.jpg)
excuse the preppy-ness but I was feeling a little festive =P
|
|
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Sunday, November 30, 2008
1. Advent
Happy 1. Advent everyone. To celebrate the start of the Advent season I spent the day with my family, lighing the first candle of the Advent Wreath, decorating the house and eating freshly backed christmas cookies.
cardigan - Zara; blouse - H&M Trend; skirt - by Alma H.; tights and shoes - somewhere in Tokyo; bag - Accessorize
excuse the preppy-ness but I was feeling a little festive =P
excuse the preppy-ness but I was feeling a little festive =P
S for Saturday and Snowboarding
On Saturday I went snowboarding with my friends. It was only my second time on a snowboard (I used to ski) but I think I did pretty well with the good instructions from my boyfriend. But now my entire body is so sore that I can hardly move. I fell so many times on my ass, my arm, my knees...I got bruises everywhere and the worst muscle soreness I've experienced in my life so far...haha. So now I'm going to spend the rest of the evening in bed, watching Gossip Girl.
The weather in the mountains was absolutely perfect <3
The weather in the mountains was absolutely perfect <3
Diamonds Make the Man
Diamonds, gemstones and gold have found their way on just about everything this year – from ipod earphones to TV remotes to glittering doggie beds. And now I’ve found them on something else ‘non-traditional’.A hoodie. For guys.
Konquest Clothing, a premium menswear line, took diamond bedazzling to the next level with a $10,000 hoodie that features over 4,000 Swarovski crystals and a three-carat diamond zipper pull.
The hi-falutin’ hoodie was worn at last week’s American Music Awards by singer, Colby O’Donis, who wanted to bring attention to the new clothing line and to raise funds for building schools in Uganda (30% of the line’s profits goes to charity).
Konquest, described as “affordable couture” that is both masculine and stylish, launched its premium casual menswear line at its new showroom, ToolboxLA at LA New Mart last month. The debut line from the makers of Key Closet, creator of the $10,000 jeans the singer also wears above, features ultra-premium T-shirts with bold designs for the man who knows how to get what he wants in life.
Diamond hoodies and bedazzled jeans. I’m not sure when that meant ‘masculine’ in the real world, but apparently if that’s what the man wants in the Konquest universe…that's what the man gets…
girls in {tinted} dresses
Who says you have to wear white on your wedding day? Here are a few of my favorite tinted dresses that rise to the occasion....
Badgely Mischka took a tinsle-town approach in 2007. Notice the starry accent at the back of the dress at the top.
Grey makes a great foundation for a vibrant palette. Add yellow or pink or navy for a stunning pop of color.
I just can't get over this dress from the movie, Atonement. The color, though bold, is versitile. It would work for an evening, outdoor wedding on a steamy, summer night (add pink or turquoise, or both!). Or for a fall, city wedding on a rooftop. You could even wear it for a new-years-eve wedding- glam it up with lots of sparkle on your wrists, in your ears, and in your hair. Whatever the occasion, the wearer will be sure to turn some heads!
This is the JCrew Kate dress. It is retro yet delicate- it really could be worn as a bride's maid dress as well. The light blush color makes it a great color for a winter wedding- add a white, fur-trimmed cape or a long, sheer coat for a stunning effect.
Badgely Mischka took a tinsle-town approach in 2007. Notice the starry accent at the back of the dress at the top.
Grey makes a great foundation for a vibrant palette. Add yellow or pink or navy for a stunning pop of color.I just can't get over this dress from the movie, Atonement. The color, though bold, is versitile. It would work for an evening, outdoor wedding on a steamy, summer night (add pink or turquoise, or both!). Or for a fall, city wedding on a rooftop. You could even wear it for a new-years-eve wedding- glam it up with lots of sparkle on your wrists, in your ears, and in your hair. Whatever the occasion, the wearer will be sure to turn some heads!
This is the JCrew Kate dress. It is retro yet delicate- it really could be worn as a bride's maid dress as well. The light blush color makes it a great color for a winter wedding- add a white, fur-trimmed cape or a long, sheer coat for a stunning effect.Elegant or Prom?
My mom recently came back from a wedding in Sydney and she got me a dress. On the phone she made it sound really fabulous, "it is a evening dress in a pale sea green color, that goes just below your knees with a matching shawl/scarf. Everyone, even your dad, thinks it is very elegant and gorgeous!" It never occurred to me that I'd want a pale green dress, but seeing as it IS Christmas, maybe it'll be just the thing for a Christmas party!
When I first laid eyes on it, my first reaction was PROM DRESS. The whole pastel color and the jewels at the bodice, with the length ....you got to admit, it's a bit prom like. If not prom like, then at least bridesmaid like. Or just... kind of old (esp with the matching shawl). Don't get me wrong. I love my mom for remembering me on her holiday and buying be stuff out of the blue. I DO know how lucky I am and I do appreciate the gesture. And as much as I am complaining now, I will probably end up wearing it. This is just not something I'd pick on my own... I'd probably pick something more vibrant with funkier jewels, more modern. As an economist, I'm always thinking about opportunity cost.
Having stared at it for quite some time now though, I'm starting to come around to it a bit. The pale sea green color and simple bodice design can be considered as goddess-like and elegant. And while it is not modern, I guess it is classic. I can't go too wrong in a classic dress, right?
When I first laid eyes on it, my first reaction was PROM DRESS. The whole pastel color and the jewels at the bodice, with the length ....you got to admit, it's a bit prom like. If not prom like, then at least bridesmaid like. Or just... kind of old (esp with the matching shawl). Don't get me wrong. I love my mom for remembering me on her holiday and buying be stuff out of the blue. I DO know how lucky I am and I do appreciate the gesture. And as much as I am complaining now, I will probably end up wearing it. This is just not something I'd pick on my own... I'd probably pick something more vibrant with funkier jewels, more modern. As an economist, I'm always thinking about opportunity cost.Having stared at it for quite some time now though, I'm starting to come around to it a bit. The pale sea green color and simple bodice design can be considered as goddess-like and elegant. And while it is not modern, I guess it is classic. I can't go too wrong in a classic dress, right?
