The Verdict, Episode 2: Loathe It

Giorgio Armani once said, "Jeans represent democracy in fashion." You're not going to get an argument from me on that one. Living in LA for four years changed my whole concept of jeans, which accordingly changed my life. For real. Actually, I think I may have heard a heavenly chorus when I purchased my first pair of A-pocket Sevens (or maybe it was the frantic beeping of cars on Melrose?) all those years ago--and I've been a jeans girl ever since.

My complete and utter adoration for denim, in all cuts and washes, is what leaves me loathing this Rock & Republic runway impostor (insert ominous music here): faux denim leggings. Ick. More like faux pas. Apparently, I'm not the only one who feels this way. According to your feedback, 58% of you loathe this look, while only 17% love it. The remaining 25% feel like it would depend on the style and the occasion. How democratic of you.

Since I'm proving to be more and more bias with every word I type, I'll open it up to your fabulous commentary to keep things cool:

• I am on the fence about them. A cute dark denim pair might be ok.
• Ick. Not jumping on this trend as: 1.) I am not a supermodel and pair my leggings with long tees or tunics so no need for faux pocket detail. 2.) I can't help but think about those t-shirts screen printed with bikinis. 3.) I saw that R&R also made a version for men. No thank you.
• I looooooooooooove them. Those non-denim wonders are a work of art!
• NO WAY! Jeans are jeans, a part of our American past. Don't try to change them into something they aren't. They are too great the way they are....in denim!
• I talked it over with some friends and we've decided it depends on the occasion that you rock them at. Wearing them to class or out to lunch--loathe it. Wearing them on a fun night out, paired with a top that only Lolly could recommend--love it.
• I think of Madonna, or Agyness Deyn--you have to be pretty rock and roll to pull it off.
• LOATHE! Ain't nothin' like the real thing, baby. Jeans are so wonderful as they are, and spandies are also fabu as they are--so never cross the two! This has reached the boundaries of identity confusion.
• Perhaps these faux denim leggings by Rock & Republic are very close to the real deal, but I'm already cringing when I envision the $10 knock-offs they will inspire. Also, a girl (or boy for that matter) has to get their fitness on if s/he wants to look rockin' in some skin-tight jeans. The extra effort of getting those pants up makes it worth the missed donut. These faux denim leggings are too easy.
• Paired with the right top/jewelry, and the appropriate occasion, like a trendy art opening, I think it would be a fun, Madonna-infused, pop art kind of outfit that could turn some heads.

I'll admit, the lovers out there make some good points...but as for me, I will forever choose to the live in the United States of Denim, wearing R&Rs made of the real thing. In denim I trust.

Kiedis Skull Jeans by Rock & Republic. Visit Rock & Republic online at www.rockandrepublic.com.

Calling All Fairy Godmothers!

Once upon a time, in a faraway land, there lived a fierce and fabulous fashionista with a closet full of dresses. While she yearned for more closet space, she couldn't help but think to herself, but what if I decide I want to wear this dress again? Yet, as the days passed, her closet grew more and more cramped until one day she decided: enough is enough!--and proceeded with her spring cleaning.

Ringing any bells? If, like our fairytale fashionista, you are thinking of cleaning out your closet, there couldn't be a better time! Not only can you make room for new spring and summer apparel, but you can also play fairy godmother to a Cinderella in need!--minus the blue hooded cloak and magic wand.

The Fairy Godmother Project of Massachusetts is a charitable organization that collects both new and gently worn dresses and accessories for financially disadvantaged students so that they can attend their school formal occasions, dressed to impress. They accept donations of formal dresses, shoes, handbags, and accessories at a number of drop-off locations located conveniently throughout the state.

If you're anything like me, I bet you can remember watching Cinderella as a little girl, wishing for your own fairy godmother to transform you into a beautiful soon-to-be princess with glass slippers and a horse-drawn carriage. Now you have the opportunity to actually BE that fairy godmother to a lovely young girl in need of a dress for a night almost as magical as the royal ball--PROM.

Don't wait until the clock strikes midnight! Log on to the Fairy Godmother Project's website, www.fairygodmotherprojectofma.org/, to locate the drop-off location nearest to you. After all, fierce and fabulous fashionistas can be fairy godmothers too!


For more information on the organization, donations, and volunteer opportunities, you can visit the Fairy Godmother Project of Massachusetts, Inc. at www.fairygodmotherprojectofma.org/.

Cinderella image by Disney.

Love It or Loathe It? Episode 2: Too Faux?

From the Rock & Republic runway comes faux denim leggings. Some styles are even embellished with pockets, buttons, and seams to make them look like the real deal. The question remains: has R&R gone too faux?

Love it or loathe it? It's your call. To be continued...

Extra, Extra--Get Your Vintage!

Do you ever have one of those days when life is even worse than a waste of make-up-- it's a complete and utter catastrophe? On one such day last summer, I tearfully dialed Lizzyh113, who loyally put on her Super Girl cape with promises of the only possible thing that could have saved me: vanilla fro-yo with nonpareils from J.P. Licks.

Minutes later, we were en route to Davis Square in Lizzyh113's eco-friendly electric car. All of the usual parking spots were occupied so we found ourselves taking an unfamiliar right turn onto College Avenue, where the parking gods saw fit to grace us with a spot right across the street from the amazingly eccentric Artifaktori.

