Zara Fall/Winter 2011

Zara, has always been one of my favorite stores to shop. The clothing is well made, well tailored and affordable. Every season, I have new staple items to look forward to whether it may be a holiday dress, or a summer blouse, or my favorite Zara's collection of Winter coats. This year shopping at Zara becomes even easier and more accessible with the launch of its e-commerce site in the US on September 7th, just a few short weeks away. Here is a look at the Fall/Winter 2011 campaign, featuring Stella Tennant, then onto the Look Book to give you a glimpse into what's to come;

Photos Courtesy of ZARA

WHO WHAT WEAR Girl of the Month Jennifer Missoni

Girl of the Month: Jennifer Missoni

Dries Van Noten Beaded Clutch ($1271, 212.753.7300)
Missoni's bag of choice is a visually interesting clutch, so finding a fabulous option for today's story was absolutely crucial! Our reason for selecting Dries van Noten's Beaded Clutch is simple: its design is sophisticated and chic, just like Missoni, not to mention the fact that we think she'd be drawn to the bag's tribal-inspired beaded design. Whether you're headed to an afternoon luncheon or a fancy date, this clutch is an excellent choice for a number of occasions, making it an investment-worthy purchase indeed!

Missoni for Target V-Neck Combo Chiffon Sweater ($45, 800.800.8800) in Blue Multi
Mark your calendars, dear readers, because the Missoni for Target collection hits stores September 13th, and this is one collaboration you don't want to miss! We've already got our eye on a few things, including the zig-zag print shawl cardigan and totally cute beach cruiser, but our favorite item is definitely the V-Neck Combo Chiffon sweater, and we think our style subject would agree! It's a standout option for sure, thanks to its slightly sheer fabric and mix of signature bright Missoni prints. Even better: this lightweight sweater is an excellent transitional piece! Wear it now with a pair of denim cutoffs a la Missoni, then style it with a chic coat when the temperatures begin to cool down.

H&M Shorts ($35), 310.855.9683) in Peach
Oh how we adore these little shorts from H&M. We're totally smitten with the peachy hue, which can easily punch up a neutral ensemble, and we're positive Missoni would approve of the clean and simple silhouette too. We suggest wearing them with a white button-up blouse and heels for the office, or if you're feeling a bit daring, wearing it with an equally bright top for an eye-popping colorblock look.

3.1 Phillip Lim Regine Heels ($750, available August 22nd) in Pewter
Our footwear selection for today's story was obvious: 3.1 Phillip Lim's Regine Heels. With an of-the-moment pewter hue, cool braided detailing along the front and back, and delicate ankle straps, these killer heels are perfect in keeping with our subject's glamorous sensibilities.

Day Birger et Mikkelsen Day Tribe Set of Three Bangles ($110)
In case you hadn't noticed, Missoni tends to favor minimalist pieces, and the same goes for her jewelry as well. As such, we think this trio of bangles by Day Birger et Mikkelsen would be the perfect finish to her more streamlined looks. Each bracelet has a unique shape and design that exudes an uptown elegance, so wear all three stacked together or on their own for an equally chic result.

Dior Vernis Nail Lacquer ($22) in Psychedelic Orange
If you're anything like us and can't get enough of spring's vivid nail polishes, you'll be happy to know the gurus over at Dior beauty have created some additional bright shades for fall! That's right, the new Vernis Nail Lacquer collection features a number of amplifying hues, including Psychedelic Orange, a fun pinkish-orange hue that would look amazing on every skin tone.

Zara Sleeveless Dress ($80, 323.935.5041) in Teal
We're currently obsessed with Zara's fall collection, as it's filled with affordable, on-trend pieces like this amazing green sleeveless dress! Not only does the classic silhouette speak to Missoni's less-is-more approach to dressing, but it's also a nod to the '60s-inspired mod look that is happening right now. Go ahead and mark this one as a "must-buy immediately" piece!—Jessica Baker

Courtesy of WHO WHAT WEAR

Barneys New York Holiday 2011 Campaign: Lady Gaga’s Workshop

As if holiday shopping could be any more exciting at Barney's, add Lady Gaga into the mix and you've got a wicked treat for all the little monsters on your list. Recently announced, Barney's New York Holiday 2011 campaign will interface the talents of Eli Sudbrack and Christophe Hamaide Pierson of Assume Vivid Astro Focus (AVAF), and Mugler Creative Director and Lady Gaga Fashion Director, Nicola Formichetti, to create Lady Gaga’s vision of the Santa’s Workshop. The entire men's floor in the Madison Avenue location will be cleared to make room for Gaga's take over. Complete with limited edition trinkets, Gaga-curated books and music and rock candy jewelry and debuting mid November. GAGA’S WORKSHOP will be available on a special custom section of Barneys.com, and will be launched via The Window. Here are the deets;

For the first time ever, Barneys New York will convert an entire floor of its Madison Avenue flagship in New York City into a dedicated space for the holiday initiative. Starting in mid-November, GAGA’S WORKSHOP will be brought to life throughout the fifth floor of the Men’s Store at the Madison Avenue flagship, and will also be supported in the store’s iconic Madison Avenue windows.

