Now Wearing...

Played with a Revlon crimper that I picked up over the weekend for our photoshoot with Sam Friedman, got to say I love the results. The texture and volume it gave my hair was amazing!

Cutout Tank - Alexander Wang (excuse the wrinkles, but was too hot outside to iron!)
Splatter Racer Back Tank - TNA, Talulah National Athletic
Acid Wash Jeans - Habitual
Stacked Heel Platforms - Delman
Enamel & Metal Bangles - Forever 21

Now Wearing...

The romper was one of my first vintage finds ever. It’s a 1980s piece I found almost four years ago, and it’s still one of my favorites. The backpack is from the 90s courtesy of my mom’s closet. I found it when I visited home, used it for a 90’s party and couldn’t part with it, so I brought it back to New York.

I'm entering Topshop's bicycle contest. I don’t have a bike yet, so I had to borrow my friend Steven’s bike for this photo. I felt like such a fake. I would love to win one from Topshop, so I could have a bike to call my own!

In putting together this outfit, I went for fun and practical. I hope the judges at Topshop and Chictopia are into it.

Teal blue romper - vintage
Navy woven belt - secondhand
Brown backpack - secondhand, mom's closet
Brown woven flats - Jeffrey Campbell
White fingerless gloves - Urban Outfitters
Yellow bangle - Forever 21
Black bonjour necklace - Alex & Chloe

Etsy Pick: dirtystory Jewelry

I love (and I mean love) arm jewelry, so I was pretty stoked when I found dirtystory on Etsy. Her store features lots of stunning arm cuffs - many made of old brass cuffs and some of newer aluminum ones. The details on her pieces are amazing, especially the peacock designs. And these pieces would be great for a summer boho luxe look, day or night.

Based on the feedback I read, it sounds like the cuffs would fit small wrists! That statement gets an exclamation point because I have freakishly small wrists, so it's always a challenge to find bangles or bracelets that won't fall off. You can't see, but I'm totally smiling and looking for my credit card right now.

Sample Sale Report: Stella McCartney

So I was uber excited about the Stella McCartney Sale today, but unfortunately couldn't drag myself out of bed to make it before work. When I walked by at 9:10am the line looked like it was about 40 minutes long so I decided to come back after work! A happy decision because when I returned at 6:30pm, there was no line outside and it only took me less than 5 minutes to check my bags and get into the sale. Please note that only cell phones and wallets are allowed inside the sale.

As soon as you walk in you are greeted by perhaps the best deal of the sale. All denim is $60 regardless of previously ticketed price. Some denim is cropped or has ankle zips, but I think my faves were the dip dye denim in black/grey wash, the dark beige metallic denim and the coated bronze sparkle black denim that looks like leather. The sizes were varied but I mostly saw 25-29.

The next thing I noticed were the bikinis that are all on sale for $60. There were assorted colors but one common feature is that none of them feature bra cups, which I personally feel is a must to prevent unfortunate poking through. The cutest styles were the red mesh (so Stella) and the lavender ruffle top/bottoms. You do have to dig through a box though, as some is displayed but the majority in a large cardboard box.

So the pricing system on other merch was anything that ends in a "9" was 50% the ticketed price while anything that ended in a "5" was 80% the original price. Basically anything that ended in a "5" was newer merch that hadn't already been marked down.

Handbags varied in price from $193 (was $965) for a patent and canvas tote to $280 for jeweled canvas metal strap purses to $250 (was $1245) for a quilted tote.

Now for shoes, the main purpose of my visit. Unfortunately I found out shortly afterwards that there were no size 35's at the sale! The majority of sizes ran from 36 to 39, but I did notice a good selection of size 40 as well. Some of the shoes were quite reasonable. Mesh flats for $100, Mesh pumps for $115. However, the more "runway" looking merch had a significantly steeper price. I was only able to spot 1.5 pairs of those super hot Mesh Basket Lucite heel sandals for $279 (was $1395), one half that I couldn't find the other side of was size 36.5, while the other was 37. The 36.5 did fit pretty small however and it's a bit narrow. The amazing beaded wooden clogs were $219 (was $1095). Many of the shoes were around $140.

