DC Goodwill Fashion Blog

Friday Furnishings: Compliant, Not Complacent

2008-07-25T09:51:00.010-04:00

At Goodwill, as you might guess, there are many people whose disabilities were a product of circumstance. These people had to make major adjustments in their home and work lives nearly overnight. Adding a ramp to the front steps, adapting a bathroom to accommodate a wheelchair, lowering lighting fixtures on the wall: each is but one of the many ways to create an ADA Compliant environment in which people with disabilities can live productively and independently.

The only problem? The environments are often completely bereft of any style. Think about it: lots of white, lots of chrome, lots of blah. Concepts like Universal Design have emerged to create workspaces that are functional and compliant for people of all abilities, but they often still lack that something special that sets apart truly great design from the everyday. The National Children's Museum - scheduled to open in 2012 in D.C. - is striving to change that, though, with universal design incorporated by renowned architect Cesar Pelli. There's hope still.

In fact, sites like allmodern.com now specifically state which items are ADA Compliant on their thumbnail lists. Like the George Kovacs by Minka Brushed Nickel Wall Sconce at right? You're in luck! It's both complaint and Energy Star approved. Fantastic! What makes a light ADA complaint, you ask? Well, it has to be less than 4" in depth, for starters. And compliant lighting must be used in all large-scale commercial and residential buildings. The thing is, these lights are designed exclusively for handicapped-accessible spaces. They'll look good anywhere!

As will the Hansgrohe Axor Starck Lav Mixer, an award-winning faucet that requires just one hand to operate, and has an anti-scald function built in. Sure, it's ultra-modern style isn't for every decor, and at $564, it's most definitely an investment piece for the bathroom. But if it's high-end design with ADA compliance that you're looking for, this is the Pièce de résistance.

Personally, I love the simplicity of this design and - paired with a tiled, wheelchair-friendly, low-slung sink - would make for a smashing addition to any accessible bathroom. Add one of those amazing bathtubs with the side doors (even some of those are looking a little less geriatric these days) and that's quite a room to behold. No longer does one have to be a prisoner to sterile white and chrome! It's about time...

If the great outdoors are calling, the Eureka! Freedom Tent (their exclamation point, not mine), is right on point. Designed in 1994, it's the first truly accessible tent that allows for a wheelchair to be wheeled straight in the zippered door. It can easily be fully assembled from a seated position in a wheelchair! That's awesome.

It sleeps two (and stores two wheelchairs) and features easy-open inner compartments for those with limited mobility. What a great way to get away from it all! Oh, and at $455, the tent costs over $100 less than the faucet. Ha.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't show you, my dear readers, one of the coolest pieces of technology out there right now designed to break down the barriers between those with disabilities and those without. I'm sure you've all heard of the Segway. Well, the designer of that, Dean Kamen, has used that gyroscope technology to create the iBot Mobility System, an out -of-this-world - um, wheelchair isn't the right word! - piece of technology that will blow your mind.

Yes, that's it at right, balancing on two legs. Yes, it can climb stairs. Yes, it can travel over grass and gravel and just about anything else put before it. And yes, it costs nearly $30,000. But maybe, like so much other technology, the price will come down over time. After watching this video, you'll certainly hope that it will.

I'd like to say that it was easy to find a bunch of cool products for today's blog, but the truth is that I had to look long and hard for these products. Designers still aren't acknowledging the needs of a variety people. I'm not saying design exclusively for those with disabilities. That doesn't make since. But how about adding a category, for example, to the National Design Awards? One that acknowledges "Accessible Design?" As you can see, accessible design is really design for everybody.

You May Go Now

2008-07-23T16:17:00.008-04:00

It's been a minute, dear readers, since the DC Goodwill Fashionista has put together a list of trends that must cease and desist. And there's no time like the present! Although the summer of 2008 hasn't exhibited the worst of the worst (cropped knit gauchos, anyone? no?) some styles simply have to go. Forthwith, my list of summer 2008's least appealing looks...

Let's say you're a fashion designer. And you're attempting to create a new kind of dress. The mini-tunic: already been done to death. The maxi-halter: seen a thousand of 'em. I have it! How about the banded-bottom, shapeless middle, spaghetti-strap and/or bat-wing semi-mini! Ohmygosh you guys - it's perfection.

Except that it's not. In fact, it's hideous. Exhibit A: Sweetface's Mini Pleats Batwing Dress, currently on sale (surprise!) for 70% off at shopbop.com. Yes, it's a turquoise silk banded-bottom dress from none other than J.Lo. Don't shoot the messenger. I just report the facts.

And I could go on and on about those, but this dress speaks for itself. Practically shapeless, very little wearability (how does one walk in it?), bulges in all the wrong places. No, no, NO. Please...let's all close our eyes and wish really hard that we never see a dress like this again.

