Changing My Ways

*I get a little serious in this post, and when I get serious, I tend to rant...you've been warned*

As many of you have read in recent news, there was a tragic garment factory fire in Bangladesh a few weeks ago.  I think I'm one of the few Bengali fashion bloggers out there, and I was contemplating whether or not I should address what happened, since it ties in directly with the fashion industry.  I'll just say this:  cheap clothes don't just magically have a lower price point for no reason.  Cheap labor = cheap clothes.  I'm not going to lecture you all on what I think should change, or what I think we can do better (although, recycled vintage clothing does make a ton more sense than to go out and buy new, cheap clothes).  I guess the only thing I can say is to make a conscious decision when you buy things (and not just clothing - shoes, groceries, make-up, etc.).  A little research goes a long way.  As consumers, you have the power to create change by choosing to not buy something.

I'm definitely guilty of purchasing without thinking about the broader ramifications of my actions.  While I was editing these pictures, I realized that more than half of my outfit was most likely made abroad under questionable conditions (plus side: my skirt is made by American Apparel, who take pride in maintaining excellent US-based working conditions in their factories and my bag is from ModCloth who offer fair-trade, ethical designer pieces along with adorable vintage finds). 

Botton line:  I'm making a conscious effort from now on to wear as much recycled vintage clothing as possible (it should be easy with the amount of it I have!).  Anyway, that's my rant for the week.  

We snapped these pictures while on our road trip last week.  Bleachers in the middle of nowhere amidst gorgeous, tall trees are just one of the many charming features of the American South.  I can't wait to get back on the road again.  

Hope everyone is having an amazing weekend! xx Shareen

Wearing: top c/o Forever 21, American Apparel skirt, bag c/o ModCloth, Converse shoes, Fred Flare glasses.

Photos by Jorge Rubiera.

Meanwhile, At The Ranch....

"Shareen.  Where have you been?!" 

I know.  I haven't blogged in over a month.  I'd love to tell you that the reason for my lack-of-blogging is because I was travelling around the world, or that I somehow got a gig as Rihanna's stylist and have been touring with her.  In actuality, I just wanted a break from social media and just kinda live my life.  It's the simple things really, like eating my breakfast without instagram-ing it, or smelling a rose rather than tweeting about it.  It felt great, and now I'm ready to get back into the swing of it again.  I missed you guys!

Jorge and I went on our cross-country buying trip for the store a little earlier this year.  Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina.... it was a wonderful break from city life.  These pictures were taken in North Carolina at this small-town ranch.  The dress is vintage, and one of my favorites in the store at the moment.  

Though the blog has been dormant for a while, the store is in full swing!  Check out all of our new arrivals here.  

Thanks for sticking with me, guys.  I love you! xx Shareen

Wearing:  vintage mini dress, wedges c/o Forever 21

Photos by Jorge Rubiera.

3.16.13

Awesome galaxy leggings (from Choies) is what I wore today.  Absolutely love this jade necklace, too!

Hope everyone is having a great weekend! xx Shareen

Wearing:  vintage shirt and blazer, Choices leggings, necklace from eBay.

3.12.13

I tend to let my work take over my life, and before you know it, my dogs look at me like, "Where have you been?!"   :(     Today, I made a point to spend all day with them.... and it was grand.  

I wore my new favorite bodysuit today, thanks to the lovely gals over at ShopAKIRA ! 

Look for a store update later tonight! Some cute stuff coming into the shop!

Wearing:  skeleton bodysuit c/o ShopAkira, vintage camo coat, backpack c/o ModCloth

Recent Features: H&M Life, Forever 21, ModCloth

Three features we've gotten so far this year that I am really proud of.  Feeling so incredibly lucky - 2013 already rocks!  

(1) H&M LIFE : a blush-worthy little write up about Vintage Mavens by one of my all-time favorite companies. 
(2) FOREVER 21 BLOG : I had the opportunity to show the Forever 21 marketing team around my favorite vintage shops in Miami before the grand opening of their newest shop on Lincoln Rd.
(3) MODCLOTH BLOG : I played "tour guide" for the day, and showed ModCloth my favorite places to eat, sleep, and play on South Beach.  

xx, Shareen