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Nick Verreos Parties at the Bahamas Islands of The World Fashion Week
Bahamas Party Recap--Part Three of my Islands of The World Fashion Week Report
The first ever Islands of The World Fashion Week wasn't all about the runway and seeing and judging beautiful clothes from all over the world. It was also about the major parties that engulfed the island nation of the Bahamas to celebrate the fashion week's debut.
Welcome to the Bahamas: Junkanoo Performers greet Islands of The World Fashion week guests
As "VIP guests", both David and I were invited to all the parties and special events, which ended each Fashion Week's night with food, dancing, showcasing what Bahamians know best: How to party! Every evening, there was something to do---and a limousine waiting for us to get us to the festivities! Yes, kiddies, VIP all the way (loved that!)
Limo Ridin': Susan Stein, David's Mom, Conchita, Louis Sarmiento, and Vanessa Pritchard
We were joined by my fellow judge, the fashionable DIVA and El Paseo Palm Desert Fashion Week Director, Susan Stein, Fashion Week Daily Publisher Louis Sarmiento (such a cutie--sorry Louis!), David's lovely mom, Conchita, who came all the way from San Diego, California to see our show and our hostess-with-the mostest, Miss Vanessa Pritchard (who we coaxed, kicking and screaming, to model in our NIKOLAKI show!) .
Modeling Muse: David Paul, model and VIP Hostess, Vanessa Pritchard (in NIKOLAKI), and Nick Verreos
Vanessa comes from a long dynasty of Bahamian creme de la creme, as I call it. Her family began and own John Bull, originally a Tobacconist started by Sir Asa Pritchard, now a retail chain of boutiques which sell all the high-end international brands exclusively in the Caribbean, such as Gucci, Fendi, Rolex and Cartier---you name them , they've got it!
Welcome Night Party:
Dancing Queen: Nick Verreos dancing up a storm at Islands of The World Fashion Week Party
The day after we arrived in the gorgeous Bahamas, David and I went directly to work, meeting the models, doing fittings, and casting our show. This took A WHOLE DAY, I kid you not. But we had 30 gowns to fit on 15 girls, and to also match shoes and accompanying jewelry of course. After a full day of work, we were ready for some fun: The first night we were treated to a "Opening Reception" at the Greycliff Humidor Churrascaria Brazilian Restaurant, where we drank Champagne and ate local hor d'oeuvres. Here, I was introduced for the first time to many of the participating designers from all the various island nations from the Caribbean and beyond. We also posed and took what was to be the first of many, many photos (watch out MySpace and Facebook!) Culture and Arts Night
The second day , I took in a day's worth of runway shows since I was one of the official judges for the Eco-Sustainable and Culture and Next-Gen Designer Awards. That night, we were picked up by our trusty driver, and shuttled to this fabulous estate, where the event's organizers treated us to a fabulous "Welcome Party" highlighting the Culture and Arts of the Bahamas, with a strong emphasis on Junkanoo--the Bahamian New Year's Celebration. I know I had really only been in Nassau three days, but this was by far my favorite night so far! The evening began with a fabulous Bahamian song-and-dance number by an ensemble cast of local performers, then there was limbo dancing (with fire-lit limbo sticks!), a powerful drum performance by an acclaimed local artist and even a celebratory Junkanoo procession of costumed tuba and brass--playing musicians and dancers (see above).
Click below for wonderful video of what greeted us at this "Culture Night" at Island of The World Fashion Week:
Marley Resort Party:Caribbean's Next Top Models: Nick Verreos and David Paul surrounded by the Top Models of the Caribbean at Marley Resort and Spa Fashion Week Party
Marley Resort Party:
The next night, we attended a late-night party at the Marley Resort, in Cable Beach, Nassau. Originally a governor's mansion, Marley's widow, Nana (Rita) Marley bought it and now runs this expansive and lush resort and we were privileged to have been there. We dined and danced the night away with other attendees of the Islands of The World Fashion Week, as well as all the models and participating designers.
A Thousand and One (Bahamian) Nights: Nygard Cay Resort
Throughout the entire week, we were forewarned about the "Final Night Party" and how unbelievable it would be. As we got into our "Super Stretch" limousine, we knew something special would be ahead of us. After an hour drive from our Atlantis Resort Hotel, we ended up in Lyford Cay in Nassau, New Providencia, then passed by a glorious gated community, through an obviously tony upper class neighborhood with colonial style mansions galore--including Sean Connery's home as well as other Hollywood A-Listers. 
Center Of Attention: The Bar at Nygard Cay
We then arrived at the famed Nygard Cay, a 6 acre/150,000 sq. ft. resort founded by Clothing Designer (based out of Canada, you can also find his designs at Dillard's) and Multi Millionaire Peter Nygard. We thought we had arrived in another world altogether! We look up and there were these immense architectural masterpieces of Mayan style temples greeting us. Nygard supposedly lives in the "Private Area" of the resort but it is available to rent--for $42,000 a day! Oprah Winfrey has. He also has his own private Boing 727 jet.
Bahamian Vollyball: A view of one of the many pools at Nygard Cay
I think my mouth was completely open (in a permanent awestruck pose) for about an HOUR after arriving at Nygard Cay. It is really one of those things that you just have to see to believe. Countless pools, a private theater, your own secluded beach, a complete discotheque and even a bedroom that juts out from the main "temple mansion" and hovers inexplicably over the ocean. I swear it was something out of a James Bond movie! If you can make so much money and be able to own a jet and a mansion like this selling at Dillard's then sign NIKOLAKI up!
Nygard Disco: The view of the Nygard Cay Resort Discotheque ( Peter Nygard made a rare appearance--he's the blond man with a turquoise sweater around his neck, to the right of center)
Nikolaki Sandwich: David Paul, model Kamela, and Nick Verreos at Nygard Cay Party
The party was INCREDIBLE!! Everything was taken care of: From the endless buffet of delicious food to the fully-stocked open bar, to the various artists, singers and dancers who entertained us, it was as if we were celebrating New Year's Eve in major VIP fashion!
