Ready For Combat!

I know I should be shot for thinking about boots when it's this hot out (and seriously it's hot-try 100 degrees). But we fashion forward know the hottest new fashions are always displayed way before their time (I will be hitting Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale tomorrow for the new Fall stuff for a fraction of the price-wish me luck). The one item I can't wait to get my hands on are a pair of rugged, combat boots. I think they're the perfect addition to pair with skinny jeans, cargos or last year's leather leggings (I'm still in love with my mine, you'd have to pay me to stop wearing them). If all else fails, in a dark alley they're probably heavy enough to be a good weapon.

Mia Limited Edition Combat $189

The gray suede texture on these boots give combat boots and more pulled together look.
Nine West Peroxy $119

Oh REALLY?!

Welcome back from a long Fourth of July weekend. I've come to realize in my time off that two unexpected things have the ability to suck me in: The Real Housewives of New Jersey (by far the craziest people I've ever encountered on television, yes crazier than Atlanta) and late night infomercials (hey I'm stretching out my time off I would dare go to sleep early). Now some of these infomercials may actually have some purpose (Brazilian Booty Lift, Bare Minerals- I get it) but after seeing the infomercial for the Bandinis arm weights/bracelets I actually want these people arrested. They claim you can wear these bracelet weights while doing errands, your hair, driving, etc and then wear them out all day as a fashion accessory. Who can actually get away with wearing these atrocities, Wonder Woman? I thought it was a spoof from Saturday Night Live, but to my horror these people are serious. They claim Bandinis are fashionable with any outfit. If you believe that I have some vacation property I'd like to sell you in Iraq and you just might be crazier than one of those Housewives from New Jersey.

For just $19.99 you can get public humiliation too at http://www.getbandinis.com/!

Bare Naked Ladies

With all the heat approaching (or upon us depending on where you are) we will inevitably be faced with the option of wearing white or very cool, light fabrics like silk or linen. One thing to keep in mind-no one wants to see your panty lines or the little red heart pattern on your thong (at least no one with their mind out of the gutter). Believe me, it's harder than you think to find a good pair of underwear that don't show through summer's lightest colors and fabrics. How do we expect to solve problems like health care when I can't even find a decent nude thong? I kid you not I spent 2 1/2 hours trying to find a pair to wear under this dress. Okay, I had a couple of pit stops in between in search of a body bronzer cream to give me that Beyonce on the yacht with Jay Z glow when I slip into my swimsuit this weekend. BTW, how did I go from nude thongs to body bronzer (boy, it's so hard to stay focused these days)? Anyway, I did find a pair at Nordstrom (after having no luck at Macy's or lingerie giant, Victoria's Secret) to bad for me they were only available in a light peach color.

above left photo courtesy of myskins.com

Newsflash, nude for me is not a shade of peach! But thankfully after my frustration I stumbled upon some options. You can choose from 20 different colors in the my skins collection. Nude underwear in straightforward, seamless style. Grab a couple thongs and a bra too.

My Skins Thong $12 and Girl Short $12.

On the body bronzer front, I didn't make a final decision but I had the girls at Nordstrom and Sephora made me some nice samples from Lorac and Laura Mercier. We shall see.

Lorac TANtalizer Body Bronzer and Luminizer $32

Laura Mercier Body Bronzer Makeup $38

Bonus: This one has a subtle coconut scent.

Return of Summer: Retro Swimwear Styles

Summer is here! I can't think of anything more Summer than swimwear. So many swimsuits so little time for last minute sit-ups. But don't fret, you have a lot of wiggle room in this season's retro styles. No, the bikini's not going anywhere but if you're not so excited about donning one you don't have to-the one-piece is here and so now.

Pin-up Perfection. Steal 50's/60's style with this two piece in a hot solid color like white (go even further with polka dots or floral prints). Just add huge Jackie O sunglasses and go.

La Blanca by Rod Beattie Glamour Halter Top $87 and Hipster bottom $55.

70's Sweet Seduction. This one piece is so sweet and completely sexy and the same time. I love the sleek belted look of this suit. It reminds me of a jumpsuit. This feels very Charlie's Angels (sexy) or Three's Company's Chrissy Snow (carefree). I almost want to run out and wear roller skates with this one.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Strapless One-Piece $173.

