Pink Avenue

In Quotes

2010-03-09T16:05:00.002-05:00

"Style is wearing an evening dress to McDonald's, wearing heels to play football. It is personality, confidence and seduction"

— Designer John Galliano, defining style

Coveting

2009-12-20T11:44:00.003-05:00

Traveling for the holidays but still looking to stay warm and cozy? Check out the Burberry Cashmere Travel Ballet Flats. Now all you need is the tree and the crackling fire.

Retailing for $175 at Saks.

In Quotes

2009-12-11T11:39:00.001-05:00

"I loathe narcissism, but I approve of vanity."

— Vogue editor-in-chief Diane Vreeland to Elle

Razzle Dazzle

2009-11-23T11:02:00.002-05:00

Sequined Converse: fabulous or heinous? I think they're great, though I'm not sure how I'd wear them.

Coveting

2009-11-22T09:42:00.004-05:00

It's a little Alice in Wonderland, a little Mad Hatter, but still a lot of simply fabulous. If you want to stand out in a crowd, the Marc by Marc Jacobs Runway Box Headband is perfect for you. Now off to Wonderland...

Retailing for $118 at Bloomingdale's.

My Favorite Pirate

2009-11-21T16:44:00.004-05:00

I know he's not a fashion figure, but Johnny Depp is among my favorite actors and for a man, he's very fashion forward. Esquire did a great interview with him, so I figured I'd post some of the highlights:

- "My life is my life because of Tim [Burton]. Definitely."

- "Don't take any shit off anyone, ever. Eloquent and right."

- "My definition of freedom is simplicity, really. Anonymity."

House of Coco

2009-11-17T15:25:00.002-05:00

Want to see Coco Rocha's home? It's prettttty awesome. In fact, I'm kind of jealous.

Coveting

2009-11-15T09:35:00.003-05:00

I feel like I'm always on the market for a gorgeous wallet, but none of them meet all the criteria. It's either too small, a weird color, not enough credit card slots, or too clunky to fit in a purse. This Tory Burch Suki Python-Embossed Leather one is just right. A chic wallet that also doubles as a fancy clutch? I'm sold.

Retailing for $275 at Bloomingdale's.

In Quotes

2009-11-13T21:33:00.003-05:00

"Unless you have been living in northern Tibet or someplace equally remote, you know that models have distinct walks. For instance, if Carmen Kass were forced to walk with a bag over her head, you would know from the little shake of her bust, as well as the high knee step, that it was Carmen. Karlie Kloss, a new runway star, walks with a sort of campy sphinxlike motion of her head, accompanied by a glare. According to J, Coco Rocha, who walks quickly, with her chin tucked in, "looks like her nose is always running."

— Cathy Horyn profiling Miss J. Alexander for the New York Times

The New 'Rachel'

2009-11-12T00:11:00.003-05:00

Everyone, including the New York Times, is obsessed with Blake Lively's hair. As if we didn't already know.

Mad for (Beige) Plaid

2009-11-10T00:18:00.003-05:00

The Sartorialist did a long-term project for Burberry called "Art of the Trench." The results are up now, and it is nothing short of amaaaazing. I was seriously drooling while perusing, and you will be too.

Coveting

2009-11-08T09:52:00.004-05:00

Of course the designers are already teasing us with Resort Collections (just as we're approaching freezing temps, no less!), but the Cavalli Tropical Shirtdress is especially a killer. The light silk, the bold print... oh, I wish it were cruise time already!

Retailing for $1,095 at Bergdorf Goodman.

Too(s) Cool

2009-11-08T09:43:00.002-05:00

The Sartorialist's profile of Amir Toos is absolutely awesome. Some highlights:

Q: Personal style quirk?

A: Always leave room for assumption!

Q: Never caught wearing?

A: Dress shirt with a tie, without the jacket, in public.

Q: Favorite Place to search for inspiration?

A: Manhattan Public Library.

In Quotes

2009-11-08T00:07:00.003-05:00

"It's the same thing in me that makes me love fashion — I'm fascinated by colors and textures and layering things."

— Gossip Girl star Blake Lively, on her love of interior decorating (and fashion!)

Coveting

2009-11-01T10:21:00.003-05:00

Rachel Zoe is obsessed with chunky YSL pumps, and frankly, I am too. This pair is covered (and dark colored) enough to justify winter wear and the 6-inch heel ensure you'll be a focal point in any crowd.

