tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7924321061042599322024-03-13T12:48:42.244-04:00The Fashion MonocleChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-24084213748184722822012-02-15T15:43:00.000-05:002012-02-15T15:43:12.922-05:00The IFB Conference: Blogging Tips and Tricks for Increased TrafficI was the most awkwardly dressed person at the Fort Lauderdale International Airport: large black wool coat, sparkly wool scarf, little white mittens, black cut-off leggings, and purple sneakers. On a warm and rainy Tuesday night I sat in the Delta terminal, bundled from head to toe, and carefully ate a ham and cheese sandwich my mother made me before boarding Flight 898 to LGA. I took full advantage of the carry-on rule, and made sure that my purse, duffle-bag, and coat were all filled to the brim; at a fashion conference, I wasn't taking any chances and after managing to pack and re-pack at least 15 times, I figured I couldn't go wrong with the basics. <div><br />
</div><div>I was surprised to notice upon boarding that the flight was nearly empty, and so I took advantage of the space and spread out (I should have known then it was a natural mistake to be so greedy, because what goes around comes around. Read on...). Slightly nervous for take-off, I sat near the window and looked outside; I watched the rain falling, and then felt the airplane leave the ground. I kept watching the scene until the plane burst through the storm clouds, revealing a full moon's light dancing on the swampy water and marshes of the Everglades. I turned from the window until the plane was flying over the concrete jungle, where the moon was absent from the landscape, and the twinkle and glow of soft yellow-orange lights welcomed me with open arms to New York.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Stepping out of the plane, I realized it was just as cold as I expected, and I was happy to have my wool coat and mittens. I quickly navigated out of LGA and into a warm waiting taxi and was off to the city. No matter the times I've been in a taxi from the airport, I always seem to end up going a completely different route to the city. This time, the taxi driver took me down to the 30's and up to the 70's from 1st street. I arrived at my friend Ashley's apartment and immediately went to bed. As I was falling into sleep, I remember the sounds of New York from the open window: shouting, taxi horns, banging of trash compactors, and the footsteps of the person upstairs pacing against a hardwood floor. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I woke at 6 a.m. the next morning, frantic about which of my three outfit choices to wear while Ashley (like so many hearty New Yorkers do) went running in Central Park. I was half-dressed when she came back, needing her New York approval on a white cowl-neck sweater: "could I or couldn't I wear this to the conference?" (White after Labor Day is a no-no in New York) After convincing me it was a winter-white, which is by all means acceptable, I donned that, along with my new boots from Target that were on super-sale and, of course, my monocle. With a pair of sunglasses, I was certainly honing my inner New Yorker. I walked around the corner to the local bagel place per Ashely's instructions, and picked my favorite two combinations: salt bagel with vegetable cream cheese. I wrapped it up and took it to go as I attempted to navigate my way to the subway and down to Milk Studios, where the conference was being held. </div><div><br />
</div><div>In the span of one hour, I managed to get lost and turned around a few times, get groped on the subway, drop half of my bagel on the ground, and arrive oh-so-fashionably late for the conference. I had butterflies in my stomach, and felt a little first-day-of-school-jitters as I entered the building. I quickly signed in, got my swag bag filled with goodies, and took a look around: the room, a gallery-esque warehouse-style space, was packed with sponsors and vendors lining the walls, while filled chairs faced a stage with a podium and power-point presentation on a large screen. Standing in sporadic places around the room were towering models, with photographers capturing their every pose. I scanned the room for a place to sit to no avail; people without chairs were already standing in the back. I wondered how this was possible, since the event required tickets to be purchased, and every one should be accounted for, and just as I was settling nicely against a barrier support (and thanking God for my non-high heeled boots), a staff member of the studios was rolling out a small stack of chairs. I, and every other standing person, hungrily swarmed the employee and left her standing dazed. I quickly sat, employed my pen and note pad, and scribbled furiously as the first panel began a discussion on "What are Bloggers Worth?"</div><div><br />
</div><div>The discussion notes are as follows: Wordpress allows for self-hosted advertising, and provides the ability to customize how ads are placed on the page. Know how to balance advertising and editorial content: brands will want to send you items to review or share with your followers, and you have the option to charge them for it. Know what price range you would like and go from there; do not just accept every brand, because the content of your blog will be affected and it is imperative to stay loyal to your followers/audience. If you feel it's important, know to publish a disclaimer to readers to explain the post is sponsored. Organize a media kit to send to other bloggers, companies, or brands you would like to work with: include a link to your blog and a small detailed explanation about who you are, your demographic, your opportunities, and even statistics for your site. Know how to crosslink your blog from other websites effectively; the audience you would like to target should be your first stop (where they shop, where they are researching, where they are traveling). Make the content of your blog specific and niche, and make sure to make it as professional as possible, you will never know who comes across it one day. Make sure to create your own platform for people to come, observe, read, and discuss the content of your blog; if it is inviting, cohesive, and professional looking, it will invite more traffic. Engage people to comment for community communication: ask a question to readers at the end of your posts. Study those who have succeeded in your blog category, and make sure to cross-platform engage (Twitter, Blogs, Tumblr, Pinterest, Facebook). Twitter is your biggest opportunity right now, it has the capability for a stranger to contact celebrities, directly. Target brands and suggest your writing for them. Provide offers or giveaways to your readers. </div><div><br />
</div><div>After this plethora of information, the discussion ceased and the room took a break. I sat nervously in my chair as I watched bloggers rush to the stage to market themselves or ask further questions to the panelists. I went simply to observe and take-in information; with my own blog in no means ready to be looked at, sponsored, or branded, I wasn't about to start passing out my business cards. I took stock in the room and the people in it; they were dressed to kill. Orange palazzo pants were a smash hit (orange in general was a smash) ; sea green pleated skirts with wispy white blouses; bedazzled Vans; over-sized Michael Kors watches, shag-fur vests with satin bows; crinoline floor-length tutus: a dapper looking man with a 1950's greased hairdo; and extreme color blocking. I looked around nervously for my friend Danielle who was supposedly going to the conference; she is the blogger for <a href="http://stingystyle.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Stingy Style</a>. We both interned together at BCBG Max Azria, but we never met. I approached cautiously for my first meeting with her, or who I thought looked like her, and so after confirming that she was Danielle, I felt a hundred times better in this room of fashion writers, who all were obsessed with taking pictures of each other for each other's blog. The discussion was being called together again, and so we both took our seats, and I prepared myself for the "Media Goes Mobile" panel.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Here is what was discussed in my notes: TWITTER TWITTER TWITTER. Converse with other Tweeters on Twitter about photos/links that are posted by brands, designers, or other followers. Join the conversation; have something poignant to say. Promote content through Pinterest, Instagram, LookBook. Actively Tweet information, not blog content. Post different content on different platforms to gain interest. Ask questions on Twitter and interact personally with people rather than constantly using Twitter as a platform to promote your blog; condense information about the blog into a Tweet and provide a link once a day. Don't say something just to say it; make it meaningful. Try and keep platforms for your blog/company to three, because otherwise you end up overwhelming yourself and spreading yourself too thin. Focus on making a few blog posts really well. It is possible to use your blog to become a personality you would never undertake in real life. Think about using your blog as a sort of online resume. Post consistent articles with a visual and unique feel. And finally, the most important of important information that came from this discussion: <i>Find your purpose for being online. Once you realize what your voice, worth, and audience are, the rest is easy. </i></div><div><br />
</div><div>After this discussion, we broke for lunch, provided by the delicious Dean & Deluca. I reconvened with Danielle and we talked a bit more about success and failure in the blogging world. I was also fortunate enough to meet some other bloggers nearby, Cathy Yee, who blogs at <a href="http://www.petitetherapy.com/" target="_blank">Petite Therapy</a>, as well as <a href="http://ashleyfalcon.com/" target="_blank">Ashley Falcon</a>, founder and former writer for the Marie Claire column<a href="http://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/fashionista-blog/plus-size-ashley-falcon-blog" target="_blank"> Big Girl in a Skinny World</a>. It was awesome to get a chance to talk with them, and gain a better understanding of how different bloggers have been blogging and writing freelance for their jobs. </div><div><br />
With lunch ending, I found my seat and took in the information left from the conference, which, regrettably, hosted similar advice to the first two panels. More interesting information included: keep an editorial and social media calendar, and make sure to follow it to a "T". Content should be list-based for producing higher traffic. Figure out what people are Googling and use the most relevant terms for your blog and build your post ideas around that. Tailor Google Stats to brand your reader. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Grabbing my coat, I waved goodbye to Ashley and left the IFB Conference a little early, 1. because I had dinner plans with Ashley and 2. because the conference was done providing information for me. I was walking down the stairs of Milk Studios, behind a group of people who were also leaving early and when one of them said, "Oh. It's snowing." I didn't see outside yet, and I couldn't wrap my brain around what she was saying: It's. Snowing? With my glasses still on from the conference, I felt the chill of the air before I saw it, and as she held the door open, I saw what at first my Floridian eyes wanted me to believe: rain. But I quickly caught up with the girl and questioned her: "this is snow?" "Yes," she replied, and as she spoke, I looked closer and saw the small tiny ice particles floating to the ground, not falling like rain, and watched them stick to my coat. Snow. SNOW! My heart skipped a beat as I nearly ran down the streets of New York, explaining to the confused gawkers that I have not seen it snow. EVER. I immediately questioned the girl who had explained it was snowing: "do I need an umbrella? will it stick to the ground? do I need a hat?" I know I looked like a raving lunatic, but for the first time in twenty-five years, I was watching it snow. I danced to the subway and back to Ashley's, explaining my excitement and delight. She just rolled her eyes and laughed. We walked to a sushi place for dinner and I discussed the conference, and finished with a drink (or two, or three, or four...) at a charming bar labeled The Stumble Inn. I managed to get a few winks of sleep before I woke promptly for my flight the next morning, which, according to the balance of Yin and Yang, the universe must right itself from my prior delight on the first flight: the plane was packed, with seats assigned, taking off an hour late, having turbulence for most of the flight, and landing rather shakely back in Fort Lauderdale. I nearly tackled people to get out of the last seat in the back corner of the plane and resolved to never, ever fly Delta again.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Overall, here are some thoughts I had when at the conference: have we become a society of over-sharers? Have we lost touch with the personal aspect of our lives? These bloggers confessed to never having time for anyone else. They were remorseful when they took a bite out of their dessert before capturing it on film and posting it to Twitter or their blog. Have we become a society so far-gone from living? And to be so supercilious as to be constantly posting about life that it has become a basis for comparison amongst fellow "Friends" that it can be deemed self-inflated? What kind of life is it to live where it become complicated to eat something, to enjoy something while undertaking social media means that claims to "simplify" the process of sharing? And spreading yourself between different platforms to discuss the same or various things? Honestly, that in itself is a full-time job, one that may not be worthy or interesting enough to me to work. Living in a world where documentation, utilizing Pinterest, Tumblr, and Twitter, has become enough of an exploitation on our lives to become currency to others. Self-promotion and discussion has lead to a world and society where there is little time left to live. Live: what has this word become? It is a different definition to everyone, but what happened to good old-fashioned running around outside, exploring, experiencing, challenging ourselves to create memories mentally and alongside others, rather than obsess about whether the photos posted were well received on Facebook. And here's the ultimate question of questions: If everyone truly is so preoccupied with updating themselves and their status, how do people have enough time to read about you? A question you can ponder or discuss; either way, I have come to the conclusion that, for now, my time as a blogger needs some reconsideration. And with that, darlings, I bid adieu.</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>--The Fashion Monocle</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-75140686656128507482012-02-01T00:52:00.000-05:002012-02-01T00:52:07.519-05:00Antiquated Advice?<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello darlings, I have been very busy lately getting ready ready for the IFB Conference next week, but besides that, I have been super busy discovering articles on the web on fashion that were of interest to me. One in particular on CNN.com reported <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/24/living/style-dos-and-donts-rs/index.html?npt=NP1" target="_blank">in this article </a> about the rules you should and should not follow, according to some of the top designers in the field right now, including Jenna Lyons of J.Crew, Dana Buchman of her own label, and Deborah Lloyd of Kate Spade. These women have experience and know-how in the field of fashion, and are doubly respected for it. However, when this statement was posed to the panel:</span><br />
<br />
<strong style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"When you have a choice between wearing pants or a skirt, carefully weigh your options...and choose the skirt."</span></strong> <br />
<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</strong><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">it seems to me that we the people may be on the receiving end of some old-fashioned advice. The responses included:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><ul><li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Lloyd Boston, author of "Before You Put That On": Truer than ever. Why not go for the skirt? In this age of metrosexual men, sometimes the only thing that separates you from the guys is the power to put on a skirt.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Stacy London, cohost of "What Not to Wear" and a New York City-based style expert: Amen to that, Mom. It's much easier to find a skirt that's flattering. With pants, you have to consider the rise, the width of the hips, the legs, and how they fall on the tush.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Malia Mills, designer of Malia Mills Swimwear: Carefully weigh your options... and then choose what will make you stride into a room like you own it.</span></li>
</ul>Now, when it comes to Malia Mills, I do agree; if you feel more comfortable in a skirt than pants, or pants than skirt, you should by all means wear the one that will not distract you from your interview, job performance, or daily conversations. The call is yours to make, but as modern women, we have options! <a href="http://www.bookrags.com/history/pants-for-women-sjpc-04/" target="_blank">Women came a long way to be able to get to the point where pants were socially acceptable</a> in a man's world, and as women, I feel that we should take charge of that right when the situation comes along, in protest of the statement made by Lloyd Boston. Wearing pants for women has become not only a milestone for us, but due to the job market and economy crash, the term "wearing the pants in the family" has become more women-friendly in the last couple of years, what with women becoming the breadwinners in the home. And if skirts are the only way for men to tell women apart, then we have other issues as women and society! Honestly, boys, you guys don't have to be the only ones wearing the pants; have you ever heard of the<a href="http://www.utilikilts.com/" target="_blank"> Utilikilt</a>? Some men prefer this way of dressing, as it provides the freedom and flexibility pants do not offer. <div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://texascreek.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/workman_s-utilikilts_1315613619161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://texascreek.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/workman_s-utilikilts_1315613619161.jpg" width="290" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>So ladies, please don't feel like you need to follow all advice given on the internet, as some people seem to want to increase sexism in the workplace by feeling the need to distinguish men from women. Plus, depending on your build, skirts may be your worst enemy! And when it comes to down-time, obviously Lloyd Boston hasn't heard of a great pair of jeans and a white t-shirt to get you gals from day to night. Did we learn nothing from <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&biw=1600&bih=799&tbm=isch&tbnid=4cgdp-J3x8jY0M:&imgrefurl=http://ryutaman.wordpress.com/2010/07/&docid=Ip1_mwzCisHaBM&imgurl=http://ryutaman.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/lee_marilynnorma.jpg&w=232&h=283&ei=TLUoT7n2NYqU2wXG_6m7Ag&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=326&sig=106000777172038003872&page=1&tbnh=140&tbnw=121&start=0&ndsp=37&ved=1t:429,r:5,s:0&tx=86&ty=69" target="_blank">Marilyn Monroe</a>, <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1600&bih=799&tbm=isch&tbnid=N_LBxzHy4v4kOM:&imgrefurl=http://stylefrizz.com/201101/anja-rubik-jac-jagaciak-gap-spring-2011-ad-campaign-flare-jeans-the-new-it/&docid=dzbUsDZtaof-bM&imgurl=http://stylefrizz.com/img/jac-jagaciak-gap-spring-2011-jeans-ad-campaign.jpg&w=470&h=470&ei=irQoT9yIDanq2AWJi5XpAg&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=254&sig=106000777172038003872&page=2&tbnh=133&tbnw=133&start=34&ndsp=50&ved=1t:429,r:13,s:34&tx=4&ty=95" target="_blank">The Gap</a>, or <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&biw=1600&bih=799&tbm=isch&tbnid=l-ivryeFxjXY9M:&imgrefurl=http://womenmanagement.blogspot.com/2008/07/calvin-klein-jeans-fall-2008-ph-steven.html&docid=QjQ0HjSNUHcT0M&imgurl=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2w4wX0NSFW1iInFEJc6XkDXpUV_-dAtsK3dYmjhBKQm0kn9T3WsQ_tPHXynW2e7KLY2_O8Y9aVpLDu-KncsAqHe8NX8Zm7tqevj2-NG21QNt_TPRNa0rDSV0wFgWx8MMFOdpmNj48ATc/s400/Toni%252BGarrn%252BCalvin%252BKlein%252BJeans%252Bfall%252Bwinter%252B2008%252Bcampaihn%252Bph%252BSteven%252BMeisel%252Bstylist%252BKarl%252BTempler%252BWomen%252BManagement%252BBlog.jpg&w=308&h=400&ei=y7UoT6bPNarm2QWIjcnhAg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=989&vpy=404&dur=642&hovh=183&hovw=148&tx=128&ty=132&sig=106000777172038003872&page=1&tbnh=158&tbnw=131&start=0&ndsp=27&ved=1t:429,r:14,s:0" target="_blank">Calvin Klein</a>? </div><div><div><br />