Totally 80's. Channel the 80's with this neoprene surfer styled zippered one piece (back in the day I begged for my purple one with a pink zipper). Keep it zipped up or zip down a couple of inches for the daring. This suit has a racer back and can easily go from the beach to the street when paired with a high waisted black skirt or ruffled mini.

Lisa Marie Fernandez "Elisa Mallot" $385.

The Heat is On

Hey everyone, it's officially summer and I'm officially back (this time around catch me on Tuesdays and Thursdays). I love summer, but the heat is definitely on. The only problem is, I still have to go to work in all that hot sun. Mondays are bad enough now I have to look out at everyone running around in shorts and tank tops while I'm in a suit. Well no more, for now on I will make a vow to stay (and look) cool while it's hot. Here's a couple of suggestions.


A feminine alternative to a stuffy blazer...

Pair with a classic sheath dress to add a cool twist to a conservative look. For a weekend look go completely sweet by pairing with florals or soften a tougher look (i.e. denim, summer leather) by adding lace.
LaRok Vintage Lace Shirt Jacket $268









A classic look goes cool...




Take Fall's go-to jacket straight into summer. Sleeveless and still sleek.
Wear for work paired with a pencil skirt or light slacks. Wear for play unbuttoned over a feminine dress or a tank and short shorts.
Torn by Ronny Kobo Alana Trench Coat $374.



Oh and by the way, speaking of heat-GO LAKERS!

Gone Fishing...

...Or whatever else they say when you go on vacation. Happy Friday All! I'm officially on vacation (albeit short) and I'll see you next week. But if you're in LA catch me at the UCLA Reggae Festival this Sunday and Monday for the official start of summer. It's an outdoor annual event that's really one day full of R&B/Hip-Hop music on the first day and Reggae on the second. Always fun even though Erykah Badu was an absolute weirdo on stage last year (I've got love for her, but the little drum thing-seriously Erykah?). Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!

Am I Too Old For This?

Now I consider myself well informed when it comes to fashion, beauty or whatever else. But even the most fashion forward sometimes have doubts. I always try to evaluate a look to see if it's really for me and try to live by the mantra to never follow every trend. But, I really like those candy colored nails. Women of all ages have accepted the trend of dark colored nails in otherwise odd colors like Navy Blue (my favorite is OPI's Russian Navy) and now seem to considered them chic. Please know that I have no intention of telling my age to the world on a blog post. But let's just say I remember buying cassette tapes in my early high school years (to my defense, that might have been junior high). Honestly, I'm really itching to try the pastel nail colors in those soft yellows and that mint green color I've been eyeing. Can a woman with a full time job, mortgage and all the things that go along with being a grown up wear mint green nails? I don't know but I might have to push the envelope with this one.

*BTW, OPI has a great site that lets you virtually try on nail colors and even adjust the nail length and skintone so you pick the best colors. Check it out here!

Essie Mint Candy Apple, $8.

Finally Friday

Pop Quiz: What was Tiny doing before she started hanging out with Toya? Who did Kandi kick it with before rubbing elbows with the Real Housewives of Atlanta?
Answer: They were both a part of the 90's girl group Escape. If you have no idea what I'm talking about and/or wondering who the hell Tiny, Toya or Kandi are-don't worry I watch enough Reality TV to make up for your misinformation (wink). Just sit back and enjoy a song I used to like a long time ago and laugh at the tomboy fashion of that era. Happy Friday!


Escape- Just Kickin' It

LA Fashion Fiends Walk This Way-This Thursday!

If you're in the Los Angeles area and love to get your fashion fix, make sure you're in Downtown LA tomorrow for Downtown Fashion Walk. In the same spirit of Downtown's popular Art Walk, Fashion Walk is a collection of stores around the Historical district that open up from 12 noon to 10PM with plenty of fun like live DJs to lure you in. If you can't make it tomorrow, the good news is it happens every third Thursday of the month. Check for updates here.





photo: Betsey Johnson Spring 2010 RTW courtesy of Style.com

Save The Date

Wow, what a whirlwind week! Lot's of work, sprinkled in with some play and oh-I got engaged! I'm back and I couldn't be happier (even if it is a Monday). Just look what I happened to stumble across, the cutest jewelry keepsake idea ever. I know I missed Mother's Day with this, but I love this gift idea for any special occasion (wedding anniversary, graduation date, child's birthday). It's the perfect accessory for yourself or someone special in your life (hint, hint). Enjoy your week!

