Swooping Zoupnik

She's a Femme Fatale

2010-05-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Life today requires a lot of resilience, motivation, and ‘not taking no for an answer.’ Current situations -- which shall not be named -- thrust a generation and generations to come into an expansive well of debt. Accordingly, we have dressed ourselves in that comparable to a soldier’s uniform. We are ready to react to the obstacle of the day, whether it’s getting the dog down the elevator just in the knick of time or unexpectedly having to survive on unemployment checks.

We’ve seen combat boots, functional flannel, and tattered denim army roll its way down the runway. Now, slashing one’s own clothing as if to appear as if heroically returning from battle may have first been popularized several hundreds of years ago, but so has the expectation of ladylike behavior.

As the dust settles from the economic explosion, we are left with closets full of androgynous garments suited to endure, to prolong, to just get through the day. For some, this styling is most likely here to stay, with comfort and perhaps a bit less care – or the appearance of so – put into the day’s garb from now on. And yet, there are those of us who are itching to reclaim our femininity and embrace what it means to be a lady, perhaps just a little more wisely. A new sensibility is infused into our personalities, one that is street savvy and sexual: enter the nu-femme fatale.

It was well apparent this season that designers sensed this desire to move away from our tomboy personas while still wanting to remain prepared to react at a moment’s notice. Femme pieces were infused with masculine details not for ironic juxtaposition as with the past, but to allow the ultimate seduction of one’s own future in order to provide the best end results.

Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi, the designers behind Preen, depicted this shift wonderfully in their Fall 2010 collection. Sheers and florals tease and taunt while oversized men’s suit jackets leave one curious as to what, if anything, is being worn underneath. Underwear layered over lady length dresses and skirts are presented as if to answer these questions. Looks are completed with lace-up heeled oxfords that give the illusion of seriousness, with a little kick.

In his first independent showing, Nathan Jenden takes a different approach, yet masters the concept of surviving in this demanding world, all while looking absolutely ravishing. Bright and unapologetic prints serve as an urban camouflage. Lovely dresses inspired by 1940s silhouettes paired with leggings reminiscent of scuba or riding gear, suggest the ability to spring into action.

Over at Rachel Comey, ladylike looks were celebrated while sheer pants seduced. With the presence of satins and toying of a peek there, some major leg there, the Rachel Comey girl is sure to succeed in even the direst situations. Multiple layers allow the transition from day into night, or office to battlefield, to be unburdened.

In a time, when the future is nearly impossible to predict and our combat boots are becoming tiresome, we can look subtly sweet and permanently provocative without having to kick the door down – unless you’re into that kind of thing.

White Oxford Button-Down: The Re-Do

2009-10-05T12:31:00.000-07:00

In a time, where the 'e' word is still on the tip of every fashionable tonuge, a few of my favorite Parisian designers are updating a classic: the white oxford button down. February revealed New York's own Alexander Wang exhibiting his interpretation of this forever favorite but these looks included below are bannanas, apples and pears.

Cacharel

Maison Martin Margiela

Yohji Yamamoto

My Visit to the Unofficial 51st State

2009-09-28T12:31:00.001-07:00

Yes.

2009-09-08T06:34:00.001-07:00

Please.

A Morning Frolic Down Memory Lane

2009-09-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

I remember being 9 or 10 years old and listening to my older sister thump Nirvana (among other more underground punk bands) through the wall. As a fixture in the Baltimore underground punk scene, my sister found it necessary to force me to learn the lyrics to 'Come as You Are' and 'About a Girl' in addition to other grittier anthems of the subculture. Being five years younger, I didn't comprehend the full emotion behind the music or general teen angst for the matter. All I knew was that I dug it. A lot. I can't help smiling while walking down Bedford Avenue and see all the mini Kurts and Courtneys shuffling about. Unfortunately, these feelings cannot be replicated no matter how vintage your docs are, how chipped your nail polish is or how bad your roots are. But it's a good start. For me, it's a happy little skip down memory lane.

If you...

2009-09-04T08:17:00.001-07:00

Put these looks in a pan, baked it, my autumn/winter wardrobe would be the cake.

Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the ____________.

