Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Fashion Matches: Best Finds from This Week's Arrivals

Spring is finally here in New York. I spent last weekend soaking up the sun in Central Park and so when coming up with this week's new arrivals I naturally gravitated towards ethereal, fanciful cocktail dresses that embodied spring, sunshine and pure bliss! I loved Robert Rodriguez's collection so much I chose two dresses from it. But there's also Catherine Malandrino and Aqua added to the mix.

I can't stop staring at these two Robert Rodriguez dresses. The gown is a soft yellow that compliments most skin tones, it has an empire waist, but the real star is the rosette detail on the bodice. The vanilla cocktail dress looks like a delicate flower. It has that same rosette detail, and the uneven hemline remind me of petals fluttering gently in the wind. If your size isn't available at Bergdorf's, a very similar dress is available at Intermix as well.



This off the shoulder Catherine Malandrino creation can make anyone look prim and proper. It's like something that Charlotte from Sex and the City would wear. The bell like shape of the skirt and the intricate design that weaves itself at the bottom is what makes it truly unique.



This strapless Aqua number would make a perfect prom dress. The color is the lightest shade of pink and I love the cascading layers of the skirt.


Aqua Ruffled Buster dress $288

image sources: bloomingdales.com, bergdorfgoodman.com

Technorati links:
fashion matches, new arrivals, bustier dress,Robert Rodriguez, rosette dress,Catherine Malandrino, prom dress, Aqua, fashion matchmaker

Monday, April 27, 2009

The Hills Recap + Fashion

It's another Hills recap + fashion! I'd like to rename this episode "The Pretense". Heidi and Spencer are pretending to have relationship problems even though as of a few days ago they are married. Audrina and Brody are having a pretend fling even though Audrina has blogged that she does not take sloppy seconds. But here we go, the recap:

"I always had a little crush"

The setup: the girls are invading the boys vacation

The side story: Heidi and Spencer get some role models

The girls have descended upon Hawaii, surprising the boys, because MTV needs an episode of fun and debauchery. Not to self,Turtle Bay is a beautiful place. The editing machine must have been in full force this time around because the whole episode is of Audrina and Brody stealing glances at each other.

Stephanie is doing what Stephanie does best, stirring drama. She's encouraging Audrina to go after Brody. When the mutual attraction angle doesn't work she goes after the "make Justin jealous" angle. And when even that fails, she comes up to Audrina during dinner to talk about her attraction to Brody. Wow...subtle...she must be getting paid for the amount of trouble she causes.

The guys don't waste any time letting Brody know Audrina is pining after him, to which he responds with a rant of how he's attracted to his girlfriend. He then takes it upon himself to go talk to Audrina about feelings. I'm not sure what the point was but it seemed like he was saying if they were alone they'd definitely be getting together. Guess he didn't wait for that moment because next thing you know we find out that Audrina spent the night at Brody's. I wonder how his girlfriend is going to feel about that. Audrina has already decided war with Brody's gf is a viable option.

Meanwhile in LA Heidi and Spencer are being introduced to a new, clean way of living. It all begins with Heidi and Spencer in a book store, and honestly i'm very surprised, i didn't know they can read. At the bookstore Heidi announces that her ex Colby is coming to visit and they are going out to dinner with him. Apparently it's a double date, because Colby is there with his girlfriend who gives Heidi the ultimate compliment "I saw old pictures of you and you don't look like the same person". Hmm,a nose job and implants can do that to a person. Colby and his girl are straight out of the 60's. While visiting LA they are staying at the same hotel but staying in separate bedrooms. Do they not trust to control their urges if they share the same room? Don't they know with today's economy you really gotta do everything to save? After spending time with the ultra religious couple Spencer say's he's turned a new leaf, though he sounds so sarcastic even Heidi doesn't believe him.

On to the fashion.

Audrina is wearing a sexy black swimsuit with cutouts especially for Brody's appreciation. Here's a similar one from Urban Outfitters.



Heidi is wearing a strapless draped silvery dress during her dinner with Colby and his girlfriend. This Alexander Wang dress makes the greek toga look super fashionable.



Lo is usually overlooked but she was the only one that brought color to the Hawaiian trip. Her strapless bright floral number was eye catching and fun. Here's one from Bebe.


Bebe Printed Strapless dress $129

image sources: bebe.com, urbanoutfitters.com, shopbop.com


Technorati links:
the hills, the hills fashion, Lauren Conrad, Audrina Patridge, Bebe, Urban Outfitters, Alexander Wang, draped dress, swimsuit with cutouts, I Always Felt a Little Crush, Heidi and Spencer, Fashion Matchmaker

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Celeb Closet: what celebrities are wearing!

