Fall Must Haves

Just wanted to thank the SITs girls for featuring me today. Welcome to all of those who are new to my site. Hope you enjoy.

Must Have List for Fall 2009

Nothing like the changing seasons to get excited about updating your closet. Below are a few of my must haves for the upcoming fall season to help inspire you until the September issues hit your mailbox!

Leopard Print Blouse

Animal prints are everywhere this season, but they’ve managed to live in my closest for some time now. I’ve never met an animal print I didn’t like. I love this blouse because it has just enough sass but when paired with jeans or a pencil skirt it won’t make you look like you’re channeling Catwoman.

D&G Leopard Print Blouse, $415

Rational Buy

Black Blazer

There are many versions to the blazer this season. But there’s one that really has my eye…a fitted blazer rocking exaggerated shoulders. It has my name written all over it. Throw it over a delicate floral print dress to add a little edge to your outfit.

D&G Peak Lapel Blazer, $695

Rational Buy

Sequin Skirt

Looking to liven up your wardrobe…just add sequins. There’s no need to be afraid of looking like a disco ball if done properly. Pair with opaque black stockings, flat boots, white tissue t-shirt and a fitted jean jacket and you’ll have mastered the casual-modern look.

Haute Hippie Mini Skirt, $295

Rational Buy

Over-the-Knee Boots

As soon as I saw these at Barney’s a few months ago it was love at first sight. There are so many ways to wear them, where to start? Throw on with leggings and an over-sized sweater that’s belted at the waist and you’re all set for Saturday brunch. You’re sure to be the one everyone is checking out wishing they could have your style.

Chloe Over the Knee Boot, $1,195

Rational Buy

Red Bag

Red…it’s not just for Valentine’s Day this year. It’s the easiest way to add some spice to your closet. I love this bag from Balenciaga. Not only is it the perfect color, but it has a bit of hardware to give it a touch of roughness.

Balenciaga Work Handbag, $1595

Rational Buy

Rodarte on Target this Holiday Season

Looks like it's going to be a good Christmas this year. Rodarte, the darlings of the fashion industry, unveiled their 55-piece Target collaboration in a preview to editors yesterday. Lacy slip dresses, denim jackets, tulle skirts and a killer black dress are what we have to look forward to this holiday season from the collaboration. Hitting stores December 20th, the collection will retail for under $80...yep, you read correctly.


When asked to describe the collection for WWD, Joshua Thomas, a Target spokesman said, “It’s very feminine, yet very modern. The collection incorporates a rich mix of patterns and fabrications and everything from sequins and bows to faux fur. The key with Rodarte is layering.”

It may be a stretch trying to imagine translating the hand-wrought designs of Rodarte into mass market designs, but if anyone is up to the challenge Target has found its match. 

First it was Jimmy Choo, who announced their collaboration with H&M and now Rodarte?  Here's to a happy holiday season.  

(PC -top photo: WWD Staff, right photo: Marcio Madeira Fall '09 Rodarte Runway) 

Seeing Red

You have a bold personality, and this season's color has your name written all over it. Red is the hot trend for the 2009 Fall Season.  It's sure to add the perfect amount of spice to your wardrobe, not that you necessarily need any help in that arena!  

Lust

Looking to channel your inner Jackie this season? Well Gucci has taken the guess work out for you and has updated one of their classic handbags. Pair with a simple grey sheath dress and hot pair of leopard heels and you are ready to go. Somewhere Jackie would be smiling down!

New Jackie Shoulder Bag, Gucci, $3100

Must

Tory Burch is known for blending timeless and classic designs with a modern twist. While her collection can be found on the set of Gossip Girls and socialites alike, she makes the perfect understated wardrobe for everyday moms. Looking to add some "red" spice to your wardrobe without seeing red in your bank account? The new "Utility" bag in Tory Burch's collection is your answer.

Utility Leather Hobo, Tory Burch, $450

Runway to Reality

Clockwise from top left:

Pre-Shrunken Leather Biker Jacket, Preen Line, $645

Black Tissue Turtleneck, J.Crew, $39.50

Skinny Black Patent Leather Belt, J.Crew, $32.50

Opaque Black Tights, American Eagle, $12.50

Zipper Trimmed Skirt, Forever 21, $15.80

Black Ankle Boot, Michael Antonio Macey, $60

Haute Cuisine, Julie & Julia

The mystic of France is hard to ignore. How do Frenchwomen stay so thin while consuming cheese, red meat, chocolate and wine? How do they dress so chic while making it appear to be so effort-less? And why do the French get to be the only ones to call their bubbles Champagne?

