Pick a Palette: The Legend

This is for a friend, who had a request. I think it really works for summer. Or going on an adventure to save a princess.

Clockwise from top:

Shirt: Old Navy, "Women's Eyelet Flutter Sleeve Top," in New Zealand, (here) $24.50

Belt: Banana Republic, in bark brown (here) $55.00

Ring: Noir Jewelry, "Dagger Knuckle Ring", in gunmetal, (here) $77.00

Pants: Gap, "The New Easy Straight", in khaki, (here) $25.00

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman, "Apron Sandal", (here) $375.00

Pick a Palette: The Legend

Pump up the Jam

Image:  http://paleolife365.wordpress.com

Promoting a healthy, active lifestyle, is something that I've been striving to do for the last several years. (And at the very least I want to be prepared to outrun zombies.) In my opinion, the best way to do that is to lead by example. This week I've been evaluating my fitness levels (or lack thereof) and have decided to make some small daily changes that I know I'll be able to keep up with. Now, I am not an expert by any stretch of the imagination. But I'm going to share the things that I've learned from experience. 

1. Small Changes make a Big Impact- By trying to change everything all at once, you are only setting yourself up for failure. (Especially if you have a lot of other things going on in your life.) Today, for example, I forgot my lunch, so I went to Subway and chose apple slices instead of chips. When I go to visit my colleagues on other floors, i try to take the stairs. It's easier for me to make things a habit when I start small. 
2. Be Active- Something as simple as taking a walk around your neighborhood or going for a bike ride will give you more energy and contribute to a healthier lifestyle. Activity doesn't always have to take place in a gym. It could be your backyard, a pool, or a park. Make it fun! I take horseback riding and fencing, and am looking for a hip-hop dance class in my area. Want to ready yourself for a possible zombie apocalypse? Look up your nearest accredited martial arts studio or medieval sword-fighting instructor. (yes, they exist!) 
3. Set realistic goals- Instead of saying "I want to lose X amount of pounds in X amount of days" or "I want to have a body like so-and-so" why don't you say to yourself "I want to be able to do 30 push-ups in a row," or "I want to be able to run a 5K." I used to say the aforementioned things to myself all the time when I was feeling down and out about my fitness. Now I just want to be stronger, faster, and appreciate my body for all the amazing things it can do. 
4. Everything in Moderation- Let's keep it real here. I am not giving up sleeping in on Saturdays, lazy Sundays, french fries, cupcakes, beer, or pizza. But I always try to keep in mind how much and how frequently I have these things. It's easy when I'm active, because I always want to choose to do/eat things that make me feel good and give me energy.Moderation means I will never feel deprived.

My work-out must haves!

 Clockwise:

1. SIGG water bottle. This is a kid's version, but there are many more designs and sizes (here). Good for the environment and keeps water cool. Also at your local Wegmans or Whole Foods grocery stores.

2. iPod video. This is an older version, and really any portable music player will do. I like how light-weight this is. (here)

3. Herban Essentials Wipes: These come in packs, with scents like Peppermint, Lemon, Eucalyptus and Lavender. These are really refreshing after working out, and awesome in the summer as a general anti-bacterial, all natural wipe. I got my packs at Marshalls for $4, but you can also purchase them online (here).

4. Nike training gloves. My hands get very sweaty, so I HAVE to have these when I lift. (here)

5. Towel from my linen closet. :)

Pump up the Jam

Wall Swag

A house isn't a home until you've put your own personal touches on it. The easiest way to impart your sense of style, aesthetic, and sense of humor is by adorning the biggest canvas you have: your walls!

Vintage Style Super-Hero Posters by Michael Myers 

Artist Michael Myers has a series of these vintage super-hero posters, which would look awesome framed in a TV room or office. Click on his name above and check out his other designs and illustrations.

(Check out his blog! Some great work from him and links to other.)

Battlestar Galactica Propaganda Posters (as a 5 poster set) (here)

and First Cylon War Print (here) designed by Adam Levermore-Rich

"Join the battle against Cylon tyranny! Show your true colors and support the cause by displaying these posters in the common areas of your ship. Officially sanctioned by Fleet Operations, each poster contains critical messages from the Colonial Ministry of Information that will help recruit, inspire and inform your fellow Colonial citizens." - Quantum Mechanix

These would be a cool addition to any retro themed office.

Seems like any other battle, save for the cylon on the far right. Makes you look twice.

Nintendo Wall Graphics (here)

Of course, my preference is Original Mario, but they also come in Donkey Kong and New Super Mario Bros

I would have killed to have this in my room when I was a kid! Especially after that glorious day when I finally beat the game.

Star Trek Wall Decals- Full Wall Mural (here)

This is just spectacular. I love it as pictured, as the backdrop for what appears to be an IKEA dorm.

Truly, if you are going to do something, never do it half-way.

Are you a minimalist when it comes to artwork/decoration or do you like to go all out?

(Also, Happy Star Wars Day! May the Fourth be with you!)

Wall Swag

Three Wolf Moon: 3 Ways

Have you ever stepped into your packed closet, or rifled through drawers stuffed with clothes only to come to the conclusion that you have nothing to wear? Or consequently, waited far too long to replace those well worn/loved tees? Well, I'm here to tell you that it happens to the best of us.

But fear not. No matter your gender, skin color, or Stargate series preference, I am here to tell you that I have the answer to your couture quandaries. 

Yes, my dear readers, there is only one item you need to feel once more feel that rush of power when you prepare yourself for the day ahead. 

