Gatsby...What Gatsby?

Lovelies,

I know I previously mentioned my excitement for the upcoming release of the Great Gatsby in my Summer Playlist, but I still felt the need to dedicate an entire post to my Gatsby obsession in order to give it the amount of attention it deserves.

I first read The Great Gatsby this past summer. Although it took me a while to get past the complexity of Fitzgerald's sentence structure and flowery descriptions, the plot consumed my interest; it wasn't long until it became my favorite novel. Although I don't consider myself a romantic, there is something undoubtably charming about Gatsby's sense of determination to capture Daisy's heart again; add in the Jazz Age and New York City, and you have, arguably, one of the greatest pieces of American literature.

Gatsby has gotten more than its share of press over the past few months. The latest Vogue, pictured above, features Carey Mulligan and discusses the so-called "Gatsby phenomenon" sweeping the nation. Meanwhile, companies such as Tiffany and Co. and Brooks Brothers have launched limited collections inspired by the upcoming film. Tiffany's launch party, held at Rockefeller Center in New York, featured acrobatic acts and elaborate displays. Bill Cunningham was there to photograph the event, of course. ;)

One thing is for sure - A Gatsby craze is upon us.

My only concern about this film is Director Baz Lurhmann's desire to "modernize" the plot, in turn eliminating some of the authenticity. I'd like to think that the star-studded cast, amazing soundtrack and Lurhman's over-the-top opulence will dazzle. However, I can't be sure.

I know that my dress isn't exactly reminiscent of the Jazz Age, but the draw-string waist and print almost emulates the avant-garde styles worn by the flappers, and Daisy Buchanans alike, during the 20's. ;) I adore this dress due to its simplicity, comfort, and pop of color. I accessorized with dainty, classic pieces such as the Anthropologie flower posts and Madewell friendship bracelet.

Notes on the Outfit-

Tulle Shift Dress

Ray-Ban Wayfarers

Anthropologie Earrings

Dogeared Necklace

Madewell Friendship Bracelet

Franco Sarto Sandals

XOXO,

Em

Old Town

Lovelies,

So begins the documentation of my summer vacation to Europe!:)  I was really looking forward to this trip because I saw it as a way to expand the content of my blog; while continuing to post outfits, I want to start focusing a bit more on the things I experience while exploring a new country. Luckily, my first stop was Prague, a city who's vibrant and artistic community faced communism and World War II several decades ago. 

 We arrived at the airport after spending around 24 hours traveling to our final destination. IT. WAS. EXHAUSTING. I somehow always think I'm going to miraculously outsmart jetlag and feel happy as a clam when I get off the plane...but unfortunately, it never works out. :/ The combination of policeman riding segways all over the airport (ONLY in europe!) and the unreadable Czech signs made my brain swim just a tad. After finding our luggage, we drove into Prague's city square. The buildings, although somewhat shabby on the outside, are absolutely dazzling on the inside. (Think chandeliers, rare woods, pastel colors and gorgeous lighting.)

These photos were taking outside of the Jewish Cemetery, located just a few blocks away from the city's square, known as the Old Town Square. Prague itself is divided into five sections- Josefov (Jewish Quarter), Old Town, New Town, The Castle of Prague and Malá Strana. The Jewish Quarter is also home to the oldest Synagogue in Europe, which is rumored to hold this mythical creature known as the Golem in its attic. Mysterious? Definitely.

I really liked the atmosphere around the Jewish quarter in contrast with my choice of clothing. I bought the shirt on a Forever 21 run with my dearest girl, Elsa. To me, the construction of the sleeves and the collar seems to reference the 50's. I increased the femininity of the outfit by adding the J. Crew necklace. After a year, I finally wore it! :) I topped it all off with my vintage Dooney, Ray-Bans, Henri Bendel Bracelet and J. Crew flats that I bought in San Francisco.

The pants? They're a story in themselves. Originally, I bought a pair of ripped tomato colored jeans while I was at Forever 21 with Elsa. Just as my heart set on them, I realized the zipper was broken...but, being me, I wouldn't put them down. I told myself I could just sew some hooks and eyes on them, turning them into wearable and ridiculously fantastic pants. With the bonus 5% discount Forever 21 gave me, I felt like I was getting them for a bargain. (Insert LOADS of sarcasm here). Unfortunately, my three hours of sewing while Elsa watched Midnight in Paris didn't exactly work out so hot. The fly gapped strangely, and I felt really awkward in them. In panic mode, I flew to Gap and found these. They're not exactly what I'm looking for, but they'll look great in Winter. (You bet I'm going to find a way to make those pants work, though). (:

XOXO,

Em