The Fancier

foster the people

2011-04-17T20:22:00.002-04:00

Foster The People

A band that cannot be missed, as they've exploded on the music scene. Playing Coachella today and streaming live on YouTube. You must go forth and listen.

FANCY OF THE DAY - MAXI PLEATS

2011-02-15T08:36:00.004-05:00

I knew from the moment I laid eye upon it, that I needed that Rag and Bone pleated maxi skirt but imagine my surprise when my Free People catalog arrived and was sporting something quite similar to the Rag and Bone version for a bit less quid. Hmmm...

Rag and Bone version on the left, Free People on the right.
However this is the pleated skirt that would really set my heart afire if it magically appeared in my closet.

Michael Kors, Spring 2011

LOVE LAUREN

2010-12-21T16:07:00.000-05:00

Inspiration by Ralph Lauren F/W 2010.

Hat, dress, jacket, H&M; sunshades, Oliver Peoples; belt, Ralph Lauren; turtleneck, Zara

OUT OF AFRICA?

2010-04-30T08:46:00.002-04:00

Shoes, Steve Madden; Leggings, Zara; Jacket, vintage; Shirt, Elizabeth & James; Sunnies, Oliver Peoples; Necklace, vintage

I've been noticeably neglectful to my blog lately but life has just been so excruciatingly busy as of late. It seems that fate has intervened and brought me the most perfect opportunity for my dream dwelling. Will give more details later. And the Mister has employed my professional services on a complete restaurant renovation. Not that you would know it from my posts because fashion outranks design on this blog, but my field is interior design. If I can meld the two eventually life will be most sweet. The above shoes have become my current favorite.

P.S. No matter how high quality the resolution of my pictures are, they are coming out much more grainy on blogger. Anyone have any advice?

SUMMER'S MOST WANTED

2010-04-27T08:51:00.000-04:00

Clockwise from top left:

1. Equipment Sage Military Blouse

2. Versace Metal Skirt

3. Nightcap Poncho tee

4. Proenza Schouler shoe

5. Malene Birger lattice necklace

6. Siwy denim shorts

7. Pepe Harem trousers

8. Haute Hippie racerback tank dress

9. Stella McCartney sheer silk shirt

10. Torn by Ronny Kobo Tracy Cheetah wave tee

SUNDAY MORNINGS

2010-04-20T21:25:00.000-04:00

Shoes, Steve Madden; Skirt, Urban Outfitters; Blazer F21; Shirt, Zara; Bag, vintage

Lace and lattes. What more could one ask for?

SKUNKED

2010-04-16T09:09:00.001-04:00

Jacket, Free People; Dress, H&M; Sandals, Simply Vera Wang; Scarf, Target; Sunshades, Oliver Peoples

I realize you can't always win but that does not stop me from being annoyed when the Organic Cotton dress that came out with the Garden Collection that I bought for $20 is reduced down to $10 the next week. Or that the movie Greenberg that I was so psyched to see is such a major disappointment that I want my two hours back. (p.s. Jennifer Jason Leigh, you should have retired after Fast Times At Rigdemont High) My silver lining is that those Simply Vera Wang sandals satisfied my craving for the Chloe cuffed sandals and my wallet.

REPURPOSED

2010-04-14T21:09:00.000-04:00

Jacket, Elie Tahari; Scarf, old; tshirt & skirt, Urban Oufitters; Wedges, Jessica Simpson; Bracelet, vintage; Sunnies, Tom Ford

I have been searching forever for the perfect black long, mermaid style skirt and I found it. Only it's not a skirt. I excitedly glanced this piece on the rack from across the room at Urban Outfitters only to discover upon closer inspection that it was in fact a dress. Not to be deterred, I tried it on as I intended to wear it and was thrilled to be walking without with a dual purpose item. (Although I think the fitting room attendant was eyeing me a bit suspiciously when I accidentally locked myself out after coming into the hallway to look in the mirror, thinking that there was no skirt in the store that looked like that, or else "hey, she better buy that dress because she's probably stretching out the top wearing it like that".) I felt a bit like a geisha walking around today taking tiny steps due to the narrow constriction at the bottom.

NOT NOW

2010-04-12T19:51:00.000-04:00

Shirt, Madewell; Dress, Mossimo; Necklace, Vintage; Belt, Linea Pelle; Shoes, Jeffrey Campbell

I take comfort over any other trait when it comes to errand running days. And cut my own bangs day. Feeling comfy is like having a security blanket in case you make a mistake.

Comfy.

TENACITY

2010-04-08T22:30:00.000-04:00

Shorts, shirt, Zara; Watch, Nixon; Bandeau, urban Outfitters; Shoes, Via Spiga; Sunnies, Mossimo; Bracelet, Sears

Perseverance pays people, it pays! A few weeks ago while in NYC, I paid a quick visit to Zara on my way to the train in order to make my dream spring purchase, the brown leather shorts from the Spring lookbook.(Unfortunately, Philadelphia Zara doesn't get the really supreme stuff, boo hiss.) Anyway, I rushed in and asked the first sales clerk I encountered where the shorts were. She nonchalantly informed me they had sold out. I couldn't even comprehend this possibility, I was stupefied. My mind couldn't take no for answer and so I hastily decided to make myself a bona-fide pain in the ass and accosted every sales associate in the store, (of course, out of eyesight of the one before lest they think I was crazy) and asked all the same exact question. Well guess what, CHA-CHING! On my last try, a Zara employee savior pulled out a secret pair in my size that were the last ones in the store. I could've planted a big wet one right on her lips but I restrained myself not wanting to be kicked out without my shorts. And the moral is... if at first you don't succeed, try, try again... and again...and again.