2009-08-31T15:41:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite things:

2009-08-31T11:57:00.000-07:00

Over the rainy weekend, I enjoyed one of my favorite films, Edward Scissorhands. Having not watched the film in quite some time, I was struck by the similarity between Edward's look and Rodarte's AW 09/10 collection. Now, I know the Mulleavy sisters name the story of Frankenstein as one of the main inspirations behind this showing, but there is an undeniable crossover between the buckles, strapping and leather leather leather. Not to mention, yours truly loves them both so much it would be hard to choose a favorite (although push come to shove the boots in the AW 09/10 collection would probably sway me). Cannot wait until the next Rodarte show... T minus 2 weeks...

Vanilla (Night) Sky Moment

2009-08-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Dead Disco

2009-08-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

I always regret the fact that I am too young to have attended Studio 54 to see the disco balls flying, amazing performances and the crazy characters. Instead, I find myself at emo concerts with one lonely disco ball. Le sigh.

The Commencement of an Autumnal Attitude

2009-08-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Tacky Goodness

2009-08-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

For my birthday, I was given a Lisa Frank set including scrunchies, bracelets, bookmarks, pins etc. While sifting through the neon wonder, I reflected on my elementary school days filled with binders and folders decorated with happy dolphins, panda bears or unicorns. I'm tickled to see that Lisa Frank is still selling tacky happiness to young girls everywhere.

Totally Buggin'

2009-08-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Back to Basics?

2009-08-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

Strolling through the East Village this weekend, I found myself in a garden of floral prints. In a season where patterns, punch and pizazz are sprouting like weeds in cracks of the concrete, I'm left secretly wishing to get back to my roots of simple, easy basics. As autumn approaches, I'm interested to see the seasonal adjustment to wardrobes. Although some renditions are fairly predictable (black tights. floral dresses and Dr. Martens), I'm curious to see a sophistication of the 90s resurgence among peers and passersby. More to come on this I'm sure.

Able to Dispose.

2009-08-12T15:56:00.000-07:00

Chadwick Tyler's Ladies

2009-07-26T18:26:00.000-07:00

Always the sucker for the dark, subversive side of things, I find it necessary to share with all of you one of my favorite photographers, Chadwick Tyler. Tyler exposes the ugly and disturbing while maintaining beauty in the models, clothes and setting. While we are confronted with glossified imagery with every flip of a magazine page or contrary contrived gritty pictures, Tyler's photography stands on its own with a theatrical spark that morphs his subjects into characters that tease your imagination into questioning the scene you stumbled upon.

Love is in the air.

2009-07-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, maybe not. But here are some of my favorite couples in the meantime.

To Farrah, My Hair Hero

2009-06-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

It was during college that I watched the original 'Charlie's Angels.' Coming from sporting a bob my entire life, Farrah's bangs and waves ignited the determination to actually grow my hair long. Five years and a couple renditions later, I still name Farrah as the key inspiration behind the 'swoop.' Ms. Fawcett, you and your luscious locks will be missed.

Because it would be wrong not to...

2009-06-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

I remember at a young age attempting (and failing miserably) at the 'Thriller' dance. His dance moves may not have stuck with me, but his dedication to personal style and individuality did. And to that, I take off my sequined hat to you, Mr. Jackson.

nOir.

2009-06-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

If you love small shiny things even a fraction as much as I do, you will begin to salivate when I tell you about the amazing sample sale at nOir Jewelry. Jen, looking flawless and completely calm in a sea of frenzied editors, stylists and GaGa wannabes, pointed me to the direction of a couple marvelous pieces. I now have a diamond bow to adorn my finger in addition to pyramid arm cuffs (just to mention a couple of my steals). Read Noir's blog here (noirjewelery.com), written by our own Sassy Kitten.

Music to my ears.

2009-06-25T14:02:00.001-07:00

Oh hello.

I know I've been away for a minute but it's for quite the valid reason. Again, I've been exploring the playground known as my neighborhood and am trying to store up lots of yummy stories to share with you boys and girls.

