Fashion

White is right

I believe the white shirt, classic or modern, can save any outfit. Or should I say when nothing else seems right, it always comes through. Paired with anything from tailored slacks to a short, fitted vest, it’s essential, workable and fresh. So whether that means splurging – one of my personal favorites is a ruffled Yves Saint Laurent I bought a few years back – or simply spending time looking for the right piece, you should definitely own one. Or two or three.

In the market for a new shirt myself, I decided to peruse the sites for styles that standout. My first stop was Neiman Marcus where I originally found the aforementioned YSL. Unfortunately no white shirts under said label, but I did happen upon this cute number by Elie Tahari. The high ruffled neck and fitted lines are perfect for the spring/summer season while the short sleeves give it a slightly modern edge. Following this jaunt I peeked through J. Crew and stumbled upon white shirts galore. (I also stumbled upon a fantastic striped jacket, a polka-dot sun hat and amazing patchwork dress – but that’s for another time.) Besides sweet lace, linen and scallops, there was a particular short-sleeved tuxedo I was especially fond of. Still though, none of these were truly classic –- in the sense of clean and simple lines.

So I continued my search, banking on either Michael Kors or Theory until I remembered that Anne Fontaine -- a beautiful French company that specializes in blouses – had a store at our local mall. Wondering if they had an online catalog, I found that they did, and the offering was stunning. I saw not one or two, but at least five that I needed. From longer silhouettes with bell sleeves, to deep v-necked version, the options were endless and the designs inspiring. I decided after much thought to shelve the simple white oxford and instead spend my money on something with detail. After all, a classic doesn’t have to be boring to be beautiful, right?

In other news, The Gap launched a new exclusive line of white shirts called The Design Edition. Touted as a way to get people back into the spirit of their label, the promotion revolves around one of fashions favorite pairings: big name designers and accessible labels or companies. The collection called upon bright names like Doo-Ri Chung, Thakoon Panichgul and Rodarte’s Kate and Laura Mulleavy, to create their own designs in homage to The Gap’s classic white shirt. So talked about are these shirts that the newest cover of Vogue included them -- paired with fancy ball skirts and satin trousers – as a front-and-center feature. I have to say I like the shirts. They’re clever and chic and have details worth mentioning like pleats, ties and long, attached scarves. Definitely check them out if you have time.

Jean scene

Earlier this week I read that Seven for all Mankind signed a deal to open their first store in the heart of LA's contemporary retail area. That is, nearby to the always-popular Lisa Kline boutique, Kitson and Maxfield Blue. The store, which will open in November will house both the women and men's lines in a cozy, modern space.

I remember when Seven for all Mankind first came onto the jean scene. Along with Habitual, Diesel and Lucky, it seemed like one of the first companies to finally get what women wanted: a great fitting pair of jeans, in a variety of hip washes with a simple cut and fit. Looking back, it's hard to imagine we were once without these gems. I hope this store does well.

Jean scene part deux

On a similar note, I also read that Dallas has opened a new fashion "terminal" which is really a name for an extra large store full of nearly every amazing label out there right now. The LFT terminal, or Lifestyle Fashion Terminal, is a 30,000-square-foot fashion emporium in downtown Victory Park. Boasting 30 brands of men's and women's denim - which are displayed on a dry-cleaners conveyer belt -- this industrial space is set to be the newest in contemporary downtown shopping. While the emporium boasts Seven for all Mankind (they're everywhere!), Citizens of Humanity, Odyn, Rich & Skinny and William Rast (Justin Timberlake's line) to name a few, the collection is constantly growing with the needs of its customers.

And according to their buyer, the best seller for women this season is clean, dark blue denim. Raw denim is also big, as are off-the-wall colors like royal blue and purple. As styles go, this seasons skinny leg is starting to wane, and in it's place a traditional, classic boot cut.

Final Note

One of my most favorite NYC boutiques, ABC Carpet and Home is adding jewelry to its mix of home furnishings. Last week, the store launched the Grounded Jewelry collection which features jewelry made from sustainable goods like recycled gold and diamonds. I for one would love to wear jewelry that is not only stunning, but also sensible. From the photos the items look incredibly natural, rugged and unique.

