Long Live The Club: A Flashback In Honor Of New Year's Eve

Hey girls! I know everyone is prepping for a fun night. I usually prefer a good house party or a cool lounge but every now and then I get the urge to hit the club (a girl's gotta dance). If you're headed to a club by all means be safe and I have a little flashback to get you fired up.


You got your hair done (check), your outfit's hot (check), you got your Mace (uh...check?). Remember this from Martin?

New Year's Eve: Give 'Em The Cold Shoulder

Nothing inspires evening glamour like a one shoulder dress. They have such an old school diva flavor to them and so sexy. What better time than New Year's Eve to show a little skin (give the people what they want)? But not too much skin. These dresses will give them just a little taste. Hey, people have to have something to look forward to in '09. What are you doing New Year's Eve?

Sequined One Shoulder Dress, Alice & Olivia $247.50 (pair with sexy pumps or cool ankle boots)

One Shoulder Dress w/Bow Detail, Thread Social $484 (Not for the faint at heart. Make a smokin' entrance and exit)












Jacquard Mini Dress, T-Bags $335 (A little less tear da club up and a little more high class cocktails)

And for you wild and crazy girls this is always a New Year's Eve option (Dick Clarke anyone?)

A little Old School classic for you. I love this song (sweet and sultry).

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve sung by Nancy Wilson

Calgon Take Me Away: Try Yoga

How was your Christmas? I hope everyone enjoyed their day. I'm exhausted and would really love to get away and just relax (who's going with me?). If you can't escape and take a vacation right away Yoga is a great way to de-stress, relax and get fit in the process (all without the hassle of airport security). For you girls who are Yogis, you already know its secrets to success. Yoga is something I'm going to incorporate in the new year (starting today). Does Yoga do it for you?

P.S. Nike makes some cute Yoga gear (I couldn't resist).

The Countdown: (Really) Last Minute Gift Ideas

5...4...3...2...1 more day of shopping girls! Yes, this is the last possible day to get any holiday shopping accomplished. If your done, ignore this message. If not, you're still a good person (at least that's what I tell myself). To be honest I have no business writing this post because I'm sooo behind (procrastination wins again). But just know that last minute shoppers will still get some very deep discounts due to the economy and retailer's desperation to have you buy something. Check out some of these coupons and take them with you. I do have two last minute shopping ideas for you.

• Magazines: This is an affordable, easy gift to give and it keeps giving all year. It might sound corny but I absolutely love to get a new magazine in the mail. Just fill out the reply card and send it in. You can wrap a copy of this month's magazine and write them a note that they will enjoy a subscription in 4 to 6 weeks.
  

• Pajamas: I remember countless pictures in my pajamas were always taken on Christmas morning as I opened my gifts. We always need to be camera ready so wouldn't it be better to be photographed in brand new pajamas? This gift is perfect for anyone in the family and is always something easy to pick up at the last minute. I would be great to have the recipient open this late night on Christmas Eve and throw on right before bed. Why not create a cute tradition of opening up a new pair of PJs on Christmas Eve.
  

Have a Merry Christmas girls! Gotta go, some of us still have shopping to do. Do you have any good last minute gift ideas? Let me know.

If The Sweater Fits...Wear It

The holiday party season is on and my friend had the cutest themed Christmas party last night. It was the ultimate anti-fashion statement, an ugly sweater party. There were drinks, music, great food (this girl's a good cook) and of course a contest for which guy and girl had the ugliest sweater. I had to go into stores that would normally cause me the break out in hives to find a sweater but I must admit it was fun to wear (Hey I'm a team player). Needless to say it probably won't get much rotation in my wardrobe. Fun party idea though. Know anyone interested in a red, snowman Christmas sweater?


Winner! I think the earrings gave me the edge over the competition (handmade by myself).

Designer Dilemma: Herve Leger

Wow, the economy just keeps getting worse just in time for the holidays. But that's no reason to be sad and stop making an effort to look great. Because pretty clothes make you happy! To ensure you stay happy after you buy them (and avoid divorce due to unreasonable spending, extreme and unflattering weight loss due to skipping meals, and or getting evicted because you blew your rent money) you may have to say goodbye to designers like Herve Leger and hello to stores in your local mall like Bebe. Herve Leger is known for its signature look, the sexy and body conscious bandage dress (hello sit ups). Boy are you in luck because Bebe has really gotten this look down to a science.

