America's Next Top Model recap
This week's episode of America's Next Top Model went off with nary a bitchfight or a crying tantrum--a first for the show, I think. The episode started with the girls meeting up with Ms. Jay for a lesson on how to pose like an animal (Cue Austin Powers: "You're a tiger! Grr, baby, grr!") with...live animals! Kahlen got completely grossed out by the drooling bear, so it was quite amusing to see her feed it a marshmallow out of her teeth. The girls were then tested on what they learned; Brittany, who I thought was going a bit over the top, won. Enter Tyra, who told the girls they'd put their skills to the test at a photo shoot...in South Africa! I thought taking the girls to Tokyo last season was a bit of a stretch, but South Africa? Come on! Why not London or--gasp!--New York? Before you know it, Tyra will be taking the girls to Honduras. Hey, it's where most of your clothes are made! Honduras is the Next Fashion Capital of the World! Anyway, the girls were greeted with a safari, then a tribal dance from natives and an appearance by Tyra, touting the importance of the South African fashion scene. (Hmm, isn't this where they sent Adrianne Curry, ANTM's first-seaon winner who couldn't get work in the U.S.--or Europe for that matter?) Brittany's prize for winning the competition was sleeping indoors in (bug-infested) luxury, while the other three girls pitched a tent--literally--outside. The following day brought a photo shoot in which the girls had to pose like an animal for Lubriderm. Cue more crazy makeup. Most of the girls did a kickass job, although Keenyah was pissed that she had to be the elephant. (Throughout the episode, the girls, and Keenyah herself, alluded to her 12-pound weight gain. Yikes.) At judging, there was an impromptu "emotion" posing test, which Kahlen (now officially my favorite) nailed. Kahlen was called first; Keenyah and Michelle were the last two. And while Tyra gave Keenyah a lecture about the exorbitant amount of retouching her photo required (um, hello, Tyra, your gut is bigger than mine--I saw the jiggle action when you were jumping around with those African dudes), Michelle's lack of confidence was the final nail in her proverbial coffin, and she went home. I thought Michelle, in general, made a pretty kickass model (she photographed incredibly well), but, yes, she was a bit of a mess.
Next week, the girls get competitive during go-sees!
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
The Cheryl Shops Mother's Day Gift Guide
Yikes, Mother's Day is upon us! So without further ado, here are some gift suggestions for the hardest woman in the world to shop for.
For the foodie mom: The French market Garden Kit requires a green thumb and a vermin-free backyard, but imagine how psyched your mom would be to grow fresh mesclun, chives, leeks and more in her backyard--thus bypassing the greenmarket or the long, long lines at Whole Foods. (Note: This item is currently backordered but will hopefully be back up in time for the big day.)
For the jet-setting mom: Whether she's a business traveler or on the Palm Beach-Gstaad-St. Tropez-Aspen circuit, she can make herself feel more at home with this surprisingly reasonable Burberry folding frame. The bright turquoise color will liven up any Holiday Inn.
For the "French women don't get fat" mom: My mom would kill me if I bought her this Vosges hot chocolate set, but if yours appreciates the finer things in life (and has a fast metabolism), well, there's nothing better than $80 worth of hot chocolate.
For the mod mom: With this Pucci neck scarf, Mom can relive her '60s go-go glory days. She'll love the trip down memory lane, and you'll love borrowing it.
For the mom with incredibly good taste (a.k.a. a gift I wouldn't mind receiving myself): According to my mom, my style is too "modern." But if that's your mom's bag, she'll love this sleek Jonathan Adler jewelry box. Bonus--it matches his signature glassware!
For the put-together mom: Compacts are something that's kind of lost on this generation; my grandmother collected Estee Lauder compacts and rotated 'em. This Moroccan Mosaic Tile compact will keep the tradition going.
For the mom who's stuck on Renuzit: My pal MT introduced me to the diffuser. It's basically a jar of aromatic oil, and you stick wooden sticks in it, and they diffuse the scent throughout your room. Longer-lasting than a candle, classier than Glade Plug-Ins.
For the mom with incredibly good taste, #2: Yes, I'm a sucker for stuff with butterfiles, but these butterfly pajamas look incredibly comfortable, and you can get the monogrammed for mom (and so you can't steal 'em).
For the trendy mom: The bohemian look is in for spring, and as much as your mom might want to rock it, the tiered peasant skirts and crocheted tops will make her look like she's trying too hard. So give her this turquoise necklace, currently on sale, for a funky but age-appropriate look.
For the gadget-savvy mom: Well, not to totally generalize, but that heading is a bit of an oxymoron. But you can help mom feel hip with the very easy-to-use iPod Shuffle. Just make sure she doesn't try to recreate the ads and dance in public.
Yikes, Mother's Day is upon us! So without further ado, here are some gift suggestions for the hardest woman in the world to shop for.
For the foodie mom: The French market Garden Kit requires a green thumb and a vermin-free backyard, but imagine how psyched your mom would be to grow fresh mesclun, chives, leeks and more in her backyard--thus bypassing the greenmarket or the long, long lines at Whole Foods. (Note: This item is currently backordered but will hopefully be back up in time for the big day.)
For the jet-setting mom: Whether she's a business traveler or on the Palm Beach-Gstaad-St. Tropez-Aspen circuit, she can make herself feel more at home with this surprisingly reasonable Burberry folding frame. The bright turquoise color will liven up any Holiday Inn.
For the "French women don't get fat" mom: My mom would kill me if I bought her this Vosges hot chocolate set, but if yours appreciates the finer things in life (and has a fast metabolism), well, there's nothing better than $80 worth of hot chocolate.
For the mod mom: With this Pucci neck scarf, Mom can relive her '60s go-go glory days. She'll love the trip down memory lane, and you'll love borrowing it.
For the mom with incredibly good taste (a.k.a. a gift I wouldn't mind receiving myself): According to my mom, my style is too "modern." But if that's your mom's bag, she'll love this sleek Jonathan Adler jewelry box. Bonus--it matches his signature glassware!
For the put-together mom: Compacts are something that's kind of lost on this generation; my grandmother collected Estee Lauder compacts and rotated 'em. This Moroccan Mosaic Tile compact will keep the tradition going.
For the mom who's stuck on Renuzit: My pal MT introduced me to the diffuser. It's basically a jar of aromatic oil, and you stick wooden sticks in it, and they diffuse the scent throughout your room. Longer-lasting than a candle, classier than Glade Plug-Ins.
For the mom with incredibly good taste, #2: Yes, I'm a sucker for stuff with butterfiles, but these butterfly pajamas look incredibly comfortable, and you can get the monogrammed for mom (and so you can't steal 'em).
For the trendy mom: The bohemian look is in for spring, and as much as your mom might want to rock it, the tiered peasant skirts and crocheted tops will make her look like she's trying too hard. So give her this turquoise necklace, currently on sale, for a funky but age-appropriate look.
For the gadget-savvy mom: Well, not to totally generalize, but that heading is a bit of an oxymoron. But you can help mom feel hip with the very easy-to-use iPod Shuffle. Just make sure she doesn't try to recreate the ads and dance in public.
Website of the week
The ol' saying might be "April showers bring May flowers," but I've always found that it tends to rain more in May. Since that month is swiftly approaching and I accidentally left my umbrella in Grandma Bea's apartment last weekend, I'm in the market for a new one. Now, I'm always tempted to buy a nice umbrella from, say, Lulu Guinness or Burberry, but I always end up with a $3 street umbrella or, if I feel like a splurge, a $5 job from Duane Reade. I also go through approximately four a year, so maybe investing in a nice umbrella would be worth it. Tray6 has a small but focused selection: five colors, four styles (not all styles come in all colors, however), and all are $48. Yes, that's a bit more than my usual $3 street umbrella, but these puppies feature fiberglass rib frames with strong wind resistance, a black rubber-coated ergonomic handle, and a durable auto-open mechanism. When opened, the umbrella is a hair-protecting 40 inches in diameter, and although the 32" height won't fit in your purse, the styles are so cute, you'll look totally chic carrying it around. The site is flash, so I can't link directly to any style, but my favorite is the garden print, in spring-friendly green. Shipping is $8 and items arrive in 4-10 days--so if you order now, your chic new umbrella will be here just in time for those May showers.
The ol' saying might be "April showers bring May flowers," but I've always found that it tends to rain more in May. Since that month is swiftly approaching and I accidentally left my umbrella in Grandma Bea's apartment last weekend, I'm in the market for a new one. Now, I'm always tempted to buy a nice umbrella from, say, Lulu Guinness or Burberry, but I always end up with a $3 street umbrella or, if I feel like a splurge, a $5 job from Duane Reade. I also go through approximately four a year, so maybe investing in a nice umbrella would be worth it. Tray6 has a small but focused selection: five colors, four styles (not all styles come in all colors, however), and all are $48. Yes, that's a bit more than my usual $3 street umbrella, but these puppies feature fiberglass rib frames with strong wind resistance, a black rubber-coated ergonomic handle, and a durable auto-open mechanism. When opened, the umbrella is a hair-protecting 40 inches in diameter, and although the 32" height won't fit in your purse, the styles are so cute, you'll look totally chic carrying it around. The site is flash, so I can't link directly to any style, but my favorite is the garden print, in spring-friendly green. Shipping is $8 and items arrive in 4-10 days--so if you order now, your chic new umbrella will be here just in time for those May showers.
Monday, April 25, 2005
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: If you're a working girl (which I'm assuming most of us are), you can't beat Chaiken for sophisticated, stylish basics. Here, get 'em for up to 70% off. 4/26-4/27; 8-8 Tue., 8-11:30 a.m. Wed.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
While you're in the neighborhood, you might as well stop by the Kate Spade sale, however do so at your own risk--i once spent three hours waiting in line to get in. Still, prices are an enticing wholesale and below. 4/26-4/28; 9-6, 9-6 Thurs.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), ground floor.
When you've outgrown your Hanes Her Way, upgrade to Araks' lovely cotton underthings; at this sale, they're up to 90% off ($5 and up). 4/27-4/29; 9-7; 121 E. 12th St. (2nd & 3rd Aves.), buzzer 6I.
Because my lovely washing machine shredded my beloved 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets last weekend, I'll be hitting Dwell for a new set of sheets in a fun graphic print. Hey, they're 60% off! 4/28-5/8; 11-7; 60 Grand St. (at Wooster St.).
Shelly Steffee is one of those intimidating-looking stores that has a total of, like, four dresses hanging in it, but her clothes are gorgeous and at this sale, they're up to 90% off. Through 4/26; noon-9; 34 Gansevoort St. (9th Ave. & Hudson St.).
'Cause we all need a huge-ass tote to haul our junk around in, there's Tote Le Monde where all manner of bags are $20-$130. Cash only. 4/27-4/29; 11-7, 9-3 Fri.; 251 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste 11 FW.
Under-the-radar label Abaeté has glamorously feminine clothes (think sexed-up Mayle); at the sale, they're 50% off. 4/28-4/30; 11-5:30; 560 Broadway (Prince & Houston Sts.), ste. 306.
