7 deadly sins

so after watching this interview with pharrell williams about his sculpture in which he collaborated with takashi murakami and jacob the jeweler, i began to think about 7 things which i can not live without.

here are my lists:

important things:

• family: the essence of my being. the people who make life worth living.
  
• love: i'm a sucker for love. definitely a love, not a fighter.
  
• education: i'm a nerd; i love school.
  
• peace of mind: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EyOhUXsGqak (not the song but the concept)
  
• music: good stuff.
  
• sunshine: tans, summer, long warm nights; love love love it.
  
• simplicity/organization: neat freak, borderline OCD.
  

objects/items:

• cardigans: anemic and always cold so i live for cardigans. i don't think i've gone a whole day without wearing one. even in the summer.
  
• pound cake: ukrops pound cake or my aunt's recipe; both for the win!
  
• caffeine (diet coke/ starbucks): self explanatory.
  
• non reality television (hannah montana/ desperate housewives): i hate "i love ____" or "for the love of ___ " shows
  
• victoria secret's pink collection: ;-)
  
• flip flops: tried wearing them throughout the winter, but my mom quickly reminded me that i'm not white. lls.
  
• mixtapes: keep me company during long lonely nights.

what 7 things show up on your list?

-toria malia

as told by kanye

Kanye West, being the fashionable man that he is, was asked by men.style.com to name the top 10 fashion essentials for men. of course the list is full of both over the top, top-dollar items and classics that match any budget...

1. HEATHER-GRAY BALMAIN T-SHIRT
2. BLACK AIR YEEZYS
3. DARK-BROWN RRL JEANS IN SLIM BOOT CUT
   
4. IPOD NANO, IPHONE, MACBOOK AIR WITH AIRCARD
5. VINTAGE LEVI'S JEAN JACKET
6. BLACKED-OUT ROLEX SUBMARINER
7. CALVIN KLEIN BOXER BRIEFS
8. LANVIN SEERSUCKER DINNER JACKET
9. LOUIS VUITTON MONOGRAMOUFLAGE KEEPALL
   
10. RETRO SUPER FUTURE FLAT-TOP SUNGLASSES

for pictures and direct quotes from kanye about why he choose these items, check out: http://men.style.com/fashion/10_essentials/060309

-toria malia

green with envy

once upon a time i thought of jealousy as a trait exclusive to females, but as i get older and come in contact with more and more males i've drawn the conclusion that guys do in fact display jealous ways. i will not go as far as to say that its just as wide-spread amongst males as it is with females and nor will i say that the jealously is to the same degree but, there is no doubt that it is present. i have a friend, of the xy chromosome make-up, who is quite jealous natured. i can't help but to see him in a feminine light simply because i equated jealously to females (as a result of numerous encounters both direct and indirect with jealous females) for such a long period of time. there seems to be a new epidemic in which bitch as niggas (excuse my use of this term) are running ramped. i'm well aware of the fact that generally guys are extremely competitive, but since when do guys go around talking about the next guy behind his back in a beyond manipulative way in hope of dimming his shine??? nothings worse than a guy that results to bitchassness due to his inability to compete. so the next guy can dress better than you, hoop better than you, and his girl looks better than yours, but why not step your game up and work towards obtaining that which you seek rather than knocking someone else success??? its disgusting in my opinion.


p.s. i don't condone jealousy amongst females either, but i thought i would discuss the males since it seems to be a growing trend. let me know what you think.

-toria malia

posers.