LA Fashion Week: LA-based Designer Kevan Hall, David Paul and Nick Verreos of NIKOLAKI at Nygard Cay
There were even models strewn throughout the resort , semi-naked, in full body paint, serving jello shots (Click on video below!) We danced, ate and drank the night away, until we couldn't anymore---and like Cinderella, we had to catch our "carriage" back to the Atlantis. It was a fabulous ending to an incredible debut of Islands of The World Fashion Week.
Click below to watch a fun video of LA Designer Kevan Hall, Nick Verreos, David Paul, Vanessa Pritchard and other guests partaking in the "Islands of The World Jello Shots" at Nygard Cay Resort Party!!
The first ever Islands of The World Fashion Week wasn't all about the runway and seeing and judging beautiful clothes from all over the world. It was also about the major parties that engulfed the island nation of the Bahamas to celebrate the fashion week's debut.
Welcome to the Bahamas: Junkanoo Performers greet Islands of The World Fashion week guestsAs "VIP guests", both David and I were invited to all the parties and special events, which ended each Fashion Week's night with food, dancing, showcasing what Bahamians know best: How to party! Every evening, there was something to do---and a limousine waiting for us to get us to the festivities! Yes, kiddies, VIP all the way (loved that!)
Limo Ridin': Susan Stein, David's Mom, Conchita, Louis Sarmiento, and Vanessa PritchardWe were joined by my fellow judge, the fashionable DIVA and El Paseo Palm Desert Fashion Week Director, Susan Stein, Fashion Week Daily Publisher Louis Sarmiento (such a cutie--sorry Louis!), David's lovely mom, Conchita, who came all the way from San Diego, California to see our show and our hostess-with-the mostest, Miss Vanessa Pritchard (who we coaxed, kicking and screaming, to model in our NIKOLAKI show!) .
Modeling Muse: David Paul, model and VIP Hostess, Vanessa Pritchard (in NIKOLAKI), and Nick VerreosVanessa comes from a long dynasty of Bahamian creme de la creme, as I call it. Her family began and own John Bull, originally a Tobacconist started by Sir Asa Pritchard, now a retail chain of boutiques which sell all the high-end international brands exclusively in the Caribbean, such as Gucci, Fendi, Rolex and Cartier---you name them , they've got it!
Welcome Night Party:
Dancing Queen: Nick Verreos dancing up a storm at Islands of The World Fashion Week PartyThe day after we arrived in the gorgeous Bahamas, David and I went directly to work, meeting the models, doing fittings, and casting our show. This took A WHOLE DAY, I kid you not. But we had 30 gowns to fit on 15 girls, and to also match shoes and accompanying jewelry of course. After a full day of work, we were ready for some fun: The first night we were treated to a "Opening Reception" at the Greycliff Humidor Churrascaria Brazilian Restaurant, where we drank Champagne and ate local hor d'oeuvres. Here, I was introduced for the first time to many of the participating designers from all the various island nations from the Caribbean and beyond. We also posed and took what was to be the first of many, many photos (watch out MySpace and Facebook!) Culture and Arts Night
The second day , I took in a day's worth of runway shows since I was one of the official judges for the Eco-Sustainable and Culture and Next-Gen Designer Awards. That night, we were picked up by our trusty driver, and shuttled to this fabulous estate, where the event's organizers treated us to a fabulous "Welcome Party" highlighting the Culture and Arts of the Bahamas, with a strong emphasis on Junkanoo--the Bahamian New Year's Celebration. I know I had really only been in Nassau three days, but this was by far my favorite night so far! The evening began with a fabulous Bahamian song-and-dance number by an ensemble cast of local performers, then there was limbo dancing (with fire-lit limbo sticks!), a powerful drum performance by an acclaimed local artist and even a celebratory Junkanoo procession of costumed tuba and brass--playing musicians and dancers (see above).Click below for wonderful video of what greeted us at this "Culture Night" at Island of The World Fashion Week:
Marley Resort Party:Caribbean's Next Top Models: Nick Verreos and David Paul surrounded by the Top Models of the Caribbean at Marley Resort and Spa Fashion Week PartyThe next night, we attended a late-night party at the Marley Resort, in Cable Beach, Nassau. Originally a governor's mansion, Marley's widow, Nana (Rita) Marley bought it and now runs this expansive and lush resort and we were privileged to have been there. We dined and danced the night away with other attendees of the Islands of The World Fashion Week, as well as all the models and participating designers.
A Thousand and One (Bahamian) Nights: Nygard Cay Resort
Throughout the entire week, we were forewarned about the "Final Night Party" and how unbelievable it would be. As we got into our "Super Stretch" limousine, we knew something special would be ahead of us. After an hour drive from our Atlantis Resort Hotel, we ended up in Lyford Cay in Nassau, New Providencia, then passed by a glorious gated community, through an obviously tony upper class neighborhood with colonial style mansions galore--including Sean Connery's home as well as other Hollywood A-Listers. 
Center Of Attention: The Bar at Nygard CayWe then arrived at the famed Nygard Cay, a 6 acre/150,000 sq. ft. resort founded by Clothing Designer (based out of Canada, you can also find his designs at Dillard's) and Multi Millionaire Peter Nygard. We thought we had arrived in another world altogether! We look up and there were these immense architectural masterpieces of Mayan style temples greeting us. Nygard supposedly lives in the "Private Area" of the resort but it is available to rent--for $42,000 a day! Oprah Winfrey has. He also has his own private Boing 727 jet.
Bahamian Vollyball: A view of one of the many pools at Nygard CayI think my mouth was completely open (in a permanent awestruck pose) for about an HOUR after arriving at Nygard Cay. It is really one of those things that you just have to see to believe. Countless pools, a private theater, your own secluded beach, a complete discotheque and even a bedroom that juts out from the main "temple mansion" and hovers inexplicably over the ocean. I swear it was something out of a James Bond movie! If you can make so much money and be able to own a jet and a mansion like this selling at Dillard's then sign NIKOLAKI up!
