Style Musings

why don't you love me

2010-11-11T16:44:00.000-05:00

My personal style takeaways: robin's egg/tiffany blue nail polish, shoe game and the jewels.

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fall 10: andrew gn

2010-09-01T00:03:00.004-04:00

Andrew Gn Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

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photo cred: style.com

fall 10: vionnet

2010-08-05T00:58:00.003-04:00

Vionnet Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear

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photo cred: style.com

resort 10: yigal azrouël

2010-06-07T00:25:00.000-04:00

Yigal Azrouël Resort 2010

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photo cred: style.com

spring 10: basso & brooke

2010-05-25T00:20:00.000-04:00

Basso & Brooke Spring 2010 Ready-to-Wear

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spring 10: balmain

2010-05-13T00:09:00.000-04:00

Balmain Spring 2010 RTW

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classic style: golden age of cannes

2010-05-11T00:11:00.002-04:00

Pablo Picasso & Brigitte Bardot

The 63rd Cannes Film Festival starts tomorrow. To be totally honest, I know that is is a film festival and all, but I am kind of more excited about viewing the photographs from the previous day festivities. Seriously, it is not like I am able to preview any of the movies so I love scanning the red carpet photos and candids. I am sure that there are lots of people that go to just enjoy the buzz of the atmosphere, don't have passes for any events or hope to hustle their way through once they arrive. Actually, I know for a fact this happens. But anyways, I came across an archive of photos documenting the festival from the 40s - 70s.

Simone Sylva & Robert Mitchum

Janette Scott & her luggage

Sophia Loren

Esther Williams

Diana Dors

Outside the Carlton Hotel in 1958

Ursula Andress

Jayne Mansfield

Daleks promoting a Dr Who movie in 1965

George Harrison and his wife, model Patti Boyd

Dennis Hopper, Feliciano, Peter Fonda, J. Jefferson and Jack Nicholson

Alfred Hitchcock (my favorite director. ever.)

Jane Birkin

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photo cred: telegraph

classic style: party girl

2010-05-07T00:03:00.009-04:00

Cyd Charisse as Vicki Gaye in Party Girl

Party Girl is a 1958 film noir directed by Nicholas Ray, starring Robert Taylor and Cyd Charisse. Last week, I caught a glimpse of this red dress and immediately thought about Hilary Swank's Guy Laroche dress she wore to the 2005 Oscars. I loved that dress so much. In fact, I wanted to base my wedding dress on it, but that's another story or two.

Hilary Swank at the 77th Academy Awards

I totally appreciate that almost 50 years later this dress is still amazing. However, when you say "long sleeve with a high neck cut gown," there is an immediate flash of great-aunts and grandmas. In a sea of strapless dresses, one has to muddle through to that rare breed.

Victoria Beckham at the Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar party 2009 [Victoria Beckham]

Diane Kruger at the Met Costume Institute Gala 2010 [Calvin Klein]

Marion Cotillard at the Met Costume Institute Gala 2010 [Christian Dior]

Gwyneth Paltrow at the Chopard Celebrates 150 Years of Excellence Gala [Antonio Berardi]

Paz Vega at the 4th International Rome Film Festival [Gucci]

Kate Hudson at 2010 SAG Awards [Emilio Pucci]

Ciara at the Met Costume Institute Gala 2009 [Emilio Pucci]

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ziggy veuve.

2010-05-05T07:15:00.003-04:00

Leggings by Sass & Bide
Boots by Pleaser USA

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condemned darkness.

2010-05-05T06:24:00.001-04:00

Shortsleeve Tops by Alice + Olivia
Rings by Anna Beck

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love notes: gianmarco lorenzi

2010-05-03T00:05:00.004-04:00

Discoball, $2795

Batman, $995

Lana, $995

Otpump, $995 // Dancer, $1195

Ankle Platform, $895 // Attitude, $1095

Bowie, $795 // Eros, $2295

Cameron, $1195 // Bumps, $2295

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photo cred: gregory's

nerd prom.

2010-05-01T21:30:00.009-04:00

First Lady Michelle Obama

It is dinner season in Washington, DC. I really enjoy watching the White House Correspondents' Dinner. It is almost the only time where you get to see politicians say all the stupid stuff that you wish they would say without starting a scandal. Who doesn't enjoy a good roast and robot-like representatives actually show a personality? It is a good mix of cringe worthy moments and red carpet memories. I would ♥ to go one day; I just need to find someone to invite me first...

The White House Correspondences' Association was founded in 1914 and held its first dinner in 1920. Only members of the White House Correspondences' Association (different media groups, magazines, etc) are allowed to buy tickets to the dinner. They then can invite guests to use those tickets, that's why we see SO MANY celebs at the dinner. The Hollywood set began appearing in the 1980s when in 1987 Micheal Kelly invited Fawn Hall to sit at his table. This action began the "guest frenzy," we see now. Just to name a few...Kim Kardashian, Justin Beiber, The Jonas Brothers, Demi Lovata, Jessica Alba, , Mariska Hargitay, Julianna Smoot, Marlon Wayans, Betty White, Chelsea Handler, Jon Bon Jovi, & Tracy Morgan.

The Jonas Brothers, Danielle, and Demi at the White House Correspondents Garden Brunch

Justin Bieber

The Jonas Brothers

Demi Lovato & Kim Kardashian

Jessica Simpson

Bradley Cooper

Adrian Grenier

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mag rac: vogue italia

2010-05-01T00:15:00.004-04:00

Freja Beha Erichsen by Steven Meisel

I have a backlog of magazines that I still need to go through so this one is coming a little late. But I love this editorial so much that I jsut had to post it. It is from Vogue Italia March 2010, featuring models Freja Beha Erichsen and Mathias Lauridsen, styled by Lori Goldstein and of course shot by Steven Meisel.

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photo cred: fashiongonerogue

rodarte.

2010-04-29T00:55:00.000-04:00

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oxfords gone brogue

2010-04-27T00:08:00.012-04:00

my photoshopped creations

Last year I remember driving around (when I do my best thinking), the oxford trend had hit but I didn't really see any that were really different. I imagined multi-color, highly adorned or something a little more inventive than adding a heel. I guess my frustration comes from the many years of private school where I was only allowed to wear oxfords and mary janes; therefore, I kind of have a love hate/relationship with them.

The reason for my recurring nightmares

In the spirit of full disclosure, I do own two pairs of black high heel oxfords. I appreciate that I can still have my heels without having being too dressed up vibe. Better than high heel sneakers *cringe* Additionally, I didn't really look that hard to discover a cool pair. I was closed off to the idea for a long time....cue the violins.

Whitney Port//Emma Watson//Sienna Miller

I think it is finally time for me to find some flat oxfords (or saddle shoes or brogues). I want another flat alternative other than ballet or boots. But I really want to see something that rebels against tradition.

Olivia Morris

Capone Oxford by Jeffrey Campbell

Aldo Shoes

Cutout Oxford by Opening Ceremony

Melissa Joy Flocado

Christian Louboutin Fred Flat Glitter

Melissa Joy + Alexandre Herchcovitch

Marc Jacobs

Christian Louboutin

Sam Edelman

Church's

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adventures of outlet shopping

2010-04-23T02:22:00.009-04:00

"When I was at the Desert Hills Premium Outlets in August 2006, I spotted a shiny young couple loading shopping bags into the trunk of their ivory Maybach 62 sedan - which at the time sold for more than $380,000 new."
--Dana Thomas, author of Deluxe

Outlet malls are notorious for being located in spots you would otherwise have absolutely no reason for visiting. Usually, going to one is not a spur of the moment thing - you plan it out, arriving 'no later than...' and mapping out what stores you MUST visit. At least that's my experience. There is an outlet mall about 20 minutes from my hometown and another one about 1.5 hours away that houses premium brands.