THREE WOLF MOON

 Three Wolf Moon T-Shirt by The Mountain, (here) 

But please, don't take my word for it. Check out the over 1,700 reviews on Amazon. Read about the amazing powers and irresistible allure this t-shirt has granted to it's wearers. 

In case you were wondering what you could possible pair with such a glorious piece, I have created three different looks to inspire you. 

Blazer: Fred Flare "The Boyfriend Blazer", in black (here) $64.00

Shoes: Miz Mooz, "Sachi", in green (here) $105.00

Jeans: Banana Republic, "Heritage Railroad Stripe Cropped Boyfriend Jean" (here) $89.50

Bag: Melie Bianco "Diagonal Stitch Tote", in gold (here) $79.00

 

Bracelets: Gap "Metallic Beaded Stretch Bracelets" (here) $9.50

Watch: Timex "Men's Classic Camper Watch", in black (here) $24.00

Jeans: Gap "Skinny Mid-rise Jeans", in medium wash (here) $60.00

Boots: Steven by Steve Madden "Iden", in cognac (here) $159.00

* wear shirt tucked in

Necklace: Banana Republic "Imperial Necklace" (here) $69.50

Bag: Matt and Nat "Hendrix" (here) $165.00

Shoes: Steve Madden "Caryssa", in blush suede (here) $89.00

Skirt: J. Crew "Perfect Pencil Skirt", in fresh plum (here) $79.99

Do you already own a Three Wolf Moon (herein after 3WM) or maybe it's less powerful predecessor the Two Wolf Moon (2WM)?

Have you seen one of these in action?

 

 Image: T-Shirt Pirate.com

Three Wolf Moon: 3 Ways

Pick a Palette: Star Trek: TNG

I am hoping to make "Pick a Palette" a regular on Dungeons and Diamonds. I like to search for inspiration in the least likely of places. This week's palette is from an old favorite.

                                                                       Image: Agony Booth Media

Clockwise From Top
Top: J. Crew "Silk Streamers Cami" in dijon mustard, on sale (here)  $59.99
Clutch: Herve Leger Crystal Clutch, on sale (here) $908.60 (yes, its on SALE)
Ring: Forever 21 "Sparkling Rhinestone Wrap Ring" (here) $5.80
Pants: Forever 21 "Fab Skinny Jeans" in black denim (here) $9.50
Shoes: Nine West "Bonfire" heels in black leather (here) $89.00

Is there a particular person, place or thing that inspires your style/design/creativity?

Do you have a particular color palette you usually stick to?

Pick a Palette: Star Trek: TNG

Tech-cessories

If you're like me, technology is a huge part of your life. I freak out if I get in the car and realize I've forgotten my phone. We are constantly connected, in one way shape or form. Right now I'm typing away on my PC (clearly), and within arms reach I have access to a digital camera, my iPhone, and a scanner/printer/copier/fax machine. 
 Technology is becoming increasingly accessible and luckily, (for those of us who are suckers for nice packaging) increasingly customizable. 

If you're going to limit human interaction, you might as well do it in style.

1

1. INCASE gold slider case for iPhone 3G and 3GS, available (here)

2. MIMOBOT: USB Flash Drive, available (here)

3. LUXEED U5 Dynamic Pixel LED Keyboard, available (here)

4. Nintendo DSi, available (here)

5. Elecom EHP-AIN 100 Ear Drops Tiara Earphones, available (here)

6. Pentax K-x Digital SLR Camera, sadly only available in all the awesome color combos in Japan, but click (here) to play with all the neat options.

**NOTE** I am aware that there is a sea of pink in the options above, but most of the websites offer several color/design choices for these items.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think there is probably something for me to re-tweet.

Are there any "tech-cessories" that you can't live without? 

Have you customized any of your gadgets? Show me!

Tech-cessories

Nouveaux Nerd

Back in the day, I had more than my fair share of "nerd" attire. From anime t-shirts to my Dana Scully FBI badge, I wore it loud and wore it proud. And i'm not gonna lie: I can't bear to give up my 3 sizes too big X-Files t-shirt (which i still sleep in.)

Nowadays though, it seems as if some retailers/designers are getting a bit more subtle with their "Geek Chic."

1. Bella's Jacket, from the Twilight series. By B.B. Dakota and available (here) and (here) in multiple colors. I actually own this jacket in olive (a Christmas gift from a friend).I have to say, it is warm, cute, and functional what with the multitude of pockets.

                                                                                       Pictures: PacSun/Summit Entertainment



2. "My Other Ride is a LightCycle" (t-shirt and hoodie) by Rolf Nelson, available (here) at Threadless. (Where, incidentally, you can find lots of other cool tees.) Tron fans rejoice! With upcoming release of the remake, this design will definitely sate the old and new-school nerd alike. (The best part: it glows in the dark!)

                                                                                                    Pictures: Threadless




3. Lord of the Rings: The One Ring, available (here) on a chain in gold plate, silver and 14k gold.
I would wear this on a chain, layered with other necklaces, and definitely with the elvish script.

                                                                                                                                                                           Picture: MyPrecious Jewlery

4. House Slytherin Thin Striped Tie, available (here.) One for the gents. A little preppy to the undiscerning eye, but those of us of the House of Guilty Pleasure know which bleach-blonde brit you're trying to channel.

                                                                     Pictures: Whimsical Alley, Warner Brothers Pictures



5. And if subtlety isn't your thing, go for the gold with Liz's "Viva La Zombie" line, available (here).
I think I need the Organic Cotton Women's tee.

Any geeky swag you just can't give up?
Run across an amazing accessory?
I want to see!

Nouveaux Nerd