Thursday, December 31, 2009

Shoe Candy

As 2009 comes to an end, I thought I would leave you with wishes of Louboutin's dancing in your head. The below Louboutin's are by far the most drool-worthy pair I've found to date. These beauties are the perfect shoe to go with my New Years dress. . .but with a near $3000 price tag will most likely never find a spot in my closet. :(


Check back in 2010 for my top 10 Trend for 2010, and more to come!

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Rodarte for Target - Released EARLY!


I'm not typically one to gush over Target's designer collaborations, however, the Rodarte collection is an exception. And, much to my surprise, they have released the collection in stores a day EARLY! These pieces are sure to sell out, so scoot over to Target quickly to see the pieces.

I had a chance to swing by and I LOVE the collection. Everything from the detailing, closures, and even the tag are high quality. My favorite pieces are three dresses in black, gold and light blue that combine elements of silk camisole's with floaty tulle. To preview more of the collection, visit the blog of fellow blogger Louisa at Large who posted a look-book early on this week!

Monday, December 7, 2009

You MUST Know About This!

If you are anything like me, you have an abundance of cocktail dresses hanging in the back of your closet collecting dust. You also are probably on the hunt for the perfect dress for the holidays and New Years Eve. It's not that you don't like the cocktail dresses you already own, it's that you have already worn them, maybe on multiple occasions. Unlike shoes or a sweater, cocktail dresses are one of those items that you only get a handful of uses out of.

Enter Rent the Runway. For a fraction of the price of buying a new dress, Rent the Runway allows you to rent designer dresses to wear for an event! Stocked with the season hottest designer dresses, members can rent a dress costing upwards of $500 or more for just $50-$200, depending on the dress.

You can search by categories such as: New Years Eve, Meet the Parents and Date Night. Stylists are also on call to help with sizing decisions and suggestions on how to accessorize your look.

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Unlike popular bag rental site, Bag Borrow or Steal, I find Rent the Runway completely affordable, and the fashionista's answer to never repeating the same dress. They even offer an option of renting a 2nd size for FREE! This ensures that you won't end up without a dress due to fit. I have found that many of these dresses are available right now in stores, so why not go try them on for size and fit there, and then rent them online!

Rent the Runway is a fairly new site, but I am excited to see what happens next season when their current dresses are no longer seasonal. My hope is that they will be selling them for steep discounts, giving members another way to score a top designer dress for cheap!

Want to join? Follow this invitation link: http://renttherunway.com/referral/lprattes

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Holiday Look Blog - Look 3


An invitation to a winter wedding can sometimes present a tricky situation - what to wear. Often winter weddings are a slightly more upscale events, that require a cocktail dress. Although wearing black to a wedding is perfectly acceptable, many people shy away from it. The problem then arrises of what colors are appropriate to wear which won't overshadow the bride?

Winter Wedding Guidelines

1. Do not wear any shades of white or ivory to a wedding; red should be avoided as well.

2. Ideal colors to wear are rich jewel tones, which add interest, but are subdued enough to not make you the center of attention (it's not your day after all).

3. During this season of sequins, metallics embellishments a general rule should be to keep all "flare" to a minimum.

4. Tights are an important part of a winter ensemble as they promise to not only keep your legs warm, but make any dress more winter appropriate.

5. If the wedding is held in a conservative church bring a pashmina to drape over your shoulders during the service if wearing anything shoulder baring.

6. Avoid anything too tight, low cut or short.


Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Gift Guide - The Jet Setter

Whether your travel enthusiast friend loves a luxury vacation or is a budget traveler, the gifts below are bound to inspire another adventure. Think outside of the box with a travel magazine subscription, or a city pass full of tickets to attractions in the city nearest you. For the sensible traveler a universal adapter or digital language dictionary are top gift choices. Channel a jet setters inner fashionista with some great DVF luggage or a stylish bag for carry-on liquids.


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3. Citypass - $49 $ up
8. Luxury City Guides - $9.99 each


Take it to another level by booking a trip on Gilt Groupe's newest travel sample sale website Jettsetter. With everything from lavish european villa's to local boutique hotels, Jetsetter is a great way to find amazing deals on hotels. Click here to sign up and book your next trip!