Retailing for $895 at Neiman Marcus.

Bed Head

2009-10-29T11:32:00.003-04:00

Obsessed with Kate Moss's beyond sexy hair in the new Topshop ads? Well, Fashionista is too. Gold star for whoever has the best advice on how to achieve the look.

Bemused

2009-10-29T09:34:00.002-04:00

Nylon chronicles some of the muses of the moment in their latest blog post. My favorite? The fabulous Alexa Chung, of course.

She Had It Coming

2009-10-26T12:06:00.005-04:00

Lindsay tells the Times UK that she knew she'd be a target for her Ungaro collection. The gist:

"Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I didn't expect everyone to be completely loving the collection. It is the same with everything I have done. I knew that people were going to target me. I am a target. I don't know why I am, but I am, and I accept that."

Oh, Lindsay.

To Luxe or Not to Luxe?

2009-10-26T09:30:00.001-04:00

We are apparently back to this notion of luxury shame, and apparently it's hurting the luxury market substantially. Thoughts?

Coveting

2009-10-25T09:59:00.002-04:00

I know I've been exhibiting an obsession with bows recently, but a life-long love is not easy to cure!! Donna Karan seems to agree with me, as she designed this gorgeous perfect-for-the-office-presentation-but-also-for-the-party-after outfit. The Bow Tie Wrap Jacket alone makes me want to die smiling.

Retailing for $1,495 at Saks.

(Rolled-Cuff pants are an additional $695.)

Fashion from the UES

2009-10-24T09:22:00.004-04:00

Into the prep school scene? Well, the styles they are a-changin'. W Magazine reports that although Blair Waldorf headbands are here to stay, Upper East Side schools are overrun with neon Doc Martins, 80s blazers and pillbox hats. Yes, Jackie O style. Check the crazy interview out for yourself.

The Future of Fashion

2009-10-22T09:50:00.002-04:00

Fashion heavyweights like Ashley Olsen, Isaac Mizrahi and fashion critic Robin Givhan gathered at the 92nd Street Y last night to discuss fashion in this time of economic peril and where it's heading next. The Cut did a great little round-up of the event, but here are some highlights:

Mizrahi: "I think that to be stylish you have to connect to something and love it."

Givhan: "I think [Michelle Obama] is a perfect example to them that you can incorporate fashion into your lives..."

Olsen: "For me, when I look at it as a celebrity brand, it's almost silly to me, because I'm not coming from a celebrity standpoint."

In Quotes

2009-10-20T22:19:00.003-04:00

"Truthfully...it is hard to go wrong with black pumps. It really comes down to a two-step process. 1. Find a pair you love — the higher the heel, the better. 2. Wear them with everything!"

— stylist Rachel Zoe (in The Zoe Report) on a classic wardrobe staple

Coveting

2009-10-18T12:49:00.002-04:00

It's only mid-October, and my ears are already numb from the cold. I'm not one to pull off bold hats, but this Helen Kaminski Tashi Rollable Fur Felt Hat just makes me smile enough to try it. The pleat is extra adorable, isn't it?

Retailing for $245 at Bloomingdale's.

In Quotes

2009-10-17T23:01:00.002-04:00

"I like to think that my style and the clothes I design are effortlessly elegant and sexy. I think the word effortless is very important. I think that that creates an ease and a confidence, because I think there's nothing more beautiful than a woman who's confident."

— legendary designer Diane von Furstenburg describing her own style in this month's Harper's Bazaar

Class of 2010?

2009-10-15T22:09:00.002-04:00

Vanity Fair did a yearbook-style awarding of superlatives for the SS10 fashion show season. Definitely worth taking a look.

The Weather Outside is Frightening

2009-10-15T12:17:00.002-04:00

The rapid temperature drop has made one thing very clear: it's time to start thinking of winter coats. Thankfully, Refinery 29 has compiled a list of this season's greatest hits. Check it out, and get ready to break out the scarves and mittens.

Crazy for Coco

2009-10-15T09:36:00.002-04:00

The Coco Rocha ads for Zac Posen look unbelievable. A real vision in red.

