I met Brad Goreski……. and now I can die happy
There are not a ton of celebrity type people that I idolize. Sure I love Adele’s voice, and Barbra’s long and storied career, and Liza’s dedication to her craft…… but they are not role models to me. I tend to pick role models that are average people doing extraordinary things that aren’t in the limelight. However, I have an exception to that rule, and that exception is Brad Goreski. Here’s the cliff note’s version of Mr Brad; he was a style assistant for Rachel Zoe on the show The Rachel Zoe Project, he left to do his own work (but unlike the other assistant, he left on good terms) and now has his own show, works for Kate Spade (as well as his long list of clients) and just came out with a new book called Born to be Brad, which is mostly memoir with some style advice thrown in.
You could have knocked me over with a feather when I got an email inviting me to the Austin book signing at Brooks Brothers with the opportunity to interview Brad. I do believe there was jumping and screaming involved. But since I had just started a new job, I couldn’t ask to leave early to get there for interview time. I told them I’d get there as soon as I could and if Brad could take a few minutes to talk with me, then so be it. I knew he was going to be hella busy signing but I was willing to risk it for a few minutes of his time. Needless to say, I got to chat with him about clothes and plus size fashion (he agrees there should be a lot more choices for plus size women) and he was just the sweetest person.
Brad and I at Brooks Brothers – notice my uber-giddy grin!
I was going to write this post interview style, but I changed it for a couple of reasons. First of all, my friend Joanna from Keep Austin Stylish did a freaking awesome interview post and I really want to pimp that. I love her questions and her gorgeous pictures. So if you want a great one-on-one interview with Brad, please take a minute to read it!! Second, I read his book and I really want to talk about that as well. Because it moved me and inspired me and I think it’s an important story to share.
Born to Be Brad
Brad writes about growing up in a small town in Canada and being an outcast for being himself – gay, flamboyant, and unwilling to hid his passions and talent. He talks about family relationships, addiction, school, and the struggle to find his place in the fashion world. We readers get to hear the amazing story of he and his partner Gary and the lengths they went to (and continue to go) to be together. He praises the strong female influences in his life, and works hard to never “bash” anyone. He is honest about his complicated relationship with his father, but never insults his dad or blames him. He looks for the positive and presents everything, even the darkest and toughest times in his life, as a rich learning experience. His honesty is amazing, his humor is delightful and his story is incredible.
Sure, we talked clothes. I asked about the collaboration with Kate Spade, and he was excited to talk about his work with them. He has enjoyed watching Kate Spade bring a fun and ladylike style to a younger crowd, and seeing their purses and accessories and clothes become more popular. We both agreed that Kate Spade is doing a great job with their social media which is definitely a huge help to the brand. Next, I asked him about plus size designers because, let’s be honest, that’s what I write and talk about! He said first of all, there should be a lot more variety (AMEN SIR!!) and that there’s a big desire but not enough designers going there right now. He does work with women of many different sizes and would love to see more options. A man after my own heart!
I had so much respect for Brad. Not just for taking time to talk with the blogger who was late, but for being so kind and writing a book that will be so inspiring to so many people. It was an honor sir!!
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My Monday Shopping Cart – Wedding Dresses
That title freaked you out a little didn’t it?? Don’t worry, I don’t mean bridal wedding dresses – I mean dresses for me to wear as a guest to a wedding! My friend Rachel is getting married at the end of May and I will be attending. It’s an evening wedding and while it’s not formal, it’s definitely fancy. So I’ve already starting putting together some serious dress contenders for the event!
Kiyonna Scalloped Boudoir Lace Dress – Sonsi
I know I’ve written about this dress before, but now I’m even more resolved to get it! It’s been on the red carpet (shout out to Ashely Fink and Melissa McCarthy!!) so I am pretty sure that means it’s approved for fancy weddings!
V-Neck Maxi Knit Dress – Eshakti
Now, I know that this dress looks a wee bit plain. But that’s why Jesus made shoes and lipstick and accessories! This simple and elegant dress will provide the perfect foundation for killer shoes, a bold necklace and (of course!) red lips. And I could do so many different things with it! Oh the possibilities…….
XCVI Wearables Santorini Maxi Dress – Nordstrom
Though this is also a maxi dress, it’s definitely more of a statement dress. I love the bright color and the simple shape. I could keep hair and accessories simple and still stand out! Because let’s be honest – when have I ever been one to blend in??
