Fashion

The four way test

The other day one of my favorite email sites, net-a-porter, sent me a seasonal trend email. I love this shopping site and if you aren't familiar you should definitely check it out. They carry all designer (so the prices are high) but they've also got top notch trend forecasters and editors working to encapsulate the newest, best and brightest of the season.

In any event, the subject of this email was "How to wear one pair of heels four ways." Oh goody I thought as I clicked on the message. This type of breakdown on fashion is one of my favorite features in magazines like Lucky and Marie Claire. As a stylist myself I love the idea of creating something original from one select item. It's challenging but obvious as we all have a "top" something we want to wear with everything.

For net-a-porter the item of choice was a pair of smashing Jimmy Choo studded heels. Take a peek here. They break down the outfits by categories like urban, beach, work and weekend. From dresses and capris to short shorts, they provide a great assortment of options with endless possibilities.

Which leads me to my own version. Lately I've become obsessed (I use this term often to mean I can't stop thinking about said item) with Rebecca Taylor's amazing collections. Nearly everything she designs (for both spring and fall) has the appeal of wearable, everyday glamour. Definitely check out Fall/Winter 2007 collection for further examples of what's to come.

For my "ode to net-a-porter" I've chosen her sweet denim runway cropped jacket with gold buttons from the spring 2007 line. I realize picturing these options without a direct pictorial will be hard but bear with me as I'm going to list all the links and hopefully, with patience you'll be able to piece it together.

Let's begin with look #1. Cropped jackets are quite popular right now because they're versatile (in style) and can be worn with a variety of dresses, skirts, pants and tunics. I especially love this one because of the color and collar. The look is unique and contemporary while still being simple and cool. And for the first ensemble I'd definitely go with a dress. For me an ideal pairing would be the jacket and this Lux mélange, bright tube dress from Urban Outfitters. The style is a bit boho in color and pattern making the jacket stand out as a statement itself with it's solid stance in hue.

Following this option I'd pair it with a casual top and shorts. Last year I bought a pair from Paul and Joe's line at Target and though they'd be perfect, they're no longer available. Instead I've found these from their new GO star Patrick Robinson, which are equally chic and affordable. Pair them with this top from Splendid and the look is casual and fun with a bit of glam thrown in.

For the third look I'd definitely do jeans. Tight, skinny, gray cast jeans. As with any type of cropped jacket you have to be careful with the pant leg. Skinny seem to work well when balanced with a loose top. A recent favorite of mine are these level 99 Chloe jeans.

Finally, I'd do a skirt a la Rebecca Taylor's own styling for her show in which this jacket was featured. Her look is fantastic but I also like this quirky paper bag tulip (it really does resemble a paper bag btw) 3.1 Philip Lim skirt. The white color will accent the denim nicely adding a bit of a sailor meets hip chick on dock while on break from the high seas. Love it.

Goings on

The past few weeks have been busy ones in the fashion world. From impending takeovers of legendary labels (Valentino) to the launch of a new line of curvy jeans (Levi's) the never ending whirlwind of exciting, albeit note-worthy changes has been interesting to say the least. Which is why I thought it'd be advantageous to recap the all the happenings in this week's blog.

So where do we begin? How about with the announcement that Saks Fifth Avenue (a personal favorite of mine) has announced a new "mega" shoe department in its New York store which will not only have it's own zip code but a selection of limited edition postage stamps attached to the unveiling! I know what you're thinking…This sounds crazy, extravagant, and utterly frivolous but then again, this is the fashion world we're talking about so nothing is surprising.

A Saks spokesman said the shoe department will nearly double the number of designer shoes available and will also include a VIP room for private shopping along with a shoe repair and refurbishing service. The department will open in September under the name 10022-Shoe. Hmm…I'd say it's time to book a flight don't you think?

In other news, Levi's will launch a bootcut jean specifically designed for curvy women in June. The design is being touted as a way to eliminate the gaping in the waistline of your jeans and will feature extended room at the hips. Hooray! I've been told many times by my fellow colleague's that though great in choice and style, Levi's fit is something altogether puzzling. They cited tight cuts and a lack of room in both the butt and thighs. I remember when The Gap launched their curvy line and nearly everyone I know went to buy a pair. Literally. So that says something about the need for a pair of jeans that fits the curvier (which to be honest is your average woman) figure.