[via Fashionista]

All That Glitters

2009-10-12T20:37:00.002-04:00

...is Natalia! Photographed here at the Gaia Repossi and Eugenie Niarchos party.

[via Style.com]

So Sartorial

2009-10-11T20:23:00.004-04:00

Esquire UK did a fabulous little interview with The Sartorialist recently. The highlight:

ESQ: Who’s the best-dressed man in the world?
SS: “I never think about that. I’m interested in the idea of visual greed; I don’t care who a person is, what brands they’re wearing or whether I like their whole look. I’ll shoot just their particular collar and the way it works with their tie and pocket square. There’s a guy called Lino who has a store in Milan called Al Bazar, and he’s such a character, but I don’t want to be like him. I love the way he dresses, but in an abstract way.”

Coveting

2009-10-11T10:28:00.002-04:00

We all know I love ribbons and bows, and this Ranjana Khan Crystal-Bow Strap dress double the pleasure. An absolute must-have for the winter holiday party season.

Retailing for $1,275 at Bergdorf Goodman.

Spotted in Paris

2009-10-08T10:22:00.001-04:00

By the Sartorialist, of course.

The Incredible Irving

2009-10-07T16:21:00.005-04:00

As you may have heard, iconic photographer Irving Penn passed away this morning. The fashion world is sure to dearly miss him. If you want some background history, the New York Times obit is gorgeous and really does do him justice.

There Are No Words

2009-10-07T11:09:00.001-04:00

[via The Cut]

The Wearability Factor

2009-10-06T23:26:00.006-04:00

What's this? Fashion being wearable? Whoever heard of such nonsense? Apparently the New York Times has, and the Parisian deities like YSL and Chloe. I like to call it couture-meets-comfort. What a fabulous concept...

[via NYTimes]

In Quotes

2009-10-05T20:33:00.002-04:00

"If you say to me, I've got a ticket to Paris, I want to be able to go now."

— Annabel Hodin on how she dresses

So Stella

2009-10-05T12:12:00.005-04:00

As Stella McCartney's collection debuted yesterday on the Paris runway, the Guardian UK ran a story/interview with McCartney, discussing what it's like to live as a Beatle's child. Some highlights:

- "The beliefs I was raised with – to respect animals and to be aware of nature, to understand that we share this planet with other creatures – have had a huge impact on me."

- "What? They are heartless. They must be! Why on earth would they use fur and leather otherwise? There's no excuse for fur in this day and age. Baby kids are boiled alive. Foxes are anally electrocuted. If that's not heartless, what is?"

- "Wearable – it's almost a dirty word in fashion, wearable, but that's what I do."

- "The greatest luxury of having the parents I had was that it has enabled me not to have to compromise. In the back of my mind, I always knew – if this all goes horribly wrong, I'll be all right. That's an option that most people just don't have, financially."

Coveting

2009-10-04T10:00:00.002-04:00

Where would I wear this Marchesa masterpiece? I have no idea. And yes, I know it looks like a sea of plums. But I'm really in love with it.

Retailing for $6,820 at Neiman Marcus.

In Quotes

2009-10-01T15:17:00.003-04:00

"You know how little girls draw princesses in beautiful dresses? I've never stopped."

— up-and-coming designer Caroline Seikaley, describing her collection in this month's Vogue

A Culture of Spending Cuts

2009-09-30T17:41:00.002-04:00

The Style section of the New York Times wrote a feature a few days ago about the spending cuts that have been enforced at Conde Nast since the macho McKinsey advisers came in. Apparently, freelance writers stay at hotels like the W when on assignments? No longer.

Coveting

2009-09-27T16:44:00.003-04:00

I guess this morning's unexpected showers freaked me out a little bit, because now I'm frantically searching for the perfect fall trench. I haven't necessarily settled on one yet, but this Kate Spade "Bisous" Sateen Bow Trench seems simply perfect — Grace Kelly meets Katharine Hepburn.

Retailing for $645 at Bloomingdale's.

Down the Rabbit Hole

2009-09-26T11:28:00.004-04:00

Milan Fashion Week is well under way, and one of the lines garnering rave reviews is, of course, Versace. According to WWD, it's highly whimsical...something straight out of Alice in Wonderland. My absolute favorites below:

Oh, It's Hard to Live in the City

2009-09-24T22:48:00.003-04:00

My favorite reality TV guilty pleasure? The City. Yes, seriously. And this NYMag interview with Whitney Port summarizes why, so check it out.

