tarteva

In My White Tee

2009-10-09T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm fascinated with the versatility of a plain white shirt. The can literally be, anything you need them too; fitting perfectly into any and every occasion. This is how I play with a white shirt. Little scandalous, daring? Maybe. Plenty of fun? Yes!

Images from Garancedore

I'm Taking A Moment Just Imagining, I'm Dancing With You, by Tarteva - Marc Jacobs Contest!! featuring Christopher Kane

2009-09-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

Much has been made over Taylor Momsen's barely there bottoms, by tweeters, and gossip sites alike.

Here's my take:

Though she's just sixteen, and I'm sure she got into a fair amount of parental trouble for her looks...I think she looks great!!!!!

I've long been an arbiter of her personal style and attitude. Fashion pushes boundaries! And that's exactly what she's doing! I just pray this doesn't turn into an unfortunate "young Hollywood" gone crazy" situation. So my advice is to keep it, but keep your life tame and sane girl!

*Images from JustJared

You Used To Laugh About Everybody That Was Hanging Out

2009-09-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

Comment Please!

If You Want Me, Say It, If You Trust Me, Do It! by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Marc Jacobs

What else can I say? All Apologies....

2009-09-02T16:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've noticed a trend in content. But, I have this obsession with the look, feel, and sound of Grunge. I've dedicated many a Polyvore set to the subject. Forgive me, I fixated!

Jeremy Spoken, Yesterday by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Sonia by Sonia Rykiel sweaters

I Fake It So Real, I Am Beyond Fake, Yeah I Really Want You by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Converse shoes

Yeah They Really Want You, They Really Want You, They Really Do by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring 3.1 Phillip Lim

Ground Control To Major Tom, Ground Control To Major Tom by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Vanessa Bruno

Where are they now: Eloise

2009-08-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Every year, at Christmas time, my sister and I watch Eloise at Christmastime. It's become a holiday favorite for us. Even still, I never wondered what happened to the little actress that played Eloise. The other day, watching the Teen Choice Awards, I saw this beautiful actress named Sofia, and it turned out to be none other than Eloise herself. So I dedicated a set to her! Here it is!

God Is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO GOOD!!!! by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Rebecca Taylor

The Battle Is Not Yours, It's The Lord's

2009-08-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

The Battle is Not Yours, It's The Lord's!!!! by Tarteva - T-Shirt Contest!! featuring Band of Outsiders

Sexy Little School Girls

2009-07-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

Men seem to have serious things for oxymorons. Dirty nurse, sexy stewardess, and of course naughty school girl! That one falling into the same academic category as pornographic professors and lewd librarians. For-filling typical male fantasies everywhere...my newest polyvore set. I call it "Marilyn the Intellect"

See, reading is sexy afterall! Get excited for back-to-school!

Back to School My Little Lovelies! by Tarteva - Two New Contest!! featuring Balmain

My Boy Lollipop!

2009-07-21T10:02:00.000-07:00

"The only two choices for women; witch and sexy kitten." - Miranda Hobbes (Sex in the City Movie)

- Indeed you said a mouthful Miranda! And if I have my choice, I go the way of sexy kitten. Because what's wrong with a playful, sexy women, a la Claudia Schiffer or Brigitte Bardot? Nothing! Thats what!

Enjoy!

My Boy Lollipop, Ho Ho Ho Ho, You Make My Life Go Giddyup by Tarteva - Print Contest!! featuring BALMAIN

I like to be in America, O.K. by me in America Ev'rything free in America, For a small fee in America

2009-07-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've noticed a decline in the caliber of photographers in American fashion magazines. Not just in the artist them-selves, but in their work. Gone are the days of innovative, envelope-pushing photography. Where have the Steven Miesels and Richard Avedon's of the industry gone? The only magazine that still pays homage to the days of serious photography is Vanity Fair. And God Bless them for it!

Vanity Fair this is for inspiring me!

