Erin Fetherston LIVE at Juicy Couture in Santa Monica!

I received an invitation from Juicy Couture to stop by and check out their new Erin Fetherston for Juicy Couture collection and to meet Ms. Fetherston at their Santa Monica Place store next Friday.  Although I graduated from Juicy the same year I graduated from college, I am ridiculously enamored with Erin Fetherston and her design sensibility.  Her girly frocks-replete with romantic ruffles and charming bows epitomize school girl chic.  When her guest collaboration with Target was released a few years ago, I rushed to the nearest store and purchased half the collection.  Needless to say, I'm excited about the chance to meet her in person next week!

Next Friday also marks the grand opening of Santa Monica Place, the revamped shopping mall located across from Third Street Promenade.  The developers have high hopes for the restructure as a couple of high end retailers have already moved in, including Louis Vuitton, Barney's Co-op and Tiffany & Co.

Mark your calendars because Santa Monica Place will be the place to be next Friday!

Erin Fetherston for Juicy Couture, sneak peek:

The Two CCs to Better Skin-Beauty Product Review

I recently wrote a post about my mission to find my holy grail eye cream (click here).  Although the search is not yet over, I have found my next contender.  I've decided to purchase the Chanel Ultra Correction Line Repair Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream, which is a part of their new skincare line, Chanel Ultra Correction.  The new line's key ingredient is leaves of the Bay Cedar tree, which increases levels of FN3K, a natural enzyme located at the heart of the skin that has the ability to fight the uncontrolled binding of sugar to collagen fibers, which contributes to wrinkle formation. The products are moderately priced (for Chanel!) and are available at all Chanel beauty counters.

Chanel Ultra Correction Line Repair Eye Cream $85.

During my beauty product research, I also came across another fabulous product I'm dying to try:  Clarins Contouring Facial Lift Serum.  It claims to be the first beauty treatment to help refine and slim down facial features and restore radiant, youthful beauty.  I've always been conscious of my above average chubby cheeks, so I'm hoping this serum will slim it down!

Clarins Contouring Facial Lift $68.

On My Radar-Joe's Jeans Shoe Line

Joe's Jeans is not just a denim line anymore.  Early this spring, the company announced its plans to launch a shoe line.  They signed a three-year exclusive licensing agreement with Burano which means that Burano will both manufacture and distribute the brand's shoes for women. 

As far as styles go, the California-based brand is updating classics with a modern twist and taking inspiration from high concept labels and designs.  From what I've seen so far, their freshmen spring line is quite Givenchy meets street style. Of course, I'd have to see the styles in person to determine whether the material and comfort level is on par with other comparable brands such as Jeffrey Campbell and Dolce Vita.  

It's definitely on my "must try" list!

Joe's Jeans "Diva" Platforms $195.

Joe's Jeans "Lilly" Wedge Booties $195

Joe's Jeans "Brenda" Platform Sandals $185

Joe's Jeans "Lou" Wedge Sandals $179.95

LA Weekend Sales-Shopping Post

Alexander McQueen: up to 60% off Spring/Summer items, and the store just got a shipment of new items that have never been available before in the US. Limited availability.  8379 Melrose Ave.


Ooga Booga: their past season merch and spring/summer '10 lines are now up to 40% off—including Opening Ceremony, Slow and Steady Wins the Race, Patrik Ervell, Bless, and more. 943 North Broadway, #203, Los Angeles (near West College Street).

Moroccan Mirage-Jewelry Shopping Post

I just purchased these earrings from Eight1Six!  I love the colors and the subtle bling factor (quite the oxymoron!).  It'd be perfect for an exotic trip to Morocco.  I'd pair it with a flowy white Grecian dress and a bejeweled clutch.  My perfect desert outfit.

Spiegel Striped Ponte Knit Blazer-Buy or Bye?

Striped blazers have been on my radar for quite some time.  They're super versatile and can be easily worn with just about anything...pencil skirts for a polished office look, sequined hot pants for a hot date, and over a cute floral babydoll for a unique and chic patterned look.  I've been looking for some time and I keep coming back to this blazer from Spiegel.  What do you think? Do the stripes look too busy?

Spiegel Ponte Knit Striped Blazer. $79.

Follow Me!

Although I'm new to the blogging world, I've truly enjoyed sharing my thoughts with all of you these past few months. I love reading your comments and I hope you will continue to come back!