Going green has become quite popular lately. And I'm all for it. The magazines are heralding the movement while the stores are stocking lines with materials that are both renewable and reusable. I'm especially obsessed with ways to improve your home's efficiency. Thought it's not fashion related it's lifestyle related and the fact is they all end up in the same category anyway.

Splash vs. steal

With spring finally upon us (74 degrees today!) I thought it seemed appropriate that we salute the fashions we’ll finally be wearing. So with a nod to one of my favorite editorial tricks -- the affordable vs. blow out comparison page -- I’ll guide you through the swarm of online shops, comparing the best of the best, with the best of the budget.

Cotton vs. cashmere. You know this trick. A shopping magazine will compare two tops, one in the aforementioned cotton and the other in a much more luxe cashmere. Maybe they’ll start with the cotton -- let’s say an empire-waist cut in white or ecru like this cute number at Old Navy. Separated by a line will be a similar style in cashmere, a little richer, a little softer, like this version at Bluefly. While both are similar in color, style and shape –- there is one distinct difference and that’s in the price: With Old Navy you save a whopping $150.

The fact is it’s always fun to dream. Which is why these pages are so useful. Though you may covet the designer denim on the left (not a problem, you’ll erase the price with your cost-per-wear) the economical sandal on the right is enticing. Take these comparison wedges for example. Perfect for spring with their bright sunshine hue, each offers its own unique attributes. The patent leather Robert Clergerie’s are, of course, French. But besides that admirable point, they’re also glossy, chic and go perfectly with khaki. Likewise, at $130 a pop, these raffia, roped natural wedges with their yellow, snake skin appeal, are far more casual when worn with a jean skirt and a whopping, $350 or so cheaper.

Now we’re onto something. Let’s head to the beach with a perfect, throw-it-all-in-and-go bag. The always-perfect Kate Spade has this Nantucket-esque offering, which boasts matching lobster print lining. The Cape Cod raffia is the quintessential beach bag. It’ll take you from sand and sun to poolside cocktails all in the course of a day. Now if you’re designer dimes are better spent, then check out this similar version at J. Crew. Missing are the lobsters but instead we have an equally preppy kelly green stripe with a slightly more causal feel. You may not be taking this to your five-star-dinner, but you could stop by the local clam shack and nary an eye would wander.

Last but not least on are the always needed, always forgotten accessories. Here’s a list of my top faves. Neon pink sunglasses from Urban Outfitters. Practical? No. Pop. Yes. Kenneth Jay Lane’s oval, resin bangles with gold, center stud. Roberto Cavalli’s sexy wood serpent ring with rhinestones. And finally, this fantastic, Indian-inspired, tiered necklace by Lee Angel. Spring starts here so get a move on.

Vintage dressing: What's old is new

Earlier this week I had to purchase a gift for a very dear friend. She's celebrating her 30th birthday in Austin-- quite the event. So as I browsed online, trying to find the perfect present, I began to hone in on a brilliant idea. One of her favorite hobbies -- remaking or restoring vintage clothing -- was something worth investigating. And as I continually read about the city's large contingent of shops and boutiques devoted to this past time, I realized this was it.

Perfect I thought as I Googled articles on the best vintage in town. A while back we were at a wedding of mutual friends and she had just gotten engaged. My friend, always up for a challenge, had admitted that she'd already bought her gown. What, I said! Already? (A bit of background, she'd only been engaged for a week or so at this point.) "Yes, I've got it all sorted," she said, proudly. What I came to find out as I delved deeper was that she'd found the dress of her dreams (Angel Sanchez) but couldn't afford it. So instead, she went to a vintage store in California and bought a 1950s white frock with lace and tulle -- something you'd imagine Charles James or Jacques Fath would've created. Both fantastic eveningwear designers they were known to use favorite fabrics like silk, satin, tulle, chiffon and lace netting. It was a beauty but it was also in disrepair. So my friend took the gown and starting tearing and stripping and re-sewing and designing. She gave it quite the go actually but in the end wound up at a sample sale buying her beloved Angel Sanchez.

In any event, vintage collecting and dressing is one of the most wonderful fashion-related hobbies. It's something I've always wanted to spend more time doing, but which I can't really, living in Detroit, as there are only a handful of shops and most carry little or no designer. I have, on occasion, visited my grandmother's closet, but even then I usually stick to fur muffs from the 60s and a decent amount of rhinestone jewelry.

