Thursday, April 29, 2010

10 Tragic Moments in Pants


My fiance, S, sent me this link to a slide show on the 10 tragic moments in pants through the years.  It's amusing, especially the slide on rompers and skorts.

I take issue with two things, however:

1) Leggings as pants
The side commentary agrees with me that leggings are, in fact, not pants.  But then, why are they in the "moments in pants" slideshow?  I do not appreciate the mixed messaging this gives the already clueless masses of women who think they could actually get away with this look.

2) Jeggings
Yes, the name is beyond ridiculous.  And yes, when done wrong, they are tragic.  But on many, they can be worn as skinny jeans- with an appropriate amount of arse coverage) and look sleek, flattering, fun, and perhaps a little 80s.

I wholeheartedly agree with the acid wash jeans and jean shorts commentary, though.  They are trends that need to die a final death.

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Nautical Accessories: You Know You Want One

I'm a sucker for the nautical trend- it shows up every spring.  I love all things stripy and anchor details get me every time. If you want to hop on this re-occurring bandwagon, I recommend 1) that you don't go head-to-toe sailor, and 2) that you mix up your nautical pieces with others that look less like they'd be found at a yacht club.  

Yeah, you could sport a striped top and call it a day, but I encourage you to step outside the, ah, boat, and consider something different this year.  Here are a few ideas:
This anchor ring is $12.  It's cute and fun and I will probably have to make it mine.

This anchor necklace is $16 and looks subtle enough to add some prep to your outfit without, ahem, weighing it down.  I know, I'm hilarious.

If you love anchors, I recommend Urban Outfitters- they have too many great nautical bracelets, necklaces, and earrings (at fantastic prices!) to list here.
These sterling silver anchor earrings are $42 and are pretty damn cute.

Also, Aldo has a great $20 braided bracelet (for which I can't add a picture for some ridiculous reason) and it's a less literal translation of the nautical look.


This is the Scalloped Sailor Skirt for $88.  This pencil skirt would be a useful work staple with some great sailor-inspired details.


I love this mixed stripe dress.  At $286, it's pricey, but if you have several outdoor events to attend this summer, it might be a good investment.  I like them with nude shoes, but it would also look sharp with red or another bright color.
Speaking of shoes, this striped wedge is $59.18 and it would be perfect with any solid color dress.  They epitomize summer for me.

Handbag of the Day: Large Hobo

This is the Fiorelli Honolulu Large Hobo for $99.76.  It's pretty and feminine- I love the pleated bow detail.  It doesn't look that huge- on the model it looks like a fairly standard size for an every day bag.  And the color seems pretty versatile; I think it could work as a neutral in many wardrobes.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Design Your Own Shoes!

Thank you, Shoeper Woman, for introducing me to this delightful, addicting, and utterly obsessive-making site, Shoes of Prey.

I have already designed 3 pairs of potential wedding shoes.  And I have at least 6 other ideas for casual shoes.

The shoes are on the pricier side- each pair I've designed so far has been $230.  But for a pair of custom designed shoes, that isn't likely to deter me...

Friday, April 23, 2010

Handbag of the Day: Wood Frame Clutch


This little cutie is the Solar Clutch from French Connection.  It's $98 which is a bit high for a cotton and wood clutch, so I'd wait for a sale on this one.  But it looks fun for summer.  I can picture it with a solid color dress and heels for a day wedding.


Thursday, April 22, 2010

Happy Earth Day: AWESOME Vegan Shoes


I discovered Beyond Skin vegan shoes on Shoeaholics Anonymous.  Their post, "Five vegan shoe brands (that won't make you look like a hippie)" listed several good options; this was by far the best recommendation.

The company states that "no humans, animals or small children were harmed in the making of our shoes."  Makes me wonder what they think small children ARE, but that's besides the point.  If eco-friendly style is important to you, these are a stylish way to go.  The company seems to use a lot of satin (great for evening!) and faux leather, the shoes have padded insoles, and all are apparently handmade.  For handmade- and supposedly comfortable- shoes, the prices are amazing.  They even have a bridal line!

I recommend peeking at the pumps and flats, which come in in fun colors and patterns.  And today, you can get 25% off the S/S 2010 line- another reason to check them out!

Happy Earth Day.

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Pro or Con? Tattoo Knee-Highs & Tights


I discovered these butterfly tattoo knee-highs through Daddy Likey.  The Etsy seller also has thigh highs and tights.  While some are pretty over the top, I find myself liking the subtler prints- the pretty butterflies or the snowflakes.   They are priced well, too.  This pair is $13, which is pretty standard for a nicer pair of tights.

