The week in shopping
Clothingline has men’s and women’s Ben Sherman and Evisu for 60% off. Visit the website for previews. 2/14-2/17; 10-6, 10-7 Thurs.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
The excellent Mxyplyzyk is taking 20% off its stock of cool home accessories. 2/15-2/28; 11-7, noon-5 Sun.; 125 Greenwich Ave. (Horatio & Jane Sts.).
Reason to visit the Upper East Side: Shoe paradise Chuckies has Jimmy Choo, Alexander McQueen, Lanvin, and other tony brands are at least 65% off. A Valentine's day present indeed. 2/14-2/28; 10:45-7:45 Mon.-Thurs., 10:45-7:30 Fri.-Sat., 12:30-7 Sun.; 1073 3rd Ave. (at 63rd St.).
Bridal sale #1: Reva Mivasagar bridal gowns are up to 80% off. 2/17-2/20; noon-6 Mon., Fri., Sun., 11-6 Sat.; call 212-372-2804 for an appointment; 10 W. 18th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 4th fl.
Dosa does a feminine take on boho-chic in layerable silk; get slips for $60 and camis for $40 at this sale. Through 3/19; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 107 Thompson St. (Houston & Prince Sts.).
The excellent Broadway Panhandler is having its semiannual sale; select cookware and utencils are up to 60% off. 2/15-2/28; 11-7, 11-6 Sun.; 477 Broome St. (at Wooster St.).
Bridal sale #2: Fancy-schmancy Wedding Atelier has gowns from Carmela Sutera, Alvina Valenta and Richard Glasgow for $400 and up. 2/15-2/21; call 646-638-3263 for an appointment; 103 5th Avenue (at 18th St.), 2nd fl.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Fashion Week update
I will gladly say that I loved Grunge back in the '90s, I think because this was the fashion when I was coming of age, in high school, and I have so much nostalgia connected with it. And while it still might be too early for a full-on grunge revival, Marc Jacobs kind of brought it back--albeit in a more sophisticated, streamlined manner--on Monday night. And he's so good at it, I think he's getting to the point where he doesn't mind the G-word. Cathy Horyn certainly agrees, lavishing well-deserved praise upon him. Also, I really like legwarmers, so anytime they pop up, I'm happy. Good ol' CH also liked Alice Roi, as well as Narcisco Rodriguez, Michael Kors, and Marc by Marc Jacobs. Ms. Horyn seems unusually positive this season; is she in love, perhaps?
As always, I recommend Style.com for full slideshows and The Daily for gossip.
Also, there is a good chance I'll be going to an important show tomorrow (yes, I know, they're all important). Summary to come this weekend...
I will gladly say that I loved Grunge back in the '90s, I think because this was the fashion when I was coming of age, in high school, and I have so much nostalgia connected with it. And while it still might be too early for a full-on grunge revival, Marc Jacobs kind of brought it back--albeit in a more sophisticated, streamlined manner--on Monday night. And he's so good at it, I think he's getting to the point where he doesn't mind the G-word. Cathy Horyn certainly agrees, lavishing well-deserved praise upon him. Also, I really like legwarmers, so anytime they pop up, I'm happy. Good ol' CH also liked Alice Roi, as well as Narcisco Rodriguez, Michael Kors, and Marc by Marc Jacobs. Ms. Horyn seems unusually positive this season; is she in love, perhaps?
As always, I recommend Style.com for full slideshows and The Daily for gossip.
Also, there is a good chance I'll be going to an important show tomorrow (yes, I know, they're all important). Summary to come this weekend...
Project Runway recap
Based on Gay Uncle Nick's near-miss on last week's Project Runway, I was a bit nervous to watch this week's episode. And, um, with good reason, but more on that later. Daniel V. tactfully handled Andrae's model's tearful departure, then the designers found out their next, model-less challenge: to give each other makeovers. This was fine for Santino and Daniel V., as they had to make over Kara and Chloe, respectively, but challenging for the ladies (and Nick), as they all had to design menswear--Nick (who was making over Daniel V.) actually had experience doing this, but Kara (doing Santino) and Chloe (doing Nick) did not. The designers actually had two days to complete the challenge--a lot of time considering the past challenges--and other than Santino telling Kara what to do all the time, things seemed to be going pretty smoothly. Until the runway show, or, rather, right before, when Santino was gluing the sleeves into his still-unfinished jumpsuit for Kara. The judges obviously loved Chloe's vest-and-pant combo for Nick and Kara's neo-preppy look for Santino (who, amazingly, trimmed his beard and cut his hair)--again, highly ironic since neither Chloe nor Kara had ever designed menswear before. The designers pretty much hated Daniel V's very Dynasty-looking dress for Chloe (as Heidi so perfectly said, "We don't like what you did to Chloe"), but thankfully for him, he had immunity, so he was in. Chloe won the challenge (Nick looked so cute in her outfit!); it came down to Santino and Nick in the end, but since Nick sent Daniel V. down the runway in what was essentially a women's suit (and a poorly sewn one at that), he got the auf wiedersehen. And because I had already been crying last night, I cried a little more for Nick. But I'm hoping Project Runway is kind of like America's Next Top Model in that just because you don't win doesn't mean you don't have a good career.
Next week, it's down to four designers, and they have to create an evening gown for a celebrity of some sort. Expect major snippiness.
Based on Gay Uncle Nick's near-miss on last week's Project Runway, I was a bit nervous to watch this week's episode. And, um, with good reason, but more on that later. Daniel V. tactfully handled Andrae's model's tearful departure, then the designers found out their next, model-less challenge: to give each other makeovers. This was fine for Santino and Daniel V., as they had to make over Kara and Chloe, respectively, but challenging for the ladies (and Nick), as they all had to design menswear--Nick (who was making over Daniel V.) actually had experience doing this, but Kara (doing Santino) and Chloe (doing Nick) did not. The designers actually had two days to complete the challenge--a lot of time considering the past challenges--and other than Santino telling Kara what to do all the time, things seemed to be going pretty smoothly. Until the runway show, or, rather, right before, when Santino was gluing the sleeves into his still-unfinished jumpsuit for Kara. The judges obviously loved Chloe's vest-and-pant combo for Nick and Kara's neo-preppy look for Santino (who, amazingly, trimmed his beard and cut his hair)--again, highly ironic since neither Chloe nor Kara had ever designed menswear before. The designers pretty much hated Daniel V's very Dynasty-looking dress for Chloe (as Heidi so perfectly said, "We don't like what you did to Chloe"), but thankfully for him, he had immunity, so he was in. Chloe won the challenge (Nick looked so cute in her outfit!); it came down to Santino and Nick in the end, but since Nick sent Daniel V. down the runway in what was essentially a women's suit (and a poorly sewn one at that), he got the auf wiedersehen. And because I had already been crying last night, I cried a little more for Nick. But I'm hoping Project Runway is kind of like America's Next Top Model in that just because you don't win doesn't mean you don't have a good career.
Next week, it's down to four designers, and they have to create an evening gown for a celebrity of some sort. Expect major snippiness.
Website of the week
Obviously, it's New York Fashion Week, a.k.a. Olympus Fashion Week. And it's almost over. But so far this season (Fall 2006, for the record), there has been much ado about fashion bloggers. I admit I've been slacking a bit this week (I have a good excuse: real estate drama), but here and there I've been perusing these "trendsetting" (ironic quotation marks, mine) fashion blogs. Fashion Addict Diary, a blog I mentioned a few months ago because it was part of that whole New York Times roundup, has a lot of great info, but I'm really digging Viva Las Divas, a Vegas-based blog I discovered through the also-excellent I Am Fashion. Not only do the Divas have excellent behind-the-scenes coverage, but they have great runway analysis (with photos). It's not a Style.com replacement, but rather a refreshing supplement.
Obviously, it's New York Fashion Week, a.k.a. Olympus Fashion Week. And it's almost over. But so far this season (Fall 2006, for the record), there has been much ado about fashion bloggers. I admit I've been slacking a bit this week (I have a good excuse: real estate drama), but here and there I've been perusing these "trendsetting" (ironic quotation marks, mine) fashion blogs. Fashion Addict Diary, a blog I mentioned a few months ago because it was part of that whole New York Times roundup, has a lot of great info, but I'm really digging Viva Las Divas, a Vegas-based blog I discovered through the also-excellent I Am Fashion. Not only do the Divas have excellent behind-the-scenes coverage, but they have great runway analysis (with photos). It's not a Style.com replacement, but rather a refreshing supplement.
MasstigeWatch! a.k.a. the Luella update
On Tuesday, I received my pencil skirt and button tank from the Luella for Target collection. By Wednesday morning, both were en route back to Target, plus I cancelled the rest of my order (including the tulip skirt) which had yet to ship. I will say that the Luella stuff appears to be made much better than anything I've ever bought at Target, Isaac Mizrahi collecction included. However, I ordered up a size in the skirt, just to be sure, and still it was far tighter than I would've liked--aside from being extremely insulting, I don't think going up yet another size would've helped matters, due to the cut of the skirt. And the tank gave me monoboob--although, strangely enough, it was too big in the shoulders and waist. I suppose this is the problem when clothes are sized by juniors sizes, but still. When it comes to fashion, Target is no H&M.
On Tuesday, I received my pencil skirt and button tank from the Luella for Target collection. By Wednesday morning, both were en route back to Target, plus I cancelled the rest of my order (including the tulip skirt) which had yet to ship. I will say that the Luella stuff appears to be made much better than anything I've ever bought at Target, Isaac Mizrahi collecction included. However, I ordered up a size in the skirt, just to be sure, and still it was far tighter than I would've liked--aside from being extremely insulting, I don't think going up yet another size would've helped matters, due to the cut of the skirt. And the tank gave me monoboob--although, strangely enough, it was too big in the shoulders and waist. I suppose this is the problem when clothes are sized by juniors sizes, but still. When it comes to fashion, Target is no H&M.
Cheryl Shops...independent designers
Even though I'm trying not to spend any money, I agreed to accompany HG and BO to Nolita on Saturday for a two-part shopping mission. The first part was to check out The Market NYC, a nifty little market held every Saturday and Sunday in a Catholic school gymnasium. The way it works is that designers pay a nominal fee to use the space, then shoppers like me come in and buy their stuff--which, based on Saturday's selection, was everything from semiprecious jewelry to vintage clothing to screen-printed T-shirts to super-potent chocolate (that was my only purchase, for $5). I was, overall, really impressed with the selection (many of the vendors are cash-only, but a lot take credit cards too), especially the jewelry. I saw a lot of pretty, delicate chains, as well as oversized, chunky stones and a lot of circles (I managed not to buy a gorgeous long gold chain with huge scattered circles--very Mod, but a bit much for me at $120). We did a lot of price-point investigation, because HG makes these really pretty bracelets made of crocheted sterling silver thread and Swarovski crystals (we saw several vendors with similar stuff, but none as cool as HG's); we decided The Market NYC definitely looks like a good venue, so I'll let you know when HG schedules her first appearance.
Part two of our mission was to check out EMC2, Project Runway designer Emmett McCarthy's store on Elizabeth Street. I wasn't expeciting at all, but we walked in and there was Emmett! (For the record, he is very tall and very nice.) The store is a bit sparse, but he's got some funky accessories and a pretty lace slipdress for sale. He overheard us talking about where to find a budget bridal dress for BO and her upcoming nuptials, and rattled off a bunch of suggestions for where to go. Also, he has an adorable black chihuahua. We left technically empty-handed, but our Project Runway fixes were satiated, and now BO has a list of cool stores to check out in her search for The Dress.
Even though I'm trying not to spend any money, I agreed to accompany HG and BO to Nolita on Saturday for a two-part shopping mission. The first part was to check out The Market NYC, a nifty little market held every Saturday and Sunday in a Catholic school gymnasium. The way it works is that designers pay a nominal fee to use the space, then shoppers like me come in and buy their stuff--which, based on Saturday's selection, was everything from semiprecious jewelry to vintage clothing to screen-printed T-shirts to super-potent chocolate (that was my only purchase, for $5). I was, overall, really impressed with the selection (many of the vendors are cash-only, but a lot take credit cards too), especially the jewelry. I saw a lot of pretty, delicate chains, as well as oversized, chunky stones and a lot of circles (I managed not to buy a gorgeous long gold chain with huge scattered circles--very Mod, but a bit much for me at $120). We did a lot of price-point investigation, because HG makes these really pretty bracelets made of crocheted sterling silver thread and Swarovski crystals (we saw several vendors with similar stuff, but none as cool as HG's); we decided The Market NYC definitely looks like a good venue, so I'll let you know when HG schedules her first appearance.
Part two of our mission was to check out EMC2, Project Runway designer Emmett McCarthy's store on Elizabeth Street. I wasn't expeciting at all, but we walked in and there was Emmett! (For the record, he is very tall and very nice.) The store is a bit sparse, but he's got some funky accessories and a pretty lace slipdress for sale. He overheard us talking about where to find a budget bridal dress for BO and her upcoming nuptials, and rattled off a bunch of suggestions for where to go. Also, he has an adorable black chihuahua. We left technically empty-handed, but our Project Runway fixes were satiated, and now BO has a list of cool stores to check out in her search for The Dress.
Monday, February 06, 2006
The week in shopping
The fabulous Find Outlet has merch from LaRok, Adam + Eve, Salt Works, and more for super-cheap. 2/9-2/12; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
Hit Showroom Seven's sale for a super-hip selection of clothes and accessories from Orla Kiely, Erickson Beamon, and Imitation of Christ (yes, including Tara Subkoff for Easy Sprirt shoes). Through 2/10; 10-7, closed Sun.; 498 7th Ave. (36th & 37th Sts.), 24th fl.
If you've got a car, schlep up to the ABC Carpet & Home Bronx outlet for floor samples, lighting, rugs, and more at up to 75% off. 2/9-2/20; 10-7, 11-6 Sun.; 1055 Bronx River Ave. (at Bruckner Expressway), Bronx.
Inspired by Alex Kuczynski's Times article? Hit Bra Smyth for (well-fitted) bras by Le Mystère, Chantelle, Hanro, and more for 60% off. Through 2/28; 10-6:30, closed Sun.; 905 Madison Ave. (at 72nd St.).
Score True Religion, Mint, Rebecca Taylor, and more for up to 80% off at Big Drop's warehouse sale. Through 2/12; 11-8, noon-7 Sun.; 1321 3rd Ave. (at 75th St.).
Home furnishings from the excellent Aero are up to 75% off. 2/10-2/28; 11-6, closed Sun.; 419 Broome St. (at Crosby St.).
Upper East Side haven Cantaloup has Sass & Bide, LaRok, Pegah Anvarian, and other trendy labels on sale for up to 70% off--at both locations. Through 2/14; 11-8 Mon.-Thurs., 11-7 Fri.-Sun.; 1036 Lexington Ave. (at 74th St.), 1359 2nd Ave. (at 71st St.).
It's the final two days of Bluefly's Blue Sale; save an additional 15% through 2/7.
Advance warning: The next Billion Dollar Babes sale is less than two weeks away; visit the website to RSVP. 2/18; 8-6; the Altman Building, 135 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
The fabulous Find Outlet has merch from LaRok, Adam + Eve, Salt Works, and more for super-cheap. 2/9-2/12; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
Hit Showroom Seven's sale for a super-hip selection of clothes and accessories from Orla Kiely, Erickson Beamon, and Imitation of Christ (yes, including Tara Subkoff for Easy Sprirt shoes). Through 2/10; 10-7, closed Sun.; 498 7th Ave. (36th & 37th Sts.), 24th fl.
If you've got a car, schlep up to the ABC Carpet & Home Bronx outlet for floor samples, lighting, rugs, and more at up to 75% off. 2/9-2/20; 10-7, 11-6 Sun.; 1055 Bronx River Ave. (at Bruckner Expressway), Bronx.
Inspired by Alex Kuczynski's Times article? Hit Bra Smyth for (well-fitted) bras by Le Mystère, Chantelle, Hanro, and more for 60% off. Through 2/28; 10-6:30, closed Sun.; 905 Madison Ave. (at 72nd St.).
Score True Religion, Mint, Rebecca Taylor, and more for up to 80% off at Big Drop's warehouse sale. Through 2/12; 11-8, noon-7 Sun.; 1321 3rd Ave. (at 75th St.).
Home furnishings from the excellent Aero are up to 75% off. 2/10-2/28; 11-6, closed Sun.; 419 Broome St. (at Crosby St.).
Upper East Side haven Cantaloup has Sass & Bide, LaRok, Pegah Anvarian, and other trendy labels on sale for up to 70% off--at both locations. Through 2/14; 11-8 Mon.-Thurs., 11-7 Fri.-Sun.; 1036 Lexington Ave. (at 74th St.), 1359 2nd Ave. (at 71st St.).
It's the final two days of Bluefly's Blue Sale; save an additional 15% through 2/7.
Advance warning: The next Billion Dollar Babes sale is less than two weeks away; visit the website to RSVP. 2/18; 8-6; the Altman Building, 135 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Object of desire
Clearly I've been a little jewelry-obsessed lately. I have no explanation for this, other than I'm in a jewelry phase (sometimes it's a shoe phase, sometimes it's a scarf phase, and so on). So when I got an email announcing Dior's spring jewelry collection, I knew I was in trouble. I've always admired Victoire de Castellane's designs for Dior Joaillerie (the fancy stuff gets the fancy name), and for spring, she's really outdone herself with one piece in particular. Click here, then click on United States, then Collection, then Oui. I am so in love with the Oui ring. For those who are impatient or have funky browsers, the oui ring is the word "oui" written in cursive with a diamond dotting the "i". I don't know why I love this ring so much, but I do. There is no price listed, which scares me, and I can't seem to find it anywhere online. It's not even availabe at eLuxury, although they do have the Mimioui ring, which is a mere $340. (Is it wrong that I feel like this is a bargain?) So if anyone out there is feeling generous, my birthday is just a month away, and I wear a size 7.5 in rings. Oui indeed.
