Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Holiday Gift Guide - The Don Draper Man
For less than $100 this Johnnie Walker Sampler can be yours - or it can be a gift you give someone (I don't care either way, it's not like I make a profit off promoting this bad boy). In a sleek case, and with gorgeous bottles, this little pack is perfect for your man, or your dad, or maybe your brother. Pretty sure there is someone in your close circle of friends who would want something like this. Hell, if no one you know wants it, buy it for yourself and at your next gathering do an impromptu tasting. Something tells me it would be a rocking good time!
Tis the Season... To Avoid The Ugly Xmas Sweater Party
So I am going to make this easy; I despise Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties. I think the are lame, unoriginal and uncomfortable. First and foremost let's get something straight, anything with ugly in the title, just seems silly to me. It is a hateful word, and it means that someone who made this sweater (or wore it before you got it at Good Will) has ugly taste? Or that anyone - your 88 year old grandmother let's say - wears ugly things? Plus, is the Holiday Season about ugliness? No, it is time to celebrate, be thankful for the year that is passing and hopeful for the one about to begin. It is also about being around loved ones, having amazing food, giving presents and hopefully (if you're with me) drinking massive amounts of champagne! How on earth am I to sip bubbles wearing something like the above photo? This is a trick question as there is no answer because I would never be drinking my favorite champagne out of my new flutes with flamingo's on my chest.
Sorry for the rant, but I have really strong feelings about this alleged theme. Why not have a Sparkly Christmas Party? Or a Dazzling Christmas Party? Should we not all be wearing something gorgeous to ring in the new year and praise the yule tide? For me the answer is plain and simple; boycott the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. Or, if you have to attend one, wear the prettiest thing you've got hanging in your closet!
Sorry for the rant, but I have really strong feelings about this alleged theme. Why not have a Sparkly Christmas Party? Or a Dazzling Christmas Party? Should we not all be wearing something gorgeous to ring in the new year and praise the yule tide? For me the answer is plain and simple; boycott the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party. Or, if you have to attend one, wear the prettiest thing you've got hanging in your closet!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Holiday Gift Guide - The Foodie
If you know someone who loves food, wine, dining and cooking, Williams Sonoma is the store to go to for their Christmas gifts. I was there this morning and let me tell you, the flag ship store on Union Square in San Francisco should be a national monument. I am telling you, that place not only looks like you walked into a culinary dream, but smells as though Giada DeLaurentis is cooking somewhere in the rafters. Between candles, cooking utensils, books, wine, Peppermint Bark Cookies and much, much more, this is the place to pick up anything and everything for the kitchen and its surrounding counterparts. The book above, on one of my very favorite subjects - cheese - can be yours for $29.95. Add in a basket of crackers, cheese, cutting board and a bottle of wine, and you have got yourself a nice little present to hand out come Christmas morning.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Holiday Gift Guide - The Eco Chic Gal
This bag is so much more than Earth Mama Chic, it has a fabulous back story that will make you want to get it for your Chanel and Pearl wearing friends as well! Rachel Roy was so distraught by the recent floods in Pakistan - and more importantly the 10 million children it affected - she is personal donating $20 for every bag purchased. The proceeds from her donations will go to the UNICEF's disaster relief fund. Not moved yet? Check out more at her website. And I mean, how cute is this thing? Adorable! Get me to a Farmer's Market wearing that ASAP.
Reese's Star
Reese Witherspoon recently got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and boy did she look the part! With her children and co-star Bruser from Legally Blonde on hand, Reese accepted the 2,425th star on the Walk of Fame. I kind of want to give her another star just for looking so gosh darn adorable! Polka dotted Dolce and Gabana with peep toe Jimmy Choos? Sign me up!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Holiday Gift Guide - Food Fashion Friends
Nope not a list of my 3 favorite things on earth (minus my boyfriend)... but the title of a new book by Fluer Wood. Fluer - I just learned - is a fashion designer and passionate at home chef (which I think translates to: likes to cook at home... your guess is as good as mine). Anyway, the book is gorgeous, thick, colorful and useful (I flipped through it at Anthropologie yesterday) and would be an amazing gift for someone who loves the objects mentioned in the title. Or if you are sending something my way... I would not be opposed to this as a Christmas gift at all! :) You can order it here for $49.99 plus tax and S&H. Not for me, but for anyone who is like me... hint, hint!
