STYL'D

MTV is airing a new reality show tonight called Styl'D.  The contestants ultimately want to become Stylists.  The winner of the competition will work for MMA, the same PR company where Rachel Zoe once worked.  It will be interesting to watch and see how much is reality and how much is fantasy.  Stay tuned.

Being a stylist and trying to keep up with a fashion blog can be challenging.  Working full time and being completely exhausted after work, has left me temporarily unable to write. Well, at least on a daily basis.  Presently, there are no rules. Whatever we choose to wear is right. Colors, fabrics, boyfriend jeans, plaids and comfy tees...it's totally up to us to decide how and what to wear.  But hasn't it always been?

Henri Bendel

Hendri Bendel is coming to the Beverly Center.  November 2009, is when the store will open its doors to southern California. Talk about excited! Perfect timing and just in time for the holidays. What took them so long?

Its Not Rocket Science

While working in retail, there was a influx of women who would ask me to dismantle every piece of clothing off the mannequin.  They confessed they didn't know how to "put it all together." I was in awe because to me it was effortless. I didn't realize there were "clothes challenged" people. How could you not know how to put a look together?  That's when I realized this was my calling. I love the creative process of taking several pieces, putting them together and creating a wardrobe masterpiece as I like to call it. Here's a rule of thumb: Wear what works for your specific body type.  Clothes need to be tried on and fit properly.  We wear the clothes, clothes do not wear us.  If women stay away from trends and wear what works for them, they"ll be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Sign of the Times

Fashion definitely reflects the sign of the times.  During these tough economic times, many people find themselves wearing what already exists in their closets, or purchasing pieces from vintage or bargain sales.  The rebirth of the woman's shirt dress is here. An effortless, throw on item that is comfy and classic.  Sold at J. Crew, Nordstrom and other retail stores, once you invest in one, you can have it for many years.

John Hughes

John Hughes passed away yesterday. Many of us who grew up as teens in the 80's remember his remarkable films such as Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Pretty in Pink, Sixteen Candles, and my all time favorite, The Breakfast Club.  The styles and clothes worn in these films are etched in my mind forever.  In the Breakfast Club, Molly Ringwald is wearing brown, distressed knee-high boots with a chocolate brown skirt and a pink top.  To me, this was the absolute must have, I gotta go out right this minute and find her skirt & boots.  Needless to say, I never did.  The costume designers did an amazing job with his films and although he is gone, his legacy and films will remain forever.

Bird

As I walked through stores to see what's new for fall, I was pleasantly surprised to see several "I want that" items  from Juicy.  Their new line of fall boots range from rain boots to more mature, sexy boots.  The duo who created Juicy, has a new line called Bird.  Designed and geared toward the mature fashionista, everything is made in subdued hues such as grey and black.  More classic and timeless items such as constructed leather jackets without embellishments. No loud, brightly-colored sweatsuits, but tailored cardigans and slim fitting pants.  What do I say to that? Oh Thank Goodness, a change has come.

Weekend Deals

This weekend there were deal sightings everywhere I turned on the streets of L.A.  from downtown to the west side. This economy has desperate retailers cutting out the middleman and selling direct to consumers.  There were flea market sales, blowout sales and racks of clothes up and down 3rd St.  The Buffalo Exchange is a great place for current, inexpensive pieces. Some shops were offering free water and additional discounts to get rid of their stock.  If you want a bargain, all you have to do is look.  

The Kain Affect

Of course, a white tee is a staple in any woman's closet but not just any white tee. The Kain tee is unconstructed, loose fitting, comfy and sexy.  The loose hanging pocket is its signature identity mark. The tee comes in many hues but I prefer simple ones like black, white and grey.  Simple in look but not simple in style. You can't have just one.

Sole Perspective

Get ready reality show junkies & fashionistas.  Another reality show is coming our way called Sole Perspective. Instead of a clothing competition, this show has contestants taking us inside the world of footwear design and shoe making.  After managing a few shoe stores and learning what it takes to hold it all together, we'll be seeing a lot of glue.

Cocktails Anyone?

Fact: A small thing can make a huge impact. Cocktail rings are doing just that.  The other day, I found myself trying on so many that I didn't realize how much time passed.  Teens and all, many of us swarmed the accessory bin trying on ring after ring. Affordable and cute, I saw some priced as low as $4.  Let's raise our arms and toast because cocktails are always in style.