"If someone wants to copy you, they're immediately revealing themselves as a weak competitor. If a rival sets out to mimic you they're inevitably 2 or 3 months behind you and they're not the kind of dynamic, inventive personality who is likely to present a real challenge."

lately i've been trying to weed through the people in my life, discover who's real, and get rid of the counterfeits. nothing upsets me more than a carbon copy; someone who can't think for them self. take a second and stop to think about the most creative and original person you know. now stop and think about the many people you know that try to imitate that person. how wonderful would the world be if everyone was their own person? life would be all the more interesting. instead, "different" is now a trend; people strive to take and label others style, demeanor, and ways as their own. its quit sickening personally. we all have minds, unique to every single one of us, but very few of us take it upon ourselves to explore the possibilities of one's self.

furthermore, the one thing that irritates me more than a sub-par carbon copy is a person who imitates another, but claims their style, demeanor, and/or ways to be exclusively theirs. i can think of so many people who live by these unjust ways. they discover a new artist, a new clothing label, or a new spot via someone else and swear to god that they were the first person to run across this new, great discovery when in actuality they're nothing more than a Christopher Columbus. smh.

anyways, as always, i encourage all to be themselves. don't love something simply because your neighbor likes it. you might just surprise yourself with how innovative, creative, or different you own ideas are.

-toria malia

summer style.

Summer seems to be the one time of the year in which the possibilities concerning fashion are limitless. Unrestricted by the cold, bitter winter, one can fully express themselves through their clothing. The summer months are both hot and refreshing, free and structured, long and short; and the same holds true for summer fashion. The trends of the spring have leaked over into the summer and are revamped, altered, and taken to a whole new level. There is so much to be said about summer fashion and I don't want to leave anything uncovered: beach wear, accessories, shoes, fabrics, colors... all the latest, hot styles are brought to you by me.

• The summer is all about beaches, pools, and lounging around in swim wear so it’s important that you're gear is on point. The one shoulder, new to swimwear, standouts and is sure to complement any body type. One shoulder bikinis, one pieces, and tankinis have surfaced all over and are here to stay. The one shoulder, in any color, print, or style, is sure to set you apart as the hottest beach babe this summer. Along with the one shoulder swimsuit, bondage swim wear has made its debut. Pioneered by the hype surrounding Herve Ledger's strappy bondage dresses this spring, this trend in swimwear mirrors. This sexy trend in swimwear is perfect for all divas ready to make a bold fashion statement this summer. Guys, this season go for printed beach wear. And by prints, I don't mean the tropical, Hawaiian print trunks we see every summer; this summer it’s all about stripes, plaids, and other bold geometric prints. This season's trends in swim wear are far from simple so get creative with them and explore that which hasn't been done before.

• For the ladies, your accessories this season should resemble arts and crafts projects. Big, colorful, and gaudy should all be on your accessory check list. Marc Jacobs and Valentino mastered the art of craftiness with their summer jewelry collections. In terms of handbags, the name says it all. This season, large hand held clutches are all the rave. Functional for the summer and fashionable at the same time, large clutches will complement any outfit this summer. Retro sunglasses are in style for both men and women. Metal frame and thick framed shades are hot looks for this summer that'll have you looking like the superstar that you are. Another trend in accessories for men, that tried to make its way into the hands of men all over a few years ago, was the man bag. The key to mastering this trend is keeping it simple. Solid, neutral color bags, not too big and not too small are sure to be a good look this season for all the fashion-savvy guys. Just remember keep your accessories updated and fun and you'll be fine.

• Sandals are always a popular staple amongst summer footwear for the ladies and this season the more flat the sandal, the better. Whether strappy or simple, completely flat sandals are the way to go. Along with being super cute, flat sandals are ultra-comfortable and perfect for summer days on the beach and summer nights out with your friends. Also, collar sandals are making their way onto the fashion scene and are a must have for ladies this summer. Instead of the typical ankle straps, these sandals have a collar which is both fun and fashionable and sure to make others look with envy. For the guys, this season's footwear is simple and classic. Four words: I'm on a boat. This season’s go-to shoe for guys is the always dependable, always stylish boat shoe. Whether the classic Sperry or the updated boat shoe by Vans, the boat shoe is perfect for this season. Along with boat shoes, Clae shoes are a must for stylish guys this summer. Simple, light weight and in all the hottest colors for the season, the Clae collections are sure to have something to match your own personal style.