Malia Mills' excellent-fitting (and pricey) swimwear is a much more doable $20-$80. 4/27-4/29; noon-7; 253 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 16th fl.
Need new glasses? Union Square Optical, preferred optitian of my boss TC, has frames by Gucci, Cutler & Gross, and more for 50% off. Through 5/7; 10-7, 10-6 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 9 W. 14th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Get a new bag at Perlina for $49-$190 (that's up to 70% off). Through 4/29; 9-6; 10 W. 33rd St. (5th & 6th Aves.), ste. 210.
Enter code APRSAVE at checkout at Victoria's Secret through 4/27 for $15 off a $100 order, $30 off a $150 order, or $75 off a $250 order.
Enter code momsday at checkout through 5/1 for free shipping at Stila, and get a free sample of major lash mascara or Midnight Bloom fragrance!
Save up to 25% at eLuxury.com's pre-spring sale.
Save up to 50% at Pottery Barn's Online Sale.
Get free shipping at Benefit when you enter code FSMD through 4/26.
Save 10% at Target when you enter code TCSPRNGPRVWS through 4/27.
Save 10% on your order at eFashionHouse.com when you enter code LOVE through 5/2.
Through Tuesday, Gloss.com has a lovely offer, wherein you receive a free clutch and 5 samples with a $75 purchase, plus get free shipping when you enter code BESTSP.
Sale of the week: If you're a working girl (which I'm assuming most of us are), you can't beat Chaiken for sophisticated, stylish basics. Here, get 'em for up to 70% off. 4/26-4/27; 8-8 Tue., 8-11:30 a.m. Wed.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), 4th fl.
While you're in the neighborhood, you might as well stop by the Kate Spade sale, however do so at your own risk--i once spent three hours waiting in line to get in. Still, prices are an enticing wholesale and below. 4/26-4/28; 9-6, 9-6 Thurs.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.), ground floor.
When you've outgrown your Hanes Her Way, upgrade to Araks' lovely cotton underthings; at this sale, they're up to 90% off ($5 and up). 4/27-4/29; 9-7; 121 E. 12th St. (2nd & 3rd Aves.), buzzer 6I.
Because my lovely washing machine shredded my beloved 400-thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets last weekend, I'll be hitting Dwell for a new set of sheets in a fun graphic print. Hey, they're 60% off! 4/28-5/8; 11-7; 60 Grand St. (at Wooster St.).
Shelly Steffee is one of those intimidating-looking stores that has a total of, like, four dresses hanging in it, but her clothes are gorgeous and at this sale, they're up to 90% off. Through 4/26; noon-9; 34 Gansevoort St. (9th Ave. & Hudson St.).
'Cause we all need a huge-ass tote to haul our junk around in, there's Tote Le Monde where all manner of bags are $20-$130. Cash only. 4/27-4/29; 11-7, 9-3 Fri.; 251 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), ste 11 FW.
Under-the-radar label Abaeté has glamorously feminine clothes (think sexed-up Mayle); at the sale, they're 50% off. 4/28-4/30; 11-5:30; 560 Broadway (Prince & Houston Sts.), ste. 306.
Malia Mills' excellent-fitting (and pricey) swimwear is a much more doable $20-$80. 4/27-4/29; noon-7; 253 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 16th fl.
Need new glasses? Union Square Optical, preferred optitian of my boss TC, has frames by Gucci, Cutler & Gross, and more for 50% off. Through 5/7; 10-7, 10-6 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 9 W. 14th St. (5th & 6th Aves.).
Get a new bag at Perlina for $49-$190 (that's up to 70% off). Through 4/29; 9-6; 10 W. 33rd St. (5th & 6th Aves.), ste. 210.
Enter code APRSAVE at checkout at Victoria's Secret through 4/27 for $15 off a $100 order, $30 off a $150 order, or $75 off a $250 order.
Enter code momsday at checkout through 5/1 for free shipping at Stila, and get a free sample of major lash mascara or Midnight Bloom fragrance!
Save up to 25% at eLuxury.com's pre-spring sale.
Save up to 50% at Pottery Barn's Online Sale.
Get free shipping at Benefit when you enter code FSMD through 4/26.
Save 10% at Target when you enter code TCSPRNGPRVWS through 4/27.
Save 10% on your order at eFashionHouse.com when you enter code LOVE through 5/2.
Through Tuesday, Gloss.com has a lovely offer, wherein you receive a free clutch and 5 samples with a $75 purchase, plus get free shipping when you enter code BESTSP.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
America's Next Top Model recap
After going batshit crazy on last week's episode of America's Next Top Model, Tyra started out this week's show by doing some major damage control. Like, "Hey, y'all. I'm not really Crazy McLoonypants, but Tiffany just disappointed me, you know?" The girls nodded nervously. Moving forward, the girls met with some blonde fembot from Entertainment Tonight who taught them how to deal with the media (this included an incredibly amusing segment of Christina interviewing Tatiana, in which both girls said the word "actually" 8 times in about 15 seconds; a buzzer went off each time it was uttered). The girls then put their skills to the test by interviewing rapper/actress/designer/Gwen Stefani buddy Eve; Christina managed not to say "actually" enough to win the challenge but won the lamest prize ever--her interview will actually air on ET. Big whip. I'd rather have a yellow diamond necklace. The girls then went clubbing in L.A., and Michelle busted a move on the dance floor in a bid to work on her confidence. I'd say she's making strides. Sadly, when the girls came home, Kahlen received a voicemail saying that one of her high school friends had died. So it was in incredibly bad taste the next day when the girls had to pose as one of the seven deadly sins. In a graveyard. In a coffin. In a grave. Kahlen understandably freaked out, but pulled her shit together and turned out the best photo of the bunch, channeling her anger as "wrath." At judging, the girls were subjected to another kooky test from the judges--a mock press conference--and Tyra managed not to yell at anyone (thankfully). Tatiana and her small, scrunchy face got the boot in the end for not being very "media-friendly." Which is kind of a dumb reason if you're going to be a plain ol' model, but I suppose it's different being America's Next Top Model. Either way, I am not too upset about Tatiana leaving, as I found her quite annoying.
Next week: Michelle cries some more, and Keenyah chows down. Also, the girls go "somewhere exotic," which I'm guessing is not New York and I'm hoping is not Tokyo.
After going batshit crazy on last week's episode of America's Next Top Model, Tyra started out this week's show by doing some major damage control. Like, "Hey, y'all. I'm not really Crazy McLoonypants, but Tiffany just disappointed me, you know?" The girls nodded nervously. Moving forward, the girls met with some blonde fembot from Entertainment Tonight who taught them how to deal with the media (this included an incredibly amusing segment of Christina interviewing Tatiana, in which both girls said the word "actually" 8 times in about 15 seconds; a buzzer went off each time it was uttered). The girls then put their skills to the test by interviewing rapper/actress/designer/Gwen Stefani buddy Eve; Christina managed not to say "actually" enough to win the challenge but won the lamest prize ever--her interview will actually air on ET. Big whip. I'd rather have a yellow diamond necklace. The girls then went clubbing in L.A., and Michelle busted a move on the dance floor in a bid to work on her confidence. I'd say she's making strides. Sadly, when the girls came home, Kahlen received a voicemail saying that one of her high school friends had died. So it was in incredibly bad taste the next day when the girls had to pose as one of the seven deadly sins. In a graveyard. In a coffin. In a grave. Kahlen understandably freaked out, but pulled her shit together and turned out the best photo of the bunch, channeling her anger as "wrath." At judging, the girls were subjected to another kooky test from the judges--a mock press conference--and Tyra managed not to yell at anyone (thankfully). Tatiana and her small, scrunchy face got the boot in the end for not being very "media-friendly." Which is kind of a dumb reason if you're going to be a plain ol' model, but I suppose it's different being America's Next Top Model. Either way, I am not too upset about Tatiana leaving, as I found her quite annoying.
Next week: Michelle cries some more, and Keenyah chows down. Also, the girls go "somewhere exotic," which I'm guessing is not New York and I'm hoping is not Tokyo.
Website of the week
I have a rather unhealthy habit. Before you get the wrong idea, I'll gladly tell you my bad habit is US Weekly, to which I have a subscription. I love reading about celebrities' feuds (Paris is pissed off at Nicole for some reason!), looking at pictures of celebrities picking up their dry cleaning, and reading about where celebrities shop. I'm particularly interested in the latter (well, duh), and Satine seems to be one of the newer favorites (aside from old standbys Intuition and Kitson). So I was quite happy to discover that Satine has a website--and a supercool one at that. Browsing the website almost makes me want to shop at the actual store, even though it's in L.A. and I'm sure the salesgirls would ignore me 'cause I'm not Nicole Kidman. So on that note, the website is organized simply: You can shop by category--accessories, bags, clothing, jewelry, shoes, and swimwear--or check out the special features along the top, such as "items we idolize" and "just arrived." There's an awesome mix of merch--everything from Lanvin accessories and Alexander McQueen shoes (both pricey, as you'd expect) to Minnetonka moccasins, Irregular Choice shoes, and affordable clothing by McGinn and Jill Stuart--it's enough to make you think that maybe the salesgirls might not be so snobby after all. Some of my favorites: I must have this bright green Sass & Bide dress, which is the most affordable Sass & Bide piece I've ever seen; all the cool kids are wearing short-sleeved blazers, and I think I want one too; they've got the Meli-Melo denim trouser that every fashion mag has been fawning over; I love this slightly-extravagant-but-not-terribly expensive Lanvin bracelet; and while there are countless shoes that pique my interest, this Johanna Ho flat is the most interesting; well, okay, except for this very comfortable-looking Rebecca Taylor wedge. Items ship next day via UPS or FedEx, and the return policy is a bit stringent, but with all this cool stuff, why the hell would you want to return it anyway? You can also read about the owners, who sound so cool, you can almost picture yourself hanging out with them at the store. Well, almost--you might have to elbow Lindsay Lohan out of the way first.
