dress.

Bye-Bye Blisters

2008-04-26T15:55:00.005-04:00

I love a great pair of flats, but I hate how uncomfortable some of them can be. I often limit myself to less put-together looking elasticated flats to spare myself the blisters.
Browsing the Net-a-Porter site, I came across these great Marc Jacobs flats. They're simple and classic, but the back is cut away, with only a thin elastic band holding them on your feet. They seem like the perfect solution to awful rubbing heels. Hope this catches on. (Plus I love the way they're styled!)

Novel Idea

2008-04-12T15:22:00.006-04:00

As an English major, I am constantly reading one novel after another. The second I finish one, I have to pick up the next to keep up with my fast-paced lit class. But sometimes, a novel I read stays with me, influencing me in ways I wouldn't have expected.

I recently read Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko, about the struggle of Native Americans to retain old traditions in a changing world. Silko's descriptions Native American ceremonies, the costumes and headdresses, has made me seek out these traditional influences in modern clothing.

I found great beaded sandals by Jeffrey Campbell, beaded bracelets with boho patterns, and even a metal "feather necklace". I especially love the sturdy shape of the necklace's pendant.

And it turns out I'm not the only one embracing Native American embellishments. One of my friends wore a patterned beaded belt with jeans a couple days ago that reminded me of one I had as a kid. She found it at a local flea market... So I guess you know where I'll be next weekend!

H&M City Guides

2008-04-08T19:48:00.004-04:00

I was surfing the web between classes this afternoon (as usual) when I came across the H&M website. In their menu on the site, they have a link called "City Guides". I clicked on it and it turns out they have tourist guides to major international cities - London, Paris, Shanghai, etc. There are insider tips on the best food and shopping in each city, and some video clips of fashionable women actually visiting the places mentioned.

This feature isn't exactly new - if I had to guess I'd say they've been doing it since about 2006 - but it's certainly news to me. It's interesting to watch the videos and live vicariously, and the guides are definitely a must-read before you travel. They mention a great looking vintage shop in Rome that I wish I'd know about when I visited last year. Oh well. I'll make it back there eventually...hopefully.

Girl Meets Dress

2008-04-04T11:25:00.006-04:00

My obsession with Vena Cava has been going on for a long time now, but their gorgeous dresses are a tad expensive, so I've been holding out for the perfect one (and praying for them to collaborate on a Target Go collection).

Then I encountered their "Topanga" dress and fell in love. It combines two of my fave things - pretty dresses and Boy Meets World. Maybe it's a sign. But even if this dress isn't my dress, the name definitely solidifies my love of the Vena Cava girls.

Blah Blah Blog

2008-03-28T16:16:00.005-04:00

An article on WWD.com today about bloggers' place in the fashion world made me start to wonder about my own place in the blogging world. This blog is relatively new; I'm still trying to find my style, my stride. Sometimes I feel discouraged because I see other blogs doing similar things so much more successfully. Or I wonder if my blog feels uninspired, because so much of fashion and style is zeitgeist, and bloggers end up writing about the same things at the same time.

This quote summed up part of my anxiety about my blog:
“A lot of people are focused on re-blogging stuff. It’s not actually media — it’s looking at photos and commenting on it. Fast, real-time shoots, sort of guerrilla fashion spreads, are the next revolution.” - Julie Fredrickson of Coutorture

I started this blog because I have a point of view about fashion and style that I wanted to share, and also because I thought it would be great practice for what I hope will be my career - fashion journalism. I'm still trying to find my own way to be relevant and original. Hopefully I'll get it down soon...

Heavy Metal

2008-03-27T19:05:00.009-04:00

I love creative jewelry where the thought and work of the artist is evident in the piece. That's why I'm absolutely crazy about AU-750-IOS by Iosselliani.

The slightly quirky high-end jewelry line features semi-precious stones, gems, and metals combined in unexpected, beautiful ways. My favorite pieces are their stacked double rings and bracelets with twisted chains and charm-like embellishments. They also have a great, girly take on the classic ID bracelet.

