tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333787172024-03-08T02:09:19.971+00:00Maid of Melrose'This girl, her world is made of flashlights and films
Her cares are scraps on the cutting room floor' -- dbmaidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-88300950803994608902008-02-28T00:35:00.002+00:002008-02-28T00:50:34.215+00:00Say Whaaat?: Norma Kamali for Wal Mart<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GudfHXFyeiT_8Bb6knHsVMhacIEailXQylbxCRQRRtmV9JLkvHkkKmf59EMKJwZNJvUdnKWghUd4AMJIs5La2dLSuiWKJRXCbfq6XDFNZdTqYnLSHf2k8M-PMjD9oqkoQZ-LZA/s1600-h/kamali+bikini.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171826696260338498" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9GudfHXFyeiT_8Bb6knHsVMhacIEailXQylbxCRQRRtmV9JLkvHkkKmf59EMKJwZNJvUdnKWghUd4AMJIs5La2dLSuiWKJRXCbfq6XDFNZdTqYnLSHf2k8M-PMjD9oqkoQZ-LZA/s320/kamali+bikini.jpg" border="0" /></a> At first, I thought I was misreading the headline. Then, I got the sensation that I was dreaming. But no, it's true - <a href="http://www.wwd.com/retail/article/122998?src=rss">WWD</a> has reported that <a href="http://www.normakamalicollection.com/">Norma Kamali</a> is designing a collection for Wal-Mart.<br /><br />I know she's not John Galliano or anything, but Norma was kind of a big deal back in the '70s and '80s - I mean, her work is in the Costume Institute. Target would make sense, but Wal-Mart? I know it's where the Olsens got their start, but even so, fashion credentials are definitely not one of its strong points.<br /><br />In her statement for WWD, she explains that she's looking to bring her vision of 'wellness' to a wider audience. If wellness can be equated with cut-price versions of her super-sexy bikinis, I might just have to rethink my aversion to bargain-basement shopping...maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-12012914977480218872008-02-25T05:33:00.011+00:002008-02-25T06:17:28.553+00:00Red Carpet Report: Oscar NightIt's my first Oscar night in LA, and I've come to realize that the ceremony is to this city what the Super Bowl is to...well, everywhere else in the country. People throw parties in their honor, bars and restaurants erect big screens on which to watch the red carpet procession, there were more column inches devoted to 'Who's Going to Win' speculation last week than to the presidential race. <div><div><div><div><br /></div><div>With all that buildup, my expectations were high - so maybe that's why I was disappointed? For one thing, where was everyone? I've never really followed the big awards ceremonies before, so am not sure if this is normal, but was quite surprised to see how few of the big-name celebrities actually turned up. No Brangelina, no Tomkat, no Reese or Kiera or Sienna or ANYONE, really, except for the obvious nominees (and, randomly, Miley Cyrus, Heidi Klum and Jessica Alba). </div><div><br /></div><div>More than that, though, I was disappointed by the extremely safe (read, boring) dresses on the red carpet. Black and neutral and red and strapless and floor length - I mean, I have a feeling that most of it was out of respect for the writers, which would make more sense if the strike were still on - but it's not! The writers got what they wanted! And yes, I totally understand everyone did suffer for quite a few weeks, but I don't necessarily think a splash of color here and there is massively disrespectful. Or maybe I'm just massively insensitive...<br /></div><div>Anyway, I still feel as though it's my duty as an honorary Angeleno and fashion writer to give you my top five looks of the night - although I will preface it by saying that none of them would have made my list if they'd appeared on the red carpet, say, last year:</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzSk32-bt1JY9k2eD8fUdi1bS7mr9omosu_TwfRlPdX4dYzajkIrPur-hdkl2yfEm7hsmJcURch2hfydSbCjVyoNJcNpz-SW8LpoWkhnSRRxF6HOtjdp7eN5k_Dzoug14dMSBqw/s1600-h/penelope_cruz.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170794323561333538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzzSk32-bt1JY9k2eD8fUdi1bS7mr9omosu_TwfRlPdX4dYzajkIrPur-hdkl2yfEm7hsmJcURch2hfydSbCjVyoNJcNpz-SW8LpoWkhnSRRxF6HOtjdp7eN5k_Dzoug14dMSBqw/s320/penelope_cruz.jpeg" border="0" /></a>1. Penelope Cruz in Chanel Couture</strong></div><div>I love navy for evening, so was stoked to see so much of it on the red carpet this year. Penelope definitely did it best with this gorge gown by Chanel - I think it's a color that can look slightly dowdy on a dress that's too austere, and the draping and feather details were just enough to infuse it with a bit of glamour.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXeafLu-w97LT2q5WKrv6NqvbvbFkX0pA7tFUtL7KxwWuG1qNnSLGFvJKI5Mtu2XZTR_nEYxt2hCsW_KNVs_FEoXiNLAOOWhyphenhyphen7VMESFDH2tX4I-iN7IJsZXqbtK1vM8U_7Jy9tw/s1600-h/anne_hathaway.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170793056545981170" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXeafLu-w97LT2q5WKrv6NqvbvbFkX0pA7tFUtL7KxwWuG1qNnSLGFvJKI5Mtu2XZTR_nEYxt2hCsW_KNVs_FEoXiNLAOOWhyphenhyphen7VMESFDH2tX4I-iN7IJsZXqbtK1vM8U_7Jy9tw/s320/anne_hathaway.jpeg" border="0" /></a>2. Anne Hathaway in Marchesa</strong></div><div>Red is definitely Anne's color - she was absolutely glowing in this draped red Marchesa. She's got my vote for most improved from last year (remember the big black bow debacle?).</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> <br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ__Q5TPU4HLskm3Gq-EnYdqQl9wKFdSjrz1121Dlo9ClF2USIcaJkParG4yPeupwmh0xqj1T6C_n1xbLKAftWPnT3ip-WcjmRW4c9vANiH-ahHIeu1fGROy__C1dWIYB5pO4Dg/s1600-h/renee_zellwegger.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170794426640548658" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 173px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px" height="235" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJ__Q5TPU4HLskm3Gq-EnYdqQl9wKFdSjrz1121Dlo9ClF2USIcaJkParG4yPeupwmh0xqj1T6C_n1xbLKAftWPnT3ip-WcjmRW4c9vANiH-ahHIeu1fGROy__C1dWIYB5pO4Dg/s320/renee_zellwegger.jpeg" width="198" border="0" /></a>3. Renee Zellweger in Carolina Herrera</strong></div><div>To me, Renee is the one actress who consistantly looks sophisticated and glamorous at every high-wattage event she attends. I can't remember one occasion where I was unimpressed with her look, and tonight was no different. The silver starburst pattern on her dress shrieks Old Hollywood glamour - it looks like it could be a very well-preserved vintage piece from the 40s.</div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghktsjwGWZuK4FUieEdiEtDWTVJotvW3smzeuhek7slkuaz6CbqjLwoaE_qPCRa9a5pMGQ-7t1nomeSXELB7N1qScrjt-YRtChlHsF-dVb4fDNq5I9nwh2LwXT1Gl9PYpFRy04uw/s1600-h/marion_cotillard.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170794241956954898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghktsjwGWZuK4FUieEdiEtDWTVJotvW3smzeuhek7slkuaz6CbqjLwoaE_qPCRa9a5pMGQ-7t1nomeSXELB7N1qScrjt-YRtChlHsF-dVb4fDNq5I9nwh2LwXT1Gl9PYpFRy04uw/s320/marion_cotillard.jpeg" border="0" /></a>4. Marion Clotillard in Jean Paul Gaultier Couture</strong></div><div>Am pleasantly surprised at how well Gaultier's mermaid motif translated on this made-to-measure gown. Most certainly a best-actress-worthy look.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong></strong> </div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4w0MW4XbL00ofbGubLIx1W4fGfTtg3701G8tAKEA2I06WHzjhuUNGtDrcyRX8ncLRwhiL1SOLiw_zJcJ5X40UV7yBNzltHR__OKpmdwFYoqgKTPDP7Bw2Jo063rG5A-V6pf0LQ/s1600-h/heidi_klum.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5170793172510098178" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4w0MW4XbL00ofbGubLIx1W4fGfTtg3701G8tAKEA2I06WHzjhuUNGtDrcyRX8ncLRwhiL1SOLiw_zJcJ5X40UV7yBNzltHR__OKpmdwFYoqgKTPDP7Bw2Jo063rG5A-V6pf0LQ/s320/heidi_klum.jpeg" border="0" /></a>5. Heidi Klum in John Galliano</strong></div><div>Apparently, Heidi's been getting her inspiration from Project Runway's Chris March - the exaggerated neckline of her Galliano gown is more than a little reminiscent of Chris' fine art challenge dress, as well as its inspiration earlier in the season. Not that it makes it any less chic, of course.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.people.com/"><span style="font-size:78%;">source</span></a></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-11654755013765081372008-02-22T16:30:00.005+00:002008-02-22T16:53:49.918+00:00One to Watch: Esartia Jewelry<p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjev7cOODSoTEnfMoj7MzOEtERPhl3kL71eaWYM-nIBwIPtTvzvrDcWwz7wnTemfeVUuAPtw-n3TACZoslCQ3dyc5UmWTuoYdM5ldfty-puO3lLUVoHucpkIbyRYaRf9fTb0T3g/s1600-h/Esartia+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169848120791188194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqjev7cOODSoTEnfMoj7MzOEtERPhl3kL71eaWYM-nIBwIPtTvzvrDcWwz7wnTemfeVUuAPtw-n3TACZoslCQ3dyc5UmWTuoYdM5ldfty-puO3lLUVoHucpkIbyRYaRf9fTb0T3g/s320/Esartia+3" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />As the cliche goes, one man's trash is another's treasure - a phrase which jewelry designer Khatia <a href="http://www.esartia.com/">Esartia</a> takes literally in her eponymous jewelry line.<br /><br /><div>After putting together her avant-garde leather graduate collection for the Art Institute of Chicago's fashion school, Esartia was faced with a mound of leftover leather scraps. But rather than relegate them to the Dumpster, she decided to reuse them by creating a series of rings and necklaces adorned with gems, jewels and ribbons. These pieces were such a hit with buyers that they evolved into a full-fledged jewelry line, one which is a little bit glam rock, a little bit romance, and totally eco-friendly. </div><div></div><div>Recycling has never been so chic.</div><br /><br /><div></div><div><em>Esartia available at EM & Co, 7940 W. Third St., </em><a href="http://www.emandco.com/"><em>www.emandco.com</em></a> </div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-21030978308978729232008-02-22T02:22:00.003+00:002008-02-22T02:40:30.529+00:00Talking Shop: Comme Des Garcons Guerrilla Store<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcAVt03MfgKzjTQxe1EzKQUYh9ZpDLbb8vRWoCPsK6JMiB8c1CNRWlJqdpmUzJIc287X7mCnzw5-RI-ETU0DXG0LNeynU94XLt2R3cM27f-BbG6rTjUdkpUtTEcJkE9roLFPyMA/s1600-h/cdg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169628377379422914" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcAVt03MfgKzjTQxe1EzKQUYh9ZpDLbb8vRWoCPsK6JMiB8c1CNRWlJqdpmUzJIc287X7mCnzw5-RI-ETU0DXG0LNeynU94XLt2R3cM27f-BbG6rTjUdkpUtTEcJkE9roLFPyMA/s200/cdg" border="0" /></a>It takes a lot to convince me to venture into downtown LA during rush hour, but I figured the <a href="http://maidofbondstreet.blogspot.com/2008/01/talking-shop-pop-in-to-pop-up.html">Comme des Garcons guerrilla store</a> would be as good an excuse as any. So I made the trek, only to find out when I got there that all the merchandise got tangled up in customs, and the store wasn't able to open Saturday as planned. Apparently, everything will be ready to go tomorrow at 12 - but I'm working at my 'real' job up through next Thursday, so won't be able to go back until at least then.<br /><div></div><br /><div>For anyone who's planning on going over the weekend, take note - it's not easy to find. The door is actually behind a black metal gate and down a small alley just to the right of Blends on 4th Street. Unfortunate dumpster smell aside, it's actually a great location in a surprisingly cool part of downtown, so I guess I don't mind too much that I'll have to make the trip again next week...</div><br /><div></div><em><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo from LATimes.com<br /></span></em><div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-4196127514137139622008-02-20T17:33:00.004+00:002008-02-20T18:42:52.194+00:00Why Not Try...A Caped Crusade?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWpPrlXkJSsLVIqXBaZ2pPbs_qH32pg4_IBlCgAVksVwyFZtZwvUXbPXdA9yrh-W2H4TXgezoyZag-tCjqlNUXkWH5vVgN8A9w8PTPgM1CxptafiamWdj1OLuYTkLwP4Yr2bsHw/s1600-h/ferretti+cape"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169133799010386578" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWpPrlXkJSsLVIqXBaZ2pPbs_qH32pg4_IBlCgAVksVwyFZtZwvUXbPXdA9yrh-W2H4TXgezoyZag-tCjqlNUXkWH5vVgN8A9w8PTPgM1CxptafiamWdj1OLuYTkLwP4Yr2bsHw/s200/ferretti+cape" border="0" /></a>I don't know about you, but the last few days of spring-like weather have inspired me to relegate my winter wool jacket and collection of heavy velvet blazers to the back of my closet until next November. Nevermind the fact that I'm always the chump shivering and complaining about it once the sun goes down - I'd rather have that than the unpleasant melting feeling I get when standing in direct sunlight in a heavy coat during the day. Am currently on the lookout for a cape to bridge the gap, and I have a feeling that soon enough, I won't be alone. They've been popping up all over the Milan runways (see Alberta Ferretti and Missoni, left), and they're sure to have a big showing in the upcoming Superhero show at the Costume Institute in New York.