Top Model

No Rules Jewelry

2008-07-16T22:56:00.001-07:00

Enamel on Fine Silver Jewelry

Maya Madden and Wayne Farra are the owners and designers of No Rules Jewelry, and the vast majority of their jewelry is made by applying enamel to fine silver. Through the years, many enameling techniques have been developed. Some involve how the metal is prepared, and some involve how the enamel is applied. This is labor-intensive and time-consuming work.

From the Brookes Collection:

Brookes Dangle Earrings in Smoke

Brookes Dangle Shield Earrings in Cobalt Blue

$48

Enamels are made of finely ground and sifted glass. To create this type of jewelry, the enamels are dampened with distilled water and placed, grain by grain, between the cloisonné wires. The enamels are then fired in a kiln until they melt into a single thin layer. The process of applying the enamels and firing is repeated as many as 10-15 times, until they are flush with the tops of the wires or base.

From the Mosaics Collection:

Mosaic Earrings in Amethyst

Mosaic Earrings in Black

$42

Cloisonné Enamel is a type of enamel work used by Maya and Wayne. In this process, very thin strips of silver or gold wire are attached to the surface of a piece of metal, usually fine silver or gold. The resulting chambers are filled in with multiple layers of colored enamel until they reach the height of the wires. The resulting piece is then ground until it is perfectly smooth and highly polished.

From the Geo Collection:

Geo Bracelet

$195

Anything that can be made out of metal can be enameled - from vases to spoons, to frames to jewelry, from metal mesh to solid forms, from large to small, from fancy to plain. Even the tub inside your common household washing machine is most likely enameled.

Maya Madden Statement

Over the last 15 years, I have sought to create jewelry that is fun to wear and affordable to buy. The creation of my pieces has been inspired by dreams and the natural beauty of my surroundings. Since 1996, enameling on fine silver has been a strong element of my work. These pieces are often embellished with gems and beads. NO RULES Jewelry is now a collaboration of Wayne and myself. Our work reflects a marriage of man and woman, Design and Esthetic.

Wayne Farra Statement

Twenty + years ago, I began creating jewelry mainly using casting techniques and often cutting rock to be used in my designs. Since then, I have explored a variety of materials, from plastic to polyform clay and currently back to precious metals and gems. Maya and I put our ideas and skills together to create NO RULES Jewelry. We are fortunate to live and have our studio in a converted schoolhouse that was built in 1911 and which is located in the beautiful Wisconsin River Valley.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Susan Marie Designs Jewelry - 04 July 2008

Contents of this feed are a property of Creative Weblogging Limited and are protected by copyright laws. Violations will be prosecuted. Please email us if you'd like to use this feed for non-commercial activities at feeds - at - creative-weblogging.com.

Bargain Hunting at its Best!

2008-07-16T10:56:00.001-07:00

I’ll be the first to admit that I hate outlet shopping. Sales at my favorite chain store are exciting. Vintage shopping exhilarating. But outlet shopping I just find exhausting and I rarely get rewarded for my efforts. This all changed Memorial weekend however as my mom dragged me into our local Marshalls. Typically, I avoid this particular store like the plague because the clothes are literally thrown anywhere and the checkout lines are RIDICULOUS! So you can imagine my glee when I found dresses by DKNY, Laundry by Shelli Segal/Design and London Times all priced at a quarter or less of their original prices. I spent close to $200 but I walked out of the store with 4 designer dresses! I have a new found respect for women who spend hours trawling through rails of disorganized clothing in the search for that one precious jewel (be warned that it can become addictive). I encourage all of you still in doubt to try and outlet store at least once. Need more encouragement? The dress pictured is still selling for $395 at Bloomingdales. I bought it for $60 this weekend. I am such a believer!

Me & My Mermaids, and hydrangeas

2008-07-15T22:55:00.001-07:00

I love mermaids. Here are a few from my collection -

Here are a few of my Coral Kingdom Gals -

And a few more Coral Kingdom Gals on top of the medicine cabinet in the bathroom -

This was a copy that I made of a vintage postcard from ebay. Very unusual mermaid lady with fabric wrapped around her forming a tail. I have a set of 3 of them -

Two vintage mermaid gal, the first is plastic the other is porcelain and she has a sister too.

Next are two mermiad dolls, both bought on ebay many years ago. The first was a handmade doll, the other is Melinda Mermaid by Dakin

And now onto my hydrangeas at the shore, which are starting to bloom and they are so pretty! A new bush that we planted is getting flowers on it already and they are the prettiest shade of pale lavender. Another new bush has pink flowers. I just love the variety of shades within the hydrangeas, they are so pretty. I love to cut fresh flowers for little arrangements in the house.

My bushes out back have been in for a few years and they are starting to bloom too. They look like they are going to have a ton of flowers on them this year.

New on the scene - Belle Avenue

2008-07-15T10:55:00.001-07:00

I've recently been talking to the folks over at Belle Avenue - they are a relatively new plus size website that sells cute, affordable plus size clothes. For a while their inventory was kind of static, but I got word from them recently that they were really blowing up their inventory - they've got a lot more in stock and a lot of it is VERY cute and easy on the wallet. I have to say I find their product names kind of funny - "Beautiful Unique Dress" and "Warm Cute Jacket" but that's neither here nor there. Here are a few of my faves on their site right now:

Left: Trendy Hoody Top, $24.99
Right: Silver Stud Sexy Dress, $38.99

Left: Cute Wonderful Top, $26.99
Right: Ruffled Silky Hot Top, $28.99

Orient Express

2008-07-14T22:54:00.001-07:00

Today I'm just skipping the introduction, because I have amazing pieces to show you, dear readers. This week's Goodwill Good Buys of the Week are incredibly beautiful and mischievously enigmatic. Generally I try to avoid posting about garments whose provenance is unknown, but I simply couldn't resist this gold silk cheongsam dress. I can tell from the stitching and incredible attention to detail that it was hand-made.

It might be vintage, but the fabric is in such excellent condition, it's impossible to say for sure. And the fabric! Oh, it's delicious. In a deep gold hue with gold, green, and red embroidery and lighter gold lining the entire garment, this dress is a sight to behold. It has a mandarin collar and fastens asymmetrically across the top of the body with a combination of buttons and snaps.

At the side seam there is a combination of hook-and-eye closures, buttons, and snaps that secure the dress almost all the way down to the side slit, of which there is one on each side. The left side slit has torn out just a bit, probably the result of overzealously showing off the beauty of the fabric! There are no tags or marking of any kind on the dress; just a dry cleaning slip pinned to the inside collar. I'll have complete measurements listed on eBay later today. I can only imagine where this dress has been and who has worn it...

As if one great cheongsam style dress wasn't enough, the second one is authentic vintage from Hawaii. The tag states "Lauhala, Style and Made in Hawaii" and marks the dress as a size 8. It is not a true cheongsam, in that the bottom half is a more forgiving a-line style than the traditional body hugging Chinese version.

This incarnation is also in 100% Polyester, which makes machine or hand washing an option, as the care tags explains. If it's been worn, it was only a handful of times. The extra button is still attached to the care tag!

This dress, too, features a mandarin collar, but instead has a v-neck that fastens with two self-fabric buttons. It fastens with a half-zip and hook-and-eye closure in the back. Additionally, the sleeves are a bit longer on this version, as is the dress itself overall. With the greens, blues, and deep reds of the fan print fabric, this dress would look amazing with a simple, flat pair of leather sandals (I'm thinking something like these) and a clutch for a night out.

Alternatively, you could jazz it up with a wide belt in black patent leather and go for some big ol' platform sandals, a la Madonna in her Geisha incarnation. Either way, you'll be cool, comfortable, and oh-so-stylish!

So, dear readers, I would be remiss in not mentioning a very sad passing on Sunday, that of Yves Saint Laurent. He was only 71, which seems really young to me, now that my grandparents are all nearing their 90th birthdays.

And I couldn't help but think of Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche's 2004 Fall RTW collection, which evoked the spirit of the cheongsam, as worn by Daria Werbowy, right. Ford owed much to Saint Laurent, just as Saint Laurent before him had learned from Dior and taken over the latter's house upon his death in 1958.

I'll have a full retrospective of Saint Laurent's tremendous impact on fashion - and how Stefano Pilati will continue that tradition - on Monday's blog.

For now, rest in peace, YSL, and thanks for all that you gave us. Your impact continues to be felt, even on the racks of Goodwill Retail Stores!

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.

All About Celebrities Blog Carnival: Volume 6

2008-07-14T10:54:00.001-07:00

Christine presents Cannes 2008 - Short Film Corner - Tarantino in Cannes posted at Me, My Kid and Life: An American Single Mom Living in France.

Ashley Cain presents TI and Tiny - new baby posted at London Speaks.

Stefanie Hutson presents The Top 10 Tackiest People of All Time posted at Vat19.com slash Blog.

Hilary Green presents Celebrities Who Drive Green Rides! posted at The Green Motorist.

Jeff Sullivan presents Moe Bandy - Americana Live In Branson posted at Branson Country Music Shows.

David B. Bohl presents Learning from Celebrities about Work Life Balance posted at Slow Down Fast Today!.

praveen presents The Indiana Jones Gamble posted at My Simple Trading System.

Woman Tribune presents Mischa Barton and Her Many Ruffles posted at Woman Tribune - a web space for women.

Ralph Jean-Paul presents Learn From the 8 Most Confident Men in Films posted at Potential 2 Success.

Michael Snyder presents The Picture Of The Hindu God That Barack Obama Carries For Good Luck posted at Shattered Paradigm.

Matt DiChiara presents The Hills Watch: We Were Totally Right. OBVI. | MyNewPlace Blog posted at MyNewPlace Blog.

Ozone presents Interview: Johannes Strassmann posted at Poker Tips.

Free-Spirited Fashion

2008-07-13T22:54:00.001-07:00

As you may or may not have established from my blog title, I am very much a hippie. Not so much in the political form, but very, very much in the fashion form. (And the tree-hugging, eco-friendly form as well, might I just add.) I frequently search for fashion inspiration from the 60's and 70's, and usually to my dismay, find very little. So I've started a new group via flickr, "Free-Spirited Fashion." It's the place to lump together one's own hippie-inspired ensembles as well as original 60's and 70's photography. So far, I've been tickled pink at all the beautiful photos that have been submitted to the group's pool.

Photos originally submitted by:
ali willowflower, TheVintageSocietyGirl, Bottle Bell Photography, Harald HAEUSLER, Barbara Jambswich, and Annie Butterfly.

Feel free to join the peace, love, and harmony at "Free-Spirited Fashion."

Where to Get the Two-Tone Color Craze

2008-07-13T10:54:00.001-07:00

A very modern and lasting trend this season that will flow into the next is the two tone anything. Whether it be a dip-dye ombré dress, shirt, shoes, a belt or your sunglasses, I recommend owning something with this fabulous color process on it.

A great place to pick up a variety of pieces with this dye job is through Adam Lippes, on shopadam.com, which is where you can find this two-tone purple frock featured here. Although I must say this two-tone yellow garb by Behnaz Sarafpour is far superior to anything I saw on Adam’s website.

On the sunglass note, I recently picked up a pair of two tone mellow yellow frames at Charlotte Ruse for $5, but if you are itching for something with a little more lasting power and little less scratches on it, try these Chloe Charme sunnies, the Baby Phat shades or these Emilio Pucci’s at the far right there.

Liv'n Out Loud - Empowering Tees

2008-07-12T22:54:00.001-07:00

I am one of those people who loves empowering slogans, mantras, quotes - anything that can help inspire you and remind you to be your best. That's why I love Liv'n Out Loud, a company that makes really cute t-shirts with positive slogans on them. Alyson Bruu and Kristina Fichera started this brand in 2004, after Alyson nearly died from routine surgery and decided she didn't just want to survive, she wanted to thrive. What is great about Liv'n out Loud is that they donate a portion of all sales to charity (either the ASPCA or The American Cancer Society, depending on the tee you buy). The shirts are all reasonably priced at $20-25 and they make great gifts. Most styles go up to a generously sized XXL. Here are some of my faves:

This one was a big hit when Liv'n Out Loud donated it for the LUSCIOUS Calendar Party in October. I think the message is so great:

So go ahead, pick up one of these great tees today for yourself or a woman in your life who needs to be reminded to live her best life!

Friday Furnishings: Stranger in a Strange Land

2008-07-12T10:52:00.001-07:00

Greetings from the Willard InterContinental Hotel! No, I'm not travelling - the hotel's in downtown D.C. - but hundreds of other folks from Goodwill's around the country have travelled here for Delegate Assembly, an annual gathering together Goodwill CEOs, board members, and others dedicated to Goodwill's mission. (By the way, did you see that the House passed some major disabilities civil rights legislation yesterday? Come on, Senate!)

All this got the DCGF to thinking about travel and what a pain it can be, but also how fun it is, if you know how to pack the right way. Let's start with the basics. You can't travel - especially in the summertime, especially to an outdoor-focused place like D.C. - without the proper skincare. And with the T.S.A.'s restrictions, why not make it easy on yourself and grab a set like Bliss's "Face Value" from Sephora (shown at right).

For $45 you get six travel essentials in airline-friendly sizes. Sure, that might be a little bit more than you'd like to spend, but think about the time spent pouring your favorite products into little tiny bottles...then think about not having to do that! And Bliss products are really fantastic.

Staying closer to home, but travelling with pets? Then you'll need these Origami Travel Bowls designed by Naoko Shintani for Alessi. Say you're just spending a hot day out in the park, it's still essential to keep Fido watered. And what better way to do it than with a folding laminated paper bowl?

For just $21 you get a set of 10. Even if you don't have a pet, I think these would make a super-cool gift for someone who does. And for those who value superior decor for not only themselves but their four-legged friends, this is an affordable way to make a stylish statement on the go.

Finally, there are those of you out there who have probably had the same black carry-on for oh, say...forever. And as bag after bag rolls around the luggage carousel, you're squinting and poking, desperately trying to ascertain whether that's really your bag, or the next guy over's. And maybe you even accidentally grabbed someone else's bag at some point. Yikes!

Well those days are through, dear readers. I have one word for you regarding luggage: Kipling. If you've never heard of Kipling, then consider yourself introduced to the best luggage in the world (except for maybe Valextra, but seriously, who can afford that?). I have the New York 22" Expandable Wheeled Luggage bag at right in hunter green and have not once questioned if I'm grabbing the right bag at the end of the flight. Although the green is no longer available, one can choose from red (shown), orange, pink, light blue, dark blue, and (don't do it!) black. The heavy-duty nylon shell and collapsible handle are lightweight and stylish. Plus you get a tiny monkey! That's Kipling's signature accessory. And who can say no to a monkey?

And now, a few words to the wise when travelling around D.C.: if you're here for a conference, take off your nametag as soon as you hit the street. Wearing it makes you a target for people who like to take advantage of out-of-towners. If you're using wheeled luggage, try to carry it on and off the Metro trains (there's often a gap between the platform and the car) and stay to the right on the escalators. Oh, and if you're not sure where you're going just ask! We're friendly here in the nation's capital and we'd rather get you on your way than have you in our way. Ha! Happy trails...

The Penny-Pinchers Toolkit: 100 Money Saving Tips for Online Shoppers

2008-07-11T22:52:00.001-07:00

Online shopping is the way to go for consumer looking for convenience and efficiency. What could be easier than sitting in your own living room, picking out a new TV from the comfort of your recliner? But aside from this convenience, online shoppers get a benefit that brick-and-mortar shoppers don't – great deals and discounts. Shopping online allows for simple and quick price comparisons between different merchants on virtually any product and retailers often offer promotions to their online customers that aren't available in the store. Here are some great resources that will help you save money and gas.

Price Comparison Websites

Websites that allow you to compare prices on multiple items are helpful for a variety of reasons. First, they allow you to get a good sense of the product's price range in just a few seconds. You'll know the higher end of the price range, the lower end, and where to get the best deal. These sites also help you determine if you can save money by ordering the product online or if you'd be better off driving to a local store. Always do your research before you buy.

BizRate.com: BizRate is a great place to get price comparisons on a number of different products. Whether you are looking for a television set, men's clothing or even just a pair of sunglasses, Biz Rate has the 411 you need to get a great deal. They claim they compare prices for items sold by “anyone, anywhere.”

PriceGrabber.com: Like BizRate, PriceGrabber compares a plethora of household items, appliances, and electronics. You can even check out the price differentials on music instruments. Call them the superstore of the internet, their “Bottom Line Calculations” approach allows consumers to compare the final total from each site – including shipping and handling.

Shopzilla.com: The parent company of BizRate.com, Shopzilla's most attractive feature is it's simple, modern design and easy searchability. The home page features lots of shortcuts to find the best deals of the moment. Shoppers also post reviews about each deal, so you know which vendor boast the most customer satisfaction.

DealTime.com: Like its competitors, DealTime offers consumers price comparisons on just about any product you can imagine. It's database includes information from thousands of online and big box merchants and customer reviews. The site even calculates the tax and shipping costs of ordering from a specific vendor.

Shopping.com: The parent company of DealTime, Shopping.com is owned by eBay and conducts international searches of different product comparisons. Like DealTime, its site is a bit barebones, but very easy to navigate. Shopping.com boasts the world's largest product catalog and is consistently in the top 10 Internet destinations globally.

Kaboodle.com: The product comparison site for the more trendy and modern-minded shopper, Kaboodle goes beyond big box store items and allows users to search for products even on sites like Etsy, a merchant system for individual designers. Kaboodle also incorporates a good amount of social networking into its interface design, allowing shoppers to chat with friends and fellow shoppers, post reviews, and create profiles. Find the hippest, cheapest products on this site.

Jellyfish.com: Owned by Microsoft, Jellyfish.com offers a truly innovative approach to Internet shopping by allowing shoppers to set the prices of products through an interactive system. Its signature approach is called “Smack Shopping,” named, appropriately, after a group of jellyfish. Smack Shopping is an online auction show run through the web site that allows shoppers to bid on products within a certain time frame. Auctioneers never disclose how many products are up for auction, and the prices drop second by second. It's a new, fun way to set about finding a discount.

Roboshopper: If you have ever used SideStep.com to purchase a plane ticket, then you will be familiar with the model employed by Roboshopper. Instead of searching for deals through standard discount sites, Roboshopper searches for deals by searching other price comparison sites and then redirects you to the vendor wit the best prices. It's a valuable service that will save you a lot of leg work and maximize your efficiency.

Froogle: Froogle is what Google termed its own price comparison service. It's a Beta system that's as simple and thorough as Google itself. Type in what you're looking for and Froogle will pull up a variety of brands, giving a price range and number of stores or online locations the product is available from.

NexTag: One of the more popular price comparison sites, NexTag offers shoppers the ability to not only compare prices for a new blender, but also prices for plane tickets, travel packages, financial services, and real estate. It has consistently been named one of the world's fastest growing companies by several publications, including Inc., 500, and it also has sister sites in the UK, Germany, and France. NexTag's comprehensive service boasts 17 million users each month.

Yahoo! Shopping: Most of the major search engines offer price comparison services, but one of the most popular is Yahoo! Shopping, mostly for it's comprehensive approach. Not only can you easily search for and find discounted products, but Yahoo! has teamed up with distributors so it's able to offer shoppers coupons and extra discounts on its site. You can choose to shop by brand, by store, or simply by what's available in the coupon center.

mySimon.com: Now owned by CNET, mySimon.com got off to a big start when it launched several years ago. It's one of the foremost product comparison sites out there mainly because it caters to the serious discount shopper with a number of features, like a periodic newsletter, column describing the most popular items purchased, RSS feed that consistently updates subscribers about the latest deals. The site also offers links to consumer reports right off its home page.