Barneys New York has worked closely with Lady Gaga under the creative direction of Nicola Formichetti to design a range of exclusive, limited-edition, small gift items, which will be available for a limited time only at GAGA’S WORKSHOP. In addition to GAGA’S WORKSHOP in New York, a selection of items from the collection will also be available at Barneys New York locations nationwide and online at Barneys.com. Barneys New York will donate 25% of sales from all items featured in GAGA’S WORKSHOP to a charity of Lady Gaga’s choice in honor of this special program and in the spirit of the holiday season.

Misssoni X Target My Top Picks!

As we all know by now, the Target X Missoni collection is set to hit the stores on September 13 through October 22, and you will be able to shop the collection at Target stores and target.com. After past collaborations with Converse, Havaianas, and Bugaboo, the well known knit wear brand takes on the massive retailer. The collection consist of 400 pieces, ranging in price from $7.99– $199.99. From men's women's children and home, it can get quite overwhelming so, I've done the dirty work for you. Here are a few of my most favorite pieces from the collection excluding children and men's. I only speak of what I know and trust me I have no idea of what children nor men like to wear. Here are my top picks!

Gold Room

Earlier today, I tweeted that one of my nearest and dearest friend/amazing designer/stylist/decorator extraordinaire Maury, over at Villa-Bisono, and I had both came up with exciting DIY projects for our apartments. While I cant give you any details about hers, (you'll have to follow her blog and stay tuned) I'll give you a little background on mine.

 GOLDBAR NYC, is a very exclusive hot spot here in New York.  The decor was inspired by Roman Catacombs in paris.

KIHL STUDIOS was contracted to produce 2,500 gold-leafed human skull replicas to adorn the walls of the Gold Bar V.I.P. nightclub in New York City, designed by Robert McKinley. Skull production and finishing was done on location at the KIHL STUDIOS facility in Arizona. A real human skull was molded in silicone and plaster to create 12 replica molds.

The molds were then used to produce 2,500 replica castings in Hydrostone, 

Gold-leafed and clear-sealed. 

The completed skulls were crated and shipped to New York for installation. Skull production and finishing was completed in November, 2006.

GOLDBAR is the inspiration behind my DIY project, ad I cant wait to get started and so I can reveal the final look with you guys! Stay tuned.

I heart Sample Sales *Issey Miyake*

Hello Kitty Graffiti Collection

Hello Kitty and Sephora do it again! The dynamic duo team up once again along with Hello Kitty designer from Tokyo, Ms. Yuko Yamaguchi, world renowned graffiti artist POSE to create a collection of beauty products once again. But, this time they've added some edge to the sweetness. On July 28th, Sephora debuted the Hello Kitty Graffiti collection for a limited time only. 

The collection includes a  makeup bag ($28), tiered palette with four eyeshadows and two blush/bronzers ($35), roll-on perfume ($18, pictured), a compact mirror ($18) and a 5-piece brush set in a Hello Kitty-shaped case ($49).
The ultimate combination of sugar and spice, available online and at your local Sephora for a limited time only. 

NARS Larger Than Life Lip Gloss

“Lip Gloss is an easy way to look great. Right away it looks very sexy with a reflecting effect.”– François Nars, Founder and Creative Director of NARS Cosmetics.

NARS Larger Than Life Lip Gloss

Shades include…

NARS Larger Than Life Lip Gloss

Introducing the new Larger Than Life Lip Gloss. This innovative and unique formula is infused with ingredients to nourish lips and fight free radicals, while natural lip enhancers provide volume. The texture glides on evenly, won’t feather, and stays on throughout the day. A new, shorter bristle brush delivers a precise application to define and shape lips. The new, clear packaging is indicative of its overall effect: bold, brilliant and luxurious.

Shades Include:

· Place Vendôme – strawberry pink

· Norma – cherry red

· Pirée – rosy pink

· Como – shimmering berry

· Tiber – cool beige

· Odalisque – cantaloupe

· Spring Break – sheer nude pink

· Gold Digger – sparkling peach shimmer

· Cœur Sucré – shimmering bright pink

Envisioned and photographed by François Nars, the campaign features Mariacarla Boscono.

PRICE: $26

AVAILABILITY: Exclusively at Sephora & Sephora.com beginning August 1st, 2011.