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BJggZ8cAVPrAt2fmpnRKBDI5j24zV0iOkh05Dg5YgsVt8D-8I-HgUfiCugLzkmGsYLLQ8fSandz7nL1vy-MaRxkSfT7XEuT2R7OAtrKv5vcEJ1GoHf6wD62nJAlclBMk29jTXg/s1600-h/missoni+cape"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169134172672541362" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BJggZ8cAVPrAt2fmpnRKBDI5j24zV0iOkh05Dg5YgsVt8D-8I-HgUfiCugLzkmGsYLLQ8fSandz7nL1vy-MaRxkSfT7XEuT2R7OAtrKv5vcEJ1GoHf6wD62nJAlclBMk29jTXg/s200/missoni+cape" border="0" /></a>Cozy enough to wrap up in if necessary, yet airy enough to let the fresh air in when it's warmer, the cape is basically a grown-up version of the Pashminas I was addicted to in my college days. Am still not quite sure if I want to go the minimalist route, like the one below by <a href="http://www.houseofcassette.com/">Cassette</a>, or try to find something bolder, like the gorge yellow tartan or white brocade ones by <a href="http://www.alexismabille.com/">Alexis Mabille</a>. Either way, the cape will fit in perfectly with the whole 'gothic seductress' vibe that's emerging for fall - am envisioning it with a sheer blouse and leather-esque leggings.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacjsRaI86VAtENUt3sjfAkSMJxNkYi7wlOD5s38tRLjogUjxpz2J-aJIEvEt8BEo7nvovDjhxhAMio-PcC8DEBT97H7idxpdfN2Y_dy8d8I50QcSTMRr6JmoNBBspv6mASWFdw/s1600-h/cassette+cape"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169133661571433090" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZacjsRaI86VAtENUt3sjfAkSMJxNkYi7wlOD5s38tRLjogUjxpz2J-aJIEvEt8BEo7nvovDjhxhAMio-PcC8DEBT97H7idxpdfN2Y_dy8d8I50QcSTMRr6JmoNBBspv6mASWFdw/s200/cassette+cape" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefIZ5FYGdSHkvmN-e4XQ8IFvUIQgUGx0dtxMXh-Br_QZuUecwMeAgn_DB8ZhXPfKtcmHRq4Lb5cxuSVkaBHNSHlbdCttWYF94wz-yGkS0T0EnHNsfQ9W9MXPY3Sg6I7lOE69yEQ/s1600-h/alexis+cape+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169133326563983970" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefIZ5FYGdSHkvmN-e4XQ8IFvUIQgUGx0dtxMXh-Br_QZuUecwMeAgn_DB8ZhXPfKtcmHRq4Lb5cxuSVkaBHNSHlbdCttWYF94wz-yGkS0T0EnHNsfQ9W9MXPY3Sg6I7lOE69yEQ/s200/alexis+cape+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXEn-kE0VaS7f9Nca2tpUGwzk4zKEzRWaJBvFnQhzeY1Kr9nQumIt47nSHtgON3YjsGpUk3RsjZ30OCxo6Q-PfKvoioYMqEw4qnIwEyD2KKusZ4Zph6t7mZ9Ex57s3pK_ADOdUA/s1600-h/alexis+cape+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169133584262021746" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXEn-kE0VaS7f9Nca2tpUGwzk4zKEzRWaJBvFnQhzeY1Kr9nQumIt47nSHtgON3YjsGpUk3RsjZ30OCxo6Q-PfKvoioYMqEw4qnIwEyD2KKusZ4Zph6t7mZ9Ex57s3pK_ADOdUA/s200/alexis+cape+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-39865894026316206372008-02-13T23:21:00.009+00:002008-02-13T23:36:14.023+00:00Runway Report: Topshop Unique<div><div><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZwFwIGgdZ4d9UoFL29GwZEbwO1fqktjc3zmDIveu8PnFX_ajH5dbdTLFoymHEmIE9Z_XH7E-yt_iGXiZOb3oUXQm5tGVPY3LfPc0mYairYa6x3KPC9QMYpEmjlpV3SawAQP6rw/s1600-h/topshop+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166611536516137458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZwFwIGgdZ4d9UoFL29GwZEbwO1fqktjc3zmDIveu8PnFX_ajH5dbdTLFoymHEmIE9Z_XH7E-yt_iGXiZOb3oUXQm5tGVPY3LfPc0mYairYa6x3KPC9QMYpEmjlpV3SawAQP6rw/s200/topshop+3" border="0" /></a>I've learned to live without my rainy-day walks along the Thames, and have even managed to perfect my own version of Brick Lane's famous curry - but the one thing I can't seem to shake about my London homesickness is my weekly visit to Topshop. I wouldn't be surprised if they've seen a serious drop in profits since I left the country in August, but if that's the case, their fall Unique collection should help to make up the difference.<br /><br /><div>It's definitely one of the best they've shown yet - full of broody, dark, near-gothic minimalism in the form of leather separates, cozy grey flannel coats, and ethnically-patterned chiffon shirt dresses. If I didn't know better, I would have pinned this collection to an established designer, like Alexander Wang or Richard Nicoll - but, lucky for most of us, the edgy looks on offer don't come with a matching designer price tag. With prices maxing out at $300, you really can't afford NOT to buy several pieces from the collection - and, if the brand's plans to open stores in the US pan out, I'll hopefully be able to do just that come autumn.</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVWp7OoIA_TiVbiyi-zU7Ai2PAzKnj9driUHlsE3NN6jmJRCDWsYT9rZIOugl_Up2-TcpYe5N_u5zoMGSnd0uh-6P4iVZw2liiFkXeeDYJKOoJfGVEW6e2Pv48-W3h_7z8l1WRw/s1600-h/topshop+7"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166611626710450690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVWp7OoIA_TiVbiyi-zU7Ai2PAzKnj9driUHlsE3NN6jmJRCDWsYT9rZIOugl_Up2-TcpYe5N_u5zoMGSnd0uh-6P4iVZw2liiFkXeeDYJKOoJfGVEW6e2Pv48-W3h_7z8l1WRw/s200/topshop+7" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3QywjqlekgXRvp717xW_05DToGGzkW9bID4a94IxmogLvaBzlQS6a0Pqn35RCecIsDuejzYO4SwSnc7MRKNF_9titZiC5rR3PPJSGKZsX02uObhrwRKvOgz76qgkBlQDhV8CuhQ/s1600-h/topshop+6"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166611721199731218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3QywjqlekgXRvp717xW_05DToGGzkW9bID4a94IxmogLvaBzlQS6a0Pqn35RCecIsDuejzYO4SwSnc7MRKNF_9titZiC5rR3PPJSGKZsX02uObhrwRKvOgz76qgkBlQDhV8CuhQ/s200/topshop+6" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaLTg7ICu6_s3S0sMrxJ3qYkEkOg4W88m3QS_NtjaZN3fsu4xgYA7x3-VpK0HzRIjDYbl27I7HZAcG_UvyX6IkYwKOb_WdvbX8w1fbLxaZ6rxqjeg3s7AGBl-i_H7vTPKDFKqiA/s1600-h/topshop+1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166612112041755218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaLTg7ICu6_s3S0sMrxJ3qYkEkOg4W88m3QS_NtjaZN3fsu4xgYA7x3-VpK0HzRIjDYbl27I7HZAcG_UvyX6IkYwKOb_WdvbX8w1fbLxaZ6rxqjeg3s7AGBl-i_H7vTPKDFKqiA/s200/topshop+1" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfMkR9RL-HKIOoE2bKobZysy1C0N3PjMt4ePBbZCIXCSMJr7wk6l5lsDYB6BRYPn3RQ_DEqOaDy1vFdf3ozH-xs3Wh2fm6yzUwlltyjtoQLJPpE_fCnoSF8dRqesaO7Hon7X5uw/s1600-h/topshop+5"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5166611807099077154" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfMkR9RL-HKIOoE2bKobZysy1C0N3PjMt4ePBbZCIXCSMJr7wk6l5lsDYB6BRYPn3RQ_DEqOaDy1vFdf3ozH-xs3Wh2fm6yzUwlltyjtoQLJPpE_fCnoSF8dRqesaO7Hon7X5uw/s200/topshop+5" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><em>Photos courtesy of vogue.co.uk</em> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-5983382172955353472008-02-09T22:01:00.001+00:002008-02-09T22:34:44.488+00:00Runway Report: LA Takes NYC, Part 3The last set of shows this week seemed to reference a more subdued form of glamour than the earlier ones - not as much sparkle, more practical fabrics, yet still referencing the Old Hollywood silhouettes of the '40s that seem to have been the main focus for most designers. From Jenni Kayne's little black dresses to Rami's little jade ones, the ladylike look is apparently here to stay for fall...<br /><br /><div><div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyTvySNBpSbdqnIauGHUTtZ6J7gA2gs2-0Dd1CE0l13k_r_oosmKd3kZ6RkmLWudVFTs1-bWFXCMp1bjR2eE8EB_VnR2LqeZXD0mQovCeXvoJYqSFNxfyftNvjUHfQYfgU-_5sg/s1600-h/tadashi"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165111931504869842" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyTvySNBpSbdqnIauGHUTtZ6J7gA2gs2-0Dd1CE0l13k_r_oosmKd3kZ6RkmLWudVFTs1-bWFXCMp1bjR2eE8EB_VnR2LqeZXD0mQovCeXvoJYqSFNxfyftNvjUHfQYfgU-_5sg/s200/tadashi" border="0" /></a>1. Tadeshi Shoji</strong></div><div>If you read Us Weekly at all, Shoji's name probably sounds familiar - he's best known for his sexy, slinky red carpet wear. So it came as a bit of a surprise to me that there was hardly an evening gown in sight in his fall collection. Shirtdresses in shades of chocolate brown and grey were mixed in with canary-yellow chiffon blouses and emerald silk sheaths, items that would look more at home at a board meeting than at the Kodak. Not to say I didn't like it, however - his tailoring is always spot on, and I loved the way he played with splashes of color, like these yellow leather gloves against the grey wool dress.</div><div><br /><br /> </div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dhhnPtFJi3P3YzDVmMOQCPXVkG13IzFEZye1w3yj36vG2k9zEHuh9IyGcWMNGI7gsIEbXrV8IjvmSd8B1YkZ_hryJKOg-zowcJXma71M-01yJGCXTiFHBBmhZOA-ocFlXJuGZA/s1600-h/jenni"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165111695281668530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dhhnPtFJi3P3YzDVmMOQCPXVkG13IzFEZye1w3yj36vG2k9zEHuh9IyGcWMNGI7gsIEbXrV8IjvmSd8B1YkZ_hryJKOg-zowcJXma71M-01yJGCXTiFHBBmhZOA-ocFlXJuGZA/s200/jenni" border="0" /></a>2. Jenni Kayne</strong></div><div>It's not that I have anything against Jenni Kayne - she definitely has a way with the basics, proving season after season that she can make a solid pair of pants, shift dress and fitted jacket. But for me, there's nothing that particularly stands out about her work - I mean, you can walk into any Banana Republic or Nordstrom and find equally solid pants, shift dresses and fitted jackets any day of the week. I'm probably not alone when I say that I'll choose to save a bit of money on the basics to put towards one of her contemporaries who are doing something a little more spectacular, like..</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /> </div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cMOhBQyz6FlE8xv6mqBSXcyWR7QFCbmZkJZ66lcxgl6eo4aICTG9RL-RrCYP7m4w3F0RfQ-YcY5XjOO2jxLigJqzJJIIviF9EnZxOhHW8R8hOPnVppzKsRcenZYIzMKYn7IjYA/s1600-h/rami"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165112013109248482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3cMOhBQyz6FlE8xv6mqBSXcyWR7QFCbmZkJZ66lcxgl6eo4aICTG9RL-RrCYP7m4w3F0RfQ-YcY5XjOO2jxLigJqzJJIIviF9EnZxOhHW8R8hOPnVppzKsRcenZYIzMKYn7IjYA/s200/rami" border="0" /></a>3. Rami Kashou</strong></div><div>If Rami doesn't end up winning for this collection, I'll be more than a little shocked. I've been a huge fan of his since before he appeared on Project Runway, and this collection embodies the reason why. Every little pleat and drape of every piece appears to have been scrutinized, with a result more polished and flattering than quite a few of the New York veterans we've seen this week.</div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguseioLJtlA6mkSBFnGQ70HZYNgzz7vBhay8tGsUlJ1hGpHbGZNn-TCRLU7c9cCxCqMQbBOvOLftUqP0tBsaz2rqNz6RvERY-Qu03P_wyFTbEANntVEEon4dD6IRWzTaV2c8R7sw/s1600-h/sweetp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165111815540752834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguseioLJtlA6mkSBFnGQ70HZYNgzz7vBhay8tGsUlJ1hGpHbGZNn-TCRLU7c9cCxCqMQbBOvOLftUqP0tBsaz2rqNz6RvERY-Qu03P_wyFTbEANntVEEon4dD6IRWzTaV2c8R7sw/s200/sweetp" border="0" /></a>4. Sweet P</strong></div><div>Even though there were a few promising pieces in Sweet P's collection, I was a little perplexed by the fact that there was no continuity whatsoever between all of its different elements. Jumping from a punky flannel cocktail dress to a minimalistic sheath jacket to a richly embellished silk frock was confusing, at best - had she stuck to just one of these themes, her collection would have made a much stronger statement.</div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-3960123236994417512008-02-08T20:46:00.000+00:002008-02-08T20:57:33.784+00:00Mark Your Calendar: Kristinit Charity Sample Sale<div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI57D3SwtZeH4wjSuTfl-pYPWQrPnC4cddJ3rVmWhWTjomRDH5oHpGr1BccA5J-guahHCAFDTV85l9f-ms2ldW8mwmjQLxiTaj30kTrl1lgyV8gs6vahukvam-pEitxfNueSr1YQ/s1600-h/kristinit"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164715484167431458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI57D3SwtZeH4wjSuTfl-pYPWQrPnC4cddJ3rVmWhWTjomRDH5oHpGr1BccA5J-guahHCAFDTV85l9f-ms2ldW8mwmjQLxiTaj30kTrl1lgyV8gs6vahukvam-pEitxfNueSr1YQ/s200/kristinit" border="0" /></a> With the Barney's Warehouse Sale on now, it's probably going to be tough for any other sample sales to get noticed - especially those more than a 5 minute drive from Santa Monica Airport. But I'd very much recommend you add the Kristinit sale at Kate to your weekend agenda. I don't just say this because you'll be able to snag designer Kristina Lenss' super-sweet and romantic blouses and jackets for 70% off, and not even because you'll have the chance to pre-order from her spring collection - no, the best part of the event for me is the fact that a percentage from each sale will be going to charity (Kitten Rescue Los Angeles and Pachama Rainforest Allience, to be exact).<br /><br /><br /><br /><div>If you're so cold-hearted that even saving kittens doesn't tempt you, perhaps the following pictures will - after all, nothing says Valentines Day lovin' like a ruffle and a bow, no?</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ax-szMQgrmd3i6cDeOwq8ququ8Ifa2xEGMIN5LYk6T-3QBNxg57bmkxpeFexIVOiCywLj8MT123ItG7tMomCiJ3nmGVG0JvDbcsQMpKwp2qbje_GThNqjH1TuUQZuLSaCg7hcw/s1600-h/kristinit+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164715638786254146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ax-szMQgrmd3i6cDeOwq8ququ8Ifa2xEGMIN5LYk6T-3QBNxg57bmkxpeFexIVOiCywLj8MT123ItG7tMomCiJ3nmGVG0JvDbcsQMpKwp2qbje_GThNqjH1TuUQZuLSaCg7hcw/s200/kristinit+3" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy39ndCBKxHxhmZo3IFH2vr7_goVQ-FkyhwB58NPc626lXapLR9CAKaW7rBlwBDn2GDJQfbH231TyrIISb9iu89UrAWMNh0AQqfcAiFTEaOfra8Yz3jHTThJVydwF4kVzY3_3e4Q/s1600-h/KristinitFall07_02.