In Quotes

2009-09-23T17:00:00.002-04:00

"Some people dream of having a big swimming pool — with me, it's closets."

— Audrey Hepburn, expressing every fashionista's priorities

They Grow Up So Fast

2009-09-23T16:48:00.006-04:00

Everyone's in a tizzy today about Suri Cruise wearing glittery kitten heels while out on the town with Katie yesterday. I don't know about you, but I think there's nothing wrong with that. So...she looks a little 3-going-on-30, but what of it? She pulls off those heels and ruffled skirt better than most older girls I know!

[via NY Daily News]

Emmy Fabulous

2009-09-20T21:34:00.005-04:00

So the Emmy's are on, and though I know everyone (seriously, everyone!) will be weighing in on the outfits tomorrow morning, I just can't resist weighing in right. My two favorites for the night go to actresses from my two absolute favorite TV shows:

Sandra Oh in Marchesa

Leighton Meester in Bottega Veneta

[via The Cut]

Coveting

2009-09-20T09:53:00.005-04:00

Milly's designs are all covered in ruffles and bows this season (love it!), but this Ruffle Knee Coat in Smoke is a particular favorite. Regal enough for your visit to see Her Majesty and sexy enough for the downtown dinner date... sounds just right.

Retailing for $675 at Neiman Marcus.

The Bold and the Beautiful

2009-09-18T18:01:00.004-04:00

I always feel like beauty is an often-ignored aspect of Fashion Week. After all, you're so busy gaping at fabulous materials, cuts, and colors of clothes that nobody has time to check out the eyeliner or the chignon. W Magazine did a great little round-up of the best beauty trends from NYFW. My favorite is the white eyeliner — crazy, but I'm dying to try it! Check out the rest here.

In Quotes

2009-09-18T11:35:00.003-04:00

"The It's About Time Award: Finally, the good folks at Coca-Cola realized that it was unnatural for fashionistas to be without a cold Diet Coke for longer than 45 minutes, and kindly partially sponsored the shenanigans at Bryant Park. Our raging addiction thanks them."

— The Fug Girls, perfectly summarizing a staple of the fashion lifestyle: calorie-free soda.

The Great American

2009-09-17T15:11:00.004-04:00

For the preppies among us (myself included), Mr. Ralph Lauren is something of a demi-god. Kind of made my day when he was the subject of Vanity Fair's Proust Questionnaire this month. Highlights below:

When and where were you happiest?
Eating a burnt-bacon cheeseburger and pecan pie at J. G. Melon.

What is your most treasured possession?
My little dog, Bikini.

What is your current state of mind?
Depends upon my hair.

[via Vanity Fair]

(Fashion) Week in Review

2009-09-17T09:26:00.010-04:00

Jealous that you're not at the tents? I feel you. Make like me and stalk the photos, becoming your own critic of what's hot and what's not. Some of my top picks:

Oscar de la Renta

Tory Burch

DVF

Zac Posen

Ralph Lauren

[via NYTimes]

In Quotes

2009-09-16T23:39:00.005-04:00

"Designers are trying to figure out what will motivate their customers and new customers to shop."

— Vogue fashion editor Sally Singer on designers' approaches this Fashion Week

Coveting

2009-09-13T22:47:00.002-04:00

I've tried for years to love boots, I really have. To me, they're sexy but eternally uncomfortable, and though I always think I want a pair, I never end up pulling them off quite right. So when the news broke that this fall's staple item was over-the-knee boots, I said to myself, "No way." I'm just not made to rock those kinds of things.

It all changed when I discovered the Chloe Tied Leather OTK Boots. Soft and wearable, bold but not obnoxious (because the leather is matte, not shiny), these feel like they'd be a true investment shoe. Plus I'm a sucker for anything with bows.

Retailing for $1,295 at Nieman Marcus.

Lions, Tigers, and Bears...Oh My!

2009-09-13T22:44:00.002-04:00

Of all the beautiful collections that have shown in New York so far, possibly my favorite — and what looks to be the most wearable — is the DVF ready-to-wear. The safari prints are bold, beautiful, and perfect for spring. Nothing like a leopard print to brighten up your day...