Clearly I've been a little jewelry-obsessed lately. I have no explanation for this, other than I'm in a jewelry phase (sometimes it's a shoe phase, sometimes it's a scarf phase, and so on). So when I got an email announcing Dior's spring jewelry collection, I knew I was in trouble. I've always admired Victoire de Castellane's designs for Dior Joaillerie (the fancy stuff gets the fancy name), and for spring, she's really outdone herself with one piece in particular. Click here, then click on United States, then Collection, then Oui. I am so in love with the Oui ring. For those who are impatient or have funky browsers, the oui ring is the word "oui" written in cursive with a diamond dotting the "i". I don't know why I love this ring so much, but I do. There is no price listed, which scares me, and I can't seem to find it anywhere online. It's not even availabe at eLuxury, although they do have the Mimioui ring, which is a mere $340. (Is it wrong that I feel like this is a bargain?) So if anyone out there is feeling generous, my birthday is just a month away, and I wear a size 7.5 in rings. Oui indeed.
Project Runway recap
Episodes like this week's Project Runway are what make me love the show. After schmoopy goodbyes between Gay Uncle Nick and his former model (who had to leave since Zuleema got kicked off last week), Heidi informed the designers they'd be designing dresses for a garden party...a deceptively simple-sounding challenge. Good ol' Tim Gunn informed them the next morning, after a short trip to the flower district, that they'd be making said garden party dresses out of organic materials, i.e. plants. So after the designers freaked out for a few minutes, they got to work selecting materials. Clearly a lot of them had seen last season's corn husk dress designed by Austin Scarlett, because they were all worried about potential wilting, and most went with green leaves and plants, rather than flowers (more on that later). As the designers got to work--with six contestants left, the competition is getting rather intense--Santino redeemed himself (to me, at least) with a hilarious impersonation of Tim Gunn, extended to a story in which he and Andrae take a trip to Red Lobster (which is right around the corner from Parsons) for dinner. And, shock of shocks, Santino actually blushed when Tim caught him in the act--so Santino is human after all! Aside from Chloe's frantic last-minute leaf-gluing, there was very little drama in this episode, which was kind of nice for a change. I think all the designers really kicked ass on this challenge...as semi-trashy as Gay Uncle Nick's dress and as boring as Andrae's dress were, you can't help but be impressed by everything. Even Kara pulled out all the stops with hers, and were it not for the judges' obvious infatuation with Daniel V., I think she was thisclose to winning the challenge (although Chloe's dress was gorgeous also). I was very underwhelmed by Santino's design; I think he does the best with the least amount of direction, which doesn't necessarily bode well for him in the future. For once I agreed with Nina Garcia, who was disappointed in the lack of color, aside from green. But Daniel V.'s dress was totally gorgeous (and one that used probably the most color) and did deserve to win. Now with four wins under his belt, Daniel V. is quickly becoming this season's Kara Saun. It came down to Nick's kinda-trashy dress and Andrae's kinda-boring frock in the end, and even though I loved his gutter-inspired creation from last week, I kind of understand why Andrae was the one to go this week--he was kind of inconsistent. I'm a little worried for Nick; he needs to step it up big time, especially since Daniel V. has immunity next week (well, not that Daniel V. is really in danger at this point). C'mon, Gay Uncle Nick!
Next week, the designers give each other makeovers. Expect much tension to ensue.
Episodes like this week's Project Runway are what make me love the show. After schmoopy goodbyes between Gay Uncle Nick and his former model (who had to leave since Zuleema got kicked off last week), Heidi informed the designers they'd be designing dresses for a garden party...a deceptively simple-sounding challenge. Good ol' Tim Gunn informed them the next morning, after a short trip to the flower district, that they'd be making said garden party dresses out of organic materials, i.e. plants. So after the designers freaked out for a few minutes, they got to work selecting materials. Clearly a lot of them had seen last season's corn husk dress designed by Austin Scarlett, because they were all worried about potential wilting, and most went with green leaves and plants, rather than flowers (more on that later). As the designers got to work--with six contestants left, the competition is getting rather intense--Santino redeemed himself (to me, at least) with a hilarious impersonation of Tim Gunn, extended to a story in which he and Andrae take a trip to Red Lobster (which is right around the corner from Parsons) for dinner. And, shock of shocks, Santino actually blushed when Tim caught him in the act--so Santino is human after all! Aside from Chloe's frantic last-minute leaf-gluing, there was very little drama in this episode, which was kind of nice for a change. I think all the designers really kicked ass on this challenge...as semi-trashy as Gay Uncle Nick's dress and as boring as Andrae's dress were, you can't help but be impressed by everything. Even Kara pulled out all the stops with hers, and were it not for the judges' obvious infatuation with Daniel V., I think she was thisclose to winning the challenge (although Chloe's dress was gorgeous also). I was very underwhelmed by Santino's design; I think he does the best with the least amount of direction, which doesn't necessarily bode well for him in the future. For once I agreed with Nina Garcia, who was disappointed in the lack of color, aside from green. But Daniel V.'s dress was totally gorgeous (and one that used probably the most color) and did deserve to win. Now with four wins under his belt, Daniel V. is quickly becoming this season's Kara Saun. It came down to Nick's kinda-trashy dress and Andrae's kinda-boring frock in the end, and even though I loved his gutter-inspired creation from last week, I kind of understand why Andrae was the one to go this week--he was kind of inconsistent. I'm a little worried for Nick; he needs to step it up big time, especially since Daniel V. has immunity next week (well, not that Daniel V. is really in danger at this point). C'mon, Gay Uncle Nick!
Next week, the designers give each other makeovers. Expect much tension to ensue.
Website of the week
I often list sales at Miami-based store/website Daszign, which, as much as I make fun of the awkwardly spelled name, is a great source for jeans by Seven, Citizens of Humanity, and the like, plus cute tops by C&C California, Splendid, and more. And while I love their selection of basics, the site is sorely lacking in accessories. So I was happy to get an email from them announcing the arrival of their sister site, StylePatch.com. StylePatch is all about the accessories--jewelry, specifically--and the prices are, refreshingly, considerably lower than Daszign's, even though the merchandise is just as trendy. You can shop by category--necklaces, charm necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and hair accessories. You can also check out the best sellers, or just search for what you're looking for. Browsing, of course, is the most fun, I think, especially since the jewelry is trendy but not fleetingly so. I love this Fiona necklace, which also has matching earrings. Chunky beaded necklaces are also well represented, but I kinda dig this Sienna Miller-esque Mercedes necklace and this pretty-funky Madison necklace. I like this shiny Zoie bracelet and the equally shiny Ava earrings. So not only is all this stuff affordable, but for the next week, you can save 20% on your order by using the code STYLEPATCH through 2/10. For orders under $75, shipping is $3.99, and it's free for orders over $75. So while I'm a fan of the pricey jewelry, some of my favorite pieces are cheapies (my favorite earrings in the world were $4.99 at Target); I have a feeling I'll find a lot of great pieces at StylePatch to add to my collection.
I often list sales at Miami-based store/website Daszign, which, as much as I make fun of the awkwardly spelled name, is a great source for jeans by Seven, Citizens of Humanity, and the like, plus cute tops by C&C California, Splendid, and more. And while I love their selection of basics, the site is sorely lacking in accessories. So I was happy to get an email from them announcing the arrival of their sister site, StylePatch.com. StylePatch is all about the accessories--jewelry, specifically--and the prices are, refreshingly, considerably lower than Daszign's, even though the merchandise is just as trendy. You can shop by category--necklaces, charm necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and hair accessories. You can also check out the best sellers, or just search for what you're looking for. Browsing, of course, is the most fun, I think, especially since the jewelry is trendy but not fleetingly so. I love this Fiona necklace, which also has matching earrings. Chunky beaded necklaces are also well represented, but I kinda dig this Sienna Miller-esque Mercedes necklace and this pretty-funky Madison necklace. I like this shiny Zoie bracelet and the equally shiny Ava earrings. So not only is all this stuff affordable, but for the next week, you can save 20% on your order by using the code STYLEPATCH through 2/10. For orders under $75, shipping is $3.99, and it's free for orders over $75. So while I'm a fan of the pricey jewelry, some of my favorite pieces are cheapies (my favorite earrings in the world were $4.99 at Target); I have a feeling I'll find a lot of great pieces at StylePatch to add to my collection.
Monday, January 30, 2006
MasstigeWatch!
Lo and behold, the Go International: Luella Bartley collection is quietly up and running at Target.com. The whole thing is very cute indeed, and I'm ordering the tulip skirt, the pencil skirt, the button tank, the beaded necklace, and the cuff bracelet. And let me just say how happy I am that the collection is available online.
Also, last week, Everlast announced a collaboration with stretch-jersey maestro Norma Kamali; the collection will be available this spring in department stores. In the meantime, hit Spiegel for the Norma Kamali Timeless collection, a series of, yes, stretch jersey pieces--some convertible, some just plan ol' separates. Count me in for the convertible tie-waist skirt, a bargain at $89, especially because it can be worn in a million different ways. Finally, I'm getting down with this whole '80s revival.
Lo and behold, the Go International: Luella Bartley collection is quietly up and running at Target.com. The whole thing is very cute indeed, and I'm ordering the tulip skirt, the pencil skirt, the button tank, the beaded necklace, and the cuff bracelet. And let me just say how happy I am that the collection is available online.
Also, last week, Everlast announced a collaboration with stretch-jersey maestro Norma Kamali; the collection will be available this spring in department stores. In the meantime, hit Spiegel for the Norma Kamali Timeless collection, a series of, yes, stretch jersey pieces--some convertible, some just plan ol' separates. Count me in for the convertible tie-waist skirt, a bargain at $89, especially because it can be worn in a million different ways. Finally, I'm getting down with this whole '80s revival.
The (tax-free) week in shopping
Designer consignment wonderland INA has gently used clothing and accessories for men and women for up to 70% off (think Marni, Balenciaga, and other hot labels). 2/2-2/5; check website for store locations and hours.
For lazy vintage shoppers like me, the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show is perfect--access to 80 vintage vendors, all in one place! Go to the website and print out the coupon to save $5 on the $20 admission fee. 2/3-2/4; 1-8 Fri., 11-6 Sat.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Bluefly's clearance store in Soho is back, and it opens for a preview on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. The email promises Marc Jacobs bags, Jimmy Choo shoes, and Prada sunglasses. I'm there. 2/2-2/4; 4-8 Thurs., 2-7 Fri., noon-6 Sat.; 72 Greene St. (Spring & Broome Sts.).
LES mainstay Johnson has girly tees, skirts and more for $25 and up at this cash-only sample sale. 2/4-2/5; noon-6; 177 Orchard St. (Houston & Stanton Sts.).
Men's and women's clothing by Ted Baker London are $50 and up. Through 2/5; 11:30-7, noon-6 Sun.; 107 Grand St. (at Mercer St.).
For the Goth bride in your life, bridal dresses and assorted eveningwear from Morgan Le Fay are 75%-80% off. 2/2-2/6; 11-8; 67 Wooster St. (at Spring St.).
Wacky Beverly Feldman shoes are 75% off at her annual Super Bowl Sunday sale. 2/5; noon-6; 7 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Select items are 50% off at Pleats Please Issey Miyake. 2/1-2/12; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 128 Wooster St. (at Prince St.).
They're ba-ack! Click here for coupons for Lord & Taylor's winter sale & clearance.
Macy's semiannual Home Sale is now in effect; get free shipping on a $125 purchase when you enter code HOMEFREE at checkout.
This week, Clothingline has Philipe Adec, plus outerwear & more. Through 2/2; 10-6; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Replenish your lingerie supply just in time for Valentine's Day at Victoria's Secret: Take $15 off a $100 order, $30 off a $150 order, or $75 off a $250 order when you enter code VDAY at checkout through 2/14.
Designer consignment wonderland INA has gently used clothing and accessories for men and women for up to 70% off (think Marni, Balenciaga, and other hot labels). 2/2-2/5; check website for store locations and hours.
For lazy vintage shoppers like me, the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show is perfect--access to 80 vintage vendors, all in one place! Go to the website and print out the coupon to save $5 on the $20 admission fee. 2/3-2/4; 1-8 Fri., 11-6 Sat.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Bluefly's clearance store in Soho is back, and it opens for a preview on Thursday from 4-8 p.m. The email promises Marc Jacobs bags, Jimmy Choo shoes, and Prada sunglasses. I'm there. 2/2-2/4; 4-8 Thurs., 2-7 Fri., noon-6 Sat.; 72 Greene St. (Spring & Broome Sts.).
LES mainstay Johnson has girly tees, skirts and more for $25 and up at this cash-only sample sale. 2/4-2/5; noon-6; 177 Orchard St. (Houston & Stanton Sts.).
Men's and women's clothing by Ted Baker London are $50 and up. Through 2/5; 11:30-7, noon-6 Sun.; 107 Grand St. (at Mercer St.).
For the Goth bride in your life, bridal dresses and assorted eveningwear from Morgan Le Fay are 75%-80% off. 2/2-2/6; 11-8; 67 Wooster St. (at Spring St.).
Wacky Beverly Feldman shoes are 75% off at her annual Super Bowl Sunday sale. 2/5; noon-6; 7 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Select items are 50% off at Pleats Please Issey Miyake. 2/1-2/12; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 128 Wooster St. (at Prince St.).
They're ba-ack! Click here for coupons for Lord & Taylor's winter sale & clearance.
Macy's semiannual Home Sale is now in effect; get free shipping on a $125 purchase when you enter code HOMEFREE at checkout.
This week, Clothingline has Philipe Adec, plus outerwear & more. Through 2/2; 10-6; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Replenish your lingerie supply just in time for Valentine's Day at Victoria's Secret: Take $15 off a $100 order, $30 off a $150 order, or $75 off a $250 order when you enter code VDAY at checkout through 2/14.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Project Runway recap
So far this season of Project Runway, I've thought the whole model bit was dumb--you know, when they ask last week's winner whether he/she wants to keep his/her model, and the designer inevitably says yes. Not so this week, with Zulema--she not only challenged three models to a walkoff, but then took Gay Uncle Nick's model (and muse), sticking Nick with her former model, whom even Tim Gunn referred to as "marshmallow-like." Yeow. Poor Nick was on the verge of a nervous breakdown, and I thought it was curtains for him as he tearfully complained to the camera and moped around. The designers paid a visit to Michael Kors' studio, where he showed them his inspiration for his spring collection, then gave them all Olympus digital cameras (sponsor alert!). The designers were given an hour to go around Manhattan and take photos of interesting things that inspired them; it was interesting to see what that was, as crazy Santino snapped pictures of pretty much everything, whereas Chloe was inspired by architecture and Kara by...construction signs. Right. (Poor Nick was so down, he was barely taking pictures of anything.) After deciding on their most inspiring photo, the designers had to sketch and create a garment based on that photo. But before they got to work, Tim Gunn gave them all a tough love speech, in which he pointed out to each designer the area in which they need to "make it work." And I decided Tim Gunn would make the best Dad ever. At this point, Daniel V., who so far has not shown much of a personality at all, gave Nick an incredible pep talk that not only kicked Nick's ass back into gear but made me want to hug Daniel V. And he is a true competitor, because his runway look was incredibly sophisticated (granted, it would not be flattering on 90% of the women in this world, but it was very couture, and the judges love that sort of thing). Our dear Jay (season one's winner) made an appearance as a guest judge, and while there was a bit much of "Last season this" and "Last season that," he was very honest and unpretentious, which was nice after weeks of Michael Kors' bitchiness and Nina Garcia's...well, bitchiness. Anyway, Jay clearly liked Andrae's gutter-inspired silver gown (as did I--I loved that he made something so gorgeous based on something so ugly), but Daniel's orchid-inspired outfit won out in the end. Chloe's dress was very Chloe; Santino's amusingly looked like something Austin Scarlett did last season (as Jay helpfully pointed out); and Nick's was pretty but uninspired (hey, he lost his muse, so give him a break!). It came down to Kara's very literal caution-tape dress (which looked like something you'd buy in a Rave store circa 1988) and Zulema's shapeless, apparently unfinished schmatte, but, as we all know, Karma's a bitch, so model-stealer Zulema got kicked out. And I approve fully, because, honestly, I think everything she's designed thus far has been kind of butt ugly.
Next week, I have a feeling Nick and his lovely muse will be reunited, plus the designers take yet another field trip...
So far this season of Project Runway, I've thought the whole model bit was dumb--you know, when they ask last week's winner whether he/she wants to keep his/her model, and the designer inevitably says yes. Not so this week, with Zulema--she not only challenged three models to a walkoff, but then took Gay Uncle Nick's model (and muse), sticking Nick with her former model, whom even Tim Gunn referred to as "marshmallow-like." Yeow. Poor Nick was on the verge of a nervous breakdown, and I thought it was curtains for him as he tearfully complained to the camera and moped around. The designers paid a visit to Michael Kors' studio, where he showed them his inspiration for his spring collection, then gave them all Olympus digital cameras (sponsor alert!). The designers were given an hour to go around Manhattan and take photos of interesting things that inspired them; it was interesting to see what that was, as crazy Santino snapped pictures of pretty much everything, whereas Chloe was inspired by architecture and Kara by...construction signs. Right. (Poor Nick was so down, he was barely taking pictures of anything.) After deciding on their most inspiring photo, the designers had to sketch and create a garment based on that photo. But before they got to work, Tim Gunn gave them all a tough love speech, in which he pointed out to each designer the area in which they need to "make it work." And I decided Tim Gunn would make the best Dad ever. At this point, Daniel V., who so far has not shown much of a personality at all, gave Nick an incredible pep talk that not only kicked Nick's ass back into gear but made me want to hug Daniel V. And he is a true competitor, because his runway look was incredibly sophisticated (granted, it would not be flattering on 90% of the women in this world, but it was very couture, and the judges love that sort of thing). Our dear Jay (season one's winner) made an appearance as a guest judge, and while there was a bit much of "Last season this" and "Last season that," he was very honest and unpretentious, which was nice after weeks of Michael Kors' bitchiness and Nina Garcia's...well, bitchiness. Anyway, Jay clearly liked Andrae's gutter-inspired silver gown (as did I--I loved that he made something so gorgeous based on something so ugly), but Daniel's orchid-inspired outfit won out in the end. Chloe's dress was very Chloe; Santino's amusingly looked like something Austin Scarlett did last season (as Jay helpfully pointed out); and Nick's was pretty but uninspired (hey, he lost his muse, so give him a break!). It came down to Kara's very literal caution-tape dress (which looked like something you'd buy in a Rave store circa 1988) and Zulema's shapeless, apparently unfinished schmatte, but, as we all know, Karma's a bitch, so model-stealer Zulema got kicked out. And I approve fully, because, honestly, I think everything she's designed thus far has been kind of butt ugly.