Pricesbolo.com: This fast-working price comparison site is based in India and is one of the fastest growing price comparison services in that country. One of Pricesbolo's best features is that it serves the consumer by working more closely with the sellers. Sellers and merchants who agree to drop their prices even further will benefit from having Pricesbolo drive more traffic to their businesses. It also rates the merchants in your area so you know which are the most reliable.

PriceRunner: PriceRunner was founded in 1999 and now has sites in several languages and countries. Retailers can pay the site to include them on product searches, but PriceRunner also includes deals from non-paying merchants. You'll be able to tell them apart by whether or not the merchant's logo is included in the advertisement. While there's nothing fancy about PriceRunner, it's a reliable and efficient service.

Become.com: A somewhat strange name for a price comparison website, but nevertheless it is a great, user-friendly site. Become.com offers easy searching for shoppers and lets them zoom into the kind of information they want to hear about each product. For example, if you are looking for a new stereo, you'll be able to compare competitive prices, as well as click on user reviews, customer forums, or published consumer reports. You can also create a profile through the site that will allow you to interact with other users. Become.com also has a philanthropic component, allowing you to donate to a featured nonprofit from its homepage.

AOL: Similar to Froogle, AOL's shopping site turns simple searches into a wealth of information. Type in the product and it will turn up a host of results with price ranges from multiple vendors. You can also access great deals through AOL's coupon portal, keep up with the newest products, and read articles posted on the shopping blog.

MSN: Again, this is another service available from a popular search engine provider. MSN Shopping allows for price comparisons on over 33 million products in its database. You can also get tips on how to purchase certain items from MSN's shopping gurus, access coupons, and read about the latest deals. If you're a person who has trouble making a decision, this site's helpful advice tools will be an attractive option for you.

DealOz.com: Are you a movie buff? Are your DVD spending habits getting a little out of control? Then this is the site for you. DealOz.com compares prices on any and all DVDs available. So what if the list price is $30; DealOz will find it for half that, at least.

Reseller Ratings: This site is interactive for both shoppers and merchants, and aside from a running blog advertising the latest deals on its homepage, Reseller Ratings lets users rate both products and merchants. Owners of the site claim it's most attractive feature is reviews by “real people.” Subscribe to the site's RSS feed to stay on top of the latest and greatest deals available minute by minute.

Pricewatch: Established in 1995, this somewhat minimalist site lets computer shoppers compare and contrast prices on technologies from multiple vendors. The site also offers users up-to-date technology news on hardware, software and games.

Coupon Code Sites

Most of us probably received our first lesson in discount shopping techniques from our dear, old coupon-clipping grandmothers and mothers. But in the age of eco-friendly behavior, it's time to shun the tree-destroying Sunday circulars for more accessible and efficient vouchers. There's hundred of websites out there devoted to the world of coupons — check out these helpful sites that allow you to apply deals to products found online.

RetailMeNot.com: RetailMeNot is a cute and highly useful coupon code site that features up-to-the-minute deals from all of the major retailers out there. Save 25 percent on a book from Borders or 30 percent off your purchase from Ann Taylor. Expiration dates are prominently displayed, and the site also puts out a weekly newsletter about the latest deals.

Fat Wallet: One of the more popular and user-friendly coupon sites, Fat Wallet offers tons of discounts and coupons and employs the “cash back” incentives so popular among many coupon sites these days. Cash back incentives work like this: purchase a product with a site's coupons and you'll get cash back on your purchase. That's because some coupon websites get commissions from retailers for driving traffic to their site.

CouponCabin.com: Coupon Cabin is a well-organized site that let's you easily find the most popular coupons available or search for deals with specific retailers. Coupons are categorized by expiration date and the site even has a section devoted entirely to coupons on the verge of expiring, so you won't ever miss a deal.

CouponCode.com: Coupon Code is another highly popular and highly useful coupon site, which has all the features any shopper would need to keep track of the best coupon deals available. Not only can you create an account where you can save coupons you want to use in the future, but the site also allows shoppers to compare prices and kill two birds with one stone.

CouponCodes4u.com: This site is for the serious shopper who is looking for daily deals. Its system is based on its user population – resourceful shoppers who collect rebate codes and coupons and email the codes into the folks who run the site. Register with this site and you'll get alerted each time a new deal pops up.

CouponHeaven.com: Another useful site that combines all of its deals into a simple and easy-to-use interface that doesn't overwhelm shoppers with flashing ads and messages. While the site does offer a “Featured Deals” section on its homepage, it really puts most of the onus on the user to know what they're looking for and conduct a search, either by merchant, category, or brand name.

CouponChief.com: With Coupon Chief, you will never have to worry that your coupons are out of date. It is updated daily and organized into a user-friendly format. At the very top, shoppers will find featured deals for the very day they're shopping and then right below the most recently-added coupons are listed, as well as all of the coupons expiring that day.

CouponShack.com: A well-designed and easy to use site, CouponShack has a frequently updated blog, staff recommended deals, and discounts that apply to a variety of products. Aside from products found in big box stores, look to this site for grocery coupons, travel deals, and discounts on financial services. Also be sure to check out their Deal of the Day.

CouponCactus.com: Aside from offering over 2,000 coupons daily, CouponCactus has even more incentives for shoppers. By registering with the site and helping to spread the word about the discounts offered, you can earn a commission. Every time someone uses a coupon from your referral, you'll get a percentage of the sale.

CurrentCodes.com: CurrentCodes.com knows that shoppers don't want to waste their time searching coupon sites only to find that all of the deals listed have already expired. Their full-time staff spends all day every day updating their information and making sure you have the most relevant and timely coupons at your fingertips. The site isn't flashy, but it's easy to use and definitely useful.

CouponAlbum.com: True to its name, Coupon Album offers coupons on everything imaginable, from actual products to travel to coupons that just cover shipping costs. One of the great features of its site is that listed with each coupon is an accompanying list of current sales offered by retail outlets that don't require coupons. The site also maintains several user forums, though none are very heavily utilized.

Blogs

Shopping is a popular topic, not just for adolescent girls, but anyone with a credit card and a moderate amount of disposable income. Sure comparison sites and coupon codes are great, but sometimes you really need a personal voice to help you find what you're looking for and locate the best price. Which is why these blogs about discount shopping are great resources to check in on periodically for the latest news from folks who make knowing about shopping their bread and butter.

The Budget Fashionista: This blogger's mantra is “Be Fabulous for Less,” and its thorough content and plethora of deals is a God send for any girl who wants to stay in style without blowing their budget. This blog is so successful, in fact, its founders even wrote their own book about how to shop on a dime. Content includes not only burgeoning fashion lines, but readers get access to coupons and up-to-the-minute information on all the latest sales. The blog also maintains an active forum so readers can communicate with each other about other deals they've found.

Gretchen's Closet: This fun blog is heavily headline driven with deals galore. Not only does this blog keep you up to date on all the fashion trends – even the ones you can't afford – it has more coupons than one shopper could hope to find in a single spot. There's also a frequently-updated section about all the latest and greatest sales available online.

Cheap Laptops: This U.K.-based blog is an excellent resource for those of you in the market for a cheap laptop computer. The laptop-per-day approach means there's lots of information to be found, even if you will have to do a little price conversions to figure out prices in American dollars. Search by brand or sign up for periodic updates.

Ebates: Ebates is an “online mall” that profits from commissions whenever its readers click and buy from one of their links. Therefore, the maintainers of this blog have a real incentive to keep shoppers informed of the best savings. To get more shoppers to participate in shopping through Ebates, the bloggers even offer shoppers a “cash back” incentive – forking over a percentage of their commission to the folks who helped them earn it!

Infomercials TV: You won't find any coupons on this blog, but you will find a great round-up of all those discount, too-good-to-be-true products you've probably seen on TV infomercials. Infomercials often offer viewers excellent discounted rates for buying over the phone, but how do you know the products work? This blog allows for readers to post comments and disclose their own research, helping you make a more educated decision.

The Bargainist: The ultimate discount shopper's guide, The Bargainist leaves no stone unturned in its quest for the cheapest products on earth. Heck, one entry even notified readers about a Krispy Kreme promotion for a single free donut. Chock-full of coupons, this blog is updated so frequently it will make your head spin. Recently, bloggers posted 10 entries before the clock even struck Noon.

Save, Save, Save: A very purple blog maintained by a U.K.-based woman who decided to start a blog after realizing that her own online shopping experiences were often times pretty humorous. Admittedly, this blog seems to have strayed from its initial purpose, as most entries fall in the category of random diatribes and non-shopping related topics. However, it's still worth a look, since the blogger has compiled a pretty extensive list of other blogs – some of which deal with discount shopping.

Deals, Coupons & Bargain Guides: Not a very catchy name, but this blog will surely catch the eye of bargain shoppers in the market for some cheap electronics and computer equipment. Updated several times each day, this blogger scours the Internet for the best technology deals and then brings them to his readers free of charge.

Ransacker: Ransacker is a blog run out of the U.K. that is dedicated solely to price comparisons on various different running shoes. This blog is one that should be bookmarked by athletes or athletic-shoe aficionados. Again, you'll have to break out your exchange-rate calculator, but if you're looking for cheap shoes that can be ordered online this blog is a great, current resource.

Coupon Codes Mall: A blog that doubles as a coupon code site, bloggers post multiple entries a day about the latest coupon codes and go one step further to educate readers about the product and the deal. It also offers links to tons of other coupon sites and allows readers to join a mailing list, as well as read product reviews.

Shop with a Vengeance: With the exception of uber-rich celebs like Madonna and Paris Hilton, most of us don't know what it's like to march into a store and throw every item we encounter into a basket. Rather than shopping with a vengeance, we shop with a calculated timidity. That's why this blog is so liberating – find great deals and fill your virtual cart without worrying about going into debt. Check out, specifically, the “Bargain Finds” section.

Buy Better and Have a Better Life: It's a mouthful of a title, and it's not the most straightforward of all discount shopping blogs. But this blogger does manage to sneak in a fair helping of information about product deals and current sales. The blog is kept current, and in addition to talking about ways to save when shopping this blogger conducts personal product reviews and also writes about ways to live better holistically.

eDaily Shop: A busy blog that focuses on deals to be found when purchasing electronics, DVDs, computers, and other technologically-advanced items. The fact that the site is powered by a Google search engine is a good thing, since there is so much information to take in. Each product post comes with a review, and readers can also quickly search the sites archives for past reviews.

Frugal Fanny: Not so much a discount finder as a blog dedicated to helping discount shoppers live within their tiny budgets. This blogger gives readers useful tips for how to live well on a budget and take advantage of the discounts that are widely available. It's not updated daily, though, so think of it more like light reading to peruse in between your purchases.

Giveaway of the Day: This blog, updated daily, is a great find for computer geeks and software developers looking for the latest technology deals. Each day, the bloggers give away a new program or other application. The blog often notifies readers of giveaways in advance, so you can be sure to check the site on the day. Also, the blog features a pretty active forum.

Everybody Loves Coupons: This is a quirky blog maintained by the folks over at UltimateCoupons.com, which features a daily blog on topics ranging from Indiana Jones to Violence vs. Nudity. What's the connection to online shopping, you ask? Each blog entry is followed by a few great promotional coupons. The blogger also maintains a current list of freebie items up for grabs. Find deals and be entertained at the same time.

Real Looks for Real Women: Oprah would love this blog. It offers great fashion tips for all women, as well as links and reviews to the latest fashions from affordable designers. Staying in style this season doesn't mean sacrificing your savings anymore.

Articles

Online discount shopping has become such a phenomenon that it's even newsworthy. Every major newspaper and magazine has covered the topic at one time or another, studying its growth in popularity. These are stories that retailers pay attention to, since online sales have become such a large percentage of their overall profit. Here's a round-up of some great articles that will help you educate yourself more thoroughly on the topic.

Benefits and Advantages of Shopping Online: A helpful article written by the folks at Coupon Codes Mall. This article discusses the flexibility and the ease that online shopping offers shoppers in comparison to retail outlets. Short and sweet, this article make a good case for utilizing your computer more in your quest for earthly goods.

Shopping & Selling Online: Author Richard Seltzer covers everything anyone would need to know about both buying and selling items online in this 10-chapter article. Get a great overview of the benefits of using the internet for your shopping needs, while also learning how to use search engines to find the best sites. Want to make a buck or two while you're at it? Consult Seltzer's chapters on posting your own goods for sale.

8 Top Sites for Online Shopping Deals: An article by MSN Money writer Jennifer Mulrean, which chronicles the best sites for finding product deals. These sites range from general online retailers to sites that offer shopper discounts and coupons.

New York Times: The Times published an article last year, which pointed to the decline in online sales in some markets. But the decline was also thought to be the result of the fact that with Internet sales reaching over $116 billion in 2007, it was difficult for retailers to keep up with the previous growth trends in online revenue. Some retailers, like Dell, who were strictly into online sales have even started hocking their wares in brick-and-mortar establishments.

Safety Tips: When shopping online, the consumer is frequently entering highly private information. Aside from credit card numbers, there is also the home address and phone number. This quick article discusses some general tips to keep in mind so your identity and finances will stay secure.

Consumers Buy Into Online Shopping: A good article that precedes the NYT's article about the slowing down of Internet shopping. This article, written in 2005, chronicles the boom of online shopping and it's growth during the first few years of the decade.

Shopbot Article: An informative summary found on MoneySavingExpert.com, which defines shopbots and rates the best ones. A shopbot can be defined as any price comparison website that allows consumers to compare and contrast before making a choice, such as PriceGrabber. The article also has useful information on cash-back sites, or those which return a commission to the shopper for buying through their promotions.

10 Reasons Not to Shop Online: As a comparative shopper, you should always be in the market for the contrarian point of view. This article about why people shouldn't shop online plays the perfect devil's advocate. Most arguments are unconvincing, though it's hard to argue that privacy issues cease to be a big concern when exchanging cash for goods in person.

Marketing Myth: A great Business Week article that seeks to dispel the myth surrounding “Cyber Monday.” That's the Monday after Thanksgiving that is said to be the biggest online shopping day of the year. Business Week reporters find that it only ranks 12th.

Translating Digital Body Language: An interesting article from The Washington Post that examines the psychology of shopping online and how the lack of a face-to-face sales pitch can lead shoppers to abandon their items before purchasing them. New companies are sprouting up that help online retailers tailor pitches and deals to an individual shopper's interests to help increase the percentage of sales that actually go through.

Online Shopping Doesn't Always Deliver: An article from the Wall Street Journal in which a columnist laments the shipping costs and other hassles involved in online shopping. This is an author with the opinion that shopping online doesn't really save time after all.

Online Shopping with Froogle: Many Internet users swear by Google and its many, many applications. If you are one of those people, than this is the article for you. It's a straightforward look at the ins, outs and benefits of Google's shopping portal, Froogle.

Flaws of Online Shopping Cart Design: An especially informative, if not overly academic, article from the Usability News, which discusses the main flaws of online shopping cart designs. Average shoppers should probably skip this one, unless you're purposely looking to kill some time. But online retailers and those of you looking to start your own e-commerce business may find it helpful.

Allowing In-Store Returns: A short article that makes a solid point. Recently, a study by Ispos MORI found that more people would shop online if the retailer would allow items purchased electronically to be returned in local stores. Seems like a no-brainer, especially for retailers looking to keep their online sales up.

Safe Online Holiday Shopping: PC World put out this helpful article in 2006. The holidays are, obviously, the biggest time for online shopping, which means they're also the biggest time for scammers and hackers who want to get their criminal hands on your credit card information. Check out these tips for safe Internet shopping.

Phone Shopping: This CNN article covers a recent study released by Cisco, Inc., which identifies the mobile phone as being the next big channel for commerce. With more and more smart phones coming onto the market, shoppers can access the Internet anytime, anywhere. Shopping can now be done from the subway, in class, or surreptitiously at work.

Peak Online Shopping Hours: eMarketer.com is a great website with lots of informative white papers and articles about e-commerce. This one helps dispel the myth that online shoppers are all insomniac computer addicts who spend the dark hours of the night running up their credit card bills. Turns out, peak shopping hours occur during the workday.

Security: “Is Online Shopping Ever Secure?” That's the title of this article, which begs to ask the same question. Reporters conclude, actually, that with all of the hacking technologies available these days it is hard to ever truly know if a transaction is completely secure, no matter what the seller promises.

Pricing Alerts: Want to know just how you are getting access to so many fantastic deals through so many fantastic deal-delivering websites? Here's an informative summary of how online coupons come to be and how they are processed on the retailer's end.

Shopping with Kinset: With the launch and popularity of virtual online worlds like Second Life, web developers are entering a whole new world of technology. Take for example Kinset, a 3D virtual environment that recreates a store's physical interior for online shoppers. This blogger questions if it will be the new wave of online shopping.

Shipping Fees as Deterrant: A recent study commissioned by PayPal found that most shoppers abandon their orders during the last phase of the checkout process because of the high shipping fees. This helpful article details other findings in the study, which looked specifically at why online shoppers back out of their orders before finalizing the sale.

Forums

It's great to get all of this information about online shopping from blogs, websites, and the media, but what if you have actual questions you'd like to ask? Shopping forums are abundant online and allow shoppers to have interactive conversations with other buyers and sellers, so you can ask questions and get multiple opinions and answers within a matter of seconds. Check out these shopping forums and start making some like-minded friends.

Epinions: Epinions is one of the foremost consumer review sites on the web. Owned by Shopping.com, Epinions has thousands of members who post product reviews and assist one another in the comparative shopping process. It's a great, thorough, and highly-usable forum for discount online shoppers.

Smarter.com: It's a forum, it's a blog, it's a price comparison website all rolled into one! While many websites offer consumers all three of these features, Smarter.com is one of the more fun sites to peruse. You can also sell your items online – becoming a merchant is easy with this user-friendly interface.

Dealighted: Find coupons and customer forums on the best deals all in one spot on this handy site. The forums section boasts 4,500 members, all of which are extremely active. Compare “Hot Deals”, find “Free Stuff” or just chat with fellow shoppers.

Slick Deals: Slick Deals is a huge online forum with minute-by-minute postings from its hundreds of members. Members are constantly posting online coupons, information about rebates or just simply chatting about the latest videogames or lending each other technical assistance.

Deal of Day: Not the most attractive site out there, but Deal of Day is certainly a useful one. With some forum categories boasting over 100,000 posts, this site is thick with information for the discount shopper. It's a great way to make friends, too. Check out the General Discussion section and chat religion with the guy you met in Rebates.

My Coupons: My Coupons is – you guessed it! – both a coupon code site and a shopper's forum. Users can post pictures of themselves and entries about their latest saves. A great resource for the most frugal of shoppers.

Deal Hunting: A comprehensive discount site with coupons, blogs and a highly popular forum. Don't expect to get too off topic here, though. Most discussion boards are dedicated solely to shopping.

Travel Notes: When searching for travel deals, especially, you'll want to learn about others' experiences when they traveled to your desired destination. Travel Notes lets wanderlusts compare notes about traveling on the cheap with an active forum.

Tech Bargains: Technology is expensive – especially computers and other savvy gadgets. That's why the forum at TechBargains.com is so great for both the experienced and the novice alike. Users post about tech products, but they also post about savings on everyday stuff, like groceries.

Big Boards: Big Boards is a simple bulletin-board site that offers forums in multiple categories. The shopping forum has several different categories and links even to forums on other coupon and price comparison websites. It's a diverse community of chatters, and definitely worth a browse.

eShop Forums: A terrific message board and forum dedicated to those of you who actually run your own ecommerce site or are planning to start one. Here you'll find great conversations and tips on the best software packages to support your business, as well as the best shopping cart providers to use. They even let you shamelessly plug your business on one thread.