With that being said, I've gone back to my roots and begun to attend my fair share of musical events otherwise known as 'concerts.' A couple of weeks ago, I joined PS in a glorious Saturday of puddle and concert hopping alike. The L Magazine hosted the 'Northside Festival' giving local musicians, restaurants and boutiques a platform to spotlight their many talents. Between a delicious Croque Monsieur and a plethora of taco consumption, we enjoyed the tunes of Darlings and Drink Up Buttercup. See the full line up here (http://www.northsidefestival.com/schedule/) and be a little jealous that I was there and you weren't.

The following weekend (last Friday), I attended the Secret Machines show at Santos Party House. Knowing Santos is infamous for its sound system, I was oh so eager to hear one of my favs play at a better venue than the Annex, which was at best a defunct performance. The trio more than made up for it expanding on their already lengthy serenades from their newest album 'Atomic Heels.'

I feel jazzy just re-capping it.

Cinderella and Sequins: Oh My

2009-06-09T12:56:00.000-07:00

While parusing through University of East London's Graduate Show photos online today, I came across two looks that, had I been wearing socks today, they would have been knocked across the city. Below are my two favorite looks. Between the extreme Cinderella silhouette and the multitude of sequins I don't know which one is my favorite. Enjoy!

shireen erfani-shomaly

ayroza dobson

Summer 2009 To-Do List

2009-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

1. Wear heels more frequently so by winter I don't look awkward wearing thigh high boots
2. Find asforementioned heels/platforms
3. Decorate my bedroom. Really.
4. Finish sewing all the half pinned pieces I have in a to-complete pile in my room
5. Make homemade ice cream
6. 6 Flags
7. Amsterdam
8. Take more photos
9. Find the perfect pair of jean shorts
10. To be continued.

My Fortune Cookie Today...

2009-06-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

"A smile increases your face value."

Definitely a keeper.

Resort Shows: Not too shabby

2009-06-04T11:35:00.000-07:00

After several comments regarding the wordiness of my past rantings, I give you my favorite resort IMAGES thus far.

Erdem

Bottega Veneta

Helmut Lang

Prada

Rag&Bone

Yigal Azrouel

Collection Hardware: The Next Factory?

2009-05-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the walls aren't coated in silver and there isn't open heroin use. Yet, throughout our quest to find new, unpretentious, relaxed yet vibrant atmospheres, Lauren and I hadn't achieved much luck. Then Thursday night happened. En route to the Stylecaster x Lacoste party, we dropped by a friend's new project, Collection Hardware. Enter through a non-descript door on the Bowery and find yourself in an expansive gallery with high ceilings and oversized flowers. Venture upstairs and be greeted by not only a fully stocked bar, but also a multitude of personalities: old and young, fashion kids, musicians, artists, actors alike. FINALLY. The five floor fully renovated building is the brain child of forerunners in these creative industries. The space includes a full hair salon, boutique, special effects studio and a recording studio to boot. On this particular evening, Direct TV was filming a segment in the recording studio interviewing New Yorkers on live band performances. Having hosted a number of fashion week events and other social engagements, I am sure we are to hear much more of this amazing space and I personally cannot wait to return.

BBQ in the Burbs

2009-05-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

What do runway coaching, Beyonce and blue-cheese hamburgers all have in common? No, it's not the next MTV faux reality series hosted by Diddy. It's a Sunday barbecue located in Westchester, NY. Obviously. As previously mentioned, I was privileged enough to be included for a bit of a shindig in the 'burbs Sunday evening, and my, what a much needed change in scenery! We clearly took advantage of the lawn to practice runway walking and enjoy a rendition of Beyonce's 'All the Single Ladies' by Louis M. Yummy fun all the way around.

Well well well...

2009-05-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a full week since my last post and I feel just awful. However, it's only because I'm too busy having a fabulous time. I've included my week's highlights below:

Monday:

Tried my first Black Cow milkshake. My life hasn't been the same since.