I have vivid childhood memories of my entire family taking day trips for some mega shopping - it's in my blood. On the ride back, I would lay in the back seat; mesmerized that I could actually see stars in the sky and recalling the day's events. I enjoyed the people watching almost as much as the shopping experience. A great big social experiment - where the fanny pack meets the Social Register.

As for the shopping, I've noticed that I always end up with at least one bag that had the 'I have been looking for this forever and can't believe I actually found it for such a great price' and another bag that had 'I probably would have never bought this crap anywhere else but I couldn't pass up such a good deal.' My most recent outlet visit was not the expectation.

My straightforward purchase - a pair of shorts from Banana Republic. I know, kind of boring but I have a hard time finding a pair that fits. So, moving right along my next stop was at a luggage store that had huge signs in the window -- 50% off entire store. Again, there is no other reason for me to go inside a luggage store except for the temptation of 50% off. I got two things that I probably don't need, but I have no buyer's remorse so I'm good.

Flask & Luggage Scale

Yep, I upgraded to a new swanky flask that is so nice that it came with a funnel. They really know how to spoil a girl. My other flask has my initials engraved on the front. Great sentiment, but sometimes I need a little room for deniability if you know what I mean. I am really excited about the luggage scale. You hold it at the top, hook your bag at the bottom and it tells you how much it weighs. Genius. No more teetering on the home scale. Awesome for an overpacker who has mild airport anxiety. It's light and even has a built-in tape measure so if you hypothetically have to expand your luggage or buy another bag because you shopped a little too much, you'll know if it fits within regulation size.

The next store had a 10 for $10 sign. I'm game. Basically, the back of the store was full of accessories that were marked down to 10 bucks and under. The sales girl gave me the spiel and a basket. I got to work, figuring that if I could find at least one thing that I really wanted it would be worth the other 8-9 random things. That's how they get you. Why pay $4.95 for one thing, when if you only add $5.05 you can get 9 more things? I actually got 11 things but she just counted 10. I didn't realize that until I got home, ftw! Here's what I got...nothing mind blowing but I am pretty satisfied with my $10+tax purchase.

Six pair of acrylic cheetah print heart earrings. I don't really like hearts, but there is something about putting them with animal print?

More animal print, but this time zebra. They have purple lenses too. Jealous?

Tie-dyed black and teal tights. Fingers crossed that they will be long enough. Too lazy to try them on right now.

Set of five metal rings in red and black to go with...

...A long red and black beaded necklace. Probably my least favorite item, but these are my college colors so I'm thinking I will wear it tailgating and give it to the first person who compliments me on it.

Again with the hearts, this time in headband form. But it is sparkly and if you run your fingers over the sequins they turn silver.

Are you seeing a theme here? My mom told me that it looks good on me so that is all that matters.

Reminded me of Gossip Girl. But I liked it since I have dark hair it blends without being over the top.

Zipper double wrap bracelet. Really liked this piece along with...

Black pyramid stud bracelet. I like to think it got its inspiration from the Hermes Collier de Chien. You can see it if you squint really hard.

Finally, if you follow me on Twitter you know that I had a semi-meltdown because I KNOW that I had this headband in my basket, yet somehow it didn't make it into the bag. Yes, I also know I had a lucky break, but my 11th item was a coin purse that my mom wanted. Bonus for her and heartbreak for me. But all is now right in the world and was reunited with my glorious headband. I imagined it to be a lot more stunning but that was probably because I was pissed and in mourning. Am I still overacting? When I first saw it, I had flashes of the Givenchy headband. Squint dammit!

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diy: moleskine

2010-04-19T03:55:00.007-04:00

I am a serious Moleskine collector. I usually have at least 2 or 3 active Moleskines at a time. I love having a space to dump all my mental notes. I love the romanticism connected with them, knowing that I am in good company with the likes of Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso & Ernest Hemingway. And I love that owning one (or a 100) puts you in this special club. Don't believe me? Check out moleskinerie.

The only unfortunate thing is that everyone who has ever bought into the hype, has always come to the very same conclusion....um, how am I suppose to keep up with my pen? As long as they have been around, I think people have been coming up with unique ways to make sure they always had a pen at the ready when inspiration strikes. You would think that the makers would make some kind of extra pen attachment/special edition joint, but again owning these notebooks means that you have to find your own path.

There are tons of "hacks" that you can research online, but I'm lazy. Most include taping, cutting, stitching, gluing, pastering, and/or soldering. I just wanted a way to keep my pen or pencil attached without (1) having to go to the store for supplies (2) physically altering my moleskine and (3) having it turn into an afternoon craft project.

After rumbling around in my desk drawer, pow!

I found these 1" binder clips. You've probably seen them in black, but I have them in metallic foil, because that's just how I roll.

I attached the clip to the back cover where the pocket is located. As you can see, (hopefully) I didn't make it flush with the cover, leaving a small space between. This also keeps the pocket functional.

I removed the silver clasps, but that's just my personal preference. To take them off, just squeeze at the bottom, towards the center.

And you're done! Just clip on your choice of writing utensil.

I even was able to fit a pen and pencil on the same clip.

Quick, easy and I barely had to get out of bed.

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classic style: être l'inspiration

2010-04-10T00:54:00.000-04:00

Evelyn Tripp photographed by William Klein. Vogue, 1958.

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tightrope

2010-04-09T03:13:00.000-04:00

i need some new shoes.

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classic style: être l'inspiration

2010-04-03T00:18:00.000-04:00

james dean

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telephone

2010-03-15T00:07:00.002-04:00

beyond words.

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mind the gap

2010-03-13T00:02:00.000-05:00

Lauren Hutton circa 1975 and present day

Growing up, I had a huge gap between my two front teeth. Huge. I was so self-conscious about it that whenever I laughed or smiled I automatically put my hand over my mouth to cover it up. In the rare case where my reflexes were not that quick, someone would remark that I had a beautiful smile. A part of me thought they were trying to be funny, the other part thinking they were crazy. Eventually I got two sparkling porcelain veneers and proceeded to smile my ass off sans hand.

Before I got my dental improvements, my mom would always tell me about Lauren Hutton, a successful actress and supermodel, who also had a distinguishable gap between her two front teeth. But looking at her pictures, most of the time she kept her mouth closed; instead choosing a seductive smile. In a small way it did make me feel better, knowing somehow she felt my pain. BUT when I discovered that Madonna also had a gap - kindred souls. My reaction time slowed. Fast-forward a couple of years, I've noticed more and more less than perfect grills. I've always worried about my gap returning. I'm thinking I might not be as depressed about that. Might.

Madonna

Rumor has it that Madonna is very proud of here gap. In 1990, she did a cover shot for Glamour magazine but her picture was doctored to cover up the gap. When the magazine named her Woman of the Year, she refused to attend the dinner.

Lara Stone

I read an interview (i-D November 2008) with the model where she said that when she went to the dentist, they tried to convince her to get her teeth fixed. She responded by saying "my gap is paying your dentist bills." Well played.

Vanessa Paradis

French actress, singer and model and baby mama/long time girlfriend (12 years) of Johnny Deep. Her gap is about the same size that I had. Makes me wonder if I could have pulled Johnny too if I still had mine?

Georgia May Jagger

Daughter of Jerry Hall and Mick Jagger, the teenager seems to be following in the footsteps of her model mother, lending her face for Hudson Jeans, Rimmel and Versace campaigns.

Anna Paquin

The second youngest Oscar winner in history, she is probably better known today as Sookie from True Blood or Rogue from the X-Men film series.

Dani Evans

Winner of Cycle 6 of America's Next Top Model.

Jane Birkin

Actress, singer and mother of Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou Doillon. You probably are more familiar with her name sake - the Hermès Birkin bag.

Brigitte Bardot

Yes, the original sex kitten had a gap. Any more doubts that gap-tooth girls can be sexy?

