Tory at the Top

Tory Burch is literally growing by leap and bounds! A company that she began only four years ago in her New York City apartment now has estimated annual sales of $200 million dollars. In the fall, Tory Burch plans on rolling out her new line and opening several new stores in the US and expanding oversees. Tory has not only an eye for fashion but a clear understanding of what is truly classic. Here are my two Tory Burch classic sale picks:

1. Venus Shell was $325 now $195 – Perfect with a white pair of linen pants and thongs for a weekend in the Hamptons or worn with a pair of stilettos and pencil skirt for a client dinner.

http://www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=504&id=34292

2. Rosemary Dress was $385 now $231 – Wear this to a luncheon or do as Jackie O. did and wear it when the White House is your primary residence!

http://www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=504&id=34495

Christian Lacroix Reaching New Heights

Christian Lacroix known for his theatrical style and couture ability in the fashion world was rewarded with most influential designer by the CFDA for foreign designer in January 1987. He has currently set his eye on new heights. Reported by the FWD, the designer has signed a deal with the Middle East property developer Abyaa to create “a residential tower in one of Dubai's most exclusive beachside suburbs. The 38-unit, coastal Jumeirah-based tower will incorporate an avant-garde Lacroix-designed façade, expansive lobby, and luxury interiors”. One more reason why Dubia is on my world class destination list.

http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/news/fullstory.sps?inewsid=549570

Fire Within

This month the fiery red head Julianne Moore graces the cover of both French Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. This is a woman balancing her many roles as a wife, a mother of two, an advocate for Save the Children & Planned Parenthood and an actor who is clearing embracing her age of 47. Simply smoldering!

Have a glorious weekend! Cioa, Cioa!!

The Ultimate Beauty Guide

Sephora : The Ultimate Guide to Makeup, Skin, and Hair from the Beauty Authority! This guide is like having a team of beauty experts in your home. “Spend the day with Vincent Longo backstage at fashion week, create red-carpet worthy hair with celebrity hair stylist Oscar Blandi, master the smoky eye with Hollywood's hottest makeup artists, and take a tour of Dr. Nicholas Perricone's kitchen with his refrigerator full of skin-perfecting foods.” Available to all at Barnes & Noble online!

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Sephora/Melissa-Schweiger/e/9780061466403/?itm=1

American Owned No More

Barneys New York the beloved landmark will no long be American owned. A report on April 22nd by WWD, stated that a private equity fund in Muslim Dubai acquired the store.

http://www.wwd.com/issue/article/124371?page=0

Loving the Look

Ms. Kelly Ripa looks absolutely stunning in this strapless navy blue and black form fitting dress. Her natural beauty is illuminated in this simple but elegant silhouette and romantic side bun. Gorgeous Darling!

A Splash of Color at the Wrist

Bracelets are an alternative way to add a splash of color without dressing from head to toe in rainbow hues. Bangles are fantastic for layering. Here are a few options:

1. Old Navy - Women's Mosaic Enameled Bangles $12.50

http://www.oldnavy.com/browse/product.do?cid=37587&pid=555580&scid=555580022

2. Victoria Secret - Sequin Enamel Bangles $18.00

http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=8M-226686&page=1&cgname=OSSHUJWLACE&rfnbr=4804

3. W Hotel - Zebra Enamel Bangle $73.00

http://www.whotelsthestore.com/item.asp?curr_item_id=2877&cat_subcat_id=1

It is not Always the Clothes

This must be accessory week. For I cannot seem to get away from the add-on items that can so easily change the entire look of an outfit from dull into dramatic. For example, a gray pant suit paired with a white button down shirt and black pumps could be a bit drab, but throw in a vibrant green, orange or purple handbag and a pair of spectacular earrings with a simple metallic necklace and - Voila! A sophisticated and chic look. Another option: layer a pair of double or even triple strain pearls under (for a peekaboo affect) a beautiful Hermés scarf draped around the neck under the suit jacket and a pair of red patent leather heels – Presto! A conservative yet sassy look! Don’t be afraid to try new combinations.