Some interesting women on this celeb closet post, and I didn't even do this on purpose! If you were to ask me who are the most stylish women in Hollywood, Charlize Theron and Gwen Stefani would be my top two. And if you were to ask me who's the sexiest, I'd say Megan Fox. Without further ado, here's what these beautiful ladies are wearing.

There are tons of different leather jackets out there but what makes this one from A.L.C. different is the heather gray lining. It also comes in white which was the color of choice for Jennifer Lopez.



Charlize Theron looks rocker chic in this Rag & Bone boyfriend jacket that she paired with black leather skintight pants. While Charlize looks incredible in leather pants for those of us that don't own a pair, like me, this jacket will look fantastic with a pair of black skinny jeans like the Paige ones I described in an earlier post.




I have to admit, when I saw this top on shopbop.com I liked the color but it didn't have the same kind of impact on the model as it has on Megan Fox who added some cleavage and ripped up Siwy jeans.

image sources: saks.com, justjared.com, intermixonline.com, nordstrom.com, instyle.com

Technorati links:
fashion matches, celeb closet, celebrities closet,A.L.C., leather jacket,Rag and Bone, boyfriend jacket, VPL breaker tank,VPL, Charlize Theron,Gwen Stefani,Megan Fox,celebrities wearing,celebs wearing,fashion matchmaker

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Fashion Matches: Best Finds from This Week's Arrivals

Today's fashion matches have some great original pieces. The L.A.M.B. bustier is not your average top and the earrings at Anthropologie are a vision of spring. On the more traditional front there's the Caroline Hedaya dress that looks like it would be so much fun to wear, and a Rebecca Taylor blouse that can be worn casually or on a romantic date.

I love L.A.M.B. because unlike most celebrity designers Gwen Stefani has created a line that is feminine, unique and reflects her personal style. I'm a proud owner of a gray fitted dress from L.A.M.B. that I wear every time I want to appear professional and fashionable. This top is not of the professional variety but it has the excellent fit that all her pieces have in common.



The next top sets a completely different tone. Rebecca Taylor manages to capture the essence of romance in all her pieces, whether it's by adding lace, ruffles or the soft colors. This blouse looks perfect for some flirting :)



I love these earrings at Anthropologie so much that I'm planning to trek out there tomorrow tomorrow to buy a pair. Spring is all about flowers but this is a new artistic approach to capturing their essence.



This dress looks like a more risque version of the 1950's dresses with their full skirts and polka dots. I can imagine wanting to twirl in it endlessly.


image sources: Anthropologie.com, nordstrom.com, shopbop.com

Technorati links:
fashion matches, new arrivals, bustier top,Rebecca Taylor, polka dot dress,Anthropogie earrings, Caroline Hedaya, L.A.M.B., fashion matchmaker

Monday, April 20, 2009

The Hills Recap + Fashion

Time to recap the Hills with a little fashion thrown in for good measure...

Crazy in Love


The setup: Audrina is ready for a new boy toy

The side story: Heidi and Spencer are in therapy

Audrina and Justin's relationship has cooled down since last season and Audrina is on the prowl again. As all our fave girls plus Brody are hanging out at a bar Justin shows up. What comes next is possibly my favorite scene in all of the Hills, Audrina throws a can at Justin, which bounces off Justin's back, and he completely ignores it...do people throw things at him often? Come to think of it I wouldn't be surprised at that :)

Another day, another outing and Audrina spends half the evening staring at Brody. Brody's friend Sleazy T (and no I didn't make that up) is talking sense into Audrina, meanwhile Brody is telling Justin, who is back to looking like the unibomber with oily hair and a scruffy beard, to put a ring on Audrina's finger. Something tells me this is not part of Justin's five year plan.

Heidi and Spencer are back to their usual pattern, having intense conversations in Spencer's car outside of Heidi's job. Apparently Spencer wants to go out and have fun with other girls, but Heidi has nothing to worry about because Stacie's not his type, he's is into blonds. It seems like Spencer has agreed to the whole therapist thing, I can only imagine what breakthroughs will come from those sessions. Luckily we don't have to wait long for the first one: the therapist tells Heidi, if you feel like Spencer has been "checked out" for a long while, why are you still with him? Good question!

In other news Brody and the boys are going on a vacation to Hawaii that the girls are planning on crashing and at People's revolution Steph is folding clothes and apparently she's not even good at that because she managed to mess up.