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164715724685600082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy39ndCBKxHxhmZo3IFH2vr7_goVQ-FkyhwB58NPc626lXapLR9CAKaW7rBlwBDn2GDJQfbH231TyrIISb9iu89UrAWMNh0AQqfcAiFTEaOfra8Yz3jHTThJVydwF4kVzY3_3e4Q/s200/KristinitFall07_02.jpeg" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxV36-Kj0vqS9RDSlc4krlqAWW0F8kD-yjsNumkbR2JrFmkwMb6dejl2Ufoc28nUEdEnJCKUPEvh44KkL3YxwbJLfdsrVz0XNktd2Looz-aVUCug9brrVrfu-3a633ty6RELRyag/s1600-h/kristinit+2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164715561476842802" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxV36-Kj0vqS9RDSlc4krlqAWW0F8kD-yjsNumkbR2JrFmkwMb6dejl2Ufoc28nUEdEnJCKUPEvh44KkL3YxwbJLfdsrVz0XNktd2Looz-aVUCug9brrVrfu-3a633ty6RELRyag/s200/kristinit+2" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><em>Kristinit Charity Sample Sale, Kate, 515 S. Fairfax Avenue, Saturday Feb. 9th from 2-8 pm, RSVP to </em><a href="mailto:kristina@kristinit.com"><em>kristina@kristinit.com</em></a> </div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-16386064398599562702008-02-08T19:19:00.000+00:002008-02-08T20:43:56.110+00:00Neighborhood Watch: Chinatown<div><div><div><div><div><div><iframe marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" src="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109038543021701548525.000445aa6e4f1f7e011ed&om=0&s=AARTsJq65dbWqAdBhSD4C9dvyPneR_P6QA&ll=34.064072,-118.238811&spn=0.010665,0.012875&z=15&output=embed" frameborder="0" width="300" scrolling="no" height="300"></iframe><br /><small><a style="COLOR: #0000ff; TEXT-ALIGN: left" href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109038543021701548525.000445aa6e4f1f7e011ed&om=0&ll=34.064072,-118.238811&spn=0.010665,0.012875&z=15&source=embed">View Larger Map</a></small><br /><br />I've been looking for an excuse to make a shopping guide to Chinatown, and the fact that this weekend is Chinese New Year seems like a good one. The parade is tomorrow at 2, and if it's anything like the other Chinese New Year celebrations I've been to, I'd very much recommend it. There's more reason to go besides the day-glo costumes and big paper dragons, however - like I've mentioned before, there's a lot of great shopping to in the area:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWnCtP011LO7NTCVZvbh8CZo1yDF1c0PcS5QgNCwnsrMNc9HnJ33RTMQ7DYs9RnfN7GgLE1CshrXGRv49fyzalG0z9NomfTBllfyFRTqWn1L2SP4JJZgZpWDadtEx8N-nFiqO5A/s1600-h/nhm.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164711631581766850" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWnCtP011LO7NTCVZvbh8CZo1yDF1c0PcS5QgNCwnsrMNc9HnJ33RTMQ7DYs9RnfN7GgLE1CshrXGRv49fyzalG0z9NomfTBllfyFRTqWn1L2SP4JJZgZpWDadtEx8N-nFiqO5A/s200/nhm.JPG" border="0" /></a>1. New High (M)art: I know I go on and on about this place, but with good reason - it's definitely one of the most inspiring shops in LA that I've found so far. It's a good place to start a tour of Chinatown, especially because there's a huge $3 parking lot across the street that's usually empty. Their current exhibition is probably their best yet - it's devoted to jewelry designers Alex & Chloe, and has been decorated to look like a sort of enchanted forest to tell their story.<br /><em>New High (M)art, 741 New High Street, </em><a href="http://www.newhighmart.com/"><em>www.newhighmart.com</em></a> </div><div><br /><br />2. From here, I normally like to walk up Broadway to BJ Market. Not gonna lie, you probably won't find anything spectacular here, but it's a great place to visit for atmosphere if nothing else. Lots of stalls with dollar-store kitchenware, satin kimonos and bent sunglasses are lightened up with the sounds of Chinese soft-rock tunes from the late '80s - if you ignore all of the Texan tourists milling about, you sort of feel like you might actually be on another continent.<br /><em>BJ Market, 711 N. Broadway</em> </div><div><br /><em></em><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLc3lmlrNhUAmzOPUb91pBGXoEOm7KLTfRXI61KEjJAPoSMffxtsknrsB9MG5lfrTpmI3s1k81KHudS2ocHDUMldG6t7GkcwtxVXmlJlTSfNyPAFlp9TsAPd8L-8cBLpGWS-V3Q/s1600-h/ooga"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164711773315687634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLc3lmlrNhUAmzOPUb91pBGXoEOm7KLTfRXI61KEjJAPoSMffxtsknrsB9MG5lfrTpmI3s1k81KHudS2ocHDUMldG6t7GkcwtxVXmlJlTSfNyPAFlp9TsAPd8L-8cBLpGWS-V3Q/s200/ooga" border="0" /></a>3. Continue walking up Broadway until you reach Ooga Booga. This hybrid boutique / gallery is a popular spot for underground magazine launches and gigs, and has recently been making the art fair rounds from Santa Monica to Miami. Along with their roster of exhibitions (currently showing is sculptor Sarah Clendening), the shop also sells a huge selection of art books & zines, original work from emerging artists, CDs & mix tapes, and clothing from Bless and Opening Ceremony, among others.<br /><em>Ooga Booga, 943 N. Broadway #203, </em><a href="http://www.oogaboogastore.com/"><em>www.oogaboogastore.com</em></a> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br />4. In the same building is a new shop that I haven't actually been to yet, but sounds like is worth checking out. It's called Flock, and according to the Chinatown website, it carries "Unique and handcrafted gifts, housewares, clothes and jewlery from artisans around the US and the world." Anyone who stops by, please do post a comment & tell us about it!<br /><em>Flock Shop, 943 N. Broadway #103, </em><a href="http://www.flockshopla.com/"><em>www.flockshopla.com</em></a> </div><div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBEvI-OivSDYMtWgBCyB8E1KDL1MySxrPdnhaXoGmVIkofG-2z4ArX2yAhyXBV2CxiYwk5V0gMbsqKGC59-jHMbdcpriL-5bxdtyOXu15s_qii5A1sHp-aim3adZIvbymb0wc9g/s1600-h/welcome"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164711897869739234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCBEvI-OivSDYMtWgBCyB8E1KDL1MySxrPdnhaXoGmVIkofG-2z4ArX2yAhyXBV2CxiYwk5V0gMbsqKGC59-jHMbdcpriL-5bxdtyOXu15s_qii5A1sHp-aim3adZIvbymb0wc9g/s200/welcome" border="0" /></a>5. Just across the road in a little alley called Jung Jing is yet another bastion of the art school set, Welcome Hunters. This is yet another of my favorite shops in the city, as it stocks lots of my favorite Euro labels like London's Kokon to Zai and Sweden's Jenny Hellstrom. Again, you'll find a monthly exhibition complete with launch party, along with DJ nights at Mountain Bar in collaboration with Lion's Den (see below).<br /><em>Welcome Hunters, 454b Jung Jing Road, </em><a href="http://www.welcomehuntersla.com/"><em>www.welcomehuntersla.com</em></a> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br />6. Walk around the plaza to Gin Lin Way, where you'll find Realm - a housewares store with a distinctly modern Asian twist. This is the place to come if you're looking for a great teapot, as they have hundreds, along with those cool square plates and a few slightly incongruous candleholders that look as though they're made from wood.<br /><em>Realm, 425 Gin Ling Way, </em><a href="http://www.realmhome.com/"><em>www.realmhome.com</em></a> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4Oej9gX0APn-tBq9tkyu4MMTPI1X6lhNOr1Ub_apvcf7bdvdpOnsNC9ZrZScyujBELXuZBD-GuALpvoeMieyZ_yVSDeqxHVNtK_Mc3DXurAIoXVXiDpdTMHAEcQC1R8JEPeSGA/s1600-h/munky"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164712129797973250" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD4Oej9gX0APn-tBq9tkyu4MMTPI1X6lhNOr1Ub_apvcf7bdvdpOnsNC9ZrZScyujBELXuZBD-GuALpvoeMieyZ_yVSDeqxHVNtK_Mc3DXurAIoXVXiDpdTMHAEcQC1R8JEPeSGA/s200/munky" border="0" /></a>7. Next door to Realm is Munky King - basically the first 'adult toy' shop in California. No, we're not talking about THAT kind of toy, but of collectible figurines, some of which are designed by quite famous artists and most of which are limited edition. There will be a DJ spinning throughout the day tomorrow, so is worth stopping by for that even if you're not into the toy thing.<br /><em>Munky King, 441 Gin Ling Way, </em><a href="http://www.munkyking.com/"><em>www.munkyking.com</em></a> </div><div> </div><div><br /><br /><br />8. Over and up North Hill street is Super Home Mart, a must-visit for anyone who likes herbal tea or Pier One. For the tea drinkers, there are economy-sized boxes of every version of green tea imaginable, including my beloved jasmine-infused variety; for Pier One shoppers, the same ethnic-inspired furnishings at about a quarter of the price. A warning: it's easy to lose a few hours browsing around this massive space, so plan accordingly.<br /><em>Super Home Mart, 988 N. Hill Street</em><br /><em></em><br />9. The biggest concentration of galleries in the neighborhood is on Chung King Road, a little side street off of North Hill. You'll find everything from the big players, like Peres Projects and Mary Goldman, to more experimental upstarts like Telic Exchange and Fringe Exhibitions. Definitely worth a little browse, as this street is a great cross-section of the LA art scene.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3aKOPX7ne7mxlAn2yaoY64eXyoIbBmHIMgpM3pflxCnd3NlCiK6IkZ6S51_P269eIkRPmwppKVdkTf50iw0A1uEH0b4i_BsotjGHuvc79XTDlxDrTw8pl6Xpz2j0sUO4VUTBJ7A/s1600-h/flux.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164712275826861330" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 189px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 138px" height="132" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3aKOPX7ne7mxlAn2yaoY64eXyoIbBmHIMgpM3pflxCnd3NlCiK6IkZ6S51_P269eIkRPmwppKVdkTf50iw0A1uEH0b4i_BsotjGHuvc79XTDlxDrTw8pl6Xpz2j0sUO4VUTBJ7A/s200/flux.gif" width="182" border="0" /></a>10. On your way back down North Hill, stop into Flux, a gallery devoted to contemporary ceramics and pottery. Is a good place to pick up a vase for the flowers you'll find at the Farmer's Market, further down the road.<br /><em>Flux, 943 N. Hill Street, </em><a href="http://www.fluxgalleryla.com/"><em>www.fluxgalleryla.com</em></a><em> </em><br /><em>Farmer's Market, 727 N. Hill Street</em> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br />11. Finally, cut across Ord street and back up New High until you reach Lion's Den. Fulfilling every trendy neighborhood's need for a streetwear shop, this one is full of colorblocked New Balances, Penfield flannels and Foreign Family tees.<br /><em>Lion's Den, 711 New High Street, </em><a href="http://www.lionsden.la/"><em>www.lionsden.la</em></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-51821187103508574282008-02-08T01:29:00.001+00:002008-02-08T02:42:47.774+00:00LA Takes NYC: Part 2<div><div><div><div>The second installment of my roundup of LA designers showing in New York this week, starting with:<br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMF7U8bzVMQ1eKNlAkoBrdAu9x4zI_qt0DusvrtphBCWxekeFuyKnfi-7JnR3KfyF5BZ6RrODfCYZZG8uC4ckh_gmcjGq1c8ORrEUMbaBmd-eTG5M3COXdXutH-fIZy9haWHgbgw/s1600-h/Jovovich"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164432222484325506" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMF7U8bzVMQ1eKNlAkoBrdAu9x4zI_qt0DusvrtphBCWxekeFuyKnfi-7JnR3KfyF5BZ6RrODfCYZZG8uC4ckh_gmcjGq1c8ORrEUMbaBmd-eTG5M3COXdXutH-fIZy9haWHgbgw/s200/Jovovich" border="0" /></a>1. Jovovich-Hawk</strong></div><div>I normally view fashion lines designed by models with extreme skepticism - after all, we all know that Kate Moss has probably not picked up a pencil and sketchbook since starting her Topshop line. But for some reason, I feel like Jovovich-Hawk has a bit more credibility, probably because it doesn't have the backing of a big brand behind it - ergo, it probably isn't a publicity stunt so much as something borne out of true passion. It looks like Carmen and Milla were doing their research for this collection at an Echo Park dive bar, which, again, would normally annoy me - but, again, it doesn't for some reason. Black and white jailhouse stripes, neon pink silk and prom dress sleeves aside, the collection really brings out the edgier side of LA that most people miss. Not to mention that they've created a few of the winter maxidresses that have been popping up on runways, another trend which I love.</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPtdXnEjOagtpC_a1IKt_kGuRBpIPPYX2AyHU1mIKsXkRbw51t6x0g7MCHcrLR6AxtZ_Z-OSSaX12XEfMsrXL1qqAZ5lyY6M9CQDQi8Aj-0CMlzhMw_3oQKEkBfvy7K9DAz_2nw/s1600-h/cynthia+vincent"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164431986261124194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPtdXnEjOagtpC_a1IKt_kGuRBpIPPYX2AyHU1mIKsXkRbw51t6x0g7MCHcrLR6AxtZ_Z-OSSaX12XEfMsrXL1qqAZ5lyY6M9CQDQi8Aj-0CMlzhMw_3oQKEkBfvy7K9DAz_2nw/s200/cynthia+vincent" border="0" /></a>2. Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent</strong></div><div>This is one of my favorite every-day labels - I always know I'll find a piece from Twelfth Street that's a little bit different, yet totally classic and easy to wear. For Fall 08, Vincent gave her presentation a circus theme and filled her collection with the season's standout trends - feathers, bold patterns, and sparkle. A fun and whimsical interpretation of fall's emerging mood of excess.