The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From the (Trendy) Tree.

I’ve been back in San Francisco for 6 months now, and, so far the most rewarding aspect of my triumphant return has been facial recognition from my nieces and nephew.

I’m no longer the ‘abstract aunt.’ The aunt recognized only in last year’s family pictures or my senior high school portrait from 2002 (which, was a damn good picture, although I have changed slightly since).

Anyway, now I’m Auntie Bo: A real life tangible person. And more importantly I’m now real enough to be impersonated by my niece Averie (luckily the 9 month old isn’t turning me into a characterture quite yet, give him time).

Now, it’s no secret that I like to accessorize an outfit with a good belt. This is a fashion statement that my dear friend, Ashley Barrett, taught me years ago and it was a lesson in personal style that was encouraged by street fashion in NYC’s East Village. And now, this rule of belt has officially been passed unto my dear niece (future fashionista).

Cinch you in, create a waste, hourglass you up, match your boots, Summer, Winter AND Fall, you name it. Belts can make (or break) an outfit (snap in Z-formation). Averie is fortunate to have learned this valuable lesson in fashion at such a tender age (she also has an affinity for my Marc Jacobs mouse flats, bless her heart).

Here she is, posing with a belt she found in her play box, prancing around the house saying that she looks like Auntie Bo (my cup runneth over).

If imitation is the most sincere form of flattery, I think being an aunt just became fashionable. God help her if she picks up on any of my other fashion traits. I’m not sure the other preschoolers would appreciate her in a 1960’s vintage turquoise necklace, cowboy boots or embracing the overall mismatching of patterns themes I’m known for.

Me and Ashley - The birth of 'the belt.'