Ashley Smith

New model on the scene from Texas, I've seen more and more spreads of her popping up.. In her first couple of days in NYC, she was scooped up. Everyone loves her teeth but the only thing that might keep her off the runway is that she might just be a little too busty. Twist of fate?

Some other gaps worth mentioning: Béatrice Dalle, Jessica Hart, Natalie Cole, Abbey Lee, Jorja Fox, Laura San Giacomo, Esther Rolle, Laurence Fishburne, Samuel L. Jackson, Maya Angelou, Omar Sharif, Condoleezza Rice.

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style hunt: briefcase

2010-03-11T00:12:00.014-05:00

Chanel Perspex Briefcase

When I was a child, my dad would let me play with his old leather briefcase. It was auburn brown with golden hardware and I would carry it around the house like I had business. It was the era of power dressing. An Alex P. Keaton in the making. In all actuality, it was only filled with my drawings, markers and whatever baubles I treasured at that time. I was allowed to play with it because my dad had upgraded to a sleek, black crocodile case with silver hinges and lock. Maybe this childhood experience is why I've always wanted a briefcase. I remember thinking that I wanted a chrome one as a college graduation gift in anticipation of my first job. That was when I still used sitcoms as a gauge for my future. I really thought high school would be like Save By the Bell. So disappointing.

One doesn't really see people with briefcases anymore. Messenger, tote and computer bags, yes. Briefcases, no. I am talking about the old-fashioned, hardside *knock, knock, knock* attaché case. I had a professor who carried one. It was this worn, clunky thing at least a couple of decades old. He would walk into the classroom, put it on the front table, and pull out his notes. He would then proceed to lecture for an hour and a half straight with no slides or visual aids. The class was totally devoid of any type of technology since we were not even allowed to take notes on our computers, just pen and paper. That was last year.

I still want a briefcase but really have no reason for one. My computer bag is still more functional. The biggest advantage is that it is hands free. Plus, do I want people to assume that I am carrying around a poker set or at best guess a gun? They are really only seen for ransom drops and other sketchy cash payoff. Oh, and lawyers. But maybe I am just using tv as a referral again or hanging around the wrong sort of people. Regardless, this reasoning didn't stop me from looking around to see what the modern age has. Expensive. I am thinking this has something to do with supply & demand.

Tumi Tennyson Attache, $1,995

Asprey Bond Attache, £2,500

Vanguard Business Series Modern 84 Attache, $117.95

Rimowa Topas Aluminum Silver Attache Case, $945

Zero Halliburton 4" aluminum attaché, $550

Totally Bamboo Bamboo Attache Case, $218.95

Louis Vuitton Président, $4,200

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spring 10: ferré

2010-03-09T00:04:00.000-05:00

Gianfranco Ferré S/S 2010 RTW

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photo cred: style.com

on the advertising front: prada

2010-03-07T00:33:00.000-05:00

"First Spring" by Yang Fudong
Prada S/S 2010 menswear campaign

Credits:

Model/Actor: Jacob Coupe
Model/Actor: Adrien Sahores
Actor: Geng Le
Actor: Ji Lili
Actor: Zhao Lei
Actor: Gao Xiu Li
Director: Yang Fudong

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mag rac: numero

2010-03-05T00:39:00.005-05:00

Numero #111 March 2010
Photographer: Karl Lagerfeld
Models: Elisa Sednaoui & Baptiste Giabiconi

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on the advertising front: valentino

2010-03-03T01:27:00.006-05:00

Valentino Spring / Summer 2010 Ad Campaign

The print campaign reminds me of the Louis Vuitton campaign with Madonna. These were shot by Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott, not Steven Meisel though. I know I am not the only one who sees the similarities? Regardless, I still love the composition.

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style hunt: pin-up swimsuits

2010-03-01T00:08:00.010-05:00

diana von furstenberg // michael kors

Last week I was IMing with one of my friends and we were swapping links of potential swimsuits. Of all the years that I have gone swimsuit shopping, I've never had a clear plan before walking into the store. I've had the mentality of as long as it looked good on me (or sometimes just settling with mildly looking good) I didn't care the style. As much as I love to shop, swimsuit shopping has always been a chore or a last minute errand.

While cyber shopping with her, I noticed that the styles of the season were the standard cut-out sexy or barely existent, the ruffle/fringe, and surprisingly a lot of retro bombshell. Okay, maybe I could get a little bit more excited. I saw them on the runway last year, but not so much in stores. I decided that I wanted to do something a little different this season. A 1940/1950-ish suit with a modern twist. Eh? However, I also noticed that that many sites didn't provide a view of suit from the back. Seriously? I realize that finding a swimsuit is more of something to be done in person, but give a girl a little hint. I just want my ass to be covered up and pretty much everything else can hang out, so I really need you to start providing those pictures. Do you hear me?

But back to the excitement -- I like the idea of being a modern day pin-up girl. My friend says that to really pull off the look I need to be tatted up. I am going to have to disagree on that point, but I'll consider a temporary tattoo.

Leda Halter & Ruffle Brief

Becca® Butterfly one-shoulder bandeau top & Skirted scoop bottom

Carmen Marc Valvo retro one-piece

One Piece Bandeau

Esther Williams Vintage Swimsuit 50's Style

The Bettie - Retro Halter Swimsuit

Classic Bikini Swimsuit

The Betty Swimsuit

Retro Sailor Swimsuit

Halter Eight Suit

Bill Top & Bottom

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runway photo cred: ivan lattuada/sgp; marcio madeira via style.com

classic style: être l'inspiration

2010-02-27T00:14:00.000-05:00

eartha kitt

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bespoke: suzan fellman

2010-02-25T00:28:00.001-05:00

Bespoke Chanel Silk Scarf Chandelier by Suzan Fellman, $9,200

I got a Chanel scarf for Valentine's Day and play with it everyday. Sometimes I wear it around the house for S&G. What I am trying to say is that I am very attached to my new friend and if you try to mess with it I'll probably try to fight you.

I say all of this because I feel like I should really love this Chanel scarf chandelier by Suzan Fellman (and I do) but again if someone tried to take my scarf for this project

The chandelier is "draped with genuine pearls and gold-plated vintage beads and chain." Each shade is made from an authentic vintage Chanel silk scarf and is attached to a gold-plated ceiling plate. It measures 19" in diameter x 15" high with a 3" drop. There are also Chanel and YSL chairs, upholstered "with specially selected, vintage scarf squares. Each chair is designed around the three vintage designer scarves that comprise it, so no two are ever alike. Features vintage silk scarves and waterjet-cut Lucite legs." Each chair measures approximately 27" D x 32" H with a seat height of 12" off the floor.

Bespoke Silk Scarf Chairs by Suzan Fellman, $8,000

At the end of the day, I like the concept. But I can't help but think it is like if some took a whole bunch of Birkin bags and turned them into tissue boxes or throw pillows. Shameful.

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photo cred: suzan fellman & vivre

flashback: dazed & confused

2010-02-23T00:19:00.000-05:00

Dazed & Confused, April 2009
Model: Lakshmi Menon
Photography: Josh Olins
Styling: Nicola Formichetti

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beauty notice: seche vite

2010-02-21T00:18:00.007-05:00

Seche Vite™ Dry Fast Top Coat

I have a New Years' resolution that involves maintaining my nails. Yes, I know that it might sound a little shallow. Stay with me. I was having a conversation with one of my friends about the bother to keep up ones natural nails. We both talk with our hands and have to deal with a lot of "status" (read: demanding and somewhat pretentious) people. It just gives us a little more confidence that we can at least stand our ground and interact without the focus being drawn to our raggedy nails. Therefor, the benefit is a little bit more than vanity. But sometimes it is such a pain. I prefer to do them myself. I am mild control freak and have yet to find a place that will not only file my nails to the shape I want but also won't chip as soon as I step over the threshold. Plus, I find the whole procedure of doing my own nails a little therapeutic -- a mini in-home spa treatment. But I really have to lock down a better maintenance schedule.