I have a rather unhealthy habit. Before you get the wrong idea, I'll gladly tell you my bad habit is US Weekly, to which I have a subscription. I love reading about celebrities' feuds (Paris is pissed off at Nicole for some reason!), looking at pictures of celebrities picking up their dry cleaning, and reading about where celebrities shop. I'm particularly interested in the latter (well, duh), and Satine seems to be one of the newer favorites (aside from old standbys Intuition and Kitson). So I was quite happy to discover that Satine has a website--and a supercool one at that. Browsing the website almost makes me want to shop at the actual store, even though it's in L.A. and I'm sure the salesgirls would ignore me 'cause I'm not Nicole Kidman. So on that note, the website is organized simply: You can shop by category--accessories, bags, clothing, jewelry, shoes, and swimwear--or check out the special features along the top, such as "items we idolize" and "just arrived." There's an awesome mix of merch--everything from Lanvin accessories and Alexander McQueen shoes (both pricey, as you'd expect) to Minnetonka moccasins, Irregular Choice shoes, and affordable clothing by McGinn and Jill Stuart--it's enough to make you think that maybe the salesgirls might not be so snobby after all. Some of my favorites: I must have this bright green Sass & Bide dress, which is the most affordable Sass & Bide piece I've ever seen; all the cool kids are wearing short-sleeved blazers, and I think I want one too; they've got the Meli-Melo denim trouser that every fashion mag has been fawning over; I love this slightly-extravagant-but-not-terribly expensive Lanvin bracelet; and while there are countless shoes that pique my interest, this Johanna Ho flat is the most interesting; well, okay, except for this very comfortable-looking Rebecca Taylor wedge. Items ship next day via UPS or FedEx, and the return policy is a bit stringent, but with all this cool stuff, why the hell would you want to return it anyway? You can also read about the owners, who sound so cool, you can almost picture yourself hanging out with them at the store. Well, almost--you might have to elbow Lindsay Lohan out of the way first.
Monday, April 18, 2005
My shopping weekend
In between visitors, vacations, doing my taxes, and, um, trying not to spend money, I felt like I hadn't done much shopping recently. So there's nothing like a little sunshine and 70-degree weather to draw me out to the stores. Saturday, MW and I took the bus to IKEA and, surprisingly enough, barely had to wait to get on (I think the key is to leave before noon). MW got some furniture for his new apartment; I got a wok, a new paper lamp, and some frames for my stewardess pictures. (Little-known fact about me: I love stewardesses--not "flight attendants," as they're called today, but stewardesses from the glory days of travel in the '60s and '70s.) Then while MW was off to cover a basketball game, I took a stroll to Soho. I went to Tower Records and bought some CDs (for the record, the Bravery, Kaiser Chiefs, and the Faint), then I went to Sephora to buy more conditioner, but I was so sidetracked by the discovery of the Paul & Joe makeup line (yes, I know I've been living under a rock, makeup-wise, as my coworker AW has pointed out to me multiple times), I forgot to buy conditioner. But I did buy $60 worth of Paul & Joe makeup--a multi-function gloss, a lip gloss, and eyeshadow.
Sunday MW and I hit the new Bo Concept store on 18th Street in Chelsea, which kicks ass. (It's a bit more expensive than IKEA, or even West Elm, but not as bad as you'd think. And the furniture is very well made, and you don't have to put it together yourself.) MW had some gift certificates to blow at Best Buy, but a dude selling jeans on a table outside caught my attention--he had Joe's, Paper Denim & Cloth, Seven, and Citizens of Humanity for $40-$50 and True Religion jeans for $70. I promptly bought a pair of the latter (yes, they're real)--this style, which normally costs $172. So even though the logo patch on the back waistband is upside down (which I didn't realize until I got home), I am quite happy with my purchase. Seriously, girls, they make you look like a rock star with long, skinny legs. (In fact, the more I think about them, the more I want to go try them on again!) So if you're looking for bargain jeans, I highly recommend this guy outside Best Buy. Tell 'em tax refund girl sent you.
In between visitors, vacations, doing my taxes, and, um, trying not to spend money, I felt like I hadn't done much shopping recently. So there's nothing like a little sunshine and 70-degree weather to draw me out to the stores. Saturday, MW and I took the bus to IKEA and, surprisingly enough, barely had to wait to get on (I think the key is to leave before noon). MW got some furniture for his new apartment; I got a wok, a new paper lamp, and some frames for my stewardess pictures. (Little-known fact about me: I love stewardesses--not "flight attendants," as they're called today, but stewardesses from the glory days of travel in the '60s and '70s.) Then while MW was off to cover a basketball game, I took a stroll to Soho. I went to Tower Records and bought some CDs (for the record, the Bravery, Kaiser Chiefs, and the Faint), then I went to Sephora to buy more conditioner, but I was so sidetracked by the discovery of the Paul & Joe makeup line (yes, I know I've been living under a rock, makeup-wise, as my coworker AW has pointed out to me multiple times), I forgot to buy conditioner. But I did buy $60 worth of Paul & Joe makeup--a multi-function gloss, a lip gloss, and eyeshadow.
Sunday MW and I hit the new Bo Concept store on 18th Street in Chelsea, which kicks ass. (It's a bit more expensive than IKEA, or even West Elm, but not as bad as you'd think. And the furniture is very well made, and you don't have to put it together yourself.) MW had some gift certificates to blow at Best Buy, but a dude selling jeans on a table outside caught my attention--he had Joe's, Paper Denim & Cloth, Seven, and Citizens of Humanity for $40-$50 and True Religion jeans for $70. I promptly bought a pair of the latter (yes, they're real)--this style, which normally costs $172. So even though the logo patch on the back waistband is upside down (which I didn't realize until I got home), I am quite happy with my purchase. Seriously, girls, they make you look like a rock star with long, skinny legs. (In fact, the more I think about them, the more I want to go try them on again!) So if you're looking for bargain jeans, I highly recommend this guy outside Best Buy. Tell 'em tax refund girl sent you.
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: I'm a huge fan of the Manhattan Vintage Clothing and Antique Textile Show, as are Donna Karan, Cynthia Rowley, Betsey Johnson, and Claire Danes, all of whom I've seen there. Admission is $20, but worth it. 4/22-4/23; 1-8 Fri., 11-6 Sat.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Cool East Village lingerie boutique Azaleas has clothes, lingerie, and swimwear from Felina, Vix, and more for 30%-70% off. 4/20-4/24; 1-8, noon-8 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 223 E. 10th St. (at 2nd Ave.).
Get pants, sweaters nd more for $60-$90 (that's up to 75% off) Alice + Olivia's sale. 4/21-4/23; 9-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 2nd fl.
The last Hanro sale reportedly sucked, but if you're persistent and want to try again, this sale promises their signature cotton lingerie, pajamas and robes for a bargain. Cash and checks only. Through 4/20; 8-6; 40 E. 34th St. (at Madison Ave.), room 819.
Lola's pricey, funky hats are up to 70% off--quite the deal. Cash only. Through 4/20; 10-7; 535 8th Ave. (at 36th St.), 20th fl.
Home accessories from D.I.G.S. are up to 90% off. 4/20-4/24; noon-7, noon-5 Sun.; 115 Wooster (at Prince St.), 2nd fl.
This week, Clothingline has, among others, Free People. Check out the website for a preview. Through 4/22; 10-6, 10-7 Tue. & Thurs.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.,), 2nd fl.
Cynthia Gale artsy sterling-silver is a bargain $20-$100. Cash only. Through 4/22; 10-6; 8 E. 36th St. (5th & Madison Aves.), 3rd fl.
Save up to 75% at RevolveClothing.com's sale.
Save up to 40% at American Eagle's clearance sale.
Receive a free "I See Beauty" water bottle and fancy-schmancy samples with your $50 beauty purchase at Nordstrom.com.
Of course, Lord & Taylor coupons.
Get a free BeneTint lip balm with your $50 purchase at Benefit when you enter code FGLB at checkout through 4/19.
Save 10% on your Target order when you enter code TCAPRLSHWRST through 4/20.
This week at Loehmann's, take an additional 10% off every pair of designer shoes. Also, good news: Loehmann's is now accepting Amex.
Sale of the week: I'm a huge fan of the Manhattan Vintage Clothing and Antique Textile Show, as are Donna Karan, Cynthia Rowley, Betsey Johnson, and Claire Danes, all of whom I've seen there. Admission is $20, but worth it. 4/22-4/23; 1-8 Fri., 11-6 Sat.; Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 W. 18th St. (6th & 7th Aves.).
Cool East Village lingerie boutique Azaleas has clothes, lingerie, and swimwear from Felina, Vix, and more for 30%-70% off. 4/20-4/24; 1-8, noon-8 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 223 E. 10th St. (at 2nd Ave.).
Get pants, sweaters nd more for $60-$90 (that's up to 75% off) Alice + Olivia's sale. 4/21-4/23; 9-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 2nd fl.
The last Hanro sale reportedly sucked, but if you're persistent and want to try again, this sale promises their signature cotton lingerie, pajamas and robes for a bargain. Cash and checks only. Through 4/20; 8-6; 40 E. 34th St. (at Madison Ave.), room 819.
Lola's pricey, funky hats are up to 70% off--quite the deal. Cash only. Through 4/20; 10-7; 535 8th Ave. (at 36th St.), 20th fl.
Home accessories from D.I.G.S. are up to 90% off. 4/20-4/24; noon-7, noon-5 Sun.; 115 Wooster (at Prince St.), 2nd fl.
This week, Clothingline has, among others, Free People. Check out the website for a preview. Through 4/22; 10-6, 10-7 Tue. & Thurs.; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.,), 2nd fl.
Cynthia Gale artsy sterling-silver is a bargain $20-$100. Cash only. Through 4/22; 10-6; 8 E. 36th St. (5th & Madison Aves.), 3rd fl.
Save up to 75% at RevolveClothing.com's sale.
Save up to 40% at American Eagle's clearance sale.
Receive a free "I See Beauty" water bottle and fancy-schmancy samples with your $50 beauty purchase at Nordstrom.com.
Of course, Lord & Taylor coupons.
Get a free BeneTint lip balm with your $50 purchase at Benefit when you enter code FGLB at checkout through 4/19.
Save 10% on your Target order when you enter code TCAPRLSHWRST through 4/20.
This week at Loehmann's, take an additional 10% off every pair of designer shoes. Also, good news: Loehmann's is now accepting Amex.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
America's Next Top Model recap
Quite possibly the most ridiculous America's Next Top Model episode ever aired tonight. Seriously, it kept getting more and more bizarre. First the girls had an acting lesson (oh yes, the acting episode--always one of my least favorites) from a weird old man, then the next day, they had to perform their scene with some hot actor I'd never heard of but Tiffany sure had, as she could barely compose herself in his presence. In the scene, the girls had to adopt a Cockney accent and dress like poor street urchins, complete with blacked-out tooth. Michelle the wrestler, who claimed to have four years of acting experience, couldn't produce an accent to save her life, most of the girls forgot and/or stumbled on their lines, and Tiffany came up with a Scarlett O'Hara-style Southern Belle accent (and a floral bonnet to match). Naima, who pretty much wins everything nowadays, won, and she, Michelle, and Tatiana received diamonds worth $10k collectively (Naima--smart girl--took the yellow diamond). Bizarre, but not bad. The girls then had a photo shoot for Wonderbra, in which they had to pose sexily with a hot male model and pretend to have a pillow fight amidst a fan and blowing feathers. Brittany, predictably, rocked the shoot, as did Michelle, and everyone else pretty much sucked. At judging, the girls had to read from a teleprompter, and they all stumbled on the words "magenta" and "chartreuse,"as well as on the names of Christian Lacroix, Issey Miyake, Karl Lagerfeld, and Hermes. Now, I realize I'm a bit of a freak having known how to pronounce all of these since the age of four, but don't you think if these girls were at all interested in being models, that they'd know at least some designers' (or models'--they all butchered Giselle Bunchen and Karolina Kurkova too) names? During judging, the panel remarked that they noticed a certain lack of enthusiasm. No shit! So Tyra got medieval and--oh, the shock!--sent both Tiffany and Rebecca home, Tiffany due to lack of drive, Rebecca due to lack of progress. We then got to see Tiffany and Rebecca say goodbye to everyone, and while Rebecca was crying and visibly upset, Tiffany was laughing and joking around. This clearly did not sit well with Tyra, who called the girls back in front of her, praising Rebecca for being upset (what?!) and yelling at Tiffany for repressing her emotions. Tiffany responded to defend herself, saying that she was upset but she was tired, etc., and wouldn't let Tyra get a word in edgewise, which is the cardinal sin of America's Next Top Model. You. Do. Not. Dominate. Tyra's. Face. Time. Tyra railed on Tiffany for reasons I still can't quite understand, but the gist of it was that all the judges really believed in her, but Tiffany clearly didn't believe in herself and thus let everyone down. Or, Tiffany made for really good television and the producers were pissed that she had to leave. Phew. I hope someone gave Tyra a nice, big Xanax after that one. Let's hope next week's episode is somewhat back to normal. I don't know if I can handle Psycho Tyra.