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
According to some reliable sources - Huffington Post, San Francisco Chronicle and iGoDigitial - sales were up over the weekend for most retailers! This is good news seeing as how we are all still in a wee bit of a coma from the recession; a shopping coma that is. I am happy for the retailers of the world who are able to now move past the toxicity that shoppers (depressed shoppers might I add) brought into their establishments. Perhaps now we can look at shopping in a more realistic fashion. It is not something that has to be done, but something that is fun to do. I for one love getting gifts for my loved ones, but I never let it stress me out, because that takes away the fun of it. And let me tell you, working above Macy's Union Square San Francisco has shown me that many people felt shopping was a daunting task; it was like they walked in looking as though they had to take out the trash... in their underwear... while it was snowing... I mean, it should not be painful! So cheers to the retailers and their successful weekend of consumerism!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Karl Lagerfeld to Launch a Line For Macy's
Yup, you heard me correctly. Mr. Chanel/Fendi will be reprising his role as low priced clothing creator (a la 2004 when he did so for H&M), but this time for Macy's. Come Fall 2011 the massive retailer will carry everything from jeans to gowns for this new capsule collection. The price points have yet to be said publicly, but I am sure they are equal to that of a RACHEL Rachel Roy line (also exclusive to Macy's).
Who knew the white haired genius would branch away from his Haute Couture to appease the masses? I for one am hoping we creates a pair of his signature shades to sell in stores.
Who knew the white haired genius would branch away from his Haute Couture to appease the masses? I for one am hoping we creates a pair of his signature shades to sell in stores.
InStyle Launches StyleFind.com
It seems InStyle is the latest fashion authority to create a multi retailer/brand site where shoppers can create personal portfolios that enables the site to send emails and updates of products they feel the consumer will be drawn to. Much like ShopStyle and Google's Boutique.com, InStyle will get a profit from sales when it has been referred from StyleFind.com.
If I am being completely honest I kind of feel like this is old news, ya know? I bet there is more room for companies to make money based on this business model, but from the point of view of the consumer, I just don't really get it... There are so many sites just like this that I feel it is over saturated... Maybe I am the only one, or maybe I work above one of the best department stores in California and therefore am jaded, but I am holding firm to the idea that we simply do not need another site like this.
If I am being completely honest I kind of feel like this is old news, ya know? I bet there is more room for companies to make money based on this business model, but from the point of view of the consumer, I just don't really get it... There are so many sites just like this that I feel it is over saturated... Maybe I am the only one, or maybe I work above one of the best department stores in California and therefore am jaded, but I am holding firm to the idea that we simply do not need another site like this.
WWD turns 100
In a 320 page magazine, WWD proves why it has been around for 100 years. The luxurious publication celebrates all that encompasses fashion and it's major players. I also love to see the retailers, designers and other style companies who celebrate this anniversary with advertisements. They are all different and unique, which in total bring together the best in the business. No shock I am sure, my personal favorite is Kate Spade's congratulations ad. Oh, and if the magazine itself is not enough to quench your thirst, Karen Elson sang Happy Birthday at the party thrown in early November in New York. Would have liked to been a fly on the wall for that one...
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Vogue's Best Dressed
So I have a bone to pick with someone at Vogue. Be it Anna, Andre or Caroline Palmer at Vogue.com, I don't really care, but one of them needs to call me ASAP. Why you ask? Why am I so infuriated with their staff as of late? Well, one reason and one reason only, the results for the Best Dressed list from 2010.