Next on the list of offensive styles is the toe-hugging flip-flop. What do I mean by toe-hugging? Well, for some odd reason, the strappy part of the shoe has been moved perilously close to the little piggies, so that the flip is even floppier than ever. Exhibit A: Nine West's Kellyana, available from Piper Lime at (again, surprise!) nearly 60% off the original price. How is this so offensive? Let me count the ways: tiny, unsupportive straps; hideous "gems" (on this particular model); and - oh right - they're FLIP FLOPS. Back me up on this one, dear readers. The toe-hugging flip-flops have to go.

Next on the list of please-go-away-forever-please are denim short-shorts. You can try justify wearing them low, you can attempt to justify wearing them high: the DCGF doesn't care. Just don't wear them at all!

Exhibit A: the Yves Jeans Short from French Connection. Muffin-top inducing no-waistband styling: check. Two inch inseam: check. Overpriced at $79.99 (on sale!): check. Just check out any recent photo of Fergie if you need any further evidence why these shorts should be relegated to the bottom of the bin for all of eternity. Repeat after me: Grown women do not belong in denim short shorts. There. Don't we all feel better now?

Finally, ending today's short list of trends that must go is any and all clothing related to "Sex & the City." I know, I know That show was really cool...ten years ago. Let go!

But alas, we can't seem to do so. Online discounter Bluefly even has an entire section of their website devoted to Carrie's Closet. Really? Sorry to be so skeptical, but this fashionista just doesn't care about Pat Fields and her SATC "magic" anymore. She may have captured the zeitgeist of the late 90s/early 2000s with perfection, but that moment has passed. Exhibit A: Missoni's champagne floral tie-neck silk blouse, part of the "Fearless Mixes" section of Carrie's Closet.

Um...what's so fearless about this? Is it the $852 price tag (marked down from $1420)? Is it the hideous color combination? Is it the fact that my grandma has cuter secretary blouses in her closet? Regardless, Carrie & Co. have enjoyed their day in the sun. I'd rather look to Gossip Girl for fashion inspiration these days...

So that's all I have for today. What about you? What have you had enough of this summer? Share your thoughts and pictures in the comments section. Together, we can make the world a more stylish place to live!

Not-So-Little Black Dress

2008-07-22T09:48:00.006-04:00

Of course, it's always great to have that perfect Little Black Dress to throw on at the last minute for just about any event. You know the one: your body looks great, your self-esteem is boosted, you're ready for breakfast at Tiffany's or everything else the world might throw at you. Sometimes, though, the occasion calls for something more, something bigger. Enter the Not-So-Little Black Dress.

This week's Goodwill Good Buy of the Week brings you not one, but two such dresses. The first is from White House/Black Market, the same retailer that gained quite a higher status in the fashion world about a month back when Michelle Obama wore a leaf-print Donna Ricco dress available there for $148. The store, no surprise is currently promoting "The Little Black Dress" on their website, and jumping on the publicity bandwagon.

But why pay full price? This gorgeous full length halter dress - in a size 8 - at right still has the plastic barb on the tag; it looks like it's never been worn. It features an adjustable tie neckline; lightly padded bust line; heavily shirred bodice with three sheer lace-and-beaded insets; and fully lined mermaid-style skirt. It may sound like there's a lot going on, but the overall effect is quite elegant. Only earrings and some strappy heels are needed to finish the look! In 100% silk, you can look gorgeous year-round in this stunning not-so-little black dress. Check the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today for more detailed pics and measurements.

Today's second look is for those who want more of a princess look, albeit in all black. This brand-new-with-tags dress from Nine West features beaded tulle-overlay on the spaghetti straps, a corset-like bodice (although there is no boning, just the seaming), and a fully lined tulle skirt. I just want to twirl around in this one on a dance floor!

This dress is 100% Polyester and the tulle is 100% Nylon. The dress hits just above the ankle, the perfect length for showing off beautiful shoes! Again, strappy heels and jeweled earrings would make for the perfect accompaniment. This dress is a size 12 and runs true to size. Of course, the measurements and more pics will be up shortly.

The DCGF also wants to give a bit up to everyone who came out on Saturday to support the Grand Re-Opening of Goodwill of Greater Washington's Gaithersburg Store! Although it was a scorcher, we had a great time, as did the customer's who received great bargains and free popcorn!

I've put together a photo album on my Picasa page for you to check out all of the festivities. Also check out the behind-the-scenes photo album for the Fashion of Goodwill, featuring never-before-seen shots of the Virtual Photo Shoot!

Flower Dress Redux

2008-07-21T10:01:00.013-04:00

So my mom sent me the most curious link this morning, dear readers. It's a picture of Princess Anne wearing a flowered dress and matching topper to a royal wedding, which would be unremarkable except that she wore the exact same dress to Charles and Diana's wedding 27 years ago! Talk about recycling!