I like to be in America,O.K. by me in America,Ev'rything free in America,For a small fee in America by Tarteva - Print Contest!! featuring Forzieri gloves

Well It's a Soft Shock, To Your Soft Side, Summer Moon

2009-07-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's back to school time lovelies! Just two days ago, my local Wal-Mart began showing tell-tale signs of Autumn's silent approach. As if that weren't enough, everyone who's anyone has debuted their pre-fall collection. I don't know about you, but it's invigorating! I've always loved fall shopping, something about this season represents a new start, a challenge, a rebirth of self(that almost always begins with a rebirth of wardrobe.)

So, here's my BTS list:

Black Leather Jacket

Burgundy Leather Boots(Wedges) - Because burgundy goes with both black and brown

Two Button Down Shirts - One plaid, one Country Club blue

Dark Wash Skinny Jeans - from Forever 21

- I'll be sure to do a review of the fall collections soon!

As always enjoy!

Well It's a Soft Shock, To Your Soft Side, Summer Moon by Tarteva Eruca Rock Contest!! featuring BALMAIN

All The Girls Standing In The Line For The Bathroom

2009-07-17T13:08:00.000-07:00

All The Girls Standing In The Line For The Bathroom, All The Girls Standing by Tarteva Eruca Rock Contest!! featuring Dior sunglasses

And I Just Can't Get Enough, I Just Can't Get Enough

2009-07-14T15:28:00.000-07:00

Chicks with attitude of always held a special place in my heart. From the very first scene in 10 Things I Hate About You, to Hollywood's new bad girl, Kristen Stewart. But one of my all time favorite disaffected youth is the Queen of Rock n' Roll, Joan Jett. Her days in the Runaways made for some scandalous performances and the beginning of a career, millions both love and admire. For my inner bad girl...

Smile, Though Your Heart is Aching, Smile by Tarteva Eruca Rock Contest!! featuring Miss Sixty jeans

Lord, I'm tired of the Way That I Am, In Your Love I Want To Live Instead

2009-07-09T16:30:00.000-07:00

This set just impresses me visually. I love the pink, lavender, and red. It's an interesting mish-mash of colors!

To me it feels like a fashion party! We've got Anna Wintour, Karl Lagerfeld, Mary-Kate Olsen, and skinny, skinny models! Enjoy!

Lord, I'm tired of the Way That I Am, In Your Love I Want To Live Instead by Tarteva Eruca Rock Contest!! featuring Alexander McQueen accessories

Blessed, In A Vest With An S on My Chest, Oh Yes, I'm A Superwoman!

2009-07-06T12:34:00.000-07:00

A memorial of sorts, for Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.

Blessed, In A Vest With An S on My Chest, Oh Yes, by Tarteva Leather Jacket Contest!! on Polyvore.com

Happy 4th Everyone!

2009-07-04T11:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a little bit of Little J to help you ring in the holiday! Have a safe 4th!

Just Canceled Every Other Man Here, You Say You Like My Bag and The Color of my Nails... by Tarteva Leather Jacket Contest!! on Polyvore.com

You Pretend You're High, You Pretend You're Bored, You Pretend You're Anything Just To Be Adored

2009-07-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

I continue to be enamored by Kristen Stewart's energy. She's almost muse-status, because she works as constant inspiration for me.

-Check out my other Kristen Stewart sets.

You Pretend You're High, You Pretend You're Bored, You Pretend You're Anything Just To Be Adored by Tarteva Leather Jacket Contest!! featuring Converse shoes

I Always Feel Like Somebody's Watching Me

2009-06-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

The incomparable Michael Jackson, will forever remain an influence on song, dance, musicianship, performance and humanitarianism. His many works in all his fields have left the world irreversibly altered; they have left the world, a better place.

Thank God for Michael, this is for of you.

I Want to Love You Pretty Young Thing by Tarteva - Dinner Party Contest!! on Polyvore.com

Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett: Icons of Stage and Screen

2009-06-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

R.I.P. Michael Jackson

August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009

Farrah Fawcett

February 2, 1947^[1] – June 25, 2009

My prayers, condolences, and best wishes the souls, family, and friends of the departed, and all those affected.