There are many ways to subscribe and follow my blog.  All the options are posted to the right of the entries. Please take a moment to subscribe.  Thank you!  =)

Street Style Inspirations

fabulous color blocking.  her pose is fierce and matches the ensemble

simple formula (billowy floral blouse, cuffed jeans, tan sandals), perfect result

amazing head scarf wrapped around gorgeous locks!

business comfort

perfect lace babydoll

No Woman is An Eye-Land-Beauty Product Review

I always forget to restock on beauty products until I'm completely out!  This morning, I had to spend a few extra seconds trying to scoop up the very last traces of my eye cream from the jar.  As a preventative measure, I've been ardently using eye cream since I was 18.  For the past 10 years, I've gone through many brands and price points but have yet to find my holy grail (HG) product.  I've never purchased the same eye cream twice as I am always testing and trying out new products.  So, I spent most of today's lunch break researching for what I hope would be my HG eye cream.  Although La Prairie Cellular Radiance Eye Cream and Chanel Sublimage are highly rated, both are outrageously expensive and I don't know if they're worth the investment.  

I just finished using Obagi Zo Health Intense Eye Repair, which works well but is a bit pricey.  At $130 a pop, I don't feel like its effectiveness is worth the price tag. Rating:  (B+)

In the past, I've used both Creme De La Mer Eye Concentrate and Creme De La Mer Eye Balm, both of which did not have enough hydration concentration.  Rating:  (B).  On a side note, Creme De La Mer the cream is amazing and a must-have for dry winter months!

  

I've also tried Dr. Brandt's Lineless Eye Cream, which had absolutely no positive effect on my skin whatsoever.  If anything, it gave me new fine lines under my eyes. Rating:  (B-)

Acting on a friend's recommendation, I purchased Lancome's Primordiale Yeux Skin Recharge Eye Cream.  The consistency was a bit too runny and the cream was a bit drying. Rating:  (B)

However, the most ineffective product I've tried has got to be Dermadoctor's Wrinkle Revenge. The cream was too oily and couldn't fully absorb into my skin, resting on its surface like a filmy mask.

Even though I've purchased some duds in the past, I'm an eternal optimistic and I am looking forward to the day I find my holy grail (eye cream)!

What is your favorite eye cream?

Erin Wasson for Joie Fall/Winter 2010 Lookbook

Erin is absolutely a designer's dream model!  She's super versatile and can create so many different looks and conjure a vast array of emotions with her poses and facial expressions.  Plus, she's practically a designer herself and her effortless and confident personal style permeates into her photo shoots.  This photo from Joie's f/w look book will no doubt help with sales!

Red Hot-Personal Style Post

I wore this outfit a few weeks ago to work during a painful heat wave.  I love patterned, flowy tanks!

Tank:  Nordstrom Rank

Shorts:  Blue Asphalt...had them since high school!

Shoes:  Giuseppe Zanotti Wedges

My apologies for looking so tired in the pictures!  The heat got to me!  =)

20/20 Covers Counterfeit Designer Shoes-Newsworthy Or Yesterday's News?

20/20 aired an investigative piece last week on the widespread problem of counterfeit designer shoes being sold all over the internet.  They uncover that there are thousands of sites selling "authentic" Christian Louboutins, Manolo Blahniks and other designer shoes for a fraction of the original retail price.  I'm not sure if this issue is worthy of an investigative news story as common sense should prevail here.  Sure, it would be great to get a pair of authentic Loubs for less than $200, but is really possible?  Due to the highly covetable nature of designer shoes, distribution is limited and heavily controlled and prices rarely drop below the 50% mark. Furthermore, even if a couple of authentic pairs slip through the distribution crack and end up on the grey market, it's wholly unrealistic to think that thousands of sites have boundless and ready to ship merchandise at their disposal.

I believe the people who are buying from these site are not idiots.  They know what they're buying and are okay with the "Made in China" price and quality.  What are your thoughts?

fake from left to right, head to bottom

stark difference between the real Christian Louboutin Rolando Roccia on the left and the fake on the right

San Diego Comi Con-Weekend Trip

I'm jetting off to Comi Con!  Although I'm not well-versed in comic or comic related subjects, it's fun to go to  people watch (costume watch) and to party.  Plus, I got free tickets from work!

I'm taking the train to San Diego, which should be a fun and hopefully very Orient Express adventure.  Have a fabulous weekend!

All Business-Personal Style Picture Post

I was invited to speak and share my work experiences as a fashion lawyer at a networking mixer a few days ago.  Since I work at a fashion company, I get to fully express my fashion senses at work. No dress code whatsoever!  This is a pretty huge deal as most lawyers are decked out in stifling suits or at the very least...business casual attire.

Since this was an event for young professionals, I decided to suit up for the occasion.

Dress:  Black Halo "Jackie O" 

Handbag:  Givenchy "Eclipse" Hobo

Shoes:  Christian Louboutin 

Weekend LA Sales-High End Vintage

On Saturday, July 24, Decadestwo is holding a $150 one-day shoe sale on labels Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo and others. 8214 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.