Besides the fact that she can still fit into the same dress 27 years later (go girl!) and the fact that she managed to keep it in mint condition that whole time (being a royal isn't all bad I guess), is that this same frock still looks quite fresh and modern in 2008. It could be a DVF wrap dress, or maybe something from Moschino Cheap & Chic, right?

There's nothing better for the dog days of summer (which in D.C. has been, like, all summer - ouch!) than simple floral dresses. They're cool, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish. You only have to put on a single piece of clothing and some accessories. It doesn't get better than that! Below are three of the DCGF's favorites, in yellow of course, as inspired by Princess Anne...

My first pick is from the fabulous Trina Turk. Although I can usually only afford her stuff at a deep discount, I just couldn't help but show you the "Helena" Halter Dress from Cusp online. Yeah, it costs $228 and yeah, it's only available in size 0 through 10, but there's something so perfectly summery about it and Trina always has the best fabrics and fits. It's 100% cotton, too, so you know you'll stay cool!

The second look is from the Bisou Bisou line, now available at JC Penney. Isn't it crazy the way certain brands that were once so hot are now available only at mass retailers? Anyway, I've owned a couple of dresses from this line and they're actually quite nice.

This floral frock is in polyester/spandex (machine wash, baby!), with an x-back and front gathers near the bust line. I like the wide band of brown fabric at the bottom of the dress. It's a generally very slimming look to break up a print with a wide swath of a solid color, assuming the hemline hits in the right place. And the brown and yellow combo is a sophisticated look for the evening. Plus, the dress is currently on sale for $49.99 and comes in sizes 4 through 16. Hmmm....maybe I'll get this myself!

Finally, speaking of Elle magazine, did you know the U.S. edition has collaborated with Kohl's department store for a capsule collection? Included in this is an adorable sleeveless knit leaf-print (leaves are part of flowers!) dress that comes in yellow or brown. It's on sale for $32.99 and is available in sizes XS through XL. Be sure to check out the rest of their microsite for a Look Book and many other cute clothes at great prices.

So there you have it. Three great looks at three different price points. And don't forget about vintage. I picked up the best yellow floral cardigan at Goodwill a few weeks back. It would be perfect for layering over any of these cute frocks. Yellow was a hot color in the late 60s and early 70s, so it's rather easy to find quality vintage that fits this look.

Oh! And I almost forgot, dear readers. I said Princess Anne wore that dress 27 years ago, right? Well there she is in the original picture. If you scroll back up, you'll see how she looks remarkably the same after nearly three decades. Awesome! Just goes to show that great pieces will look good now and years from now, when they've earned their vintage status...

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

Friday Furnishings: I Love Lamp

2008-07-17T13:07:00.007-04:00

Ron Burgundy: Brick, are you just looking at things in the office and saying that you love them?
Brick Tamland: I love lamp.
Ron Burgundy: Do you really love the lamp, or are you just saying it because you saw it?
Brick Tamland: I love lamp. I love lamp.

The DCGF loves lamp, too. I mean, sure, we'd all love to have an Arco floor lamp by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni in our homes, right? But for those of us living in small spaces with only 8' ceilings or just a few hundred square feet altogether, that's just not practical. Tragic, right?

Not necessarily. Fortunately, you don't have to be stuck with crappy lighting just because you don't have tons of room to illuminate your living space. And since last week's fabulous push pin lamp still isn't available (sadness), the DCGF has found some great alternatives for those of us living small.

If the idea of a traditional lamp is a little too blasé for you, why not try a jar? A rechargable solar-powered light jar, that is! Sure, it's a rather untraditional way of thinking about lighting, but it's an easy way to add eco-friendly design to just about any decor.

On sale at Chiasso for just $38 (34% off the regular price!), this li'l mason jar can be placed in a window or on a patio during the day and then - voila! - using a combination of a solar cell, battery and LED lights, you'll have a sweet little lamp all night. The jar measures about 4" by 4" by 6.5", so it won't take up much room in a small apartment or breakfast nook. It's also completely portable. I think I need one.

If the jar's a little too tame for you, then you need the Jerry Lamp in vibrant grass green from Design Within Reach. This unique looking lamp, which also comes in white, is also eco-friendly, being composed of recyclable silicone.

The coolest part, though, is that the hook on top can be manipulated to hang off of a bed post, book shelf, or wherever, really. Plus, the silicone only gets warm to the touch - not hot - so you can place the lamp right next to you on the floor or couch. Again, it's totally portable!

Best part? It's marked down from $145 (no way!) to $50 (hmm...maybe). That really is design within reach. Literally.

If you have low ceilings, like I do, but crave some overhead lighting, then the Capsule Light by Jaime Salm and Katherine Wise might be just the thing for you. Available online from MIO, these lights are comprised of felted wool and are 100% compostable. Not that you'd want to throw them on the pile at $75 a pop, mind you!

