Alexander McQueen Look-For-Less!!!

I know I am not alone in loving the Alexander McQueen Spring 2010 RTW collection. The reptile-patterned, digitally-printed dresses and the sea monster-like shoes was such a fantastical look that combined both land crawlers and sea swimmers. The beautiful colors of aqua, greens, browns and bright yellows were so eye-catching, and the prints were so expertly engineered, it would be hard to imagine anyone being able to replicate this look for less. Well, no one can do what McQueen does, and that's a fact...but they can try. So, try Armani Exchange did, and their efforts are not so shabby. As I was strolling by shops on my way out of work yesterday, my eye caught a glimpse of a fabulous dress in the window. At second glance, my first reaction was, ahah! I found it, yay yay yay- an A McQueen look-a-like! The snake-skin print frock was a great, affordable option for those who cannot even begin to ponder purchasing the real deal (myself included...).

Available online as well as in stores, the "Snake Print Dress" from Armani Exchange is only $120.00!!! This pattern also comes in a stunning, long flowing maxi dress, $150, and a chic mini skirt, $68. This is a look-for-less MUST BUY. I can't wait to snatch up that mini for myself. j'adore!

www.armaniexchange.com/product/id/100024806.do?zmam=38332444&zmas=2&zmac=2&zmap=2202.10375.2534

Row Row Row

...your boat? No, I am not referring to the silly childhood song that speaks of rowing a boat merily down a stream (what was the point of that song anyways..??). I'm talking about the mens and women apparel and accessories line from you favorite Full House stars, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. These fashionable twin sistahs never shy away from expressing their unique, and individual, styles. While they have been printed on the pages of a many "Fashion Police" and fashion "Don'ts" editorials, it is usually only because they were guilty of a crime that I believe it excusable: being daring! So, it is somewhat surprising to see that their line, called The Row, is not so out of the box. However, that is not to say that it is not impressive. I actually love the wearibility of their designs, which include looks and items that real women will really wear. yay.

The brand actually began in 2007, when the identicals set out to make the perfect t-shirt, attempting to intertwine great tailoring and modern day classics. They expanded into men's in 2009, and just launched their website- which is why all the hype about it currently. Apparently the Row's style philosophy does not believe in trends...uhuh..so that's why the Spring/Summer 2010 collection has so many tribal-inspired pieces and stylings?? yup...that's what I thought. But hey, I'm not knocking it, I quite like their clean lines and classic wardrobe staples. Well done Michelle Tanner, i mean..Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. I was expecting bag-lady garb, and they delivered chic essentials. Not rude at all, rather very appropriate. Uncle Jesse must be very proud. Love love love, want! ...oh ya, it's pretty affordable too.

The Row official website (with online store!)

http://therow.com/

(picture via http://www.whowhatwear.com/)

Can Gucci Couture?

Yes, couture is a verb in my book, because you have to do couture, you can't just be it. Fashionista.com hinted at me this morning that Frida Giannini may start a couture collection for Gucci....Love Gucci, Frida, but earning couturier status isn't like applying for a new bank card...it's extremely exclusive. Fashionista reminds her that you must be certified by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, being a world famous fashion label is simply not enough to stand next to Chanel and Galliano. WWD reported that the collection won't be shown in Paris, only by appointment to use in service of top notch celebs. Will Gucci be the next Christian Laxroix? Hmm, doubtful...but we can always keep an open mind and give the double G an A for effort. Stay tuned.

Rawmazing!

My new favorite foodie website is http://www.rawmazing.com/ -written by Susan Powers, who aims to show people how to transform their diet from the SAD (Standard American Diet) to a diet consisting of raw foods. She became 100% raw and found that she was shedding pounds, increasing energy, and resolving all of her health problems. Susan now follows a 80-90% raw diet, because realistically no one can stick to being completely raw without living a totally rigid lifestyle. Research shows that 60% of our illnesses in our country is due to SAD...the way we eat is making us sick and harming out planet. Eating a nutritional, partially raw diet can help clean up your health and the earth. Susan's website is full of tips and rawmazing recipes for making raw food taste absolutely delicious! Her posts are also fun and inspiring-a must follow! Check out this recipe for Cinnamon Ginger Truffles- to die for!