Next week: The often amusing PR episode, and something weird involving Kahlen and a cemetary. Oh boy.
Quite possibly the most ridiculous America's Next Top Model episode ever aired tonight. Seriously, it kept getting more and more bizarre. First the girls had an acting lesson (oh yes, the acting episode--always one of my least favorites) from a weird old man, then the next day, they had to perform their scene with some hot actor I'd never heard of but Tiffany sure had, as she could barely compose herself in his presence. In the scene, the girls had to adopt a Cockney accent and dress like poor street urchins, complete with blacked-out tooth. Michelle the wrestler, who claimed to have four years of acting experience, couldn't produce an accent to save her life, most of the girls forgot and/or stumbled on their lines, and Tiffany came up with a Scarlett O'Hara-style Southern Belle accent (and a floral bonnet to match). Naima, who pretty much wins everything nowadays, won, and she, Michelle, and Tatiana received diamonds worth $10k collectively (Naima--smart girl--took the yellow diamond). Bizarre, but not bad. The girls then had a photo shoot for Wonderbra, in which they had to pose sexily with a hot male model and pretend to have a pillow fight amidst a fan and blowing feathers. Brittany, predictably, rocked the shoot, as did Michelle, and everyone else pretty much sucked. At judging, the girls had to read from a teleprompter, and they all stumbled on the words "magenta" and "chartreuse,"as well as on the names of Christian Lacroix, Issey Miyake, Karl Lagerfeld, and Hermes. Now, I realize I'm a bit of a freak having known how to pronounce all of these since the age of four, but don't you think if these girls were at all interested in being models, that they'd know at least some designers' (or models'--they all butchered Giselle Bunchen and Karolina Kurkova too) names? During judging, the panel remarked that they noticed a certain lack of enthusiasm. No shit! So Tyra got medieval and--oh, the shock!--sent both Tiffany and Rebecca home, Tiffany due to lack of drive, Rebecca due to lack of progress. We then got to see Tiffany and Rebecca say goodbye to everyone, and while Rebecca was crying and visibly upset, Tiffany was laughing and joking around. This clearly did not sit well with Tyra, who called the girls back in front of her, praising Rebecca for being upset (what?!) and yelling at Tiffany for repressing her emotions. Tiffany responded to defend herself, saying that she was upset but she was tired, etc., and wouldn't let Tyra get a word in edgewise, which is the cardinal sin of America's Next Top Model. You. Do. Not. Dominate. Tyra's. Face. Time. Tyra railed on Tiffany for reasons I still can't quite understand, but the gist of it was that all the judges really believed in her, but Tiffany clearly didn't believe in herself and thus let everyone down. Or, Tiffany made for really good television and the producers were pissed that she had to leave. Phew. I hope someone gave Tyra a nice, big Xanax after that one. Let's hope next week's episode is somewhat back to normal. I don't know if I can handle Psycho Tyra.
Next week: The often amusing PR episode, and something weird involving Kahlen and a cemetary. Oh boy.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Random notes
1. My apologies to anyone who went to the Juicy Couture sale last week at Find Outlet. It, in a word, sucked. Supremely.
2. A special shout-out to Stephanie, who sold me a lovely vintage Sarah Coventry necklace at her trunk show today. I love it!
3. Big news: After a year away, Tom Ford is returning to fashion...sort of. He and Domenico De Sole have reteamed to form a Tom Ford luxury brand, and they've already signed deals to develop a fragrance with Estee Lauder and a line of eyewear with the Marcolin Group of Italy--kind of a backwards move, since usually clothing comes first, then a fragrance, and licensing, and so on. But whatever. Tom Ford insists he's still trying to have a career as a film director, so god knows how this whole luxury brand thing is going to work, but either way, I think it will be great to have Tom back.
1. My apologies to anyone who went to the Juicy Couture sale last week at Find Outlet. It, in a word, sucked. Supremely.
2. A special shout-out to Stephanie, who sold me a lovely vintage Sarah Coventry necklace at her trunk show today. I love it!
3. Big news: After a year away, Tom Ford is returning to fashion...sort of. He and Domenico De Sole have reteamed to form a Tom Ford luxury brand, and they've already signed deals to develop a fragrance with Estee Lauder and a line of eyewear with the Marcolin Group of Italy--kind of a backwards move, since usually clothing comes first, then a fragrance, and licensing, and so on. But whatever. Tom Ford insists he's still trying to have a career as a film director, so god knows how this whole luxury brand thing is going to work, but either way, I think it will be great to have Tom back.
Cheryl shops...Girlshop
On Saturday, MK and I decided to hit the newly opened Girlshop store in the Meatpacking District, as we are both big fans of the website. The store is, well, girly. It's bright and colorful, and seemingly everything is sparkly, which is never a bad thing, in my opinion. What is a bad thing is that everything in the store is in the low-to-mid three figures--they've gotta pay that Meatpacking District rent somehow, and selling $35 iPod cases, as cool as they are, isn't going to do it. So the selection is heavy on LaRok, Lotta, and Lisa Levine, but there's no Yochi, Meredith Straus, or FarylRobin (i.e. Girlshop's more affordable brands) to be found. There's a rather small selection of jewelry, as well as tiny corners devoted to Girlshop's sister sites Totshop and Guyshop. But there's little in the way of shoes or lingerie--two of my favorite categories on Girlshop (my favorite, of course, is the jewelry). So while the store is fun to browse--and it's probably great if you've got $500 or $600 to blow--I think I'm going to stick with the website.
On Saturday, MK and I decided to hit the newly opened Girlshop store in the Meatpacking District, as we are both big fans of the website. The store is, well, girly. It's bright and colorful, and seemingly everything is sparkly, which is never a bad thing, in my opinion. What is a bad thing is that everything in the store is in the low-to-mid three figures--they've gotta pay that Meatpacking District rent somehow, and selling $35 iPod cases, as cool as they are, isn't going to do it. So the selection is heavy on LaRok, Lotta, and Lisa Levine, but there's no Yochi, Meredith Straus, or FarylRobin (i.e. Girlshop's more affordable brands) to be found. There's a rather small selection of jewelry, as well as tiny corners devoted to Girlshop's sister sites Totshop and Guyshop. But there's little in the way of shoes or lingerie--two of my favorite categories on Girlshop (my favorite, of course, is the jewelry). So while the store is fun to browse--and it's probably great if you've got $500 or $600 to blow--I think I'm going to stick with the website.
Website of the week
On Sunday, I decided to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and walk down to P&S in Tribeca to get some cheapie yarn. But while I love P&S, that's not the website of the week. Next door, I came across a super-cool--if somewhat shady--furniture store, White. It's super-cool because the warehouse-like store is filled, floor to ceiling, with midcentury modern reproduction furniture, but slightly shady because the key word is "reproduction"--what they carry is basically knockoffs of furniture by Knoll, Herman Miller, Vitra, etc. Now, while I won't carry a Louis Vuitton knockoff, strangely enough, I have no problem putting, say, a knockoff Le Corbusier chaise in my apartment--especially when a leather version here is $475 (the "real" one is $1500 at Design Within Reach). The zippy website has everything I saw in the store (with the exception of the Mies van der Rohe Barcelona Chair and ottoman, which, oddly enough, didn't have a price tag in the store anyway), but I can't link to anything directly due to its flash setup. Still, midcentury moden enthusiasts, take a look and marvel at the ridiculously affordable prices: A Saarinen armchair for $200, an Eames lounge chair for $275, a Noguchi coffee table for $455, an arco lamp for $250, and so on. So it's not the "real thing," but at these prices, who the hell cares? Do your friends crawl under the table to look for the Knoll sticker? That's what I thought. White's motto is "bringing design to the masses"--certainly a more vaild motto than, oh, "Design Within Reach," don't you think?
On Sunday, I decided to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and walk down to P&S in Tribeca to get some cheapie yarn. But while I love P&S, that's not the website of the week. Next door, I came across a super-cool--if somewhat shady--furniture store, White. It's super-cool because the warehouse-like store is filled, floor to ceiling, with midcentury modern reproduction furniture, but slightly shady because the key word is "reproduction"--what they carry is basically knockoffs of furniture by Knoll, Herman Miller, Vitra, etc. Now, while I won't carry a Louis Vuitton knockoff, strangely enough, I have no problem putting, say, a knockoff Le Corbusier chaise in my apartment--especially when a leather version here is $475 (the "real" one is $1500 at Design Within Reach). The zippy website has everything I saw in the store (with the exception of the Mies van der Rohe Barcelona Chair and ottoman, which, oddly enough, didn't have a price tag in the store anyway), but I can't link to anything directly due to its flash setup. Still, midcentury moden enthusiasts, take a look and marvel at the ridiculously affordable prices: A Saarinen armchair for $200, an Eames lounge chair for $275, a Noguchi coffee table for $455, an arco lamp for $250, and so on. So it's not the "real thing," but at these prices, who the hell cares? Do your friends crawl under the table to look for the Knoll sticker? That's what I thought. White's motto is "bringing design to the masses"--certainly a more vaild motto than, oh, "Design Within Reach," don't you think?
Monday, April 11, 2005
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: Who doesn't love Betsey Johnson? At her sale, find her feminine, boho women's clothes for a whopping 80% off (her famous dresses are a mere $45). 4/14-4/16; 11-8 Thurs., 11-5 Fri., 10-5 Sat.; 263 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
For some sexy underthings, check out Aubade's sale, where bras, panties, and more are up to 70% off. Cash and checks only. 4/13-4/15; 11-7 Wed., 11-6 Thurs,., 11-5 Fri.; 40 E. 34th St. (Park & Madison Aves.), ste. 607.
