oh, and a few more things

This dress is the most delicate thing I own. It's so beautiful, but every time I wear it falls apart a little bit. I think it might be for display only now.

So you may remember that I revealed a few things about myself recently, such as my terrible addiction to karaoke and my sordid past as a ballroom dancing teacher. I was pleasantly surprised that so many of you appreciated that post (or maybe it was just the amazing photo of Donut that reeled you in?), so I decided to share a few more tidbits based on the questions I'm asked most frequently...

1. I've had a web site since I was 13.

Think about that for a minute. When I was 13 it was 1997. The word "blog" didn't exist yet, and the concept of a personal web site was really, really strange to most people (especially my peers in junior high). I can't remember what I even wrote about, but I do remember that I was very dedicated to my site and redesigned the entire thing once a month. It went through various incarnations over the years and at one point was called Ashleyland (I know, I know... be kind). It eventually turned into a photography portfolio hosted at ashley.nu and remained untouched for a few years until I decided to start Fancy Fine. I guess I just couldn't stay away.

2. I have a BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute.

Yup, I went to art school. I enrolled when I was 18, fresh out of high school and dying to finally live in The City (as we call it here) and make things. My major was Interdisciplinary Studies, which basically meant I could have my fingers in many pies. I studied printmaking and painting at first but then eventually focused on photography and bookmaking. It was fun to experiment with a lot of mediums, although I did discover that I am the world's shittiest painter. The highlight of my four years there was seeing a lecture by Martin Parr, one of my favorite photographers.

3. I do not dye my hair.

Gasp! It's funny, I'd say about 90% of the questions people ask me on the internet are about my hair. Funny because I'm pretty low maintenance about it. I do not dye it, although I have in the past (black when I was 18, and a slightly darker brown when I was 22). I can barely even be bothered to brush it most days! My friend Lauren trims my bangs whenever I start resembling Cousin It, and I use Kiehl's Olive Fruit Conditioner to keep it from feeling scraggly. In the morning I blow dry my bangs because I can't stand having wet hair on my face, and I let the rest air dry and do what it pleases. This usually takes about 3 hours because my hair is so darn long.

4. I work for a local clothing designer.

I am manager, shopgirl, visual merchandiser, official shop photographer, etc. I've worked in the shop for four years and my boss is an awesome and feisty lady who is also a good friend. Other past jobs include two years at a record store (which was exactly like Empire Records makes it seem) and secretary at a market research firm.

5. My first karaoke song was "Brand New Key" by Melanie.

A few of you wanted to know what some of my favorite karaoke jams are. So, in no particular order...

"Why Don't You Do Right" by Peggy Lee

"Big Spender" from Sweet Charity

"Whatever Lola Wants" by Sarah Vaughn

"You Ain't Woman Enough" by Loretta Lynn

"Different Drum" by Linda Rondstadt

"Harvest Moon" by Neil Young

"Ballroom Blitz" by The Sweet

"He's a Rebel" by The Crystals

"I Wanna Sex You Up" by Color Me Badd

"Walkin' After Midnight" by Patsy Cline

"Mambo Italiano" by Rosemary Clooney

"Come On-A My House" by Rosemary Clooney