In terms of clothes there was an array of different merch but the cheapest item I saw was one lonely tee shirt with "crayon" drawing for $29 (was $145). Other cami's and blouses varied from $119-200.

I saw adorable shorts for $93 (was $263) a lame skirt for $139 (was $695) trench coat for $279 (was $1395).

There was one rack of uber expensive merch that although was 80% off, it wouldn't make much of a dent in the near $7000 price tag!

The sale was definitely not cheap but it's still possible to get a deal especially if you're in the market for denim or a bikini. The shoes are reasonably priced as are some of the separates.

What: Stella McCartney
Why: Platform sandals for $179 (reg. $895), dresses for $139 (reg. $695), jeans for $59 (reg. $295).
When: July 14 & 15. Tues., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St., b/t Sixth & Seventh Ave

Mens Trends: Single Button Double Breasted

Lanvin Spring 2010, Prada Spring 2010, Salvatore Ferragamo Spring 2010

Usually menswear does not change as frequently or as extremely as womenswear and it's add a button take away a button to a single breasted suit. But recently in the Spring 2010 shows for men a growing trend that I noticed popping up in menswear was the single button double breasted jacket. I'm not usually a huge fan of double breasted jackets as they usually look awkward unless you button them, and usually a bit stuffy. But what was being shown on the runway was different it looks much more streamlined and younger. The versions at YSL and Z Zenga look even sleek while Lanvin's is almost sporty casual.

Yves Saint Laurent Spring 2010, Z Zenga Spring 2010

Now Wearing...

Tatoo Sailor Tank - Itsus
Ankle Zip Skinny Jeans - Rich & Skinny
Strappy Patent Gladiator Sandals - Delman
Black Leather Satchel - Botkier Vixen
Textured Chain Necklace - DIY, piece of chain tied with ribbon
Cropped Blazer - McQ for Target

Now Wearing...

Striped knit top - Twinkle by Wenlan
Black trouser shorts - Alexander McQueen McQ for Target
Brown woven flats - Jeffrey Campbell
Sunglasses - Forever 21
Chunky necklace - Ann Taylor Loft
Bangles - from Beijing

Sample Sales This Week: NYC

Who: J.Crew Sample Sale
What: Spring and summer merchandise for men, women, and kids. The linen sleeveless beach dress is $25 (was $50), the soft tissue top with ruffles is $10 (was $40), and the linen dress with a knotted, hand-appliquéd neckline is $60 (was $185).
Where: Clothingline, 261 W. 36th St., nr. Seventh Ave., 2nd floor
When: July 12-16, 2009. Sun 10am–5pm, Mon–Thurs 10am–7pm.

Who: Nanette Lepore Sample Sale
What: Dresses are $75 to $150 (was $335 to $595), skirts are $100 (was $195 to $295), and shoes are $100 to $250 (was $255 to $525)
Where: 225 W 35th St nr 7th Ave, 4th floor (212-594-0012)
When: July 14-16, 2009. Tues-Thurs 9am-7pm

Who: Betsey Johnson Sample Sale
What: Evening dresses are $75, day dresses are $50, and sportswear is $35
Where: 145 W 44th St nr. Broadway, 6th fl. (212-789-7546)
When: July 15-17, 2009. Wed-Fri 10am-8pm

Who: Elie Tahari Warehouse Sale
What: 60-80% Off Women’s and men’s samples and stock
Where: 75 9th Ave, nr 15th St
When: July 15-19, 2009. Wed-Sun 10am-7pm

Who: Made Her Think Sample Sale
What: 60% Off Jewelry
Where: 195 Chrystie St nr Rivington St, Suite 301-7(212-228-2144)
When: July 16-17, 2009. Thurs-Fri 1pm-8pm

Who: Dior, Gucci, YSL Sample & Stock Sale
What: A broad selection of dresses, skirts, tops, pants, jackets, and an amazing assortment of designer sunglasses and accessories. All sizes are available. Prices are up to 80% off retail.
Where: 41 West 57 Street(b/n 5th-6th Avenues) 5th Floor
When: July 15-19, 2009. Wed-Sun 11am-7pm