So I get it. Blake Lively is the best dressed female of the year. This is fine with me, by no means am I jumping out off my chair, but I will give it to them as the safe and easy Best Dressed Female. As for their #4 choice of Jessica Biel I am in complete and utter shock. Simply because J.Biel has the best accessory of all time, one Justin Timberlake, does not make her well dressed. And can I say something else? What is Jessica famous for and good at? She is a terrible actress and pretty much just annoying. So, really Vogue, really?
In addition to Blake and Jessica you have the obvious choices of Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Obama and Alexa Chung. The only one who is kind of out of the ordinary is Marion Colltiard, but since I agree I will let this subject rest. But do we notice another trend in this list of names? They were all on the cover of Vogue at some point this year! I mean is that part of the deal? Where is someone like Camilla Belle, or Frieda Pinto? What about some super models on the list?! I mean, Karlie Kloss, Natalia Vodianova. Where are they?
Sssh. I simply do not understand this list. But I guess I never understand anything that is finished off by Lady Gaga...
So I get it. Blake Lively is the best dressed female of the year. This is fine with me, by no means am I jumping out off my chair, but I will give it to them as the safe and easy Best Dressed Female. As for their #4 choice of Jessica Biel I am in complete and utter shock. Simply because J.Biel has the best accessory of all time, one Justin Timberlake, does not make her well dressed. And can I say something else? What is Jessica famous for and good at? She is a terrible actress and pretty much just annoying. So, really Vogue, really?
In addition to Blake and Jessica you have the obvious choices of Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Obama and Alexa Chung. The only one who is kind of out of the ordinary is Marion Colltiard, but since I agree I will let this subject rest. But do we notice another trend in this list of names? They were all on the cover of Vogue at some point this year! I mean is that part of the deal? Where is someone like Camilla Belle, or Frieda Pinto? What about some super models on the list?! I mean, Karlie Kloss, Natalia Vodianova. Where are they?
Sssh. I simply do not understand this list. But I guess I never understand anything that is finished off by Lady Gaga...
Friday, November 19, 2010
Ke-dollar sign-ha
Say it ain't so. Y'all, I had no idea this look was even possible. It's like Adam Lambert and Aubrey O'Day had a love child with no teeth.
Black Friday
Alright, so you all know I love me some shopping. I live for it, I dream about it, I buy things constantly. Yet, I cannot wrap my head around the idea of Black Friday (at least not without a glass of wine or two). This year my beloved employer (and the one from whom I get so many amazing deals from) is opening at 4am. 4AM! People, at 4am the day after Thanksgiving I still want to be 1. Asleep, 2. Full, 3. A little hungover and 4. ASLEEP!
Who on God's green Earth is getting up at said hour to buy some things on sale? People, Macy's has sales all year long. The toaster they are making you think is only on sale on Black Friday for $19.99.... lies! I got it in August for the same price. So do yourself a favor and sleep in, nurse the too much turkey/red wine headache and then hit the gym. That is where you can better work out your aggression.
Who on God's green Earth is getting up at said hour to buy some things on sale? People, Macy's has sales all year long. The toaster they are making you think is only on sale on Black Friday for $19.99.... lies! I got it in August for the same price. So do yourself a favor and sleep in, nurse the too much turkey/red wine headache and then hit the gym. That is where you can better work out your aggression.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
His and Hers at your local Kohl's
Coming 2011 there will be muy caliente ropa (or something like that) in Kohl's department stores when J.Lo and Marc Anthony launch their clothing collections. The Jennifer Lopez Collection, and Marc Anhtony's (yet to be titled) line will hit stores next fall. If the above picture has any indication of what will be hanging on the racks, I may have my Halloween costume for 2011 lined up! Zoro and Catherine Zeta-Jones' character from Zoro anyone? Arriba!
Google continues to take over the world....
Maps, calendars, pictures, email, blogs, even You Tube. Our lives are consumed with Google products so much so that I for one would not know how to function without them. And then they went and they gosh darn did it, they added fashion and retail to their catalog of products.
And only these Silicon Valley geniuses could create something even more important than just a "regular" shopping website, Boutiques.com is created specifically to its user. So for instance, when I began this process of making my page they showed me several images of celebrities and models in clohting and you simply said which look fit your style more. After about 20 or so images they gathered an answer as to your style. For me it was such:
Romantic