On to the fashion:

Nothing terribly exciting this week, there was the ubiquitous boyfriend jacket that I've written about in an earlier post, and Lauren's outfit at People's revolution, a plaid shirt tucked into a black full mini skirt that reminded me of a tutu just a little bit.


image sources: stevenalan.com, urbanoutfitters.com, nordstrom.com, forever21.com

Technorati links:
the hills, the hills fashion, Lauren Conrad, Audrina Patridge, Steven Alan, Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, plaid shirt, black skirt, Crazy in Love, French Connection, Fashion Matchmaker

Friday, April 17, 2009

Celeb Closet: what celebrities are wearing, a French Connection special!

Want to steal a look from a celebrity closet? Here's a quick answer to what celebs are wearing: French Connection!

Taylor Swift is so adorable, and she always looks elegant and age appropriate. Here's another great example, she's wearing a white French Connection dress with sequin details. It looks like Taylor Swift if a fan of the brand because she has also worn it's Tallulah skirt on a David Letterman appearance.


French Connection Wood Garden dress $248

Emma Watson is another young fashionista who chose a French Connection design. I can't believe this is the same girl from the first Harry Potter film, she looks so mature. Keep in mind Emma Watson is a little above average height so if you're petite this dress will be longer.


French Connection Beachy Stripe dress $138

image sources: justjaredjr.com, usa.frenchconnection.com


Technorati links:
fashion matches, celeb closet, Taylor Swift, Emma Watson French Connection, fashion matchmaker

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Fashion Matches: Best Finds from This Week's Arrivals

The new arrivals are in and here are today's best finds. There's an ikat print skirt, a gorgeous long aqua necklace from Lee Angel, and a Christian Louboutin bag that deserves a second look.

Ikat has been a big trend this year embraced by most celebs. What I like about it is how versatile it is. It can be casual with a t-shirt and flats or dressed up with a cami and high heels.


I've written about Lee Angel jewelry before and here is another turquoise necklace that I fell in love with as soon as I saw it.


Lee Angel Solange Silk & Stones necklace $308

I simply couldn't help but include this bag in the post because even though it's uber expensive it is possibly one of the most adorable bags I've seen in a while. The gorgeous red petals embody flowers blossoming, but what really sets this bag apart is the stiletto clasp that makes it unmistakeably Christian Louboutin.


Christian Louboutin Mount Street bag $1495


image sources: shopbop.com, revolveclothing.com, net-a-porter.com

Technorati links:
fashion matches, new arrivals, Lee Angel, Christian Louboutin ikat, fashion matchmaker

Monday, April 13, 2009

The Hills Recap + Fashion

It's another mouthwatering recap of "The Hills", plus fashion from the episode!

I'm Done With You

The setup: Heidi is back in LA

The side story: People's Revolution needs a new intern

The chains that bind Spencer have been cut loose and Spencer is "ready to get crazy", going to a club with Stacie the bartender. Stephanie has a bright idea to go find out what Spencer is doing and because LA is such a small town she narrows the choices to one club in five seconds. Everyone's in a party mood, toasting, but it doesn't last long because Heidi and Steph show up and ruin the fun. Yes, it's another fake break up for these two. Heidi "is done" with Spencer but not before Steph calls Stacie a whore and a home wrecker.

Oh no, this has turned into a Dr. Phil episode. Digesting last night's events Steph is suggesting Heidi and Spencer see a therapist. Equipped with this advice Heidi goes sees Spencer, but he doesn't bite, and doesn't even apologize. I'm on Heidi's side here, but since I think this whole fight is a fake I think Spencer is saving his dramatic "I'm sorry" for a later episode.

While all these exciting events are taking place Kelly Cutrone approaches Lauren because People's Revolution is looking for a new intern and Kelly asks Lauren if she knows anybody that would be interested. Someone who is honest and committed. Coincidentally Stephanie is thinking of leaving her internship and since Steph is quite obviously the definition of honesty and commitment, Lauren offers to get Stephanie an interview. Next thing you know Steph is waiting at People's Revolution to be grilled by Kelly Cutrone. True to herself Kelly destroys her, making Stephanie seem like an incompetent fool and pointing out twice that based on her resume she's not ready to print labels at People's Revolution. Something tells me she'll be hired anyway....and I'm right, with one condition, if Steph is horrendous Lauren has to do the firing.

On to the fashion:

Lauren is wearing what appears to be a 1920's inspired top with sequins. Here's one whose geometric patterns come straight from that era.