2009-06-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

I first noticed Alexander Wang's potential as an influential designer, when he'd yet perfected his casual decadence. His aesthetic was still rough around the edges, but his clothes breathed an energy that stood to help invigorate the fashion industry. Years past and collections later, Alexander Wang has built a name for him-self with celebrities and editors and fashion youth alike. At the time, there's nothing like his uncomplicated design, neutral colors, and sumptuous fabrics. Plus, he's just a whole lotta fun!

- Enjoy!

Party Like A Rock, Party Like A Rockstar, T-T-T-Totally Dude by Erika45 - Fav Rockstar Contest! featuring Chanel sunglasses

ACNE: Newest Brand To Love!

2009-06-20T20:29:00.000-07:00

ACNE: The company best known for their denim is debuting their first ready-to-wear collection and it's so chic it hurts. I was sold the moment I saw that brown and black leather biker jacket. Its simple, yet distinctive; with pieces that could easily last you from now until eternity, and they'll be just as painfully stylish in the year 2080 as they are now.

I hope you enjoy! The availability is below:

Opening Ceremony: Opens August 8th, New York City.

2009-06-19T12:21:00.000-07:00

Boozin and partying...

Oh say oh say oh say oh say oh say oh say by Erika45 - Fav Rockstar Contest! featuring Alexander Wang

The Men Have It!: 2009 CFDA Awards

2009-06-18T14:54:00.001-07:00

Usually, when I review an event, I find my-self taken by all the beautiful outfits the fabulous women in attendance have concocted; fascinated by shoes, bags, jewels, and furs. That preoccupation often leaves the men, flying staggeringly below the radar. But this year's CFDA event proved, once again, that there is a first time for everything.

While I can't begin to understand the pressure that dressing for CFDA awards brings, I was colossally disappointed with the frocks, New York's finest dawned. I was however, delighted to find that the gentlemen pulled up the slack. They were dapper, quirky, tailored, and even amusing! So much so, that they swept my favorites list, crushing the opposite sex's competition.

Congratulations men! To my ladies: There's always next year.

Accessory Designers of the Year Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler.

Agyness Deyn.

Zoe Saldana, in Calvin Klein Collection, with Francisco Costa.

Taylor Lautner, in Calvin Klein Collection.

Ashkey Olsen.

Lydia Hearst, in Marc Bouwer.

Vera Wang, in her own design.

Rachel Roy, in her own design and jewelry by Kimberly McDonald,

with Bergdorf Goodman's Roopal Patel, in Jason Wu.

Rogan Gregory with Style.com's Dirk Standen.

Arlenis Sosa, in Emanuel Ungaro, with Esteban Cortazar.

Jeff Halmos and Sam Shipley.

Andrew Bolton and Christian Cota

Photos from style.com. Taken by Sherly Rabbani and Josephine Solimene

2009-06-18T10:12:00.000-07:00

"Look at her Prettier then Halle and

Thicker than Janet" - Hurricane Chris

Usually when I name a set, the

title reflects whichever lyrics

are on repeat in the ipod

that is my mind.

The words and set don't

typically correlate.

But Hurricane Chris' song

"Halle Berry" seemed more than

appropriate for this homage to

Marilyn Monroe and

Scarlett Johnansson.

It's sexy, uniquely feminine,

and a little dangerous.

I hope you enjoy!

Look at her Prettier then Halle and Thicker than Janet by Erika45 - Fav Rockstar Contest! featuring Helmut Lang

2009-06-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

As a general rule, I'm anti-Lindsay Lohan. There's a falsity about her that tugs on my ever lasting nerves. Also, she never manages to hit the nail on the head in her fashion. Actually she never manages to hit the nail at all. Her style is more akin to banging holes in the wall. But since there are exceptions to every rule....

I'd Go Hungry, I'd Go Black and Blue, and I'd Go Strolling Down the Avenue by Erika45 - Fav Rockstar Contest! featuring Converse shoes

This one's for you Lindsay.