Dreamy designer dresses play a starring role in your fashion fantasies. You are drawn to feminine silhouettes. Flirty florals and retro-inspired prints embellish your everyday looks. Ladylike accessories provide the final touch to your Romantic signature style. Your closet is full of color but approached with an editor's eye for timeless elegance. You appreciate the dynasties built by the world's most coveted fashion houses.
Which, let's be honest, is perfect. I mean is there a day I do not wear "flirty florals"? Even it is not overtly seen, let me promise you, it is somewhere on my body.
Next they take you through a list of shapes, colors, shoes, accessories you love and loathe and then finally, you pick your designers.
Well, well, well. It has been 5 minutes, and I am hooked. Seriously, stop reading this and sign yourself up. Stat!
And only these Silicon Valley geniuses could create something even more important than just a "regular" shopping website, Boutiques.com is created specifically to its user. So for instance, when I began this process of making my page they showed me several images of celebrities and models in clohting and you simply said which look fit your style more. After about 20 or so images they gathered an answer as to your style. For me it was such:
Romantic
Dreamy designer dresses play a starring role in your fashion fantasies. You are drawn to feminine silhouettes. Flirty florals and retro-inspired prints embellish your everyday looks. Ladylike accessories provide the final touch to your Romantic signature style. Your closet is full of color but approached with an editor's eye for timeless elegance. You appreciate the dynasties built by the world's most coveted fashion houses.
Which, let's be honest, is perfect. I mean is there a day I do not wear "flirty florals"? Even it is not overtly seen, let me promise you, it is somewhere on my body.
Next they take you through a list of shapes, colors, shoes, accessories you love and loathe and then finally, you pick your designers.
Well, well, well. It has been 5 minutes, and I am hooked. Seriously, stop reading this and sign yourself up. Stat!
That Baby is going to be BANANAS!
Rachel Zoe, celebrity stylist and reality television star, has confirmed via Twitter that she is, in fact, with child! For those who watch her ridiculously addicting show, The Rachel Zoe Project, you know this was a large issue between her and husband Rodger (Rodg). He has wanted a baby, she is too into her career, he tells her to stop being so into her career, she continues to take on more clients and projects, he feels she does not want a baby, etc, etc, etc. But now, no more fighting! They are having a little RZ! I die.
CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund
Billy Reid was just announced the winner of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund for 2010, and let me say, his styling on Chance Crawford at the event certainly merits a win. Wowza!
But in all seriousness, everyone was looking very swell at the event. I personally thought Miss Carey Mulligan out did herself in Chanel Haute Couture. But then again, I don't think there is a time when Carey looks bad, so go figure! The fashion presence was overwhelming as was the amazing cause. Nothing starts the Holiday Season of parties and gatherings quite like the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund! Cheers and congrats to Mr. Reid!
But in all seriousness, everyone was looking very swell at the event. I personally thought Miss Carey Mulligan out did herself in Chanel Haute Couture. But then again, I don't think there is a time when Carey looks bad, so go figure! The fashion presence was overwhelming as was the amazing cause. Nothing starts the Holiday Season of parties and gatherings quite like the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund! Cheers and congrats to Mr. Reid!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Pink is in the Air
I love October. This fact has nothing to do with Halloween or candy, but because of San Francisco's Indian Summer, a nice pennant race for the Giant's, Trader Joe's Pumpkin bread, and much more. Breast Cancer Awareness month is also another reason to celebrate month 10 of the 12 year cycle, and not just by remembering those lost or survived from the heinous disease, but because of the opportunity to give back. I, for one, love to see burly men on the football field adorned with pink accessories; even the NFL get's into the spirit and gives back!
I think that this year I will make my contribution in the form of wellies (like in rain boots). And not just any wellies, but ones from Miss Tory Burch herself! Check these bad boys out! To support a good cause and look amazingly stylish in the rain, I suggest you do the same.
I think that this year I will make my contribution in the form of wellies (like in rain boots). And not just any wellies, but ones from Miss Tory Burch herself! Check these bad boys out! To support a good cause and look amazingly stylish in the rain, I suggest you do the same.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Oh Z Spoke Alright