</div><div>So Fashionable Followers, what do you think? Is this a fair statement to make, or have I taken the debate too far? Let me know in the comments below!</div><div><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br />
</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><i>--FM</i></span></div></div></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-5798745103142224172012-01-22T22:18:00.002-05:002012-01-22T23:48:04.014-05:00Crafty Aprons, Bangles, and House Decor Ideas!So the Monocle has been out and about lately working on all things design related; most recently, a trip to <a href="http://www.westelm.com/" target="_blank">West Elm</a>,<a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/jump.aspx?t=11&bid=1003801&a=784&url=-default.aspx&ef_id=sh9PHM@SbAwAAInW:20120123031010:s" target="_blank"> Crate and Barrel,</a> and <a href="http://www.zgallerie.com/" target="_blank">Z Gallerie</a>. Some fashionistas may find their lifestyles in the West Elm Catalog, with simple but classic pieces, mixed together to create a modern nouveau look. Some glamour girls may find their true selves in the glitzy and mirrored stylings of Z Gallerie, a store that hosts a variety of garishly good get-ups with handsome statement pieces. Either location is a girl's best friend depending on the style, but never-fail options are always <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/category.jsp?navAction=jump&id=HOME-BED-LAND" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a> or a specialty furniture store with a theme (mine would be Art Deco). Here are a few snapshots I captured with my phone camera that I loved from each store.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_r7_StxI4HhcXCJXWa5a3xkx46z3bOrAhe_g16SLZIZHdH6ewfe2lEupZpwOYuPkH03J5TQ40tu4ph4vduNnsU8-9tFv8L5IxKiQWEDMoZIEM7dHPARV7YzntBGoIW4clGW9921q4I0/s1600/IMAG0058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_r7_StxI4HhcXCJXWa5a3xkx46z3bOrAhe_g16SLZIZHdH6ewfe2lEupZpwOYuPkH03J5TQ40tu4ph4vduNnsU8-9tFv8L5IxKiQWEDMoZIEM7dHPARV7YzntBGoIW4clGW9921q4I0/s640/IMAG0058.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The turquoise and geometric patterns are a must-have in the Tiffany blue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjvt1EnpicgGm5JXcunDViHdZoqwWm3KRCoDAp_7YVPH_naifxghO-udxZBEt9yYhdqOiOljntpIDZPNOcb6k6T_bdo6_EmOQX8ImgUbbKdBGTNV46iSSZPtNjlJskpe1hs7DwkEm7oY/s1600/IMAG0059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKjvt1EnpicgGm5JXcunDViHdZoqwWm3KRCoDAp_7YVPH_naifxghO-udxZBEt9yYhdqOiOljntpIDZPNOcb6k6T_bdo6_EmOQX8ImgUbbKdBGTNV46iSSZPtNjlJskpe1hs7DwkEm7oY/s400/IMAG0059.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Love the textures of the napkins and the plum color!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8F-SZkXA1CQ7B3Zw9ahtL3A7IZQnN4ba2iNBBRvUCNq_6S4ZvUnRmNcXPHQ-CWnpgu049mPdqa6T8XSNJ1Nak11vLB4M5SsUh9efTUAPRk-joNcFm2fD4OotmFD4bF6XbfyEVEKwUXSg/s1600/IMAG0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8F-SZkXA1CQ7B3Zw9ahtL3A7IZQnN4ba2iNBBRvUCNq_6S4ZvUnRmNcXPHQ-CWnpgu049mPdqa6T8XSNJ1Nak11vLB4M5SsUh9efTUAPRk-joNcFm2fD4OotmFD4bF6XbfyEVEKwUXSg/s400/IMAG0061.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Love this carpet; it's so oceanic!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7apIbWDu3yn8_a25eq01mTz2w8VI_LNK1QuBHG0FOQwIMWrMMVbtnB-GVbEBO8hKV6HKG4owsp3fHctFrF3gxr76Yn1mZ9_O1_h4Lc2B44irQeW2MsVtaBpSwmmQV5DVOrBgXGPph1_Q/s1600/IMAG0062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7apIbWDu3yn8_a25eq01mTz2w8VI_LNK1QuBHG0FOQwIMWrMMVbtnB-GVbEBO8hKV6HKG4owsp3fHctFrF3gxr76Yn1mZ9_O1_h4Lc2B44irQeW2MsVtaBpSwmmQV5DVOrBgXGPph1_Q/s640/IMAG0062.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Place settings are fab with some bead work and lotus candle holders!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGu9_2GyXuMukZ81qR44azT52KIOtYrjeAkWOQukfAeuvMG-nlaiy71Xmsif1CB-qyr9pdBMugMFwihj-_OY89E8WWSkZdcfTSfTLk3utRatBcjnvXgdGcOZTKgcdW9q3NPvyb2e3ROyI/s1600/IMAG0063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGu9_2GyXuMukZ81qR44azT52KIOtYrjeAkWOQukfAeuvMG-nlaiy71Xmsif1CB-qyr9pdBMugMFwihj-_OY89E8WWSkZdcfTSfTLk3utRatBcjnvXgdGcOZTKgcdW9q3NPvyb2e3ROyI/s640/IMAG0063.jpg" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Geometric chairs+leather padding=gorgeous!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVdq6mz4ShcYhGAjkGzrXWIq7DGKbNy9bAAxmTCJ5Z4Vry14OYYTTqOvYAbgiUTiPOy1C-gE9j6Da9Y1x9s0Ait5Cidd9QbY_y4konMm51HCNaKEbcvkoLuh0bMbY2WyYhxcnTbEheNY/s1600/IMAG0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVdq6mz4ShcYhGAjkGzrXWIq7DGKbNy9bAAxmTCJ5Z4Vry14OYYTTqOvYAbgiUTiPOy1C-gE9j6Da9Y1x9s0Ait5Cidd9QbY_y4konMm51HCNaKEbcvkoLuh0bMbY2WyYhxcnTbEheNY/s640/IMAG0057.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love the lilac with black & white.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LdO-jSQJ2_BD74Nfu-672BOpPwiR8994yK8uLDpSh6359ybSCAhsvjgu_4NhrdD8Hpw0A5g7wgSgUY6BEO5GF-_y4t_aLcTA2FMb67-GqRCiS_CP8uiIKtb-fqIqZJ0ehYR3raLkt_I/s1600/IMAG0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LdO-jSQJ2_BD74Nfu-672BOpPwiR8994yK8uLDpSh6359ybSCAhsvjgu_4NhrdD8Hpw0A5g7wgSgUY6BEO5GF-_y4t_aLcTA2FMb67-GqRCiS_CP8uiIKtb-fqIqZJ0ehYR3raLkt_I/s640/IMAG0056.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The cool sapphire looks amazing with grey and white.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Other fashionable finds I have come across lately have been the awesomeness of the fun and crafty African-style bangles. They are super fun and easy to make, and I came across them from a fellow blogger first, <a href="http://the-white-list.blogspot.com/2012/01/african-print.html" target="_blank">The White List</a>. I love the fun prints and bright colors!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvOV3MAQkwOoHxAu6HyOxMCUdP7yNR_IjXrYvgaehXoXUnolQhxWx_klWUP_w_LLO9yx_qSpBt4bduS5KXzqXc_4HD25_kvhAEIoZOFW5KhGEqEpIyFGMdYg7RdZDlst2lB6dZbpWHfJg/s1600/nb_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="411" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghvOV3MAQkwOoHxAu6HyOxMCUdP7yNR_IjXrYvgaehXoXUnolQhxWx_klWUP_w_LLO9yx_qSpBt4bduS5KXzqXc_4HD25_kvhAEIoZOFW5KhGEqEpIyFGMdYg7RdZDlst2lB6dZbpWHfJg/s640/nb_8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://the-white-list.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">via The White List</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The awesome other crafty creation I have found were the fun stylings of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sjcnace4?page=1" target="_blank">these aprons</a> from Etsy seller Shawna. Check out her cute Rainbow Brite Apron! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.269144501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.269144501.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sjcnace4?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">via Etsy.com</a></div>I made an apron months ago, and was inspired by my love of making cupcakes. Here is a photo, but after seeing the awesome styles Shawna is putting out, it makes me want to go back to the drawing board!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gtlSlK-a82ptm-38KzvMHNG6wIiNh7eaeE09L76AD1lLUX_n_x9-tZtf06m8x1ofQOc4wRo7cMqZCyW5cdFH173t8CWW6qZ6etnJh9keKLsj0G8fgAIixtK9moOyERuxRyqM5DLrKh0/s1600/2011-10-19+23.41.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gtlSlK-a82ptm-38KzvMHNG6wIiNh7eaeE09L76AD1lLUX_n_x9-tZtf06m8x1ofQOc4wRo7cMqZCyW5cdFH173t8CWW6qZ6etnJh9keKLsj0G8fgAIixtK9moOyERuxRyqM5DLrKh0/s640/2011-10-19+23.41.27.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
Some other fun finds I've found had to do with a crested jacket from Ralph Lauren; add a Captain's Hat, specs, and a Cary Grant accent and you have Tony Curtis as Shell Oil from <i>Some Like It Hot.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4liPnte1fXc27S3i4gt9dir3rvoPsYGwVdb85abSs7f_udnmvSYLEndlZCgiO8qZyVbTsXuS-aNd3BCg5m4MWd24Erit6F0qBYuh7ILkAStQpaK1k8rEOSDGxZHZFDEFqPGxgBm_kkkI/s1600/IMAG0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4liPnte1fXc27S3i4gt9dir3rvoPsYGwVdb85abSs7f_udnmvSYLEndlZCgiO8qZyVbTsXuS-aNd3BCg5m4MWd24Erit6F0qBYuh7ILkAStQpaK1k8rEOSDGxZHZFDEFqPGxgBm_kkkI/s640/IMAG0048.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>I was also fortunate enough to have a themed party I attended thanks to my friend Tiffany's birthday, and she and I both channeled <i>Breakfast at Tiffany's</i> Audrey Hepburn.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCo0SQS2e8p0Xr5U9HwAfcjT-QTr4WM94vNlud1vwwIEfgGgHo5Wxooq98-L4Ur1mf_rRNTYJpjGiBfHaafIYuLbScdFJWj1matVF1WDLtrC5RJ0klSLH8i2rLqxhWJaAXbMOkp2LlqZY/s1600/IMAG0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCo0SQS2e8p0Xr5U9HwAfcjT-QTr4WM94vNlud1vwwIEfgGgHo5Wxooq98-L4Ur1mf_rRNTYJpjGiBfHaafIYuLbScdFJWj1matVF1WDLtrC5RJ0klSLH8i2rLqxhWJaAXbMOkp2LlqZY/s640/IMAG0045.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>The last picture I have is a <a href="http://katespade.com/" target="_blank">Kate Spade New York</a> outfit in classic chic black and white. I love how black, white, and some red lipstick can make an entire outfit, with the right handbag of course!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfB6NiVlb9OKO1kiFpNpVu8FeO0r-lky4k2Sw9yA8_B8MDyFVUu8Te9od3rO3gmDI2lD8CNopEs-j8tf3iizllGNNYQJ4lGpbmAy17kNoF9RnnOKtBo02Ug9BwUjeYHDtqPd5bcTRBk0/s1600/IMAG0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfB6NiVlb9OKO1kiFpNpVu8FeO0r-lky4k2Sw9yA8_B8MDyFVUu8Te9od3rO3gmDI2lD8CNopEs-j8tf3iizllGNNYQJ4lGpbmAy17kNoF9RnnOKtBo02Ug9BwUjeYHDtqPd5bcTRBk0/s640/IMAG0036.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>Do you have any awesome apron, furniture, or classic must-have (like a crested jacket?) ideas? Leave it in the comments below! And check out <a href="http://www.nerdnewsnow.info/" target="_blank">Nerd News Now</a> blog for a follow up to <a href="http://www.thefashionmonocle.com/2012/01/new-years-resolutions-wear-stylish.html" target="_blank">my last post about Fashionable Work Out Clothes</a> and Workout Routine as the <a href="http://www.nerdnewsnow.info/2012/01/im-going-to-pump-you-up.html" target="_blank">Nerd himself tries the patented punch-jump routine! </a>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-78386042513400146132012-01-12T23:44:00.000-05:002012-01-12T23:44:42.738-05:00New Year's Resolutions: Wear Stylish Workout Clothes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxsygizcpO9lAO-dQp_x1aiwAF-PDEm7kx5aRfJAN_qCRgVAZ5zYeA3_E90gZv2hP46YpIbLbxqoXWmH13LERp7W__KGpMh4FY4Y5pPzAoZk1ZVQ743lYkWy02ylSDh0aM21QjmZHy5Y/s1600/ResolutionsMB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZxsygizcpO9lAO-dQp_x1aiwAF-PDEm7kx5aRfJAN_qCRgVAZ5zYeA3_E90gZv2hP46YpIbLbxqoXWmH13LERp7W__KGpMh4FY4Y5pPzAoZk1ZVQ743lYkWy02ylSDh0aM21QjmZHy5Y/s320/ResolutionsMB.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><br />
Whether you are trying to stick to a resolution or just look super awesome when shaking your booty, a bright fun-colored workout outfit is a must this year! One of my resolutions that actually started before this year (so I would be prepared to work on it this year) was to lose weight and of course be more current with Fashion Monocle.<br />
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Every Fashionable Follower should have awesome workout gear and accessories to stay current and keep to resolutions, as well as a killer playlist! First off, let's talk clothes:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOJABdkOn8X8MA97-HMzxwqjNoCZvjdL7CwWDdQjhloc7ZuoZJ_u2kqsmIGnGiAJ03gkucIGIiQil-MEyj1all8mPNtXsKRQ1tT2Mt84k7QdSWq03kgPEmmrHGMeRSPorQm0Cv_6Eexc/s1600/IMG_1981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOJABdkOn8X8MA97-HMzxwqjNoCZvjdL7CwWDdQjhloc7ZuoZJ_u2kqsmIGnGiAJ03gkucIGIiQil-MEyj1all8mPNtXsKRQ1tT2Mt84k7QdSWq03kgPEmmrHGMeRSPorQm0Cv_6Eexc/s320/IMG_1981.JPG" width="259" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love these bright-colored (and super-duper comfortable) sports bras from <a href="http://www.championusa.com/workout-clothes/women" target="_blank">Champion</a> and <a href="http://www.victoriassecret.com/ss/Satellite?ProductID=1265707020315&c=Page&cid=1265675328661&pagename=vsdWrapper" target="_blank">VS Pink</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaBCmSlZqFB3JtXrK-ZIR3RyYAj_YuIh0wttLtpJ5n2eGLUS115nehpORtFb-VaZ2fNmqEAFF4ybfQdY-TvB_2Hecl0KXPfz2b8VuTfbo60d-tnspK2ABTMjy2pJkeG_S57SXBhEOUDE/s1600/IMG_19801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaBCmSlZqFB3JtXrK-ZIR3RyYAj_YuIh0wttLtpJ5n2eGLUS115nehpORtFb-VaZ2fNmqEAFF4ybfQdY-TvB_2Hecl0KXPfz2b8VuTfbo60d-tnspK2ABTMjy2pJkeG_S57SXBhEOUDE/s320/IMG_19801.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">These <a href="http://www.championusa.com/workout-clothes/women" target="_blank">Champion</a> reversible shorts are genius; color-coordinating just got that much easier! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5efkNuVGKW5Pve-r-zkp-NJhFvzwa_crE3aJtJysEoXkiLilNtjKwO_ZMPgQYXUgTJsE_j6b3FSlJtLWXKxm4kJB6N8hGWjKHxpEoo2u9KNVui4trbru_UQ0RGV6UCq_1M24iBLcJB2c/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5efkNuVGKW5Pve-r-zkp-NJhFvzwa_crE3aJtJysEoXkiLilNtjKwO_ZMPgQYXUgTJsE_j6b3FSlJtLWXKxm4kJB6N8hGWjKHxpEoo2u9KNVui4trbru_UQ0RGV6UCq_1M24iBLcJB2c/s320/IMG_1984.JPG" width="234" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgYCOupUgjInPBVPiyL2v9oKDxeBvOsdJsmVcThZmJDxLXyFgfmngsXS_no6S6StN9Caa2ovKcdCZgwT9q9FKfG7XdOfVnZf7qZngWnmvH6efCgIVtnd0eTs87dcAl8TyDozxdxEG_7c/s1600/images+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgYCOupUgjInPBVPiyL2v9oKDxeBvOsdJsmVcThZmJDxLXyFgfmngsXS_no6S6StN9Caa2ovKcdCZgwT9q9FKfG7XdOfVnZf7qZngWnmvH6efCgIVtnd0eTs87dcAl8TyDozxdxEG_7c/s1600/images+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Must-have bright colored sneakers from <a href="http://adidas.com/" target="_blank">Adidas</a>; I prefer their comfort (and prices!) to Nike. </div><br />
Now to put those clothes to use:<br />
A mini-gym at home starts with one thing, and grows with your dedication to the resolution!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3pyi6qcGr4ewlk1BTfNUfM4B0BQfBOevx9YOt50yCJTnLgm1vEnaShp7EbSAdUJ93FdUNnAeYAnPUBpMOzMvHedEc5dc_k3sH8A5dG10M8BlRgunbOnmEanBed17qr-o_cKh-kIjJsU/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3pyi6qcGr4ewlk1BTfNUfM4B0BQfBOevx9YOt50yCJTnLgm1vEnaShp7EbSAdUJ93FdUNnAeYAnPUBpMOzMvHedEc5dc_k3sH8A5dG10M8BlRgunbOnmEanBed17qr-o_cKh-kIjJsU/s320/IMG_1989.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Best way to keep a resolution is to keep it fresh: gear up and get out there for anything! When you get bored, you get lazy! I asked Santa this year for a punching bag, and when you combine that with a trampoline, you get:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzuXulXPARC5edlUznQUU2lE6WCfGk3ddbPJfw6PcQXbRRgWk4aKkVFJ97pgnEUXHN9EwMPbtk_dafb-nxx4A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;">My super fantastic punch-jump routine! </div><br />
Did you know...?<br />
The best way to beat the blues is to workout. It also staves off getting colds by boosting your immunity! Plus, with all my tips for looking fashionable, you can't help but wear awesome workout gear to help you get moving! And if you can't workout solo? Your local YMCA and city guide will most likely offer monthly classes, not to mention gyms like LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, and other gyms will offer the first day, week, or even month free of charge! I recommend a spinning class because you can control the levels you push yourself at, followed with a cool-down in yoga. And if you love to dance? I once took a hip-hop aerobics class in college, and, well, the routine was something like this...:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwrmuYe91HLsuxP4-yz4R0L61ixRI5j_mkq8NsNSNLII6ZmDrQHydbnTwetbsiYhcoNWhki-I2xvnWg1DM3vA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
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And for more motivation? Take your peepers to <a href="http://downtownn.tumblr.com/">http://downtownn.tumblr.com/</a>, a great place to get motivation! Make sure to take in some awesome tunes for your i-pod, because according to statistics, music makes up almost have of our motivation. If you keep the music going, you can keep getting giggy with it. And for the ultimate motivation? Try working in some cool runners magazines, or Health magazine, or my newest one: 21 Days Belly Melt Workout!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9YCsVsF-RyqSrUj6cqQZyAGd5ItKV6tGuSCHhJ5BpNVP_SBrx9JFQaF5VVJ9980sQA7WOAPWUPqKvfDf3TplDnoIEw_0itNL_73IznEkLFHbtOvODoxb83HXNL70KNwDTRktFv8cMm0/s1600/IMG_1991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9YCsVsF-RyqSrUj6cqQZyAGd5ItKV6tGuSCHhJ5BpNVP_SBrx9JFQaF5VVJ9980sQA7WOAPWUPqKvfDf3TplDnoIEw_0itNL_73IznEkLFHbtOvODoxb83HXNL70KNwDTRktFv8cMm0/s320/IMG_1991.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Last but not least, don't forget to take time; it won't happen overnight, but it will happen. :)<br />
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Fashionable Followers, I wish you the best New Year!Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-78154429085166212932012-01-03T11:53:00.001-05:002012-01-05T00:15:04.996-05:00Fashion Tips and ReviewsFirst of all, Fashion Darlings, I would like to wish you all a Happy New Year.<br />
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Second, I would like to begin this blog by saying I do not agree with Vogue's Best Dressed Magazine.<br />
