Equality.

I apologize if this post may get a little bit off of the beaten fashion-path, but I'll start it off with a message to the ladies.  DO NOT BE AFRAID TO WEAR MEN'S CLOTHING!

For decades girls have been gifted or have stolen their boyfriend's jackets and sweaters.  There is something adorable about a pretty little thing donning her man's over-sized apparel.  I've taken it to the next level, regularly shopping the men's clearance section as thoroughly as the women's.  Several men's cardigans, shoes and even jeans have crept their way into my closet.  In the shoot below I found occasion to show of my boy-jeans found on sale at Urban Outfitters, paired with my absolute favorite pair of shoes- men's wingtips discovered at Wasteland on Melrose.  I regularly sport the pair, double cuffing the jeans and making sure to have some ultra-feminine accessories or a hair-bow included in the ensemble. 

A few months ago I scored a coveted shoot with the LA-based art photographer rock-star Dalmiro Quiroga, who's photos I featured in my last entry.  I'm not a model and I was excited that he wanted to work together, as I'm always looking for new artistic expression to relay some message or other.

I had the idea of addressing a really pertinent issue in California that hits rather close to home- marriage equality.  I was beyond shocked back in 2008 when Proposition 8 passed, banning same-sex marriage in the state of California.  There has been a long and tumultuous journey since then, which has been ultimately disappointing thus far.  We will continue to fight- it seems completely backwards that our country, originally founded on the basis of separation of church and state, could be so filled with ignoramuses. 

It's hard to imagine being told by the government that you aren't allowed to marry the person you love, and though I happen to be attracted to men, some of the people I hold closer to my heart than my rib-bones will be restricted by this idiotic notion. 

I wanted to present a literal depiction of someone trying to force themselves into a mold in order to be accepted.  You can't fit a round peg into a square hole, no matter how badly you want to. 

I've only included a few photos from the shoot, entitled "Boys Don't Cry."  The entire shoot can be viewed here:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2074663&id=1257990074&l=bd077c0c95

What do these images mean to you?
<3Eden

What Goes Around Comes Around SAMPLE SALE and the Umami Tsunami Benefit

It’s a good day to be at SPACE 15TWENTY in Hollywood! Take advantage of the gorgeous LA weather today and head out to high- end vintage + contemporary brand store WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND and take advantage of their juicy SAMPLE SALE, then walk across the charming vine covered corridor to UMAMI BURGER and support the “Umami Tsunami Benefit”, Where the popular restaurant will be donating $1 for every burger sold to the American Red Cross to help out the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami fund today Tuesday March 29^th. 

I stopped by the sample sale a few days ago to hoping to find a few treasures and made out with some incredible finds. When I saw the flier boasting  up to 90% off their collection,  I thought it was too good to be true.

I was happily surprised.

 There’s a table full of dresses between $20 and $30, and trunks of purses, blouses, and belts all from $10-$15! I snagged this studded white leather vintage belt that was originally priced at $248 for only $10. Can’t wait to use this to add just the right amount of edge to a sweet frock or full skirt. You will drool when you see the wall of vintage shoes and boots- all 50% off! The sale has been going on for a few days, but there was still a great selection when I was there.

Shopping at WGACA is an experience. The store is blooming with an expertly chosen selection of designer vintage dresses, jackets, tee’s and more all displayed with humble beauty amongst  the exposed brick walls, well-worn rugs and tattered suitcases. This place is bursting with character that’s bound to inspire you. Check out their website. The vintage Chanel Jewelry is on the top of my fantasy-fashion wish-list. 

http://www.whatgoesaroundnyc.com

What Goes Around Comes Around - Hollywood
1520 N Cahuenga Blvd
(at Space 15Twenty)
Los Angeles, CA 90028

323-836-0252

Monday - Saturday 11:00am - 8:00pm
Sunday 10:00am - 7:00pm

 

As for UMAMI burger, all I can say is if you haven’t tried their signature burger, and you eat meat, GO NOW. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that I actually teared up a bit after taking a bite of this burger. OK, ok, ok, perhaps the beer that I had with the meal aided in this ridiculous emotional eating experience, but it really was THAT GOOD. Don’t even think about asking for substitutions or messing with the UMAMI burger, they won’t do it. Plus, if you go today at any of their five LA locations, you’ll be supporting Tsunami and Earthquake relief in Japan. Burgers are around $10.