Here Kitty Kitty

This cat is everywhere (on jewelry, clothes, pillows, furniture, and more) but it's amazing how it keeps reappearing.  Hello Kitty and Asics have joined forces to produce sneakers.  Available Nov. 1, 2009, to some, this may be a match made in fashion heaven.  You can get them online at Sanrio or in one of the limited locations such as N.Y, San Fran or Hawaii.  Stay posted to find out where she'll turn up next.

Marc Jacobs Takes Another Dive

Everything he touches turns to gold.  Why not this?  Marc Jacobs has a new swimwear line just for kids.  His line is  called "Little Marc" and the suits hit stores next year.  He's created adorable matching swimsuits for mom and child.  Everything in miniature is adorable and irresistible.  

Alexander Wang

Is Alexander Wang cheating on us ladies? I believe so.  He has decided to create a range of men's basic tops. You ask why? For obvious reasons.  Most guys look their sexiest in a t-shirt and jeans. Am I right? 

Rock & Rebublic

Rock & Republic, known for their sexy denim, has just created an edgy new cosmetics collection.

Rock Bands

I'm loving my newest discovery.  There's a line of jewelry for men and women that is so cool. I have to have one or two or three or.....The jewelry is hand crafted, made from real stones, attached to a leather band.  Not only for style, these stones benefit the mind and body. Sold at Neiman Marcus and online this is a accessory worth having.  Switch reels on your computer, go to rockbands and you'll see what I'm talkin about.

Fashion & Gaming

Its hard to believe but yes, not one, but two fashion labels have started up lines of video game clothing.  Namco Bandai has a multi year partnership with Tapout to produce a line of clothes and Marc Ecko has kicked off a line of limited edition Halo tees.  In case you didn't know it, Marc Ecko admits to being a nerd and loves video games.  Here's one of his Halo tees for your viewing pleasure.

Harem Hazard

Even when M.C. Hammer wore harem pants it was awful. I don't care what anyone says but harem pants just don't work. I don't know how or why they made a comeback. Some fashion trends don't deserve a second chance.  I could go on and on about why they're so awful but what's the point?  

Georgia On My Mind

Georgia May Jagger, Mick and Jerry Hall's daughter is the new face for Hudson jeans. This 17 year old model signed a 3 yr. contract with the trendy denim line.  If they look as good on me as they do on her, ready or not, here I come! 

Nordstrom Takes Manhattan

Nordstrom Rack makes its first ever debut in Manhattan N.Y.  Can you believe they don't already have one? I'm so surprised. What took them so long?  The location is perfect. N.Y's Union Square is one of the most thriving retail areas around. I'm sure everyone in the big apple will find a bargain in this 32,000 sq ft. plus mega store.

50 Scent

Yes that's right. Another Rapper/Artist dives into the fragrance business. Rapper 50 Cent has a new fragrance called Power.  With so many artists coming up with scents, all I can say is, who's next?

Matte Mania

Want to know what's new? My new bottle of matte nail polish.  After applying it I realized it's different, but in a good way. I really like it. My nails are a bright neon pink that says WOW look at me now! The feel is fun, cute and fresh.

Swimwear 2010

 Swimwear 2010, need I say more??

Twenty8Twelve

I'm bouncing off the walls with excitement looking at this cute jacket from Twenty8Twelve.  All I need is a pair of black booties and WAHHLA!

Metallic & Vintage

There's a few things I have to share so listen up fashionistas. Metallic is showing up everywhere. On handbags, shoes and boyfriend blazers. Like I mentioned before, the 80's are here to stay (for now). On another note, all you vintage lovers, can purchase vintage clothing on 1stdibs.com without ever leaving your home.  You're only a click away from those one-of- a-kind, must-have pieces.  

What's the Skinny?

Yes, that's right. Another retail store has launched a new skinny jean that retails for only $60.  Madewell, J. Crew's sister store has a new skinny that comes in 5 different washes.  They're cute, affordable and stylish.

Louis Vuitton Don

Kanye West's new shoe line for Louis Vuitton has finally arrived in stores.   Not sure how to justify spending $700 on a pair of kicks, although I am curious to see his creations.

What's There to Poppy Love?