I think I'm pro.

Zebra Print Flats Roundup

If you find yourself wearing a lot of black, I highly recommend breaking it up at the feet with a TINY dose of animal print.  The easiest print to wear is often zebra; anyone can do black & white, right?

And so, just for you head-to-toe black wearers, a zebra print flats round up that will elevate even your dullest all black ensemble.

These are from Taryn Rose and are $249.95.  Admittedly pricey, these have the advantage of being from a comfort line and the brown accents extends their versatility.
These French Sole flats are $114. The red suede flower seems like a witty little accent to any otherwise simple shoe.
Well-priced at $79.20, these DKNYC flats have an adjustable strap for some extra security.  I especially like these because the white portions seem closer to ivory, which makes the print a bit more subtle.
The French Sole Sloop flats are $100 and come in something like 20 color options.  They look fairly casual to me.
These are from AK Anne Klein and are $68.95.  The cap toe detail makes these a little bit special.
I really like these Ros Hommerson flats for $113.70. They look dressy and sleek enough for work and are a ladylike shape.
Last are the Me Too flats for $79.20.  These look pretty casual; I like the sporty black detail at the back.

What do you think? Are you pro or con zebra print?

Handbag of the Day: Leather Satchel

This delightful little number is the Angel Satchel from Francesco Biasia, on sale for $179.99.  It's a beautiful, and somewhat unusual shape, has a pretty lining, and looks like a great every day bag.

Monday, April 19, 2010

Some Outfit Inspiration: Part 2



Foundational Piece: Straight Leg trouser (This is the Banana Republic linen/cotton straight-leg trouser for $79.50.)


Get the most out of your tailored pants! After all, they are flattering and appropriate in many settings.  And remember, it's spring in many parts of the world now.  Time to bring out your grey, khaki, navy, tan, creme and white pants.  There ARE other neutrals besides black and dark brown, people.


Casual/Weekend look: 


1. Add a fun top (this one is $88) +
2. Shoes in a bright color (these coral pumps are $49.99) +
3. Jewelry! Sky's the limit here.  With this outfit, I like a cocktail ring and pendant necklace.


Work look:


1. Crisp top with an interesting detail or graphic print (this faux wrap top is $138) + 
2. Sleek shoes (these are $178) +
3. Jewelry! I suggest earrings and a cuff bracelet to keep everything streamlined, but you can add as much or as little as you think appropriate for your office setting. (This coil bracelet is $38 and can be worn day or night.)

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Handbag of the Day: Leather Clutch


Hellooooo, Gianni Chiarini Mini Leather Clutch for $88. You come in 5 sumptuous, versatile colors.  You come with a removable strap, detachable zip pouch, and glossy crinkled leather.  I want you. I need you.  I cannot live without you. In Amber, in Agave, in Visone.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

WANTED: Linen Boots

WANTED: (Preferably alive)  Linen boots shown at the bottom of this pic, described by In Style as "Carlos by Carlos Santana, $129; shoes.com."

REWARD: $10 Gift Card wherever you choose for finding them on a site where I can purchase them

My desire for these shoes knows no bounds.  I have searched high and low, and posted this same request on my desk at work and on Facebook.  I am about to start bombarding Twitter.  While I concede that they simply may not yet be available, I also think that's CRAP because they were shown in the April 2010 issue of In Style and we all know the April issue come out in March and was put together in freakin' November.  So these boots, these SUMMER LINEN boots, aren't available in the spring, when EVERY OTHER RETAILER has started putting out summer clothes?!  Please explain.

Handbag of the Day: Cotton Tote

This is the Bird on My Shoulder tote for $39.99.  Obviously I love a bird detail on my handbag, but there's also something about warmer weather that makes me want to lose the leather for a while and lighten up with a cotton or canvas tote.  If you like the shape and size of this one, you can find other prints here.

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

What's the Diff? The Price Edition

This is the House of Harlow 1960 Dome Cocktail Ring.  At Piperlime, it's $65.  But at ASOS it's $114.98.

People, please explain to me how the EXACT SAME RING is almost twice as expensive on one site as it is on another.  Not only is it pricier, ASOS doesn't have numbered sizes available; you can choose S/M or M/L, whatever the hell that means.  At least Piperlime's available sizes are standard ring sizes.  For the extra $50, does ASOS include a foot rub with that ring?  For 14 carat gold plate and resin, paying anything over $100 is just throwing money down a damn hole.