Next week, I have a feeling Nick and his lovely muse will be reunited, plus the designers take yet another field trip...
Website of the week
I think we can safely say that Goth is here to stay--at least for another season. Case in point: Lindsay Lohan was on the cover of US Weekly wearing an Alexander McQueen skull scarf; earlier this week I read on Gawker that she was spotted "looking Goth" at the Sunday-night party at the Maritime Hotel. Now, I by no means think LL is a fashion icon (despite their night together at Scores, LL is no Kate Moss), but she's a client of Rachel Zoe, one of the most influential stylists in Hollywood. And if the kids start wearing something after the starlets have been wearing it, well, then we have a full-blown trend. So, if you want to dabble in Goth without going whole hog, I suggest adding some Goth accessories to your outfit. McQueen's skull scarf is a good place to start, but I think jewelry is a good way to go too. I've always been a fan of Goth jewelry--I love the ridiculously pricey Chrome Hearts, as well as Cher's favorite (that's Cher the singer/actress, not me, nor Alicia Silverstone's character in Clueless) Loree Rodkin. So a new addition to that whole genre is Exhibitionist NYC, a Lower East Side-based store and showroom. The site is simply organized by collection, which I think is a good starting point. Some of the items are missing prices, but I'm sure if you call or email the store, they can help you out. The Spirito Signature collection is quite pricey--most of the baubles are four figures, but they're also totally gorgeous (and made from precious stones). I'm a big jewelry girl, so I love the Cocktail Couture collection, filled with oversized gems (like this lovely Topaz cocktail ring). The hardcore Goth stuff can be found in the Memento Mori collections, as well as the Crown Jewels and Religion sections. The most traditional look would be this skull pendant or, for the man in your life, these kickass skull cufflinks. There's great stuff in the Charming section too: I love the look of wearing a ton of necklaces at once, for example. You can also shop from a section of items currently featured in magazines (it doesn't tell you, however, what was in which magazine); I don't know who featured these pretty star pendants, but they're so cute, who cares? Now, if I weren't facing a huge expense in the near future (i.e. moving), I think I might treat myself to something. Here's my short list: this aquamarine tiered necklace features my birthstone; I think these cognac citrine and sapphire earrings are gorgeous, but they might be a bit heavy for my tiny, detached earlobes; I like this skull and crossbones necklace because it's an interesting, fresh take on the whole skull trend, plus it's on the affordable side; I love this beautiful three-strand pearl and lion necklace, which has that layered look without having to buy three separate necklaces; and I love the simple, innocent look of this angel wing charm. So while Goth fashion might be a fleeting trend, I think Goth jewelry is a smart investment--well, just like any piece of jewelry. Diamonds--or rubies, or emeralds, or aquamarines--are, after all, a girl's best friend.
I think we can safely say that Goth is here to stay--at least for another season. Case in point: Lindsay Lohan was on the cover of US Weekly wearing an Alexander McQueen skull scarf; earlier this week I read on Gawker that she was spotted "looking Goth" at the Sunday-night party at the Maritime Hotel. Now, I by no means think LL is a fashion icon (despite their night together at Scores, LL is no Kate Moss), but she's a client of Rachel Zoe, one of the most influential stylists in Hollywood. And if the kids start wearing something after the starlets have been wearing it, well, then we have a full-blown trend. So, if you want to dabble in Goth without going whole hog, I suggest adding some Goth accessories to your outfit. McQueen's skull scarf is a good place to start, but I think jewelry is a good way to go too. I've always been a fan of Goth jewelry--I love the ridiculously pricey Chrome Hearts, as well as Cher's favorite (that's Cher the singer/actress, not me, nor Alicia Silverstone's character in Clueless) Loree Rodkin. So a new addition to that whole genre is Exhibitionist NYC, a Lower East Side-based store and showroom. The site is simply organized by collection, which I think is a good starting point. Some of the items are missing prices, but I'm sure if you call or email the store, they can help you out. The Spirito Signature collection is quite pricey--most of the baubles are four figures, but they're also totally gorgeous (and made from precious stones). I'm a big jewelry girl, so I love the Cocktail Couture collection, filled with oversized gems (like this lovely Topaz cocktail ring). The hardcore Goth stuff can be found in the Memento Mori collections, as well as the Crown Jewels and Religion sections. The most traditional look would be this skull pendant or, for the man in your life, these kickass skull cufflinks. There's great stuff in the Charming section too: I love the look of wearing a ton of necklaces at once, for example. You can also shop from a section of items currently featured in magazines (it doesn't tell you, however, what was in which magazine); I don't know who featured these pretty star pendants, but they're so cute, who cares? Now, if I weren't facing a huge expense in the near future (i.e. moving), I think I might treat myself to something. Here's my short list: this aquamarine tiered necklace features my birthstone; I think these cognac citrine and sapphire earrings are gorgeous, but they might be a bit heavy for my tiny, detached earlobes; I like this skull and crossbones necklace because it's an interesting, fresh take on the whole skull trend, plus it's on the affordable side; I love this beautiful three-strand pearl and lion necklace, which has that layered look without having to buy three separate necklaces; and I love the simple, innocent look of this angel wing charm. So while Goth fashion might be a fleeting trend, I think Goth jewelry is a smart investment--well, just like any piece of jewelry. Diamonds--or rubies, or emeralds, or aquamarines--are, after all, a girl's best friend.
The (half)week in shopping
From the "it almost sounds too good to be true" department, Big Drop's warehouse sale has
Citizens of Humanity, True Religion, Mint, Rebecca Taylor and more for up to 80% off. Through 2/12; 11-8, noon-7 Sun.; 1321 3rd Ave. (at 75th St.).
The drool-worthy Catriona MacKechnie has fancy-schmancy lingerie from Dolce & Gabbana, Khurana, and more for up to 80% off. Take the 34Ds and die, bitches! 1/25-1/28; 11-7:30, noon-6 Sun.; 400 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Valentine's Day is around the corner...so treat yourself to a pretty piece of jewelry by Catherine Angell. Her Victorian-inspired semiprecious baubles are up to 50% off. Through 1/30; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 43 Greenwich Ave. (W. 10th & Charles Sts.).
Get 20% off everything--sale and regular-price merchandise included--during the excellent Girlshop's Me Spree, through 1/29.
Save 50% (or more) at PB Teen's bedding sale.
Get a free LipFusion Color Shine sample with any order at Sephora when you enter code KISSME2006 at checkout (while supplies last).
Save up to 30% at La Redoute's spring preview sale (sadly, there are no new designer studio items--yet).
Save 20% at Bloomingdale's when you enter code TREAT at checkout through 1/28.
Click here to check out DVF's vintage collection online trunk show at Saks.com. Plus enter code VDAYFS for free shipping through 2/6.
Save 15% at Bluefly when you enter code MISSEDYOU497 at checkout through 2/4.
From the "it almost sounds too good to be true" department, Big Drop's warehouse sale has
Citizens of Humanity, True Religion, Mint, Rebecca Taylor and more for up to 80% off. Through 2/12; 11-8, noon-7 Sun.; 1321 3rd Ave. (at 75th St.).
The drool-worthy Catriona MacKechnie has fancy-schmancy lingerie from Dolce & Gabbana, Khurana, and more for up to 80% off. Take the 34Ds and die, bitches! 1/25-1/28; 11-7:30, noon-6 Sun.; 400 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
Valentine's Day is around the corner...so treat yourself to a pretty piece of jewelry by Catherine Angell. Her Victorian-inspired semiprecious baubles are up to 50% off. Through 1/30; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 43 Greenwich Ave. (W. 10th & Charles Sts.).
Get 20% off everything--sale and regular-price merchandise included--during the excellent Girlshop's Me Spree, through 1/29.
Save 50% (or more) at PB Teen's bedding sale.
Get a free LipFusion Color Shine sample with any order at Sephora when you enter code KISSME2006 at checkout (while supplies last).
Save up to 30% at La Redoute's spring preview sale (sadly, there are no new designer studio items--yet).
Save 20% at Bloomingdale's when you enter code TREAT at checkout through 1/28.
Click here to check out DVF's vintage collection online trunk show at Saks.com. Plus enter code VDAYFS for free shipping through 2/6.
Save 15% at Bluefly when you enter code MISSEDYOU497 at checkout through 2/4.
Thursday, January 19, 2006
MasstigeWatch!
Some Cheryl Shops readers left comments asking about the Stella McCartney tennis collection and the Luella Bartley for Target collections and when they'll be hitting stores. Stella's tennis collection is due in Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, and (I'm assuming) the Adidas store at Houston and Broadway on March 17th. A press release and handy photo preview slideshow can be found here. (Note: The press release says the collection is hitting stores in mid-February but The Daily reports March 17th).
As for Luella...no one can neither confirm nor deny when the goods are arriving. The main rumor is February 1st, and that the collection will remain in stores for 90 days. Elle has a nice preview of the collection in its February issue; the excellent Fashionologie so kindly scanned the article. Target also has a special little site set up for the Luella launch; you can sign up for an email or text message notification to let you know when the collection drops. Again, as soon as I have better info, I'll let you guys know, so please check back!
Some Cheryl Shops readers left comments asking about the Stella McCartney tennis collection and the Luella Bartley for Target collections and when they'll be hitting stores. Stella's tennis collection is due in Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, and (I'm assuming) the Adidas store at Houston and Broadway on March 17th. A press release and handy photo preview slideshow can be found here. (Note: The press release says the collection is hitting stores in mid-February but The Daily reports March 17th).
As for Luella...no one can neither confirm nor deny when the goods are arriving. The main rumor is February 1st, and that the collection will remain in stores for 90 days. Elle has a nice preview of the collection in its February issue; the excellent Fashionologie so kindly scanned the article. Target also has a special little site set up for the Luella launch; you can sign up for an email or text message notification to let you know when the collection drops. Again, as soon as I have better info, I'll let you guys know, so please check back!
Project Runway recap
This week I had the company of HG and HI while watching Project Runway, and I must say, this week's fun, crazy show was even more fun with company. After the stress of last week's Banana Republic competition, the designers got to blow off a little steam...by wearing ridiculous polyester skating outfits (loved Emmett in his magenta poet blouse), skating around an ice rink, and meeting their next challenger: Olympian Sasha Cohen. (Um, that would be the ice skater, not the dude who does Ali G.) Yes, the designers had to design an ice skating costume, sparkles, trim, stretch fabric and all. And we knew this was serious business, because they not only had two days to complete the challenge, but they had to use an overlock sewing machine--which, of course, kept breaking. Oh, and Santinio once again went crazy with the trim. (I'm starting to think maybe he has OCD.) The girls and I really liked Gay Uncle Nick's asymmetrical gray and peach outfit, and I loved Chloe's pretty ruffled dress (although girlfriend needs to step back from the turquoise); we figured either Emmett and his crotch ruffle or Zuleema and her illusion-fabric overload were a goner. But apparently little Sasha doesn't have the best taste, because even though the judges seemed to be persuading her to pick Chloe's, she chose Zuleema's design, and we were dumbfounded. (HG, who works in Rockefeller Center and can thus see the designs up close and personal, said Zuleema's was sparkly and actually more pretty in person). Santino's feathery creation was actually kind of cool in front but a big ol' mess in the back, and the judges scolded him lightly for not listening to the client. Yes, kids, that's what happens when you're an egomaniac. But Santino uncharacteristically withstood the criticism, and Emmett and his frumpy crotch ruffle were given the boot.
Next week, er, my DVR kind of freaked out, but I can tell you that our beloved Jay, season one's winner, will be making an appearance...
This week I had the company of HG and HI while watching Project Runway, and I must say, this week's fun, crazy show was even more fun with company. After the stress of last week's Banana Republic competition, the designers got to blow off a little steam...by wearing ridiculous polyester skating outfits (loved Emmett in his magenta poet blouse), skating around an ice rink, and meeting their next challenger: Olympian Sasha Cohen. (Um, that would be the ice skater, not the dude who does Ali G.) Yes, the designers had to design an ice skating costume, sparkles, trim, stretch fabric and all. And we knew this was serious business, because they not only had two days to complete the challenge, but they had to use an overlock sewing machine--which, of course, kept breaking. Oh, and Santinio once again went crazy with the trim. (I'm starting to think maybe he has OCD.) The girls and I really liked Gay Uncle Nick's asymmetrical gray and peach outfit, and I loved Chloe's pretty ruffled dress (although girlfriend needs to step back from the turquoise); we figured either Emmett and his crotch ruffle or Zuleema and her illusion-fabric overload were a goner. But apparently little Sasha doesn't have the best taste, because even though the judges seemed to be persuading her to pick Chloe's, she chose Zuleema's design, and we were dumbfounded. (HG, who works in Rockefeller Center and can thus see the designs up close and personal, said Zuleema's was sparkly and actually more pretty in person). Santino's feathery creation was actually kind of cool in front but a big ol' mess in the back, and the judges scolded him lightly for not listening to the client. Yes, kids, that's what happens when you're an egomaniac. But Santino uncharacteristically withstood the criticism, and Emmett and his frumpy crotch ruffle were given the boot.
Next week, er, my DVR kind of freaked out, but I can tell you that our beloved Jay, season one's winner, will be making an appearance...
Website of the week
A few months ago, I mentioned here that MW and I are preparing to move in together. We're still, um, preparing, but things are moving along...slowly. So with all this waiting and waiting (if all goes well--knock on wood--we're still about a month away), I've had more and more time to think about how I'm going to decorate the place. My latest find is Wingard Home, a small but focused website with mod metal, leather and ceramic home accessories, from lamps to bulletin boards. The site is simply organized, and you basically shop by category, most of which are self-explanatory. One of the more unique categories is Mo-bi-le-o's, which are these very cool metal curtain-type things that you hang on the wall, whereas the frames category contains features fairly traditional frames. Other items are reminiscent of others' designs, but in a more streamlined way; for example, this sunburst clock reminds me of the George Nelson clocks that sell on DWR for like $800, whereas the Totem Collection of vases is kind of Jonathan Adler-esque. I love this random steel bamboo, perfect for those without a green thumb. Also on my list: these totally mod pleather pillows (although I promised MW no more decorative pillows); these ice pop blue ceramic vases remind me of the vintage ones sold at The End of History on Hudson St. (but at way more affordable prices); and I love the square steel Mo-bi-le-o's. But one of the things I found most inspiring about the site--aside from its very reasonable prices--is how fresh the white-and-chocolate color combination looks. In fact, I'm so enchanted with it that now I'm thinking I'll forgo my usual color overload for this clean, crisp palette. Of course, I still have a month or so to change my mind...
A few months ago, I mentioned here that MW and I are preparing to move in together. We're still, um, preparing, but things are moving along...slowly. So with all this waiting and waiting (if all goes well--knock on wood--we're still about a month away), I've had more and more time to think about how I'm going to decorate the place. My latest find is Wingard Home, a small but focused website with mod metal, leather and ceramic home accessories, from lamps to bulletin boards. The site is simply organized, and you basically shop by category, most of which are self-explanatory. One of the more unique categories is Mo-bi-le-o's, which are these very cool metal curtain-type things that you hang on the wall, whereas the frames category contains features fairly traditional frames. Other items are reminiscent of others' designs, but in a more streamlined way; for example, this sunburst clock reminds me of the George Nelson clocks that sell on DWR for like $800, whereas the Totem Collection of vases is kind of Jonathan Adler-esque. I love this random steel bamboo, perfect for those without a green thumb. Also on my list: these totally mod pleather pillows (although I promised MW no more decorative pillows); these ice pop blue ceramic vases remind me of the vintage ones sold at The End of History on Hudson St. (but at way more affordable prices); and I love the square steel Mo-bi-le-o's. But one of the things I found most inspiring about the site--aside from its very reasonable prices--is how fresh the white-and-chocolate color combination looks. In fact, I'm so enchanted with it that now I'm thinking I'll forgo my usual color overload for this clean, crisp palette. Of course, I still have a month or so to change my mind...
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Golden Globes fashion report
It's been awhile since I've done a Red Carpet critique, so here are my best and worst (plus honorable and dishonorable mentions) from last night's Golden Globes.
Best
I absolutely adored Girl of the Night Reese Witherspoon's vintage Chanel frock, whose mix of chainmail and '50s debutante chic worked for me. She also accessorized best, with a hot (and supportive) husband.
I'm probably the only person who liked Gwyneth Paltrow's maternity-friendly Balenciaga, and I don't care--the girl takes risks, and she looks great in everything. And if getting knocked up gives you a glow like hers, well...I'll look forward to that in, oh, 10 years or so.
I definitely liked Felicity Huffman's goddesslike dress the best of all the Desperate Housewives' dresses. One could argue that the style was a bit too young for her, but I think she looked beautiful.
My coworkers thought Keira Knightley looked too skinny in her Valentino column dress, but I thought she looked super-chic, especially with the glittery oversized belt.
She may have traded art-house films for dumb action ones, but Kate Beckinsale still knows how to dress, and she looked feminine and sexy in her vintage Dior.
Honorable mention
Sarah Jessica Parker's Rochas gown did not translate well on camera, but drag it to your desktop and lighten it in Photoshop, and you can appreciate the gorgeousness of its tiers upon tiers of delicate eyelash lace.
Maria Bello's dresses are always a bit long on her (does her stylist not know how to hem?), but she manages even to make Elie Saab (a designer I find very mediocre) look hot.
Poor Hilary Swank withstood questions about her separation with grace and dignity, and while the front of her Jean Yu dress was kind of boring, the back was hott with two T's. And I applaud her for wearing an independent designer.
Natalie Portman's vintage Chanel kind of looked like Madonna circa 1984, but with her cute little pixie haircut, it worked.
And I know Emma Thompson's Roberto Cavalli dress didn't quite fit right (she was on the verge of a major wardrobe malfunction if she were to lean forward), but damn, she's got to be in her mid-40s, and she's never looked better.
