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

Window Shopping

Dying to discover amazing shops and boutiques in other parts of the world but your funds won't allow for the around-the-world shopping spree?  Then indulge yourself or your loved one with this beautiful coffee table book. One can tour the spectacular shops featured, without leaving the living room sofa. This book is sure to be a treat for the eyes without the post-credit card spending remorse. Get your list of must-see shops ready for when that unexpected inheritance checks shows up in your mail. 

Just Add Water

Emilio Pucci has out done itself with this season's prints. This one-piece is a must have for relaxing poolside this summer.  The great thing is that it's so versatile.  Slip on a pair of skinny jeans and heels for night-time glam.  If you want something more casual add white shorts and flat sandals and you are ready to run around town.  The best thing is that Pucci never goes out of style.

We Aren't in Kansas Anymore

Neiman Marcus just unveiled some of Christian Louboutin's pre-fall collection. These glittered platform pumps will have you singing "Over the Rainbow" in no time. As soon as you slip into a pair of these, you'll add instant glamour to any outfit. It's so nice to see some fun happening in shoes again to help lift our spirits. There's always an extra zip in your walk when you step into a pair of Christian Louboutins. It's the red sole...

Good Things Come in Blue Boxes

Nope, not Tiffany's but that's a good one as well. I'm talking about Lanvin shoes. The ballet flats are a must in every girl's closet, especially if you are chasing after a 1-year old all day! Once you slip into a pair of Lanvin flats you will feel like you are wearing your most comfortable slippers the way they coddle your feet. Who would have guessed beauty and comfort could actually co-exist? There is an entire rainbow of colors and prints to choose from this season...something for everyone. Making it difficult to choose just one pair.

Happy Cinco de Mayo...Brit Style

May 5th can't come soon enough, and I'm not talking about tequila.  Stella McCartney is launching an exclusive capsule line for Net-a-Porter.  The site has been selling her line since 2005 and is said to be one of their best-selling.  I first fell in love with Stella McCartney's line in 2003 and have been in love ever since. Her workmanship and fit are amazing. I am so excited to see what fun surprises she has in store with the Net-a-Porter launch.