Some Outfit Inspiration: Part 1


It's time to make your foundational pieces work for you in multiple settings for spring!  Even if you don't have these exact pieces, it's likely you have something similar with which to start.  If you don't, you might consider the spring sales a good chance to get a few.  


Foundational Piece #1: Flattering dress in a solid color  (this one is from Banana Republic and is $98)


Casual Outfit: 
1. Statement necklace (this one is under $60) +
2. Sandals (these are fun, but sandals here could be any height; if the dress is short on you, I recommend something flat)


Work Outfit:


1. Swap the necklace for a fun (but subtle) scarf +


2. Add jacket or cardigan (this blazer looks as cozy as a sweater) +
3. Nude pumps (these are well-priced) +
4. Jewelry! I recommend a cocktail ring or a cuff bracelet.

Monday, April 12, 2010

What's the Diff? Cocktail Ring Edition

This is the Sunset Ring at Banana Republic for $39.99 (from $49.50).
This is the Claw Set Faceted Ring at ASOS for $10.15.

Frankly, aside from the setting, these look the same to me.  When it comes to costume jewelry, I recommend going with the least expensive options that look the most expensive.  Considering these are both base metal and glass or resin, I'd go with the $10 option unless the shipping cost is way more than Banana's.

Handbag of the Day: Rose Satchel

This is the Melie Bianco Rose Satchel for $90.  I love the fabulous color, the flower and leaf detail for spring & summer, and the gold tone zippers.  I'm also a sucker for a fun lining, and this bag has satin polka dot lining!

What's the Diff?


This is the Chic Week Top at Modcloth.  It's $34.99.

This is the Central Park West ruffle tank at Piperlime.  It's $74.99 (marked down from $97).

The differences are obvious: color tone, placement of the ruffles.  But are they different enough that you'd choose the silk version for more than twice the price of the polyester one?

I happen to think either one would look nice on the right body type.  Those of us with girls over a B cup may want to steer clear of them both.  They both look pretty casual, and while polyester can be GROSS, silk can be hard to wear in the heat.  Which do you like?  One, both, neither?

Sunday, April 11, 2010

Handbags of the Day: A Few in Blue (and on sale)

 This is the Andrew Marc Ivette bag on sale for $169.97 (from $350).  It comes in blue and dark brown and looks like it could work well as an everyday bag.
This is the Francesco Biasia Peggy  Satchel for $149.99 (from $298).  It's a smaller handbag, but looks like it would work perfectly with some sleek work outfits or a simple weekend jeans look.
This is the Melie Bianco Messenger Flapover for $49.99 (from $95).  It's synthetic, so would work well in this (seemingly endless) wet weather. And it looks enough like the Marc by Marc Jacobs Sasha that if you coveted that look, this is a great way to get something like it for way less moolah.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Handbag of the Day: Watermelon Tote


This Grovestand On the Go Bag looks like the perfect farmer's market accessory.  You can toss it in your bag and if you pick up any great produce, you have a fun pink reusable tote handy! And at $6.99 each, you could get the strawberry version when it's back in stock, too...

Monday, April 5, 2010

WTF?! Pinata Leggings


Their name alone should tell you all you need to know.

Handbags of the Day: (Yet More) Cross Bodies

I have been informed by sources who shall remain nameless (ahem, li'l sis), that my (alleged) obsession with cross body bags has gotten out of control.  It is those nameless critics for whom I dedicate this post, entitled Cross Body Bags I Love And If You Don't Like Them Then Don't Buy One.

First up is the L.A.M.B. belted cross body for $195.  Yes, it's pricey for a tiny bag.  But it's leather, comes in three fab colors (I want the olive one RIGHT NOW), and looks big enough to serve as an actual handbag rather than a clutch-sized purse with a strap.

Next is the MICHAEL Michael Kors cross body for $128.  It comes in 3 solid colors, 3 python embossed colors, and one print oddly called "tiger mocha."  I love this little bag and really, REALLY want someone I know to buy it so I can stare at it in person.  Smaller than the L.A.M.B. bag, it's also less expensive and the color options are fun.
Third is the Freebird by The Sak cross body for $45.  It's bigger than the first two and is synthetic, if you prefer a non-leather option.  I, of course, love it for the bird detail on the front.  I also like the pink lining.  Looks like a good every day option and is well priced.