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Shocked? Surely Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour did not make a mistake! Well, after reading the magazine cover to cover, I discovered some irrepressible faux-pas. First off, the cover of the magazine boasts "Dynamic Duos", a sister feature, where Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are mentioned along with Catherine and Pippa Middleton, Dakota and Elle Fanning, and Beyonce and Solange Knowles. Why weren't eclectic sister-duo Zooey and Emily Deschanel mentioned? I think some credit is due there, namely for the fact that they are not only trendy, style-inclined sisters, but they also are incredibly creative, a talent that requires (in this writer's eyes) to be mentioned! And especially this year, with both sisters success in television, I think it definitely deserves some notion. Here are a few picture examples as to why the sisters should be included:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://images.zap2it.com/20050227/zooeydeschanel_emily_oscars05.jpg&sa=X&ei=lx4DT9j1G4uXtweFhYimBg&ved=0CAsQ8wc4JQ&usg=AFQjCNFba6NHBjT2_R0kQMVi8aQqkfw0SA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://images.zap2it.com/20050227/zooeydeschanel_emily_oscars05.jpg&sa=X&ei=lx4DT9j1G4uXtweFhYimBg&ved=0CAsQ8wc4JQ&usg=AFQjCNFba6NHBjT2_R0kQMVi8aQqkfw0SA" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQFMzme3E7Lx83uG_vPLm-kMvidmykAy4AI37r-gDSIIklrBPVhOEgZl8O5-geWQvu5nEkNb-6Qs2O0A58H7EP4fee6XwB_uyD_4tfLD-NH4OPEXHwU9krU7GqZweO8eCW6Isky71VxM/s1600/deschanem05.jpg&sa=X&ei=Kx8DT_zIJomhtweF9PnRBg&ved=0CAwQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNG6Ig5vFI80zpZys7uygL9bHJuHfg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSQFMzme3E7Lx83uG_vPLm-kMvidmykAy4AI37r-gDSIIklrBPVhOEgZl8O5-geWQvu5nEkNb-6Qs2O0A58H7EP4fee6XwB_uyD_4tfLD-NH4OPEXHwU9krU7GqZweO8eCW6Isky71VxM/s320/deschanem05.jpg&sa=X&ei=Kx8DT_zIJomhtweF9PnRBg&ved=0CAwQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNG6Ig5vFI80zpZys7uygL9bHJuHfg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajEtKAmc7nfUp7zkA-FItyf4V-lhPcw65yRUTtJazwoxw4TlXyt3NxoLW4Hzn_pXHW6_TOSE6iEWScD8c4FBvxcJwq6Jl5RTz4qQS6LYYnRRvQlYSe3GLaMU9aN6GPb0U2O4AtDuaICIq/s1600/Emily+%26+Zooey+Deschanel+by+Robert+Maxwell.jpg&sa=X&ei=aB8DT5W4Ocm4twfG8LD9Ag&ved=0CAsQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNGm2gtmRk-WanOAu2aIIp05nyfK_A" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajEtKAmc7nfUp7zkA-FItyf4V-lhPcw65yRUTtJazwoxw4TlXyt3NxoLW4Hzn_pXHW6_TOSE6iEWScD8c4FBvxcJwq6Jl5RTz4qQS6LYYnRRvQlYSe3GLaMU9aN6GPb0U2O4AtDuaICIq/s320/Emily+%26+Zooey+Deschanel+by+Robert+Maxwell.jpg&sa=X&ei=aB8DT5W4Ocm4twfG8LD9Ag&ved=0CAsQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNGm2gtmRk-WanOAu2aIIp05nyfK_A" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Second, I have to say that while Vogue managed to hit the nail on the head with some style icons, especially the nice transformation of funny girl <a href="http://main.stylelist.com/2011/08/12/emma-stone-the-help/">Emma Stone</a>, they managed to leave out such trendy idols as <a href="http://www.stylelist.com/2011/09/09/coco-rocha-style-evolution-photos_n_954327.html">Coco Rocha</a>. Since her wedding first debuted in 2010, Coco Rocha has been a captivating model for her adoring audience. She is not only a fashion model, muse, and wife, but she is also down-to-earth and can relate more to the common person than model Tyra Banks any day. She is fun, quirky, and smart, with an appreciation not only for high-fashion, but also for mainstream brands like J.Crew and Zara. Her updates on her blog, <a href="http://oh-so-coco.tumblr.com/">http://oh-so-coco.tumblr.com/</a> leave us wanting more. I mean, what model would post a picture of her nose as a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtrI2ohMAbs/TwUxz5ezB2I/AAAAAAAAAoU/MBwICVzhmRE/s1600/tumblr_lw5l22EVTL1qeyuguo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VtrI2ohMAbs/TwUxz5ezB2I/AAAAAAAAAoU/MBwICVzhmRE/s320/tumblr_lw5l22EVTL1qeyuguo1_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lastly, such beauties as Mila Kunis, Katie Holmes, and Rachel Bilson should have made the cut in favor of Michelle Williams. And snooze-fest Pippa Middleton: Don't get me wrong, darlings, I love the dear sister of the Duchess of Cambridge, and her style is fantastic. But, of course it would be; she is the sister of a Duchess! If my sister was a Duchess, I'd look pretty damn good too! To me, while she isn't royalty, Mila Kunis expressed poise and grace accepting invitation to--and attending--the Marine's Military Ball. How classy! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/20/article-2063796-0EDE656F00000578-368_468x588.jpg&sa=X&ei=LCoDT463AoKJtwf86smJBA&ved=0CAsQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNFD8K52N7tqFHAUnf4HmsssphsElg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/11/20/article-2063796-0EDE656F00000578-368_468x588.jpg&sa=X&ei=LCoDT463AoKJtwf86smJBA&ved=0CAsQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNFD8K52N7tqFHAUnf4HmsssphsElg" width="254" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>On a side note, I have spotted some trends I would like to mention in regards to jewelry; there is something classic and worldly about owning jewelry from other countries. I have stumbled across two such examples within days of each other, the first being an Egyptian hieroglyph necklace, and the second a Greek antique-finish necklace. Now an easy way to incorporate foreign jewelry without traveling is to either raid your mother's jewelry box, or snag some of your own using this Egyptian Jewelry website <a href="http://www.nilestone.com/cartouche.htm#/All-cartouches/">Nilestone</a>. And get your Greek on at <a href="http://www.greekjewelryshop.com/Greek_pendant_necklace_jewellery.html">GreekJewelryShop</a>. If you prefer some handcrafted vendors, check out <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/39854655/sale-egyptian-silver-pendant-with?ref=sr_gallery_30&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=egyptian+necklace&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fjewelry%2Fpendant%2Fmetal">this necklace</a> by SilverBlueberry and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89199797/greek-mythology-copper-antique-wax-seal?ref=sr_gallery_22&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=greek+pendant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">this one</a> by PiecesOfll.<br />
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And here are a few Fashion New Year's Resolutions to consider:<br />
-Be confident in yourself and what you wear; if you feel uncomfortable, than you will look uncomfortable.<br />
-Embrace classic clothing and try trendy accessories; they cost a lot less than a new wardrobe.<br />
-Try a Spanx or two; you may enjoy it.<br />
-Embrace some lace: add a touch to a t-shirt, skirt hem, or sleeve, it's a nice way to keep it classy.<br />
-Try turquoise: did you know it will keep you anti-inflamed and protected? (At least that's what the Native Americans believe).<br />
-Go to a <a href="http://howtomeasurebrasize.net/">bra fitting ladies</a>: 80-85% of you are wearing the wrong size! That means back problems and posture issues.<br />
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Hope you have a wonderful and healthy New Year!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>-FM</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-69194717222485755342011-12-27T11:11:00.002-05:002011-12-28T00:39:37.697-05:00The Fashion Monocle's MonocleGiven as a present from my sister, I, The Fashion Monocle, have finally acquired a monocle in which to better study fashion. Below are a few photos with my new monocle, and thus begins a relentless dissection of fashion faux pas, designer digs, and savvy styles. Beware retailers and party-goers alike!<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Speaking of parties, it was seen at a particular Christmas party a fantastic <a href="https://www.erinfetherston.com/">Erin Fetherston</a> jumpsuit, with plunging neckline and ruffled collar. Worn by the host, it was a must have for any upscale affair, liable to drive most to jealousy, and some to admiration. I chose the latter, but it was a shame to see some succumb to the first.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LebudNsQMFA/TvntZzXMiGI/AAAAAAAAAmo/5AEGrISHrhU/s1600/FM+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LebudNsQMFA/TvntZzXMiGI/AAAAAAAAAmo/5AEGrISHrhU/s640/FM+pic.jpg" width="286" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hd1w1nWjfUM/Tvnt7TwicqI/AAAAAAAAAm8/qaiyrPscYqs/s1600/FM+Pic2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hd1w1nWjfUM/Tvnt7TwicqI/AAAAAAAAAm8/qaiyrPscYqs/s400/FM+Pic2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div>That is all for now, fashion dears, but I will write again soon!</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>-FM </i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-55555086701145046702011-11-28T12:30:00.000-05:002011-11-28T12:30:30.736-05:00Kate Spade Love AffairIt's the magic that surprise offers. Something unexpected. You are impressed, intrigued, and inspired. That, my fashion darlings, is the fascination of Kate Spade. With a style I would describe as an eclectic mix of the classic side of J.Crew, fresh colors of Anthropologie, and a fun touch of Urban Outfitters, it isn't surprising that Kate Spade is the lifestyle brand is has become. The brand offers a fresh way to re-evaluate your everyday objects. It is a company constantly in reinvention, which is quite difficult for a brand dubbed as "classic" by the CFDA. In my perspective, it is the Andy Warhol of modern fashion, providing people with a new way to look at the Kate Spade version of the can of soup. When a design becomes one of the few that is affordable enough to own, but not common enough as a bunch of serif C's on a purse, there is a chic factor created, a stir of excitement.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://savvy.purseblog.com/images/Kate-Spade-Sherwood-Owl-Handbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://savvy.purseblog.com/images/Kate-Spade-Sherwood-Owl-Handbag.jpg" width="321" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://royaltygirl.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/typewriter-purse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://royaltygirl.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/typewriter-purse.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZL3Gwr-wBNu1v0xdNdYEJJPZzf3GfoOZ7l2_icUBpv1VgsC6wHBQ-56HMmdUNsQ9RkfFEuSc0pWMY8Z7eLxy8VqIWvr8ulev3hEVAw51FQW9ydTf7nCGFcw6fVTiZ4d6gcjoVUlnikI/s1600/IMG_1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZL3Gwr-wBNu1v0xdNdYEJJPZzf3GfoOZ7l2_icUBpv1VgsC6wHBQ-56HMmdUNsQ9RkfFEuSc0pWMY8Z7eLxy8VqIWvr8ulev3hEVAw51FQW9ydTf7nCGFcw6fVTiZ4d6gcjoVUlnikI/s320/IMG_1959.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-size: x-small;">Some of the oh-so-fun styles Kate Spade has to offer.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div>While they are a popular brand, Kate Spade offers a feeling of exclusivity thanks in part to the company's minimal print advertising. Purely online, viral advertising has proved successful at creating the Kate Spade world at <a href="http://katespade.com/">katespade.com</a>. But for many, Kate Spade is still a well known secret amongst enthusiasts, creating a feeling of exclusivity for owners and purchasers alike. Suddenly you are enveloped in a sorority where recognition from fellow Kate Spade owners is as exciting as a note passed in school. And you walk away with a feeling like you are a celebrity for being recognized on the street, and who hasn't envisioned themselves famous?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/SJD-EM2hlzA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-size: x-small;">The ad campaign to "Give Colorfully"</span></div><br />
Kate Spade is one of the few brands that teaches us to appreciate the everyday and find beauty and fun in the smallest objects. If you still have any questions, check out the<a href="http://www.facebook.com/katespade?sk=app_276486525730058"> prizes you can win</a>, the <a href="http://www.katespade.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-Kate-Site/default/Blog-Show?blogID=blogEntries">blog</a>, and the <a href="http://www.katespade.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-Kate-Site/default/Home-ShopHome">shop</a>. That's all for now, darlings.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Stay Fashionable--FM</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-42841878106518495732011-10-31T13:34:00.000-04:002011-10-31T13:34:52.991-04:00Indian InspirationsTrick or Treat, Darlings?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.refinery29.com/static/bin/entry/af1/x/78081/lv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.refinery29.com/static/bin/entry/af1/x/78081/lv.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I say Treat! Trending right now is the tribal look, and with Halloween upon us, I was more than inspired to become an Indian. And with me was my boyfriend, <a href="http://nerdnewsnow.blogspot.com/">Nerd News Now</a>'s own Michael Bartley as my Cowboy. Creating my own costume was fun, but I was beyond inspired to create a new line of sketches based off my latest craze appropriately dubbed: Cowboys v Indians. You can see the start of my sketches below, darlings, and of course my own Indian costume.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8orqH1b9AD8zYHFaBCPjyAkLt2Z67HCkTIohKoxGtD6q4IYdWK01wF5xNwVMUoQBxZeY6N4povZAI7xdHV1LGJpsPO1UX4R7TwZI4AE09-QtiUqCYk8H8CDWNHXx_9eHnlJSA-0pKK0M/s1600/IMG_1885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8orqH1b9AD8zYHFaBCPjyAkLt2Z67HCkTIohKoxGtD6q4IYdWK01wF5xNwVMUoQBxZeY6N4povZAI7xdHV1LGJpsPO1UX4R7TwZI4AE09-QtiUqCYk8H8CDWNHXx_9eHnlJSA-0pKK0M/s400/IMG_1885.JPG" width="332" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNwnBFhuhRXBGbPdCwjGHx-3eB0VFfFtZ53unRIvyu0hQMQ1_GnzagzGQSWhqnGBoZ1ckkSBHtM7sm-BS2MwMHfouziVxqDIlcKENmPSADPVdo6zRGj16WL_qoI_AtnHhv6R6lo8ojms/s1600/IMG_1888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNwnBFhuhRXBGbPdCwjGHx-3eB0VFfFtZ53unRIvyu0hQMQ1_GnzagzGQSWhqnGBoZ1ckkSBHtM7sm-BS2MwMHfouziVxqDIlcKENmPSADPVdo6zRGj16WL_qoI_AtnHhv6R6lo8ojms/s400/IMG_1888.JPG" width="275" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6_6uum341U8voAofpxK8axHQ0kwS5p5A9eWTc8uL4gMCBRTj2-4xyHqhYavjTRjIDxAXimR1QKj6bJqNkPhF1mSadPziBQlTL9I0eSDPYv1iooli0bsMLkEJf3LJ-JTBE0BuZ9gqWOI/s1600/IMG_1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6_6uum341U8voAofpxK8axHQ0kwS5p5A9eWTc8uL4gMCBRTj2-4xyHqhYavjTRjIDxAXimR1QKj6bJqNkPhF1mSadPziBQlTL9I0eSDPYv1iooli0bsMLkEJf3LJ-JTBE0BuZ9gqWOI/s400/IMG_1889.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbalySrygYUefAzAdSOKSJg8y3urcDx9TUlkmg_uHWsRwih-fbNJe5QfvL0bez0wLnw0UwwFUInD1B2ZfNuYjZGR0yZEEA31YjU_TWE6mmdSHTKgv-jSyuQbUZ3GuspW32hTeKYuAr6g/s1600/IMG_1891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbalySrygYUefAzAdSOKSJg8y3urcDx9TUlkmg_uHWsRwih-fbNJe5QfvL0bez0wLnw0UwwFUInD1B2ZfNuYjZGR0yZEEA31YjU_TWE6mmdSHTKgv-jSyuQbUZ3GuspW32hTeKYuAr6g/s400/IMG_1891.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVU9wnBlYAliMY2l8vxRm99O4_eyLG7hJVZbM3MAcoXAZKKnqVRozVMtz3af8BDWukj3ZIATYPU8ujWO3hz56EL-Dl-5ovYK6mf4wZPNkVtp5LGgw5rKP3_szSkkTObb4bjYyEKLr2aMA/s1600/IMG_1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVU9wnBlYAliMY2l8vxRm99O4_eyLG7hJVZbM3MAcoXAZKKnqVRozVMtz3af8BDWukj3ZIATYPU8ujWO3hz56EL-Dl-5ovYK6mf4wZPNkVtp5LGgw5rKP3_szSkkTObb4bjYyEKLr2aMA/s400/IMG_1890.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some possible fabric ideas.</div><br />
How to get the Tribal/Indian look:<br />
-feather jewelry<br />
-fur accents (I liked this sweater from <a href="http://bcbg.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pBCBG1-11285729dt.jpg">BCBGeneration</a>)<br />
-animal patterns (like my Kate Spade purse pictured below)<br />
-geometric patterns or motifs<br />
-moccasins<br />
-fringe skirt or poncho<br />
-primary color beads<br />
-spirit animal (my was the jaguar)<br />
<br />
How to get the Cowboy look:<br />
-cowboy boots<br />
-paisley kerchief<br />
-pair of levi's<br />
-cowboy hat<br />
-riding gloves<br />
-leather accents<br />
<br />
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Ok darlings, I have to fly for now, but I will include more in this post later, and how I was able to construct my own Spirit Hood, and how you can follow the steps to make one for less money!<br />
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</div>Happy Halloween!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>xx-Christine</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-44095663886057044672011-10-11T22:24:00.003-04:002011-10-12T08:56:56.388-04:00Vacation Vixen!Darlings! The Monocle has returned from vacay, and has many inspiring snapshots of fashionable photos from her trip! I even delved into a closet or two before leaving on my trip to procure a stylish accent or two with thanks to Mother Monocle. So much happening in the fashion world, so let's start discussing!<br />
<br />
I was traveling to Virginia, a two hour flight, and needed some major comfy clothes. What did I wear, you ask? How about some leggings and a super-soft, over-sized pullover from Escada? Pair that with some fashionable feather jewelry, and my Florida flip-flops (though I would have preferred boots), and my black winter coat from ideeli.com, and you have yourself a Fashion Monocle! Thus ends day 1 of my vacation!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE7XCSNbI8OVfw9W4q3E4UBnO9mUEAiepYuBI8t1k2xeGYzWxewHElsZJbKd0dlcSkmhiYDnPTK2GqVm2hJMBoRNcHp0XFfFFq_QVRy5pN66zLQ-lOO8mrnDlBFCKqosywJVnFBB3hlw/s1600/Untitled-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwE7XCSNbI8OVfw9W4q3E4UBnO9mUEAiepYuBI8t1k2xeGYzWxewHElsZJbKd0dlcSkmhiYDnPTK2GqVm2hJMBoRNcHp0XFfFFq_QVRy5pN66zLQ-lOO8mrnDlBFCKqosywJVnFBB3hlw/s320/Untitled-1.jpg" width="195" /></a></div><br />
Day 2 included a wine tour of the country, and with it being in the 60's, I wanted to make sure to wear something warm, but that I could take off if I got too hot. Mother Monocle's cardigan to the rescue! I wore a wool scarf and black track suit, though I would have changed the pants for some jeans instead. Otherwise, I was set and ready to become a sommelier!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZlOq919IJ766GLNbC9_R2GsHmAW0f4-BI4FV0njsS_oRC9b6wsnlwic870glXeRceFvJOoBWJnIp_BsCN2JQMioFcHoPS0aAwKnifd0SncDC0xm083q1cwLMyZDrmWw7-o8jBaJvraE/s1600/IMG_15642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZlOq919IJ766GLNbC9_R2GsHmAW0f4-BI4FV0njsS_oRC9b6wsnlwic870glXeRceFvJOoBWJnIp_BsCN2JQMioFcHoPS0aAwKnifd0SncDC0xm083q1cwLMyZDrmWw7-o8jBaJvraE/s320/IMG_15642.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Day 3 included a Murder Mystery Dinner, the most exciting dinner of the week! I decided to wear my latest infinity dress creation, and all eyes were on me as I waltzed into Conference Room A. This is not a dress for the faint of heart.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdj31Eswy-XemoHusrnT8TrHBG_dZ-QRjpQtZN90B4U7do8dMFmiZyaRisbkAWYUQrnW0KKogniYMbRjs4E-iZjtzhReibPXv9sV87oe8bn0FZ5F-nS1yEUp3RnFFyvi9Q2XSDMmpBRg/s1600/314482_688443723152_205103869_34799746_412641331_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDdj31Eswy-XemoHusrnT8TrHBG_dZ-QRjpQtZN90B4U7do8dMFmiZyaRisbkAWYUQrnW0KKogniYMbRjs4E-iZjtzhReibPXv9sV87oe8bn0FZ5F-nS1yEUp3RnFFyvi9Q2XSDMmpBRg/s320/314482_688443723152_205103869_34799746_412641331_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Day 4 boasted a wine tasting, and a taste of fashion is what I gave those people! A stunning navy number and gold accents? Can you say chic?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7pPTER_Xcf5vEGTxP1Oo8oWMkBCzYy1bpnhbjC4OJC39rSgxqTX3pwDa6xrkSH0yapPAa27cUj-xhphJTmAzV4103-p4F8-NLzMq7O0zQ76D6qS0-OQMOy21Tng3TJFZzP8y3PL9DQg/s1600/298416_687253438492_205103869_34789842_1657285527_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7pPTER_Xcf5vEGTxP1Oo8oWMkBCzYy1bpnhbjC4OJC39rSgxqTX3pwDa6xrkSH0yapPAa27cUj-xhphJTmAzV4103-p4F8-NLzMq7O0zQ76D6qS0-OQMOy21Tng3TJFZzP8y3PL9DQg/s320/298416_687253438492_205103869_34789842_1657285527_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Day 5 was a zip-line tour and a trip to the underground caverns. With lots of physical exercise, I decided a low-maintenance look was best, so I donned my workout gear, including shorts/sneaks and a t-shirt and jacket. A few accessories jazzed the look up, and my favorite orange Kate Spade purse was never far from my reach, an instant color-pop that makes a wow statement and classes up any outfit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wxcji8XApCKw66TG-UQfCo4y0Olay8W33O0rzfjqRlvcwNs3d0_nRTEaB5a7rQi4LbSfpOGXOUAob4Tg-_rPb33k6f84vMw-n0xeopXTuqZY24jRRbr-bxt1CgYn7SVYbmlSuOJD2hs/s1600/306460_689370740402_205103869_34806033_674914908_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3wxcji8XApCKw66TG-UQfCo4y0Olay8W33O0rzfjqRlvcwNs3d0_nRTEaB5a7rQi4LbSfpOGXOUAob4Tg-_rPb33k6f84vMw-n0xeopXTuqZY24jRRbr-bxt1CgYn7SVYbmlSuOJD2hs/s320/306460_689370740402_205103869_34806033_674914908_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I wanted to pass on a couple of my other favorite travel tips, but would love to hear about any of yours as well! Below are a few of my suggestions:<br />
<br />
-Try and plan outfits and outfit variables before the trip<br />
-Pack items that may be used interchangeably<br />
-Utilize one or two pieces of classic statement jewelry for the trip's duration<br />
-Carefully separate a couple of twenties and stash AWAY from your wallet; this makes for easier haggling when you say "I only have x amount of dollars"<br />
-Black purses/shoes/dresses are never like the ones your already own; go ahead and buy it<br />
-An oversized t-shirt/sweater, leggings, booties, arm-purse, sunglasses and pony-tail are instant chic<br />
-Roll clothing for much easier packing, don't fold<br />
-Save space in your carry-on for travel purchases<br />
-Always use the excuse: I don't know if I'll ever see one like it again<br />
<br />