[via The Cut]

A (Fashion) Career of One's Own

2009-09-11T17:51:00.003-04:00

The New York Times published an article today about how now more than ever, fashion graduates are not satisfied working behind the scenes or helping on background stuff...they want to become the editors, the designers, the stylists of the future, and they want to do it fast.

How does one get started, you may ask? In a nutshell: don't expect to start at the top, be prepared to suffer, know that naivete is bliss, and be persistent.

Go in cautiously though. As Kelly Cutrone put it, "You'll be very lucky if you start and end your career liking clothes."

2009-09-09T19:10:00.004-04:00

The Moment profiled the Kubricks' personal chef of 6 years, Celia Brooks Brown, today, and she's quite the character... This is definitely a story you'll want to read.

Some fun facts: she loves dirty martinis, "gangsta acrylic nails," and Brief Encounter. For serious.

How the Fashionable Shop

2009-09-09T09:04:00.004-04:00

In honor of Fashion's Night Out, the Times asked some of the world's best shoppers — Vogue's various Editor-in-Chiefs — what they intend to buy and why they shop. Some highlights:

"What I love about shopping is that it fulfils different functions. Acquisition is such a small part of the experience. It’s the excitement of possibility that is the most enjoyable part — the idea that you are going to find treasure." — Alexandra Shulman, British Vogue

"For Vera [Wang], hitting the stores is about more than an act of acquisition. It’s one of self-invention and self-empowerment, no matter how small and inexpensive her purchase might be. It's Vera’s attitude that I’ll keep in mind when I do the rounds on September 10." — Anna Wintour, American Vogue

"I’ve never had a case of buyer’s remorse. The trick lies in really knowing your body, understanding what works, spending only what you can afford, and buying only what you love. A year ago, I saw a beautiful, sequined Abraham & Thakore coat and I had to have it. I am yet to wear it. But I know that the perfect time will come." — Priya Tanna, Indian Vogue

[via Times UK]

In Quotes

2009-09-08T21:51:00.004-04:00

"I really try to live in the now. It’s not that I try to live in a fake world or that I don’t respect the past or tradition, but I make clothes for now, I think."

— designer Dries Van Noten on his designs

[via The Moment]

At Summer's End

2009-09-07T14:28:00.005-04:00

I'm sort of in denial that Labor Day marks the end of summer, especially because that means the end of all things strappy and flowy and white.

Don't freak out too much though, because it also means end-of-summer sales (or, investing for next summer!). Found this adorable Tory Burch Kelsey Low Cork wedge. It's the perfect shade of turquoise and is now $150 at Bloomingdale's, down from $250.

Maybe the end of summer isn't so bad after all...

Coveting

2009-09-06T10:30:00.002-04:00

I know, I know...the Little Black Dress never gets old. But if it ever did begin to bore you, this Missoni Banded Dress is a fabulously chic, effortlessly cool alternative. It's short but comfy — what more could you ask for?

Retailing for $1,955 at Bergdorf's.

Glamour Girl

2009-09-04T14:59:00.003-04:00

Wishing I were this glamorous...difficult in this humid weather.

[via Tory Burch Twitter]

Shopping Strategy

2009-09-03T12:10:00.003-04:00

Fashionista and Marie Claire fashion editor Nina Garcia just released a new book called The Style Strategy: A Less-is-More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart.

In a nutshell: buy what you need, stick to your guns, and don't forget the basics. Thanks, Nina.

[via Marie Claire]

In Quotes

2009-09-02T20:56:00.002-04:00

"Pencil skirts are high maintenance, requiring high heels, skinny tops, a slim, short jacket, sheer or completely opaque tights and a Mad Men sassiness."

— Times UK writer Lisa Armstrong commenting on a challenging winter fashion trend

What's in a Word?

2009-08-31T10:27:00.003-04:00

NYMag's fashion blog, The Cut, asked designers to describe their upcoming Spring 2010 collections in a single word. Some highlights:

"Evocative"

Jason Wu

"Off-shore"

Proenza Schouler

"American Beauty"

Tory Burch

"Perv"

Alexander Wang

"Splendiferous"

Anna Sui

"Singed"

Rodarte

Coveting

2009-08-30T11:16:00.004-04:00

Cold weather will be here be here before you know it, and there's nothing better than a great coat to help you beat the winter blues. Try this amazing Red Valentino Bow-Neck jacket to stay warm and stand out when the clouds roll in.