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQp24nVY-NEKRKBMy_abnbtgAyLq7jyWPd7F3Xdem4JW_NbWBBe1r2-accWy1Wnc0xkvBXDc7ZNY0NijhtHPRzvROpBhFInJlgWfGc3CTJ-qoZ5PIjRYymFkvQu2rhsv6uU6JJw/s1600-h/halston"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164432123700077682" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQp24nVY-NEKRKBMy_abnbtgAyLq7jyWPd7F3Xdem4JW_NbWBBe1r2-accWy1Wnc0xkvBXDc7ZNY0NijhtHPRzvROpBhFInJlgWfGc3CTJ-qoZ5PIjRYymFkvQu2rhsv6uU6JJw/s200/halston" border="0" /></a>3. Halston</strong></div><div>I've been looking forward to this collection more than any other this year - so maybe I was setting myself up for disappointment. Because disappointed I definitely was, with this overly literal translation of the label's past. Rather than updating and modernising the label's signature pantsuits and trapeze dresses, it looked like designer Marco Zanini simply took a few pieces out of the archives, took a steamer to them and sent them out on the runway. The fabrics looked like cheap polyester, the colors were straight out of a Brady Bunch rerun, and the silhouettes seemed more frumpy than fabulous. I've always associated Halston with glamour and excess, and this dull homage to the most embarassing aspects of 70s fashion was the complete opposite. I mean, just look at this picture - an unfortunate periwinkle jumpsuit more suitable for RuPaul than Nicole Ritchie</div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvGODQ_SrrVXf3Exgh_vBHH3W3qZoIaQUHKBCW9g5gVa6ECI7nM5vgxaFiUyjHPmNJV8FkK8E-KphOX22yhbB5nDd-I8jDTlNib4v3QlmBgcD6b524gsLmpq2zG5oZynX2oiCRA/s1600-h/rodarte.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164432471592428706" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvGODQ_SrrVXf3Exgh_vBHH3W3qZoIaQUHKBCW9g5gVa6ECI7nM5vgxaFiUyjHPmNJV8FkK8E-KphOX22yhbB5nDd-I8jDTlNib4v3QlmBgcD6b524gsLmpq2zG5oZynX2oiCRA/s200/rodarte.bmp" border="0" /></a><strong>4. Rodarte</strong></div><div>I mentioned in a recent post that I think of Valentino as being outside the realms of fashion, and I sort of think of Rodarte in the same way. Their gowns are probably not going to spark any Forever 21 knockoffs or 'Who Wore it Better' articles in Us Weekly, but that's the best thing about them - it's more about art than fashion. This collection just reaffirmed the label's status as one of my all-time favorites, rendering me awestruck at the way they've managed to make humble fabric look like something altogether otherworldly. The one word that kept coming to my mind is 'gossamer,' a word that I don't really know the exact definition of, but which I associate with fairy tales and imaginary princesses. This transcendent, dreamlike collection was definitely the stuff of fairy tales, so fragile that it looked like it could go up any second in a puff of smoke-colored chiffon.</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt31HHYIvP3w8QF2heaqWSNSbzzAatVhzuO7BytVodHUY3z3Yymp3g3aD5JRGrR2Hpma-5wn3VckioUkt1eASyL18Fn7HfqCoKcSjK8OsGr8GiZZqNPennaqYt4MVq8Nt9oRjVYg/s1600-h/koi"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164432325563540626" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt31HHYIvP3w8QF2heaqWSNSbzzAatVhzuO7BytVodHUY3z3Yymp3g3aD5JRGrR2Hpma-5wn3VckioUkt1eASyL18Fn7HfqCoKcSjK8OsGr8GiZZqNPennaqYt4MVq8Nt9oRjVYg/s200/koi" border="0" /></a><strong>5. Koi Suwannagate</strong></div><div>This show marked Koi's debut in New York, her first since winning the CFDA / Vogue fashion fund last year. She's a knitwear designer before anything else, creating art out of cashmere, and this collection didn't disappoint. Loved the voluminous capes, which looked like upside-down tulips and looked just as chic with a little black dress as with a pair of slouchy trousers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_F1l6oDJlCMr76DE-6P2mqfRm3NFpb3GeOZ1QBXusRwZ3GOH-On7Qsnf6QJ2mg_L2C_pH0t6HPXEk2y5czQOWO8RdSP6UxaX_ekFkac9jjJIXKl4PqTzcfD4zihfESlatFKSVA/s1600-h/monique"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164432570376676530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3_F1l6oDJlCMr76DE-6P2mqfRm3NFpb3GeOZ1QBXusRwZ3GOH-On7Qsnf6QJ2mg_L2C_pH0t6HPXEk2y5czQOWO8RdSP6UxaX_ekFkac9jjJIXKl4PqTzcfD4zihfESlatFKSVA/s200/monique" border="0" /></a><strong>6. Monique Lhuillier</strong></div><div>She's best known for her bridal gowns, but this collection proved that Lhuillier is capable of so much more. It perfectly encapsulated the season's mood of unbridled decadence, with slinky gold cocktail dresses, rich fur trimmings on film noir skirtsuits, and jewel-encrusted boleros. My favorite? This gold sequined column draped in light white fabric, the collection's closest approximation of a wedding gown - but again, one that's the epitome of luxe.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-85643510095290529622008-02-03T20:52:00.000+00:002008-02-03T20:57:23.896+00:00Bebe Does Chanel?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKXCXwyy1p7EMp6VH4QxlQsZ9o90EKjuTG2FeGY3GWg0gZCKRxIQpF362-Ev9QFsbUv8Y7671267w0CHSCklAydv_5bNS7v6VUln4kvprLwdkrfntByxbOyHpQUJSU5bxaUXPig/s1600-h/Chanel"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162860633821176914" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKXCXwyy1p7EMp6VH4QxlQsZ9o90EKjuTG2FeGY3GWg0gZCKRxIQpF362-Ev9QFsbUv8Y7671267w0CHSCklAydv_5bNS7v6VUln4kvprLwdkrfntByxbOyHpQUJSU5bxaUXPig/s200/Chanel" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPL-JOBr64VIzjppsyl1O5LGXcLRQO0LOycp9Ju-Jm-1eoJH6JtpXTVGZXZmheiefJYvt2E_o9EWHlziKmR6EuwbTUVhrqKksrSr_yVZPPd6KVWWVBRqKQ0ldO7kybdyuqLeOE1A/s1600-h/bebe"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162860552216798274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPL-JOBr64VIzjppsyl1O5LGXcLRQO0LOycp9Ju-Jm-1eoJH6JtpXTVGZXZmheiefJYvt2E_o9EWHlziKmR6EuwbTUVhrqKksrSr_yVZPPd6KVWWVBRqKQ0ldO7kybdyuqLeOE1A/s200/bebe" border="0" /></a>Things definitely move quickly in the fashion world, but am not quite sure how <a href="http://www.bebe.com/">Bebe</a> managed to pull this one off. Walking down Third Street in Santa Monica yesterday, I spotted the above black draped number in the store window - and immediately thought of the draped minis Karl Lagerfeld showed at Chanel couture not even two weeks ago. Am not quite sure if Bebe was sending spies to Karl's Parisian atelier, if it's just a fortuitous coincidince, or if their design and logistics teams are just THAT good. But let's be honest, it really doesn't matter when we can get fauxture for under a hundred bucks...<br /><br /><div></div><em>Tie Waist Gathered Skirt, $98, </em><a href="http://www.bebe.com/"><em>www.bebe.com</em></a><em><br /></em><br /><div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-65061693057134536142008-02-03T20:04:00.000+00:002008-02-03T20:50:26.511+00:00Runway Report: LA Takes NYC, Part 1Anyone who has any doubts about the West Coast style scene need look no further than the past few days of NY Fashion Week coverage. A good percentage of the weekend's most buzz-heavy shows have had some sort of westside connection - Band of Outsiders, Juan Carlos Obando, and Katy Rodruiguez, to name just a few who have already shown. And the best is yet to come with the Halston and Herve Leger collections launching soon, masterminded by LA locals Harvey Weinstein / Rachel Zoe and Max Azria, respectively.<br /><br />Because of this, I've decided to devote my NY fashion week postage to the West Coast designers who are taking on the Bryant Park tents - some for the first time, others quickly becoming veterans, but all challenging the notion that LA fashion is all about jersey and jeans.<br /><br /><br />From this weekend's shows...<br /><br /><br /><div><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpDpi23p-UAogoXXCpjtEigXRMj43ZlTsQH_JI9iapEImfFAGchi8H2vBxVxHH-lXW8hqCFxI6CZAFvCqj6uaqcz3msPXPXZ8KHZeXVymAOlJDsY68rS86vF21OQsNFnjQcwVvA/s1600-h/jc+obando"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162858035365962786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjpDpi23p-UAogoXXCpjtEigXRMj43ZlTsQH_JI9iapEImfFAGchi8H2vBxVxHH-lXW8hqCFxI6CZAFvCqj6uaqcz3msPXPXZ8KHZeXVymAOlJDsY68rS86vF21OQsNFnjQcwVvA/s200/jc+obando" border="0" /></a>1. Juan Carlos Obando</strong></div><div>This is the LA-based designer's first time showing in New York, and he's definitely proven he has what it takes to go up against the big boys. He's been a local celebrity for years, since he's the closest thing LA has to a bona fide couturier, and it's easy to see why - his architectural tailoring and attention to detail are impeccable, and he seems to instinctively know how to make a woman's body look its best. According to the <a href="http://www.latimes.com/features/lifestyle/la-ig-notebook3feb03,1,4219950.story">LA Times</a>, the inspiration for his collection was the comic book superhero - a concept that could look costumey, but one that he's subtly interpreted to look nothing but classy.</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdCCgVk0wZdf9xtCilakoc-G-F2-QQfiLLZInqYf3RHt2tWGks0SUFHQljXyrsFuU7jWkxigUy5QAjenOQfYP-lwrGvFTiZi1KgqWAMIacAkz6egXNAqE9ku_FKDFcqoceBEQlA/s1600-h/katy"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162858129855243314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdCCgVk0wZdf9xtCilakoc-G-F2-QQfiLLZInqYf3RHt2tWGks0SUFHQljXyrsFuU7jWkxigUy5QAjenOQfYP-lwrGvFTiZi1KgqWAMIacAkz6egXNAqE9ku_FKDFcqoceBEQlA/s200/katy" border="0" /></a>2. Katy Rodriguez</strong></div><div>She rose to fame via Ressurection vintage, one of the Hollywood set's go-to venues for one-of-a-kind red carpet attire. Apparently, being immersed in such a catalog of fashion history rubbed off on Rodriguez, as her second collection had a totally modern, yet 80s nostalgic feel. Slinky, black cocktail dresses and tiny skirt suits were updated with futuristic pointed shoulders, while the trapeze dress, quickly becoming the mascot for naughties fashion, was taken back in time with black and bright purple colorblocking that reminded me of my third-grade collection of spandex bike shorts. Definitely one we'll be seeing on many a tabloid page in the future.</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqqIHV3v12wRU2ZjRO23nipXyA7aFL4km-h8bNuUE4g-UJExTxDo1RwMiQWUZoOCaHYRDqyu2nwD1Y2NRXfE2aSt3eWQU938A0An9v4kFBwsQ-Raz-9OxVgl71GcgEGFWRHR7pw/s1600-h/boy"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5162857936581714962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqqIHV3v12wRU2ZjRO23nipXyA7aFL4km-h8bNuUE4g-UJExTxDo1RwMiQWUZoOCaHYRDqyu2nwD1Y2NRXfE2aSt3eWQU938A0An9v4kFBwsQ-Raz-9OxVgl71GcgEGFWRHR7pw/s200/boy" border="0" /></a>3. Boy by Band of Outsiders</strong></div><div>Proof that LA designers can draw from influences outside of palm trees and sunshine - Scott Sternberg's fall collection for Boy. The inspiration for this one came straight from the Scottish highlands, by way of a rustic log cabin - lots of woolen plaids, furry trapper hats and flannel suits, sexed up with little fitted oxford shirts and low-slung trousers. It's clear that the designer has left the city he once called home, both physically and aesthetically - but if the results continue to look like this, am sure his West Coast fans will be able to cope.</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:78%;">All photos & more from style.com </span></em><br /><div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-90454569770627155312008-01-28T18:05:00.000+00:002008-01-28T18:22:30.494+00:00Talking Shop: One Door Closes, Another Opens<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8xqg9C79PSAzjGvUHBzlQy9y_G8pVcDpSHFT6053GivM1q0zMR_-iP_wQfKxezoPyNEVI_a_IFPou_zouS_qGS-LAVFqXdoK9BoEwgTZYHRbZmso5YNtoJEpKX17fwBO_QMqwA/s1600-h/kavair%20store.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5160594437277115314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib8xqg9C79PSAzjGvUHBzlQy9y_G8pVcDpSHFT6053GivM1q0zMR_-iP_wQfKxezoPyNEVI_a_IFPou_zouS_qGS-LAVFqXdoK9BoEwgTZYHRbZmso5YNtoJEpKX17fwBO_QMqwA/s200/kavair%2520store.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.wwd.com/notavailable/dotcom?target=/issue/article/121830&articleId=121830&articleType=A&industryKw=issue&industryKw2=issuearticle">WWD</a> has reported today that <a href="http://www.kaviarandkind.com/">Kaviar & Kind</a>, one of Hollywood's best-known shopping destinations, is closing after four years of business.<br /><div></div><br /><div>According to the story, the shop's owners, Katherine Azarmi Rose and Sunrise Ruffalo, are "ending their business relationship," which explains why one of LA's seemingly most successful boutiques is shutting its doors so suddenly. Fans of the shop shouldn't break their bank accounts on last-minute impulse buys just yet, however - Rose has won custody of the duo's retail space, and is planning to open a new shop in its place. Her new endeavour, <a href="http://roseark.blogspot.com/">Roseark</a>, is set to be a "lifestyle boutique with an emphasis on jewelry," ensuring that her stretch of Sunset will continue to sparkle even after K&K shuts its doors.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-24494338471268853872008-01-26T20:33:00.000+00:002008-01-26T20:59:00.510+00:00Talking Shop: Pop in to a Pop-Up<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRwVeglxsAenSVhVcMjv-gWbEpbI3-Mh_XxeLtBL-ZRTNDVOXBeul_NrFg0bBdP1Jp4W4vWPQ2Wufkttk8RGrosV6dss-B86SY2PnB-CsdGANtR489fESMOBqitJeeRwPdBGEiA/s1600-h/commedesgarcons_berlin2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159892167174546338" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRwVeglxsAenSVhVcMjv-gWbEpbI3-Mh_XxeLtBL-ZRTNDVOXBeul_NrFg0bBdP1Jp4W4vWPQ2Wufkttk8RGrosV6dss-B86SY2PnB-CsdGANtR489fESMOBqitJeeRwPdBGEiA/s200/commedesgarcons_berlin2.jpg" border="0" /></a> Once considered edgy and subversive, the pop-up shop has kind of become fashion's equivilent of absinthe. Even the most mainstream of brands are getting in on the act, watering the concept down beyond all recognition - think the Target pop-up on Melrose a few years back & you'll see my point.<br /><div></div><br /><div>When it comes to temporary retail, it takes a lot to grab my attention - either a great concept a la <a href="http://maidofbondstreet.blogspot.com/2007/11/talking-shop-new-high-mart.html">New High (M)art</a> or a serious financial incentive, like the recent The Way We Wore discount outpost. So it's kind of surprising that two pop-up announcements have made me take notice this week. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>First, there was the news that Comme des Garcons will be bringing their pop-up concept to downtown LA on February 16. CDG were basically the pioneers of the guerrilla retail movement, which is why I'm so excited to finally be able to check out one of their shops - it's set to be open for an entire year, so I imagine they've got more planned than just flogging t-shirts.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Then, I got an e-mail yesterday announcing that <a href="http://www.ninaandlola.com/">Nina & Lola</a>, one of my favorite online boutiques, will be opening their first ever popup next Thursday & Friday in London. I obviously won't be able to attend this one, but would definitely recommend it to anyone in the area. As much as I love the shop, a lot of the items I'm interested in are the sort of things you'd need to really see and try on in person, as they're a bit more 'directional' than the normal pieces you'd normally buy online. Not to mention prices at up to 70% off...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em>Comme des Garcons Guerrilla Boutique, 125 West 4th Street, Los Angeles</em></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em>Nina & Lola Pop-Up Sale, Grosvenor Chapel Mayfair, Garden RoomSouth Audley Street/Mount Street Garden W1</em></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-43718435187477688752008-01-26T19:53:00.000+00:002008-01-28T20:06:10.232+00:00Runway Report: Paris Couture (Part 2)Sorry for the delay, am sure you were all hovering in nail-biting suspense to read the second half of my couture report...so here they are, the final set of lessons to be learned from last week's Parisian festivities: <div><div><div><br /><br /></div><div><strong>Elie Saab's Bolero: The New Accessory Craze?</strong></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34hXqakBiS9o83laSr9BfVWfqPd4A3umd0I6vT5-2pIqSJ06BiBb2C45cEIdQYHkpY5-i1CY8NcIraMj5nVWV67z5Ak8mv0pS0v8WvdCGtmV3nlpaaft_B73GJYFgo2dsjtdETQ/s1600-h/Elie+Saab"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159876559263392610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34hXqakBiS9o83laSr9BfVWfqPd4A3umd0I6vT5-2pIqSJ06BiBb2C45cEIdQYHkpY5-i1CY8NcIraMj5nVWV67z5Ak8mv0pS0v8WvdCGtmV3nlpaaft_B73GJYFgo2dsjtdETQ/s200/Elie+Saab" border="0" /></a></div><div>Now that you can find pashminas on every street corner and Kate Moss-style vests in midwestern shopping malls, a new 'It' accessory is due - and I think that the bolero, like the ones all over Elie Saab's runways, are a brilliant option. I'm not a huge fan of boleros over dresses, as I think they're a tad Golden Girls, but would totally wear one over a thin cotton tank and jeans - the more sequins, beads and sparkles, the better. </div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><strong>John Paul Gaultier's Mermaids: The New Pirates?</strong></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYkUd9cFiqYM0gkwDJ7KtuVKXsofWnF3FKgFcnfX15RHdB8HOj9TCLFiV96_-87kPt8NTEKWMdP51xy50Q-GTgQFpCjxjmUmv7NIGhFYFQsi5vfeRH6yTHeFUSgwjocjTuB6vMw/s1600-h/Gaultier+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159878449049002866" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYkUd9cFiqYM0gkwDJ7KtuVKXsofWnF3FKgFcnfX15RHdB8HOj9TCLFiV96_-87kPt8NTEKWMdP51xy50Q-GTgQFpCjxjmUmv7NIGhFYFQsi5vfeRH6yTHeFUSgwjocjTuB6vMw/s200/Gaultier+3" border="0" /></a></div><div>Ever since Johnny Depp tied that stripey bandanna around his head and feigned that weird accent, it seems like the world's gone pirate mad. I mean, even my mom dressed up like Jack Sparrow for Halloween last year - and you know when a middle-aged suburban housewife is getting into a trend, it's reached cult proportions. After flipping through the photos from Gaultier's show, I have a feeling that mermaids are going to be the next big thing - his fishtail hems, scaley prints and boho-meets-barge netting are the perfect mix of theatrical and cool. And with <em>The Little Mermaid</em> now firmly established on Broadway, my hunch is that it's only a matter of time before costume shop owners start bulk-ordering faux fish tails and seashell bras...</div><div><br /></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Givenchy's Gothic Romance: The New Season's Mood?</strong></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiQWWtYwnmYFCVTVTe7QDAQ2zKFbrByjJjv0jFqJzcHPuFyqPFscJbHKgiOlE0GH5iEnkeXFrSd4K33ly_MvK5mtFYnfmGcv5t3T24upzlocqWr0KJAAtpZqNnAYv9b09OCrT7A/s1600-h/Givenchy"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159880536403108738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfiQWWtYwnmYFCVTVTe7QDAQ2zKFbrByjJjv0jFqJzcHPuFyqPFscJbHKgiOlE0GH5iEnkeXFrSd4K33ly_MvK5mtFYnfmGcv5t3T24upzlocqWr0KJAAtpZqNnAYv9b09OCrT7A/s200/Givenchy" border="0" /></a></div><div>The spring runways were all about sweetness and light, with enough rosettes, chiffon, floral fabrics and ruffles to give even the girliest of girls a toothache. Ricardo Tisci's collection for Givenchy seems to be the natural progression of the trend into the darker days of fall, with ruffles rendered in black silk and flouncy A-line skirts crafted out of what looks like black leather. It's like the romantic girl-next-door from spring switched high schools and fell in with a bad crowd, dying her hair black and filling her iPod with Evanescence - and I have a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more of this on the runways starting next week.</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>Valentino Red: The New Classic<br /></div></strong><div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxISGeoJE7BrRRaN6S09SGXGJ5JSdq9RJXfX3MQlAjpShscVgbQau2fWwiOsSc5rPVJlktflUEvoveDQLt68GTynzuvL8moscBgm3Th_49IBAkv5KTqc2LhnpqzT0FmHbY_L6Fag/s1600-h/Val"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5159881863548003218" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxISGeoJE7BrRRaN6S09SGXGJ5JSdq9RJXfX3MQlAjpShscVgbQau2fWwiOsSc5rPVJlktflUEvoveDQLt68GTynzuvL8moscBgm3Th_49IBAkv5KTqc2LhnpqzT0FmHbY_L6Fag/s200/Val" border="0" /></a></div><div>I've always thought of Valentino as being outside the realms of fashion - his aesthetic hasn't really changed over the course of all these years, he basically ignores the fashion world's constantly evolving trends and fads, yet his work still manages to look totally fresh each and every time. His final collection was more of the same - little pastel skirt suits, high-luxe ball gowns, and, naturally, a procession of perfect red dresses to close the show. Now that he's retired, I think it's safe to say that those perfect red dresses will be his lasting legacy, taking their place alongside Coco Chanel's tweed jackets and Yves Saint Lauren's Le Smoking as his most notable signature. I'm really interested to see how Alessandra Fachinetti interprets the label when she shows her first collection for the house in a few weeks...</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.wwd.com/"><em><span style="font-size:78%;">source</span></em></a></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-90125095543418607782008-01-23T17:49:00.000+00:002008-01-28T20:06:49.595+00:00Runway Report: Paris Couture (Part 1)One of my main goals in life is to make it to the Paris couture shows one day - even in photos, the artistry of couture pieces is enough to render me awestruck, so I can only imagine what the effect would be in person.<br /><br /><br /><br />Even though most of us won't be forking over thousands of dollars for a feathered and fringed gown any time soon, we can still take away some ideas from the couture shows - after all, couture is kind of a lab for generating ideas that will one day be modified for ready-to-wear, so those who pay attention to the trends now are sure to be ahead of the curve before they hit Forever 21.<br /><br /><br /><br />The main lessons from the first two days of the show:<br /><br /><br /><strong>The New Skirt Shape: Armani Prive's "Crater"</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XR1ceVYE3N4Y5XVCGWDy9EqhI9cNbb8xpADt1ecVOI9o8whQ_SV6V4x082kJ5AAWtYubRs4yOITzUlafV4vdbPZX8V3ulXpaNYiwcMvPrECw8s5ZTtDt_G8Npt-Pxi5OjqzHiQ/s1600-h/Armani"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158742382954570514" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XR1ceVYE3N4Y5XVCGWDy9EqhI9cNbb8xpADt1ecVOI9o8whQ_SV6V4x082kJ5AAWtYubRs4yOITzUlafV4vdbPZX8V3ulXpaNYiwcMvPrECw8s5ZTtDt_G8Npt-Pxi5OjqzHiQ/s200/Armani" border="0" /></a>First we had the bubble, then the tulip - and then, probably sensing an impending weird-skirt-shape-fatigue among the masses, designers returned to a more traditional pencil for winter and full a-line for spring. But if Giorgio Armani has his way, we might be back in the throes of sartorial confusion come fall, as his couture presentation was filled with "Crater" skirts. I'm not a designer, so am not sure how easy the shape would be to recreate for RTW, but I, for one, am all for it - is an interesting interpretation of the dropped waist look for day.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>The New Proportion: Chanel's Micro-minis & Little Girl Shoes</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FcaOrroctXXlYNqoqziuhCLZoTK9ThtwDPmjs7PCCpFBhbSCQdBQ84-soVayYp4m6hULSA-nMAfQKWnX7Qu_ZQr0wwS3q-Ouu3wjfwk-L0MjoezRvuu4ae2pdjQMqVKCnTj05w/s1600-h/Chanel"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158742455969014562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FcaOrroctXXlYNqoqziuhCLZoTK9ThtwDPmjs7PCCpFBhbSCQdBQ84-soVayYp4m6hULSA-nMAfQKWnX7Qu_ZQr0wwS3q-Ouu3wjfwk-L0MjoezRvuu4ae2pdjQMqVKCnTj05w/s200/Chanel" border="0" /></a>The mini-and-flats combination isn't exactly new, but am very much digging the combination of sexy draped minis with kindergarden-style flat mary janes and white tights - again, great way of making a mini appropriate for day, and a really refreshing means of styling the traditional Chanel tweed jacket, which tends to look grandmotherly when worn on its own.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>The New Decadance: Christian Lacroix's <em>Grey Gardens</em> Print Mixing</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKYNUH-1mA8-0Ucg4xcYTxGH_W_32dhOHUM5vQt4mN-ule1bLU-2YLn8wKS_5wl60yOjMW18MytLckMNTOng5aXCMRCE-ulWmwkenj5EZniR6RT-W8nkFmZargpn08X4hnJHEiSA/s1600-h/Lacroix"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158742623472739138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKYNUH-1mA8-0Ucg4xcYTxGH_W_32dhOHUM5vQt4mN-ule1bLU-2YLn8wKS_5wl60yOjMW18MytLckMNTOng5aXCMRCE-ulWmwkenj5EZniR6RT-W8nkFmZargpn08X4hnJHEiSA/s200/Lacroix" border="0" /></a>The fashion world is obsessed with the eccentric ladies of <em>Grey Gardens</em>, with just about every major glossy running a spread based on the theme in their fall issues. Lacroix's couture show immediately brought those spreads to mind, but with a luxurious twist, with models parading down the runways in layer upon layer of garments in every color, shape and print. Sailor stripes juxtaposed with Scottish tartans, leopard prints worn over painterly brushstrokes - the end effect was one of extreme decadence bordering on mild insanity, a woman who has seen and done it all and is reliving the memories of her rich life through fashion.<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>The Not-So-New Color: Dior's Jewel Box Brights</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyQ_AzTMXzc2YMYLaaqYWfLGayZKWP3tceIPVw3FG-KvcvaKXbkVlyA0gZahvl4CduLvKTqPt1fL9odgaUlNPbSZOul5PFHKdu7AJfPOriiUWSjoRJmMPre0Xf1aSVu3mTbIASQ/s1600-h/Dior"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158742730846921554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfyQ_AzTMXzc2YMYLaaqYWfLGayZKWP3tceIPVw3FG-KvcvaKXbkVlyA0gZahvl4CduLvKTqPt1fL9odgaUlNPbSZOul5PFHKdu7AJfPOriiUWSjoRJmMPre0Xf1aSVu3mTbIASQ/s200/Dior" border="0" /></a>Again, jewel tones are nothing new, but John Galliano's show for Dior just reinforced why we love them so - despite the gorgeous hand-painted detailing on his gowns, it's the vibrant amethyst, ruby and sapphire color scheme that catches your eye - and your breath - before anything else.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>The New Focal Point: Anne Valerie Hash's Shoulders</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrPcCip0gneOC6PkOhf-DTE-h7b68dmgNyQcWGLjhaJQ9CptbuSnysuB3VQ_bvRPbSkSHX35epE53CtNXlABGTp3jH99OKGtvKJAoFWjq2osIUoIwarNueQQfX_h5-BF703mIGA/s1600-h/Hash"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158742533278425906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrPcCip0gneOC6PkOhf-DTE-h7b68dmgNyQcWGLjhaJQ9CptbuSnysuB3VQ_bvRPbSkSHX35epE53CtNXlABGTp3jH99OKGtvKJAoFWjq2osIUoIwarNueQQfX_h5-BF703mIGA/s200/Hash" border="0" /></a>Yeah, I know, this one's not so new either (guess that says something about this year's shows, no?), but I do love a big shoulder, and Hash's collection at least sort of moves the trend forward - from volume to geometric, architectural structure.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.wwd.com/"><span style="font-size:78%;">source</span></a>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-18816588404064821362008-01-18T15:34:00.000+00:002008-01-18T15:50:28.716+00:00Talking Shop: Remix Vintage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFmkoEKAKvG1SF_fAbBth-PdShP2LjI6cZ5-hhUJF2kYm6ohcDhLP24A0RUKjnDtaaHUzwH9N5pCCXvgu4BcFIwJIBebMzFAxIRY1dXSuzXGPCli1PnrFfl9UetokoZPzD8bD7A/s1600-h/babyjanehh.