And with the surroundings of Virginia, it wasn't difficult to be inspired for fall fashions. The textures, colors, and lighting all made for a very easy wardrobe inspiration. Below are a few fall photos you may find inspiring!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHhekzCJIsSc2s0d0znAQ2X-atwt8kwpl6cm0YS27rs9DHOHKD_Eh9YX7lSnzyudX9ISIH1GiGpwan68lwrMaApPBzp0M8jWPYaTHkfV5dBuWbmL9KZyzc_8u8cXctD_EJ99o05Pw8Yc/s1600/IMG_1610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisHhekzCJIsSc2s0d0znAQ2X-atwt8kwpl6cm0YS27rs9DHOHKD_Eh9YX7lSnzyudX9ISIH1GiGpwan68lwrMaApPBzp0M8jWPYaTHkfV5dBuWbmL9KZyzc_8u8cXctD_EJ99o05Pw8Yc/s320/IMG_1610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8IXmqfQ2lJgBABhOwhO-TWX4XQKmivTDTDd8RPGv2DyBJZkCspP0BkeXxFhm4915ToJUZyhHX06qqqF6pGixNgfNdLzM7-J0Q-W7Qe5MVhyphenhyphenfm2tb7E-Vj5bjz55uHJdH9utIaDjGa4s/s1600/FallFashions+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8IXmqfQ2lJgBABhOwhO-TWX4XQKmivTDTDd8RPGv2DyBJZkCspP0BkeXxFhm4915ToJUZyhHX06qqqF6pGixNgfNdLzM7-J0Q-W7Qe5MVhyphenhyphenfm2tb7E-Vj5bjz55uHJdH9utIaDjGa4s/s320/FallFashions+1.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A J.Crew inspired look with a Kate Spade Purse and Levi's light wash denim.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvO9kq__7rE9_MtbfN1Ut6tcYbxCn2CkHB4cOt9HicRXOaLSM2HuzXTLD8AA7pEcQFoagV0FctC5h6rZKrWxJFiESIO4qOpTs7zDupLRVFh0PLHX6gZgxfx1KV41He6T_eh6RK62UQ8IQ/s1600/IMG_1565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvO9kq__7rE9_MtbfN1Ut6tcYbxCn2CkHB4cOt9HicRXOaLSM2HuzXTLD8AA7pEcQFoagV0FctC5h6rZKrWxJFiESIO4qOpTs7zDupLRVFh0PLHX6gZgxfx1KV41He6T_eh6RK62UQ8IQ/s320/IMG_1565.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVY9jJVvE5XAiS9tp_2D8yx6pAjOepppZ4qWMCNX-nI8aYCV6nGFPimMibjaBSWtmCeTT68CnhIQ08aM10n8_HYE18fSTGSliosl7_VOPREgVVBrPd-549B7lumL6-VTf-oaEry-TBBI/s1600/FallFashions+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVY9jJVvE5XAiS9tp_2D8yx6pAjOepppZ4qWMCNX-nI8aYCV6nGFPimMibjaBSWtmCeTT68CnhIQ08aM10n8_HYE18fSTGSliosl7_VOPREgVVBrPd-549B7lumL6-VTf-oaEry-TBBI/s320/FallFashions+2.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Louis Vuitton/Marc Jacobs Inspired Look</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VYo7OXBgfcfcGvJWxb55nBp-oFG7FWu79fzCmxeuOlzT94iLyT4gl1L2rKUxCK2AQblX4snukLoHlZXQhT4u-1ABMre7uyN3Wj6HofgX5Y0RcLJ_HViTPjJPIf_dx0b16DTvC_8Fe-U/s1600/IMG_1680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VYo7OXBgfcfcGvJWxb55nBp-oFG7FWu79fzCmxeuOlzT94iLyT4gl1L2rKUxCK2AQblX4snukLoHlZXQhT4u-1ABMre7uyN3Wj6HofgX5Y0RcLJ_HViTPjJPIf_dx0b16DTvC_8Fe-U/s320/IMG_1680.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBsKGowyrmm5chyVQ6Vn2f09oq7uqT5F16m86YJiDOiDYX_Dxzs6wXFtQu8QvYQHofM2q_2iUynbyEZn8ZwzYI8zmFCnQSj0DCZbgAzIWdjLi_v-X5hqWIVEMawzfouf8_EgimwP_DGc/s1600/FallFashion+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBsKGowyrmm5chyVQ6Vn2f09oq7uqT5F16m86YJiDOiDYX_Dxzs6wXFtQu8QvYQHofM2q_2iUynbyEZn8ZwzYI8zmFCnQSj0DCZbgAzIWdjLi_v-X5hqWIVEMawzfouf8_EgimwP_DGc/s320/FallFashion+3.jpg" width="232" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">No one tops a butterfly inspiration like McQueen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Here are some more interesting textures and silhouettes from my trip. Do you have any fashion suggestions for these? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBkCW6Wx_pAWIfeneMcykWppry5LVecpO9KbysH122qFtScPnJgAfW-F9zSikIGr-YADJ8aSrzCuvgHokzIiGMBn6Tvba8PJiOhk7MuYaLcYNy0hQdgMipiLfAdHD-4bVb54pvtJZrwk/s1600/IMG_1681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBkCW6Wx_pAWIfeneMcykWppry5LVecpO9KbysH122qFtScPnJgAfW-F9zSikIGr-YADJ8aSrzCuvgHokzIiGMBn6Tvba8PJiOhk7MuYaLcYNy0hQdgMipiLfAdHD-4bVb54pvtJZrwk/s320/IMG_1681.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</i></div>With all the fresh air and exercise, a good R&R is needed! I'm off until the world of fashion brings my fingers to keyboard, darlings! Stay fashionable!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>xx-Christine </i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-73852197824616730452011-10-03T00:32:00.001-04:002011-10-03T00:40:19.851-04:00Color Splashing Into Fall!Darlings! Another day, another post! And what with the new weather changes occurring over the country, fall is here and in the air! Perhaps it's my own personal preference, or maybe it's just really trending right now, but who else is not afraid to bust out some awesome color-blocking/splashing fashions this fall? A look that would be subject more to the warming of the season rather than the cooling down. But fearless females like myself are taking to the streets in our crayon-inspired looks, and frankly, I'm loving it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cmybacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/melted_crayon_art-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://cmybacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/melted_crayon_art-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/">Saks Fifth Avenue</a> has been my go-to store for my bright needs, and with my Kate Spade shoes and bag from a few posts back, the looks are really coming together. The best part about investing in a few new hues? A return of <b>impact!</b> And the really best part? Solid brights really perk up an otherwise dull wardrobe, and are in vogue every season! Take a look at some of the finds I was able to scope out online from Catherine Malandrino and Diane von Furstenberg to name a few.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/357/3329/0435733298316/0435733298316R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/357/3329/0435733298316/0435733298316R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/789/4117/0478941173655/0478941173655R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/789/4117/0478941173655/0478941173655R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/755/4184/0475541845500/0475541845500R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/755/4184/0475541845500/0475541845500R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/785/4380/0478543801796/0478543801796R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/785/4380/0478543801796/0478543801796R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/755/3364/0475533648263/0475533648263R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/755/3364/0475533648263/0475533648263R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/477/3424/0447734248337/0447734248337R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/477/3424/0447734248337/0447734248337R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/761/3901/0476139012465/0476139012465R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.saksfifthavenue.com/images/products/04/761/3901/0476139012465/0476139012465R__ASTL_300x400.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Those are just a few fun styles, but if your budget doesn't allow shopping at Saks, try a label called 5\48. It's a rare gem to track down, but when you do locate this label, take a close look at some of the above images you see, and you might find them for hundreds less from this brand, famous for making replicas of designer duds! I appreciate the lower price point, and while I may be sacrificing country of origin, or more luxe materials, my wallet again appreciates the savings on washing polyester at home v silk at the dry cleaners. I also tried a brand tagged as "A" New York (as it reads on the dress label) but have been unsuccessful searching for it via Google. But the dress is quite stunning and with a price of just $60, I walked away a happy woman! You can see for yourself the photo below:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKkYYHUCGb-AguKjJRaiCHrIRsFYv9p852RO0N9sp9Fk34TYfPsWMu3plEl7NTCibSuPgjV7HpItgoM1u0-6koGRXjzFIJN6RMWeSBl3PkVqCDs8PDmgs1RrA0TvoWwNrJMvArxBVvl8/s1600/294607_257839767588090_145731645465570_662107_950127544_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKkYYHUCGb-AguKjJRaiCHrIRsFYv9p852RO0N9sp9Fk34TYfPsWMu3plEl7NTCibSuPgjV7HpItgoM1u0-6koGRXjzFIJN6RMWeSBl3PkVqCDs8PDmgs1RrA0TvoWwNrJMvArxBVvl8/s400/294607_257839767588090_145731645465570_662107_950127544_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>And here again is my green and blue dress, purchased months ago, all in preparation for this striking new trend!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZyOl9CXcv1trp3aXuXiPF3UeUEVbAsvzL8_isNIXKy94C_bpPMaaJG5lAeTWUqtACPfdEiiPR7DsZgdwog58_0yBJzShBw2d9KqzJSh0B28C5w65MxSEl1vamdBuRZE2WBMeUDZ1eq0/s1600/IMG_1498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZyOl9CXcv1trp3aXuXiPF3UeUEVbAsvzL8_isNIXKy94C_bpPMaaJG5lAeTWUqtACPfdEiiPR7DsZgdwog58_0yBJzShBw2d9KqzJSh0B28C5w65MxSEl1vamdBuRZE2WBMeUDZ1eq0/s640/IMG_1498.JPG" width="268" /></a></div><br />
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Creativity flows when you are surrounded (body and mind) with an eye-full of color. (Speaking of Color Splash, for any of my avid home-fashion lovers who watch HGTV, I also love the way colors are used in that show! So inspiring!) So put on your best and brightest for fall, and keep checking back for updates on my travels to Virginia this week, the Monocle will be out and about in some of fall's most fantastic foliage, not to mention some fun fall fashions!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>xx-Christine</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-82404326636680336732011-10-02T23:18:00.000-04:002011-10-02T23:18:20.256-04:00The Infinity Dress!Darlings! My latest creation (that I knocked off) was the infinity dress, made popular by designers and companies alike these days. What is an infinity dress, you ask? Well, also going by the names convertible or transformer, the dress maintains the same basic skirt, but can be worn an insurmountable variety of ways by using two "straps" that are quite long. Take a look at this diagrams below:<br />
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://knucklesalad.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/InfinityDressDiagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://knucklesalad.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/InfinityDressDiagram.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvcXyFfe0gbRRLPgBU-8gcpD1KEP2wxkX2WxJlqWUmI4HtL4Nrvy0WW_I4qLHNbjS0hwtoc3XOVkGHdfx2i-iYvg2rALYFa7sPLDCEq46BVHhikiufu_IJm9xhtZ9ggU8wwqZdapytjDvj/s1600/infinity-dress-fashion-shoot-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvcXyFfe0gbRRLPgBU-8gcpD1KEP2wxkX2WxJlqWUmI4HtL4Nrvy0WW_I4qLHNbjS0hwtoc3XOVkGHdfx2i-iYvg2rALYFa7sPLDCEq46BVHhikiufu_IJm9xhtZ9ggU8wwqZdapytjDvj/s640/infinity-dress-fashion-shoot-01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div>So, as you can see, this was a very compelling idea, and while I found it online for sale, I thought to myself: "Monocle, you have design skills AND a Jo-Ann's Coupon. Why not get yourself some fabric and make one for yourself?" Well I tell you that's exactly what I did darlings, and don't regret it for a single moment! It was a fun process, and while many different styles exist with the dress--some with a fuller skirt, some with shorter skirt--I was happy to be customizing my own! And as far as colors go, I can't recommend anything more classic than bold black or classic red.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqPkfPNC6UKeQU2c_yK0UDnTag_pe2SoiPtYXVK_jzQ4KUClMdziLrmenjCzM1ynkREiwY912BKpy3ODP9pUr-CLDTeZh5MQ7hWgY_dqs5ZXyVgfuZQZuttnqlK9FdaDkvntQtFRKPtU/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqPkfPNC6UKeQU2c_yK0UDnTag_pe2SoiPtYXVK_jzQ4KUClMdziLrmenjCzM1ynkREiwY912BKpy3ODP9pUr-CLDTeZh5MQ7hWgY_dqs5ZXyVgfuZQZuttnqlK9FdaDkvntQtFRKPtU/s400/IMG_1200.JPG" width="218" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I always was a fan of the one-shouldered look!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>So what do you think, darlings? An easy enough outfit for all your clothing needs? I think so! And if you can't make one, just try DKNY, they seem to have made an<a href="http://www.donnakaran.com/editorial/detail/c069be64-6f4a-4b69-8286-f86cb66ca45f/the-infinity-dress"> interesting version</a> for their own collection.<br />
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That's it for now, fashionable followers! More soon to come on my travel tales to Virginia!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>xx-Christine</i></div></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-89758480615604879402011-09-11T13:12:00.000-04:002011-09-11T13:12:26.399-04:00FW & FNO in NYC!Darlings! I am fresh back from a fashionable week (and some very fashionable spending) in NYC. I have been busy with shopping all over, and have some great fashion finds!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksEDJLKSV3r95gkNbN5zxEy-HN5PYZWzRy48UHIQKPd4-YOHlpDC5bxLl8_QDy7aHDuRbizzE5f-DaKo6GUUMYqUmsFerznLgmsieAOShileFY11FTKwEICYu_Rnhfthv84kNcs0GFNs/s1600/fashions-night-out-2011-t-shirt-profile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksEDJLKSV3r95gkNbN5zxEy-HN5PYZWzRy48UHIQKPd4-YOHlpDC5bxLl8_QDy7aHDuRbizzE5f-DaKo6GUUMYqUmsFerznLgmsieAOShileFY11FTKwEICYu_Rnhfthv84kNcs0GFNs/s320/fashions-night-out-2011-t-shirt-profile.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
First off, let's delve right into my latest finds at <a href="http://katespade.com/">Kate Spade</a>. The purse powerhouse packed a pretty punch on my wallet, but I definitely walked out of the store a winner! I was able to scoop up three purses and a pair of shoes all for less than $400. I love the colors Kate Spade has to offer, and adore even more their fun and funky fashion sense. Their winter collection online is adorable, my favorite find below:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsG7-io1cvuJMz9hwKDt2cKa37LIX-8I51vMhFsa9Yyi-YLSOEWlKRKetOuADSy3oUCeOHyQIppztqyxvGYJZupXWg0jWVlBdWZuqbjVK8T1z8WITchrbVWobN80XFnEOtyXk8LeDg1hE/s1600/owl+purse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsG7-io1cvuJMz9hwKDt2cKa37LIX-8I51vMhFsa9Yyi-YLSOEWlKRKetOuADSy3oUCeOHyQIppztqyxvGYJZupXWg0jWVlBdWZuqbjVK8T1z8WITchrbVWobN80XFnEOtyXk8LeDg1hE/s400/owl+purse.jpg" width="398" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://katespade.com/">KateSpade.com</a>, $225</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next, I was able to snag some superb steals on several beautiful new dresses. I found new love with the color purple and Aiden Mattox, as well as a blinding color packed combo of blue and green with a number from Express. While at Express, I was also able to snag a new one-shouldered dress, something I'm infamous for wearing, and was also able to score a fun new frock from <a href="http://www.forever21.com/default.asp">Forever 21</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzLKQU0sFpFWz7qTJ89BI3iEIN4eSG0ZkjokPusFH5VFxSPLRd3HP6otesaYHkrFsg2TOkyA_qK3mUSCWv1b6n0IpgPpXHiFI1AGOzcocVOFb4FJV44IcNz0hpVaWt4pJUFHXwAEritw/s1600/IMG_1477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxzLKQU0sFpFWz7qTJ89BI3iEIN4eSG0ZkjokPusFH5VFxSPLRd3HP6otesaYHkrFsg2TOkyA_qK3mUSCWv1b6n0IpgPpXHiFI1AGOzcocVOFb4FJV44IcNz0hpVaWt4pJUFHXwAEritw/s400/IMG_1477.JPG" width="158" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcpzXkWuK3ZPSOEBvxj_e1ve5-fRNq2wQKU0P7XNcxyY7UrMW6CPtAtvb_MOEz67iGdWblaACPy9exF76oDcWsizLXMVErXIKJcV9bzBTl4FRv5_t0KJv7OTxYMJMa4Y_VyWJvjNDnH8/s1600/IMG_1485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcpzXkWuK3ZPSOEBvxj_e1ve5-fRNq2wQKU0P7XNcxyY7UrMW6CPtAtvb_MOEz67iGdWblaACPy9exF76oDcWsizLXMVErXIKJcV9bzBTl4FRv5_t0KJv7OTxYMJMa4Y_VyWJvjNDnH8/s400/IMG_1485.JPG" width="282" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, with all this wonderful spending, who could forget about jewelry? Not this girl. While doing some light shopping in Florida before and then again during New York, I was more than pleasantly pleased with my purchases. Just take a look below to see what I was able to snag from places like <a href="http://www.bebe.com/">Bebe</a>, <a href="http://www.bloomingdales.com/">Bloomy</a>, and <a href="http://www.forever21.com/">Forever</a>, with a few more pieces from a store in NY I stumbled across. Even though I was in NY for one day, I definitely made the most of my time there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvM88Ar28jnIEtGK-oC2cpxJcT8FBeOeitD1P5Tn0VUECZNJOagjqLuH1tkvYGNsthQgHKAtwt1Dycal5B6JJihWr9_O0VwLvGU_m__sdzX1egZPQe9vvrnQg8HYKZE7J4OnZ1UKKsFA/s1600/IMG_1529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvM88Ar28jnIEtGK-oC2cpxJcT8FBeOeitD1P5Tn0VUECZNJOagjqLuH1tkvYGNsthQgHKAtwt1Dycal5B6JJihWr9_O0VwLvGU_m__sdzX1egZPQe9vvrnQg8HYKZE7J4OnZ1UKKsFA/s320/IMG_1529.JPG" width="259" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And now let's discuss for a moment some new finds in the world of makeup. I normally don't go too crazy with snatching up all sorts of makeups, but after perusing the<a href="http://www.maybelline.com/?cm_mmc=LabeliumSearch-_-GoogleBrand-_-MNY+Brand-_-maybelline"> Maybelline</a> aisle (which, I confess, is my go-to makeup brand), I couldn't resist whipping out my wallet. If you are in the market for new eyeshadows and liners, try a new palette from the <a href="http://www.maybelline.com/products/150/eyes/eye-shadow/eye-studio-color-explosion/amethyst-ablaze/10?shadeId=819">Eyestudio Color Explosion collection</a>. These gems will glam up your eyes before you can say "Goodness Gracious." The secret behind these statement shadows? A stronger pigment impact (think MAC cosmetics), followed by a luminous iridescent shade you sweep over your eyes after applying the color. The result? A stunning shadow show for all to see! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-okXLBkJNpdWXUjrhNTQVN9uRDqPsm-TkthB3DxrJeMM7hm3ixg-hTG0ld6GQzkzk2WpHLqsF9D76Z7uKw2CBxyFeSYe4iOcBf2USRn19N5wJg2Adq7On3BQ1HF6hK6Xtah1zNWFu0w/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-okXLBkJNpdWXUjrhNTQVN9uRDqPsm-TkthB3DxrJeMM7hm3ixg-hTG0ld6GQzkzk2WpHLqsF9D76Z7uKw2CBxyFeSYe4iOcBf2USRn19N5wJg2Adq7On3BQ1HF6hK6Xtah1zNWFu0w/s320/IMG_1518.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After you apply shadow, think about your next move, liner. May I recommend my new favorite liner? <a href="http://www.maybelline.com/products/151/eyes/eye-liner/eye-studio-master-drama/midnight-master/400?shadeId=821">Maybelline MasterDrama Liner</a>, a click-stick style liner that will leave you stunned. It applies smooth, and won't leave you freaking out in the morning wondering where your pencil sharpener ran away to (I don't speak from personal experience). And when you are ready to finish it all off with the Master of Impact, the Mother of Drama, the Vixen of Vivid, Mascara, then I recommend <a href="http://www.maybelline.com/products/145/eyes/mascara/volum-express-falsies-flared-washable/very-black/000?shadeId=807">The Falsies Flared Volume Express Mascara</a>. It is sensational. If you want to make an impact with your eyes, I recommend the combination of ALL of these fun finds, you will not be disappointed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also wanted a quick note on nail polish: try <a href="http://facestockholm.com/">Face Stockholm</a> in One-Hundred Thirty-Two. There is no picture that will do this justice, you are just going to have to trust me, when I saw it I was blown away. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbl9u6SL-mcyDW9If5yoUrqDYk6ffrKpQwEn-Gb9Loh1Yfmj2RTxdiryC8J9uMwSRoV0u4FoqRM6_c-DyA7HTHjbB_Q6n3GZuMI9PJCDVllW0aKE6prl1tS2KM2Um2b5cre8gjrKG_KM/s1600/IMG_1519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbl9u6SL-mcyDW9If5yoUrqDYk6ffrKpQwEn-Gb9Loh1Yfmj2RTxdiryC8J9uMwSRoV0u4FoqRM6_c-DyA7HTHjbB_Q6n3GZuMI9PJCDVllW0aKE6prl1tS2KM2Um2b5cre8gjrKG_KM/s320/IMG_1519.JPG" width="123" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, on to my Fashion's Night Out! It was superb, running around the city with everyone else who was interested in fashion or a free drink. At one point, I believe we were in Armani or Kenneth Cole, and the whole store was literally a night club: there was a bar, a DJ, and a ton of dancing going on. It was by far the best way to sell clothes ever. I don't believe we saw anyone famous, but I think we saw a Victoria's Secret Angel. The streets were literally packed with people who were dressed to impress, and a good time was generally had by all. It was definitely a night I will not forget, thanks to my friend Ashley. It definitely was not the same, however, without our partner in crime, Meaghan, who was unable to attend. (Next year, Meaghan!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTcOf6Mpi8EhOHKbXGiW8tmoZcCGvRJ1cblrAR0EoFEmS-LwWWqeYaMXsjD26eqAeQIJ8DMSr1dbmSVM-WjVRlkgEFArlUnM0BbcNggZqSc3IbnHEkP1JokCOwGZ36Dup7nszKZJhvMA/s1600/IMG_1454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFTcOf6Mpi8EhOHKbXGiW8tmoZcCGvRJ1cblrAR0EoFEmS-LwWWqeYaMXsjD26eqAeQIJ8DMSr1dbmSVM-WjVRlkgEFArlUnM0BbcNggZqSc3IbnHEkP1JokCOwGZ36Dup7nszKZJhvMA/s400/IMG_1454.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last but not least, a mention to online shopping, an addiction I have regrettably taken up. It seems websites like<a href="http://www.ideeli.com/"> ideeli</a> and <a href="http://www.gilt.com/">Gilt</a> are too much of a temptation, have I have become a recent stalker on their websites, checking into new sales every day. I don't regret, however, the new pieces I have picked up, pictured below:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYl0g6M7R7XS6KAnXTWwf5Qf5gq6qiRM7CVzIBMJlDD3xVAE2LRz8Ooa_VWjl6zQxyhwsdy9mJ_lvJCVMRYpXkSPRL2vLvAL_2I7AVFyD2GjtzjxYSbkyYmA9eqeIYxklyCVOxocxBkQ/s1600/coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYl0g6M7R7XS6KAnXTWwf5Qf5gq6qiRM7CVzIBMJlDD3xVAE2LRz8Ooa_VWjl6zQxyhwsdy9mJ_lvJCVMRYpXkSPRL2vLvAL_2I7AVFyD2GjtzjxYSbkyYmA9eqeIYxklyCVOxocxBkQ/s400/coat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59ZZHe60HaS6RuCMH8iM0dqw1yIoz6sl77KQ9oYItW2n-ZGfU7YSekHYJTRIuCBATbizO80bRduw3GDDO6IYGk-xyx_m_Kr-IV3XEcqspmGXz2_KaLLMl1M9949gA3-dbeJ32JcTIkaE/s1600/dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59ZZHe60HaS6RuCMH8iM0dqw1yIoz6sl77KQ9oYItW2n-ZGfU7YSekHYJTRIuCBATbizO80bRduw3GDDO6IYGk-xyx_m_Kr-IV3XEcqspmGXz2_KaLLMl1M9949gA3-dbeJ32JcTIkaE/s400/dress.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ideeli.com/">ideeli.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Besides shopping, these online retailers have opened the door for more designer exposure that you might not otherwise come into contact with. For example these adorable little shoes I was not before acquainted with, but will now be more aware of from <a href="http://www.poeticlicence.com/pls/collection/class/viewAll?class=shoes">Poetic License</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's it for now, darlings! Stay Fashionable!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>xx-Christine</i></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-88718357194759533672011-08-25T22:35:00.001-04:002011-08-25T22:36:40.713-04:00Big Girls, Don't Cry!Hello my fashionable dolls! I am here to share some interesting links I stumbled upon while browsing the internet. Coincidentally enough, they both discuss plus-size clothes, and as a subject matter that rarely gets any press at all, I feel compelled to regurgitate it. <br />