I had never heard of Artifaktori before that evening, but being well acquainted with the pacifying effects of retail therapy, we ventured inside--and thank goodness! This itty-bitty gem on the outskirts of Davis Square is now one of my favorite haunts, boasting everything from vintage clothing and accessories to art and antiques. Truly, there is something for everyone. I don't think I have ever left Artifaktori empty handed. With an irresistibly unique inventory and reasonable prices, there's just no excuse.

Some of my favorite Artifaktori treasures to date:
1. vintage tee advertising Georgia peaches (yummm)--purchased pour moi by the lovely Lizzyh113 to raise my spirits (yes, my friends are the best)
2. light blue vintage aviators by Foster Grant (who is now making a comeback--hello!)
3. feathered hair piece for when I'm feeling swanky
4. enormous crystal cocktail ring--bling bling!

Whether you have or have not paid a visit to Artifaktori, this weekend is the ideal opportunity to do so. Starting this Friday, March 27, Artifaktori will be holdings its "Farewell to Winter Vintage Sale." The sale extends through next Sunday, April 6, and during this time, select items will be 15-35% off, as the store clears out to make room for fresh Spring merchandise. Don't miss the kick-off party on Friday night, from 7-10pm for fabulous deals on vintage. It's an event NOT to be missed. See you there, darlings!




For more information on Artifaktori, visit the store's website at http://www.artifaktori.com/ and sign up to receive their email newsletter for insider information on sales and special events.

Silly Rabbit, Coco Is For Kids!

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Lolly. Lolly's legs were too long for her pants, her glasses were too big for her face, her hair was frizzy, and her smile was marred by braces. Lolly was no homecoming queen, nor did she want to be. She loved dark poetry, Nirvana, tie-dye shirts, and her bffs--who loved her just the way she was. Lolly was different. Just like Coco.

These days, Lolly is all grown up. Thanks to Rock & Republic, her jeans are plenty long enough. With the help of a Chi flat iron, her hair is tame. On the days she chooses to rock glasses instead of contacts, her Burberry Buddy-Holly-style black frames are fiercer than fierce. Not to mention, her orthodontist did one heck of a job! Lolly is a fashionista, just as she wanted to be. She loves dark memoirs, underground hip-hop, Chanel, and her bffs--who love her just the way she is. Lolly is still different. Just like Coco.

How far children's books have come since Lolly was a little girl! Elizabeth Matthews' story, Different Like Coco, is a charming depiction of the life and style of Mademoiselle Chanel that is suitable for both budding fashionistas and their fashionista mummies alike. The truth is, just because girls like Lolly covet all that is Chanel, it wasn't always that way for Coco. When she was starting out, "Coco couldn't afford to dress like the corseted ladies of high society and she was never going to be shapely. There was no point in trying to be like them. Instead, she tried to be different."

I am thrilled that Elizabeth Matthews and her publishers were able to bring this fabulous book to life, for now children are privy to the story of Chanel and how she was able to triumph against all odds to ultimately become one of the best fashion designers in history. Even if Chanel isn't your favorite flavor (though I shudder to think of such a person!), Different Like Coco is a classic rags-to-riches tale, encouraging readers of all ages to follow their dreams--even if they are different from the norm.

The moral of the story, boys and girls, is that it's okay to be different. In fact, difference (which sometimes means writing in the third person) is what makes us beautiful. Viva la Chanel!

Excerpt from Different Like Coco by Elizabeth Matthews, from Candlewick, 2007. Available online at http://www.amazon.com/.

Gowns Fit for the Queen Mum

Gone are the days of bridal party blahs. Today's bride is confident enough not to dress her ladies in brightly colored taffeta nightmares just to be sure she is the fairest of them all. Instead, brides now make the effort to cloth their nearest and dearest in classic elegance, with special attention to the mother-of-the-bride. After all, where would a blushing bride be in this world without mommy dearest?

A dear friend of mine, whose wedding will be all the rage this summer, recently found herself on the quest for the perfect gown for her mother. The trouble is, many clothiers missed the memo that "mother-of-the-bride gown" is NOT synonymous with "shapeless/tasteless/two-piece/disaster." This is the part where I poke my little nose all up in her business--and begin my own personal cyber quest to see what's out there.

This particular flavor of MOTB is très chic--partial to boutique shopping above all. Both mother and daughter were inspired by Diane von Furstenberg's new maxi dresses for spring, and so I focused my search accordingly: long, flowing dresses in varied palettes.

The Outcome? Below are a few of my favorite styles, offering a range of aesthetic and price. While each gown is certainly different, they share an ethereal Grecian goddess sensibility without being too literal in their translation--or overly youthful.

As for my own mother, her look was entirely different when it came to my wedding--a country celebration that would have made the likes of Martha Stewart proud. My mother opted for a sleeveless navy sheath, with clean simple lines. The result was an understated elegance that made her shine like a queen--which is appropriate, since she is my Queen Mum.

My family, photographed by Ross Jacob Photographers: http://www.rossjacob.com/.