For all you Francophiles, the much anticipated Julie & Julia starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams opens in theaters today. While it may be light on the haute couture, it is sure to deliver on "haute cuisine." The film is based upon two best-selling memoirs, Julie and Julia: 365 Days, 524 Recipes, 1 Tiny Apartment Kitchen, by Julie Powell and My Life in France by Julia Child with Alex Prud'Homme. The film is about two women who live parallel lives both on the quest to uncover their hidden passions. Through perseverance, laughter, passion and a lot of butter both women find anything is possible in each of their lives.

Here's hoping your theater has French pastries or at least some baguette et fromage because popcorn and soda just doesn't seem an appropriate snack for this film! Bon Appetit!

Photos courtesy of Sony Pictures

Red Shoes

Today loves, you are in for a treat...we have a guest writer!  I've swapped blogs today with my friend Amy at The Bee Dot. We met through the The Classy Closet. Be sure to pop over to her blog to read my post as well! And PLEASE leave Amy a little comment love on her post here.

(photo courtesy of Christie Jane’s Flickr photostream)

 

 

Yesterday was a pretty rough day. Lots of things went awry.

 

On the way into the daycare, my two-year-old forgot he was wearing big boy pants now. We had to run, dripping, as fast as we could to the bathroom. But the running wasn’t so bad, because I was running in my brand new red patent leather spike heels.

 

When I got to work, there was a group of semi-hygienic bikers lounging on the sofas in the lobby. Everyone else was eyeballing them as if a cinema-worthy shootout was about to go down. Not me. I turned on my strut and made sure they saw my shiny leather. They were definitely entertained.

 

I got to my office and started gearing myself up for a fight. I knew I was going to have to confront a co-worker about a project deadline she had missed. The conversation started, took a bad turn, and I began to back down, as I often do. Then I looked down and spied my five inches of power. I stood my ground in my red shoes.

 

My red shoes and I spent the rest of the afternoon flirting, power lunching, and generally blazing our way through everything the day threw at us. We even caught all the green lights on the way home.

 

Look, I hate blatant materialism. I abhor people who acquire just for the sake of acquiring. I’m fine with lust and greed being deadly sins. But I think everyone needs a little something that makes them feel special or powerful. Something to think about or gaze upon that gives them a secret thrill. Something to save for, splurge on, or treat themselves to on a regular basis. Whether it’s a designer sofa or a creamy lipstick or a pair of perfectly-neutral Louboutins or an expensive set of cookware, its draw is uncontrollable.

 

Everyone needs a pair of red shoes.

 

What’s your “red shoe?” What item makes you feel confident, special or happy?

Bridal Eco-Chic

Amazing fiancé...check

Dazzling sparkler on left hand...check

Breathtaking wedding location on-hold...check

"The" Wedding dress...where to start?

The last one is an easy one to check off your to-do list thanks to Encore Bridal, a consignment and resale bridal eBoutique.  Specializing in gently used bridal dresses, as well as offering new and sample couture at unbelievable pricing...there's something for every bride and budget. 

Wondering how to buy a dress online not knowing how it will fit? Encore Bridal offers virtual styling to ensure brides get "The Dress" of their dreams. Having extensive experience working with multiple designers and an intimate knowledge of each gown in a well-edited inventory, Encore Bridal will deliver a gown sure to express each bride's unique and individual style. 

Green is the color of choice at Encore Bridal...being good to your wallet and the environment at the same time.  Encore Bridal is dedicated to using green business practices which include donating to Carbonfund.org.  In addition, a portion of every sale is donated to non-profit organizations supporting cervical cancer research and education.

Who says you can't have your dress and tiara too, all while being eco-chic?

