The Guardian's website seems intent on posting articles that raise my blood pressure. The latest is by former Vogue features editor, Jo Craven, and chronicles her disenchantment with "fashion" since her career change...the catalyst for which, according to the article, seems to have been that one of Balenciaga's blazers from last Fall didn't fit her.
I can empathise with the event itself...I remember an incident in one of Neiman Marcus' changing rooms where the Balenciaga turtleneck I was trying went on okay but showed a temperamental side when I tried to remove it...half-on/half-off, with my arms and shoulders virtually immobile and my head covered by the part of the sweater I'd actually been able to remove up to that point I stumbled around the changing room. Thankfully we parted company before either of us was damaged...and before the sales assistant came back to check on me. I'll admit, my pride was wounded, but it didn't make me want to forsake fashion like a nun taking a vow of chastity before she joined the sisterhood...which is where we re-join Jo Craven's story.
After Balenciaga-gate she apparently wondered "if, at 37, (she is) starting to feel old" and, after several paragraphs, comes to the conclusion that fashion is for twenty-somethings and fifty-somethings and that everyone in between is stuck in a no man's land. Back to the nun analogy I'm afraid but...what are people supposed to do for the twenty years in between those two periods, take a vow of blandness? It seems horrifically depressing in this day and age to have a former Vogue editor suggest that "a navy blue polo neck, a navy blue coat and a navy blue silk blouse" are good options, especially as there are so many stylish women from that age group...a few of whom are pictured below.
Wading through my emails I came across one from Neiman Marcus entitled "Stylish boots to keep your toes toasty". Unprepared for what was going to happen, I opened it up...and was faced with these...
Just when I thought nothing could be uglier than the Ugg, along comes the Koolaburra (a.k.a. if bikers wore sheepskin). Perhaps even more alarming than the actual boots themselves is the fact that they retail for around $400...suddenly a pair of Louboutin flats don't seem so expensive after all. |  |
From the Splendicity community, comes the most splendid of the week.
Beauty and Fashion Tech has Eight New Year's Resolutions.
CelebLOOK asks who looked better: Carrie Underwood or Miley Cyrus?
Beauty Secrets Revealed Is Giving Away 2 Wonderful Spa Kits.
Viva Woman finds out why glass storage is better for natural skincare products.
NY $pender shares her New Year's Resolutions.
All That & a wonders about the lengths women go to be skinny.
Indie Style File puts the spotlight on designer Ohne Titel.
Her Accessories has picked her favorites from 2007 and her not-so-favorites.
Shopalicious scores a dress with both casual and party flair, from Brooklyn fave, Bird Boutique.
Style...a work in progress makes her style resolutions for the upcoming year as she ponders the words of Benjamin Franklin, “How few there are who have courage enough to own their faults, or resolution enough to mend them”.
Temptalia shares a tutorial to get cat eyes using liquid liner, plus the easy neutral eye.
Petite Fashionista tells us how to mix the high and low.
Shoe Blitz says, Feeling Blue? Try these Emilio Pucci Peep-Toe Pumps.
Have a splendid week!
I think I can safely say that I never imagined seeing a skort (i.e. skirt/short hybrid) that I actually liked...the skort predominantly making me think of suburban moms and tourists that "see all of Europe" via bus in 5 days...but, never say never, because these Balenciaga skorts aren't too bad. Though I have to admit at first glance I thought this was a skirt...it was only when I looked at the detail shot I realized I was in the presence of the dreaded skort, camouflaged in the accompanying text as "culottes".
Potatoe...potato...skort...culotte...I'm still not a fan of the rear view but providing you ensure that you're always walking towards people (or backing out of their presence) I'm a little less anti-skort than I was earlier today.
I've been casting covetous glances at Alexander Wang's aged wool hunter vest for quite some time now and with the sales in full swing I thought I'd see if the $550 it was originally priced at had become any more affordable. That was when things started to get interesting...
I got off to a good start with La Garconne, who had taken a satisfying 40% off and brought the price down to $330...Net-a-Porter, notorious for its meager discounts, came in at $392...but still I wasn't satisfied, considering the number of articles that I've read recently regarding the lack of enthusiasm amongst the Christmas shopping crowds I was expecting something more. And, after a fair amount of clicking, I finally tracked the jacket down at Mick Margo, reduced to $239...a full $153 less than NAP's sale price.