Cinnamon Ginger Truffles

• 2 C Almonds, Ground Fine
  
• 1 T Cinnamon
  
• 1 t. Ginger
  
• 1/2 t. Nutmeg
  
• 1/4 t. Cloves
  
• 1/2 C Agave
  
• 1/2 C Dried Cranberries
  
• 1/2 C Golden Raisins

Optional:

• Dried Coconut
  
• Cacao Powder

Place almonds in food processor and process until finely ground. Add spices and combine. Add cranberries and raisins. Process for 5 seconds. Add agave and process until well blended. Roll into balls. This is sticky so wetting your hands will help. If desired, roll in dried coconut or cacao powder for more alternatives.

http://www.rawmazing.com/

Follow Susan on Twitter! @Rawmazing

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Schedule-Fall 2010

Fashion Week is in sight and I am beyond excited..cannot wait to watch the unveiling of all these amazing collections and pick my favorites, and leas-favorites, for this upcoming fall season. Hopefully I'll be taking a seat at at least one show this year...we shall see!! So, here is the official schedule (always subject to change, of course)..save it, follow it...I will be, and I can't wait to write about the collections. My favorite time of the year!!! (right ahead of award season and Christmas)

Click the link, taking you to the M Benz Fashion Week site- Merry Fashion Week everyone!

http://www.mbfashionweek.com/newyork/fall2010/schedule/index.html

I've got my eye on:

Richard Chai - 11am 2/11

Ports 1961- 3om 2/11

Yigal Azrouel- 11am 2/12

Christian Siriano- 3pm 2/12

Charlotte Ronson- 8pm 2/12

Prabal Gurung- 4pm 2/13

Irina Shabayeva (last season's project runway winner!)- 7pm 2/13

Luca Luca- 11am 2/14

DVF- 4pm 2/14

Zac Posen- 9am 2/15

Monique Lhullier- 3pm 2/15

Elie Tahari- 9am 2/16

Badgley Mischka- 10am 2/16

Max Azria- 2pm 2/16

Tibi- 7pm 2/16

Michael Kors- 11am 2/17

Anna Sui- 6pm 2/17

Ralph Lauren- 9am-11am 2/18

Isaac Mizrahi- 12pm 2/18

Naeem Khan- 6pm 2/18

Kate Hudson Got It White

Award season is one of my favorite times of the year. Curling up on my couch with a glass of wine each Sunday to watch the red carpet broadcasting, ready to be amazed...and confused, by the style choices of Hollywood's hottest stars. This year's best dressed so far (that includes Golden Globes and SAG Awards) is hands down...Kate Hudson! I give this Nine star a shining 10 stars for her red carpet appearance last Sunday at the Golden Globe Awards, and yesterday at the SAGs. I've adored Kate Hudson's style since I saw her in that golden yellow satin gown that she wore at the end of How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days (which I bought a replica of, guilty, for my Junior prom). Kate is a prime example of how not to lose a guy in ten days, she is always fashionably flawless!

At the Globes, Kate looked glamorous in a white hot strapless silk crepe Marchesa gown. Such an elegant pick, she chose white, so classic and glamorous, especially with the white peplum train. The dress fit her beautifully with it's very structured shape, which showcased her petite, fit frame just as it should be. I loved the feathered detail at the bust, the intricate folding at the waist, and the way the skirt bunched at the back...perfection! It reminded me of Swan Lake, in the best way! (ps-media claimed Kate looked "curvy" and "heavier" at the globes...and I for one think that is completely insane and they need to reevaluate their definition of heavy...seriously ridiculous..she looks amaze!).

Hudson took home another victory at last night's SAG Awards, stepping out onto the red carpet in a breathtaking backless white Emilio Pucci gown. The high neck line and long sleeves accentuated her smaller upper half and super toned arms, while the low-to-the-tush open back highlighted her sexy backside. (note to self: try open back, super hot). The look was so dramatic, and she carried it with total confidence...I mean, how could she not?! I thought the Cartier white golf and diamond long sautoir spotlight necklace that she wore down her back was the icing on the cake...the perfect accessory!

