Creature of (Luxurious) Comfort
September 18 | Collections Agent
If there is one thing I cannot live without, it’s cashmere. I think my obsession started in junior high school after a read a YA book by Beverly Cleary. The plucky heroine was named Jane (of course I’d see that as a reason to root for her). It was about the angst of meeting the cute new boy in town but being afraid he wouldn’t think she was cool enough, like the popular girl at school who owned lots of cashmere sweaters and drove around in her boyfriend’s convertible. Needless to say, this book was written in the early 60’s.
But I digress. Cashmere – it’s absolutely the yummiest, most luxurious textile ever. I am slowly building up a collection that borders on the compulsive. What helps is that you can find decent cashmere pieces at reasonable prices and with gentle hand washing, a sweater can last for years. So even with a one year-old, who often has sticky fingers and occasionally drools, I consider cashmere a necessary luxury.
For gorgeous cashmere that goes beyond the basic, Inhabit wins hands down. I love the simple but innovative designs and the best feature on many of the sweaters is the extra long arms.
At $578 this is definitely an investment. These days it’s hard to justify paying a hefty price for anything, much less a sweater, but I say if you can afford it, go for it. Inhabit designs have a strong “price per wear” justification as far as I’m concerned. Seriously, whoever thought of that one is a genius.
How It's Made
September 4 | Collections Agent
I have a confession to make. Fashion has not been on the forefront of my mind these days. Iʼve completely gotten sucked into election coverage, so between the normal duties that keep me busy, I have once again become a political news junkie with a serious weak spot for The Daily Show. Yes, I know it's fake news but damn, it's funny. Whatʼs a girl with a fashion blog to do?
Well, Fashion Week is about to start so hopefully it will get me back on track. And today I was out buying a gift when I complimented a sales associate on her sweater. She said it was Madewell. I made a mental note to check out the goods again, since I havenʼt looked at the website in a while.
And that's what I did. It will definitely be a good thing once the ecommerce site is up. I hate to sound like an exasperated teenager, but actually calling to place an order sounds so old fashioned. Believe me when I tell you that I remember the days of calling J. Crew so I shouldnʼt feel so put out. But I do.
Iʼm impressed by the fall looks. There's a lot to mix and match, which is key for me. My biggest critique though is that they should offer more description of the products. Is the sweater made of wool or cotton? Whatʼs the inseam on the jeans? How wide is the bag? That information would help me rule something out outright instead of trying to figure it out over the phone with a customer service representative. Hopefully the ecommerce site will deliver as much as the clothes.
Are We on a Roll Here?
August 8 | Huh?
For the love of 80’s… why do I keep seeing rolled up jeans? Celebrities seem to be embracing this blast from the past. Katie Holmes is a repeat offender and other stars have been seen about town that way. So should this look really make a comeback?
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A look from that sartorial standby J. Crew |
Other 80’s trends have made a second or even third go around. Neon, check. Blue eyeliner, check. Hammer pants - oh sweet Jesus - check. What’s next, the return of spiral perms?
There seems to be two schools of thought on the rolled leg look: pegging the legs tightly around the ankle or just folding them up. I’ll admit I roll my jeans… when I’m wearing wellies on a rainy day and want to avoid getting the bottoms soaking wet. My rolled jeans - strictly for practical purposes. But I have to admit, I don’t actually hate the rolled jeans look. Am I going soft? Who knows? Maybe at its worst rolled up jeans are not as bad as leggings. Now that I hate.
Flat Boots are the Thing
Shoes, Glorious Shoes | August 4, 2008
I’ve always hated the print ads for Børn Shoes. What’s up with the bizarre styling? And some of the shoes are just plain clunky which is never okay. Anyway, the ads distracted me from the product so I’ve never really given the shoes a second glance. Until now. I am on the lookout for the perfect flat suede boots and I think I found them.
The version I like is in the perfect shade of gray (not too light, not too dark). I’d put up a picture, but I can’t find one. I saw these boots at Nordstrom and I like the clean look and light weight. The perfect boots for walking. A few years back I bought black suede Prada Sport flat boots that I wear to death during the winter. It would be nice to update the look this fall and give those boots a break. Oh, and judging from their website I think the Børn ads are improving for fall. I guess looks can be deceiving.