Gowns, from left to right: 1) Ombre Swiss Jacquard Gown in plum by Nicole Miller, available online at http://www.nicolemiller.com/; 2) BR Monogram Racerback Gown in gray, available online at http://bananarepublic.gap.com/; 3) Vera Wang Lavender LabelSilk Chiffon Gown, available online at Saks Fifth Avenue: http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/.

The Verdict, Episode 1: Loathe It

Ladies of the jury, let me first commend you for your fashion diplomacy! Had Madame Antoinette's fate been in your merciful hands, perhaps she wouldn't have lost her pretty little head.

The intended vision of this footwear fiasco? From the Absolute Madness collection, "Entirely embroidered in the Indian manufacture of Jean-Francois Lesage, this shoe is a tribute to Marie Antoinette: delicate ribbons, embroidery, and these incredible hairdressings. Sold exclusively in Paris boutiques."

That said, the queen's skilled attorney, Monsieur Louboutin, didn't quite do her feet--or ours--justice. And who am I to argue with the democratic process? The ballots are in:

33% love
40% loathe

27% undecided

To be fair, Christian Louboutin's efforts to pay homage to the queen's signature style is evident from toe to heel. Marie Antoinette was known for her indulgent lifestyle, replacing a lack of affection from her husband and mother with excessive spending on gambling and clothing. The fashionista of her time, Marie Antoinette was expected by tradition to be the leading example of fashion at court and relished trips to the city for apparel, shoes, and cosmetics. The lovely young queen did not disappoint--until her execution for treason at the age of 37, during the Reign of Terror.

In the above portrait, her heavy headpiece bears a striking resemblance to the ornamental headpiece on the Marie Antoinette shoe. Genius? Maybe. In my view, the headpiece is the singular saving grace of this shoe. In its entirety, though I appreciate the Louboutin's purpose and intentions, I feel that this shoe is simply too much--even for HRH.

But enough about me! Your feedback was fabulous, and I wanted to share a few of my favorites from the lovers and the loathers:

• I know, fashion wasn't meant to be practical or comfortable, but wouldn't it be nice if it was...at least some of the time??


• I think if you consider fashion and design as fitting two niches--namely, clothing some of us and teasing the imagination of others--there exists space for incredibly fanciful, incredibly unwearable items like these particular Louboutins. As art, I think they are cheeky and clever, with a nod to history in their concept and execution. As quotidian attire, I think they could be rather garish. Although, contrast against head to toe black, they could be pretty jazzy. You'd have to rock them with confidence.


• I would probably like stationary note cards with pictures of bizarre Louboutin shoes on them, but definitely wouldn't put these on my feet.


• Don’t get me wrong, I’d love me some Loubies, but nothing makes sense with this pair. The bottom looks like a bedazzled Easter egg, and the ankle straps are nautical and Victorian? Clearly Absolute Madness!!! AHHH!


• Despite their craftsmanship and admirable eccentricity, these shoes should suffer Marie's fate. Like her desire for luxe, both suffer from BAD TIMING!


• I would say love...but the head and hair of her majesty is a bit too much. Living in NYC, I see a lot of ridiculous, but this kind of freaks me out to actually imagine someone walking with two of her majesty's heads bobbing back and worth. Ha.


• I love it in the sense that I love John Galliano couture...wonderful to look at, not quite ready to live in.


• Picturing a foot in the shoe I am seeing a head of hair and a bodice...that's pretty clever.


• Love! I think it's an "outfit shoe," meaning it has enough character to make a simple form fitting dress complete.


• I think they are a perfect representation of Marie, as we know she was quite over the top! My verdict is that they are fierce!


• Is it just me or do you want to shout... emperor you are NAKED!

And so concludes our first episode. Thank you all for your amazing feedback! Your prize? Let us eat cake!--or couture. After all, it's what Marie Antoinette would have wanted.

Marie Antoinette picture from http://thequeenofthenight.files.wordpress.com/2007/06/marie-antoinette-ship.jpg.

Love It or Loathe It? Episode 1: Let Them Eat Louboutin

From Christian Louboutin's Absolute Madness line comes the Marie Antoinette--which brings us to the first installment of She's Come Unheeled "Love It or Loathe It?"

The choice is yours: LOVE IT? LOATHE IT? Tell me why.

Check back on Monday for the verdict. Until then, Let them eat Louboutin!

Marie Antoinette by Christian Louboutin, available exclusively in Paris Boutiques: http://www.christianlouboutin.com/ for more details.

Personalize Your Preppy

Preppy: n. a person who favors or is viewed as favoring clothing style or behavior associated with traditional preparatory schools.

Out with the girls at Cafeteria on Friday night, our server brought over a soup spoon for my lobster bisque and placed it on the left side of my plate. Really? In a frenzied combination of OCD and etiquette, I quickly set it in its rightful place--despite pointed giggles from Lizzyh113.

It is occasions like this that make my mother laugh, "Your breeding is showing." Okay, so I heart etiquette. And yes, at age 10 I made a sketch of the correct table setting and stuck it on the refridgerator so that there would be no confusion as to where to place the utensils. Still, I will not be put in a box. I am a lover of manners, etiquette, and boundaries, yet I simultaneously like to stir the pot, rock out, and sometimes even shock and awe. And this is why I love Rugby.