The slightly avant-garde but very wearable Zero Maria Cornejo's womenswear is 60% off and more. Through 4/17; 12:30-7:30; 12:30-6:30 weekends; 225 Mott (at Prince St.).
Supercool vintage store Psyche's Tears has vintage goodies on sale for 15% off. 4/16; noon-8; 240 W. 15th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
Roberta Chiarella's sparkly jewelry is $50 and under (usually it's $50-$500). Cash only. 4/13; 10-7; Affinia Hotel, 155 E. 50th St. (Lex & 3rd Ave.).
Super-stylish Paul Stuart men’s and women’s clothes are up to 80% off ($50-$500) at his sample sale. 4/12-4/15; 9-6:30, 9-5 Fri.; Parsons School of Design, 560 7th Avenue (at 40th St.), 2nd floor.
One of my favoritely named stores (if that made any sense) DisRespectacles has Blinde sunglasses for $75 and up. 4/14-4/17; 11-7; 11-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 117 W. Broadway (at Duane St.).
Need shoes? Ralph Lauren footwear for men and women is $10-$300 at this sale. Through 4/14; 10-4:30; 120 E. 56th St. (Park & Lex Aves.), 2nd fl.
Need a glitzy minaudiere? Check out Judith Leiber's sale, where they're a veritable bargain at $450-$3,000. 4/13-4/14; 9-5; 20 W. 33rd St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Loyal Cheryl Shops reader Stephanie is the proprietoress of M. Hale vintage and estate jewelry, and she's having a trunk show on Tuesday, with everything for $30-$220 (check out details on the website). I'm going, so come and stalk me! 4/12; 6-8 p.m.; Turks & Frogs, 323 W. 11th St. (Greenwich & Washington Sts.).
Meet designer Tracy Reese at Bergdorf's this Saturday from 2-5 on the 5th floor. (Cocktails and a DJ will also be present).
In honor of their new Hi Neighbor mask, get free shipping at Benefit through 4/12 when you enter code FSHN at checkout.
Get 10% off your order at Target.com when you enter code TCTENPCTFERU through 4/13.
Get 10% off at eFashionHouse.com when you enter code 10offEFH through 4/15.
And we can't forget Lord & Taylor coupons.
Sale of the week: Who doesn't love Betsey Johnson? At her sale, find her feminine, boho women's clothes for a whopping 80% off (her famous dresses are a mere $45). 4/14-4/16; 11-8 Thurs., 11-5 Fri., 10-5 Sat.; 263 W. 38th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
For some sexy underthings, check out Aubade's sale, where bras, panties, and more are up to 70% off. Cash and checks only. 4/13-4/15; 11-7 Wed., 11-6 Thurs,., 11-5 Fri.; 40 E. 34th St. (Park & Madison Aves.), ste. 607.
The slightly avant-garde but very wearable Zero Maria Cornejo's womenswear is 60% off and more. Through 4/17; 12:30-7:30; 12:30-6:30 weekends; 225 Mott (at Prince St.).
Supercool vintage store Psyche's Tears has vintage goodies on sale for 15% off. 4/16; noon-8; 240 W. 15th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
Roberta Chiarella's sparkly jewelry is $50 and under (usually it's $50-$500). Cash only. 4/13; 10-7; Affinia Hotel, 155 E. 50th St. (Lex & 3rd Ave.).
Super-stylish Paul Stuart men’s and women’s clothes are up to 80% off ($50-$500) at his sample sale. 4/12-4/15; 9-6:30, 9-5 Fri.; Parsons School of Design, 560 7th Avenue (at 40th St.), 2nd floor.
One of my favoritely named stores (if that made any sense) DisRespectacles has Blinde sunglasses for $75 and up. 4/14-4/17; 11-7; 11-6 Sat., noon-5 Sun.; 117 W. Broadway (at Duane St.).
Need shoes? Ralph Lauren footwear for men and women is $10-$300 at this sale. Through 4/14; 10-4:30; 120 E. 56th St. (Park & Lex Aves.), 2nd fl.
Need a glitzy minaudiere? Check out Judith Leiber's sale, where they're a veritable bargain at $450-$3,000. 4/13-4/14; 9-5; 20 W. 33rd St. (5th & 6th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Loyal Cheryl Shops reader Stephanie is the proprietoress of M. Hale vintage and estate jewelry, and she's having a trunk show on Tuesday, with everything for $30-$220 (check out details on the website). I'm going, so come and stalk me! 4/12; 6-8 p.m.; Turks & Frogs, 323 W. 11th St. (Greenwich & Washington Sts.).
Meet designer Tracy Reese at Bergdorf's this Saturday from 2-5 on the 5th floor. (Cocktails and a DJ will also be present).
In honor of their new Hi Neighbor mask, get free shipping at Benefit through 4/12 when you enter code FSHN at checkout.
Get 10% off your order at Target.com when you enter code TCTENPCTFERU through 4/13.
Get 10% off at eFashionHouse.com when you enter code 10offEFH through 4/15.
And we can't forget Lord & Taylor coupons.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
Weekend shopping
Since I wasn't here to do Monday's Week in Shopping, here are some great-sounding sales to check out this weekend.
Find Outlet's Chelsea store has Juicy Couture for men, women, and kids for 50%-80% off. Is Juicy Couture over? Who cares? I'm so there. Through 4/10; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
While you're in the neighborhood, Portico's Chelsea Market store has linens and bath and home accessories for up to 70% off. Through 5/15; 10-7, noon-6 Sun.; 75 9th Ave. (15th & 16th Sts.).
Keep walking down 9th Avenue to Boucher; their lovely, feminine jewelry is 15 %-35% off. Through 4/10; noon-8, noon-6 Sun.; 9 9th Ave. (13th & Little West 12th Sts.).
Haven't had enough? Bop over to Washinton Street, where twin home stores Auto and MoveLab are having a semi-annual sale, featuring goodies from Missoni, Dwell, Eugenia Kim and more for up to 80% off. Through 4/10; 11-7 Fri., noon-7 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 803 and 805 Washington St. (at Horatio St.).
Thinking about fall? Head to the Madison Avenue Barneys on Saturday to pre-order from the fall 2005 Marc by Marc Jacobs collection. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres too! 4/9; 2-6 p.m.
Click here to see April specials at BeautyHabit.com.
Yippee for Lord & Taylor coupons.
Receive a $25 gift certificate when you spend $100 in the Beauty Level at Bergdorf's through 4/9.
It's a new month, so that means new designers at the shop at style.com: Nicholas K, Tracey Ross, Gabriela Artigas, and Alex Gaines.
Get a free sample of major lash mascara or midnight bloom fragrance with any order at Stila through 5/1.
Make a purchase from Diane von Furstenberg's spring 2005 collection at Saks.com and get a free silk eye mask (great for jet-setting) when you enter code DVFGIFT5 at checkout through 4/11.
Since I wasn't here to do Monday's Week in Shopping, here are some great-sounding sales to check out this weekend.
Find Outlet's Chelsea store has Juicy Couture for men, women, and kids for 50%-80% off. Is Juicy Couture over? Who cares? I'm so there. Through 4/10; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
While you're in the neighborhood, Portico's Chelsea Market store has linens and bath and home accessories for up to 70% off. Through 5/15; 10-7, noon-6 Sun.; 75 9th Ave. (15th & 16th Sts.).
Keep walking down 9th Avenue to Boucher; their lovely, feminine jewelry is 15 %-35% off. Through 4/10; noon-8, noon-6 Sun.; 9 9th Ave. (13th & Little West 12th Sts.).
Haven't had enough? Bop over to Washinton Street, where twin home stores Auto and MoveLab are having a semi-annual sale, featuring goodies from Missoni, Dwell, Eugenia Kim and more for up to 80% off. Through 4/10; 11-7 Fri., noon-7 Sat., noon-6 Sun.; 803 and 805 Washington St. (at Horatio St.).
Thinking about fall? Head to the Madison Avenue Barneys on Saturday to pre-order from the fall 2005 Marc by Marc Jacobs collection. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres too! 4/9; 2-6 p.m.
Click here to see April specials at BeautyHabit.com.
Yippee for Lord & Taylor coupons.
Receive a $25 gift certificate when you spend $100 in the Beauty Level at Bergdorf's through 4/9.
It's a new month, so that means new designers at the shop at style.com: Nicholas K, Tracey Ross, Gabriela Artigas, and Alex Gaines.
Get a free sample of major lash mascara or midnight bloom fragrance with any order at Stila through 5/1.
Make a purchase from Diane von Furstenberg's spring 2005 collection at Saks.com and get a free silk eye mask (great for jet-setting) when you enter code DVFGIFT5 at checkout through 4/11.
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
America's Next Top Model recap
I'm back from Florida, with a nice sunburn and a belly full o' fish, just in time for tonight's America's Next Top Model. Which was kind of a bizarre episode. First the girls were brought to a mystery office where they had to sign away their lives (tee-hee, a taste of what's to come!)...which was a "lesson" on "reading the contract" (something, which, obviously, models can't do for themselves). The true "lesson"? Hire a good lawyer. The girls then treated themselves to a fancy dinner, where Brittany got wasted and danced on top of the table while all the other girls passed judgment. (They never could've made it in the Golden Era of the Supermodels, where coke & champagne reigned.) The girls then had to hobnob at an industry party for Cover Girl; Tiffany and Michelle withdrew while Lluvy and Kahlen rocked, although Keenyah made the best impression, winning a night at a fancy hotel suite (she was allowed to bring a friend, so she chose good-time-gal Brittany, who's pretty much a sure thing). Then the next morning, while Keenyah and Brittany had breakfast in bed, frolicked in the surf, and had deep-tissue massages, the rest of the girls were driven out into the middle of the desert, where they were met by Mr. Jay, who was wearing his most bizarre outfit to date--kind of "Michael Jackson goes to a gay cowboy bar." Anyway, because there's no such thing as a "normal" shoot, the girls had to pose with a truck and/or a gas pump while being sprayed with a hose and blown on by a high-powered fan. Which was pretty amusing to watch. Kahlen, Brittany, and Christina nailed the shoot while Tiffany and the super-relaxed Keenyah...well, did not really nail it. At all. And while I thought Michelle was going to get the boot, the producers clearly think she makes for good television (and I think when she's focused, she takes a damn good photo too). It came down to Rebecca (who's too "safe" and "pretty") and Lluvy at the end, but, sadly, Lluvy took another bad photo and thus got the boot. I am sad about this, because Lluvy is so cool and different but approachable. I don't know if modeling is the right career for her; maybe she can try acting?
Speaking of which, next week is the ever-fun "acting lesson" episode, the girls have a photo shoot with a boy!, and Tyra appears to get pissed (as in mad, not as in drunk).
