Utility Dressing
What should be the easiest part of everyone’s day ie: getting dressed in the morning, is sometimes the hardest. Getting dressed is actually a real pain. Matching, styling, digging through your closet — especially at a way-too-early morning hour. Luckily, this spring’s hottest denim trend comes in one easy piece: the overall. They can be great especially on a lazy Saturday when you don’t want to wear your gym clothes all day long, you don’t have any real plans, but you are miffed by what else besides basic jeans you could throw on.
Nineties style as I have written about before, See: Neo grunge, has returned in a big way, with flannel shirts, floral babydolls, and Dr. Martin combat boots slowly taking over our wardrobes. But that one item I wore in the 1990s I truly haven’t missed: overalls. Remember wearing overalls?! There were long ones, short ones, skirt ones, colorful ones, corduroy ones. Sometimes I’d even leave one strap unbuckled for cool points.While it can be intimidating for those of us who haven’t donned a pair since elementary school, no fear–why not try a pair and see how easy it is to get out and start your day?
Overall, (get it?), wearing them is a great idea, except for the bathroom necessities when you’re out and about. Last week while on a showroom appointment, I used the ladies’ room and my straps literally fell into the toilet. Sometimes you have to laugh things off, and not take life too seriously. The key here? Wear them, don’t style them. It’s a very real piece of clothing. Nothing underneath except a tube top or a blouse.
Wearing Topshop Full-length overalls, get a similar pair here and Current / Elliotts here, J Crew Breton striped shirt Elizabeth & James bright pink blazer, V73 transparent tote bag, Retrosuperfuture sunglasses
I watched silky overalls march down the runway s this past fashion week and wasn’t sure how quick it was going to catch on. I’ve already spotted many variations of the ’90s-tastic style, some even with one strap un-hooked à la Salt N’ Pepa. I think it’s safe to officially call it a spring trend.
Céline sandals
Photos taken by Ria Michelle
Adorn Me
I’ve never wanted to get additional ear piercings, because I was too afraid I’d regret it later, never had the desire for unnecessary pain by needle, and wasn’t that into punk. Frankly, I have a hard time drawing attention to the side of my head, namely my hairline. But it is really hard to ignore my recent appreciation of the single earring and hair jewelry happening right now in the accessories world. Piercing on all counts, is definitely a hallmark of punk style – in a safety-pin through the ear kind of way. Even if I consider a delicate piercing, it is out of the question for me, as my children delicately told me they would disown me if I were to pierce any body part. While I still fantasize in some way about going through with it, and regret my 19-year-old self bailing on the prospect, (I have truly seen too many horror stories) my ear cartilage is happy to be in tact.
Pamela Love head piece, Mara Hoffman runway show spring 2013
Edgy and modern Generation Xers are constantly searching for something new. With their ears, lips, nose, and others piercings already adorned, they are on the hunt for the next body adornment. Not part of Generation X nor Y, with all the offerings available now, I am happy to say that you don’t need to pierce a body part to get the look. Why not try a toe ring this summer? Or jump into hair jewelry, or the single unmatched earring in a hole that is already pierced? Obviously Claire’s does the ball and chain thing pretty nicely for the under-13 set, but I have a new-found appreciation for all things delicate and simple. With a downtown edge. No needless needles going through my body required.
Today on The Fashion Hunter, we celebrate the adornments sans needles and the temporary fix to get just the decoration your ear and head is looking for. The key to decorating your limbs is to mix and match a me with a spiked cuff, and watch all those single eyes widen.
From top left: all links are optimized for your shopping pleasure. Why don’t you try a cloud and lip? A star and me? Your choice of the 11 things for the win.
1. Max & Chloe Nolan Chain black diamond chain cuff earring, $340.00
2. BCBGMAXAZRIA chain elastic headband, $48.00
3. Nasty Gal Hematite spiked ear cuff, $25.00
4. Maison Michel ‘Liberty’ Studded headband, 651.00
5. Delfina Delettrez Eye ball in gold/pearl/enamel single earring, $575.00
6. RP Encore single ear crow earring, $100.
7. Perfect for spring “It can’t rain all the time” single earring by Delfina Delettrez who lends us her sense of humor on our lobes, $320.00
8. Jacquie Aiche Ball chain ear cuff, $165.00
9. Jennifer Fisher star mini star and moon with pave diamonds, $1,200
10. Jennifer Meyer me stud in rose gold, $275.00 to mix your messages on a daily basis, $275.
11. Anni Jurgenson ear cuff with gold-plated spikes, $47.00
A Spring Uniform
Spring’s performance has been less than stellar of late and now that it is finally May, and not much has changed in the weather department over these past few weeks, (okay we had one warm day), its time to break out the classics; the boyfriend jeans, the blazer, and the oversized men’s shirts. Borrowing from the boys has always been something that I lean towards, given my pared down simplified routine, and it isn’t a bad thing. Especially if you’re surrendering to a solid spring uniform.
LITKE shirt, available in Fall 2013 at OAK. Get a similar one here, Proenza Schouler jacket, Stella and Dot charm necklace.