Rugby: n. "where casual campus style meets downtown prep for a sensibility that is youthful and, at times, irreverent."

I have to confess, it had been a while since I had been inside a Rugby store, but when returning a gift to Simon Pearce this past weekend, the sales girl was wearing a fabulous oxford--ornate with Jolly Roger. If there is one thing I love, it is skull and crossbones used in combination with pure preppy glory. I didn't have to guess twice about the origins of her preppy/rockstar look, and my love for Rugby was thus renewed.

Later on that night, a few clicks of the mouse found me even happier than before--I didn't know I could personalize my preppy! Ladies (and gentleman!), if you are not yet versed in the wonder of Rugby's "Make Your Own," let me assure you: it is nothing short of divine. It works this way:

1.) Take your pick from four styles: traditional rugby, hoodie, short-sleeve rugby, or classic polo--ranging in price from $69.50-$125.

2.) Personalize your look with your choice of patches, embroidery, and graphics (hello, Jolly Roger!).

3.) Poof! Rugby will personalize your preppy pick and ship it right to your front door.

I'm sold. It's a simple equation, really: preppy+personalized=perfection. End of story.


Advertisement by Rugby, online at http://www.rugby.com/. Rugby's Boston location is 342 Newbury Street.

DvF in the City

This week's episode of The City made me think back to torturous school dances when I doubled as a wallflower. Bruised from her break-up with Jay and slighted by the holier-than-thou Olivia, Miss Whitney Port found herself all by her-pretty-blond-self at the DvF party, post Fashion Week runway show. In my days of wallflower-ness, the only company I earned were my friends, encouraging me to hit the dance floor. I know now that I should take a few tips from Whitney next time I'm feeling sorry for myself, for her skillful pout merited the attention of Wrap-Dress Royalty, Diane von Furstenberg. How convenient.

First, a disclaimer: I have yet to miss an episode of The City or its sister show, The Hills, and I have always been a fan of Whitney. For whatever reason, she survived season after season, staying at the periphery of the drama--a feat that few Lauren Conrad associates can claim. So I was appropriately interested in getting to know the "real" (though we all know MTV's loose definition of the word) Whitney when the camera was devoted exclusively to her world. I'm sad to report that after Monday's episode, I'm more than a little disappointed in my girl.

Trivia question: What would you talk to Diane von Furstenberg about, if you were so lucky as to engage in conversation with her? Well, I'll tell you one thing: IT WOULD NOT BE MY BOY PROBLEMS!

First arriving on the fashion scene in 1972 with her signature wrap dress, Diane von Furstenberg has since built an empire of the DvF brand. It doesn't take a fashionista to know that she is well versed in the ways of the world--particularly the fashion industry--and thus a goldmine for a newbie like Whitney, a wealth of guidance and advice. This is why I am so baffled by Whitney's conversation with Madame DvF, who seizes the golden opportunity to talk about her recent break-up.* Really?

In a recent interview featured in WSJ, Diane von Furstenberg shares the love, ambition, and inspiration fueling her 30+ year reign in the fashion industry. Speaking to her dedication, she shares, "Things don’t happen in spite of you. Or if they do, they don’t last. So I think you have to want to be a success. It’s a lot of work and it’s a lot of perseverance."

That said, if I were in Whitney's fabulous purple ankle boots, I'm pretty sure I would have carpe diem-ed, soaking up every ounce of fashion wisdom Diane von Furstenberg was willing to share with me. At the very least, I would have at least pretended that my head and heart were in the fashion game (hello, ungrateful!) and not woefully stuck on my Aussie rocker boyfriend.

Diane, if you're out there, I can run circles around Whitney Port AND carry on a conversation. Not to mention that it looks like DvF could use a few more brunettes. Call me!

*To relive the horror: AU REVOIR CITY (Posted using ShareThis).

Photos: (1) Diane von Furstenberg from "DVF: Mother of Reinvention" in WSJ; available online at http://magazine.wsj.com/hunter/rebel-yell/being-diane-von-furstenberg/?mod=wsj_magazine_newsreel. (2) Whitney Port by MTV, photo available online at http://www.mtv.com/. (3) Diane von Furstenberg with Andy Warhol and Monique Van Vooren in 1974, also from WSJ article.

OOPS! She Did It Again

Boston sports fans are known as a particular breed of loyal followers, not afraid to jump into the fray and get dirty if it means defending our city's honor--which often happens during games at TD Banknorth Garden. Last night at the Garden, however, it was a different breed and a different fray altogether: it was a circus. For real. And the ringer master was none other than Miss American Dream herself, the fabulously controversial Britney Spears.

I was 15 when Britney graced her first Rolling Stone cover, and my atrocious adolescent boyfriend was definitely more interested in the face on that cover than my own. So I hated her a little bit (duh, what teenage girl didn't?) but not nearly as much as I coveted her very being. After all, she is all that is fabulous. Fast forward to ten years later: boyfriend kicked to the curb and replaced with amazing husband, and Britney still has it. Call her Miss Bad Media Karma if you want to, but oops!--she did it again.