Retailing for $1,090 at Saks.

In Quotes

2009-08-28T12:39:00.007-04:00

"Lack of effort. Bad fit. And bad quality (Not to mention bad shoes.) The cargo shorts, T-shirt and flip-flop combination."

— New designer Antonio Azzuolo on the worst fashion faux pas a guy can make

Sienna's Style

2009-08-28T11:55:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I confessed that I'm obsessed with the Olsens. Well, another style obsession of mine is Sienna Miller, and I was beyond thrilled when I opened up WhoWhatWear today to see a profile of her summer outfits. I saw her up close recently, and yes, she is this effortlessly glamorous in person. If only we could all be so blessed.

Olsen Obsessed

2009-08-27T09:54:00.005-04:00

Confession: I'm obsessed with the Olsen twins. They've had me hooked since the Full House days, and yes, I'm still a loyal fan. I know that even on a good day, they look like they went shopping in a trash can, and I realize that they're certainly not Oscar contenders in the acting arena, but they're just so...cool.

This article in yesterday's Style section of the New York Times cemented my love for them. Their high-end collection, The Row, is the very definition of 'simply perfect.' Nice to know that "beleagured retailers" can't help but gush over them as well.

In Quotes

2009-08-26T17:44:00.001-04:00

"I don’t always recognise [my style] because if you ask me what my style is, I’m really not that sure. Really. It wasn’t until I started to work for Gucci in the Nineties that it started to become clear to me. And that’s because Tom Ford was pushing me to do the dark eye make-up, to wear high heels and to keep things very simple and lean."

— French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld on her signature style

Crazy for Wang

2009-08-26T17:02:00.005-04:00

W Magazine did an interview with the amazingly talented Alexander Wang. Some highlights:

- he really considers himself "a Nineties kid" and admits to being inspired by Saved by the Bell

- his look now is t-shirt-and-black-jeans style, quite simple

- he names shoes after models and purses after TV show characters

Could this guy be any cooler? I think not.

[via W Editors' Blog]

Savings at Starbucks

2009-08-25T14:31:00.003-04:00

A self-proclaimed Starbucks addict, I'm always looking for the best deals at my favorite coffee chain. Today I watched a fabulous and informative slideshow on the many ways to save at Starbucks, all while satiating your coffee craving.

A fun fact that the slideshow omitted: Starbucks has a "short" size. Yes, a size smaller than tall. They don't advertise it but will be happy to oblige if you order one. Your wallet (and your calorie counter) will thank you.

[via Savvy Sugar]

In Quotes

2009-08-25T09:23:00.003-04:00

"You could buy a lipstick."

— Anna Wintour on how to be fashionable on a $20 budget

The Devil Does Wear Prada

2009-08-24T16:43:00.003-04:00

You know you're a big deal when the New York Times writes an op-ed about you. Just in case anyone on the fashion planet didn't think Anna Wintour was Queen of the World, here's Maureen Dowd's article to reaffirm it. Also, look out for Anna on Letterman tonight.

[via NYT]

Fashion Fail

2009-08-24T10:21:00.003-04:00

New York Magazine predicted the 5 biggest trends for the fall this morning, and they all look pretty heinous to me. Adirondack details? Mohawks? So not my thing.

[via NYMag]

Coveting

2009-08-23T19:50:00.003-04:00

Every girl needs a transition shoe, the one that'll cover you in the layover weeks between August heat and November rain. The best kind of shoe is all-purpose: classy enough for your day job, trendy enough for a night out. This YSL T-strap, to me, is just that.

Retailing for $895 at Barneys.

My Boyfriend's Back

2009-08-22T21:34:00.005-04:00

Everyone knows fall is the time to break out the blazers, and this fall, boyfriend blazers are the way to go. Don't feel like breaking the bank on Elizabeth & James or Alexander Wang? Grab this adorable one for $195 at Topshop. Great boyfriend look on the outside, girly pink lining on the inside. You're definitely getting the best of both worlds.