Motortrend: While the Motortrend forum deals specifically with, you guessed it, cars and trucks, there are some chats that deviate from that tradition. Regardless, vehicle shoppers will find all the information they need to make an informed decision on just about every make and model out there. Even find out how to negotiate for the best deals.

Hub Pages: Hub Pages is an online community where people can create profiles and join forums dealing with just about any topic. Thankfully, there's one dedicated solely to discount shopping. It's free to join and publish your own thoughts, but even if you don't want an account, you're able to read what others have already posted.

Discount Shopping Sites

Discount shopping sites are plentiful on the Internet. Just think of all the discount stores out there that you can physically drive to in your vehicle. Most all of them have online components, and several of those retailers offer extra incentives to online customers that aren't available to people in their brick-and-mortar shops. But there are also several discount shopping sites that can be considered “virtual stores” since they don't have a retail outlet. Here are some of the most popular discount shopping sites consumers flock to on the web.

Amazon: When Amazon first got it's start on the web in 1995 it was in a class of its own. Though its main attraction was, at first, its extensive supply of discount books, Amazon soon expanded its focus to include all sorts of consumer products, like electronics, DVDs, and home appliances. Today it is one of the web's most booming discount shopping sites, and it's even formed some impressive alliances with other discount retailers.

Overstock: Like Amazon, Overstock.com has a big warehouse somewhere where few consumers have actually gone. Its business model is built on acquiring overstocked items from other retailers at a heavily discounted price and then marking it up a bit for the average consumer. While the business is best known for its impressive furniture and jewelry offerings, it, like Amazon, has also expanded into other area, like electronics and clothing.

eBags.com: Looking for cheap luggage? Look no further than eBags.com, which claims to be the world's largest online discount bag retailer. They carry over 500 brands and offer a plethora of online discounts.

Smart Bargains: These guys have deemed themselves “Your personal bargain hunter” for all of the deals they find. Set up as an online marketplace, the site gets its competitive prices much like Overstock does – by purchasing canceled orders, overstocks, and closeouts from big manufacturers at rates that can't be beat. They then turn around and pass those discounts off to shoppers.

Pricemad: Pricemad is an online discount site that frankly hasn't received the best reviews in the customer service department. Do your research before placing any big ticket items with them, but their site can be helpful from a comparison standpoint. Pricemad focuses largely on electronics and computers.

Netmarket: Netmarket offers its shoppers discounts on items from cameras to swimming pools precisely because it doesn't stock anything. It simply forwards your order onto one of its subsidiary vendors and the item is shipped from there. It's inventory is somewhat limited, however, to household items and outdoor appliances.

Best Buy: If you live in the suburbs of a major city, chances are you have a Best Buy on nearly every street corner. But most people don't know that Best Buy is also one of the top 10 websites for e-commerce traffic. Perhaps it's because extra deals are available to shoppers online through the store's web-based outlet center.

Label Spree: Save up to 75 percent on designer clothing labels by shopping through Label Spree. Shop by label or by season on this site and get the latest fashions for a fraction of what you would pay in the store. From Betsey Johnson to Antik Denim, Label Spree lowers prices on items continuously throughout the day and is able to offer the prices it does because it sells only out-of-production garments. You can also sign up to receive alerts when the price on the item you want starts dropping.

Bluefly: Like Label Spree, Bluefly offers heavy discounts on designer clothing. The company formed in 1998 and sells the latest discounted designer items at about 40 percent off the retail price. One of the best features? Customers can chat live online with personal shoppers for advice on the latest looks.

Fashion Bliss: Similar to Bluefly and Label Spree, fashionistas with small checking accounts can get the same look Julia Roberts sports for a fraction of the price. It's not clear how Fashion Bliss secures the discounts they do, but they do say this about their stock: “Our fabulous items come from a variety of sources and we carry only the highest quality products. Each and every piece is selectively hand picked by our fabulous team of buyers while traveling around the continent and the globe in search of the latest and greatest fashions to share with YOU.”

Target: Everyone knows about the wondrous styles and prices available at Target. And while it's probably easy for most of us to get in our cars and drive to the closest retail outlet, you can find some extra deals online, including free shipping of some items over a certain amount, as well as coupons.

eCost.com: eCost.com is one of the best online discount warehouses out there, specializing in computer hardware, software, and electronics. They say their most unique characteristic is the fact that they keep the customer in mind at all times and have customer service representatives online to help with confusing purchases. Their signature marketing ploy is the “Bargain Countdown” section, which offers a small amount of a product at a really low price for a given time period. It's definitely an “act fast” sort of deal that serious shoppers will want to monitor daily.

Smart Shop: Smart Shop is another discount site dedicated to bring consumers the best prices on electronic and computer equipment and household appliances. With warehouses located throughout the country, Smart Shop promises customers a quick turnaround time on their purchases. Their homepage conveniently features items that are “hot”, as well as those on sale.

E Half Off.com: This site has teamed up with Overstock.com to bring you great prices on products – some of which have been discounted to the tune of 80 percent! Like Overstock and most other discount shopping networks, E Half Off makes its money when other retail businesses buy more than they need. They have over 750,000 products available and offer a flat shipping fee of $2.95, no matter how big your order.

Sidestep: It's hard to know whether to categorize Sidestep as a price comparison site or a discount shopping site. Really, it's both. Sidestep is an easy-to-use site that helps consumers find the cheapest flights around by performing a search of all airline websites and airline search sites. In the end, you can mix up your destination airports and times to find the best price. An incredible tool for the frequent or infrequent traveler.

Woot: Woot operates on the principle of “one day, one deal,” and it's a great concept. Every day, Woot features one item for sale that has been deeply, deeply discounted. That's it. You either purchase it or you don't. Unsure what to do? Consult Woot's active blog and user forum for product reviews.

Craigslist: Craigslist is a different kind of marketplace altogether. While it's not an online merchant, it is more than entirely possible to find the best deals on used products on this free classified site. Maybe you're in the market for a bike and a new apartment? Craigslist has you covered. It's the most comprehensive online bulletin board and it's the perfect spot for the discount shopper who doesn't care about having everything brand new.

eBay: You didn't think we'd forget did you?!? Last but not least is one of the more popular online shopping destinations for buyers and merchants alike. eBay allows for competitive shopping by having buyers bid on products within a certain timeframe. Merchants can also rake in the cash selling stuff they just don't need anymore. It's a virtual online yard sale where the savvy shopper can find just what they need.

The Unrealistic Christmas Wishlist

2008-07-11T10:52:00.001-07:00

Alas, I am back and am feeling rejuvenated. Thank you for all the good vibes, they were inexplicably helpful. Now that I'm through my rough patch, I'm becoming increasingly more and more excited for the upcoming holidays. Even though I just recently had a birthday, I'm already thinking of things I want this year for Christmas. I'm sure I'm not alone in being overly wishful around the holidays, so this year I've made an "unrealistic wishlist." I'm sure I could have gone a little more crazy with this, but I suppose this is more of a realistic unrealistic wishlist, har har.

1. a balenciaga city motorcycle bag.
2. an antique couch.
3. vintage throw pillows.
4. a granny square blanket.
5. a vintage gunne sax dress.
6. vintage cat's eye glasses.
7. a blythe doll.
8. a polaroid camera.
9. a kewpie doll.

Hey, maybe I'll luck out and actually get one or two of these for Christmas. The throw pillows and the polaroid camera aren't all that unattainable. So what's on your "if money were no object" wishlist?

Credits: fashionbag000, leila-anne, catslye, 100bean, Elf Couture, Miscelena, Pochico5454, guitarcrazy12310, flyingsouth

assemblage des chapeaux

2008-07-10T22:52:00.001-07:00

Another hat display idea, this one from Kris Van Assche at last year's Pitti Uomo fair. My apartment is too small to make this work, but I like the look of hats floating above the ancient Medici stables.

via simply olive

Maxed Out!

2008-07-10T10:52:00.001-07:00

No, I'm not talking about my credit cards, dear readers (thank you, stimulus check!) in today's title. I'm talking about the latest, greatest persisting trend in fashion: the maxi dress. For those of us with less-than-perfect gams, the maxi dress is a great way to stay cool and stylish without feeling self-conscious in a shorter hemline. Even if you do have a great body, the maxi dress gives off a relaxed vibe that says, "Sure, I could show off everything in a short, tight dress, but that's not my scene, man. I'm much too cool for that." All the cool kids are wearing 'em.

The key to wearing a maxi dress well, though, is fit. A giant tent-like piece of cloth will flatter no one, but buying the right style for your body type will ensure a flattering silhouette. I'm totally in love with the brown diamond print Rachel Pally version at right, from Pink Mascara. I think it's great for petite frames because the spaghetti straps and shirred waistline give definition to one's shape, while Pally's signature modal knit fabric will cling and curve in all the right places.

Anyone who's a fan of Pally knows that all this fabulousness does not come cheap. This dress will set you back $220. But be shrewd with your online shopping and you can often find her pieces at steep discounts on sites like Bluefly and Chick Downtown.

For a more economical choice, I like this halter version from Forever 21, at left. It comes in green, black, and purple and has - wait for it - pockets! Oh how I love dresses with pockets.

The back is entirely open and the halter ties at the neck, making it a great choice for the beach or any super-casual get together. The halter styling makes this ideal for athletic figures, and the solid colors are sure to create a long, flattering line.

And did I mention it's only $36? Yeah, that's pretty great, too.

And what about shoes? Well, as much as some teeny-tiny fashionistas love to pair chunky platforms with these dresses (I'm looking at you, Rachel Zoe), I'm a firm believer in wearing flats with long dresses.

The current crop of strappy gladiator sandals are a perfect complement to these long hemlines. But don't let the hemlines be too long. Anything brushing the ground should be hemmed to right at the ankle line, otherwise the look become a bit sloppy.

And finally, if I had a big ol' pot of money hanging around (or another one of those stimulus checks!) I'd be all over this maxi dress from Diane von Furstenberg. Unlike the others, it has even more coverage on the back than the front. So retro and chic!

Available on Net-a-Porter for the low, low price of only $650 (yikes!), this version is all silk and has a ultra flattering v-neck and self-fabric tie waist. I'm totally loving the vibrancy of the print, too, which would flatter so many different skin tones.

Oh, Diane, you always know what a girl wants!

I'm also personally a big fan of maxi-dress versions from INC International Concepts at Macy's and Vince's Ikat Maxi, available at Bloomingdale's. Ooh - that makes five maxis altogether...one for every day of the week! Perfect.

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.

Pop Quiz #473

2008-07-09T22:52:00.001-07:00

Reminder: posting will be slow this week. I'm working with a trainee. He's doing really well, exceeding all my expectations.

Okay people, here's the quiz for the day. Here's a jpeg of a pattern sample I found on the internet. The pattern maker's identifying marks have been removed (he charges $75 an hour!); I have no desire to cause anyone embarrassment. The question is, explain why a pattern like this is a problem. It's something rather obvious and not a trick question. Don't read anything extraneous into it.

fringe factor

2008-07-09T10:52:00.001-07:00

Lately, I've been inspired by fringe. I love the flossy feel of it, and in particular, I love to dance in it (many hours have been spent watching 1920s film footage and practising Charleston-esque moves!) In the past, I considered fringe to be reserved for cowboys on Appaloosa horses, as well as the women in my family who wear lovingly custom-designed chaps and jackets on their motorcycles. As with any type of decoration, I still think that fringe is most attractive in moderation (unless you're dancing to smoking hot jazz, when more is definitely more), but I hope to see a touch of show girl on the streets this summer. If you're looking for DIY inspiration, Svenja Specht's spring collection for Reality Studio was influenced by a trip to Morocco, and features fringed accessories (the head decorations above are my favourite). If you really want to make people's eyes pop, you may be interested in the Roxy tights by bebaroque - with the lauding of Susie Bubble and Queen Michelle, I'm sure to see some fringed legs in the UK this fall.

A little gratuitous fringe action to get you in the mood...

(pink tights photo by Saga)

Living Your Life Like It's Goldyn...

2008-07-08T10:49:00.001-07:00

Above: Porridge Two Button Dress, $92.50, www.shopgoldyn.com

Left to right: Generra Belted Shift in rivear blue, $165; Development Fluttered Sleeved Shirred Blouse, $284; Rachel Mara Sliver Linen Dress, $253 all available at www.shopgoldyn.com

Say goodbye to those tattered jeans and coffee stained sweatshirts - you finally graduated!! Now you can join the big leagues with your ~~high~~ modest paying job and slightly upgraded shared apartment. In celebration of your new found financial freedom, why not update your wardrobe with some classic but quirky summer items. Your first stop should undoubtedly be www.shopgoldyn.com. It's not often that I visit a site and fall in love with everything I see. That electric blue Generra Belted Shift is on my hit list. It'll look great with those gorgeous Manolo Blahnik's that were featured in the Sex and the City movie - you know which pumps I'm talking about ;) If those student loan repayments are kicking your butt head straight to their Sales section with anything from 20% - 70% knocked off. The dress above by Porridge is only $92.50 and with the extra 20% off with the coupon code "GOLDYN20", you'll be laughing all the way to your new job!

Someone Won a Prada Today. It's a Good Day.

2008-07-07T22:48:00.001-07:00

It went by so fast, but it has indeed been 7 days since I posted the Prada haiku contest and that means it's time to announce the winner! I have gotta say, wow, those were some freakin' incredible haiku (no, my "s" key isn't broken--haiku are like ~~sheeps~~ sheep). Again, for emphasis: freakin' incredible haiku. If you haven't checked them out, click here--with over 200 entries, it's a great way to waste some Monday work time.

Here's a haiku from Basho, the 17th century Japanese haiku master:

the first cold shower
even the monkey seems to want
a little coat of straw

You guys' haiku were like, a million times better. In fact, if MC Basho was alive today, I would go to his posse's hangout and throw down this response haiku:

My readers' haiku
Kick your haiku's ass. Even
the monkey agrees.

Seriously, I checked the comments hourly (er...I mean, I got to them whenever I could considering my extremely busy schedule) and I was constantly amazed by your poetic talent and comedic skillz. My co-judge and I agonized over the decision, but a winner soon emerged.

Her name is Hannah, and she delivered this trifecta of hilarious haiku, which received bonus points for a) employing the traditional haiku rule of referencing the season/weather, and b) the use of word "woe," which is, in my opinion, the greatest and most underrated word in the English language:

Leaves blow in cool wind.
I spend forty bucks on J.
Crew jelly flats. Woe.

Ralph Lauren, you make
me want yachts. I can't even
afford your visors.

It was a cold day.
Caught my brother jerking it
To the AA site.

Congratulations, Hannah! You're the owner of a new Prada wallet. Maybe you can trade it in for a yacht?

But wait, stop the presses! Three runners-up were so good that they will also receive prizes (not Prada prizes, but still):

Pamcasso's was just perfect:

Tom Ford why the hell
Are all the models naked?
I thought you sold clothes!

Christina and Emily's was really beautifully done:

Roberto makes me
Choose sequins over good taste,
Feathers over shame.

And d'jen had an excellent point:

Stella McCartney
Why make nice exercise clothes?
Those women don’t sweat

But wait, stop the presses again! Several other entries stood out (I wasn't lying when I said you guys were good!), and therefore I have created another series of awards to properly honor them:

Most Sexually Deviant: Ms. Wendy Brandes

Hey, Daddy Likey!
I will show-cha my cho-cha
For a Prada prize.

and

No, seriously,
I will show-cha my cho-cha
And maybe tits too!

The Unfortunately, I Wouldn't Be Surprised Award goes to Rachel:

Do all the size two
Samples from the designers
Come with free tapeworm?

Best Reference to the Best TV Show goes to NYI for this gem:

Tobias meet Karl,
fellow leather daddy who'll
forgive the cut-offs.

The Bad Designer Gave Me Insomnia Award goes to The Sunday Best:

Last night I dreamt of
all the good things made by Guess.
It was a short dream.

Most Stylish Amputee: The Fashionhead

if i received a
left Louboutin heel i would
cut off my right foot

The So Sad But So True Award goes to Prunella:

It sucks being poor
as you rarely find Anna
Sui at T.J. Maxx.

Best Use of Pool Pee Nostalgia: Captain Vee

See by Chloe love
is like peeing in a pool-
I'm warm all over

The Hilarious/Horrifying Combo Platter Award goes to Julie:

Only Louis Vuitton
I ever owned was a fish.
Met a comic death.

Most Heartfelt/Most Swedish: Emi

I have no money
Prada you can still help me
Hold fake cash, real dreams

The Haiku So Sassy It Made Me Do An Involuntary Z-Snap was from Elise:

stella mccartney
you have a name for fashion
could use an eye though

Thank you so, so much to everyone who entered and to all the fantastic bloggers who promoted the contest, and keep an eye out for another one in the near future (I've got some ideas...). You guys rock. I love you. Hikuz 4 Lyph!

*Everyone whose haiku was featured in this post should email me with their name and mailing address so I can send out prizes and awesome personalized award certificates!*

Sarah Mann Jewelry

2008-07-07T10:49:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Metalsmith

Sarah Mann is fascinated by the creative and technical challenges of transforming sterling silver into objects of adornment. She is proud to carry on a family tradition in the crafts, and pleased that this enables her to exercise her talent no matter where she lives. She creates clean straightforward designs that often incorporate kinetics.

'Astral' Sterling Silver Ring

A dreamy band of brushed sterling silver punctuated with otherworldly designs.

$130

Sarah was introduced to metalsmithing at the University of Wisconsin in her hometown of Milwaukee. She furthered her interest under the expert guidance of Heikki Seppa at Washington University in St. Louis, and the craftspeople at Fuji Studio in Florence.

Collapsible Ring

Brushed sterling silver ring with unique design. Movement and flexibility makes for a comfortable fit. Narrow ring has one bar instead of two.

$150

Sarah then lived in New Orleans, where she worked amid its thriving community of metalsmiths and honed her skills in preparation for a transition to New York City. The dynamic nature of the city inspired the strong form and kinetic design of her pieces.

Jester Cuff Links

Sterling silver cuff links with a patina enhanced surface texture.

$105

Sarah Mann has recently returned to her roots in the Midwest and continues her silversmithing there, creating bold yet elegant jewelry with unique surface treatments. The jewelry that she designs and handcrafts skillfully merges geometric and organic elements to create a style that is recognizably her own.

Mann realizes fully the broad potential of sterling silver. She crafts her jewelry with torch and tools - saws, files, pliers, nippers, drills, hammers, dapping blocks, and a rolling mill - then gives it with a range of hues through delicately controlled oxidation. The combined effect of patina on texture is a signature characteristic of all Sarah Mann jewelry.

Sarah introduces a new jewelry collection - earrings, necklaces, pins, bracelets, and rings - about every ten months. She carefully crafts each piece, and presents it as one of a limited edition. "Raw sterling silver cries out to me, begs me to convert it into bold jewelry with subtle finishes. Of course, I must obey."

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry - 27 May 2008

Isabelle Posillico Jewelry

2008-07-06T22:47:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Metalsmith

Isabelle Posillico was born just outside of Copenhagen, Denmark. She grew up in Idaho, and moved to Long Beach, California, in 1984 to study Architectural Interior Design. After having a successful career in that field for several years, she believed it was time for her to create in a more immediate way.

'Road Trip' Wide Band Ring

18k gold, Aquamarine, Blue Sapphire, and diamond.

Can be made with other gemstones.

$1975

After taking one Jewelry and Metalsmithing class at Long Beach City College, Isabelle quickly became challenged in this new media, and continued with one more class doing large metal hollowware objects. With only the basic techniques, she decided that this was to be her new career. With self-taught skills, book study, attending workshops, and with her strong background in design, Isabelle has developed her own signature style.