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156843214231466306" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFmkoEKAKvG1SF_fAbBth-PdShP2LjI6cZ5-hhUJF2kYm6ohcDhLP24A0RUKjnDtaaHUzwH9N5pCCXvgu4BcFIwJIBebMzFAxIRY1dXSuzXGPCli1PnrFfl9UetokoZPzD8bD7A/s200/babyjanehh.jpeg" border="0" /></a> As much as I love the look of vintage shoes, I can't quite bring myself to ever buy a pair - or even try anything on. There's just something about the thought of slipping my feet into shoes that countless other unknown feet have been in that grosses me out just a little.<br /><br /><br />So that's why I'm so excited to have discovered <a href="http://www.remixvintage.com/">Remix Vintage Shoes</a>. The 15-year-old label takes its inspiration from vintage shoes from the early 20th century, recreating them to the tiniest detail in brand new leather. The only thing that's really modernized is the color, with most styles crafted in at least two shades of leather in every tone imaginable.<br /><br /><br />My favorites are the range of pumps from the '20s and '30s - especially the Deco (below left), Savoy (middle), and Grammercy. Am also loving the Babyjane (above), a wingtipped mary jane inspired by a style from the '40s. Sure, there are a lot of imitation vintage shoes out there, but nothing that's recreated so faithfully to the original - the only thing missing is that unpleasant vintage shoe smell.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoaJ-c0GOzhyyY_9tBmyAIkzoD3KM7VIznmr8IwpEoD-SkNSBzanBqcnvrzZsE0cfDIAUvG534KI_A7IY80WmgNG3164uBrHCsstSl5chSbkyo48-Q0H8FbjYG8cc41cynvkgzXA/s1600-h/decoblksdwine225.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156843407504994658" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoaJ-c0GOzhyyY_9tBmyAIkzoD3KM7VIznmr8IwpEoD-SkNSBzanBqcnvrzZsE0cfDIAUvG534KI_A7IY80WmgNG3164uBrHCsstSl5chSbkyo48-Q0H8FbjYG8cc41cynvkgzXA/s200/decoblksdwine225.gif" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxacJ0Fz68OijxaUDJHtuQGNrW3c-JrG9OOrb0Exxtvo0gmJHaOh5N-nfbYYmUG31OWxqrCZL2Uk43jBlzuWuQhfknb0bxn7R7g3COZH1xRUT8x9V5htXO1V41T78XPbF6aJEAg/s1600-h/savoy5737.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156843506289242482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxacJ0Fz68OijxaUDJHtuQGNrW3c-JrG9OOrb0Exxtvo0gmJHaOh5N-nfbYYmUG31OWxqrCZL2Uk43jBlzuWuQhfknb0bxn7R7g3COZH1xRUT8x9V5htXO1V41T78XPbF6aJEAg/s200/savoy5737.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBXhN8a-7iMtpIXo7OP2fl7m0tzdE-jxneEF6BowW6JHukyrmesrd6HwPvTxrnqhr9S-pPByWTePm144JUvodx30-MpxMwok9HmuUCv9dpEte_LTIPqnODPyW__N1hMCSQNKWlg/s1600-h/gramercyparchmivorycrocsm225.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156843304425779538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiBXhN8a-7iMtpIXo7OP2fl7m0tzdE-jxneEF6BowW6JHukyrmesrd6HwPvTxrnqhr9S-pPByWTePm144JUvodx30-MpxMwok9HmuUCv9dpEte_LTIPqnODPyW__N1hMCSQNKWlg/s200/gramercyparchmivorycrocsm225.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><em>Remix Vintage, 7605 1/2 Beverly Boulevard, </em><a href="http://www.remixvintageshoes.com/"><em>http://www.remixvintageshoes.com/</em></a>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-91118474719273800512008-01-17T21:10:00.000+00:002008-01-17T21:22:35.108+00:00Mark Your Calendar: Lisa Kline Blowout Sale<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8WAOPPPVf4GAb1vbN7WAA8Gmke4JP7vcQHLj0ipVzA8XQ2-c7Kbs6T2prCwtgU7XgoOH6WJxk2r165NhxHb4yklK0B2gMBFBjeq9mLk3RRE0AWeQM8pawZXMwvZBw-d_UN9yfw/s1600-h/BlowOutSaleFinalDays.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156558814382027058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8WAOPPPVf4GAb1vbN7WAA8Gmke4JP7vcQHLj0ipVzA8XQ2-c7Kbs6T2prCwtgU7XgoOH6WJxk2r165NhxHb4yklK0B2gMBFBjeq9mLk3RRE0AWeQM8pawZXMwvZBw-d_UN9yfw/s200/BlowOutSaleFinalDays.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I normally think <a href="http://www.lisakline.com/">Lisa Kline</a> is kind of gross, both because of its tacky mudflap girl logo and its incessant blasting of e-mails filled with pap shots of Z-listers in their clothes. There's obviously a huge audience for that kind of thing, as they're one of the most well-known boutiques in the country, and I totally respect them for it - but it's simply not my bag. However, their most recent e-mail might have persuaded even me to stop by for a few minutes...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>For the next ten days, Robertson's finest will be in the final stretch of its New Year sale, with 50-75% markdowns. What really caught my eye, however, was the mention of $10, $15 and $20 bins. Sure, they'll probably be filled with lightning bolt necklaces and bad remakes of vintage band tees - but this writer is working on all long-lead assignments at the mo, and probably won't be getting any checks for the shopping fund for at least the next two months. Desperate times, and all that...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em>Lisa Kline, 140 S. Robertson, Sale ends January 27th</em> </div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-66542341879253056912008-01-17T20:06:00.000+00:002008-01-28T20:10:50.090+00:00Fash Bash: The Girls of Ghettogloss, Rodan v. Griffith Trunk ShowEven if the rest of the world is taking it easy for January, there's apparently no rest for the fashion crowd - case in point, this week's two-for-one installment of Fash Bash.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1OBC8NVnzJLUcn3qgzolECXflRC7Sj2u6eZ6YhO1tJ75ioRKJ5uVWgz4lQvk4YPam1X_ukYV8AJDfiStFDtr3TVZGpt2cvZWOk6nKp2jl3C7v1KPFhSOORdWFnuZ5JU6qKvTZ5w/s1600-h/owls_of_owls_small.jpeg"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpN5igS1vuEeS4ZX3uu17Y1we8BZ229OgIFulbEVnWUR6PG37O29_BLhBJzD9V102eLLzz2PNjoSQv9T3ICCrKucVmN1jTIF7iy4cDZcUS_DBFUDLMvFho-K-24UeVNEk61xcAQ/s1600-h/Pinata"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156550619584426242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 98px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 92px" height="137" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpN5igS1vuEeS4ZX3uu17Y1we8BZ229OgIFulbEVnWUR6PG37O29_BLhBJzD9V102eLLzz2PNjoSQv9T3ICCrKucVmN1jTIF7iy4cDZcUS_DBFUDLMvFho-K-24UeVNEk61xcAQ/s200/Pinata" width="150" border="0" /></a>First is tonight at <a href="http://www.ghettogloss.com/">Ghettogloss</a>, Silverlake's first and most famous gallery and boutique in one. They're launching their new exhibition, entitled 'Girly Group Show' and featuring just about every young female artist in LA worth knowing. According to the invite, you can expect to see "Butterfly, Shana Nys Dambrot, Danyi Deats-Barrett, Yami Duarte, Fiora, Flopi, Amy Frederick, Jessica Lee Garrison, Niki Hass, Anabel Lee, Sue-ling Hyde, Hannah Hurrle, Noel Ill, Jenny Mollen, Rebecca Paul, Vanessa Prager, Karyn Raz, Annie Sperling, Alexis Walker, Kim West, Jeanne Yern, and many more." If that's not enough to convince you, perhaps the promise of champagne and penguin pinatas will be more tempting... <br /><br /><p align="right"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglpN5igS1vuEeS4ZX3uu17Y1we8BZ229OgIFulbEVnWUR6PG37O29_BLhBJzD9V102eLLzz2PNjoSQv9T3ICCrKucVmN1jTIF7iy4cDZcUS_DBFUDLMvFho-K-24UeVNEk61xcAQ/s1600-h/Pinata"></a></p><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>And then! <a href="http://www.rodanvsgriffith.com/">Rodan v. Griffith</a> will be holding a trunk show / sample sale / cocktail party next Thursday (24th), from 7-11. They're going to be featuring three designers in particular - Lorun (one of my favorite LA labels), Quail (which I had never heard of, but is actually really rad), and A.T. Moreno jewelry (which I can't find any info on, so more reason to stop by the event). There will also be music by Mighty Might, so basically your standard good night out on W. Third, with shopping.<br /><br />Admittedly, shopping under the influence might be a bit risky at this time of year, when we're all kind of broke - but I can honestly say that some of my best purchases have been made after a few martinis, so am definitely not going to let that excuse stand in my way... </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://www.ghettogloss.com/"><em>Ghettogloss</em></a><em>, 2380 Glendale Blvd, Silverlake; </em><a href="http://www.rodanvsgriffith.com/"><em>Rodan v. Griffith</em></a><em>, 8207 W. 3rd Street, Los Angeles</em></div><div></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NMnB98_qHTw96RAAmgOo9lqf21cy4HY6o8ffDenmcnqVU52fTfm-TfclYvUcRpR5kSc-gIkctUUqfWymVjvVWuBc52cxwDPF8h4Xab3w2KLWtaCIiQ0Q1wKJpHDnPpQlgGMYbw/s1600-h/quail"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156550821447889186" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NMnB98_qHTw96RAAmgOo9lqf21cy4HY6o8ffDenmcnqVU52fTfm-TfclYvUcRpR5kSc-gIkctUUqfWymVjvVWuBc52cxwDPF8h4Xab3w2KLWtaCIiQ0Q1wKJpHDnPpQlgGMYbw/s200/quail" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1smAKl1T2DbO6UQD-GtA3ZAm-Mlunkjd_Mp9jGfq2XdsPeuDMXOBESXyXHFJsdO_Fes0Nh3lZOTKaXYjaIQyCf8H642Gyq1YhaKb_saDhSRaT8VpG96HFHSZndIzDN9uGzedAWQ/s1600-h/LORU-WD6_V1.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156550718368674066" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1smAKl1T2DbO6UQD-GtA3ZAm-Mlunkjd_Mp9jGfq2XdsPeuDMXOBESXyXHFJsdO_Fes0Nh3lZOTKaXYjaIQyCf8H642Gyq1YhaKb_saDhSRaT8VpG96HFHSZndIzDN9uGzedAWQ/s200/LORU-WD6_V1.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><em>l.-r.: Quail SS08, Lorun AW07 from revolveclothing.com </em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div><em></em></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-11786202743444275992008-01-16T03:54:00.000+00:002008-01-16T05:44:48.100+00:00Best of the West: From Lounge to LunchSo we may not have any hundred-year-old couture houses or a fashion week that people actually go to, but there are certain things that LA does better than anyone else when it comes to fashion. Basics and lounge clothes are the obvious ones, but there are definitely others, which is why I've decided to start this new category of posts called...wait for it...'Best of the West'. It'll basically just be a regular, themed top 3 list of West Coast brands that deserve a bit of recognition for what they're doing, whether it's something traditionally 'California' or not. <div><br /> </div><div><div><div>So, to start, I thought I'd go with something we've probably been doing a lot of lately - nothing. It's new year and, for the next few weeks, at least, everyone I know has taken a vow of sobriety and relaxation - which naturally brings with it lots of PJ-wearing. LA is obviously known for its laid-back lougewear, so check out my picks for the top 3 West Coast brands that work equally well for bed or brunch, if you're so inclined - after all, no one can stay in ALL the time:<br /></div><br /><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9Qu8Fmpm3NhUPUJ_WuEUNWLooMi_JV5lZSDpukqp2T1Wn9AIHeN2nNtai2GUZ-bj7TSgjt0TcgXI9Ousbq3fBvj-Z8f4Z7CQ3vQG61t2nxL1X-qMA7NmyA8Jab5ZWXtlgAhsrQ/s1600-h/TLux+Pants"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155925581583773794" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 144px" height="144" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9Qu8Fmpm3NhUPUJ_WuEUNWLooMi_JV5lZSDpukqp2T1Wn9AIHeN2nNtai2GUZ-bj7TSgjt0TcgXI9Ousbq3fBvj-Z8f4Z7CQ3vQG61t2nxL1X-qMA7NmyA8Jab5ZWXtlgAhsrQ/s200/TLux+Pants" width="164" border="0" /></a>1. T Luxury</strong></div><div><strong></strong><br /> </div><div>If you're more yoga-in-Malibu than kickboxing-at-Equinox, T Luxury is probably the brand for you. The brainchild of Laguna couple Joe and Jacqueline Krafka, the line is full of supple and soft loungewear basics in blends of Supima cotton, silk and cashmere. Its stretchy simplicity makes it ideal for relaxing in child's pose.<br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL1ZbUQv2i6Q-Mqr5opxrIYQVRjXvyaxjKCzN46oH-qLqCLV_Ec1Cl1ac-8BkX5Hq3kiygD9k9lc1QhPV1wTVzZ5EIf25FexT6rPF2NwZjLjLjcm1Hf22MqqJS8Kul0Z8RTV0PQ/s1600-h/TLux+Top"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155925637418348658" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 138px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 141px" height="141" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwL1ZbUQv2i6Q-Mqr5opxrIYQVRjXvyaxjKCzN46oH-qLqCLV_Ec1Cl1ac-8BkX5Hq3kiygD9k9lc1QhPV1wTVzZ5EIf25FexT6rPF2NwZjLjLjcm1Hf22MqqJS8Kul0Z8RTV0PQ/s200/TLux+Top" width="155" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><em>Available at </em><a href="http://www.bluefly.com/"><em>www.bluefly.com</em></a><br /></div><br /><div><strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4i09MB5Lu-h52BvI0VXAP2WgW7d_EL1fJEhh3pdoMBPI2au9dAyx_f554zj9L3l8uXihcq3xAHhC5JNEXqjFfEJXErycQGuFbcFDqByVXWFl0kPQOIVsdfRY1X2eUAa68aVjig/s1600-h/Seaton+2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155934437806338194" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 76px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 169px" height="179" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw4i09MB5Lu-h52BvI0VXAP2WgW7d_EL1fJEhh3pdoMBPI2au9dAyx_f554zj9L3l8uXihcq3xAHhC5JNEXqjFfEJXErycQGuFbcFDqByVXWFl0kPQOIVsdfRY1X2eUAa68aVjig/s200/Seaton+2" width="86" border="0" /></a>2. Seaton</strong><br /></div><div>Not sure about you, but I often wish I could wear sweats all day, every day - and the thing is, I probably would if they weren't so lumpy and unattractive. So it's probably a good thing I haven't spent any time in shops that sell Seaton. Yet another husband-and-wife line (interesting...), Seaton is a line of perfectly fitted-and-faded fleece hoodies and drawstring pants, going perfectly from DVD marathons to marathon training when the January funk has passed.