Live in the Los Angeles area?  Visit Encore Bridal's Manhattan Beach showroom:

3215 Highland Ave.

(At 33rd Street)

Manhattan Beach, CA

310-545-1409

Encore Bridal Website

Hours:

Second & Last Sundays of each month 

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. (no appointments necessary)

Appointments only rest of the month

Upcoming Events:

Check out Encore Bridal's Veil and Accessories Trunk Show at the Manhattan Beach Showroom August 28th - 30th. For more information visit:
Encore Bridal Events

Natural Beauty

Dewy, blemish-free skin...reality or just another trick of professional airbrushing? Yes it is a reality thanks to REN Skincare, no need to pinch yourself. REN has created skincare as it should be. They use the latest high-tech bio actives that leave your skin healthy and beautiful. The best thing is the line is free from unfriendly synthetic ingredients, using only 100% natural and clean indredients. For the "green" in all of us...REN donates a minimum of 2.5% of its profits to campaigns for a better environment. Not only will your skin reap the benefits of using the skincare line but so will the environment...all in the name of beauty! Speaking from first-hand knowledge it's is one of the most gentle skincare lines for sensitive skin and is absolutely delicious to use.

REN Skincare Website

Shiny, Happy Hair

You see those girls...you know the ones.  The ones with the perfect, shiny hair and wonder "how did they get so lucky to have hair like that?" One word, Moroccanoil!  It's one of the secret weapons celebrity stylists use to keep their A-list clients looking amazing on the red carpets.  In addition to creating silky, smooth hair the smell of Moroccanoil is amazing.  Just an extra bonus for the lucky one who gets to be that close later!

Moroccanoil contains Argan oil grown from trees in the southwest of Morocco.  The oil, which is found in the seeds of lush fruits much like olives, has been termed "liquid gold" by many of its devotees.  Once you have beautiful, shiny, smooth hair...it's hard to go back.  Rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, Moroccan women have used Argan oil for centuries providing nourishing benefits for their hair and scalps.  

Moroccanoil Website

Wordless Wednesday

As if you needed one more reason to heart Christian Louboutin...but if you do here it is!

Christian Louboutin Platform Pumps, $930 To pre-order, visit: website

Flavor of Summer

Summertime...it's all about cool drinks, leisurely lunches with the girls, and sundresses. Dinner can quickly become an after-thought. Slaving away in a hot kitchen just does not scream summertime!

Here's a quick and easy recipe to prepare for dinner. It's so delicious no one will know you were out enjoying your summer day.

Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Fresh Basil

1 pkg. pappardelle pasta
2 garlic cloves, chopped
3 T olive oil
1 pint cherry tomatoes
3 T fresh basil, chopped
pinch of red pepper flakes

Bring a large pot of water to boil. Prepare pasta according to package.

Heat olive oil and garlic over medium-low heat in a large skillet pan until the garlic is lightly browned. Add cherry tomatoes to skillet and cook until they start to breakdown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat. Add drained pasta to skillet to mix with tomato mixture. Place pasta on large platter and sprinkle with fresh basil. Finally, add pinch of red pepper flakes to your taste.

We'll Always Have Paris

Besides being the city of love and having the most amazing food ever, Paris will have yet one more thing to boast about. It is now home to the largest shoe department in the world. On Wednesday, Galeries Lafayette unveiled the 34,500 square foot shoe department at its Boulevard Haussmann location. This new space makes the 8,500 square foot shoe salon at Saks Fifth Avenue in New York seem like a small boutique in comparison.

Known for their impeccable style around the world, it's no coincidence that Frenchwomen would have access to the world's largest shoe department in their backyard. With an average of six pairs of shoes purchased each year, Frenchwomen are the largest consumers of shoes in Europe according to Galeries Lafayette. They admit to being shoe collectors, with 17% owning more than twenty pairs of shoes. When one is a shoe collector, a small thing like price won't get in the way of owning a "must-have" pair of shoes as 75% of Frenchwomen will agree.

The shoe department will carry 150 designers with 75 being exclusive to Galeries Lafayette. In addition to shoes and more shoes, there will be additional services offered to make one's shopping experience more enjoyable. While relaxing in a lounge-like atmosphere, one can try on their shoes in a private fitting room. Should one chip their polish while trying on shoes, pedicure treatments are a step away. Personal shopping and artisan cobbler services are just a few more perks that are offered.

Pâté, croissant de chocolate, Eiffle Tower at night and now the largest shoe department in the world...J'adore Paris!

Galeries Lafayette
40 Boulevard Haussmann, Paris
website

Summertime...Oh What Fun!

It's summertime in Manhattan Beach and that means AVP is coming to town. Professional volleyball players, swimsuits and sunscreen are the must-haves this weekend at the 2009 AVP Crocs Slam Bud Light Manhattan Beach Open.