Kate was an absolute vision in white..no fashion police can touch her, she got it all right (or white, actually). Can't wait to see this golden girl at the next award show, I'm sure she'll wow us again!

Beauty Buzz: YSL Radiant Touch Concealer

I've discovered a beauty gem, something that I've been searching for since the first day I realized I seriously needed to cover-up my blemishes (age 13???...). The quest for the perfect concealer is like looking for the perfect mate. You're always looking for something that gives you just enough, without smothering you completely. I've always hated face make-up, but unfortunately, like most people, I cannot afford to go au-natural all the time. So, after years of testing out and throwing away concealer after concealer until my wallet was robbed of probably hundred of dollars, I've found it! Over New Year's, my beauty-savvy friend, who always has the best top-of-the-line products, whipped out a shiny little gold stick and brushed on a flawlessly smooth liquid, which then blended seemlessly onto her face until her complexion glowed radiantly. I had to have it, what was this miracle potion?! She told me, and now I must share with you all: Yves Saint Laurent, "YSL Touche Eclat" (Radiant Touch) concealer brush pen.

This award-winning must-have highlights, banishes shadows, erases fatigue signs, and adds a radient glow to your complexion. Just brush around the eye, chin, lip countour, and nose sides to mask your pesky blemishes and reveal your brilliant, beautiful face. Four reasons why you have to have this item:

1. It works on all skin types (seriously, I have break-out prone skin and this is light, non-oily, and breathable)
2. It retails at only $40.00 !!!!

3. It comes in 4 shades, which blends into and covers every single skin tone-it's amazing!

4. It's perfectly portable-a staple for your make-up bag, small enough to throw in any clutch!

Available at various department stores, Sephore (where I got mine), and online. I'll be a lifetime devoted user of this product and you should too!!

www.yslbeautyus.com/make-up-complexion-concealer/c38_40_45/p141/touche-eclat-radiant-touch/product_info.html

Nails Fit For A Tea Party

"Color so fantastic, you'll think you're dreaming."

You've heard me write already, raving about one of the newest trends of the season, Alice In Wonderland inspired fashion. Well, I had to share my newest lacquer obsession: OPI's Alice In Wonderland Spring 2010 Collection. This limited edition collection featured fairytale shades that match the crazy personalities of some main characters in the Disney flick. Now, with the upcoming release of Tim Burton's take on the classic, OPI has once again dedicated a line of polishes to the entertainment world. I've been eyeing the ads for these fab nail colors in my fashion mags for some time now, awaiting the day that I can run to my fav salon and try em' out. So, upon returning home from a brief ski vacay, in desperate need of a manicure, I went immediately to check out the collection for myself. Thrilled was I when I saw the cardboard display with all the pretty little bottles of new and flashy colors. I am notorious for never wearing a nail color more than once, so the days that OPI and Essie come out with their new collections are always fun, exciting, and a great way to freshen up my look! Hard to choose, but I opted for Thanks So Muchness!, a berry red metallic shade, and love love love! However, I'm dying to test out the eye-catching bright blue, crushed glitter polish, Absolutely Alice, which packs a lot of personality into one little nail. Can't wait until next week's manicure! So, jump down the rabbit hole and sit down for tea with your favorite wacky Wonderland crew, but be sure to lacquer up with these hot new shades first!

OPI color in new Absolutely Alice

Each Bottle $8.50

Mini 4 Pack Set $20

http://opi.com/

Stella in Wonderland

So many designers this season looked to Tim Burton's take on Alice in Wonderland for inspiration, and so we saw an array of whimsical fairytale looks on the Spring 2010 runways (Chanel, Rodarte, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs...). Recently, Stella McCartney has announced that she too will be jumping down the rabbit hole, launching a her jewelry line of Wonderland inspired pieces. Expected are designs consisting of rabbits, Mad Hatter's hats, hearts, and spades. These charms are made from Plexiglass and Swarovski crystals, a very fun and playful take on costume jewelry. WWD revealed that the jewels will be available in black, sheer pink, and brown.

