Fashionably Contrived

Fall 2007 Target Love

2007-07-05T15:19:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or has Target become the "go" to source for fashion appropriate clothing thats well made at reasonable prices. Better then the sometimes misguided H&M collections and the often over saturated colors of Zara. The Target Go International collections just keep getting better.

I'm in love with the upcoming Erin Fetherston collection. Here's a look at my favorites:

To view the whole collection

These items will not be available until November so we will have to wait till then. But you can get a Target value fix with this preview look at accessories available now for presale.

Clockwise from left:
To buy the Devi Kroell Gold Hobo
To buy the Black Patent Ankle Boot
To buy the Blue Suede Bootie
To buy the Black Bow Front Maryjane
To buy the Devi Kroell Silver Clutch

I guess we can all stop saying Target in the silly French way for there is no reason to be embarrassed anymore with these looks they absolutely have earned their designer/street creed.

one in the hand

2007-06-15T14:26:00.000-05:00

Despite what may be said is not a good as two in the bush or on a branch as in the case of this adorable necklace from Moss Mills. A little ring encircles two little owls on a branch what a dainty way to flaunt you inner risk taker or in a different vein nature-loving you.

I'm am big fan of whimsy and the "Boo" necklace has all the right components cute but unexpected and not overly done or to proper. This is the kind of thing that makes even grandmothers smile when worn to toughen a dainty dress or to sweeten a grungy ensemble. It's also the kind of thing that solicits a second look from a potential suitor in a way a solitary diamond pendant never will.
I'll take the risk for two if the reward is any wear near as cute.

PS: I'm especially loving the rose gold

With Two Feet Flat on the Ground

2007-06-12T14:54:00.000-05:00

In New York I walk a lot. I always thought of myself as a walker in California, forgoing the short 2-minute drive to the cafe choosing instead to make the short 10 minute walk down the street. I thought I had sensible shoes because they only ever had little kitten heels.

Moving to New York I realized my walking in California did little to prepare me for the 4-5 miles I walk daily to the subway, from the subway to the gallery, and back again. Even the most comfortable little heels don't make sense when your running down stairs or trying to get out of the way of cars that have little respect for crosswalks.

All my cute shoes have gone into retirement. They have been replaced with sensible street-appropriate shoes.
Don't worry I haven't replaced them with ugly white tennis shoes just yet. It seems athletic shoe companies have heard the cries of my weary feet and now make many cute and stylish options that don't kill your feet or cause you to trip in the subway grates. The 'Asheni' flat from Adidas is the the answer. Coolly stylish, with the comfort and support of the best running shoe. This little flat passes for more and guarantees that in a city this big, you can at least keep your two feet flat on the ground.

Sorry

2007-06-09T15:59:00.001-05:00

Loyal blog readers (all six of you) I apologize that I have been negligent in keeping up my posts but alas, I am lazy. I vow this will not be one of those projects I start and then leave two thirds done out of loss of interest or motivation. I love all six of you and promise that you will see more blogs soon maybe even tonight..................................

...............................Well let's not get to ambitious ;)

Love,
H

Scarlett O'Hara's Wallpaper

2007-05-23T13:40:00.000-05:00

A famous scene in the movie Gone with the Wind sees Scarlett O'Hara converting the drapes of Tara into a dress for a society event. Utilizing the only good fabric remaining after the pillaging of her home by solders. Though quirky in appearance, the dress does have a regal quality to it with its yards of emerald green velvet.

What if she had chosen her wallpaper instead? I know, I know, she would have had major logistics issues with the rigidity of the medium... but think of the originality. It seems like many designers have postulated similar questions this season--or maybe they have a newfound interest in Louis XVI period interior decor. Wallpaper prints are popping up everywhere and at a range of price points.

These dresses are perfect for a garden part or wedding and are incredibly feminine yet don't require many accessories for a summer appropriate look

The dresses below all range between 34.99 to 198.00 can you tell which is which? Or maybe you "don't give a damn".

From left to right:
V-Neck Smocked, Toile-Print Wrap, Florida Room Sheath, Cotton Silk Cap Sleeve, Medallion Print Babydoll.

I see London, I see France

2007-05-21T19:17:00.000-05:00

These are the cutest underpants.