Color Block Bandage Dress, Herve Leger $1250

Strappy Cutout Banded Party Dress, Bebe $59.90

Banded Dress, Available in Bebe stores $49

Cutout Beaded Banded Dress, Bebe $49

Bebe has even more choices in store and just about everything is on sale. No one will ever be able to tell the difference. If they do tell the difference (and actually say something) they should personally give you their credit card and buy you a new Herve Leger dress. That's only fair, right?

Jump, Jump, Jump To It: Return Of The Jumpsuit

Okay, so lately I have a new obsession (I know I have a new one every week but get off my back about it will you). I'm crazy about jumpsuits (they're so simple, sexy and very Thelma Evans from Good Times)! A number of designers (i.e. Proenza Schouler, Burberry Prorsum) are showing jumpsuits for their Spring collections. However, this isn't the first time jumpsuits have been in the spotlight. I distinctly remember a royal blue silk one my mom used to rock in the 80's. I was also particularly fond of a denim Frankie B jumpsuit my fashion plate friend (Hey Ms. Missy!) sported in the early 2000's. I can hardly wait for the Spring collection' s jumpsuit options. Think how easy it's going to be getting dressed. If you can't wait for Spring, take a look at what Fall has to offer in jumpsuits. Will you be on board with this trend?


The Inspiration (the dream, cue the heavenly music): Bustier Top Jumpsuit, Yves Saint Laurent $2890




The Reality: Strapless Jumpsuit, Black Halo $390

The Showstopper: Wool Tuxedo jumpsuit, MCQ $670

I can't even handle these shoes!
Neon Flash shoe boots, Alexander McQueen $970

Closet Shopping: Host A Clothing Swap Party

If you've picked up any fashion magazine in the last month the reoccurring theme has been to use what you already have in your closet to create new looks (obviously a direct indicator of the economy-surprise, we're in a recession). I certainly agree, now is the time to assess what you currently own and possibly add in a couple key elements to update the look (i.e. a new pair of boots, statement jewelry). You should by all means shop your closet for new looks but wouldn't it be way more fun to shop the closets of your friends and fashionable family members? And while you're at it, why not make a party out the entire event. Now is as good a time as ever to rummage through your stuff, keep what you like and pull out what you don't (maybe it's not that you don't like the stuff but maybe haven't worn it in 5 years or have to lose 10 lbs to fit into it). Have a select group of friends (around 3-6) do the same and have your own clothing swap party. My friend C.C. has been hosting this kind of party for years (and boy does she know how to party). All the leftover clothing can be donated to your local Goodwill or Salvation Army. I love any excuse to get together and have fun (getting together and getting free stuff, even better). So for a instant party recipe bring on the clothes (accessories, whatever), add hors d'oeuvres, a signature drink and simmer.

Get The Boot: The Season's Hottest Boots

I love a great shoe, but nothing transforms a look like a fabulous pair of boots. This season you can take your pick from hundreds of styles from the ankle boot (a 80's staple that's here to stay) to the very of the moment over the knee boot. So many options, so little time!

Betsey Johnson, Tisha $158.90 (Hot!!! Wear these with skinny jeans, leggings or a mini dress)

The ankle boot is my personal favorite and when added to a otherwise conservative or ultra feminine outfit adds a little edge. Almost any outfit (daytime or evening) can be taken to the next level when adding this type of boot. Try with anything from skinny jeans to a mini dress and create instant cool.

Giuseppe Zanotti, 87003 $449.99 (sleek boot, stiletto heel-need I say more?)

Frye, Ava Button $279.99 (a more casual option for leggings and ankle jeans)

The tall heeled boot is an old standby that should be a staple in any wardrobe. You can't go wrong with this type of boot because they offer so many options. Take a a conservative sheath dress add tall high heeled boots and you've created a more casual, sleek outfit. This boot works with long or short dresses as well as on top of a pair of fitted jeans.

Jessica Simpson, Yindly $134.99

(I like that this boot has platform heel-it adds a retro feel to them)

For me, the over the knee boot always conjures up memories of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. Don't worry no one's going to force you to deal with a trend called prostitute chic. This season's over the knee boots can be polished, sexy and actually pretty cool.