I like to keep my nails a little longer than the nubby standard. About 1-2 mm tips. I would grow them out to at least 1 cm if it didn't look so trashy. Good-bye to those days. Polish chipping is something that I've always waged war against. Even with my Chanel polishes. Actually I've been pretty lazy about it but annoyed nevertheless. So with my new resolution, I set out to find the "best top coat." I personally think that the top coat is the most important element, closely followed by nail prep. After researching, I decided to go with Seche Vite™ Dry Fast Top Coat. It is a little pricier than a normal top coat at $7.99 but I reasoned that I've paid a lot more than that for a regular polish and if I can find something for a third of the price that will prolong said polish, I'm game.

I also picked up Seche Base™ which is a ridge filler. It is suppose to make nails smoother so your polish will stay in place better, plus prevents staining. Good for ladies like me that pretty much only wear dark hues. I am horrible about using a base coat, so I haven't used it yet but plan on entering it in my nail rotation soon.

I've read a lot of hype about Seche Vite so I decided to put it to the test. I used one of my cheapo polishes that I picked up for a buck. I figured that I could see what it was really capable of doing regardless of the quality of polish. I have to say, that I am kind of impressed. Kind of. It still isn't the superhuman top coat that I really crave that WILL last for 10 days -- I would even settle for 7 days -- but better than any other I've tried. It is really thick which was promising and seems to work better on still wet nails. Apparently this enables it to form a bond with all layers. I didn't buff my nails first to help prevent nail peeling so I think I am going to remember that next time. My next step is to try it with higher quality polishes and different brands, but here are my results so far & some of my nail stressing activities:

DAY ONE: Opened a couple of Coke cans, did a load of laundry, lots of typing, washed hands 12+ times (it is flu season), cooked a meal, washed a couple of pots & pans. Kept looking down for the first sign of wear and tear - no chipping reported.

DAY TWO: Cleaned espresso maker, another load of laundry, opened a tabbed soup can, extended playtime with cat, played in the snow, opened a new toothbrush, more hand washing & typing. Middle fingers and thumbs have very, very minute chip. Barely noticeable at first until right middle finger tip chips off. Decide to do a touch up and another coat of Vite. Waiting.

DAY THREE: Deep conditioned hair, cooked, peeled and ate an orange, opened a bottle of wine, typing and hand washing (let's just assume at this point). Middle finger peeled off again. Think it is more of my nail than then the polish. Right thumb and index finger are chipped a little on the corner. Other fingers holding strong. This is a personal record.

DAY FOUR: Lounged and scratched myself. The chips on the index finger and thumb got bigger. So the current tally of chipped nails:3

DAY FIVE: Started an arts & crafts project (which will be a future post), mended a pair of my husband's pants, cooked. My left hand is looking pretty well. My right hand..... Playing around with glue did not help out the situation. Plus, my nails kept getting snagged on the felt. I decided to repaint them tomorrow because I've reach my limit and I have a birthday party to attend.

Even though I only went five days, my nails are looking pretty damn good considering what I am use to looking down at; also I used a really inexpensive polish. Onward to more experimentation but I definitely think this is work picking up and trying!

original style musings post

doc:: ralph rucci: a designer and his house

2010-02-19T00:22:00.001-05:00

Ralph Rucci: A Designer and His House documents the creation of Rucci's Spring 2008 ready-to-wear and Fall 2008 couture lines "delivering glimpses of Rucci's work ethic while capturing the generous, deeply collaborative creative process between the designer and his trusted team." Martha Stewart narrates the documentary. Stewart is one of Rucci's favorite clients, always front and center at his NYC shows. For those unfamiliar with Rucci, he has been designing for over 25 years and launched Chado Ralph Rucci in 1994. In 2002, he was invited to show his collection in Paris by the French Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture — the first American to receive such an invitation since Mainbocher in the 1930s. Chado Ralph Rucci garments are known for the precision of their construction, their sculptural look, and the innovative use of fabrics.

I love watching "behind-the-scenes" documentaries of veteran designers. There is always this sense of calmness and urgency, which is hard to attain. As much as I love Project Runway, I can't help but get caught up in their anxieties. It is amazing to watch someone who is established but isn't cocky about their work. There is point in the film when he is describing why his label is called Chado Ralph Rucci and not just Ralph Rucci. His reasoning is that if it just read his name, then that wouldn't accurately reflect all the work that went into the creation of a garment - a whole slew of people would be left out since it's not just him responsible for the final collection.

One of my favorite scenes is when he is showing the viewer one of his infamous weightless dresses made of lace, tulle and chiffon all covered with ostrich and vulture feathers. He pauses a moment after saying "vulture," calls one of his assistants over to make sure that they are not using the word vulture in the carnet (note: carnets are customs documents) and then kind of trails off to why not. Kind of sketch but I love him so I will not judge plus a designer who is thinking about customs procedures? I'm all over that. Right after, he is so tickled to mention that there are women who actually buy these dresses. Real women, well as "real" as you can be with a collection of couture garments. He says its fascinating because people are writing checks for them to go to private homes instead of red carpets and he is genuinely proud of that.

original style musings post

photo cred: bryan bedder/getty images

love notes: hermes collier de chien

2010-02-17T01:11:00.007-05:00

The Hermes Collier de Chien leather bracelet has been around forever and I've been enamored with it for just as long. It doesn't overtly say "Hermes" which is what I appreciate about most of my handbags and accessories. I have this horrible visceral reaction whenever I see a cloth Coach bag covered in C's. Just saying. I love the fact that it is a classic but also has an edgy vibe with the pyramid studs. What is not to love? Alas, it costs $1,025 but I am trying to psych myself up. If I wear it every single day for a year that would be $2.81 a day. Akin to sponsoring a small child in a developing country, I know.

The Collier de Chien (translated to mean "dog collar") was originally designed for a wealthy Hermes client’s bulldog during the 1930s. It was then transformed into a watch, cuff & belt and has since been a staple at Hermes. This means that I have time to save up and go against any logic or reason I might retain. Until that time, I will just lust over it on others.

Victoria Beckham

Kate Lanphear

Rachel Zoe

Blake Lively

Kate Holmes

Hilary Duff

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style maven: repossi duo

2010-02-15T00:03:00.008-05:00

Gaia Repossi and Eugenie Niarchos

Last month, I wrote about Repossi and its collaborators Gaia Repossi and Eugenie Niarchos. We know they make amazing jewelry, but what about the rest of their fashion sense?

original style musings post

sparkly onesies!

2010-02-12T00:22:00.009-05:00

Johnny Weir at the 2009 Festa On Ice skating to Poker Face by Lady GaGa

The Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics start today. I'll admit that I am really more of a Summer Olympics kind of gal but I do like the snow; therefore, I've been known to tune in for those events however, I've never cared for figure skating. I want to be clear and upfront about that. I don't have a good reason for my dislike other than it just reminds me of the girls I knew growing up who drew pictures of dolphins on their notebooks - and I didn't like them either.

Regardless of those feelings, I think I might be in love with Johnny Weir. In a totally platonic way of course. I recently started watching Be Good Johnny Weir on the Sundance Channel and quickly became intoxicated by the sparkly onesies, the plethora of furs with a sprinkling of Russian accents. ♥

According to Johnny, what really makes him stand out from other skaters is that he is an artist first and an athlete second. A little odd coming from an Olympic caliber skater, but I kind of get it. We all have something we do not for the money, fame or accolades (though all three are nice to have), instead it is because it is a passion, something that we are driven to do. Deep. And I get it. Plus, I really want a couple of his sparkly onsies (made specially my his costume designer Stephanie) but I haven't a clue where I would wear them. Just seem to be one of those things that would be good to have in the back of the closet. You never know.