Tired of sporting those washed up prints from last season? Or the “ish” dresses that sit in your closet? Me too. Not coincidentally, menswear for women is nothing new. I’m obsessed with the idea of a uniform, and men have that down to a science. I find myself picking up style tips from men’s sportswear. When I stare blankly into my closet wondering what to wear, eureka! It’s so simple. I just want to wear a blue and white striped dress shirt with an easy-to-manipulate collar and silver buttons that would look so incredibly French and chic, layered over anything. Maybe it’s the style hound Emmauelle Alt, the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Paris, who makes that dress shirt so appealing. Her raison d’être is nothing but mere existing in her blazers and skinny jeans, and yet her über handsome French style is copied worldwide. Paired with a just right mini skirt for work, or jeans for le weekend, and a small lizard pouch, I know this look will do the trick with a capital T.
Jerome Dreyfuss python popoche pouch, Valentine Gauthier Mirage skirt available at Steven Alan in the Fall.
Mother’s Day
I recently asked a handful of the chicest moms I know to tell me about their dream Mother’s Day gifts. The common theme? Jewelry, homemade breakfast in bed, and some sleep. I can totally relate to that and the older my kids get, the more I just want the sleep portion of the day, and some good hugs, rather that anything else. With each passing year, my understanding of what it means to be a mother deepens, gets challenged and teaches me more and more about myself. Even with the joys, trials, and tribulations of motherhood, given life’s circumstances, there is no way I would trade it for the world. Today and throughout the weekend, The Fashion Hunter is dedicating this to all the beautiful mothers in the world, especially my own.
As far as what to get mom, she would probably be happy with just a long phone call, but why not go the extra mile for the woman who spent five hours baking your birthday cake or consoled you when that guy broke your 16-year old heart? Not a mom? You can give these things to yourself too, you know.
This is a brief collage of last-minute gift ideas should you find yourself without anything to give her on Sunday. Those on team mom, shift your eyesight just below where you will find a small slew of ideas, and don’t forget to show your appreciation and thank her for giving you a life which is more than anybody can ask.
Starting top left: Acne Studios ponyhair baseball cap for those moments that you just want to have that extra shade. Moving down the ladder, Catbird stackable necklaces because You are My moon and Stars says just about everything. Who has time for a mani pedi these days? Let alone waiting for the polish to dry? Hopefully somebody will cut you a break and give you the gift of time. This Butter LONDON black nail polish is awesome, get a similar one from NARS.
Middle row, on the top, the Jayson Home Burlap vase with the white roses inside is just the thing to make her smile. Did somebody mention rest? ZZZ right on this Calypso St. Barth skull rabbit pillow, no alarm clock needed. I was told by my dermatologist how important using face cream is especially now that the sun’s rays are known to be damaging to the skin, causing unwanted wrinkles. Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay cream is just the magic potion you need.
And finally, spread the joy and light up the room with some black votives, tell everyone how much you love them with this Paris Love ring, curl up with a cool stack of DIOR books, have your freaking Magnum Ice Cream bar if you want, and call it a night. Because nobody deserves it more than you.
Here’s to mom.
Prom Dresses
Come the beginning of May, high school girls’ thoughts stray away from homework, final exams, and school work as they start daydreaming about going to the beach, taking off their thinking caps for a bit and of being asked to the prom. Pinterest is currently swarming with weddings, cocktail attire, and details of what to wear for all types of party-goers. Tis’ the season for dressing up, and today on The Fashion Hunter, we will throw it back to the high school prom, not on throwback Thursday, otherwise known as #tbt, but on a random Wednesday.
Does anybody out there remember Your Prom Magazine? A few years back, I was their in-house stylist, and I can recall the drastically different dresses from then to now, testing my knowledge of the prom market. I used this shoot as a launching pad for my upcoming styling work on three high school girls who were willing to strut their stuff. Like any fashion shoot, it was a showcase to style the girls in three different looks in three different price ranges: vintage, glamourpuss, and the columnar embellished glitzy dress whilst covering just the tip of what’s out there for prom – sans the boyfriend. This post was a lot of fun to style as these young stars surprisingly never modeled before. To be honest, it was a day of girly fun starting at the hair and makeup station at 8AM, to getting lost en route to our location, to the perfect final shots.
I asked each girl what prom meant to them and I am happy to report that nothing has changed since the dinosaur age of my prom days. It’s all about top 40 remix heaven, the getting ready beforehand, and of course, stashing the heels and enjoying the after party. Take a peek below at the lovely girls and what they have to say. Notice a similar thread running though each of their minds. Say yes to the dress, but the date takes second place by far.
Starting with Sarah who says “getting dressed is the biggest thing and looking pretty for the pictures. Date doesn’t matter, that is just a detail.”
Decode 1.8 strapless prom dress, $298.
Unique Vintage dress, $290. available only at The Look, Qupid shoes get a similar pair from G by Guess, $44.00
Michelle says prom is “glamorous, magical, and fun. Getting dressed up is definitely the best part , hair, makeup, and nails — it’s fun being a girl! It’s special, the one night you can let loose!”