And this is my favorite vampy lipstick, Nars in Fast Ride. Not too cakey, smudgey and just dark enough.

Photo: Nitrolicious

AIR

2010-04-07T21:05:00.001-04:00

Dress, Free People; Belt, old?; Shoes, Zara; Bracelets, misc; Sunshades, vintage Foster Grants

Have you ever had Ciao Bella Gelato in Maple Gingersnap? It's heaven in a carton. I went way beyond my one serving last night. It those times that make me heart you pilates teacher.

I love these new shoes from Zara but I feel so unstable. Definitely a pair of ankle twisters.

ONE PIECE

2010-04-06T16:56:00.000-04:00

Jumper, BCBG; Shoes, Michael Kors; Necklaces, vintage; left bracelet, vintage; right bracelets, Amrita Singh; sunshades, Tom Ford

I could play, eat, sleep, drink, laugh, cry, jump, roll, hiccup, run, think, crawl, hide, cheer, whistle, and dream in this gossamer jumpsuit.

TASTE OF SUMMER

2010-04-02T16:01:00.001-04:00

Shirt & skirt, Urban Outfitters; Sandals, Steve Madden; Sunshades, Tom Ford; Necklace, vintage

Earlier this week I was wrapped up in fur and yesterday I was sporting a short skirt and sandals, Mother Nature on menopause? It was glorious nonetheless and made me itch like crazy for summer. This weekend I get to have a little taste as we are heading to the beach for the Easter holiday! Nothing like the beach in early spring when the days are warm and the nights are crisp cool and blankets might be necessary. Hope you all have a happy Easter!

BLACK CARS ON SUNNY DAYS

2010-03-31T22:52:00.001-04:00

Pants, Zara; Blazer, Zara; Shirt, See by Chloe; Shoes, F21; Sunshades, Cheapies

Pairing this librarian-ish blazer with leather pants made it not feel so, well...librarian-ish. However, not the perfect outfit to wear to a home inspection. As we were clomping about the yard my five inch heels were sinking 3 inches into the mud. Much to my amusement, the lively little fireplug of an inspector informed that he didn't think he'd ever had anyone show up to one of his inspections in leather pants. He said thank goodness it was me and not him or everyone would have run screaming. I say... you should dress how YOU want.

PIECES OF ME

2010-03-30T20:55:00.001-04:00

Necklace, Madewell; Ring, LuShae Jewelry; Blazer, vintage; Tank, F21; Nail polish, Sally Hansen Jumpin Jade

Wicked rain drove me indoors today and as you can sooooo obviously see I have not yet mastered the tricky art of indoor photography therefore I give you the highlights of today's ensemble. I received an insanely cool ring courtesy of the generous folks over at LuShae Jewelry that I wore alongside this fringy gold necklace that I was shocked to find hanging on the wall of Madewell. LuShae has a garden variety of necklaces, earrings, and pendants but it was the rings that tickled my fancy most. Utterly delighted was I when I opened the little box to see that the ring was even better in person than on the website, as we all know isn't always the case. These little beauties below made it a tough choice... but give me a new purchase to look forward to.

BACK ON THE CHAIN GANG

2010-03-25T21:00:00.011-04:00

Shirt, Ralph Lauren; Jacket, White House, Black Market; Jeans, Paige; Boots, Via Spiga; Sunnies, Tom Ford; Bracelets, too many to name
There's something vaguely satisfying about the clanking of bracelets as you move throughout the day. I checked out the Liberty of London items at Target today, not so excited as I thought I'd be. Surely some cute little prints but nothing that screamed for me to take it home, excepting 1 blue floral demi brassiere. I picture it peeking out from underneath a button down white shirt.
I could blend into this dining room today. (Arch Digest Home Show)

I LIKE BIG......................RINGS

2010-03-24T22:14:00.000-04:00

Pants, Zara; shirt, h&M; boots, Marciano; rings, F21 & Free People; Jacket, Bagatelle; sunshades, Calvin Klein

The salesman at Sephora who so kindly demonstrated the Temptu airbrush machine on my skin informed me that using my beloved Dior Airflash foundation was tantamount to spraying Butane lighter on my face and even worse, inhaling it. I now know how a forty year smoker feels because despite knowing this, I can't give it up.

TRENDY

2010-03-23T16:32:00.000-04:00

Skirit, A.L.C.; Dotted tights & scarf, H&M; clogs, Sam Edelman; Jacket, Free People; Sunshades, cheapies

Cramming as many trends as possible into one look: dotted tights, studded clogs, leather skirt, military jacket. I was reaching in my pocket for my chapstick, hence the awkward pose. And I have come to realize that trekking shoes these are not contrary to my previous opinion.

A fashiony dining room from A.D. Home Show.

THERE'S ALWAYS ROOM FOR J-E-L-L-O

2010-03-22T21:48:00.001-04:00

Sweater, Urban Outfitters; Leggings, F21; Wedges, JS; sunshades, Calvin Klein; jewelry, Vintage; ruffled tank, Anthro
I'm still fuming over my hair. I want to go shave the hairdresser's head so she feel can my fury, is that evil? I need to let it go because there is nothing I can do about but I tried in pilates/yoga class, you know during that meditative forgiveness part, but it didn't work. Will do my best not to speak of it again. Trip to the Italian Market in Philly(for those of you unfamiliar, a famous street of culinary delights, featured in Rocky as he is running through his neighborhood) Saturday for the ingredients to whip up a family feast. A bounty of fresh tuscan sausage, homemade eggplant and gorgonzola raviolis, truffle burrata, and marscapone canolis and lemon ricotta pie. Coffee count for detox today?
The settings on the camera were off. This sweater is called the Cosby Cardigan.