So, yes, that was me rocking out with bff (still the same--what's 10 years anyway?) and fellow blogstar, India, at the Garden last night. What can we say--we're slaves to all that is Britney. Our homage to the pop princess? Braving verbal abuse from the anti-establishment printer at the Garment District custom tee-shirt counter to spell out our adoration in black on hot pink. I mean, concert tees are so last generation; in the here and now, we eat organic and locally grown produce AND make our own shirts.

Of course, our flair for graphic design did not go unnoticed. While dressing our salted pretzel with mustard, fellow concert-goers were abuzz by our blaze of hot pink. According to one, our tee-shirts were "the best." Obvi! Nothing less for Brit.

Psst: Follow our lead and design your own tee at the Garment District: 200 Broadway in Cambridge, near in Kendall Square. Visit http://www.garmentdistrict.com/ for the deets.

Concert photo by the Boston Globe, available online at http://www.boston.com/.

Blame It On Jessica Alba

Last week I received a rude awakening from the bathroom mirror. Pale skin, limp locks, tired eyes---who was that girl looking back at me? Extreme Make Over--Lolly Edition--was no longer an option; it was pure necessity. But what was to be done? A haircut and color? A tan? A facial? All of the above?

Then I saw her, Jessica Alba, staring back at me from the coffee table, where I had tossed aside the March issue of Elle after my weekend in New York. THOSE BANGS! It was a total "Eureka!" moment; I had to have them.

After obsessing for four long days, I made the call on Friday. Miraculously, the stars were perfectly aligned, and my lovely and amazing stylist, Sandra, from Belmont's Leon & Co., was able to fit me in for a 4:30 cut and blow-dry. Sweet relief! Feeling like a giddy school girl, clinging to a cut-out of Jessica from her Elle spread, I shared my ambitions with Sandra. Minutes later, the transformation began.

Now, I'm not going to lie; I did have a minor freak-out when the hair fell away before my eyes, but the product was nothing short of outstanding. Now when I walk by the mirror, I have to do a double-take: who is that girl?!

This morning, at the unkind hour of 6:00 AM, I drove (in full pajama glory) to Logan Airport to retrieve my husband after his mini-vaca in Vegas with the boys. Hopping into the car, he spoke the magic words, "I like your hair, hon. You look just like Jessica Alba." Love it.



Psst: For a fabulous cut (and easy parking!), Leon & Co. is located in Belmont Center at 84 Leonard Street. Visit http://leonandco.com/ or call 617.484.4777 for details.

Step Into the Closet

All this recession madness has a girl feeling just a tad bit guilty about updating her wardrobe. I mean, can't the economy just turn itself around already?! Since I'm not holding my breath on that one, I would suggest an alternative: step into the closet.

Reading the March 5 edition of Stuff Boston, Erin Souza's "Spring Fashion: Retro Renewal" stopped me in my tracks. HOW is it possible that a gem like The Closet exists on Newbury Street, one of my favorite stomping grounds, and I never knew about it? There's nothing quite like designer fashions at a "gentle" price to ease the recession blues. Yes, I was actually running down city blocks to make it in the door before closing time (I kid you not).

Located at 175 Newbury, between Dartmouth and Exeter, The Closet had sadly slipped my notice due to its garden-level location. Forgive me--I'm a tall girl, and sometimes I forget to look down (like when I almost stepped on an innocent child at Whole Foods last week!). Lesson learned.

Inside, let me assure you that The Closet boats a far, far better selection than my closet. Racks upon racks are packed with designer duds: sweaters, denim, dresses, tee, skirts... However, The Closet separates itself from other resale boutiques of its kind in two distinct ways.

1. Menswear: There is a whole section devoted exclusively to men's fashion. Finally, a boutique that my husband might actually be interested in! Shockingly, Jimmy Choos and Chanel sunglasses pour moi don't exactly get his blood pumping, but his very own section of the store is another story.

2. Handbags, handbags, handbags: It is a handbag heaven. There aren't just a few bags to quickly survey; you actually have to hunt, and by doing so, you may find the treasure you seek: a black leather Armani hobo with a black acrylic chain strap? Yes, please.

The only "con" to speak of may actually be a "pro"--that is, if you have more than 15 minutes to spare; there is SO MUCH STUFF! I was overwhelmed by the selection, almost to the point of paralysis. My weakness as a shopper is that sensory overload occasionally gets the best of me. If the selection is too large, I often don't know where to start. You can avoid my plight by giving yourself all the time in the world in The Closet to scan the racks to find exactly what you're looking for.

At the end of my journey into The Closet, I walked away with a gorgeous navy-and-white striped cashmere cardigan, label unknown, with medium sleeves and a bateau neck. My plan?--To rock it with my Maine hunting hat, leggings, and pleated skirt for the ultimate Holden-Caulfield-escape-from-prepschool-esque look. Mission accomplished.

Psst: Visit Stuff Boston http://stuffboston.com for fabulous fashion and beauty tips from Boston's insiders. The full text of Erin Souza's article, "Spring Fashion: Retro Renewal" is available online from the Stuff Boston archives.


Bloggers! The Closet has its own blog: http://www.closetboston.com/blog/.

All Hail Emily Post

I think it is evident that Lolly and her faithful followers have a dear love and respect for etiquette.  I wanted to make sure that I paid adequate homage to the etiquette queen, Miss Emily Post, while planning my upcoming nuptials.  This was easily achieved as I was a lucky winner of 100 letterpress Jaelyn K invitations for my wedding on weddingbee.com! 