And don't let this picture fool you: these lights are 12" tall and 8" in diameter. They almost look like something that came straight from nature, don't you think? I think if trees were to have lights in the forest, they'd look like the Capsule Light!

Ooh! I wanted to tell you about another great place to pick up a lamp: the Gaithersburg, MD, Goodwill Store, July 19th, from 10am - 2pm. It's a Grand Re-Opening! That's right, if you're in the DC metro area on Saturday, stop by and enjoy a huge sidewalk sale, food, free popcorn, a moon bounce for the kids, fire trucks, balloons, face painting and live music from the band Eastern Standard Time. Additionally, the first 100 shoppers in the store will receive a FREE $10 Goodwill Retail Store gift certificate!! Good times, dear readers. Maybe I'll see some of you there!

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

Strike A Pose

2008-07-17T10:50:00.008-04:00

The finalists for this year's Vogue/CFDA Fashion Fund were announced on Tuesday, dear readers (thanks for the link, Janel), and I'm thrilled to say that one of my personal faves, Vena Cava, is in the running for the award! Big up to Sophie Mayock and Lisa Buhai, whose line is what I consider aspirational, from a cost standpoint, but realistic, from a wearability standpoint. If you'll recall, the deep discounts at a sample sale this spring allowed me to acquire my first piece, their Dictionary Blouse.

For fall, I'm totally digging their short dress/long glove combo, shown at right. The dress has a subtle print and I love, love the pockets (big surprise there, huh? Ha.). Throw on some dark tights and t-straps wedges (I think that might be my It shoe for fall) and the ensemble - sans gloves - becomes eminently wearable for the workplace. I wouldn't suggest trying to replicate the model's eyebrows, though. Might garner you a few too many Spock wisecracks.

The other finalists this year are Richard Chai; Jason Wu; Alexander Wang; Irene Neuwirth (jewelry); Albertus Q. Swanepoel of Albertus Quartus (hats); Alejandro Ingelmo (shoes); Juan Carlos Obando; Swaim and Christina Hutson of Obedient Sons & Daughters; John Patrick of Organic. Of these, Alexander Wang is probably the most well known, followed closely by Jason Wu and Richard Chai.

I, however, love the concept of Obedient Sons & Daughters, which names their respective men's and women's collections "Obedient Sons" and - wait for it - "Daughters." Clever and stylish.

And although Obedient Sons' fall legwear options for men were rather dubious (leggings? shorts and tights? um...no), their coats and jackets are to die for. Take the glen plaid beauty at left. Clean silhouette, great flap pockets, and even the belt somehow works, even though the coat probably looks just as great without it. Plus, it's the perfect length for a variety of occasions. Shorts coats don't work for every outfit, boys!

Irene Neuwirth's jewelry is just okay for me. It's mostly 18k gold and some of the earrings can cost as much as $12,000! Whew. Surely not in my budget. Swanepoel's hats appear to be interesting and whatnot, but I can't find out too much info on him. Anybody more familiar?

Obando specializes in women's dresses and gowns and sewed each of the 14 gowns he showed for Fall 2008. Now that's dedication and talent! And Patrick's line, as the name suggests, 100% organic. You can find of his women's pieces on sale at Kaight NYC Shop right now, and he's introduced menswear (included a fabulous quilted vest) for fall.

My other favorite, though, from this group is Alejandro Ingelmo, whose men's shoes border on creations out of science fiction. And I mean that in a good way. Check out the blue metallic cap-toe oxford, available from Neiman Marcus. That's one seriously beautiful shoe. And probably easier to wear than most men realize. Black suit, dark blue tie - done. They're made in Italy and cost only $650. Oops! That's the drawback, I guess. But it doesn't mitigate the fact that I now want to search out an actual pair of these shoes just to hold them and see how they look in real life. It's not everyday that electric blue patent leather is presented as a reasonable, wearable option in men's footwear.

Whew! So there's the quick 'n dirty rundown on this year's finalists. Remember: the winner gets $200,000 and the runner's up get $50k each. Not too shabby. But then again, running one's own fashion line is incredibly hard work.

Speaking of hard work, take a second if you will to click through on the ad at left talking about ZIPS® Dry Cleaners' and Goodwill of Greater Washington's collaboration on Will2Work. At each of their 14 locations in the greater Washington-Baltimore region and 1 in Pennsylvania, ZIPS® will accept donations of gently used business clothing during July, clean these donations, and return them to Goodwill to benefit adults re-entering the workforce. A win-win for everyone involved!

Is It Fall Already?

2008-07-15T10:41:00.007-04:00

Well, not quite. But it is time to think about sprucing up your winter wardrobe, dear readers. And the DCGF has just the pieces for you with this week's Goodwill Good Buy of the Week!