Worst
I applaud Pamela Anderson's attempt to cover her breasts--in vintage Blass no less--but the dress did not fit and appeared to be choking her. Either take out the DDs or get a custom gown.
It pains me to knock a Marc Jacobs dress, but Anne Hathaway looked like an 8th grader going to her first dance. And I admire her anti-MysticTan stance, but she kind of looked like death warmed over. A little bronzer never hurt anyone, honey.
When Harrison Ford handed Virginia Madsen his drink while he opened the envelope, it was perfect, because she looked just like a cocktail waitress, especially with her boobs pouring out of her dress.
If Heidi Klum keeps wearing dresses like this, I think it's seriously going to undermine her credibility as host of Project Runway. Well, maybe not, but still.
Only Mariah Carey could make Chanel look this trashy.
Dishonorable mention
While I love the color of Evangeline Lilly's Elie Saab gown, I've also seen the exact same cut on Patricia Heaton, Halle Berry, Marcia Clark, and countless other actresses who've worn his gowns over the years. Enough already.
I love Charlize Theron, and I love John Galliano, but I do not love this dress he made for her. It looks like it was made with swatches and remnants.
I applaud Scarlett Johansson for finally wearing a color (i.e., not beige or white) on the red carpet, and it suits her well. However, her breasts are hanging out, and the cut is very conservative, especially for a 21-year-old girl. She needs a new stylist, pronto.
I loved Geena Davis's cheeky acceptance speech, but nothing makes you look more middle-aged than an Escada gown (that applies to you too, Jaime Pressly).
Even though my college boyfriend was obsessed with her, I love Drew Barrymore. It appears that she's put on a little weigh, which is fine, but what is unforgivable is the fact that she did not feel compelled to wear a bra--under a sheer chiffon dress that could have easily accommodated one. Because the only thing that makes you look even more middle-aged than wearing an Escada gown is having your boobs hanging down at your elbows.
It's been awhile since I've done a Red Carpet critique, so here are my best and worst (plus honorable and dishonorable mentions) from last night's Golden Globes.
Best
I absolutely adored Girl of the Night Reese Witherspoon's vintage Chanel frock, whose mix of chainmail and '50s debutante chic worked for me. She also accessorized best, with a hot (and supportive) husband.
I'm probably the only person who liked Gwyneth Paltrow's maternity-friendly Balenciaga, and I don't care--the girl takes risks, and she looks great in everything. And if getting knocked up gives you a glow like hers, well...I'll look forward to that in, oh, 10 years or so.
I definitely liked Felicity Huffman's goddesslike dress the best of all the Desperate Housewives' dresses. One could argue that the style was a bit too young for her, but I think she looked beautiful.
My coworkers thought Keira Knightley looked too skinny in her Valentino column dress, but I thought she looked super-chic, especially with the glittery oversized belt.
She may have traded art-house films for dumb action ones, but Kate Beckinsale still knows how to dress, and she looked feminine and sexy in her vintage Dior.
Honorable mention
Sarah Jessica Parker's Rochas gown did not translate well on camera, but drag it to your desktop and lighten it in Photoshop, and you can appreciate the gorgeousness of its tiers upon tiers of delicate eyelash lace.
Maria Bello's dresses are always a bit long on her (does her stylist not know how to hem?), but she manages even to make Elie Saab (a designer I find very mediocre) look hot.
Poor Hilary Swank withstood questions about her separation with grace and dignity, and while the front of her Jean Yu dress was kind of boring, the back was hott with two T's. And I applaud her for wearing an independent designer.
Natalie Portman's vintage Chanel kind of looked like Madonna circa 1984, but with her cute little pixie haircut, it worked.
And I know Emma Thompson's Roberto Cavalli dress didn't quite fit right (she was on the verge of a major wardrobe malfunction if she were to lean forward), but damn, she's got to be in her mid-40s, and she's never looked better.
Worst
I applaud Pamela Anderson's attempt to cover her breasts--in vintage Blass no less--but the dress did not fit and appeared to be choking her. Either take out the DDs or get a custom gown.
It pains me to knock a Marc Jacobs dress, but Anne Hathaway looked like an 8th grader going to her first dance. And I admire her anti-MysticTan stance, but she kind of looked like death warmed over. A little bronzer never hurt anyone, honey.
When Harrison Ford handed Virginia Madsen his drink while he opened the envelope, it was perfect, because she looked just like a cocktail waitress, especially with her boobs pouring out of her dress.
If Heidi Klum keeps wearing dresses like this, I think it's seriously going to undermine her credibility as host of Project Runway. Well, maybe not, but still.
Only Mariah Carey could make Chanel look this trashy.
Dishonorable mention
While I love the color of Evangeline Lilly's Elie Saab gown, I've also seen the exact same cut on Patricia Heaton, Halle Berry, Marcia Clark, and countless other actresses who've worn his gowns over the years. Enough already.
I love Charlize Theron, and I love John Galliano, but I do not love this dress he made for her. It looks like it was made with swatches and remnants.
I applaud Scarlett Johansson for finally wearing a color (i.e., not beige or white) on the red carpet, and it suits her well. However, her breasts are hanging out, and the cut is very conservative, especially for a 21-year-old girl. She needs a new stylist, pronto.
I loved Geena Davis's cheeky acceptance speech, but nothing makes you look more middle-aged than an Escada gown (that applies to you too, Jaime Pressly).
Even though my college boyfriend was obsessed with her, I love Drew Barrymore. It appears that she's put on a little weigh, which is fine, but what is unforgivable is the fact that she did not feel compelled to wear a bra--under a sheer chiffon dress that could have easily accommodated one. Because the only thing that makes you look even more middle-aged than wearing an Escada gown is having your boobs hanging down at your elbows.
Monday, January 16, 2006
The week in shopping
Henri Bendel's legendary winter sale is now in effect; True Religion, Luella, and Pucci are among the labels on sale. Through 2/1; 10-8, noon-7 Sun.; 712 5th Avenue (56th & 57th Sts.).
This week, Clothingline hosts a Diesel sale for men, women, and children. See website for photos and pricing info. Through 1/21; 10-7 Tue. & Thurs., 10-6 Wed. & Fri., 10-4 Sat.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Travel accessories are 25%-70% off at Cheryl Shops fave Flight 001. 1/20-2/12; 11-8:30 weekdays, 11-8 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 96 Greenwich Ave. (W. 12th & Jane Sts.).
Cool East Village shop A. Cheng has modern fall/winter clothing on sale. Through 2/28; 11:30-8 weekdays, 11:30-7 weekends; 443 E. 9th St. (1st & Ave. A).
Deck out your apartment with minimalist furnishings from Armani Casa, now up to 70% off. Through 2/19; 11-7 Tue.-Sat., noon-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 97 Greene St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Gift wonderland The Yellow Door is taking an additional 20%-30% off already reduced jewelry from M&J Savitt, Gucci, Penny Preville, and others. Through 2/1; 4 Prince St., 1308 Ave. M, Brooklyn.
Spend $150 and get this luxe sample-loaded makeup bag at Bergdorf Goodman, online and in stores through 1/30.
Select items are up to 75% off at Benefit's 30th anniversary Sale-Abration through 1/31.
Winter sale items are now up to 70% off at Shopbop.com.
Henri Bendel's legendary winter sale is now in effect; True Religion, Luella, and Pucci are among the labels on sale. Through 2/1; 10-8, noon-7 Sun.; 712 5th Avenue (56th & 57th Sts.).
This week, Clothingline hosts a Diesel sale for men, women, and children. See website for photos and pricing info. Through 1/21; 10-7 Tue. & Thurs., 10-6 Wed. & Fri., 10-4 Sat.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Travel accessories are 25%-70% off at Cheryl Shops fave Flight 001. 1/20-2/12; 11-8:30 weekdays, 11-8 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 96 Greenwich Ave. (W. 12th & Jane Sts.).
Cool East Village shop A. Cheng has modern fall/winter clothing on sale. Through 2/28; 11:30-8 weekdays, 11:30-7 weekends; 443 E. 9th St. (1st & Ave. A).
Deck out your apartment with minimalist furnishings from Armani Casa, now up to 70% off. Through 2/19; 11-7 Tue.-Sat., noon-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 97 Greene St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Gift wonderland The Yellow Door is taking an additional 20%-30% off already reduced jewelry from M&J Savitt, Gucci, Penny Preville, and others. Through 2/1; 4 Prince St., 1308 Ave. M, Brooklyn.
Spend $150 and get this luxe sample-loaded makeup bag at Bergdorf Goodman, online and in stores through 1/30.
Select items are up to 75% off at Benefit's 30th anniversary Sale-Abration through 1/31.
Winter sale items are now up to 70% off at Shopbop.com.
(Last week's) Project Runway recap
Seeing as how Banana Republic is a huge sponsor of Project Runway, I was expecting the eponymous retailer to show up sooner or later, especially since it did last season. Lo and behold, this week's challenge was to design a day-to-evening outfit for Banana, and the winner of the challenge would have their actual design mass-produced and sold in select stores (and online). Twist #1 was that the designers had to work in pairs; Daniel/Andrae, Marla/Dirty Diana, and Kara/Zuleema all paired off rather quickly while Gay Uncle Nick veered toward Chloe until Emmett zipped in there, so poor Nick was stuck again with Santino, a.k.a. the egomaniac. Things were not looking so good for Kara and Zuleema, whose frumpy garment rendered Tim Gunn speechless (Zuleema ended up saving the day while making poor Kara cry); meanwhile, Gay Uncle Nick congratulated himself for checking Santino's excessive use of trim but fretted over the fact that Santino was still running the show. Alas, before the runway show, the designers were taken to an actual Banana store, where they were each assigned a window, which they had to decorate in order to show how their garment goes from day to night. The very mass-markety aspect of this was that the public--i.e. Banana Republic customers--got to vote on the winner of the challenge. I thought Emmett and Chloe had the best window (as well as the best outfit) , but as we found out after the runway show, Daniel and Andrae's dress-and-jacket combo was the winner--and, to be fair, it was the most Banana Republicy of the bunch. (I checked on the website and it's not available yet, but I will let you know as soon as it is.) Now, as for who was out, it came down to Marla and Dirty Diana's frumpy suit (why didn't the judges point out how wrinkled it was?) and Gay Uncle Nick and Santino's bizarre, so not Banana Republic kimono suit. And while the latter was pretty bad (c'mon, Nick, you can do better!), the former was so incredibly blah, even Banana Republic shoppers hated it (oops, did I just say that?). Yet another twist was that both losing designers had to leave, so it was auf wiedersehen to both Marla and Dirty Diana. While we all knew Marla's days were numbered, I'm kind of sad about Dirty Diana--her voice may drive Santino nuts (good!), but I was entertained by her quirky-cool designs.
Next week, the designers create an ice-skating costume (hmm, Winter Olympics tie-in with Bravo's parent network, NBC?).
Seeing as how Banana Republic is a huge sponsor of Project Runway, I was expecting the eponymous retailer to show up sooner or later, especially since it did last season. Lo and behold, this week's challenge was to design a day-to-evening outfit for Banana, and the winner of the challenge would have their actual design mass-produced and sold in select stores (and online). Twist #1 was that the designers had to work in pairs; Daniel/Andrae, Marla/Dirty Diana, and Kara/Zuleema all paired off rather quickly while Gay Uncle Nick veered toward Chloe until Emmett zipped in there, so poor Nick was stuck again with Santino, a.k.a. the egomaniac. Things were not looking so good for Kara and Zuleema, whose frumpy garment rendered Tim Gunn speechless (Zuleema ended up saving the day while making poor Kara cry); meanwhile, Gay Uncle Nick congratulated himself for checking Santino's excessive use of trim but fretted over the fact that Santino was still running the show. Alas, before the runway show, the designers were taken to an actual Banana store, where they were each assigned a window, which they had to decorate in order to show how their garment goes from day to night. The very mass-markety aspect of this was that the public--i.e. Banana Republic customers--got to vote on the winner of the challenge. I thought Emmett and Chloe had the best window (as well as the best outfit) , but as we found out after the runway show, Daniel and Andrae's dress-and-jacket combo was the winner--and, to be fair, it was the most Banana Republicy of the bunch. (I checked on the website and it's not available yet, but I will let you know as soon as it is.) Now, as for who was out, it came down to Marla and Dirty Diana's frumpy suit (why didn't the judges point out how wrinkled it was?) and Gay Uncle Nick and Santino's bizarre, so not Banana Republic kimono suit. And while the latter was pretty bad (c'mon, Nick, you can do better!), the former was so incredibly blah, even Banana Republic shoppers hated it (oops, did I just say that?). Yet another twist was that both losing designers had to leave, so it was auf wiedersehen to both Marla and Dirty Diana. While we all knew Marla's days were numbered, I'm kind of sad about Dirty Diana--her voice may drive Santino nuts (good!), but I was entertained by her quirky-cool designs.
Next week, the designers create an ice-skating costume (hmm, Winter Olympics tie-in with Bravo's parent network, NBC?).
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Website of the week
As regular Cheryl Shops readers know, I have a bad habit called Us Weekly. And while I love to read about Nicole Richie's "workouts" and Lindsay Lohan's "diet tips" as much as the next girl, I really like to read it (or, rather, look at it) for the pictures, to see what the trendy young celebs are wearing while they're out and about. And I've noticed recently that all of a sudden, the girls are wearing jeans by brands I've never heard of. (What happened to True Religion as celeb denim brand of choice?) Anyway, Kate Moss (whom Big Boss just spotted tonight on Mercer Steet) was recently seen buying several pairs of J Brand jeans in L.A., and in a search for this elusive brand, I came across Raw Clothing, a San Diego-based site that's all about tees and denim. (While I would normally make fun of a California-based outfit that's all about tees and denim, Raw Clothing makes no pretenses about being "fashion," so they're okay by me.) According to the site, Raw is San Diego's #3 tourist destination (after the zoo and Sea World), and from their near-epic selection of denim, you can see why. They stock old standbys (Paper Denim, Seven, Chip & Pepper), cult labels (Hudson, J & Co., Taverniti So), and even ones I've never heard of (1921, Elvis, Robin's). And while they also carry familiar T-shirt lines (Juicy, James Perse), they have countless indie and below-the-radar lines, all modeled by refreshingly tattooed young ladies. I should also note that the site carries L.A. Made, an awesome knitwear line that's like American Apparel, minus the creepy '70s-style porno ads. So, this is the J Brand jean we'll probably all be scrambling after in a month or so. I also love this cool Goth-ish Debutante tee by yet another line I've never heard of, Anzevino and Florence; this Missoni-esque space-dyed tunic by Kristee's; and this cute Leafy top by Split. And before I go into denim-and-tees shock, I should mention that Raw Clothing also can outfit the men and children in your life. If all of this is too overwhelming, you can utilize their nifty Wish List feature; if not, items ship via UPS, by weight. Frankly, my head's still spinning. But the next time I read about a new denim brand in Us Weekly, I'm coming here first.
As regular Cheryl Shops readers know, I have a bad habit called Us Weekly. And while I love to read about Nicole Richie's "workouts" and Lindsay Lohan's "diet tips" as much as the next girl, I really like to read it (or, rather, look at it) for the pictures, to see what the trendy young celebs are wearing while they're out and about. And I've noticed recently that all of a sudden, the girls are wearing jeans by brands I've never heard of. (What happened to True Religion as celeb denim brand of choice?) Anyway, Kate Moss (whom Big Boss just spotted tonight on Mercer Steet) was recently seen buying several pairs of J Brand jeans in L.A., and in a search for this elusive brand, I came across Raw Clothing, a San Diego-based site that's all about tees and denim. (While I would normally make fun of a California-based outfit that's all about tees and denim, Raw Clothing makes no pretenses about being "fashion," so they're okay by me.) According to the site, Raw is San Diego's #3 tourist destination (after the zoo and Sea World), and from their near-epic selection of denim, you can see why. They stock old standbys (Paper Denim, Seven, Chip & Pepper), cult labels (Hudson, J & Co., Taverniti So), and even ones I've never heard of (1921, Elvis, Robin's). And while they also carry familiar T-shirt lines (Juicy, James Perse), they have countless indie and below-the-radar lines, all modeled by refreshingly tattooed young ladies. I should also note that the site carries L.A. Made, an awesome knitwear line that's like American Apparel, minus the creepy '70s-style porno ads. So, this is the J Brand jean we'll probably all be scrambling after in a month or so. I also love this cool Goth-ish Debutante tee by yet another line I've never heard of, Anzevino and Florence; this Missoni-esque space-dyed tunic by Kristee's; and this cute Leafy top by Split. And before I go into denim-and-tees shock, I should mention that Raw Clothing also can outfit the men and children in your life. If all of this is too overwhelming, you can utilize their nifty Wish List feature; if not, items ship via UPS, by weight. Frankly, my head's still spinning. But the next time I read about a new denim brand in Us Weekly, I'm coming here first.
Monday, January 09, 2006
Cheryl shops for...leggings
Maybe it's my New York City Ballet Workout DVD, or maybe it's the fact that Big Boss suggested I style miniskirts with them for my next photo shoot, but all of a sudden, I have an inexplicable urge to buy leggings. Yes, I know Sienna, Kate, Mary-Kate, et al. have been wearing them for months, and they're ridiculously trendy, which is reason enough not to wear them. (There's also the issue that I wore leggings the first time around, in the '80s, and they say if you wore it the first time, pass on it the second time.) But I feel like leggings haven't yet hit the mainstream, so maybe they're still ok. And they'll look so cute paired with the ol' denim mini, flats, and a flowy, feminine boho tunic (very Marissa on The O.C.). So, I did some research.
Now, there are leggings, and there are footless tights. As for the former category, there are websites such as Blair that have probably been selling these since the '80s. I would not recommend ordering from here, as today's legging is cropped, the better to show off your dainty ankles and Marc Jacobs flats, and to not make your legs look like sausages. I found that Abercrombie and its crazy younger sibling, Hollister, both carry a heather gray pair for $24.50. For basic black or brown, celebrity favorite Intuition has hopped on the leggings bandwagon. There's also Victoria's Secret, my #1 source for leggings back in the early '90s. But I think the best bet is Cheryl Shops fave American Apparel, whose $26 style comes in nearly every color in the rainbow.
