Mr. Porter: Coming To A Browser Near You

Online shopping for men hasn't quite caught the world by storm, yet. Thankfully, the consumer base has grown over the past few years and more retailers have expanded their online operations to include menswear.

After nearly a decade in business, Net-a-Porter has decided to launch it's male counterpart, Mr. Porter. In addition to the men who participate in e-commerce, Mr. Porter will be leveraging their existing female customer base hoping that women will purchase items for their spouses, boyfriends and friends. The website is set to launch sometime in January of 2011 so stay tuned! For more details on the launch, you can check out an article written by Hilary Alexander on Telegraph.co.uk.

Online shopping can be daunting sometimes. So if you're a newbie, here's a few things to consider:

• shipping costs - make sure to check out the shipping costs and factor that in to the overall price of the item you're purchasing
• delivery time - most retailers are pretty good with this but if you're in a rush - take note of the processing time, shipping time and potential delays when ordering
• return policy - sale or clearance items can sometimes be final sale so read the fine print
• duties/tariffs - if you're ordering items from a different country, make sure you check out if additional customs, duties or tariffs will be charged based on the value of your item. Depending on the shipping carrier, a brokerage fee may be applied to your purchase which again is based on the value of your item.

On a side note: I've been burned by all of the above items before so hopefully you can avoid some of the hassles I've been through.

All in all, online shopping is definitely one of my preferred avenues for grabbing decent threads at reasonable prices or for things that you normally wouldn't have access to. You avoid the hassle of going to the store, waiting in line and dealing with overly perky sales people. Plus, you can save a bundle if you know where to look and when. And if you don't, we try to help with that!

H&M: Harlem Re-Opening Event

Earlier tonight I had a chance to stop by H&M's preview event for their Harlem location re-opening. I don't know what the store was like before - but it definitely has that H&M vibe as soon as you step in. Part of the beauty of the brand is that no matter what store you go to or what country you're in - H&M is still...well H&M.

The store stands two levels tall with the main floor dedicated to womenswear and the second floor belonging to mens and kids wear. I was in a bit of a rush but managed to grab some pics of some pieces that I thought were decent:

Blazer with pinstripe lining ($69.95), Green Plaid Scarf ($7.95)

Cobalt Blue Cardigan ($29.95)

T's & Button Up's ($5.95-$17.95)

Shop Now: Alexander Wang

In case you can't make it to Alexander Wang's Sample Sale next week or you don't want to endure the insanity, select items are now up to 60% off on his online shop! Pick up perfect sheer tee's from just $33. Adorable sweat shorts for just $39, was $98. Abbey High Heel Sandals for $198 was $495 or the Rocco Baby Duffel in clear PVC for $210, was $525!

Uptown Shopping: H&M Harlem Re-Opens

H&M's newly renovated store uptown in Harlem will be re-opening tomorrow, July 30th at 10am. The first 200 shoppers in line a gift card, ranging anywhere from $10 to $300 in value; one lucky winner will receive an All Access Fashion Pass, allowing them early entry to the store and a personal style consultation from an H&M stylist. Knowing eager New Yorkers and H&M fanatics, the line might start as early as 6am tomorrow for the gift cards.

There will also be fantastic opening offers all weekend for the entire family including: ladies' dresses starting at $3, men’s shirts starting at $5, and girls’ leggings starting at $3.

Our new menswear writer, Jeff and I will be checking out the preview event tonight and report back tomorrow!

Nu-Disco Party: Dirty Diamonds

Photo by Lilly Frances
My girl K!O and I will be spinning tonight at The Cove in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We both share a passion for fashion and indie music, so we're pretty excited about our nu-disco party, Dirty Diamonds!
The Cove is a pretty chill spot, so come by any time after 10. Have a few drinks, enjoy some good music and maybe meet some new people. Tonight's party will be hosted by our friend Miss Chriss, who is also a blogger and fab fashionista. Just check out this picture of her and K!O - love!
Hope to see you there!

Who: Lani Love & K!O
What: Good music, cheap drinks, perhaps even some dancing - no cover!
When: Tonight, Thurs July 29th
Where: The Cove 108 N. 6th off Bedford L train stop in Brooklyn

Complex Geometries: One Day Sale

For all you complexgeometries fans - there's a one day sale happening tomorrow - July 29th. All items are 40% off!! I picked up a few items from the sale last season and the sale starts right at midnight. If you've been eyeing a piece or want to get the best selection/sizes - get your shop on at 12:00am. When checking out just enter "onedaysale" in the coupon code field and you're good to go.

Censor Tank (reg $120 - will be $72)

In general, the pieces can be worn in multiple ways so you definitely get more bang for your buck. Happy Shopping!

Now Wearing...

In need of a quick escape from the routine of everyday living, I hit up Coney Island last week for a Seaside Summer Concert featuring the Beach Boys, The Monkees, The Turtles and with surprise guest John Stamos! It was sort of an unforgettable evening and it felt so calm that I almost forgot that I was still in the city.

As much as most NYers love to rip on it, I seriously kind of love Coney Island.