• The difference between that which is hot and that which is not lies within fabrics. Often overlooked, fabric is the one thing that can "make it" or "break it". This season, designers really stepped outside of their element and explored fabrics not commonly used for the summer months. Many designers have decided to get fancy and use silk as their staple fabric for their summer collections. Seen all throughout Matthew Williamson's capsule collection for H&M, this luxurious fabric is one that is sure to make you shine whether you're at a concert or out on a date during the upcoming long summer nights. Burlap, also known as the cloth used to make potato sacks, has been upgraded and made fashionable this season. Designers like Miu Miu and Burberry, have revamped this coarse and heavy material into something beautiful for the summer. Burlap has been used for handbags, dresses, shoes, and much more so be sure to find the look which is right for you so that you can be rocking the latest trend in fabric for the season.

• As always, color is a big part of fashion and this season two unexpected colors have stood out on the color wheel. Seen from catwalk to catwalk, beige and orange are definitely the colors of the season and now it’s time to bring them to the streets. Beige: Some argue that it is not really a color, but this season it is making a bold statement as the hottest color on the pallet. Springing up as a color to be reckoned with in last summer's "safari" themed collections, beige has made its way into 2009's fashion full-force. On all the hottest catwalks, this faint color stood out as the most powerful and beautiful color used for this season's many designs. Known as a natural color, beige fits in with the bohemian and tribal looks of the season and therefore, is perfect. Another color of this season is the traffic stopping orange. It's red and yellow undertones complement the summer's atmosphere so nicely and that's why this earthy and summery hue should be included in your wardrobe. Burnt orange, vitamin C orange, carrot orange, and orange peel orange are all acceptable hues for this season. Both warm and happy, this color is perfect for the upcoming summer months.

Summer and fashion have a lot in common so be sure to explore the similarities amongst the two and use them to help guide you to fashion bliss.

-Toria Malia

love flawlessly

accept me flaws and all
see through this polished shell
accept me flaws and all
upon you, my beauty casts a spell

accept me flaws and all
love the deceit in my eyes
accept me flaws and all
know my brain is of no demise

accept me flaws and all
open your heart for me to love
accept me flaws and all
it is you that i set above

accept me flaws and all
feel the warmth of a delicate touch
accept me flaws and all
know that i adore you so very much

accept me flaws and all
some things emotions will always hide
accept me flaws and all
into a cosmic journey we shall glide

accept me flaws and all
to me you are more than true
accept me flaws and all
never doubt when i say i rather be with you

thats the least i can do

Today I had my Ipod on shuffle in my car and Destiny Child's Cater To You came on. Immediately, my mother said "Change that song. Nobody caters to men anymore". I stopped and thought to myself for a second, "why so bitter mom?" I decided to open up the topic for discussion during the car ride and asked why she felt it was unnecessary to cater to men. She went on the talk about how women no longer live that way and how men can do for themselves. True, right? But, I feel that nothings wrong with catering to your man. Cook, clean, back rubs. If he deserves it, he gets it. We, as women, expect guys to be chivalrous and open doors, walk us home, and fulfill our every demand. So why is it looked down upon when we're expected to return the favor? I've taken a few feminist theory based classes since I've been in college and I've come to realize that there are double standards held by a great deal of females. Women want to be treated well by their men and taken care of, but do not feel that its necessary to do the same. It's funny that my mom of a previous generation is against the idea of "taking care of your man" (for lack of better words) and I'm one hundred percent for it. Don't get me wrong, I'm no one's servant but I think it fine to do for your man. Its 2009, and I feel like a lot of us get so hung up on differing from previous generations and their ways that we lose sight of whats important. If you care for someone whats so wrong with making them happy? I wonder how other females feel and males chime in too. Leave your comments.