Nygard Disco: The view of the Nygard Cay Resort Discotheque ( Peter Nygard made a rare appearance--he's the blond man with a turquoise sweater around his neck, to the right of center)
Nikolaki Sandwich: David Paul, model Kamela, and Nick Verreos at Nygard Cay PartyThe party was INCREDIBLE!! Everything was taken care of: From the endless buffet of delicious food to the fully-stocked open bar, to the various artists, singers and dancers who entertained us, it was as if we were celebrating New Year's Eve in major VIP fashion!
LA Fashion Week: LA-based Designer Kevan Hall, David Paul and Nick Verreos of NIKOLAKI at Nygard CayThere were even models strewn throughout the resort , semi-naked, in full body paint, serving jello shots (Click on video below!) We danced, ate and drank the night away, until we couldn't anymore---and like Cinderella, we had to catch our "carriage" back to the Atlantis. It was a fabulous ending to an incredible debut of Islands of The World Fashion Week.
Click below to watch a fun video of LA Designer Kevan Hall, Nick Verreos, David Paul, Vanessa Pritchard and other guests partaking in the "Islands of The World Jello Shots" at Nygard Cay Resort Party!!
Bling Interrupted –Winona Ryder ‘Loses’ Loaner Jewelry
How does a diamond-encrusted bracelet and ring worth more than $125,000 go missing? That’s exactly what authorities in Madrid are asking actress and convicted shop-lifter, Winona Ryder.The Girl Interrupted star told Bulgari jewelers that she ‘misplaced’ the gems that were on loan to her for a Marie Claire bash. She then told authorities that she lost track of the baubles after handing them in an envelope to her hotel’s front desk for safe-keeping.
French celebrity-news magazine, Voici, reported that no hotel surveillance cameras captured Ryder giving the jewels to front-desk personnel.
Hmmmmmmmm…
Ryder's European trip got off to a shaky start last week, when the actress fell ill on a Los Angeles-to-London flight, forcing pilots into a fast landing at Heathrow Airport.
Medics greeted the 37-year-old actress at the gate and rushed her to a west London hospital, where she was treated and released within hours.
Ryder's representative said the actress was fine, but didn't elaborate on what ailment she had suffered.
Five-finger discount syndrome, perhaps?
Ctrl BG: A Shortcut to Financial News 11/29
Hope everyone is having a great Thanksgiving weekend and got some great bargains yesterday! With the official start of the holiday season, the markets are also looking a bit brighter. Kind of.
On Monday, Citigroup was bailed out from its recent troubles, with a $20 billion capital injection from TARP in exchange for preferred shares and a government agreement to guarantee over $300 billion of their troubled assets. The shares went from $3.77 last Friday (as I remember, but could be a bit off) to $8.29 yesterday. It would've been an easy way to double your money quick! Citi was simply too big and international to be allowed to fail.
On Tuesday, the latest economic data were released, citing a 0.5% decline in GDP from July-September, more than the 0.3% announced a month ago. Home prices also dropped a whooping 17.4% from a year ago, a record decline. Along with this bad economic data however, the Fed also announced a new $800 billion program to support asset-backed securities including consumer loans and mortgage-backed securities:
Overseas, the latest headline to up the pirate fiasco last week (not that it has gone away), is the terrorist attack in Mumbai, India. I thought that Mumbai and Delhi were pretty civilized and safe these days with their strong economic growth and development. That is why I was so shocked to hear that the city was attacked by terrorists who randomly shot at people on the streets and hijacked 2 of the most luxurious hotels there, the Taj Mahal and the Oberoi, and a Jewish center, taking and killing many hostages! The latest death toll as of Saturday evening was at least 183. The terrorists, were well trained and in their 20s. They arrived in Mumbai by boat and the whole thing appeared to be very well planned. They suspect that the gunmen are from Pakistan and that this may have something to do with the dispute in Kashmir.
On Monday, Citigroup was bailed out from its recent troubles, with a $20 billion capital injection from TARP in exchange for preferred shares and a government agreement to guarantee over $300 billion of their troubled assets. The shares went from $3.77 last Friday (as I remember, but could be a bit off) to $8.29 yesterday. It would've been an easy way to double your money quick! Citi was simply too big and international to be allowed to fail.
On Tuesday, the latest economic data were released, citing a 0.5% decline in GDP from July-September, more than the 0.3% announced a month ago. Home prices also dropped a whooping 17.4% from a year ago, a record decline. Along with this bad economic data however, the Fed also announced a new $800 billion program to support asset-backed securities including consumer loans and mortgage-backed securities:
- $100 billion to buy up debt issued by government-sponsored mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the Federal Home Loan Banks
- $500 billion to buy up mortgage securities backed by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Ginnie Mae
- $200 billion facility to support consumer finance, including student, auto, and credit card loans and loans backed by the federal Small Business Administration
Overseas, the latest headline to up the pirate fiasco last week (not that it has gone away), is the terrorist attack in Mumbai, India. I thought that Mumbai and Delhi were pretty civilized and safe these days with their strong economic growth and development. That is why I was so shocked to hear that the city was attacked by terrorists who randomly shot at people on the streets and hijacked 2 of the most luxurious hotels there, the Taj Mahal and the Oberoi, and a Jewish center, taking and killing many hostages! The latest death toll as of Saturday evening was at least 183. The terrorists, were well trained and in their 20s. They arrived in Mumbai by boat and the whole thing appeared to be very well planned. They suspect that the gunmen are from Pakistan and that this may have something to do with the dispute in Kashmir.
