Friday, January 30, 2009

Attack of The 7 Foot Woman

I love these shoes and have been on a mad hunt for them ever since I laid eyes on them. But, are 5 1/4 inch heels really fair? Are there any studies showing the hard numbers on how many women have fallen, broken ankles, or been mistaken for a transvestite in these shoes? I mean, I love being a tall woman but do I really need to be 6'3 just to wear the latest heels? On second thought, high heels do wonders for a girl's legs (I'm already beginning to feel weak). I'll just try them on (the pressure is starting to get to me). Maybe I'll just break down just this once and get one pair of ridiculously high stilettos. Should I give in? Have you?


Yves Saint Laurent Strappy Platform Sandals, $895

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Victoria's Secret Takes on Howard University

The insanely popular Pink line from Victoria's Secret (of "Pink" in rhinestones emblazoned across your butt sweats fame) has a Collegiate Collection (includes 36 colleges like UCLA, USC and Penn State) which now includes HBCUs! So I'm a little biased toward Howard University (went there, loved it-so sue me) and Pink has just added Howard University and four other HBCUs: Hampton (the other HU), FAMU, North Carolina A & T, and Southern University. First President Obama and now this! How often do get to rep your school and showcase your behind covered in rhinestones (only in America). Great Huh?

Howard University Bling Zip Hoodie $78, Victoria's Secret Pink


Monday, January 26, 2009

Haute Stepper

Ladies get those pedicures ready, do I have a treat for you. There's nothing better than a pair of hot shoes other than a new pair of hot shoes (if they're on sale, even better)! Oh how do I love thee let me count the ways. Spring's beautiful shoes are better than a bouquet of flowers and the perfect cure for a usually bland outfit (just add hot shoes and you have instant cool). Note to the fellas: If you want to brighten our day don't send flowers just send shoes. Wouldn't you agree?

(right photo: Tee-Off Peep Toe, Davis by Ruthie Davie Spring 09 Collection)







Rolando Python $1195 (a hefty investment-I can go to Fuji for a week at this price), Christian Louboutin

So nice I had to show them twice. Adorable in Pink or Roccia Gray. Ok, so you don't need to run off and get a pedicure to rock these but do we have to get so technical?
















Christian Louboutin beware! These are just as high and sexy (and almost as expensive) as the famous red soled ones but these have a flashy yellow sole instead.









Add these to any basic outfit to turn up the heat (they'd look especially cute with this black silk jumpsuit).

Friday, January 23, 2009

Destination Style: Atlantis in Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

What's luxurious, exotic, populated by beautiful people, celebrities and royals alike and just may cost you your arm and your leg (seriously)? It's the newly opened uber elaborate Atlantis The Palm Resort in Dubai. Leave it to Atlantis to make even the Persian Gulf highly desirable. The Palm is a man made island equip with white sand beaches, spa, a grand water park, plenty of boutique shopping and you can swim with the dolphins (just make sure you book in advance). The weather is always beach ready year round (it is the desert after all) so no need to remember to check the weather report. Just don't forget to bring your wallet (rooms will set you back at least $600 a night). But if you do decide to travel, pack light (over-packing is so 2008) and travel in style. Could this resort draw you to the desert?

right photo: Atlantis Lost Chambers Suite (you may have to give up your first born to book this one)
http://www.atlantisthepalm.com/



Retro Bustier One Piece $88, Victoria's Secret
A little old school glamour for sitting poolside and sipping cocktails.


























Banded Halter Top $24 and Low Rise Bottom $18, Victoria's Secret
A exotic print for the water park or hanging out with Flipper.






























Long Convertible Dress $295, Elizabeth & James
This dress can go from day to night, casual to dressy and can be styled a number of ways. Did I mention jersey is light and packs well (there's no such thing as ironing on vacation).

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Oh What A Night!