</div><div><br /> </div><div><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopzkAgXMayfu7lfk7erlzMoiC5YrNknvzEQ49F2NsbvLaTFchyH5WXgwMNVDTiQxHXBq4WFxOtDRjlVIgBkOVB7iEzrysxLKcCz9Rn0Bvkx2S_o0arVTWsK9ddxpCcDHjfnWPZw/s1600-h/Seaton"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155934364791894146" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="174" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopzkAgXMayfu7lfk7erlzMoiC5YrNknvzEQ49F2NsbvLaTFchyH5WXgwMNVDTiQxHXBq4WFxOtDRjlVIgBkOVB7iEzrysxLKcCz9Rn0Bvkx2S_o0arVTWsK9ddxpCcDHjfnWPZw/s200/Seaton" width="75" border="0" /></a></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em>Available from </em><a href="http://www.revolveclothing.com/"><em>www.revolveclothing.com</em></a> </div><div> </div></div><div><br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifK_aqhDQsYrsgWyRHFErtBVkVHbUHuceY-ydN_TcTy0Rsxdpu2q6H8qohbto5ojJ8H4Bw234eNom-FKk7ZbCZ3CDH8n7UunX2E4rahSP7mef3vZmteM1_BMjpiNUoktxW3w1NMQ/s1600-h/SG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCX6EzcyKGD0ROjwCRgzhb5iaaVwJUl8mfNOv2SklNzTO6wqn0mNY99hR6ooByocrV6EIIlvw42dsuv1-5UkzWBBAjGWCt1SIHAgYT3XM25957tVBVezziItBWrDc0N-b_JOBkA/s1600-h/SG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155945235354120386" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" height="158" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCX6EzcyKGD0ROjwCRgzhb5iaaVwJUl8mfNOv2SklNzTO6wqn0mNY99hR6ooByocrV6EIIlvw42dsuv1-5UkzWBBAjGWCt1SIHAgYT3XM25957tVBVezziItBWrDc0N-b_JOBkA/s200/SG" width="109" border="0" /></a><strong>3. Saint Grace</strong><br />A favorite of the Hollywood set, and with good reason - with fabrics like Egyptian cotton, wool jersey and luxe cashmere, this line was made for only the most pampered of princesses. Launched by designer Quinn Thompson in 2001, Saint Grace is full of lounge-worthy basics with a slinky 70s twist - think ultra wide-legged pants and retro stripey sweatshirts.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzaqZ7ebGZirfosH2-tHaMifpPry0v5C14MFkivEgJRbPZ-8hwmNYNmjIqmBinzwAf35fYGis6uh_VeHsoKIo9TYBUebU3cSEVG7ms1zqK7JIHRi2RM8HXOa8kLYp47yK6e-lrMw/s1600-h/SG2"></a><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em></em></div><br /><div><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1R7A5m-Wcr9EUm9sZsiAJKSy9xKsK_Vd6KPb-e_NVKSijEeWqGHsgh87q29rbK92SRiRnSJSdiPZcKYjQnRuEcO4GBP-REAn-9tHr6mLW9EDHzYwVTBfYCQuOdhZ-6vEnhEbeWQ/s1600-h/SG2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155945832354574546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1R7A5m-Wcr9EUm9sZsiAJKSy9xKsK_Vd6KPb-e_NVKSijEeWqGHsgh87q29rbK92SRiRnSJSdiPZcKYjQnRuEcO4GBP-REAn-9tHr6mLW9EDHzYwVTBfYCQuOdhZ-6vEnhEbeWQ/s200/SG2" border="0" /></a></em></div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em></em> </div><div><em>Available from </em><a href="http://www.saintgrace.com/"><em>http://www.saintgrace.com/</em></a><em><br /></em></div><div><br /> </div><div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-31987356869865168062008-01-15T05:31:00.000+00:002008-01-15T05:54:42.310+00:00Talking Shop: Foley & Corrina Sale<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8lKUYBXuwKmon5indW-Rbo3fDqXRF2ThikfuhVAwp4u8IuKQNRJwFsduGXYt4ddHMqSWfdz54oGAcUoUpC2sFBpNq4z930Ww20-DSCbAaRPbGvwzUTsK4MogUQ5pWyQxygNOjUA/s1600-h/FC1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155576980563193938" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8lKUYBXuwKmon5indW-Rbo3fDqXRF2ThikfuhVAwp4u8IuKQNRJwFsduGXYt4ddHMqSWfdz54oGAcUoUpC2sFBpNq4z930Ww20-DSCbAaRPbGvwzUTsK4MogUQ5pWyQxygNOjUA/s200/FC1" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><div><div>To Melrose, where I came across a fantastic surprise whilst sale shopping. I didn't have much luck at the sales I came specifically to see - <a href="http://www.thewaywewore.com/">The Way We Wore</a> popup shop (underwhelming), Madison (still too pricey for my pathetic budget), <a href="http://www.ronherman.com/">Ron Herman</a> (disappointing), and <a href="http://www.creaturesofcomfort.us/">Creatures of Comfort</a> (eh). </div><br /><br /><div>HOWEVER, while walking back to my car, I stumbled upon the new <a href="http://www.foleyandcorinna.com/">Foley & Corrina</a> outpost, which opened up about a month ago, but which I still haven't made it down to see. I've been to their first shop in New York, and although their clothes are stunning, they're not really my thing - lots of sequins and beading and draped stretchy material. Their bags, on the other hand, are basically the stuff of my dreams - big, rich, slouchy leather creations that can fit all of the random junk I tote along with me every day, but still manage to look impeccable.</div><br /><br /><div>And this is where the fantastic surprise comes in - just about every bag in the place was 50% off. They're reasonably priced as it is, so with the additional discount, we're talking less than $300. And if you've ever seen their bags before, you'll know that you're getting a LOT of bag for that $300. I spent about a half hour 'trying on' various ones, with the help of the totally sweet salesgirl (is kind of easy to waste a lot of time there - cozy boudoir-style interior makes it hard to leave), but I decided to sleep on it in the end. But instead of deciding against the purchase, which I was kind of hoping I'd do, I'm now contemplating a bulk buy in the morning. After all, a girl can never have too many deeply-discounted handbags...</div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2C8jaGkyYN6DRtdi-kx0izNkl-HPfInx9sP3vtGJTN1ISrmzthJoDWrOhZ49Q7H3Swm_mdiaTb4keNCQeQ0jd2gb8GIIMeUSkvlBYYFnNLbMbRnMK2P-WqsPI3tkqSfY1gi47A/s1600-h/FC4"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155576173109342274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2C8jaGkyYN6DRtdi-kx0izNkl-HPfInx9sP3vtGJTN1ISrmzthJoDWrOhZ49Q7H3Swm_mdiaTb4keNCQeQ0jd2gb8GIIMeUSkvlBYYFnNLbMbRnMK2P-WqsPI3tkqSfY1gi47A/s200/FC4" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKuUrs-rnZ0S6mkXv3BT0sa3x7XS9PaWQR409fxoTGSj23LUiVDDbH7NmjHGI2pJ0R3Pt1kzNHeE58uoSCkhlE1dMGwbu-fAUAJZ-G1DMxX4a1_1G1WVgRIcwVMRgg0RZR6hdVw/s1600-h/FC2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155576052850257954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKuUrs-rnZ0S6mkXv3BT0sa3x7XS9PaWQR409fxoTGSj23LUiVDDbH7NmjHGI2pJ0R3Pt1kzNHeE58uoSCkhlE1dMGwbu-fAUAJZ-G1DMxX4a1_1G1WVgRIcwVMRgg0RZR6hdVw/s200/FC2" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6uTGxr8KFEJ99vEhdPfr7ke0dTdIGfyzh8W0M-hnOLFEDka3hqJhMYTUDxuqkzp_wrvfas_tk_9uJ_umTGCR7oxf-bqg8QqZ9ggth3z5zkBgGXZYwIszlXVJLwvP3V1MOJhZYg/s1600-h/FC1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5155575992720715794" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6uTGxr8KFEJ99vEhdPfr7ke0dTdIGfyzh8W0M-hnOLFEDka3hqJhMYTUDxuqkzp_wrvfas_tk_9uJ_umTGCR7oxf-bqg8QqZ9ggth3z5zkBgGXZYwIszlXVJLwvP3V1MOJhZYg/s200/FC1" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><em>Anna Corinna bags available at </em><a href="http://www.foleyandcorinna.com/"><em>Foley & Corinna</em></a><em>, 8117 Melrose, 323.944.0169</em></div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-70556259043039419132008-01-12T06:52:00.000+00:002008-01-12T07:13:06.220+00:00One to Watch: Ankh<div><div><div><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAmxoupHkB9L14tL6NtglsPI7zdPML5MyIaf-TOl01_RNjUMZHvOxBcSq_BgoUxRcA5V1S6hT073jTLW-khAA4mRD4DtZWI9GatkI4lnDHDPTKSecnAn9T4_p_q5_14WGn7JHug/s1600-h/Chain+4"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483168357019538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyAmxoupHkB9L14tL6NtglsPI7zdPML5MyIaf-TOl01_RNjUMZHvOxBcSq_BgoUxRcA5V1S6hT073jTLW-khAA4mRD4DtZWI9GatkI4lnDHDPTKSecnAn9T4_p_q5_14WGn7JHug/s200/Chain+4" border="0" /></a>There's nothing I love more than a good chain. Deliciously tacky to the point of being cool (well, in my mind, at least), the chain is my go-to embellishment to add chutzpah to any boring outfit. Chain handle bags, chain necklaces, bracelets - short of chain belts, I have and proudly wear just about every chain-derived accessory possible. Usually more than one at a time.<br /><br /><br /><div>Which is why I was so excited to meet the lovely Racquel Honore at a shopping event back in December. She's the designer behind <a href="http://www.umbrellanoir.com/">Ankh</a>, an LA jewelry line that is based around - you guessed it, chains. But unlike the chunky variety you might be thinking of, she works only with the most delicate kinds, draping them and layering them and dipping them in fun paint colors to form necklaces, chopping them up and dangling pieces icicle-style from hoops to form earrings. They definitely have a club kid feel, but in the best possible way - all you need is one of her pieces to dress up a big white tee, blazer and jeans. She's also totally happy to make bespoke pieces in whatever color or style you want.</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvZz3PMEJe57huLTB2j9eFLiRNdN-wu_3iz80ywZzE61LkYuCfl9NQiAyKTa3tnn16JXEONAttTfvVu6BqhfzfiM23GcnVov9GiItQi_WArgxvZE7Xql9Vl8faWuj4qftJr8_kA/s1600-h/Chain+5"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483434644991906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbvZz3PMEJe57huLTB2j9eFLiRNdN-wu_3iz80ywZzE61LkYuCfl9NQiAyKTa3tnn16JXEONAttTfvVu6BqhfzfiM23GcnVov9GiItQi_WArgxvZE7Xql9Vl8faWuj4qftJr8_kA/s200/Chain+5" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUOzCunzkMopAeZ0xwOJs4vB8-ZWLA2hMRghPDZ_mnpQgtTcizgk_0BMEZGaXVYb3FL9ccAnSimekeFYqhyEjIQMFRnKJSBA8JnUQ_ox3kdCQewJrI8iwK5p_nunIHc96J2M9ng/s1600-h/Chain+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483507659435954" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoUOzCunzkMopAeZ0xwOJs4vB8-ZWLA2hMRghPDZ_mnpQgtTcizgk_0BMEZGaXVYb3FL9ccAnSimekeFYqhyEjIQMFRnKJSBA8JnUQ_ox3kdCQewJrI8iwK5p_nunIHc96J2M9ng/s200/Chain+3" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDrbG9DpIlGVRVC2gJIHWAFbhO_RtJZjI6Tq64r7izGsrJtyQNtUIUskp_xu7X71dstIU2LrWcMS_MQ8VJ_WDPUY9K4mqC9az6YGO1FcWbEA-DPAPxCyO_yYNn_4q3HKNTgjx2Q/s1600-h/Chain+2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483563494010818" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDrbG9DpIlGVRVC2gJIHWAFbhO_RtJZjI6Tq64r7izGsrJtyQNtUIUskp_xu7X71dstIU2LrWcMS_MQ8VJ_WDPUY9K4mqC9az6YGO1FcWbEA-DPAPxCyO_yYNn_4q3HKNTgjx2Q/s200/Chain+2" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div>The only thing I love more than a chain is a great piece of abstract expressionist art, and lucky for me, Ankh has that covered too. The limited-edition 'Pollock' collection is made of pieces from a vintage Jackson Pollock puzzle from the 1950s - named the world's most difficult puzzle at the time by puzzle experts. Pieces of the puzzle have been made into charm bracelets and necklaces and earrings, in some cases wrapped in wire - am not sure why the wire, but it definitely does more good than harm. </div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjqg9t5tX_jK0khOG85v_7VsSFam7oPas06Ks5xUIfT_cvNt8AIJqI8QugvuRGDVc-AXeeyLUEJcdx10QgDzINM89MyVqUVUNlZFeB78h7G2DFu_YsrDWUNuOdsiZ3fVKWhyphenhyphenMm7A/s1600-h/Puzzle+1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483718112833506" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjqg9t5tX_jK0khOG85v_7VsSFam7oPas06Ks5xUIfT_cvNt8AIJqI8QugvuRGDVc-AXeeyLUEJcdx10QgDzINM89MyVqUVUNlZFeB78h7G2DFu_YsrDWUNuOdsiZ3fVKWhyphenhyphenMm7A/s200/Puzzle+1" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBy9hUbebhyphenhyphenlSSLUyx_5IxGb551YEHTX_M5apAApMCALLC6KB3ieY8bFoZf8ecBUvTKRi-jTq5Ln8rrRgesn1ocBWmfFQgaClum6RsXeaYw3Mu6wSJlSutSmffVJQkYdTyzfTuOQ/s1600-h/Puzzle+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483842666885122" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBy9hUbebhyphenhyphenlSSLUyx_5IxGb551YEHTX_M5apAApMCALLC6KB3ieY8bFoZf8ecBUvTKRi-jTq5Ln8rrRgesn1ocBWmfFQgaClum6RsXeaYw3Mu6wSJlSutSmffVJQkYdTyzfTuOQ/s200/Puzzle+3" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIDsu-5G09-M9nyKTn6E_T8EexBML_tl-Z1VEDFXD5Fh1xA7z5sPLMFrzShbQBSuh-OERfB1pkPbk4mHjEeOJAsf4eGb_JZQ9HTmBmp70ZUT0dIXRNH0zjtusUm3F6DdA1FAzug/s1600-h/Puzzle+2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154483782537342962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIDsu-5G09-M9nyKTn6E_T8EexBML_tl-Z1VEDFXD5Fh1xA7z5sPLMFrzShbQBSuh-OERfB1pkPbk4mHjEeOJAsf4eGb_JZQ9HTmBmp70ZUT0dIXRNH0zjtusUm3F6DdA1FAzug/s200/Puzzle+2" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.umbrellanoir.com/"><em>www.umbrellanoir.com</em></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-57256341366278481682008-01-12T05:57:00.000+00:002008-01-12T06:21:11.862+00:00Say Whaaat?: $20,000 Handbags<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9t3yRZNJ00S2i631bP4K7t4mcoYs7SNnIlydUXcIUtXMOy9Bha7GHVZ9Yfd0P8R5ZMzn-4xNS2LMVlnk7eM6L-SK7UCCLVyRnO5u4cLxQz0i_Argd2pec8UTpad4H0zbcx65vcw/s1600-h/nburberry108b.