Monday, November 30, 2009

Gift Guide - Techies

Although this year was not a huge year in the tech world, there were some new products to hit the market, and old products to gain in popularity. Better yet, many items are cheaper this year than ever before. Below are some of the top Tech gifts for 2009.



TEchie gift guide

3. Powermat - $99.99
5. Samsung LED HDTV - $2199.00 & up

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Gift Guide - Hostess with the Mostess

Holiday shopping is upon us, and there is nothing worse than fighting through crowds at the mall trying to get all of your holiday gift shopping done. Worse yet, trying to figure out what to buy for everyone from your kitchen loving mother-in-law to your techie brother.


My holiday gift giving guides every day this week will help you solve those tough gift dilemma's, all while allowing you to shop from the comfort of your computer. Before you order, don't forget to check out coupon code websites such as Retail Me Not to find coupons to use towards your purchase.

Todays Gift Guide - Gifts for the Hostess with the Mostess

Gift Guide - Hostess

9. Pottery Barn Reindeer Dessert Plates - $78 (2 sets of 4 is a full set)

* Bold items denote what tops MY Christmas Wish List this year

Monday, November 23, 2009

Holiday Look Blog - Look 2

Give your Holiday look an edge with this glam meets rock look.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

2009 Holiday Look Blog - Look 1

Holiday season is upon us, and with that comes the many holiday parties to attend. In my opinion wearing red to a holiday party is quite like wearing black to a funeral: highly expected, and nothing special. Unlike the aforementioned funeral however, a holiday party is the perfect time to stand out and show off your style.


Thus my 2009 Holiday Look Blog - keep reading to find your favorite look for your next holiday fete.


"Go ahead and dress the christmas tree, just don't dress LIKE the tree."

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

DIY - Embellished Tights




As if money has not been tight enough, the Holidays make money even tighter! So I am bringing you this post, strait from style website Refinery29. Erica Domesek, author of DIY blog P.S. - I Made This, posted a special edition of her blog just for Refinery29.

I haven't tried this out just yet, but hope to find some time over the Holidays to test this one out!


It sure ain't easy keeping tabs on our ever-expanding list of swoony must-have jewels, accessories, and clothes—especially for fall!—which is why we're prone to indulging in some DIY to get the look we're craving for less. But for Erica Domesek, a New York City-based lifestyle, design, and style expert, DIY-ing has become an obsession manifested in her crafty chic blogP.S.—I Made This. Driven by the mantra "I see it, I like it, I make it," Erica has garnered plenty of followers, including Vogue Nippon andGQ. And her latest challenge? To grant our wish and re-create a few of our favorite new accessories…yep, three ways to take a bit of craftiness and channel it into full-blown fall '09 fashion!


Materials Needed: 1. A pair of tights 2. Sequins 3. Fabric glue 4. Needle and thread



How to: 1. Place a piece of cardboard (some tights come with it) inside each leg. The cardboard will prevent both sides from sticking together, and will also stretch fabric to work on. 2. Use a super duper strong fabric glue to smother small areas on tights. 3. Cluster sequins on top of glue and spread all over the surface of the tights. Feel free to layer on top of one another for a more three dimensional effect. If you have any sequins or broken mirrored jewelry lying around, use them. Traditional sequins aren't the only option for tights—get creative! 4. Once dry, reinforce sequin clusters with a needle and thread. Use similarly colored thread to blend in with tights and sequins. Sequins and fabric glue available at M&J Trimming.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #9: Embellished Tights

Tights get a makeover this season with embellishments, making them the focal point of any outfit. Keep those gorgeous gams warm by donning tights in a variety of hues, fabrics and patterns.

When it comes to color, some of the most drool-worthy hues are shades of gray, purple and hunter green. Gray offers up a unique alternative to boring black tights; if daring to sport a bolder color, keep the rest of the ensemble more neutral.