We won't be seeing his Poker Face program (see below) during the Olympics - I would probably actually watch more of the skating - but I will be an honorary Johnny's Angel and will be rooting for the gold.

original style musings post

alexander mcqueen

2010-02-11T19:15:00.002-05:00

r.i.p.

original style musings post

love notes: globe-trotter

2010-02-10T04:11:00.000-05:00

The other night I was window shopping at J. Crew and stumbled upon the Globe-Trotter® collection. Yellow luggage. Even more, it has that vintage suitcase look. ♥ Imagine, never ever confusing your luggage at the baggage claim. Actually, I already have a very nice luggage set that is tan & chocolate with red luggage tags. I can't be bothered fighting over and trying to convince a former cabin mate that the generic black bag with the Samsonite tag is mine and not theirs. Every time I travel with someone they are always impressed with my "different" luggage but then follow it up with a sideways comment about getting dirty quicker. That's why Scotchgard™ was created honey.

Which brings me back to my current love - yellow luggage. Since it is yellow, yes it'll get dirty quicker. As a result, there are a lot of black bags rolling around. But odds are, for this particular set of luggage, which roughly equates to taking a family of four on vacation (including tax and gratuity), you should to be traveling on a private plane. Just saying. Therefore, luggage is not mishandled and stays smudge free. Otherwise you run a high risk of being detained after making a seen over the conveyor belt marking on your precious luggage. Just is case, it also comes in black.

Globe-Trotter® Centenary 13" vanity case, $800.00

Globe-Trotter® Centenary 21" trolley case, $1,350.00

Globe-Trotter® Centenary 28" suitcase with wheels, $1,600.00
Globe-Trotter® Centenary 30" extra-deep suitcase with wheels, $1,675.00
Globe-Trotter® Centenary 33" extra-deep suitcase with wheels, $1,750.00

Handcrafted by Globe-Trotter, the British company whose expertly crafted luggage has been carried by royalty and other discerning customers since 1897. Globe-Trotter's distinctively luxurious (and incomparably beautiful) Centenary Collection is guaranteed to withstand the rigors of travel—or the weight of a one-ton elephant, whichever is worse—thanks to the strength of exceptionally lightweight Vulcan Fibre®. Each and every case is handmade by an experienced craftsman in our own custom color combination. Needless to say, our exclusive heirloom-quality Globe-Trotter luggage is available only in very limited quantities.

original style musings post

photo creds: jcrew.com

men in ascots

2010-02-08T01:37:00.018-05:00

Scooby-Doo and the gang...specifically Fred with his trademark orange ascot.

As you know, I love a man (and sometimes a woman) in a bow tie. Ascots though, I am not quite so sure. If I had to choose, I think I would go with a solid one so it would just "blend in." Secondly, it should be wide and ruched enough so we don't have to see even an inch of bare chest. Gross. Actually, I should probably back up and try to describe an ascot. Obviously it goes around the neck, but then it is tucked into/under one’s open shirt collar. It is basically a piece of material that is kind of a hybrid of a scarf and a tie. It takes a man with a very particular swagger -- whether he be gay or straight -- to pull off an ascot. It has the potential to come off a little too costume-y or pretentious when put in the wrong hands or in this case around the wrong neck. It is rare to actually see a man wearing one but whenever I do, I can't help but bite my lower lip in befuddlement.

Donald @ Esquire UK

Thurston B. Howell, III (Jim Backus) from Gilligan's Island

Jeremy Piven @ the Emmy's

Justin Long @ the premiere of Drag Me to Hell

Michael Johns from American Idol

Terry Benedict (Andy Garcia) from Ocean's Twelve

David Beckham

Chuck Bass (Ed Westwick) from Gossip Girl

Cary Grant

George Clooney for Bacardi Martini adverts

Ashton Kutcher

Adrien Brody @ the Golden Globes

mag rac: vogue germany

2010-02-05T03:30:00.000-05:00

Vogue Germany February 2010

I am really digging the editorials in this month's issue. Black & white images and hints of 80s & 20s glamour.

Privat Stunde [Private Lessons]
Model: Bianca Balti
Photographer: Vincent Peters

Models: Toni Garrn & Baptiste Giabiconi
Photographer: Karl Lagerfeld

original style musings post

photo cred: fashionising

flashback: j. mendel

2010-02-03T03:10:00.000-05:00

J. Mendel Fall 2005 Ready-to-Wear

J. Mendel was founded in Paris by Joseph Breitman, furrier to the Russian aristocracy, in 1870. Today, the fifth-generation Gilles Mendel acts as CEO and head designer. In addition to fur, the brand now encompasses a ready-to-wear line, which originated practically by accident; to detract PETA protesters from staking out his first flagship boutique on Madison Avenue in the mid-nineties, Mendel created simple sheaths to display in the store windows at night.

original style musings post

photo cred: style.com

style hunt: hunter rain boots

2010-02-01T00:33:00.013-05:00

From Mr. & Mrs. Smith w/ Angelina in red Hunter rain boots

I recently decided I wanted a pair of Hunter rain boots. I've come across them before, mostly at music festivals, but never really thought I should invest in a pair. I don't live in an area where it rains on a regular basis, so I decided to just go with a pair of boots from Target.

Women's Ditsy Dots Rain Boots - Black/White

I got them online a couple years ago for $19.99 (now $24.99) and they were alright. I liked the polka dots, but was annoyed that the dots weren't consistent and stretched at the bottom. And they had a really strong rubber smell. And the buckle that was suppose to adjust the calf size was never tight enough. And the insoles slipped. But other than that, they were alright. I started to notice that I wore them less and less, even when it was raining. The final realization came when I let someone borrow them when it snowed. I never, ever let anyone borrow my shoes. They are my babies. So with that, they became orphans.

I didn't throw them out right away. They sat against the wall, sometimes serving as doorstops. I didn't actively search for replacements. I needed a reason to replace a perfectly good pair of boots (*said in my mother's voice*). Last month, I was getting ready to go out in the cold rain and reached for the polka dotted disappointments and found a defect. I have never been so happy to have owned a pair of ruined boots. With the path clear, my hunt began -- no pun intended.

The hands down winner was Hunter. From the totally unscientific research I conducted, I found that some people complained that they couldn't fit their ~~big ole~~ calves in the boots with jeans -- which I took as a good sign because I have smallish calves and usually have the opposite problem. I also read that some ~~vertically challenged~~ folks felt the boots were cut too high since they hit either at or above their knee & were irritate when they sat down. I also didn't think this would be a problem since I have abnormally long limbs. Regardless, I decided to step my research efforts up a notch and I set out to find fit models.

Kate Moss

Rachel Bilson // Elizabeth Jagger

Billie Piper

Nicole Richie // Anne Hathaway

Lily Donaldson // Ashley Olsen

Still ♥ them. Plus, if a munchkin like Ashley Olsen and an amazonian like Lily Donaldson can both wear them, I say onward to point of purchase. But this was the really hard part. There are so many choices...Tall? Short? Original? Huntress? Gloss? I definitely wanted the Original Tall Wellington, but in what color? The fact they came in a million different colors triggered my Collector mode. When I find something that I love, I tend to collect it in various colors and styles. So at this point, I had to talk myself down to just starting with one pair. Oh, and did I mention that they also cost $115? It was a very short talk.

Yeah, not too much money to spend on a pair of shoes; but when those shoes are rain boots...seriously? Of course if I spent this much time just researching them, you know that I did my due diligence in trying to find the lowest price. There are almost as many places as there are colors that one can purchase a pair. The price pretty much stays the same at all outlets. However, I noticed that a couple of places have random sales on certain colors. For example, I saw white and beige ones at Zappos for $89.95 and greens ones at Shopbop for around the same price. My advice is to just constantly keep an eye out. Some other places to bookmark -- Bloomingdale's, Overstock, Amazon, Nordstrom, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Paperlime, 6pm. Even eBay, but be careful for deals too good to be true. They are usually 2nds or 3rds, which aren't necessarily bad products. It just means that you'll end up with a boot that didn't meet quality standards (scuff marks, a logo slightly off, discoloration, etc) to be sold at full retail price. The difference between seconds and thirds is the severity of the imperfection, with 3rds being the most severe.