The company is fairly new, and I relished the customer service that only a small company can truly provide. Creative Director, Susan Kim, worked patiently with me and the end product is nothing short of stunning.  Jaelyn K offers several designs, knowing that brides and their tastes are not created equal. Nantucket prepsters will swoon at the Alexandra design, for there is nothing classier than a monogram.  Whimsical brides (and grooms, of course) will find the Zara design cleanly charming. 

I opted for the Charlotte design because it has a true air of unassuming sophistication.  The classic print and the soft waffle design is reminiscent of a relaxed Victorian tea party, complete with Earl Grey, crumpets, and jam In fact, these darling invitations inspired my wedding, as we have decided to drape our summer garden party tables with French Toile.  

One thing I love (besides the free invitations) is that Jaelyn K is a socially minded company. They have altered their design plan to cater to couples planning weddings during the current and oppressive recession.  Brides can treat themselves to high quality, hand inspected invitations but pay a fraction of the price of traditional letterpress invitation.   Jaelyn K has made an effort to hug trees in the production of their invitations.  The primary choice (and house stock) paper is 100% cotton and made from recovered tree fibers, and many of their colored stocks contain at least 30% post-consumer waste.  Cotton-alternative papers for offset printing (such as linen and smooth finish) are FSC Certified, Green Seal Certified, Chlorine Free Certified, and/or Green-e Certified.

So to sum it up:

Jaelyn K = Wonderful Service + Lovely Invitations + Affordable + Earth Loving.  Who can argue with that?  Miss Post certainly wouldn’t so who am I to argue?

Thank you Susan and the entire Jaelyn K team for my beloved invitations.

Biker Chic for Spring

Ahhh, the joys of spring: pastels, floral prints, silk scarves, and---
black leather ankle boots with chains and zippers? Such is the direction that fashion prodigy Alexander Wang is taking his Spring 2009 collection: leather, sky-scraping heels, fringe, zippers, and chains. Now, that's one way to put a spin on the open-toed sandal!

Though I'm far from a motorcycle girl (despite desperate attempts by The Real Housewives of Orange County to make biking look both glamorous and girly), I'm nonetheless intrigued by Wang's bold industrial styles. Not to mention, any designer who launched his own collection and took the fashion world by storm at the ripe young age of 18 holds some clout in my book. If I had tried to make my way in the industry after just a year in college, my contribution would have been something along the lines of "sweatpants and hoodie couture."

For me, the jury is out. In the March 2009 edition of Elle, super-beauty Alessandra Ambrosio is photographed in Wang's edgy footwear for a biker-style editorial--which gets a girl to thinking, can I pull this off? I, for one, can definitely envision myself in the Blake Fold Over Boot, paired with a dark wash skinny jean, sun bleached white cotton tee, and my favorite Chloé sunglasses. Yet, the striking 5-inch heels would push me to a towering 6'4"--and I fear that the air up there might give me nosebleeds (so not cute). But don't we all make sacrifices for fashion? So I guess I've talked myself into it. Biker chic is so hot right now.

Blake Fold Over Boot by Alexander Wang, available at Barneys New York http://www.barneys.com/.

At the Theatre: Denim, Sneakers, and Sweatshirts--OH MY!

Living in Boston, it goes without saying that baseball is the great American past time. In waves of red and blue, thousands brave the cramped seats of Fenway and cheer on the Sox, snacking on ball park snacks like Fenway franks and cotton candy (well, maybe I'm the only adult who seizes any and every opportunity for cotton candy). Yet, there are other American past times that necessitate a very different dress code, including: the theater, the ballet, and the opera.

As a little girl, I always looked forward to the holidays, when my mother would present me with a spectacular "Christmas dress" that I would actually get to wear before Christmas when we went to the Boston Ballet's performance of The Nutcracker. Barely aging double-digits, I understood that these outings required fine apparel, and this lesson has remained with me.

Thus, it is with disbelief that I have to ask: Can someone please tell me when theatre-going America officially turned its back on fashion etiquette? In New York this past weekend, I received a rude awakening while innocently enjoying an evening at the theatre. When the lights came up, I couldn't believe my eyes: denim (and I don't mean R&R, Seven, or True Religion), sneakers, and sweatshirts--OH, MY! It might as well have been lions, tigers, and bears.

Still in shock after returning home, I googled furiously. After reviewing handfuls of articles on theatre dress code, I found myself somewhat defeated; popular consensus indicates that theatre dress is officially a thing of the past (or, as bestie and fellow blogger Lizzyh113 might say, a ghost of theatres past).

Fortunately, in addition to etiquette, my mother also taught her stubborn daughter that you can drag a horse to water, but you can't make him drink. I guess that makes me the horse in this scenario, for I refuse to drink from the bitter fountain of fashion faux pas. So let them wear sneakers! You will still find me in the orchestra section, dressed to the nines, for in the words of Marc Jacobs, "Happy, happy fashion--there is not much more to it than that."