Perfect for girls who want truly original pieces of jewelry with an edge.

Oh, The Hills..

2008-03-25T16:09:00.004-04:00

In case you missed it, The Hills season premiere was on last night.

I barely even watched last season because the show is getting absolutely unbearable (I mean who really cares about Heidi and Spencer anyway??), and I wish they'd show more of what it's like to work in the fashion industry and less of what it's like to have a girl fight and go on awkward dates with semi-pretty boys who have nothing to say (because we all already know what that's like).

But I watched the premiere anyway because I had a paper to write...and really, what better way to squander away valuable time like watching MTV reality show spin-offs of MTV reality shows?

I won't say too much about it because honestly there's not much to say (and anything worth saying has already been said) but...

If I was Lauren, I would have MTV create dramatic scenarios that didn't make me look like a self absorbed idiot (i.e. sewing a borrowed designer gown, wearing said gown to a smoky club, burning gown...etc.)
Omg, I wish I could go to France!
Great song, better in Sex and the City (I've been listening to it on repeat all day)
I'm willing to bet Whitney will never mispronounce "Givenchy" again (why wouldn't she beg them to edit that out?? Sooo embarrassing!).

Shiny Happy People

2008-03-25T15:24:00.008-04:00

I'm definitely not high maintenance when it comes to my makeup routine. I feel uncomfortable and self-conscious with a bunch of makeup on my face, shying away from the usual girly staples like eyeliner and layers of mascara. My essentials consist of drugstore brand eyebrow gel, Chanel under-eye concealer, a Shu Uemora eyelash curler, and Vaseline or Kiehls balm for my lips.

But recently I found two new staples to add to that list: Yves Saint Laurent's Touche Eclat highlighting pen and Rouge Pure Shine sheer lipstick. I never tried YSL makeup before, but now I am absolutely addicted. Every product makes your entire face look brighter with tiny sparkly particles that are flattering and light-catching, not overwhelming.
I've heard so much about Touche eclat; it's what drew me to YSL in the first place. It's a really amazing product, and can be used virtually all over your face, anywhere you need a little brightening. Perfect for me, because I never get enough sleep and need a lot of brightening.
But it's the lipstick that's really amazing. It goes on as light and smooth as my essential Vaseline, but even better because it delivers lasting moisture, color, and YSL's signature brightening shine. It even has a fruity scent. Plus, it has a cap that doubles as a makeup mirror. As my mom pointed out, it recalls a time when women reapplied their makeup in public. So old school glamour.

Too bad they don't carry YSL makeup at my local mall. Bleh. Central Jersey could probably use some old school glamour.

Spring Sneakers

2008-03-24T21:03:00.004-04:00

After a loooong break, I'm finally back to blogging.

During my time away, I've been hard at work cultivating a sneaker obsession. While my hunt for the perfect ballet flat will probably never be over, the perfect sneaker is a little easier to come by. Lately I've been drawn to the classics, like suede Pumas, and Converse high-tops to punk up floral spring dresses. But my absolute favorite sneakers right now are a relatively new find.

I was reading Nylon mag and came across an article highlighting French brand Bensimon's casual cool sneakers. It was love at first sight. The sneakers are Converse meets Keds, and come in gorgeous dusty pastels. According to Nylon, they're coming to the States soon, but I just couldn't wait and had to order a pair right away. I decided on a lace up navy blue pair (they were on sale!). Tres francais.

Forget Me Not

2008-02-27T09:00:00.003-05:00

When I was in kindergarten, my teacher used to be a red string around my finger to remind me of things because I was so forgetful.

Now that I'm older - and just as forgetful - I think this adorable Rachel Leigh ring is a much chicer option. If I could have this little ring on my finger, I don't think I'd forget anything ever again. Or at least I'd have something to cheer me up when I'm searching for lost car keys/cramming to do that last minute homework/standing around, looking lost, trying to remember what exactly I was just going to do...

