What I Really Learned From Cinderella: Life, Love, and Fabulous Footwear

Although this seems to be a little out of place for my blog, I believe that there is so much more to style than just the fashion. Grace, gentleness, and confidence are the best accessories a woman can have, and Cinderella has it all. As arguably the most beloved of all Disney princesses, Cinderella is so much more than a bedtime story. 

1. Never Stop Dreaming

One of Disney's most iconic songs, 'A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes' is truly a ballad of a hurting heart holding on to hope. The simplicity of it keeps the feeling light, while the lyrics show that even in the darkest of times, no one can keep you from dreaming except yourself. No matter if you wake up in a New York penthouse or your stepmother's attic, never stop believing in yourself.

2. Always Be Kind

Although most Disney princesses are known for their sweet spirits, it saddens me that a 'princess mentality' is a gentle way of saying spoiled, self-centered, and conceited. The wonderful thing about 'Cinderelly' is she took care of the less fortunate things around her, even with the little she had to give.

3. You Can Do Chores and Still Look Simply Divine

I will admit I was a little obsessive when I was a child, but i remember after this scene thinking that I should try to wash the floor on my hands and knees just like her. 

4. Never Let Your Past Keep You From Your Future

For just a second, imagine you are Cinderella sitting in your pumpkin, minutes before arriving at the palace. You'd totally be freaking out, right? The amazing thing about this scene is that even though she had just been locked in her attic bedroom, and the fact that her horses are actually mice, Cinderella entered the room like it was there just for her. Of course she could have hid in the back, or told the Prince she didn't know how to dance, but she doesn't. I think this is one of the most brave parts of any Disney movie, she believes that she can, so she does. So many times I think we as women sell ourselves short, when really we belong at the ball.

5. All The Advantages In The World Won't Hide Your Ugly Heart. Or Big Feet.

Now this one is kind of a given, but it's very true. Anastasia and Drizella always considered themselves more deserving than Cinderella, and for no reason other than she had nothing. Sadly, there are a lot more ugly stepsisters in this world than I'd like to admit.

6. If He Likes You, He'll Call. 

(or carry your shoe on a pillow until he finds your house)

We all know Cinderella fell in love in the few hours she was with the prince, but she left when she was supposed to (I mean come on, the pumpkin was waiting) and she went home. Let's be honest, this story wouldn't be the same if our little Cindy went back around 2am to be the booty call. Giving yourself  a curfew isn't always a bad thing. If he really likes you, he will like you the tomorrow, and it's okay to leave now. I don't think I can stress this point enough, but the fact is the ones who need to listen to this point never do, so I'll just say leave it at that.

7. The Right Shoes Can Change Everything

Clearly if she was wearing Target brand black pumps, the search could have ended a little differently, with 60% of the maidens owning the same shoe in their closet. So on days when you feel like a princess, go for your glass slippers. Life's short, buy the shoes.

In the end, just keep calm and don't settle for someone who doesn't treat you like a princess, even if you grew up a servant.

But it is okay to keep both of your shoes on this time.

How To Turn Your Summer Concert Must Have Into A Fall Basic

One of my favorite challenges in fashion is to make the transition with special pieces from one season to another. There's the classic bulky sweater into spring, the mini dress into winter, but my new personal project has been the band shirt into everyday casual wear. Although this doesn't seem to be much of a challenge, it was hard at first to pair my shirts with anything other than the typical cutoff Levi’s and plaid button ups. I do love a good fan girl outfit of course, but there’s a time and place for everything. My mission was to broaden the spectrum of where we considered the band tee welcome and maybe give it a little more of that grown up feel I think it can handle.

Everyone knows you can never go wrong with a good fitting pair of black skinnies, but by setting them up with a classic pair of black pumps, blazer, and a statement clutch, you can take your band shirt from summer festival to evening cocktails in a matter of minutes.

Another great way to dress up a basic tee is to play with the more feminine side of things. Tights, floral prints, and chunky knits take the away from the harshness of the screen print and gives you a soft, flirty look for fall.

The last look I have been playing around with is the most conservative of the three, and is a little groupie-librarian-esque.  I paired a knit pencil skirt with a well worn tee over a collared shirt and cuffed the sleeves to meet with the edges of the t-shirt. Add some cute flats, a simple necklace and your favorite musician is (almost) work approved.

Of course, any way you choose to wear your favorite shirt is a good way, but now you have a few more options as to them making regular appearances in your everyday wardrobe and not just your summer shows. 

Rock on.