TAKE A LOOK

2010-03-22T16:07:00.000-04:00

I can't remember where I found her but I love her sunglasses.

MAKE IT MINE

2010-03-20T21:46:00.001-04:00

1. My future coffee table

2. A closet I will one day have

3. Exquisite end tables

4. Doggie bunk beds

5. Egg themed dining room

More fancies from the Architectural Digest Home Show, each and every one of which I could easily envision integrating into my repertoire of rooms. Yes, the giraffe print doggie bunk bed is a tad tacky and no I don't have two dogs, regrettably Lulu is an only dog child, but I am obsessed with it's novel concept anyway. What if she wanted to have a sleepover? And would you not die to have a closet large enough to pimp it out with that luxe automation system? (Hmmm, maybe a concept I need to pitch to Bravo, Pimp My Closet) THE DIFFA, DESIGN INDUSTRIES FOUNDATION FIGHTING AIDS, had a Dining by Design Event which featured high profile designers creating amazing dining room vignettes with sponsors by major companies usually requiring some type of product integration. These dining rooms were spectacular and I will continue to showcase these in a few more posts. And because life is full of good little surprises, the skirt below that I saw and needed to buy in Urban Outfitters but of which they were out of my size, I had to order only to find out when I received it that it was half price. Life is gnarly.

ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST SHOW

2010-03-19T15:40:00.000-04:00

Saw some amazing pieces, talented artisans, and inspiration galore. Will post more pics as soon as I have time. For now, here's one to wet the whistle.

GRRRRRR

2010-03-17T21:00:00.002-04:00

Jacket & shirt, Urban Outfitters; Pants, BCBG; Shoes, Steve Madden;

I am swearing off hair stylists and never getting my hair cut again. What is it with overzealous haircutters, why do they feel the need to cut off long hair when they see it? I went in for a one inch trim today with a long bang and walked out 45 minutes later with my hair five inches shorter, and a head full of steam. I can't even say that I know how it happened since I was watching and she did not appear to be cutting that much off. Contemplating later, it must have been the layers she sneaked in, they make the hair shorter without seeming to take much hair off. I was having a great day until then, looking forward to my Architectural Digest design show tomorrow in New York and now I can't even function. I think I need to swill NOW and break out the extensions.

BALMAINIA

2010-03-16T21:02:00.002-04:00

Clogs, Sam Edelman; Skinny cargo, JBrand; Blazer, Elie Tahari; Tank, Gap; Bracelet, JS; Necklaces, vintage; Sunshades, Calvin Klein: Belt, old

Being a groggy, incomprehensive mess due to my misaligned sleep schedule thanks to daylight savings time, this outfit was a shoe-in this morning since it required no brain exertion, meaning I didn't have to think too hard about putting it together. I simply let Balmain do the leading. And since I wasn't on my tip top toes today it's a good thing these majorly high clogs are so supremely comfortable, possible preventing me from clattering to the asphalt in an ankle twisting heap.

PLAIDQUINS

2010-03-15T05:00:00.001-04:00

What I wore for a day of ricotta, candied walnut, rasberry, honeyed french toast at the best little breakfast place around. (I usually eschew naughty carbs but when I saw on their facebook page that this was going to be one of their specials for the weekend I just had to make an exception. ) And as I said previously a day of hibernation.

Shirt, Gap; Sequin leggings, Alloy; Shoes, Betsy Johnson; Alligator chain bag, vintage; Sunshades, Burberry; Pendant, vintage

CULINARY HIBERNATION

2010-03-14T12:54:00.000-04:00

This is where I want to be today hiding from the rain.

FANCY OF THE DAY - ADVERTS

2010-03-13T12:28:00.000-05:00

It's things like this landing in my inbox that make me impulsively workout my credit card.

BLUE

2010-03-11T09:06:00.000-05:00

Jacket & Dress, H&M; Belt, ?;Bag, Raja; Sunshades, RayBan; Sandals, Frye

feel it all around

2010-03-10T09:58:00.001-05:00

I was giddy with school girl excitement when I found out that Washed Out was going to be playing Philly for the first time and no way in H-E double hockey sticks was I going to miss it. I have been addicted to the "chillwave" groove that is W.O.'s trademark since I first laid ears on it. And to add to the sweetness of the show, Washed Out, who is usually a one man band via Ernest Greene, was backed up for part of the set by Small Black. Pictureplane rounded out the wicked evening. And of course behind every good man is a good woman, which is of course Blair Greene, Ernest's fairly new and adorable wife who was hard at work manning the merch table, immediately recognizable from the Life of Leisure cover. Washed Out played a stellar set made all the better by covering Belong, my fave. Somehow I can imagine laying on a beach on the Italian Riviera circa 1986 whenever I hear that song. Counting down the days until Washed Out returns in May with Beach House! And many thanks to Sean Agnew at R5 productions for hooking me up with tickets.