I loath thongs. I really don't understand how a string between your checks rubbing with each movement is comfortable or sexy. I have to admit that for a while, I too wore these little torture devices because the chaffing was better than the alternative granny panties that require a wear to scrunch them down to not show above low-rise jeans. Thongs also always looked a little trashy to me with their minuscule coverage and often tacky fabrics and colors.

After a search of probably every store that sells lingerie, I finally found the answer to my bottom's prayers; at a Gap of all places. The ultra-low pure cotton hipster is like a little hug for your rear. The soft cotton lifts and covers and is topped with a cute waste of inch thick lace. These hold their shape throughout the day and I guarantee that you will never have to... how do I say... "readjust" them. The price is great and they create new colors and prints for each season.

Watch This

2007-05-19T20:20:00.000-05:00

I used to watch Inspector Gadget as a little girl and found his constantly goofy gadgets intriguing, even though they often caused him to get in more trouble. Maybe he thought he could just annoy Dr. Claw or distract him from his evil plans. I always liked that it was a little girl, Penny, who saved the day. Just the post-feminist hero for 80s girls.

I suppose my love of large man-sized watches kind of relates in a strange way. I like it when they look like they could do something other then tell the time (perhaps act as a walkie-talkie when I work on my side job as a spy, or teleport me out of the annoying situation that is the Manhattan subway commute.) but I don't necessarily want something sporty. Watches that are weighty and look like they could have belonged to some well-dressed man are always more fun then the dainty pink and diamond things many women crave. It needs to be sleek and large, but still streamlined as it falls on the wrist bone empowering the wearer much like the cartoons of 80s youth.

This all-black watch from Vestal can fufill my little girl dreams of secret adventures to stop the evil Dr. Claws of the world or simply tell me how late I am while I wait for the 6 train.

An "Etsy" thrill

2007-05-14T22:37:00.000-05:00

Most days at work are pretty slow, which allows for endless hours of style-searching on the Internet. One of my favorite sites to visit is Etsy. An online swap-meet of sorts where users post their--often hand-crafted--creations and vintage finds.

Its hard to sort through all the junk that people think they can sell just because they handmade it. I have found, however, a few incredibly talented designers that have listed their wares.

In particular the designer liinok caught my eye. Her simple cuts are well thought out, appear well made and are a bargain considering the price similar styles cost at Barneys. Her color pallet of rich jewel tones are fashion forward for spring with there heavy use employed in the looks of upcoming fall styles.

I love this silky blouse with a shirred detail. Of all the colors, I suggest the rich electric blue. This luminous stunner works equally well with a black pencil skirt for work as with some worn in jeans and flat sandals for play.

For Ali-Marie

2007-05-11T11:03:00.000-05:00

By best friend called me last night as she often does. Our conversations run the gamut--from work to the meaning of life--but always seem to involve a discussion about clothing. I like that my friends seek my advice on what to wear and how to wear it. Since we live a nation apart and I can no longer be her shopping companion, Ali-Marie this is for you.

Ali-Marie works in medical offices where she must look professional but doesn't want to be mistaken for old. How does a young 25 year old accomplish this? And on a budget of course. Well I've found some options for you, just for you and all of the internet if they by chance stumble upon my page.

Ali-Marie has a typical female body-type smaller on top with an athletic build. Keeping in mind her olive skin and brown hair along with the stifling 100 degree weather of California summers (the state is not one big beach as many that don't live there believe.) I have found these outfits.
Hope you like them! This navy shirt dress is a cool linen blend with a shirt collar that slightly unbuttoned will bring attention to you face. The carved earrings are lightweight and have a summery, Polynesian feel. Metallic flat sandals (though slightly toughened with studs) are comfortable and still dressy for a work environment. The whole outfit is $126 not bad for such easy versatile pieces.
I love the floral jacket with it's fun summer print and perfect for covering your shoulders at work or on a breezy night out. The rich wine color of the dress will accent a tan and is flattering on a smaller bust. Add the rose colored bangles and the bright blue flats for a touch of whimsy. This outfit comes to $ 144.

So I suggest both ensembles, you can mix the pieces back into your wardrobe for even more looks. Love you lots.

I want, I need, I love...

2007-05-10T13:42:00.000-05:00

...this purse from Botkier. I know the style has been around for a while now, but the incarnation for summer is uniquely different. It looks like something found in the back of an older, fashionable woman's closet. She being very much a "Jacky O" type carrying this lady-like bag for years and storing it waiting for the day when someone would discover it and appreciate it's the well-loved patina.