Fabric is all about knit leg wear, which is sure to keep those legs toasty on a cold day. This casual fabric is the perfect tool to dress down more formal attire. Take a preppy approach with a pencil skirt, silk blouse and cardigan for work.

Lace, dot and diamond shapes are the patterns of choice for stockings. From subtle to bold, patterns add another twist to sensible tights. Adding a patterned tight is a favorite way to jazz up a solid dress or skirt.



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Row 3: Hue, TopShop, Hue

Let's Talk Brands

Wolford, my hosiery of choice (dreams), is best known for their seductive spin on hosiery. Unfortunately, at upwards of $50+ for one pair, these aren't necessarily in everyones budget.

Looking to get the most for your money? Hue leg wear is affordable, durable, and comes in a wide variety of choices. From $10 to $25 a pair, it is easy to stock up on all the top trends. (insider tip: TJ Maxx and Marshall's almost always carry these for half the price!)

If it's slimming you need, body shaper favorite Spanx has a whole line of trendy tights to choose from. They also have a cheaper line at Target, Assets, which work just as well as Spanx to suck you in and shape your rear.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Best Beauty Buy


Not typically one to splurge on expensive cosmetics, I am usually an advocate of drugstore buys. However, I couldn't pass up a post about Bobbi Brown's new holiday collection Chrome palette.

Utilizing a cool palette, Brown has created a collection that gives off a chic, downtown vibe. Icy, shimmering eyes and lips create a contemporary take on special occasion beauty. The palette boasts 10 eye shadows, and 4 lip shades that are available in stores now. At the price of $75, I consider this palette a steal considering the array of shadows and lip color included.


Friday, October 30, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #8: Jumpsuits

A rather controversial trend - the jumpsuit is one of those items that you either love, or hate. It is also a look that is extremely difficult to pull off, however, when worn correctly can exude a feeling of chicness. Sister to the jumpsuit is the romper, a short version of a jumpsuit. The romper can still be worn well into fall with long sleeve versions, or by donning a pair of tights.

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With this trend, there is a fine line between the best-dressed and worst-dressed list. Follow these simple rules to insure your spot on the best-dressed side.

Rule 1: Choose a loose fit, there is nothing worse then a tight jumpsuit creating the dreaded camel-toe effect.

Rule 2: It's all about the fabric. Now is not the time to skimp in the fabric department. Select a jumpsuit made of flowing silk, or a heavier cotton. Steer clear of anything with spandex in it or the look will go from chic to cheap.

Rule 3: Wide or strait leg is the way to go. There are VERY few people who can pull of a jumpsuit with a skinny leg. Keeping the leg line streamline with a wide leg will make you look long and lean.

Rule 4: Consider a belt. Help break up the solidness of a jumpsuit, and define your waist by adding a belt. Whether thick or thin, the belt should accent the outfit, and not be the focus.

Rule 5: Choose the color or pattern wisely. The safest way to go is by selecting a dark color such as black, navy or brown. Bolder colors and prints can look nice as a romper, however they are too much on a jumpsuit.

Rule 6: Two-tone. To soften the look of a jumpsuit or romper, consider one that mixes two different fabrics or colors. This gives the appeal of separates, while still being one piece.

Rule 7: Simple accessories. The jumpsuit is a focal point enough, without adding crazy accessories to the mix. Stick with a simple clutch, long earrings, and a nice metallic heel to finish the look.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

LIFE AFTER UGGS

Equally as comfortable, and definitely more chic, the riding boot offers the perfect alternative to the very passe UGG snow boot. Although I do still see a lost soul, or two, running about town in a beloved pair of UGG boots, the general opinion is that UGG's are over...like 2 years ago over.

So it is time to invest in a new kind of comfortable, go anywhere boot. The casual structure and detailing on a riding boot makes it the perfect candidate to replace the UGG. They can be worn with just about anything, from jeans to leggings, and even a dress with tights. Better yet, there are a wide variety of styles, colors and heel heights available to match your taste.