Check Please
Favorite Things | July 28
One trend I am definitely embracing this fall is plaid. It makes me feel nostalgic yet of-the-moment at the same time. I had a serious love affair with plaid when I was ripping up my tights, listening to moody music and was into all things British. Ninth grade… good times. But the fun doesn’t have to start once the weather gets cold. I like this lovely summer dress from Built By Wendy.
It’s a nice look to throw on with flat sandals and an over the shoulder flap bag. The dress is on sale, which makes it all the more tempting.
Seeing Red
July 3 | Searching For…
Like many of you, I will be spending a lot of time in the sun this 4th of July weekend – and during the week since I’m on vacation. Like the total over-packer that I am, I will take a few pairs of sunglasses. You can't take too many and they really don't take that much room, right? Lately I am loving colored plastic frames. In 8th grade I had a pair of red Ray Ban Wayfarers. Yes, I know, totally 80’s but hey, it was the 80’s. While the Wayfarer is making a comeback with a vengeance, that look probably doesn’t need to make a second go around on me. Works for Mary Kate Olsen. Me - not so much. But I do like the idea of fun red sunglasses. Take a peep at the ones I’m digging right now:
Very glam indeed. Thanks Karl.
The Color Purple
June 18 | Favorite Things
It seems I am hyper-focused on handbags and shoes lately, maybe because this yearʼs spring/summer clothes, for the most part, have been less than exciting. It could also be the fact that we see this stuff so far in advance that when the season arrives, everything feels old. Maybe itʼs because with a baby, the clothes Iʼve worn on a day to day basis has been some combination of cardigan or hoodie, t-shirt and jeans.
No wonder accessories hold a tight grip on my fashion-loving heart. What I am finding fresh and inspirational is the color purple. While itʼs not my best color to wear as far as clothing, I love the idea of getting a rich colored bag and shoes in my new favorite shade. Iʼm already looking toward fall for some tempting looks, especially on the bag front.
I could wallpaper my side of the closet with pictures of that bag. Not that Iʼd do it. My 16-year old self would definitely have done that but Iʼve got a husband to think about now. And while I wanted to hang on to my first Balenciaga bag like a security blanket while I slept at night, I refrained. Even I have limits.
Gem & I
June 10 | Favorite Things
Statement jewelry has never been my aesthetic but I just might change my tune this summer, especially since there are so many interesting pieces on sale… yes, I’m still babbling about all these sales.
Love this bold look! The green Swarovski crystal sea monster motif looks tough but somehow also manages to look graphic. Jewelry is not well represented in my wardrobe and it’s a shame because it can punch up a basic outfit or add some personality without trying too hard. I say bring on the shiny!
My Cup of Tea
May 28 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes
If you are flush with extra cash or just in the mood to shop, now is the time to do it because there are sales galore -high end, low end and in between - and some seriously fabulous merch is marked down. If you canʼt browse Barneys legendary shoe department in person (like me) then you can thank your lucky stars for the internet. This is my favorite sale item:
Iʼve seen these shoes in magazines and I think they are like works of art. I would never wear them because wearing footwear that look like little tea cups is not really my thing... but they would make a fun display. Maybe calling it art is a way to justify the nearly $500 sale price? I once read somewhere that wealthy women in the Middle East buy haute couture gowns, display them at home and invite their friends over to check them out because they canʼt be seen in public actually wearing the clothes. Iʼm glad I have the option to wear whatever I want, but I guess itʼs the same idea. Okay, on second thought maybe itʼs a total waste. But Iʼm still strangely drawn to the shoes and I have an out of character craving for Earl Grey.
Going with Flo
May 16 | Favorite Things
I don’t know about you, but the vast improvement in weather in my neck of the woods has me feeling so cheerful. It also makes me want to put on light, feel-good clothes including – gasp! – florals.
It seems like designers, editors and retailers are all conspiring against the floral-phobic in me. Flower motifs are everywhere. I've always been a little dubious. Small prints can be prissy while large flower prints come off as muumuu-esque. But now I’m feeling the flo. Maybe it’s all the real flowers that I’m surrounded by lately. Maybe I’m getting soft. Whatever it is, I’ve turned around to this wearable garden party. Here’s one of my faves:
The silhouette is casual but the open back gives it a bit more sex appeal. The best part for me is that the floral print is a bit more graphic than girly. How sweet it is.