Friday, November 28, 2008
I was made for you
This picture is beyond cute and I want all of the girl's clothes, including that cool tiara/crown thing on her head! <3
It's -6°C today I left the house feeling like an onion with all the layers I'm wearing and my thick wool turtle neck sweater. But when it's this cold I'm far from caring about anything other than keeping warm. ^o^
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
My Thanksgiving Gratitude List -- Film Version
There is much for film fans to be thankful for. Here is a partial list of those people and institutions I am grateful for.
My local video rental store (Videots). Turner Classics Movie station. The Internet Movie Database. The Pacific Film Archives. Landmark theaters. Multiplex cinemas. Amoeba Records. Rasputin's records. DVD players. DVDs. Amazon DVD. The DVR. Jim Emerson's Scanners Blog. RD Finch's The Movie Projector Blog. Rotten Tomatoes com. Tim Dirks' Greatest Films website.
Roger Ebert. Mick LaSalle. Yahoo Movies. David Thomson. Film critics in general. Film historians in general. James Cagney. Humphrey Bogart, Barbara Stanwyck. Diane Keaton. Cary Grant. Bette Davis. Faye Dunaway. Robert DeNiro. Al Pacino. Dustin Hoffman. Joan Crawford. Lana Turner. Thomas Mitchell. Jimmy Stewart. Fred Astaire. Carole Lombard. Asia Argento. Claude Rains. Jean Gabin. Ludivine Sangier. Sophia Loren. John Candy. Michael Caine. Anne Hathaway. Margaret Dumont. Robert Montgomery. Joan Blondell. Halle Berry. Steve McQueen. Bill Murray. Ann Sheridan. Myrna Loy. Henry Fonda. Grace Kelly.
Steve Martin. William Powell. Aline MacMahon. Ann Dvorak. Penelope Cruz. Naomi Watts. Ingrid Bergman. Paul Newman. Joe Pesci. Greta Garbo. Winona Ryder. The Marx Brothers. Robert Redford. Joel McCrea. Janet Leigh. Jean Arthur. Helen Mirren. Claire Trevor. Kelly MacDonald. Denzel Washington. Peter O'Toole. William Holden. Edward G. Robinson. Cate Blanchett. Marlene Dietrich. Katherine Hepburn. Montgomery Clift. Klaus Kinski. John Cazale. Melvyn Douglas. Jean Simmons. Diane Weist. Charles Lane. Loretta Young. Joseph Cotton. Jean Harlow. Jean Paul Belmondo. Catherine Deneuve. Mary Astor. Lauren Bacall. Meryl Streep. Joan Fontaine. Warren Beatty. Alec Guiness. Jeanne Moreau. Ginger Rogers. Bugs Bunny.
Alfred Hitchcock. Woody Allen. Francis Ford Coppola. Martin Scorsese. William Wellmen. Mervin LeRoy. Charlie Chaplin. Howard Hawks. Steven Spielberg. John Ford. Akira Kurosawa. Francois Truffaut. Louis Malle. Fritz Lang. Frank Capra. George Cukor. Ang Lee. David Finchner. Spike Lee. Werner Herzog. Federico Fellini. Jean Renoir. Ingmar Bergman. Billy Wilder. Preston Sturges. Jean Pierre Melville. Sam Peckinpah. James Whale. Pedro Almodovar. Aki Kaurismaki. Gordon Willis. Gregg Toland. Thelma Schoonmaker. Hermes Pan. Busby Berkeley. Edith Head and Robert Osborne.
Happy Turkey Day
While you wait for Thanksgiving dinner, here is something to oogle over.....
Happy Turkey day everyone!
Image Source: Net a Porter
Happy Turkey day everyone!Image Source: Net a Porter
Ballet, Baubles and Bad Tans
Everything is beautiful at the ballet. That is, everything but an overly tanned fashion guru.New York City Ballet’s annual Opening Night Benefit took place last night at the David H. Koch theater, and the red carpet included some dazzling diamonds, famous faces,and an unfortunate misstep in the tanning lotion department.
Designer, Rudolph Valentino, is always perfectly put together, but looking at him next to a stunning Sarah Jessica Parker makes me wonder if he gets dressed with the lights on.
I guess orange is the new white?
Poor tanning products aside, the jewelry fashion at the ballet is always on point. SJP’s bejeweled mini dress was perfectly accented by huge diamond studs and several icy bangles. The elegant Vanessa Williams wore a tasteful diamond ensemble with her floor-length metallic gown, and model, Veronica Webb’s statement necklace made her mini mouse-sleeved black bubble dress really work.
The gala event included a series of ballet numbers set to American music by such composers as Leonard Bernstein, Samuel Barber, Charles Ives, Wynton Marsalis, Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, and Ray Charles.The evening also marked the first performance in the newly named David H. Koch Theater. Mr. Koch recently made a $100 million gift to support the theater – certainly enough to get a building named after you.
And a lifetime supply of tanning gel.
polaroids
I've been looking everywhere for our old Polaroid camera but no luck. Just to find out that my sister who's living in England took it with her...#%&!
from olsen-files
P.S: Yesterday I received the laredoute leather pants I had ordered a couple of weeks ago but the fit was horrible. =( They looked so promising on the website. I had ordered them in two different sizes, one was waaay too big and the other one fit me okay but the legs were still way too wide and not skinny at all (as pictured on the website).
P.S: Yesterday I received the laredoute leather pants I had ordered a couple of weeks ago but the fit was horrible. =( They looked so promising on the website. I had ordered them in two different sizes, one was waaay too big and the other one fit me okay but the legs were still way too wide and not skinny at all (as pictured on the website).
guess what
I'm really not a big fan of GUESS, more of the opposite. But I have to admit that I am quite fond of this studded watch I just discovered:
heine
I plan on going to Geneva to do some Christmas shopping and I think they have a Guess store there. I will definitely go to take a look at this watch. And while I'm there I will also look for the buckled boots that Ninja posted on her wonderful blog. ^o^
I plan on going to Geneva to do some Christmas shopping and I think they have a Guess store there. I will definitely go to take a look at this watch. And while I'm there I will also look for the buckled boots that Ninja posted on her wonderful blog. ^o^
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Amanda Lepore and my friend YOZMIT/Miss Yo, in NY!!!