Calvin Klein Cold Shoulder Matt Jersey Dress – Nordstrom
This dress would actually serve three purposes: 1- I could try the cold shoulder dress/top trend that has been intriguing me; 2- It is a perfect LBD; and 3- I’ve been telling myself I need to own a simple, elegant Calvin Klein dress. Three good reasons to buy!
DKNYC Colorblock Faux Wrap Cocktail Dress – Nordstrom
I could go on and on about the great color, comfy shape and great brand, but really this dress comes down to one thing; POCKETS. This is a cocktail dress with pockets!! Seriously, it doesn’t get any better than that.
So which do you think I should choose? Let me know in the comments, or on Facebook or Twitter. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!
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Posted by Cathy | 0 Comments
My Monday Shopping Cart – My Inner Preppy!
Did you get my Preppy reference? I’m tipping my hat to the OG Preppy, Zack Morris from Saved By The Bell! Don’t worry, I won’t be wearing bad jeans and carrying a brick of a cell phone……. but I do have a few preppy pieces that I’ve been eyeing and I have to share!
Seville Wedge Espadrilles – J Crew
Now, I usually don’t have much nice to say about J Crew – the lack of plus sizes, the ridiculous overpricing, and the overexposed Jenna Lyons. Especially after I went into the store this weekend to see these shoes IRL and was completely ignored by every salesperson in the place. I get it ladies – I obviously can’t wear your clothes. However, a little “Hi, can I help you find anything?” would have gone a long way in my decision to buy or not to buy. However, the awesomeness of these shoes can’t be ignored. They are simply the perfect summer wedge. Not too high, not too dressy, but close-toed and cute enough for a summertime wedding or brunch on a patio……. which is as outdoorsy as I get.
Short Sleeve Solid Mesh Polo Dress – Lands End
Thanks to two of my favorite lady bloggers (shout out to Corrin and Emmy!!) I had discovered the greatness of Lands End. Not only do they carry a huge selection of classic and preppy styles, but the carry them in plus sizes. Be still my heart! That dress you see up there? Yeah, that’s a polo dress. I’ve always imagined myself in a polo dress, some cute sandal wedges, a short sleeved cardigan and possibly a charm bracelet having lunch at a country club. Mind you, I still have all eight tattoes and I’m possibly wearing bright red nail polish and lipstick, but that’s just how I roll. Seriously, I think I need a navy blue polo dress in my life. And speaking of Lands End preppy greatness…..
Large Natural Open Top Canvas Tote Bag – Lands End
In the name of all that is preppy, can someone please get me a pink monogrammed Lands End tote? This would pretty much make me the fanciest lady in the world. My initials are BCB and no, I’m not telling what the first B stands for……. though I will admit that the C stands for Catherine. I’ve already said too much…….
Michael Kors Charm Driver Loafers – Michael Kors
I am a big fan of driving. I love being in the car for 45 minutes to an hour, listening to music with the windows down and just enjoy the scenery. These shoes and I are a match made in heaven since they are “driving” shoes! The perfect preppy combination of flat and loafer with the luxe Michael Kors touch – they’ll be perfect with my polo dress!
What’s in your shopping cart these days? And how do you feel about my preppy picks? Let me know in the comments below or on Facebook or Twitter or Tumblr!
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Posted by Cathy | 6 Comments
Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
Life is a funny thing. Sometimes you think everything is moving along in a normal, safe and predictable pattern, when BAM – out of nowhere a big change blindsides you. Sometimes those changes are bad and scary; other times they are amazing and awesome. This is one of those amazing and awesome times!!
Thanks to the recommendation from a friend (I heart you Kate Buck Jr!!) I will be starting a new job next Monday. I will be working at Idea Incubator as a Community Manager. That’s right – after three years of learning, obsessing, testing, researching and honing my skills, I will have my first full-time social media job. There are really no words to express how excited and grateful I am to have this opportunity. It took such a looooong time for me to find what I loved and what I wanted to do with my life. I had this really great conversation the other day with Tolly about some of the craziness in my life and I think it’s important for me to really acknowledge how far I’ve come. You know, there was a time in my life that I didn’t expect to live past 25. I was stuck in a cycle of self-destruction that I felt would only end in my demise. It wasn’t until I was about 27 that I really realized that I was going to have the long and happy life I deserved and I really should start planning for my future. After many failures and false starts I finally feel like I have a great foundation for a career I’m passionate about and things in my life that I truly love to do. That being said, there are actually a few big new things on my plate…….