[via Topshop]

Sweet Kicks

2009-08-22T21:08:00.004-04:00

DJ Mark Ronson's sneaker collaboration with Gucci was, well, a shock to many of us. The man has personal style, yes, but good enough for Gucci...really? The results hit stores this fall, so we'll see how it went. In the meantime, get your credit cards ready. Ronson himself admits these kicks won't come cheap:

"I think mine are the cheapest in the shop, I’ll say that. I think they’re maybe $500 or something," he said. "I know it’s a fucking credit crunch, but I think the other ones go for more."

[via The Cut]

Zoe Obsessed

2009-08-21T20:55:00.004-04:00

I feel like Rachel Zoe has gotten more press in the past few weeks than ever before, and that's really saying something. I was about to give kudos to her publicist, but really, kudos for self-publicizing. Her shoe collection alone deserves its own publicist, or its own country...

Zoe's answers in the HuffPo interview are fairly unoriginal, but I did like the fun facts at the end — especially that she's obsessed with Warren Buffet. (Random?)

Anyway, I'm impressed that this woman has made herself into an entire brand! I may even check out her show's second season this fall.

[via HuffPo]

Fall in Love

2009-08-21T12:45:00.002-04:00

What is it about fall fashion that makes us fall in love? The Sartorialist wondered this today, posting a gorgeous photo of an Italian man in a wool suit.

Every August, as September issues hit the stands, I find myself counting down the days until mid-October, when it's chilly enough to break out the autumn scarves, booties, and trench coats. Then, of course, winter rolls around, and suddenly I'm wishing for sunshine and summertime.

[via The Sartorialist]

Wrinkle Worries

2009-08-20T21:59:00.004-04:00

The New York Times published an article today about anti-aging products being targeted at 20-somethings. Of course, I read this story just after coming home from several hours of poolside tanning, but hey, at least I'm giving the wrinkle solutions some thought. The best part: early prevention/treatment is affordable. According to NYC dermatologist Dr. Day, "I often send my 20-somethings to the drugstore where there are plenty of affordable products with SPFs, retinol, peptides, vitamin C and a pro-vitamin B."

In Quotes

2009-08-20T14:56:00.001-04:00

"Walking. I just spent loads of money on a pair of studded Prada brogues and my justification was that my shoes are my car."

— Henry Holland on his favorite mode of transport

Driver's Test

2009-08-20T14:05:00.003-04:00

In case you didn't already know, today is a 24-hour crackdown on drivers using cell phones by the NYPD. So if you're texting while at the wheel, do yourself (and the city's drivers) a favor and stop. Please and thank you.

[via Daily Intel]

Hobo-happy

2009-08-20T11:19:00.005-04:00

Remember when I talked about my love for hobos earlier in the week? Well, the love continues. At $198, this Betsey Johnson purse is considerably cheaper than than the Burberry bag I profiled before, and bears a striking resemblance to the Valentino bow bags that are all over Saks right now. So what do you say — are you daring enough to try a plaid handbag?

[via Purse Blog]

Crew Colors

2009-08-19T16:26:00.006-04:00

J.Crew just joined the ranks of some of couture houses like Chanel by releasing its own nail polish colors. Unlike YSL et al, J.Crew's polishes are not made in-house but rather are being done in collaboration with polish power player Essie. The duo — One of a Kind and Eternal Optimist — are as happy and beautiful as their names suggest. Bonus: costs well under $10.

[via Nylon Blog]

The Zoe Report

2009-08-19T11:57:00.003-04:00

In an enlightening new interview, fashion crazy Rachel Zoe:

- admits she needs "to develop an edit button" for the things that come out of her mouth

- confesses fashion has felt the repercussions of the down economy

- reveals she "finds herself recycling" what's in her closet

[via WWD]

Socks + Sandals

2009-08-19T10:07:00.004-04:00

Just read a semi-informative post on Refinery29 entitled "How to Wear Socks and Sandals Without Looking Like a Dweeb." Still not convinced that this look would actually flatter anyone, or make them look sane for that matter, but if you're into it, check out the instructions for sound advice.

Best of September

2009-08-18T19:46:00.005-04:00

During my (unbearably hot) trip into the city today, I discovered that the September issues of magazines have hit newsstands! They're definitely on the skinnier side, especially compared to a few years ago, but quality over quantity, right? And the quality's been great. Some highlights:

- Favorite cover, Vogue aside, goes the Leighton Meester for Harper's Bazaar. Not a fan of the digital aging they did for her spread, but the cover looks effortless, glamorous, and ready for fall.