'Irene' Cuff Bracelet

18k gold, Citrine, Diamonds, and Sapphires

Can be made with other gemstones.

$2945

Isabelle calls her work Elegant Contemporary Jewelry, and she creates her jewelry in various karat golds that are crafted into many different sizes and shapes. Pearls, diamonds, and gemstones provide the color, which is very important to the appearance of her unique pieces of art. Most of her jewelry designs are one-of-a-kind, but she also does some limited edition pieces.

'Bouquet Garden' Brooch/Pendant

18k Gold, Pearl, and gemstones.

Can be made with other gemstones.

$2145

For the past few years, she has been designing and creating jewelry full-time, and has been showing her work at various juried shows throughout the country, and at several galleries. Isabelle has also built a strong retail clientele that collects her work at shows or by requesting private commissions.

Isabelle is married to internationally known painter, Leo Posillico. Together they create their various forms of fine art in their studios in Northern California. When not designing and creating jewelry, she has been redesigning and remodeling their home and gardens in Santa Rosa, California.

Artist Statement

My pieces include earrings, some with detachable long stems, brooches that can also become pendants, pendants, bangle and link bracelets, necklaces, and cuff links. My latest collection includes beautiful and fun stackable rings. I like my jewelry to have a sense of elegance, yet fun.

I create my jewelry in series, such as the Garden series, which features formed leaves between the winding wire and grouped stones. The metals that I work with are 14k, 18k, and 22k gold, and a little sterling silver. Color is very important to my work. I play with various combinations of metals, gemstones, and pearls, until I like the balance and composition.

Sometimes I do quick sketches on paper or on my laptop computer, and other times I just have the design in my head and start to work. As I work on each individual piece, I sometimes change a few of the details and arrive at an even better design.

My jewelry pieces are hand-fabricated and constructed through sawing, forming, soldering, polishing, and texturing. I love to solder, and even though I dislike the polishing process, this is how I like to have the final finish to my pieces. I also use various types of texture as part of the finish on some of my pieces of jewelry.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Dawn Vertrees Jewelry Designer - 14 March 2008

Alexis Bittar Jewelry Designer - 14 April 2008

Lori Bonn Jewelry Designer - 17 April 2008

Dana David Jewelry Collection - 14 May 2008

Elle MacPherson Intimates Evoke Thong

2008-07-06T10:47:00.001-07:00

We often talk about the imagery that a certain piece of lingerie evokes when we feature a product here at the Intimate Guide. For instance, last week's DKNY Classic Curves thong evoked imagery of the “chalice” symbol - which is good because the chalice symbol represents femininity.

So, we're not exactly sure why they call this thong the “evoke” thong (our calls to Elle MacPherson Intimates were not returned), but it does have an initial appearance of academia. The black and gold - sorry, “jet” and “biscotti” - color scheme coupled with tassels on the front brings to mind the pomp and circumstance of graduation. Since most academic regalia comes from medieval times when those who wore it were considered wizards, we can only assume that the designers use the word “evoke” here to refer to some type of conjuring. Indeed, we can envision Harry Potter's Hermione Granger wearing this thong underneath her dress robes to the Hogwart's Prom.

The thong is styled with a semi-sheer spot design featuring lace embellishments that curve to form the appearance of a Peter Pan collar. This faux collar is neatly tied with a delicate ribbon capped with golden tassels. The spot pattern continues to the rear where coverage is, of course, minimal. Everything comes together for a sophisticated, elegant look in the end - pun intended.

Italian Vogue: The Black Issue

2008-07-05T22:46:00.001-07:00

Naomi Campbell shot for Italian Vogue by Steven Meisel.

It's finally here! Italian Vogue has stepped up and produced the first ever all black model issue! Expect to see some household names (Naomi, Tyra, Liya) and some up-and-comers (Jourdan Dunn, Chanel Iman, Toccara Jones - yes, from ANTM!) in this ground-breaking issue. Of course they don't neglect those that paved the way. Iman, Pat Cleveland and Veronica Webb are also featured.

One source of inspiration for this issue was actually the phenomenon of the Obama campaign. In the spirit of "change" I'm guessing editor, Franca Sozzani and photographer Steven Meisel, were ready to go out on a limb. Meisel says of the shoot, “I thought, it’s ridiculous, this discrimination... It’s so crazy to live in such a narrow, narrow place. Age, weight, sexuality, race — every kind of prejudice.” Italian Vogue editor says of her publication, “Mine is not a magazine that can be accused of not using black girls”. Some of the models in this issue have graced the cover of Italian Vogue before (Alek Wek, Naomi Campbell and Liya Kebede).

The famed photographer was given 100 pages of the magazine for this spread. Other faces you can expect to see are Alex Wek, Karen Alexander and Sessilee Lopez. The issue hits European newsstands next Thursday and will be in the United States soon after. Until then, feast your eyes on the images below, including the four collector's covers featuring Liya Kebede, Sessilee Lopez, Jourdan Dunn and Naomi Campbell.

Left to right: Liya Kebede, Sessilee Lopez, Jourdan Dunn and Naomi Campbell.

i came, i saw, i oystered

2008-07-04T22:46:00.001-07:00

...and I'm still in awe.
It's been a busier weekend than I had anticipated, but please check back in the next day or two for NYC.

Update: et voila!

I'm on a rough-edged ruffle high...

(1 and 2)

MK in the Dark

2008-07-04T10:46:00.001-07:00

Reality TV star Spencer Pratt has apologized to Mary-Kate Olsen for calling her the "less cute (Olsen) twin," after she joked about his bad temper during a late-night TV appearance.

Olsen upset "The Hills" star when she recalled high school memories of Pratt during a recent appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman," revealing he was a star soccer player who often flew into a rage on the pitch.

Pratt immediately proved her right by attacking Olsen in the media.

But now he admits he let his emotions get the better of him: "I apologize for getting caught up in trash talking, but she brought up an emotional subject when she mentioned the soccer stuff."

Pratt tells Us Weekly magazine he has nothing but the utmost respect for his old school pal: "I'm secretly jealous of her. I want my face on a lunch box, too."

Rating: 2

What hideous print you got there MK. Apparently, she still dresses in the dark. Trust me when you have lights on, you won't be reaching out accessories that don't match your outfits.

[Source]

Name That Shoe

2008-07-03T10:46:00.001-07:00

Manolo says, the Manolo's internet friend Mizz Tissa has challenged us to Name That Shoe!

Guess what??!!

2008-07-01T22:46:00.001-07:00

Look who will to be coming to live with us! She was just born a few days ago, so it's going to be a very long 8 weeks until we get her. She's an English bulldog and we are buying her from the same breeder that we bought Boris from. The breeder will be sending us weekly photos (hopefully) so we can see her grow. And I can post her photos here and drive you crazy talking about how much longer we have until we get her! And of course there will be a discussion about names too.
She's so sweet and I am totally in love with her already. She's all white except for a cute little spot on her fanny.

More for Valentine's Day

2008-06-30T22:46:00.001-07:00

I'm still trying to get my depleted website full once again, but it's not easy when you're a one-woman design team. Custom orders do keep me busy and away from the computer (that's why I'm always writing at night, at home, since my studio is downtown.). If I could make jewelry and work on my custom orders at home, I'd never get anything listed on the site. This week, sickness has also intervened , keeping me in bed for 3 days and away from the studio and the computer. My dear kitties , who are only a bit over a year old , totally exuberant, full of life and energy, spent most of those 3 days in bed with me, one sleeping beside me, one on my feet or legs. Of course, now they have energy to spare and all they want to do is play.Some of the new bracelets that will be on the website soon (or at least by the end of this weekend) are on the post today. The first is a rose quartz bracelet with pretty lampwork beads by Riveroaks Acres; it is big and chunky thanks to the rose quartz nuggets and the sterling bead with the heart on it. The next bracelet is unusual - a heart bracelet - perfect for Valentine's - but instead of pink or blue or red, the beads and heart are a combination of amber, black and metallics, both gold and silver in an odd combination that I really like. I mixed some black agate with banding with it, but the beads (by Lynn Nurge) are really the bracelet. It is goldfilled from each small bead to the toggle clasp. It will be on the Lampwork Bracelets page.
The sapphire bracelet below is made of more of Lynn's beads, borosilicate this time, and faceted sapphire rondelles. Loads of sterling silver are on this one.The amethyst earrings hang from some of my favorite posts with a cabochon amethyst bezel-set in them. The dangle part of the earring is made of carved amethyst lilies (love these lilies, love carved beads!). I like the posts myself because years of wearing heavy earrings have stretched my ear piercings. With the nice metal and plastic disk back, these posts hold the earrings in place without stretching your earlobes.

The Tuscon Gem Show is coming up in less than a month and I'm very excited about all the new gemstones I'll be getting. Every year there is something new and special to play with. I can't wait!
Note to my readers in Estonia, Latvia, Finland, Sweden, and Norway - we here in Arkansas feel that we are suffering because the thermometer hit 20 Fahrenheit. No snow yet, but the wind is bitter. I wonder how we would fare in Lapland?

earrings
jewellery accessories jewelry fashion shopping beads handmade beaded jewelry beading helmi gioielli smykker tak? juvelen The Jewelry Blog jewelry trends accessories handmade jewelry handcrafted jewelry beads handmade beaded jewelry sapphires sapphire jewelry sapphire bracelet

What’s the Real Score Rihanna?

2008-06-29T22:46:00.001-07:00

RIHANNA and Chris Brown are still keeping fans guessing about the state of their relationship after coming up with different answers to the dating question at the BET Awards on Tuesday (24Jun08).
Just a day after Brown's mother cooed about the Umbrella singer at a pre-awards gift lounge event, the sexy Barbados-born star was still insisting she's single.
Speaking on the red carpet at the BET Awards, Rihanna said, "We aren't dating; we're very good friends."
But when Brown was asked if he and Rihanna were an item backstage, he playfully said, "Possibly, possibly!"
And his mum hopes the two really are dating - she was overheard telling a friend, "she's the sexiest and sweetest girl Chris has ever dated".
The couple has become inseparable in recent weeks and rumours of a romance were sparked when the pair was spotted kissing and cuddling in a fast food restaurant last month (May08). ;

Rating: 1

Why is Rihanna wearing shin guards? Is she going to play soccer or something? A definite no this stupid trend.

[Source]

Let Me Introduce Hilary Clinton to Clinton Kelly!

2008-06-29T10:46:00.001-07:00

You know the problem well, you can't block it from your mind. The low-long-hemmed unbuttoned jacket swinging away from the widest point of ample thighs/hips... Hilary Clinton and her “pantsuits” (more on that ridiculousness later)...

But it never happened, she never got a lifelong-style makeover from the gurus at What Not to Wear. What a picture, the secret footage, exactly like what I described above, the Clinton puns (there must be puns, I say) and... the bra fitting.

And now it's over. Not only might Hilary's political career be over, but she now has no hope of dressing her womanly body as it should. First legitimate female candidate for president of the United States?? Come on, she's not that female. (Her lack of humanity she increasingly displayed not withstanding, itself.)

What NOT to Wear: Old-Lady Pants Suits

What TO Wear: A nice pin-striped menswear suit. Hem cut at the actual hips (think where a baby rests against a woman's side, on occasion).

Clinton - forget flag pins, try on the stripes!

Archives 6/20-6/26 2005-2007

2008-06-28T10:45:00.001-07:00

Here's this week's entries from the archives...

June 20 through June 26, 2005

Welt-Reece machine operations

Marking & Cutting

Welt and paper jig

Welt pocket construction

June 20 through June 26, 2006

Plant organization pt. 2

Pleating

How I Got Started

Camping

Line sheets revisited

Camping pt.2

June 20 through June 26, 2007

Roundup: The birds and bees

Pop quiz #462 pt.2

News from you 6/22/2007

Are designers, designers? Dedicated to the incompetent

Pop quiz #465

Shopping carts pt.2

Susan Barth Jewelry

2008-06-27T10:43:00.001-07:00

Susan Barth's fascination with three dimensional art and ornament was always there as a child, but her formal exploration began after being accepted into New York City's High School of Art and Design, where she studied sculpture for two years. Later on, she decided to take an intensive six-month course in jewelry making, where she first learned about lost wax casting.

'Earth Elements with Peridot' Ring Set

Silver, Gold & Gemstone Rings

Textural ring set in 18k yellow gold and oxidized silver.

Bezel set 4x6mm cabochon cushion shaped Peridot.

Sold as set; available in half sizes.

$910

Lost Wax Casting

A casting technique in which a carved wax model is placed in a container that is then filled with investment plaster. After the plaster hardens, the container is fired to melt or evaporate (lose) the wax. The result is a plaster mold suitable for casting metal or molten plastic.

'Sea Grass' Earrings

18k Gold post earrings.

Black 9mm x 10mm freshwater pearls.

$890

Considering Susan's background in sculpture, lost wax casting turned out to be her ideal medium. She then apprenticed for five years at a jewelry firm in New York City, after which she worked for Barry Kieselstein-Cord, a well known New York jewelry designer, for six years. working on the creation of his collections.

'Earth Elements' Ring Set

An earthy interplay of color and texture.

Bezel-set 5-pt. diamond in largest ring.

18k white and yellow Gold

Sold as set.

$1845

After that, Susan switched back to freelancing once again, which allowed her the time and flexibility to begin the development of her own work. A few years later, she launched her collection at the ACC Baltimore Craft Show, and was awarded the 1998 Award of Excellence for Jewelry by the American Craft Council.

Barth is adept at combining contrasting metals and textures. A piece is never complete until she's found the perfect combination and composition.

Inspiration

"In art and in nature, it is always the simplest of forms that inspire me," Susan says, "be it the subtlety of an architectural detail, or the perfect symmetry and beauty found in the arrangement of petals before a flower blooms. It's in this simplicity that sparks a deep emotional response in me."

Philosophy

Susan's work has been described as subtle, understated, and elegant - which was always her intention. "My pieces are designed to be just one element in the visual story a person tells about themselves, as they present their individuality and uniqueness."

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry - 27 May 2008

Magazines Acknowledge The Cost of Clothes: A Recession Fashion Rundown

2008-06-25T22:42:00.001-07:00

So,
the U.S. is teetering on the brink of a recession. While there is a
smattering of financial advice scattered throughout the July issues,
the magazines focus on something far more important than investments
and job security: looking good! Priorities! The best investment to
weather an economic crisis is, apparently, your wardrobe. I’m no
financial expert, but based on what’s in the magazines this month, I
will say this: If Forever 21 ever goes public, buy.

Nearly all the
magazines offer looks at lower prices, but considering the source,
lower-priced is not necessarily low-end. Here’s a breakdown of the
style sticker shock:

Bazaar

One page of “Hottest,
Newest, Latest” is devoted to “fashion at AFFORDABLE prices.” It was
wise to emphasize the word “affordable,” because otherwise—well, see
for yourself.

Total number of deals: 6

Their idea of dirt cheap: A $69 Banana Republic scarf

Most expensive bargain: A $395 Elie Tahari clutch

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: $140 J. Crew flats

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $450,000 Neil Lane for De Beers bracelet

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: A $46,650 Balenciaga dress. No,
it isn’t woven from gold. Why do you ask?

Cosmopolitan

“How to Shop Summer
Sales” blends fashion with suggestions to befriend a saleswoman and
keep your receipts for price adjustments. Original!

Total number of deals: 14

Their idea of dirt cheap: A $49 dress from Macy’s

Most expensive bargain: A $158 necklace, Marc by Marc Jacobs

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: $48 DKNY jeans

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $575 3.1 Philip Lim dress

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: Cosmo neglects to list prices for
the most expensive items, like the YSL cardigan worn by a model riding
a jetski. Where else would you wear such a sweater?

Elle

An eight-page spread, “Le Cheap, C’est Chic!,” is annoyingly teased on the cover with the line “No She Didn’t!” Because, you know, spending less than $150 on an item of clothing is totally a novel lifestyle choice and not a necessity!

Total number of deals: Who can tell what Elle thinks is “cheap”? They’ve got Forever 21 mixed with Burberry.

Their idea of dirt
cheap: A $6 bead necklace and, the fashion find of the century, a $7
Hanes t-shirt. Thanks for uncovering that hidden gem, Elle!

Most expensive bargain: Elle’s
“inexpensive” clothes are paired with thousands of dollars of jewelry,
as if that’s the only way to redeem them. The highest-priced piece in
“Le Cheap” is a $3,990 diamond ring.

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: $48 Levi’s denim shorts worn by Mary-Kate Olsen

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $5,600 Marchesa satin dress

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: Ludicrous $300 square sunglasses
by Luella by Linda Farrow. People aren’t actually going to buy those,
right? Right?

Glamour

Bargains are splashed across one page, “Summery work stuff—all less than $40,” and a high-low feature, “Your Summer Extras.”

Total number of deals: 12 for sure; the high-low feature doesn’t designate what is what. A $40 scarf could go either way.

Their idea of dirt cheap: A $10 Shop Suey ring

Most expensive bargain: A $70 Roberta Freymann tote (assuming this is what counts for low-end in Glamour’s universe. Since another page in the same story features a $795 straw hat, I think it must.)

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $25 Chinese Laundry belt

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: The $12,000 Louis Vuitton Speedy mentioned here

Item whose price makes me question the wisdom of capitalism: Gotta be that hat.

InStyle

An anemic single page is devoted to “Deals & Steals.”

Total number of deals: 7

Their idea of dirt cheap: $14 aviator sunglasses by Shop Suey

Most expensive bargain: A $139 MNG by Mango dress

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: An $18 American Apparel t-shirt

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: An $88,000 Van Cleef and Arpels ring

Item whose price makes me question the wisdom of capitalism: An $18,000 Donna Karan crocodile bag. It’s just a purse.

Lucky

An entire feature, “The Season’s Best Looks Under $100,” is given over to low-price style.

Total number of deals: 67

Their idea of dirt cheap: An $18 Mossimo for Target top

Most expensive bargain: Tie: at $99, a “tiered maxiskirt” by WDNY International and a Tommy Hilfiger cotton dress

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $7 Metro 7 tank top

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $1,465 bracelet by Steven Dweck

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: Chanel charges $1,225 for a belt.
A belt! I regret not launching a career in luxury fashion.

Marie Claire

They’ve spread the
discounts throughout: there’s one page of “101 Ideas,” one page of
“Splurge vs. Steal,” and a feature, “Black & White,” that’s
high-low.

Total number of deals: 40

Their idea of dirt cheap: $7 Hue socks (Thanks, Marie Claire, I was really overspending on socks.)

Most expensive bargain: $300 Marciano shoes (worn with the $7 Hue socks, natch)

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: $5.80 Forever 21 sunglasses

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: An $18,800 Cartier ring

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: A Chanel top and skirt set that
retails for the low, low price of $10,745.

Self

Looks like all the clothes shown in the ; fashion features under $100, which is excellent.

Total number of deals: 100, according to the cover

Their idea of dirt cheap: It’s a tie at $8 for a Forever 21 necklace and Old Navy earrings

Most expensive bargain:
Another tie, this one at $99, for a Nahui Ollin tote, an RJ Graziano
necklace, and a $99 Tommy Hilfiger clutch. Those are special prices for
Self readers, however, so this hews dangerously close to cheating.

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: See above for $8 jewelry.

Priciest item elsewhere
in the magazine: That tank top Anne Hathaway is wearing on the cover?
Yeah. It’s $845, and she’s wearing it with necklaces whose combined
total is $5,300.

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: $49 jelly shoes, but probably
only because I’m old enough to remember buying jellies the first time
around.

Vogue

In “The Economists,” Vogue
editors offer “inspired finds under $500 (plus one key investment
piece).” Oh, thank god, because I needed help to find clothes that cost
so little.

