Lady in red

(vintage dress, Armani Exchange belt, Jeffrey Campbell shoes, Blair's Bow headband from Etsy)

You know how some girls are just born vintage-shopping wizards? They're either vastly patient, able to sift for hours through piles of musty, smelly clothes until they unearth an exquisite find, or very lucky. I'm neither when it comes to vintage treasure hunting.

So I was shocked when an idle Sunday at the Fairfax Flea Market rewarded me with this $15 dress. At first, I was hesitant: the zipper was rusty, the material scratchy and flimsy. But as soon as I heard the price, I knew I was taking it home. I mean, it's a red dress with a cascade of ruffled tiers down the front and a skirt that shines in the sun. There was no way I could say "no."

And I'm so glad I didn't!

Denim chambray

(Nanette Lepore blazer, A|X bubble dress, UO tights, Jeffrey Campbell shoes)

So for those of you who don't know, I'm in Vancouver right now for a work trip! These shots weren't taken in Canada (I'm by myself so there's really no one to take blog pics for me, and it's a shame because the city is so scenic!), but I'm having a blast working and admiring the way Canadian girls dress. The weather couldn't be better--sunny, clear, with a cool breeze--and my hotel has a beautiful view of the marina. The only thing missing is a good chunk of time to shop; our days are so packed that I haven't found the time, except to stop in at Aritzia on Robson Street where I fell dangerously in love with a pair of $310 Ksubi jeans in a lovely, faded blue wash. I'm so into denim chambray right now, like the Nanette Lepore blazer I'm wearing here. It's been my best friend for several weeks and I can't seem to let go of it.

Hello, old friend!

(Nanette Lepore blouse, A|X skirt, Jeffrey Campbell platforms, Silence & Noise moto vest)

Don't you just love when you dig through your closet and unearth a piece of clothing you completely forgot you had? That's what happened with this old Armani Exchange skirt of mine, which I bought way back in high school. I still remember wearing it to class all the time during senior year! Paired with a lace-trimmed blouse (which, incidentally, appeared on Blair Waldorf in a recent Gossip Girl episode!) and motorcycle vest, it was as good as new. I'm so excited to wear the skirt again... and a little shocked that I can still squeeze into it!

One of my favorite places to eat in L.A., Yuri Japanese Cafe, recently revamped their menu, leaving lots of space on their chalkboard to doodle and write messages. It was the perfect opportunity to plug my blog while sipping on their newest specialty drink, a hot citrus yuzu tea! For all you Angelenos passing through Melrose, definitely drop by and mention that Tiff from Style Sophisticate sent you!

Overdressing

(Coincidence & Chance skirt, DKNY silk tank, Elizabeth Wahyu necklace, A|X belt, Guess shoes, Zara equestrian blazer)

It's funny to think that I used to be teased for the way I dressed. At a young age, I had a distinct idea of how I wanted to look and and would come to elementary school in my favorite printed sundresses or bright flouncy skirts. Looking back, with all the girls wearing Converse high tops and Gap denim shorts, I probably looked overdressed for the fourth grade. I remember being taunted everyday by one particular bully (I guess you'd call her a "frenemy" nowadays), who would always sneer and say, "Like seriously, Tiffany? You need a new wardrobe." Back then, I'd come home and cry to my mom, who played--and still does play--a great role in my love of fashion and dressing up. Fifteen years later, I'm still overdressed among most of my groups of friends... except now, I really don't care!

On deck

(Phillip Lim cadet jacket, DVF blouse, A|X jeans, John Fluevog shoes)

It was tough work indulging in the endless parade of food and fun activities onboard the cruise ship, but someone had to do it! I had a good time on the mini cruise for work and spent the first evening walking around on deck in my new favorite Phillip Lim jacket. I had agonized over this purchase for weeks but finally gave in. I find everything about it irresistable, from the bright red color to the military-style asymmetrical panels down the front. 

Since purchasing the jacket, I've spotted it in several fashion magazines, which has given me inspiration for new ways to wear it--over a white summery dress, with black leggings and boots, paired with gray trousers and shiny black oxfords. The jacket makes such a loud statement on its own that I need to pair it with simple pieces. If you've any ideas for new ways of working it into an outfit, I'd love to hear them!