Hopelessly Devoted
May 2 | Favorite Things
I was recently shopping with my husband and baby in tow – he was sweet enough to wheel the little one around in the stroller while I trolled the downtown Nordstrom here in Portland for handbags. The selection is fantastic at this location, with many of the requisite luxury brands: Yves Saint Laurent, Chloé, Marc Jacobs. It was fun to look but I was having a hard time even finding anything that really caught my eye. At the prices handbags are going for these days, the bags better make me look taller, hotter and infinitely more stylish than everyone else around.
Then I noticed the Chanel boutique within the Nordstrom over in the corner. The lure was too strong. I had to check out the goods. Here’s where I got a little lightheaded. First of all, it is about ten times brighter in that part of the store so it felt like handbag heaven. The sales woman who helped me was so incredibly attentive and helpful that I wanted to say “I’ll take everything!” in the throws of my bag high. Of course I had to snap out of it, but not before my lust for luxury was permanently cemented in the shape of this bag:
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Chanel Perforated Metallic Calfskin Flap Bag |
This picture from the Chanel website makes the bag look flashier than it actually looks in person. But Perforated Metallic bag has attitude while being classic enough to steal the show from the prim little quilted bags. The gold metal accents contrast nicely with the silver leather and the inside is lined with the most beautiful silvery-blue satin. I am officially in love. But with a $2,195 price tag it will have to be a long-distance courtship. But don’t think I’m not scheming of ways to be with my true handbag love.
A Little Lift
April 23 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes
Between trips, illnesses, house guests and general busy-ness it’s been tough keeping this blog up to date. However, despite my fatigue I am ready to get back on track. And you know what would be a serious pick-me-up? Sky high heels with attention to detail.
Sure, the weather is too crappy to go without socks and I’m long overdue for a pedicure but just looking at these beauties makes me happy… and filled with shoe lust.
Why Dye?
March 30 | Favorite Things
I used to make fun of my husband for listening to the Grateful Dead because for me, the whole scene conjured up images of dirty hair and bad tie-dye. Whether thatʼs a fair assessment or not, it doesnʼt matter. I have now official gone over to the dark side and know plenty of Grateful Dead songs by heart (from years of being a captive audience on road trips) and have even caught myself singing a tune to the baby. *Sigh*
While I wonʼt be sporting a tie-dye t-shirt any time soon, I have seen some nice tie-dye looks that doesnʼt look too, um, crunchy. Here a look I really like:
It almost looks like an ethnic print, which is a big trend this season. I say a little tie-dye goes a long way and this light, airy look is perfect for spring.
YSL Majorelle
March 25 | Favorite Things
At first I wasnʼt that into this bag. It seemed too old lady-ish for me. But after further review, Iʼve changed my mind.
How else can you pull off purple patent leather but as a bright bit of arm candy? It also helps punch up a rather staid design. Iʼm all for classic looks but accessories are a great way to think outside the box.
Speaking of Yves Saint Laurent, I read The Beautiful Fall during my vacation and now have a new appreciation for the designer and the brand. That goes for Karl Lagerfeld too, who is the other main subject of the book. I learned more than I ever needed to know about Saint Laurent and Karl Lagerfeldʼs personal and professional lives, and their titanic rivalry. For fashion addicts, this book is a must since the all-encompassing scope of the book and the juicy tidbits make you feel like an insider. And yes, Karl Lagerfeld had a signature look before the famous fan. I'm glad he moved on.
Event Planning
March 24 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes
Coming home from a vacation can be a bit of a letdown – although I’m grateful to sleep in my own bed again – but with the entire household in the grips of a nasty cold, I am feeling the doldrums of being back in the grind in a big way.
I’m just going to slog on with plenty of Emergen-C and as much sleep as I can manage considering I have a sick baby and husband to care for as well. With the small snatches of free time I have, I should be more productive but instead I choose to waste my time on the internet looking for ways to upgrade my wedding band (anniversary approaching) and sly ways to leave hints. Who am I kidding? First of all, right now I can’t handle too much thinking beyond looking at pretty pictures of jewelry and secondly, I have no problem being about as subtle as an elbow to the ribs when it comes to telling my husband exactly what I want. It just sounds better when I say I “hint.”