I'm back from Florida, with a nice sunburn and a belly full o' fish, just in time for tonight's America's Next Top Model. Which was kind of a bizarre episode. First the girls were brought to a mystery office where they had to sign away their lives (tee-hee, a taste of what's to come!)...which was a "lesson" on "reading the contract" (something, which, obviously, models can't do for themselves). The true "lesson"? Hire a good lawyer. The girls then treated themselves to a fancy dinner, where Brittany got wasted and danced on top of the table while all the other girls passed judgment. (They never could've made it in the Golden Era of the Supermodels, where coke & champagne reigned.) The girls then had to hobnob at an industry party for Cover Girl; Tiffany and Michelle withdrew while Lluvy and Kahlen rocked, although Keenyah made the best impression, winning a night at a fancy hotel suite (she was allowed to bring a friend, so she chose good-time-gal Brittany, who's pretty much a sure thing). Then the next morning, while Keenyah and Brittany had breakfast in bed, frolicked in the surf, and had deep-tissue massages, the rest of the girls were driven out into the middle of the desert, where they were met by Mr. Jay, who was wearing his most bizarre outfit to date--kind of "Michael Jackson goes to a gay cowboy bar." Anyway, because there's no such thing as a "normal" shoot, the girls had to pose with a truck and/or a gas pump while being sprayed with a hose and blown on by a high-powered fan. Which was pretty amusing to watch. Kahlen, Brittany, and Christina nailed the shoot while Tiffany and the super-relaxed Keenyah...well, did not really nail it. At all. And while I thought Michelle was going to get the boot, the producers clearly think she makes for good television (and I think when she's focused, she takes a damn good photo too). It came down to Rebecca (who's too "safe" and "pretty") and Lluvy at the end, but, sadly, Lluvy took another bad photo and thus got the boot. I am sad about this, because Lluvy is so cool and different but approachable. I don't know if modeling is the right career for her; maybe she can try acting?
Speaking of which, next week is the ever-fun "acting lesson" episode, the girls have a photo shoot with a boy!, and Tyra appears to get pissed (as in mad, not as in drunk).
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
America's Next Top Model recap
Because I'm staying over at MW's house tonight, I had the pleasure of watching America's Next Top Model on his 43-inch high-definition TV. Which was actually quite convenient, because tonight's episode was all about makeup, and because I got to see Michelle's flesh-eating bacteria in great detail! So, yeah, Michelle the wrestler got all these scabs on her puss and proceeded to totally freak out about them. The girls were giving her a hard time because, well, they looked pretty gross, and because dumb Noelle made everyone paranoid that it was contagious and they were all going to catch it and die. (The shots of Lluvy shivering and freaking out were priceless.) And, honestly, if I were in a competition to be a model and I had big gross scabs all over my face, I'd probably be a mess too. The makeup artists, who, amusingly, were worried that Michelle had leprosy, sent her to a dermatologist, who confirmed that while Michelle does indeed have a bacterial infection, it is neither life-threatening nor contagious, and it is easily treatable. Whew! As for the rest of the episode, in between bouts of "learning" how to apply "natural" makeup from Mr. Jay (sarcasm because he didn't really appear to be teaching them anything), applying "haute couture" makeup (Naima won) and a cool photo shoot in which all the girls were transformed via makeup into another race, Noelle did a hell of a lot of complaining about how she misses her son. Like, Michelle has flesh-eating bacteria: "Oh, I would just die if my son had flesh-eating bacteria." The girls learn what haute couture is: "I don't have time to learn this stuff because my son turns off the TV every three seconds." The girls have to hold a kid while posing at the photo shoot: "I just miss my son so much!" Noelle, dude, we get the picture! So while it was down to Lluvy (who took another bad-to-mediocre photo) and Noelle, apparently Tyra is tired of hearing her complain as well, because Noelle was sent packing. This is good news for Lluvy, but, yikes, she needs to get it together, so as to not become this season's Ann (pretty girl, pretty bad photos).
Next week, Michelle freaks out some more, and Brittany gets wasted. More comparisons of the latter to (former coke fiend) Janice Dickinson are sure to follow.
Because I'm staying over at MW's house tonight, I had the pleasure of watching America's Next Top Model on his 43-inch high-definition TV. Which was actually quite convenient, because tonight's episode was all about makeup, and because I got to see Michelle's flesh-eating bacteria in great detail! So, yeah, Michelle the wrestler got all these scabs on her puss and proceeded to totally freak out about them. The girls were giving her a hard time because, well, they looked pretty gross, and because dumb Noelle made everyone paranoid that it was contagious and they were all going to catch it and die. (The shots of Lluvy shivering and freaking out were priceless.) And, honestly, if I were in a competition to be a model and I had big gross scabs all over my face, I'd probably be a mess too. The makeup artists, who, amusingly, were worried that Michelle had leprosy, sent her to a dermatologist, who confirmed that while Michelle does indeed have a bacterial infection, it is neither life-threatening nor contagious, and it is easily treatable. Whew! As for the rest of the episode, in between bouts of "learning" how to apply "natural" makeup from Mr. Jay (sarcasm because he didn't really appear to be teaching them anything), applying "haute couture" makeup (Naima won) and a cool photo shoot in which all the girls were transformed via makeup into another race, Noelle did a hell of a lot of complaining about how she misses her son. Like, Michelle has flesh-eating bacteria: "Oh, I would just die if my son had flesh-eating bacteria." The girls learn what haute couture is: "I don't have time to learn this stuff because my son turns off the TV every three seconds." The girls have to hold a kid while posing at the photo shoot: "I just miss my son so much!" Noelle, dude, we get the picture! So while it was down to Lluvy (who took another bad-to-mediocre photo) and Noelle, apparently Tyra is tired of hearing her complain as well, because Noelle was sent packing. This is good news for Lluvy, but, yikes, she needs to get it together, so as to not become this season's Ann (pretty girl, pretty bad photos).
Next week, Michelle freaks out some more, and Brittany gets wasted. More comparisons of the latter to (former coke fiend) Janice Dickinson are sure to follow.
Monday, March 28, 2005
In praise of the pricey haircut
As some of you might know, my dear hairdresser of four years, Paul, moved to Los Angeles last October, and I was very distraught about it. After much research, I went to Space salon in Soho and spent close to $300 on a very bland, boring haircut and slightly orange, very fake-looking highlights. Clearly I wasn't going back there. Earlier this month, my hair started to get shaggy, and I started to get nervous. Then I read a really silly story in US Weekly about how you can go to fancy salons and get a cut with a junior stylist for about a third (or less) of what the salon's top stylists charge. One of the salons mentioned was Sally Hershberger Downtown, home of the $600 haircut. Now, I remembered, back when I worked at Maxim that when we had a smokin' hot Gina Gershon on the cover, someone from Sally Hershberger did her hair, which was shaggy and totally sexy. So I thought, "Hey, what can I lose?" and I made an appointment for last Thursday. The salon is quite lovely--minimal decor, flattering lighting, very serene--not at all the usual loud, bustling salon environment. And everyone there was totally nice to me, which I was not expecting at all. My stylist, it turns out, is Sally's assistant, and he cut me a totally sexy, wash-and-wear shag (yes, I don't even have to blow it out--a first for me) that I absolutely love. Seriously, words cannot describe how happy I am with this haircut. It was $150 with tip, which, I know, is a bit ridiculous, but to me, it's worth it, especially after the trauma of my last salon visit. Two funny things: 1) I sat next to Jane Krakowski, of Ally McBeal fame, and tried to eavesdrop, but she kept her conversation confined to her hair; and 2) the salon exclusively uses John Frieda products (Frizz Ease, Sheer Blonde, et al.) which are sold at drugstores nationwide--so no more dropping an extra $60 on styling products whenever you get your hair done. My next challenge? Scrounging up $250 for highlights.
As some of you might know, my dear hairdresser of four years, Paul, moved to Los Angeles last October, and I was very distraught about it. After much research, I went to Space salon in Soho and spent close to $300 on a very bland, boring haircut and slightly orange, very fake-looking highlights. Clearly I wasn't going back there. Earlier this month, my hair started to get shaggy, and I started to get nervous. Then I read a really silly story in US Weekly about how you can go to fancy salons and get a cut with a junior stylist for about a third (or less) of what the salon's top stylists charge. One of the salons mentioned was Sally Hershberger Downtown, home of the $600 haircut. Now, I remembered, back when I worked at Maxim that when we had a smokin' hot Gina Gershon on the cover, someone from Sally Hershberger did her hair, which was shaggy and totally sexy. So I thought, "Hey, what can I lose?" and I made an appointment for last Thursday. The salon is quite lovely--minimal decor, flattering lighting, very serene--not at all the usual loud, bustling salon environment. And everyone there was totally nice to me, which I was not expecting at all. My stylist, it turns out, is Sally's assistant, and he cut me a totally sexy, wash-and-wear shag (yes, I don't even have to blow it out--a first for me) that I absolutely love. Seriously, words cannot describe how happy I am with this haircut. It was $150 with tip, which, I know, is a bit ridiculous, but to me, it's worth it, especially after the trauma of my last salon visit. Two funny things: 1) I sat next to Jane Krakowski, of Ally McBeal fame, and tried to eavesdrop, but she kept her conversation confined to her hair; and 2) the salon exclusively uses John Frieda products (Frizz Ease, Sheer Blonde, et al.) which are sold at drugstores nationwide--so no more dropping an extra $60 on styling products whenever you get your hair done. My next challenge? Scrounging up $250 for highlights.
The week in shopping
Sale of the week: Considering spring is right around the corner, you probably don't need any cashmere. Or do you? White + Warren has cashmere cardigans for $85, cotton sweaters for $50, and T-shirts 2 for $40--and if all else fails, you can always stock up for next year. 3/30-3/31; 8-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 3rd fl.
Everything at the Bluefly store is now $100 or less. Through 4/22; noon-8, noon-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 102 Wooster St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
The excellent Find Outlet is having a Spring-A-Thon Sale, featuring Julie Brown, Alex and Ani, June, and more. 3/31-4/3; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
Get free shipping at Benefit when you enter code FSGS at checkout through 3/30.
Clothingline has a new spring sale with Nike footwear & apparel, Milly, Tracy Reese/Plenty, Mari Dade, Stacie Bass, and more. Through 4/1; 10-6; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Here are coupons for Lord & Taylor's not-so-private Private Sale. I'll be there Wednesday after work for a last-minute swimsuit hunt.
Get boho jewelry at Echo of the Dreamer's sale, where semiprecious artisan jewelry is up to 85% off. 3/31-4/2; 11-7, noon-5 Sat.; 242 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
A very exciting development: One of my favorite websites, Girlshop has opened a real-life store in the Meatpacking District, and I will deliver a full report as soon as I can. 819 Washington St. (Little West 12th & Gansevoort Sts.).
Starting Tuesday, Loehmann's is having an early spring clearance. Now, I stopped at Loehmann's on my way home from work last Friday, and let me tell you, I saw some good deals. I got a Juicy Couture denim mini for $15, and I saw Capital Tailors pants for $40, cute Juicy pleated skirts for $25, Theory tops for $35 and Earl Jeans for $30. Of course, you have to dig through the clearance racks, but if you're in the mood for it, it's worth the effort.