Sitting right on the beach with the ocean as the backdrop, there is fun to be had for the whole family. For the shopper, take a walk around the sponsor booths and check out the latest AVP gear. This year marks the debut of the AVP Dancers, ex-Laker and NFL football cheerleaders, to get the crowd excited. For those that remember the "good-old" days there will be a six-on-six "legends" match. The main attraction is of course on center court. Will John Hayden and Sean Scott hold onto their number 1 ranking...it remains to be seen. Whatever the outcome, it is sure to be a fun-filled weekend at the beach. This is how we live in Southern California!

For more information and to purchase tickets:
AVP website

Christian Louboutin's 2009 Fall Collection...a Perfect Fit

Looks like Christmas is coming early this year. Christian Louboutin's 2009 fall collection is amazing! There truly is something for everyone or for your ever changing moods. Choosing just one pair will be near impossible.

Satisfy that inner 80's edge with leather and metal. These will get you behind the velvet ropes with an all-access pass in no time. Air guitar will never have looked so good.
Very Prive Peep-Toe Pumps, $995 website


These are candy for the feet. With lace, exposed zippers and metal studs these can fit your sweet or spicy attitude. Nothing like satisfying that urge...of shopping for shoes!
Candy Lace & Patent Spike Pumps, $835 website

If your inner retro girl wants to make an appearance these are a must have in your closet this fall. Nothing says retro like sleek, ladylike pumps. Ingrid Bergman would be so proud.
Lady Page Velvet Bow Pump, $995 website

The splurge that will have you noticed from across the room. These are not for the wallflowers, so purchase accordingly. Nothing like having sparkly, shining shoes on your feet to get the conversation started.
Jeweled Platform Slingback, $2830 website

Summer Trends for your Tresses

It's summertime, and true to your nature you are a chameleon with the seasons, always one to go lighter in the summertime and darker for fall. This summer has you looking for something a bit different. According to George Papanikolas, celebrity colorist at Andy Lecompte Salon, the hot new trend for summer is highlighting just the tips of the hair.

He created this summer haircolor for Mila Kunis. Staying with Mila's natural base color, Papanikolas hand painted on highlights using the Balayage technique to only the tips of her hair. Balayage is the free-handed hair coloring originating in Paris in the 1970s and truly is an art form, which George has mastered. By highlighting just the ends of the hair, the final look is an amped up version of one's hair being sun-kissed by the sun. It's an easy trend to maintain and fairly commitment free. Once the highlights have grown out one can cut off the ends or just reapply the highlights.

George is a much sought after colorist in Hollywood where he has mastered the art of creating natural-looking, sun-kissed color. His signature highlighting style is seen on many of Hollywood's hot, young royalty. He recently returned from the Britney Spears Circus Tour, where he was key stylist setting the look for the tour. Over the years, he has become a staple, key stylist at many runway shows for New York Fashion Week. After growing his career at some of Beverly Hills' top salons including John Fridea Salon and Chris McMillan Salon, George has found a new home at the hot new Andy Lecompte salon in West Hollywood.

To schedule a consultation or appointment:

George Papanikolas
website

Andy Lecompte Salon
616 N. Almont Drive
West Hollywood, CA 90069
310-273-4100

Happy 4th of July!

Have a fabulous 4th of July!

Patriotic Lust & Musts

LUST:

Miu Miu Studded Bag, $1295 - www.net-a-porter.com


MUST:
Red Jersey Ankle Wrap Wedges, $20 - www.oldnavy.gap.com

White Dome Necklace, $12 - www.torrid.com

Rimless Aviator Sunglasses, $8 - www.oldnavy.gap.com

Tie-Dye Rib Tank, $4 - www.walmart.com

White Pippa Jean, $60 - www.topshop.com

Oscar de la Renta Shaping Little Girl's Style

Designers have recently supported the notion of "starting them young" when it comes to attracting new clients. Oscar de la Renta has joined a list of other designers such as Marc Jacobs and Chloé in designing a line of girl's clothing. Yes, that's right, your darling princess does not have to wait until she is grown to own her first Oscar dress and start her flawless style.