Obviously, you could just buy them outright at full price; that way you won't get pinned up against a color that you really don't want but its such a good price you buy them anyway. Otherwise, just be open to your options. Plus, if you can save at least $30, maybe you'll want to splurge on a pair of Hunter Welly Socks that cost about what you would end up saving. They fold over still displaying the Hunter logo and you can get them in the color that you really wanted.

I ended up getting a black pair from Overstock. I really wanted to rage against the machine and get an aubergine or a lime pair, but you know what? They were $77 with shipping, in my size and literally the last pair. Went to the site on Friday and they only had navy or green in size six. Saturday morning, they miraculously had black in a ten. Mine! Commence happy dance -- Mama-se, mama-sa, ma-ma-coo-sa....

The box was a little scuffed up but other than that, perfect. I liked the fact they had a motorcycle boot quality to them (read: bad ass), were functional and high quality. There is even a spot inside where you can write your name in them. How darling is that? For the price, I will wear these damn boots. I will. I might even wear them when it's not even raining.

the fine print

The major "surprise" that many Hunter buyers have is the blooming effect. From the Hunter website:

Occasionally, it is possible that white marks will appear on your Hunter wellington boots. This is a phenomenon called 'blooming' and is your boots attempting to protect themselves from environmental damage. Every Hunter wellington boot is made from 100% natural ingredients and small amounts of wax are included in the rubber compound during the vulcanisation process that is used to make each pair. When exposed to certain environmental factors, this wax can "bloom" to the surface and appear as white or blue marks. This is not a defect with the boots, and is completely natural. If this does happen, you can wipe this blooming clean with a warm, damp cloth. Also, Hunter recommend a product called UV Tech - a boot cleaner and conditioner that we used to manufacture, and can still be purchased from various online outlets.

Appearance wise, I would compare it to soap scum. And apparently, your arm falls off from scrubbing before you get them shiny and new with just warm water, again from my research. Try the cleaner. Or you should just stick to the lighter colored boots since the blooming isn't as obvious on them. They do run a little big. I wear size 10.5 or 42. I got the Hunter's in a size 10 and have about a 1/2" of wiggle room. BUT, this gives me room to wear thick socks or socks+the fleece socks. So it wasn't a big deal for me, but something to think about. Finally, the tall boots have a 1" heel and are 15" - 16" high, with the gloss version being the shorter. The calf circumference is 14 1/2" - 15" but glory be the buckle is actually adjustable!

Princess Diana (here as Lady Diana Spencer) in green Hunter boots, 1981

original style musings post

mag rac: vogue china

2010-01-30T00:20:00.001-05:00

Shu Pei & Mirte Maas by Patrick Demarchelier. Gucci s/s 2010

Vogue China February 2010

"White Light"
Photographer: Dan Jackson
Models: Shu Pei Qin, Patricia V, Jenny Sinkaberg

original style musings post

photo cred: tfs

black walls

2010-01-27T00:17:00.003-05:00

I am in home mode. I go through my cycle. Home. Clothes. Accessories. Sometimes I skip the home category so it goes Clothes. Accessories. Accessories. Clothes. Accessories. Home. Clothes. Clothes. Accessories. Accessories. Home. But right now, I am finally back on home. The problem is that I am in transition, moving in the next 6-8 months and don't really want to (need to) invest in anything that might not fit or go with the new house. But I am in FULL home mode. I have been managing my anxiety be rearranging, organizing, purging and repeat. I have also been diving into home decorating magazines and blogs, anticipating the new space. One decorating element I've always wanted (for years!) was to have one room painted in black. Before you get the wrong idea, I am not talking about some gothic dungeon. I envision sexy and sophisticated. When we moved into our first house, I tried to convince my boyfriend (now husband) to paint his office black. We compromised with an almost black charcoal gray, got it home and he chickened out on me. Still have the can of paint. Plotting. A bathroom or dare I say, kitchen?

Gilles Mendel's dining room via Elle Decor

Hôtel Particulier Montmartre

Aerin Lauder's home via Elle Decor

Windsor Smith's home via House Beautiful

Jenna Lyons' home via Domino

Metropolitan Home

Barclay Fryery

Livingetc

Courtney Giles' Guestroom/Home Office via Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

Miles Redd

Miles Redd's Kitchen

original style musings post

style maven: shala monroque

2010-01-25T00:09:00.001-05:00

Shala Monroque is the editor-at-large at Pop magazine and without a doubt my new favorite person whose closet I want to raid. What size shoe do you wear girl? She was Girl of the Month at Who What Wear, made the Ten Best Dress List at Vouge.com and more recently one of Fashion's Top Party People 2009 at Style.com. She just also happens to date über art dealer Larry Gagosian and embodies the definition of jet setter. You can find her blog here.

original style musings post

love notes: ysl

2010-01-23T00:25:00.001-05:00

Yves Saint Laurent Draped silk-satin dress @ Net-A-Porter

original style musings post

photo cred: net-a-porter.com

turkish delight

2010-01-21T00:31:00.002-05:00

Cengiz Abazoğlu Autumn/Winter 2009/10 Paris Haute Couture collection

original style musings post

royal ears

2010-01-18T00:01:00.010-05:00

It might come as a surprise that I am not a jewelry fanatic. It takes a lot to get my heart pumping. In fact, I am more about aesthetics than going only after the biggest and most expensive. And I'll just go ahead and say it, bigger is not always better. I share this with you because I only recently stumbled upon Repossi. It is an Italian jewelry company founded in 1920 and is currently the official jeweler to Prince Rainier III of Monaco. The brand has headquarters in Milan, Paris, and Monte Carlo.

Three years ago at the age of 20, Gaia Repossi became the artistic director. To be fair, if my great-grandfather started an international jewelry company, I would become the artistic director as soon as I finished my anthropology studies at the Sorbonne. At least that's what Gaia did. In 2007, she along with childhood friend Eugenie Niarchos (granddaughter of Stavros Niarchos) launched the Czarina collection, signed by Ere by Repossi, with the hope of expanding into a more youthful market. Last October, the duo launched the Nérée by Repossi collection with a fête at the Hôtel Ritz Paris; guests included Karl Lagerfeld, Julia Restoin-Roitfeld, Mary-Kate Olsen, all three Traina sisters, Margherita Missoni, Andrea Casiraghi, Tatiana Santo Domingo, and Loulou de la Falaise. Yep, totally passed me by.

Gaia Repossi, Karl Lagerfeld, and Eugenie Niarchos

However, what did not escape my attention as I browsed through the Style.com party archives was first the guest list -- which was of comprised a majority of my ultimate albeit imaginary fashion party list and a lot of royalty, a good indication of the price tag attached-- and secondly the fingers, wrists & ears of said party gatherers.

Natalia Vodianova // Lily Donaldson

Irina Lazareanu // Tatiana Santo Domingo and Margherita Missoni

Samantha, Victoria, and Vanessa Traina // Kemp Muhl and Sean Lennon

Mary-Kate Olsen and Nate Lowman // Julia Restoin-Roitfeld and Robert Konjic

Margherita Missoni and Shala Monroque // Princess Sarah Poniatowski and Marc Lavoine

Vladimir Restoin-Roitfeld // Andrea Casiraghi // Prince Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia and Clotilde Courau

But enough of the history and posse, on to the goods. My definite favorite are the earrings that "hook onto the ear—no piercing necessary—and decorate the whole lobe." I've seen them before, but had no idea who made them. Consider me schooled.