Tibi-Licious

It is no surprise to anyone who has ever seen me in public that I love the brand Tibi. I love the colors, the cut, the fabric, the look, the patterns; come to think of it, I don't know what I do not like about it. I even have an affinity for the designers name - Amy Smilovic (is this too narcissistic? It is my blog after all).
Anywho, it comes as no surprise to me that I was enamored with Tibi's Spring 2011 collection. I loved the simple styling of the hair and make up for one, but even more than that were the shoe options. They were classic - leopard loafers anyone? - looked comfortable, and very modern.
Check it out yourself and see if you two are vying for "classic with a twist" Tibi Collection.
Like A Rhinestone Cowgirl


Marc Your Google Calendars People

Marc Jacobs launched his first E-Commerce site today, which dear readers, means you can buy his clothing online from him. Not ShopBop, not ShopStyle, not Revolve, but MJ himself! Oh this could be sooooo good, or so very bad. Only time will tell.
Do yourself a favor and check out the site. It is pretty darn cute!
Sad Day In London Town

Nearly 1,000 people gathered yesterday at St. Paul's Cathedral in London to honor the late Alexander McQueen. The likes of SJP, Naomi Campbell, Anna Wintour and Stella McCartney were present to remember the man who created a world where fashion and fantasy joined hands. The tragic end to a talented man's life will never be forgotten, nor will his designs and interesting take on colors/patterns/runway shows. Let's all take a moment to think about the man, the mystery and the mayhem of Mr. McQueen and remember him as a true artist.
Out of sorts
Dear Readers,
I am so very sorry for being gone from the blog for the last several days. While it is Fashion's busiest time, it is also mine with fashion related events (in addition to the start of the NFL season). While I was away I was planning events for Seth Aaron Henderson-winner of Project Runway Season 7, Good Charlotte-their new album drops on November 2nd, and Macy's annual Passport Fashion Show. I was in LA last week for the show and witnessed some amazing D List celebrity sightings... Great stories always follow Macy's Passport.
Again, I am sorry and I am back in business!
Love,
Me
I am so very sorry for being gone from the blog for the last several days. While it is Fashion's busiest time, it is also mine with fashion related events (in addition to the start of the NFL season). While I was away I was planning events for Seth Aaron Henderson-winner of Project Runway Season 7, Good Charlotte-their new album drops on November 2nd, and Macy's annual Passport Fashion Show. I was in LA last week for the show and witnessed some amazing D List celebrity sightings... Great stories always follow Macy's Passport.
Again, I am sorry and I am back in business!
Love,
Me
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Back Comes the Backpack

New Barney's Ad

So... ummm, yeah. I am kind of speechless by this image, and not in a good way. I feel like if I saw this as a small child I would always associate Barney's in a negative way, which I hope crossed the retailers mind as they approved this and then sent it to print. I mean, do they not have some sort of Don Draper-esque Creative Director who can help them out in situations like this? Big/nasty skeleton grabbing a cute girl in a plaid dress? What? Someone actually thought this would bring people into Barney's to spend money? And with the way Barney's rolls, boat loads of money. I will be honest, the only thing this advertisement makes me want to do is run home, get under my covers, and cry myself to sleep in hopes no one that looks like that ever attacks me from behind. This may give me more nightmares than the criminals Benson and Stabler deal with on SVU.
Lively In Marchesa

Typically I think Blake Lively shows a little too much leg/cleavage/back/belly button but this go round I think she has it just right. The colors suit her, the cut is fantastic, it is youthful, vibrant and embodies her fashion spirit. All in all, I think Ms. Lively has done a good job with her first outfit for Fashion Week 2010 which starts today! Yay!
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
W's New Look

*Now I starred Marie Claire above because I have a question. Is anyone watching Project Runway, and if so have they noticed the way Heidi says Marie Claire? Am I crazy or does she pretty much say it and it sounds like "Mary?" I mean... I know she is German but I feel like all these years have gone by and no one has told me I have been pronouncing the magazine's name wrong. Also, speaking of MC how much better is it now that Nina is on board?
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
BOOKMARC

Bookmarc opened yesterday on Bleeker Street in New York. Bookmarc is the latest business endeavor for Fashion Guru Marc Jacobs. The stores houses colored pencils, notepads and books with the designers name on them as well as actual books - although written by authors, not designers. Reviews of the store have been promising and most people cannot help but love the location. Now if only I could be transported to NYC for a look see...