Miss YO Hits Amanda Lepore's Birthday in NY!!!
Cleavage Darling: Amanda Lepore and my friend, Miss Yo, at Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party
One of my oldest friends---and former FIDM school mate from AGES ago (I'm not tellin')---moved to the Big Apple about a year ago (after stints in Los Angeles and Paris) and has now become part of the fashionable NY nightlife "glitterati". I miss my Miss YO (as I affectionately call her but she goes by Yozmit, her stage name) and our going-out days. She was a muse and a source of inspiration during my "early days" when I was breaking into the Los Angeles fashion industry.
Vintage Nikolaki: Rita Verreos (in Nikolaki gold silk gown), Nick Verreos, and Miss Yo (in black veil and gold "crown"), and model in Nikolaki
In fact, she came to each and every one of my early fashion shows and even opened my Fall 2002 NIKOLAKI "Morocco" Collection with an incense-burning catwalk that people still remember to this day!
Yozmit is doing amazingly well, where she is known for her performance art and dance pieces she does for various organizations and putting on fabulous theatrical shows. In fact, several months ago, she even performed in front of Madonna and Justin Timberlake (I know!) at Madonna's VIP after party.
Beret Queen: Yozmit at Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party
Well, I was so jealous when she sent me these photos of her at Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party last week, celebrated, where else? New York City of course. I wasn't invited (I'm too old and far too not-so-fierce to be part of that "In" Crowd), but Yozmit was there, soaking it all in.
Lips and Bust: Yozmit, Birthday Girl Amanda Lepore, and Narcissister-- Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party NY
Yozmit wore a fitted khaki jacket with Edwardian sleeves, a gold sequined beret, denim mini skirt, a tie-front striped blouse and a fur coat (or was it part of her purse?). Miss Lepore, on the other hand, was giving you CLEAVAGE darling (quelle surprise) in a very fitted silver and black PLUNGING neckline dress. Those nails look DEADLY Miss Amanda! Love them! Hope she didn't scratch my little Miss Yo.
Cleavage Darling: Amanda Lepore and my friend, Miss Yo, at Amanda Lepore's Birthday PartyOne of my oldest friends---and former FIDM school mate from AGES ago (I'm not tellin')---moved to the Big Apple about a year ago (after stints in Los Angeles and Paris) and has now become part of the fashionable NY nightlife "glitterati". I miss my Miss YO (as I affectionately call her but she goes by Yozmit, her stage name) and our going-out days. She was a muse and a source of inspiration during my "early days" when I was breaking into the Los Angeles fashion industry.
Vintage Nikolaki: Rita Verreos (in Nikolaki gold silk gown), Nick Verreos, and Miss Yo (in black veil and gold "crown"), and model in NikolakiIn fact, she came to each and every one of my early fashion shows and even opened my Fall 2002 NIKOLAKI "Morocco" Collection with an incense-burning catwalk that people still remember to this day!
Yozmit is doing amazingly well, where she is known for her performance art and dance pieces she does for various organizations and putting on fabulous theatrical shows. In fact, several months ago, she even performed in front of Madonna and Justin Timberlake (I know!) at Madonna's VIP after party.
Beret Queen: Yozmit at Amanda Lepore's Birthday PartyWell, I was so jealous when she sent me these photos of her at Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party last week, celebrated, where else? New York City of course. I wasn't invited (I'm too old and far too not-so-fierce to be part of that "In" Crowd), but Yozmit was there, soaking it all in.
Lips and Bust: Yozmit, Birthday Girl Amanda Lepore, and Narcissister-- Amanda Lepore's Birthday Party NYYozmit wore a fitted khaki jacket with Edwardian sleeves, a gold sequined beret, denim mini skirt, a tie-front striped blouse and a fur coat (or was it part of her purse?). Miss Lepore, on the other hand, was giving you CLEAVAGE darling (quelle surprise) in a very fitted silver and black PLUNGING neckline dress. Those nails look DEADLY Miss Amanda! Love them! Hope she didn't scratch my little Miss Yo.
Saks Girl
I think I need to convert to Saks girl, because they are officially my favourite department store this season. After having walked through Barneys and Bloomies (judging from the crowd, I assume Neiman Marcus to be the same), I can officially say that Saks is offering the BEST deals this sale season! Earlier this month (when I was pondering over my pink skirt), they had that weekend of extra 40% off already on sale items. While everyone else is currently doing that however, Saks has moved on to taking 50% off already on sale items, there are also a LOT more on sale items too! This sale began last week (privately) for Saks card holders and I heard the Saks New York was flooded with customers, literally fighting over each other for the latest stocks as they unpacked the boxes. This week it is open to everyone and it's craaaazy (I believe they are having a "black week" instead of black friday, so better get there early!).
To begin with, the traffic on their website must be phenomenal, because the website is constantly down and I'm led to a "Sorry we're experiencing technical problems" page every few clicks. And when I DO get onto the page, it appears that many sizes are already out!
Luckily for me, Saks Fifth in Chicago is not exactly the busiest department store in town (this honor belongs to Nordstroms and Bloomies) and there were still some stuff left in my size (kind of) when I visted today. So I swiped this Rebecca Taylor dress for 1/3 of the price!! I believe it was 40% off and then another 50% off. I was considering it when it was at 40% off, but when I saw it was another 50% off, it was almost a no brainer. It's not super special, but if you look at it more closely, it has mini dark purple polka dot prints on it in felt. And when you swirl, the dress swirls with you. It just feels so cute and fun! The back is also a racer back design, which I thought was very intriguing. I am super happy with this find (besides the fact that I had to get it in a 4 instead of a 2, but I figure that the dress is supposed to be a bit loose!).