Umami Urban 1520 Cahuenga Blvd, Hollywood

http://umamiburger.com/

Also, beware of one-hour parking meters. You may get carried away shopping or tearing up over burgers like, eh hem…someone I know, and forget to pay the meter, resulting in everyone's favorite surprise- a parking ticket. ;)

yummy love,

Amanda 

Get Heavenly

Friday afternoon brought a break in the dreary weather we've been having the past week or so. The sun beckoned me and a best bud out to the whimsical off Melrose strip known as Larchmont.
I had just survived my first vegan restaurant experience (the almond milk vanilla "milkshake" was actually pretty good!) and we decided to hit the stores. 
I was drawn to a rack marked as "$15 or Less" where I found a floral mini sundress with cap sleeves and pretty little bow in front!!

The store was "Heavenly Couture". The racks were stocked with breezy spring styles all with more than reasonable price points. If you're looking for an alternative to Forever 21 and H&M give this place a try!

I paired my find with some purple tights, yanked from my bff a few years back when she left them at my apt during her visit to LA. Not sure where she got them. (Hi Emi!) And my vintage cowboy boots from American Vintage which I've been finding more and more excuses to wear.
Gave this outfit a test run at the Paul Gleason Theater where Eden was a part of a 24 Hour play festival!

http://www.getheavenly.com/


Larchmont
133 N Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 871-4054


x
-T

Lace is for Lovers (Art Lovers!)

The gallery opening was a success! The night came alive with a throng of enthusiastic attendees, live painting, great art and tons of inspiring outfits.  Even a few celebs showed up including Dominic Monaghan (LOST, Lord of the Rings etc…) and Laura Silverman (she’s also an artist who had her stuff on display!) Here are a few of the pieces at the Gallery. All are for sale. Please email me at amandawallace8@gmail.com or call Gallery Godo at (818)641-4389 to inquire. My work will be displayed there until April 9^th so feel free to go check it out!

Amanda Wallace, "Feminine", 22x30, Watercolor on Paper 

 

Amanda Wallace, "Follow the Rule", 16x20, Mixed Media on Canvas

Amanda Wallace, "Eternal Feminine", 22x30, Watercolor on Paper

I chose to combine two of springs most adorable trends. LACE and the ladylike cut of the 1960’s with this white lace sheath dress from Playclothes. What sold me on this dress was the above the knee length (looks more modern, shows off your legs) and the playful yellow bow on the back. To play with the 60’s look I added daisy earrings and high contrast Twiggy inspired make-up with pale nude lipstick

If you try this look on your eyes- don’t forget to powder- it’s so easily smudged! I added a hot- pink hand made paper mache bangle for extra color pop and nude patent leather heels from Unique Vintage. 

Although my look was distinctly early 60’s, lace is popping up all over the runways as one of spring 2011’s hottest trends in a variety of cuts and colors. It’s a look that is easily found at your closest vintage store! This look can be very romantic or edgy depending on how you accesorize. Try mixing textures and adding a leather belt, silky top or chunky metal jewelry.  Like all my strong-minded ladies, lace doesn't have to be delicate.

 Thanks to all who attended the opening! I am so lucky to have you in my life!

Lacey love, 

Amanda

Art on the Walls, Art on the People

This Friday evening the "Place To Be" was, without question, Gallery Godo (http://www.gallerygodo.net/) in Glendale.  Their "Save Japan" event was simply teeming with an artsy and sophisticated crowd the girls and I so enjoyed rubbing elbows with!  Amanda's work was amongst the best being shown- in fact I heard more than one patron admire it as their favorite corner. 

My dear friend and talented photographer Dalmiro Quiroga was there to capture some of the fun, and was kind enough to share his pictures with us...and his outfit.

 

Here you can see Amanda's vintage frock discovered at Playclothes on Magnolia in Burbank.  She completed her 1960s mod look with clip-on daisy earrings and seemingly Twiggy-inspired retro makeup.  In the background are a few of her pieces- maybe if we're lucky she'll post some pics of her work up here from time to time!