Scoop Neck Rib Tank - SEED Organic
Pleated Asymmetric Skirt - DIY
Studded Platform Sandals - Rafe New York
Studded Cuff - Linea Pelle, gift from Lucky Mag
Necklace - Twinkle by Wenlan
Brass Flower Ring - From India
Leather Satchel - Botkier Vixen

Sale Report: Veda Sale

Stopped by Veda in the LES and noticed that there were plenty of cute pieces in a variety of styles that would be great for summer and some for transitioning into fall for 40% off retail. Snapped a few pics so you have an idea of what's in store.

I noticed some featherweight leather tanks on sale too.

Love this perfect leather vest which is now 40% off $395!

Leather shorts are now 40% off $176. The silk versions are 40% off $112 (?)

Who: Veda Sale
What: Find 40% markdowns on their spring 2010 line as well as a selection of one-of-a-kind vintage items.
When: Now through August 1, 2010. Mon-Sat noon-8pm, Sun noon-7pm
Where: Veda, 132 Ludlow St (at Rivington St) 646-448-4926

Buy It Now: Dolce Vita x Target

photo courtesy of NY Mag.com

Get in on the shoe collaboration by Dolce Vita for Target. These shoes were part of the Harlem Target Designer collections for the store opening this past Sunday. They weren't slated to hit more doors until August 22, 2010 but they are available online now! Wish I could say the same about those Isabel & Ruben Toledo towels but at least the swimwear is available online too! I've heard rave reviews for the quality of the red asymmetric ruched one-piece!

UPDATED: Sales this Week NYC: July 26- Aug 1, 2010

Who: Opening Ceremony

What: End of season summer sale means discounts up to 70% off on merch from designers like Alexander Wang, Patrik Ervell, Chloë Sevigny and more.
When: Now through July 31, 2010. Mon-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat noon-7pm
Where: 35 Howard St (nr Crosby) 212-219-2688

Who: Designer Loft Sample Sale
What: 30-80% off on bridal gowns
When: Now through July 31, 2010. Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm
Where: 226 West 37th St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave) 2nd Floor. 212-944-9013

Who: Veda Sale
What: Find 40% markdowns on their spring 2010 line as well as a selection of one-of-a-kind vintage items.
When: Now through August 1, 2010. Mon-Sat noon-8pm, Sun noon-7pm
Where: Veda, 132 Ludlow St (at Rivington St) 646-448-4926

Who: Diesel Warehouse Sale
What: 10,000 Items for Denim, Male and Female Apparel, Leather, Swimwear in a full range of sizes.
What: July 27-29, 2010. Tues-Thurs 10am-6pm
Where: 220 West 19th St, 2nd Floor

Who: Bing Bang Sample Sale
What: 35-75% off select styles. Vivienne choker $99 (was $355), Fleurette stud earrings $65 (was $150), Egg bangles $20-75 (was $45-75)
When: July 27-30, 2010. Tues-Fri noon-7pm.
Where:153 Lafayette St (b/n Howard and Grand St) 4th Floor

Who: Matta Sample Sale
What: 60-80% off all merch. Batik silk dresses $88 (was $248), handwoven cotton wrap dresses $72 (was $212), handmade leather sandals are $25 or less (was $88).
When: July 28-29, 2010. Wed-Thurs 11am-7pm
Where: 60 Mercer St (b/n Broome & Grand St)

Who: Space NK Sample Sale
What: Up to 80% of on discontinued & current beauty brands
When: July 29-31, 2010. Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri-Sat 10am-7pm
Where: 99 Greene St (b/n Prince & Spring St) 212-941-4200

Who: Eva Khurshid Sample Sale
What: Up to 75% off retail. Plus meet the designers behind Eva Khurshid and receive personal wardrobe consultations!
When: July 30th, 2010. Fri 4pm-8pm
Where:Showroom New York, 262 West 38th St (b/n 7th & 8th Ave) Suite 506

UPDATES:

Who: Yumi Kim Sample Sale
What: 50-80% off Spring/Summer 2010 collection. Flirty dresses & adorable rompers!
When: July 30-August 1, 2010. Fri-Sat

Where: 105 Stanton St (b/n Ludlow & Essex St)

Upcoming Sale:

Who: Alexander Wang Sample Sale
What: Apparel & Handbags up to 80% off
When: August 5-8, 2010. Thurs 2pm-7pm, Fri-Sat 10am-7pm, Sun 10am-4pm
Where: 93 Mercer St (b/n Spring & Broome St)

Now Wearing...

Plaid top - Steven Alan
Black shorts - McQ for Target
Woven oxford flats - Jeffrey Campbell

I'm a dork. Look at me, I'm wearing a giant white helmet and dressed like a child. I wore this because I wanted something practical for bike riding, but also fun and summery for the weekend.

This is one of my favorite tops; you may recognize it from our Sugar Rock Catwalk banner! When I want it to look less playful, I layer it over a neutral colored tank like dark brown or gray and finish with pants and wedges.