Tuesday:

Attended the Christian Siriano preview. I was enamored by the rich chocolate and teal palette. Many of his dresses were Rachel Bilson worthy and offered almost a youthful interpretation of a Givenchy silhouette. However, keep an eye out on the red carpets for his petal layered gowns as some of these pieces are just begging to be worn by a strutting celeb.
Following the CS preview, hopped over to the Tommy Hilfiger x Paper Magazine party. Had no clue of the occasion but enjoyed a lemonade and seeing Spank Rock awkwardly stand in the corner surrounded by editors and WASPs alike nonetheless.
Frolicked over to the Roxy event to promote their new headphones (yes, Roxy headphones-- every North Baltimore girl will be wearing them this summer I am POSITIVE). Erin from the City was an outfit catastrophe attempting to mix 80s Madonna with last year's MIA -- knee length acid washed skirt, black coated leggings, Nike High Dunks, some sort of black jacket and webbing around her face that looked like she should be attending a funeral, not a party. Julia Restoin Roitfeld had the new boy toy in tow who pulled off the Canadian tuxedo effortlessly.
Cabbed up to Lauren and Lea's. Played on Photobooth with Jen. Danced to oldies in an empty Kingswood. Probably the highlight of the evening.

Wednesday

Last day of the work week.
Had another Black Cow milkshake. All is right with the world.

Thursday

Early morning coffee at the quaintest cutest West Village coffee shop, S'nice. Mused on life and the direction in which mine should take. Found out I truly do have a Fairy God Mother.
Ransacked Jen at work. Played with Noir jewelry. Went to the wrong floor in her building by accident. Got a tour of Fight Club Recording Studio.
Styled a shoot for artist and dear friend, Jessica Faller, who's creativity and passion never ceases to impress me (jessicafaller.com). The shoot was shot by friend and photographer Blake Ribbey who is just a delight to work with (ribbey.com)

Friday

Swooped around the East Village. Had a picnic in the park. Relaxed.
Went to the Library with Jules, Jen and Lea. Learned about music some more from JG. Ate salsa and chips. Obviously the night was a success when Mexican food is involved.

Saturday

I was SUPPOSED to have a doctor's appointment for my MacBook but then Mac cancelled on yours truly. Was not pleased. So I cancelled on the reschedule time last night. That'll teach 'em.
Brunched with Lea and Jen. Laid out in the park in my community. Got more Mexican food with Jen. Started the quest for the perfect fanney pack. Caught up on 20/20.

Today!

Morning bagel. Designing a dress for my sister. Sketched some. Read some more of the Bell Jar.
Going to Elisa's house in the burbs for a BBQ with a plethora of personalities captured on stylelikeu.com. I'm actually looking forward to getting out of the city and to the suburbs for a minute. I never thought I would say that.

My First Margiela

2009-05-17T14:51:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every girl's life when womanhood seems to be lurking around every decision and with one simple purchase this transition is solidified. That fateful event occurred for me yesterday with my acquisition of my first Margiela piece. Returning to Howdy Do, Michael, one of the co-owners, pulled out an amazing piece he had stowed away just for yours truly. It was silver, large and glowed in the dark. Although at a glance it appears to be a simple t, switch of the lights and a wonderful storm scene appears as it glows in the dark. As a diehard Margiela fan, I've always admired from afar, but now just have to take a few steps to my closet to admire his amazing craftmanship and creativity. Although this may not be the 'biggest' Margiela piece or investment, I can see this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship.

Chanel Resort Show: A Venetian Stroll Through Memory Lane

2009-05-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

Welp, Lagerfeld's gone and done it again. This resort season, Karl offered a nod to Coco's past vacation joint, Venice with the opening of a mass of leggy ladies in black cloaks and panties. With wigs allowing a cohesive glance at nautical trends, classic Chanel outfitting and Edwardian infused pieces, Karl gave a stupendous retrospective at Chanel's past showings. Tonuge-and-cheek sunglasses presented in masquerade style added a rambunctious edge to the collection. My two favorite looks are included below and are sure to be replicated by our favorite knock-off retailers shortly. I would possibly take a bullet for the cream blouse with its echoed Edwardian reference and impeccably placed sheer panels. I am desperately in love with the play on the Chanel classic shoe/bootie as well. Oh Karl, you never cease to amaze me.

photos courtesy of style.com

En Route to the Milkshake Store...