What got me super psyched and smiling all the way home and then dancing around wearing them like a crazy person (in the privacy of my apartment of course) though were these Stuart Weitzman pumps (except mine are actually sling backs). I've been eying them for a week now, ever I caught sight of them on the sales rack. I asked HG what she thought and we agreed that they were very classic looking pumps and would be worth it (it was at 40% off back then). So today when I passed the shoe floor and saw that the racks (and the whole floor for that matter) was literally empty, I had to stop by and check out my shoes. Lo and behold, they were also another 50% off. I was SO psyched, I immediately picked them up and tried them on even though the store was closing then. Unfortunately they only had a size 5.5 left (I'm a 6). But since they're sling backs, I didn't think half a size mattered as I can adjust the straps. Also, I tried them on and made sure that my feet isn't sticking out the back (a big no no). While I was waiting for the sales guy to get me the full pair, I watched women all around me in a flurry grabbing and trying on shoes, furiously sweeping up 70% off Jimmy Choo boots and Louboutins in a mad rush to buy all they can before the sales people refuse to serve us. It was quite an amazing sight. THIS was what I'd imagined black friday to be- I guess there won't be much left now for black friday (we asked and they're not planning to restock, they've been on this mode all week). It's a good thing I got to my pumps on time!
It's amazing what a good bargain can do for one's constitution. As you can tell, I am still super hyped about it :D
Image Source: Saks
To begin with, the traffic on their website must be phenomenal, because the website is constantly down and I'm led to a "Sorry we're experiencing technical problems" page every few clicks. And when I DO get onto the page, it appears that many sizes are already out!
Luckily for me, Saks Fifth in Chicago is not exactly the busiest department store in town (this honor belongs to Nordstroms and Bloomies) and there were still some stuff left in my size (kind of) when I visted today. So I swiped this Rebecca Taylor dress for 1/3 of the price!! I believe it was 40% off and then another 50% off. I was considering it when it was at 40% off, but when I saw it was another 50% off, it was almost a no brainer. It's not super special, but if you look at it more closely, it has mini dark purple polka dot prints on it in felt. And when you swirl, the dress swirls with you. It just feels so cute and fun! The back is also a racer back design, which I thought was very intriguing. I am super happy with this find (besides the fact that I had to get it in a 4 instead of a 2, but I figure that the dress is supposed to be a bit loose!).
What got me super psyched and smiling all the way home and then dancing around wearing them like a crazy person (in the privacy of my apartment of course) though were these Stuart Weitzman pumps (except mine are actually sling backs). I've been eying them for a week now, ever I caught sight of them on the sales rack. I asked HG what she thought and we agreed that they were very classic looking pumps and would be worth it (it was at 40% off back then). So today when I passed the shoe floor and saw that the racks (and the whole floor for that matter) was literally empty, I had to stop by and check out my shoes. Lo and behold, they were also another 50% off. I was SO psyched, I immediately picked them up and tried them on even though the store was closing then. Unfortunately they only had a size 5.5 left (I'm a 6). But since they're sling backs, I didn't think half a size mattered as I can adjust the straps. Also, I tried them on and made sure that my feet isn't sticking out the back (a big no no). While I was waiting for the sales guy to get me the full pair, I watched women all around me in a flurry grabbing and trying on shoes, furiously sweeping up 70% off Jimmy Choo boots and Louboutins in a mad rush to buy all they can before the sales people refuse to serve us. It was quite an amazing sight. THIS was what I'd imagined black friday to be- I guess there won't be much left now for black friday (we asked and they're not planning to restock, they've been on this mode all week). It's a good thing I got to my pumps on time!It's amazing what a good bargain can do for one's constitution. As you can tell, I am still super hyped about it :D
Image Source: Saks
These Are Not Turkeys -- Five Films For Your Thanksgiving
There are months worth of Halloween appropriate films and almost as many for the Christmas season. In between we've got Thanksgiving and the pickings are as slim as Friday's turkey. But don't despair there are five quite good movies for your Turkey day.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987) The ultimate Thanksgiving film and a rollicking road trip comedy to boot. A pair of comic geniuses feature, Steve Martin and the late great John Candy. The two star as a pair of fellow travelers trying to get back to their Chicago homes from New York in time for Thanksgiving. A series of mishaps and travel complications throw the strangers together. Indeed, try as they might they can't seem to go their separate ways. The result is one of modern screen's great comedies. But there's more. This is also a very touching story that ultimately captures the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) This sprawling New York-based story from Woody Allen covers several years in the lives of three sisters. The film is bookended by two Thanksgiving with one more mid story for good measure. It's another great Allen cast featuring Mia Farrow, Barbara Hershey, Dianne Weist, Michael Caine, Max Van Sydow and Allen himself, to name a few. Allen's characteristic wit highlights the story as does romance, family and a sentimentality that's never sappy.
Home for the Holidays (1995) Holly Hunter stars as a single woman who loses her job on the eve of returning home for Thanksgiving. Charles During and Anne Bancroft are wonderful as her eccentric parents and even better is Robert Downey Jr. as her gay and madcap brother. Jodie Foster directed this tribute to the endurance of love and family. The film is a testimony to the many kinds of family experiences and family members we can at once suffer and love.
Pieces of April (2003) A pre Tom Cruise Katie Holmes stars as April, a free spirited if not entirely happy young woman who invites her estranged family to her most humble New York apartment for Thanksgiving. Oliver Platt is wonderful as her father but it is Patricia Clarkson who steals the movie as the mother slowly dying of cancer. The film follows April's struggles to put together a Thanksgiving feast (particularly when her oven goes on the blink) and her parent's journey from suburbia to the big city where April lives. There are laughs mixed in with a powerful look at the struggles families often have in healing old wounds.
Scent of a Woman (1992) Al Pacino won a Best Actor Oscar for his performance here. It was one of those deals were the academy said: "We've overlooked some brilliant performances from you in the past so please accept a statuette for this role." Paul Newman received a similar Oscar for Color of Money. Anyhoo it was in fact a typically outstanding Pacino performance. Pacino plays a retired Army officer and he's blind, he's suicidal and he needs a "babysitter" for a Thanksgiving weekend in New York. Enter Chris O'Donnell as a prep school student in need of cash to accept the position of babysitter. It's something of a coming of age story for the young man and reawakening for the bitter Pacino character. The story works on many levels driven as it is by the force of Pacino's performance and the subtlety of O'Donnell's.