Von Vonni convertible Transformer dress, $160.00, Nine West shoes.Va va Voom.
For Olivia prom is about “spending the night with a guy that you have a good time with. She says, you never really get the chance to get all dressed up and really look nice. Even better? Your favorite teachers can come and see you at your best.”
Sue Wong spaghetti-strap dress, $450.00
Pretty in pink, was the theme of the day because , well they looked like princesses getting dressed for the ball. And frankly, in the end, it fit their ideal prom look. I loved how they lived in the moment and laughed the day away. And then the fun happened. And as you can see from the pics below, those sky-high shoes were ditched for bare feet.
Dresses left to right: Nicole Miller open back jersey gown, Decode 1.8, Nicole Miller high low gown.
Photography: Jim D’Angelo
A big shout out goes to The Look for supplying all the dresses, and as a special offer use code UNTER to get 15% off ! Contact The Look for more details.
A shout out goes to Carina, my intern, for helping out with hair, makeup, and assisting me on-set, Jim D’Angelo for taking fantastic magical pics, and for all the lovely girls for making this day possible.
The Best For Less
Collage: Carina Gupta
Do you know what I spent most of Sunday doing? Editing the sad state of my overcrowded closet, putting some once sartorial treasures up on Copious, (I am selling a pair of awesome overalls), and relegating what once adorned by body, in a massive love affair, to the internet masses. And do you know why? Because everybody likes a fresh look. And after a few seasons of wearing the same few ripped jeans, motorcycle jackets, and freakin’ Margiela black boots ad nauseam, frankly, the state of my outfits feel stale and boring and I want new garb.
Every morning I gaze into the depths of my closet, wondering why I feel the “I have nothing to wear” syndrome, but that just isn’t true. The sweaters and coats that lived on my body this winter need to peel off moving towards lighter, brighter days. And after endless editing, my last season’s garments still look, eh. Ah, yes! it’s this time of year where it’s not cold, but not hot either that we all face this dilemma.
And what’s a fashionista to do under these circumstances? Buy a new uniform for spring.
Everyone loves a bomber jacket, and this Miu Miu red leather one, for $2,990 is the bomb. In fact, from street style hit to front row uniform, a bomber jacket is essential for spring 2013. Destroyed light wash denim? Duh. Here’s a pair of J Brand for $216. Moving down to the accoutrements: DVF Carolina Lips snake and leather clutch is the perfect conversation piece in a turquoise blue adding just the right pop of color and Gianvito Rossi black studded leather pumps for $445 and $960 respectively. All yours for a grand total of $4,600 excluding tax.
And for a more economical version of the same look, here you have it. Topshop Varsity bomber jacket, $70. and Topshop MOTO bleach skinny jeans for $70. An ASOS clutch turquoise bag with the same pop as the DVF number, for $33.00. As for the black studded shoes, they are ZARA for $69.00. Total all in for this look? $242.00.
So what’s the takeaway here? Think about how many times you will wear said outfit costing you $4,600. vs $242.00 and dividing it by cost per wear. Don’t have a budget? No problem. You won’t need a calculator. But, for the rest of us, who may need to go thrifty, save up something big. Like this shark tooth pendant.
And as Ludacris says How Low can you go? I only have $20 in my pocket.
Hover. Click. Buy. Repeat.
Punk Fashion
Art historians, writers, and costume designers alike commonly reference the past as a rite of passage. Visionaries in the art and fashion worlds, examine the past and they incorporate many subcultures and styles in their work of today. When those worlds collide, you have art as we know it and fashion on the street.
To celebrate the opening of the Punk Fashion exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum on May 6th, today on the Fashion Hunter, I will illustrate how haute couture and read-to-wear have borrowed punk’s visual symbols, in my much abridged version. Although studs, spikes, and stilettos were not a huge part of my vocabulary in the 1970′s, (yet I was a bit rebellious with a capital R). I mended the rips in my shirts with safety pins, listened to the Clash, attended shows at dark and seedy CBGB, (no, Sid Vicious was not my icon), and decorated my jeans with studs. For a visual snapshot, see Balmain’s runway show below from Spring 2011.
Photo: Style.com
Punk over the years has changed, but the core, it still has the sense of rebellion and controversy. Anna Sui presented punk looks on her runway this season, she actually lived the punk era, and claims that studs and chokers appearing in fashion doesn’t have the same shock value. If you didn’t live through it, she claims consumers today are appropriating the concept which gets lost and cheapens fashion. That bring said, the do-it-yourself impact of punk will never die. My take on punk goes like this: as an honorary member of that era, in the rip-to-shreds spirit, I can wear a choker without referencing rebelliousness, and romanticize the past with the wild crowd and the fierce energy that highlighted the times. Punk fashion is about mixing elements with other seasonal trends.