"fulfill your every desire, you're wish is my command. i want to cater to my man"

perfection

slowly stars go out each night
dark meets light, kiss the sun goodnight
new day comes, as if life just begun
you're now mine
and everytime you hold my hand,
theres an understanding of who i am
new life is born, unlike before
i'm now yours
you can feel it in the summer breeze
tonight, the world's at ease
you are the one for me
after all the waiting i can finally breathe
earth and sky say what they may
i will love you all throughout my days
happiness happens when our hearts combine
when its you i'm with i come alive
it's just so clear to see
darling, we're meant to be
your love is like amazing grace
sound so sweet i can almost taste
i've been given more than what i could ever ask for
i am yours


melissa polinar: meant to be
she puts into words exactly how i feel right now.
listen.

emotions

Lately I have been in touch with mine. I've reached the point where I am ready to rawly place my feelings on display for all to see. I used to think of emotion in a negative sense; thinking that the display of emotion was a sign of weakness. Now I have reached point in which hiding my emotions is both impossible and unnecessary. I'm officially opening myself up to vulnerability because although it may be uncomfortable, I know it will be well worth it in the end. My constant repression of emotions to paint myself as perfect on the outside is something that I no longer want to practice. People always say you can't control the way you feel so no longer will I waste time trying to be in control. I'll "play tough as nails with my heart on my sleeve" from now on.

rediscovery.

here is a poem that i found in my old sketch-book from 10th grade.

innocent and wide eyed,
i look into a chaotic and scattered world.
my world.
masked by beauty which glows,
tender and elegant on the outside,
customized to perfection.
worn and broken on the inside,
but yet i continue.
many dreams that one day
will come true.
i sit observing all there is to take in,
hoping someday that this masked world of mine,
will be uncovered and restored.
black and white,
so different and unconnected.
will the two ever unite in synchronization?
the white dominates the space around me,
but as many little pieces of me are exposed,
a true awareness of who i am is revealed.
the little speck,
which feels insignificant at times,
tucked away in the bottom right hand corner, shines.
i am aware of all,
sensitive to the fact that i still sit.
curiously waiting for change.

its about my experience at an all white school for 8 years.

where do we go from here?

Have you ever been stuck between the past and the future; that awkward moment when you're left wondering where do we go from here? That moment when the past was good, the presents great, and the future could be better. That moment that you desperately long for, but all the while fear moving towards because of the possibility that what occurs within the future could ruin what was so good about the past. Currently I find myself faced with one of these moments in which I want the better, but I am willing to be content with the good. Or am I? How do you know whether to be content with what you have or work towards achieving more? And is seeking that which is better worth risking the good? Or is life all about taking chances and having things pan out as they must?

Over the years I have come to realize that although I have control of a lot which happens within my life, my control is no comparison to the fate which guides us. Or is it faith? Either way, nature runs its course and I am just a small organism within a greater sphere working toward something beyond my control. Fear is a strong emotion and I fear failure thus, I live life hoping and wishing that my actions will be successful in preventing failure, but the more I look back on my countless efforts to prevent the heart-ache I am faced with upon failure, I realize that they are useless. Or are they? They say your gratitude determines your latitude so maybe all that I do is, in fact, worth something? But what is that something? The more I attempt to answer the questions of life, the more I am left with new unanswered questions that place me precisely back at the starting line. So again I ask where do we go from here?

p.s. i just realized that this post could be taken way out of context so never assume; just ask.

under construction

i am starting to dislike the direction in which my blog is going so i will be revamping it during the next couple of days. i want to do more writting about me and my life, rather than the news you're probably feed by every other media source. so, to all my dedicated readers, expect bigger and better things from me in the near future...

i may not beat you in smash bros or hangtime...

but i could kick your ass in the FASHION WEEK video game thats set to come out next year!
the game was created to give people an "insiders view" on what takes place during fashion week...
the video game will include well known fashion gurus, celebrities, and models (so look out for me)...
it will be available for the iPhone and for Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony consoles so everyone get ready!

i can't wait! will be wasting time playing this game throughout the night...
i'm still unsure as to how to "play" exactly (do i make clothes, dress models, judge???)... either way i know it'll be FAB!




p.s. deep down inside i know this game will suck but i'll play anyways

auto push up

The "smart memory bra" is made with heat-sensitive foam. So when ladies become aroused and their body temperature rises, the bra pushes their boobs up. When they cool off, the foam relaxes and boobs retire to their normal resting place. Its makers say, "It’s healthier than an ordinary bra because it will always provide the perfect fit.” But what about the winter months?



via thecut