BIG PANTS

2010-03-09T13:08:00.000-05:00

Bodysuit, Urban Outftters; Pants, Anthropologie; Necklaces, vintage; Bag, Raja; Leather jacket, Gold Hawk; Watch, Nixon; Sunshades, RayBan

WE MUST BECOME THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE

2010-03-08T22:19:00.000-05:00

Forgive my fickle heart until I arrive upon a suitable blog template. I may be spinning things right round for a while until my impulsive tendencies subside. Until then, bear with me, my unsettled self thanks you bunches.

WEEKENDS ARE LIKE A PINATA

2010-03-08T05:00:00.007-05:00

Shirt, Urban Outfitters;Shoes, Michael Kors; Pants, H&M; Sweater, vintage Ferragamo; sunshades, vintage Foster Grant's

Weekend highlights consisted of a used book sale, stops at my favorite vintage clothing boutique and vintage jewelry store, strong, rich cafe au lait, purposely driving too fast over a one way bridge to get "air", and the season finale of Big Love . Some of my hauls shown above include a huge crucifix, a wicked cool lion necklace since I am leo, a gold and onyx bangle that actually fits my miniature wrist and the 1980 The Official Preppy Handbook, the most hilarious and disturbing book I think I've ever read. Fun Fact: the founder of J. Crew used this book as his inspiration, hoping to capitalize on the book's success. Living near the Main Line, prepster capital of the world, fashion can be a bit nauseating around here but I'm swear I'm not lying when I say that the book captured reality that exists to this day. I was particularly delighted in headings like "The Virtues of Wearing Pink and Green" and one section of men's fashion that described the necessary "Go To Hell" pants, those brightly colored pants with repeating little duck, losbter, tennis raquet motifs, so named because they are considered rebellious and offbeat due to their loudness, so therefore the wearer has a don't care or go to hell attitude. Betcha didn't know preppies were so radical did you?

UNFANCY OF THE DAY - ALICE AND 8 YEAR OLDS

2010-03-06T01:27:00.002-05:00

Do not spend your Friday afternoon on with 7 or 8 year olds seeing Alice in Wonderland. Do not expect them to be the least bit interested in a movie that is over their heads. Do not be surprised when they annoy the people sitting in front of you with their loud whispers wanting to know if the movie is almost over 30 minutes into it. Do not blame them when they are bored silly by it because you yourself are as well. Do not roll your eyes when they ask "what is going on?" since you were also wondering what happened to the plot. Do not question who the target audience was for this movie since you'll never figure it out. Do not expect to see Johnny Depp act. Do not even think about the book or you'll be very disappointed. Do not be afraid to take a potty break because you won't miss anything. Do not say no when they ask you to take them for ice cream, they need something to restore their glazed over eyes. Do not hold a grudge against Tim Burton, even geniuses are entitled to make mistakes.

Do not be shocked when she shares with you her opinion.

47 DEGREES

2010-03-05T05:00:00.001-05:00

Is it sad that 47 degrees felt like a sauna today?

Blazer, vintage; t-shirt, Gap; cords, jcrew; shoes, Steve Madden; bag, Balenciaga; Sunshades, Tom Ford; bangles, India

SOMETIMES IS JUST SOMETIMES

2010-03-04T05:00:00.001-05:00

Sweater, Amorphism; t-shirt, Splendid; Boots, Cole Haan; Pants, INC; Scarf, vintage Hermes; Jacket, Silence and Noise, Urban Outfitters; Sunshades, random cheapies; Belt, F21

CHANNELING BJ

2010-03-03T11:56:00.000-05:00

I felt a bit like I was paying homage to Betsey Johnson with my mix of plaid and leopard. The coat is a true vintage leopard fur that I discovered in one of my favorite vintage shops a few years ago and is to date the most expensive vintage purchase I have ever made but soooo worth every penny, I plan to still be wearing it when I am hunched and stooped over and telling my grandchildren that fashion is just awful nowadays.

Boots, Timberland; Velvet blazer, Zara old; Kilt, Corey Lynn Calter; Scarf, H&M; Sunshades, vintage; Coat, vintage

ODE TO FEMALE WARRIORS

2010-03-01T10:50:00.004-05:00

The original haute khaki editorial, Veruschka.

Phi Charlotte Ronson

Balmian Marc Jacobs

Rag and Bone Richard Chai Love

Chloe

Scan: myfacehunter

FANCY OF THE DAY - THAT'S WHAT YOU GET FOR CHANGING YOUR MIND

2010-02-26T11:57:00.007-05:00

I'm going gaga over Moschino's S/S 2010 campaign, not only for Isabeli's amazonian beauty but for the late 80's, early 90's excess decadence vibe it conveys, big hair, heavy makeup, fat gold, dripping embellishment. So love the fact that they have pulled some of their designs from that time period's archives for this season. Tranports me back to my childhood days of being parked in front of George Michael's Freedom video on MTV, lip-syncing along with "THE" supermodels.

images: millionlooks, denimology

P.S. the picture layout is a bit wonky but blogger wouldn't cooperate and I am tired of doing endless research on HTML codes

images: espia, modelina, workit, refinery29, artworkimages, onsugar, snaps&daps, dandylioness, lifebyida, onsugar, fashionspot

TRIED AND TRUE

2010-02-25T11:12:00.000-05:00

Just returned from a brief respite on the Florida gulf coast from this bitter cold, and what do you know just in time for a another snow storm(read the sarcasm dripping off my words in the last part of this sentence). I realized as I stepped off the plane in Philadelphia that the open toed Miu Miu platforms I was sporting wasn't going to make it out of my shoe closet again for several weeks, sigh. Since I vowed to be on a true vacation, I dared not venture near a computer nor do any outfit photo ops. However, I did pack a dress that I have had for nearly two years that I still love for warm weather jaunts for it's wrinkle free forgiveness when I shove it in a suitcase and comfortability factor that hides the vacay pooch that develops after one too many sweets and wine indulgences. This is a waaaayyy old picture of said dress when it was so new.