Fenton Fallon choker, Rag & Bone Jefferson Blazer, VonZipper shades
Photo: Lydia Hudgens
With the sponsorship of Moda Operandi (the website is offering access to the upcoming creations and the upcoming fundraiser on May 6th) they will be live-streaming the show, and will feature designers like Vivienne Westwood and Givenchy on their site May 2nd. I am anticipating a use of recycled materials from trash and consumer culture, graffiti and razor blades to be a part of the exhibition. And, if you are one of the lucky few to attend this celebrity-studded event, I have curated my own outfit collage for your purchasing pleasure below, complete with studs, collars, spikes and the like for you to wear and celebrate with a punk-rock edge for 2013.
Starting on the left, all links are clickable, likeable, and optimized.
Alexander McQueen Long Knuckle studded leather box clutch, Givenchy Interwoven leather sandal, get a similar one here
Joomi Lim Crystal and spike necklace, Alice & Olivia Poppy embellished crepe gown
Tom Binns Safety Binns earrings, Asos Punk multipack rings — you can’t go wrong for $12.00 here! , and finally we all know your feet are going to hurt by night’s end, so why not exchange those heels for these Miu Miu studded leather metallic sneakers? Huh?
ROCK ON!
Game Changer
Being a New York girl, even in the warm weather, wearing shorts to work or to a meeting was never really a viable option ever since I can remember. However, neither are pajamas. But the tide is changing and now almost anything goes. Paired with blazers, jeans can really werk an outfit like nobody’s business, vests are the new motorcycle jackets, and white wrap shorts are my new favorite go-to piece.
My goals are to establish a uniform that is comfortable to wear, yet can be mixed and paired with a multiple of different pieces in my closet. While staring blankly into my closet each spring and wondering what to wear, I came up with this theory of keeping a separate rolling rack in my room with all the basics– white, black, loads of denim, and a pop of color here and there. Keeping them separate really identifies their true power.
Proenza Schouler neoprene top, Zara white wrap shorts, J W Anderson vest, Reed Krakoff Mini shoulder bag, VonZipper Snark Vibrations sunglasses
The magic of fashion is the ability to transform who you want to be on a daily basis. Feeling playful today? See above. Feeling strong and confident? See below. Feeling like a celebrity? op on those sunglasses. It takes years to create an easy dressing routine, but once you know what looks good on your skin, you can master the art of “I have nothing to wear today” dilemma we all face.
Givenchy wrap python sandals, Emily Kammeyer blue multi-snake triple-wrap tassel bracelets, Chan Luu wrap bracelet,
Photography: Lydia Hudgens
Hope everyone has a happy Monday and thanks for visiting my blog! xo
Spring Hair
A new season always brings new opportunities to shine, so why not put some well-deserved life into your hair? Along with spring and summer comes heat and humidity, so what a better way to attack it than with a cool braided do. I’m always trying so hard to straighten my hair with a ton of products, a straightening iron, and lots of wasted time, so I caved to the cowlick and started to experiment with my hair. The result? A manifestation of new plait-spiration to try at home. Want this cool trendy turban, shown below, made completely out of braids? Yeah, me too.
H&M sweater, get a similar one here by Marc Jacobs. Photo: via Refinery 29
Twists, plaits, and fishtails are now considered an essential part of every girl’s coif repertoire —and if you’re not well-versed on this hair lexicon, don’t worry. Although this is not a tutorial, a DIY, or a how-to on braids, (leave it to the folks at Honestly WTF or The Beauty Department to take care of that) with a hot-crossed bun made for even those with short hair.
For those of you that may be intimidated by this seemingly complex style, all it takes is sections of braids (the messier, the better) and a handful of bobby pins to help them stay in place. Where to start? Take a peek at the products you might want to have handy:
Collage by Carina Gupta
1. Ouidad Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel. A must-have styling aid to control frizz in all climates.
2. ghd Candy Collection hair styler
3. Sephora hair ties for when you need to tie your hair back in a pretty pink wrap.
4. DryBar yellow brush perfect for detangling
5. DevaCurl Flexible Hold Spray for the final touch
6. Carol’s Daughter Loc Butter looks like something I want to eat, made with soybean oil and natural shea butter but it’s food for the hair. This pomade intensely moisturizes twists, coils, braids, and “locs.”
Perfect for that weekend prom, or wedding coming up in the next month…Happy Braiding!
Retail Therapy
One afternoon, when I was old enough to take the crosstown bus by myself in New York City, when tokens were a part of our lexicon, I recall passing Bergdorf Goodman while on my way with friends at the 57th Street stop. I remember thinking how grand the 5th Avenue landmark was, and did I need an invite to get in? My friend proudly proclaimed that it was her favorite store in the world even at the tender age of 14, and that she wanted her ashes to be scattered there. As for myself, I was still shopping in the boy’s department at Brooks Brothers as nothing else fit me, 
and I thought it was pretentious of her to shop at a store that my mother frequented.
Years later, I am a Bergdorf Goodman patient and hesitate going anywhere else for my monthly routine visits. The elaborate windows draw you in, the magic awaits each one of us as we enter’s its doors, and the whole retail store lends itself to a dramatic experience. At this point in my life, I do most of my shopping through My Hunts, but if I am going out to shop in an actual brick and mortar store, there are very few I will enter, and Bergdorfs is on my hit list.
