing work at 4pm today instead of 5:30 like normal days. That extra hour and a half seems like so much more time.

First half of the first episode of Daria - if you want more Daria, check out this youtube channel.

Until next time, xo.

Why I Still Read Teen Magazines (Despite No Longer Being A Teen)

Hello there lovelies,

I have a confession to make - I still read teen girls magazines. Namely, Dolly and Girlfriend magazines. You're probably wondering why, and I know most women my age tend to think I'm a little strange. Why on earth would a 20-year-old rather read girl's magazines than the usual selection of Cosmopolitan, Cleo and the like?

There's one main thing that my continuing love for teen magazines is based on, and that is body positivity. Women's magazines just don't have the same positive attitude. Sure, they've started running occasional fashion features where plus-size, or non-caucasian women strut their stuff - but girl's magazines have been doing this since I was about ten, and on a regular basis. Women's magazines also seem to have a strange view of how to be positive about your body. In their pages, body positivity usually seems to equate to a few token articles about healthy eating, warnings about the obscene amounts of calories in seemingly innocent drinks, and a myriad of ways to lost that weight which must be making you feel bad about yourself. Teen girls magazines run features on issues such as self-esteem, body image, eating disorders, positive thinking, psychological health and self-respect, along with articles about healthy eating and exercise on a regular basis. It's not like all these issues go away as we leave our teenage years - and besides, there's way more to life than worrying about what you look like post-workout, or how to snag hot billionaires.

But that's not all there is to it. In general, I just feel better after reading girl's magazines than women's magazines - about myself, my relationships and the world in general. I feel like I'm perfect the way that I am, that I have great friends and family, and that there are good things in the world. After an issue of Cosmo, I usually just feel guilty - about all the exercise I haven't done, about the flavoured milk I drank earlier, about my dislike of makeup, my inability to fit into Size 6 jeans, and the meagre size of my pay packet. I'm also a fan of their real-life reader stories, as they always feature a good mix of people. I've seen stories from people with rare medical conditions, people who have won beauty contests or sporting competitions, people who have battled eating disorders, psychological disorders, or been sexually abused, people who want to change the world, and people who already have changed the world. As a youngster, their stories opened my eyes to the world outside myself. And now, as a young adult, they still manage to educate me about things I've never thought about before. It's rather strange to expand my horizons reading magazines intended for young girls, when women's magazines quite often seem to be running different versions of the same story.

As a final point, the last reason I love girl's magazines is this - they know how to have fun with their fashion. Because the magazines are intended for young'uns, they're prepared to take risks with their fashion shoots. Bright colours, denim on denim, animal prints, colorful tartans, crazy hats, cute accessories and all-around quirky clothing plays a big part. You've seen me dress, so you can probably see why I approve. It's heaven for everyone who has ever considered dressing up as a cartoon character, or Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz at some point in their lives.

So, in conclusion, this is not an apology - rather, it is an expression of mildly embarrassing love. I'm probably going to continue spending my $12 a month on teen girl's magazines until I'm an old lady. Or at least until I have teenage daughters who work weekends, and buy the mags themselves - then I'll just "borrow" their copies.

Until next time, xo.

Bat for Lashes + Diplo + Beach House

Diplo recently did whatever it is you do on Twitter (Twitt? Tweet? Twitterate?) to let the world know just how he feels for the lovely Natasha Khan, a.k.a. Bat for Lashes:

why do i have such a weird crush on bat for lashes? http://bit.ly/CtC5W

Well duder, it really isn't all too weird. I mean, she's gorgeous. What's more, she makes gorgeous music. Sounds like a dream girl, no? I'd say I was gonna make her my hipster girl bride, but I just can't see myself stealing a young lady from a superstar DJ like Wes any time soon. Anywho, peep the latest video:



The whole thing - the song, the video, etc. - reminds quite a bit of Beach House's "Gila" a.k.a. the only song I listened to this winter. Beautiful, beautiful stuff. Can't believe it took me this long to get around to posting it up.

A Dose of Style

Hello there,

I had quite an insane day today - seven hours of Uni classes, a free dance class and a visit from my parents. So here's some pretty pictures to keep you entertained while my brain (and body) recover.

Ah, Peaches. How I love thee! Military dresses...now there's something that I bet the army never really thought of. If only Miss Peaches would give us a big smile - that would be the only way to make her style any better.

I know this might not be the best picture of the outfit, but isn't Kelly Osbourne actually a cutie when she smiles? Plus, Kelly does look great. I've been drooling over the tartan blazer for awhile now. Ah, I'll admit it. I still have an incredible soft spot for Kelly.