I whipped out one of my favorite dresses for the occasion.  Almost 2 years ago I dug this gem up at "Someone Else's", a lovely little vintage collection in North Hollywood.  I always like to pair it with super contemporary accessories.  Luckily my bestie Chelsea (pictured below) lent me the perfect shoes and Lulu Townsend clutch to complete my look!



Chelsea's the type of gal who can pull of just about anything- those cut yoga arms are the perfect accessory to any outfit!  I encouraged her to pattern clash on Friday, and she fearlessly rocked this Urban Outfitters scarf and Mimi Chica dress. 



Can we talk about this tights-with-socks-in-boots look?  Amazing!  I'm ashamed to admit I was skeptical when Chelsea told me about it, but now I'm totally obsessed and starting to see it everywhere!  Thanks, Chels!



Fashion designer Elliot Beach of Mamadoux, in an entirely hand-crafted outfit.  That poncho was sewn from a McDonald's blanket!  Who knew McDonald's even MADE blankets...?



These little animal hats aren't always my favorite, but Christine was just too cute in hers.  She picked up her cozy keppe cover at an Aahs! costume gift shop, and her knit sweater at the Fairfax Flea Market.

I wanted to steal Jaymie's necklace, found at a yard sale, but I just sicked Dalmiro on her instead. 

Dalmiro Quiroga- the man behind the lens!  Below are some more of his great captures.

How fabulous was this feathered jacket?  She and I were chatting here- which is why she looks so engaged I guess ;)









My favorite piece of the evening...after ALL of Amanda's of course.







Bye bye!  See you at the next event!

<3Eden

My Art Show Sneak Peek and the Egyptian Scarf.

Tonight’s the night! After 23 years of painting till my fingers bleed, I’ve finally gotten my work in a gallery. Art has always been something I’m extremely passionate about, but I never pursued studying in school (the last art class I took was in 6^th grade where my final project involved painting a rainbow coming out of a Sketchers shoe that I labeled “taste the rainbow” …) I’ve finally decided to share my work in the SAVE JAPAN group show with anyone who wants to come celebrate at the art opening tonight at Gallery Godo in Glendale. 25% of the sales will be donated to relief efforts in Japan.

Here’s a sneak peek of what you can see tonight and an outfit with my one of my all-time favorite accessories:

The Egyptian Scarf!

I got this beautiful hand-dyed scarf two summers ago in Aswan, Egypt when I was studying on Semester at Sea. This was pre-revolution era Egypt where Hosni Mubarak had been president since 1981, the state was in a constant state of emergency and operated under martial law, and the destitute reality of extreme poverty was boiling in the hearts of the people who would later take to protest to demand political freedoms early this year. You could feel the desperation on the streets as we were constantly bombarded with people, even young children trying to sell us souvenirs. I wish I could have supported all of them by buying a scarf or trinket, but my few Egyptian pounds would only provide temporary relief.  I hope that Egypt’s new quest for democracy will lead this country closer to providing each citizen with the opportunity to live a life free of oppression. I don’t mean to undermine the situation by moving on to fashion. This scarf will always be a reminder of how lucky I am to have been born with the opportunity to have food, shelter, an education and the ability to pursue what I really love in the world (THE ARTS!)

The Ensemble:

This scarf is a life saver. The deep purple, blood orange, reds and dark blue colors make it easy to match with a variety of outfits, and (as I found out last night) it works as a great make-shift umbrella for bar hopping in the rain. I paired skinny jeans with a loose fitting top from Charlotte Russe to balance out proportions. The back is a navy blue sheer fabric with a matching pocket in front. My new favorite shoes (around 25 bucks from Forever 21) are these sky-high wedge heeled loafers that, paired with the skinny jeans, made my legs look a mile longer. I guess I’m on a reinvented loafer kick right now. To top it all off and throw in a punch of color I added the scarf. When looking for a great Ethnic- inspired scarf, try and find something long, light, and bright. These qualities make my scarf useful year-round.

See you tonight! Details Below.

Loafer love,

Amanda

Tonight!

Gallery Godo

6749 San Fernando Rd. #C
Glendale, CA 91201
Vaan Manoukian
Phone: 818-641-4369
Fax: 818-551-9947
e-mail: galgodo@gmail.com