PEACHES

2010-02-16T10:52:00.026-05:00

How did I end up heading to Colombus, Georgia at exactly the moment that they had snow for only the second time in five years?

Coat, Zara; shirt, Zara; tee, Gap; leggings, Members Only; boots, Charles David; Bag, Raja; sunshades, Oliver Peoples

FANCY OF THE DAY - MULBERRY

2010-02-11T11:32:00.002-05:00

Since I've lusted and drooled, schemed and dreamed of the Mulberry Alexa bag I've also come across something nearly as cool from Mulberry. A Bayswater sleeve for the MacBook Pro in coral smudged Leopard. Being that I love my Apple "lifebox" so dearly I would happily clad it in some bright rich leather but at $550 I think I'd rather be toting the Alexa bag. A computer can dream right?

FANCY OF THE DAY - SUMMER

2010-02-09T21:48:00.002-05:00

Obviously my little prayer was completely ignored as I am watching colossal size flakes float past my panes in an attempt to accumulate 12 to 18 inches of pooh. So I move onto the next tactic, denial. Yes it is bright, warm, and bucolic... This multi-tasking dress, cover-up, nightie? from Anthropologie got me through my summer alongside buckets of Sangria. And Ernest Greene aka Washed Out on repeat.

Estoril, PT

WHITE STUFF AND NONSENSE

2010-02-08T18:30:00.001-05:00

God has decided to punish us East Coasters for our nano-second fashion season sense by dumping copious amounts of powdery sludge week after week, forcing us to plod around in clunky boots, burdensome coats, fat sweaters, and itchy hats for unreasonable amounts of time. Dear Almighty, please stop the mountainous precipitation that has hastened upon us and I promise I will wear my Cynthia Vincent "Roma" sandals waaaaay past my normal honeymoon period, that's a promise. amen.

FANCY OF THE DAY - TIE DYE

2010-02-08T11:20:00.002-05:00

Foley & Corinna
Tie-Dye Leather Convertable Tote,

I can foresee days of sunshine, trip-hop music, and gauzy frocks with this little beauty hanging from my arm.

STAY OR GO?

2010-02-03T10:16:00.002-05:00

Last weekend was spent exhuming and relieving my closet of dead fish and long forgotten treasures. There's always of a feeling of exhiliration sometimes more powerful than any new shopping trip can produce when you unearth the perfect little skirt you hadn't worn in five years that is now worthy again or a discarded blazer you'd been meaning to get rid of that looks perfect with your new skinny utility pants. Of course there's the usual should I or shouldn't I anxiety of tossing off possible gems that I'll never wear again.

Happy organized shoes.

COVETED FANCIES

2010-02-02T09:07:00.003-05:00

1. LaRok Chieftan Dress
2. Topshop Sequin Jacket
3. Alexander Wang for Linda Farrow Zipper Sunglasses
4. Tory Burch Tie-Dye Skirt
5. Givenchy Studded Leather Jacket
6. Rebecca Taylor Top
7. Yves Saint Laurent Shoe
8. JBrand Cargo Pants

SHINY HAPPY

2010-02-01T08:36:00.002-05:00

My latest purchase in anticipation of blue skies and bare legs, the J Crew sequin chino short. One must have something to get them through those ragged winter days. That and a millionth green tea latte.

FANCY OF THE DAY - RICH HIPPIE

2010-01-29T08:47:00.003-05:00

That's what I want to be when I grow up. A rich little hippie. Maybe this bag will help me to achieve said status.

CC SKYE Rich Hippie Fringe Tote.

Wouldn't it be a match made in hippie hipster heaven with this and that ?

SINCE WE'RE ALL A LITTLE MAD...

2010-01-28T21:47:00.001-05:00

Tim Burton's most ambitious undertaking to date has spawned all sorts of products and inspirations and cosmetics are no exception. Me thinks I could be sporting some "Off With Her Red" sometime soon just for the kitsch factor.

And of course I definitely need this Urban Decay Makeup kit because they have seduced me with their pretty packaging and pop-ups.

I do feel a bit melancholy however about the upcoming theatrical release. A movie can never live up to its book. I still love you anyway Johnny D.

FANCY OF THE DAY - L.A.M.B

2010-01-28T08:16:00.002-05:00

May I introduce the L.A.M.B. Zan sandal?

I DON'T THINK SO JEAN PAUL

2010-01-27T07:53:00.003-05:00

I'm over the moon with the utility "slash" safari look that's on the radar for spring but was utterly shocked when I saw an email from Neiman Marcus land in my inbox showcasing a shirtdress by Jean Paul Gaultier with a pricetag of $1080. Seriously? This is not a Gaultier masterpiece by any stretch of the imagination and could easily be had at Free People or even Gap for about 1/20th of the price. Not this time Mr. Gaultier...

Jean Paul Gaultier

Burberry's version $495

Tory Burch $350

G-Star $140

Gap $59

Gap $54

Old Navy $29.50

Oh, and if you want to swing from vines and beat your chest, do it here.