Wow, what a whirlwind day yesterday. Only to be topped off with a unforgettable night. We officially have a new President, Barack H. Obama! I didn't get to make it to Washington, DC to celebrate the inauguration of our 44th President with the masses (and boy did it tear me up inside), but I managed to do a little celebrating of my own. I started the day glued to the television for the beginning ceremony and swearing in of the President and Vice President then went to a really nice celebratory brunch. There was good food, conversation, and more being glued to the television to witness history. After that I went to a friend's house for a BBQ and I'll say we Americans sure know how to party. How did you celebrate history?

...And what do we think about Michelle's dress?


Monday, January 19, 2009

Is American Apparel The New Units?

Back in the day (sometime in the mid to late 80's), I remember a store in the mall being all the rage called, Units (it later closed and revived again as Multiples). They had a series of pieces that you could interchange and form your entire wardrobe. You could use the same tube (or unit) as a dress, skirt, and a top. Isn't that just about the same concept of American Apparel? While trying on dresses in there the other day I thought wow, history always repeats itself (no need to reinvent the wheel). Units and Multiples didn't last. Do do you think American Apparel will hold up?


Use in its original form as a mid length strapless dress, convert it to a mini dress, mini skirt (regular or high waisted), long skirt, or top (did I miss anything?). Whew, now if this dress can cure cancer we'd be on to something.





comes in 13 colors
Use multiple ways as a scarf, wrap, top or whatever else you come up with. Here's the store's suggestions.




More about Units/Multiples here.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Just Blaze: The Blazer Steps Out Of The Boardroom

What's one of the hottest
coverings for Spring?

It's our usually buttoned up corporate companion, the blazer! And this Spring it's time to roll up the sleeves and get down to the real order of business-looking fabulous. The good news is, you may not have to buy a thing to sport this trend. It very well may be already hanging up in your closet (if not, there's some great options out there for you). Instead of pairing the blazer up with usual suspects (i.e. a matching pant or skirt), choose edgier pieces like a mini skirt or a ultra feminine floral dress. Avoid going preppy and mix it up with something unexpected like leather. All those in agreeance with this trend say "I" (in that case, meeting adjourned). Is the blazer a look you'll pull off?

left photo: Gywneth Paltrow in Valentino
right photo: Elie Tahari Spring '09








Herringbone Ecole Jacket $59.99, J Crew
A versatile option available in four other colors.















Hobson Blazer $65.36, Ben Sherman
Classic and cool.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

You Better Work: Easy Stylish Options

We all have to work for a living if you enjoy sleeping in a warm bed and eating meals from time to time. But some of us have really conservative jobs that can really put a damper on a girl's style. Why settle for the old, boring predictable suit. Try wearing more dresses to work for a more feminine look that's done in a snap (just throw on and go). Banana Republic is my favorite spot for work options. They always have classic styles with a little twist and are priced pretty reasonable (and they're always having a sale). If you have to pay full price check back in two weeks for a price adjustment (forever the savvy shopper). Look how easy (and fun) dressing for work can be. If you can remember to set your alarm you'll be ready for that promotion in no time. Besides, how else can you get away with buying an entire work outfit for around $100-$150?

(above photo: Cotton Belted Shirt Dress $110, Banana Republic -Simple, easy and effortless!)










Very ladylike but still professional in a soft feminine color.















The black dress reads conservative but the princess sleeves add a little drama.



















Floral Print Dress $150, Banana Republic
Everybody loves flowers. Tone this down for work by adding a cardigan with a belt.










Monday, January 12, 2009

Somebody Has To Wear The The Pants (and boy do we have a lot of options)

Pants were all over the runways for Spring. This masculine option is all about the ladies this time around. You have your choice from any material from cotton and linen, to baggy silk. With the most daring option being the harem pant. I don't know if everyone is going to be ready to dive into this blast from the past. Our most recent visit from the harem pant was the exaggerated pair that served as a staple in MC Hammer's closet (please Hammer don't hurt 'em). While I will say a no to Dolce & Gabbana's silk pants and jacket duo (a pajama themed travesty), I think I'll say yes to the modern harem pant. Who's it gonna hurt? I'll stay on the safe side and rely on stores like H&M and Forever 21 to support this trend. Look what I found at Forever 21 for $15.80 in a nice jersey material. For that price I can take the risk and give them a spin. Does anyone think I'm crazy?
(right photo: Jill Stuart Spring '09)


Black Harem Pant $15.80, Forever 21











You can always make your own pants inspired by MC Hammer's (didn't think so)

Friday, January 9, 2009

I Want That Bag (and the coat and I'll take the belt too)!