So the moral of my story is "Perseverence Wins The Day"...or possibly "just because the sleeves are missing doesn't mean the jacket will be any cheaper"...or even "as accessible and convenient as the big players are in the online shopping world it pays to check out the smaller, boutique sites (time consuming though that may be)". |  |
Which, as the Wikipedia Gods tell us, means "I think, therefore I am"..."Dubito, ergo cogito, ergo sum" means "I doubt, therefore I think, therefore I am"...sadly no Latin is given for "I shop, therefore I am", perhaps "Net-a-Porter, ergo sum" would fit the bill...
The reason for this somewhat random line of thought is that the fabulous Libertylondongirl has tagged me with a Thinking Blogger Award...for which I am hugely flattered...and, after all, nothing says "thinking" like a little Latin (at least that's what all my vintage paperbacks tend to suggest).
And so, to pass the tag along to some blogs which I find enjoyable...and thought provoking...Blog Sorbeta for photographs that make you want to travel and see all the style that the world has to offer...a slow boat to mediocrity for, among other things, finding the bedside table of my dreams...parallel entity for having Jacques Cousteau, Lanvin, and camel toes on one screen, variety being the spice of life.
As the Latins' say, "Tag...you're it!"
Things which I have discovered while beach combing...pieces of glass which have been worn smooth as they tide drew them back and forth across the sand...a lot of broken seashells...and a vintage Barbie doll with one arm missing and bite marks from a shark (okay, I suppose they could have been made by a small dog)...
Things which I haven't found, but wish I had...Driftwood's bangle, skull pin, and ring made from weathered wood. A concept which is at once gothic and rustic...eerie and homespun...a Victorian beachcomber's morbid desire... |  |
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Having just received a beautiful new bag for Christmas I can honestly say that, for me, this post falls under the “look but don’t touch” category with an honorable mention in the “you definitely have bag issues” category...
But I couldn’t resist at least posting a picture of this beauty from former architect/gallery owner/furniture designer/jeweler Pauric Sweeney. I was actually eyeing his bags last season...and loving the shape, which reminds me of an old travel bag...but I hadn’t seen a color that completely blew me away...until now. The pearlized olive green makes me think of the paintjobs on vintage muscle cars...which should probably make this horribly unappealing yet in my eyes adds considerably to its charm...and also makes me wonder if Mr. Sweeney was a mechanic at some point in his career...
Once again...because nothing makes my inner cheapskate rejoice more than freebies...I need to thank Kiehl's for their generous sample policy. This time a trip to the store garnered numerous packets of their Leave-In Conditioner with Coconut Oil (inner cheapskate cries, "yay...free goop!").
If you're a frequent reader you may remember my search for the ultimate hair conditioner included a foray into the kitchen and a couple of cups of olive oil (file that one in the "messy, yet effective" category). And I have to admit that when I saw the thick, paste-like essence that appeared from the sample packet I was a little worried...the olive oil was washed out before I had to face people, but Kiehl's gunk was supposed to be left in.
Once it dried though my hair was positively bouncy...looked healthy...and had curls where none had existed previously. In short, this is good goop! Thankfully I have several more free packs to work through before I actually have to shell out hard cash for this...a much needed post-Christmas financial respite. |  |
The title quote is from the marketing material for Celador candy...literally a non-candy which is, according to its packaging, is "a taste of illusion". With the excesses of the holiday season still on my mind, and my taste buds, I can't imagine why anyone would want to do this to themselves.
All the calories, none of the taste, and only an ironic comment on our consumerist culture to satisfy you...doesn't seem worth it really, does it? |  |
A discussion on The Fashion Spot regarding New Year’s style resolutions got me thinking. As I mentioned before, I’m not a believer in the traditional resolutions…weight loss, new job, etc...as I feel that, generally, you’re setting yourself up for failure...especially when it comes weight loss...and do we really need to start the year feeling bad?
The style resolutions that I read though seemed to be more positive...or at least achievable…so I decided to break with tradition and make some clothing-related resolutions of my own.
1. Wear something within two weeks of purchasing it. If there’s a delay between purchase and first use I have a nasty habit of letting new purchases languish in closet no-man’s land.
2. Try to focus on buying at least a few things that I actually need. As my bank account can attest, I find it alarmingly easy to spend money on something that I will get limited wear out of but is “beautiful” rather than buying a few of the practical, yet dull, necessities of life.