This lady is inspiring in every sense of the word - Miss Gala Darling. Not her latest outfit post, but I love this one too much to pass up. She makes me want a job where I can dye my hair some bright unruly colour. Right now I'm thinking, purple? Hmm.

Nubby Twiglet is my kinda girl - a graphic designer, and blogger with a wicked sense of style. She mixes together lots of awesome pieces, and manages to give them this tough, cool edge. (Yes, those are the technical terms). I only recently discovered her blog, but I am in love.

Until next time, xo.

Major Lazer - "Pon De Floor"

Everybody loves Major Lazer. Pretty sure that's widely accepted as fact these days. Diplo + Switch + a bunch of other dudes who are totally super duper = a surefire recipe for delicious tunes.

And of course "Pon De Floor" is one of the biggest of said delicious tunes on Major Lazer's Guns Don't Kill People - Lazers Do. It's been a hit with hipster boys and girls since S.X.S.W. (even earlier for the trendiest of the trendy) and it hasn't seemed to die down whatsoever. And as one might expect, the video's every bit as intriguing as the tune. There doesn't seem to be any sort of story line or point (wild, frantic sex seems to be the only true focus of the flick), but it's still good to watch. Definitely N.S.F.W. Unless your boss is trying to watch you watch three or four minutes of wildly athletic humping, that is.

K'naan + DJ Class

The weekend's done for so far as I'm concerned, so it's back to blogging. We'll be kicking off the week of the second with a bit of K'naan. Say what you will, but I'm into the dude's Does It Really Matter. The title track may or may not be the most infectious cut on the album. However, it only made the album as an extra - thus, I can't cop it via iTunes. One of you internet-savvy cats should probably clue me in to where I can throw K'naan a few bucks for this tune (without having to head to New Hamshire's best record store - Best Buy).



And for three more minutes of awesome-tastic YouTube action, peep the new video for DJ Class's "I'm the Ish." This track has been circulating for a hot minute, but it's still a set staple and an all-around awesome song. CDJs and + Google Maps = DJ Class 2 : Haters 0.



EDIT: The album's called Troubador - I'm an idiot.

What I Wore Today, Volume Ten + Meme

Why, hello there!

This outfit carried me all over the place today - back and forth from The Boyfriend's work a number of times (I forgot to bring his breakfast), up to the local shopping centre to eat cheeseburgers at Macdonalds with friends, spending $2.68 of my last $2.79 on iced coffee, trawling through the shops even though I have nothing to spend, and heading up to the animal hospital to visit my poor cat. Hence the comfortable-but-still-makes-me-feel-badass outfit.

Outfit Rundown:
Cardigan: Fashion Fair, $5
Singlet: Trade Secret (Living Doll) $6.50
Belt: Jay Jays, 2 for $15
Jeans: Target, $25 - Heh, they should have been $40, but someone put their sale signs up a day early.
"Help Me Paris" Necklace: Emily The Strange Keychain, $9.95, chain made lovingly by The Boyfriend

Alright, now for something completely different - I've been tagged for some kind of crazy meme. I know people say to avoid memes when you are blogging, but I kinda like them. The rules of this meme is to list 7 facts about me and then tag seven other bloggers so that they can do the same. I was tagged by a visible spectrum, a cool lady who blogs about beadmaking, lampworking and life in general. Now, I'm not really a big "tagger" for memes, as I don't like making other people feel obligated to do them (even though, I personally love being tagged). But, if any of my beautiful commenters would like to do this, I would love to learn about you.

1. I was born with a cleft lip and palate (maybe not a secret to some of you), and have had 12 operations in my lifetime. For more info, click here.


2. I did a course on Evolutionary Psychology last semester, and am now completely obsessed with the Great Apes, and in particular chimpanzees.


3. I live in a little house, on the fairly crappy side of Brisbane, Australia with The Boyfriend, two cats and one little dog (who has enough energy for twelve dogs).


4. I have the WORST sense of direction that I have ever known a person to have. My Dad's favourite embarrassing story to tell people is about how I once took the same wrong turn twice. This happens more than he realises.
   
5. I am one of the clumsiest people I know. I always have bruises on my hips, knees, shoulders etc. from walking into doorframes, coffee tables, benches, etc. Once I got the same mystery bruise on my hand for a week, and didn't realise that I'd been hitting my hand on the bench in exactly the same way every night when I walked down to bed.
   


6. I have lost 25 kilograms (approximately 55 pounds) in the last four years - and I still eat chocolate. Admittedly, I do eat less of it, but mainly I've just aimed to be healthier, and the weight has fallen off.
   


7. If I stopped drinking iced coffee I would save between $23 and $46 a week - depending on how tired I am, how stressed I am, and how much assessment I have due.

Until next time, xo.