First up is an exquisitely beaded vintage wool cardigan in ivory, paired with brand new Pure Color jeans. The cardigan is just fantastic, I mean, check out the detailed picture at left.. It's fully lined, has no moth holes or discolorations, and would look just as great with a ball gown skirt as it does with these jeans. It's quite small, probably best fits a size 2-4. But oh so fun...

As for the jeans, from what I can tell, Pure Color Denim is now defunct (website is down, that's the first clue!), but when I worked at a boutique and we sold these, lots of girls swore by them.

This is the Cosmo style, with a boot-cut leg and a touch of stretch, with zipper detail on the front coin pocket and both of the back pockets. These jeans have a dark rinse and are in a size 27, or about a 4. They sit more at the natural waist and are probably "dressy" enough for a casual Friday at any office that permits the wearing of jeans.

These jeans are so great, in fact, that I'm featuring them with the second outfit, too! Somebody donated two brand new pairs in the same size, so why not? I've paired these with a chocolate brown, buttery-soft leather jacket from Donna Karan, with knitted sleeves and back. Isn't this gorgeous?

From the banded collar, to the covered placket, to the four front flap pockets, this jacket could truly become your (or my, the more I look at it...) favorite piece for fall. It's a size Large and would best fit a 8-10. As with all Donna Karan black label (not DKNY! this is the real McCoy!) pieces, this one is made from only the finest fabrics. One touch of the leather and you'll be smitten!

I'd pair this jacket with a great pair of brown boots, maybe some Frye's or maybe a vegan-friendly pair from Miz Mooz. As for the vintage cardigan, it requires something a bit funkier, like a flat from Irregular Choice or or some t-straps from Chie Mihara.

As always, dear readers, you can find these four pieces on the DC Goodwill eBay Store later today with all of the measurements and such. Happy bidding!

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

Let's Get Some Shoes!

2008-07-14T05:40:00.001-04:00

Apologies to Liam Kyle Sullivan for today's title (YouTube it...hilarious!), but it's time to think about fall shoes. I know, dear readers, it seems as though we just started talking about summer, right? My how time flies. Now it's time to think ahead to cooler weather and the concomitant footwear that will complement our layered looks.

The menswear look is always a hot "trend" (which sort of makes it not a trend at all, right?) for women and this season will be no different. I've found three pairs of shoes that will keep you perfectly in step (get it?!). We'll start with the most wallet friendly.

The Isaac Mizrahi for Target pair, at right, is actually even better looking that the picture indicates. They caught my eye at the store yesterday and had they had a size 12 (they do online) I probably would have snagged 'em. At just $32.99, they look both cute and comfortable. The 2 1/2" heel is just right for wearing all day at work or for an evening out. And a low t-strap is always flattering. Pair these with a brightly colored shift dress and black tights: you'll be set!

Now normally I wouldn't go for the shoes like the ones from Nine West, at left. Too much happening, what with the laces, the buckle, the open toe. But for some reason this particular pair works for me. The style's called Undertoe, which creeps me out because I'm slightly hydrophobic, but I feel like these would look great with some glen plaid trousers and a jewel-tone sweater.

And just because a shoe has peep-toes doesn't mean your hosiery can't show through. Make sure you have a plain toe on the tights or socks, hide the seam under your toes, and let a bit of color show through at the end of the shoe! It can actually be a very fashion-forward look when done right.]

Oh! And these shoes, too, come in a size 12. And a 5. And almost everything in between. They're $99 on pre-order online, but you know how Nine West is - they'll be on sale soon!

I think I've saved the best pair for last, dear readers, with the Kelis from Via Spiga (and no, there's not a pair called Nas, although that would be awesome). What makes these so special is that they come in an iridescent finish called Black Specchio.

Say it with me: iridescent spectator pumps. Love it! They have a 3 1/2" covered heel and front tie detail, with a pointed toe. I've been a fan of Via Spiga shoes for a long time. I still wear the first pair I ever bought. Which, at $225 for this pair, you'll want to keep them for a long time, too! As they say, if the shoe fits...

Friday Furnishings: A Whiff of Whimsy

2008-07-11T08:55:00.009-04:00

As much as the DCGF love the clean lines of a minimalist, modern interior decor, no one needs to be all serious, all the time. Any apartment or house can use a touch of whimsy in the most unexpected places. And one not need spend too much money to achieve a look that will make guests stop and stare in amazement. Let's go!

For the entryway, there are coat hangers, then there are giant stainless steel dart-in-the wall coat hangers. I happen to prefer the latter. Having purchased a set of these myself (they come in threes), I can attest to their awesomeness.