2009-05-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

While taking a milkshake break this past week, I decided to take an unusual detour to ABC Home. I am guilty of not visiting interior design stores as frequently as I probably should, however, on this particular day, I couldn't restrain my curiosity. While strolling through the rows of chairs, sofas and side tables, I was drawn to the clothing section (obviously) and absolutely fell in love with the designs by Gary Graham. If you've met me, you probably know my adoration for anything sheer and most things batwing. So, when you combine the two, I will most likely be in love forever -- and this is just what Gary Graham did. His spring collection offers multi-purpose dresses, sheer batwings (aforementioned) while finding the perfect balance between feminine draped pieces and masculine leather vests, shorts and shrunken motorcycle jackets. You can imagine my disbelief when going hanger to hanger and becoming more astonished with each new garment. Visit his website: garygrahamnyc.com or visit his booth at ABC Home if you're an NYC-er.

Fashion Feel-Good

2009-05-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

I'm typically a monochromatic, black-white-grey (and maybe navy) kind of girl. Usually, I'd prefer to experiment with shape or an interesting fabrication. However, upon entering my new favorite vintage joint in the East Village, Howdy Do Pop Culture, I became re-inspired on not only color but the fun playing dress-up can be. Leaving the store and its wonderful owners, with a 1987 Disney neon paint splattered black sweatshirt in tow, I bopped down the street anxious to dress in the vibrancy of my new digs. Rewind to a few weeks previous, and the purchase of a fantastic Christopher Lemaire men's short-sleeve button down with bright colors mished and mashed -- also resembling paint now that I think about it, I had a similar giddiness exiting the sample sale.

Maybe it's the spring peeking its head around the city or my subconscious telling me if I purchase one more monochromatic item my closet will revolt and begin to protest, but it's amazing what a fun purchase/garment can do. For example, Monday: dull and surprisingly chilly, I threw on my new sweatshirt and could barely wipe the grin off my face. In this time where greyness, empty pockets and constant unfriendly reminders of the state of the world, infusing my wardrobe with some silliness seems the most efficient and simple way to up my spirits. So, in this economy, do you splurge a little to have a some fun or do you stick to your guns now more than ever? Whatever the case, I look forward to getting lost in my closet and imagination this weekend and seeing what nonsense I can create.

Photo Credit: Refinery29

Michael Bastian, Bergdorf's, lifeguards. Oh, and Whitney Port too.

2009-05-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

Thursday evening, I joined a friend in attending Michael Bastian's event at Bergdorf's for Matt Albiani's book launch. Upon entering, I knew we weren't in Oz (aka downtown) anymore when people basically gasped when viewing my shredded black tights. Oops. Anywho, getting beyond the pressed khaki, awful sequin embellishment and quite literal outfitting of the evening, I enjoyed a refreshing lemonade, inaudible music and ... pale lifeguards. Now. Let's just stop and discuss for a moment. In doing my homework before going to the event, I read an interesting interview with Albiani discussing the stereotypes of lifeguards. AKA a blinding, deep tan. NOT pale. About halfway into the event, I finally deciphered who the awkward male model-y looking folks were who were downing cocktails as if their lives depended on it as some of the lifeguards who were photographed for the publication. Moving on.

While circulating through the event, one area seemed to be for press, interviews, what have you. Then my friend and I realized that there wasn't an interview occurring. Taking a second, closer glance, blonde hair, legs for days, faux-reality star Whitney Port was filming for the second season of 'The City.' The entire evening, she and friend (a fresh face to the cast) did not budge from the one mark. We are talking 2 and half hours in 6 inch heels -- and not moving. No wonder Whitney always seems slightly bored in the episodes. At one point, a new male (possible love interest?) was thrown into the mix and chatted with the two girls. Warning: he looks douche-ier than most frat boys. After maneuvering around four cameras, I accepted the brazen truth that there is not any possibility 'The City' is real.

Womp womp.

I Want a Golden Ticket

2009-05-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

If you asked me what I thought about playing the lottery three years ago, I would most likely scoff, sneer or make an uncomfortable non-descript sound. But a lot can happen in three years, heck, a lot can happen in 3 hours. So when joking with a friend recently about finding means to support a catostrophic shopping habit, the idea of a little paper ticket with some numbers and that slick silver coating came to mind. The next thought was that fateful ticket Hurley purchased on LOST, which made me a bit nervous, but I quickly veered my imagination into a much happier place. Now, I'm a strong believer in making one's own luck, working hard and not taking no for an answer. However, what if your fairy god mother just so happens to take the form of a ticket? A lovely ticket, that can mean that Jil Sander dress you've been salivating over for the last 2 months could be comfortably in your (renovated) closet? So is it worth spending that little cash in hopes of a much higher pay off? I still have yet to purchase one, however, the thought of the wardrobe I could obtain may be more that I can bear. Here are 5 other things I would do if I won the lottery:

1. Find the SoHo loft in 'Igby Goes Down' and make it my permanent residence

2. Balenciaga florals.

3. Three month Europe excursion beginning immediately with as many people as I can fit into a plane

4. Vintage Halston

5. Buy an animal shelter (and adopt at least two Golden Retriever puppies)

6. I know I said five but... The Rodarte boots

7. I know I know... Last one... Buy a Rauschenberg.

NY Times Presents: Marc Jacobs

2009-05-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

With print dying a slow and painful death, newspapers are having to branch out into other areas to stay afloat. With that, the NY Times has crafted the clever 'Sunday with the Times' where personalities are interviewed. And so tonight I attended the NY Times Presents: Design Leaders, Marc Jacobs.

From his first bounds onto stage in his red tartan quilt and pressed white oxford, I knew I was in store for a great hour and a half of Marc's answers to poorly constructed questions by T's editor, Stefano Tonchi. Beginning with the discussion of his time at Perry Ellis, Marc detailed his absolute devotion to being himself and not sacrificing his view even when another design house or later, corporate entity such as LVMH oversees the line. Marc then segwayed into speaking about the late 80s/early 90s and basically what he remembered of that time was that he didn't remember. Throughout the entire interview, Marc kept revisiting his interest, influence and overall obsession with youth as it seems to seep into everything that one is or is not and the pure perspective and curiosity the youth possess. Walking out of the event, I had a renewed respect for MJ and his dedication to the craft and art of fashion.

A few highlights:

1. Marc does not understand why Paris Hilton is famous and 'just about anyone can be famous these days'

2. 'Clothes are nothing without the people'

3. Marc will go with an idea just because someone said it wouldn't be for him (ie: Victoria Beckham ad)

4. Marc's french is still atrocious -- one of the main reasons he probably continues to like the french so much

5. Marc thanks editors for lending 'brilliant' ideas to designers aka making them sound even more brilliant than they may already be

6. None of his facebook pages are real

7. Marc openly does not understand Hollywood or the hype around the red carpet

8. He is most influenced and inspired visually. Most of his interests sprung from being visually drawn initially

9. He is still happiest when in the craft of designing: drawing, draping, building the concept

Less Than Zero

2009-04-29T06:41:00.000-07:00

Warning: I feel a tangent coming on.

After several recommendations, I finally read 'Less Than Zero' by Brett Easton Ellis, the same author of 'American Psycho' and 'the Rules of Attraction.' With the first few paragraphs you are sucked into a vaccuum otherwise known as Los Angeles, Christmas vacation, or home with the parents, what have you. Semantics. I've never been a fan of LA, however, found myself wanting to be in the dysfunctional company of Clay and peers, the main character of this ever downward spiraling story.

Maybe it was the 85 degree weather this weekend, maybe it was details of driving with the roof down or the excruciating heat that makes you agreeable to anything, but I'm now more than ever ready for summer and of course, summer wardrobe and activities. So now, I am faced with the puzzle of new pieces to be looking to add to my monochromatic, primarily knit, denim and leather closet. Vintage shopping to commence this weekend in search of wonderful men's button downs (the obvious), more Sperry's and Keds, a plethora of soda pop parlor mini-skirts and some body con dresses to off throw my primarily draped and oversized wardrobe. Will keep informed of any finds.

In search of...

2009-04-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

During a relaxing park day in McCarren Park yesterday, I fell in love with a girl wearing the cutest most adorable dress ever. I must find the ultimate printed chiffon trapeze drop-waist dress. Pronto.

Manhattan Vintage Show

2009-04-26T18:05:00.001-07:00

Friday, despite sniffling and the inability to breathe, I visited the Manhattan Vintage Show to capture some key pieces for work. With a sensitivity to sensory overload, I was floored upon entering, welcomed by vintage Louis luggage and piles upon piles of beautiful vintage carry-ons and trunks. Within seconds after picking my jaw off the floor and actually going into the show, I was mesmerized by the buzz and atmosphere. Each vendor offered racks of beautifully collected and maintained pieces. I realized through my photographing my affinity for small white blouses (perfect to be paired with high waisted denim or flirty frolic-worthy skirts). Anywho, more on favorite pieces to come (have to see what's shared on the site first).