I love the huge flower in Lauren's hair when Stephanie comes for her hellish interview with Kelly Cutrone. There are plenty around from Forever 21, Bebe, and Urban Outfitters. My favorite actually turned out to be from the J. Crew children's line, too bad my head is not small enough for it :)



image sources: forever21.com, urbanoutfitters.com

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Celeb Closet: a special Miley Cyrus update

This is a special post of celeb closet, and here's the reason. Usually I see what a celeb is wearing, and if I like it I try to find it in stores. This time however, it's the opposite way around. I spotted this cute Nanette Lepore dress back in January and posted it as one of the best of that week's new arrivals. It looks like Miley had the same idea because she wore it on the Rachel Ray show while promoting the new Hannah Montana movie. I love the way she paired it with burgundy sandals.


Nanette Lepore Swept Away Wrap Dress $395


image sources: people.com, shopbop.com
Technorati tags:
Miley Cyrus, Miley Cyrus fashion,celeb closet

Thursday, April 9, 2009

A-List Fashion

I never intended to cover the A-list awards here, but I finally took a look at photos from the awards and decided a mini review entry was in order. So here's the best and worst of the fashion at the A-list awards.

Simply Stunning


Bethany from the Real Housewives of New York looks amazing in this white Roland Mouret gown. It fits her like a glove! I admit this is the reason I felt compelled to write a post.


Kim Kardashian: elegant, tasteful, beautiful

...Not so much...


I love Chelsea Handler but this is just not a flattering color for her.
She's completely washed out in an otherwise great fitted dress.



This dress looks so uncomfortable on Audrey O'Day it feels like any moment it might flap its wings and fly away...and no I didn't rhyme on purpose :)

image source: teddyandmoo.com/blog

Birthday Present!

Since starting this blog I have seen many benefits
1. I finally have an excuse for all the time I spend looking for clothing online
2. I've started exploring other fashion blogs and it's amazing to see the myriad of perspectives out there
3. I get presents directly from my wish list!

Ok, so I don't really have a wish list, but I do post my favorite new arrivals each week and you can only imagine how happy and surprised I was when on my birthday last weekend I saw a small box arrive from Intermix, courtesy of my boyfriend :). It was the Kenneth Jay Lane Flower Dome ring which I wrote about on my post, and I must say I think it looks even better in person then it did on the Intermix website. I adore it and I've gotten several compliments on it already! Here are pics of what the ring looks like in person and its relative size on my hand :)





image source: moi

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Fashion Matches: Best Finds from This Week's Arrivals

This week's new arrivals are quite diverse. There's a super cute jacket from Nanette Lepore, an ocean breeze shift dress from Alice + Olivia, a truly original leather bracelet from Marni, and my absolute fave, a Phillip Lim dress!

To kick things off is a dress that I can only describe by one word: FIERCE! Yes, Christian Siriano, I said it :) The pleated details are tremendous.



This fitted blazer from Nanette Lepore is a great addition to a casual summer outfit. All you need is a wife beater and a pair of jeans. The ruffled neckline with freyed edges gives it that girly, feminine touch which is the Nanette Lepore stamp.



This shift dress from Alice + Olivia reminds me of the ocean, aquamarine waves with a white foam edge. It'll look great with a pair of light colored wedges.



I usually associate leather bracelets with tough rockers but this is a completely different take on the accessory. Instead of studs it has delicate red flowers.



image sources: bloomingdales.com, net-a-porter.com, eluxury.com

Monday, April 6, 2009

The Hills Recap + Fashion

Another recap + fashion for the second episode of The Hills tonight, here's the first episode.

Everything Happens for a Reason


The setup: It's trouble in paradise for Heidi and Spencer

It's a day of confrontations for everyone on "The Hills". Spencer confronts Steph about showing Heidi the text message. Apparently Steph should have been "loyal" to him and not said anything. Meanwhile at casa de Lauren the birthday girl somehow manages to blame Lo and Audrina for putting her on a boat with Heidi.

Investigative reporter Heidi goes to the bar where Spencer fought with Cameron to get details from the bartender about Spencer's behavior. The girl is very helpful, saying 1. Heidi should be worried 2. she didn't know Spencer had a girlfriend. Clearly this bartender has been living under a rock the past few years because these two aren't happy unless they're faces are all over magazines and the internet on a daily basis. After the interview Heidi tries to talk to Spencer, who is as rude and obnoxious as ever, so Heidi does what any girl in this situation would do...she goes to Crested Butte.

Since Spencer has a limitless number of friends he calls up Brody, the same Brody he excommunicated due to his disloyal behavior of being friends with Lauren, for some much needed advice. Brody imparts some great wisdom on Spencer. Spencer is putting all his eggs in one basket and should really go and do what he wants. While back in Colorado Heidi finds herself on a setup date with her ex from high school. Her mom can't stop gushing about him, meanwhile the poor kid is just sitting there smiling, probably a little too happy to be on camera.