Sam Edelman, Uri $209.98 (I might be a little obsessed with fringe but when these boots are paired over leggings or with a casual mini they scream haute hippie/bohemian chic and not a hint of prostitute-love them!)

Everything Must Go: RevolveClothing.com has a serious sample sale!

There's nothing like the smell of sale in the air. The tired feet, the communal dressing rooms, and the cold feeling of knowing the lady following behind you is just waiting for you to lay down the sweater she's been eyeing. It's the thrill of the chase and ultimately the satisfaction of leaving with something beautiful you got practically free. Keeping in the spirit of sales, the very hot website turned hotter Los Angeles pop up store, revolveclothing.com is having a sample sale. And believe me, when they say up to 90% off, they mean it. LA girls listen up, I picked up this very retro pinstriped Black Halo dress at the sale last week for $30 (just add pumps and red lipstick and I'm "pin up" girl ready). This dress currently retails for $327, so technically it was more than 90% off (like I said, practically free). Find clothing and accessories from a variety of designers like Ella Moss, Diesel, Geren Ford, Kooba and Giuseppe Zanotti. Don't miss the vast collection of denim (buy one get one 50% off). But, if you're not in Los Angeles you're still in luck. While you may not pick up any $30 dresses, you'll be happy to know revolveclothing.com is also currently having a great online sale (get 30-80% off). So, if you are in LA this Friday, December 12th or next Friday, December 19th stop by the sample sale. Just make sure you have the time to search the racks and don't forget to wear good underwear.

REVOLVEclothing.com Sample Sale

December 12 & 19

9AM-4PM

860 S. Los Angeles Street (The Cooper Building)
Mezzanine Suite 4
Los Angeles, CA 90014

If Walls Could Talk: A friendly word of advice

Every fly girl worth her salt makes her best attempt to step out into the world in the hottest shoes and the cutest fashions. But what happens when you step back into the house at the end of the day? If walls could talk what would they say about your pajamas? Is all that flannel, plaid, and polka dot really worthy of you? Most of us wouldn't be caught dead in some of the things we wear to bed. I think we all should make a resolution to start and end our day feeling just as cool, sexy and happy about our pajamas as the new pencil skirt we wore today (OK, almost as happy as wearing the pencil skirt). Now I understand some of you ladies are already on top of your pajama game, but shouldn't everyone wear cute pajamas (I'm in, just as long as they're comfortable)?



Lace Trim Silk Romper, Victoria's Secret $58 (So sweet and sexy at the same time)













Racerback Tank $14.90/Terry Bermuda Short $19.90, PJ Savage (Cool and comfortable like a kick back vacation outfit)



















Flowy Sleepshirt, Victoria's Secret $21.50 (Cute, cotton and it has my secret obsession, pockets-Cute enough to wear out)



















Colette Top & Pants, Josie $78 & $68 (A sleek and simple alternative to the flannel set. Pricier than I'd like for PJs but you get the idea)

Stop And Smell The Roses: Winter Florals

Roses in the dead of winter? Why not? What better way to bring a little cheer into the overcast skies of December. Winter florals were all over the Fall runways and I'll definitely be on board with this trend. But will this look work for you (don't be silly, of course it will)? Not only is this trend fresh and uplifting, it's easy and economical. Scan your closet for last spring's florals or buy a new dress and wear it now, spring and summer (it's not often you can wear the same dress through three seasons). I think wearing florals are great as long as you winterize the look (i.e. add tights, maybe boots and a cozy sweater coat). Why delay your Spring fling until April? I'll take mine now thank you very much.

"Gin Sling" Floral Sheath Dress, Nanette Lepore $234.50



"Giganta", Boutique 9 $99.99

"Falling Flowers" Silk Dress, Free People $268

Life's Important Questions: Part II - Holiday Party Fashion

A word on specific holiday parties...

THE OFFICE PARTY. Back away from the mini dress. Unless you're the exception and work at Cosmo or Playboy magazine, the key word for the office holiday shindig is conservative. You can show plenty of style without being the topic of gossip at the Monday morning post-holiday water cooler gathering (do they still have water coolers?). Actually, to avoid future water cooler gossip you may want to back away from the mini dress and that last glass of champagne.