Balancing Color

Hopefully, the spring and summer seasons will inspire you to wear more color. If so then you may want to stick to a neutral handbag. Canvas is a great neutral option.

1. Target - The Limited Edition Large Hobo Bag - $29.99

http://www.target.com/Limited-Large-Hobo-Bag-Gold/dp/B000Y1H7C4/qid=1208818200/ref=br_1_5/601-8010084-4372137?ie=UTF8&node=580154011&frombrowse=1&rh=&page=1

2. Macy’s - Calvin Klein Canvas "Racer Derby" Satchel $133.50

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=291903&PartnerID=LINKSHARE&LinkshareID=BolFSqx4S4U-a8CBtx5WRaYIwmPxmG73Og

Congratulations to Cate Blanchett who introduced her new son Ignatius at the Australia 2020 Summit this past weekend. Beautiful!!

Never Underestimate A Woman


Congratulations to Danica Patrick. At the age of 26 she became the first woman in history to win the IndyCar Japan 300. Never underestimate the determination and power of women; we are clearly making strides in all venues including the once male dominated arenas. Bravo Danica!!







MJ via Bluefly


Wonderful options for both summer and fall - Bluefly currently has several Marc handbags by Marc Jacobs on sale. My two favorites are: ‘Softy’ a overnight bag in cream and the ‘Lovely Behati’ in stone.





http://www.bluefly.com/pages/browse/list.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2086561303&referer=email&cm_mmc=bluefly_email-_-04_19_08-_-Cat_W_Handbags_Contemp_Sa-_-shopnow





Shopping Solo?


When you go shopping and it seems overwhelming think of a style icon that inspires you. Such as:

1. Audrey Hepburn
2. Katharine Hepburn
3. Angelina Jolie
4. Princess Diana or the Queen of Jordon
5. Grace Kelley
6. Jackie Onassis
   

A Young Girl’s Love Story

As a young girl living in NYC, my mother always took me to Macy’s on 34th to get my haircut. I loved walking through the large revolving doors and riding up the escalators while gazing upon a sea of endless colorful clothing that I dreamt of wearing. My favor section was Esprit. Well, I am very happy to say the company is still around and find irresistible their current line from cardigans to causal dresses and jackets . . . the love story continues.

http://www.espritshop.com/

A-musing?

Mary-Kate is a muse of some of the large fashion houses around the world. This is a tough one - Is it the headband or the fit of the Missoni dress or maybe both?!

Make Yourself Over

Allure Magazine has offered steps on how to “Look Younger in 30 Days”. Sleep, sunscreen, moisturizer, retinol, water, etc. are only a few suggestions. You already may be savvy to many of these tips, still it is nice to be reminded of the old and add the new to your routine.

http://www.allure.com/tips/lookyounger?view=all

Have a glorious weekend! Cioa, Cioa!!

France A Big Step Towards Healthy Fashion

France is in the process of legalizing a bill that will punish anyone in the advertising, fashion or other related industries that promotes extreme thinness. Bravo France!!! Hopefully, this action taken by France will prompt other countries to take a look at this unhealthy and too often deadly side of the fashion industry.

http://www.showbuzz.cbsnews.com/stories/2008/04/15/style/main4015887.shtml

Diane von Furstenberg Sale

Don’t miss the first online sale event exclusive at dvf.com - 70% off styles for 5 days only. The sale begins April 17th at 12 pm and ends 12 pm on April 21st EST.

http://www.dvf.com/

Big K is Rising

Kmart is a great place to shop especially for Martha Stewart’s line of barware and food storage. The company is planning a large coordinated push into junior and woman’s apparel. They are off to a hip start with a new slogan “Smart style, revealed. New for spring” and with the help of a new power team that includes former Tommy Hilfiger, Forth & Towne and Gap executives. With all the speculative talk about a possible recession; it is nice to have options and low prices.

http://www.wwd.com/issue/article/124205

Rogan: A Story of Target to Barneys New York Overnight

Rogan Gregory is an environmental conscious aka “green” designer that will be launching an “organic clothing line that’s safari-inspired” for GO International at Target. The debut takes place in stores on May 18th. For the very first time, Barneys New York will also be selling this line in its flagship stores in New York and Beverly Hills. Why shop at Barneys when you can get the exact thing at Target?!

http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=548971

Deals, Deals, Deals!