As for footless tights, I think these are a wise decision, because they can be had for under $10. Urban Outfitters's footless tight is $10 and comes in a variety of colors. This lovely style from My Tights is a mere $7.75. Another great source for footless tights is dance catalogs and websites; All About Dance has an Ultra Soft Hip Rider Capri tight for $7.90 (which comes in the classic ballet pink, suntan, and black colors); Cheryl Shops fave Danskin has the ultra-high-quality low-rider tight from the NYCB collection. And, hey, if I buy anything from the NYCB collection, I can always repurpose it for my ballet workouts, right?
Maybe it's my New York City Ballet Workout DVD, or maybe it's the fact that Big Boss suggested I style miniskirts with them for my next photo shoot, but all of a sudden, I have an inexplicable urge to buy leggings. Yes, I know Sienna, Kate, Mary-Kate, et al. have been wearing them for months, and they're ridiculously trendy, which is reason enough not to wear them. (There's also the issue that I wore leggings the first time around, in the '80s, and they say if you wore it the first time, pass on it the second time.) But I feel like leggings haven't yet hit the mainstream, so maybe they're still ok. And they'll look so cute paired with the ol' denim mini, flats, and a flowy, feminine boho tunic (very Marissa on The O.C.). So, I did some research.
Now, there are leggings, and there are footless tights. As for the former category, there are websites such as Blair that have probably been selling these since the '80s. I would not recommend ordering from here, as today's legging is cropped, the better to show off your dainty ankles and Marc Jacobs flats, and to not make your legs look like sausages. I found that Abercrombie and its crazy younger sibling, Hollister, both carry a heather gray pair for $24.50. For basic black or brown, celebrity favorite Intuition has hopped on the leggings bandwagon. There's also Victoria's Secret, my #1 source for leggings back in the early '90s. But I think the best bet is Cheryl Shops fave American Apparel, whose $26 style comes in nearly every color in the rainbow.
As for footless tights, I think these are a wise decision, because they can be had for under $10. Urban Outfitters's footless tight is $10 and comes in a variety of colors. This lovely style from My Tights is a mere $7.75. Another great source for footless tights is dance catalogs and websites; All About Dance has an Ultra Soft Hip Rider Capri tight for $7.90 (which comes in the classic ballet pink, suntan, and black colors); Cheryl Shops fave Danskin has the ultra-high-quality low-rider tight from the NYCB collection. And, hey, if I buy anything from the NYCB collection, I can always repurpose it for my ballet workouts, right?
The week in shopping
Last time I went to the Hollywould sale, I stood outside in the sweltering heat for an hour, and apparently missed Mandy Moore and Zach Braff walking by while I was inside, still sweltering. And I left empty-handed. Still, Holly's shoes are hot, and at this sale, they're 60%-80% off. 11/13-11/15; 11-7 Fri. & Sa., 11-5 Sun.; 198 Elizabeth St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
A store after my own heart, Brooklyn's Diane T. has clothes and accessories from See by Chloe, Sigerson Morrison, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and more for 50%-60% off. 1/15-2/15; 11-7 Tue.-Fri., 11-6:30 Sat., 1-5 Sun., closed Mon.; 174 Court St. (at Bergen St.), Cobble Hill, Brooklyn.
For Cheryl Shops' few but awesome male readers, Cloak's ubercool, goth menswear is 40% off. Through 2/10; noon-8, noon-7 Sun.; 10 Greene St. (at Grand St.).
Select furniture I still can't afford is up to 50% off at the Conran Shop. Through 1/22; 11-8 weekdays, 10-7 Sa., noon-6 Sun.; 407 E. 59th St. (at 1st Ave.).
A. Cheng has cute East Villagey clothes for chicks on sale. 1/15-2/28; 11:30-8 weekdays, 11:30-7 weekends; 443 E. 9th St. (at 1st Ave).
Score snazzy Judith Ripka jewelry for 50%-70% off. 1/12-1/13; 10-6; the Benjamin Hotel, 125 E. 50th St. (3rd and Lex), 2nd fl.
Hey, sneaker freaks: Save 40%-70% on classic kicks at, um, Classic Kicks. 1/12-1/16; 11-7; 298 Elizabeth St. (Prince & Houston Sts.).
Brit import Reiss has men's and women's clothes and accessories for up to 70% off. Through 1/31; 11-8, Mon. - Wed., 10-8 Thurs. - Sat., 11-7 Sun.; 387 W. Broadway (at Spring St.).
Modernist home furnishings are 20%-50% off at Troy. Through 1/21; 10-6 weekdays, 11-6 Sat., closed Sun.; 138 Greene St. (at Prince St.).
Save an additional 25% on all sale items at Urban Outfitters.com through 1/15.
Shop Saks' nifty Marc by Marc Jacobs trunk show and get a cute handbag with your $250 purchase (love the empire waist jersey dress) through 1/17.
Save up to 70% in store at Bergdorf's.
Most items are 50% off at Kirna Zabete's fall/winter sale.
Save up to 65% at Neiman Marcus's Last Call sale.
Save up to 60% at Vivre's fall-winter sale.
Last time I went to the Hollywould sale, I stood outside in the sweltering heat for an hour, and apparently missed Mandy Moore and Zach Braff walking by while I was inside, still sweltering. And I left empty-handed. Still, Holly's shoes are hot, and at this sale, they're 60%-80% off. 11/13-11/15; 11-7 Fri. & Sa., 11-5 Sun.; 198 Elizabeth St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
A store after my own heart, Brooklyn's Diane T. has clothes and accessories from See by Chloe, Sigerson Morrison, Marc by Marc Jacobs, and more for 50%-60% off. 1/15-2/15; 11-7 Tue.-Fri., 11-6:30 Sat., 1-5 Sun., closed Mon.; 174 Court St. (at Bergen St.), Cobble Hill, Brooklyn.
For Cheryl Shops' few but awesome male readers, Cloak's ubercool, goth menswear is 40% off. Through 2/10; noon-8, noon-7 Sun.; 10 Greene St. (at Grand St.).
Select furniture I still can't afford is up to 50% off at the Conran Shop. Through 1/22; 11-8 weekdays, 10-7 Sa., noon-6 Sun.; 407 E. 59th St. (at 1st Ave.).
A. Cheng has cute East Villagey clothes for chicks on sale. 1/15-2/28; 11:30-8 weekdays, 11:30-7 weekends; 443 E. 9th St. (at 1st Ave).
Score snazzy Judith Ripka jewelry for 50%-70% off. 1/12-1/13; 10-6; the Benjamin Hotel, 125 E. 50th St. (3rd and Lex), 2nd fl.
Hey, sneaker freaks: Save 40%-70% on classic kicks at, um, Classic Kicks. 1/12-1/16; 11-7; 298 Elizabeth St. (Prince & Houston Sts.).
Brit import Reiss has men's and women's clothes and accessories for up to 70% off. Through 1/31; 11-8, Mon. - Wed., 10-8 Thurs. - Sat., 11-7 Sun.; 387 W. Broadway (at Spring St.).
Modernist home furnishings are 20%-50% off at Troy. Through 1/21; 10-6 weekdays, 11-6 Sat., closed Sun.; 138 Greene St. (at Prince St.).
Save an additional 25% on all sale items at Urban Outfitters.com through 1/15.
Shop Saks' nifty Marc by Marc Jacobs trunk show and get a cute handbag with your $250 purchase (love the empire waist jersey dress) through 1/17.
Save up to 70% in store at Bergdorf's.
Most items are 50% off at Kirna Zabete's fall/winter sale.
Save up to 65% at Neiman Marcus's Last Call sale.
Save up to 60% at Vivre's fall-winter sale.
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Two important news bites
After months of speculation, a formal announcement was made today that Phoebe Philo is leaving Chloe. This is important because not only has she produced critically acclaimed and commercially successful collections for Chloe, but she also jump-started their accessories business with the much-in-demand (and oft-copied) Paddington and Silverado handbags. (Phoebe also sparked much speculation that she was the real design talent behind Stella McCartney's tenure at the label.) So why is she walking away from such an influential, lucrative job? To basically be a stay-at-home mom...which the family-lover in me appreciates, but the femininst kind of doesn't. In the meantime, her design team (who handled duties while Phoebe was on maternity leave) is handling the fall 2006 collection; Roland Mouret is rumored to be in the running to replace her. I say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it: Why not just keep the design team in place?
In other news, Proenza Schouler is rumored to be hopping on the Target bandwagon. From yesterday's WWD:
THE NEXT BIG TARGET: Could Proenza Schouler's Jack McCollough and
Lazaro Hernandez be Target's next design stars? The fashion duo is said to
have held talks with the Minneapolis-based chain about creating an exclusive
lower-priced line. A deal could still be months away, but if it came to fruition,
McCollough and Hernandez would follow in the footsteps of designers such
as Isaac Mizrahi and Cynthia Rowley and labels such as Fiorucci.
The Proenza Schouler line for Target will likely be part of the
discounter's new "Go International" initiative, which, like Hennes &
Mauritz's outings with Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney, features
limited-edition collections from established designers. Target, which
is said to be in talks with several international designers, is expected
to launch Go next month with a collection by Luella Bartley.
Now, I'm waiting to see if women are camping out overnight at Target for Luella Bartley's collection next moth. I'm guessing no (Luella Bartley is no Stella McCartney), but if this Proenza Schouler thing works out, I'll be on the 2/3 train out to Brooklyn at 8 a.m., mark my words.
After months of speculation, a formal announcement was made today that Phoebe Philo is leaving Chloe. This is important because not only has she produced critically acclaimed and commercially successful collections for Chloe, but she also jump-started their accessories business with the much-in-demand (and oft-copied) Paddington and Silverado handbags. (Phoebe also sparked much speculation that she was the real design talent behind Stella McCartney's tenure at the label.) So why is she walking away from such an influential, lucrative job? To basically be a stay-at-home mom...which the family-lover in me appreciates, but the femininst kind of doesn't. In the meantime, her design team (who handled duties while Phoebe was on maternity leave) is handling the fall 2006 collection; Roland Mouret is rumored to be in the running to replace her. I say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it: Why not just keep the design team in place?
In other news, Proenza Schouler is rumored to be hopping on the Target bandwagon. From yesterday's WWD:
THE NEXT BIG TARGET: Could Proenza Schouler's Jack McCollough and
Lazaro Hernandez be Target's next design stars? The fashion duo is said to
have held talks with the Minneapolis-based chain about creating an exclusive
lower-priced line. A deal could still be months away, but if it came to fruition,
McCollough and Hernandez would follow in the footsteps of designers such
as Isaac Mizrahi and Cynthia Rowley and labels such as Fiorucci.
The Proenza Schouler line for Target will likely be part of the
discounter's new "Go International" initiative, which, like Hennes &
Mauritz's outings with Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney, features
limited-edition collections from established designers. Target, which
is said to be in talks with several international designers, is expected
to launch Go next month with a collection by Luella Bartley.
Now, I'm waiting to see if women are camping out overnight at Target for Luella Bartley's collection next moth. I'm guessing no (Luella Bartley is no Stella McCartney), but if this Proenza Schouler thing works out, I'll be on the 2/3 train out to Brooklyn at 8 a.m., mark my words.
Project Runway recap
After two weeks ago's Project Runway lingerie debacle (all you need to know: Santino is really annoying and a bad leader; Daniel Franco was one of the most gracious losers I've ever seen), I was ready to see the designers each do what they do best: work alone. Of course, I started to panic when Heidi Klum announced the designers would be creating a party frock for a famous young socialite...I cannot stand Paris Hilton, and assumed (almost correctly) that it would be her. Thankfully, Paris is not classy enough for Project Runway--no designer in his/her right mind would make a hoo-hoo-exposing dress for her (although maybe Zuleema would make a butt-cheek-baring one)--and the lucky socialite was instead Paris's comparatively demure younger sister, Nicky. Now, you could argue that Nicky was on the show to plug her clothing line, Chick, but I'll give her the benefit of the doubt, that she's really a fashion lover (as opposed to, say, her sister, who just loves fashion that shows off her hoo-hoo). The designers made it through the challenge with minimal drama--Daniel V. bought brown fabric instead of black, people were stealing each others' dress forms, Marla can't design for shizznit--and first introduced their designs to Miss Nicky at a cocktail party at Marquee (which was conspicuously empty--when did they film it, at 4 in the afternoon?). While some of the designers were pretty straightforward in introducing their designs, good ol' Santino seized the day and slipped Nicky his business card, in case she wants him to design more dresses for her. Slick, man. Slick. Oh, and Diana, the science-dork girl, got drunk and sha-sha-shaked her booty, thus earning her the rather amusing nickname "Dirty Diana." I should mention the big controversy of the show, which was that Marla designed a dress that not only looked like something Nicky had recently worn, but that had been provided in the "dossier" given to the designers for inspiration. And Nicky, smart girl, spotted it right away. So on the runway, the clear top three were Chloe (who designed a very "Chloe" dress), Gay Uncle Nick (whose gorgeous turquoise asymmetrical creation was my favorite), and Santino (very Santino), while the bottom three were Marla (obviously), Dirty Diana (whose pieced skirt was not very flattering), and Guadalupe, whose dress was just cracked out beyond belief. Sadly, Santino won the challenge, which leads me to believe that Nicky Hilton does not have a very good bullshit detector, and also makes me feel bad for Gay Uncle Nick, whom I think is just as talented--if not more so--as Santino. And while Marla's dress was probably equally ugly, Guadalupe got the boot. Which is good, because I haven't really liked anything she's designed thus far anyway. As for Marla, I like the idea of her--she's 50 years old, a successful businesswoman, has no formal training--but I don't think she's particularly creative as a designer. I still think her days are numbered.
Next week, the designers have to work in pairs. Oy vey.
After two weeks ago's Project Runway lingerie debacle (all you need to know: Santino is really annoying and a bad leader; Daniel Franco was one of the most gracious losers I've ever seen), I was ready to see the designers each do what they do best: work alone. Of course, I started to panic when Heidi Klum announced the designers would be creating a party frock for a famous young socialite...I cannot stand Paris Hilton, and assumed (almost correctly) that it would be her. Thankfully, Paris is not classy enough for Project Runway--no designer in his/her right mind would make a hoo-hoo-exposing dress for her (although maybe Zuleema would make a butt-cheek-baring one)--and the lucky socialite was instead Paris's comparatively demure younger sister, Nicky. Now, you could argue that Nicky was on the show to plug her clothing line, Chick, but I'll give her the benefit of the doubt, that she's really a fashion lover (as opposed to, say, her sister, who just loves fashion that shows off her hoo-hoo). The designers made it through the challenge with minimal drama--Daniel V. bought brown fabric instead of black, people were stealing each others' dress forms, Marla can't design for shizznit--and first introduced their designs to Miss Nicky at a cocktail party at Marquee (which was conspicuously empty--when did they film it, at 4 in the afternoon?). While some of the designers were pretty straightforward in introducing their designs, good ol' Santino seized the day and slipped Nicky his business card, in case she wants him to design more dresses for her. Slick, man. Slick. Oh, and Diana, the science-dork girl, got drunk and sha-sha-shaked her booty, thus earning her the rather amusing nickname "Dirty Diana." I should mention the big controversy of the show, which was that Marla designed a dress that not only looked like something Nicky had recently worn, but that had been provided in the "dossier" given to the designers for inspiration. And Nicky, smart girl, spotted it right away. So on the runway, the clear top three were Chloe (who designed a very "Chloe" dress), Gay Uncle Nick (whose gorgeous turquoise asymmetrical creation was my favorite), and Santino (very Santino), while the bottom three were Marla (obviously), Dirty Diana (whose pieced skirt was not very flattering), and Guadalupe, whose dress was just cracked out beyond belief. Sadly, Santino won the challenge, which leads me to believe that Nicky Hilton does not have a very good bullshit detector, and also makes me feel bad for Gay Uncle Nick, whom I think is just as talented--if not more so--as Santino. And while Marla's dress was probably equally ugly, Guadalupe got the boot. Which is good, because I haven't really liked anything she's designed thus far anyway. As for Marla, I like the idea of her--she's 50 years old, a successful businesswoman, has no formal training--but I don't think she's particularly creative as a designer. I still think her days are numbered.
Next week, the designers have to work in pairs. Oy vey.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Websites of the week
Even though I have a taste for the finer things in life, I am really a bargain shopper at heart. Which is why I love this time of year--not only are there post-holiday sales galore, but the retailers' fiscal year ends in January, so they mark stuff down in hopes of 1) clearing out all their merchandise to make room for spring stuff and 2) scrounge out as much money as possible. This often means issuing coupons. Now, I am never ashamed to use a coupon, even at fancy places like Barneys. But at this time of year, I use them with reckless abandon. Which is why I was overjoyed to find out about Wow Coupons. (Please ignore the annoying dollar-bill guy as the page loads, and click through.) Wow Coupons provides printable coupons for retailers, grocery stores and restaurants, plus travel deals and rebates. Since I don't go to theme parks or eat at Chuck E. Cheese, I'll focus on the Retail section. Now, unlike those other "coupon code" websites, which I find hard to navigate (plus half the codes have expired), Wow's listings are in a tidy, multi-column format with shopper-friendly store logos, a clear explanation of the deal, and when the deal expires (if it's expiring soon, an animated "hurry" is added behind the store name). Among today's deals: a free facial treatment at Clarins counters nationwide, 20% off coupons for almost all May Co. stores, 20% off your purchase at Rampage stores, and $10 off a $50 purchase with your MasterCard at Steve Madden stores. Okay, so it's not a coupon for Barneys, but it is a good resource. With deals like these, who can afford to be snobby?
