Shake It Sista'

Last summer I made a tribute post to MJ. It involved a dress up, dance party homage to “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin”. I’m feeling another music inspired look. And ironically it too has ruffles. What is it about a good song, ruffles and me? I think it’s the flirty, flippy sass they create with a little shake shake shake. My song request today is Train’s “Hey Soul Sista'”. Anyone heard it? Makes me so happy. Total cheese. But it reminds me of how every man should feel about the one he loves. And what’s he not to love about a look just like this soul sista’s. Cue lyrics ... “I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight. The way you can cut a rug, watching you's the only drug I need. You're the only one I'm dreaming of you see. I can be myself now finally and in fact there's nothing I can't be. I want the world to see you be with me.” So go ahead, it’s Thursday, shake it sista’. (Patrick Demarchelier)

LC Shop-It Reco: Lots of Lanvin love in this recommend. Check out this white tiered silk dress and this pompom embellished belt to synch it in. You’ll have to unsynch your wallet to have it though. But the song's only $1.29.

Mix-Matched

Still on the road so will have to keep today brief. I realized I may have left some of you hanging with "The Pin". I mentioned crafting a modern execution of a suit by using a blazer with some of your less formal business pieces. You can avoid the style and physical restriction of the she-man two piece by pairing up mix-matched pieces that's all you. How fabulous is Rebecca Taylor's version of this ingenious concept. Wink. I also love the cool tones that add a sleek sophistication to this working girl's world. Now I recognize this moment won't fly with my banker and lawyer readers. But that's a bigger conundrum than I have the time to tackle now, complete with panty hose. Lordy me. (Rebecca Taylor Spring 10)

What's Your Wedge

Back on the road today. Quick trip to NYC. And this pic reminds me I really need some new luggage. Do you remember these suitcases? Fabulous. I had a green one; I think it's still in my parent's attic. Probably has a Piedmont baggage claim on it too. But I don't think I'll be bringing it out anytime soon. Anything without wheels, well let's face it, no matter how vintage-chic it is, ain't practical. I'll log this in the gerbil bank and we'll discuss later. After getting a fresh Mademoiselle pedi last night, I'm wanting to showcase my toes so I did a little wedge exploration online before bed. There are soooo many, but I was looking for ones that have a wood/cork feel on the platform or wedge itself. Uber in right now. But that also shows some pedi, and is fun for Spring to Summer. These by Chloe have that sweet meets cute while still classic and sophisticated vibe. And then these by DVF possess some serious hard core meets I mean business kind of energy. Really there's a style for for everyone -- so what's your wedge?

LC Shop-It Reco: No matter what type of wedge you get, I'm feeling the short skirt or dress look as the appropriate compliment. I think wedges make your feet more pronounced (big) and a nice sneak peek of a long slender leg balances it out. Also, a big shoe makes your leg look skinnier, so show em' off.

The JJ's Revival

It’s probably about time I cover off on the JJ, aka the jean jacket. I’ve affectionately referred to this article of denim as such for years. Definitely a part of the LC fashion vernacular, ask any of the besties. And also ask them about my last JJ, it was Theory. Had it probably from 2000 to 2005. Wore it down to the bone, holes in the elbows and everything. But ohhhh I loved it. Yet it was best that it aged to an unwearable point as it was not such a hot number any longer. And I guess that’s why I am struggling with the JJ’s revival this Spring. Are they really hot again? Or, were they never not hot? I just know I stopped wearing mine, and started turning my nose up at those who still were. I think I am also struggling with how hard core 80’s the trend is being positioned. Don’t get me wrong, amazing decade, but also one with many a fashion faux pas. So I’m on the fence about this subject. If I’m leaning one way more than another, it’s a no go for the JJ. But, a possibility for the JV. At least I won’t have to worry about holes in the elbows. (Ralph Lauren Spring 10/DSquared Spring 10)

LC Shop-It Reco: For a dubious purchase, it’s not worth a lot of money. I might test drive this Kardashian esk vest from American Eagle.