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH offer, buy any pair of shoes and get the second pair of equal or lesser values at 50% off.

Worth A Look - Nordstrom online sale going on right now with an additional 33-50% off.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/C/6002242/0~2376788~6002242?cm_cat=041508&cm_pla=general_sale_subject_test&cm_ite=tsale&cm_em=10749660&cm_ven=emailwww.nordstrom

Brooks Brothers in support of Make A Wish foundation is offering a 15% discount on your entire purchase today and tomorrow. This is a great time to pick up your non-iron button down shirts.

http://www.brooksbrothers.com/

Stepping Out

Spring is a season for renewal, so take a step in a fresh direction by moving out of your comfort zone and trying something new. When you are shopping pick things off the rack that, in the past, you would not necessarily try or simply just “know” it would never work. You never know until you try it on and you may just surprise yourself. There is no time like the present to reinvent, rejuvenate or add a new dimension to one’s self.

Natural and Nude

Here are a few tips to get that natural summer glow without the harmful rays. Begin with applying a bronzer to your temples and cheekbones. Brush on a tawny blush to the apples of your cheeks. When it comes to the eye, dust on a light gold eye shadow under your eyebrow and at the inside of the eye near the tear ducks. Follow it up with a bronze eye shadow, mascara and a nude lip color and don’t forget the gloss. The result: a beautiful bronze beauty!

Simply Lovely

This delicate, feminine and lovely necklace will immediately dress up the everyday jeans and T or shirtdress or even a simple classic black and the packaging is even pretty.

http://www.redenvelope.com/re/gifts/product_display/product_information.jsp?nc=78488&refPg=%2fproduct_display%2fgift_results.jsp&bct2=recipient&bcp2=1&bcm2=1%24%24-8070&bct4=for+her&bcp4=3&bcm4=1%24%24-8071&bct5=jewelry+%2B+accessories&bcp5=4&bcm5=29$$%2Frecipient%2Ffor+her%2Fjewelry+%2B+accessories@@30$$-8085@@35$$8085&catOid=-8085&oid=27223637&nc2=1



Handbag to Handbag

Quite a few of my clients have glorious handbag collections, but unfortunately find it very cumbersome having to switch the contents of their purse with their changing outfits. Here is a solution - the Purseket Organizer. Paired with a small make-up bag, you are good to go. Now the only problem will be which handbag to choose.

http://www.containerstore.com/browse/Product.jhtml?CATID=254&PRODID=10019933

The Elle & Nina Reported Breakup

Nina Garcia is not only a judge on Project Runway since the show’s birth, but the Fashion Director for Elle magazine since 2000. Reports by multiple media outlets including Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), Fashion Week Daily and Us magazine stated that Ms. Garcia has been fired. Unfortunately, neither party could be reached for comment to shed any light on this story. Hopefully, we will still have her fashion expertise on Project Runway. Don’t you just love how Heidi Klum pronounces her name?

Site to See

As a woman I enjoy those special memory-making gatherings with girlfriends. Girl trips are to bond, commiserate, relax and truly appreciate your friendship. Well, there is a site dedicated to helping you accomplish just that. Check this site out before planning your next girl fun vacation get-away.


http://www.girlgetaways.com/

Martin & Osa

Martin & Osa is a fairly new clothing company with wonderful basics at a very reasonable price. Although there are limited store locations, the on-line shop will deliver straight to your door.

Oprah’s Closet

Located across the street from the Harpo Studios, Oprah’s Closet is a new secondhand store owned by the one and only Oprah Winfrey. If you can finagle a ticket to the show, shop beforehand for designer suits, dress and more from Chanel to YSL. Dash in the ladiesroom and don your purchases . You never know - Ms. O may bring you up on stage!