Who is the Bergdorf Woman? She is a sharp, fashion-forward go-getter with a highly edited shop at her fingertips. Fashion is tricky business and the iconic store is a laboratory for new talents. Linda Fargo, the senior vice president of the fashion office and store presentation, shops for that talent, and is the luxury department store’s chief trend spotter, ambiance master and gatekeeper of style. She sets the bar by predicting trends, and is a true leader deciding whether a designer and his or her collection is BG worthy. And she supposedly is a very real person, extremely admirable, and is a riot to work with. And its a win-win shopping with sharp-tongued personal shopper Betty Halbreich who is not afraid of saying exactly what’s on her mind.
From retail dreams to reality, have you ever wanted to go behind the scenes at one of the most iconic department stores in the world? Wouldn’t you want to sit back and watch what goes on behind the scenes, with a bag of popcorn, the real gut-wrenching belly scenes behind this iconic establishment? Huh? Huh? You’re just in luck, read on.
A new documentary premiering May 3rd, Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s delves into Bergdorf Goodman’s rise from a simple shop to a pillar of fashion culture. The scene of many a fashion fantasy, the documentary, filmed in conjunction with Bergdorf’s 111th anniversary, features testimonials from a WWD‘s worth of fashion luminaries, including Michael Kors, Rachel Zoe, Oscar de la Renta, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, and the Olsen twins. It also traces the history of the high-profile figures that have been devoted shoppers at the store, which has been open since 1899.
To celebrate, The Fashion Hunter is giving away two tickets to the exclusive screening on May 2nd. Without giving away the dirty gossip, and the hilarious vignettes, (I will only say that Yoko Ono once bought 70 furs on Christmas Eve), you have a chance to peek behind the backroom doors and into the reality of the fascinating inner workings and fabulous untold stories from Bergdorf Goodman. Want to win? Want to hear what heavy-weights are weighing in? Here’s how:
Post your favorite look, tell a story, show a lipstick, tell a tale, or write about your experience you had shopping at Bergdorf Goodman for a chance to win 2 tickets to the New York screening. The funniest, most witty and creative entry gets it all. Enter your email address in the comments below.
In order to be applicable to win, you must do the following:
· Follow @bergdorfs and @nyfashionhunter on Instagram (if you have an iPhone)
· Like Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s on Facebook
· Add the hashtag #GetScattered and #Followthehunter to your caption on Twitter
And watch the trailer!
I will keep the contest open all week, tweeting out a few favorites, and will choose the winner on April 30th. Contest closed, congratulations Carolyn!
One lucky winner will receive a pair of passes to an exclusive advance screening of SCATTER MY ASHES AT BERGDORF’S on May 2nd at 7pm at a downtown Manhattan theatre. Visit http://www.bergdorf-movie.com for more info!
Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s
Premiering May 3rd and directed by Matthew Miele, you will get a rarefied chance to peek behind the backroom doors and into the reality of the fascinating inner workings and fabulous untold stories from Bergdorf Goodman’s iconic history.
I’ll meet you there…and Good Luck!
Boyfriend Jeans
Ripped-up jeans tend to have a certain love-worn appeal, as if you’ve owned them forever. They lend your look a casually cool vibe that’s spot-on for spring. From skinny silhouettes to baggy boyfriend shapes, the denim craze can be worn on weekends, or in the workplace if your profession lends itself to such devil-may-care wear as obligatory rips.
Today on the Fashion Hunter, we explore the entire version of Friday’s weekend wear post, concurring that denim has this magical ability to casualize nearly everything. Keep in mind that even the most intentional of rags, holes and all, are a statement of choice, rather than a prescribed dose of medicine.
Click the links below, and as always, they are available for purchase. Optimized links, et al. The deets: Rag & Bone jeans, The Jefferson blazer is also Rag & Bone (I’m a big R & B fan) worn with a T by Alexander Wang black halter top. I love that the jacket curves in just the right places. For a pop, I added nothing but a simple Alice and Olivia lucite box clutch, Von Zipper sunglasses, and a Fallon black choker.
Jeans are jeans, but style is what you do with them. Personal style blogs are catalysts for breaking the hard-core rules of fashion today. Style is not what defines a woman, but rather, it’s the confidence to pull off almost anything you want to wear. I’ve been very particular about the jeans I choose, but that doesn’t eliminate the fact that no matter what, the crotch department never looks good. Ripped up and slouchy in just the right places, they successfully conceal the body parts that have been in hibernation for way too long.
Fans like Mary-Kate Olsen and Elle Fanning are wearing them, because they are so nonchalant and oh so cool, but everybody can get in on this.
Let’s start this conversation, what are your favorite jeans and why? Do tell.