Information Courtesy of talkingmakeup.com

Jewelry Trending: WHO WHAT WEAR Byzantine Baubles

I collect magazines and one of the many reasons why, is because I love to see what the popular trends people are wearing now, then go back a few months when it was a completely different season, and see for example Vogue mgazine having color block editorials before it went mainstream and took over spring. Style.com is also one of my favorite resources because of the ability to see runway shows from all of the world and from previous seasons, especially since fashion is constantly repeating and recycling itself.
After spending years in different aspects of the fashion industry,  I can look at a certain collection and say "Hey doesn't this remind you of the Prada Spring collection in 2003'. This of course came with time and dedication and just fully emerging yourself in what you love and also surrounding yourself with like minded individuals.
 Information now a days is much easier to obtain with the rise of fashion bloggers, online publications, meet up groups and television shows dedicated solely to fashion design modeling ect. The tools of your trade are definitely available for your utilization if you know where to look.

WHO WHAT WEAR emails are my favorite to receive, they not only give you the information on what your favorite celeb is wearing or current trends, they give you the break down on where to get it, and  also make it visually appealing with fun collages.  This morning I received an email spotlighting on what to go buy now, "Byzantine Baubles" have a look;

The collage is then followed up with detailed information of where to purchase these pieces;

1. Topshop Gold Aztec Inspired Necklace by Pamela Love ($180)
Pamela Love's designs are never lacking in the wow-factor, as the Gold Aztec Inspired Necklace, which was designed exclusively for Topshop, demonstrates perfectly. The striking necklace exudes old-world charm, and makes a fashion-forward statement while maintaining its authentic appeal.

2. Carol Marie Pyramid Ring ($90)
The pyramid has long been a shape that makes a statement, and this Carol Marie Pyramid Ring is no exception. A tarnished silver base and organically cut triangular stone make donning this ring an easy way to draw attention to your trendsetting abilities—and your manicure.

3. Lucky Brand Two Tone Stone Bangles ($59)
For a simple way to pay tribute to the art of the ancients, opt for Lucky Brand's Two Tone Stone Bangles. Hammered detailing, embellished metal, and multi-colored stones separate these thin, layered bangles from the pack, and will bring a hint of this trend to virtually any outfit.

4. Chico's Barra Earrings ($24)
Thanks to a mix of muted gold and silver tones offset by culturally inspired etchings and sparkling glass additions, these embossed earrings look like something you could have picked up overseas—a treasured find, indeed!

5. A Peace Treaty Necklace ($260, 512.579.0303)
Sometimes subtlety provides the most memorable statement, and the A Peace Treaty Necklace is testament to this idea. With its elegant-meets-on-trend allure, this piece is sure to become a mainstay in your jewelry rotation.

6. BaubleBar Chained Circle Bib Necklace ($85)
Although the Byzantine Empire had an obvious liking for the elaborate, a welcome counterpart can be found in the existence of more elemental pieces. BaubleBar's Bib Necklace showcases an array of textured and imperfect circles, giving the piece a refreshing hand-hewn quality that's perfect for any season.

7. Ben-Amun Byzantine Multi Color Stone Square Bracelet ($320, 212.944.6480)
We have a special appreciation for jewelry showcasing exceptionally unique handiwork, which is why we'd be remiss if we didn't include Ben-Amun's Byzantine Multi Color Stone Square Bracelet! With eye-catching colors and anomalous design, this cuff is both a covetable treasure and a must-have statement piece for fall.

8. BaubleBar Sunburst Earrings ($24)
If you're searching for a pair of earrings that are just as light and airy as they are glamorous, look no further than BaubleBar's Sunburst earrings. This set showcases detailed carving as well as sparkling gems, and its sunny nature will take you from summer to fall with ease!

9. Dannijo Lucas Ring ($180) in Citrine and Teal
In addition to an obvious penchant for metal crafting, the Byzantine Empire's elite were also partial to stones and gems, hence, the reason we included Dannijo's awe-inspiring Lucas Ring. Featuring a modern geometric design and beautiful Swarovski elements, this elaborate bauble is obsession-worthy to say the least, plus a simple way to add a hint of drama to your fall ensembles.

10. Isharya Bala Kanda Bangle ($298) in 18k Gold Plated Brass
The Byzantines favored jewelry that was intricate and ornate in appearance, and Isharya's Bala Kanda Bangle pays ample tribute to this aesthetic. Extremely detailed metalwork and a unique square shape make this bangle the ultimate adornment for both exotic and everyday adventures.—Calin Van Paris



Not only do I love jewelry but accessories are a fun and inexpensive way to play with current trends without switching out your entire wardrobe and breaking the bank. These Byzantine themed pieces are exciting and costume like and can really bring purpose and relevance, to a classic white button down or simple shift dress. WHO WHAT WEAR trend reports make it easy to play around a little or a lot, maybe try a bangle first or an entire new jewelry look. Either way you have all the information needed to take this look off the runway and onto the real way. 