Ladies, ladies, ladies...If you want to feel shopping bliss close your eyes and imagine yourself surrounded by the most beautiful designer items and imagine them 30-50% off retail. Open your eyes. It's not a dream if you're in a high class consignment shop. I've said it before and I'll say it again, you can't underestimate the power of a good consignment shop. Today a friend of mine urged me to stop by I Want That Bag, an authentic bag resale shop on L.A.'s famous Robertson Blvd. It's filled with lightly used (and occasionally new) designer shoes & handbags. You can find any bag from Chanel, Chloe, to Louis Vuitton (there's tons of bags and hard to find luggage trunks) in this well edited shop. I tried on a hot pair of never worn Christian Dior heels dropped off by a famous (basket) ballers wife. If you are ever in the Los Angeles area do your designer bag research and make sure this shop is a must see. But before you leave make sure you scan the room for wallets and belts in the display case. They also have a small collection of clothing (a coat or a dress here or there). I can't believe I almost walked out the place without noticing this beautiful Dolce & Gabbana navy wool coat for $389 (retails for around $2500). F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S (this picture doesn't do this coat any justice)! Know of any hot spots in your hometown (spill the beans already)?
P.S. Doesn't my girl look glamorous in the photo above (the mink is for sale but hadn't been priced yet)?

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

LA SPECIAL: SOLUTIONS The Premier Denim Store

You know I love a great store and if they're having a great sale even better. Once again I'm minding my own business and bump into this store, Solutions . They have a vast selection of denim in their denim bar and are currently having a sale on variety of designer jeans like J Brand and Chip & Pepper for $100 a pop (if you know your designer jeans, you know this is $100 well spent). But don't be fooled by the name, Solutions solves your dilemma on where to find a cute dress (casual and club ready), tops and accessories too. And you won't be turned away by the prices. I found some hot options for around $75 (and all the dresses in the window are under $100). So if you need new jeans or even if you don't, stop by (or check them out online). I'm sure you'll find something to make you smile (or at least make your butt look good given it contains the right amount of spandex).

Solutions
The Premier Denim Store
4677 Hollywood Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90027
323-644-0021


Monday, January 5, 2009

Dolce and Gabbana's Silk Pantsuit Hot Off The Spring '09 Runway: HATED IT

Okay, hear me out on this one. I'm fashion's biggest fan but even I have my limits. This time I think Dolce & Gabbana have gone too far with this one. Usually they can do no wrong on the runway but this silk pantsuit trend is way too Hugh Hefner for me. I love pants, I love silk, and adore a hot suit but no one's going to get me to pay several thousand dollars for something that looks like I purchased it at Victoria's Secret and can wear to bed. I recently saw another designer do a similar look for Spring '09 in a pale pink (can't remember who-where's my memory when I need it). Did they all attend a sleepover together and come up with this idea? Anyway, just my thoughts. Oh look, I think this one comes with a robe. Do you think they've gone to far?

Friday, January 2, 2009

New Year, Cute New Website: 4raresisters.com

Happy New Year ladies! I'm excited for a fabulous 2009. And in keeping with all that fabulousness I have a fab new website for unique accessories. It's called R.A.R.E Clothing and Accessories and they sell beautiful scarfs and custom body jewelry (at really great prices too). Started by four sisters and what do you know, one of the sisters is an alum of my alma mater. When I met her I immediately noticed her scarf (super cute) and she told me her sister made it. All the while I'm thinking, "wow, she should sell those". Hey, they must have read my mind. Check out the goods for yourself and if you can't find anything (doubtful) just remember I have a birthday coming up. Let me know what you think.