Margherita Missoni, Dasha Zhukova and Eugenie Niarchos with her golden Repossi 'earpiece'

ERE

earrings

rings

NÉRÉE

earrings

rings

cuff

original style musings post

photo cred: party pictures by olivier borde via style.com; grazia.nl; repossi.com

phrase of the day: crazy cake

2010-01-17T01:31:00.002-05:00

crazy cake

::pronunciation::
[krā'zē · kāk]

::usage::
adjective

Example #1
I just back from the Catherine Malandrino sample sale and it was crazy cakes!

Example #2
I just got back from my date and I don't think I want to go out with him again. He gave me a strong crazy cake vibe.

original style musings post

love notes: moncler

2010-01-15T00:05:00.003-05:00

Winter is my favorite season because the coldness means layering and layering means the opportunity to wear more stuff. I hoard during the summer and spring, catching all the good off-season sales and wait very impatiently to rock my long hibernating purchases. I'll admit that sometimes I might wear some winter gear at the first sign of a temperature drop that might be a little too heavy duty for the actual weather, but I can't help it. However, when winter arrives, I am well prepared and fill in the gaps as I go. My go-to coat is an olive green puffy that is so warm that sometimes I ~~sweat~~ glisten in the dead of winter. I accessorize with scarves, gloves and hats but at the end of the day when one thinks of puffy coat, chic does not fall close behind. That's why going out at night or to events, I'll go with the cape or trench or leather or pea coat. Yes, I am warmer than not wearing a coat at all, but I can't help but yearn for my puffy as the wind whips by. Maybe this is why I fell in love with Moncler so easily. Gorgeous puffy wear adorned with fur, jewels and baubles. I'm inspired.

I purchased a powder pink Calvin Klein puffy coat a couple years ago that has the same silhouette as the Tanya -- especially the collar and length. That was the main reason I bought the coat, but after only one winter of wear, the zipper broke and it has its home in the back of the coat closet. I wear it only once or twice a season, because I have to step in and out of it to keep the bottom of the zipper together so it'll still zip; this means only wearing it to places I am not going to take off my coat and it is hard to foresee that all the time you know. But now, I am thinking about actually getting that stupid zipper fixed, finding a bejeweled belt & oversize brooch and stepping out with my new Moncler inspired coat. I'll keep up informed on my progress.

Moncler Gamme Rouge

Moncler AW 09/10

photo cred: moncler.com

nyc nails

2010-01-13T00:03:00.001-05:00

I am currently on a cleaning/organizing frenzy and I have been spending a great deal of time in my favorite mass merchandise retailer. On one of my many visits, I decided I needed something to hold my many nail polishes. A glorious compound that would house all the polishes scattered on tabletops, hidden in drawers and stashed away in various boxes. I ended up with this...
I know, not as fancy as I imagined either but I figured since I already have these...
When I find something zexy it will find another use and match. And if your mind works like mine since I was buying a container for nail polish, doesn't it make sense to buy some more nail polish? No? I made the trek over to the health & beauty section and kind of fell in love with the New York Color Minute Quick Dry Nail Polish colors.

I got five. They are a little under two bucks a piece, depending where you find them. Mine were $1.72 to be exact and they wear surprisingly well. I am hard on my nails...not thinking where I am sticking my hand until I end up with chipped polish. Two days and no chips. This is seriously a record for me. As a side note, Manhattan is kind of the twin of Vamp by Chanel; I know from the bottle Lincoln Center looks darker, but not so. West Village is the shade I hoped Blue Satin could sometimes be. But I think my favorite so far is Chinatown which is a really dark blue-purple with a tint of gray.

West Village, Chinatown, Canal Street, Lincoln Center & Manhattan

photo cred: sterilite (2), newyorkcolor, me @ stylemusings.blogspot.com

sweet fosse

2010-01-04T00:30:00.000-05:00

I really love Glee and have started to have withdrawal symptoms. I just finished twirling around the house singing Don't tell me not to live, just sit and putter -- Life's candy and the sun's a ball of butter -- Don't bring around a cloud to rain on my paraaaaaaaaade. Goosebumps I tell you. One of my secret dreams is to star in a production of Sweet Charity. It doesn't even have to be a Broadway production. I'm just saying. The scene below is the dance sequence called "The Rich Man's Frug" my second favorite number.

It might look just a little familiar *cough, beyonce, cough* but I love this scene because it is so Bob Fosse and another secret wish of mine is to be in a club where everyone breaks out into choreographed dance and I just happen to know the steps too.

But my favorite dance sequence from Sweet Charity would definitely have to be "Big Spender." Of course. I belt this song out with my made up choreography in my dinner room a lot. It has amazing acoustics.

i may get around to being a professional procrastinator. someday. maybe.

2010-01-01T02:21:00.000-05:00

This past year flew by! I get from the general consensus, most of my friends think 2009 can suck it {per ~~kathy lee gifford~~ kathy griffin}. I tend to agree with them except for a couple of highlights, including getting married and finishing graduate school. Not much else though, so I give a big ole hiddy-ho to 2010 and wish for the best. I usually don't do resolutions but let's go ahead and try it....

#1: Start taking notes
My short term memory is terrible. In fact, I had a whole list of resolutions rattling around in my head and I can't even think of one right now. That might also have something to do with my multiple glasses of champagne but the point is that I need to keep up. Therefore, post-it note app installed and moleskine notebook at the ready.

#2: Delete all random phone numbers
Just twenty minutes ago I sent a text message to some dude named Ryan that I was bringing dinnerware to New Years' dinner tomorrow. It was suppose to go to Sallie. Their names are right beside each other in my phone and doubt that is really Ryan's number since I haven't talked to him in years. The only reason I still have his number is because of SIM card continuation. I am scrolling through my address book right now and would be embarrassed if I had to account for every entry.

#3: Be more patient with my husband
Since he is one of my best friends he knows how to push my buttons. Sometimes he just blurts stuff out that really makes me question his use of judgment. But since he does put up with my crazy moments too, I am going to try my best to use the ignore button. Get it?

#4: Take care of myself
The obligatory workout more resolution attached with drink more water & less alcohol, don't go to sleep with make-up, wear comfortable shoe inserts, don't put off hair appointments, paint my nails more religiously, get more sleep and keep doctor's appointments.

#5: Keep my closet in order
It took me two full weeks to get my closet under control and organized. I haven't even touched my accessories closet or the auxiliary ones spread throughout the house. But it is really nice to walk into my closet, have it color coordinated and be able to find everything. I want to keep this trend going just for my own sanity.

#6: Put away my laundry in a timely manner
This goes along with #5. I am really bad about this. I can go for a very, very long time without washing loads of clothes. In fact, I have to have a certain amount of dirty clothes at all time because I just don't have the room if everything was clean at the same time. But when I get in the mood to do laundry I can follow through until I get to the point of putting it away. It usually ends up on top of chest at the end of the bed or piled up in my closet. I have got to get better about that.

#7: Read more
This includes at least one book a month, the pile of magazines collected in the corner, everything in my RSS reader and more than just the usual scan of the headlines in the NYT and WSJ. I always say I don't have time to sit down and read but its amazing that I know everyone on the Jersey Shore. I'm just saying.

#8: Stop putting stuff off
Not sure how this one is going to work out, but I thought I would throw it out in the universe. I tell myself that I work better under pressure but more often I get mad at myself for waiting so effing long to start whatever project that should take about two months in normal circumstances but now I am left with two hours. Make it happen.

I can't think of two more resolutions to make it a round ten. But why should I? This is a pretty hearty list as it is. Let's just see how this month goes first. But I do have a postscript to #1. Call my grandmother more - it'll make her feel better; and check my voice messages more. Right now I have 19 new messages and can't be bothered.

i bid you adieu....