This post was inspired originally by a friend who came to me with a unique problem, she has been searching for a pair of riding boots, but due to a slight vertical challenge, can't seem to find a pair that are short enough to allow her legs to bend. At 5'9" myself, it had never occurred to me that this could, in fact, be a common problem. Therefore, just for those of you who are on the shorter side, rows 3 & 4 below feature boots with a shorter shaft length (under 14 inches). Keep this in mind when shopping for other boots as well: avoid over the knee boots as they will make you look even shorter. Opt instead for ankle and mid-calf boots.

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Now that I have provided you with a vast array of UGG alternatives, please repeat the below Oath:

I vow to never, ever, to where UGG boots with a dress, or skirt, no matter how comfortable they may be. I vow the only wear my UGG's in the comfort of my own home, wearing them in public only for the following acceptable reason: taking out the dog or trash, a midnight trip to the grocery store for ice cream or a trip to the doctor's office after having come down with H1N1.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #7: Ruffles

Making their debut as a trend in Fall 2008, ruffles have made their way to one of the top trends for Fall 2009. From subtle, to bold and everything in between, this girlie adornment can add instant appeal to an otherwise blase garment. Contrarily, you may also end up looking like an 80's wedding cake topper if you don't exercise restraint.

This season expect to see ruffles adorn everything from dresses, to bags, and even boots. Maintain a chic and sophisticated ensemble by mixing ruffles with tailored, edgier pieces. Experiment by mixing leather with frilly ruffles for a fashion forward take an this romantic trend.

ruffles

Monday, October 19, 2009

Update Your Wardrobe

Fave bloggers Katherine Power and Hillary Kerr of Who What Wear posted an inspiring video blog Monday regarding what key pieces will help update a current wardrobe for this season. Bloomingdales sponsored the video, which showcased a fabulous leopard coat by Aqua, and knee high boots.

Using Katherine and Hillary's suggestions, I thought I would add a few more items to the list. An earlier blog of mine details all of the top trends for fall, but it is not always reasonable to stock your wardrobe with ALL of the trends of the season. There are a few fool proof items that you can buy each Fall which will help bring your current wardrobe up to speed.

A New Coat

coats

Invest each season in a new coat that can be worn for a multitude of occasions. The above options are all unique choices that incorporate a trend of the season. Option 1 is a classic shape with a ruffle collar that adds interest. Option 2 is a more daring choice, which incorporates the fur trend of the season. Option 3 is a bold color that is sure to turn heads.


A Pair of Fall Footwear

boots

As mentioned in a previous post, boots are THE footwear of choice this fall. Pick your favorite style and make them your main investment for the season. Choose a pair that stands out in some way, be it detailing, shape, color or fabrics. Make your boots the focal point of your outfit.

A New Pair of Pants

pants

Victoria's Secret * Banana Republic * Bop

Each season pant trends change - maybe it is the fit (hello skinny jeans!), or maybe it is the fabric. Any of the above pants incorporates a key trend of the season. Topping my list is a pair of perfectly fitted leather pants. If leather isn't for you, try uber-luxurious fabric - velvet. Another favorite pant for fall is the harem pant - although don't expect to see me sporting them around town.

A New Bag

bags


An easy update, a new bag can add a little flare to your wardrobe. This season make it speak with a sequin bag, which is a great way to incorporate the sequin trend into your existing wardrobe.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Alluring Accessories

The simplest way to update an outfit? Accessories! And this season accessories are huge. Literally. Shoes are higher, necklaces are bigger and bags are more over-sized than ever. That doesn't mean that the price tag has to be big.

Bargain retail favorite, Forever21, offers up an ample array of adornments at affordable prices. The collection of jewelry, cloches, scarves and belts exceed expectations with many well made pieces which look more costly than their low price tag suggests.


When it comes to accessories, splurging on a few well made, designer pieces may appeal to some, but I prefer to stock up on a variety of items at lower prices, giving me a larger selection.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #6: Strong Shoulders

Powerful, sharp and strong - these are all adjectives used to describe shoulders on the Fall 2009 runways. Bringing the 80's back, shoulders make a bold statement with jackets, shirts and dresses alike.