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So first up, I found this very interesting <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/25/american-apparel-plus-size_n_937203.html">article</a> as <a href="http://www.americanapparel.net/">American Apparel</a> is marketing a very chic size 12 as they encourage girls to post pictures of their "plus-sized" selves. People can then rank the beauties by how "booty-ful" they may be. The <a href="http://www.americanapparel.net/storefront/UGCStyle/ModelSearch2011/">contest</a> is all in efforts to select a new plus-sized model from the mix. Many people are weighing-in (pun intended) on this contest, debating whether or not this can be viewed as a mockery of plus-sized people, or as an effort to better expose the plus-size market. Which do you believe it to be? In this writers opinion, the plus-sized market should be more exposed, but I don't necessarily agree with a ranking system for any model of any size.<br />
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Now on to the next subject of discussion, an <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/25/australia-plus-size-runway-show_n_936253.html#s339289">article</a> here that discusses an Australian fashion show called "Big is Beautiful", a self-proclaimed show to highlight the plus-sized clothes/models in the industry. However, while many critique the bodies of skeletal models, one<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> Australian <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">journalist Damian Woolbough discusses the other size of beauty " </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">There is a place for women of all sizes in the fashion media, as seen by the positive response to a plus-size shoot with Lawley in this month's<em style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; font-style: italic !important; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Vogue Australia</em>, but obese models send just as irresponsible a message about the need for healthy eating and exercise as models with protruding clavicles and ribcages." The pictures can be seen on the site. What is your opinion? Healthy or obese models? Frankly, I feel the definition has been re-interpreted as to what is healthy or what is not. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">Otherwise, it's a very happy countdown to Fashion's Night Out 2011 with yours truly setting off to NYC for this years shopping extravaganza! More to come as the night gets closer. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"><i>xx-Christine</i></span></div><br />
Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-81045575628082410272011-05-12T11:56:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:35:59.488-04:00My NY Adventures!Hello Lovies! My fashion adventures have taken me to NY (my yearly anniversary with the city) to have a chance to interview with J.Crew! It was a very interesting experience, but I kept waiting to spy Mickey Drexler on his bike, circling the office. I did however have a chance to see the Crewcuts Kids come and model for the catalog and OMG are they adorable. I also was able to sneak a peak at one of the rooms, covered with shoes they were either working on, inspired by, or found vintage for the upcoming seasons. And the view...oh my. Yes, I was a nerd and took photos. Because, for no other reason, I just wanted to remind myself I actually went there. :)<br />
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The rest of the time in NY, I was of course at my favorites like Dylann's and Canal (where I snatched up fake LV; my friends at Marc Jacobs would be very upset). This time, however, when in Canal Street, I was quite upset that many of the Asian vendors for fake handbags were being put out of business by a group of Nigerian men on the street with luggage-fulls of counterfeit wares. I was a little disappointed because some of my fun had indeed been ruined; I enjoy the secretive nature of going into hidden walls and blacked out vans. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEukyUu5sUhVyQUeEZpetZroS4GOimiTHkAqkMU1JJ0jNL4gSJ84K55mKVASFlgMpOose7HSR-MRYx5oPUtEQUr1Wt2voMsDWdKhwhxu9e802NtCF3F3-8o-wTAOHXKow99cADFkh4rI/s1600/IMG_1324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEukyUu5sUhVyQUeEZpetZroS4GOimiTHkAqkMU1JJ0jNL4gSJ84K55mKVASFlgMpOose7HSR-MRYx5oPUtEQUr1Wt2voMsDWdKhwhxu9e802NtCF3F3-8o-wTAOHXKow99cADFkh4rI/s400/IMG_1324.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>And without my friend Meaghan, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to explore much of Brooklyn, where vintage stores, cute delis, and fun people are abound. There is definitely a youthful vibe about the city, and it was a nice change from the seriousness of Manhattan. And without my friend Meaghan, I wouldn't have found my way around the city, or any of my fun accessories I purchased from H&M. :) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJXIs551o6J77g1h5CD0gssfQrgqNceHmnmVxFKlUw07Q1F8NK5dZb906fUqio_RxYTkpb-JcrLr6l1pO0aYBA2_w-zkxEQki53XazbjCNrDAGZMjnYyjoIOeGZSb3FOfoRArWUDmeq4/s1600/IMG_1325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJXIs551o6J77g1h5CD0gssfQrgqNceHmnmVxFKlUw07Q1F8NK5dZb906fUqio_RxYTkpb-JcrLr6l1pO0aYBA2_w-zkxEQki53XazbjCNrDAGZMjnYyjoIOeGZSb3FOfoRArWUDmeq4/s400/IMG_1325.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>From what I gathered about NY fashions, they are all dressed fabulously head to toe...but they were all shopping at the same stores. Everyone seemed to me to be of the mindset of Urban Outfitters and J.Crew. It was nice, but also a little boring. Maybe I was hanging out in the wrong areas, but I was looking for the exciting extreme fashions I am oft to imagine in NYC. But, maybe they have just yet to be created ;) <br />
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Ok fashion dears, I have to fly, but wish me luck and I will be back soon to discuss more fashionable findings!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>xx-Christine</em></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-49155907188197856622011-03-02T14:06:00.004-05:002011-03-02T14:31:50.666-05:00Back to the 90's!Hello Fashion Darlings! I have been away so long, yes! But here I am again, inspired by the latest spring trends and my own fashionable findings. The best part of the spring season has been the change from dark, warm browns and yellows to the pop neon colors of the early 90's. Yes, ladies, it's time to revisit your wardrobe and pull out those neon pants and lacy socks you use for your Halloween costumes and start wearing them to work! I have seen so many classy combinations of colors and styles, my favorite being from designer <a href="http://www.buffalojeans.com/">Buffalo David Bitton</a>. His neon pants come in purple (my favorite) orange and pink, and can all be found at Macy's (unfortunately, I was unable to find a link on his personal website or <a href="http://macys.com/">Macys.com</a> to the pants, but several magazines, including Glamour and Cosmo have listed his styles). The best part about the neon pants? Combining it with a neon top is not a faux pas! Yes, now is your time to step up the chic with head-to-toe color, including makeup. The latest eye wear has been loud-and-proud purples, blues, and yellows to highlight the eyes. My favorite shades are the pigmented ones from MAC Cosmetics and Bobby Brown and Channel. I am all about orange nails right now as well, and my favorite orange-red can be found for less than a dollar from <a href="http://www.newyorkcolor.com/products/nails/nail-color/long-wearing-nail-enamel">NYC</a> called Tangerine Creme. Not into the whole bright nails thing, but a sucker for classic red? I have the perfect solution: <a href="http://www.delsol.com/eSource/ecom/eSource/default/">Del Sol </a>Color-Changing Nail Polish is your best friend. I snagged one in Ruby Slipper and it is phenomenal for indoor/outdoor wear. It goes on clear with glitter, but when you step outside, the color changes with the help of UV rays right before your eyes. <br />
Photo from Del-Sol.com<br />
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The other various trends right now include mixing up laces (shoe laces that is; a pair of your favorite saddle shoes or sneakers can be perked up with a fun color or extra wide bow), mixing sequins and glitter (this trend is a little has-been for me) and of course, a spring-time stand-by, coral and turqouise. Yet after confirming my worst fear of the fashion season, I can no longer avoid it. While the 90's pops of color have a rule on the season, it's the outlines I'm worried about. According to Cosmo Magazine the March Issue, "The Key New Shapes" include Long and Flowy, Head to Toe Tailored, Chunky on Top, Jagged Asymmetry, A Bare Midsection, Skinny Knits, and Wide-Leg Jeans. What does this mean? Yes, it's true: the Millennium Fashions have returned. Remember those peasant sleeves? And kerchief hemlines? And bare stomachs? I'm more hopeful of this trend the second time around. The whole future fashion trend has potential. But if you're more daring, try pairing any of these with a<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Back-Future-Marty-McFly-Replica/dp/B001RJ1U6G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1299093801&sr=8-1"> fun colored-hat</a>, or accessorize with a <a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/Hover-Board-Back-future-movie-prop-reproductio-/130492402287?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1e61f40a6f">new form of transportation</a>. <br />
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In the meantime, the Spring is here! How fabulous! I absolutely adored the Gucci presentation for Spring 11; colorful pants and skirts with bright blazers and gold accents; a combination of Old Hollywood and chic architecture. I've been ready for this look since fall. With that Old Hollywood glam, I have to mention my love of Art Deco again, and my favorite artist of the period, Erte. His work is inspiring, dramatic, and fanciful. I was looking for designers who may have pulled ideas from his work, and stumbled upon <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2009RTW-OTITEL">Ohne Titel's spring 2009 collection</a>. Yes, it may be old, but it does have some of the most architecturally inspired pieces I've come across. Take a look: <br />
Photos from <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihmG19aeiccoQzKCm5q15PhMnhAIgOe8Zzlwzg6al1LKl5STSLhkEQfJw5lUoGUDqPTbR0AJpGlq4A40_y8SBAcJpkFrczyjrn8Vw5nSHBXVrpwbGhaqdNnzDXryZoyi-beOx-sl_BuM/s1600/00210m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihmG19aeiccoQzKCm5q15PhMnhAIgOe8Zzlwzg6al1LKl5STSLhkEQfJw5lUoGUDqPTbR0AJpGlq4A40_y8SBAcJpkFrczyjrn8Vw5nSHBXVrpwbGhaqdNnzDXryZoyi-beOx-sl_BuM/s400/00210m.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>The strong lines, the combination of delicate prints on sheers, the gathering and draping in stark contrast ot the formulated pleats; all come together in this collection. Compare this with Erte's work:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWih0cvKC7C9_PSsoUh6-89sEpu5pgyxB05PRb33ZRjO59TuDJdC8Ti_sh9gKbh3wzBfN0w8UYAjywFhTgugcrgNBQUwUnxCfUeJTYFBztiGsYqfj94KM55rgyeUEvjQ3kMiYkHgGvADY/s1600/post-12-1274832718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWih0cvKC7C9_PSsoUh6-89sEpu5pgyxB05PRb33ZRjO59TuDJdC8Ti_sh9gKbh3wzBfN0w8UYAjywFhTgugcrgNBQUwUnxCfUeJTYFBztiGsYqfj94KM55rgyeUEvjQ3kMiYkHgGvADY/s400/post-12-1274832718.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYMmoo-tfdcpqhJIe7GscEE21RyAh_Ko3XB6I2ghMNCu3HxbZZohPEejA2NaCFrCOietAA4a366hFhTKta1ZKhsyXG0KOTJ-vWM5sRbqmfzD4JHuQmSbw1DJ6ar75q5UgHBiit9LXEKo/s1600/queennight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYMmoo-tfdcpqhJIe7GscEE21RyAh_Ko3XB6I2ghMNCu3HxbZZohPEejA2NaCFrCOietAA4a366hFhTKta1ZKhsyXG0KOTJ-vWM5sRbqmfzD4JHuQmSbw1DJ6ar75q5UgHBiit9LXEKo/s400/queennight.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Similar, no? I have two book recommendations for you, if you are interested, dear reader. The first is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Years-Fashion-Illustration-Cally-Blackman/dp/1856694623/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1299091777&sr=1-1">100 Years of Fashion Illustration</a>, a book containing the styles and techniques of designers and illustrators alike. It will inspire and inform, an excellent book to have for a collection or coffee table. The next is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Erte-at-Ninety-Complete-Graphics/dp/0525932585/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1299091726&sr=1-1">Erte at Ninety</a>, a book highlighting the artist's pitfalls and perfections, an interesting overall read of one artist to another. It's maddening to read how effortless and flawless his ability was. It is with that I leave you, my favorite fashionable darlings! <br />
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<em>xx-Christine</em>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-48551327270434098742010-11-02T22:45:00.003-04:002010-11-02T23:14:51.612-04:00"Simply Be" Mad!!Dear Reader,<br />
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I was just about to relax for the evening and pull the warm blanket of November magazines to my weary eyes for some fashionable reading, when I stumbled upon a catalog I received in the mail today, called "Simply Be." The cover was enough to remind me vaguely of a old Delia's catalog cover I would receive as a young teen, and so at first, I ignored this tome. But after I reached for it, and fondled through its colorful and zesty pages, I took note of a few things: 1. The clothes, pages and outlines were not flattering for anyone at all. Combining empire waists with long peasant sleeves, buttons, and paisley prints, topped off with a long, ruffle sweater and a "chunky necklace", this catalog was off to a bad and unimpressive start. 2. The tops and dresses in the catalog were undefined and shapeless, sitting on the women like a sack sits on a potato. 3. The models were rather curvaceous. That's when I realized this was a plus-sized magazine. After briefly rationalizing the reasons why I was getting this magazine and performing the womanly act of narcissistic self-assessment and die a mortifying little death inside with guilty understanding followed by belligerent self-denial, I became enraged. <strong>NOT</strong> only because I was a plus-sized person, <strong>NOT</strong> only because I was a woman, <strong>BUT BECAUSE</strong> I was a fashion designer! I was furious over these prints, patterns, and lines of the clothing! The printed ruffle dresses that add zero waist definition, day dresses that look as if wardrobe came straight from Rebecca Donaldson's closest on <em>Full House</em>, and prices that were beyond absurd shocked and appalled me. The biggest insult was to women, who read this trash catalog and assume this is the standard for dressing! That this sack is what you are supposed to wear, but pair it with skinny jeans to give the illusion you are more slim than you really are. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6bseOXOTHMo-bj7CeTkxgIB8VNpjDNqhedr2a__IhNfz791sEE7iySQ8r_jHXRrwuSNlg01u_Za87Iyl854LOXgv90swsABWUGUn7pns8kVsAXTioca5MWIMD7acTo5BYLFulhPmKbM/s1600/sb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6bseOXOTHMo-bj7CeTkxgIB8VNpjDNqhedr2a__IhNfz791sEE7iySQ8r_jHXRrwuSNlg01u_Za87Iyl854LOXgv90swsABWUGUn7pns8kVsAXTioca5MWIMD7acTo5BYLFulhPmKbM/s640/sb4.jpg" width="339" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjxzrP-rFFttflYXmY1-V3blq2FhqmYz_1RoXckd4YYy8hCYjw6pcVjAKvx9nEDIiYLVHNMYj8nBztselByFqQQEeZUKXRxHpHy-l_oB2P2aESJSRpMTQkqgJ_pSKfZZpV2T_jsyDwMU/s1600/sb6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivjxzrP-rFFttflYXmY1-V3blq2FhqmYz_1RoXckd4YYy8hCYjw6pcVjAKvx9nEDIiYLVHNMYj8nBztselByFqQQEeZUKXRxHpHy-l_oB2P2aESJSRpMTQkqgJ_pSKfZZpV2T_jsyDwMU/s400/sb6.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>If that was in fact the case, the sweaters would lose the ruffles, the jeans would lose the back-button flap pockets, and even the jewelry would lose the offensive "chunky" tone. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlHHqwoX5tSE5u3Ljf6FyiXgpEZD6ws9wglztCcAe-02rHKEaDZU1slkrvjuoMFfK94wvbdaII5au8GCb8T6MWvWPRz-mbUK5da2cPOVj7J28Xuj_CV25fDNxYM3R7QXk8FqTbkAqpOI/s1600/sb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlHHqwoX5tSE5u3Ljf6FyiXgpEZD6ws9wglztCcAe-02rHKEaDZU1slkrvjuoMFfK94wvbdaII5au8GCb8T6MWvWPRz-mbUK5da2cPOVj7J28Xuj_CV25fDNxYM3R7QXk8FqTbkAqpOI/s640/sb3.jpg" width="516" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5nY_u6l7abosBVceVVElw2y0m5iJOWWYNPcXdiVPzs9Gp-HAtcAcu7d5e1Do8I_8PR5a7do0RRliHwcRB4di0onjbE8pbqBWRrbIojvplMKUnuVVLTKx7dLtBZ1KnMYCnTwBMKxv6i0/s1600/sb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5nY_u6l7abosBVceVVElw2y0m5iJOWWYNPcXdiVPzs9Gp-HAtcAcu7d5e1Do8I_8PR5a7do0RRliHwcRB4di0onjbE8pbqBWRrbIojvplMKUnuVVLTKx7dLtBZ1KnMYCnTwBMKxv6i0/s400/sb2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>After a further look-through, I find that almost every single item in this catalog has <em>some</em>thing hanging off of it, whether drawstrings, ruffles, gathers, layers, bat-sleeves or attachments. And those items without attachments? Well, I'll just let this picture speak for itself:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNF9i0seZUEwEG5M4qtLR0vAs5UaHPmr9TF0w1Pe3JoNsoQJ9bCVN3lrp1PbdwkJlAiQ5M3EtOUAU6aC_Eq2_T0INl-ZM8Ly7fXE8hUDEhmnt-01E0x9Y_XzHcBAqDDkY3RGGFBiFDxyA/s1600/sb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNF9i0seZUEwEG5M4qtLR0vAs5UaHPmr9TF0w1Pe3JoNsoQJ9bCVN3lrp1PbdwkJlAiQ5M3EtOUAU6aC_Eq2_T0INl-ZM8Ly7fXE8hUDEhmnt-01E0x9Y_XzHcBAqDDkY3RGGFBiFDxyA/s320/sb5.jpg" width="191" /></a></div>I am aghast. This company, <a href="http://www.simplybe.com/">"Simply Be"</a>, being a "plus" sized company, shouldn't be focusing on trying to mask the natural curves and form of the woman body with boxy outlines, heavy layers, and clown-like ruffles. And I am not prejudice with this particular consumer group: these clothes wouldn't look good on ANY woman, no matter her size. The curves of the woman should be highlighted, but done in the right ways, using belts and bold colors with neutrals, and balancing the patterns, rather than combining them completely in one dress (see example below). My dear readers, fashion must not suffer from the uninformed, nor should the plus-sized suffer from this fashion.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVp3JrSwmYK0aRJXgCTv_t0QoHG7uoEfcCAZUcyDoBl65Ttgcz0B0iAdbhHvyGlrBxC_fzYSq9B-Dmbyz_OZI8zr6j4tSP0sRTkmazpWyF8mQP2EjeSQ4lalZV0doKEoQCm6JeeR6vu4/s1600/sb7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVp3JrSwmYK0aRJXgCTv_t0QoHG7uoEfcCAZUcyDoBl65Ttgcz0B0iAdbhHvyGlrBxC_fzYSq9B-Dmbyz_OZI8zr6j4tSP0sRTkmazpWyF8mQP2EjeSQ4lalZV0doKEoQCm6JeeR6vu4/s640/sb7.jpg" width="354" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I would love to hear any feedback about this issue from you, the reader and consumer, and please share what plus-size retailer you most appreciate. I have a fondness myself for <a href="http://www.chicos.com/">Chico's</a>, which combines the elements I described above within their wardrobe and styling. </div><br />