Total number of deals: 31, not counting the home décor and investment pieces

Their idea of dirt cheap: A $127 Sykes London belt

Most expensive bargain:
Seven items retail for $495, including a John Varvatos coat, a Moschino
Cheap and Chic skirt, and a ; 3.1 Philip Lim dress. (You didn’t think
they’d go four whole pages without mentioning Lim, did you?)

Cheapest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $150 YSL dickey

Priciest item elsewhere in the magazine: A $16,600 Cartier watch

Item whose price makes
me question the wisdom of capitalism: Hands down, the dickeys were the
most egregiously priced items I saw in any of the magazines. Vogue
featured two: a $150 YSL version and a $395 Prada one. That’s an awful
lot of scratch for something that isn’t even a real shirt.

Do you love Paris in the summertime?

2008-06-24T22:42:00.001-07:00

This commercial shows Paris Hilton in a great one piece black swimsuit with plunge front and silver rings accents.

You can look this hot - without the suds & burger - in Vitamin A's plunge front swimsuit.?The black one piece swimsuit is secured under the bust with chunky metal links and ties across the back. The cups are darted and lined and the legs are high cut. Brazilian cover over butt. (Not a thong, but not full coverage either).

This only comes in black - it's called the Black Shimmer link luxe halter onepiece. Made of 91% Nylon, 9% Lycra.

Plan ahead - Dive into swimwear (part 1)

2008-06-24T10:42:00.001-07:00

Swimsuits - just the word makes me shudder a little. I am not a big fan of showing off my pasty white thighs at the beach, but I love going on vacation and this year's a big one - I'm going on my honeymoon to a resort in the Maldives!! Here are a few suits I've got my eye on at AlwaysForMe.com, one of the best sources for plus size swimwear:

From L-R:

Carol Wior Twist Front Swimdress, $98
Aphrodite Wrap Halter Suit, $79
Twist Front 1 Piece Swimsuit, $69

all available at AlwaysForMe.com

More swimsuit options and cover ups from other stores will be featured in this blog as the weather heats up, but these are just a few to get you started!!

Stephani Briggs Fine Jewelry

2008-06-23T22:42:00.001-07:00

Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith

Based in Portland, Maine, Stephani Briggs makes contemporary jewelry in high karat gold. Most of her pieces are handcrafted using traditional techniques, and often incorporate unique gemstones from around the world. She believes that jewelry should transcend ornamentation, and should stand alone as an object of fine art.

Moonstone Filigree Pendant

Gold Band Rings

Gold Pendant with Pearl

Stephani's designs are replete with detail and color. There is no substitute for the richness of high karat gold - it gives her jewelry designs an antique, regal quality. The textures she crafts into the metal, particularly in the band rings, are so attractive and unique, and not easily accomplished, I can tell you that.

As a goldsmith, Stephani creates her designs from the rawest of materials, using many different metalsmithing techniques, like stamping, carving, and casting. Anyone who can take a sheet of metal and some wire, and create a lovely and enduring piece of jewelry, is a true artist in my book.

Artist Statement

Creating beautiful objects has become my mission in life. Knowing that someone with a discriminating taste will eventually cherish and care for the work, focuses my attention to the process. When a collector understands a piece, its meaning and inspiration, a connection occurs between artist and appreciator. This is the unique and lively relationship that encourages my evolution as an artist.

My methods of building are very traditional. I fabricate the pieces with metal sheet and wire in high karat gold. Hand tools are used to cut, form, and fuse or solder the jewelry. Patience is critical. There are very few shortcuts and sometimes design changes are intuitively made along the way.

Inspiration is never a problem. Designs begin with drawings and grow from there. Long before I commit to building a piece, I study it aesthetically and technically in drawings - to make sure it will last. Due to the labor-intensive nature of the techniques, I create a limited number of pieces.

I strive for balance in my life, and find sanctuary and inspiration by spending time in the natural world. My home is in Maine and I spend my free time hiking, camping, and biking in the mountains. India has also become a home away from home for me. I travel there annually to study the culture, spend time trekking and buying gems in Jaipur. Wherever I am, I find my place - and what surrounds me inspires me.

For more info, click on the pics!

See full article.

Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Manak Jewelry Mania - 16 January 2007

Merging Cutting Edge ART With Jewelry- Anada Khalsa Jewelry - 19 May 2007

Jewelry Shopping for You? - 30 May 2007

Dandelion Vintage Sale!!!!

2008-06-23T10:42:00.001-07:00

25% off of all stock!!!
www.dandelionvintage.com

From now until next Satuuday night - 5/24.
Discount will be subtracted in the shopping cart.
Regular shipping charges apply.
Discount does not apply to items already on hold.
Discount cannot be combined with any other offer.

Also, Boris is doing much better. We still don't know what was wrong with him. The vet wants to wait another week to take x-rays. It was most likely a touch of pneumonia from aspirating on something, probably food because he inhales it without chewing. He has been very active lately, must be the steroids. He's perfectly back to normal with no signs of breathing trouble.

Look Book: Jessie Hill

2008-06-22T22:42:00.001-07:00

Fashionistas and film noir lovers unite! When Jessie Hill first caught our attention at RAFW not long ago, we were impressed by the cool pieces and the fact that the inspiration came from a film that we've been watching over and over again - Blade Runner. So, in an attempt to pick one favourite look from Hill's look book, we landed with 6 favourite pieces. Download Jessie Hill's lookbook here.

Above
1. Moto shirt - silk cream polka print

2. Slinky vest & Darryll Hannah pants
3. Aztec dress - cream polka print

Above
1. Sky blue Materialize dress and Breeze jacket
2. Aztec print Sean Young shoulder dress
3. Blue-grey Turn over shirt dress

Work In Progress: Gray Ruffle Dress

2008-06-21T10:42:00.001-07:00

So this is what I worked on this weekend. I'm not *thrilled* with it, and so I figured I'd put it up for your comments.

What's wrong:

-- the skirt was originally about 3" longer, which was WAY TOO LONG, Texas-compound long, but I'd already sewn on the ruffle, which meant I had to take it up from the waist. Which meant resewing the seams on either side of the center front and back piece (had already put in the pockets, too, so I didn't want to resew those seams).

-- I wanted to match the darts with the center front seams so I had to ease the front into the skirt and so it wrinkled. I think if I stay it with some twill tape it will stay stretched, but I haven't done that yet.

-- I thought I was ready for an elegant gray dress, monochrome and understated and all that, but now that I have one I think it needs some color. Where? I could sew middy braid around the neck and hem ... or, you know, I could just wear a yellow cardigan over it (which is what I'll probably end up doing anyway).

The weirdness on the right-hand side of the picture (left-hand side of the dress) is from pinning it -- I haven't put in the zipper yet. Nor have I sewn down the sleeve self-facings.

This dress came about because I (shock, horror!) managed to LOSE the pieces for this pattern:

I don't know where they went; all I know is that I can't find them. Arrgh.

So I took a six-gore skirt from a pattern I had NOT lost the pieces from (McCalls 3036, which I don't have a link to right now), did some rudimentary math and some pattern-piece surgery, and put together the skirt. Then I just slapped on the bodice from McCalls 8858 again.

Here's a few more pics:

Anyway, am I not thrilled about this dress because it's inherently not a thriller, or am I not thrilled about this dress because I had to do too much fussing with it? (Actually, the more I look at it the more fun I think it will be to wear, if I try not to overthink it too much. And if I finally wear a solid-colored dress, perhaps I could finally wear some of the colorful jewelry I've collected ...)

Thoughts?

The Uptown Emerging Designers Market

2008-06-20T10:42:00.001-07:00

Launched on May 17th, 2008 by Enyinne Owunwanne and Michelle Gittens, the Uptwon Emerging Designers Market (UEDM) is Harlem’s newest fashion retail destination featuring a variety of cutting-edge designers of apparel and accessories. The aim is to periodically hold market days where keen-eyed fashionistas can scour the exclusive clothing on offer and meet the vendors who created them. According to their site, UEDM's mission is to…

• Underscore the importance of the UEDM as a vehicle for bringing fresh styles and new designers to the public's attention.
• Provide a profitable marketplace and tools/resources necessary (including fashion business workshops and an online community for designers, stylists, models, etc.) for emerging designers to build and expose their product.
• Position the UEDM as an essential resource for Harlem's economic development and provide additional exposure to Harlem based businesses.
• Establish the UEDM as a tourist destination and a must-see attraction for lovers of cutting-edge fashion, affordable styles and affordable accessories.

Every major city should aspire to hold events like this. We need more opportunities for emerging designers to get noticed. I especially love that one of their missions it to raise Harlem’s economic portfolio and exposure to the world. Visit www.uptownedm.com to sign up for their newsletter and learn about their next event. Thanks to Johanna for informing me about this site. :)
Latoya Henry of Memory Lane by Toya and Idyllic4U (Karen Brown) & Metal (Nkrumah Jennings).

Nit Ra Sit & Denise Beckford and necklaces from Mifflin 5.

walk this way

2008-06-19T22:42:00.001-07:00

Desperately needing a historical fashion hit before work, I stopped by Sonia Bata's shoe museum to see a few treasures from her archives. Here are the highlights...

The first time I saw a pair of chopines was on Catherine McCormack in her portrayal of 16th century courtesan Veronica Franco (a film which, along with La Reine Margot, occupied pretty much all of my 11th year) . Well preserved fashions from before the 1700s are so rare that I had never hoped to see a pair of chopines with original embellishments intact, but I lucked into this silk and velvet pair from 1580-1620. I particularly like the studs decorating the base.

Chopines were very popular in Venice and Spain during the Renaissance, but it is difficult to get a glimpse of them in paintings because legs and feet were forbidden from sight. The women wearing them simply look very tall - for example, this Genoese Noblewoman is wearing chopines. A “scandalous” engraving with moveable skirt from a 16th century fashion book gives a better idea of what chopines looked like in a regular ensemble:

Some chopines were highly impractical, reaching heights of over twenty inches (at which point, similar to Chinese women who underwent footbinding, an attendant was required to help them move), but others were lower, and patrician women (as well as the “cortigiana onesta”, or intellectual courtesans) spent hours learning to walk and dance in them gracefully.

Next, slap-soled shoes belonging to Frances Walsingham, lady in waiting to Elizabeth I, and daughter of her spymaster, Francis Walsingham. Though the shoes belong to a Canadian collector, they are considered so important to British history that they have to be returned to England soon.

In 17th century Europe, tulips were an exotic, luxury item that indicated high status. Variegated tulips (the kind embroidered here) were the most valuable, with a single bulb costing more than the average person made in 5 years. These mules would have been worn by a young, very rich fashionista.

Silk, embroidered shoes from the mid 1700s - England and France.

Printed leather was all the rage for women's footwear at the end of the 18th century. This pair was made in London in the 1790s- without seeing the label, I would never have guessed that they were so old! I like the polka dots and ribbon detail.

Ornate kilm silk flats with silk tassels. England, c. 1860.

Black satin boots with a "Louis heel", embroidered with typically fashionable Victorian subjects – botanicals and peacocks. Designed by Meliès, c. 1880-1885.

Pink silk shoes with straight soles owned by the first wife of Count Walewski (Napoleon's son). They were made by famed French cordonnier Melnotte in 1830.

Shoes with ribbon appliqué worn by Queen Victoria in 1840.

I love Adelaides. As a devout bootist, I like to imagine that my name is derived from this grandmother of the go-go. Adelaides were brought into fashion to preserve the modesty of ladies whose crinolines were jostled and swayed up to reveal a bit of leg. This beautifully embellished pair, however, was meant to attract attention. France, c. 1855.

More photos can be found on my flickr.

Lee Lee's Valise - Plus Size Boutique in Brooklyn!

2008-06-18T22:41:00.001-07:00

At the opening of a fab new plus size boutique in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn last weekend, I realized I, your own Lisafashionista, had NEVER BEEN TO A PLUS SIZE BOUTIQUE! I've been to Torrid, Lane Bryant et al. But a boutique? Nope! Because there are NONE in NYC! (Ok, so there is like half of one, a store that sells muumuus and big jewlery somewhere on the upper west side, but that doesn't count!).

The store I am talking about is called Lee Lee's Valise and is run by the fabulous Lisa Dolan, a big girl with a big dream. She gutted a busted laundromat and carved out a gorgeous boutique full of the best plus size fashions. She is stocking a number of incredible lines, including Svoboda, Abby Z, Kiyonna, Igigi, Fashion Overdose, B&Lu, Size Appeal, C.enne.V and lots more!!!

She is also selling plus size thongs from Hanky Panky, beautiful jewelry, purses, large size bras, and course, more than anything - she is selling a feeling - of having the right and privledge to shop in a store that sells your size!

Here are a few of the items I saw in the store:

Top Row:
(L)- Kiyonna Lace Top
(R)- Size Appeal Butterfly Top

Bottom Row:
(L) - Fashion Overdoze Halter
(R)- Kiyonna Colorblock Tee

Visit Lee Lee's Valise:
368 Court Street (at the corner of President St)
Take the F or G train to Carroll Street Station and walk 1 block

Call 718-246-LEES for more info

I might just see you there!

evintage Blog Tag - Slips!

2008-06-18T10:41:00.001-07:00

1) Show us your favorite vintage slip in your inventory -
Zoinks, there are so many that I love - I have 14 pages of Slips currently for sale! There's a great selection, many came from the estate of the same lady, who loved lingerie in pretty colors.
My current very favorite slip is this pale blue-green by Aristocraft. It has beautiful lace around the bottom.

And then here are some more pretties that I can't resist showing off.

2) Lace trim or chiffon trim? Whats your favorite?
The lacier the better!

3)Colors or neutrals, whats your preference?
I love the pretty colors of slips, but to be honest, the ones I wear myself are usually ivory or black.

4)Favorite label in vintage lingerie? (Vintage Vanity Fair, Vassarette, Movie Star, Barbizon?.)
I love Van Raalte slips. They are always beautiful designs, pretty colors and easy to spot quality. As soon as you touch a Van Raalte, you know it's one before you even spot the label.

5)Full slip or half?
For myself I'd say full slips under dresses. Mainly because a full slip means less around the waist and I get bothered by elastic around my waist.

6)Slips worn as dresses in public?..yea or nay?
Sure. I've never worn a slip as a dress myself, but I have worn opaque half slips as skirts on many occasions in the Summer. I lreally like the look of an older silk or rayon slip worn as a dress. As long as it's done nicely, and not trashy.

Check out the eVintage Blog Tag every Wednesday. Follow the links to read the posts from all of the participating blogs. I was tagged by Vintage Joy and now I'm tagging Diary of a Mad Vintage Addict

Age Resistant Hand Treatments from Become

2008-06-17T22:41:00.001-07:00

I have been obsessing about my hands lately. They show age without fail, like the rings on a tree. I have a bathroom full of treatments and products to prevent my face from aging but what about my hands?! They need love too. And now that I am going to be 40 soon (ok, not that soon but eventually I will be), I want to start taking care of my hands so they can be my accomplice when I lie about my age rather than my mole. And speaking of moles, that is what I am trying to avoid, or rather age spot, liver spots - age detectors. You do not want hands full of them because no matter how fresh your face looks, if your hands are full of veins and spots, you will not be feeling very pretty. The sun of course is our skins' biggest enemy, I am thinking of wearing gloves when I drive but that would make me into one of those freaky Asian women I used to make fun of (I am talking about all my cousins who have no limits to what they will do to stay fair, wearing gloves is just a small and minor part of their insane ritual). Luckily, I have discovered Become, it is an Australian line and who knows about the damages of the sun more than the Australians? It seems like there is just no shade on that giant rock. I am so happy that there is Age Resistant treatments specifically made for the hands. I keep the Smoothing Complex by my sink, it is a salt scrub full of mineral oils. It is important to exfoliate to get new skin cells to be exposed in all its beautiful young glory. The Rejuvenating Hand Cream I keep in my bag, at all times. I wash my hands A LOT, I've got 2 kids and I cook so it is unavoidable. Of course I have tons of creams but none that are Age Resistant, need I say that again? Sure I like to be moist, but I need more, I need to resist aging!! The Rejuvenating Hand Cream is $15 and the Hand Smoothing Complex is $29. Become is a direct marketing company but you don't have to get involved in all that, you can order on their site with Advisor ID # 100109, password 'become'. Or, call Customer Service at 1-877-BECOME2 (1-877-232-6632).

Rosebud...

2008-06-17T10:41:00.001-07:00

Everywhere you look this Spring it has been florals and more florals. But, what's an un-printy girl to do when faced with a trend that relies on prints?

The Lelya Snakeskin Rosebud handbags is the answer...instead of wearing a garden on your dress, carry a flower on your shoulder! This bag reminds me very much of a bag by Tsumori Chisato (except that had a zipper). So much so, that I can't escape a feeling that I've featured it already.
The skin gives the bag a lovely subtle sheen, perfectly complemented by the gold chain shoulder strap, threaded with like colored leather...it's long enough that the bag rests at hip level. It's probably long enough to wear across the body, but this is just too feminine a bag for that.
The bag closes with a top zipper, and is lined in leather.
It is currently available in black, or tan and costs $575. Pick yours from Intermix

La Mer Supports Oceana

2008-06-16T22:40:00.001-07:00

In celebration of World Ocean Day (this Sunday, June 8th), La Mer (whose creams are in a luxury category allll their own), is celebrating their sea heritage by donating $100,000 to Oceana to help fund global initiatives and support their mission of ocean conservation!
Oceana is the largest international ocean advocacy group and they have some big-name spokespeople (Ted Danson, Amber Valletta, Sam Waterston…), and La Mer has been supporting the organization's wonderful mission for years! The actually had a fab event in celebration of World Ocean Day with stars like Rosario Dawson, Michelle Trachtenberg, Monique Mazer, and model Alek Wek coming out to show their support!
They've also come-up with a special Creme de la Mer wrap, which is an in-store animation La Mer designed for World Ocean Day -- Treat yourself while you support Oceana's mission to preserve our oceans' beauty and health, as you celebrate World Ocean Day this Sunday, June 8th!

Karla Colleto Covered Rings Swimsuit

2008-06-16T10:40:00.001-07:00

Normally, Frilly Friday is reserved for something you might not wear out of the house. Swimwear, on the other hand, is something you probably very rarely wear in the house. So, how does swimwear end up on Frilly Friday? Well, the true definition of Frilly Friday is something that's really pretty, but not so practical. So, when applying that to swimwear, we generally think of it like this:

It looks great, but leaves you with really funky tan lines.

This V-neck swimsuit from Karla Colleto fits that bill. The front contains an interesting pattern of rings and cutaways that will leave a rather “stitched up” tan pattern if you spend too much time out in the sun. It's this very detail, however, that makes this suit so eye-catchingly beautiful. Like the front, the back is cut low (sans rings), but offers full coverage in the rear. I don't recommend you wear it for a day at the beach, but it's perfect for an evening in the hot tub.

Tangerine dream

2008-06-15T10:39:00.001-07:00

Barring the very forward G collection (which seems to have disappeared altogether) Cole Haan is one company that can always be counted on for well made, classic yet stylish handbags.
A great example is the simple medium hobo from their Village collection.

So simple, it could be boring, but Cole Haan punches it up by offering the bag in Summertime brights like this delicious orange...a color not to be underestimated or overlooked where accessories are concerned. Orange adds a nice pop without stealing the show.
The bag has an adjustable drop with a wider sleeve for added comfort and sits tucked under your arm thanks to a pliable body. Subtle seaming gives some interest to the bag, but is still very basic. The bag, which is large enough to hold a laptop, closes with a magnetic snap. Inside it's lined with an assortment of pockets and slots.
This is the sort of bag that will remain sharp looking for years to come, and thanks to it's simplicity looks far more expensive than the $375 it costs.
The Village Medium Hobo is available from Cole Haan.