Coach recently introduced its new sister line of handbags called Poppy. Less expensive than other Coach bags,  the colors are bold and bright.  Let me get to the point. They're borderline "cheesy". The bags are overstated with too much metallic detail and logos everywhere.  I wouldn't be caught dead carry it.  

The Maxi

The maxi dress is a must have for all of us. Its no fuss, don't have to think about what to wear, just throw it on clothing.  It's everything we want wrapped in one. Flattering, feminine and sexy. Just added three more to my closet, and still find myself wanting more. Gotta love em.

"Booty" licious

Out shopping in L.A. the other day, a shoe salesman gladly tells me cowboy boots are the "it" boot for the coming season. The truth is, all boots are "in".  Whether their Ugg boots, riding boots, sexy ankle booties, motorcyle boots or cowboy boots we decide what to wear and when to wear it.  I don't understand why one particular item has to be showcased. Cowboy boots have always been popular. I still wear my favorite Justin boots from at least 5 years ago.  At $200 a pop and up, boots are an investment.  If you love them like I do, you hold on to them, polish them and rock them like there's no tomorrow.  Spring, Summer, Winter and Fall

Sales Galore

While out shopping today, I saw sales everywhere. Barney's is taking an additional 25% off already reduced merchandise. Practically everything in Free People is on sale with items marked as low as $19.99.  Retail stores are trying to get rid of summer items to make room for fall merchandise.  If you hold out, chances are you'll save more but your size might not be available. Thank goodness for tailors.

De'grade' Skinnies

That's right people. Stella McCartney has created a de'grade' skinny jean.  The same de'grade' that Prada launched a few seasons past with their handbags,  Stella has done with denim at a whopping cost of over $300. For the cost conscious dying for this look, let's hope and pray Forever 21 and H&M knock em off.

Who is Bibhu Mohapatra?

If you don't know who Bibhu Mohapatra is, now you will.  During Mercedes Benz fashion week, Bibhu Mohapatra launched his label in February of this year.  Former design director for J. Mendel, this new designer has already made everyone's heads turn. He's designed for many hollywood stars and his clothes are youthful, glamorous, sexy and feminine.  His craftsmanship and finery represents a woman who is strong, confident and has a purpose.  His clothes bring out the complete woman in all of us.  In a word: Amazing. 

Kitson

Another Kitson, store is opening sometime in late July.  A 1,600 square foot Kitson Kids boutique will open in exclusive downtown Disney in Anaheim, Calif.  Now all you trendy lovers will have more locations to choose from.

RUN DMC

Love music?? Forever 21 has transformed the look of their novelty tees. Their newest line of licensing tees are a must have. The bright neon yellow RUN DMC tank is cute, colorful and fun. For all girls who love music & fashion this is the tee for all reasons. Cute and affordable. What's not to love? Bands such as the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Queen, and The Beatles adorn the racks. So what are you waiting for??

Leanne Marshall

Oh yes, we have another designer ready to show her newest line of clothing. Project Runway winner Leanne Marshall, known for her petals on skirts, strapless dresses, and just about anything else you can imagine, will finally launch her line next week on bluefly.com. Her clothes are definitely sexy and feminine. I could easily see myself in this beautiful electric blue dress.  

Double Launch

J.T. launches his hip clothing line, William Rast in London this week.  Another singer, Kanye West, has created shoes exclusively for Louis Vuitton with prices starting at $700.  During this recession, that's a hefty price tag.  

Dream Big

Kim Kardashian is selling some of her designer clothes & accessories on ebay.  All proceeds will go to Dream Foundation.  There are some cute items up for grabs. She has designer pieces from D&G, Prada, LV handbags, juicy sweats, jeans and beaded evening gowns.  All for a good cause and a great price.  A must see so check it out.

Sasha Fierce

Beyonce and her mother Tina, are launching a junior apparel label called Sasha Fierce, the singer's alter ego.  The line will hit stores just in time for fall. Here's a peek at what you'll see. Big embellishments, leather jackets, lace and of course denim.  The model above shows us a sexy, black fitted number from the collection.  The collection wholesales from $25-$75.  

Old & New

Being a stylist I always seem to have an insatiable appetite for all things fashion.  I find myself constantly feigning for the next big thing.  The newest look, craze or stylish item that will propel itself to the world. Looking back on past styles allows me to also appreciate vintage pieces and realize that everything old is new again.  While shopping the other day, I noticed one-piece jumpsuits, oversized blazers and 80's band tees.  Clothing is fun and I'm thankful I work in a profession that allows me to enjoy both the old and the new. 