Who: Boutique on 57 Sample Sale
What: Women's ready to wear, designer shoes, handbags, and jewelry. All up to 80% off. Special designer rack starting at $50. Brands like Ungaro, Valentino, Pucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Christian Lacroix
Where: 12 West 57 Street(b/n 5th-6th Avenues)Suite 807. 212.247.2229
When: July 14-16, 2009. Tues-Thurs 10am-7pm

Who: Otte
What: Moving Sale now up to 80% off designers like Steven Alan, Rag & Bone, See by Chloe, and Mike & Chris
Where: 132 N 5th St, Brooklyn (718-302-3007)
When: Ongoing. Mon—Sat 12pm—8pm, Sun 12pm—6pm.

What: Stella McCartney
Why: Platform sandals for $179 (reg. $895), dresses for $139 (reg. $695), jeans for $59 (reg. $295).
When: July 14 & 15. Tues., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St., b/t Sixth & Seventh Aves.

What: April May
Why: Up to 80 percent off fall and spring collections. Plus a beauty bonanza fire sale.
When: July 14-17. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: D2 Publicity, 611 Broadway, at Houston St., ste. 613b (212-421-6485).

What: Lela Rose Wedding
Why: Fifteen styles of white gowns are $500-$3,000 (that’s up to 80 percent off).
When: July 15-17. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 13th flr.

Topshop Bicycle Club Contest

Ever since I went on a bike ride during last years free rentals at Governor's Island I've been wanting a bike! I had so much fun cause I guess you never really forget how to ride a bike :)

Well if you're like me and in want of a bike, Topshop and Chictopia have partnered up to create a contest that rewards stylish girls who like to ride bikes! All you have to do is submit a photo to Chictopia in your best cycling outfit. It's the last week to enter but a total of 5 winners (4 by Chictopia & 1 by TopShop) are selected per week and each one of them will receive a special TopShop-designed bike.

If you don't have a bike and can get to Topshop in Soho, there will be a bike available to pose with. The deadline for the last photo submission is July 17, 2009.

Here's a picture of a previous winner above! Click here for full details and to enter.

Close Look at Hollywood Intuition for Target

Los Angeles Intuition boutique owner and celebrity stylist Jaye Hersh of is now partnering with Target to launch an accesory collection HollywoodIntuition. The line will be launching July 12, 2009 in Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com. It will be available for a limited time only through Spring 2010, so shop early :) Prices range from $2.99 to $29.99.

The collection includes handbags and pouches with hardware detailing, colorful scarves, stackable bangles, statement necklaces, aviators and a reversible floppy hat. In addition, the collection includes and Fashion Tape, Hollywood’s clear double-stick “Do Everything” apparel and body tape. Also on sale will be Hersh’s self-help style book titled, Hollywood Intuition: It's What Separates Fashion Victims from Fashion Victors which offers her personal style tips for different types of fashionistas. The book is filled with great Hollywood style tips and can be used as a fun inspirational "how-to" guide on how to look and feel like a star from the inside-out.

“Target is known for celebrated design at an exceptional value,” said Hersh. “Collaborating with Target on a collection has always been a dream of mine. I am thrilled to offer on-trend accessories that won’t break the bank to women across the country.”

I'm personally a fan of Look 2, 6 and 11. What are your faves?

Preview the looks below:

Look 1 Large Tote in Black $29.99
Look 2 Large Tote in Purple $29.99 Also available in Green, Target.com only

Look 3 Satchel Black - Satchel in Black $26.99
Look 4 Satchel Orange - Satchel in Orange $26.99

Look 5 Snake Tote - Faux-Snakeskin Tote $22.99
Look 6 Belt Bags in Green or Black $19.99 Also available in Orange or Purple, Target.com only

Look 7 Faux-Snakeskin 4-in-1 Pouches in Red, Purple, Brown and Orange $12.99
Look 8 Print & Solid 4-in-1 Pouches $12.99


Look 9 Tote in Black with Printed Scarf, includes Removable Zip-Pouch $29.99
Look 10 Aviator Sunglasses $14.99 each. Hollywood Sunglasses $14.99 each.