Catbird ring, J Crew iPhone case
Photos: Lydia Hudgens
Get the Look here:
TGIF
Rag & Bone jeans, Tibi sandals, Alice and Olivia lucite clutch, J Crew iPhone case
photo: Lydia Hudgens
I couldn’t have dreamed up a better pair of boyfriend jeans to wear this weekend than this number from Rag & Bone. Even though the denim industry has never gone awry, I feel like the blue jean culture is making another great comeback. Jeans like these didn’t exist when I was growing up, there was only one type of denim available on the market, and it was the blue jean in a boot cut, or Gloria Vanderbilt jeans. Really? No really. Since then, we’ve had skinnies, skinnier, faded, tie-dyed, stone-washed, colored, and everything in between. I’m so happy to embrace the baggy boyfriend jeans that plenty of denim brands have to offer. Super comfortable, they may not be the most flattering pants out there, don’t forget who wears the pants? You.
Stay tuned on Monday for the full outfit post that I styled with jeans as the focus. As it should be.
Happy Friday!
A Game Changer
In our celebrity-obsessed culture, there are very few actors that eschew the airbrushed glossy world, and offer striking honesty both in pose and content. Julianne Moore is that rarefied unique actress. She is an artist who extends our way of seeing things, making them more real. Moore exaggerates her roles as she digs deep into the human psyche. I am enthralled with her work as she opens up my eyes, and I’m sure millions of others, to new ideas of taste and beauty with full disclosure. This photo of Moore, taken from T Magazine, summarizes her stunningly good looks.
Marc Jacobs slip
The same can be said for style’s ability to give us interchangeable identities. One day you can project yourself in layers of fringe, denim jorts, and big hats c/o Coachella, and the next day you go back to work in your pyjamas, fulfilling the various vicarious parts of us. Striking strawberry red hair and a heavy dose of imperfection, Moore is my role model who doesn’t “sunbathe in admiration”, but rather admires the world as a whole by managing not just to entertain you, but to elevate the doldrums of the everyday. My takeaway? In the fashion world where age and youthful looks truly matter, being true to myself and remaining real might just be the ticket and the right thing to do.
Here she is photographed below in all her fiery glory.
Photo courtesy of T Magazine , Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin
White On
With the official start of spring over and out, boots put away into storage, I can’t think of a cleaner more appropriate look right now than white shoes. Put an end to the debate whether or not white shoes are a thing. They are. Cobblestone streets in the concrete jungle can ruin the whitest of heel intentions without a doubt, and the likelihood of getting the shoes dirty is pretty high. But, dirty white shoes in treacherous conditions stand out, and make 99% of your outfit sharp and chic. Cue my Zara white soles paired with ripped Ksubi denim below or check out these Alexander McQueen bad boys. They tell tales of a forward-thinking pedestrian with places to go, and people to meet.
But why white?
What am I talking about? Still not convinced? How about those Aussie girls photographed for their smart sartorial choices? Nude is so last summer, and black as a power statement shoe is so overplayed. It seems the 90′s are back in a big way, and this particular shoe hue – which was often deemed tacky and only for nurses– is making a comeback, particularly when paired with the color-blocking, geometric and neon trends of the season.
Let’s take a look at what’s in the marketplace.
From top left going across: My favorite goes to the Acne lug sole both rugged and comfortable yet convincingly awesome at the same time. Although they are quite pricey, ranking in the highest price on the board, ten points for Acne on these. For a lower priced option, how about these Nasty Gal Feelin’ It Platform Wedges? Look 3, far right. Got a wedding? How about a bridal shower? These BCBGMAXAZRIA white sandals will do the trick.
Middle row first look is the Christian Louboutin Dos Noeud pump shown in white. Jump into the middle Charlotte Olympia kitty cat flats, and you can rock these day into night. Third Saint Laurent numbers are hot because well duh, they’re Saint Laurent.
Moving down, I have a crush on these Topshop Flatforms. I actually like the contrasting black sole vs my white ones, and at $170.00 they are not going to break the bank. Speaking of Big Bottoms, how about these Jil Sander Navy Sneakers? They may be a bit ironic, but give you the height of heels without the discomfort and the high price tag, clocking in at a reasonable $550.00. And last but not least, if money is no object even on tax day, get these white classic Saint Laurent sneakers. Because sneakers are cool, white is hot, and you may even get a chance to hang with Yeezy.
White shoes get my vote. How about you?
By Nature
A recent appreciation for all lip adorned accoutrements, combined with the onset of Coachella , had me probing into other possible unique body accessories such as those that exist in nature. Recent harsh wintry-weather has plugged Mother Nature as the devil, but if there was ever a time for forgiveness, this is it. The temps will rise, the sun will shine, and soon all mid-April complaints will be washed away. So why not celebrate with Earth’s beautiful bounty?
The initial thought was that wearing feathers in our hair, or butterflies on our scalps would be a wash out. Not only for hard-core nature enthusiasts, the playing field has been leveled. There are flowers budding around us, hummingbirds knocking on our trees, and the smell of Manure fresh-cut grass just outside your window. Why can’t we wear our lips and hearts, ironic f*ck off bracelets, show off our swag, and show our love for Mother Nature? The jewelry and adornment of today isn’t your grandma’s strand of pearls. It’s in the details of the mélange below that might spark your fancy. See butterflies, ferns, and other leaf-like substances all for under $50.00!