BR Lace Lady Dress Banana Republic $175







THE FAMILY GATHERING. Go casual chic. Comfort is the key. Try skinny jeans, leggings or nice black slacks and a luxe sweater or blouse. You never know if you're going to help in the kitchen or get down with your nephew to play with his new toys. Personally, I'd go for anything to avoid that "what the hell are you wearing" look from my grandmother.



Cowl Neck Sweater, Gap $54













Long Sleeve Cozy Cardigan, DKNY $198

















THE ALL OUT CELEBRATION. If you're lucky enough to get this type of invite don't hold back, go all out glam. Now is the time to grab that mini dress and start up some drama. Try out any of the holiday fashion trends (see "Life's Important Questions: Part I) and be festive, it's the holidays. Bring out the sequins, satin, and bling. With all that sass, sparkle, and sexiness the fellas will want to know "where on earth is the mistletoe?" Easy boys.






Glamorous Halter Jumpsuit, Bebe $159

Sequin Chiffon Keyhole Dress, Bebe $129

Life's Important Questions: Part I - Holiday Party Fashion

Hey Ladies, here we are once again smack dab in the middle of the holiday season. It's time to give and be with the ones we love. Time to reflect on the year that's passed and ask one of life's most important questions, "What am I going to wear to all these holiday parties (wow, my thoughts exactly) ?"But don't fret, here are some easy tips to help you survive these holiday celebrations showing effortless style.

Bustier Pleated Mini Dress, Black Halo $325

JEWEL TONES. The holidays should be filled with rich, beautiful color. Be on the lookout for emerald greens, royal blues, bold reds and luscious berry colors. If dressing in color frightens you to death, try accessories. You don't have to you overboard with color to make a impact. Please avoid the green dress, green shoes, and green purse look. You want to be fresh and vibrant, not a re-creation of your bridesmaid dress from your cousin's wedding.

Silk Kimono Sleeve Top, Banana Republic $69

METALLICS. One way to turn up the heat this holiday is to add metallic. Metallic gives a touch of holiday sparkle and glamour. Please be cautious , it's often a challenge to pull off head to metallic. Daring girls can dive into the trend with a gold mini dress. Or, just dip your feet in and wear a couple pieces like a metallic sequined tank, jacket, a hot shoe or a clutch.

Strapless Bustier Dress, Vera Wang Lavendar Label $430

BLACK & WINTER WINTER WHITE. Black and Winter White are classic holiday choices for traditional style (worn together or on their own). You can never go wrong with thees color but choose pieces that add a little more spice. Instead of a plain black dress, do velvet or lace. Or even better, add fancy leg wear or tights (see "No Pedicure Required").

Tallulah Dress, French Connection $218

BR Monogram Silk Bow Dress, Banana Republic $250

LUXE FABRICS & SPARKLE. Nothing adds a finishing touch like luxurious fabric and a little bling. Think silk, satin, lace and lace to pack the biggest holiday punch. Don't forget the sparkle of sequins, rhinestones and diamonds (if you got it flaunt it). Now is the time to wear colorful cocktail rings, rock rhinestone embellishment on shoes, bags, or whatever. It's your time to shine!

Crystal Urchin Ring, Banana Republic $34.30

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year: Black Friday

It's finally here, Black Friday, the official start of the holiday shopping season (despite the fact that holiday decorations have been up since October). If you're anything like me, you won't be out shopping (way to many people=way to much stress for me). Truth be told there are a lot of great deals out there today but unfortunately I will miss out because 1. I'm too much of a procrastinator to be this efficient and start early and 2. I do absolutely no activities that involve the words "4am". But for you girls who enjoy the tradition of getting out there early and braving the crowds: On your mark, get set, go! But, with so many deeply discounted choices you wouldn't want to venture out without a plan.

• Set a budget- Make a list of who you need to buy gifts for (I'll make sure to get you all my sizes) and estimate how much you can spend on each gift. I would add about 20% more to whatever total you come up with. Now you've created your budget, just make sure you stick to it.
  