The Pin

I’ve been dying for SJP’s J’Adore Dior tee. And thinking of Christian Dior reminds me of a story from back in the day. Before I took my first job at Calvin Klein, I interviewed at many American and French houses. Due to my fluency at the time, un peu de français était logique. I was living a dream – Hermes, Christian LaCroix, Chanel to name a few. Imagine -- freshly plucked from college, green as could be, and walking off the elevator into Chanel’s reception area on 57th street overlooking Central Park. I remember being so taken a back I actually had to catch my breath – I had arrived! And then, there was my interview at Dior. I think it must have been one of my first. Let me preface that I hate suits; they’re so uptight, awkward, and she-man esk. I don’t own any business clothing now and I didn’t at the time, with the exception of a few token "interview suits". And I was struggling with the whole thing. Knowing how much I hated how fashionably confining they were, my Mom encouraged me to add my own touch of style – a scarf or a pin. Quelle horreur, a pin?! Another item I hate. My mom has a huge collection and I’ll give her major props for pulling off a pin or two. But me, no way. So I’m getting dressed the morning of my interview, and as I was ironing my suit, I became distracted. Well sure enough I burnt a hole in the lapel of the bleepitibleep thing. Panic and desperation ensued. I was staying with a family friend at the time; an older, not my size and not my style lady. Would I really have to raid her closet for a solution to my burn victim? I would. With great trepidation, I approached her with my predicament. And with great excitement and pleasure, she offered me … a pin. I didn’t get the job at Dior. (Christian Dior Couture Spring 10)

LC Shop-It Reco: If you have to work a suit, and this runway excellence is overkill, try pairing a blazer with some of your more casual pieces. You’ll keep it modern, less intense, and your own.

Sir Union Jack

I’m headed to DC with my Dad today. We try to take a monthly history trip because we were both majors and share a huge passion for the subject. Nerds. No seriously, we’re cool. Promise. Anyway, our outings have become a bit of a father daughter tradition and produce special memories. With this trip being to our nation’s capital, I have patriotism on the brain. In particular the American flag. I think ours, France’s and Britain’s are some of the best looking ones. Ironically they all share the same colors, but not necessarily the same success translated into fashion. On a pole, all are amazing. On the body, the Brits have us beat. Is saying that treason? Eeks. Well if it is, maybe England will have me. I wouldn't mind a little Sir Union Jack. And chips, but not fish. And an accent for sure. Well for now I'm just off to DC. Cheerio. (British Vogue 08)

Hump Day's Hump

Today is going to be a beast. Considering I will have accomplished getting men on my roof to begin repairs, taking my car in for an estimate on its own set of repairs, and picking up flower arrangements for National Administrative Assistant Day ALL by 9:00, yeah, beast! Especially for someone whose usually only brushing her teeth by that time. After my pre morning marathon, the workday will actually begin. Which is jam packed, back to back per the usual hump day irony. I mean really, when hump day’s hump is as gi-normoous as Mount Kilimanjaro, pa-lease. So for being mad crazy on the go from dawn to dusk, it will be all about my to-do notebook and a good pair of sneaks. I love Pumas, Converse, Vans and Juicy’s.

LC Shop-It Reco: Any of the above in bold colors or fun patterns are fab foot fashion. But I’m really loving these Converse in particular.

Valentino Chi

Does anyone watch Dancing With the Stars? Big fan over here. But big confusion over last night’s Pretty Woman routine by Nicole Scherzinger. You know, the Pussy Cat who dances with Derek. She’s attractive, right? (So’s he by the way, meow). Well though her dancing may have attracted high scores from the judges, I could hardly watch because there was something so very unpretty woman about her. The hair, the make-up and the dress -- the matronly, dated, too much fabric, big-broad-back baring red dress. Ick. All of it scored zeros for me. Hair and make-up aside, the dress simply needed to be much sexier, more modern and actually pretty! Red is a difficult color in evening wear I admit; but Valentino is one designer who never, ever gets it wrong. He should come out of retirement just for red. He would have nailed Nicole’s costume. Instead, it threw me off my DWTS axis, and I was forced to immediately channel some Valentino chi with this beauty by the maker himself. (Valentino Fall 09)

LC Shop-It Reco: If this featured dress wasn’t two seasons past, I’d be in it. But I like this shorter stretch-jersey drape number too. Feels like it needs a cocktail and some Latin dance music. Derek?