Stay Fashionable!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>xx-Christine</em></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-44913707359351166822010-10-26T17:21:00.003-04:002010-10-26T17:24:32.313-04:00You are now entering...The Fashion Zone"Welcome to a world where there are no rules, mind and imagination are completely uninhibited; the fifth element is: fashion."<br />
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Darlings! I've missed you! I've been thinking of fashion ideas, to keep myself and you amused! I have actually come up with an impromptu and small concept of starting a non-profit organization to provide clothes for the homeless in a very unique way. I'm working on it, we shall see what happens! I've also been very busy acquiring excellent classic pieces for my wardrobe, such as a black wool skirt for those cold winter days, some basic graphic tees, and of course, the all purpose, all fabulous, all amazing SPERRY'S! Yes, I finally did manage to get some, and I must say, they are quite amazing; comfort beyond comfort, and quite elite.<br />
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Speaking of the "elite", the newest trend showing up around town seems to be the "minimalist" trend. This is one that I scorned when first viewed at the 2010 NY Fashion Week Collection by BCBG Max Azria. However, I have had a somewhat change of heart; the idea of a clean palette, a new beginning emerges. The solid colors translate strength, unity, and wholeness. This kind of holistic approach to wearing fashion has me feeling the trend's vibe, and the best part is I can use the pieces I already have. But, if you are seeking an excuse for some new purchases, go ahead and explore some of the minimalist fashions over at <a href="http://kennethcole.com/">Kenneth Cole</a>, <a href="http://calvinklein.com/">Calvin Klein</a>, and, of course, <a href="http://bcbg.com/">BCBG Max Azria</a>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCFm1CCuwn3Det1t_wmHdTaxxZGS1kJ8-z16D2K2RDuqbtQBhnYO9bNA8_Za5M-dkh08-KToFov0DJU_KQGsBT6fNKak7-pB17ZaL0cqAnLUXlHDxMEg3yJsNwxEFzrF-sryji7PzpJc/s1600/shoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkCFm1CCuwn3Det1t_wmHdTaxxZGS1kJ8-z16D2K2RDuqbtQBhnYO9bNA8_Za5M-dkh08-KToFov0DJU_KQGsBT6fNKak7-pB17ZaL0cqAnLUXlHDxMEg3yJsNwxEFzrF-sryji7PzpJc/s320/shoe.jpg" width="281" /></a></div><br />
And here's something that I have been wanting to post for a while now: you see these shoes? Well, I have seen these, and ones like them, all over the retail world lately, and for prices anywhere between $500-$1000. I know that most probably don't have that kind of cash to spend, but there is an easy, cheap and crafty solution to this dilemma: make them yourself! It's very easy! All you need is a pair of tweezers, Swarovski Hot Fix Rhinestones (from mjtrim.com) an iron, and some help from an old pair you want to jazz up or a brand spanking new pair you want to class up, the choice (and budget) is yours!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGEdc3DPOkRv2m3nvXQERUFMGVtQgViCXDnPqXdUGvtP3JL8zyAXqP8EZ9CurANp6eFSBud64tf4gGDodHxBmkTs_2MVRvHrV8YI8xiUqitzS01X3Ox_wH8RtPPGH0lzWSux8vVrYv0w/s1600/Casadei-Sequin-and-Patent-Peep_F3343322.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGEdc3DPOkRv2m3nvXQERUFMGVtQgViCXDnPqXdUGvtP3JL8zyAXqP8EZ9CurANp6eFSBud64tf4gGDodHxBmkTs_2MVRvHrV8YI8xiUqitzS01X3Ox_wH8RtPPGH0lzWSux8vVrYv0w/s320/Casadei-Sequin-and-Patent-Peep_F3343322.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Pics from BlueFly.com <br />
1. First, begin by concentrating on the placement of the stones.<br />
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2, Apply Swarovski Rhinestones by using the tweezers to carefully lay the flat side of the gem against the hot iron for approximately three seconds (this is done to warm the glue up) then place the gem in the position you want.<br />
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3. Repeat and wear! Style them however you'd like and wear with pride! You just saved yourself about $500. <br />
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P.S. This idea can also be used for you LBD or LBP (Little Black Purse). Just don't wear all your bejeweled pieces together, Barbie's anniversary was <i>last year</i>.<br />
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Fashionably Yours<i>,</i><br />
<i>xx-Christine</i>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-71049689633783592182010-09-25T13:27:00.000-04:002010-09-25T13:27:35.617-04:00Lights! Camera! Fashion Week!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Hello darlings! I've finally gotten the time to write to you all about Fashion Week's smashing shows and amazing displays of art. Rather than discuss and dissect every single designer, I will go through the one's I most appreciated! I've only managed to get about half-way done (and the designer list just keep growing) so check back for more of Fashion Week reviews (and the other part of the alphabet) later! All pictures, quotes and links can be found at style.com.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I absolutely adored the bold colors of <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-AHERCHCO/">Alexandre Hecrchovitch</a>, whose head-to-toe color-coordinated accessorizing was NOT a faux-pas. I loved his collection! It was inspiring and something that could be a chic Spring, or it could be too over-the-top (though Lady Gaga or Gwen Stefani could sport the look well).</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zXurgHD_Z1GkVg6hTPbuDl6plgM-WgR0wSZ9JJYHpouVylgGO59MS_NdKyCmbX5Q4E7XEiOEJwshFxSiwIYC6fwYQp554G_PhFKtD6PP6T-mL9Z9BxClr7WOsgUC6dX1ZGXuAM1rO-o/s1600/black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zXurgHD_Z1GkVg6hTPbuDl6plgM-WgR0wSZ9JJYHpouVylgGO59MS_NdKyCmbX5Q4E7XEiOEJwshFxSiwIYC6fwYQp554G_PhFKtD6PP6T-mL9Z9BxClr7WOsgUC6dX1ZGXuAM1rO-o/s320/black.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-ALTZRRA/">Altuzarra</a> had interesting cut-outs and patterns, bearing resemblance to a Picasso painting. <br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BMISCHKA/">Badgley Mischka</a> had a very feminine feel, with similar 70's inspired looks and die-cut trims and wide pants. Cher will go crazy for it.<br />
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There was only one look I liked from <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BJOHNSON/">Betsey Johnson</a>, and that's because it made me think of cupcakes :)<br />
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</a><br />
<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BCBG/">BCBG Max Azria</a> was a classic Spring Collection: nudes, sheers and lace. Nothing particularly special, unfortunately, though the author of the article seemed to praise the minimalism, I find that it just shows lack of creativity to produce a more interesting line. The two peices below were the only ones that weren't entirely boring. (If you are really interested in some "minimalism" that doesn't look like a large white t-shirt dress, try viewing the collection of <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-COSTTAG/">Costello Tagliapietra</a>.)<br />
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To me, however, I felt I could get a better quality garment with more versatility, more style, and more interest from <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BNAZSRPR/">Behnaz Sarafpour</a>. Glancing through their slideshow, I could immediately identify pieces I'd rather have, accessorize with, and style rather than BCBG. There is a definite feeling of fresh chicness, a classic and trendy vibe, all at once. It was SoHo meets Beverly Hills.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tX3vns5lmRknlnE3U7T-0P504Dy_UV9CwRmC6JCPxjjA9bJprAERD0uZs5SdSBxGkWRvBtbuS3olQYMWhYVVPPrwOWF-oRM4wIVB1rUnPwGP8uP8Hv55HLQiRmc6owpW6_QpVEupSFg/s1600/bs3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tX3vns5lmRknlnE3U7T-0P504Dy_UV9CwRmC6JCPxjjA9bJprAERD0uZs5SdSBxGkWRvBtbuS3olQYMWhYVVPPrwOWF-oRM4wIVB1rUnPwGP8uP8Hv55HLQiRmc6owpW6_QpVEupSFg/s320/bs3.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>As far as <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-CSIRIANO/">Christian Siriano</a>, I have definitely fallen in love with the exotic looks he always brings to the table, I have always appreciated the designer for the work he did on Project Runway and his obvious sewing talent and imagination. I do also love the looks, and find them wearable and fabulous, especially his white and tan combos. The colors are so classic spring/resort, but with his twist, become new again. I have a fashion crush.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-DIESELBG/">Diesel Black Gold</a> was a rustic, caveman look, a tribal edge this spring. The leather and suede combos were very striking with well defined edges, and the palette of browns and dark colors is unusual for spring. I did love the combination of the hard leather with soft ruffles; that contrast will be a crowd-pleaser. And the embossed, destroyed leather? Be still, my heart!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgujro6vplxsVvsQ5omj_Yz6sVtYNxzU992IcY8wcV-NT2kKd2fgS7o6tX73rmV1MFNSzPHpnS_vFRnG6rT8KtnsJiiu7_jbrZrRSROJZAy37yVcombOblnEnPhR4FGI7QGJwUHQ2W3yk/s1600/disel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgujro6vplxsVvsQ5omj_Yz6sVtYNxzU992IcY8wcV-NT2kKd2fgS7o6tX73rmV1MFNSzPHpnS_vFRnG6rT8KtnsJiiu7_jbrZrRSROJZAy37yVcombOblnEnPhR4FGI7QGJwUHQ2W3yk/s320/disel.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz_w6CKKM5M8SezoKe1qWCPz93nWxBAj0R0Q0eiTRKzikXuGI-IoN4RYoFnSuxoJgu2BunFb1gV4Ebc-bNzVUFm0HPoXVsAzt7LpFf6A1RSSbu9jFWNU3qcyPVqLJf1eYY6fv-rHrDIg/s1600/disel4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz_w6CKKM5M8SezoKe1qWCPz93nWxBAj0R0Q0eiTRKzikXuGI-IoN4RYoFnSuxoJgu2BunFb1gV4Ebc-bNzVUFm0HPoXVsAzt7LpFf6A1RSSbu9jFWNU3qcyPVqLJf1eYY6fv-rHrDIg/s320/disel4.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRZXGBYmHuhwRVy2wajE3OdnJgqjhdyBKQisYg-H9iKqdEDF0dDaVhf1raEnKX5sVUth89Abcb9yCG3NDDOEsAAw6cYK8jVjAViu2w7Gqb3wPr6bqwBs0D3GiDuyjd4hbX3CyPgaqclU/s1600/disel5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibRZXGBYmHuhwRVy2wajE3OdnJgqjhdyBKQisYg-H9iKqdEDF0dDaVhf1raEnKX5sVUth89Abcb9yCG3NDDOEsAAw6cYK8jVjAViu2w7Gqb3wPr6bqwBs0D3GiDuyjd4hbX3CyPgaqclU/s320/disel5.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-DKNY/">DKNY</a>: the show transition was practically flawless. I saw each and every piece transform before my eyes into the next; it was pure magic, experienced only by the viewer themselves. Take a look. The patterns turned to ruffles turned to suits turned to skirts! It was a stunning show, and I must say, I am a big fan of this bright Superman Blue this spring. Absolutely Gorge!<br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-ETAHARI/">Eli Tahari's</a> khaki palette and metallic skirts had me going crazy! I love the cognac color for a pop in a belt, it's been a spring 2011 must-have so far! There was something of Grace Kelly in the air, with the glasses, the black wide-leg pants, sunglasses and hoodie combo was something straight out of <i>High Society</i>. So if you favor modeling a Monacan Princess, <u>do</u> invest in Eli Tahari next season. <br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-EOVERLAND/">Elise Overland</a> had some interesting asymmetrical looks, but I had a feeling I would be spotting some celebrities in these little black numbers sometime soon, the lace and ruffles provide a "modest extreme" for some.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7h2Sswg3BTd3FKcJOeOTFHKjzL9Uatb3_c4fHBbTcQ7Bw2UhS6U7nXi-_1J2oINvmtcMdVe6jFin8IwjGt26Ji1ieh-G7i7bVAEHYAitXodQrlqlVpr1bC0gKDK1pOSHarOXqcQumGQ/s1600/elise+overland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7h2Sswg3BTd3FKcJOeOTFHKjzL9Uatb3_c4fHBbTcQ7Bw2UhS6U7nXi-_1J2oINvmtcMdVe6jFin8IwjGt26Ji1ieh-G7i7bVAEHYAitXodQrlqlVpr1bC0gKDK1pOSHarOXqcQumGQ/s320/elise+overland.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyzVc0zL-AZ9PyWGMchLJe5873WuklmdZLMnk1l8VaSr-5zWfiyp2DroLttTu86xBMUHmNRLhj1BOVnTOtMTNVPleAZJCIPGnhn7ZlmuJ7A5so1YRwVhgQUfDZfgQN8voXUUgW3TY3Gc/s1600/elise+overland2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDyzVc0zL-AZ9PyWGMchLJe5873WuklmdZLMnk1l8VaSr-5zWfiyp2DroLttTu86xBMUHmNRLhj1BOVnTOtMTNVPleAZJCIPGnhn7ZlmuJ7A5so1YRwVhgQUfDZfgQN8voXUUgW3TY3Gc/s320/elise+overland2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-FASHEAST/">Fashion East</a>. I don't know where to begin. The subtle classic, such as a blazer or pants, were paired with extreme touches of ruffles, full-length skirts with tutu's; it was a sight to behold for sure.<br />
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Two words: <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-FFRINGE/">Fashion. Fringe.</a> Oh my. Finally!<br />
There were two reasons I fell in love with this show: 1. FF founder Colin McDowell began a contest to see what up and coming or undiscovered talented designer was capable of representing themselves in a Fashion Show, and gaining exposure. 2. He chose three finalists and showed each collection, rather than just one. I was beyond excited for each of the three collections, each stunning and exciting in it's own personal way. The first collection by Alice Palmer showed the world that you really can use something over and over and over again and still be able to make it different. The same pleated fabric in different style and colors and patterns. It was magnificent. The second collection by Jade Kang was structured, vibrant, and feminine. HE is what fashion week should have been across the board. (I have a new fashion-crush). The final (and "winner" of the contest) went to Corrie Nielson's collection of "Georgian Satires". The pieces were a mockery of French and English aristocrats. Big hair, structured and corseted garments. [To me] It was a snooze compared to the previous designers, not because I can't appreciate the hard work that went into the construction, but because I have seen it somewhere, sometime before by another designer (Vivienne Westwood, anyone? I know copying is the nicest form of flattery, but sheesh!). Oh well, still a very noteworthy and commendable show by Mr. Colin McDowell, a designer who is<i> not</i> all about himself.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05EgRDkoUsdOcyYZybCEURzXuHuUuc6sBDTSczcQ2EGewOlpXih1isZaaOWxpepO_6hYxGXYcq35ucerXlpOYUtMPzbEhCp7dDeg-oP59JPcI0SYoMdkQyTeIK3qWQ8mFDdNc9cphkSc/s1600/ff10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05EgRDkoUsdOcyYZybCEURzXuHuUuc6sBDTSczcQ2EGewOlpXih1isZaaOWxpepO_6hYxGXYcq35ucerXlpOYUtMPzbEhCp7dDeg-oP59JPcI0SYoMdkQyTeIK3qWQ8mFDdNc9cphkSc/s320/ff10.jpg" width="213" /></a></div> <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-FSCOG/">Francesco Scognamiglio</a> was something I've seen before too, think <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2009RTW-VIKROLF">Viktor & Rolf </a>from a<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/F2008RTW-VIKROLF/"> few seasons</a> ago; the sleeves, the ruffles, the sheers, the colors even, were very V&R. But what is old is always new again, so that would be the case with FS. There were some noteworthy pieces, but don't get too excited, it will only show again from some other designer in a few seasons from now.<br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-GUCCI/">Gucci</a> had an amazing show! Something to look at each and every time, a spectacle of the eyes, a feast for the mind, an itch in my wallet to spend on these gorgeous pieces! It seems spring will bring a combination of feathered-textures, metal hardware, and sequins galore! A bit of a dominatrix look for the spring could pose interesting. Somehow, I also see influence from Japan in the designs, anyone else? (You must look at this show yourself darlings, I won't spoil it with pictures!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BVENETA/">Bottega Veneta</a> was what BCBG Max Azria could have been (or has been before?). The lines were tailored, yet drapey, flowing effortlessly from peice to piece. <br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-HALSTON/">Halston</a> was magnificent, everytime I went to the next picture and the next, I found something better. A tropical paradise of tangerine and lemon hues and water-based prints, the collection from Halston this spring is runway, yet wearbale. The draped shoulder/skirt look took me an island where I was forced to construct my clothing with little to no sewing. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyHIkgrgC6awHYk-KfKvoz_VXUoW_A-Z28jbFcRNl9I5_mzDeDwtxf1B8eZH-So2J03uybR_LJ7gIkFGmMkAoSRugnqbvDSaFemkye6NrP9qnckrBsopDR7x4qCYIeZhy7RwVtEcRMo4/s1600/halston10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyHIkgrgC6awHYk-KfKvoz_VXUoW_A-Z28jbFcRNl9I5_mzDeDwtxf1B8eZH-So2J03uybR_LJ7gIkFGmMkAoSRugnqbvDSaFemkye6NrP9qnckrBsopDR7x4qCYIeZhy7RwVtEcRMo4/s320/halston10.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmB3m9ko0NvxStVQZ1lvu1wepkyWSH_Y586VIN8dJIPxHSCIeuqw55_qTqO5-CCWdVTa_C7bIXr4OAgkU04R6bk3xxoIM8RA4hS1nCQUBH8Egf0aGqmDZ3WCU6YeWRg0JLKoLfX3fEHYc/s1600/halston11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmB3m9ko0NvxStVQZ1lvu1wepkyWSH_Y586VIN8dJIPxHSCIeuqw55_qTqO5-CCWdVTa_C7bIXr4OAgkU04R6bk3xxoIM8RA4hS1nCQUBH8Egf0aGqmDZ3WCU6YeWRg0JLKoLfX3fEHYc/s320/halston11.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-ANNASUI/">Anna Sui</a> had a fringe-tastic assortment of Western-Inspired wear, nothing but country patterns, denim, crocheted lace, and boots, a magical arrangement inspired by the movie <em>Days of Heaven. </em>I have not seen this movie, but this spring line is definitely heavenly, and I wholely embrace it. I especially loved the sparkling wheat-field backdrop, and the smiling faces on the girls. They looked apple-pie American and delicious enough to sink my hungry fingers on. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojR6hthx_eIuVMvQiBRJeF6l4cfQ-JPznPB2jBi6e4ooEiOW4Fu37b7pol83v7XE5YZSQzMH7ZackIqealE2jTj-dG-XK9239ZhAX87-fKD9vl3gL-fbcpFcL0AJZJpVDykioR3x7G1s/s1600/annasui.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojR6hthx_eIuVMvQiBRJeF6l4cfQ-JPznPB2jBi6e4ooEiOW4Fu37b7pol83v7XE5YZSQzMH7ZackIqealE2jTj-dG-XK9239ZhAX87-fKD9vl3gL-fbcpFcL0AJZJpVDykioR3x7G1s/s320/annasui.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-DHANNANT/">Douglas Hannant</a> was a delightful surprise, combinging structured organzas and crinolins with chantilly lace and pastels, a combination and palette the designer proclaims was similiar to "a bag of jelly beans dumped on a white tablecloth." I see cupcakes more, but potato, potato. </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRi0mMVJ6t2-qXRA2iO3eEOKEEpgWRFgLPIu-7YVTWVHPIdvqxT-vMxAjJu75jjepaDO97_xmNppgAUYL-Gz4c-RVMnOlgFR3oMK8Gh9z0cMHdGZLkjea3Rmiyz_nKRbq_AlfUaWR59q8/s1600/hf6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRi0mMVJ6t2-qXRA2iO3eEOKEEpgWRFgLPIu-7YVTWVHPIdvqxT-vMxAjJu75jjepaDO97_xmNppgAUYL-Gz4c-RVMnOlgFR3oMK8Gh9z0cMHdGZLkjea3Rmiyz_nKRbq_AlfUaWR59q8/s320/hf6.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>And a few honorable mentions: (so far, my favorite and most exciting has been Jeremy Scott)<br />
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<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BASSOB/">Basso & Brooke</a> has an interesting representation of patterns and colors. <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-DG/">D&G</a> had a retro display of gingham checks and floral prints for the new season. <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-BURBERRY/">Burberry Prorsum</a> was all about neon accent colors. <br />
<a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-DVFURSTE/">Diane Von Furstenburg </a>had some very sailing-savy looks, a polished-patterned trend I could see catching on with a wide variety of age groups.And there was something of McQueen in the air at the <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-JSCOTT/">Jeremy Scott</a> show, perhaps even more Andy Warhol, a statement of the times and places we are in right now.<br />