This theme seems very fitting for Stella, since she always has a sort of fanciful and playful look to her designs...and even her Fall 2009 ad campaign resembled something out of the Disney movie Bambi-like a fantasy world. This limited edition collection will come just in time for the hot new 3D movie release, in theatres this March, and will be sold in her boutiques next month. I can't wait to get a look at this magical collection...I'm just mad for Stella McCartney!

Take A Walk In The Desert

What does one wear to look stylist while trouncing around in the desert sands? Well, J.Crew, of course! My recent obsession has been the Suede MacAlister boots by J.Crew. These are not a new fashion, they've been around since my parents were teens...the 60's? Anyways, the day I brought them home, a few weeks ago, my dad laughed and said how he had worn those all the time when he was a kid (and, not to mention probably only paid $20 for them). It's funny how trends come full circle like that, but in such a new way, with such a new twist. This time, J.Crew has brought back these sand-stompers for a slightly higher price of $135...but I promise you, they're well worth it!

Paired with colorful ankle tight/socks and a dressier pencil skirt, black toothpick jeans, or even a day dress. This look is the essence of "borrowing from the boys", which is something the crew always does so very well...and these shoes are actually made for men, (so buy at least one size below your normal size (I'm a Women's 7 .5 or an 8 and I bought a Men's size 6, and they still have a little room).

Another cool take on the MacAlister desert boot style is their Sahara suede ankle boots, which are very Chloe, who I just love love love! They have a 3" heel, made of the softest suede, with lace-up detailing and a fold over top. They seem super comfortable, but are a tad pricey for $225. But, they are so chic and incredibly wearable (with a girlie, flowy dress for Spring..adorable!). I simply can't get enough of this trend, it's hot hot hot!

Hollywood's Hottest Good Luck Charm: Otrera Scarves

Scarves are a fashion accessory that crosses all seasons, especially when they are made of silk. When in doubt, I throw on a scarf and voila, instant chic! Hollywood fashionistas are known for finding the most fabulous, up-and-coming accessories, and that is why we always look to them when trying to discover the latest trends. Lately, starlets can not get enough of their Otrera scarves, designed by Elle Sakellis.

Otrera by Elle Sakellis is rooted deeply in Greek tradition, and Elle looked to her Greek heritage for inspiration . She named her fabulous accessory brand after the mysterious Greek warrior goddess known for her astounding beauty and strength. Her evil eye scarf was created after admiring a display of Evil Eyes ahnging in a small Mykonian tourist shop. Recently, Elle has also come out with a line of hamsa print scarves, which is also a symbol that has been thought to protet people from jealous glares and enemies since the ancient times.

A-listers such as Alicia Keys, Rachel Ray, Paris Hilton, and Maggie Gyllenhaal are all huge fans of this growing trend, and have been seen sporting their good luck charms all over. Just think, all of these big-earners have each experience an enormous amount of success in 2009...could it be Otrera's luck? Hmmm...

Not only are Elle's scarves chic looking, they area also extremely luxurious to the touch. Each piece has hand-sewn glass evil eye charms at the ends, providing protection from evil all day long. Made of 100% silk chiffon, these wraps make a high-class statement, but at a less-than high-end price. At only $198.00, you too can have your very own Otrera original. I for one can't wait to get my hands on one of each design...I just have to decide on which color (turquoise is so classic Greek!).

Wear your Otrera scarf and you too will be surrounded by good karma and positive energy in 2010! And, oh yah, Elle designs exquisite jewelry as well...that's for another post...check out her site and spread the good luck this year!

http://www.otrera.com/

Follow on Twitter: @OtreraByElle

Lacquer Up Your Laptop

I don't know about you all, but I am practically attached to my laptop. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't open my baby Dell up for at least a few moments, even on vacay. Our laptops are not only the mother ships to our whole lives, personal and professional, but they are also accessories that can tell a lot about who we are. Less tech-savvy individuals usually carry around dinosaur looking machines, artsy folks tend towards trendy and modern Macs, and many average Joe's opt for a basic Dell or HP portable comp. So, if our computers are accessories, why not treat them with the same careful selection as we do our other accessories; ties, shades, handbags, footwear? I must admit, I notice how others accessorize and tend to mildly judge their personality based on how they do so. I chose a purple skin for my Dell laptop, which doesn't make a huge statement, but it shows a little bit of my girlie personality.