Let’s acknowledge spring’s fresh beginnings.
Collage by Carina Gupta
1. Alex and Ani Butterfly bangle
2. Kate Spade New York Crystal Stud Earrings
3. Amrita Singh Gold leaf Earrings
4. Oasis Leaf Double Ring
5. BCBG MAXAZRIA Leaf Headband
6. Hive & Honey Layered Leaf Stretch Bracelet
Aussie Style
Today, an email popped into my inbox, along with my MBFW chic Instagram feed, exclaiming the beginning of Sydney Fashion Week to be wowing us yet again. Yes, Sydney has become a strong player in the fashion game. With the likes of Ellery, Camilla & Marc, Han, New Generation, and five straight days of buzzing presentations, it seems that Down Under is the place to be right now, not Coachella. Just kidding. If music is what you are after, head over to Indio without regrets.
When Australian Fashion Week rises from down under, and just like that the jaded minds take heed. Before I start analyzing the trends, perhaps we should look to the streets where Zara baseball jackets, and a new crop of coolness is flexing its sartorial muscles.
Consider the pics below as your source of inspiration for budding wardrobes.The Homies beanie, Raglan sleeve jacket printed with the words “Victory”, bra tops over T-shirts, T-shirts revealing more than they should, and the ubiquitous Balenciaga rings. And the woman wearing these knock-me-dead looks? Take your time clicking through, there’s something strangely beautiful to spot in each of these looks.Ten points for Australia.
Coachella Cheat Sheet
Heading to the desert this weekend? It wouldn’t be a great idea to blend into the crowd of music lovers seamlessly with the same old band T-shirt and cutoff shorts would it? Not that I don’t love and wear denim jorts all summer long. I love me a denim on denim sandwich. But here’s the thing, its time to turn up the volume in that 900 degree heat. Amp up your festival gear with an easy day dress, or rock a bandage swimsuit for the hotel pool parties.
For real indie cred, and the hashtag most “fashion-y” music festival, (Bonnarr0 may have a better line-up), use the collage below as your guide to all things Coachella that will fit perfect in your carry-on bag. I wouldn’t recommend packing a blazer this time, but rather a bikini top, judging from past scorching concerts in the desert heat. Feather headdresses more like it.
Collage by Carina Gupta
In no special order, for starters how about a Topshop Ikat print Suntop? Or the Maje Acrobate stretch-crepe mini dress? They would be my go-to pieces. And the Steve Madden Mezcal booties for the desert heat? 1970′s Woodstock throwback? Inject some laid-back cool with these René Caovilla Swarovski crystal-embellished sandals. Don’t leave those behind in your trailer-park. Indio wouldn’t be Indio without some cool Ray-Ban aviator sunnies. And because music festivals will continue to influence fashion, as long as music and fashion are both used to express individuality. As far as bags go, you know this Liebeskind tote is popular at $325. when its sold out here but available on my blog, or go for the butterfly encrusted McQ printed leather clutch, although at $605. is a bit more novel. That Topshop ombre fringe top is super cute but almost nearly sold out. So if you’re heading out west the following weekend, how about this Forever Young Wildfox top for a hundred bucks?? If you look great (see: young), you are guaranteed fun in the sun. As for the southern regions, Citizen of Humanity bootlegs or teeny tiny ripped NSF jorts? The price is right, the choice is yours.
For your shopping pleasure:
On another note, what do you think of my new Westward Leaning banner? I happen to think its time to stay on the sunny side of the street and try a pair!
That’s all for now! Oh yeah, don’t forget to pack dental floss.
Dream On
It was apparent to me from the onset that I didn’t want a sedentary secretarial job after graduating from college - I longed for a more esoteric position – when I failed my first typing test. On my first job interview, little unbeknownst to me, the requirements for the position, were to type at a lightning fast speed of 55 wpm among many other unattainable requirements, like owning a few pairs of Manolo Blahniks on an assistant’s measly salary. My fingers did excel at Katherine Gibbs secretary school, knowing it probably was an applicable skill to have under my belt. I finally procured that highly covetable editorial position, albeit circuitously, and realized there was a lot more that came with the entry-level position. I was able to cover the market, style shoots, attend press functions, and meet with industry professionals, all at my day job.
Little did I know, fast forward many years later, I am speed typing on my laptop, producing blog posts at the speed of sound, all in the name of working from home. I get to wear pajamas all day! Perhaps it is time to celebrate. When Marc Jacobs paraded pajamas down the runway at Louis Vuitton, and Rihanna and Sofia Coppola showed up at parties in pajamas like tiny Julian Schnabels, I was elated.