Summery Topaz Slide from Charles David

2008-06-14T22:39:00.001-07:00

Manolo says, the Manolo loves this pretty contrast of camel leather and topaz (faux-paz?) gemstones. This is the shoe you would keep in the bottom drawer of your desk to change into after work for drinks and dinner. Et voila! From office girl to glam in two seconds!

Valentine's Day Countdown

2008-06-14T10:37:00.001-07:00

I'm still working busily on Valentine's Day jewelry and am just taking a moment to post a few things in the last minutes. I have a Valentine's Jewelry page that I am trying to complete (yes, I'm just as last minute as many of those men who wait and wait to buy their gifts although you would be surprised at how many will get in touch with me a month ahead of time: I've been impressed!). The first picture is of a gold ankle bracelet made with rubies and goldfilled charms and beads. It's called "Turtle Days and Starfish Nights" after the little sea themed charms hanging from the tube beads. Next is a pair of earrings made with heart-shaped freshwater coin pearls (I call them "Baroque" because they have little extra tabs of nacre on them so while they are definitely a recognizable heart shape, they are a little "off", too). The earrings have Karen Hill Tribes butterfly beads and rest on a cabochon freshwater pearl that is bezel-set in sterling silver. They hang from sterling posts with a swirling design and another bezel-set pearl on the front. They would look great with the pearl and Swarovski crystal bracelet below created from the same freshwater pearl hearts and Azores (my favorite very pale blue) crystals.

And of course, I have more red jewelry, a must for Valentine's Day jewelry since red symbolizes love and passion. The Swarovski crystal bracelet below features lampwork beads by Robin Weber, her fire opal beads that are a deep red laced with sterling silver for the ultimate in shine. I've mixed them with the darkest red Swarovski crystals, pretty Bali silver, and Karen Hill Tribes charms, including a garnet charm that hangs beside the heart-shaped Swarovski crystal in the middle of the bracelet. This bracelet can be found on the Swarovski Crystal Bracelets page as well as theValentine's Jewelry page. The bottom bracelet features red also, only a lighter tone this time. The sparkling silver-flecked lampwork beads are by Lynn Nurge of Laffinggull. These Swarovski beads are a lighter red tone to match with the lighter coloured lampwork beads, but they are still large (10mm) as are the ones in the bracelet before. This bracelet can also be found on the same pages.
Back to work I go! And if you've been reading about all the terrible weather and the storms, yes, those were in my part of the country, the worst in Jackson, Tennessee were just across the Mississippi River from us (we're 3 miles away from the Missouri line to the north and to the east about 3 miles is the Mississippi River). The terrible storms were also just an hour south of us as well, but luckily we escaped harm although the winds here were strong enough to turn over our heavy metal patio chairs.

Swarovski
jewellery accessories jewelry fashion shopping beads handmade beaded jewelry beading helmi gioielli smykker tak? juvelen The Jewelry Blog jewelry trends accessories handmade jewelry handcrafted jewelry beads handmade beaded jewelry

Single And The City

2008-06-13T10:37:00.001-07:00

Yes, I saw the movie today. Yes, I enjoyed it. The ladies looked over-the-top fabulous. If you haven't seen it, this is where you might want to stop reading.

Ok... for those who have seen it, I have one question. Okay, maybe two. Once and for all, why can't Hollywood send the message that's it's ok to be single? In movies, why do women always have to find love to be happy? There's nothing wrong with being like Samantha - strong, single, self-assured, and happy! I enjoyed the flick, however, don't let Hollywood brainwash you into thinking that you need a man to be happy! Find true happiness within yourself! I feel that Hollywood endings are so selfish on the part of writers, producers, etc. - because they give the viewer what they want but they perpetuate myths and are far from realistic. The truth is that yes, you can be single, fulfilled, and happy...with an amazing wardrobe or without. What I took away from the film (besides the fact that most women on the street will never look as stylish as Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, and Charlotte) is that it's the friendships in your life that are most important and will help get you through hard times.

Look Book - Carl

2008-06-12T22:37:00.001-07:00

Thanks to SJ+Hat we were introduced to Melbourne-based fashion designer Carl , whose clothing line recently has been snapped up by American Neiman Marcus. In Sydney, his items are stocked at Duck Egg Blue.

His spring/summer 07/08 collection presents clean lines in silk and satin, and complements his super minimalistic website.

Check out the complete look book in pdf-file here.

Made with Love

2008-06-12T10:37:00.001-07:00

Like I said last week, I'm going through a bit of a DIY-dry patch what with...erm... there being not enough hours in the day. It's some bad day-pie carving I know which I will try to alleviate. However, it doesn't stop me from acquiring items that are obviously MADE WITH LOVE, a quality which my DIY items are often overflowing with but rather lacking in *ahem* skill. Such is the time poor, cash rich (well...not MASSES of cash.... but in proportion to time right now.... there is definitely more of the latter...) existence that I'm living leaving me no choice but to seek out the ready-made 'Made with Love' items...

At least my new MADE WITH LOVE items are faring pretty well in the quality department. This vintage bag which I first spotted on Lady Coveted (thanks Lady C for the tip-off) and immediately snapped from Etsy has this hand painted swirly design that loosely resembles a dragon. What I love are the linear lines and the multi-coloured shading that is both on the inside, sides AND the back of the bag. I hate neglected facets and embellishment that doesn't go all the way round the back of dresses is a big pet peeve for instance.

Then there's my new SS08 Michelle Lowe Holder top which is available online. There's beading and tulle going on in the neckline and the delicate fabric is then handprinted with a black dandelion and floral pattern that goes ever so well with the touches of yellow. It's sort of easy-breezy summer compressed into a top and it has the ability to handle the hot weather today with ease (i.e. no odd sweating and I felt cool temperature-wise in it...).

I promise, my time poor ways will end soon but in the meantime, is there any frickin' way of buying a few hours? Seriously.... name the price....I'm open for negotiation here...

Urban picnic basket

2008-06-11T22:36:00.001-07:00

Those little picnic basket kits that turn up every spring always intrigue me, but face it, I'm a city dweller with limited closet space, and besides, those baskets are heavy, bulky, and need a seat of their own on the subway.
Enter the best picnic idea since, well, sliced bread.

The Rebecca Minkoff Bread and Wine Bag, with it's leather outer pockets perfectly sized for a bottle of wine, and a loaf of French bread (talk about to the point bag names, huh?) was designed as a reusable market bag (don't hate me because I prefer the plastic bags...I do recycle them!) but I think an afternoon in the park is a much better purpose. It is large enough to stash some cheese, fruit, and maybe brownies for dessert as well as utensils and plates. Ideal for an afternoon lunch or light dinner before, maybe a Summer concert in the park.
The bag is canvas, trimmed in leather, with a double handle. Inside are additional pockets, maybe for a corkscrew.
There's still time to get one before the weekend for $165 from Bloomingdales.

A New Skirt!

2008-06-11T10:36:00.001-07:00

I made a new skirt over the weekend, surprisingly. There were about fifty gazillion other things I should have been doing (and I came down to the office this morning to find that a deadline which I thought was next Tuesday, was, in fact, this PAST SATURDAY, oops), but when the sewing machine calls, one must listen.

This is some Liberty twill I bought from my old friend Julie at Little Shop of Treasures, on eBay.co.uk. It's called "Enchanted Garden," and here's a closeup:

And yes, it has all my favorite (bright, cheerful) colors.

And I used orange rickrack to edge the pockets:

And an invisible zipper (which I am only lately a convert to):

And of course a bright blue facing for the waistband:

And for the pocket, too:

I used New Look 6410, which I modified to add front scoop pockets. Doing that wasn't hard -- I think it worked on the first try, which was nice. I've probably made this skirt two or three times, although never with fabric that I love as much as I love this fabric.

The whole skirt probably took about two and a half hours to make, with about twenty minutes of that time spent looking for a pattern piece that had fallen behind a piece of furniture. (I had the pattern pinned to a corkboard instead of put neatly away, for some reason -- probably laziness.) The invisible zipper went in very cooperatively. Once you resign yourself to the necessity of basting (and, in my case, of digging out the screwdriver to change the presser foot shank), invisible zippers aren't really any more trouble than visible ones, and they look so much nicer!

I plan on wearing this skirt with brightly-colored polo shirts with differently-brightly-colored tees under them, and my orange Jack Purcells. At which time it will be really, truly summer.

Cleaning Out My Closet, Part 1

2008-06-10T22:36:00.001-07:00

I spent a few hours yesterday moving the winter clothes OUT and the summer clothes IN. This involves a great deal of dusting, both mental and physical. (For instance, why did I let another year pass without wearing my turquoise shantung hostess coat?)

Every time I make this switch I *vow* that I will finally pare down my closet to essentials. Just a few well-chosen pieces, blah blah blah. The truth is that I am not a "few well-chosen pieces" kinda gal. I am the kind of gal that has fifty cotton summer dresses and wears a different one every day, if she can.

However, I *am* getting rid of a few things, such as this brown-and-gold wool crepe wiggle dress. I made it several years ago (maybe even five or six?) and wore it, I dunno, once. I was having a wiggle-dress moment, back then; I don't know why. (Perhaps it was the joy of no longer looking mildly pregnant?) Anyway, I spent a lot of time on it and figured I should now set it free to live a full life with someone who will love it the way it ought to be loved.

Here's a closer view of the bodice:

The points on the tabs are a little lumpy, I have to say. Luckily the buttons are so nice (vintage!) that it draws the eye away.

This dress measures B 36-38, W 32, H 46, and the skirt is 28 inches waistline to hem. From the front neckline to the waist is 13.5 inches; from the back neckline to the waist is 14 inches.

So here's the plan: I'm going to put it up on eBay, at a very very low starting bid. If it sells for that, fine. But if it sells for anything upwards of $25, anything over that will go to charity -- I'm thinking helping victims of rape in the Congo. How does that sound?

Here's the link: Brown Crepe Wiggle Dress.

Please Hire Me! 25 D-Listed Celebrities

2008-06-09T10:35:00.001-07:00

The implosion of tacky reality television has once again made Hollywood a ripe playground for certain stars whose careers have become a shadow of what they once were – stars who have sunk to the notorious “D List”. Producers of shows like “The Surreal Life”, “Celebrity Boxing,” and “Dancing With the Stars” have found that there is a profit to be made off of these forgotten stars – most of whom are desperate to get their names back up on the marquee no matter what the task at hand. Turns out the American public likes nothing more than to see a few washed-up actors from decades past subject themselves to humiliation and physical torment. Hey, a paycheck is a paycheck and a camera is a camera.

Kathy Griffin: The Illinois-bred comedienne is the self-proclaimed queen of D List stars, and even has her own reality show called “My Life on the D List.” Griffin has succeeded in taking her rock bottom status and parlaying it into a lucrative, if not respectable, career. Griffith got her start in the early 1980s on the L.A. comedy club circuit and even performed alongside comedic geniuses like the late Phil Hartman. She’s appeared in HBO comedy specials, a few unsuccessful movies, as a guest star on several TV shows, and even has a regular role as Brooke Shields’s coworker on the sitcom “Suddenly Susan.” After two decades of continued, moderate success, though, Griffith’s “D List” reality show took off and she continues to use her self-deprecating humor as her main comedic currency. The show has plans to continue through 2008.

Dustin Diamond: Dustin Diamond’s one and only claim to real fame is his legendary role as Screech on the high school sitcom “Saved by the Bell.” His cracking voice and nerdy persona were a perfect fit for the cheesy teen show, but after it was canceled Diamond found himself adrift in Hollywood with no worthwhile offers coming in. He has attempted to reignite his celebrity with an appearance on several exploitative reality shows, like “The Weakest Link,” “Celebrity Boxing,” and, most recently, “Celebrity Fit Club.” In 2006, Diamond went on several talk shows to talk about how he was about to lose his Wisconsin home because he had been ripped off by his mortgage broker. After raising lots of money from the public, he admitted he was never in danger of losing his house. In 2006, a third party company also released a sex tape featuring Diamond. He’s scheduled to appear on “Celebrity Fit Club” again this year.

Gary Coleman: Gary Coleman got his start as a child, starring as the cute and adorable Arnold on the hit show “Different Strokes”. In that role, he was made famous, most notably for coining his signature line, “What you talking about, Willis?” After “Different Strokes” was canceled, however, Coleman's career tanked. He landed some guest appearances on other sitcoms throughout the 1990s, but was essentially not taken seriously as an actor. In 2003, Coleman earned press for his failed bid to be governor of California. He's also had his fair share of legal and financial troubles — in 1998 he was charged with assault after hitting a woman. In 2007, Coleman married a 22-year-old actress, but the couple recently appeared on “Divorce Court” for their marital problems.

C. Thomas Howell: Howell, a good looking, popular actor in the 1980s, starred in hit movies like “The Outsiders” and “Red Dawn.” But as he grew older his career failed to keep up with its shotgun start. Though he has stayed busy as a working actor over the years, it has been mostly through bit roles, guest spots on TV shows, and parts in B movies. These days you are most likely to spot Howell on the new reality show “Celebracadabra,” a competition show in which several D-List stars try to become magicians.

Daniel Baldwin: Daniel Baldwin is perhaps the most notorious of all the Baldwin brothers. Baldwin’s career started off on a pretty good foot with roles in “Born on the Fourth of July” and indie faves like “Mulholland Falls” and “Trees Lounge.” He also had a starring role on the TV show “Homicide: Life on the Street.” But in the late 1990s, his drug addictions began putting him in the spotlight for more illicit activities. In 1998, he was arrested for cocaine possession after he was caught running naked through the halls of the New York Plaza Hotel. He went to rehab afterward and told People magazine that he had been battling cocaine addiction since 1989. Almost two decades later, Baldwin was again in legal trouble for drug related activities, and he has since appeared on “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew,” though he walked off the show before its completion.

Joey Lawrence: Joey Lawrence became famous playing Mayim Balik’s idiot brother on the sitcom “Blossom” in the 1990s, in which his character coined the phrase, “Whoa!” Prior to that he had guest starred on several sitcoms, but after the show was cancelled he found few roles available for him. He landed parts in a few B movies and attempted to start a music career, though that effort was also unsuccessful. Lawrence faded from the public’s memory during the latter half of the 1990s and didn’t pop back on the scene until recently, when he scored a spot on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2006. He placed third on that show and afterward landed a few guest roles on TV shows like “CSI: New York.”

Brigitte Nielsen: This former model became a household name when she married Sylvester Stallone in the 1980s. She morphed from model to actress with roles in movies like “Beverly Hills Cop II” and “The Double O Kid.” While hardly recognizable in the U.S., Nielsen, who hails from Denmark, has had a pretty successful European career as both a TV personality and a singer. But in 2004, Nielsen refreshed the American public’s memory of her by starring on “The Surreal Life,” where she met and developed a romantic relationship with fellow D-Lister Flavor Flav of the rap group Public Enemy. That hook up solidified Nielsen’s position in the new celebrity reality show craze, and she and Flav appeared together on the VH1 show “Strange Love,” which chronicled their eventually-failed relationship. She also appeared on Flav’s subsequent dating show “The Flavor of Love.” Nielsen was also on “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” for an alcohol addiction.

Andrew Dice Clay: The comedian who became famous for his shocking and crude stand-up routines enjoyed a lot of popularity in the 1980s and has been listed as one of the top 100 comedians in history. In addition to his successful comedy career, during which he taped his legendary HBO special “The Diceman Cometh,” Clay also had lots of guest roles in movies and TV shows. But in the early 1990s his rudeness and tendency to verbally assault his audience during shows caught up to him. In the late 1990s, he acted in a few failed sitcoms and continued to release comedy albums, none of which sold well. He also had a recurring appearance on a radio show, which ended in 2002. In 2007, Clay launched his own reality show on VH1, chronicling his attempts to revive his comedy career.

Robin Givens: Robin Givens is best known for three things: starring in the popular sitcom “Head of the Class,” surviving a tumultuous and abusive one-year marriage to Mike Tyson, and posing for Playboy. But since all of those things came to an end in the mid 1990s, Givens’ career has largely been unremarkable. An extremely religious Christian, Givens has written a book about her faith and has appeared on several failed sitcoms, TV movies, and Christian-themed television productions. In 2008, she will have a role in a Tyler Perry movie called “The Family that Preys.”

Ron Jeremy: The legendary porn star is now legendary mainly for being creepy. He continues to keep his overweight self in the game by picking up cameos and guest roles in B movies. He, like most D Listers, also starred in a season of “The Surreal Life.” Jeremy’s porn status and outspokenness has made him a favorite among talk show hosts and musicians, many of whom have put him in their music videos to drive up their kitsch factor. A biography about Jeremy was released in 2007, and he has also appeared in advertisements for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals urging people to spay and neuter their pets.

Chyna: Joan Marie Lauer, a female bodybuilder and actress, received her nickname Chyna during her four years with the World Wrestling Federation from 1997 to 2001. She was wildly popular as a wrestler on TV and made a name for herself by wrestling male competitors and winning. She drove up ratings through many highly-publicized matches and even posed for Playboy. But in 2001 she left the WWF due to a contract dispute. Though she spent some time wrestling in Japan afterward, Chyna eventually returned to the States to pursue a career on TV. She landed some B roles and then eventually went on to star on a season of “The Surreal Life.” Most recently, she was on “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew”, a VH1 show, for a drinking problem.

Tawny Kitaen: Former hottie Tawny Kitaen had everyone talking after her appearance in the famed Whitesnake video for their song “Here I Go Again.” Her romantic relationship with the band’s lead singer also led to other starring roles in their videos. Prior to Whitesnake, Kitaen had modeled and appeared on a few TV shows. After Whitesnake, she developed a stronger identity and a real TV career, hosting “America’s Funniest People” with David Coulier for two years and starring on “WKRP in Cincinatti”. After 1994, however, her career fizzled and she didn’t reappear on the scene in a major way until 2006 when she was cast on “The Surreal Life.” That same year she was arrested at her house for cocaine possession.

Carrot Top: Carrot Top is a comedian whose curly red hair and affinity for props made him one of the more successful funny men around in the mid-1990s. But since his height of popularity, Carrot Top has become more of a joke in Hollywood, partially due to his botched plastic surgery and ridiculously huge arm muscles. He still performs stand up and has a running show in Las Vegas, but his popularity has waned and he is frequently parodied on other comedy shows, like “Family Guy,” “The Daily Show,” and “MAD TV”.

Corey Haim: In the 1980s, no one was hotter than Corey Haim. The teen heartthrob starred in movies like “Lucas”, “The Lost Boys”, “License to Drive”, and “Dream a Little Dream.” But the list of recognizable titles stopped there, and in the 90s Haim was working mostly on unsuccessful, straight-to-video films and suffering from a serious drug problem. By 2000, he had gone to rehab and was vigorously trying to get his career back on track. Following the reality TV craze, he and Corey Feldman were signed by A&E to star on a faux reality show called “The Two Coreys,” which chronicled the duo’s attempts to break back into mainstream Hollywood. Haim is also starring in a sequel to “The Lost Boys”, planned for release in 2008.

Corey Feldman: Like Haim, Feldman’s career has followed a similar trajectory. In the 1980s, it seemed Feldman could do no wrong. He was a major player in movies like “The Goonies,” “Stand By Me,” “The Lost Boys,” and “The Burbs.” But despite doing the voice for Donatello in the movie “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and trying to launch a music career in the 1990s, Feldman’s career dried up quickly. In 2002, Feldman wound up on “The Surreal Life” and in 2007 he reunited with Haim for “The Two Coreys.” Feldman also has a role in “The Lost Boys” sequel, due out this year.