Now, Dell has announced that they will be coming out with a whole new line of laptop skins that are much more eye-catching than a simple color coated cover. The computer co. has partnered up with one of my favorite nail polish brands, O.P.I., and have fused technology and fashion, producing a line of fab laptop skins modeled after 26 of their best-selling polishes. Shades include: 'I'm Not Really a Waitress', 'Strawberry Margarita', and 'Kyoto Pearl'. The collection will be available as part of the Dell Design Studio and can be used on all Inspirations Mini, Inspiration, and Studio (that's mine!) laptop models.

These brightly polished skins will be sold in stores sometime later this year internationally, and are currently only available to US customers. I am heading to the Dell site as soon as I publish this post...wonder what shade reps me best...'Rosy Future'...?? Type on, in style hopefully!

Link to the Dell Design Studio, O.P.I.: http://www.dell.com/content/topics/global.aspx/design_studio/en/us/design_studio

Be Naturally Thin In 2010: The Skinny Girl Dish

"I'm just naturally thin," is probably a phrase you've heard before...you know, those annoyingly thin girls who swear on their own mothers that they "eat whatever they want" and "don't exercise much at all". Most of the time when I hear someone say that they don't diet, I assume they're lying and are secretly running home and jogging 10 miles on the treadmill and surviving on nothing but fruit and water. However, what if I told you that this idea of being "naturally thin" really does exist? Furthermore, what if I said that achieving a thin body is actually attainable and practically painless? Well, let me introduce you to a fabulous woman who I am sure you are already more than familiar with: Bethenny Frankel, star of the hit Bravo series, The Real Housewives of New York.

Bethenny is a fast-talking, energetic, tiny and stylish natural food chef who has made a big name for herself in the past few years. Her wit, humor, and wisdom won the hearts of America when she was first runner-up on the NBC show, "The Apprentice: Martha Stuart", and later as a non-wife on the hit Bravo RHWNY series. A self-proclaimed "health foodie", Bethenny has become the spokeswoman for many health food brands, and has launched her own health food brand called Skinny Girl. Her Skinny Girl Margarita is a huge sensation with skinny-girls all over the world, containing only 100 calories and all the flavor of the real deal.

I first realized that being naturally thin was a realistic goal, when I blew through Bethenny's first book, Naturally Thin: Unleash Your Skinnygirl and Free Yourself from a Lifetime of Dieting. I have always thrived to live a healthy lifestyle, but quietly sacrificed my desired and a lot of good flavor in order to achieve my smaller frame. After reading Naturally Thin, I threw out my old dieting and over-exercising ways, and traded it in for a new, more free lifestyle; one that focuses on keeping proportions down, eating in moderation, indulging responsibly, and living like the Europeans do, care-free, pretty much...And it worked! I am happier than ever, and have said cyyyaaa to dieting. It's a fabulous feeling!

So, I am so excited to dive into Bethenny's new book, The Skinny Girl Dish: Easy Recipes for Your Naturally Thin Life, so that I can be sure to keep my new healthy eating habits on track for 2010 (and keep with one of my NY resolutions...get in the kitchen more often!). The book includes helpful and insightful tips on how to end the anxiety you experience over what and how to eat when you have to cook, for yourself or for your family. No more standing in front of the fridge staring at odds and ends wondering how to make a meal, only to end up resorting to ordering a greasy pizza from the nearest place that delivers quickly. I'll be sure to keep you posted on what I think about the new read, but so that you don't have to wait to hear it from me, head to your local bookstore and pick up a copy yourself!!!

(check out Bethenny's website at: http://www.bethenny.com/ )

...and stay tuned for the new season of TRHWNY coming soon on BravoTV!