Spencer is back at the bar with the bartender. Apparently her strategy is to get Heidi out of the picture because she tells Spencer that Heidi is nuts, toasts to no more crazy girlfriends, and then proclaims how sad she is that Spencer is leaving. The fact that anyone is sad Spencer is leaving is a big surprise to me so I'm going to say that she was paid by Speidi to come on teh show and make their storyline on "The Hills" more exciting.

On to the fashion:

While doing her investigative journalism Heidi is wearing a leather jacket. I'm biased, I really love S.W.O.R.D. leather jackets for their fit and the leather.



During a scene with Brody, Lauren is wearing a large, clear cocktail ring like the one below. What's unique about this one is the asymmetrical design.


Landver Asymmetrical Crystal Solitaire ring $240

image sources: net-a-porter.com, shopbop.com

The Hills Recap + Fashion

Two episodes for the price of one! It's recap + fashion time :) Here's the second episode.

Don't Cry on Your Birthday

The setup: Happy Birthday Lauren!

Steph and Heidi are meeting up for lunch and the subject of Lauren's birthday comes up. Apparently Lauren and Heidi are texting and talking and Heidi expects to be invited. Steph thinks it'll be fine if Heidi shows up...I smell trouble.

Audrina and Lo are talking about the party, apparently there's a boat involved. The topic of Heidi comes up and Lo says something genius that girls should apply to guys: when somebody rejects you so many times it's time to take the hint and get lost.

It's the day of the celebration and Lauren is guided blindfolded onto a boat where everyone yells surprise. But the real surprise is arriving shortly - Heidi with Steph. Needless to say Lauren is not amused when she sees the two.

Spencer is having a boys night out with one boy and a bartender, who happens to be a girl, having shots, reminiscing how his wedding in Mexico doesn't count. Steph's ex boyfriend Cameron ends up being in the same bar and Spencer wants to start trouble but instead has a awkward convo with him. Spencer is flirting with the bartender and it looks like Spencer's wish will come true because Cameron texts Steph this eventful news. Steph promptly relays this info to Heidi and now Heidi wants to get off the boat - lets watch her swim! I think Heidi realizes she's on a boat and attacks Spencer by phone instead. Spencer goes to defend his reputation against rumors started by Cameron and before we know it its a fist fight! Meanwhile back on the boat it's Super Lauren to save the day - she hugs a shaking Heidi, proclaims her love for her and hate for Spencer, and as an added bonus both shed some tears.

And that's the start of the season!

On to the fashion:

The real standout in this episode is the dress that Heidi wears to Lauren's birthday. It's sequined with some great button detail on the shoulder. I haven't found the exact same dress but here are two great alternatives.


image sources: chickdowntown.com, net-a-porter.com


The Hills recap, The Hills fashion

The Hills Premiere!

"The Hills" is premiering with Season 5 tonight and just as I've faithfully recapped all of "The City" episodes I've decided to do the same for this last season of "The Hills" :) It was after all my first love, what with all the drama that Lauren and company bring. I'll try to get a recap + fashion in by late tonight!

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Designs We Love: Marc by Marc Jacobs

I have loved Marc Jacobs designs since I first had enough money to splurge on a dress of his from the Marc by Marc Jacobs line. It has a pink and white flowers print and I've been wearing it for years because Marc Jacobs' clothing is not about following the trends, everything is unique and timeless. Over the past few months I've featured many dresses and accessories but this year there are just so many wonderful pieces I felt obliged to devote a post to his stylish concoctions!

The Dresses

These dresses are a perfect example of the diversity of style you can expect from Marc by Marc Jacobs designs. I saw the silk wrap dress in Saks a week ago and it has since become available at net-a-porter.com. It feels amazing to the touch and the color is vibrant. During the same visit I saw the tiered black dress with the colorful trim. While many brands have done the tiered dress before, the colored bands give it a new, whimsical play on volume. Last but certainly not least is the polka dot mini dress. It is a short belted dress that shows off legs which I could easily see on a leggy actress like Blake Lively.



The Jacket
I love the collar of this simple black jacket, and the belt creates an hourglass figure.



The Bag
If I didn't already have a black clutch I would definitely invest in this one. It's just the right size, not too big for a club and not too small to carry the essentials, and it can be worn as a clutch or over the shoulder once the strap is attached. The turnlock makes it unmistakably Marc Jacobs.



The Aspiration
I like to always have a goal ahead of me, like learning a new language, or how to play guitar, or moving on from the Marc by Marc Jacobs to the Marc Jacobs line :)



image sources: net-a-porter.com, nordstrom.com, saks.com