Angels on High

Hi lovelies. Sorry again for an unusual week of posts. I had to travel to Texas as you know. But I'm back; and with some serious Monday dish. Lady Gaga. Love her music, appreciate her self-expression, but, will never forgive her recent act of fashion sacrilege. Check it! Unless you live under a rock, you have heard the Alleluia chorus from angels on high that is -- an Hermes Birkin. A bag that averages $20,000, requires a waiting list to purchase, and is coveted by nearly all of mankind is never to be anything but worshipped. And what does Miss Gaga do to hers, she graffitis it. She takes a black marker and draws scribble on it like a child to a coloring book. Well like a child, she needs to be sent to her room. And I’m holding onto the key. Gaga, you’re done to me until further notice. (Hermes Runway)

LC Shop-It Reco: Because Birkins are beyond, they don’t even exist on Hermes’ site. As you know, it takes a call, visit, name dropping and still, a whole lot of patience to get one. Unless you want to go second hand on EBay. Mini sacrilege in my POV.

Need I Say More

The Sex And The City 2 count down is officially in full effect. Complete with SJP dawning the cover of May Vogue. I’m near salivating with excitement for endless pages of her fashion fabulousness. And let’s not even talk about what the movie trailer is doing to me. I’ve watched it, I kid not, probably 24 times since it debuted. I’m obsessed. Let’s face it -- hemroids would be better than this paralyzed state of anticipation and desperation by which I am SATC consumed. I need the fashion. I can’t breath. Until I get it, need I say more … (HBO)

LC Shop-It Reco: Can't get enough of this!

Head To Hoof

I'm headed to Texas this week for a speaking engagement in Amarillo. I've only been to the lone star state once before. One of my besties was an SMU graduate and some of us paid her a visit during our early career years. Needless to say, I'm not very Southwest friendly due to my limited exposure to the area. Therefore I am somewhat at a loss as to what to wear. And this is for sure a frustrating first for me. I always know what to wear (pout). But a city girl fashionista at an advertising conference in cattle country; I'm stumped. I feel I need to embrace my surroundings though -- I mean when will I ever be back to Texas and have an opportunity to look the part? So my initial thinking is the obvious route of something cowboy inspired. I have boots, but they're such a duh. So maybe rancher, but I don't think chaps would be appropriate. The neighboring states turquoise jewelry direction feels eh, not me. But what about this head to hoof Louis Vuitton equestrian chic vibe? Complete with a plumed up-do like a fancy horsey. I’m kinda’ serious. Ok, fine. Any and all suggestions would be very welcome. (Vogue February 10)

Full Bloom

I’m back from the West Coast and Virginia is in full bloom. Rich, lush green grass, the heads of pink and purple flowers opening, birds singing from the trees and what’s that I also hear … the sounds of closets flying open as the great overhaul of all things Winter to all things Spring begins. Next Saturday is marked on my calendar for this very important undertaking. Gone will be boots, wool, and long sleeves making room for my warmer weather must haves. On the list -- wedge and bootie sandals, minis a many, some girly girl, barely there tones but also some bright and contrasting colorful prints, shorter shorts, a denim vest and maybe jumpsuit, something military, a statement necklace or two and feathers, sequins, ruffles, and fringe infused in all the right pieces. Recommends to come! (Paolo Roversi)

An aside about this photograph by Paolo Roversi. Paolo is a very famous Italian photographer known for his moody, beautiful black and white and cepea fashion snaps. I actually had the great fortune and honor of shooting with him in Paris several years ago. He did a few jobs for me for my Client at the time time, Vera Wang. There was something so magical and romantic to his work, his style, and his ability to capture feeling and emotion in every shot. Plus, trips to Paris weren’t too shabby either. Non?