Ta.

Ms. Dinsmoor: Chick-a-boom

2009-04-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

The film, Great Expectations, is a crafty version of Dickens' famous story. Now, aside the point that Gwenyth is stunning and Ethan totally endearing, my eye leapt to another face on the screen. Ms. Dinsmoor, the kooky heartbroken guardian of Estella (Gwen) takes the cake. With her chiffon batwings, permanent cigarette filter, perfect pearls and ever flaking crusty makeup all while fox-trotting across a decrepit ballroom, Ms. Dinsmoor avenges her broken heart on young Finn (Ethan). The whole image of what once was, what is still struggling to be and failing miserably in the process is epitomized by Ms. Dinsmoor's character and I love every second of it. Chick-a-boom.

Guest Style Stint at StyleCaster

2009-04-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

When you put two knuckleheads like Lauren and I together to style, it's a great melting pot of neon, cropped garments, blazers, platforms and everything in between. After being photographed during Fashion Week by one of their many lovely photographers, I became intrigued by the concept behind StyleCaster (stylecaster.com) and registered to join. Not to give away any of the goods but they have really carved out a niche for themselves in this struggling economy for even further struggling editors and fashion addicts alike. With that, I was approached to style for their Daily Looks section and obviously joined up with my neon and print counter-part, Lauren, to join in on the fun.

Keep an eye out for some fun daily resolutions for a brainfart I-forgot-to-set-my-alarm morning or this really awkward weather NYC is having. Either way, it was fun to play with clothes for a couple hours with one of my besties this morning. Hopefully many more duo projects will be in the works soon!

Love yaaaa -- L&L

THESE.

2009-04-22T16:50:00.001-07:00

Today Lauren and I styled at StyleCaster (more to come on that) and I instantly fell in love with the above. They not only have a great wedge that's not too high to wear on a daily basis, but also provide a great option to wear when your winter boots become to hot in this fluctuating weather but you still need a great lace-up that's not an oxford bootie being ripped off by Forever21. I wasn't shocked to learn that they were by Opening Ceremony (and available now -- so you can go buy me a pair now okaythanks).

The American Dream: What THIS American is Dreaming About:

2009-04-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

1. A vacation. Preferably to St. Tropez or Cote D'Ivoire. But Miami will suffice as well.
2. Peep-toe Dr. Martins
3. The perfect Gladiator sandal that doesn't a. give you cankles or b. resemble Jesus sandals
4. Jeremy Laing's SS 09 Collection to magically appear in my closet.
5. A proper spring.summer hair-do (suggestions welcome)
6. A decided direction in life. (suggestions also welcome)

2009-04-21T09:48:00.001-07:00

It's no secrect that I love Prince. Have ever since I was a little tyke dancing in my bedroom to a boombox with sound quality that now makes my skin crawl. I even recognize Prince (pre-Jehovah Witness) to being a key influence in my personal style development and excursion into the fashion industry. So this morning, in a bit of a 'lull' at work, I decided to list my top 5 favorite Prince songs, but couldn't limit myself to 5. Never one to shy away from excess or indulgence, I give you my top 10 favorite Prince songs. You should probably make a playlist of the following. It'll get you through the day. Pinky swear.

1. I Wanna Be Ur Lover

2. Darling Nikki

3. When Doves Cry

4. Take Me With U

5. How Come U Don't Call Me No More

6. The Beautiful Ones

7. New Position

8. Gett Off

9. Solo

10. It's a tie between: Le Grind and Cindy C.

Well Hello.

2009-04-21T07:10:00.001-07:00

It has been brought to my attention that, after much trial and tribulation, I should start an online forum of the thoughts that pop into my head on a daily basis. I like to try to find the humor in things and thus, would like to share my observations and experiences on a number of topics to provide amusement to the readers of this little blog or at least some distraction from a mundane work day. Ok then, let's begin, shall we?