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5154470481023627138" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9t3yRZNJ00S2i631bP4K7t4mcoYs7SNnIlydUXcIUtXMOy9Bha7GHVZ9Yfd0P8R5ZMzn-4xNS2LMVlnk7eM6L-SK7UCCLVyRnO5u4cLxQz0i_Argd2pec8UTpad4H0zbcx65vcw/s200/nburberry108b.jpg" border="0" /></a> Talk about those with more money than sense - <a href="http://www.wwd.com/search/article/121417?page=1&query=burberry">WWD</a> has reported that there's been enough interest in Burberry's line of 'superluxe' bags to warrent waiting lists and an international trunk show series. The line, which includes styles like the Warrior, the Knight, the Manor and the Ashcombe clutch, is being rendered in materials like python and aligator - which apparently justifies price tags that rival those of most small cars. At least they're throwing in engraved nameplates and quilted leather boxes to sweeten the deal...<br /><div></div><br /><div>Burberry's certainly not the first label to foray into the superluxe arena - any exotic-skinned bag is sure to be massively expensive, and it's no secret that the aligator and croc versions of the Birkin, the B, and Coach's Bleeker all start at $20,000 a pop. What's shocking to me is that there seems to be such a demand for them. I mean, I'd always figured that they were just showpieces that labels released more for marketing purposes than anything else, with maybe a handful of buyers around the world - kind of like the <a href="http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/news/archives/2006/04/10/a_sandwich_to_bankrupt_an_earl.html">$160 sandwich </a>launched by Selfridges a few years back. But waiting lists and trunk shows? If this is, in fact, a publicity stunt, these PRs obviously have way too much time on their hands...<br /></div><div>Is it just me, or would anyone else absolutely refuse to pay $20,000 for a bag - even if they had all the money in the world? </div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-46411943862263609722008-01-06T22:23:00.000+00:002008-01-06T22:40:49.782+00:00Talking Shop: Sample Sales for the LazyWhen I lived in London, I lived for sample sales. Most of them were less than a 20 minute tube ride from home, and I was always able to be one of the first through the doors to catch the best bargains before they went.<br /><br /><br />Since arriving in LA, however, it's a different story. In a city where it takes no less than an hour to get anywhere, where trying to find parking is on par with the quest for the holy grail, and where the sale shoppers can actually be bothered to get up at 6am to be first in line for doors opening at 8, I've found myself very much behind the curve - and, on the few instances I've actually ventured out to a sale here, have been left to pick through piles of size twelves and seasons-old stock.<br /><br /><br />Which is why I'm so! so! so! excited to have learned about <a href="http://www.ideeli.com/">ideeli.com</a>. It's basically an online sample sale filled with the sort of stuff these LA shoppers wake up at 6am for - Pade Vavra bangles, Baccarat pendants, bags by Celine and YSL and Oscar de la Renta and more. Prices are typically over 50% off the original, and sale times are kept secret until the last minute, when all members receive an e-mail saying a sale for a particular item is about to start. You can sign up for text message alerts too, so that you're ready to buy on your Blackberry as soon as the items go up for sale - no matter wherever you are. With deals like the ones below, I might just become a regular sample shopper again after all...<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrOUzf4VWCsdTh6BD21v3f7jVEsa2eVTctbU0M8VWT-_dwz4E6aaBhXBUg08GKIRR2pSR1bmJ7Ia3u3Z45oyYT2rjAc2fNohbjTksmf1ZoCbYbr_i7DcB5H4B3gGOtCewQbuV7Q/s1600-h/IDEELI_NOV07_PADEVAVRA_CONFETTI_000010.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152495861219356530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrOUzf4VWCsdTh6BD21v3f7jVEsa2eVTctbU0M8VWT-_dwz4E6aaBhXBUg08GKIRR2pSR1bmJ7Ia3u3Z45oyYT2rjAc2fNohbjTksmf1ZoCbYbr_i7DcB5H4B3gGOtCewQbuV7Q/s200/IDEELI_NOV07_PADEVAVRA_CONFETTI_000010.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Pade Vavra Confetti Bracelet, was $700, now $295<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8pJIMAew-qaAh0WKBBYkYvo5Yf-71Ao8a5WRxsji4vNBgq4gBiduuPN1Vagd5mNgA9EC85Q3tdDGV5Fq-Gma9KnQHin8LmkvD4T6viKEJMPXhfCrdVv_HLej26U78aSsvMv1iw/s1600-h/6_YSL_Vieenes_Ebony_003.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152495410247790418" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8pJIMAew-qaAh0WKBBYkYvo5Yf-71Ao8a5WRxsji4vNBgq4gBiduuPN1Vagd5mNgA9EC85Q3tdDGV5Fq-Gma9KnQHin8LmkvD4T6viKEJMPXhfCrdVv_HLej26U78aSsvMv1iw/s200/6_YSL_Vieenes_Ebony_003.jpeg" border="0" /></a>YSL Vincennes Hobo, Was $1195, now $495 (!!!!!)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoDNkmcEpmagr5D0k34MBCVZ1koo2bUQkJbCy_sKTb8EP6l2BMs4sTwa3n_CkQkMHiZna_621qs4yNon2kUXCt5Ol4p4h8HycEty1UAKZnhTE1KHAmL3B5l3d60VDasu45PLMOg/s1600-h/1_D_abo_004.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152495680830730082" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoDNkmcEpmagr5D0k34MBCVZ1koo2bUQkJbCy_sKTb8EP6l2BMs4sTwa3n_CkQkMHiZna_621qs4yNon2kUXCt5Ol4p4h8HycEty1UAKZnhTE1KHAmL3B5l3d60VDasu45PLMOg/s200/1_D_abo_004.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Kotur D'Abo Clutch, was $435, now $189maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33378717.post-7658694913946182232008-01-05T20:19:00.000+00:002008-01-05T21:33:12.742+00:00Where T-bars meet T-squares<div><div><div><div>If you think the only link between fashion and architecture is <a href="http://www.arcaid.captureweb.co.uk/feature5.asp?JobNo=10840">that cool Prada store on Rodeo</a>, you're very much mistaken. The history of fashion is filled with designers who trained as architects before swapping classic columns for column dresses - think Alaia and Pierre Cardin for starters.<br /></div><div><br /><div>It's a little bit more rare today, with almost every art school offering courses in fashion design, for designers to come from the architecture world, but the two disciplines are still very much influenced by each other. Case in point - an upcoming exhibition at <a href="http://www.somersethouse.org.uk/default.asp">Somerset House</a> in London called 'Skin & Bones: Parallel Practices in Fashion and Architecture.' It's set to compare the work of designers like Alexander McQueen, Martin Margiela, Hussein Chalayan - basically, every designer you can think of who has a way with a sharp line and an eye for innovative structuring - with architects like Zaha Hadid and Frank Ghery, highlighting the, well, parallels between the two.</div><div><br /></div><div>Am not sure if it's going to include designers who actually did train as architects, as there are certainly several of them working today, including some of my favorites. I have a hunch that the following probably won't be included, so I will enlighten you all with a list of them here instead:<br /></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4b1eMOVC9svyU-X6Tsry6ORP7R9uxBOPIK9hpiuBXxCdlSkBC-DTb4hyphenhyphen9HOsYhQQbhxPjFIYDWJtChSEegMi789YKfx0BcCxPUiPo20228aWsB1hQ-fcpwI6bpOl59DZJ2Gtvg/s1600-h/Finetti+4"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152097322614025906" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf4b1eMOVC9svyU-X6Tsry6ORP7R9uxBOPIK9hpiuBXxCdlSkBC-DTb4hyphenhyphen9HOsYhQQbhxPjFIYDWJtChSEegMi789YKfx0BcCxPUiPo20228aWsB1hQ-fcpwI6bpOl59DZJ2Gtvg/s200/Finetti+4" border="0" /></a>1. Nicola Finetti<br /></div><div>Whoever said Australian fashion is all about unstructured sundresses and empire waists has clearly never seen the work of Nicola Finetti. After studying architecture in Rome and a brief stint in Argentina, Finetti moved to Australia to pursue womenswear design, launching his own label in 1995. His work is all about contrast and contradiction -his collections are always very feminine , consisting pretty much solely of skirts and dresses, yet are still very sleek at the same time. Also, despite the fact that each dress has a very definite structure (a result of that architecture training, I imagine), they still manage to look totally comfortable - I could picture myself wearing any of the ones below to a beach barbie. He also has a way with pattern repitition, like on the skirt above, that reminds me of a frieze on a building:</div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPByjqt-BRfNo0U1T1PrhCydfBxS8g5Y8ZGI561gEHt_Nx41A6m8LMHiI0PYKapskdSb1H-O3l8UN2ad40lTcAZhvm1oB1RQEC_VEjmQHg47yVILPyJQ3l9aVJjFYZOe1IkyyrCg/s1600-h/Finetti+1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152097790765461234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPByjqt-BRfNo0U1T1PrhCydfBxS8g5Y8ZGI561gEHt_Nx41A6m8LMHiI0PYKapskdSb1H-O3l8UN2ad40lTcAZhvm1oB1RQEC_VEjmQHg47yVILPyJQ3l9aVJjFYZOe1IkyyrCg/s200/Finetti+1" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhl8C9OjKi7Z9UTRWBKaLdxK5PB4bA8V3q5aQ9E00RVRpkj6TS6_xzG2qra1zpAd7bQZoFo0EhORN09P4ECulJBRfoQZK0wBarRqdtnyWMJhvN2q2MplA9zes58ym16XbL37vnA/s1600-h/Finetti+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152097554542259938" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhl8C9OjKi7Z9UTRWBKaLdxK5PB4bA8V3q5aQ9E00RVRpkj6TS6_xzG2qra1zpAd7bQZoFo0EhORN09P4ECulJBRfoQZK0wBarRqdtnyWMJhvN2q2MplA9zes58ym16XbL37vnA/s200/Finetti+3" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><p></p><br /><div><br /><br /><em>Photos courtesy of Vogue.com.au ; <a href="http://www.nicolafinetti.com/">http://www.nicolafinetti.com/</a><br /></div></em><br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfwYbPN00_CFQ4vxqGgLZjfX0KJOVTJVr4_1kWLCaHwPLJ2fwgrszvk_b2nzu7o673qDNrBFsZL6DfDz7u5eO1S0jATi0ZfwwsYPff5WLpKZSq5qBGwYdh_sBf7_-YZtjAtyK-w/s1600-h/Kibardin+3"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152101175199690530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfwYbPN00_CFQ4vxqGgLZjfX0KJOVTJVr4_1kWLCaHwPLJ2fwgrszvk_b2nzu7o673qDNrBFsZL6DfDz7u5eO1S0jATi0ZfwwsYPff5WLpKZSq5qBGwYdh_sBf7_-YZtjAtyK-w/s200/Kibardin+3" border="0" /></a>2. Max Kibardin</div><div><br /></div><div>In the tradition of Alaia before him, Max Kibardin has mastered the art of creating shoes that manage to be both delicately sexy, yet sculptural at the same time. The ex-model's shoes have all the qualities of a great work of contemporary architecture - they're both sturdy and light, have gorgeously curved arches, and a look that's very distinctly their own. And the color! I challenge anyone to look at a pair of Kibardin's shoes and not start squealing like a kid who's just got her first pony (on the inside, at least). He studied architecture in Russia before moving to Milan for fashion, which sort of explains the jewel tones and ornamentation:</div><br /><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKz91HTDEuVqmVVYuCqFQZSi-1pefCA5eaHh0lv_MbRhF_zTjIMH94zxZDZJoRUdyMKkGN2_RCGLTz5Z0NuEj0x4XFZubAwFlCH_UvxSYsyKWZd9LztJi0brqW6PTCp1bGUN_eg/s1600-h/Kibardin+1"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152100999106031362" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxKz91HTDEuVqmVVYuCqFQZSi-1pefCA5eaHh0lv_MbRhF_zTjIMH94zxZDZJoRUdyMKkGN2_RCGLTz5Z0NuEj0x4XFZubAwFlCH_UvxSYsyKWZd9LztJi0brqW6PTCp1bGUN_eg/s200/Kibardin+1" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8x95-oHi0wV1p1EMCbzzLmnd5WnuPgfx3WN2dEzghrPWB9TFRkfqJptEaYlMnsOCy76blC0g6FJdLosybHBoRdPQ8pei3c_g0SMz8Ov5ir0OrZzh2BH8w8gvK6AGgul0Y6TzXRQ/s1600-h/Kibardin+2"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152101067825508114" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8x95-oHi0wV1p1EMCbzzLmnd5WnuPgfx3WN2dEzghrPWB9TFRkfqJptEaYlMnsOCy76blC0g6FJdLosybHBoRdPQ8pei3c_g0SMz8Ov5ir0OrZzh2BH8w8gvK6AGgul0Y6TzXRQ/s200/Kibardin+2" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBDvAY9gf_yW8ghRmADiSpdPSKClQ7CBxRLqo15IYO62XM-oqrp-CZOqtKdr9dFQSyC9-TJ7p20-nu2It29Jh23XELpSvU1Aqtkd30Ie7Hdlcl6kvDXb0QxaEDJOMLP3GrrF2mw/s1600-h/Kibardin+4"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152101858099490610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 179px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 111px" height="120" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBDvAY9gf_yW8ghRmADiSpdPSKClQ7CBxRLqo15IYO62XM-oqrp-CZOqtKdr9dFQSyC9-TJ7p20-nu2It29Jh23XELpSvU1Aqtkd30Ie7Hdlcl6kvDXb0QxaEDJOMLP3GrrF2mw/s200/Kibardin+4" width="186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.maxkibardin.com/"><em>www.maxkibardin.com</em></a><br /></div><br /><div><br />3. Ninaki</div><br /><div>Ninaki rings remind me of the Disney Center in downtown LA, and not just because they're big and shiny- they're the kind of thing that you either love or hate, depending on your definition of beauty. I love them, for all of their soaring, steely, imposing, take-your-breath-away magnitude. Designed by SciArc graduate Ninaki Priddy, the collection is a mix of the organic and macabre. The organic is quite clear, with the rings taking on polished, yet strangely amoeba-esque shapes. The noir side, too, is evident, especially in the names she's given the pieces - think Cruella and Contessa:</div><br /><div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoIwzFn7tRwQkP3rWPH1E8Ou9OaABch0iQbCo-7efw7xpkaAmUh3ZYxbbFGSS5LFJ-Tts59lipVOkSDoJD78tGdXwBbXBeGkmxvWyFmI8GdCJuj9Ea-eWZs9kh03WZdXBrsLfww/s1600-h/Ninaki-Rings.jpeg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152105964088225602" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoIwzFn7tRwQkP3rWPH1E8Ou9OaABch0iQbCo-7efw7xpkaAmUh3ZYxbbFGSS5LFJ-Tts59lipVOkSDoJD78tGdXwBbXBeGkmxvWyFmI8GdCJuj9Ea-eWZs9kh03WZdXBrsLfww/s200/Ninaki-Rings.jpeg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.ninaki.com/"><em>www.ninaki.com</em></a> </div></div></div></div></div>maidofmelrosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10057812405418712345noreply@blogger.com0