• Create a signature gift- It would be nice to take the time and get everyone a personal gift, however in the real world we have a million things to tend to and limited time. Of course for your immediate family, gift shopping will have to be a little more time consuming. But think about all the other people on your list (aunts, cousins, a best friend, the hosts of all the Christmas parties you'll soon be invited to). What if you could give a really thoughtful signature gift like a beautiful coffee table book, a framed picture of you and the gift recipient, or a luxurious candle (can you say-very cool and simple). Take your signature gift to the next level by creating a signature look for your gift wrap that screams it's a gift from you. Streamline the way you wrap gifts by picking a color scheme and wrapping all your gifts in the same manner (i.e. solid red paper & gold ribbon).
  
• Shop Online- Why not skip the crowds altogether and shop online. You can get many of the same deals online and many retailers are offering a number of coupon codes (free shipping, extra percentage off, etc). Check out some of the online coupon codes here. You can also check out sites like http://www.blackfriday.com/, http://www.blackfriday.info/ or http://www.blackfridayads.com/ for additional info on in-store and online sales. Online shopping is personal favorite of mine. I mean, where else can you peruse the merchandise of your favorite store in your underwear at 2:00AM and not get arrested?
  
• Avoid gift cards- I have received countless emails about store closings in the new year. It's no secret that retailers are having a hard time this year and some are either going out of business or dramatically downsizing (i.e. Mervyns, Linen & Things, Circuit City). If the store's out of business, so is the gift card. I've been known to hold on to a gift card for over a year waiting for the best opportunity to use it. It's best to err on the safe side and buy a gift (Aww, you shouldn't have).
  

*Oh and don't forget to wear comfortable shoes (see Smart Shopping)

Give Thanks (to YouTube & The Real Housewives of ATL)

We only have one day left until Thanksgiving and with all that's going on it's always great to give thanks for all the blessings we do have. In keeping with the Thanksgiving spirit I'd like to share a couple of things I'm thankful for.

1. You Tube. Attention ladies, not only does You Tube provide us with the best of video hilarity (i.e. the single man dancing just as good as Beyonce in a one-piece bodysuit contraption to her new song Single Ladies), you can figure out how to do virtually everything via You Tube's How To videos. These videos cover just about anything you can think of from natural hair styling to how to prepare Thanksgiving dinner. It's not to late, log on and watch one of the How To videos on preparing a turkey. You can save the stress of potentially ruining Thanksgiving (~sad face) and your reputation (no one ever has to know you logged on, it'll be our little secret).


2. The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Oh it's the little things that make me smile (and laugh and cringe and look on in confusion). If you haven't checked out this show you'll have to watch the frequent re-runs on Bravo or Oxygen. This show is one hour of pure and ridiculous madness. I just watched the reunion show last night and was thoroughly entertained watching the ongoing cat fights, over confidence and overall cluelessness of most of the Housewives (Team NeNe). Not all the ladies are drama filled, but I love the chance to unplug and take a glimpse of what goes down in the ATL (disclaimer~I don't in any way condone this behavior and love female unity, but after all it's just entertainment). Apparently, it's not just my obsession. This show has caught on and even other celebrities are getting in on (or making fun of) the action.

Check out The Bonnie Hunt Show's take on the Housewives!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving girls!

Shop It To Me Baby!

One of the best things about being me is having cool friends. And what do you know, yesterday a little birdie (aka one of my cool friends) told me about a hot new site, Shop It To Me (thanks

Ms. Diaz). No, it's not another online sample sale site (and believe me, I have nothing against sample sales). Actually, it's like having a personal shopper scan all the online sites for sales on items from your absolute favorite designers in your size. Not that I need another excuse to shop, but these sites are making it easier and easier to shop and save (and every smart girl loves to shop and save, right?). You just log on to the site and sign up (it takes about 5 minutes to plug in your fave designers and sizes). Shop It To Me will alert you by email to let you know when and where your coveted items are on sale. This sounds like it may be way to much potential shopping trouble for me. But if you think you (or your wallet) can handle it, sign up and wait for the sales to roll in.

Viva La Vintage

Those who know me know I can't get enough of vintage clothing. I've been known to spend hours filing through racks looking for just the right pieces to add to my collection (so therapeutic). And for good reason, history repeats itself. Many of today's designers are inspired by vintage styles. But like any successful shopping venture there are a couple things you may want to keep in mind.

