sensible shadow.

although it is impossible to visit nyc without shopping, i left with a promise: i am only allowed to acquire things for fall. moreover, i must absolutely and instantly love them and they need to fit perfectly prior to any alterations. the reasoning behind these clauses is self-evident: i have too many "almost there" garments hanging in my closet and i never end up taking them to a seamstress. i also promised myself that neither sandals nor sneakers were allowed because there are several dozen of both types in (and outside) my closet already, but that i should find myself a pair of sensible ankle boots for the fall. based on my previous thoughts on recessionista behavior i had acted according to the dogma of frugality, and i thought it was time to boost the american economy the little it was possible on my part.

since the definition of 'sensible' comes down to one's personal evaluative skills, you can probably imagine that my first, absolutely down-to-earth thought was to find these finsk ponyskin wedges. unfortunately, they were sold out. bummed, i was quite certain i wouldn't find anything that could impress me to the extent of their beauty.

lately my desire for unconventional shapes and structured pieces has grown tremendously; the approaching fall and winter create a longing for strength and shadow that is somewhat unprecedented. i have for years relied on shoes for additional interest in an outfit; a sculptural shoe oomphs an outfit easier for the likes of myself who find layering a challenge and often too fussy. and i did not believe i could find anything as beautiful as the wooden wedge.

wrong! less than a minute after walking into barney's co-op i was teetering in these alexander wang ankle boots. the leather is so soft i first thought it was washed denim, the weight of each shoe closes on 2lbs, and they jingle when i walk. although i hardly have time to stroke the beautiful material, the feeling of luxury seems to submerge through socks and underneath my skin. the heavy steps are as good as exercise (right?) and the clickety-clack is just a fun – and annoying – detail. they're a pair of terminator hushpuppies meet moon boot creepers.

instant love? yes. perfect fit? definitely. but sensible? probably not...


boots hanne by alexander wang.

otherwise i acted true to my plans. i bought things i fell in love with and that fit flawlessly, such as the rick owens jacket below. in perfect accord with his style it creates interesting 3d silhouttes depending on how you wear it and where you're looking from. within my newly embraced femininity that arrived with the shaved head, an hourglass shape does not necessarily strike as traditional. moreover, a tucked waist works better on my body than cloak-like shapes, but the foldings add interest and take a feminine shape to another level.

come fall, i venture back towards my monochrome ways. since i associate color with spring and summer, most of what i wear will hover between black and white. hence, the look i'll be sporting this fall may be a little tough and industrial, but i promise to accessorize with a smile...


click to enlarge. jacket and long sleeveless tee by rick owens, leggings american apparel, necklace i know why no, boots as above.

what does sensible mean to you? are you finding it hard to follow your principles when ultimate fashion love strikes?