Age Old Adage: Blondes Have More Fun!

2009-06-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

Three Fav Blondes of the Moment. Taylor: the Rebel, Alice: the Muse, Agyness: the Party

Taylor Momsen

Alice Dellal

Agyness Deyn

2009-06-14T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm hosting a Favorite Rockstar contest on Polyvore inspired specifically by this set. Lately, I've rekindled my middle school romance with Rock music and have thus been consumed by it. So, this set is too rock music, The Clash, and junior high! Enjoy!

Its Always Tease, Tease, Tease, You're Happy When I'm On My Knees by Erika45 - Fav Rockstar Contest! featuring Balmain

And if you wan to enter the contest, you can find it in my East Coast Swagger Group!

Rockin' With The Boys!

2009-06-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

We Are The Now Generation!, We Are the Generation Now! by Erika45 - Vintage Contest! on Polyvore.com

Kristen Stewart: bombtasitc actress, hilarious interviewee, California girl. Add to that list, my new favorite tomboy and you've got a quadruple hitter!

Not only was she star of the most popular book turned movie series since HP, but she's starring as Joan Jett in the upcoming movie The Runways! (Plus, Her revamped 1970's mullet looks fantastic!) So for those of you, who are as entrenched with Stewart as I am, here a few pieces to inspire your inner t-boy!

McQ Military Print Tee T by Alexander Wang Tank

Rag & Bone Boyfriend Shirt

$170.00

$74.00

$290.00

Lagarconne.com

J Dauphin Let There Be More Light

A.P.C. Leather Moto

$1198.00

$890.00

Lagarconne.com

Rugged Cut Off Shorts

Natural Destroy Boyfriend

Free People Current/Elliot

$49.00

$224.00

needsupplyco.com

2009-06-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday: This outfit was Sugar and Spice and everything nice. A black motorcycle jacket and gloves makes this tuff and sexy. I generally try not to be too pretty. I felt like a divine mix of Marilyn Monroe and Joan Jett! I hope you enjoy!

Sunday: I'm Not Trying To Pressure You, Just Can't Stop Thinking About You, You Ain't Even Really Gotta Be My Girlfriend by Erika45 - Vintage Contest! featuring Prada sunglasses

2009-06-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

Drink all day! Play all night! I'm in Miami Chick!

- So while that's probably not the greatest of lessons on life, perhaps it's a welcomed sentiment for a adventurous weekend! You'll have to guess if mine was all fun or a BIG mistake!

Saturday: Where You Lead, I Will Follow, Any, Anywhere That You Tell Me Too, If You Need, You Need Me To Be With You by Erika45 - Join my blog! :) featuring Steve Madden shoes

2009-06-05T13:59:00.000-07:00

*Luna* from Polyvore is hosting a Rockstar denim challenge, and it inspired me. I wanted to rock with my **** out; but not in the leather jacket and studded bel, blue mohawk, conventional fashion. So I decided to go more Woodstock than Lollapalooza, and ended up in 1971. Minus the traditional edge, I still think it's pretty rockin! I fell in love with Led Zeppelin, all over again.

Wednesday: I Can't Quit You Babe, by Erika45 - Join my blog! :) featuring RVCA

Polyvore Blog-Loving Recognition!

2009-06-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

Polyvore Love Letters - Blog Roundup!

This blog was featured on Polyvore's blog loving roundup! I no! Crazy right! Thanks so much to God, Polyvore, and you guys for reading!

I love ya'll!

http://blog.polyvore.com/2009/06/polyvore-love-letters-blog-roundup_05.html

2009-06-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

Oxfords and Agyness Deyn. Trying to capture that quirky style.

Fashion Icon Contest: Eruca Group by Erika45 - Lagarconne Contest! featuring RVCA

2009-06-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

Grunge and pop.

Monday: Can't Find A Better Man, She,,, by Erika45 - Lagarconne Contest! featuring Miss Selfridge

New Fave Obsession!