I've been biking a lot this summer. It's so much fun to be outside and I prefer it to the train when I can. Just a few bike-riding clothing tips I've picked up over the past couple of months:
- Go with breathable fabrics like linen or a thin cotton
- Avoid polyester or nylon unless they're specifically designed to wicker moisture away from your body
- Shorts & rompers are great
- Dresses can be worn if they are long enough, but if you're going to bike with a dress, be careful to avoid getting caught in your bike chain
- Closed toe flats are the best and don't wear shoes you'd be sad about scuffing
- Backpacks are super practical, but you may get sweaty. Consider a crossbody with an adjustable strap or bike basket!

TopShop Fall 2010 Lookbook

I personally don't TopShop too often because in my opinion it can be bit expensive for the quality, but I am always a fan of their lookbooks and styling. Going through TopShop's fall 2010 lookbook, I noticed that a lot of trends from last season are still strong such as: studs, mesh, oxfords, lace-up boots, black and neutrals, all of which I have in my closet! In an effort to attempt minimalism or at least practice a little more self control, I've identified a few key pieces that I'm placing on my wishlist to update my closet.


Cape JacketCape jacket, capelet, swing coat... I've been wanting one of these for years, but I just haven't found one that I've been in love with. They look so elegant over skirts and dresses, and they add a touch of sophistication and drama.


Leather ShortsI love the look of leather shorts - the texture and slight sheen. If I were to buy a pair of leather shorts this season, I would probably go with black to match with my existing wardrobe. If I had plenty of money and space, then I would consider a brown pair to wear into next spring.


Hats & Hair PiecesI have a weakness, and that weakness is for novelty items like pom pom pieces and studded caps. The piece on the left reminds me of the pom pom hat I wanted from Diane von Furstenberg's fall 2009 Nomad collection. Perhaps TopShop will be my affordable solution!

Now Wearing...

It's been crazy hot in the city lately and it's taken some of my joy out of dressing as I can barely stand anything against my skin aside from loose fitting cottons. For the first time probably since I've been an infant I've broken out in heat rash and had to start using baby powder to keep my skin from freaking out. Fortunately rainstorms today have taken some of the heat out the air and I'm dancing with joy as I feel happy that I can wear half my wardrobe again. Welcome back silk, hello jersey perchance we meet again for at least a short while!

On the plus side, hot weather has taught me how to fishtail braid my hair! Having no sisters growing up, or friends with long hair, I never learned this one until recently. I still hope I can learn to do a french braid sometime but for now a fishtail will suffice! I can't make it perfect but I sort of like the casual loose feel of this braid better anyways.

Gingham Dress - Betsey Johnson
Tank Top - LnA
Cameo Necklace - Dominique Cohen for Target
Belt - No Name
Socks - Uniqlo
Stacked Heel Platform Sandals - Delman
Square Purse - Miu Miu

Photography by James S. Rand

Sample Sale Report: Timo Weiland

I dropped by the Timo Weiland Sample Sale at BBlessing on my way home tonight. For those of you who aren't familiar with the label, Timo Weiland launched originally in 2009 as a unisex neckwear line, but soon became a full fledged collection for both men and women. The clothing is inspired by the design duo's families, friends, and icons they admire, like historical figures from eighteenth-century France and Steve McQueen. The label has been marked as one to watch by NY Mag so I'm guessing it's only a matter of time before they blow up :)

There was a small selection of merch in the front of the boutique but don't let that fool you as there is a much larger selection available in the back room! Since this is in a lovely boutique with super nice staffers, look forward to real fitting rooms! There wasn't much in terms of other shoppers so it makes for a great relaxed shopping experience.

The sale is neat, organized and reasonably priced. Although not the most affordable sale, the merch is a huge percentage off and looks high quality and very special/designer. The best deals in my opinion are on the knits and the outerwear.

Menswear:

So there was quite a selection of menswear including the double pleat trench (in the first picture) for just $225! Plenty of sharp blazers for $190. These styles are not for wallflowers but could add plenty of sass to the regular guy's wardrobe. I quite like the double knit blazer especially and think it would look great with skinny jeans and a tee! Mens sizing runs from XS-XL but XS is not as common.

Perforated leather jacket $395 (?), Double Knit Blazer $125

Asymmetric Cardigan $90 (?), Pintuck Shorts $75

Womenswear:

I really thought that so many of these pieces are polished and modern even though they reference historical details. My particular faves are the loops skirt and loop shoulder dress! I also had my eye on the perforated leather tank that would be perfect for that casual leather tee trend that has stormed the runways thanks to Phoebe Philo/Celine. Women's sizing runs from 0-8.

Regal Trench Coat $205, Antoinette Blouse $150

Loop Skirt 225

Perforated Leather Tank 100, Encasement Skirt 75

Loop Shoulder Dress, Onesie Work Jumper $105

Who:Timo Weiland Sample Sale

What: Merch for both him and her now up to 75% off, Timo Weiland staples as trench coats, knitwear, tailored pants, and tuxedo collar knit jackets
When: July 22-26, 2010. Thurs 7 to 9 p.m.; Friday- Monday noon to 8 p.m.
Where: BBlessing, 181 Orchard Street (b/n Stanton and Houston) 212-378-8005