The Way We Wore biannual sale is going on through Aug. 15 on vintage and repurposed garments from 50% off this week to 60% off beginning Aug. 2 to 70% off starting Aug. 9. Designer labels include Valentino, YSL and Norma Kamali, and the discounted merchandise encompasses bathing suits, lingerie and shoes. 334 S. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.


www.designerconsignerla.com is hosting a fun 2-day fashion event this weekend where you can buy used designer brand clothing, shoes & handbags in excellent condition for a fraction of the price. 1126 N. Citrus Ave,  Hollywood, CA 90038. Sat. 10-5; Sun 10-4.

Glittered Purple-Personal Style Beauty Post

Base Coat: OPI "Purple with a Purpose"

OPI By Sephora "Too Good For Him

Sorry my nails lack length uniformity!  They're still recovering from a recent acrylics trauma!

Beach Town USA-Personal Style Post

Last weekend, a group of my friends and I trekked all the way to the O.C. for some exploring. We rented a quaint little Duffy boat in Newport Harbor and cruised the magnificent neighborhood. The peninsula was surrounded by beautiful multi-million dollar estates and lavish yachts.  Talk about tangible motivation!  On the boat, along with boozing and eating, Travis McCoy's song kept looping in my head..."I wanna be a billionaire...so I can live here!"   After we docked, we took the ferry across the way to Balboa Island.

I love the island's quaintness.  Flowers bloomed everywhere and were bursting out of white picket fences and immaculately manicured lawns.  The homes were grandiose but not ostentatious, a perfect mix of beach town charm and subdued luxury.  The residents were friendly and quick to say hello and kids' laughter permeated the shore side.  We snacked on the island's famous frozen bananas, balboa bars and salt water taffy while mentally capturing every moment of a most perfect weekend afternoon!

Floral Romper:  Crossroads Trading Company

Skimmers:  Urban Outfitters

Sunglasses:  Nordstrom

Purse:  LV Speedy

Belt:  H&M

Jewelry:  Vintage

Silly Bandz-Fall Teen Fashion Trend

Remember the friendship bracelet craze in the 90s?  Everyone who was anyone in the school yard sported at least a couple per wrist.  I spent countless hours roping and braiding the wire strings and passing out my finished labor of love to only my bestest of friends.  The number of bracelets you wore was indicative of your place on the popularity totem poll.  Okay, maybe not 100% indicative, but definitely a good indicator! Well, it looks like Silly Bandz are picking up where friendship bracelets let off!

Silly Bandz are basically rubber bands that come in different colors and designs.  You wear them and you share them.  Its popularity and momentum has really taken off in the past couple months and my fabulous friend over at a leading trend forecasting company in NYC tells me the Bandz have arrived and are here to stay!

Circle Color Contact Lens Review-Buy or Bye?

I'm thinking about getting BIG circle color contact lens.  A popular trend in Asia, girls are wearing contact lens that not only change their eye color, but also enlarges their eyes.  These color contact lens are bigger in diameter than regular lens, giving the illusion of a bigger iris and hence bigger eyes.  Although the lens come in a rainbow array of colors including pink, I would definitely get the more subtle colors such as grey or light brown so I won't look too freakish (hopefully).

Here are some pictures for reference.  What do you think?  Buy or bye?

Downtown LA Restaurant Review-Pete's Cafe and Bar

I kick started the past fun and fabulous weekend with a delicious meal with my girlfriends Friday night.  Since we were all coming and going from different directions, we decided on Pete's Cafe and Bar, a centrally located restaurant in Downtown L.A's Gallery Row district.

The restaurant's interior decor was accented with mosaic tiled floor, dark wood paneling and the walls are hung with tons of pictures of downtown's yesterday-years.  We got there early for a Friday night, so it was still quiet inside and suitable for long and engrossing girl talk.  The three of us ordered and shared everything.  We started with two salads-the beet and the apple and walnut.  Both were great but the beet salad really stood out. The beets were tender and plentiful and sat atop a bed of fresh greens.  The dressing was sweet but delicate and really allowed the freshness of the beets and greens to taste through.  We ordered the house special, the blue cheese fries.  I'm usually not a big fan of blue cheese as it's a bit strong, but it complimented the fries so well!  We also ordered Ahi Two Way (sashimi and tartare), which served as a refreshing palate change from the fries.  We ended our meal with the crab cakes, which was paired with green mashed potatoes (perhaps blended with peas or asparagus?).  The crab cakes was light in taste but very filling!

I would definitely come again for a low-key, but highly satisfying meal.

Spring and Summer Handbags-Follis NY

I recently heard about Follis NY, an affordable but high quality and stylish line of handbags founded by FIT alumni Catherine Meyer. The Follis collection, Latin for "leather bag"  is finely crafted and pays extra special attention to details and finishes.  The end product encompasses subtle refinement and versatility.  Although the brand is based in New York, I can totally see California gals like myself carrying these fabulous purses everywhere...from shopping treks to brunch with girlfriends and everything in between.

Daphne IV

Julia II

Zoe 

Priced between $100-300