Just Purchased

2008-02-26T21:57:00.005-05:00

I'm slightly embarrassed to say this but... I just bought a pair of Aerosoles shoes. And I love them, in spite of the look on my mom's face when she saw the bag and asked incredulously if I really bought Aerosoles. Yeah. I did. I know, I could hardly believe it myself.

I don't know what possessed me to go into the store, but I'm glad I did. The shoes are brown leather sling back heels (above). They're comfortable, and cute, and only $20!!! (it says $30 on the site but they were $20 in store...oh, and they used to be $90!).

I wore them with ankle socks and my dark wideleg jeans that I've been dying to wear if I could only find the right shoes, and I'm already picturing how great they'll look with a flowery, floaty summer dress. And I still can't walk in heels - even though it was one of my New Year's resolutions to perfect the skill - and even I could walk comfortably in them.

So who knows, I might even buy another pair. Is it just me, or are their loafers kind of really cute?

Katie, Purple, and Prints

2008-02-22T12:08:00.006-05:00

Crazy personal life aside, it's undeniable that Katie Holmes has impeccable style. Over the past few years she (or her stylist) has mastered the art of mixing ladylike pieces with fun, young touches. She doesn't dress like the average starlet, but still manages to look on trend, playing with prints and proportions.

I love this combination of subtle black and white print with the unexpected pop of purple Louboutins. Any other celebrity would've paired the dress with black pumps, or red, if they were feeling adventurous. This combo is understated and original.

It's completely inspiring, especially since I've been loving purple lately - and the color was big on the runways this season. I'll be pairing muted prints like black and white plaid or stripes with jewel-toned accessories, like a colorful patent leather belt or beaded jewelry.

Valentine's Day II

2008-02-13T10:04:00.001-05:00

I was going to include this with the last post, but it was getting kind of long so...

I don't know if this is an offshoot of my momentary obsession with nameplate necklaces from back when Sex and the City was on the air, but I've been loving initial jewelry lately.
Initial jewelry is perfect for Valentine's Day because you can get the initials of your boyfriend or girlfriend, or you can get both your initials together.

Day-lab.com has a great selection of vintage initial necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
I really like these initial heart rings (above), esp. for V-Day.

For something more custom, Emily & Ashley makes really beautiful gold pendants (below). They can be engraved with up to three letters.

Happy shopping!

Valentine's Day

2008-02-13T09:33:00.005-05:00

So yeah, I know, Valentine's Day is tomorrow, but as my boyfriend is absolutely hopeless at gift-giving (it's difficult to explain to a guy why Marc Jacobs is sooo much better than Coach and David Yurman is sooo much better than generic Tiffany's), I decided it's up to me to get myself the perfect gift.

Fred Flare is the greatest place to find cute, personal gifts for your loved ones (and yourself) and they even have an entire category devoted to Valentine's Day.

Some of my favorites:

omg I kind of need these.

Not just for Valentine's day, just for life in general. They'd be so cute on the beach... and then you don't have to worry about sand on your expensive sunglasses.

This hot cocoa mix is so sweet! (ew pun not intended).

I love the little heart marshmallows. It even says "Happy Valentine's Day" on the back.

This egg mold allows you to make perfect heart-shaped eggs. It doesn't say on the site, but I'm guessing you could use it for pancakes too.

So romantic. (and if you hide the mold after you make the eggs, then it's also rather impressive).

And of course, what would Valentine's Day be without chocolate? While I love Godiva truffles with a passion, I think V-day calls for something extra special.

Mariebelle chocolates are printed with little pictures, for Valentine's Day they're printed with "in love" images, so each one is like a little valentine. Plus they taste amazing, in flavors like Lavender, Earl Grey Tea, and Champagne.

Have a very happy Valentine's Day!

Gossip Girl Lives!

2008-02-11T19:39:00.000-05:00

The writer's strike is over!!! And you know what that means... new Gossip Girl epsiodes!!!!! finally.
The rumor now is that there will be new GG episodes beginning in a few weeks (they said something like 8 weeks, but I'm choosing to ignore that and hope they mean one or two), and that new episodes will air into the summer.