2009-12-31T16:38:00.002-05:00

2009

I am not much of New Years' type of gal. In the past I didn't get to kiss who I wanted, drink what I wanted or even be where I wanted. So basically, I have written it off and tried not to get too caught up in the festivities. This year I am staying in with my husband. The only thing that I regret is not being able to dress in sparkles. But we all have to make sacrifices. I am even making resolutions this year that I will try my hardest to stick to. Hope you guys have an amazing New Year and get full of bubbly. See you in 2010!

coco in motion

2009-11-30T16:14:00.000-05:00

love notes: bottega veneta

2009-11-26T01:26:00.003-05:00

Bottega Veneta: The Limited Edition Knot India

le rituel par christian louboutin

2009-11-17T00:33:00.004-05:00

In the 1880’s, Russian gentlemen celebrated a prima ballerina's performance by raising her champagne filled slippers...and drinking from them. Yes, gross but somehow it seems okay in the moment. Piper-Heidsiech champagne celebrates this moment in history by introducing the Le Rituel by Christian Louboutin - a box set of champagne and a crystal slipper that one can drink from. It is $500 and is being sold in "very limited quantities." However, I think that if you have $500 to spare, don't worry about them selling out. Yes, it would make an amazing gift but I would be so tempted to resell the champagne at least for cold hard cash. I'd keep the shoe. I'm just saying. Oh, and if you’re wondering about logistics, you pour in the toe and sip out the heel. At least there is no stinky dancing sweat aftertaste.

strange attactions: breathing chair

2009-11-11T00:05:00.000-05:00

This is a chair. Yes, a chair. It was designed by Yu-Ying Wu, a graduate Taiwanese Tatung University, who won international "red dot design award" in the home furniture design concept category. The chair is made of high-density foam plastic which also happens to be 100% environmentally friendly. Dubbed the tofu chair, it automatically adjusts according to the weight and posture of the person sitting on it. Pretty cool.

(source)

bad romance

2009-11-10T22:16:00.001-05:00

lady gaga ::: bad romance

classic style: hedy lamarr

2009-11-09T03:42:00.001-05:00

“Any girl can look glamorous. All you have to do is stand still and look stupid.”

Happy Birthday , 1940s screen actress and co-inventor of an early form of spread spectrum communications technology, a key to modern wireless communication. Smart and pretty.

classic style: être l'inspiration

2009-11-07T00:08:00.001-05:00

qui êtes-vous, polly maggoo?

flashback: l' trimm

2009-11-05T00:02:00.002-05:00

L' Trimm - Cars That Go Boom Music Video

L'Trimm was a Miami Bass hip-hop duo composed of Lady Tigra and Bunny D and this is their video from 1988. The eighties are back (again) this fall. Are you going subtle or extreme?

love notes: alexander mcqueen

2009-11-04T01:20:00.000-05:00

Alexander McQueen Silk-satin feather-print gown

love notes: alexis mabille

2009-11-03T00:05:00.000-05:00

As you know, I have a serious thing for bow ties so it should come as no surprise that I just happen to love Alexis Mabille. His designs really want me to go into my craft room and get to sewing, but I have cast off making any more bow ties since my wedding. Mabille's collections kind of look like what you would create if you had a Much of scrap material and rosettes lying around....and I truly mean that in the nicest way.

Alexis Mabille for CoutureLab

dff

axdw

2009-11-02T00:02:00.000-05:00

It is closing day of Athens Xclusive Designers Week (AXDW) which is Greece's fashion week. First started May of 2007, AXDW is the most important event in the Greek fashion industry. And it takes place in twice a year - spring and fall - just like like all the other international fashion weeks.

photo cred: epa/orestis panagiotou

fall 09: ann demeulemeester

2009-11-01T00:20:00.003-04:00

mag rac: harper's bazaar

2009-10-31T00:01:00.003-04:00

I know it's the end of the month, so featuring the Harper's Bazaar October issue comes a little late but it is still very timely. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) will open a retrospective of filmmaker Tim Burton on November 22, 2009 through April 26, 2010. In anticipation of this event (read: publicity darlings) Burton's movie characters were fashionized for a Harper's Bazaar shoot. If you have been following me for awhile, you know I love almost every single Tim Burton production so this gets two thumbs up and let's go ahead & throw in two toes for the holiday spirit. Speaking of which, today is HALLOWEEN. Hope this isn't coming as a surprise to you and now you have to go and scramble through your closet for a costume. Regardless, maybe you will find some inspiration here...

photo cred: tim walker

book review: glow in the dark

2009-10-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

So....to make up for the recent video deleted by Kanye, let's talk about his new book. It is a photo chronicle of his recent tour and it is called, wait for it... Glow in the Dark. I can't do an official review of it because I have plenty of other things I need to do with $30 right now. But from the pictures that I've seen, it looks like a lot of interesting photogrpahy and lots famous friends. It also seems to confirm Ye's love of fashion and his heavy involvement of the total look of the show. For some reason I find comfort in the fact that instead of him just saying let's put some naked girls on the stage - he has hands on involvement. Okay, maybe that didn't come out the way I meant. But at the end of the day this is not something that I NEED to have on my coffee table at the moment. Maybe if I ever find it in the bargain bin...?

photo cred: kanyeuniversecity

quote of the day

2009-10-28T00:04:00.000-04:00

"I want to be all that I am capable of becoming"

~KATHERINE MANSFIELD

grace vs. ivanka

2009-10-27T13:19:00.003-04:00

Okay, one wedding related post but it's not about mine. This past weekend Ivanka Trump married Jared Kushner. I have seen a lot of Grace Kelly inspired gowns and most I feel like I have to squint my eyes to see the comparison. It is very hard to make a strapless "inspired by" dress that was originally long sleeve. However, I think Ivanka came the closest. And even though the hair and veil are totally different, you can tell that it was in the spirit of Kelly. Compare?

post-wedding

2009-10-27T12:48:00.002-04:00

I am now officially a Mrs. even though I don't feel that different with the title but I am happy we pulled it off. I was definitely missing in action the weeks leading up to the the big event and even afterward I needed a break. But I think I am back. There have been so many things that I've seen and read that I wanted to post but just didn't have the time. So I will warn you now, some of my future posts will be a little self-indulgent. Passing on the stuff that I got excited about...

we were once a fairytale

2009-10-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

"We Were Once A Fairytale" - Kanye West Dir: Spike Jonze from Yooj‽ - Recording Live From No on Vimeo.

classic style: être l'inspiration

2009-10-17T00:03:00.000-04:00

The wedding day of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor

classic style: être l'inspiration

2009-10-10T00:02:00.001-04:00

classic style: être l'inspiration

2009-10-03T00:02:00.000-04:00

Women of the Harlem Renaissance

love notes: mirrored furnishings

2009-09-30T00:21:00.000-04:00

I don't know how practical these are for the long-term and I don't know if I am just going through a phase, but I have a real itch for mirrored furniture. I need to have a serious talk with my boyfriend but i am dreaming of having these pieces or their close relatives in my life in the near future.

Mirrored Bureau
Mirrored Nightstand
Mirrored Dresser

photo cred: neiman marcus

classic style: brigitte bardot

2009-09-28T00:06:00.000-04:00

Brigitte Bardot was born September 28, 1934 in Paris France. By the age of 15, she was discoverd by Roger Vadim and appeared on the cover of French Elle. Vadim crafted her "sex kitten" image for his films And God Created Woman (1956) and The Night Heaven Fell (1958), which set box-office records and made her an international star. She went on to become one of film history's most recognizable sex sysmbols, having her French movies (both good and bad) dubbed in English just to meet the demand of American moviegoers. Just before her fortieth birthday in 1973, Bardot announced her retirement. She appeared in more than fifty motion pictures and recording several music albums and is now an adamant animal rights activist. Happy Birthday BB