Vanilla Ice: In 1990, Robert Van Winkle, better known as Vanilla Ice, was all the rage. His hit song “Ice Ice Baby” was the most popular one on the radio, and his rap album “To the Extreme” reached number one on the charts, knocking MC Hammer off the top spot. Though fans across the country mimicked Van Winkle's baggy pants and angular crew cut, the musician and dancer fell from fame quickly. He encountered legal trouble for using a sample of a David Bowie song in “Ice Ice Baby” without permission and then it was discovered that he had made up many details of his life story, like the fact he was a gang member in Florida and a former professional motocross athlete, chronicled in his biography. Since his 15 minutes of fame have ended, Van Winkle has continued trying to make music, accepted several product endorsements, and appeared on the celebrity reality show “The Surreal Life.”

Alexis Arquette: Alexis Arquette began life as a boy. He was born in Los Angeles – a sibling to actors David, Rosanna, Patricia, and Richmond Arquette. At the age of 22, Arquette landed her first role in an independent movie, playing a transgender character. She spent most of her career working in independent movies and playing the role of a drag queen until the age of 38 when she underwent her own sex change operation, which she documented in documentary. Arquette has had some bit roles in more mainstream productions, like “The Wedding Singer,” “Pulp Fiction,” and “the Bride of Chucky,” but she’s mostly built her career underground. In 2007, Arquette made a guest appearance on the Bravo reality show “Top Design,” where she was ridiculed by some of the contestants.

Dave Coulier: Coulier, a stand up comedian, got his big break playing the role of Joey on the long-lived sitcom “Full House.” That plus his popular comedic style of impersonating cartoon characters and doing funny voices made him a sought after actor in the 1980s and part of the 1990s. But the end of “Full House” had Coulier struggling to find work. He’s landed gigs hosting shows like “America’s Funniest People,” “Opportunity Knocks,” and “America’s Most Talented Kid.” He’s also had a stint in the reality business starring on “The Surreal Life” and “Skating with the Stars.”

Erik Estrada: From 1977 to 1983, Erik Estrada starred on the hit cop show “CHiPs” as Ponch Poncharella, the most well-known role of his career. After then end of the show, however, Estrada began working mostly on Spanish television, which he continued to do throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In 2001, he returned to TV with a role on “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “Lizzie McGuire.” He continued his TV career with guest appearances on shows like “Scrubs”, “The Wayans Bros.” and “According to Jim.” Estrada was also on the 2004 season of “The Surreal Life” and the briefly-aired reality show “Armed and Famous,”in which washed up celebrities posed as police officers.

Todd Bridges: Bridges is best known for playing Willis on “Different Strokes.” After the show ended, he descended pretty far into a life of crime and drugs and was arrested several times during the 1990s. In the latter part of the decade, however, Bridges cleaned up his act, found God, and began touring the country to talk to kids about the dangers of drugs. He made a return to television with slots on shows like “Celebrity Boxing,” “Skating with the Stars,” and “Fear Factor.”

Vince Neil: The front man for Motley Crue, Vince Neil had his pick of women and work throughout the 1980s. But with the decline of glam rock bands, Neil’s music career fizzled. In the 1990s, he released a few albums, none of which sold well. In 2002, the overweight Neil was offered a spot on the first cast of “The Surreal Life.” Since then, he’s also starred on his own show called “Remaking Vince Neil,” which, surprise, chronicled his attempts to reinvent his career. Neil is now touring with Motley Crue.

MC Hammer: Back in his hey day, MC Hammer had the coolest pants in town. Teenagers and fans ran to the mall in droves to buy the baggy leggings that moved so gracefully, especially during Hammer’s dance to his famed song “Too Legit to Quit.” In the early 1990s, Hammer dominated the top of the charts with his energetic raps songs. But once rap music began moving more toward so-called “gangsta rappers,” Hammer’s clean, mainstream style faded from popularity. Though he maintained record deals throughout the 1990s, he released few albums. The ones he did put out failed to sell well. During this decade, he also blew through his fortune and wound up completely broke. In 2003, Hammer appeared on “The Surreal Life” and now maintains his own blog.

Carmen Electra: Carmen Electra really never was an A List star, but she’s had a good run of things. She got her break after meeting Prince in the 1980s. He convinced her to change her name from Tara Leigh Patrick to Carmen Electra and tried to make her a music act. That failed, so Electra moved to guest appearances on TV and then ended up posing in Playboy and getting cast on the hit series “Baywatch.” But when that job ended, she descended into a pattern of accepting really bad movie roles like “Good Burger” and “Scary Movie 4” and earning plenty of bad reviews for her acting. Besides bombing in movies, Electra has had career highlights such as being in Taco Bell commercials, starting the Naked Women’s Wrestling League, and being a video game character in “Def Jam: Fight for New York.” Electra also had her own reality show with former Jane’s Addiction band member Dave Navarro called “Til Death Do Us Part” which chronicled the couple’s journey into marriage. They’ve since divorced and Electra is currently engaged to the guitarist from Korn.

Gary Busey: Busey won an Oscar nomination for his role in the 1978 film “The Buddy Holly Story” and his film career extended through the 1980s and 1990s, with roles in “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” “Point Break,” and “The Firm,” to name a few. But during this height of his career, Busey was also a rampant drug user and he suffered brain damage from a serious motorcycle accident. Today, Busey is known mostly for his wild, eccentric, and sometimes rude behavior. Most recently, he shocked viewers by grabbing Jennifer Garner and kissing her on the neck during the red carpet portion of the Academy Awards. He also has lambasted an 11-year-old reporter and assaulted her camera person at an awards show. Busey did star in a strange reality-like show in 2003 on Comedy Central called “I’m With Busey.” Lately, he’s been at work doing voiceovers for video games.

Jack Osbourne: Jack Osbourne is only famous because he is Ozzy Osbourne’s son. But when his family accepted a deal from MTV to have their lives documented on “The Osbournes,” Jack became a reality star. Since his family’s show ended, however, Osbourne has had many job opportunities in the way of guest appearances on TV shows and several tacky celeb reality shows, like “Celebrity Wrestling: Bring it On!,” “Armed and Famous,” and “Extreme Celebrity Detox”. Osbourne is currently still involved in his own reality show called “Jack Osbourne: Adrenaline Junkie”, which chronicles him training for extreme sports.

Yves St Laurent Dead at 71

2008-06-08T22:34:00.001-07:00

The fashion icon, Yves Saint Laurent died yesterday. He was 71. The cause of death was listed as brain cancer. Women's Wear Daily has published an extensive remembrance (ungated).

Steal Beyonce’s Steal…

2008-06-08T10:33:00.001-07:00

Jacket: Marc Jacobs Cropped Tweed Jacket, $685, www.catwalktocloset.com
Pants: Wide-Leg Cuffed Trousers, $32.50, www.oldnavy.com

Top: Puff Sleeve Drape Top, $9.99, www.wetseal.com
Hat: Space Dyed Beret, $24, www.urbanoutfitters.com
Necklace: Rose Bead Necklace, $7.80, www.forever21.com
Bag: Bow Dacious Large Tote, $99, www.endless.com

I’m guessing most of us can’t afford the $685 Marc Jacob classic cropped jacket (the original cost was $2800!). So in true I Like Her Style! Fashion, I found this Plaid Tailored Blazer for $98, at www.freepeople.com. It’s not tweed but it’ll get the job done. Oh, and don't forget a brooch for your jacket ;)

evintage blog tag - Halters

2008-06-07T22:33:00.001-07:00

Its Blog Tag Wednesday at the eVintage Society!.
Temperatures are rising and its time to show some skin! The halter neckline is a great way to leave a little to the imagination while exposing enough to stay cool and stylish. Lets talk halters!

1) Show us your favorite halter dress or top in your inventory
For an evening out on the town, I have this Black Velvet Halter Dress with Rhinestones

2)Marilyn rocked the halter bodice back in the 50s, but it came back big in the 70s…..which is your favorite era for the halter?
Def the 1950s, glamorous and sexy! The 70s make me think of hippies with saggy titties and hairy underarms! (just kidding hippie girls) Although 1970s Disco halters were pretty hot.

3)Bare backs are vulnerable, what’s your suggestion for protecting skin from the sun?
A little shawl that you could let slip off your shoulder now and then. A pretty parasol if you are outside most of the day. Or yummy coconut smelling sun tan lotion.

4)Halter as top or dress, whats your preference?
I like the look of both. I've always had a hard time wearing a halter though. One because I refuse to go without a bra and also because I have a big squishy mole on my back.

5)A bra can be a challenge…..best suggestion for support?
A challenge indeed. I never go out without a bra, so this has always been hard for me. Strapless bras uusally leave me pulling them up all day. I bought one of those bras with clear plastic straps from Victoria's Secret a few years ago. But the plastic is shiny and very obvious looking, so I never wore the bra. I need a halter that has built in support that doesn't move around. I bought a halter bathing suit top from Old Navy that does have cup support and I actually wore that out in the yard this weekend, leaving me with a halter strap tanline!

Check out the eVintage Blog Tag every Wednesday. Follow the links to read the posts from all of the participating blogs. I was tagged by Vintage Joy and now I'm tagging Diary of a Mad Vintage Addict

Living Lightly

2008-06-07T10:32:00.001-07:00

I'm living up to my title for today's post.

I was greatly inspired and intrigued by some statements that were made by Midoritsuru (a lovely gal I came into acquaintance with through wardrobe_remix) on bits and bobbins' blog in a "remix(ers)_revealed" post. You can read the whole post here, but here's just a snippet:

"Currently my greatest passion and obsession is reducing my material impact on the Earth. For the past few years I’ve been making an effort to move towards a lifestyle which is simpler, more sustainable and more harmonious. I find myself thinking throughout the day, what more can I do to make less waste? What more can I do to live lightly on the Earth? This is what I’m most preoccupied with lately."

In addition to Midoritsuru's awe-inspiring attitude, I was also offered some constructive criticism recently by a friend. He suggested that I base a little more focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling.

Dean also gave me some helpful advice, suggesting that I "beef up" my blog a bit, which I agree with. While I still enjoy my fashion-based blog, I'd like to keep things fun and interesting, and I think incorporating a focus on RRR power, I can achieve that. I'm hoping to include posts about different ways one can "live lightly," including some fun DIY refashioning projects, and I'd especially love to show off some of the blogs out there that focus solely on recycling and sustainable fashion.

For starters, I'd like to talk about (what else?) the joys of thrifting! One man's trash is another man's treasure, it's so damn true. I personally do about 99% of my shopping in thrift stores. Thrifting provides you with the opportunity to:

• Reuse! (the second "r", people!)
• Find things you wouldn't be able to find in a store, especially vintage items, if that's your thang.
• Be original! You rarely run the risk of someone else having the same outfit as you.
• Live lightly not only on the planet, but on your wallet! You can't beat the prices you'll find in your local thrift shop.

Often, when a person compliments a certain item I'm wearing, and I tell them I got it at Goodwill, they'll look at me in disbelief, and sometimes in disgust! I've had more than one person comment, "I would never get caught shopping there." When I was growing up, my mom refused to set foot in the Salvation Army or Goodwill, because she was under the impression that thrifting was only for the needy or destitute. Wrong! Here are some examples of some truly fabulous ladies in their thrift shop finds, via the "100% Thrifted" flickr group:

1. johnnycutcorners
2. irene_adler
3. nemrešpobje?odnedjel je
4. sjwhidden
(Click the fine ladies' picture or name to view their flickr page.)

In closing, have a gander at some of these fantastic eco-friendly links rep'n the RRR.

• Humane Recipe
• Painfully Hip's thrift stars
• Wardrobe Refashion
• "100% Thrifted" (flickr group)
• "TRASHIONISTA - Sustainable style and recycled fashion" (flickr group)

Colorful Freshwater Pearls

2008-06-06T10:32:00.001-07:00

Multicolor pearls are one of the hottest trends this year. Freshwater pearls come in various pastel shades of white, pink, peach, lavender, plum, purple, and tangerine, depending on the type of mussel. Freshwater pearls come from freshwater mussels. Nothing is more natural than a pearl. Unlike gemstones, that are cut and polished to unleash their beauty, pearls emerge from the creature that conceived them.

Fiona Lavender Freshwater Pearl Ring

Genuine 9 to 10mm lavender freshwater button pearl.

Sterling silver and white gold plate.

Formation

Natural Freshwater pearls are formed within a mussel. These mussels open their shells slightly and allow water to flow in, so that they can take nutrients from the microscopic particles and organisms in the water. Small irritants such as small animals can also float in. Parasites can drill right through the mussel's hard shell. To protect itself, the mussel encloses the irritant in a sac and then secretes layer upon layer of nacre around the irritant, that in time produces a lustrous pearl.

Freshwater Pearl Multicolor Drop Style Necklace

Natural multicolor pearls: white, pink, and lavender.

8mm pearls suspended from a 16" chain.

Sterling silver chain and setting.

Pearl Color

Freshwater pearl color is determined by the mussel itself and environmental factors that affect the nacre as it is layered. The most prevalent natural colors are whites, as well as pastel colors in both pinks and lavenders. White pearls are still by far the most popular, but pastels in pinks and lavenders have slowly edged their way into the fine jewelry marketplace. The two colors are very popular for second strands, mixed-color strands or when a less traditional look is desired. Light pink and lavender are naturally occurring colors in freshwater pearls, but their colors can be enhanced after processing.

Golden and Dark Chocolate Freshwater Pearl Necklace

These 8-8.5mm, AA+ quality pearls have a great luster and inner shine. The necklace is 18" long and is strung on double silk thread, knotted between each pearl. The clasp is solid 14k gold.

Pearl Value

The value of Freshwater pearls can vary based on specific factors such as roundness, luster, size, surface quality, and color. As the pearls are nucleated with only tissue, they are 100% nacre. Pearl matching for finished jewelry pieces is also very important.

Shape

As cultured freshwater pearls are tissue nucleated only about two percent of any given harvest is round. As a result, roundness is one of the most important factors in the evaluation of freshwater pearls.

Luster

Pearls produce an intense, deep shine called luster. This effect is created when light reflects off the many layers of tiny calcium carbonate crystals that compose the pearl. This substance is called nacre. The more light reflected and the clearer the image, the better the pearl's luster. The luster of Freshwater pearls may be different than those of saltwater. Freshwater pearls tend to have a satin finish.

Size

Pearls can range in size from 1mm seed pearls to huge 20mm South Sea pearls. Cultured pearls of 6 - 7.5mm are the most common, above this size the price jumps upward rapidly with each half-millimeter from 7.5mm up. To date the largest pearl recorded is a 26.95mm baroque south sea pearl.

Surface Markings

As a mollusk creates a pearl, the layers of nacre do not always adhere smoothly. Sometimes spots and bubbles can appear in the layering process. Pearls with the smoothest surfaces are the highest-quality, most sought-after pearls.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Pearl Addiction - 15 July 2006

Rock Your Body with Jewelry - 26 July 2006

Fair Trade Bridal Jewelry - 02 August 2006

Robin Steele Jewelry - 26 August 2006

My Name Is Gladiator...Sandal

2008-06-04T22:32:00.001-07:00

I really love the movie Gladiator. Sure, it's super bloody and violent and historically inaccurate. But the drama! The emotion! The shoes! Okay, that last one's a stretch, but seriously, the gladiator sandal is everywhere this season, dear readers. I'm no slave to the latest fashions, but if you don't caeser-pon this trend you'll be sorry. Okay. I'm done with the pun-based humor. For this blog...

Anyway, there's one pair of gladiators that I've been coveting since they first hit the pages of fashion magazines back in January: Stuart Weitzman's Gladio sandals in metallic silver.

There are several reasons I love these sandals. First, they come in N, M, and W widths in size 4.5 through 12, including 11.5M, which is my size. Yes! Finding that size it so rare, but not as rare as a size 10.5W or 4.5N, probably. My point being, they could fit just about anyone. Second, they come in silver or pale gold, which will flatter everyone from the palest of ivory (yours truly) to the darkest of ebony (say, Alek Wek. Have you seen her line of leather handbags yet? They're very chic). Nice. Third, Stuart Weitzman shoes are not cheap (these currently retail for $265 on zappos.com), but they are extremely high quality and last for a looooong time. I still own - and wear - the first pair I purchased as an eighteen-year-old sales girl back in Indianapolis in 1998.

Maybe these sandals are rebate-check worthy. I haven't decided yet. If I could scoop up a pair at Goodwill, I would. Most Goodwill's, though, are a season ahead (I picked out those fabulous Spring Look Book clothes this winter, for example), so while I purchased a killer pair of leopard-print pointed-toe like-new Nine West flats last week, sandals won't be out for a few months. So I need a back-up plan for my beloved Stuart Weitzman's...

They're way more casual, but I've had my eye on these Earth sandals for the last couple of seasons. Sure, they're kinda ugly-cute, but have you ever worn a pair? They have this "negative heel" technology that's incredibly comfortable and sorta works out your legs all at the same time. I have a pair of patent-leather mary janes that look good with trousers in the wintertime, you see.

So this pair has a fun metallic finish and they're $109. Not exactly inexpensive, but less than half the price of my dream sandals above. I think these would look great with a long printed maxi-dress and some metallic earrings. But I'm still not convinced...

Yes! I've found it. The perfect option for my current budget: Simply Vera Vera Wang Jewels Gladiator Sandals. They come in a size 11 (that's work) are on sale from kohls.com for only $35.99 (that's definitely work) and they look both cute and comfortable. Done.

They come in a metallic gray color, which is very versatile, and the faux-jewel detail in dressy enough for a more formal occasion. I've purchased a few of the Vera Vera Wang items from Kohl's and the quality has been decidedly spotty. A dress I purchased on clearance is easily one of the go-to items in my closet, but two of the cardigans I paid nearly full price for are practically falling apart after being dry cleaned. But I might take a chance on these sandals. At least until that rebate comes through!

Day 2 of W.E.I.O.

2008-06-04T10:32:00.001-07:00

Holy Hannah, the chill has finally arrived and oddly enough, I couldn't be happier. I woke up this morning shivering and stating excitedly, "it's freezing!" Bring on the fall wardrobe! At last!

Yesterday was Dean's Grandma's birthday, and it was finally cool enough for me to bust this little number out of hiding.

vintage dress: thrifted
black boots: Wal-Mart
black fishnets: no idea
black beaded necklace: Claire's
small black bag: Old Navy

By the way, I didn't attempt to dye my hair orange in some strange pattern, it's the sunlight.

I call this "June Carter Cash in hooker boots."

Speaking of Miss Cash, my coiffure originally was back-combed and poofy and looked just like hers, but thanks to the wind, it went a bit flat by the time I managed to take a picture.

Now I'm off to get dressed (and rather excited about it, thank you autumn chill). The first thing I'll be donning is a good pair of socks, my toes are turning into tater tots.

Names and songs

2008-06-02T22:31:00.001-07:00

Do you ever hear a name, and have a song pop into your mind? Or am I just a dork?
Last week I shipped out a package to 'Hey, Hey, Paula' Today I have a package going out to 'Sweet Loretta Martin' and on Monday I shipped a package to 'There's Jan, calling from the rooftops'

Wow. Watching that video, it's 1983, I'm 16 and totally in love with Michael Hutchence. I thought he was the most beautiful thing on the planet back then.

Advanced Fashion Quiz

2008-06-02T10:30:00.001-07:00

The words "double layer compression and surged edges" are used to describe which of the following products?

A. Spanx Full Body Slip

B. Car Engine

C. Missile Defense System

Nope, not telling.

The Breakfast of Henries

2008-06-01T10:30:00.001-07:00

Manolo says, Mr. Henry has made the Manolo laugh first thing in the morning.