Summer Blues

Here's some good news.  California based label Hudson jeans has a new skinny jean.  Finally a skinny jean made for shorties.  With a 27  1/2  inch seam there is no bunching or excess fabric found at the bottoms.  Who needs that right?  Hudson's designers have taken off nearly 5 inches. In this case, sometimes less is more.  Cute jeans to help cure your summertime blues.

Grandma's Closet/Adrian Manuel

Little girl going through Grandma's closet is how up and coming fashion designer Adrian Manuel describes his Fall 2009 collection. He creates one-of-a-kind looks by mixing pieces in many different ways. He'll easily pair what looks like 1/2 tee, 1/2 jacket into a unique combination that will definitely turn heads. Infusing fabrics juxtaposed together, such as cotton, sequin, knits and even taffeta, Manuel creates an elegant evening gown by turning it into art. To describe his collection in one word, sophisticated. To view both Adrian's collection and designs created for Barbie (which are just as amazing) go to www.adrianmanuel.carbonmade.com.

DSquared

Starting in September, Dean and Dan- the dynamic duo behind DSquared will host a new show on Bravo titled "Launch my Line."  Based on fashion (or course) this is a talent show where the last person standing will have a line of clothing manufactured and produced.   Oh and they've also been chosen to design clothes for the opening and closing ceremonies of the winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada.  Looking forward to seeing what they have in store for us.

New Kid on the Block

I am after all, new at this whole blogging thing. I like the idea that I can share my love of fashion with the world.  There are many fashion lovers out there. We consists of stylists, buyers, boutique owners, designers, and so much more.  You either love clothes or you don't.  Clothing is something more than a garment that we place on a hanger of throw in a drawer.  It's an expression & extension of who we are. Its art. Its creativity. Its labels and its our footprint.  

Shoulder pads, plaids & bell bottom pants may come and go, but true style never goes out of fashion.

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week-SWIM 2010

That's right, get ready cause here it comes.  July 15-19  True Religion & Ed Hardy swimwear will use the runway along with many others in sexy south beach to show their swimwear and resort collections.  Supermodels and celebs will come together to preview the hottest swimwear in the world.  I can only imagine what's in store.  Skin, skin and more skin.  

Rock Fashion Week

Rock Fashion Week will be held at Paramount Studios from October 28-31 featuring local L.A designers. Unfortunately for all you fashionistas, this event is not open to the public. Although celebs, editors and retailers will have access to the show, of course. Once again, I will have reviews with posts of the newest "up & comers" as they make their rise into this competitive but exciting world of fashion.

Louise Roe

British T.V. host Louise Roe, who has interviewed many celebrities on the red carpet & happens to be a stylist, is launching her debut fashion line with the UK's third largest online retailer, Littlewoods. Stay tuned...

Natalie Hara's Clothing Line

Natalie Hara has launched her clothing line in L.A. under the name Natalia Romano. Feel free to preview her pieces on her website at Nataliaromano.com

Emma Watson? Yeah, that Emma Watson from the Harry Potter movie is creating a clothing line just for teens.  The best part is every cent will go directly to charity. UNICEF. That's what I call awesome. I'll be watching & waiting.

FIDMs FINEST

Let's start with Natalie Hara.  Her white, yellow and black collection has splashes of bold burgundy in all the right places. Strappy, flowy, elegant, sexy, and feminine dresses that are fresh. Retro inspired but modern at the same time.  Layered pieces that are fun to wear with no fuss. I would definitely wear her clothes in a NY second.

FIDMs Designers To Watch

This is your all access pass to what's new & next in the world of fashion.  In other words its your fashion preview from the inside out.  I will introduce you to new designers straight out of Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, aka FIDM.  These young, talented, individuals have a unique style with one of a kind pieces that are a "must see."  Here are the ones to watch who recently debuted their 2009 Collection.  Natalie Hara, Lacey Osberg, Sara Lighthall, Clay Sadler and Jonathan Webster.  Stay close as I share my thoughts on each collection by exposing you to what's next before it hits the racks.  Here is a picture of Sara Lighthall's newest line of men's wear...