Once again, fall favorite Balmain wowed on-lookers with a slew of jackets and dresses with strong shoulders. However, this trend made it's way into collections both on and off the runway, making it a guilty splurge, or an affordable find, depending on one's discretion.

Spring 2010 shows also brought traces of shoulder pads, making this trend more than just a one season wonder.

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For the more fashion conservative - work this trend into your wardrobe through a jacket or dress with otherwise classic lines.

The fashionista's out there have endless possibilities with this trend. Try recreating it on your own with a loose tee or turtleneck that you add shoulder pads to.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #5: One-Shoulder

A favorite for fall, asymmetrical necklines and one-shoulder apparel should be on your must-have list. This is a trend that comes and goes every few years, making it one worth the splurge. Once this trend gets the cold shoulder, store it in the back of your closet for a few seasons until it is once again en vogue.

Shoulders are often referred to as an erogenous zone on women, and this season there is no sexier way to bare your shoulders than to leave one completely uncovered. A one-shoulder tee adds instant style and sex appeal, even when thrown on for a casual outing with jeans. For cocktail hour, take the look to a new level with a one-shoulder, long sleeve dress.

To accessorize, leave the necklace at home, and rock a glam pair of earrings, with a few dainty bangles. For day or for night, a clutch is a better choice than a shoulder bag, keeping the shoulder line simple.


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Friday, October 2, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #4: Boyfriend Wear

It started with boyfriend cardigans, then the boyfriend blazer was introduced. With the appearance of the boyfriend jean on the fashion scene, it's pretty clear that boyfriend wear is a definite trend this season. 


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Row 1: Aqua Satin Blazer   Zoa Tee     

So what exactly is boyfriend wear? Boyfriend wear is clothing made to be a little roomy, and cut more for mans shape. This isn't saying to go out and borrow your boyfriends clothes, unless you pretty much wear the same size. Clothing made to be "boyfriend wear" is still cut with a female in mind, and unlike your boyfriends clothes, shouldn't look sloppy on. 

The great thing about this trend is that is a comfortable, fashion forward way to do casual. Throwing on any element of boyfriend wear is a great way to dress down any outfit; even a cocktail dress becomes more casual when worn with a boyfriend blazer or cardi. 

The key to pulling off this casual trend is mixing boyfriend wear with feminine, fitted elements. If you are wearing slouchy boyfriend jeans add a fitted cashmere sweater on top. Likewise, an over-sized boyfriend shirt looks fierce with skinny jeans or leggings.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

I want it, and I want it delivered!!!

I. AM. OBSESSED. WITH. THIS. DRESS!! Seriously, I want it soooo bad! New Years anyone?

I love sequins, and I love feathers, combine them and I'm committed for life. Just thought I'd share it with you all too!

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Wear with it:

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Friday, September 25, 2009

Boutique Critique

While on the topic of boots, I couldn't pass up a post about my favorite shoe store in Atlanta! Opening its doors in May 2009, Jedal has proven worthy of its prime location in Phipps Plaza. Born out of one woman's love for shoes, Jedal is located on the 2nd floor, above Tiffany's and gives passer-byers a peak of Jedal's savory footwear through windows that make up the walls of the store.

Inside, the store is modern chic, with black carpet, a modern chandelier type fixture, and white leather chairs. And OH the shoes! Lining the walls are some of the most glorious, perfectly crafted shoes that I have ever laid eyes on. Don't expect to find these shoes elsewhere in Atlanta, either. Owner Jennifer Danelli visits Milan often for the shoe fashion shows, and selects styles that she knows won't easily be found.

Speaking of Jennifer, she is often found at the store, teetering around in a pair of Jedal's newest shoes. A sweet, bubbly personality, Jennifer is happy to do whatever she can to help her customers. She has also begun a collaboration with Marco Massetti, Italian shoe designer, creating a shoe line called Jedal by Marco Massetti. Detail is the key word in these designs: ornate swarovski crystals, poems, and custom words make up the collection. The shoes almost resemble jewelry more than footwear.