1. Buy vintage in the best possible condition. Check for stains, weird smells, and poor fabric quality/construction. Stains and smells often never come out despite the best dry cleaning methods. And poor quality fabric or construction is a disaster waiting to happen (30 to 40 year old clothes constructed in poor quality will likely lose its battle with the washing machine, dry cleaner or your behind).



2. Find a good tailor. Some of these vintage pieces are really fabulous and would be perfect if tweaked a bit for the best fit. Really small alterations like shortening the hem on a dress can make a world of difference (and create a unique piece with modern appeal). But beware, if too many changes have to be made it's probably not the best choice for you (just move on to the next find). *Take note the sizes of the past do not coincide with today's sizing (try on everything before buying).



3. Stay true to modern style. Head to toe vintage clothing and accessories can look to costumey. It's best to add modern elements to a vintage clothing like a trendy pair of shoes, a cute belt, and a current hairstyle. Also, try to mix and match old school and new school style by wearing items like a vintage mink stole (old school) with jeans (new school) thus wearing the vintage item in a new way.



4. Go ahead, be haunted by the ghost of designer's past. If you can't afford the designer's fashions today, try their vintage designs (vintage Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace are in high demand). You may still have to pay a pretty penny for good quality designer vintage (huge celebrity trend) but it's still cheaper than walking in the store a buying that Gucci dress today.

Vintage shopping is the best insurance against being horrified that that girl at the party is wearing your dress. One of my favorite places to spend countless hours is Shareen Vintage (Located in LA and NYC). For upscale ($$$) designer vintage Decades, and The Way We Wore have always been reliable LA vintage hot spots. But, the best places are often nestled around your local neighborhoods. So, if you have the time run, don't walk to your local vintage stores and let me know which ones are worth a visit.

The Year of The Gentleman: Good online sample sales for men

The only thing better than having a well dressed closet is having a well dressed man. We know behind every good man is a good woman, but wouldn't that woman be even more fabulous if she knew where to to send her man to find the latest designer fashions for less? Popular online sample sites have finally caught on and are beginning to sell men's clothing at sample sale prices. The Gilt Groupe and Hautelook (just started in mid October) have both added men's designers (like Ralph Lauren, True Religion, Marc Jacobs, Dolce & Gabbana and many more) to their weekly offerings. If you haven't already signed up for these sites for yourself, sign up your man. Clothes don't make the man, but they certainly make him look better (and every woman deserves a little eye candy).

Designer Dilemma: Chanel

There comes a time in every woman's life when you have to make important decisions. Although you might love to have the latest in Chanel, you have the nagging responsibility for stuff like rent and food (annoying, right?). You have a serious dilemma on your hands - build your collection of designer fashion or build your future fortune. With a little style and creativity you can satisfy your need for both. Here are some of key aspects to keep in mind when creating a classic Chanel inspired look.

1. Black & White: Of course Chanel has other colors in its collections, but the black and white color combo channels the classic look.



2. Pearls/Multiple Necklaces: Chanel originated the multi-strand pearls look. You can find them just about anywhere (try an upscale department store, like Nordstrom's, Juniors section for the best bargains). You can also capture the look with multiple strands of silver or gold chains.



3. Bows/Ruffles: A key Classic Chanel trademark that has been duplicated by many designers. This element can be easily incorporated with this season's tuxedo styled shirts and the very popular "secretary" blouse.

Club Monaco (stores located nationwide) has many items to re-create this look. Take a look at some of the inspired looks here.


A true designer diva knows when to splurge. If you have the extra cash to spare invest in designer accessories. Chanel makes some of the most classic accessories available and I consider them investment pieces (I have every confidence you can still wear them with style at your 70th birthday party).

$ ($150-$300) Classic Chanel earrings. All the Chanel accessories can be found worldwide in Chanel boutiques, however EBay has great deal of vendors that sell at a discount (make sure you check buyer ratings and labels for authenticity).

$$ ($301-$500) A hot pair of Chanel sunglasses.

$$$ ($501-$1500+) A classic investment piece, the Chanel quilted handbag.

What ever you do, don't let this happen to you. Watch what happens on the Cosby Show when Theo tries to duplicate the designer look of "Gordon Gartrelle" with the help of his sister Denise (this may be my absolute favorite episode of the Cosby Show).