Look 11 Hollywood Glamour Necklace $14.99
Look 12 Stud Bracelets in Purple, Orange, and Black and Green $9.99 (set of 4)

Look 13 MM Necklace-Horn - Mixed Media Necklace $14.99 (set of 5)
Look 14 Mixed Media Bracelets $9.99 (set of 6)

Look 15 Printed Scarf or Ruched Scarf in Purple $16.99 each
Look 16 Headbands in Orange, Green and Purple $2.99 (set of 3)

Look 17 Floppy Reversible Hat in Gray/Brown $16.99

Now Wearing...

Striped cotton romper - H&M, bought this in France almost three years ago
Black rose belt - Forever 21
Studded diamond sandals - Issa Kamara

I ordered this sandals online from Pixie Market last week, and I am so in love! I've been dancing around my apartment in them. The only thing is the bottoms are super slick, so I need to get some sole grippers stat!

Now Wearing...

Out of town visitors and rain = Lazy outfit based on boots (comfort & waterproof qualities)

Double Mesh Overlay tank - McQ for Target
Zebra Skirt - Rogan for Target
Cameo Necklace - Dominique Cohen for Target
Grey Hoodie - Rick Owens
Grey Leather Satchel - Botkier Ziggy
Buckle Boots - Palladium via Solestruck

Alexander Wang Men's Line is for Diffusion

In other Alexander Wang news, as previously reported, Wang is now set to debut his men's line at the the end of the month. It actually will not be a part of his runway collection but part of his "T by Alexander Wang" diffusion line that according to WWD,
"he is evolving beyond T-shirt and tank basics for women as well."

So more Wang for both men and women for less? Sounds like something to be excited about :)

Sample Sale Report: Alexander Wang (July 9-11, 2009)

Alexander Wang opened to friends and family this morning and as anticipated a steady line formed down the block for entry and they let in only a few people at a time but the line moved quickly. I got there at and was in within 13 minutes.

Bag/Coat check is mandatory.

To note the changing area is open and super packed. There was a couple tables in the middle and about 7 mirrors on the perimeter of the walls but they were constantly surrounded by women. Sadly since there wasn’t room on the tables, women were throwing their merch in piles on the floor in order to try on.

The prices varied but were marked by color coded prices starting at $65, $95, $115…onwards to $275. Most of the merch I spied was closer to $175.

The majority of the sheer tanks/tees that were on the walls was starting at $95. It can't be tried on as it is a delicate super fine knit sheer jersey.

I spotted merch from past seasons like the open back pink blazer, denim and leather biker jackets, sweatpants for $115 and the bright turquoise tanks (marked $80, but $69.50 on Barneys.com) of Spring 09. The swirled nude mesh overlay skirt of Fall 2008 (marked for $375). They also had that infamous Mesh Embroidered dress for $795 and the skirt version for $375.

The real bargains were found on the 2 sample racks right by the front. Sizes are unmarked but typically a 2 or 4.

Although a lot on the racks were $175. There were sweater/silk tanks that I saw for $25. A trapeze tank top with cutout mesh inserts for $25 (Score! I totally picked this one up). Blouses for $35-65. I saw an awesome crepe/silk dress with pleated front for $85, alas it was too big. This merch though only has a 1 to 4 of each style and is moving quickly.

Also important to note it’s only credit cards for purchases over $200, but if you pay cash you can skip the lines and head straight for the cashier.

*Additonal note: to stop other girls from snagging your merch, I stashed it on a shelf behind the racks while trying things on.

If you are a Wang fan, don't miss out! Although prices aren't cheap in general, there are some possible bargains! They have in the past reduced prices on the last day in the past, but last round they did not, so no guarantees and you might miss out on the best merch!