 

This limited edition will take mommy-and-me dressing to such a chic level. The adorable dresses, size 2-6, range in price from $200-$350. One might need to skip out on playing in the sandbox that day, but moms can feel good knowing $100 from each sale goes to The Children's Defense Fund.  The dresses might be a splurge, but isn't she worth it?  It'll be a mommy-and-me cherished memory forever!

http://www.oscardelarenta.com

Mozza, Coming to a Home Near You

A little birdy says starting tomorrow, our favorite pizza place in LA is now going to offer take-out and delivery. You might say, "another pizza delivery place...big deal." Well, you'll be saying big deal with an exclamation mark when you hear it's called Mozza 2Go. Yes, that Mozza, the same one chef Nancy Silverman & Mario Batali are behind. Welcome the newest sibling to the Osteria and Pizzeria Mozza family.

Normally pizza delivery and take-out isn't that exciting but being able to sit at home catching up on your TiVo'd episodes of the Fashion Show while enjoying a mouth-watering margarita pizza, your house is sure to become the new hot spot.  No longer do you have to keep hitting speed dial just to get the much coveted one-month in advance reservation.

When you've watched all your TiVo'd shows and feel like getting out of your pjs, Silverman hopes to offer wine tastings, cooking classes and private parties in the near future.

Mozza 2Go
6610 Melrose Ave
(West of Highland)
Hancock Park
Los Angeles, CA 90038
323-297-1130

The Gem of Hermosa Beach

Who says you can't have it all? The beach towns of Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach are considered to be coastal gems just 20 miles outside of Los Angeles. They have picturesque ocean-fronts, residents with laid-back beach attitudes, yummy restaurants and great shopping. Gum Tree, in Hermosa Beach, is to thank for it's contribution in the shopping and dining categories.

Managing to combine the beach lifestyle and luxury tastes its neighbors are accustomed to, Gum Tree is a welcome addition. This eco-friendly shop and cafe is truly a one-stop shop. Mixing modern, trendy, and one-of-a-kind merchandise it makes gift giving a breeze...even if it's for yourself! When one walks into the updated beach bungalow it feels as if you entered your stylish friend's home. Be careful, you'll want one of everything! The first room is the living room with baskets of Dash & Albert rugs, candles, Thomas Paul pillows, beach bags and cute Hat Attack fedoras.

Wandering into the next room one will find anything a hostess would ever need for her dinner parties. Wooden cake stands, linen napkins, and beautiful Donna Hay cookbooks are a few of the treasures waiting to be found. Looking for a baby gift or just want to spoil your munchkin? The next room will help with just that, featuring Offi chalkboard table and chairs, baby bloch slippers, wooden toys and unique baby board books. Feeling like you need a little something? Well the last room has beautiful loungewear, stationary and wraps waiting to go to a good home.

Gum Tree also features amazing jewelry designers. New additions that will be available in July are pieces from Elisa Solomon and Victoria Cunningham. NYC designer Solomon's neck shakes are 14k gold with crushed stones inside. The stone choices are ruby, peridot, emerald, turquoise and blue sapphire making choosing one nearly impossible. Cummingham is a local artist from Studio City designing delicate, 14k gold dog tags with diamonds.

After all that shopping head over to the organic cafe next door to refuel and enjoy the beautiful weather on the patio. Gum Tree is a collaboration between husband and wife, Lori & Will Ford. Lori, a South Bay native and NYC fashion alum along with her successful Australian restaurant entrenepuer have given Hermosa Beach just one more thing to love!

Gum Tree

238 Pier Ave.

Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

http://www.gumtreela.com/

Shop: 310-376-8744

Cafe: 310-376-8733

A Merry Choo to You

Roberto Cavalli, Comme des Garcons, Stella McCartney and Karl Lagerfeld have all done one-off collaborations for the Swedish fashion giant, H&M. So the question one might ask is "What designer do they have up their sleeve, next?" Drum roll please....H&M has announced they are teaming up with Jimmy Choo for this holiday season. Jimmy Choo is set to design a collection of shoes, handbags and accessories for women and men. The line is set to launch in 200 H&M stores November 14th.

This is sure to launch the same shopping frenzy previous designers have bestowed when unveiling their one-off collaborations. Jimmy Choo at H&M prices...looks like it's going to be happy holidays this year!

Looking Good at the Beach

Summer is here and it's time to stock up on this season's must-have essentials. It's all about looking good at the beach.