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/10/fashion/10oprah.html?ref=fashion

Fall Deal

It is difficult to think of Fall when we haven’t even enjoyed the heat of the summer sun. This is a shoe that might get you to think again. Currently, 70% off the original price of $119.95, so for $35.90 this little lace up number it is worth storing in your closet for a few months. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2940388/0~2376788~6002242~6007715~6008488?mediumthumbnail=Y&siteId=BolFSqx4S4U-K.g94MIT6vsCQxgG0aEtMQ

H&M Update

On April 10th H&M launched a line that pays tribute to Marimekko the leading Finnish clothing design company renown for their bold prints. The long halters & mini dresses are worth a look.

www.hm.com

Blessed By A Smile

I have to take a moment and commend my cousin Brian Mullaney for his effort, determination and sheer will to help suffering children around the world. The Smile Train (http://www.smiletrain.org/) is an amazing organization that travels into 71 counties to repair children with cleft lips and palates. Brian’s most recent trip took him to Haiti. P repare yourselves for reality.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kuuFRpIBfAo



It’s Time For A Love Revolution

Lenny Kravitz is one of those individuals that was born with sex appeal, appreciated by many including Nicole Kidman of course pre Keith Urban. This brilliant musician, who has also demonstrated his acting ability, now through his firm Kravitz Design Inc. designs sleek hotels. Mr. Kravitz’s latest project was the re-design of the Delano Hotel lounge in Miami’s South Beach - just in time for the World Music Conference. His next project will begin on May 29th a European tour the “Love Revolution”. Frida Giannini of Gucci will be dressing him in “body-hugging pants, oversized belt buckles, and extremely fitted jackets.” I restlessly await the first pics!

http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/news/fullstory.sps?inewsid=548456



Virtual Assistant

Recently, I had an opportunity to experience online live help through Nordstrom.com. This fabulous tool was like having a personal assistant only with a five second delay. While ordering a pair of shoes I had a few concerns regarding the fit and quality. All my questions were immediately answered in less than two minutes. Tomorrow I hope to receive a Bobby Brown/Laura Mercier product-to-product breakdown analysis.

http://about.nordstrom.com/help/livehelp/default.asp?origin=tab

The Satin Lovebird

This beautiful satin sling back is a lovely addition to anyone’s shoe collection. If you prefer a flat this is the one to get. Elegant enough for a summer wedding or purely classic with cigarette pants for breakfast at Tiffany’s or the Sunrise café.

http://www.endless.com/dp/B000WPBCKU?tag=endlesscj-20&linkCode=asn

Angelic White

How could one not simply glow in this feminine, flirty frock? Throw on your thongs for a lunch at the beach club or wear with a pair of wedges and a spring color pashmina for a sunset picnic. No one will be able to keep their eyes off you. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2925218/0~2376788~6002242~6007533~6007540?mediumthumbnail=Y&siteId=BolFSqx4S4U-yr_LU6lTr8mNbF1ERPYzNQ

BR

Excitement at Banana Republic! They are introducing their new limited edition BR Monogram line. “The exquisite fabrics, distinctive details and modern silhouettes . . . is the most eloquent expression of style.” Take a look for yourself.

http://www.bananarepublic.com/

Roots to Lauren

From the Bronx to runway and now Beijing, Ralph Lauren continues to move from one fashion genre to the next. Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation will replace Roots Ltd this year as the “official outfitter for the US team at the 2008 Summer Olympics.” This has not been Polo’s first experience designing official sporting apparel which includes the U.S. Open and Wimbledon, although it will certainly be the largest group of athletes Lauren has dressed, clad, clothed.

http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/news/fullstory.sps?iNewsid=547827

Style at Your Door

Amazon is currently having an amazing sale on fashion magazines most of them are 70% off the newsstand price. It is quite the deal!

http://www.amazon.com/b/ref=pe_25390_8863100_fe_txt_1/?ie=UTF8&node=602332

Summer Canvas

If you are off to the Hamptons or boarding a sailboat in Maine or just spending a day at the beach here is a perfect tote to carry all your essentials. LL Bean is known for its durability and quality. Plus, I quite fancy the look.

http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=1&langId=-1&catalogId=1&categoryId=53811&parentCategory=504173&cat4=504161&productId=900402&display_id=56301&feat=504173

From the Big Screen to the Smaller


This is a friendly reminder there is 54 days left to find a babysitter, round up the girls and buy your tickets. Nothing is going to stop Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte and Samantha from their debut onto the big screen. Sex in the City will be in theaters May 30th for our last stroll, brunch, cry and hug with “dynamic quatre”. Merci!