With some simple installation, you have coat hooks that look like your game of darts got a little out of control. Every one does a double take when they realize what they're tossing their hat onto. They're available at ELSEWHERES for just $34. And if you live in D.C., you can pick up a package at RCKNDY on U Street for around that price. And mad props to anyone who buys multiple sets and paints a giant dart board on their wall!

For the bathroom, you could have one of those boring plastic tissue box covers, or you could embrace the subtle beauty of the Tiki Head Tissue Box Cover. Very, um, historical and whatnot.

It comes in a sort of greenish color with a faux-rock finish and black plastic base. I've had mine for about four years now and it still looks brand new. And at only $19.99 from target.com it's a completely affordable way to get overnight guests chuckling or to serve as a pick-me-upper when you have a cold.

This thing just makes me happy.

For the office, you could have the same black computer speakers as everyone else, or you could snag a set of 500XL GIANT Earbud Speakers from Fred Flare. At $60, they're not exactly cheap, but a little searching showed that you can get them from X-treme Geek for only $39.99. I totally want these for my cubicle at work.

As you can see, they're basically massively scaled replicas of iPod earbuds designed to plug into your computer, mp3 or CD player via a USB cable or AAA batteries. (Kudos to anyone who has the nerve to plug these into a CD player!) I have no idea if the sound quality is equal to the tiny version, but look is definitely whimsical.

What's so hilarious about these speakers, though, is that they're ironically spoofing a technology (the iPod) designed to revolutionize the way we listen to music by being so compact and portable. What's next, a giant, wall-mountable iTouch? Hmm...that's not a half-bad idea, come to think of it.

For the bedroom, you could go with those sheets you've had since high school, or you could upgrade to some super chic Eighties Eyes pillowcases from urbanoutfitters.com.

Don't you love the idea of somebody staring at your room the whole time you're gone? It's $28 for the set and they are available in select stores. I think they'd look really cool with purple sheets and comforter, to offset the green eyes.

Finally, I have to share with you one of my favorite whimsical products, dear readers, even though - from what I can tell - it's no longer available. Do I have one? Of course I do. It's the Push Pin Lamp and it's just about the coolest thing in my apartment.

And get this - it only costs $20.

Last I can tell, it was available online via Hot Gadget (that's the link above), although I picked mine up in white at Home Rule on 14th Street, NW. I wish they were available because they're so fun. You just push down on the top of the pin and the light comes on, the push again to turn the light off. And the bottom is actually cork. Awesome.

Well I hope these whimsical items inspire you this weekend and beyond, dear readers. Don't be afraid to have some fun!

We Are All The Same

2008-07-10T08:04:00.005-04:00

As you no doubt learned last week, dear readers, the DCGF is an avid fan of the fashion magazine. And recently, there have been two groundbreaking events in magazine-world that merit noting, especially as they relate to marketing in the modern world.

Let's begin with the complete media saturation that was Estée Lauder's promotion of it's new fragrance, Sensuous, in the July issue of Harper's Bazaar. See the women at right who represent "Beauty at Every Age?" Coincidentally, the four together comprise the official spokesmodels for Sensuous.

Additionally, Gwyneth scored the cover and 39 additional pages in the mag are devoted to these four women. While some in the industry are applauding what is obviously a huge coup for Estée Lauder, others are accusing them of selling out.

Here's what bothers me, though: the age spread between Hilary Rhoda (21) and Elizabeth Hurley (43) is not that great. And Paltrow (35) and Carolyn Murphy (32) are practically the same age. How is that beauty at every age? Aerin Lauder is actually quoted on Estée Lauder's website as says "The advertising was inspired by the belief that women at every age can be sensuous." Every age between 21 and 43, that is.

Even worse is the complete lack of diversity in the group. Sure, one has a real accent. One has a fake accent. Two blonds, two brunettes. But all are Caucasian. The homogeneity of the group is astoundingly narrow-minded in this day and age. Was there not one Latina, Black, or Asian model willing to smile for Sensuous?

This campaign perhaps more than any other fragrance campaign ever launched is focused intensely on the personality of the spokesmodels to sell the product. Just watch Rhoda waxing poetic about being "in her natural element," or read how Murphy wants to be "comfortable in her own skin." Even if that's true, that skin only look like about a little over half of American women.

Italian Vogue has also published a July issue of stunning homogeneity, but of an entirely different kind: all of the models are black. Steven Meisel shot all of the photographs and everyone from old pros like Iman, Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks to relative newcomers like Sessilee Lopez (below; you can see all of her pages in the mag on her blog) and Jourdan Dunn are sprinkled throughout the mag and on the cover (shown above). This isn't news to most of your in the blogosphere, but I just couldn't resist contrasting it with the Sensuous campaign.

Quoted in the New York Times, editor Franca Sozzani explained, "'Mine is not a magazine that can be accused of not using black girls,' said Ms. Sozzani, noting that Naomi Campbell has had several covers, and that Liya Kebede and Alek Wek have also had covers." Bold words that no American editor would ever be able to utter.