So I guess that means I can finally stop reading and re-reading the newest Vogue and get my Blake Lively fix elsewhere. My world is at peace again.

Deja Vu

2008-02-10T22:55:00.000-05:00

Have I mentioned lately how much I love the Gap?

Well as if I needed more proof of how fabulous it is...

Today I was virtual window shopping (as usual), when I noticed that a cute Alexander Wang tee on shopbop looked strangely familiar. Later, browsing the Gap website, I realized why. Their new pleated tunic - though less structured and of a different material - is almost identical to the A. Wang top.
The only major difference? The Gap version is over $700 less.

Tiny Dancer

2008-02-10T12:49:00.000-05:00

I did ballet for many, many years when I was younger, and although it was fun - and definitely a workout - my favorite part was always the costumes. I loved the little pink shoes, the tights, and the tutus. In fact, I still love them.
Although the tutus are probably best left to Carrie Bradshaw, I can still relive my dancing days thanks to Bloch. The famous ballet shoe company has come out with new ballet flats made for the street. The shoes retain their classic styling, but have pearlized leather and come in a variety of colors like gold and navy blue. Perfect for putting a little spring in your step.

Loving: Luxury Basics

2008-02-04T11:12:00.000-05:00

My style is generally pretty simple. I'm mostly a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl, as unfortunately my lifestyle doesn't call for anything much more extravagant than that on a daily basis. But I like to make my outfits more interesting with accessories like vintage jewelry, cute shoes, and embellished headbands.

That's why I love this Alexander Wang tank. It's cut casually, but in a luxe fabric and a vibrant color. I'd wear it with a pair of denim cutoffs in the spring to add a little extra something to my everyday look. It could also be dressed up by tucking in into a high-waisted skirt with a cropped cardigan, tights, and adorable flats.

Watch Hunt

2008-02-04T10:15:00.000-05:00

I've been searching for the perfect big watch for a long time now. It's tricky because I have very small wrists so it really does have to be exactly right to save from looking ridiculous.

Of course if I could have anything I want in the world, I would get the Chanel J12, but since that's not possible...

I considered Toywatch for a while (and still am). Their use of plastic and enamel is definitely reminiscent of the J12, but I can't quite get myself to commit to one.

I also kind of like the Michael Kors watch collection. He has some great oversize watches, and I even like some from the men's collection.

Recently I saw some Swiss Army watches and thought they looked nice - kind of a mix between Rolex and Cartier, but slightly more durable looking.

In the meantime, I've just been wearing an old black plastic Swatch that I found in my mom's jewelry drawer. My first watch was a Swatch, and I just kind of love their quirky details and styling. Then, when I was shopping in Brooklyn the other day, a saleswoman was wearing a nice black watch. When I complimented her on it, she said it was a Swatch she'd just bought. Hmm... maybe I should get a Swatch?

*(yes, I am fully aware it's Fashion Week. However, because I'm totally bummed that I live a mere hour from New York and have yet to gain access inside the tents, I'm not going to be reporting on the collections for now. Especially because much more informed and well-connected Fashionistas have it covered.)

Another Bad Idea

2008-01-27T14:55:00.000-05:00

I'm dying for short hair.

Lately it seems that all my friends - and many celebrities - are chopping their hair off and they all look amazing. Even a girl I work with came in to work the other day with a rather boring, limp, shoulder length do, left in the middle of the day, and came back with an extremely short bob and bangs. She looked like a French movie star. Tres chic.

Unfortunately, I already know from past experience that I look awful with short hair. After years of growing out that one unfortunate haircut into something longish and semi-acceptable, I'm reluctant to cut it again. Even so, I want short hair! I think about it every day. That, and perfect, natural looking blonde highlights - something else that I've tried with less than pleasing results.

Hopefully this obsession will pass before I do something crazy (like the time my friend tried to cut her own bangs and ended up with inch long fringe sticking straight up from her skull).

Cute As A Button

2008-01-26T16:54:00.000-05:00

I love simple clothing with cute embellishments like contrast stitching, gems, and interesting buttons. Free People's entire brand is based on these kinds of details that give their clothing and artsy, homemade appeal. I absolutely love their sweaters, but they tend to be expensive.