FANCY OF THE DAY - CHRISTMAS PRESENTS

2010-01-25T08:20:00.001-05:00

I've been so enjoying a few of my favorite Christmas presents that I had to share them.

The Beatles remastered box sets in both stereo and mono for the audiophile geek that I am. I wanted to compare the two.

And this perfectly perfect crisp cozy white lambskin coat from Zara. I knew I had to have it the instant I saw it in the Zara September lookbook. And ho,ho,ho guess who now can call it their very own?

What were your favorite presents?

GILT's VOGUE SALE

2010-01-24T19:30:00.002-05:00

I took advantage of Gilt's "Shop the Issue" sale and hurriedly snagged the pair of See by Chloe rollover pants shown in this picture that went back on sale the second time around as I missed them the first and they damningly sold-out. Unfortunately, my triumphant pleasure was short lived when I received them on Friday and skipped up to my full length mirror to admire their safari/men's wear style upon my legs. My short frame did not do them justice and I deflatedly pulled them off and pondered my other options for such a pant. For now I'll have to live vicariously through Angela Lindvall on page 129 of the Jan. Vogue.

NEW YEAR, NEW POST

2010-01-15T10:59:00.000-05:00

The holidays have passed and life has slowly resumed it's normal thrummings. Maybe now real life will give me a chance to post again to virtual life. However, January always leaves such a longing for warm weather and spring buds on my brain, the editorials on resort wear, the pre-spring peeks, that I find myself filling up my cyber carts with barely-there clothing in anticipation of a balmy weekend escape. Here's to a new season!

FANCY OF THE DAY-WILD ASS

2009-11-20T12:31:00.001-05:00

Zebra comes from an old Portuguese word "zevra" which means wild ass. I think I like this creature even more now. Perhaps I shall introduce it into my vocab in a new way as in "Hey, how's my zebra?" or "You are such a ZEBRA!" It has already infiltrated my fashion and decor.

Topshop boot.

Bedroom divine.

Bag in my closet.

FANCY OF THE DAY-NIGHTCAP

2009-11-19T08:35:00.010-05:00

I've got to hand it to Carisa Brambles, she is a marketing genius. Her lookbooks make you want to drape yourself in her various accoutrements of design. What with the ecclesiastically gorgeous models, the louche accessories and intriguing backgrounds it's enough to make you surf over to one of the online boutiques that carry Nightcap and fill up your virtual cart. I only wish I could buy the hair too.

FANCY OF THE DAY-FLOKATI

2009-11-17T12:29:00.010-05:00

This rug is much like the vest I'm donning today. I am a lover of flokati rugs. They easily give edge to a classic space or warmth to sleek one. I have one in front of the desk in my office for when I went to lie down and cocoon up in frustration. I hope to have an outfit post later on. I've been terrible about documenting as of late.

A flokati in use.

Photo creds: rughouse.uk, decorpad

Part Two: I finally had a moment for a photograph. The flokati vest. Well, curly lamb fur.

INSPIRED BY

2009-11-12T08:25:00.003-05:00

As a I hastily walked by the mirror yesterday morning, two things popped into my head, Chanel Fall 2009 and Pamela Skaist-Levy.

Photo cred: Fashion Rebellious, Harpers Bazaar

Hat, vintage; Jacket, Chloe; Pants, old; Belt, F21; Sunshades, CK

FANCY OF THE DAY - CERULEAN BLUE

2009-11-10T08:35:00.001-05:00

Who wouldn't love a little Anna Sui-ness? Sooo digging on this floral frock from Net-a-Porter with the rocking Louboutin boots.

She could be the drapes in this room.

KNICKERY

2009-11-05T00:03:00.005-05:00

The pants remind me of something English blokes would have worn back in the day while riding a bike or a newsboy standing on the corner. The necklace is a favorite silver piece, gold is my usual go-to.

Smoke a cigar in this Hermes leather room.

Photo cred: artnet

Tee, Splendid; Knickers, H&M; Booties, Velvet Angel; Sunshades, Oliver Peoples

FANCY OF THE DAY - THE SART AND GARANCE DORE?

2009-11-04T13:42:00.001-05:00

As is I am sure with the majority of you, the Sartorialist is one of my daily blog reads along with the fabulousness that is garance dore, both of which i have been following almost since inception. Now i find out that THe two are twixt and tween! How magnificent! However, maybe I am out of the loop since it appears that they have been thick as thieves for the past one and one half years. Nonetheless, i find it perfectly perfect. Read on this story courtesy of the LA Times.

FASHION

The Sartorialist: The picture of style

In his Sartorialist blog, Scott Schuman focuses his lens on street fashion.

FROM ONLINE TO PRINT: In addition to shooting for his blog, Scott Schuman takes on magazine assignments. He was photographed in Beverly Hills in October before a signing for his new book, "The Sartorialist," a collection of his portraits. (Stefano Paltera / For The Times)

RELATED
Scott Schuman's 'The Sartorialist'

By Mimi Avins >>>

November 1, 2009

E-mail
Print
Share
Text Size

For glossy fashion magazines, it can take a village to make a genetically blessed model decked out in $8,000 worth of designer clothes and accessories look just the right kind of fabulous. But the supremacy of the carefully crafted fashion shoot is being challenged by the street style photo blog, an instant-gratification blend of artistry and reality, starring appealing amateurs who are their own stylists. And no one is doing more to spur the revolution than Scott Schuman.