- The best fall fashion guide, hands down, goes to Elle. I think they provided something like 600 different looks!

- Vanity Fair's annual Best Dressed list included some questionable people (Renee Zellweger, seriously?) but I feel like it's gotten so much press in recent days that I don't need to discuss it. Who else has made it a life goal to make it onto that list?

- Glamour put Jessica Simpson on the cover, cashing in on her tabloid popularity in recent weeks. I actually didn't buy the issue because I didn't like her as a cover girl. Likable she may be, but fashion icon she is not.

- Love the Marie Claire profile of Alexa Chung as the "Queen of Cool." I was in the audience of her live show today and yes, she really is that cool in person!

- And after a sneak peak onto the magazine's website, it looks like Amanda Seyfried will rock the Allure cover. She seems an unlikely choice, but the photos do speak for themselves.

- Sidenote: suprised that Diane Kruger isn't on any September covers, given the praise of Inglorious Basterds and how generally pretty and stylish she is! Maybe next time.

In Quotes

2009-08-17T10:53:00.002-04:00

"Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is more about being yourself."

— Oscar de la Renta on the difference between fashion and style

Preppy Television

2009-08-16T11:14:00.003-04:00

One of my absolute favorite Sunday traditions is waking up to the New York Times. After front page, I typically head straight for the Style section, but an op-ed caught my eye today. The piece was written by Frank Rich, whose column I don't typically read, but it's about Mad Men.

I feel like this is a show that's gotten a lot of great coverage, but I don't actually know anyone who watches it. Coincidentally, I also read the Vanity Fair feature on January Jones (the female lead in "Mad Men") last night, and am now convinced that it's a sign that I should watch the Season 3 premiere on Sunday night. If nothing else, the cast dresses in the cutest, preppiest clothes.

And speaking of watching preppies, The Preppy Life blog had a great list of the Top 10 Preppiest Movies. I'm not sure Clueless counts as a preppy film, but let's agree to disagree.

Coveting

2009-08-16T09:58:00.007-04:00

I'm a sucker for hobos of any shape and color, but this Burberry Degrade Leather one is just perfect for fall. Patterned but subtle, it's the perfect grab-it-and-go purse.

Retailing for $1795 at Neiman's.

In Quotes

2009-08-15T22:18:00.005-04:00

"They're like Mel Gibson and Danny Glover in a Lethal Weapon movie, only British, female, and very nicely dressed. Their belief in fashion's artistry and power is infectious."

— Vanity Fair writer Bruce Handy discussing the relationship between Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington in the upcoming documentary The September Issue

Miss Univers-ity

2009-08-15T19:53:00.002-04:00

Just came home from a vacation at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, which, as some pageant lovers may know, is hosting the Miss Universe competition next weekend. The beauty queens moved into the hotel a few days ago, and after some encounters at the beach and restaurants, I can assure you that they're no more beautiful than the typical sorority girl. Of course they're pretty, but not exceptional.

What I did hear about, however, that interested me was that many of them are much more educated than contestants in years past. The media reported that more and more of them are college educated, and oftentimes girls enter these contests because the prizes pay for their education. Beauty and brains? Cheers to that!

All for Polyvore

2009-08-14T23:22:00.006-04:00

A trend-setting friend at work introduced me to this site called Polyvore, and now I'm absolutely in love. You can make these great fashion collages (sounds cheesy, but it's cool, I swear). It promises to be popular among fashionistas, art students, and designers alike. My first attempt wasn't as remarkable as I'd hoped, but some of the "featured" pieces on the site are quite amazing. Plus NYT wrote about the trend a week or two ago -- looks like it's really catching on! Speaking of catching on, I'm wondering whether the Zoe Report is all it's cracked up today. Do I really need that, Daily Candy, and GOOP in my inbox every morning?

audrey in paris by dshtrak featuring Roberto Cavalli

In Vogue

2009-08-13T21:52:00.002-04:00

Just saw the leaked cover of the September Vogue...Charlize Theron is on the cover! As expected, she looks gorgeous, and the issue is expected to be a stunner. I've loved her ever since Sweet November and The Devil's Advocate, but she's really become a fashion icon as well these past few years. Can't wait to read the much-awaited issue and see The September Issue next month!

[via NYMag]