- NEW JOB!! You read all about that above.
-Citysearch Scout. I am not working with Citysearch as a local scout. I write recommendations for places I love around Austin to be featuring on their site and app. It doesn’t take a whole lot of time, but it’s fun and lord knows I love sharing all the great places I frequent.
-Urbantag. I’m doing a similar thing for Urbantag. I am a “Local Tastemaker” and I create a map of places and restaurants I love around Austin.
-Sonsi. I’m continuing my partnership with Sonsi Woman and still write a bi-monthly column for them. I was recently featured on their homepage with my picks for spring/summer!
-Moving. So this has nothing to do with my online life (or as I like to call it, my real fake life) but I will soon be moving to a more south/central section of Austin. It’s all part of my master plan to eventually live inside Nordstrom at Barton Creek Mall……
So please try not to curse me for sparse posting this month. I have a lot on my plate and I’m working on settling into a new routine. I will be back to normal in a week or two!
Read MoreMy Monday Shopping Cart – Short Sleeve Sweaters
While most people welcome the arrival of spring, I look at it with a mixture of relief and dread. The relief is from winter finally being over (like we really have winter in Texas), and the dread is from the impending Texas summer that is quickly approaching. One of my least favorite things about summer is that it’s too hot to layer. I love wearing cardigans and sweaters and during the summer it’s just impossible. This year, I plan on trying something new – I’m going to try short sleeve cropped sweaters! I’m always a little wary of cropped sweaters. If they are too short, they hit right at the boobs and look weird (yes, I am talking about shrugs). So I searched high and low online to find some sweaters that are short and light and perfect for spring/summer………..
Lily Cardigan by SWAK Designs – Sonsi
It’s cropped, it has short sleeves and it’s color that does not exist in my wardrobe. That’s why it’s number one on my list!
Eileen Fisher Sheer Sweater – Nordstrom
Okay, I know that this is not a cardigan, but ever since I got my first Eileen Fisher sweater, I have been obsessed with getting my hands on more. I know they are pricey, but believe me – it is absolutely worth it. The lovely neutral color of this sweater means I can wear it with everything…… and I probably will……..
Polka Dot Cropped Cardigan – Torrid
Polka dots!!! I know I talk about them way too much, but they are seriously the most funnerest pattern ever. Yes, they are so fun I had to make up a word. Plus it’s purple and I bemoan the lack of purple in my closet all the time. True story.
Sejour Print Cardigan – Nordstrom
I feel like this cardigan would make me classy……. at least, classy on the outside. The pattern is so unique and it’s bright red. I have a navy blue dress that would look stunning with this. See? I’m already planning outfits with it. That must mean that I need it!
Roaman’s Dolman Sleeve Cropped Cardigan – One Stop Plus
I normally shy away from anything that’s closer to a shrug than a sweater. I know a lot of people love shrugs, but I find them to be oddly shaming. They are really meant to cover up/hide things you don’t like as opposed to be an addition to an outfit. I prefer for my clothes to enhance, not to cover up. This sweater has a slightly shruggish shape (again, an awesomely made up word!) but it’s longer than a shrug and comes in awesome colors. I want to wear it with jeans. That’s right, I actually want to wear pants…….
Vince Camuto Striped Poncho Cardigan – Nordstrom
Ok I admit – this is not really a short sleeved cardigan. In fact, it’s more like a summery version of my winter cape. I don’t care though. I love the stripey easiness of the design. I stress a lot about what to wear with leggings/pants during the summer that won’t be too hot, and I think this will be perfect!
What pieces are you sort of obsessed with for spring/summer? I will be pinning all of these over on Pinterest, so feel free to check them out! Also hunt me down on Tumblr, Twitter and Facebook to let me know what you think.
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My Monday Shopping Cart – Shopping for the Seeesters!
Sometimes I feel like a giant douchebag doing this shopping cart. It feels sort of…… I don’t know…….. selfish? It’s just an endless list of things I want. Luckily, I don’t just want things for me; I want them for others as well! I have a whole folder of bookmarks of things that I want to get for other people. Today’s shopping cart is about things I want to get for others…… and by others I mean my seeeesters!