Indeed, Schuman's 4-year-old photo blog, the tSartorialist(thesartorialist.blogspot.com), has become a daily habit for thousands of devotees, making it consistently rank among the 50 most popular blogs in the world. By artfully spotlighting men and women who dress themselves with uncommon panache, the blog offers its passionate followers a quick hit of style as regular as the sunrise.

"The Sartorialist is the first thing on the Web to set up meaningful competition to the fashion magazines," said Peter Jones, a New York-based fine art photographer, dealer and collector.

Schuman greeted fans in Los Angeles in October at signings of his recently published book, "The Sartorialist," a collection of more than 500 pictures of the creative, stunning, amusing, sublime and occasionally ridiculously stylish people who have appeared on his blog. Ernest Duarte, a 51-year-old design engineer from Orange County who purchased the $175 hardcover limited-edition and stood in line to meet Schuman at Barneys in Beverly Hills, summed up the revolutionary element of the photographer's work: "The pictures aren't just about what's expensive. They celebrate what the individual brings to their look."

A self-taught photographer, Schuman started the blog to address the gap between what was shown on the runways and in magazines and what people actually wore. "When there's a new collection in the showroom, everything is that new, total look," he said. But "nobody buys a whole new wardrobe every season, so on the street you don't see people as perfectly put together as a mannequin. Yet they can be expressing great personal style."

One day, the photograph with pride of place on the Sartorialist might be a middle-aged woman in a fairy tale of a dress; the next, the most arresting image is a sockless man wearing proper tweeds. A reader might pick up a small affectation to adopt -- such as Italian men rarely button their button-down collars -- or get the message that purple tights can make an outfit. The Sartorialist delights in details -- the turn of a cuff, an unexpected combination of colors and textures.

Schuman is drawn to originality, to clothes that fit beautifully, to people who exude self-confidence or hide behind an air of mystery. His choices don't, for example, campaign for a particular flavor of good taste. Nevertheless, visitors to the site find it inspiring ("I could try that!") and validating ("I've worn that!")

Schuman, 41, is a compact man with ice blue eyes and close-cropped, Don Draper hair. Dressing with flair bolsters his credibility as a style arbiter; at Barneys, he was tieless in a three-piece Ralph Lauren Purple Label navy suit with a white shirt.

He grew up in Indiana and moved to New York, where he worked in clothing sales and marketing for 15 years, then opened a small showroom to represent young designers. After the 9/11 attacks devastated the American fashion industry, he closed his business. He was married with two young daughters, and when the children's nanny left, Schuman began spending time caring for them and taking pictures around Manhattan.

"I was still totally ambitious and driven," he said, "but I let myself become more of an artist. Blogs were mostly text-driven. Nobody was making money with photo blogs then. I knew I understood fashion. I knew about men's and women's style at a high level. I was beginning to become a good photographer and I had a point of view. I felt there was potential for a photo blog to build an audience."

At first, all the pictures were of men, but the blog quickly became coed. "If I saw a cool girl, how could I not shoot her?" Schuman asked. There were some grumbles from male readers, but, Schuman said, "after a while they started to see how a guy can look at a girl's outfit in a kind of abstract way, seeing color combinations, textures, things like that. That's when I knew I was on to something. People were getting that you don't have to be super-rich or gorgeous to look great."

The site's growth was viral. "A small group of guys were looking at it, and one guy would e-mail another guy with a link," Schuman said.

The Sartorialist's greatest payoff to Schuman has been as a steppingstone. The more attention it attracted, the more assignments he got from magazines. Those gigs took him to Berlin; Stockholm; Moscow; Florence, Italy; and London, whose chic citizens he featured on the blog. Schuman contributes a Sartorialist page to each issue of GQ and has shot street-style advertising campaigns for such clients as DKNY.

As its subjects became increasingly global, the philosophy of the Sartorialist continued to be exclusive and inclusive. "It's exclusive because I'm shooting inspiring, well-dressed people," Schuman said. But the subjects were of different ages, races, sizes and income levels.

In its long history, street style photography has been influenced by Robert Frank's portraits of ordinary Americans and the work of the late German photographer August Sander, among others. Jacques-Henri Lartigue captured fashionable French women at the end of the 20th century and since the 1970s, Bill Cunningham of the New York Times has been the genre's most visible practitioner, an acute observer of the charming near-miss. (Cunningham believes that, unlike in formal fashion photography, the power of street style photos derives from the beauty of imperfection.)

Many of Schuman's subjects are fashion professionals, since his hunting ground is usually outside the major runway shows in New York, London, Paris and Milan, Italy. His first big break came in 2006, when the Conde Nast website Style.com hired him to contribute pictures shot during men's fashion weeks in Milan and Paris. Next, they sent him to the women's shows.

Photographing the professional fashion tribe isn't as easy as it sounds. Many buyers and editors are too concentrated on their stores or magazines to dress well themselves, or they're simply post-stylish in black on black. French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld is a Schuman favorite, but he doesn't usually shoot well-known fashion personalities or go out of his way to capture celebrities or runway clones. He's partial to young assistants with more dash than cash.

Inevitably, certain characters reappear on the site, and even develop a following. "Certain editors and the assistants are always my favorites," said Jill Roberts, who owns eponymous boutiques in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica and checks the blog daily. "I love seeing someone repeatedly, and seeing how they vary their style. Lately, I'm so much more inspired by photo blogs than by magazines."