Who: Alexander Wang Sample Sale
What: Alexander Wang's Spring Collection...nough said ;)
When: July 9-11, 2009. Thurs 2pm-8pm, Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 10am-7pm

Where: 83 Wooster Street between Spring and Broome Streets, NYC

Double Vision: Couture vrs RTW

As I was looking at some of the Fall 2009 Couture collections, I noticed something interesting happening. Usually I feel like the couture shows are a jumping point for creativity and inspiration. But this time around perhaps it's just a coincidence but I really felt like couture was inspired by ready-to-wear! While the looks aren't identical, the silhouette and feeling is the same except for most part the couture looks more polished (exception being Balenciaga vrs Chanel Couture). Which version do you prefer?

Balenciaga Fall 2009, Chanel Fall Couture 2009

Balmain Fall 2009 vrs Armani Prive Fall Couture 2009

Alexander Wang Resort 2009 vrs Alexis Mabille Couture Fall 2009

Lanvin Fall 2009 vrs Armani Prive Fall Couture 2009

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2009 vrs Givenchy Fall Couture 2009

Rogan Sample Sale

Who: Rogan
What: Overstock, rare samples, one-off designs, and more for women and men up to 75% off. Collection merch is now all under $100
When: July 9-12, 2009. Thurs-Sun 11am—9pm.
Where: 330 Bowery St at Bond St (646-827-7567)

Don't forget about Acne and Alexander Wang and more starting today!

dupli-Caught: Topshop vrs Alexander McQueen

Ever since I saw McQueen's Spring 2009 collection, bones as a trend have been embedded in my mind. Topshop seems to agree and they look like they've been more than just a little inspired by Alexander McQueen.

While the original is probably well over a thousand, this Topshop zip front dress/tunic is a mere $55. The bone pattern is not nearly as elaborate as McQueen's version which seems to contour the body in a flattering manner, while the Topshop version was pretty much just slapped on the item. Important to note that Topshop did change one thing, they changed the print to be in other colorways including pink and yellow.

While a trend is a trend, I think this print is a little too close for comfort.

Now Wearing...

Dress - Proenza Schouler for Target
Stacked Heel Platform Sandals - Delman
Black Tank - from the North Market in Seoul
Pearl & Safety Pin Necklace - DIY, look how here...btw for added edge I added some dangling pieces of chain to the safety pins! I've been dying to make it since I posted!

Giuseppe Zanotti Sample Sale

Who: Giuseppe Zanotti
What: Up to 75% off footwear, One Day ONLY!
When: July 8, 2009. Wed 1oam-6pm
Where: 730 Fifth Ave near 57th St, 18th floor (no phone)

Pantless Couture

At the end of April, I reported that pantlessness was on the rise thanks to Lady Gaga et al. but I never thought it would spread and make it's way into couture culture. While only the 2nd look is completely pantless, the other looks with the sheer skirts, pretty much allude to the same thing. While I think the sheer skirts are quite sexy and effective on the runway, not sure this can translate to real life and real thighs, Will this trend ever die?

Updated Sample Sales This Week: NYC

Who: Acne
What: Up to 50% off on jeans, shoes, accessories and the Acne and Lanvin capsule collection.
Where: New York & LA...
In New York: Acne Studio at 10 Greene St. Telephone: 212-628-2828.
In LA: Opening Ceremony at 451 N. La Cienega Blvd. Telephone: 310-652-1180.
When: July 9-31, 2009.

Who: Tocca & Milly
What: Milly separates $39 - $49, dresses $99, blazers & coats $99 - $109. Tocca separates $25, dresses & coats $65
When: July 7-9, 2009. Tues 10am-7pm, Wed-Thurs 10am-6pm.
Where: Clothingline 261 W 36th St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave

Who: Built By Wendy
What: Up to 70% off spring/summer styles
When: July 1-August 31, 2009. Mon—Sat 12pm—7pm, Sun 12pm—6pm.
Where: Nolita: 7 Centre Market Place b/n Broome and Grand (212-925-6538) Williamsburg: 46 North 6th Street b/n Wythe and Kent (718-384-2882)

Who: Dolce Vita
What: Take $25 off any purchase over $100, $50 off anything over $200, $80 off anything over $300, and $115 off anything over $400
When: Now Through Tuesday, July 7. Mon—Sat 12pm—8pm, Sun 12pm—7pm.
Where: 149 Ludlow St b/n Stanton and Rivington and 159 1/2 Ludlow St at Stanton St (212-529-2111.)

