Love to See You...

...on Bloglovin'! As you may have heard already, Google Reader is shutting down tomorrow. If you're looking for a way to continue following all of your favorite blogs, I suggest creating a Bloglovin' account. I've only been a member for a week or so now, but so far am very satisfied with the site. They've even created an option to transfer all of the blogs you currently follow on Google Reader to your new account. You can find Rags and Roses on Bloglovin' here. I look forward to meeting more of you on the site! 

With love,

Heather

Outfit: Shapes and Lace

     These photos were from mine and Andy's reservoir-side picnic. It was the sunniest day we've had so far, and I was a happy girl over being able to break out my cat-eye sunnies; which may have taken first place over my heart-shaped shades I've been wearing for the last couple years. It's definitely Summer over here, and the heat is quickly becoming a deciding factor when it comes to wardrobe choices. I've settled into my uniform of blouses tucked into high-waisted shorts, and that is just fine by me. What are you sporting this Summer?

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit Details:

Blouse: Gabriel Brothers

Shorts: DIY

Loafers: Vintage

Sunnies: Gabriel Brothers

Bag: Vintage

Easy, Lucky, Free.

     Andy and I enjoyed a reservoir-side picnic last week before I was forced to go to work. I'm always so wishy-washy when it comes to making plans for us; even down to simple things, such as what we're going to eat. This is yet another reason I am so happy to have Andy, who's quick to convince me to just relax. We made/packed Tofurkey club sandwiches and yogurt to eat by the water, then explored some new territory. I am constantly itching to be outside this year, which is a bit odd for me. I plan to spend as much time in the Sun as I can, as this will surely fade by August. 

Until next time, 

Heather

Style Icon: Violet Harmon

     American Horror Story is my OBSESSION. And, while I love the direction the show has taken with creating a new story-line and characters each season, I have to say that the Harmon family of season one is my absolute favorite. It had the perfect cast, each member with a back-story as chilling as the house it was set in. Although the plot centered around couple Ben and Vivian Harmon, it was their daughter, Violet, who stole the show. Violet is pretty much your stereotypical, angst-ridden teenager; listening to Morrissey and back-talking her parents. I loved tuning in each week to see what clever remarks she would make, or how things unfolded with her and former resident of the haunted house, Tate Landon. Another big reason the show kept me coming back was Violet's killer wardrobe. It was how I'd imagine a blonde, 21st century Lydia Deetz dressing; with rich colors and lots of layers. Her style played a huge role in creating and understanding such a strong character, and I am so completely thrilled that actress, Taissa Farmiga, will be returning in season three of the drama. I can only hope for a character as sharp, fearless, and yes, stylish as Violet.
                                                                   Until next time,
                                                                       Heather

P.S. Rags and Roses is now on Bloglovin'!
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Fri-end?

     We are a bit ridiculous, I am a aware. These photos are pretty much the best representation of mine and Ashley's friendship; she's poised/a great jumper and I am a hot mess. But, I wanted to make a quick post with these pictures because they have made me laugh since we took them earlier this week. Hopefully they put a smile on your face, as well. Happy, Saturday!

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit: Ivy and Gold

     Ashley snapped these for me during our day out together. I am so thrilled to have my best girl friend back, even if its just temporarily. She was super patient with me during my wardrobe crisis. I mean, at what temperature is it alright to wear shorts?! And, how does one dress casual? These are forever two things that I struggle with. I decided on shorts with a baggy shawl, to compromise, and ended up liking the end result quite a bit. Yes, I get worked up for nothing.

Until next time,

Heather

Outfit Details:

Hat- H&M

Sweater- Forever 21

Black tee (worn underneath)- Thrifted

Shorts- Thrifted/DIY

Boots- Forever 21

Bag- Vintage

Cat-eye shades- Gabriel Brothers

In Bloom.

    Too much? Yes, I went picture-crazy. But, how could I not when I was finally reunited with my best girlfriend, Ashley of Fancy That? We spent the day admiring all of the blooms at Kingwood Center, enjoying mass amounts of ice cream, and keeping the conversation flowing; we had LOTS to get caught up on. I absolutely love having someone to keep me company in this tired ol' town of ours, even if only for a few weeks. I so cannot wait to have more Summer days with Ash, hopefully ones spent in the Sun and near water! Grrrl-gang forevz.

     Evidence of a good day. LOOK AT THAT FAT CONE.

With love,

Heather

P.S.- Tonya from Tongue N Cheek Boutique is still offering a discount to Rags and Roses readers on her Etsy page. The coupon code is :RAGSANDROSES513 .  Don't miss out on the cuteness, people!! 

DIY Shoe Makeover

     I started a shoe makeover on a pair of simple, black oxfords last year while I was still living in Cleveland...and never finished them. Yikes. I know, I am a craft lover's nightmare. Honestly, I had forgotten all about the project until Andy was helping me with my last DIY venture. So, I am here today to show off the finished product, and tell you how you can salvage a pair of old shoes with this makeover!

Supplies:

1. Old shoes (They don't have to be flats; you could easily use the method for this project with any type of shoes. Combat boots or heels would be super cute!)

2. Glue Stick

3. A sewing needle*

4. Thread*

5. Fabric (I used an old dress that was too small, so I didn't have to spend extra.)

6. Scissors

*These are both optional. You'll see why later in the directions!

Step one:

With your glue stick, fill in the area inside the stitching on both sides of the shoe. If you happen to be using a shoe without stitching, trace a line around the area you'd like to cover before using the glue.

Step two:

Press a piece of fabric onto your glued areas. Don't worry about the shape of the fabric during this step. Make sure you let the glue under your fabric dry completely before moving on to the next step. Trust me on this one, people. Just go get a treat, and come back to your shoes when the glue is dry.

Step three:

Cut the excess fabric from your shoes to leave behind the shape "traced" out by your glue.

Step four:

This fourth and final step is optional, but I really enjoyed it. You thread your needle, and sew around the edges of your fabric. I think it adds an extra pinch of DIY charm, but it is a tad tedious. However, I have faith that anyone could push through it. If you decide to proceed with this step, trim a bit more fabric when you're done. It will give you a cleaner finish.

Aaaaand, Voila! There you have it, folks. Newly made-over shoes. This is a great way to save a pair of shoes you're not ready to part with just yet. You can customize them anyway you'd like; use glitter instead of fabric, even! I am definitely looking forward to a few more years of these kicks.

With love,

Heather