And it's not just about the pictures. As the UK's Telegraph explains, the accompanying articles will focus on black women who have achieved success in the fields of arts and entertainment. Thus far, though, the pictures I've seen are so gorgeous, I'd pay import price on the mag just to see them.

Well, gosh, where does this leave us? Is Estée Lauder sending the industry backward? Is Italian Vogue moving it forward? Probably neither. It's going to take more than a single ad campaign or one issue of a magazine to create a seismic shift in an industry that currently prizes blandness over beauty and conformity over character. But maybe we're taking a small step in the right direction.

They Call It Mellow Yellow

2008-07-08T10:56:00.007-04:00

Yellow's a great color for summer, but many gals (and guys) are a little afraid of it. Will they look washed out? Does it clash with blonde hair? Isn't it only for younger women? The answer to all of those inquiries is, of course, no. Everyone can wear some shade of yellow. Maybe not the neon hue Rihanna gracefully pulled off at the BET Awards (at right) a few weeks back, granted. That's takes a special combination of beauty and guts. But there's a lemony shade for you, I promise.

This week's Goodwill Good Buy of the Week is actually two vintage dresses in buttery yellow. The first looks like a pretty average 60s-era long sheath dress from the front: the kind of pattern you might see on your grandmother's drapes, wide sleeveless straps, high neckline, front darts, dangerously straight skirt, etc., etc. But when you turn around and see the back, things get exciting.

The back of this dress, made by "Frances Kahn - Danville, VA," is truly exquisite. It's sort of a reverse wrap dress, with the fasteners beginning near the right shoulder bone and continuing all the way down to the right thigh. As you can tell from the detailed picture, there are five spherical, non-functioning buttons adorned with yellow rhinestones. And a bow. Of course. It is the 60s, right?

As for sitting down comfortably, I can't attest to that, but let's say you have a cocktail party or other such stand-up-type of event. This is the dress for you. Want to evoke Jackie Kennedy or Pat Nixon? This is the dress for you. I really, really love it. And this picture doesn't really do it justice.

Oh, a word about the size. It's tiny. Like, size two tiny. I'm sorry, I know, but vintage fashion is so often for the small of shoulder and whittled of waist. You'll be able to see full-length pics and such later today on the DC Goodwill eBay Store.

The second dress is definitely more adventurous, but also a bit more modern looking, although it's definitely from the late 60s or early 70s. Note that is has an ombre patterned skirt...hmmm...weren't we just talking about that? The skirt half also has tiny sequins and a crinoline lining. So fun!

As for the top, it's really cool, too. As you can tell from the close-up pic at left, there's lots of embroidery and beading, yet it's not very heavy. Coolest part? The straps are faux pearls in alternating sizes. The dress' only tag says "De La Cuesta," and again, this one's tiny.

And it's in excellent shape. Actually both dresses are in immaculate condition. Their lining is great and there are no pulls or discolorations, which is quite unique for vintage clothing of this quality and age. But did you really think I'd bring you anything less?

Oh! One last thing... as for accessories, with dresses this spectacular, keep everything neutral and low key: simple earrings, no necklaces, maybe a cocktail ring. A clutch will work great, as will some strappy sandals or even dressy, strappy flats. The second dress is only mid-calf length, so I could totally see pairing some heels with it. Don't be afraid to have some fun!

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on eBay funds Goodwill's mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities.

It's Getting Haute In Here

2008-07-07T08:54:00.006-04:00

What? You weren't at the Paris Couture shows last week? Well, of course, neither was the DCGF. You see, haute couture is really only for a tiny portion of the population who are themselves quite tiny, from what I can tell of the clothes. Sure, the tailoring is impeccable, the fabrics to die for, but it's so very unapproachable for the average human being, I almost find myself turned off by the whole thing. Almost.

What's amazing is that new designers are dropping their hats into the ring of this rarefied world. Alexis Mabille, previously known best for his bowties (including those gorgeous little sequined ditties at right) has now shown his second collection during couture week. What I find appealing about his collection for Fall 2008 is the amount of men's clothing, something one usually doesn't see much of in couture.

Now certainly there was a spectrum of wearability in the looks for men. For example, I love the suit on the left, below. The narrow cut of the jacket is perfectly offset by the fullness of the trousers. And the navy and white tuxedo stripe down the side is just fantastic. The yellow look on the right, however, leaves...um...er...something to be desired. I mean, it's the exact same model wearing both outfits, be he seems a bit broken in the second one, don't you think? I'll say this much: I like his gold shoes.