Spring styles are up to 40% off at Gap.com.
Bluefly misses me, and they can miss you too. Enter code MISSEDYOU375 at checkout through 4/9 to save 15%.
All gifts at RedEnvelope.com are 15% off through 3/31.
Get free shipping on all sale items at OriacDesign.com through 4/10.
Sale of the week: Considering spring is right around the corner, you probably don't need any cashmere. Or do you? White + Warren has cashmere cardigans for $85, cotton sweaters for $50, and T-shirts 2 for $40--and if all else fails, you can always stock up for next year. 3/30-3/31; 8-6; 80 W. 40th St. (at 6th Ave.), 3rd fl.
Everything at the Bluefly store is now $100 or less. Through 4/22; noon-8, noon-6 Sun., closed Mon.; 102 Wooster St. (Prince & Spring Sts.).
The excellent Find Outlet is having a Spring-A-Thon Sale, featuring Julie Brown, Alex and Ani, June, and more. 3/31-4/3; noon-7; 361 W. 17th St. (8th & 9th Aves.).
Get free shipping at Benefit when you enter code FSGS at checkout through 3/30.
Clothingline has a new spring sale with Nike footwear & apparel, Milly, Tracy Reese/Plenty, Mari Dade, Stacie Bass, and more. Through 4/1; 10-6; 261 W. 36th St. (7th & 8th Aves.), 2nd fl.
Here are coupons for Lord & Taylor's not-so-private Private Sale. I'll be there Wednesday after work for a last-minute swimsuit hunt.
Get boho jewelry at Echo of the Dreamer's sale, where semiprecious artisan jewelry is up to 85% off. 3/31-4/2; 11-7, noon-5 Sat.; 242 W. 30th St. (7th & 8th Aves.).
A very exciting development: One of my favorite websites, Girlshop has opened a real-life store in the Meatpacking District, and I will deliver a full report as soon as I can. 819 Washington St. (Little West 12th & Gansevoort Sts.).
Starting Tuesday, Loehmann's is having an early spring clearance. Now, I stopped at Loehmann's on my way home from work last Friday, and let me tell you, I saw some good deals. I got a Juicy Couture denim mini for $15, and I saw Capital Tailors pants for $40, cute Juicy pleated skirts for $25, Theory tops for $35 and Earl Jeans for $30. Of course, you have to dig through the clearance racks, but if you're in the mood for it, it's worth the effort.
Spring styles are up to 40% off at Gap.com.
Bluefly misses me, and they can miss you too. Enter code MISSEDYOU375 at checkout through 4/9 to save 15%.
All gifts at RedEnvelope.com are 15% off through 3/31.
Get free shipping on all sale items at OriacDesign.com through 4/10.
The Cheryl Shops Spring Shopping Guide
Update: I went back and corrected all the links by hand, so hopefully everything works now. If not, please e-mail me or post a comment. Thanks for your patience!
So, what will you be wearing when (or if) the weather ever edges above 60 degrees? In a word: boho. Remember the peasant look of four summers ago? Instead of embroidered puffy-sleeve blouses and fringed belts, this year’s bohemian look is more covered and luxe. (Yes, think Mary-Kate’s “bobo” look, but less ill-fitting.) The good news about the boho look—aside from how easygoing and relaxed it is—is that it’s easy to obtain at a reasonable price. Which will make you feel better when you realize you can’t wear any of this stuff next summer because the look will be all sleek. Anyway, here are my 10 favorite trends for spring at all price points: “Basic” is (to me) a reasonable amount to spend ($100-$300), “Budget” is under $100, and “Bonus” is over $300. So here we go!
Tunics
Basic: If I could name one store that best embodies the boho look, it would be Calypso. So their Calypso Kurta is an easy choice: It’s textbook kurta with embroidery along the neckline and sleeves, and a light, airy look courtesy of the crinkly cotton voile fabric (and it comes in your choice of pretty pastel shades). This Inca beaded tunic is more sheer and has more intricate detailing—the tunic goes ultra-glam.
Bonus: Of course, if you bump up your budget, you can get a more unique-loooking tunic, like this ombré tunic. It has the same basic shape, but with a cool ombré effect and additional embelishment along the waist. No budget at all? This Tory by TRB tunic has rhinestone trim for an all-out luxe look, sure to be spotted at pool parties throughout the Hamptons this summer.
Budget: The good news is that you can get a really cool tunic for less than $100. This Yank tunic (copy written by yours truly) has beading toward the hem, instead of around the neck and sleeves. Of course, Urban Outfitters is always a great place to find the boho look, and I like this embroidered tunic because it’s more graphic-looking and different—and it’s only embroidered, no beads.
And for a true “I’m never going to wear this again” price, try this tunic from my new discovery Hollister—it’s a bargain at $39.50.
Peasant skirts
Basic: Again, the best place to go for this look is Calypso, so this Lace sequin skirt is an obvious, but totally cute, choice. But my favorite designer, Marc Jacobs, also does the boho look quite well, and I love this eyelet skirt, a cute, cropped take on the trend. (And I love it paired with the army jacket—how Downtown!)
Bonus: While Calypso is probably the most obvious choice for most of us, Chloe is the best way to get the true “bobo” look, in that this skirt is a very un-bohemain $1k. A high-end peasant skirt that’s worth the money is this shimmer skirt by Sage, handmade by artisans in India, and totally gorgeous (this site has several different styles by this brand—check them out).
Budget: Thankfully, the juniors department is a great place to find a peasant skirt, usually for less than $50. This DMBM bohemian skirt from Nordstrom is a great buy at $38. For a look that’s slightly more Mary-Kate, try this ankle-length Lux skirt from Urban Outfitters.
Bermudas
Basic: Now, I hate shorts and I rarely wear them, even to the gym. But I must say, Bermudas are a style I can get behind. They cover up the wobbly parts but still show a little leg, and because they’re longer, they’re not going to get all bunchy (a condition suffered by those of us with big thighs). The wide waistband on this Billy Blues Bermuda is ultra-flattering. If you’re a bit slimmer in the thigh, you’ll look great in this slim-fitting Vince bermuda (available in colors other than white, too).
Bonus: Come on, now, are you really going to spend more than $300 on a pair of shorts?
Budget: When I was younger and actually wore shorts, I’d get new ones every year at the Gap. And it’s still a great bet for shorts: this pair is clean, simple, and affordable. But not as affordable as this pair from Gap’s little sister, Old Navy.
Cropped jeans
Basic: I wear jeans year ‘round, but when the temperature goes above 80, I tend to leave ‘em in the closet. Enter cropped jeans, which have all sorts of cool details and a great fit. I love the styling of this Citizens of Humanity jean, which, okay, costs more than a regular pair, but is still quite cool. Everyone’s all abuzz about Salt Works jeans, and this crop has a classic shape but the fun cuffs and broken-in look mean you’ll wear it all summer—with everything.
Bonus: I’m ont quite sure why anyone would want to spend more than $300 on a pair of jeans (and this was the only one I could find that fits that price point), but if you do, the patches and distressed details on this Antik cropped jean are pretty cool.
Budget: Again, Old Navy is a great place to go for bargain basics, and I bet with the right top and shoes, this cropped jean will look a lot more expensive than it is. I also like the ultra broken-in look of this Hollister cropped jean.
Cami tunics
Basic: Not to be confused with the plain ol’ tunic, the cami tunic is a tube, halter, or cami on top and a bit more free-form in its styling. I love this butterfly tunic because, well, it has butterflies on it, but it’s quite versatile too—wear it on its own, or with jeans. And I love pretty much anything Rebecca Taylor does, but this silk embroidered tunic is just so delicate and pretty and feminine, my inner girly-girl can’t resist it.
Bonus: I also love Sass & Bide (note: Forever 21 does excellent knockoffs, although they’re on the small side), and if I had $500, I’d gladly plunk it down for this super-sexy Dazzling Moment top. For the Jessica Simpson fans out there, can’t you see her in this tube tunic?
Budget: I fell in love with this XOXO cami tunic as soon as I saw the sample (again, I wrote the copy for it), because it’s so darn cute and, at $69, a pretty good deal. And speaking of butterflies…well, I just think this sequin-trim top has a cool shape with the V-neckline and cool details like beaded butterflies and a dip-dyed effect at the hem.
Crocheted tops
Basic: Also a boho-look staple, the crocheted top has a new look, either as a cropped coverup or in a longer tunic shape. This short crocheted top by hot new label La Rok looks great as Bop styled it—with a tank and jeans. For in-between weather, I love this crocheted coat by Betsey Johnson. It’s a bit over-the-top, but I think a lot of (confident) girls could pull it off.
Bonus: At $700, this Vera Wang bolero is a bit extravagant, but I think it’s cool that it’s made out of raffia. I feel that you can’t go wrong with the classic tunic shape of this Charles Nolan sweater.
Budget: I absolutely adore this super-colorful crocheted bolero by Free People and will be ordering it ASAP. And at $28, I think this adorable crocheted cami is a great deal (again, I wrote the copy).
Gauchos
Basic: Now you might be thinking, “How is the gaucho different from the bermuda?” Well, the gaucho is much wider in the leg and often longer in length. While I often prefer a woven on my lower half, this crop (pardon the pun) of pants tends to be knit—meaning ultimate comfort for you. Also, gauchos are affordable. This Ella Moss gaucho is a mere $86, and I can’t really tell the difference between it and this $178 pair (which also comes in black).
Bonus: Like Bermudas, spending more than $300 isn’t really an option. Are you complaining?
Budget: And while I can’t really tell the difference between an $86 pair and a $178 pair, this $28 pair from Macy’s looks pretty good to me, as does this, um, other $28 pair from Urban Outfitters. Yay for affordable trends!
Wedges
Basic: Wedges are the new flip-flops, or so I was told at a merchandising meeting. I love wedges, so this is good news to me. I love this totally wacky pair of Faryl Robin wedges, and would wear them with everything from a peasant skirt to cropped jeans. And while, in the past, I have lamented the fashionification of the espadrille, I think I’m a convert after checking out these totally hot Christian Louboutin wedge espadrilles, which, by the way, are the most affordable pair of Louboutin shoes I’ve ever seen.
Bonus: If you’re going to drop major money on a pair of shoes, why not make it a totally wacky pair that’s only going to go with, like one outfit? This Jimmy Choo wedge fits that bill. More the practical type? You can’t go wrong with at Prada wedge (and, yes, for the super-practical girls, it also comes in black).
Budget: I think this Enzo Angiolini wedge has a totally classic shape, plus I like the cork sole. For a really good deal, this ribbon espadrille is super cute, and a mere $16.50.