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Come back for more soon, darlings, I promise! Ciao for now!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em>xx-Christine</em></div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-14812556966999017282010-09-16T08:32:00.002-04:002010-09-16T08:55:25.254-04:00Fashion's Night Out! FNO Tank Contest! And Fall Fashion Week Updates!Hello darlings! First off, I would like to thank everyone that entered the FNO Tank Contest! The winner was randomly selected from a hat with everyone's name on it. Congratulations to the winner, Ashley Vasquez from Washington State University (I am waiting for her to give me permission to post her winning picture, that's why the post is kinda late). Congratulations again, Ashely, and thank you to everyone who entered, followed, or "Liked" The Fashion Monocle on Facebook! (If you didn't "like" it, you have a chance to now!:<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fthefashionmonocle.blogspot.com%2F&layout=button_count&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&font=tahoma&colorscheme=light&height=21" style="border: medium none; height: 21px; overflow: hidden; width: 450px;"></iframe><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>And on to Fashion Week! First of all, I hope everyone had a spectacular Fashion's Night Out, or were at least fortunate enough to catch the Vogue Presentation of FNO last night on CBS. (If not, <a href="http://www.cbs.com/specials/fashions_night_out/video/?pid=wEj5_4jTDEsHyuYu2R_dMzvRAaJfwFEm">follow this link</a>, even if you did attend FNO!) The actual night was exhilarating: impromptu fashion shows, models, half-naked women and men walking around, and, of course, free food, fun and goodies were all apart of the magic of FNO. As previously stated, I ventured to Aventura Mall in Aventura, Florida, just north of Miami. I attended with my mom and sister, and our first stop of the night was (inadvertinely) Kenneth Cole. I passed by the store and saw they were selling FNO Gear, so I stocked up on one for my winner and me! Kenneth Cole was offering a free tote with every purchase,<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnW29k79STPcf4-sVibZHkwIGcllOuwcEUME6PnoVkcEyCZhyOVMQOa9utf1-ZmimgUELik_ylFuczVS7BWD6Nw64lIb5Ubv6Ryd1r5Cy9wqhEArLKuyR1V3iaGzG-AYVk5iIbVlz68k/s1600/tote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVnW29k79STPcf4-sVibZHkwIGcllOuwcEUME6PnoVkcEyCZhyOVMQOa9utf1-ZmimgUELik_ylFuczVS7BWD6Nw64lIb5Ubv6Ryd1r5Cy9wqhEArLKuyR1V3iaGzG-AYVk5iIbVlz68k/s320/tote.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxvEV57qF8_p29CrjY0Eqb1j6nCK8wJtKkC-jXPNnTK9VIVYcwtugp_9mbQl5gCrd7ViFK8liXkJjyHLHyFLTvBR2jB1YsRlqm-MSnGDHeKAVbVhZSRXXZCvjuZ1SaGptILKyzNutMps/s1600/blog+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSxvEV57qF8_p29CrjY0Eqb1j6nCK8wJtKkC-jXPNnTK9VIVYcwtugp_9mbQl5gCrd7ViFK8liXkJjyHLHyFLTvBR2jB1YsRlqm-MSnGDHeKAVbVhZSRXXZCvjuZ1SaGptILKyzNutMps/s320/blog+1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
and had wine and cheese to sample, as well as a photo op with your favorite Kenneth Cole saying. I posed with one that read "Still Undiscovered."<br />
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All too-true is that saying and I only hope my desperate plea catches the eye of some Kenneth Cole Rep one day! My sister also snagged a great deal on a red trench while there, a must-have color of the season. After getting a great coupon package from Kenneth Cole to save on future purchases, the night continued on with a <a href="http://www.williamrast.com/">William Rast</a> Fashion Show on the ground floor of the mall. Described by Justin Timberlake as a little bit of country with rock and roll, and ultimately "ideal clothing for the Rat Pack should they be around today", the clothes had a very "New America" about them, think Tommy Hilfiger of today. Truly an underestimated line. Another stop for the night was Nordstrom, who, to my knowledge, was not having any particular thing going on for the night. But to my surprise as I entered the building, a gentleman announced that Steve Madden was on the second floor in the shoe department. I thought I heard him correctly, but I asked him <i>"The Steve Madden?"</i> Yes came the reply, and downstairs I fled to see the twisted line running through t-stands and clothes like a wild fashion snake of people ready and waiting to see Steve. I beheld first the sight of Steve Madden, then I took to gawking at shoes a-plenty flying past me on silver trays, being served and suggested from customer to customer by helpful Nordstrom Employees. My eyes darted from tray to tray, when I spotted a pair of multi-colored glitter dreams, these <a href="http://www.stevemadden.com/item.aspx?id=52002&path=%7Cwomens%20shoes%7Cglitter%7C">Steve Madden Snobbie's</a>. What do you think of them? Too Millennium for you?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilos1fqoI0Bk6BHbfYdGtGruKvBbr6n-JLEr_29Wkb3srBSVKfYPgkyNxwVy1gsz2EjMRRbl53UWXy_OUQ7NUyhqjxNr8PaP19B1LP1zYJ2_luYLup2c-EubcE7MYVTMNnpl5sfIQckj8/s1600/sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilos1fqoI0Bk6BHbfYdGtGruKvBbr6n-JLEr_29Wkb3srBSVKfYPgkyNxwVy1gsz2EjMRRbl53UWXy_OUQ7NUyhqjxNr8PaP19B1LP1zYJ2_luYLup2c-EubcE7MYVTMNnpl5sfIQckj8/s320/sm.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Picture from SteveMadden.com<br />
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Now, as I approached the line to get in it as I was eager to make this very famous, very popular designer's acquaintance, snap a few pics, and have him sign an autograph, I was told by Steve Madden's "People" that I was not allowed in line, as they had initiated a limit on the amount of people he would see. I was heartbroken, and very upset. But my fashionable mood prevailed, and I still snapped a pic of him, below :) haha!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPS0cw-XnQa8y4qz3qGF_o6D9J8LbfwVuCe1ndAe3Ad6DP_10ZOj3nDce5JJYcTRZkrnnImbJksYsOm991-NTA3htqeDis0hMif63Ccp648shk8gfEmrdzn50RuYLMH2yyo_rCHEv_N3Q/s1600/DSCF0269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPS0cw-XnQa8y4qz3qGF_o6D9J8LbfwVuCe1ndAe3Ad6DP_10ZOj3nDce5JJYcTRZkrnnImbJksYsOm991-NTA3htqeDis0hMif63Ccp648shk8gfEmrdzn50RuYLMH2yyo_rCHEv_N3Q/s320/DSCF0269.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Well, after I left Nordstrom, I wandered over to Intimissy, a bra store, where my mom made some very cute purchases. They had a delightful G.W.P., which was a commemorative bra necklace to celebrate the 100th year of the bra. I always wanted a bra charm!<br />
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And so, at the end of my shopping adventure, I made my way to J.Crew, just to check out the deals. And since I work for J.Crew, I get a pretty sweet discount. So I check out some items and manage to find two pretty cute tops for only twenty bucks total. Like taking candy from a baby!<br />
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Speaking of candy, that was my last purchase of the night: stopping in at the candy store in the mall made my Florida adventure seem a little more New York, remembering Dylan's Candy Bar. It wasn't the same, but a close second. Now, that is all I have time for today, but I have much more to discuss later (like, duh, FASHION WEEK!)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>What are your thoughts or opinions on Fashion Week? What did you do for Fashion's Night Out??</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">xx-Christine</div>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-6913482705904409732010-09-09T14:47:00.002-04:002010-09-09T16:04:54.392-04:00Countdown to FNO; Shows, Sites, and Steals!The day before the night everyone is talking about: Fashion's Night Out is set to take the stage tomorrow night; have you made your plans yet? You still have time to create your itineraries on <a href="http://www.fashionsnightout.com/">FashionsNightOut.com</a> or search your local malls and events. <br />
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You also still have time to enter <i>The Fashion Monocle Exclusive FNO Tank Contest</i>! Here are the three easy steps you need to take to enter:<br />
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1. Grab a camera (and a friend)<br />
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2. Take a photo of you in your best runway model pose.<br />
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3. Email it to fashionmonocle@gmail.com<br />
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<b>That's it! If you want EXTRA, NO HASSLE ENTRIES:</b><br />
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1. "Like" The Fashion Monocle on Facebook.com.<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" src="http://www.facebook.com/plugins/like.php?href=http%3A%2F%2Fthefashionmonocle.blogspot.com%2F&layout=button_count&show_faces=true&width=450&action=like&font=tahoma&colorscheme=light&height=21" style="border: medium none; height: 21px; overflow: hidden; width: 450px;"></iframe><br />
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2. "Follow" <i>The Fashion Monocle</i> using Google. This will count for TWO ENTRIES!<br />
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It's as easy as that! Now! On to the shows!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>So far, the fashions of Fall Fashion Week have been structured and polished, a throwback to the 50's fashions. <a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-SACHINBABI">Sachin + Babi</a> were all about the bohemian, fringe, leather, open lace, and small, whispy prints at every turn.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011RTW-WILLOW">Willow</a> had a grunge-esque feel about it, with a natural vibe. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW60qihAp6Vmv6Lz2sbGjSPvUlPBXuMVFURF4jjQZw0pKTubJtWDhFO_aVhEeOyCjrD6qiuaz_POoamD1VGjJKdRPjxxDnD5L7oM6MIm1S-suqmuBwcUkJc0llyr12mQV90AYCZ7kBbA/s1600/willow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZW60qihAp6Vmv6Lz2sbGjSPvUlPBXuMVFURF4jjQZw0pKTubJtWDhFO_aVhEeOyCjrD6qiuaz_POoamD1VGjJKdRPjxxDnD5L7oM6MIm1S-suqmuBwcUkJc0llyr12mQV90AYCZ7kBbA/s400/willow.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
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There will definitely be more reviews of fashion shows coming, but next up would be a sight that I stumbled up on today (but will never forget again). Have you ever heard of <a href="http://fashiongonerogue.com/">Fashion Tale Magazine</a>? I had not (to my great regret and complete faux pas) and stumbled upon it while finding inspiration at <a href="http://fashiongonerogue.com/">Fashion Gone Rogue</a>, a fabulous site to find inspiration, trends, and gorgeous girls. Not only is Fashion Tale's Exclusive online magazine and website fabulous to read and discover page by page, but so is the option to create your own magazine! If you've ever had the desire to have your own images, thoughts, and ideas in a magazine, this is certainly the site for you. (and me!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5Pc7DY1Pqw5zUpxb1meJebGGhFv6xdBcmCLq7Jdmlg0L8vvTSJd16DX6U40qdVaataEGQ2b5EOiMo7TYSwvPLTjyPpXdIA8nC_zqwHRflOy0hQpqTq2Ihe0pMG7UBVI9BlKYX1GxYss/s1600/fashion+tale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn5Pc7DY1Pqw5zUpxb1meJebGGhFv6xdBcmCLq7Jdmlg0L8vvTSJd16DX6U40qdVaataEGQ2b5EOiMo7TYSwvPLTjyPpXdIA8nC_zqwHRflOy0hQpqTq2Ihe0pMG7UBVI9BlKYX1GxYss/s640/fashion+tale.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Another site I fell in love with today was <a href="http://chic.tv/">chic.tv</a>, and the video on the opening page. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P4qMNs2W-Y">Watch this clip</a> of the movie via YouTube, but please visit chic.tv to watch the full version (it's only twenty minutes long). The most fabulous part of this wedding in particular? Besides her wedding taking place in a French Chateau, the dress was designed by Zac Posen (one of my favorite designers). Watch it, it's definitely worth it! You can also follow Coco Rocha and her blog <a href="http://ohsococo.blogspot.com/">here</a>.<br />
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As far as steals go for the day, I have found one in particular that is just in time for fall (and corresponds to my previous post: <a href="http://thefashionmonocle.blogspot.com/2010/09/falling-for-fashion-fall-trends.html">Falling for Fashion: Fall Trends</a> the camel-colored Nine West cross body!) A similar style posted within that article from Amazon.com by <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nine-West-Small-Cross-Body-Cigar/dp/B0039PT7L6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1283433461&sr=1-3">Nine West</a> is nice and well worth the price, but I have found one at my local Ross store for a mere $14.99, Nine West as well, and 100% leather. Below is a picture of the steal, and personally, I like the one from Ross much better! <br />
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That's all for now darlings! Get excited for tomorrow! I'll be channeling Carrie Bradshaw for my outfit, wear something to-die! Happy Fashion Week!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">xx-Christine</div><br />
32E6UQ5F9NWZChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-66830820697680903652010-09-07T22:51:00.007-04:002010-09-08T02:24:15.341-04:00Fashion's Night Out! FNO Tank Give-Away!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://images.freshnessmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/fashions_night_out_2010_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 278px;" src="http://images.freshnessmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/fashions_night_out_2010_1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>For all you fashionable darlings who are scratching your heads trying to figure out how to celebrate Fall Fashion Week can search out the events in your area at The <a href="http://www.fashionsnightout.com/night-out.">Fashion's Night Out Events Website</a>. There, a list of all of the fabulous design stars, including Jenna Lyons of J.Crew, gifts with purchase at most stores, performances from bands, discounts, in-store makeovers, and free give-aways are detailed and can be added to an itinerary. Manolo Blahnik promises "special appearances", as does Madewell, and I'm crossing my fingers for an SJP and Katie Holmes sighting. Can't make it to the Big Apple in time? (Neither can I, don't be discouraged) Check out the local events listed under the <a href="http://www.fashionsnightout.com/fno-elsewhere/">FNO Elsewear Tab</a>. In Florida, Aventura Mall or The Shoppes at Bal Harbour will be the most fashionable venues for the evening, with extended mall hours and special sales. Miami Design District is also hosting an all-out event, details at the site <a href="http://www.hauteliving.com/2010/08/fashion%E2%80%99s-night-out-2010-outfits-miami%E2%80%99s-design-district/">here</a>. Check the listing for your area, don't miss this once-a-year event! If you still can't make it, make it a GNI (Girls Night In) by supporting the cause by purchasing the FNO Official T-Shirts where forty percent of the proceeds benefit the The New York City AIDS Fund in The New York Community Trust. Then, grab a bottle of wine, your favorite girlfriends, and your computer and go to <a href="http://www.cbs.com/specials/fashions_night_out/">CBS.com</a> and catch up on all things fashion as the fabulous Vogue Contributing Editor Andre Leon Tally shows Erica Hill the best places to shop, the latest fashions, and his personal favorites. <br /><br />To help support the cause even further (and add a little fun to your night) grab a camera and snap your best catwalk move and send it to me at fashionmonocle@gmail.com for a <span style="font-weight:bold;">chance to win the FNO Tank Top</span>! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.tracyreese.com/images/Product/medium/558.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 400px;" src="http://www.tracyreese.com/images/Product/medium/558.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>"Like" <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Fashion-Monocle/145731645465570?created">The Fashion Monocle</a> on Facebook.com for an extra entry! <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Follow" <span style="font-style:italic;">The Fashion Monocle</span> for TWO EXTRA entries!</span> No entries accepted past September 13, 2010, winner announced September 14, 2010! <span style="font-weight:bold;">Help support the NYC AIDS Fund!</span> <br /><br />If you want a unique spin on the shirt, check out QVC's exclusive option<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ysTBN6_l-JB_UDx3ehlf9OJbQk0H90kPQsQwiVjg3qlsP5PHjChOL7WZRsR7kHwtJyk_M_NXND13nAlkd0cjnNJvcE4-wfCKKh4r8ogDqONyPbmcwIRzGKM_Oc0Wt_Qp-1CAvdWBLY8/s1600/fno-qvc-shirt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 316px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ysTBN6_l-JB_UDx3ehlf9OJbQk0H90kPQsQwiVjg3qlsP5PHjChOL7WZRsR7kHwtJyk_M_NXND13nAlkd0cjnNJvcE4-wfCKKh4r8ogDqONyPbmcwIRzGKM_Oc0Wt_Qp-1CAvdWBLY8/s400/fno-qvc-shirt.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514394064048877714" /></a>Red is definitely in this season!<br />Check Facebook for FNO events in your area and join the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-York-NY/Fashions-Night-Out/79996199375?v=app_7146470109&ref=ts#!/pages/New-York-NY/Fashions-Night-Out/79996199375">FNO Facebook</a> page for more information!<br /><br />Read more about FNO from the LA Times and the fabulous 150-model fashion show <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2010/09/short-and-sweet-fashions-night-out-the-show-the-largest-public-fashion-show-in-new-york-city-history-had-all-the-ex.html">here</a>! <br /><br />Pictures from QVC.com and fashionsnightout.comChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-91046136614255669092010-09-07T16:44:00.001-04:002010-09-09T09:47:25.036-04:00Follow Me with Bloglovin!<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/1974060/the-fashion-monocle?claim=zfz4wxg3zg3">Follow my blog with bloglovin!