Even though I have a taste for the finer things in life, I am really a bargain shopper at heart. Which is why I love this time of year--not only are there post-holiday sales galore, but the retailers' fiscal year ends in January, so they mark stuff down in hopes of 1) clearing out all their merchandise to make room for spring stuff and 2) scrounge out as much money as possible. This often means issuing coupons. Now, I am never ashamed to use a coupon, even at fancy places like Barneys. But at this time of year, I use them with reckless abandon. Which is why I was overjoyed to find out about Wow Coupons. (Please ignore the annoying dollar-bill guy as the page loads, and click through.) Wow Coupons provides printable coupons for retailers, grocery stores and restaurants, plus travel deals and rebates. Since I don't go to theme parks or eat at Chuck E. Cheese, I'll focus on the Retail section. Now, unlike those other "coupon code" websites, which I find hard to navigate (plus half the codes have expired), Wow's listings are in a tidy, multi-column format with shopper-friendly store logos, a clear explanation of the deal, and when the deal expires (if it's expiring soon, an animated "hurry" is added behind the store name). Among today's deals: a free facial treatment at Clarins counters nationwide, 20% off coupons for almost all May Co. stores, 20% off your purchase at Rampage stores, and $10 off a $50 purchase with your MasterCard at Steve Madden stores. Okay, so it's not a coupon for Barneys, but it is a good resource. With deals like these, who can afford to be snobby?
The week in shopping
Finally, writing "The week in shoping" doesn't take me three hours. I should note that nearly every store and website is having a sale; here are some notables.
Both the website and store version of Girlshop have goodies by Lauren Merkin and other hip designers for up to 75% off. Through 1/31; store hours 11-7 Mon-Wed., 11-8 Thurs.-Sat., noon-7 Sun.; 819 Washington St. (Little W. 12th & 13th Sts.).
A trip to Soho is definitely in store for me this weekend: A.P.C. has clothing and accessories for men, women and children for 30%-50% off. 1/5-1/31; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 131 Mercer St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Get your Aussie fix at Elizabeth Charles: Australian and New Zealand designers' clothing is 30%-60% off. Through 1/31; noon-7:30, noon-6:30 Sun., closed Mon.; 639 1/2 Hudson St. (Horatio & Gansevoort Sts.).
Pretty, delicate Tina Tang jewelry is a wonderful 50%-70% off (think semiprecious stones and sterling silver for $20 and up). Through 1/8; noon-7 weekdays, noon-6 weekends, 230 Mulberry St. (at Prince St.).
Treat yourself to a bra that actually fits--and is on sale, to boot--with an appointment at Bra*Tenders. 1/5-1/31; call 212-957-7000 to make an appointment; 630 9th Ave. (at 45th St.), ste. 601.
I've done serious damage before at Shop; their small but well-chosen selection is cute, cute cute (and now majorly on sale). Through 12/31; noon-7; 105 Stanton St. (Ludlow & Essex Sts.).
Get fancy, old-school stationery for up to 75% off at Dempsey & Carroll's sale. 1/5-1/6; 11-7; 136 E. 57th St. (Park & Lex), 4th fl.
Score sexy swimwear, vintage stuff and jersey gowns by Norma Kamali for 75% off. Through 1/13; 10-6, closed Sun.; 11 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Get 20% off plus free shipping on independent designers at Mighty Flirt through 1/8.
Finally, writing "The week in shoping" doesn't take me three hours. I should note that nearly every store and website is having a sale; here are some notables.
Both the website and store version of Girlshop have goodies by Lauren Merkin and other hip designers for up to 75% off. Through 1/31; store hours 11-7 Mon-Wed., 11-8 Thurs.-Sat., noon-7 Sun.; 819 Washington St. (Little W. 12th & 13th Sts.).
A trip to Soho is definitely in store for me this weekend: A.P.C. has clothing and accessories for men, women and children for 30%-50% off. 1/5-1/31; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 131 Mercer St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Get your Aussie fix at Elizabeth Charles: Australian and New Zealand designers' clothing is 30%-60% off. Through 1/31; noon-7:30, noon-6:30 Sun., closed Mon.; 639 1/2 Hudson St. (Horatio & Gansevoort Sts.).
Pretty, delicate Tina Tang jewelry is a wonderful 50%-70% off (think semiprecious stones and sterling silver for $20 and up). Through 1/8; noon-7 weekdays, noon-6 weekends, 230 Mulberry St. (at Prince St.).
Treat yourself to a bra that actually fits--and is on sale, to boot--with an appointment at Bra*Tenders. 1/5-1/31; call 212-957-7000 to make an appointment; 630 9th Ave. (at 45th St.), ste. 601.
I've done serious damage before at Shop; their small but well-chosen selection is cute, cute cute (and now majorly on sale). Through 12/31; noon-7; 105 Stanton St. (Ludlow & Essex Sts.).
Get fancy, old-school stationery for up to 75% off at Dempsey & Carroll's sale. 1/5-1/6; 11-7; 136 E. 57th St. (Park & Lex), 4th fl.
Score sexy swimwear, vintage stuff and jersey gowns by Norma Kamali for 75% off. Through 1/13; 10-6, closed Sun.; 11 W. 56th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Get 20% off plus free shipping on independent designers at Mighty Flirt through 1/8.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Websites of the week
If you haven't finished your holiday shopping yet, don't worry. There are still a million websites offering free shipping, free expedited shipping, free expedited shipping upgrades, and so on. But since there's a huge transit strike happening right now, why not use that as an excuse to take your time and finish up your holiday shopping properly? Here are five all-purpose gift websites and my favorite gifts from each, plus if you really want the gift by Christmas or Hanukkah, your expedited shipping options.
Website: Fredflare.com
Favorite gift: Cell phone receiver, $20
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: Henry & Lulu
Favorite gift: Jessie Steele hostess apron, $50
Last-minute shipping options: Regular ol' UPS (cross your fingers)
Website: World Shoppe
Favorite gift: Recycled telephone wire basket, $120
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: ArtBrat.com
Favorite gift: Yoshitomo Nara "Too Young to Die" ashtray, $50
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: Jonathan Adler
Favorite gift: Bargello Waves needlepoint pillow, $110
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Good luck!
If you haven't finished your holiday shopping yet, don't worry. There are still a million websites offering free shipping, free expedited shipping, free expedited shipping upgrades, and so on. But since there's a huge transit strike happening right now, why not use that as an excuse to take your time and finish up your holiday shopping properly? Here are five all-purpose gift websites and my favorite gifts from each, plus if you really want the gift by Christmas or Hanukkah, your expedited shipping options.
Website: Fredflare.com
Favorite gift: Cell phone receiver, $20
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: Henry & Lulu
Favorite gift: Jessie Steele hostess apron, $50
Last-minute shipping options: Regular ol' UPS (cross your fingers)
Website: World Shoppe
Favorite gift: Recycled telephone wire basket, $120
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: ArtBrat.com
Favorite gift: Yoshitomo Nara "Too Young to Die" ashtray, $50
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Website: Jonathan Adler
Favorite gift: Bargello Waves needlepoint pillow, $110
Last-minute shipping options: UPS 2nd Day or Next Day
Good luck!
Monday, December 19, 2005
(Last week's) Project Runway recap
I will admit, I totally fell for last week's Project Runway tease: The designers would be creating an ensemble for an international fashion icon. As Tim Gunn led the designers up Broadway, my mind was racing. Was it Anna Wintour? Madonna? Or were they pulling a fast one on us, having them design for the pregnant Heidi Klum? (Hey, a girl needs maternity clothing!) But as soon as they entered the Toys R Us at 44th Street, I knew: They were designing for Barbie. Now, Barbie's had a tough time these last few years, losing ground to the (in my opinion) skankily dressed Bratz dolls. Hence the "My Scene" Barbie, a trendier, more stylish doll (however still with the ridiculous 38-18-32 proportions). The designers, being the good sports that they are, were quite enthusiastic about the challenge. So aside from a brief episode that involved Kara losing her Barbie's hat on the escalator, the challenge got off to a good start. Of course, the main dramatic points in this episode were that 1)Daniel Franco is such a perfectionist, plus he does this (kind of annoying) thing where he takes a few steps away, then steps back, which, as one of the contestants pointed out, wastes a ton of time. 2) Marla can't drape, can't sew, and is otherwise technically challenged. I think her days are numbered. 3) Tim Gunn took Andrae into his office for a chat regarding last week's crying jag; Andrae got flustered but made no amends. (And after the way he sassed Nina Garcia after the runway show, I'm expecting his days are numbered too.)
At the runway show, the winners and losers were pretty clear. Andrae made a totally bizarre pouf-skirt dress, and Marla made an outfit suited for, well, a fortysomething hooker. Both squeaked by the judges. Santino totally thought he was a shoo-in to win, and when Heidi announced his name--to say he was "in"--he almost totally embarrassed himself; when Best Gay Uncle Ever Nick won with his colorful creation, the cameras cut to Santino sitting in the corner with his head draped on his knees. Hear those violins, Santino? They're playing for you. The big loser was Raymundo, whose totally bizarre outfit was best described by Michael Kors as "Barefoot Appalachia Lil' Abner." Priceless.
Next week (aka this week): The designers create lingerie. Oh, baby!
I will admit, I totally fell for last week's Project Runway tease: The designers would be creating an ensemble for an international fashion icon. As Tim Gunn led the designers up Broadway, my mind was racing. Was it Anna Wintour? Madonna? Or were they pulling a fast one on us, having them design for the pregnant Heidi Klum? (Hey, a girl needs maternity clothing!) But as soon as they entered the Toys R Us at 44th Street, I knew: They were designing for Barbie. Now, Barbie's had a tough time these last few years, losing ground to the (in my opinion) skankily dressed Bratz dolls. Hence the "My Scene" Barbie, a trendier, more stylish doll (however still with the ridiculous 38-18-32 proportions). The designers, being the good sports that they are, were quite enthusiastic about the challenge. So aside from a brief episode that involved Kara losing her Barbie's hat on the escalator, the challenge got off to a good start. Of course, the main dramatic points in this episode were that 1)Daniel Franco is such a perfectionist, plus he does this (kind of annoying) thing where he takes a few steps away, then steps back, which, as one of the contestants pointed out, wastes a ton of time. 2) Marla can't drape, can't sew, and is otherwise technically challenged. I think her days are numbered. 3) Tim Gunn took Andrae into his office for a chat regarding last week's crying jag; Andrae got flustered but made no amends. (And after the way he sassed Nina Garcia after the runway show, I'm expecting his days are numbered too.)
At the runway show, the winners and losers were pretty clear. Andrae made a totally bizarre pouf-skirt dress, and Marla made an outfit suited for, well, a fortysomething hooker. Both squeaked by the judges. Santino totally thought he was a shoo-in to win, and when Heidi announced his name--to say he was "in"--he almost totally embarrassed himself; when Best Gay Uncle Ever Nick won with his colorful creation, the cameras cut to Santino sitting in the corner with his head draped on his knees. Hear those violins, Santino? They're playing for you. The big loser was Raymundo, whose totally bizarre outfit was best described by Michael Kors as "Barefoot Appalachia Lil' Abner." Priceless.
Next week (aka this week): The designers create lingerie. Oh, baby!
The week in shopping: five days till Christmas...
...and I've spent the past two weeks drinking and eating...and drinking...and exchanging presents...and eating...and drinking. Merry Christmas, dolls!
Three things that get me to Brooklyn: Peter Luger, Target, and Butter. Why the latter? They've got a well-chosen selection of Marni, Dries Van Noten, Mayle, and others, now 30%-50% off (bonus: My friend AH lives on the same block). 12/21-1/5; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 389 Atlantic Ave. (at Hoyt St.), Brooklyn.
Cute, feminine clothes by my fellow Chicago native Cynthia Rowley are up to 70% off. Through 12/22; 9-7; 486 Broadway (at Broome St.).
Score United Bamboo's ironically preppy line for up to 85% off. Tees are $20. Through 12/22; 217 Centre St. (Howard & Grand Sts.), 6th fl.
Give a unique gift with something vintage: Psyche's Tears's collection is 20% off. Through 12/24; 1-8, 1-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 350 E. 9th St. (1st & 2nd Aves.).
Belly Dance Maternity, right down the street from Cheryl Shops HQ, has maternity clothes from Liz Lange, Diane Von Furstenberg, Chaiken, and other fancy designers for $25 to $100. 12/21-12/28; 11-7 Mon.-Thurs., 11-7 Fri. & Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 548 Hudson St. (W. 11th & Charles Sts.).
For the hip-hop guy in your life, all Sean John lines are up to 75% off. Or as Diddy might say, "We invented the sample sale." Through 12/22; 8-8; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Zero Maria Cornejo's sculptural wool pants, dresses, knitwear, and more are now on sale. Through 1/10; 12:30-7:30 weekdays, noon-6:30 weekends; 225 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Save up to 50% at Cheryl Shops fave Active Endeavors' holiday sale.
Also, check out the sale at former Cheryl Shops website of the week Le Train Bleu.
Yet another Cheryl Shops fave, American Apparel, is opening stores, well, like rabbits. They've got new ones at 181 8th Avenue in Chelsea and Columbus Circle, at 1841 Broadway.
Save up to 50% at Gap's end-of-season sale.
American Eagle has also jumped on the holiday-sale bandwagon.
Save up to 50% at Banana Republic's winter sale.
Use coupon code MERRY for 25% off a $100 order at Daszign.com through 12/21.
Clothingline is open through Friday and still has Tory Burch, Free People, White + Warren, Tocca, and more. See website for details and hours.
...and I've spent the past two weeks drinking and eating...and drinking...and exchanging presents...and eating...and drinking. Merry Christmas, dolls!
Three things that get me to Brooklyn: Peter Luger, Target, and Butter. Why the latter? They've got a well-chosen selection of Marni, Dries Van Noten, Mayle, and others, now 30%-50% off (bonus: My friend AH lives on the same block). 12/21-1/5; noon-7, noon-6 Sun.; 389 Atlantic Ave. (at Hoyt St.), Brooklyn.
Cute, feminine clothes by my fellow Chicago native Cynthia Rowley are up to 70% off. Through 12/22; 9-7; 486 Broadway (at Broome St.).
Score United Bamboo's ironically preppy line for up to 85% off. Tees are $20. Through 12/22; 217 Centre St. (Howard & Grand Sts.), 6th fl.
Give a unique gift with something vintage: Psyche's Tears's collection is 20% off. Through 12/24; 1-8, 1-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 350 E. 9th St. (1st & 2nd Aves.).
Belly Dance Maternity, right down the street from Cheryl Shops HQ, has maternity clothes from Liz Lange, Diane Von Furstenberg, Chaiken, and other fancy designers for $25 to $100. 12/21-12/28; 11-7 Mon.-Thurs., 11-7 Fri. & Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 548 Hudson St. (W. 11th & Charles Sts.).
For the hip-hop guy in your life, all Sean John lines are up to 75% off. Or as Diddy might say, "We invented the sample sale." Through 12/22; 8-8; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Zero Maria Cornejo's sculptural wool pants, dresses, knitwear, and more are now on sale. Through 1/10; 12:30-7:30 weekdays, noon-6:30 weekends; 225 Mott St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
Save up to 50% at Cheryl Shops fave Active Endeavors' holiday sale.
Also, check out the sale at former Cheryl Shops website of the week Le Train Bleu.
Yet another Cheryl Shops fave, American Apparel, is opening stores, well, like rabbits. They've got new ones at 181 8th Avenue in Chelsea and Columbus Circle, at 1841 Broadway.
Save up to 50% at Gap's end-of-season sale.
American Eagle has also jumped on the holiday-sale bandwagon.
Save up to 50% at Banana Republic's winter sale.
Use coupon code MERRY for 25% off a $100 order at Daszign.com through 12/21.
Clothingline is open through Friday and still has Tory Burch, Free People, White + Warren, Tocca, and more. See website for details and hours.
Monday, December 12, 2005
The week in shopping: two weeks till Christmas...
...and I have only one more gift to buy. Also, I predict this will be the last good week of sales. So shop now or be sorry later.
Oh, how I love Y-3. Clothes and accessories for men and women from Yohji Yamamoto's collaboration with Adidas are 60% off at this heaven-sent sale. 12/15-12/18; 11-7 weekdays, 10-6 weekends; 599 Broadway (at Houston), 2nd fl.
Versace is reportedly in huge financial trouble, but, hey, that means clothing and accessories for men and women for 60%-70% off (this is Versace ready-to-wear, not just Versus and Jeans)! 12/13-12/16; 9-7, 9-5 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).
Sadly, I remember when Catherine Malandrino's clothes were rather affordable. At this sample sale, it's back to the good ol' days (prices are roughly $300 and under). Through 12/16; 9-7; 589 8th Ave. (at 39th St.), 2nd fl.l
Make like Ashley Olsen and hit the Proenza Schouler sample sale; gowns, tops, skirts, annd more are $50-$600. What's the catch? Cash or check only. 12/13-12/16; 9-5; 120 Walker St. (Centre & Baxter Sts.), 6th fl.
Select items from Balenciaga's fall men’s and women’s lines are 40% off. Sadly, bags are not included. Through 1/5; 11-7, noon-5 Sun.; 542 W. 22nd St. (10th & 11th Aves.).
While you're in the neighborhood, hit Ports 1961 for more affordable, ladylike frocks. 12/15-12/16; noon-8 Thurs., 10-7 Fri.; 601 W. 26th St. (11th & 12th Aves.), ste. 875. i
Got cash to burn? Nanette Lepore's cute, feminine separates are $95 and up at this cash-only sale. 12/14-12/15; 9-6; 225 W. 35th St.. (7th & 8th Aves.), 4th fl.
If, after the H&M debacle, you're still lusting for Stella McCartney merch, you're in luck: Select fall/winter clothes and accessories are 40% off. Through 1/1; 11-7, 12:30-6 Sun.; 429 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
PrettScore party frocks and more for 80% off at Betsey Johnson. 12/15-12/16; 10-9; 263 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
Asian-inspired clothing is up to 75% off at Vivienne Tam's sale. 12/14-12/16; 10-8 Wed., 10-7 Thurs., 10-6 Fri.; 550 7th Ave. (at 39th St.), 20th fl. s
Because you can never get enough cashmere this time of year, Meg Cohen Design's hats, scarves, and gloves are $25-$155. 12/13-12/17; 11-7; 920 Broadway (20th & 21st Sts.), ste. 905.
Arrive early for the Hanro sale: Loungewear, sleepwear, underwear, and robes are $6-$50. Cash or check only. 12/13-12/14; 8-6 Tue., 8-4 Wed., 40 E. 34th St. (Park & Madison), ste. 207.