I've always liked items that aren't quite perfect. As if they have been cherished for years and only parted with out of deep love wanting the item to "live up" to its rightful purpose through continual use.

The color of the moment is silver but it's not the high gleam of the ugly mirrored Louis Vuitton bags or the repetitive body styles of Marc Jacobs offerings for spring. This is a bag you can't quite place. The shape is familiar, but not overly exposed through knock-offs. The wear patterns of the leather give a look of a vintage find.

I know with this bag, I might very well be the old lady with treasure tucked away for some lucky young explorer.

Short Story

2007-05-05T18:22:00.000-05:00

When I was young I wore "Bongo" shorts. I remember having two pairs specifically. One was a dusty mustard color the other a floral pattern covered in palm-sized red and pink roses. Like all Bongo shorts, they hit comfortably above my belly button and the three front pleats extend down toward a large, rolled cuff at mid-thigh. Always the fashionista I wore mine with t-shirts tucked in and then blousoned out... usually of the kitty face variety. Looking back at pictures, I question what was I thinking (side Scrunci pony aside)?

For many years I never wore shorts they were in the realm of the very young or middle aged. Suffering through California heat waves in jeans. But shorts have been back for several seasons now and I have to admit my fashion paradigm has shifted back to my Bongo days. I want pleated shorts, but I suppose I'll leave the kitty shirt out of the outfit equation. Now I'll wear them with a fitted tank low on my hips with a flat studded sandal, maybe some large earrings and of course an oversize bag on my shoulder. The look will be less Punky Brewster and probably a lot more faltering, the Liz Loop Short from Alice+Olivia is perfect.

"Page"ing the Jean Genie

2007-05-02T21:30:00.000-05:00

I sold designer denim for five years and consider myself somewhat of a specialist in the field. Denim has permeated the California workplace but still remains taboo in the conservative, dressy New York world.

If you met me before my foray into Denim, I myself didn't own a pair of jeans. Why? They were sloppy, unflattering, and--try as you may--they couldn't replace requisite black pants as a uniform staple.

I've gone through my brand obsessions from Seven, Citizens, Joe's, James, to True Religion and Rock & Republic. My obsession always shifted to the newest that promised to keep their shape and have the hippest silhouette. There was always some areas these brand didn't measure up... so the stack of denim on my shelves grew.

I've found the perfect pair and I wear it even to work. Page jeans are the only brand I've ever found that keep their shape over multiple wears. The color doesn't fade, and the low, straight cut on the hip is universally flattering. It is further aided by small high pocket that make the rear look perky and shapely. I threw a black Page jean on with a blazer and blouse for a sophisticated, work-appropriate look that's California comfy.

Christopher Columbus

2007-04-28T14:39:00.000-05:00

"In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue"

So goes the rhyme many of us were taught as a child. It doesn't really matter, I suppose, that he didn't reach the American mainland and the Native Indian peoples until 1498.

Christopher Columbus is my shoes. What do you mean by that, you ask I've recently developed an obsession for Minnetonka moccasins. I know the moccasin trend had its moment three years ago--started by a very hard to obtain Prada shoe--but my obsession has a little twist.

It's the Thunderbird Moccasin in pebbled leather with a boat sole in white. They are a hybrid cross of nurse shoes, Sperry Topsiders, and traditional suede moccasins. They are extremely comfortable and surprisingly inexpensive. I'm wearing mine with wide leg jeans and shorts this summer.

This is perhaps the perfect shoe for discoverer Chris and his "sailing" adventures or just for the girl about town wanting to be cute as she discovers the city.

The White Stripes

2007-04-26T20:16:00.000-05:00

It's funny. There are certain items of clothing I find myself consistently drawn to. They become the essence of my wardrobe a signature style if you will. My husband teases me when I come hope from shopping excursions with a "let me guess what you bought; a horizontal striped shirt?"

"Dammit!" I think to myself. Am I that predictable? Looking through my drawers, the plethora of stripes betrays my personal style aesthetic. I am a creature of habit.

I've questioned why I'm drawn to this particular item (predominantly small stripes with alternates of black or navy) and have arrived at the conclusion that its because of versatility.