Like This Look: Lingerie

One of the first trends of the season that I have embraced fully for 2010, is the lingerie look. Boudoir dressing crossing over and onto the streets has become a huge hit on major runways and in retailers across the country. The look involves putting lingerie touches on an otherwise, more covered up outfit. For example, pairing a lacy bra under a sheer, tulle blouse, paired with a great pair of trousers and finished off with a chic boyfriend blazer. The idea of mixing the uber masculine with the ultra feminine works very well with this smashing trend. No one wants to see you in full-on bedroom attire, however, a little "peek-a-boo" of undergarment here and there is just the perfect touch to achieve a devilish but sophisticated look.

Louis Vuitton

I first fell for lingerie as everyday apparel after watching it strut down the catwalk during Louis Vuitton's Fall 2009 RTW show. Jacobs paired a sexy black lace bra with an over sized, brilliantly tailored black blazer, and a tiered mini with hot but sweet ribbon lace-up boots. It made me want to wear nothing but a bra under my blazer some day...when or if I ever get up the courage...

Rodarte for Target

I first purchased the look two weeks ago, the day that Rodarte launched it's line for Target. I literally sprang to the computer and ordered up almost every item in the collection. There are tons of lingerie inspired, lacy, girlie tulle and satin numbers to choose from. My favorite is the dress pictured below, which I snatched up in a spicy yellow. It is just so flirty and fun, and looks like a million bucks! Everyone was shocked when I told them it was from Target. Definitely Target's best collaboration yet (u must buy some, if there's anything left...).

Take a look at some of my other favorite lingerie looks of the season, they may inspire you to do some boudoir crossing of your own!

Givenchy

Richard Nicoll

Stella McCartney

2010: New Year, New Beginings

Happy New Year!!! I can't believe yet another year has flown by (cliche to say, i know...but this has been a milestone year for me...). This time last year I was packing up my room in Fairfield, CT, headed back to Oxford, Ohio to finish up my Senior Year at Miami University. Since then, I've graduated, spent a whole summer trying to find myself...but mostly goofing around; jet-setting to Chicago, vacationing in North Carolina, and savoring what will most likely be the last summer of true freedom in my beachy hometown. I've been fortunate enough to find two amazing part-time jobs; one involving writing, and one involving fashion (doesn't get much better!); which have been keeping me very satisfied, up-to-date, and busy! The Holiday season came and went, and I flew out to Chicago once again, to ring in the New Year with college friends, taking on the windy city in true fashion like always! Chi-town was a site to see, so full of youth, style, energy, and possibility...it was very hard to say fare-well. Nonetheless, I found comfort in the fact that I would be coming back to the East Coast, where I can take my fresh start to a New Year, and find my new path for 2010!

It has been only 4 months since I've started the blog, although it seems like much longer...I started writing with no real reason or expectation that anyone would want to read it...I simply knew that I loved fashion, I had a lot of free time, and I might as well try to share my passion with whomever would possibly stumble across it and who'd be willing to listen. What I found in the process is a deep passion for something else: writing. Writing is something that I loved to do when I was in grade school...but, because of the endless and arduous papers that were forced upon me during my years of higher education, I seemed to have lost that love somewhere along the way. My posts began very lengthy and quite frequent, but have recently dwindled off until becoming completely non-existent...I've been negligent. Granted, I have gotten two part-time jobs since October, which have been quite time-consuming. However, I am a person who believes that there is always a way to find at least some time in the day to accomplish what you need to, or want to...no matter what!

Therefore, as part of my long list of New Year's Resolutions (yes, I've become one of those people..the resolution-makers I used to hate...so sue me) which I have scribbled down on two sheets of flashy neon poster board, number 3 reads: "Blog AT LEAST once a day". And, so, there it is; my dedication to myself as a writer/blogger/fashionista, and to you all as readers/friends/critics, to deliver a minimum of one write-up per day, throughout all of 2010. I know I can do it, because as I am typing this up, I am becoming filled with excitement at the challenge. After all, writing about all things fashion is without a doubt exactly what I love to do.

So, you all, stay tuned until tomorrow, for my first official post of the new year...stay chic, stay fabulous. Happy 2010!

xoxo

j'adore