Who: Alexander Wang Sample Sale
What: Alexander Wang's Spring Collection...nough said ;)
When: July 9-11, 2009. Thurs 2pm-8pm, Fri 9am-8pm, Sat 10am-7pm
Where: 83 Wooster Street between Spring and Broome Streets, NYC

Who: Rachel Comey
What: Up to 60% off, plus special deals if you buy 3 or more items.
When: July 8-11, 2009. Wed-Thurs 5 to 9 pm; Fri 11 am to 7 pm; Sat 12 to 5 pm.
Where: 335 West 35th Street, 7th Floor

Who: Halston
What: Yellow nubuck hobo bag for $395 (reg. $1,495), strappy high-heel sandals for $175 (reg. $695), sapphire blue chiffon gown for $995 (reg. $5,995).
When: July 7-9. Tues.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 96 Spring St., b/n Broadway & Mercer St., 2nd flr.

Sales Next Week via Daily Candy:
What: Stella McCartney
Why: Platform sandals for $179 (reg. $895), dresses for $139 (reg. $695), jeans for $59 (reg. $295).
When: July 14 & 15. Tues., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St., b/t Sixth & Seventh Aves.

What: April May
Why: Up to 80 percent off fall and spring collections. Plus a beauty bonanza fire sale.
When: July 14-17. Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: D2 Publicity, 611 Broadway, at Houston St., ste. 613b (212-421-6485).

What: Lela Rose Wedding
Why: Fifteen styles of white gowns are $500-$3,000 (that’s up to 80 percent off).
When: July 15-17. Wed.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 224 W. 30th St., b/t Seventh & Eighth Aves., 13th flr.

Now Wearing...

Jumper - Charlotte Ronson
Patent & Vinyl Shoes -Abaete for Payless
Buttons - Miscellaneous (Soia & Kyo, Edun, Save Fashion, Fine & Dandy, Murakami DOB)
Star Necklace - Topshop
Peeping Tee Shirt - Libertine (it's John Keats)
Plaid Headband - H&M

DIY: Pearl & Safety Pin Necklace

I've been a fan of Tom Binns, ever since I saw his amazing neon and black stone necklaces in the display cases at Holt Renfrew. Unfortunately for me the prices were a bit cost prohibitive but now you can create an amazing necklace in the style of Tom Binns with a little bit of time and creativity.

My friend Nicole Hoppenworth saw this amazing Tom Binns Necklace in a magazine and she thought it was the perfect DIY project to make use of her broken pearl necklace.

She snapped some pictures to share her crafting process with us. Yay Nicole! I love, love, love the results so I definitely will be creating one for myself soon. ;)

Materials Needed:
1 Broken Pearl Necklace or Some pearl beads
1 Box of Safety Pins, big enough to fit your beads
A piece of ribbon

Take the pearls and start adding them to the safety pins

Start joining the safety pins together in a random pattern.

Tie ribbons to the ends of the saftey pins to create a tie closure.

Voila, a necklace that you can be proud to call your own in under 30 minutes.

Now Wearing...

Hope that you had a Happy 4th of July! We spent it on the rooftop of a friend's plae in Williamsburg and got to take in the 1500 fireworks per minute in the backdrop of NYC's skyline! It was pretty incredible, you can even make out the tip of the Empire State Building. Do we look patriotic?

Erin
Strapless Dress - Patrick Robinson for Target
Star Necklace - Topshop
Strappy Patent Gladiator Sandals - Delman

Lani
Gray tank - Park Vogel
Ankle Zip jeans - Rich & Skinny
Bonjour Necklace - Alex & Chloe
White studded sandals - no name brand from Century 21
Black tote - Obey

Now Wearing...

White tunic dress - noblita
Distressed "denim" vest - Forever 21
Necklaces - Alex & Chloe and Subversive for Target
Rings - no name
Eyeglasses - Alain Milki
Studded fringe flats - Zara