Leaving on a Jet Plane

All my bags are packed, I'm ready to go...

As you're reading this, I am on my way to a NEW city to begin a NEW job!!! It feels a bit like starting college again, as I'll be making all new friends and figuring out how to make a city my own turf again. This time, however, I am even less familiar with where I'm moving, making it all the more exciting...and slightly scary perhaps. But I thrive when challenged and thrown out of my comfort zone, so I am definitely embracing this fresh start and opportunity to grow.

Now I'm sure my goals will evolve more once I figure out this new place and realize what I need to get out of the experience, but what would a new year be without resolutions? Here it goes!

For the blog:

* Make schedule for posts and follow them through
* Connect better with the fashion blogger community
* Channel my philosophical thoughts about fashion in periodic essays

For personal growth:

* Challenge myself beyond others' expectations - always, always, ALWAYS
* Read at least one book per month - especially those relating to politics, religion, philosophy, and history (my brain is hungry for knowledge again!)
* Continue to enjoy new things - types of food, genres of music/film, forms of entertainment, etc.

Just for fun: 

* Incorporate unique and "not-necessarily-me" pieces into my wardrobe periodically to keep things interesting - This might be something like putting a studded, semi-punky belt with a delicate, feminine dress. In general, I don't do stuff like that because I gravitate and love the pretty look. Now, I have no desire to change my style or have different taste, but I do want to spice things up and foster creativity in my wardrobe.

It's going to be a wonderful year lovelies. Looking forward to sharing it with you!

xoxo,
Sarah

Fittingly, with my big move and everything, here's a pretty cover of John Denver's "Leaving on a Jet Plane" by Chantal Kreviazuk:

The Secret's Out!!

A few months ago, N.E.E.T. Magazine's editor asked me to be a part of a TOP SECRET book project to celebrate the mag's fifth anniversary this December. I couldn't NOT be a part of a project as VIP as that, so I jumped on board.

Well, the book is officially available for sale, and it's just as beautiful and "n.e.e.t." as you'd expect! I'm one of the five N.E.E.T. writers and had the honor of interviewing some of the best indie designers around. You'll have to buy yourself a copy, so you can admire this gem of a book in real life. I can't wait to get my hands on one!

Read more about the new book here!

Happy 5th Birthday N.E.E.T. Magazine!

xoxo,
Sarah

The ever-popular stream of consciousness blog

In anticipation to a very busy summer, I started a mini blog in early June. As much as I love writing full-blown posts for you lovely people, my schedule this summer has only been conducive to short snippets into what I am thinking about, listening to, or admiring. Hence, the creation of It's a Lovely Life, which has long been my twitter user name as well (follow me @itsalovelylife). You might have noticed the reference to "lovely life" in the subtitle of this blog.

Hope that you are already a reader there, but, if not, check it out!

Again, thanks for bearing with me this summer and continuing to check back. I have really enjoyed reading your sweet comments. Get excited for a packed-out fall with fashionable conversation. I have been brainstorming all summer!

xoxo,
Sarah

Another N.E.E.T. Surprise!

What can I say? Writing for the March issue of N.E.E.T. was such a blast that I jumped on the opportunity to be a permanent contributor for the magazine's blog. Joining forces with N.E.E.T. is super exciting because it is an amazing magazine based in the United Kingdom, and the blog will be nothing less than fantastic. It is also a huge honor to be in the company of five other bloggers from across the world, each bringing a unique perspective to grassroots creativity. 

As the eco-friendly blogger, I will be interviewing designers focused on sustainability and social responsibility and providing an in-depth look into their design stories. By the way, N.E.E.T.'s editor-in-chief Stephanie J has already given me a sneak peak into some possible labels to feature, and every single one is incredible. Stay tuned for my debut article with N.E.E.T. in the next week or so!

Read more about the lovely ladies of N.E.E.T.'s Blog Team here!

xoxo,
Sarah

Featured in N.E.E.T. Magazine!!

Earlier this year, Dedicated Follower of Fashion was contacted by Stephanie J, N.E.E.T Magazine's editor-in-chief. She asked us if we were interested in being guest writers for the March issue of the magazine, and we could not have been more delighted or excited to be a part of it!

The March issue of N.E.E.T. was focused on sustainable, eco-friendly fashion, so the Dedicated girls helped paint a picture of four amazing brands devoted to these standards in design. Our spread in its entirety is called Green Piece.

My first article in the spread starts on page 92. I wrote about Suno, which is a unique new brand based in New York and produced in Kenya. Definitely read the article on your own to learn more about the label's creative director Max Osterweis and what led him to create Suno in the first place. It is quite an interesting story!

By the way, Suno just showed its first collection at New York Fashion Week this season, which pretty much means this brand has ARRIVED in the fashion industry. It was an absolute pleasure corresponding with them and having the opportunity to write this article!

My second article begins on page 128. I interviewed the lovely trio behind Jackson, Johnston & Roe. Based in Brooklyn, this brand encourages its fans/wearers to create sustainable wardrobes through staple pieces. As noted in the article, the label succeeds in this effort by focusing on classic shapes and simple lines. And as a bonus, all designs are produced locally. Three cheers for social responsibility!

Wow, it was such an amazing experience to work with N.E.E.T. for this issue. There is something so wonderful about seeing your name in print!

When you go over to read the issue (because I know you will!!), I am featured on pages 92-107 & 128-138.

March 2010 issue of N.E.E.T. Magazine:
neetmagazine.com

xoxo,
Sarah
@itsalovelylife

P.S. Kelsi (aka, DFOF's editor) also wrote some wonderful articles on behalf of Dedicated Follower of Fashion. Check out her features over Lu Flux & Adhesif on pages 108-127.