2009-06-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

My current style fixation is 1990s, Seattle coffee shop Grunge. With that preoccupation comes hours of listening to Nirvana and Hole, while I peruse every source ever committed to page or screen in relation this les affairs sub-culture. So during one of my obsessive sessions, I found a new inspiration to revere. Alice Dellal is a twenty-one year old Brazilian model with style that has cult classic written all over it. With torn stockings, weathered leather, and destroyed denim, Alice is keeping Grunge alive. Trashy dress never looked so good.

2009-06-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, what you wear is just for show.

Sunday: One Love, One Heart, Let's Get Together and Feel Alright by Erika45 - Twilight Contest! featuring Valentino shoes

2009-06-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday: French, sweet, and simple.

Saturday: We All Know, Friends May Come and They May Go, But Through The Years I Know, I Will Stay by Erika45 - Twilight Contest! featuring Gucci bags

2009-05-29T20:13:00.001-07:00

Friday: l've been an Olsen fan since I was about four. I can't tell you how much of a significant force they've been in my life. Even during their "straight-to-video" days, I followed then reverently. I would be a remarkably different person.

So, as a tribute to my favorite two celebrities, I dress in a style currently representative of them.

Love you guys!

Friday: I Am Small and Needy, Warm Me Up, and Breathe Me by Erika45 - Twilight Contest! featuring Elizabeth and James

2009-05-29T20:04:00.000-07:00

Thursday: Walking around Richmond, Va doesn't require dress to the nines. Unless of course, your a member of the self-proclaimed fashion elite. Today, I casually strolled Carytown, thrifting, and enjoying the sun. I had dinner at Little Mexico with my best friend and her mom. The tortilla chips here are phenomenal! Plus they cheap tacos for college students which is always appreciated!

Thursday: Round My Hometown, Memories are Fresh, Round My Hometown, Ooh the People I've Met by Erika45 - Twilight Contest! featuring Mayle dresses

2009-05-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

Wednesday: You know, as an educated artist, I've been exposed to a tremendous amount of thought-proving, intriguing, serious art. With these eyes, I've seen paintings that expand my views, sculptures that take my breath away, and architecture that inspires my soul. But, never has my appreciation for Andy Warhol waivered. His use of unsophisticated colors and seemingly campy subjects is always fun! So when I perused the art/design collection at Barnes and Nobles, I still stopped at Andy classics. Andy, this one is for you.

Wednesday: Now The Joy, Of My World, Lives in Zion, (Zion!) by Erika45 - Twilight Contest! featuring Anthropologie accessories

2009-05-27T17:08:00.000-07:00

Tuesday: I love Twilight! And I make no apologies. So during my daily New Moon stalking session, I came across the most amazing mind-blowing photos. Edward (shirtless) kissing Bella in Italy. And may I say Robert Pattinson's looking mighty fine. Kristen, is as always gorgeous. So in honor of them rocking my world, I dressed up like Kristen today.

Tuesday: Do You Wanna Touch (Yeah), Do You Wanna Touch, (Yeah), Do You Wanna Touch Me (Yeah) by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Nike shoes

2009-05-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

Monday: Something about this navy blue t-shirt, inspired an entire day's outfit for me. Maybe it's the simplicity, or maybe it's just the McCartney name plastered in candy pink writing. Whatever it was, it made today anything but "just another Manic Monday."

Monday: Something Touched Me Deep Inside, They Day The Music Dies, So Bye Bye Miss American Pie by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring J Brand jeans

Paolo Nutini: Soul Man

2009-05-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

There are some artists, that; for whatever reason, speak to the soul. It could be their lyrics, their fingers on a guitar, or their performance. I've been a fan of Paolo Nutini's voice since the first time I heard it. Something about his earnest sing-song makes me quiver. Every time I hear one of his deceptively simple ballads, I at his fingertips. But this tune makes me want to dace around my living room with my baby. Now sure, in the video he looks like a decrepit old man, but if you close your eyes, I'm sure you'll see Patrick Swayzee and Jennifer Gray swaying tenderly in Dirty Dancing.

