street art obsession + kelsey montague

Photos by: Elena Baltzagou

Brunch Attire:

Flannel + Circular Shades, Nordstrom

Black Jorts, Madewell

Necklace, Urban Outfitters

Fringe Heels, Camilla Skovgaard

I'm not sure where my obsession with colorful street art stems from, or why I have a burning desire to always take pictures with it. Maybe it's because I am a white girl. Maybe it's because I am so bored with my whiteness that I wish to be contrasted with all the beautiful colors that I feel represent me more than my boring skin tone ever could. 

According to me, one of the coolest things by far about living in New York is all the seriously incredible street art on display as you are doing your morning commute, walking to the doctor's office, or walking to do whatever other mundane activity humans have to do to be human. You don't have to go to the MoMA (even though you should! wow what an exceptional museum) to see the best a brightest modern art. My current obsession is with artist Kelsey Montague. 

Kelsey Montague started sketching in her sketchbook and one day decided to transfix her beautiful creations onto the streets of New York. The goal being to reflect images of respect, empowerment and overall positivity. I had the pleasure of running into one of her many artworks in front of this amazing brunch spot in the Lower East Side, Freeman's.

what a charming entrance to America's version of Europe @ Freeman's

What do you think? Are you as into Kelsey Montague and her inspirational street art as I am?

XOXO

what's wrong with being basic?

Henley: Nordstrom, Blazer, Cut-Off Jean Shorts, Suede Black Heels: J.Crew; All Photos by: Kristine Constantino

So what is wrong with being basic? Normally I would say A LOT OF THINGS. According to UrbanDictionary.com and other "reliable," internet sources being basic is a homogenous personality devoid of anything characterizing or interesting. Who wants to be that? However lately I've heard, basic bishes have more fun! Apparently they have their life together, whatever that means. Some people say J.Crew is basic, given it is 40% of my wardrobe, I used to take offense to it -- until I realized, damn it really is pretty basic isn't it?

Perhaps J.Crew is basic, but why? Because it's popular? I don't think I am lame for liking a brand that has a well recognized design aesthetic and following. Not to say I don't go ga-ga for boutiques or unheard of brands (have you ever met me?) I am just not the kind to shun something just because it is "popular," if it works - it works! To hell with the fact that others have came to the same conclusion. All in all, there are basic brands but no basic people. "Things," yes I'm even talking clothing, do not define you. Be you, you're colorful and you know it!