And the price doesn't come cheap, all of the shoes in the store are designer heels, and come with a hefty price tag. But, as I once told Jennifer, these are shoes that actually LOOK like they cost as much as the price tag says, a rare find these days. Don't take it from me, see for yourself, and be sure to check out Jedal's website, and stop by their store next time you're in Atlanta. I promise, it's worth your while, even if you have no plans of buying shoes.

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Jennifer has also provided me with some insider's information regarding footwear for Spring/Summer 2010. Here is what Jennifer had to say:

We are still in Milan, just finished the shoe show here to buy for next sumer. I'll give you a little special information to about the trends next summer, to go with your boot blog. Next summer is all about boots too! But they are open short boots. One that I see everywhere is almost like a flip flop mixed with a boot. It looks like a flip flop at the bottom but then is closed at the top and goes up the leg like a boot. Really fun totally new! So buy short open boots now that you can wear into next summer. In the winter wear them with tights and in the summer wear them open toed!

Thanks for the great advice Jennifer! Get a head start on this style by clicking here!

Mark your calander for Oct 21. That is Jedal's Roberto Cavalli Trunk Show!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #3: Boots

The hint of crispness in the air, the gradual turning of leaves, football games. . . .all of this can only mean one thing: boot season! Although I am sad to see summer go, there is something nostalgic about pulling on that first pair of fall boots. 

A staple for fall, boots have never seen so many variations before. From sandal boots to thigh high boots, they come in all sizes, shapes, colors and embellishments. Ditch your shoes this season for a pair of boots, which this season, go with any ensemble. 


boots

Boot Dictionary

With so many choices this season, how do you keep them strait? This Boot Dictionary and Guide will help you decide which pair is best for you!

Shootie: New for 2009, the shootie is a cross between a shoe and a boot. Spice up an outfit that you would typically wear a pump or sandal with. 

Bootie: Brought onto the fashion scene fall of 2007, the bootie is very similar to an ankle boot, but doesn't cover the ankle. Wear these with dresses to give a pretty frock a fashionable edge. 

Ankle Boot: A boot that covers only the ankle, new styles have embelishments such as ruffles and flowers. Pair with rolled up boyfriend jeans for casual chic ease. 

Slouch Boot: The slouch boot can be any height, and is made of a soft suede or leather, allowing it to casually slouch around the leg. Dress down an outfit, and make it look effortless with this choice. 

Riding Boot: Just as the name suggests, the riding boot is made (or at least resembles) for riding horses. This equestrian inspired boot is a perfect solution for a weekend shopping trip, or casual night out. 

Over-the-Knee/Thigh Boot: My favorite boot for fall, the over-the-knee (OTK)/thigh boot comes in a few variations. The boots can either be fitted, or loose around the leg. The OTK variation covers the leg up to just above the knee. 

The thigh high version comes all the way up to the thigh. Wear these with dresses, or over jeans. When selecting a thigh boot use discretion, and lean towards a suede, round toe boot in a neutral color to avoid looking like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. For a more conservative look, pair thigh boots with a pencil skirt or knee-length dress. 

Fold-over boot: The fold-over boot folds typically at the top near the knee. Newer versions such as the Balmain boot pictured above fold completely in half . 

Convertible Boot: Recessionista's watch out! Convertible boots give you two boots in one, some fold over while some can slouch down. Others, like my favorite by Colin Stuart, unzip at the ankle to make two totally separate boots. 




Monday, September 21, 2009

{not so} Secret Indulgences

It is well known that my all time favorite designer is Christian Louboutin, with his perfectly sculpted heels finished with a signature red sole. My love affair began five years ago, on a trip to Paris, where I spent several weeks canvassing the city for Louboutin's allusive flagship store. Located on a tiny side street in the 7th arrondissement, the modestly sized store offers a large selection of Louboutin's finest creations. 

louboutin flagship

Christian Louboutin Flagship Store: 19 rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris 