 Jump right into it with Aurelian gold disc earrings with scroll and hammered detailing featured on Rich and Rebellious Jewelry. These are a soft and delicate way to do a bold trend without going too over the top. Check it out;

"Aurelian" Gold Disc Earrings

*I heart Sample Sales* Alexander Wang

I know there are plenty of urban sample sale legends about the Alexander Wang sample sale as with other sample sale. HOWEVER, I personally know of someone who not only snagged a a Rocco bag for herself, but went back the next day to get one for her friends sister. Was she press? ok yes BUT, at least you know what we're working with here. There were great pieces last year, I didn't have to fight anyone  and I find it to be the best time to stock up on Tee's and tank's. If I remember correctly last year there was a lot of neons, I'm sure thats what was going on for the previous season.  Info as follows;

Alexander Wang Sample Sale

Wednesday, August 3 to Sunday, August 7

Wed 3pm - 7pm, Thurs-Fri 10am to 7pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm

97 Greene Street (Btwn Prince & Spring)

Credit Cards accepted for purchases above $200

Rich and Rebellious Jewelry New Mark Downs

http://www.richandrebellious.com/

A Necklace for Carrie UPDATED*

If you remember my previous raves (see here) about the Fenton Fallon for Jcrew Carrington necklace. I've been lusting for it for quite some time but, I couldn't bring myself to paying $300 for this item and new with a little patience and alot of perseverance I could make this happen just in time for my birthday and for a reasonable price. In june, my wait was over.  The necklace had gone down to about 168, I informed my friends who told me to continue to wait which I was super hesitant about did and just my luck a week later it was sold out! I was truly upset however I received an email from Jcrew that said, this item is sold out but, we have an idea give us a call. I called the extremely helpful customer service line and the were able to locate the necklace to my favorite Aventura, Miami mall location and had it sent to me asap. Arriving right on time, this is my special birthday gift. I am over joyed with happiness. This necklace is simply gorgeous. The craftsmanship and detail is just superb. Most certainly fit for a queen.

The Carrington necklace is one that I will cherish for many years to come. Recently, for my birthday I paired it with a pair of cluster drop earrings I purchased last winter from the JCREW sample sale. 

They have a felt back and are adorned with crystals and sewn on pearls. Its a lot of look, I must say, very Dynasty, very gaudy, very Happy Birthday to me!

CHANEL 2011/ 2012 FALL/WINTER HAUTE COUTURE SHOW MAKEUP BY PETER PHILIPS.

“In the early stages of the Haute Couture Collection, a few key elements came up. Karl Lagerfeld mentioned the masculine/feminine silhouette, the decor (Place Vendôme), the fact that we were going to do a show at night and the flashlight shoes. That’s where the veil/burglar idea came from.  The focus is on the eyes, but through a veil. Skin is pure with a hint of blush and the lips are velvet peach. On the nails we used Chanel’s classic “Le Vernis – Blue Satin“, a timeless night blue. I wanted to create an eye that would read through a veil, that’s why I used “Illusion d’Ombre in Mirifique“, a pitch black with starlight sparkles. Eyes that see in the dark and nails the shade of night. And a soft touch of “Rouge Allure Velvet – La Furtive“, perfect for stealing kisses.”

Skin prepared with HYDRAMAX+ ACTIVE NOURISHING CREAM

The Complexion VITALUMIÈRE AQUA Ultra-Light Skin Perfecting Makeup SPF 15

POUDRE UNIVERSELLE LIBRE Natural Finish Loose Powder

ECLAT LUMIÈRE Highlighting Face Pen

CORRECTEUR PERFECTION Long Lasting Concealer

The Eyes ILLUSION D’OMBRE Long Wear Luminous Eyeshadow in Mirifique – Fall 2011 Collection

STYLO YEUX WATERPROOF Long Lasting Eyeliner in Ebène

CRAYON SOURCILS

INIMITABLE WATERPROOF Mascara in Noir

RECOURBE CILS DE CHANEL Precision Eyelash Curler – August 2011

The Cheeks JOUES CONTRASTE Powder Blush in Rose Ecrin – Fall 2011 Collection

The Lips SOIN TENDRE LÈVRES Hydrating Lip Treatment

ROUGE ALLURE VELVET Luminous Matte Lip Colour in La Furtive (Exclusive to Asia)

The Nails LE VERNIS Nail Colour in Blue Satin – on the hands

LE VERNIS Nail Colour in Jade Rose – on the feet