Speaking of shoes, there were some great ones on the runways. Chanel's signature tweed was transformed into a chic pump with a Lucite degrade heel by Karl Lagerfeld, Jean Paul Gaultier made the most of the monochromatic pairing of patent leather shoes and opaque hosiery, Christian Lacroix showed sumptuous satin shoes with an exaggeratedly wide heel, Givenchy had some seriously fierce striped boots that flared toward the ankle as they reached up to the knee. They're hard to describe, I guess, but probably even much harder to wear.

My favorite footwear by far, though, was at the Christian Dior show. Check out those magenta chain-mail platform beauties at right! Probably I won't be snagging a pair in a size 42 any time soon, but a girl can dream, right?

All of the shoes shown in John Galliano's collection for Dior were kind of like Dyeables on steroids: they matched perfectly the dresses on display and were aggressively high with lots of metal hardware. If I ever have to be a bridesmaid, I want to wear a pair of these.

But I don't want to wear any of the headgear on display at any of the shows. Tweed exoskeletons, leather trigonometry, and Seussian curlicues adorned the noggins of otherwise beautiful women. One's bangs should frame the face...not an actual frame. At least that's the opinion of this fashionista.

One designer left the head alone for the most part, opting for a disheveled Gibson Girl look that altogether complimented his gorgeous gowns. Elie Saab's collection was nothing short of breathtaking in the best way possible. I could barely choose just one gown to show you, dear readers. I settled on the strapless one at left for a couple of reasons.

First, the color and ombre pattern still seem very fresh to me, although the trend has been around for a minute now. Eggplant is not a color one sees much on the couture runways, but there was a lot of color in this show, which was really exciting. Second, I love the length. Most of Saab's gowns in this collection are very long - which is great and they're beautiful - but this length is for a modern woman who doesn't have the time or ability to run around in a floor-grazing gown. Yeah, this dress costs more than my annual rent, but at least there's the perception that it might have a practical application to my life.

And maybe that's what haute couture is about. The vast majority of us will never even see this clothing, let alone wear or own it. But maybe, just maybe one day we'll by chance stumble upon a piece at a resale or consignment store. Then it won't be so unattainable after all...

Friday Furnishings: Declare Your Independence!

2008-07-04T08:34:00.008-04:00

One of the best things about getting older, for the DCGF anyway, is the opportunity to have my own place and decorate it exactly the way I want. My first apartment at 19 came with three male roommates and lots of secondhand furniture.

Over time, there came to be an inversely proportionate ratio of roommates to quality of household goods to the point where I now live alone (in a basement in a row house, like those at left) and can claim to own authentic vintage items by real "names" in the design world. Sure, my Ikea couch and black leather club chair came from Goodwill, but they're now complemented by a 60s-era travertine and stainless steel coffee table with a tiny flat-screen TV on top.

My point is that acquiring quality items for one's home can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. You should surround yourself with things that make you happy. There are certain items, though, that every grown-up adult (redundant, but I can't emphasize this enough) needs to have in his or her home. Say goodbye to the milk crates and cheap futons, kids, it's time to declare your independence.

Nothing says "I'm living a suspended adolescence" like paper plates and plastic flatware. That's why I recommend making your dinnerware fun with a place setting like "Planet Dinnerware" from CB2. With their asymmetrical slanted rims, oval shape, dishwasher and microwave friendly white-glazed porcelain, and low price (the salad plate's on sale for just $1.95!) there's no reason not to have a real plate off of which to eat your ramen noodles.

CB2 in general is a great source for cool home goods at low prices. It's Crate & Barrel's cooler, younger cousin, but unfortunately unless you live in Chicago or NYC (or San Fransisco, coming soon), you'll have to order online for the time being. They have sales all the time, though, so bookmark the site if you see something you like!

Even if you're not typing term papers on your laptop anymore, you probably still have papers, bills, documents, and such to organize. And a sloppy pile on the floor ain't gonna cut it anymore! That's why you need something like the Stockholm Office Storage Boxes, currently on sale at The Container Store for $7.99 (letter size) and $9.99 (legal size).

They come in a variety of colors - I'm partial to orange, of course! - and are sturdy enough to withstand many years of use. And they're composed of recycled fiberboard, which makes them extra appealing. They're also great way to keep track of all those photos you never quite got around to organizing from your senior year. But you'll get to them eventually, right?

Now I'm not saying you have to give up every remnant of dorm life, of your former fun-loving, all-nighter-pulling self. Let's say, for example, that you have a penchant for burning incense. Sure, you could still just put a stick wherever, or on one of those cheap wood holders, but why not wow your guests with a piece of sculpture that also holds your incense sticks? Voila! The Om Incense Holder by Harry Allen fits the bill perfectly.

As much a conversation piece as a functioning incense holder, this piece can be mounted on the wall, where the palm will catch the ashes. Now coolness doesn't come cheap in this case, 'cause Om will set you back $85. But think about it: if you only spent $30 on your couch, it all kinda balances out, right? At least that's what I keep telling myself...