“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” -Coco Chanel Lifetime Television is due to release this year a miniseries on the life and style of Madame Chanel. The series features Barbora Bobulova as Coco Chanel in her early years and Shirley MacLaine in her latter. A story of a woman’s determination and drive that brought her out from under the blanket of poverty to uncovered a world of success. I am off to set my TiVo.




Marc’s Mess

Marc Jacobs caught quite a bit of grief this fall having people wait over two hours for his fashion show to start. Unfortunately, now he is under criminal investigation for allegedly bribing the former superintendent of the 69th Regiment Armory. W Magazine reported that in exchange for $30,000 the frequently used venue by Mr. Jacobs would be available for his shows. Careful, no one is ever too fabulous!



SALE!

Authentic designer handbags on sale at http://www.dluxebags.com/ until April 20th.

Look of the Week

This week Ms. Zellweger looked stunning in a Carolina Herrera asymmetrical, beautiful red dress. Ladies take note if you have a similar body shape defined as the slim rectangle/boyish figure. The one shoulder is highlighting some of Renee’s best features her arms and shoulders. The detail draping around the torso which continues on the back and then falls exquisitely over the derriere, provides curves and the hour glass shape we all strive for. The elegant hemline hits right below the knee showcasing her slender legs. The importance of knowing your body type is crucial.

Refresher Course on the Five Body Types

1. Inverted Triangle is defined by broad shoulders, a full bust and ample upper arms extending to narrow hips.
2. Triangle/Pear Shape is defined by narrow shoulders and a small bust coupled with wider hips.
3. Hour Glass is defined by wider shoulders, a full bust, narrow waist and wider hips. With a distinct waistline the bust and hips are of similar width.
4. Slim Rectangle/Boyish Figure is defined by shoulders and hips are again very similar in width with little definition at the waistline, a straight up and down appearance with little curves.
5. Full Rectangle also known as a plus size.

How to Determine Your Body Type

When you know what body shape you truly are it is so much easier to dress and accentuate your assets. You will need a tape measure, a mirror and a glass of champagne or wine. After you finished your glass of champagne, stand in front of the mirror and look at yourself unclothed. Take your shoulder measurement, your waist measurement and your hip measurement and then refer back to the 5 body type descriptions. After which, congratulate yourself!! Knowing is half the battle.

Will Not Miss This Partnership

It is all about teamwork these days. Loved by many including myself Phillip Lim of 3.1 phillip lim will launch a limited edition collection for Gap inspired by the classic white shirt on April 15th. We can expect beautiful constructed white button down blouses, tanks, and dresses. They are already advertising limited quantities in select stores and online, so mark your calendars.

Go Red!

A woman should always have one pair of red shoes in her closet. The added dimension of color is a fun and easy way to give a hint of the unexpected, a little mystery to your personality. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Naturalizer - you may have passed this store but never walked in, well here is a reason.

http://www.naturalizer.com/shop_online/item_detl.asp?CID=dress&PID=rookie&variant_id=18561600&Size=%25%25%25%2D%25


2. Cole Haan – one of my obsessions is the Cole Haan Nike Air line. Ladies you can run in miles in the heels and look fabulous.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2936850?Category=&Search=True&SearchType=keywordsearch&keyword=cole+haan+in+Women%27s+Shoes&origin=searchresults

3. Cole Haan - they are even prettier in person!http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/2952436?Category=&Search=True&SearchType=keywordsearch&keyword=cole+haan+in+Women%27s+Shoes&origin=searchresults

#1 Rule for Streamlining Your Closet

One Year Box or bag: take a box and place all of the clothing that you have not worn in the last year but still do not want to let go of. Every time you go shopping take a quick look through the box and make sure there is nothing you are trying to replace or that could work in your wardrobe. After a year if you have not touched it, bring the entire box down to your local thrift store, charity drive or consignment shop. If you haven’t worn it in a year there is a reason. If it is a keepsake, place it in your memory box not in your closet.