Photos: (1) The Critic by Weegee, featuring Mrs. George Washington Kavanaugh (my great-great-grandmother) and Lady Deices entering the opera in NYC, 1943 (courtesy of the International Center for Photography http://museum.icp.org/). (2) My friends and I, en route to the theatre in NYC, 2009.

Back to Basics With Manolo Blahnik

My favorite justification for a pricey purchase is: This is a classic--it will never go out of style. Thankfully, there is truth in my reasoning, for the inherent beauty of a "classic" is its timeless elegance. Today I'm wondering if it's actually possible that the great shoe magician, Manolo Blahnik, thinks like little ol' me? Perhaps!--as Manolo Blahnik has announced a return to basics for his Spring/Summer 2009 Collection:

"The whole world appears to be going shoe mad, and everything is getting a bit out of control with shoes, so I wanted to bring the attention back onto things like line, proportion and balance, and just to make the perfect court shoe. No gimmicks, no messing around... and then to have fun with them when it came to the choice of colours."

For a girl who loves footwear (an unrequited love unfortunately NOT shared by my credit line), I find myself drawn to the classics--so you can only imagine how thrilled and inspired I was to read Manolo's Manifesto. Scanning the selection, wide-eyed, I found myself inspired by the fresh colors and unique interpretations upon classic form and fit. And just when I thought Carrie Bradshaw didn't know everything!

At the top of this pyramid of perfection à pied sits the Half d'Orsay. At first glance this shoe is as sweet as it is demure, made of yellow leather with angular piecing that gathers at the peep toe. Yet, with bold leopard lining and a 4+ heel, sex appeal is not lost on the Half d'Orsay. For those that walk toe the line (pun intended) between rock 'n roller and southern belle line, "the holy man of heels" has you covered.

Half D'Orsay by Manolo Blahnik, available at Neiman Marcus: http://www.neimanmarcus.com/. Manolo Blahnik quoted from http://www.manoloblahnik.com/.

Seeing Orange: A Tropical Vaca for Your Nails

What I wouldn't do for a tropical vacation right now... But in this economy, a paradise vaca is a bit far fetched for the budget- conscious fashionista. So what's a girl to do?

1. Continue counting down the days until the first official day of spring (16)

2. Online "window shopping" for warm-weather trends

3. Give myself--or at least my nails--the tropical vacation they so rightfully deserve!

If you're like me and packing your Vuitton carry-on and hopping on your personal jet, express to Saint Barths, is sadly not an option, then I highly recommend option 3.

Nothing says "tropical vaca" quite like a bright orange pop of color on short nails. After searching high and low, I have come up with a list of faves by manicure monopolies, OPI and Essie. The winners, in no particular order, are as follows:

1. Cajun Shrimp: a delicious orange for the island girl eating shrimp skewers in her cabana.

2. Atomic Orange: a pure orange "pow!" for the yachting girl--because orange shouldn't only be reserved for flotation devices!

3. Clambake: a spicy orange for the New England girl dreaming of bonfires on the beaches of ACK.

4. One of a Kind: a flirty pink-infused orange for the girl sipping fruit smoothies poolside.

5. Mini Shorts: a bright citrus for the sun-kissed girl nibbling a creamsicles while reading W from her beach towel.

So now the big question remains: Which of these lovely ladies are you? Once you decide, just a click of the mouse will bring the tropics right to your front door (packing is overrated anyway). So don't waste another moment--shed those winter blues and check out the world through orange-colored glass!

Psst: Sign on to http://www.opi.com/ to "try on" your favorite color. On the OPI homepage, click "try on this color" to see your virtual hand. Then, you can adjust the skin tone and nail length to see how your polish pics look before purchase!

Nail polishes (in order of appearance): Cajun Shrimp and Atomic Orange by OPI (available at http://www.opi.com/); Clambake, One of a Kind, and Mini Shorts by Essie (available at http://www.essie.com/).

Girls Will Be Boys(?)

My fashion icon, Coco Chanel, once questioned, "I don't know why women want any of the things men have when one of the things that women have is men." I'm not one to disagree with Coco, and this may very well be true--but why not have our cake and eat it too? The truth is, when it comes to fashion, menswear is as good as ours.

The takeover began once upon a time, when high-power-business-women expanded their working wardrobe selection by adding the classic pants suit. Yawn. Thankfully, this is the dawning of a new era, when menswear can offer flair rather than utility. I give you: (drum roll please....) the necktie.

While perusing the J. Crew March catalog, I couldn't help but notice the blurring of gender in the pages of women's suiting. I was most impressed by the use of the necktie in place of the more traditional strand of pearls or scarf. I hate to draw a parallel to a hideous hairstyle faux pas, but the necktie is like the mullet of businesswear accessories; it's all business up front--yet simultaneously a subtle play on the flirty "school girl" image. And what girl doesn't have a special place in her heart for her days as a school girl? Isn't that why so many twenty-somethings tune in to Gossip Girl on Monday nights to follow the plights of Manhattan's young elite?

After careful consideration, I knew I had to put my theory to the test. My patient husband spent an hour sitting next to me on the couch as I struggled to master the single vs. the double windsor. As it turns out, I'm a single windsor sort of girl (I find that it lends itself to the "sloppy tie" look that I'm partial to).