Bathing Suit - Whether it's a one-piece or bikini make sure to wear one that makes you feel fabulous. When you feel amazing you'll look amazing! Tomas Maier Swimsuit, $435

Cover-Up - Look extra chic in this embroidered tunic, whether walking to lunch or just covering the shoulders after a day in the sun. Anna Sui Tunic, $322

Beach Bag - It's the stylish bag of tricks! Look amazing while carrying all of your summer beach essentials. Louis Vuitton Tote, $1080

Hat - Protect your hair and face from the sun's strong UV rays. You'll be the smart yet sophisticated one at the beach this summer. JLo Large Striped Straw Hat, $22.99

Sunglasses - Your beautiful peeps need protection from the sun as well. They also are a great way to check out that cute guy sitting next to you without him even knowing! Tom Ford Lillian Sunglasses, $450

Beach Towel - Makes taking an afternoon nap comfortable on the sand. Emilio Pucci Beach Towel, $340

Wedges - Nothing says summer is here like a pair of wedges. They also help to make your legs and backside look summerlicious! AE Strappy Espadrilles, $29.95

Sunscreen - The only way to keep your skin looking young is to lather on the sunscreen. Besides protecting you from getting sunburned, it helps to protect against wrinkles and early aging caused by sun damage. Lancaster 30 SPF, $25

Hair Protection - Be a good girl and make your colorist proud by spraying a sun protection mist in your hair this summer. Phyto Protective Beach Spray, $18

Fall's Lusts and Musts

Chloe Lace-Up Over the Knee Boot, $1195
http://www.barneys.com/




Joie Coachella OTK Boot, $525
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/

No Words Needed...

Fendi, Peekaboo Fur Tote http://www.barneys.com/

Summertime and the Hidden Gems

So the summer house rental in Capri isn't happening this year due to the dwindling vacation funds in your bank account. Looks like you'll be vacationing stateside this summer. Not to worry, there are so many amazing cities you've been meaning to visit but somehow never got around to making it happen in the past.

If you want to know where to find the best custom cowboy boots in Austin or where the chefs eat in New York make sure to grab an eat.shop city travel guide. These guides specialize in finding locally owned shops and restaurants. They are for the traveler who wants to find the interesting, chic and unknown hidden gems in various cities. Currently, there are guides for 20 cities with new ones being added every six months. The guides are compact and easy to carry around. They can also be downloaded from the Internet to easily be accessed by your PDA.

To see list of cities or purchase visit: http://www.eatshopguides.com/

Getting Out of Dodge

Where does one go for a quick, coastal weekend getaway without being too far from Los Angeles? Orange County, San Diego or Santa Barbara might come to mind, but they require hours of sitting in Friday traffic just to get there. Thanks to Terranea Resort, a new world-class resort located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, those extra hours one saves getting there can be made up lounging poolside. Finally LA has a coastal resort of its own.

Just 15 miles past LAX, the 102-acre, Mediterranean-style resort sits atop the bluffs showcasing breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. One truly feels on top of the world while staying at the resort.

Terranea offers exceptional amenities to fit any guest's needs. For the sun worshiper, there are three pools on the property. One has a waterslide for the more adventurous and one for the 18-over crowd. The 25,000 square-foot spa offers a full menu of services for those looking for a "Zen out" experience. There are miles of hiking trails around the resort and a 9-hole golf course if one is looking for some outdoor activity. After a hard day of vacation one of the many restaurants and lounges on-site will satisfy any culinary craving.

With an official open date of June 12th the resort is now accepting reservations. Book by June 8th for the grand opening special and receive 50% all rates.

Terranea Resort
100 Terranea Way
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
310-265-2800
http://www.terranea.com/

Lusts and Musts

Chanel Flats, $675 http://www.chanel.com/

Bloch Flats, $165
http://www.blochworld.com/

Pinch Me I'm Dreaming

By now everyone in the fashion world is familiar with the various invitation-only sample sale websites. One can purchase amazing pieces from world-renowned designers at significant discounts. No longer does one have to wake up at the crack of dawn and stand in a long line only to fight over the last cocktail dress in their size once inside.

This morning, Ideeli Inc. has gone one step further and announced their shoppers will have a chance to win a one-of-a-kind dress by Oscar de la Renta. Yes, you read that correctly. Through a partnership with the designer's company, their members will have 30 days to enter to try and be the lucky recipient of the gorgeous floral silk bubble-hemmed cocktail dress and the original sketch signed by de la Renta. This will be a true original as the winner will submit their measurements to the designer for a perfect fit. Someone's dream of owning couture without the hefty price tag is about to come true. Start your submissions now...



http://www.ideeli.com/

There's A New Shoe in Town

Heather Williams has branched out with her own line adding a bit of Italian flair. She is no stranger to footwear design, honing her design skills at Calvin Klein and Reebok. In 2008, Williams packed her bags and headed to Italy to immerse herself in the art of Italian shoemaking. She wanted to study the artisan and technical craftsmanship of Italian footwear and handbags. By the looks of her first collection she was a perfect student.