So where was I going with this? Oh yes, weddings. I have an important one coming up this summer and I’m already looking forward to finding a colorful dress and fab new shoes to dance the night away. I love a good wedding! And I love a festive shoe. Since the wedding is outdoors and informal, I like this look:
What can I say, I am a sucker for glitter. The blush hue is neutral enough to compliment a lot of other shades but still offers a cheerful bit of color. The cone heel is perfect for walking outside – it’s so annoying to have your heels sink into grass - and substantial enough to offer support for a long night of dancing. I also like that at the end of the day, you’ve got shoes that go beyond the one event and will pair well with shorts, skirts and anything else you own that shows a little leg.
Review: Jovovich-Hawk for Target
February 29 | Collections Agent
Here’s my advice about this line: run do not walk to your nearest Target because it will go fast! Target’s website says Jovovich-Hawk is available starting March 2, but I happened to go this morning for more practical purchases (toothpaste, paper towels etc.) and I was surprised to see that not only were the clothes already out but some of the styles were almost sold out.
It’s not surprising because there’s a lot to like. The vintage-inspired looks that Jovovich-Hawk are known for is well represented but there are styles for more mass appeal. I haven’t blogged about the Go International line in a long time because I haven’t been impressed with the quality of the clothes or even the designs but this is the best collection ever.
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Jovovich-Hawk for Target apron dress. |
This dress didn’t really catch my eye when I saw it online but the pattern is quite nice in person and it’s relatively well made. I had to clip some stray threads around the crochet trim at the bottom but that’s not really a complaint. I think flat gladiator sandals would look cute with the dress. I also liked a black floral print smocked dress and halter dress in the same print, which looked perfect for a warm night out. Those dresses weren’t pictured on the preview page of Target’s website. In fact, there were a lot of styles I saw today that weren’t on the website. Scooped back tees with ties at the back of the neck, thin striped tees and floral print tank tops all had that retro feel that would look great with wide legged jeans or slouchy trousers. I grabbed these two tops…
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Jovovich-Hawk for Target short sleeve hoodie & printed t-shirt |
I think the best thing in the collection was the blue linen vest. I debated whether to get it, but I am just not a vest person. Too bad for me, but perfect for the girl that can pull off the boho layered look. And for those of you looking for a new swimsuit the flirty bikinis are a bargain at $16.99 for each piece.
One thing to be aware of: sizing is all over the map. It could be tricky ordering online. I was a small in one top and a medium in another. One of the dresses I looked at ran so small I would have tried on a large. Speaking of sizes, some of the best styles were already down to just two sizes (S and XL). So if you want a piece of this action act fast.
Delicate Flower
February 26 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes
Remember in Clueless when Cher agrees to go the val party and has her satin shoes ruined when stoner Travis spills beer all over them while she’s trying to keep Tai away from him? Well, these shoes are definitely not the ones to wear to a party like that.
The sheer look is big for spring and these hand-painted organza heels take it to the next level. So if you’re willing to drop nearly a thousand bucks on these lovelies, garden parties, play dates, construction sites, Coachella… all bad ideas when wearing them.
The Sweetest Thing
February 22 | Favorite Things
I donʼt know if itʼs the fact that a cupcake is involved or just that the top is adorable but I am loving this bright little number from Boden.
I recently got a Boden womenʼs catalogue, not really knowing much about the brand. I lingered over every page. Thereʼs a sense of fun and whimsy to the designs, which lean toward the comfortable yet on trend. This top in particular speaks to my craving for color and the picture most definitely speaks to my craving for sweets. The pull is hard to resist.
The Perfect Tote
February 21 | Searching For…
Doesn’t it seem like when you are shopping for something specific in mind, you can never find it? I have been searching high and low for the right tote – a lightweight, roomy but not too large zip top tote in either canvas or nylon. Oh, and it has to be fashionable. Is that asking too much? There are plenty of choices but I haven’t found the exact match. I did find these cute cotton totes…
The Gap tote is adorable and is the perfect color green but it doesn’t have any sort of snap or zipper at the top. The same goes for the Diane von Furstenberg tote. The beautiful print almost made me pull the trigger when shopping online, but not having a closure makes it less practical for me. Both bags also don’t have an inside pocket so forget about stashing a wallet. Oh well. It was not meant to be, but for less than 50 bucks each I may get one anyway for a fun way to carry farmers’ market purchases.