As I've noted before I have a large collection of fashion books. And one of my old favorites is called Dressing up Vintage. It's by Tracy Tolkien and delves into the old-time designers, the most valuable labels and how to care and restore vintage treasures. I really recommend it if you're into anything old and memorable. I especially like the parts on the best shops around the globe. London, coincidentally, is one of the top places to find things. I remember going to Steinberg and Tolkien and staring longingly at old Pucci and Chanel. I then would catch the tube over to Spitalfields Market, and buy a vintage bag (no designer tag) for $15. I still use the green one I bought one rainy day. A clutch made out of something resembling leather that looks as good as new.

Over in the States there are numerous notables but the best, I believe, is Decades in LA. I once interviewed the owner Cameron Silver. He was extremely friendly and passionate about his store, which boasts the crème de la crème of designer pieces. Hermes bags mingle with gowns by Dior and YSL while more current stuff sits quietly off to the side.

For me, I'm taken with this fantastically graphic Oscar de la Renta from Kittygirlvintage.com. Look at the ruffles! The chic length, bold colors and intricate detailing require a cocktail party and a pair of patent leather sling backs. You can't beat the best of the best, that's for sure.

Destination dressing

I thought it’d be fun to cover one of my favorite topics, travel, albeit with a fashionable spin. So here it is…a few of the hidden style cities around the world, what they have to offer and of course, what to wear when visiting.

Budapest: I know. It sounds a bit far fetched but this Hungarian city is on the cusp of becoming one of the most interesting style cities out there. Cited as the Paris of the East, Budapest’s international investors have helped guide it out of disarray and into a prominent, profitable position. The restaurant scene -- which is always telling of the city and its vibe -- is booming with fusion cuisines and chic décor, while the shopping, especially along Vaci Utca won’t disappoint.

And while the women in Budapest go natural with little makeup or fuss, there is still an undeniable taste and style. Because of this, I recommend a clean face, save for blush and mascara (no one will know!), a comfy top and hip jeans (which can be worn sightseeing) like these gray garnet Sylph jeans from Edun. The color provides an alternative to the usual dark blue, while the length is perfect for flip-flops or flats.

Madison: Now I’ve really got you. I know what you’re saying, Wisconsin? Yes, I’m definitely not kidding. Madison has cultivated a fashion crowd worth noting in this blog. Take the trendy shop and online boutique, Bop/Shopbop. One of my all time favorite places, the store got its start on Gorham Street in 1999 when it was simply called Bop. Now they’ve been bought out by Amazon and continue to cultivate an extremely loyal following. And that all started in Madison. The city, which is made up of a variety of cool streets, most notably State Street, includes bucolic galleries, up-scale boutiques, museums and cafes among its offerings. Trendy eateries line the avenue while hip shoppers adorned in casual dresses -- like this Kristie dress from C & C California -- take a load of with a beer and a basket of chips – all in a days worth of shopping.

Shanghai: Originally a seaside-fishing village, Shanghai is now China’s largest city with nearly 19 million people living there. Now that’s a lot of inspiration. People’s Square and the area along the Haungpu River are the Western shopper’s paradise, with nearly anything you could imagine. One notable shop, called Layefe, houses a stunning collection of modern homewares, glamorous clothing and a distinctly modern vibe. For a day on the town here you’ll need head-to-toe designer like this Narciso Rodriguez black, cap sleeve dress and these peep-toe Christian Louboutin heels. Just don’t forget your taxi money. You won’t want to be walking in these.

Seasonal styling

I was beckoned out of bed this morning not by last week’s sunshine and 70-degree warmth, but by snow flurries and wind gusts. If I didn’t know better I’d say Jack Frost was not back in Greenland but on my front door step. Snow! Again. And again. With all the weather indecision it’s a wonder our wardrobes stay afloat.

It’s true that seasons arrive at different points, stay for a brief spite, and then take off again without a moment’s notice. Which is why dressing in between can seem quite tricky. Where one day a dress and flats may seem appropriate, the next day it could be parkas and knee-high snow boots. When will this end and more importantly, how do you prepare?