Mother Henry is approaching her 77th birthday and charges around town like Hillary Clinton on energy drink. Recently she shared an unusual dietary secret. She starts her day with spinach.

You must go read the whole thing.

Quick! Check this out ...

2008-05-31T22:30:00.001-07:00

You have GOT to go take a look at this splatter-print 50s dress that is up at Holly's new Lucite Box Vintage site. For one thing, it's a hard-to-find size: B40-W32-H44. For another, it's cotton. In addition: it has pockets! (Plus it's only $75!) And the print ... I love that print.

This would be a great dress to wear to a wedding (as a guest) -- throw a little cardigan over it, and you're set to go to anything from a noon wedding outdoors (add big white sunglasses) to something cocktail-y (add rhinestone jewelry or serious shoes).

I love these sheath-y dresses with the interesting necklines; they're sexy without being OVERTLY so. This dress shows no cleavage, eschews transparency, and isn't split up to THERE, but it's still sexy ... without needing thong underwear. When did we start thinking that a mere cumulative total of exposed skin was enough? It isn't.

But don't stay here listening to my grousing -- anyway, I've got to go yell at some kid to get offa my lawn -- go take a look and decide for yourself ...

Fare the well.

2008-05-31T10:29:00.001-07:00

This blog has gotten a bit stale.

A lot has happened to me since I last posted here and it's been a bit eye-opening.

I've decided there's more to life than clothes, and I needed a fresh start. I'll still read my favorite blogs from time to time, and this has been a fun experience in general. I love you fellow fashion bloggers. :]

If you're still interested in what I'm up to, mosey on over to: http://scaarika.livejournal.com/

Toodles.

Choosing slipcovers

2008-05-29T22:29:00.001-07:00

Fixing up day at the cottage. Things got moved around and messed up when we dropped off the wicker and the kitchen set during the winter. I just got in there today to sort things out, put things back in their proper places etc. Opened the windows to air the place out and picked up all the moths balls. I think. I hope.
I have to take the wicker outside and scrub it and paint it. But I was too focused on deciding what I was going to cover the old cushion with first. I had 3 choices - a bedspread, some fabric and this 1940s barkcloth daybed set that I bought on ebay from froufrou several years ago. This was the winner. It's actually too big and half of it is folded under the cushion, but I think I can pin it to stay in place. I have regular bed pillows inside of the cushion covers on the back of the couch, I think two pillows in each will make them nice and firm.

But now I have the chair and rocker with no matching cushions. This pink pillow is too busy on the couch, isn't it? It's just that I have more of the pink fabric and I could easily make pretty cushions from it for the two chairs. I like the way the pink looks on the white wicker. But I'm not sure yet how it would look with the black sofa. The daybed, which is between the couch and rocker, is covered with a green and ivory Bates-like spread, so that's another pattern to deal with.

Check out this gal, I lover her. The table is glass top wraught iron. 1970s patio furniture. I wrapped the embroidery around cardboard and put it under the glass. The embroidery was bought on ebay many years ago. It's one of those printed Voguart types.

I took a walk up on the beach and it was beautiful. People were out in shorts. It's hard to believe that it's April.

Bracelets by Carolyn Pollack

2008-05-27T10:29:00.001-07:00

Carolyn Pollack is a jewelry designer for Relios Inc. in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She isn't Native American, but you can see the southwestern influence in her jewelry. Her design process is driven by the incredible variety of colorful gemstones that come from the earth, the traditional jewelry-making techniques originating with the first American jewelry designers, and current fashion trends and color combinations that are carefully researched and developed by the new product team at Relios. All of their jewelry is made in New Mexico, USA.

Indian Summer Concave Cuff Bracelet

Vibrant shades of Indian Summer come to life and take you away to a pueblo feast day or a Southwestern drive through the Sandia Mountains. As we bring to life a whole new group of gemstones with our newest jewelry collection, we created "great for layering" or "bold when worn alone" bracelets. A textured sterling concave cuff is decorated across the top with sterling corrugated beads, tigers eye, red jasper, smoky quartz, and carnelian beads. Cuff has a 5 3/4 inch circumference and 1-1/2 inches at its widest point.

Cruising down Route 66 with the top down, discovering bright bursts of desert wildflowers, or hiking through the Painted Desert's unmatched red rock - jewelry designer Carolyn Pollack recreates rich images like these into her jewelry designs.

Liquid Silver and Turquoise Reversible Bracelet

The silky flow of cool waters will dazzle your wrist with this fashionable and reversible liquid silver and turquoise bracelet. Ten strands of liquid silver are interspersed with square set cabochons of turquoise. A classic southwest technique, liquid silver is made of tiny sterling silver tube beads that are hand-strung together, creating a flowing waterfall effect. Bracelet has a magnetic clasp and measures 7 inches long. Wear it with the turquoise out one day, and reverse it the next day to reveal sterling silver squares.

CP Signature is Carolyn Pollack's designer brand, and it encompasses all of her contemporary southwestern collections - from Sangria, to Santa Fe Sage, to Vintage Gallery and more! Her talent for spotting trends always keeps her one step ahead of the latest styles. Along with the new jewelry development team, Carolyn continually peruses national and international trend sources to zero in on the popular color palettes and silhouettes for the upcoming season.

Yellow and Rose Gold Medallion Cuff Bracelet

An exquisite example of the silversmith's art, 14k rose and yellow gold leaves unfurl in a sterling setting on a triple split shank sterling silver cuff bracelet. The medallion is inspired by Pueblo pottery designs to add elegant sophistication for any wardrobe. Cuff measures 5-1/2 inches inside circumference and 1-3/4 inches wide. Made in New Mexico, USA.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Positive Icon Bracelets - 28 April 2007

Bracelets Are the Best - 12 May 2007

Caribbean Hook Bracelets - 22 April 2008

Bracelets in Precious Metals - 25 April 2008

Shopping Heaven in Argentina - Unicenter

2008-05-26T22:29:00.001-07:00

Of all the people that I observed during my trip to Buenos Aires, I thought that the young teens in and around Unicenter were the most stylish. With about 300 stores, Unicenter may be South America's biggest shopping center, and given the endless shopping and entertainment options that Unicenter offers, I can understand why there were droves of people of all ages there on the Sunday evening when I went. People in Argentina love to hang out, watch each other, and shop. What I liked most is that the mall is open until 10pm daily, so that's a bonus for people like me who prefer to shop later in the day. If you plan on traveling to Buenos Aires, my advice would be to skip the rest of the malls in the city and head out to Unicenter (which is in the suburb of Martínez, about 25km from downtown Buenos Aires). It has all of the same stores as the malls in the city and then some, and better yet - without the tourist markups. The mall even does a shopping tour with free lunch from 1pm to 6pm, with transportation to and from certain hotels. It's a great place to see what the locals are buying, wearing, and doing. Below is a candid street style photo of three stylish teen girls that I spotted just outside Unicenter.

10,000th comment

2008-05-25T22:29:00.001-07:00

We have a winner for our contest:

Counting backwards in the list below:

You can see our winner is Anir. I'd previously told Rebecca (two below these) she'd won but I was in error not having refreshed the list once I'd deleted some spam comments. Silly me. Anyway, Anir is our winner. As no prize was defined, maybe Anir can submit an idea or even submit an idea for a topic she'd like to see covered on F-I. I'll also honor Rebecca's request since I wouldn't want to disappoint her for my error.

Feel free to lobby either two for your ideas of what you'd like to see here. Actually, you don't need to lobby anyone. Post away!

News From You 5/23/2008

2008-05-24T22:29:00.001-07:00

Yep, it's another edition of News From You. Yeah, I'm still behind on submissions but these are much appreciated! If you're new to these parts, News From You is an ongoing series best described as an eclection of news, the weird, the arcane and the downright useless of interest to F-I infovores. Send your submissions to News From You.

------------

A marital rating scale from the 1930's rates wives merits and demerits. On this short version, I chalk up 9 demerits (3, 4, 6, 9, 10) and 4 merits (3, 9, 10, 12) making me a poor wife indeed. Worse, I don't wear nail polish or panty hose at all but the test presumes one does. Surely my failures are worth yet more demerits.

---------------

Eric submits a link to unusual business card designs. These are really cool, worth the click. The one below is from a graphic design consultant. I should be using something like that.

------------------

This much cuteness should be illegal. {Via}

Speaking of kitty cats but not cute, Jeff has come out of retirement. If you're squeamish, don't click this.

hit the ground running

2008-05-23T22:29:00.001-07:00

Started off flying in a tiny plane from Toronto Island to New Jersey (much more fun than the direct route- it's cheaper, includes free cappuccinos, and the flight attendants wear blue pill box hats).

Landed at Newark and spent half an hour humming "Woke Up This Morning" by A3 while passing through the N. J. Turnpike and into the Lincoln Tunnel (Sopranos fans will understand).

Upon arrival in Greenwich Village, I dump my bag in the hotel room (perhaps more aptly described as a closet + sink, but who sleeps in NY anyway?) and dash out to explore the shops around Lower Fifth Avenue and Nolita. I restrict myself to window shopping only in Soho, but one day I'll treat myself...

After completing the annual spring stock up, I settle into a cafe by the very funky Parsons New School for Design, where I meet "Jamie the Giraffe" (below), admire the Vibskovish jumpers and colourful sneakers worn by male and female students alike, and pull out my notes to do some review for imminent finals.

Next on the list is Central Park to visit the horses, followed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The blog.mode exhibit caught me by surprise- I was saving it for last, but as I turned away from an immense stone sarcophagus in the Egyptian Wing, I found myself looking at Junya Watanabe's enormous honeycomb ruff, and a set of stairs leading downward.

Halfway down the stairs, past Galliano's crocodile dress, and Rei Kawakubo's highland getup (above), stood gowns by Yohji Yamamoto and Madame Grès (red and neutral) in all their exquisite, hand pleated glory. The two silver dresses are by Yeohlee Teng and Issey Miyake, respectively.

At the bottom of the stairs, I was notified that anyone taking pictures would be escorted out, so after getting busted trying to photograph the bodice of this Worth gown, I wandered around as innocently as possible, taking quick snaps whenever the maniacally anti-camera security were occupied elsewhere. As a result, there aren't as many photos as I had hoped (the hooded Alaïa sheath for example, and the Champs Elysées gown worn by Denise Poiret were stunning in person), but at least you can get an idea of the exhibit.

One of the earliest gowns was a blue Robe à la Française c. 1765, rumoured to descend from an Austrian lady in waiting to Marie Antoinette (15 years earlier, and it might have looked like this!).

Next is my favourite of the two; a similar design from c. 1775. I can just see Glenn Close in Dangerous Liaisons, wearing this (minus the modest neckerchief) and taking tea with Valmont: "I've always known I was meant to dominate your sex and avenge my own..."

The simple cotton day dresses at right are from one of my favourite periods in fashion history, the 1820s - 1830s. The summer dress with bustle is from the 1870s. I can't imagine how stifled those women must have felt. A steel crinoline with bustle pads in addition to a corset must have been unbearable in hot weather.Moving away from angelic and into sinful, here are the Parisian fetish boots that were second on my Met list next to the Oyster Gown. I wish I'd found something similar in my great grandmother's keepsake trunk! (alas Finns have a very different sense of style than the French). These thigh high boots are particularly exciting to fashion historians because of their avant garde stilletoe heel. High, tapered heels weren't introduced to mainstream women's fashion until after the War.

Detail of Philip Treacy's elaborate "Chinese Garden" headdress...

I'm not sure if she wore this particular Treacy creation, but it immediately brings to mind the late, irreplaceable Isabella Blow.

Vivienne Westwood's famous platforms...

The display case opposite showcased Olivier Theysken's swirling "L'Air du Temps" gown, one of the first he designed for Nina Ricci, and Vivienne Westwood's equally impressive pink "Propaganda" dress, which is constructed from one long, unbroken piece of silk, expertly draped around a boned bodice.

The L'Air du Temps gown looks very dark, but the crinkled ruffles are actually multiple shades of grey.

Last, but certainly not least, the Pièce de Résistance for this visitor: Alexander McQueen's Oyster Dress from 2003.

Sigh... The first McQueen gown with a "mille-feuille" layered skirt I ever saw was the pale pink one below worn by Liv Tyler in 2002. I was 15 then and I'm still obsessed with it (although I prefer the rough Oyster bodice to Liv's custom satin corset).

Next stop was the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

I'd just walked in when Natalia caught my eye. Her crocheted necklace and matching sweater were made by an aunt in Poland.

The museum cafe was like a German food market.

After tea with friends visiting from England, I set off to explore...

Around 6 o'clock, I met up with a friend to check out the discount department store Century 21 down in the Financial District (I'd heard the rumours and didn't have the stomach to go alone at the end of the day!).

The rumours were correct- the store was a packed, chaotic mess with rude staff, but the stock is worth a dig. I had to pass on a gorgeous Narciso Rodriguez bodice because even the discounted price was out of budget, but I ended up with a silk/cotton Filippa K top with geometric cutouts for $100 that I'd previously passed up in Copenhagen due to its $300 price tag. My friend commented that it reminded her of Aeon Flux, which made me very happy, not because the futuristic anti-heroine appears to have inspired the fall collections, but because 3 years on, I'm still a hopeless Aeon addict.

Very hungry at this point, we cabbed up to Kenka on St. Marks Place for grilled eel and ramen noodles (we considered, but passed on the bull testicles), and stocked up at a Japanese supermarket.

A day well spent!

For more photos, please check my flickr.

Shiseido Hydro-Powder Eye Shadows

2008-05-23T10:29:00.001-07:00

Every year around this time, when I’m flooded with all the great Cruise and Resort collections, I feel like spicing-up my look with some color. At the same time, I’m not quite ready to go wild and completely turn away from nudes and darks, which is why Shiseido's ‘The Makeup Hydro-Powder’ eye-shadows are great as we start to transition our makeup to match our summer wardrobe!

These shadows are colorful, but muted enough that you can use them either alone or as a highlighter and Shiseido, of course, always delivers an amazing quality product. The Hydro-powder line’s $23 cream eye shadows have an incredibly smooth texture that is easy to move around on your lid and the shades I tried –

Languid Lagoon (H10) -- translucent blue
Rose Tulle (H11) -- light pink
Lemon Sugar (H12) -- sheer, bright yellow
Clover Dew (H13) -- pale green

All have a slight shimmer to them, which I love for this in-between spring and summer time. Best of all, the product holds well, so you’ll need minimal re-touching and the packaging is super cute! AND each shadow comes with a brush in a sleek black pouch. I can’t tell you how many shadows I’ve tried these last few years that don’t even come with an applicator brush!

Take Your Jeans Off!

2008-05-22T22:29:00.001-07:00

...For a good cause, that is. Beginning today and lasting through May 1st, shoppers in select markets can drop off their gently used jeans at a participating Levi's retail store and receive 20% off a new pair of jeans. Nice!

If you're in one of the following areas, you're in luck:

-Lexington, Soho and 14th Street in New York City, NY

-Union Square in San Francisco, CA, and Valley Fair in San Jose, CA

-Michigan Avenue, Bucktown, Evanston and Woodfield in the Chicago, IL, area

-Santa Monica, Del Amo, Topanga, Victoria Gardens, Irvine and Santa Barbara in the Los Angeles, CA, area

-Georgetown, Tysons Corner, Harborplace, Annapolis and Towson in the Washington, DC/Baltimore area

And what, exactly, will Levi's do with all of that fabulous donated denim? Why, pass it along to Goodwill, of course! It's a win-win partnership. Need more info or store locations? Check out Goodwill Industries International's website for additional details.

Now here's the fun part. This promotion has inspired us here at Goodwill of Greater Washington to sponsor a "Show Us Your Denim" contest.

That's right, dear readers, it's YOUR opportunity to show off how you've taken a pair of jeans, a denim skirt or jacket that you've found at Goodwill retail store and hemmed, embroidered, deconstructed, bedazzled, or otherwise modified it to make it your own unique piece of clothing!

So, you're saying to yourself, I have this fabulous denim garment I've made my own...how do I let you know about it? Well that's easy: just send an email to fashion@dcgoodwill.org with 2-3 pictures as attachments (attachments, please, not pasted into the body of the email!). We'll review all submissions here at the office and select the top entries, which will then be voted on YOU, the readers, to determine the best one! And the prize is...well, the prize is really good. That's all I can say for right now.

All entries must be received by Friday, May 2nd. The voting will occur during Goodwill Industries Week, May 5th - 8th, and the winner will be announced on Friday, May 9th. How exciting!

Questions? Comments? Use the email address above. So start shopping and snapping pics...and "Show Us Your Denim!"

twenty one

2008-05-22T10:29:00.001-07:00

...is better than twenty. It's only been a few hours, but I can sense that already. Casanova and Hans Christian Andersen were also born on this date. I wonder if they felt the same way?

Happy birthday to all you Aprilites x

Sheila Fajl Jewelry

2008-05-21T22:29:00.001-07:00

Brazilian-born Sheila Fajl brings her extensive fashion industry experience to her original line of jewelry. Prior to becoming a trained and licensed lawyer in Brazil, Sheila was a well known television anchorwoman. Six-foot-tall Sheila Fajl began her career in fashion as a model, and went on to success in virtually every aspect of the business: design, sales and marketing, management, and manufacturing.

Gold Circles and Crystal Ring

Gold plated round ring with stone.

Clear Quartz.

Then she and her Uruguayan husband, Jorge, emigrated to California. Using her innate fashion skills and her Brazilian contacts, Sheila launched Sheila Fajl jewelry. Almost immediately the line received the attention it deserved - gracing the pages of such magazines as InStyle, People, and Lucky.

Brushed Gold Pentagon Ring in Lemon

Gold plated split-shank band.

Lemon Quartz.

Although her line is extremely fashion-forward, staying in vogue is not Sheila's ultimate goal. "I want my jewelry to not only make a woman look special. I want her to feel special. Every time someone wearing one of my pieces receives a compliment and gets that warm glow inside, I know I've done my job."

Sheila is a tireless entrepreneur and an artist with a clear vision and an irresistible spirit. Her style is contemporary, fitting perfectly with the latest fashion trends. Graceful settings cradle gigantic stones, enhancing their beauty without distraction. Her non-stone pieces feature clean lines that are just as romantic.

Brazilian Gold Disc Bib Necklace

Gold-Tone Bib Necklace

18k Gold Plate

22-26"

About the Company

SF Jewelry, LLC, is a California-based company incorporating extensive design and management experience into the pursuit of one goal: to realize Sheila Fajl's vision of an irresistible, fun, and contemporary line of fashion jewelry. At SF Jewelry, we are committed to always being ahead of the latest trends, to following the strictest manufacturing guidelines, and to complying with the highest quality standards. Our products are manufactured and assembled in Brazil and the U.S.

See full article.

Related Entries:

Dawn Vertrees Jewelry Designer - 14 March 2008

Alexis Bittar Jewelry Designer - 14 April 2008

Lori Bonn Jewelry Designer - 17 April 2008

Asch Grossbardt Jewelry - 29 April 2008

Black & White with a Punch!

2008-05-21T10:29:00.001-07:00

Every store I go into, I am seeing Black & White. It seems that the absence of color is the new color for Spring. I think its actually a really sleek look, and can be very flattering on plus sizes, if done in the right proportions. However, I recommend adding a real punch of color with your bag or shoes if you are going to go this route, otherwise you will look totally drab. Here a couple of my ideas:

Franco Sarto Knotting Hill Large Bag
$141.95 at Zappos.com

Gabrielle Rocha Ellie Shoes
$69.95 at Zappos.com

Above: Satin Tie Halter, $38 at Torrid

Chinese Laundry Bucana Heels
$62.95 at Zappos.com

Guess Collection Vixen Flap Handbag
$161 at Zappos.com