Xenophilius Lovegood Necklace – Skymall
My older sister Michelle is a HUGE Harry Potter fan. She knows everything there is to know about the series, owns all of the books (multiple copies!!) and all the movies…….. yet still sits and watches the movies when they come on TV. This love of Harry Potter has helped her work at a library; she is the go-to resource for all kids/teenagers looking for great books to read. She is the YA expert of Central Texas. This necklace is of the Deathly Hallows and is simple and elegant enough for everyday wear. She would LOVE it.
Steampunk iPhone Case – Etsy
My little sister Theresa was the first of my sisters to embrace steampunk. She introduced me to it, and now I love it too. I admit I was a little jealous when she first got her iPhone, but now she’s jealous of mine since it’s white! She would love this steampunk phone case. I firmly believe that iPhones are like pets – they need multiple outfits for every occasion!
Hello Kitty Vans – Vans
My sister Lauren is a makeup and hair genius. Whenever I go visit them in San Antonio, I always want her to do my hair and she is always nice enough to oblige. She is also a huge Hello Kitty fan! Now, her and my sister Tessa are big Converse fans. As a lifelong Vans fan, I feel that I have to try and bring them over to my side. I think the best way to sway Lauren would be with Hello Kitty Vans. Brilliant no??
Red Cambridge Satchel – Modcloth
My sister Tessa is taking over the world. She is a force to be reckoned with in the professional world, and wants to go back to school to get even smarter and have more ways to take over the world. I have always loved the classic style of the Cambridge Satchel, but let’s be honest; there is nothing about me that is remotely classy or professional enough to warrant this bag. Luckily, it will be perfect for Tessa. She would look like the epitome of style and power!
Savage Beauty – Amazon
My oldest sister Bernadette might be the only person who hearts fashion as much as I do. She is always excited to hear my random musings about the fashion world, which I appreciate more than words can say. I would love to get her this coffee table book of the Savage Beauty exhibit from the collections of Alexander McQueen while under the direction of the incomperable Lee McQueen. The book is moving, the collections are dramatic and profound and the photography is flawless. I know she’d treasure it just like I do.
Do you create wishlists for things you want to buy for others?
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Posted by Cathy | 0 Comments
Citysearch wants to hook you up during SXSW
If you follow me on Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Pinterest or Foursquare you know that I’m mildly obsessed with social media. I love connecting online and sharing my ridiculously banal life with my online community. Due to my constant online presence (seriously, it’s like I don’t even sleep) Citysearch has invited me to be a part of their Austin team of ……well…… people who are out and about a lot. While I don’t claim to be hugely influential (other than to my mom and possibly 3 friends) I am diligent about sharing my favorite places in Austin online. So now that I’m BFFs with Citysearch, I’m super excited to share their awesome scavenger hunt going on during SXSW!
That’s Sid – isn’t he fancy??
Starting at 7:00pm on Friday March 9th, until 8:00pm on Sunday March 11th, you can participate in the scavenger hunt. You will be looking for places with the new Citysearch mascot in the window (see that picture above? That’s what you are looking for). Scan the QR code and follow the directions to earn points. Come to PRIZE between 5:00-8:00pm on Sunday March 11th to get your points tallied. The people with the 10 highest scores are the finalists!! What do the finalists get? As a finalist you will be notified between 8:00-9:00pm that you are a finalist and you’ll get your first clue to finding the grand prize – $5000.00 in cash hidden somewhere within a 10 block radius of the Austin Convention Center. The first finalist to find it gets the money! Pretty freaking fun right?
Is that not enough of an incentive to play? Well how about this; each day Citysearch will be giving out a $300 Visa giftcard to a random person participating in the scavenger hunt. All you have to do is participate in the hunt and tweet using @citysearch and/or#sxswcitysearch. From those tweets, a daily winner will be picked at random. How can you say no to randomly winning money? That’s like a pair of shoes AND a purse!
I know there are lots of great things to look forward to during SXSW – meeting people, free tacos, drinks, networking, free ice cream, etc. But how cool would it be to get all of those things AND free money? That would make this the best SXSW ever!!
I’ll be around all weekend, so follow me on Twitter and Facebook to see where I am and what I’m up to – I’ll be all over @citysearch!
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