Can You Feel It?

Fashion Week is in the air and I, for one, am very very pleased. September has to be the best month of the year, the September issues make reading more enjoyable, the weather here in San Francisco is like Heaven on Earth, Fashion Week, Football and Pumpkin Spiced Lattes. For me, it is truly a time to celebrate! Check back here for periodic Fashion Week coverage of my fave designers!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Marc and Gaga do NYC

And by do, I mean portray the naked version of the Statue of Liberty. In the "New York Issue" of V magazine two of the biggest talents to come from the city that never sleeps grace the cover, Marc Jacobs and Lady Gaga. Check out the photo above. I mean, personally, I cannot stand to see any more of Gaga's flesh but that fact of the matter is I am still talking about her and therefore she is doing her job. 'Nuff said!
AJ Style Bubble First

Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Rumor Alert

Bang Is Right

Marc Jacobs new fragrance for men is called Bang; and with an ad campaign like the one seen to right, I now know why. In a recent magazine article (I apologize for not remember which publication - these September issues have me in a tizzy!) Marc discuss the photo with Calvin Klein saying that he wanted to make an impact. Impact indeed! Marc has come a long way since the mid 90's when his body was nothing like the man's in this photo and he sported long hair and thick black glasses. While I do tend to love this man in a kilt, I feel like the cologne bottle covering his bits works in his favor.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Who Would Have Thought There Would Be A Kelly Osbourne Post?

Armani Prive Does It Again

I don't really know why, but I have never been a Claire Danes fan. Wait... let me rephrase, I have never been a Claire Danes fan until she showed up at the Emmys on Sunday wearing a gold Armani Prive that was more perfect than perfect should be. To be honest, I thought that dress on her was far more interesting than the show itself, which for me was a big fat dud. Claire, thank you for saving the day.
A Princess Remembered

Thursday, August 26, 2010
Is this Inception?

Marion Cotiallrd sports bleached and barely there eyebrows in September's Vogue, on news stands now. Thoughts? Questions? Comments? Concerns? Is she supporting this trend to attempt to ingrain in our minds what we should be doing with the hair above our eye sockets? It she taking a hint from her Summer blockbuster movie and attempting to change people's opinions/behaviors/beliefs?
I mean, is this better? Or shall we all be rocking the bushy-bushy eyebrows shown in the Fall 2010 runway shows? One thing I know for sure, eyebrows are meant to make a statement this season!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
All Asses Are Not Created Equal

I - for one - am on board with the new fits Levi's has come up with. I am sure this surprises no one as not only do I think men should only be allowed to wear Levi's (have you not seen Brad on The Rachel Zoe Project in his tight 501's? My oh my!) but I own 4 pairs as well. Now, to most women 4 pairs of one brand is not a lot, but seeing as I only possess 10 pairs of jeans and 5 pairs of shorts, I think this is a lot. Oh, and before you judge with how few pairs of jeans I have, please check the "dresses" section of my closets (and yes that was meant to be plural. I have a very understanding significant other).
So embrace your rears ladies, Levi's sure has!
Buhbye Baby Phat

Going the Fashion Distance

Tuesday, August 24, 2010
House of Dereon Accused of Stealing

In other news, she gives her pop song Bootylicious new meaning in the ad campaign!
Grace Is Not Gone

According to WWD the much loved and famed Grace Coddington of Vogue will be penning a memoir. Said to be about not only her career at the most famous woman's fashion magazine, but also about her life as a super model in the 60's and the car accident that changed her life. Grace has class, talent and a point of view so strong I am sure this memoir will be a best seller.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Say What? Josh and Katie in J.Crew?

But as I began my tirad out loud so my office could hear, I then stopped and noticed that Katie has the opposite of a camel toe going on... With sequin pants no less... I don't know if I missed the memo, but I had no clue Suri's mom was resurrecting the Hammer Pant... J.Crew, You should know better!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Don Draper Takes A Water Break
Blue Moon... Ke$ha Is Standing Alone

Agyness Deyn Works Her Magic




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