The Calendar Necklace in Yellow Gold $375, Dalla Nonna Jewelry. all photos courtesy of dallanonnajewelry.com

The Calendar Necklace comes in shiny or matte finish in Sterling Silver, 14Kt Yellow, Rose or White Gold. The Calendar Necklace in Shiny Silver $150, Dalla Nonna Jewelry.

Be Back Next Week

Hi Everyone, Please excuse me for missing this week's entries. I know it has probably been hard to get through your week without hearing my opinion on stuff like finding the perfect leopard print shoe or the best denim shorts (sometimes these can be mind boggling decisions). I've just ran into an avalanche of unexpected events called "life" (don't worry all very good things). But, I promise to recoup and get myself together by Monday.



xoxo

For The Love of Fridays and Mom

Happy Friday and a happy start to Mother's Day weekend. Happy Mother's Day to all the Moms out there (and a special hug for mine). This has always been one of my favorite songs honoring moms. Enjoy (you better, afterall it is Friday)!

Boyz II Men - A Song For Mama



If Boyz II Men was a little sappy (although nothing's to sappy for Mom) for you here's Tupac's ode to Mom, Dear Mama.





In honor of Mother's Day I'd like to receive this. No, I'm not a mother but I have a mom and know many mothers so I think that should qualify me by association (right?).
Just look at the bottom of this bag, HOT! I know it's expensive but, it's Mother's Day.
Alexander Wang Leopard Diego Bucket Bag $950.

American Beauty

My apologies for skipping Monday's post this week. I dread Mondays so much I guess I tried to forget it all together. This week's already been crazy (actually more like the last 2 months) so I really need to take the edge off with a little fashion. When things are crazy sometimes I think the best approach is to keep things simple. That's why I love these looks that showcase timeless fashion. Classic American fashion never goes out of style.

Nanette Lepore Charlotte Shirtdress $248. Cute chambray shirt dress with a sexy twist.

Nanette Lepore Modern Love Dress $348. The fit friendly (on all body types) cotton wrap dress in a color that pops.

White Straight Jean $79.50, Banana Republic. What's American style without denim? I love white denim when the heat turns up.

DKNY Deck Stripe Bandeau Top, $64 & Bikini Bottoms $48. Simple style in navy (I love navy) and red stripes with button details.

Oh, and happy Cinco De Mayo. Have a Margarita for me (happy hour anyone?).

Freaky Friday-Funny Video Flashbacks

Oh I'm in a funny mood today. And why not-it's Friday. Wow, the 90's were a interesting place. When else could you get away with having two songs of the exact same title (but different spelling) on the charts at the same time, and take about $400 to film a video for each of them (that's my best estimate)? Oh, and if you missed Freaknik in Atlanta circa 1993, it kinda played out like this (my apologies in advance for the dancing and the clothing-yikes!)...


Whoot There It Is- 95 South (This song may have come out first)



And now for the more popular of the two. Ok, they may have spent $1000 on this video.
Whoomp There It Is- Tag Team


Have a great weekend!

The Evolution of Exercise

Lately, I can't flip through a magazine, walk past a store or watch a television show without being saturated with the images of these toning/fitness shoes (OMG, a commercial for the new Reebok toning shoes just came on as I type). What on earth is going on? Joe Montana is all over these Skechers commercials looking like a fool endorsing their new Shape Ups (although he probably feels a lot better about himself after receiving his endorsement checks). If my man ever walked into the room in those shoes Joe Montana is pushing, I would crawl under a table and die (wow there's that Reebok commercial again-I'm not kidding). Honestly, those Reebok ads almost sucked me in. Then I thought to myself, "Where the hell am I going to wear those shoes?" Maybe you New York City girls can get some use out of them. Looks like it's going to be another set of lunges for me.

Reebok Easy Tone Reinspire Walking Shoe $124.95

Shape ups by Skechers Action Packed Walking Shoe $99.95

The Compromise: Fit Flops (or most variations of a exercise flip flop i.e. Tone ups, etc). I think I could actually get away with wearing flip flops around the pool or the beach without looking like a freak.