If pyjamas were fair game to wear to actual events in the day, my wardrobe actually just became much larger and significantly more cutting-edge. Remember last spring, designers like Stella McCartney showed lingerie down the runways and I along with everyone else adopted the look? Designer pajamas are still so cool, like better-cut, ultra-feminine suits that a very short person could wear. Yes, Spring has sprung finally, and what a better way to celebrate the new season than a pair of comfy silk jammies. And in that same spirit, I will wear pajamas and sweatshirts out of the house and see if I will become Sofia Coppola. Or, at least, enjoy brunch as much as her.
Starting down at the pants which are printed and loose, and let it be known: are as close to cozying in bed as they come. Photographed below: Sea New York drawstring pants FTW. All links optimized for your stay in bed with your laptop shopping pleasure.
Photography, Lydia Hudgens
Linda Farrow sunglasses, J Crew lightweight denim blue shirt, T by Alexander Wang grey sweatshirt, Dannijo necklace, Sea New York (On Sale! I might add) drawstring pants, ASOS clutch, get a similar one by Givenchy, Manolo Blahnik metallic single sole pumps.
The Boyfriend Blazer
A few years back when I traveled, be it near or far, I used to overpack. By a long shot. I was guilty of paying the overweight charges on my luggage, transferring some items into the other bag, therefore rendering my carry-on just another generic black bag on the baggage check conveyor belt. This caused me compulsive anxiety as all the contents of my luggage were no longer in my possession, a very uncomfortable scenario. Not OK with the whereabouts of my precious jewelry, I knew I had to change my ways. Frankly, my reason for overpacking was simple, I just didn’t want to smell. I figured there were two roads in front of me and I had to make a decision. Continue overloading my life with excess stuff I probably wasn’t going to wear or need, or go with the carefree option minus the hygiene concern. Well the jig is up, and I went with the “less is more” concept beginning and ending with a trusty boyfriend blazer and lots of deodorant.
While I will be packing this morning, I know that I have to fit my clothes into a carry-on. I also wanted to challenge myself to this really fun game I’d made up called, take two outfits on a weekend trip based around one blazer. An easy execution in my book as you know how much I love blazers as I feel that they are the today’s answer to the dreaded what should I wear at all times? never-ending question. For the purposes of the collage formatted below, some of the items in question are not mine but rather are fine offerings of the world-wide web.
In case you are in need of a great blazer, the best boyfriend jeans ever, or a new pair of single sole pumps, or a new necklace, this is for you. You never know when you might have to jump on a plane at the last-minute. Use this as your guide. All items below are all shoppable, hyper-linking to websites that you can purchase. See you on the other side.
Iris & Ink cashmere sweater, Ria heavy chain necklace, 3.1 Phillip Lim slim trousers, get a similar pair here, Clare Vivier La Pouchette, Ileana Makri gold skull necklace, Gold #1 Pendant necklace, Sydney Evan black tooth necklace. The T by Alexander Wang Boxy Linen Blazer I will wear with a t-shirt and my new bra-top deeming it my go-to piece of the season. And my shoe choices remain the same, Christian Louboutin sandals, and Skull Star skull high tops.
As far as the sunglasses go, these Silver City AHAlife Holdings Inc are pretty high on my list for now. The Zara striped top is great for all-year round style and so is this great Marc Jacobs one. Current/Elliot‘s version of the boyfriend jean offer an excellent fit in the denim department which I will wear with the Loubies or the high-tops.
There you have it. Thanks to the blazer and trail sizes of Dove, I no longer anticipate what will happen to my luggage anymore.
Gucci Loafers
In high school I wanted those baby yellow suede Gucci loafers more than any other pair of shoes as far as I can remember. In fact, I had saved up petty cash in the name of babysitting for a number of months in order to get them into my closet as my mother refused to buy them. “How can you justify spending upwards of $595.00 (which back then was an exorbitant amount of money for a pair of shoes) on a pair of flats”? she would yelp from the kitchen. She knew the word flats would get me. I don’t know what it was about them that caused me deep angst. Maybe it was the fact that they were ubiquitous, yet so elite. And financially, they were way out of range for most 18-year-old teenagers. Seriously, most of my friends didn’t know what that horse-bit was. Timeless, discreet, and versatile I convinced myself I needed them. It was when Jodie Foster wore the preppy loafers in Candleshoe in 1977 that I knew they had to be mine. The exorbitant price? I didn’t care. In grand Italian tradition, I took the plunge and never looked back.
Gucci patent leather loafers, $525.00
Beloved by such bold-faced names as Sophia Loren and Jane Birkin, who famously wore the shoes with wide-legged pants and a barely there lace crop top, I wore mine all the time and thought I was a part of a special clan. I would brush the suede so they would look new, placed them delicately in their shoe bags, and when I stepped in dog poo, they went straight to the shoe maker. Until the day they literally fell apart, I cherished them, and was needless to say, devastated.
Gucci, long known for its leather goods, marks the 60th anniversary of the house’s iconic loafer this year. The new version of the shoe, of my shoe, has kept its original features– the rounded toe, hand-stitching, and horse-bit hardware.
But here remain the question. As a loyal Gucci fan, do I take the plunge into one of the 45 new styles now available, or just live in the memories of yesteryear? Please impart your wisdom.