H&M Goes Avant-garde?

As reported in WWD, H&M has announced it’s collaboration with Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo founder of Comme des Garcons which is expected to debut in November. If the Kawakubo/H&M collection has any resemblances to Comme des Garcons, we can expect art-inspired, austere and deconstructed pieces. H&M once again helping to move “fashion forward”!

http://www.wwd.com/issue/article/123967

Feminine Fatigue

This light flowing, whimsical tank will add the right feminine touch to any jean, skirt or trouser! If you are looking for a bit more structure add a blazer.

http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=FOREVER21&category%5Fname=dressy+tops&product%5Fid=2046970845&Page=all

Aspirin to the Rescue

Need whitening underarm stains? The designers of AKA New York swear by aspirin! Place all shirts in the washing machine, add detergent and drop one aspirin when the water has filled the basin and wash as normal. Whitened Ts in one cycle!

Resort Wear!

Although it is the latter part of the “resort season” and most of us may not be boarding a yacht, it certainly does not mean we cannot look like we've just stepped off one. Here are three different looks to help one achieve the ultimate “snow bird look”.

1. Tory Burch

With this bold piece, the only thing you need is a pair of hoop earrings or bangles and a glass of sangria!

http://www.toryburch.com/catalog_detail.aspx?cid=510&id=30938

2. Old Navy

A wonderful way to accessories this palm dress is with a colorful necklace and metallic thongs.

http://www.oldnavy.com/browse/product.do?cid=15292&pid=565285&scid=565285012

3. Land's End

Simply Divine!

http://www.landsend.com/pp/CottonLawnBeadedTunicCoverup~166824_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::ZSC&CM_MERCH=IDX_00006_0000000152_0000000644&origin=index

Body Language

Once I was actually quite aware of how I communicated through my body language. Due to new responsibilities and an increased work schedule I have found my consciousness dwindling. Well, thanks to Oprah she was able to provide a quick refresher course on its importance.

http://www.oprah.com/relationships/webmd/200802/relationships_language_b1.jhtml

Loving the Look

This shoe exemplifies all the elements of the current spring season. Beautiful bold colors, a platform toe, with a bit of texture thrown in and will make any basic outfit pop. It will bring your white t/tank, jeans and a simple necklace to a whole new level!

http://www.ninewest.com/n/browse/product.s?productId=2937830&source=category&index=8&prodIndex=8&listSize=55&categoryId=2944061&codeName=NWJEWELLITE&ep_tag=feature8

Happy Birthday Salvatore Ferragamo!!

Ferragamo celebrated their 80th anniversary with the opening of the exhibition "Salvatore Ferragamo: Evolving Legend 1928-2008" in Shanghai. 80 years of sheer brilliancy. Amare!

http://www.ferragamo.com/

Body Identity

I do not remember when I became aware of my body shape or size. My mother never spoke about her weight although exercised when she could. I do remember looking through the pages of Vogue longingly and thinking how can I look like Cindy? Take Denise Richards an actress, celebrity, swimsuit model and single mother. Recently interviewed in Shape Magazine, Richards makes it a point not to complain about her weight in front of her daughters. Although, we may all think she has one of the best "bods" out there, the point is we should all celebrate our bodies in every shape and size for us and also be examples for our children. Thank you Momma!

http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20187310,00.html

Deal of the Day

This beautiful silk shell would compliment almost anyone's closet. Paired with a blazer and pencil skirt for a stylish meeting or with a pair of jeans and flats for a lovely brunch, either way sophisticated chic!

http://www.bananarepublic.com/browse/product.do?pid=5475330120001&cid=26499