Overloaded

Hi friends and fans. Apologies for no Thursday or Friday posts. I have been on the road for work since last weekend and am a bit overloaded. I come home this weekend though and will be back with you by Monday. Have a wonderful and happy weekend. I'm starting mine off at Lucky Strike in LA tonight. They have a dress code. Now that's my kind of bowling. X, LC. (Tim Weber)

The Miuccia Way

One of my super soft spots is Prada cosmetic cases. I have several. Each in a different color. Each a different style. And each a size to its own. That’s the Miuccia way. She says you should have an assortment of her nylon bags in your purse or on your make-up counter at any given time. I find it most delightful to open my handbag to be greeted by my fun, feminine collection. A blue for lipsticks and glosses, a black for tissues and perfume samples, an orange for my eyeglasses and a purple for touch up make-up. (Prada 09)

LC Shop-It Reco: Visit The Find to shop for the colors, styles and sizes that suit your sense of Miuccia.

Yipes Stripes

I love a good stripe. But before we cover what constitutes a correct stripe, let’s firmly establish the wrong kind. Such as the Tommy Hilfiger nautical, the Britches rugby, the Barnum and Bailey tent, the Heatherette jailbird and the Brooks Brother pin. All bad stripes. I made a mistake last Summer with a JCrew sailor looking number and vowed to always assess my horizontal purchases more closely going forward. The need to know is as follows – first, stay away from multiple colors, two is plenty. I have a thing for basic white with navy or grey. Though I purchased an orange on grey tank this past weekend so we’ll see how, if, that works out. Second, the stripe itself can be no more than a quarter inch. Yes, height is key. So pack a ruler because any bigger, and we’re in zebra territory and that too, is wrong. And third, no adornments such as pockets, buttons, or collars. The stripe itself is the embellishment. Oh and another acceptable variety, Fruit Stripes. The gum of course. Yipes stripes! (Vogue 06)

LC Shop-It Reco: Intermix has a plethora of options. Here’s one from A.L.C..

Bow Wow, Wow

As a child I grew up with Scotties. Two. Ruffie and Heather. Ruffie had a green collar and Heather had a red one. He was older and she was younger. They were not siblings, they were just buds. My sister and I used to have to walk them around the neighborhood as part of our chores. We’d usually do it after dinner and our cat Misty would join. I loved those dogs, but hated those walks. Had I known dog walking could be so glamorous, maybe I would have felt differently. But alas, I don’t think my sister or I ever looked this chic doing so. Could you imagine if we had? Bow wow, wow! (Steven Meisel)

LC Shop-It Reco: My Dad has been on the board for the Richmond SPCA for years. This organization has a huge place in all our hearts for its wonderful mission of finding little doggies and kitties new and happy homes. If you have a home, and like to take walks, visit the SPCA for your new walking companion.

The Fashion Bunny

One of my all time favorite books as a child was a beautiful Easter one brought out only at this time of year. The Country Bunny. This year I am passing along the tradition to my niece and nephew with their very own copies. I hope they’ll come to love the sweet story of Little Cottontail as much as I did and still do. Her tale is one of a dream of being one of the five great Easter Bunnies. But when she grows up and has twenty one little bunnies of her own, the dream seems unlikely to come true. Even though Grandfather Bunny searches for a replacement Easter Bunny, he decides that Cottontail is just right for the job, and gives her the most difficult journey of all – one that requires her to be wise, kind, swift, and very, very brave. You’ll have to read the book if you don’t know how the journey ends. But I’ll give you one hint, Little Cottontail is not only the Country Bunny, she is the Fashion Bunny too.

LC Shop-It Reco: Don't be left behind by the FB, have a happy Easter in these Jimmy Choo gold glitter sandals.

Suitable For Sunday

With Easter just a hippiti-hop around the bin, you’ve probably started thinking about your festive frock. Well don’t overcomplicate matters; I think anything with color will be suitable for Sunday. Just like a pretty Easter egg. I’m feeling inspired by this old school Lanvin tiered, washed silk dress. Loving the richness and unique expression of the indigo hue. It’s making me want to dye eggs. Note to self -- buy a PAAS kit. (Vogue)

LC Shop-It Reco: Tracy Reese has some beautiful dresses in her Spring collection right now -- these two happen to fall in the blue family. The Indigo Patched Frock and the Blue Shadow Dots Draped Frock. Either will go perfectly with your Easter basket.