FitFlop Electra Sandal $59.95

If I Didn't Have To Eat For The Next Two Months...Christian Louboutin in Los Angeles

I have a secret-Monday just isn't my favorite day (big surprise). Nothing like a little day dreaming or wishful thinking to make a Monday fly right by. If I didn't have to worry about pesky little things like living expenses (you know a place to lay my head at night, and stuff like eating) I would certainly go out and buy these pumps. That's right, I'd walk right into the Christian Louboutin store on Robertson and buy these shoes and have Christian Louboutin sign them himself. These are a classic Mary Jane pump with a sexy twist (a sky high heel and modern platform). Perfect if I ever want to pull off a sexy librarian stripper look (you never know).

Christian Louboutin Relika Platform Mary Jane Pump $835

But I you do have a pair of Christian Louboutins laying around the house, or are in the market to buy a new pair, the designer himself (yes, The Christian Louboutin) will be in store to greet you and even sign a pair this Wednesday. Go check him out at

Christian Louboutin

650 N. Robertson Blvd

West Hollywood

(310) 247-9300

http://www.christianlouboutin.com/

Michael Jackson Scheduled To Go Around The Country and Back To Las Vegas

I admit I'm a self proclaimed Michael Jackson freak. Finally, Cirque du Soleil has decided to produce a Michael Jackson themed show (they just opened a Elvis themed one at the Aria in Las Vegas this Winter) that will first tour the country then settle back in Las Vegas. I can't wait to get my hands on those tickets. I will be the first in when this show hits Las Vegas (did I mention I love Michael Jackson and Vegas?). Honestly, I think this was my idea (see my suggestions at the end of a past blog entry here). Someone from the Cirque du Soleil camp must read this blog (I know I'm delusional). Read the details here. Happy Friday!


photo courtesy of Reuters.com

To Dye For

The hippie favorite, Tie Dye, is back! Yet another Spring trend to look in to. I feel a little Earth Mother when I think of wearing tie dye. I'm probably not going to go too far with this trend. I think it's best the err on the conservative side when it comes to this one. Tie Dye is actually an easy trend to try at home. Find a solid color t-shirt, scarf, etc. add go old fashioned Rit dye.

Blue Life Long Sleeve Best Bum Tee $61.60

Tie Dye works great in accessories...

Gotta love tie dye leather. Rebecca Minkoff Tie Dye Easy Rider Clutch $375.

Tilo Tie Dye Scarf $100

Polka Dot Hot

Happy Friday Everyone! Boy, I'm I ready for the weekend. I just wish the weather would cooperate so I can get in to full swing with Spring fashion. I'm still getting away with wearing boots and long sweaters (what's wrong with this picture?). Lately I've been toying with trying polka dots. I think polka dots are always a throwback look (so pin-up girl retro). There's just something so sweet about them. Just perfect for Spring!

Elizabeth and James Artist Polka Dot Shirt $245.

This sheer blouse would look cute tucked into high waisted white, or brightly colored shorts (like red or yellow) for a pulled together look. Or toughen up the sweet look of the polka dots by pairing with denim cutoffs.

Rebecca Taylor Denim Dot Duke Shorts $215.

I'd wear these shorts with sky high wedges (also cute with a ballet flat), a crisp white shirt, and black oversized movie star glasses (add a red lipstick and I'd feel very sexy, vintage, pin-up girlesque).

Opening Ceremony Swing Polka Dot Top $250.

Black and white isn't the only way to do polka dots. The neutral colors in this swingy crop top makes it easy to pair with other neutral prints to sport another one of Spring's trends, mixing prints.

Not ready to shell out the big bucks on a trend that you may only wear a couple times? Head over to cheap and trendy spots like Forever 21 and H&M to try out polka dot looks without the guilt and the dent in your wallet.

This polka dot romper is super cute and 58 bucks. Unfortunately, this is the biggest picture I could get. Look at the real image here on Urban Outfitter's site.

Scary Style: Fall 2010 Trends

I'm I the only person frightened by these boots? There's something a little scary about taking Fall 2010's upcoming trend on fur trimmed accessories to the next level (Style.com's accessories editor seems to think they're the best thing since sliced bread) . I have nothing against a little fur but, do we have to wear replicas of a horse's head as boots? And the ankle boots/furry hooves, I can't even go there. I bet a small child can have nightmares just looking at these shoes. It probably doesn't make it any better that both of these shoes will likely cost you a month's mortgage (and I'm talking about a month of NYC, San Francisco, or LA mortgage). Oh Fashion, sometimes you just go too far!

left photo: Yves Saint Laurent Suede Boot with Fur Trim. Courtesy of Style.com

right photo: Bruno Frisoni Furred Ankle Boot. Courtesy of Style.com

Monday Morning Obsession

Good morning All! It's Monday so I have to at least pretend to be excited about starting my week (fake it to you make it). But, you know what I'm truly excited about-my Sunday night TV! Not all of Sunday night, but specifically the half hour I spent watching VH1's new show, Basketball Wives. Yes, it's your typical reality TV show set-up (a group of women who normally wouldn't hang out and are forced to do various girl's nights and events together), but there's something about peeking into the life of NBA wives that just might make it my new reality show obsession. Atlanta housewives watch your back. I think I actually saw someone get a glass of water thrown across her M.A.C. laden face. Oh, the drama.