So turn the lights off, and listen. I promise you won't be disappointed.

2009-05-25T17:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day.

This is for our soldiers, past, present, and future.

Love you guys!

Sunday: I Just Want You Closer, Is That Alright, Baby Let's Get Closer Tonight by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Miu Miu accessories

2009-05-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes there are days, where you want nothing more than to "chill." If I could have spent today hunting for shells at Virginia Beach, that would have been perfect. Alas, I just created a sand colored ensemble to ease my tension.

Sunday: Don't Much about History, Don't Know Much About Biology, Don't Know Much About the French I Took, But I Do Know 1 and 1 is 2 by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Roxy accessories

2009-05-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday: It is so impossibly hot today! It's a day for poolside lounging and light summer snacks! Which means neon bathing suits and mile high heels!

Saturday: Summertime and the Living's Easy, Ras is on the Microphone by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Prada shoes

2009-05-23T14:05:00.000-07:00

Last night was party night. Every once in a while you need to let loose and have an irresponsible good time! Thats precisely what I did, in a leather mini skirt and green snakeskin pumps!

Friday: Baby Turn Around, Let Me Lick You From Your Nick Down To Your, Navel by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Kenneth Jay Lane jewelry

2009-05-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I visited Georgetown, Washington. It was fantastic! The streets of the nation's capital are littered with adorably dressed, smart women. I fell in love. I even think it's my next move.

Thursday: What a Night For A Dance, You Know That I'm A Dancing Machine, With A Fire In My Bones And the Sweet Taste of Kerosene by Erika45 - Grunge Contest!! featuring Jeffrey Campbell shoes

2009-05-20T18:23:00.000-07:00

Wednesday: I just heard Pretty Reckless (Taylor Momsen's new band) and I loved them! Particularly "Zombie" Check them out on youtube. Today's outfit is to you Taylor.

Wednesday: To All of Those Who've Wronged Me, I Am, I Am A Zombie by Erika45 - New Blog!! featuring Prada shoes

2009-05-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

Monday: A left of center mix of classic Africana, Motorcycle Gains, and southern living. I love that "I Have A Dream" sweater, it 's still representative of our times.

Monday:Make We Weep, You Can Make Me Cry, See Me Coming and You Can Pass Me By by Erika45 - New Blog!! featuring RVCA

2009-05-18T15:19:00.000-07:00

Every Sunday, I go to church (well at least most Sundays!) and each visit is an occasion. Long ago I decided to take "church dressing" further; rivaling the elderly with their extravagant headwear on every visit. It's an unspoken competition! Here's Sunday's this outfit.

Sunday: I Want a Sunday, Kind of Love, I Want a Love That's On The Square, I Can't Seems To Find Someone to Care by Erika45 - New Blog!! featuring Miu Miu Accessories

Casey Templeton Photography Inc.

2009-05-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday: This was a very lazy Saturday indeed. I strolled down the street in search of tonight's perfect meal. (Elephant Thai, by the by.) The rest of the day was spent chatting with friends in the garden

Saturday: I Turned My Head, I Can't Shake That Look You Gave and I'm Good As Dead, Cause All Those Eyes Are All It Takes by Erika45 - New Blog!! featuring Rebecca Minkoff Bags

Friday: Sunny Side Up

2009-05-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Friday: I'm completely obsessed with these jeans! These are the best attempt at wearable harem pants I've seen. I'm still feeling very western, today. This is in homage to Ty Murray, my favorite cowboy.

Friday: Sunrise, Sunrise, Looks Like Morning In Your Eyes, But The Clock's Held Nine - Fifteen For A While by Erika45 - New Blog!! featuring dvb Sunglasses

Duchess of York in RVA

2009-05-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

Music’s New Royalty:

Introducing Duchess of York

What separates undiscovered talent from ordinary bands trying to make it big? A little bit of magic. It is with great will power that I refrain from littering this article with references to everyone form Queen and Zeppelin to the Jackson Five. Not because this band of brothers replicates the sounds of bands that precede them, not because there’s a lack of words to describe the music, the soulful heart-thumping music, but because I want to convey the grandeur this group of musicians inspires.