Harry Winston Brings Wares to the Web
It wasn’t long ago that buying diamonds, gemstones and gold online was considered either a big risk or a bit tawdry. But online jewelry aggregators like Jewelry.com and cutting edge retailers like JCPenney helped to redefine the experience, and now shopping jewelry on the web is as normal as buying airline tickets and overstock sheets.
Luxury jewelers have been the last to hold out on the online movement – until recently. Diamond lovers everywhere all know that the words “Harry” and “Winston” signify the ultimate in icy jewelry fashion, and lucky for us, they are finally jumping on the web-worthy bandwagon.
"The Harry Winston Online Salon is an exciting step in our retail development plan," Thomas J. O'Neill, chief executive officer of Harry Winston, Inc. told Fashion Week Daily. "Designed to showcase our signature diamond jewelry collections, the new Online Salon will offer a discreet and highly personalized experience for customers who prefer the convenience of online shopping."
Whether you are lucky enough have immunity from our depressing economy or just want to drool at your computer screen, the Harry Winston online salon showcases diamond styles that will make your inner diva sit upright – from rings, necklaces and bracelets to earrings, pendants and cufflinks.
The pièce de résistance is this stunning necklace from the sunflower collection, which weighs in at approximately 25.8 carats and sells for $135,000. Or you can downgrade to the 15.70 carat sunflower bracelet for $85,000.
Luxury jewelers have been the last to hold out on the online movement – until recently. Diamond lovers everywhere all know that the words “Harry” and “Winston” signify the ultimate in icy jewelry fashion, and lucky for us, they are finally jumping on the web-worthy bandwagon.
"The Harry Winston Online Salon is an exciting step in our retail development plan," Thomas J. O'Neill, chief executive officer of Harry Winston, Inc. told Fashion Week Daily. "Designed to showcase our signature diamond jewelry collections, the new Online Salon will offer a discreet and highly personalized experience for customers who prefer the convenience of online shopping."
Whether you are lucky enough have immunity from our depressing economy or just want to drool at your computer screen, the Harry Winston online salon showcases diamond styles that will make your inner diva sit upright – from rings, necklaces and bracelets to earrings, pendants and cufflinks.
The pièce de résistance is this stunning necklace from the sunflower collection, which weighs in at approximately 25.8 carats and sells for $135,000. Or you can downgrade to the 15.70 carat sunflower bracelet for $85,000.
There's probably not a Harry Winston Black Friday coupon online yet is there? There's always next year...
Matthew Williamson for H&M
STOCKHOLM, Nov 25 (Reuters) - Swedish fashion giant Hennes & Mauritz said British celebrity designer Matthew Williamson would create its next guest collection.
...
Williamson will start with a women's range at some stores on April 23, followed by men's and women's summer clothes to be offered from all H&M outlets from mid-May.
from reuters
How exciting is that? Matthew Williamson's designs are very fresh and colorful: perfect for spring. I can't wait to see what they come up with.
Monday, November 24, 2008
The "S Dress"
Just because HG is taking a break from blogging doesn't mean that we've stopped overanalyzing fashion in our free time (our gmail chain frequently goes above the 100 limit). Our latest topic of obsession?
I like to call it the "S dress," because when HG first showed me, it reminded me of S. And when we showed it to other friends, they also thought it looked like something S would wear. I guess we all had the same look in mind- the two toned dress S wore to the Dean's dinner party at Yale (btw, it is a totally inappropriate dress for a college recruiting event).It's form fitting, sophisticated and sexy, but youthful and modern at the same time.
S continues to favour this style later in the season for Thanksgiving. Granted the skirt is overly tight and short and not exactly the most flattering dress on her (or on anyone I should think), you can see how the concept and style is very similar. And thus, the "S dress."
In particular, we are loving this two toned dress by FCUK (left). I love this yellow/black contrast, while HG is thinking of the red/gray-or silver combo. The contrast and shapes makes it cute, colorful and young, but the style and cutting lends it sophistication. It is dressy enough for a nice dinner, but not so formal that you can't drop by a club afterwards. It's really quite a clever design! Sadly for me, I must be deformed, because I tried it on the other day and the fit was way off. While everywhere else fitted tightly (so tightly in fact that I couldn't even twist to zip up!), the chest part was loose. HG is still in love though and she's thinking of getting it tailored.
We also found a very similar version of this dress over at Ted Baker, though with the white t shirt top, it is much more casual and is perfect for a day out.
I like to call it the "S dress," because when HG first showed me, it reminded me of S. And when we showed it to other friends, they also thought it looked like something S would wear. I guess we all had the same look in mind- the two toned dress S wore to the Dean's dinner party at Yale (btw, it is a totally inappropriate dress for a college recruiting event).It's form fitting, sophisticated and sexy, but youthful and modern at the same time.
S continues to favour this style later in the season for Thanksgiving. Granted the skirt is overly tight and short and not exactly the most flattering dress on her (or on anyone I should think), you can see how the concept and style is very similar. And thus, the "S dress."
In particular, we are loving this two toned dress by FCUK (left). I love this yellow/black contrast, while HG is thinking of the red/gray-or silver combo. The contrast and shapes makes it cute, colorful and young, but the style and cutting lends it sophistication. It is dressy enough for a nice dinner, but not so formal that you can't drop by a club afterwards. It's really quite a clever design! Sadly for me, I must be deformed, because I tried it on the other day and the fit was way off. While everywhere else fitted tightly (so tightly in fact that I couldn't even twist to zip up!), the chest part was loose. HG is still in love though and she's thinking of getting it tailored.We also found a very similar version of this dress over at Ted Baker, though with the white t shirt top, it is much more casual and is perfect for a day out.
Image Source: Gossip Girl, ASOS and FCUK
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