Check it out!

photo courtesy of VH1.com

Another Week Passes Us By

TGIF-the weekend is here! Here's an old school jam to help you ease through your Friday. I love this one (I say that every time I post a video, but this time I really mean it). Enjoy.

Meet Me At The Bar

There's nothing more that I hate than going to the gym (with the exception of taxes, parking tickets, and probably Mondays). But, I may have discovered a new method of exercise that may not be completely torturous. It's called The Bar Method (alright, it's a little torturous) and it combines isometrics, pilates, yoga and the ballet bar. It's supposed to give you long lean dancer-like muscles with results as early as a month. I'm a sucker for a short cut so it's worth a shot (my month starts today). If all is well I might throw out some comparison photos for you to see. If not, I'll pretend the class never happened. We shall see.

photo courtesy of TheBarMethod.com

Another fun way to get fit on the sly, Pole Dancing. It's a complete blast that's a lot harder than it looks. I always feel super sexy afterwards minus the sore muscles that make me swear I was in a car accident.

Do It Yourself Style

Tough times call for tough measures. Let's face it, there's a lot of stuff out there to buy (some of it very cute and seriously tempting) but with a little time and effort you can create a lot of these looks right at home (i.e. trends like denim cutoffs and sexy sweat shirts). Save some money , have fun, and do it yourself. I might be fun to explore your creative side (I'll pick a DIY project and get back to you later). Have a successful week!





A cool twist on the khaki trend (paint optional) from Teen Vogue and designer Chris Benz. I'd try this idea on khaki or denim. Check it out!

photo courtesy of TeenVogue.com





It doesn't get any easier than this. Alexander Wang does a lot this look this season (he slashed the back of a otherwise classic looking cardigan). Try this technique on any top yourself. See how easy it is to create the tank shown here.

BTW, Forever 21 has a blog The Skinny that has a variety of cool, fairly easy DIY projects. Take a look-don't worry they don't ask for ID.

photo courtesy of Forever21.com

Sweat Sexy: Fashionable Finds for Fitness

It's been going on for months now. The conversation in my head where I say I'm going to get back into the gym. Swimsuit season is creeping up faster than usual (I can't believe it's April already) and still no momentum on my end. That's when I decided to bring out the big guns. I need a little motivation-new workout gear. You didn't think I'd be motivated by just health and fitness, did you? Happy Friday!

Nux Sport Hoody $55. Leave the hood on after your workout add sunglasses and you can run errands Jackie O Style.

Athleta Sport Sizzle Halter Tank $49. Cute enough to wear on the street.

Nux Sport Short $37. The biker short is back (for exercise purposes only please-I'm serious about this one)!

Alo Pulse Long Sleeve Hoody $43. Another hoody to slip on after your workout (hey, your hair might not be in the best shape after a good workout).

Athleta Udaya Tank $54. Trendy global design element.

Victoria's Secret also has some sexy options for your workout. Check it out! I love their selection of Flashdance sweatshirts to throw on after a workout.

Out Of The Blue-Turquoise is the perfect accent color for Spring

Turquoise is cool, calm and just right punch of color for Spring. As the weather heats up just a little (or at least it's supposed to-sorry NYC), turn up the heat with a classic blue that pops. A perfect match for all the soft colors and neutrals that headed down the runways for Spring 2010.

Kendra Scott Turquoise Danielle Earrings $60

These earrings scream for attention. No need for much else. Great with anything from a little black dress to a tank top and cutoffs.

Sleek and delicate with just a flash of color.
Aura Necklace, Banana Republic $45

I like that this ring has a vintage feel to it.

Lucky Brand Big Blues Ring $35

Very girly and feminine. Perfect for Spring!

Sequin Beaded Flower Stretch Bracelet $58