This week, Clothingline has Tory Burch, White + Warren, and Tocca. Visit website for hours. 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Malo's luxe cashmeres for men and women are up to 75% off retail. Through 12/14; 9-6:30 Tues., 9-5 Wed.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Save 30%-75% on select fall items at Downtown designer powerhouse Kirna Zabete.
Pretty beaded home accessories by Kim Seybert are 40%-75% off. 12/15-12/16; 9:30-7; 37 W. 37th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 8th fl.
When in doubt, buy handbags! Get 50% off The Sak and Elliott Lucca at this sale. 12/15-12/16; 10-5; 339 5th Ave. (at 33rd St.), 2nd fl.
Cantaloup has denim on sale, plus Sass & Bide, La Rok, Gauge, and in-demand labels for 30%-50% off. Through 1/3; 11-8, 11-7 Sat., noon-7 Sun.; 1036 Lexington (at 74th St.), 1359 2nd Ave. (at 71st St.).
If you missed last week's sale and you're pregnant, you're in luck: Diane Von Furstenberg's maternity clothes are 50 %-70% off; dresses are now $125. Through 12/14; 9-7 Tues., 9-6 Wed.; 389 W. 12th St. (at 9th Ave.).
Petit Bateau tees and stylish French Stephane Kelian are on sale at this cash-only event. Through 12/13; 11-7; 41 Great Jones St. (Lafayette & Bowery), 2nd fl.
Enter code SNOW to save 20% on full-priced merchandise through 12/18 at Blush.
Save 20% on all orders of $100 or more when you use code HOLIDAY at Daszign.com through 12/15.
Hit Ula day spa on 12/13 for an evening of shopping from the Sineh d showroom, plus wine & cheese. 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Save 15% at the holiday-shopping night at Girlshop's meatpacking district store. 12/15; 4-9 p.m.; 819 Washington St. (Little W. 12th & Gansevoort Sts.).
...and I have only one more gift to buy. Also, I predict this will be the last good week of sales. So shop now or be sorry later.
Oh, how I love Y-3. Clothes and accessories for men and women from Yohji Yamamoto's collaboration with Adidas are 60% off at this heaven-sent sale. 12/15-12/18; 11-7 weekdays, 10-6 weekends; 599 Broadway (at Houston), 2nd fl.
Versace is reportedly in huge financial trouble, but, hey, that means clothing and accessories for men and women for 60%-70% off (this is Versace ready-to-wear, not just Versus and Jeans)! 12/13-12/16; 9-7, 9-5 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).
Sadly, I remember when Catherine Malandrino's clothes were rather affordable. At this sample sale, it's back to the good ol' days (prices are roughly $300 and under). Through 12/16; 9-7; 589 8th Ave. (at 39th St.), 2nd fl.l
Make like Ashley Olsen and hit the Proenza Schouler sample sale; gowns, tops, skirts, annd more are $50-$600. What's the catch? Cash or check only. 12/13-12/16; 9-5; 120 Walker St. (Centre & Baxter Sts.), 6th fl.
Select items from Balenciaga's fall men’s and women’s lines are 40% off. Sadly, bags are not included. Through 1/5; 11-7, noon-5 Sun.; 542 W. 22nd St. (10th & 11th Aves.).
While you're in the neighborhood, hit Ports 1961 for more affordable, ladylike frocks. 12/15-12/16; noon-8 Thurs., 10-7 Fri.; 601 W. 26th St. (11th & 12th Aves.), ste. 875. i
Got cash to burn? Nanette Lepore's cute, feminine separates are $95 and up at this cash-only sale. 12/14-12/15; 9-6; 225 W. 35th St.. (7th & 8th Aves.), 4th fl.
If, after the H&M debacle, you're still lusting for Stella McCartney merch, you're in luck: Select fall/winter clothes and accessories are 40% off. Through 1/1; 11-7, 12:30-6 Sun.; 429 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.).
PrettScore party frocks and more for 80% off at Betsey Johnson. 12/15-12/16; 10-9; 263 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
Asian-inspired clothing is up to 75% off at Vivienne Tam's sale. 12/14-12/16; 10-8 Wed., 10-7 Thurs., 10-6 Fri.; 550 7th Ave. (at 39th St.), 20th fl. s
Because you can never get enough cashmere this time of year, Meg Cohen Design's hats, scarves, and gloves are $25-$155. 12/13-12/17; 11-7; 920 Broadway (20th & 21st Sts.), ste. 905.
Arrive early for the Hanro sale: Loungewear, sleepwear, underwear, and robes are $6-$50. Cash or check only. 12/13-12/14; 8-6 Tue., 8-4 Wed., 40 E. 34th St. (Park & Madison), ste. 207.
This week, Clothingline has Tory Burch, White + Warren, and Tocca. Visit website for hours. 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Malo's luxe cashmeres for men and women are up to 75% off retail. Through 12/14; 9-6:30 Tues., 9-5 Wed.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Save 30%-75% on select fall items at Downtown designer powerhouse Kirna Zabete.
Pretty beaded home accessories by Kim Seybert are 40%-75% off. 12/15-12/16; 9:30-7; 37 W. 37th St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 8th fl.
When in doubt, buy handbags! Get 50% off The Sak and Elliott Lucca at this sale. 12/15-12/16; 10-5; 339 5th Ave. (at 33rd St.), 2nd fl.
Cantaloup has denim on sale, plus Sass & Bide, La Rok, Gauge, and in-demand labels for 30%-50% off. Through 1/3; 11-8, 11-7 Sat., noon-7 Sun.; 1036 Lexington (at 74th St.), 1359 2nd Ave. (at 71st St.).
If you missed last week's sale and you're pregnant, you're in luck: Diane Von Furstenberg's maternity clothes are 50 %-70% off; dresses are now $125. Through 12/14; 9-7 Tues., 9-6 Wed.; 389 W. 12th St. (at 9th Ave.).
Petit Bateau tees and stylish French Stephane Kelian are on sale at this cash-only event. Through 12/13; 11-7; 41 Great Jones St. (Lafayette & Bowery), 2nd fl.
Enter code SNOW to save 20% on full-priced merchandise through 12/18 at Blush.
Save 20% on all orders of $100 or more when you use code HOLIDAY at Daszign.com through 12/15.
Hit Ula day spa on 12/13 for an evening of shopping from the Sineh d showroom, plus wine & cheese. 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Save 15% at the holiday-shopping night at Girlshop's meatpacking district store. 12/15; 4-9 p.m.; 819 Washington St. (Little W. 12th & Gansevoort Sts.).
Project Runway recap
How convenient: Just as America's Next Top Model ends, a new season of Project Runway begins. And I finally got around to watching this season's two premiere episodes last night. The first episode was a bit American Idol meets America's Next Top Model, combining the "look at all these crazy rejects" aesthetic of the former (also featuring guest judges from the first season) with the "we've narrowed it down to semifinalists, but we're only getting rid of two of them" mindset of the latter. The 16 semifinalists were sent 6 yards of muslin (a really lightweight, boring cotton that's primarily used for draping, experimenting, and testing patterns) in the mail, and they had a week (plus $20 for trim) to create something fabulous. There were varying degrees of what I would call fabulous, but I definitely agreed with the choices: Santino Rice, an L.A. designer who reminds me of Miguel Adrover in both looks and disposition, created this gorgeous party dress with handmade floral-looking trim; I'd say even this early in the game, he's a frontrunner. Heidi, a Southern girl who made a dress consisting mostly of trim, and John, who appeared to dye his dress with Rit and call it a day, were the semifinalists who didn't make it to the finals. Also, I should mention that Daniel Franco, the obnoxious designer who was the first to go in the first season, is back for more, and almost didn't make it to the finals (his dress, while gorgeous, had not been fitted to the model). While I think it's interesting that he's back, I think the "Oh my god, will Daniel get kicked off this week?" storyline is going to get boring after awhile. Also, he's still obnoxious.
The next episode started with the designers all going to a cocktail party together...and finding out their next challenge is to design an outfit based on the clothes they're wearing at that very moment. Some designers, as one might imagine, handled this better than others. Emmet (the older, wiser menswear designer), for example, didn't hesitate for a moment about cutting up what was probably a $300 pair of True Relgion jeans; whereas Andrae (the crazy intellectual artist guy) almost lost his sewing needles over cutting up his favorite vintage denim jacket. Chloe, the non-dorky Asian girl, created this gorgeous, minimalist minidress out of her jacket and dress to win the challenge, although the judges also liked Daniel's jacket and skirt (made from his jacket and jeans) and Santino's deconstructed leather jacket/skirt combo (very Rick Owens). Kirsten, the lawywer-cum-swimwear designer, made an outfit that was, in a word, trashy, and got the auf wiedersehen from Heidi Klum.
Several items of note, so far in the series:
*Nina Garcia is as icy as ever and Michael Kors is as bitchy as ever, god love 'em both.
*The designers are stuck with one model for the entire season. I suppose this eliminates the whole humiliation factor felt by the model who, in effect, gets voted off by the final designer who didn't choose her. Interesting.
*Already there are complaints about 1) the forms and 2) the sewing machines. Zulema (the crazy woman who won't share closet space) blamed her super-short dress on the fact that her dress form didn't have an ass; Kara, the (talented) South African, was complaining about the sewing machines, and couldn't figure out how to thread it. As a Parsons graduate, I can tell you that none of the dress forms have asses, so you have to pad them with cotton batting. And, yes, the sewing machines are, as I once remarked to one of my classmates, designed to sew 100 pairs of trousers a day in a sweatshop. They're fast. Get over it.
*Speaking of Zulema, I think she's going to be the Wendy Pepper of this season. No, I take that back--I know she's going to be the Wendy Pepper of this season.
*I think I'm going to start a Project Runway drinking game; e.g., when Tim Gunn says, "Make it work," you get to chug!
Next week (er, this week): The designers have to create something for one of fashion's most stylish icons. Hmm...
How convenient: Just as America's Next Top Model ends, a new season of Project Runway begins. And I finally got around to watching this season's two premiere episodes last night. The first episode was a bit American Idol meets America's Next Top Model, combining the "look at all these crazy rejects" aesthetic of the former (also featuring guest judges from the first season) with the "we've narrowed it down to semifinalists, but we're only getting rid of two of them" mindset of the latter. The 16 semifinalists were sent 6 yards of muslin (a really lightweight, boring cotton that's primarily used for draping, experimenting, and testing patterns) in the mail, and they had a week (plus $20 for trim) to create something fabulous. There were varying degrees of what I would call fabulous, but I definitely agreed with the choices: Santino Rice, an L.A. designer who reminds me of Miguel Adrover in both looks and disposition, created this gorgeous party dress with handmade floral-looking trim; I'd say even this early in the game, he's a frontrunner. Heidi, a Southern girl who made a dress consisting mostly of trim, and John, who appeared to dye his dress with Rit and call it a day, were the semifinalists who didn't make it to the finals. Also, I should mention that Daniel Franco, the obnoxious designer who was the first to go in the first season, is back for more, and almost didn't make it to the finals (his dress, while gorgeous, had not been fitted to the model). While I think it's interesting that he's back, I think the "Oh my god, will Daniel get kicked off this week?" storyline is going to get boring after awhile. Also, he's still obnoxious.
The next episode started with the designers all going to a cocktail party together...and finding out their next challenge is to design an outfit based on the clothes they're wearing at that very moment. Some designers, as one might imagine, handled this better than others. Emmet (the older, wiser menswear designer), for example, didn't hesitate for a moment about cutting up what was probably a $300 pair of True Relgion jeans; whereas Andrae (the crazy intellectual artist guy) almost lost his sewing needles over cutting up his favorite vintage denim jacket. Chloe, the non-dorky Asian girl, created this gorgeous, minimalist minidress out of her jacket and dress to win the challenge, although the judges also liked Daniel's jacket and skirt (made from his jacket and jeans) and Santino's deconstructed leather jacket/skirt combo (very Rick Owens). Kirsten, the lawywer-cum-swimwear designer, made an outfit that was, in a word, trashy, and got the auf wiedersehen from Heidi Klum.
Several items of note, so far in the series:
*Nina Garcia is as icy as ever and Michael Kors is as bitchy as ever, god love 'em both.
*The designers are stuck with one model for the entire season. I suppose this eliminates the whole humiliation factor felt by the model who, in effect, gets voted off by the final designer who didn't choose her. Interesting.
*Already there are complaints about 1) the forms and 2) the sewing machines. Zulema (the crazy woman who won't share closet space) blamed her super-short dress on the fact that her dress form didn't have an ass; Kara, the (talented) South African, was complaining about the sewing machines, and couldn't figure out how to thread it. As a Parsons graduate, I can tell you that none of the dress forms have asses, so you have to pad them with cotton batting. And, yes, the sewing machines are, as I once remarked to one of my classmates, designed to sew 100 pairs of trousers a day in a sweatshop. They're fast. Get over it.
*Speaking of Zulema, I think she's going to be the Wendy Pepper of this season. No, I take that back--I know she's going to be the Wendy Pepper of this season.
*I think I'm going to start a Project Runway drinking game; e.g., when Tim Gunn says, "Make it work," you get to chug!
Next week (er, this week): The designers have to create something for one of fashion's most stylish icons. Hmm...
Thursday, December 08, 2005
More sales
Virtually every website out there is offering free shipping of one kind or another. So from now on, I'm only mentioning free shipping for notable websites (like ones that usually charge high shipping rates, or sites that rarely have sales or promo codes, or sites that I just like a lot).
For example, Cheryl Shops fave Ravinstyle is offering free shipping through 12/12 when you enter code HolidayShip at checkout.
Spend $75 at Cheryl Shops fave Beautyhabit and, when you enter code GIFTGUIDE at checkout through 12/12, you'll receive a deluxe 11-piece sample set, plus a coupon for $10 off your next $75 order.
Designer shoe-and-bag wonderland Duty-Free Apparel is offering $50 off any pair of shoes, $50 off any bag under $575, and $75 off any bag over $600.
Did you miss Lord & Taylor coupons? I did.
Save 20% at Bloomingdales.com when you enter code CANDLE at checkout through 12/15 (exclusions apply).
The Art of Shopping is holding its last sample sale of the year, featuring the usual designer denim & tees, and, by god, they're taking Visa and Mastercard this time! 12/9-12/18; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 59 Crosby St. (Spring & Broome Sts.).
Save 20% at MoMa Store when you enter cod 5VIP6 at checkout through 12/11.
Save 15% at American Eagle when you enter code 36952645 at checkout through 12/14.
J.Crew is having a shoe sale.
From the "Why do they have sales like this when I'm supposed to be buying stuff for other people?" department, Find Outlet is having a Paul & Joe sample sale, also with Malini M, Twinkle By Wenlan, Salt Works, and Sean (aka Diddy's women's line). Through 12/11; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
My adored American Apparel has set up a "Pop-Up Shop" at 140 W. Broadway in Tribeca (Between Duane & Thomas Sts.). Click here for daily updates on what's happening at the experimental shop.
Save up to 60% on fall and holiday styles at La Redoute, one of my favorite masstige websites (check out their Designer Studio).
Lifesize has a bunch of adorable, giftable items for kids on sale (like mini Uggs).
Virtually every website out there is offering free shipping of one kind or another. So from now on, I'm only mentioning free shipping for notable websites (like ones that usually charge high shipping rates, or sites that rarely have sales or promo codes, or sites that I just like a lot).
For example, Cheryl Shops fave Ravinstyle is offering free shipping through 12/12 when you enter code HolidayShip at checkout.
Spend $75 at Cheryl Shops fave Beautyhabit and, when you enter code GIFTGUIDE at checkout through 12/12, you'll receive a deluxe 11-piece sample set, plus a coupon for $10 off your next $75 order.
Designer shoe-and-bag wonderland Duty-Free Apparel is offering $50 off any pair of shoes, $50 off any bag under $575, and $75 off any bag over $600.
Did you miss Lord & Taylor coupons? I did.
Save 20% at Bloomingdales.com when you enter code CANDLE at checkout through 12/15 (exclusions apply).
The Art of Shopping is holding its last sample sale of the year, featuring the usual designer denim & tees, and, by god, they're taking Visa and Mastercard this time! 12/9-12/18; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 59 Crosby St. (Spring & Broome Sts.).
Save 20% at MoMa Store when you enter cod 5VIP6 at checkout through 12/11.
Save 15% at American Eagle when you enter code 36952645 at checkout through 12/14.
J.Crew is having a shoe sale.
From the "Why do they have sales like this when I'm supposed to be buying stuff for other people?" department, Find Outlet is having a Paul & Joe sample sale, also with Malini M, Twinkle By Wenlan, Salt Works, and Sean (aka Diddy's women's line). Through 12/11; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
My adored American Apparel has set up a "Pop-Up Shop" at 140 W. Broadway in Tribeca (Between Duane & Thomas Sts.). Click here for daily updates on what's happening at the experimental shop.
Save up to 60% on fall and holiday styles at La Redoute, one of my favorite masstige websites (check out their Designer Studio).
Lifesize has a bunch of adorable, giftable items for kids on sale (like mini Uggs).
Website of the week
When I read this week that Nick Denton and his Gawker empire were starting a shopping blog, my heart dropped a little. I love Gawker, and read it and its L.A. sibling Defamer daily (MW loves their sports blog, Deadspin), but you just can't compete with 'em. Not that it's a competition, but, you know, I'm an overachiever, so everything's a competition with me. Anyway, the new shopping blog is called Consumerist, and as one can sort of infer from the name, it's more about consumerism, rather than shopping. What does that mean? Well, instead of telling you about cool clothes or accessories, or even home products or books or whatever, the focus is more on being ripped off by shady companies (or, more accurately, legit companies that do shady things), with a little dash of sales thrown in. In other words, it's no Cheryl Shops (or I Am Fashion or Closet Therapy, for that matter). I think the main reason for this is that the writer, Joel Johnson, is a guy, and also a former editor of Gizmodo, Gawker's techie blog (this explains Consumerist's electronics-heavy focus). I just get the feeling that when Consumerist feels compelled to talk about the girly stuff, they just don't get it right. Take this post, a review of the Anthropologie "solstice" catalogue--it talks about how "stunning" the models are, the artistry of the photography, and the quality of the paper stock, but there is scant mention of what's really important: the products featured in the catalogue. Also, you can tell a guy wrote this post, because, for christ's sake, it talks about reading the catalogue on the can. And this post, about the Bliss sample sale, features copy lifted word for word from Bliss's email, then a reader comment complaining about how Bliss's products smell. Um, and the point of that is...? As my coworker AW would say, "Don't yuck my yum."