Her inspiration came in part from the intricate details of cathedrals that she was surrounded by in Italy. The collection is debuting with 17 styles, with everything from flats to tall boots. Exotic skins, bow embellishments and exposed zippers will make choosing just one pair difficult. This collection has a very edgy and modern feel. Perfect for the chic and sophisticated. She is also launching a handbag collection at the same time.

Available this fall.

Lovely Louboutin

A must in every girl's closet this fall!

Fashion As Art

The editors at Vouge have chosen an exclusive group of photographs from past issues that are available as limited-edition prints. Each print is offered in a limited-release of 10 and will be retired after their run is complete. The prints are approximately 16 by 20 inches and are numbered, stamped and accompanied by a letter of authenticity. What an amazing way to build one's art collection with work from such famed photographers as Bert Stern, Toni Frissel and Henry Clarke to name a few.

A select group of past Vouge covers, illustrations and fashion photographs are also offered in addition to this limited release. There is something for every budget.

To purchase, visit: http://www.condenaststore.com/

Marios Schwab to Modernize Halston

Ending months of speculation, Marios Schwab is replacing Marco Zanini as creative director at Halston.

Schwab is a London-based designer known for unique interpretations of natural forms. He told WWD, "While Halston's DNA is crucial to its future success, I very much wish to move the brand forward and make it relevant for today. Simple, effortless pieces realized via modern [fabrics] and technology will play a large role in how I will redefine the brand. The clothes will echo the heritage but with a very distinctive, modern feel that is completely new and completely now."

He begins his position July 1st, and will continue to design for his own namesake line. A new, edgy and modern Halston? Come February when his first collection is shown at the tents, it will be known!

French Tweets

Louis Vuitton is keeping up with its tech-savvy clients by joining Twitter this past Friday. This is Vuittion's first venture into the social networking community. Followers will stay up-to-date with the brand, gaining information on celebrity sitings, design collaborations and product launches.

Louis Vuitton is very aware that the Internet is a prominent marketing and sales tool and has enhanced their website, www.louisvuitton.com, accordingly by offering exclusive content. Last Friday, it launched the Totally Monogram tote on its site. The bag, available in three sizes, will be sold exclusively on the site until June 1. After which, it will be sold at Louis Vuitton stores. Vuitton is now the only online shopping destination for its products, which are no longer offered at eLuxury.com.

Home Is Where the Style Is

We were taught that one's home is a reflection of who they are. A homes has a style profile that is directly influenced by its occupants.  

While a fashion girl will keep her wardrobe up-to-date with the latest styles, she might lack funds to do the same for her home. Psst...we'll let you in on a secret, One Kings Lane to the rescue. One Kings Lane is an invitation-only, online home decor sample sale. They feature world-renowned, home decor brands at amazing prices. In addition to the exclusive prices, members receive tips and inspiration from industry insiders.

So it looks like one can have their cocktail dress, go "out" in their stylish home and have their cake and, well, do what they want with the cake!

If one would like an invitation to One Kings Lane, please contact me.

Next Generation Pucci

Say Pucci and what comes to mind? Capri, swirly prints, tunics and the 60's. Come fall and your adjectives may be a bit different. Peter Dundas replaced Matthew Williamson, who left to spend more time on his own label, as head designer. In his first collection, gone are the dominance of fantastical prints only to be replaced with bold, edgy jet-set looks. One can see the influence from his stints at the houses of Cavalli and Lacroix.

It's Pucci for the new generation. He'll be one to watch. Can't wait to see his collection in stores come fall.

Jersey Stunner

This stunning Vivienne Westwood dress is a must for every fashionista's closet.  The ever so forgiving jersey material is every girl's best friend.  This dress is part of Vivienne's Anglomania line.  The pieces in the line are ment to be worn as everyday casual wear, while still showcasing Vivienne's signature edgy and bold designs.

Iconic Vivienne Westwood in your closest, forgiving jersey dress, classic yet bold design all for under $500? One just can't go wrong.

Available at Net-a-Porter.com