Several years earlier I had already developed a love affair with another Parisian native, Ladurée. Since it's beginning in 1862, Ladurée has grown from a small bakery, to a tea salon, and finally into the prestigious restaurant and tea salon that it is today. In addition to a bustling location on the Champs-Elysées, Ladurée has 7 other locations across Paris, London, Switzerland and Tokyo. Most know Ladurée for their delectible pastries, most notably, the macaroon. 

laduree

Now, these two Parisian powerhouses have joined forces to create a limited addition box collection of macaroons, designed by Christian Louboutin. Inside the boxes, pastry chef Philippe Andrieu offers up a macaroon with Mediterranean flavors of fig and date. The macaroon top is black, and the bottom is, of course, red. . .just like Louboutin's coveted high heels. 

Louboutin Laduree
Available from September 11, collect all three designs and sizes. Starting at £9.80 for a box of six. Oh, and don't forget to pick one up for me!
laduree louboutin 2


Thursday, September 17, 2009

More Leather Love

One of my favorite ways to wear leather this season is to mix it with girly, romantic pieces. The contrast of feminine with edgy gives leather an unexpected twist, which really plays up an outfit! Experiment with different textures, layers and colors to change the vibe that the leather gives off.



Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Tantalizing Trend #2: Leather

Channel your inner biker babe this fall by sneaking a few pieces of leather into your wardrobe. Leather pants, jackets, and even dresses, are popping up in a variety of stores. For those animal lovers, there is even a variety of very well executed faux leather - not to be confused with the not so fondly named, pleather. Express clothing has aptly named their line of faux leather: (minus the) leather.

Whatever your preference is, there is something available for everyone's taste. For the less adventurous, work a leather pencil skirt, worn leather jacket, or knit and leather sweater into your wardrobe.

Take leather to the next level by donning a metallic leather mini, or a leather jacket complete with studs, zippers and chains. Experiment with mixing different textures and elements to create a truly interesting ensemble that is sure to turn a few heads.

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Saturday, September 12, 2009

Anna Sui and Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

Tomorrow marks the launch of Anna Sui's newest Gossip Girl-inspired line in collaboration with Target. In total there are 19 looks in the collection - all inspired by one of the four leading ladies in Gossip Girl: Blair, Serena, Jenny and Vanessa.

BLAIR

blair

The daughter of a successful fashion designer, Blair Waldorf is a classic Upper East Sider. She is a romantic at heart and idealizes classic women such as Audrey Hepburn. She always steps out in style, in a well planned out, perfectly pressed ensemble. Emulate her style with classic, romantic pieces in luxurious fabrics.


SERENA

Serena

Serena van der Woodsen is the girl who's effortless style leaves her looking fashionable, undeniably sexy, yet still understated. Contrary to Blair's perfectly planned outfits, Serena looks as if she puts very little thought into her clothing, yet still manages to look fabulous at all times. Capture her style with eclectic pieces that are mixed with some classic elements.

JENNY
Jenny

Young Jenny Humphrey is an aspiring fashion designer, who, unlike Blair and Serena, must use creativity, instead of money when dressing. Although Jenny is still coming into her own, she mixes young, girls pieces with contrasting rough clothing to give her look a rocker edge. Follow in her footsteps with flowing dresses, paired with leather boots are a leather jacket.

VANESSA
Vanessa


Vanessa Abrams finds herself un-willingly thrown into the lives of the others. Friends with Dan Humphry (Jennys brother and Serena's ex-boyfriend), Vanessa is an aspiring artist who has her own unique style. Fashion is probably not at the top of Vanessa's list of importance, so she tends to stick with earth tones and mixing feminine pieces with casual menswear.


This launch comes just in time for the season premier of season 3 of Gossip Girl; which is Monday, September 14 at 8/9c. I know many of you are anxiously awaiting the premier, and to see what happens now that Blair and Serena have finally graduated.

If you are like me, you may be hesitant to watch a TV show that is based around New York's teenage prep-school kids. However, I highly recommend you pick up Season 1; chances are you will find yourself addicted by the end of scene 1. Gossip Girl is also an excellent source of fashion eye candy, and four very diverse styles.