Is street style photography art? Yes, if art is defined as what is sold by a gallery. In January 2008, the Danziger Projects, the New York photography gallery that represents Annie Leibovitz, Andy Warhol and Edward Weston, mounted a show of his photographs. "At the opening, people were lined up around a city block," said gallery owner James Danziger.

"Before the show, Scott had never made a print of any of his photographs," Danziger continued. "He is the first true photographer of the Internet. He shoots digitally, posts on the Web and his work is appreciated there. The history of photography is one of innovation. While Scott is by nature a classicist, the concept and delivery of his work and the online community it has attracted are innovative."

Indirectly, the Internet can take some credit for Schuman finding love. After his marriage broke up, he got to know French fashion illustrator and blogger Garance Dore at the shows. They became romantically involved a year and a half ago, and he bought her first camera, which enabled her to add photos to her blog.

The couple often work on projects together, and he sees their future as the principals of a creative studio that would produce video, photographs, editorial spreads, even products under the Sartorialist brand. And, of course, their respective blogs.

Editorial: LA Times

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-11-03T15:10:00.003-05:00

I'm ill so no personal shots from the last few days. Too much merry last week I suppose. Another dedicated Pearl Jam fan, Rob, sent me this photo he took from a concert in Australia. Love the wine bottle and cig in hand.

And speaking of Australia, check out the lovely Zanita here. Breathtakingly beautiful. Photo could have been off the set of The Talented Mr. Ripley.

ROCK INSPIRED- PEARL JAM FRIDAY NIGHT

2009-10-31T15:34:00.004-04:00

Pearl Jam night three was even more rockin'. Had pretty stellar seats right off left stage. Sat next to some uber-cool fans, one of which behind me asked if he could stand on the little square of platform next to me, and it turns out he was a writer/blogger from Spin magazine. Check out Zack's blog for Spin here, he's got a rather envious project going on right now. And the girly behind me got the setlist at the end.

P.S. I apologize for the poor photo quality, I was in a rush.

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-10-29T16:42:00.000-04:00

No matter how much I evolve and progress in my life I still think Eddie Vedder is one of the hottest things since promite on toast. Went to see Pearl Jam last night so he is my fancy of the day.

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-10-28T16:08:00.000-04:00

A shout-out to Holier Than Now. Check her post and my pooch. The Balmain pants ain't bad either.

WET

2009-10-28T08:30:00.001-04:00

Yesterday's ensemble not so exciting. It was too wet too wear any sublime shoes. Hence the rain boots. Hunter wellies have been all the rage lately, I decided to try a different version of their galoshes.

Chill out British Colonial style in some campaign furniture inspired by the boots.

Scarf, H&M; Tunic, Vince; Jeans, Levi's; all jewelry, vintage; Rainboots, Hunter; Sunshades, Oliver Peoples

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-10-27T21:30:00.002-04:00

Love the smoldering eyes.

KNEE HIGH OR HIGH KNEE

2009-10-27T10:46:00.005-04:00

I've ordered and returned literally ten different styles of over-the-knee boots trying to find the right fit and length. I've settled on these for now... They just skim over the top of the knee but have been the only ones that are not too wide.

I'd kick it right here.

Photo cred: bkhome

Jacket, Ralph Lauren Black; tee, Splendid; Jeans, Levi's; Boots, Via Spiga; Sunshades, Ray Ban

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-10-26T09:12:00.000-04:00

My fancy of the day. These clogs and tights from the Chanel Spring 2010 line. For some inexplicable reason I really love clogs.

She would jump on the bed here. Or maybe swing from the crystal chandelier.

EASY DAY, EASY CLOTHES

2009-10-23T08:05:00.002-04:00

The most comfortable jeans in the world. The jacket is a favorite from last Chloe resort season. Worn with everything and the flowery liner makes it reversible and even better. One day came sooner than thought, red lips made an appearance.

Rest my feet here.

Jacket, Chloe; Tee, e.vil; Jeans, Urban Outfitters; Sunshades, Tom Ford; belt, F21

FANCY OF THE DAY

2009-10-22T10:09:00.000-04:00

What I fancy today is this. Chandelier in my kitchen, would love. Amanda and Courtney's style remind me of it. The red lip is raging on. One day soon I will trade my nude lip for it...

Photo creds: 1st dibs, Style.com

RUFFLED

2009-10-22T07:52:00.008-04:00

I never thought I was a "ruffler" until these...

A piece of this ensemble are my favorite new booties, Velvet Angel, by shoe designer Joe Ponce, previously of Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B. line.

Where I would sit today.

Jacket, Free People; Tee, Splendid; Shorts, H&M; Booties, Velvet Angel; Sunshades, Oliver Peoples

P.S. I just found this Proenza Schouler bootie. The shape reminds me a bit of the Velvet Angel one.

MELLOW YELLOW

2009-10-21T08:30:00.009-04:00

The color of the year is Mimosa. Inpiration, Viviana Volcipella...

My Alice + Olivia boots vaguely remind me of these splendid Nitoinimoi boots.

Camisa, See by Chloe; Shorts, H&M; Scarf, ?; Boots, Alice&Olivia; Sunshades, RayBan

Photos creds: The Satorialist and Garance Dore

The decor to match.

Photo cred: Bahrainidiva

NEW FEATURES

2009-10-20T13:29:00.000-04:00

My voyeuristic needs have been unfilled since I left The Fancier and so I have decided to return. I will be featuring a "Fancy of the Day" and as well a "Fancy of the Week" so stay tuned...