Embellished flats
Budget: The best part about embellished flats? It’s hard to find a pair for more than $100. So these are all budget picks. Again, Urban outfitters is a great place to go for this look, and their beaded flat is so cheap, you can get one in every color. I’m a sucker for sequins, so of course I love this sequined flat, while this Dr. Scholl’s Mary Jane is an even better deal. This Jeffrey Campbell flat comes in all manner of exotic color combinations, like purple and black with gold embroidery and beading. This embroidered satin flat is, at $16, a ridiculously good deal. And for an all-out bright look, this Dahi slip-on can be perfectly coordinated with your outfit.
Metallic hobo
Basic: The hobo is the bag that just won’t die. This spring, it’s back in bright metallics—silver, blue, green, whatever. This Plunket & Pivet flat metallic hobo is quite a deal, considering it’s real leather, and it has a slightly more sleek shape, for those who don’t like the hobo’s bunchy shape. Celebrities love this Allison Burns Faithfull hobo, and I do too—its shape is more interesting, and I like the long strap, which is a nice change from the bags that are all up in your armpit.
Bonus: Rafe’s Mischa hobo is named after my favorite OC star and has a foxy embossed snakeskin pattern. And I just love this ridiculously expensive but totally cool Meli Melo hobo. What can I say? I’m a sucker for green.
Budget: One of the best places on the web (or in Los Angeles) for super-trendy stuff, Intuition has this metallic tote in all sorts of colors. Yeah, so, it’s a tote and not a hobo, but for $25, are you going to complain? Another great buy is the Jennifer hobo from Delia’s. It’s simple, not too flashy, but still trendy.
Phew. I hope you’ve absorbed this all. Now make your list and hit the stores!
Update: I went back and corrected all the links by hand, so hopefully everything works now. If not, please e-mail me or post a comment. Thanks for your patience!
So, what will you be wearing when (or if) the weather ever edges above 60 degrees? In a word: boho. Remember the peasant look of four summers ago? Instead of embroidered puffy-sleeve blouses and fringed belts, this year’s bohemian look is more covered and luxe. (Yes, think Mary-Kate’s “bobo” look, but less ill-fitting.) The good news about the boho look—aside from how easygoing and relaxed it is—is that it’s easy to obtain at a reasonable price. Which will make you feel better when you realize you can’t wear any of this stuff next summer because the look will be all sleek. Anyway, here are my 10 favorite trends for spring at all price points: “Basic” is (to me) a reasonable amount to spend ($100-$300), “Budget” is under $100, and “Bonus” is over $300. So here we go!
Tunics
Basic: If I could name one store that best embodies the boho look, it would be Calypso. So their Calypso Kurta is an easy choice: It’s textbook kurta with embroidery along the neckline and sleeves, and a light, airy look courtesy of the crinkly cotton voile fabric (and it comes in your choice of pretty pastel shades). This Inca beaded tunic is more sheer and has more intricate detailing—the tunic goes ultra-glam.
Bonus: Of course, if you bump up your budget, you can get a more unique-loooking tunic, like this ombré tunic. It has the same basic shape, but with a cool ombré effect and additional embelishment along the waist. No budget at all? This Tory by TRB tunic has rhinestone trim for an all-out luxe look, sure to be spotted at pool parties throughout the Hamptons this summer.
Budget: The good news is that you can get a really cool tunic for less than $100. This Yank tunic (copy written by yours truly) has beading toward the hem, instead of around the neck and sleeves. Of course, Urban Outfitters is always a great place to find the boho look, and I like this embroidered tunic because it’s more graphic-looking and different—and it’s only embroidered, no beads.
And for a true “I’m never going to wear this again” price, try this tunic from my new discovery Hollister—it’s a bargain at $39.50.
Peasant skirts
Basic: Again, the best place to go for this look is Calypso, so this Lace sequin skirt is an obvious, but totally cute, choice. But my favorite designer, Marc Jacobs, also does the boho look quite well, and I love this eyelet skirt, a cute, cropped take on the trend. (And I love it paired with the army jacket—how Downtown!)
Bonus: While Calypso is probably the most obvious choice for most of us, Chloe is the best way to get the true “bobo” look, in that this skirt is a very un-bohemain $1k. A high-end peasant skirt that’s worth the money is this shimmer skirt by Sage, handmade by artisans in India, and totally gorgeous (this site has several different styles by this brand—check them out).
Budget: Thankfully, the juniors department is a great place to find a peasant skirt, usually for less than $50. This DMBM bohemian skirt from Nordstrom is a great buy at $38. For a look that’s slightly more Mary-Kate, try this ankle-length Lux skirt from Urban Outfitters.
Bermudas
Basic: Now, I hate shorts and I rarely wear them, even to the gym. But I must say, Bermudas are a style I can get behind. They cover up the wobbly parts but still show a little leg, and because they’re longer, they’re not going to get all bunchy (a condition suffered by those of us with big thighs). The wide waistband on this Billy Blues Bermuda is ultra-flattering. If you’re a bit slimmer in the thigh, you’ll look great in this slim-fitting Vince bermuda (available in colors other than white, too).
Bonus: Come on, now, are you really going to spend more than $300 on a pair of shorts?
Budget: When I was younger and actually wore shorts, I’d get new ones every year at the Gap. And it’s still a great bet for shorts: this pair is clean, simple, and affordable. But not as affordable as this pair from Gap’s little sister, Old Navy.
Cropped jeans
Basic: I wear jeans year ‘round, but when the temperature goes above 80, I tend to leave ‘em in the closet. Enter cropped jeans, which have all sorts of cool details and a great fit. I love the styling of this Citizens of Humanity jean, which, okay, costs more than a regular pair, but is still quite cool. Everyone’s all abuzz about Salt Works jeans, and this crop has a classic shape but the fun cuffs and broken-in look mean you’ll wear it all summer—with everything.
Bonus: I’m ont quite sure why anyone would want to spend more than $300 on a pair of jeans (and this was the only one I could find that fits that price point), but if you do, the patches and distressed details on this Antik cropped jean are pretty cool.
Budget: Again, Old Navy is a great place to go for bargain basics, and I bet with the right top and shoes, this cropped jean will look a lot more expensive than it is. I also like the ultra broken-in look of this Hollister cropped jean.
Cami tunics
Basic: Not to be confused with the plain ol’ tunic, the cami tunic is a tube, halter, or cami on top and a bit more free-form in its styling. I love this butterfly tunic because, well, it has butterflies on it, but it’s quite versatile too—wear it on its own, or with jeans. And I love pretty much anything Rebecca Taylor does, but this silk embroidered tunic is just so delicate and pretty and feminine, my inner girly-girl can’t resist it.
Bonus: I also love Sass & Bide (note: Forever 21 does excellent knockoffs, although they’re on the small side), and if I had $500, I’d gladly plunk it down for this super-sexy Dazzling Moment top. For the Jessica Simpson fans out there, can’t you see her in this tube tunic?
Budget: I fell in love with this XOXO cami tunic as soon as I saw the sample (again, I wrote the copy for it), because it’s so darn cute and, at $69, a pretty good deal. And speaking of butterflies…well, I just think this sequin-trim top has a cool shape with the V-neckline and cool details like beaded butterflies and a dip-dyed effect at the hem.
Crocheted tops
Basic: Also a boho-look staple, the crocheted top has a new look, either as a cropped coverup or in a longer tunic shape. This short crocheted top by hot new label La Rok looks great as Bop styled it—with a tank and jeans. For in-between weather, I love this crocheted coat by Betsey Johnson. It’s a bit over-the-top, but I think a lot of (confident) girls could pull it off.
Bonus: At $700, this Vera Wang bolero is a bit extravagant, but I think it’s cool that it’s made out of raffia. I feel that you can’t go wrong with the classic tunic shape of this Charles Nolan sweater.
Budget: I absolutely adore this super-colorful crocheted bolero by Free People and will be ordering it ASAP. And at $28, I think this adorable crocheted cami is a great deal (again, I wrote the copy).
Gauchos
Basic: Now you might be thinking, “How is the gaucho different from the bermuda?” Well, the gaucho is much wider in the leg and often longer in length. While I often prefer a woven on my lower half, this crop (pardon the pun) of pants tends to be knit—meaning ultimate comfort for you. Also, gauchos are affordable. This Ella Moss gaucho is a mere $86, and I can’t really tell the difference between it and this $178 pair (which also comes in black).
Bonus: Like Bermudas, spending more than $300 isn’t really an option. Are you complaining?
Budget: And while I can’t really tell the difference between an $86 pair and a $178 pair, this $28 pair from Macy’s looks pretty good to me, as does this, um, other $28 pair from Urban Outfitters. Yay for affordable trends!
Wedges
Basic: Wedges are the new flip-flops, or so I was told at a merchandising meeting. I love wedges, so this is good news to me. I love this totally wacky pair of Faryl Robin wedges, and would wear them with everything from a peasant skirt to cropped jeans. And while, in the past, I have lamented the fashionification of the espadrille, I think I’m a convert after checking out these totally hot Christian Louboutin wedge espadrilles, which, by the way, are the most affordable pair of Louboutin shoes I’ve ever seen.
Bonus: If you’re going to drop major money on a pair of shoes, why not make it a totally wacky pair that’s only going to go with, like one outfit? This Jimmy Choo wedge fits that bill. More the practical type? You can’t go wrong with at Prada wedge (and, yes, for the super-practical girls, it also comes in black).
Budget: I think this Enzo Angiolini wedge has a totally classic shape, plus I like the cork sole. For a really good deal, this ribbon espadrille is super cute, and a mere $16.50.
Embellished flats
Budget: The best part about embellished flats? It’s hard to find a pair for more than $100. So these are all budget picks. Again, Urban outfitters is a great place to go for this look, and their beaded flat is so cheap, you can get one in every color. I’m a sucker for sequins, so of course I love this sequined flat, while this Dr. Scholl’s Mary Jane is an even better deal. This Jeffrey Campbell flat comes in all manner of exotic color combinations, like purple and black with gold embroidery and beading. This embroidered satin flat is, at $16, a ridiculously good deal. And for an all-out bright look, this Dahi slip-on can be perfectly coordinated with your outfit.
Metallic hobo
Basic: The hobo is the bag that just won’t die. This spring, it’s back in bright metallics—silver, blue, green, whatever. This Plunket & Pivet flat metallic hobo is quite a deal, considering it’s real leather, and it has a slightly more sleek shape, for those who don’t like the hobo’s bunchy shape. Celebrities love this Allison Burns Faithfull hobo, and I do too—its shape is more interesting, and I like the long strap, which is a nice change from the bags that are all up in your armpit.
Bonus: Rafe’s Mischa hobo is named after my favorite OC star and has a foxy embossed snakeskin pattern. And I just love this ridiculously expensive but totally cool Meli Melo hobo. What can I say? I’m a sucker for green.
Budget: One of the best places on the web (or in Los Angeles) for super-trendy stuff, Intuition has this metallic tote in all sorts of colors. Yeah, so, it’s a tote and not a hobo, but for $25, are you going to complain? Another great buy is the Jennifer hobo from Delia’s. It’s simple, not too flashy, but still trendy.
Phew. I hope you’ve absorbed this all. Now make your list and hit the stores!
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