i know that if you use some of the most popular sites around the web (i.e. google, wordpress, tumblr) or are active on social networks (i.e. facebook and twitter), then you’re probably already aware of the current sopa strike. and i know that obama has already vowed to strike down the sopa and pipa bills, and that with increasing pressure, many senators have now backed down. and while i know i may not have all that much muscle in this little space on the web, i just wanted to let you know that i decided to postpone my scheduled post for today in solidarity with the movement.

so just in case you haven’t already, i strongly urge you to watch this video and to write to your senators to protect our right to share content on the web! it doesn’t stop here! click here for more information.

people frequently ask me if i’d be willing to share a list of my most essential wardrobe items. i’ve been thinking a lot about this lately and decided to pull together a list of my current must-have basics. i know none of these are especially cheap if purchased new, but you can find the vintage/thrifted version of many of the items on the list. the idea is that these are– for me– the cream of the crop! they’re all really good, quality items made with very nice materials that i find myself wearing over and over again. if i could only have these items in a variety of different colors, i would be a very happy camper.

• j brand maria high rise skinny jeans. bonus points: did you know they’re made in california? if you’re on a budget, i would recommend cheap monday as an alternative.
• equipment silk blouses. for me, it’s all about the perfect, menswear-inspired fit. and they come in so many good colors and patterns, too! i’ve been stockpiling these guys whenever i find them on sale.
• j. crew cashmere boyfriend cardigans. again, they come in a variety of different colors and they’re so perfectly soft and warm!
• salvatore ferragamo vara flats. you can easily find these on ebay/etsy/in vintage shops for a fraction of the price.
• the j.w. hulme mini legacy bag. i wear this almost every day. and it’s made in the usa! also interchangeable with any of the coach classics. and yes, they can easily be thrifted and refurbished with a bit of leather conditioner! though i’ve recently been considering getting myself the willis bag…
• my trusty ysl rouge pur couture lipstick in le rouge. honestly, any red lipstick will do.
• karen walker sunglasses. they make the best statement sunglasses. i’m currently pretty in love with my number six shades.

do you have any wardrobe items you just can’t live without?