</a>Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-77158344437864807792010-09-02T10:19:00.011-04:002010-09-02T11:16:19.301-04:00Falling for Fashion: Fall TrendsAs I sit here, listening to my David Bowie in the early morning, I have nothing but fashion on my mind. Boots, boat shoes, and yellow pumps are just some of my latest lusts for this season. And since I have managed to scoop up every September issue of magazines, the trends have inspired me to seek out some exciting future purchases. <br /><br />For my latest obsession on boots, I hit up my favorite shoe sites, including <a href="http://www.dsw.com/">DSW.com</a>, and <a href="http://www.aldoshoes.com/">Aldoshoes.com</a>, and while their selection was more than enough of a feast for the eyes, I still wasn't seeing exactly what I was looking for. I then somehow got led to <a href="http://www.target.com/Womens-Shoes/b/ref=nav_t_spc_5_9/192-4580572-5149108?ie=UTF8&node=1041816">Target.com</a>, where my boot craving was more than satisfied. The plethora of boots, from ankles to knee-highs and even a cute pair of Welley's had my fingers itching to click "buy." <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUh_hQID4uC0rXln8ol1Mo-JEyYuhTLUV5lRpc9JRBYUJmd5Pk2_Ao1XhcSoE-pxKlz51KorS-8sV3E0kFjpBwzjcGDuujPIY4BRklsT6E0xSNJ-UiaeIGmrhfsp82q0F1aGPlqP6DxI/s1600/boots5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYUh_hQID4uC0rXln8ol1Mo-JEyYuhTLUV5lRpc9JRBYUJmd5Pk2_Ao1XhcSoE-pxKlz51KorS-8sV3E0kFjpBwzjcGDuujPIY4BRklsT6E0xSNJ-UiaeIGmrhfsp82q0F1aGPlqP6DxI/s400/boots5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326730638140610" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA3hAGX1O1Ss-g9MzKyGkyB5iyR64kbaAYTamXGM7NJI9xMBomGD6jCi6JjKfW_NpIKqrGBKQkXvLm5XnJV_tfiBHtJ3lsQ6cLxhsLQeTF4IAOFO9zfEkweZTJ-yvU0DqMSQ7CGPN-Zc/s1600/boots8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 362px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA3hAGX1O1Ss-g9MzKyGkyB5iyR64kbaAYTamXGM7NJI9xMBomGD6jCi6JjKfW_NpIKqrGBKQkXvLm5XnJV_tfiBHtJ3lsQ6cLxhsLQeTF4IAOFO9zfEkweZTJ-yvU0DqMSQ7CGPN-Zc/s400/boots8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326725211594290" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJM-lDRksnbbl6-Xs-GlibfsGOjKBQdqQwcIfawy4-gbA8-gq6oEZU61XD_3R_Aj7oq80D1W6-vdyFJRDTw0b6y4oM_lKHP_EuzCzKTExnGQaoLwdLahlOtYodrdySw6kQnFVD0VeRfQ/s1600/boots7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 398px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJM-lDRksnbbl6-Xs-GlibfsGOjKBQdqQwcIfawy4-gbA8-gq6oEZU61XD_3R_Aj7oq80D1W6-vdyFJRDTw0b6y4oM_lKHP_EuzCzKTExnGQaoLwdLahlOtYodrdySw6kQnFVD0VeRfQ/s400/boots7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326719678828258" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdbAFdYUfD_LPU9PJRYEpEUVSpjnNspxpm3zRJGPF_cEzOz92c-hDKDxWj-Vy3QbjHSRwuyBMOswdM_W5wWa8dKcC_1ONS57vfNbu8O4aFh6juLrLyEqlgRTmmckbrFQ4qa4bOFzUxtI/s1600/boots6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 367px; height: 395px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkdbAFdYUfD_LPU9PJRYEpEUVSpjnNspxpm3zRJGPF_cEzOz92c-hDKDxWj-Vy3QbjHSRwuyBMOswdM_W5wWa8dKcC_1ONS57vfNbu8O4aFh6juLrLyEqlgRTmmckbrFQ4qa4bOFzUxtI/s400/boots6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326325047990658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhc1jrOyQjWID4G-Bcx8pG23Thjewgfl710tdg3xNVuA4zKczu0kRcO497w7rtr3GKfB2vsgHjb-p9wHg2GBXQJi3avFHdyrBKzmj4eEQXiXxZD3x8kogB3lblzm98vKzy6n3ZdCJPcw/s1600/boots4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 303px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhc1jrOyQjWID4G-Bcx8pG23Thjewgfl710tdg3xNVuA4zKczu0kRcO497w7rtr3GKfB2vsgHjb-p9wHg2GBXQJi3avFHdyrBKzmj4eEQXiXxZD3x8kogB3lblzm98vKzy6n3ZdCJPcw/s400/boots4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326319810950082" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4YUgNXWDLE_hR7948ULUe6zSv_B3_clEuj5-aPZDmq9z33albN6PwsulxNS9BAiNvTw0tIXOsvj30bNAenMmerFyArqrWyNTh6fqL8wWIjBMJfYEqK2KE0SInihyphenhypheneobdo59rEwQrlVw/s1600/boots3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 369px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4YUgNXWDLE_hR7948ULUe6zSv_B3_clEuj5-aPZDmq9z33albN6PwsulxNS9BAiNvTw0tIXOsvj30bNAenMmerFyArqrWyNTh6fqL8wWIjBMJfYEqK2KE0SInihyphenhypheneobdo59rEwQrlVw/s400/boots3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326315532381842" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8UFYHplXRMMS5BuAeA2uSxT8R6GGq9dqLGgDmad6jL_FFtT7zUpjbq9YEuci-q_NExXwmL6L7ENs7NkzgsB1KvNNcehzQH4noVFCg6aoiLGnWbAnahbJeuquOf40W5Cilav5QT1nC78/s1600/boots2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 398px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8UFYHplXRMMS5BuAeA2uSxT8R6GGq9dqLGgDmad6jL_FFtT7zUpjbq9YEuci-q_NExXwmL6L7ENs7NkzgsB1KvNNcehzQH4noVFCg6aoiLGnWbAnahbJeuquOf40W5Cilav5QT1nC78/s400/boots2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326310014728066" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8HhVDAHy76vGo0f3KwECGVoubpmMt_8efIwbCw9ANiLYwkXLxH2rmUqh_PE61CfwfzE3YXawa8SPehIQolbMi1jFWsJrtHBhoL5rPxffRgYMsVL8iRhoR-GVBnxA4Xh3pKJbC-_CDZQ/s1600/boots1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 302px; height: 378px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8HhVDAHy76vGo0f3KwECGVoubpmMt_8efIwbCw9ANiLYwkXLxH2rmUqh_PE61CfwfzE3YXawa8SPehIQolbMi1jFWsJrtHBhoL5rPxffRgYMsVL8iRhoR-GVBnxA4Xh3pKJbC-_CDZQ/s400/boots1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512326303317882514" /></a><br />Speaking of itches, my second love and lust has been for boat shoes, which of course Sperry has managed to successfully provide, as well as this little number from Amazon, available in both pink and blue. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdfu1zIyLo3uwyLjeh0pzgShyg-em-ye-TCxUrWofLXeJkdkx5eX0wZME7NafFP6PwuHcUnVMjH-b-Wr9llnrYsnd-5fFfZB5BGUgGwFajoy2BQLj7FTBkVwTrGo0tsX4TED_3N_pBNmw/s1600/sperrys.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdfu1zIyLo3uwyLjeh0pzgShyg-em-ye-TCxUrWofLXeJkdkx5eX0wZME7NafFP6PwuHcUnVMjH-b-Wr9llnrYsnd-5fFfZB5BGUgGwFajoy2BQLj7FTBkVwTrGo0tsX4TED_3N_pBNmw/s400/sperrys.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512328403655499954" /></a><br />My lust goes further with shoes, to desire a pair of yellow pumps, sure to stun and excite every outfit I can imagine in my wardrobe. I have found a gorgeous pair from Christian Louboutin, but they aren't "quite" what I was looking for. Something with more height, more yellow. The search continues. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWalAGvILlzBTDw7pYSKKWWOA2ei3ulBkbHk3D2UvpKYjVb-KhG00S70d8dVnTCiUPsXvBa1JtQG9FxzKLg5GjLNT75b67Sl0LaJzRw7XkqP86-01tAO6YADqI18Ysa4m9mWCpPI-4QkU/s1600/yellow+pumps.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 369px; height: 395px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWalAGvILlzBTDw7pYSKKWWOA2ei3ulBkbHk3D2UvpKYjVb-KhG00S70d8dVnTCiUPsXvBa1JtQG9FxzKLg5GjLNT75b67Sl0LaJzRw7XkqP86-01tAO6YADqI18Ysa4m9mWCpPI-4QkU/s400/yellow+pumps.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512328579532562146" /></a><br /><br />And to continue on in the whole yellow obsession phase, I have been craving a yellow and black plaid shirt, similar to the one seen at Target, but think slightly bigger, more boyfriend-fitted. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FABbDLSEpQrAv_hCQzSDfzJQLO7ZCdmuoEDJG2NXKlaUJPbVHyTfhJRp85vzgx9UCFPmDDtaSBCDYaw-H4x4qgmuRJu_fhgS3Z8b-n-Ow6BeJDj6OdlbZo-ArBSa-JNhyLusz46XNGw/s1600/plaid.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 386px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FABbDLSEpQrAv_hCQzSDfzJQLO7ZCdmuoEDJG2NXKlaUJPbVHyTfhJRp85vzgx9UCFPmDDtaSBCDYaw-H4x4qgmuRJu_fhgS3Z8b-n-Ow6BeJDj6OdlbZo-ArBSa-JNhyLusz46XNGw/s400/plaid.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512328870488516338" /></a><br />Black and yellow also makes a come-back in my bathing suit style with this little reversible number, once again seen at Target. Add a yellow scarf and you can complete my yellow-lust phase for this fall.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hlohN7Sze_itiSdalnVfh4KV2yHMxBqPk5D4Q5zCF2tj4oyV-P3CC_UQw-3LqsfKFw6UeoUhGoulfrC0L-akijLciPLbhXbJr13Uzk3m5myCjHohAwqKZ9RTcKGrKKjbWj8qIvX5an4/s1600/bathing+suit.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 344px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2hlohN7Sze_itiSdalnVfh4KV2yHMxBqPk5D4Q5zCF2tj4oyV-P3CC_UQw-3LqsfKFw6UeoUhGoulfrC0L-akijLciPLbhXbJr13Uzk3m5myCjHohAwqKZ9RTcKGrKKjbWj8qIvX5an4/s400/bathing+suit.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512328740280276146" /></a><br />The trend this fall, seen cover to cover in all September issues this month, has been for camel-colored items. It looks fantastic in a trench, amazing in a skirt, but mostly, I adore it in a messenger bag. Glamour magazine this month highlighted "The New Messenger Bag", particularly in the gorgeous camel color, whose history with women has stemmed back from the days of WWII and woman's military uniforms. I have found a similar style in the Etsy seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/chicleather">Chicleather's</a> purse seen <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54440859/handcrafted-artisan-genuine-leather-tote?ref=v1_other_2">here</a>. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.168904417.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 507px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.168904417.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The color and style is perfect, exactly what I had in mind. If you don't want all the size, another great option from Amazon includes <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nine-West-Small-Cross-Body-Cigar/dp/B0039PT7L6/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=apparel&qlEnable=1&qid=1283433461&sr=1-3">this small Nine West Bag</a>. The price is very right for this one, and is a great accessory to travel.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51EBIZw8P5L._AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51EBIZw8P5L._AA300_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> <br /><br />As far as fall beauty goes, orange lips, purple shadows, and teased poufs were a smash on runways and beauty books. Try them if you dare.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/150/redorange.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 630px; height: 800px;" src="http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/150/redorange.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> from mariankihogo.com<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.onsugar.com/files/2010/07/27/1/498/4981324/628e735e04b8c4ff_20100702_ad_560x408.preview.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 550px; height: 401px;" src="http://media.onsugar.com/files/2010/07/27/1/498/4981324/628e735e04b8c4ff_20100702_ad_560x408.preview.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a> from media.onsugar.com<br /><br />Also seen on the trend's list for fall (and runways world-wide) were cut-off jean shorts, a back-to-school must and all around essential. Not only are runways sporting the look, but so were readers pictured in Marie Clare, In-Style, and Glamour to name a few. The great thing about this trend is that you can experiment in so many ways. Take a pair of old jeans or hit up your local GoodWill and find a pair you can't resist (the worn-in look was most popular). Be open to patches, stitching, or colors that can make your pair unique. If you can't find the right shade, try bleach or cloth dye (found at your local craft store). Then, grab some scissors and get cutting! The length is all up to you, so whatever is most comfortable is the most fashionable. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.denimblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/the-boyfriend-cut-off-shorts-in-distressed-by-denim-of-virtue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 365px; height: 485px;" src="http://www.denimblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/the-boyfriend-cut-off-shorts-in-distressed-by-denim-of-virtue.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>from www.couturecandy.com<br /><br />My fashion forecast for spring: jewel-encrusted chain purses. Small, in particular. Keep a fashionable eye out. I'll leave you darlings with a smart and savvy quote from Tim Gunn from this month's Marie Clare: "[On wearing business attire] You're navigating a world where you need to have your wits about you. If you're in a lackadaisical comfort haze, you can't be engaged in the world the way you need to be."Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-82218937773304354112010-08-12T13:19:00.011-04:002010-08-15T15:02:38.325-04:00I Want Candy(colored-fashion)!!Hello Fashion Darlings! I have been very occupied lately with enjoying some good old-fashioned summer fun and laziness. But as back-to-school items hit stores, I can't help feel like getting more organized and buying a work-box and some new markers and planners. It's a fresh start, and a new beginning. <br /><br />Speaking of new things, my newest phase of design has been very strictly 80's 90's. I haven't gone head-to-toe denim yet, but I've tried almost every other 80's/90's trend, such as neon colors, asymmetry, and big hair. To help me with my 80's/90's kick, I've enlisted the help of new line called "Material Girl" by Lourdes, the daughter of the famous Material Girl herself, Madonna. The new line, out exclusively at Macy's stores since August 3, is a combination of zippers, lace, and floral prints on leather jackets, skirts, and leggings. My favorite piece was the blue neon skirt (which I have found goes with just about everything in my closet; blue is definitely the new black). And the fun plaid blazer, tho my own modification to that would be a reversible jacket, plaid and black. Add a pair of heart-embroidered stockings, a cute flower headband, some Marc-Jacobs/Maripol earrings and you have yourself an 80's flashback. <br /><br />Bandeau tops from Material Girl line; (photo from Macys.com) <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3ueXHm92qBWkS9hRVClPA9mvQT0GY3TjCa0r9pwBfU8t-6f6_skWPvIIof3U5XYCyP7WHcLt_aCQV3RHKLUe59CLEt_6v8FRH0rRczg9_DnDnRKxEw3WGnY9nub-JcEzF7MV2dqL5Cs/s1600/bandeau+top.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 318px; height: 386px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO3ueXHm92qBWkS9hRVClPA9mvQT0GY3TjCa0r9pwBfU8t-6f6_skWPvIIof3U5XYCyP7WHcLt_aCQV3RHKLUe59CLEt_6v8FRH0rRczg9_DnDnRKxEw3WGnY9nub-JcEzF7MV2dqL5Cs/s400/bandeau+top.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504969104305234082" /></a><br />Heart Sunglasses from UrbanOutfitters.com<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hKQwcqaLxkX0_prA8oLlZNVmq6SxPxHN0yZYQ_fOWhu6H4h_7jcuOnDCKu2DqKLl3hcU0VqQfr8BmVOgnqsWqC5V_UPJkHijiT9yY-6MIi6nGwONmdK5EPQhAxuY3btPCBmyUEKHZvA/s1600/haert+sunglasses.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 311px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5hKQwcqaLxkX0_prA8oLlZNVmq6SxPxHN0yZYQ_fOWhu6H4h_7jcuOnDCKu2DqKLl3hcU0VqQfr8BmVOgnqsWqC5V_UPJkHijiT9yY-6MIi6nGwONmdK5EPQhAxuY3btPCBmyUEKHZvA/s400/haert+sunglasses.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504988045957969154" /></a><br />As far as accessories go, 80's and 90's were defined by some of the greatest time pieces of our day: Swatches. <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/retro-swatch-watches">This article</a> explains and shows better than I could the best of the 80's-90's Swatch. And for a modern look (think Millennium meets 90's) try on a stylish new piece from Dylan's Candy Bar, the "Plastichic" watch. It comes in 19 different fun colors, (candy inspired, I'm sure) and are one of my personal latest and greatest obsessions. (photo from Facebook group:http://www.facebook.com/#!/DylansCandy<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0B05dfOhkdpxiQR9zZ7TrsIGpu-KLpW7r9JCYIe_dHrbe0iPW0AfzWB3batE3Mt2rHyy3mXZhlKNjrYhDEqloUacwFpneIsvRus0JWjp_NAhAeHs8ybSDlCKijgPYVVCYyzmZ1-nvRc/s1600/Watches.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 261px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0B05dfOhkdpxiQR9zZ7TrsIGpu-KLpW7r9JCYIe_dHrbe0iPW0AfzWB3batE3Mt2rHyy3mXZhlKNjrYhDEqloUacwFpneIsvRus0JWjp_NAhAeHs8ybSDlCKijgPYVVCYyzmZ1-nvRc/s400/Watches.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504969246380387730" /></a><br /><br />On a more couture note, I have been obsessed with the latest line put out by <a href="http://www.sjk.com/en-us/">St. John. </a>Take a look at their Fall 2010 <a href="http://apps.sjk.com/eblasts/fall2010lookbook/index.html?utm_source=sjkHP&utm_medium=banner&utm_term=promo1&utm_content=lookbook&utm_campaign=08062010">lookbook</a>. The pictures, the models: they are all stunning, a mix of Chanel and BCBG, an American take on Paris fashion. The clothes push the envelope enough to make people notice they are not typical, are not cookie-cutters of someone's designs. They are are a great jumping point for women who want to dare to be different, but are not ready for the world of haute couture. <br /><br />Speaking of haute couture, Etsy.com did a feature on the extremes of fashion, called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/storque/spotlight/etsy-finds-over-the-top-9894/">"Over the Top."</a> One of the featured designers, Christine My Linh, had in her shop a stunning<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49504080/victorian-womens-witch-gown-design-doll"> Victorian Witch Gown</a>, a breathtaking piece of artistry. Also featured in the article was a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/44676241/white-glowfur-coat-with-white-glow">Glowing Fur Coat</a>, a sight to behold for sure. <br /><br />And while we are on the topic of designing, my latest ideas are to dedicate my blog for the next thirty days starting September 1st to launch the new series "30 dresses in 30 days" in which I will attempt to procure thirty garments within a time span of only thirty days, essentially one garment a day. This will be no small feat, and will require much time and patience, as my designs are often very elaborate. But look forward to that in the following weeks. <br /><br />Stay Fashionable! xoxoChristinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-792432106104259932.post-23647568802508148532010-07-06T18:44:00.011-04:002010-07-06T19:53:48.638-04:00Internships, Couture, and CreativityFor the past few weeks, I have been very occupied with enjoying the summer heat and doing all of my favorite summer activities, like swimming, eating, and playing outdoors. I know the world of fashion has been very active lately, and I have the perfect way to catch up from my hiatus: <a href="http://www.vogue.com/voguedaily/2010/07/haute-couture-2010-christian-dior/">Christian Dior Haute Couture</a>. Stunning, flower-inspired looks from head to toe. The lines of the dresses, the vibrant colors, the combination of soft and hard fabrics; these are the fashions that can be appreciated by all.<br /><a href="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-holding-july-2010-003.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 450px;" src="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-holding-july-2010-003.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-001.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 450px;" src="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-001.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-026.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 450px;" src="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-026.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-029.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 450px;" src="http://www.vogue.com/blogs/voguedaily/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dior-couture-july-2010-029.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Another flowery gem I stumbled upon on my latest visit to Etsy.com: these beautiful shoe accessories. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/48200991/chiffon-flower-shoe-clips-in-vivid?ref=fp_feat_1"></a> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiml0jCX99ciGoOVSQLiLKuvFb-OnO5lQe7kvRlQheUq5ppXOxhzNqjqC1gNFE3d_yG0b5mAw9L4rWIZX9ilTUXvPowqOtdd14o_Z25kULngMHbCMozZcSmOnowgfyv3oRfhqErb4TD5lo/s1600/etsy+shoes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiml0jCX99ciGoOVSQLiLKuvFb-OnO5lQe7kvRlQheUq5ppXOxhzNqjqC1gNFE3d_yG0b5mAw9L4rWIZX9ilTUXvPowqOtdd14o_Z25kULngMHbCMozZcSmOnowgfyv3oRfhqErb4TD5lo/s400/etsy+shoes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490932313926183026" /></a><br />A brilliant way to jazz up shoes without having to buy a brand new pair. I was so intrigued by this idea that I searched the site for "shoe accessories."<br />With 8,633 items, I found more than a few pretty petals for shoes. There are these by Etsy seller <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50943951/set-of-two-purple-orchid-real-touch?ref=sr_list_2&ga_search_query=shoe+accessories&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=&order=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title">zawnbo</a>, which would look fabulous with any of the Dior Haute Couture dresses. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQ7_pSUJm4yrlEGYcR5beEU9ypS5CarauEn92Ddl8pHgEw4VcEHwAB4t1KeCbVYhyJ45mQYGGkdMjRWZCPjtHZ6d9vlghV_E3K9bPB1kDInvSdS_mYGcIqoRwd9qDN5v_pDW6XgdnPbc/s1600/etsy+flowers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQ7_pSUJm4yrlEGYcR5beEU9ypS5CarauEn92Ddl8pHgEw4VcEHwAB4t1KeCbVYhyJ45mQYGGkdMjRWZCPjtHZ6d9vlghV_E3K9bPB1kDInvSdS_mYGcIqoRwd9qDN5v_pDW6XgdnPbc/s400/etsy+flowers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490933878144388162" /></a><br /><br />While haute couture is not for everyone, I have found in my month's absence after doing an internship that my style is naturally couture. I have realized this after repeatedly being told that my designs were "too runway" and "too high fashion" from someone who designs ready-to-wear. This discovery only brings me that much closer to realizing my dream and goals and what it is I have to accomplish. I have come to the understanding that I can't start working for someone who does not appreciate my ideas and more detailed designs. I want to work for someone who is trying to inspire thousands, not hundreds. I want to work for someone who can say "yes" to an idea, not shut it down without a second thought. I want to work for someone who knows about fashion, who knows about sewing, and who knows that you have to take risks, not regurgitate the same look fifty times over. I want to work for someone who doesn't try to build themselves up by demanding everyone around them speak in the same hyperbolic language to reassure themselves of a good idea. And most of all, I want to work for someone who doesn't steal good ideas from other designers. That, my dear reader, is the biggest insult of all to designers and fashion. <br /><br />There is nothing more cowardly than the conformist.Christinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14818657029534669429noreply@blogger.com0