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.