The latest whisperings on the luxury label front is that Valentino Fashion Group is embroiled in a takeover battle. The legendary line has been involved in said business dealings for a while now, with certain buyers claiming sales and stakes that haven't been confirmed. What does this really mean to us? That Valentino may or may not leave as head designer. Watch this space.

Finally, it was announced Urban Outfitters -- an affordable brand I mention often in these blogs - is planning a new store. The offshoot will target affluent customers with a "greenhouse" atmosphere, i.e. the store will be freestanding (not in malls) and will house lifestyle, home, garden, antiques, live plants and flowers. News like this gets me giddy. Anthropologie and Urban are two of my favorite stores, and not just for the clothes but for their amazing, eclectic homewares and knick knacks. There isn't a shoot that goes by where I don't stop in and grab something so you should definitely check this out.

Sad news

Earlier this week a colleague sent a forward with the news that Isabella Blow had died. For those of you who don’t recognize the name, Blow was intrinsically famous in the world of fashion – an eccentric, bright light who graced the magazine world (she was contributing fashion editor-at-large for the British society magazine Tatler) the fashion world (she discovered Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan, and internationally famous milliner Philip Treacy) and the modeling world (she took the stunning Stella Tennant and Sophie Dahl under her wing.)

With regards to Blow, I have a few personal experiences myself, which is part of the reason I took the news to heart. I met her on a few occasions when we crossed paths at Alexander McQueen (I was interning in their PR department) and one afternoon while my friend and I were dining at the scrumptious creperie right by Kensington tube station. She was sitting at a nearby table with a friend, drinking extremely strong espresso, and laughing louder than anyone in the place. I imagine that was her “trademark” – to be heard above all others in both voice and personality.

The first encounter, at the McQueen offices, was larger than life. When you hear of Isabella Blow -- specifically in London – you hear about a true British persona. Never without a hat -- sometimes small and intricate, sometimes large and ostentatious – or her trademark, over-the-top style – she was incredibly British in the sense that she celebrated individuality. Loud, opinionated and tumultuous, her exploits and antics were as celebrated as her eye for finding the next best thing.

Blow began her fashion career after a chance meeting with Anna Wintour, then the fashion director of American Vogue. After assisting Wintour, she returned to London, where she became the fashion assistant to Michael Roberts at Tatler and the Sunday Times. She worked for British Vogue and the Sunday Times Style section, before finally joining Tatler magazine. It was a career that spanned the continents and I’m sure it was both gratifying and exciting while it lasted.

Chanel goes public with podcasts

Earlier today I was reading WWD and happened to come across a fun item about Chanel. It seems they’re joining the revolution of Internet marketing with daily podcasts about their cruise collection (inspirations etc). Starting today through Friday, they’ll stage their “shows” at the Santa Monica Airport in LA. The first involves planes and Chanel luggage, how cool! The podcasts will be available through iTunes and through subscriptions at www.chanel.com. Definitely check it out!

Secrets of the sample sale scene

I was reading through my online news stories today and happened upon a Forbes article on samples sales. Now this is a brilliant topic we should definitely touch on. In the world of samples sales --which we’ll delve into more in a bit -- it’s known that unless you live in New York City, LA, London etc., you’re not going to reap the benefits. That’s because most sample sales take place on location at the label’s headquarters (in a closet or room designated for said product) during a limited time frame. They aren’t usually advertised but then again, they’re not hard to find out about either.

Sample sales usually occur twice a year (fall and spring) according the season. For instance, in spring you’ll buy last season’s fall or cruise, and in the fall you’ll buy the previous spring. According to this Forbes article, these samples, showroom and warehouse sales generally offer up to 80% off the original price. That means a Prada handbag that’s originally $900, is selling for around $180. Amazing when you realize that styles don’t alter from season to season as drastically as they used to.

I’ve been to a few in NYC and London. When I worked as an intern for Joseph Abboud I was able to attend a fall event, and although it was my first -- so quite exciting -- it was also menswear. Thus, not really an ideal choice. I did buy a ton of stuff for my guy friends -- I mean how could I not when the shirts were around $10 (down from $150) and the ties about $5 (down from $80.) Besides the price vs. quality appeal though, I believe women’s sales are definitely much better.

My favorite sample sale to date was in Notting Hill. My schoolmate and I heard about it through and editor with Dutch Elle and managed to get there before the masses. They had all the indie labels like West Village and Gharani Strok and even some major ones like Temperley. I found a dress and a clutch and a newfound passion for this type of shopping.