Then for the maiden voyage: This morning, rather than wrapping my favorite Burberry scarf around my neck before heading out the door, I carefully added a skinny black tie to complete my look. The result? Interestingly, it was my male coworkers who seemed to notice the change. Perhaps my fashion-minded female peers took it in stride as an alternative accessory?

Either way, this school-girl-turned-business-woman is all about the necktie. And I can't help but think that the girls of Constance, particularly Serena van der Woodsen, would have to agree.

Photo credits: J. Crew March catalog layout/photo of Blake Lively from www.theinsider.com.

Wish List: Springtime & the Clothes to Match

First, let me set the record straight: I am a New England girl to the core. That said, will someone pretty please tell me when winter will finally end?! If you happen to live in the Northeast then you were likely pummeled with--yet another--unwelcome snowstorm yesterday. While the snowfall meant leaving the office early and curling up on the couch under a blanket to watch a good movie, it also meant shoveling out the car, arming myself against the elements with my shapeless but warm Northface parka, and clomping around in my trusty Uggs. Oh, goddess of the seasons, send spring via Fed-Ex and grant me some relief!

Knowing that Spring is sadly NOT around the corner (more like around the corner, down the street, and across the interstate), I have no choice but to seek the solace of the merciful runway, where spring trends come early. At the top of my wishlist? None other than the work of sophisticated fashion matriarch, Diane von Furstenberg, patroness of prints, colors, and flattering yet flirty cuts.

It is thanks to Miss Diane von Furstenberg herself that I find myself very much in love on a bitter cold and snowy Tuesday in March--in love, that is, with the DvF spring 2009 runway show---and most particularly with the Patchwork Palma Dress. The patchwork print reminds me of a watercolor palette, enhanced by the fluid fulness of the silky fabric.

As a side note, I find it refreshing to see variations from the itsy bitsy mini, which fit my near-6-foot frame more as a tunic than an actual dress. Fortunately for me and my fellow long-legged girls, long is back and better than ever. The DvF spring collection has several floor-length alternatives, though none surpass the Grecian goddess/high tea hybrid that is the the Patchwork Palma.

The Patchwork Palma and other DvF spring 2009 runway styles will be available mid-month, but you can pre-order now on the DvF website: http://www.dvf.com/. Unfortunately, for a girl on a budget (like myself), the pricetag is less ideal than the dress--which is why next on my wishlist is a knight in shining armor, DvF shopping bag in hand.

Adieu to that Dismal Bridal Mule

I am uneasy that bridal "fashion" dictates that I marry my beloved Anne Barge hybrid gown of French lace and Italian silk to the likes of this uninspiring monstrosity:

(Come to think of it, I actually think I have these shoes buried in the back of my closet from my eighth grade semi-formal, albeit dyed a god-awful electric magenta.)

I am in search of a perfect heeled accoutrement to my wedding gown and refuse to adhere to antiquated bridal traditions. So much effort is put into finding the perfect gown that it seems wrong to approach the shoes as a rushed afterthought. Fortunately, chic wedding blogs, Snippet & Ink and Style Me Pretty, regularly feature brides wearing unconventional and brightly colored shoes. Perhaps the traditional, ahem offensive, white bridal shoe is on its way to becoming a ghost of weddings past.

I am inspired by each of these shoes, I actually gasped aloud when I stumbled on the the pink petal Louboutins. Brides, I urge you to find that perfect burst of panache and color, and on your wedding day lift up your gown and relish your sheer sense of style and individuality. Also, the added bonus of wearing your fabulous investment on your first anniversary is too wonderful to pass up.

Top Row: JCrew, JCrew, Valentino, Christian Louboutin. Second Row: JCrew, Lily Pulitzer, Christian Louboutin, Emilio Pucci, Christian Louboutin

Thanks to the lovely Lolly for allowing me to grace her blog with my bridal bulletin.

Hunting, Fishing, and Après Ski Couture

After three hours in the car with nothing but my iPod and the company of my talking GPS, it's official: Toto, we're not in Boston anymore. For the next 24 hours, I have traded in my Boston bubble for a welcomed respite with my sister amidst the fresh air and forests of Maine.

It's true that New York, Paris, Milan, London, and other glamorous metropolises are home to both fashion and the fashionable, but if you have met the lovely ladies of Colby college then you know that fashion also winters in Maine. In fact, thanks to my Colby girls, I will find myself scanning the shelves of the drugstore for a particular shade of gray nailpolish while donning my new red plaid hunting hat.

In Catcher in the Rye, a novel near and dear to my post-angsty-adolescent heart, Holden spots his little sister, Phoebe, because "she had [his] crazy hunting hat on--you could see that hat about ten miles away." Since my own sister so fondly reminds me of Phoebe Caulfield, this Holden-esque fashion is somehow all too appropriate for me. It is also representative of Maine's fashion sensibilities: hunting, fishing, and après ski couture.

If you're skeptical, then allow me to paint a picture for you: shearling-lined Bean boots (unlaced) over black leggings, paired with a red pintuck plaid tunic, furry vest, and trapper hat. Now look me in the eye and tell me honestly that you're not imagining yourself wearing this rustic translation of the classic snowbunny. Yeah, that's what I thought.

Boots and hat by L.L. Bean. Vintage ski poster available at AllPosters.com.