So after more research online, I was happy to see the new Stella McCartney line for LeSportsac is now available for preorder. Here’s my favorite in the collection…
The numerous pockets are great for storing the dozen or more things I have to carry around these days. These bags are made of eco-friendly recycled polyester and come in neutral colors as well as a couple of dazzling prints. I actually really like this subtle shade of pink, which normally is not my thing. Anyway, here are a couple of other Stella for LeSportsac accessories I really dig.
Since these products are not yet available, I’m still at square one on the tote search. Plus these LeSportsac bags are in the $300 to $400 range so it’s not like I’d think long and hard before buying. I guess if comparing prices to Stella McCartney’s own handbag line, these are a steal. Still, it’s not an impulse buy… but I’m thinking about it.
Light Takes Flight
February 18 | Mirror, Mirror
Two-and-a-half weeks and counting until my beach get-away! The weather has taken a turn for the better here in Portland so I’m especially giddy about feeling the warm sand under my feet. What’s daunting is streamlining the list of things to bring – I’m not the best at packing light – but it’s important not to bring too much, especially when a very small plane is involved. Besides, I have to pack for my baby too.
One place to cut down is my toiletries. I’ve collected sample sizes of my favorite hair and body products, and I’m going to keep the make-up to the bare minimum. This little collection will make it a breeze.
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Stila Glamour set has everything I need for a simple yet polished look.
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Stila’s Illuminating tinted moisturizer absolutely rocks. It goes on so light but gives enough coverage to give you a dewy glow. I don’t go a day without it. It also comes in SPF 15 which makes it even more invaluable.
I’m also a big fan of Stila eye shadows. This kit comes with two flattering, shimmery colors, including Kitten, a great neutral pinky nude. Round it out with a sheer, deliciously scented gloss (lipstick is totally out for a beach vacation) and a black mascara that lengthens and curls and I’ve got a little kit meets my needs. Now if only editing my vacation wardrobe could be this easy.
Give a Girl a Handbag
February 13 | Favorite Things
Earlier today my brother called me for advice on a Valentine’s Day gift for his wife. I like hearing about last minute scrambles to find gifts. It makes me feel less like a loser when I do the same thing. He thought a new handbag was the way to go – good choice – and wanted some suggestions at the right price point.
That got me thinking… I always have room in my heart and closet for a new bag and this would make the perfect addition!
I’ll try not to gush in admiration. Normally ruffles aren’t my thing, but the ultra girly detail is offset with the metal hardware and chain strap, which is removable for when you prefer a clutch. Love it!
Flirty Pretty Things
February 11 | Searching For…
Valentine’s Day is around the corner and whether you love it or hate it, it’s hard to ignore. While I don’t make a huge deal out of it - the real pressure is on the guy - I always try to make some sort of effort. So I was definitely concerned when I realized I have a serious lack of lingerie. It's a little bit shameful actually. I’ve never been into elaborate lingerie, but I know beautiful, well-fitting underthings are a must. Right now my sensibilities are on the more practical side but do I have to choose sedate over seductive? There’s got to be a happy medium.
This looks comfortable and a little saucy. The stretch lace makes it feminine without being prissy.
Okay so this is a little bit girly, but I like this playful satin cami set. The mesh and pleats are sweet details that don’t go overboard on cute. I’d definitely skip the ribbon in the hair though.
This silk chemise is simple but has a few details to make it interesting. Plus silk feels great against the skin. Now if only I could make a decision…
Maternal Shoe Instincts
February 6 | Shoes, Glorious Shoes
I have just spent way too much time looking at fashion week photos, reviews and gossip columns. I could be doing at least three things on my “to do” list but this is more fun. At least that's my excuse, a lame one but an excuse nonetheless.
Anyway, while my mother was visiting recently I realized one thing we definitely share – a voracious appetite for fashion magazines. Once she went through a huge stack, she came to me with an old Marie Claire I’d been using inside a basket to boost up a plant and asked if it was all I had left. I had to dig up some fall issues to keep her happy the rest of her visit.
Anyway, in one of the more recent magazines she pointed out a pair of Louboutin heels that caught her fancy.
She would never actually wear them, unlike me, who would probably do a gleeful tap dance every ten minutes and attempt to wear them to sleep. My mom is in her sixties and she's over the whole sexy high heel thing (and I say thank goodness for that). But I like how she thinks. And I’m not even disturbed that in a hypothetical shoe closet, my mom and I would have many of the same little gems lined up. Neatly of course.
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