These images from Lyell and Urban Outfitter’s fall 09 lookbook have been on my mind ever since I first saw them. Don’t they pair well together?

left side: Lyell shot by Tamara Schlesinge.
right side: UO shot by Estelle Hanania.

When I first saw Lizzie Fortunato‘s 2008 collection, it was just before the wave of flowered necklaces hit. They were super romantic and you could tell each piece was made with love — not in the crafty cutesy sort of way, but invested with care  & meaning. Their 2009 collection, “Long May You Run”  is inspired by the American West, and the addition of metals and stones gives the collection a rebellious edge. Of course, regardless of my shopping ban, it’s still out of my price range, but they have collaborated with Urban Outfitters to create a more affordable line called Hope Marian.

A few pieces from their collaboration with Victoria Bartlett’s runway shows. Bottom one reminds me of my sister Tien and her 1,000 paper cranes.

All right, I’m going to be good now and straighten up my room. Lots of love to my RISD teachers — hope your year goes smoothly!