So, is this a blog worth reading? Well, it remains to be seen. I'll probably keep reading it, just to keep up with the Joneses, but I'm not going to be green with envy over it--it is quite different than Cheryl Shops, and comparing them would be like apples and oranges (or, to paraphrase my friend CK, apples and pencils, because, really, apples and oranges aren't so different after all). I feel like the (straight) male Cheryl Shops readers might enjoy the Consumerist, due to its focus on stuff that women don't really care about (like XBoxes), but I can't quite figure out their editorial focus, so I don't really know. My only recommendation: Keep reading Cheryl Shops!
When I read this week that Nick Denton and his Gawker empire were starting a shopping blog, my heart dropped a little. I love Gawker, and read it and its L.A. sibling Defamer daily (MW loves their sports blog, Deadspin), but you just can't compete with 'em. Not that it's a competition, but, you know, I'm an overachiever, so everything's a competition with me. Anyway, the new shopping blog is called Consumerist, and as one can sort of infer from the name, it's more about consumerism, rather than shopping. What does that mean? Well, instead of telling you about cool clothes or accessories, or even home products or books or whatever, the focus is more on being ripped off by shady companies (or, more accurately, legit companies that do shady things), with a little dash of sales thrown in. In other words, it's no Cheryl Shops (or I Am Fashion or Closet Therapy, for that matter). I think the main reason for this is that the writer, Joel Johnson, is a guy, and also a former editor of Gizmodo, Gawker's techie blog (this explains Consumerist's electronics-heavy focus). I just get the feeling that when Consumerist feels compelled to talk about the girly stuff, they just don't get it right. Take this post, a review of the Anthropologie "solstice" catalogue--it talks about how "stunning" the models are, the artistry of the photography, and the quality of the paper stock, but there is scant mention of what's really important: the products featured in the catalogue. Also, you can tell a guy wrote this post, because, for christ's sake, it talks about reading the catalogue on the can. And this post, about the Bliss sample sale, features copy lifted word for word from Bliss's email, then a reader comment complaining about how Bliss's products smell. Um, and the point of that is...? As my coworker AW would say, "Don't yuck my yum."
So, is this a blog worth reading? Well, it remains to be seen. I'll probably keep reading it, just to keep up with the Joneses, but I'm not going to be green with envy over it--it is quite different than Cheryl Shops, and comparing them would be like apples and oranges (or, to paraphrase my friend CK, apples and pencils, because, really, apples and oranges aren't so different after all). I feel like the (straight) male Cheryl Shops readers might enjoy the Consumerist, due to its focus on stuff that women don't really care about (like XBoxes), but I can't quite figure out their editorial focus, so I don't really know. My only recommendation: Keep reading Cheryl Shops!
America's Next Top Model recap
I didn't go to bed until well after midnight last night, but it was worth it, because Bre didn't win this season of America's Next Top Model, thank god. The episode started out with a whole bunch o' product placement, i.e. the girls filmed a Cover Girl TV ad and shot a print ad that would end up being the actual winner's campaign. Nik, who had previously sucked at talking on camera, rocked it, while Bre and Nicole both choked big time. So at judging, Nik was a shoo-in for the top two, and the judges finally came to their senses about how dumb Bre is and got rid of her. Phew! The next day's task was shooting the cover of Elle Girl magazine (again, both girls had to shoot the cover)--with Tyra, it turns out. Both girls appeared to be doing well, although they seemed a bit weirded out by (admittedly bizarre) Gilles Bensimon, the oft-mentioned editor-in-chief of Elle who photographed the shoot. The next day was the big runway show, for a British design team that no one's heard of (but who makes quite lovely frocks). Nicole obviously got a rush from catwalking, because she was, to use Tyra's favorite word, fierce. Nik looked great too but...well, more on that later. Funny side note: Past two winners Eva and Naima also walked in the show; Naima was wearing the most unflattering mullet (or femullet, if you will), and she still doesn't seemed to have developed any personality whatsoever in the past six months. (Eva, on the other hand, is still quite the diva, and has a kooky walk--a lot of the time, it kinda looks like she's drunk or she has to go to the bathroom or something.) Also, Tyra, who was sitting in the audience, looked like she was wearing a fruit basket made out of hair on her head. Talk about kooky. Anyway, all the judges were kind of shocked by Nicole's fierce spin down the runway, while they all decided that Nik's walk was "bouncy." What that actually meant was that her boobs were bouncing all over the place--which they were. I never really noticed what a rack Nik had; being a model, where proper lingerie is often an afterthought, you can't really have boobs (unless you're a lingerie or swimsuit model, of course). So, really, I think the bouncing boobs did Nik in, because Nicole was announced the winner. And I am okay with that. Honestly, I think Nik's Cover Girl photo was better (she obviously did way better on the TV spot), but I was pretty neutral about both of them all along; I just didn't want Bre to win. I don't know, I think Nicole's cute. So, yay, Nicole!
Next week, one final episode with behind-the-scenes dish; expect Tyra to get at least one of the girls to cry.
And: Once I get around to watching last night's Project Runway episodes, thus begin my recaps!
I didn't go to bed until well after midnight last night, but it was worth it, because Bre didn't win this season of America's Next Top Model, thank god. The episode started out with a whole bunch o' product placement, i.e. the girls filmed a Cover Girl TV ad and shot a print ad that would end up being the actual winner's campaign. Nik, who had previously sucked at talking on camera, rocked it, while Bre and Nicole both choked big time. So at judging, Nik was a shoo-in for the top two, and the judges finally came to their senses about how dumb Bre is and got rid of her. Phew! The next day's task was shooting the cover of Elle Girl magazine (again, both girls had to shoot the cover)--with Tyra, it turns out. Both girls appeared to be doing well, although they seemed a bit weirded out by (admittedly bizarre) Gilles Bensimon, the oft-mentioned editor-in-chief of Elle who photographed the shoot. The next day was the big runway show, for a British design team that no one's heard of (but who makes quite lovely frocks). Nicole obviously got a rush from catwalking, because she was, to use Tyra's favorite word, fierce. Nik looked great too but...well, more on that later. Funny side note: Past two winners Eva and Naima also walked in the show; Naima was wearing the most unflattering mullet (or femullet, if you will), and she still doesn't seemed to have developed any personality whatsoever in the past six months. (Eva, on the other hand, is still quite the diva, and has a kooky walk--a lot of the time, it kinda looks like she's drunk or she has to go to the bathroom or something.) Also, Tyra, who was sitting in the audience, looked like she was wearing a fruit basket made out of hair on her head. Talk about kooky. Anyway, all the judges were kind of shocked by Nicole's fierce spin down the runway, while they all decided that Nik's walk was "bouncy." What that actually meant was that her boobs were bouncing all over the place--which they were. I never really noticed what a rack Nik had; being a model, where proper lingerie is often an afterthought, you can't really have boobs (unless you're a lingerie or swimsuit model, of course). So, really, I think the bouncing boobs did Nik in, because Nicole was announced the winner. And I am okay with that. Honestly, I think Nik's Cover Girl photo was better (she obviously did way better on the TV spot), but I was pretty neutral about both of them all along; I just didn't want Bre to win. I don't know, I think Nicole's cute. So, yay, Nicole!
Next week, one final episode with behind-the-scenes dish; expect Tyra to get at least one of the girls to cry.
And: Once I get around to watching last night's Project Runway episodes, thus begin my recaps!
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Posts coming tomorrow
Sorry for my delinquency with the posts--my social life is a bit out of control this week. I am halfway through tonight's episode of America's Next Top Model as we speak, and I'll post my recap tomorrow. But I think I know who won, and her name starts with N-i....
Sorry for my delinquency with the posts--my social life is a bit out of control this week. I am halfway through tonight's episode of America's Next Top Model as we speak, and I'll post my recap tomorrow. But I think I know who won, and her name starts with N-i....
Monday, December 05, 2005
The week in shopping: three weeks till Christmas...
...and I'm nowhere near done with my shopping.
We all know the song and dance about Alvin Valley's pants; get gowns, coats, and more too 50%-80% off. 12/7-12/12; noon-6; 632 Broadway (at Bleecker), 6th fl.
MW alert: I love Fragments jewelry, and it's $5-$50 at this sale. Just a hint, babe. 12/9-12/11; 5-7 Fri., 11-4 Sat. & Sun.; 110 Greene St. (at Prince St.), ste. 803A.
Bliss beauty products are $1 and up at this made-for-gifting sale. 12/8-12/10; 8-8 Thurs., 9-6 Fri. & Sat.; 345 Hudson St. (at Charlton St.).
Eberjey lingerie does not fit my ass so well, but if it fits yours, it's 50%-75% off at this sale. 12/8-12/9; 9-7; A. Gerber Showroom, 40 E. 34th St. (at Park Ave.)., ste. 610.
I bet my boss is psyched about the Earnest Sewn sale; their fancy denim is $40-$90. Through 12/9; 9-7; 71 Gansevoort St. (at Greenwich St.), 3rd fl.
Because I now have all these kids to shop for (um, not my own), I'm probably going to hit the Kidini sale for children's clothing from Tartine et Chocolat, Charabia, and Lucy Sykes Baby for 20%-80% off. 12/7-12/9; 9:30-7; Soho Dance Studio, 598 Broadway (at Houston), 6th fl.
The sale started last week for those in the know, but Clothingline's Theory sale is still a-rockin' at roughly 60% off retail. Through 12/9; 10-6 Wed. & Fri., 10-7 Tue. & Thurs.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Kathy Erteman's modern, handmade ceramics are $10 and up, and they make excellent gifts. Cash only. 12/9-12/10; 11-7; 16 E. 18th St. (5th Ave. & Union Square West), 2nd fl.
If you're a fur-wearing Cheryl Shops reader--and it's okay if you are--Adrienne Landau's affordable furs are 50%-75% off. 12/7-12/21; 10-6 (closed weekends); 519 8th Ave. (at 35th St.), 21st fl.
Are people still wearing Tocca? If so, ready-to-wear, beauty, and kids’ items are up to 70% off at this cash only, inconveniently located sale. 12/7-12/8; 10-7; 542 W. 22nd St. (10th & 11th Aves.), 3rd fl.
The thought of buying a swimsuit right now horrifies me, but if you're jet-setting this holiday season, J. Rosen Showroom has Vix, Lisa Curran, and Bella Brazil for 40%-60% off (that's $65-$85). Through 12/9; 8-7:30; 250 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 510.
Adorable Lauren Merkin bags are on sale. 12/6-12/8; 11-8; 231 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 201.
Awesome Lilla P tees are $5 and up at this cash-only sale. Through 12/8; 9-6, 9-8 Thurs.; 420 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.), 3rd fl., buzzer 5.
For those of you with lots o' pocket change: Cashmeres by Armand Diradourian are 40% off at this cash-only sale. Through 12/20; noon-6 (closed Sun.); 160 5th Ave. (at 21st St.), ste. 901.
Colorful, gifty Liora Manne fashion and home accessories are up to 70% off. Through 12/11; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 91 Grand St. (Greene & Mercer Sts.).
The weak dollar makes buying Frette linens a daunting task, but at this sale, they're up to 70% off. Through 12/9; 9-6, 9-5 Fri. and Sa., 3-7 Sun.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Maxx New York handbags: nicer than you'd expect, and 40%-60% off at this sale. Through 12/12; 10-6 weekdays, 10-5 weekends; 385 5th Ave. (at 35th St.), 10th fl.
Fancy jewelry from M+J Savitt is 30%-60% off; call 212-684-4221 to make an appointment; 12/6-12/8; 9:30-5 (by appointment only); 475 5th Ave. (at 41st St.).
For wrap dresses, sportswear, coats, and more, I have three words for you: Diane von Furstenberg. The goods are 50%-70% off. 12/6-12/9; 9-6 Tues., 10-7 Wed. & Thurs., 9-3 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).
Pretty Wendy Mink jewelry is on sale. 12/8-12/10; 4-7 Thurs. & Fri., noon-4 Sat.; 10 Morton St. (Bleecker & 7th Ave.).
The cleverly named Wifebeader by Laura Dahl has current-season beaded tanks for 50% off and past-season tops for $20. If you can't make the sale, enter code "mistletoe" at checkout on the website for 50% off through 1/15/06. 12/7-12/9; 11-7; 126 W. 26th St. (6th & 7th Aves.) #203.
Iconic Herman Miller furniture is 10% off through 12/17 at every modern furniture store that carries it: Room & Board, Design Within Reach, Highbrow Furniture, and the like.
Gucci's fall winter sale is now in effect. Major La Pelle Guccisima action.
Just in time: Save 10% on all outerwear at PinkMascara.com, plus free shipping through 12/12.
It's "beauty rewards weekend" at Bergdorf's; get all manner of gifts with purchase, plus $25 off a $100 purchase. 12/8-12/10; 10-8; 57th Street at 5th Avenue.
...and I'm nowhere near done with my shopping.
We all know the song and dance about Alvin Valley's pants; get gowns, coats, and more too 50%-80% off. 12/7-12/12; noon-6; 632 Broadway (at Bleecker), 6th fl.
MW alert: I love Fragments jewelry, and it's $5-$50 at this sale. Just a hint, babe. 12/9-12/11; 5-7 Fri., 11-4 Sat. & Sun.; 110 Greene St. (at Prince St.), ste. 803A.
Bliss beauty products are $1 and up at this made-for-gifting sale. 12/8-12/10; 8-8 Thurs., 9-6 Fri. & Sat.; 345 Hudson St. (at Charlton St.).
Eberjey lingerie does not fit my ass so well, but if it fits yours, it's 50%-75% off at this sale. 12/8-12/9; 9-7; A. Gerber Showroom, 40 E. 34th St. (at Park Ave.)., ste. 610.
I bet my boss is psyched about the Earnest Sewn sale; their fancy denim is $40-$90. Through 12/9; 9-7; 71 Gansevoort St. (at Greenwich St.), 3rd fl.
Because I now have all these kids to shop for (um, not my own), I'm probably going to hit the Kidini sale for children's clothing from Tartine et Chocolat, Charabia, and Lucy Sykes Baby for 20%-80% off. 12/7-12/9; 9:30-7; Soho Dance Studio, 598 Broadway (at Houston), 6th fl.
The sale started last week for those in the know, but Clothingline's Theory sale is still a-rockin' at roughly 60% off retail. Through 12/9; 10-6 Wed. & Fri., 10-7 Tue. & Thurs.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Kathy Erteman's modern, handmade ceramics are $10 and up, and they make excellent gifts. Cash only. 12/9-12/10; 11-7; 16 E. 18th St. (5th Ave. & Union Square West), 2nd fl.
If you're a fur-wearing Cheryl Shops reader--and it's okay if you are--Adrienne Landau's affordable furs are 50%-75% off. 12/7-12/21; 10-6 (closed weekends); 519 8th Ave. (at 35th St.), 21st fl.
Are people still wearing Tocca? If so, ready-to-wear, beauty, and kids’ items are up to 70% off at this cash only, inconveniently located sale. 12/7-12/8; 10-7; 542 W. 22nd St. (10th & 11th Aves.), 3rd fl.
The thought of buying a swimsuit right now horrifies me, but if you're jet-setting this holiday season, J. Rosen Showroom has Vix, Lisa Curran, and Bella Brazil for 40%-60% off (that's $65-$85). Through 12/9; 8-7:30; 250 W. 39th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 510.
Adorable Lauren Merkin bags are on sale. 12/6-12/8; 11-8; 231 W. 29th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste. 201.
Awesome Lilla P tees are $5 and up at this cash-only sale. Through 12/8; 9-6, 9-8 Thurs.; 420 W. 14th St. (9th Ave. & Washington St.), 3rd fl., buzzer 5.
For those of you with lots o' pocket change: Cashmeres by Armand Diradourian are 40% off at this cash-only sale. Through 12/20; noon-6 (closed Sun.); 160 5th Ave. (at 21st St.), ste. 901.
Colorful, gifty Liora Manne fashion and home accessories are up to 70% off. Through 12/11; 11-7, noon-6 Sun.; 91 Grand St. (Greene & Mercer Sts.).
The weak dollar makes buying Frette linens a daunting task, but at this sale, they're up to 70% off. Through 12/9; 9-6, 9-5 Fri. and Sa., 3-7 Sun.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
Maxx New York handbags: nicer than you'd expect, and 40%-60% off at this sale. Through 12/12; 10-6 weekdays, 10-5 weekends; 385 5th Ave. (at 35th St.), 10th fl.
Fancy jewelry from M+J Savitt is 30%-60% off; call 212-684-4221 to make an appointment; 12/6-12/8; 9:30-5 (by appointment only); 475 5th Ave. (at 41st St.).
For wrap dresses, sportswear, coats, and more, I have three words for you: Diane von Furstenberg. The goods are 50%-70% off. 12/6-12/9; 9-6 Tues., 10-7 Wed. & Thurs., 9-3 Fri.; 260 5th Ave. (28th & 29th Sts.).
Pretty Wendy Mink jewelry is on sale. 12/8-12/10; 4-7 Thurs. & Fri., noon-4 Sat.; 10 Morton St. (Bleecker & 7th Ave.).
The cleverly named Wifebeader by Laura Dahl has current-season beaded tanks for 50% off and past-season tops for $20. If you can't make the sale, enter code "mistletoe" at checkout on the website for 50% off through 1/15/06. 12/7-12/9; 11-7; 126 W. 26th St. (6th & 7th Aves.) #203.
Iconic Herman Miller furniture is 10% off through 12/17 at every modern furniture store that carries it: Room & Board, Design Within Reach, Highbrow Furniture, and the like.
Gucci's fall winter sale is now in effect. Major La Pelle Guccisima action.
Just in time: Save 10% on all outerwear at PinkMascara.com, plus free shipping through 12/12.
It's "beauty rewards weekend" at Bergdorf's; get all manner of gifts with purchase, plus $25 off a $100 purchase. 12/8-12/10; 10-8; 57th Street at 5th Avenue.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.jpg)