Anyone can wear a plan solid shirt but it often looks casual and boring. I have found that stripes makes an outfit and are surprisingly neutral when layered under solids or florals. This red-and-white striped shirt with a boat neck from Splendid is a perfect addition to my stacks of horizontal glory. I could wear it under an menswear style vest, with a black lace cami on top, over a collared shirt, or on its own with a pencil skirt or jeans. This shirt is a perfect example of how a signature pattern can become an indispensable tool in forming an overall personal style and serve as a starting block for different incarnations. So what for predictability.

The Umbrellables

2007-04-25T22:01:00.000-05:00

Walking home on what seems to have been the 50th rainy day of the year in NYC, I was reminded of my detest of umbrellas. I owned one once in California, but found it of little use since it was always cumbersome entering in and out of car doors in the once-yearly rainstorm.

My new home has "summer rain" (I thought I was in a Twilight Zone episode when, not long after moving, I was caught in torrential rain in the middle of July. My paradigm dictates dry heat upwards of 105 in summer months). I bought an umbrella soon after. It was okay until I walked down a busy sidewalk with it and pandemonium hit... similar to today's experience.

Most people use umbrellas even if its just cloudy & misty and insist on opening them the second they enter the subway stairwell. All this does is create the kind of congestion that makes you suddenly claustrophobic. The same people crowd the street taking up large expanses of space with their extra-large umbrellas (made for families it seems, but favored by small girls in high-heels that walk imposibly slow & hold it a height that guarantees impalement if you try to pass). In fact, everyone walks so slow because they can't really see where they're going with black, opaque domes held over their heads.

I gave up. I don't want to be one of the aimless sidewalk umbrella holders who shuffle slowly in front of a trail of pissed, soaked souls. For along time, I haven't carried an umbrella--unless it seems God is trying to flood the world again or at least the island of Manhattan (oh the debauchery) .

I think I found the answer to my dilemma with the Bubble Umbrella from Urban Outfitters. Its see-through oval shape allows easy weaving in-and-out of the sea of these inconsiderate sidewalk-hogging impalers of NYC: the Umbrellables.

Everything Looks Better Tan

2007-04-23T20:45:00.000-05:00

For some reason, there is a current obsession with the leg as an erogenous zone. Every magazine claims that spring is all about the mini. I am, however, not the biggest fan. Maybe its because knees have never really turned me on... or the countless pasty white legs of New Yorkers who insisted spring began weeks ago despite 40 degree weather... or maybe i just enjoyed being one of the lucky few who had a flat stomach and enjoyed the midriff's moment of sex appeal.

For the first time in years, I too have started to crave all things short. While I have some booty shorts, I have yet to find many dresses that a flatteringly-sexy and not slutty-short. I also have the feeling (hope) that this trend will be over soon (despite what Fall 07 runways dictates).

In the end, I am a slave to fashion and must embrace the look... and what better way then in Delia's Lana Eyelet Babydoll lavender dress. The color boosts anyone's tan, the length is short but the detailing is sweet, and the slightly trapeze shape keeps it from being clingy... which would, of course, equate to sleazy which is the mistake so often made with mini's.

I'll be wearing this throughout the hot summer and please, if I see you sporting something similar: REMEMBER SELF TANNER.

"Darlin', don't you go and cut your hair"

2007-04-19T19:33:00.000-05:00

I’ve had short hair since I was little. I have often thought I needed it because I’m lazy and prefer sleeping over primping. I have Curling irons and flattening irons because I’ve always felt that what girls should have, but they get little use. I have long hair now for a while, and find it a chore to have to brush it and curl it to wear down. By the end of every day it ends up in some sort of messy bun on the top of my head. I like the look, but find it not very polished.

These metallic headbands from Forever 21 are a steal. In a triad of metallic hues, I can see myself putting these on to spruce up my requisite bun. A little shimmer cleans up any look and headbands always look feminine and polished. With these I might hold off cutting my locks.

With Wrists Encircled in Gold

2007-04-19T19:26:00.000-05:00

High school graduation seems to necessitate the giving of useless gifts. I’ve never really used my "Class of 2000" mini grad hat and the Dictionary of Musing on the Turn of the Century rarely served as a usable source for the many college papers that came after.

You’re lucky if you get money, but that’s spent by the end of the summer.

It’s interesting that the only item I have left from the landmark event of my graduation and the parties that followed is a simple gold hinged bracelet. The bracelet was never intended for me, it was actually given to a wealthy friend of mine who with her enormous piles of gifts found little use for it. So for some reason she gave it to me.