Embedded in the VCU dominated town of Richmond, Virginia is a band so insightful, majestic, and passionate, you’ll scarcely believe they’ve just finished puberty. Duchess of York is creating a rumbling in the downtown Richmond scene, that is uprooting music fans from the woodwork, and giving them a new band to idolize. I am one of those adoring fans. Hearing their music for the first time only a few short months ago, has labeled me a life-long fan. I’m talking stick with them through thick and thin, die hard, scream at the top of my lungs, and make no apologies fan. That ability, the ability to capture adoration and devotion with music alone, is the magic that Michael York, Austin York, Jacob Shank, and Constantine (Dean) Giavos possess.

When these magicians join forces, they conjure music that could have easily filled the entire Almost Famous soundtrack, Elton John or no Elton John. They are a wonderful mix of old school rock, reggae, glam and metal. With compelling ballads like “Half Moon”, where vocalist Michael York croons, “If you want me to stay, I think I’ll think I’ll quietly go…” they even channel the late Johnny Cash with poignancy not often seen in people of their years. On the anthem- inspiring “Little Boom Box”, (which could easily be the next “We Will Rock You”, blasting before sports event from now until eternity), DOY switches gears completely. They pound out a hard-hitting and undeniably cool track: the likes of which they’re most known for. But it is on the band’s newest single “Tangle Me Up” which shows their talent, as musicians most profoundly.

This masterpiece of no uncertain standing, begins, with a daunting, nursery rhyme of a guitar solo, that slowly gets murkier as Austin and Dean quietly make their entrance, which last all of forty seconds. Even at a stage so early in their career, Duchess of York can make you wait, and want for the meat of the song to commerce, without losing your interest. Now, without warning or fumble, a clean transition into the loud, soul metal, that only they can produce. As if that weren’t enough, “Tangle Me Up” then takes a spin to 1970’s Kingston, where they “play that funky music, white boy”, and yet again showcase their uniqueness. You can instantaneously picture the hazes of smoke surrounding the youthful entertainers, and smell the incense burning as they whale “Ta-a-a-a-a-angle me up!” as gloriously as if has ever been sung. In a song with lyrics intimate and important, Duchess relies solely on the music. There are no tricks, trips, or pretentious guitar solos; just the artfully created rhythms that have built the band of tomorrow their unwavering following. If your itching to hear this celebrated band, visit myspace.com/doymusic and have a listen.

-Erika Wilkins

- Images from Duchess of York myspace.

Check out this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnUaF-cnlvE

2009-05-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

Thursday: Today's ensemble welcomes you to the new wild west. Simply country values

meets lively Moroccan culture. As always, I hope you enjoy!

Thursday: When We're On the Phone and You Talk Real Slow, Cause It's Late and You Mama Don't Know by Erika45 - Romance Contest! featuring Irregular Choice Shoes

2009-05-13T10:03:00.000-07:00

Wednesday:Scarlett Johansson, Jackie O, Soft Curves, Full Skirts, the works!

Today is a complete 180 from yesterday. The soft sexiness of the 1950s and 60s pin ups is always inspiring. I chose to keep it sexy but very sweet!

I hope you all enjoy it!

Wednesday: When Your Baby, Leaves You All Alone by Erika45 - Romance Contest! featuring Alexander Wang jackets

2009-05-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

Tuesday: In my pre-teen years I was one hundred percent obsessed with punk, grunge, alt. rock, anything that resembled a sub-culture really. I've grown out of it, but I still miss those days. Here's today's outfit.

"Punk is musical freedom. It's saying, doing and playing what you want. In Webster's terms, 'nirvana' means freedom from pain, suffering and the external world, and that's pretty close to my definition of Punk Rock." - Kurt Cobain

Tuesday: I'm So Happy Cause Today I Found My Friends They're In My Head by Erika45 - Romance Contest! featuring The Lake And Stars intimates