Sometimes Moustache Man and I have creative differences, like over these photos.  In such a case we battle it out with words.  If a stalemate ensues, then we forfeit to a wrassle.  I’m pretty scrappy, but MM caught me in a camel clutch and I was helpless.  Damn you and your agile moves MM!  I will get you next time . . .

J left a comment informing me that my army surplus belt thingy is in fact a pair of spats buckled together.  [J click here!]  MM and I had a severe “DOH!” moment and were embarrassed.  It all makes so much sense now!  So today I took the spats out for a taco eating trip and man, I felt indestructible.  Who knew cankle boots possessed such power?  Muhahahahahah . . .

credits: diy skeletor suit, equaline bandages, elizabeth and james skirt, ann demeulemeester boots

This shoot came together after a week of sitting on the idea and the inspiration.  I’ve always been hesitant to do diy’s because I don’t want it to just look like a shitty version of the original.  I think what helps me is not to focus on spitting out an exact copy, but trying to (as cheesy as it sounds) put some of me into it.  So here is my prototype of the skeletor suit.  I say prototype because I have kinks to work out and I like it so much it’s worth perfecting.  The suit is a compilation of a bodysuit and iron-on-transfers.  Oh, how I envy those who have the luxury of screen printing!

The black lip is inpired by YSL Fall 2008.  You ain’t no fool.  And no, it isn’t the limited addition (those marketing fiends!) YSL Pure Lip Gloss #49.  I’m actually wearing eyeliner, which is kinda gross considering it might be going on my eyes later.  I guess I can use the bandages to clean myself up if I end up getting a nasty infection.  Or an eye patch.  Yes, definitely an eye patch.

credits: diy skeletor suit, equaline bandages, elizabeth and james skirt, ann demeulemeester boots

As a kid, I got hooked on a random Strawberry Shortcake movie.  Thinking back it was a peculiar cartoon, with different shortcake friends bobbing their oversized heads and playing guitars.  This of course was after a fairy came and made their hair grow.  In the end, the antagonist (a purple fellow the shade of my top) was destroyed by the titillated follicles.  I was an odd little thing.

I finally found a belt that’s a keeper and have been experimenting with different methods of wear.  I usually stray away from voluminous silhouettes, but using the belt cinches the waist and allows the top to flow into the lines of the skirt.  Sometimes volume is a good thing.

credits: Rachel Comey top, Rachel Comey double buckle belt, Elizabeth & James skirt, Spanx tights, Rick Owens motorcycle jacket, Rachel Comey Penpal boots

These VPL doubly thigh-highs exemplify another legwear challenge I could not refuse.  Admiring a fantastic piece off the runway is quite different from trying to wear it in your everyday life.  But this fact rarely deters my click happy habits.  My first attempt to create an outfit around these thigh-highs resulted in a black heavy outfit.  This time around, I wanted to concoct a light-hearted ensemble that would better show off the two-tone effect.  The result is an ode to my balletic roots down to the ties hanging around my neck.  Btw, have you seen the recent Barneys catalogue?  The styling/makeup is extremely well done.

credits: Humanoid shirt, Elizabeth & James skirt, VPL doubly thigh-highs, Cole Haan pumps

Leather me up: I’m determined to find a statement leather jacket.  This Balmain jacket from the Spring 2009 collection inspired me to begin the search.  The structured shoulders, asymmetrical neckline, button details and cut-out front make it worthy of mention.  Alas, Balmain’s creation isn’t available yet.  Let’s take a look at some other pieces that made the xs cut.

Cropped: Hanii Y makes the cutest cropped leather piece I’ve seen.  The Cellena jacket has a great cement color and the simple contrast collar juxtaposes perfectly against the harsh cut silhouette.  This is a strong contender in my book.  Available at shopbop.com.

Sleek Brown: Originally known for her denim pieces, Paige Adams-Geller has created a Black Label featuring clothing for the luxury customer.  The Hyde Park jacket is a testament to the tailoring and specialty fabrics used for the new label.  Simple shape and slimming seams make this an exemplary classic.  Available at nordstroms.com.

Motorcycle: Justin Bobby’s overalls might have turned you off motorcycle gear, but the Ever jacket may change your mind.  I adore grey leather pieces and the motorcycle jacket will never go out of style.  What makes this piece special are the strategically placed zippers and slight flare waist.  This sweet find is available at shopbop.com.

Blazer: Most leather blazers I’ve found seem dated and unflattering.  Leave it to the Elizabeth & James duo to create an edgy piece with this corset leather jacket.  I love the rounded lapel, crinkled leather and cut-out front.  I can imagine it topping off a great outfit already.  Available at intermixonline.com.