I don’t talk to her anymore. No big loss I suppose, but I find myself consistently drawn to the little gold bracelet. I have very small wrists so most of the bangle and charm set fall annoyingly down upon my fingers instead of highlighting the curve and articulation of the wrist bone for which they were intended.

My little gold bracelet is perfect, but it’s getting lonely. This summer the jewelry obsession is once again the bangle and for reason already mentioned we just aren’t made for each other. So to remedy the desire for a multi bracelet look, I’m going to pick up some Vita hinged bracelets to accent the gold one. I’m particularly fond of the cream snakeskin one. These bracelets do what they should; gliding slightly over the smallest of wrists.

Thucydides would be proud

2007-04-15T19:17:00.000-05:00

I saw the movie 300 about two weeks ago and I know everyone can agree that it’s was beautiful. I tried to engage my movie date in discussion of its connection to the legendary ancient historically referenced movies of the past like The Ten Commandments and Ben-Hur and its ability to act in much the same epic way--only modified cinematically to accommodate an audience entranced in a fast visually-stimulating world of videogames. He didn’t really agree with my postulate but it made for good conversation on the way home.

What I found intriguing (but didn’t talk much about since I know he would be of little interest) was the outfits of the hero’s wife Gorgo. They were very sexy and provocative yet refined. They seemed simultaneously period-appropriate and modern. I found myself wanting to wear Gorgo’s floor-length white voile and leather strapped numbers. I thought about seeing if I could find something similar, but in reality dresses like Gorgo’s would get so dirty… and think of the tan lines!

Anthropologie seems to have read my mind for a 300 aesthetic in a sensible wearable way. The treasure chest sandal references Greek/Roman eras with a distinct urban warrior feel. Flat sandals can tend to look flimsy and cheap, but these have a refined elegance with a tough undercurrent. The embellishments are mix of grommets, studs and pearls perfect for combating any 21^st century battleground.

It’s funny I don’t remember Gorgo’s shoes but, if they looked like this, I would have to have them. And just maybe my movie date would’ve had to suffer through some 300 fashion talk.

Airplanes and Cocoons

2007-04-15T17:50:00.000-05:00

I worked for BCBG for many years and as some of you may know, it ended somewhat dismally. For a company with such beautiful clothes you think they be able to find decent management.

I recently flew back to California and being of the “one carry-on bag” mentality I’ve had to learn to pack with the utmost flexibility. The number one item I brought was my black BCBG cardi-wrap (I’ve had it for 4 years now and consistently find it useful). Quite possibly the best item of clothing I own. You can wear it about twenty different ways, but my favorite is to put the sleeves on curl up and wrap the sides around much like a blanket one side over my right shoulder the other over my face. This comes in handy on long plane flights when your flanked by to obscenely-large people who feel the need to hack up a good portion of their lung for the duration of the flight. But in my black cardi-wrap cocoon I’m free and cozy.

They are hard to find in stores now but I did find some at great prices on eBay.

Angel's Purse(grandma bags are hip)

2007-04-15T16:43:00.000-05:00

When I was a little girl, I would often spend weekends at my Grandma Angel’s house. She is an eccentric sort who saves everything, and as a result, her home offered an extensive collection of raw materials for constructing just about anything. From creating outfits out of spare computer paper to interesting culinary concoctions, she would let you cook from a pantry, the contents of which would surpass most groceries.

For all her idiosyncrasies she was practical in one thing alone: her beige/taupe LeSportsac bag. Anywhere we went, she had it with her. It was always filled to the brim with a number of useful items: Kleenex, change, little scraps of paper to draw on, or a whole meal--complete with a can of soda and cups--for the afternoon movie theatre. From my early experiences with the taupe bag, I’ve had the notion that LeSportsac was the bag of grandmas no matter how angelic they may be. Not for a young woman (or rather “lady” as she would now describe me). However my notion completely changed with the new Fafi for LeSportsac bag. With a whimsical print that encompasses my love for pop-surrealist art and its French designer’s burlesque “Fafinettes” to the silver webbing detailed straps that are right on trend for spring 07, I’m in love! I can haul all my stuff and its still incredibly light and easy-to-clean with its nylon construction. And at $68.00 it’s a bargain--not counting its inherent nostalgia factor.