In the above-mentioned Forbes article they touched on a variety of ways to be in-the-know. One of which was the Billion Dollar Babes membership newsletter that comes out every month or two. The email focuses on sales in certain cities like LA, NYC, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, London and Dublin. They offer services that require a fee, but I signed up a while back and still get the email notices for free. Definitely check it out if you live near or in any of the cities mentioned.

Not all sample sales are open to the public but large ones are easily accessible if you’re on the right boards or join the right newsletters. Dailycandy.com will promote them, as well as styleforum.com (a board for all male style enthusiasts.) Check them out from time-to-time and see what’s going on. If you’re planning a trip to one of the bigger cities, think about the sales. A girl’s weekend would be that much better if you managed to book it the same weekend as, say a Gucci sample sale.

Holiday hunting

Happy Cinco de Mayo! I thought that it’d be fun to center my post on the age-old Mexican holiday – you know the one that’s not really a holiday rather an excuse to drink divine margaritas and unabashedly wear bright, brazen colors. (Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day – it’s actually on September 15th.) Ok, it’s actually the day that 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico. But that’s enough history for now.

So we do have something to celebrate. And yes, this faux holiday falls smack in the middle of what could be considered the fashion’s perfect season of cultural influences. Designers have given us a crop of sensational laces (think off-the-shoulder and sexy), brilliant patterns and bold, bright primary colors – all which suggest we’ll have more than enough to choose from when planning our party wardrobe for this upcoming weekend.

Hmm...Where should we begin? I’m thinking we’ll start with dresses and if this AKA New York mini in Turkish red is any indication, we’ll be the belles of the ball. I love the pattern – the geometric floral gives it a slightly vintage feel and the ruffled, off the shoulder neckline could not be any cuter. Looking for something with a little more coverage? Try this floor length number from J.Crew. I mentioned the patchwork in last week’s blog – well this is its sister in cherry red. Love the tired skirt.

Flowers in the hair you say? This might be a bit stereotypical but if you’re like me, a theme party is just not at theme party unless you dress the part. One of my good friends (an editorial hair and makeup artist) suggests blow drying your hair naturally, rolling it in Velcro’s and sweeping up one side. Place one of these anemone flower clips above the ear and you’re good to go. If this seems like a bit too much then there’s always the option of floral headbands or scarves to help complete your look.

Believe me, there are endless options for the taking. And though I’ll be wearing something along these lines, what I’m most concerned about is how to up the ante up on my margaritas. A while back I became slightly obsessed with the drink. I’m not sure if it was the summer heat (the frozen were perfection) or the tart combination, but I was hooked. And since then I’ve been on the quest for the perfect concoction. My latest, taken from Elle Décor May 2006, is the best so far. Here’s the recipe in case you’re tempted.

Buena Vista Margarita
4 medium dried chipolte peppers
4 tbsp of grenadine
¾ cup of sugar
Z Zest of one lime
6 oz. of fresh line juice
8 oz. of reposado tequila
4 oz. cointreau
4 oz. strawberry puree
2 oz. fresh squeezed orange juice

Combine peppers, grenadine and ½ c. sugar with a cup of water and simmer for 20 min. Remove from heat, let cool, then strain mixture. Stir together the remaining sugar and lime zest. Rub rims of cocktail glasses with lime, then dip into sugar/zest mixture. Combine the remaining ingredients with 2 oz. of chipolte syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into glasses. Makes 4 servings.

Enjoy!

Thanks mom

With Mother’s Day just around the corner, stores, boutiques and websites are beginning their quest to attract our dollars and heartfelt sentimentality through any which way possible. That means we’ll be seeing an overwhelming amount of the typical flowers, small chintzy trinkets, overwhelming scents in the form of perfumes and candles and the occasional frumpy cardigan or top. Of course this is a generalization, but overall that’s what’s out there right now.

So I thought in honor of hip moms everywhere (or at least mom’s who appreciate style) we’d take a look at the goods that might be overlooked on occasion, but which are entirely appropriate. That means the most brilliant jewels (real and costume), fantastic handbags (last on every mom’s list but often most important), colorful clothes and smart accessories. So whether your mom’s a daring dresser or prefers a low-key profile, there’s something smashing waiting to be had. Take a peek below and start shopping.