Well let’s begin with some sensational closet staples. Not your average black suit, navy sheath, khaki skirt, closet staples. Rather the in-between seasonal must-haves, which are quite honestly, great things to have in your closet anytime of the year.

First off there’s cashmere. Breathable, luxurious and light, cashmere is the perfect answer to spring’s balmy temps. While providing a weightless layer in fall -- when the breeze carries a distinct chill – it’s also you answer to unseasonably humid days in both spring and summer. Believe me cashmere is the perfect response to the temperature’s erratic moods. So what are some favorites? My top cashmere brand would have to be Malo. This Italian label has anything you could imagine done in the most luxurious of styles. And their designer, a fellow St. Martin’s graduate, isn’t half bad either. But if $485 for a sweater has your sweating, then try the more reasonable cashmere options at Bluefly.

Shoes: Stow away your winter boots for light colored flats and trainers. If it rains, you can always do a fashionable galosh (good for pre-spring sprinkles) but let’s look at the sunny side of things instead. Flats are ideal this time of year because it’s warm enough to lose the socks but still chilly enough to cover your legs. Jeans, slacks and dresses with tights are still an option, so flats, in light colors and airy styles make for a good transition. Try the petite and feminine Gaelle from Nine West. In confectious colors like pink, peach and silver, they’ll liven up any outfit with a dash of wearable panache.

A smart dress: Every girl loves a great dress. And this beauty by J. Crew with its floral pattern, flattering boat neck and ¾ length sleeves, is an ideal candidate. On colder days, pair it with a lightweight cardigan and tights. For sunny alternatives, opt for red shoes like these Belle by Sigerson Morrison. You’ll be hearing horns honk all the way down Main Street.

Black Out

I was catching up on my trend newsletters when a fashion survey caught my eye. Black, it seems, has been rated the country’s favorite clothing color. Hmm…no surprise there. On average, those surveyed (all women) said they had at least three pairs of black pants, one pair of black jeans, two black dresses, six black sweaters, 12 black tops and 12 pairs of black shoes. The article went on to suggest that on average, black makes up nearly 40% of everyone’s wardrobe. Could this be, I wondered, as I took stock of my stuff. Riffling through my clothing, I discovered on average, about 25% of my stuff was black. Hmmm…not the exact number but interesting still. I admit I love black for those quick day-to-day needs or events that require a more singular sophistication but in recent years I’ve dabbled in more eclectic designs with colorful patterns and hues.

So I guess I’m not in the group of aforementioned women but if I was into black, at least 40% of me, then I’d certainly go for these snazzy pieces.

A great black bag. Ok, I do have a few of these (er, at least 10)! Yikes, I know. But a girl can never have enough -- especially when they’re available in so many sizes and styles. At the top of my list is the always-practical black tote. For work or weekends, heck for everyday junk, it disguises your stuff with one complement look. My current favorite: This extremely large Maria Bonita Extra bag which could house anything from an second set of clothes to a weeks worth of snacks. Ok, kidding on the last one. Just below the tote of my list of needs -- a small black clutch. I love mine, which I bought on a whim from Neiman’s and have used more often than any other evening bag. Since that’s long gone instead I suggest this Alexis Hudson Caesar clutch. The smart square style is reminiscent of a vintage bag but the gold deadbolt closure gives it a nice modern edge.

A suave black jacket. You thought I’d say dress, right? In previous blogs I’ve given a ton of great black dress ideas so I think -- even though it’s important -- I’ll leave out that obvious nod just this once. A jacket is vital any time of the year especially when it’s done in a chic cut and fabric. I searched and searched and this little ditty, by Theory called Kisa, is my favorite. Part dressy, part casual the fitted shape is perfect with jeans or a more serious work skirt. And a dual-purpose buy is an ideal way to justify the price.

The perfect black flat. Now this is essential. I’ve worn my black flats until they no longer resemble a shoe, rather a mound of leather. My current top brand is Loeffler Randall. Their styles are fantastic! Check out these patent leather sling backs. Oh, pure joy! Perfect with skirts, jeans and drainpipe pants, they’re an ideal addition to your black balanced closet. Word of warning, if you buy from them, go down half a size. Happy shopping.