Over winter break, I got the urge to get creative with my own clothing and add similar embellishments to get the same effect for half the price. I found this great button site that sells beautiful and original buttons. I especially like the rhinestone buttons, and the brass buttons for a cute preppy/military look. I think it's really fun to mix and match buttons to add interest to an otherwise simple look. You can replace the original buttons on the sweater with your new, cuter ones, or even sew the buttons decoratively around the collar, shoulders, and cuffs.

(p.s. If you like this idea, you'll love Teen Fashionista's brilliant button diy!)

Define "Classic".

2008-01-23T08:45:00.000-05:00

In the Style Section of the New York Times this week, Tory Burch "Reva" flats were named as a "new classic" in a list that included Splendid sweatpants. Although I love the Style Section, I have to respectfully disagree. The Tory Burch flats (and various knockoffs) seen on the feet of half the women in New York city are by no means a classic. Yes, they are comfortable and come in a multitude of colors, but to me they're about as original and stylish as a pair of Ugg boots.

Burch definitely has a knack for starting trends, but I prefer her more subtle designs. That's why I love these patent flats. The tassels provide that preppy loafer feel that I love, and the small emblem on the back actually adds to the design, rather than overwhelming it.

They're on sale now in black and gold so get them while you can!

Waisting Away

2008-01-22T14:03:00.000-05:00

I've been rocking the empire-waisted dress for a long time now, and like my recent transition from skinny to wideleg jeans, I'm ready for a change in silhouette.

Lately I've been looking for dresses that are cinched at the waist, creating a more old-fashioned - and figure flattering - hourglass look.

But as my celebrity obsession Rachel Bilson demonstrates, bright colors and shiny fabric can make this classic silhouette young and fresh.

I found these two dresses (below) that perfectly embody what I'm talking about.

Both have a defined waist and casual-luxe feel. I want them both! (Did I mention I'm having a major Vena Cava moment?)

New Semester, New Post

2008-01-22T09:30:00.000-05:00

After a month of no school and infrequent posting, I'm happy to report that I'm back at school. As I write this, I'm sitting in my dorm room getting ready to go to my first class of the semester. Sooo... expect MANY posts in the next couple weeks.

I'll start with a long overdue update of my NY shopping trip. It turns out that practically all the galleries in Chelsea were closed - we thought they only closed on Mondays, but it turns out they close Sunday as well - so we hiked over to the Marc Jacobs store.
After walking alll the way there (it's actually not that long of a walk, but we got slightly lost), it turns out the show sale was a bust. Yes, the shoes were 90% off, but they were only the really ugly shoes from the fall collection. You remember, the ones that were confused about whether they were a boot or a strappy sandal, or...these. Not worth it. I did, however, score some goodies from the MJ accesories store, like a silver ring and a white patent coin purse, all for under $1o.

Then we went to the Cynthia Rowley store, which is absolutely lovely. I seriously wanted everything in the store, especially the flower pins, shiny skirts, and sparkly tights. But the thing I really REALLY wanted was the beach cruiser from her fall runway shoe. In pink, of course. (Those of you who have been following dress. from the beginning know how much I've been wanting a beach cruiser.)

Finally, we made it over to Opening Ceremony. I was so excited to go there because I've heard so much about the store. Not only did they have a great selection of Vena Cava (among other LA and NY-based designers), they also had an entire room devoted to Topshop! Definitely a great store. I didn't buy anything, but it was enough to just be around the clothes. Haha I sound crazy obsessed but it's true.

Time to head over to class now but I'll be back!

Serendipity

2008-01-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

I'm going into to the city today with my mom to browse the Chelsea art galleries and visit Lily Tea House, a Japanese tea cafe where the presentation is as lovely as the taste.
However, luckily I checked out Fashionista this morning before we left and saw this: 90% of all Marc by Marc Jacobs shoes today!!!!!!!!

So, we're making a pitstop for some shopping. Yay!
I'll let you know how we make out.