1. Move over LL Bean there’s a new prepster in town. For the mom who enjoys country club mixers, sailing the Atlantic, and lobster bakes on the beach, these gifts are ideal. I mean what woman doesn’t need a large sun hat emblazoned with a lobster motif? This Kate Spade original evokes the feeling of vintage Slim Aarons – 1950 starlets lounging pool side in Palm Beach or Palm Springs. And in keeping with the pool theme, why not throw in a pair of bright yellow flip-flops. The Lacoste alligator on these reads instant prep, but the color suggests a modern take on the usual pastel stereotype. Finally, no preppy wardrobe is complete without a Ralph Lauren staple. If she’s got polos galore opt for something a bit more fashion-forward (but still wearable) like this striped linen and silk caftan. Top it off with David Yurman pearl chain necklace and mom is set for the summer.

2. Perfectly feminine moms deserve the prettiest of presents. And in this category the options are endless! Take this delicate necklace from NYC’s finest, Fragments. Nancy Caten draws upon nature with her gold plated flower, kyanite aqua and fresh water pearls. If mom’s got more practical needs then steer towards a pretty handbag for either dress or casual. Check out vintage stores or sites for antique beaded bags and clutches or local boutiques that buy from small designers. I especially like this Whiting and Davis bag with Bakelite handle from Vintagebag.com. And when all else fails she’ll love anything from Lela Rose. This rich, cranberry dress with rosette neckline has an added bonus of being incredible at any age -- so if you and mom borrow from each other then you’ll certainly be in luck.

3. Modern moms appreciate architectural elements and eye-catching design along with the requisite form and functionality. Because of this I suggest taking a look at the Museum of Modern Art’s online store. This woodgrain wrap is especially bright, and comes with a unique story. Originally used for Japanese kimonos, the traditional sewing and shibori dying techniques are aesthetically interesting and unique. If she has a real sense for fashion then look no further than Jil Sander or Comme des Garcon for something especially spiffy.

Puddle jumping in color

Well, for the past three days it’s been raining. I realize in a recent blog I extolled the virtues of rain, but to be honest, days of it get a tad dreary. I guess I should be used to it having lived in London, but as I recall the rain didn’t last all day and night there, rather debuted in short spurts, which lasted twenty minutes or so, and then went away.

Gosh, can you imagine living in Seattle or San Francisco (and dressing for the weather) day in and out? It must be tricky always finding new ways to wear your raincoat, boots and hat. Hmm. I imagine for them it’s especially nice now that spring’s offering such colorful trends in the form of bright hues like blue, yellow and red.

Speaking of color, one of my favorite contemporary designers, Daryl K, has some brilliant offerings this season. When I lived and shopped in New York City I would often buy her things at Barney’s Co-Op. After a brief hiatus –she stopped designing for a while – she’s back and her collection is as snazzy as ever. This season, Daryl is doing cherry red dresses in the most adorable cuts and styles. I especially love this cotton version with simple elastic hem. Surprise elements are one of the best ways to jazz up a simple silhouette. I’d wear this to lunch with snazzy metallic flip-flops and a straw bag or to drinks with these cream Pucci gladiator sandals and a small clutch.

On other bright fronts, everyone’s talking about Rich and Skinny jeans. An offshoot from Citizens of Humanity, the lines is targeted towards the girls who still covet the drainpipe jean but in a strong and lean cut. With 13 different styles and washes -- I especially like the red – they pack a lot of punch for the day-to-day. Wear with a cute boat-neck tee or a simple, solid tank.

On the opposite spectrum of skinny, are these bold jean styles from Dittos. In homage to Farrah Fawcett’s popular 1970s high-waist, wide leg cut, these are the perfect answer when flaws like a large behind or thighs rear their ugly head. Sigh. We could all use the help I imagine. Oh, and their grass green version is especially fun. Rightfully called envy, the color would be pair perfectly with a stark white top and layers of necklaces (every once and while I go for the jewelry) for a bit of pop and pomp.

The final stop on today’s color tour visits the shoes of Dolce Vita. This company has exploded on the style scene in the last few seasons and rightfully so. I remember buying my first pair two summer’s ago at a little boutique in Birmingham. The sandals were adorable and designed in this funky gray metallic leather -- which is still holding up to this day. The soles are ultra lightweight and incredibly forgiving, making them one of the most comfortable brands out there. I stopped when I saw a whole display of them at Nordstrom’s last week and marveled at how many styles they currently have. And the colors! From sunny yellow to bright turquoise there is something for everyone. Pair them with a summer dress for a post-work get-together or with a jean skirt for those last-minute jaunts to the market.