3. Continue to "cull the herd". Anything un-worn, un-loved, or ug-ly has to go. No more keeping things because of the memories associated with them or the fact that I remember how expensive they were. Hello eBay, thrift store, or donation box! Goodbye to staring at clothes that make me feel guilty!
I could probably keep going but I’m going to stop at a (hopefully) manageable three. Which, of course, leads to the question...what are your style resolutions for 2008?
It's so cold that, quite frankly, my only concern at the moment is how to wear several thick layers without looking like a yeti. Actually yesterday I just gave up...and decided if I was going to go the overweight-furry-animal route it would be the cuddly kind...so a vintage Emporio Armani "teddy bear" duffel coat was yanked out of the darkest recesses of my closet...and I crossed my fingers that the overstuffed effect caused by the layers underneath would be put down to over-enthusiasm in trying to accurately portray a teddy bear (possibly one that had over-indulged at the picnic).
Once the weather cooperates though I'm looking forward to taking some inspiration from French Vogue stylist Geraldine Saglio's outfit...classic with just a twist and perfect for a lazy weekend (though sadly not one with wind chills below zero).
| It's always depressing when an old friend leaves us. My recent loss...a bottle of Nars' Zulu nailpolish...a dark, bottle green in whose depths I was able to become a twisted femme fatale (at least in my own mind). I first came across the color in a winter editorial from a British magazine (too long ago to remember which one)...the model wore winter white...and was as pale as I...yet her nails were chic-ly tinged with green. I could have imagined Morticia Addams in a similar shade if she had decided to take a break from blood reds. And so, my bottle of Zulu was purchased, and worn...and worn...and worn...and is now a sticky puddle at the bottom of the bottle. Unfortunately I missed the brief re-release of this color at Sephora during the run up to Christmas...my (bottle green) fingers are crossed however that another batch is released fairly soon. |  |
I realize that as it's only a couple of days before New Year's Eve I should, according to conventional wisdom, be dashing around trying to get the final elements for my outfit or making an appointment with my hairdresser. I should, but I'm not. Because, dear reader, in my humble opinion NYE has deteriorated into a free-for-all amateur night where the participants have to be loud, have to get drunk, and have to "party" to keep up with everyone else. It's a state of forced celebration...and where's the fun in that?
Like the teenager who's been caught smoking a single, illicit cigarette and is condemned to smoke an entire pack in one sitting...or the goose who "couldn't eat another bite" but is destined to be fois gras...regimented frivolity leaves a bad aftertaste.
And so, as in prior years, party invitations have been declined...a menu has been decided upon...a couple of bottles of decent champagne will be purchased...and Mr. Heb and I will welcome in the new year together. Had I placed my order earlier, APC's karaoke CD would probably have been added to the mix, as what better way is there to say "hello 2008!" than with an off-key rendition of "Sheena is a Punk Rocker" or "Police and Thieves"?
As the year comes to end, the Splendicity community has gathered up it's best posts from the year. Take a look at what you might have missed over the year. Be sure to check out all of the members posts to get to know some of the best beauty, fashion, style, and shopping blogs on the web.
BEAUTY
Viva Woman finds out how to read the secret batch codes of beauty products and determine their expiry date.
A Touch of Blusher brings you highlights from 2007.
Makeup and Beauty Blog brings you 5 Makeup and Beauty Tips from Paris Hilton.
Savvy Skin tells you the Top 10 Signs You're A Beauty Junkie.
Just in time for you to ring in the New Year, makeup loves me teaches you the fine art of properly applying false eyelashes.
Ellen from Spa Beautifully shares the Top 10 Beauty Trends to Look for in 2008.
Beauty and Fashion Tech has found that The ThermaClear Acne Treatment Device is One of the Year's Most Interesting and Useful Devices.
The results are in for Temptalia's Best of Beauty Awards 2007, check out who won!
Sugar Shock says, "My Lips are Sealed".
Christine at 15 Minute Beauty Fanatic spends time with Celebrity Makeup Artist Jake Bailey and Max Factor.
Beauty Secrets Revealed Shares a Blueberry Age-Defying Face Pack Recipe.
At Teen Style Lounge, Liberty shares 6 Quick Tips to Super Kissable Lips.
eBeautyDaily lists the top 10 beautiful things she couldn't do without in 2007.
The Scented Life says that Bond no 9 is bringing Andy Warhol back to life - in a little silver bottle!
Beauty Banter muses on the 5 Minute Make-Up application! Including the EXACT products you'll need to achieve the no-fuss look!
NY Spender asks "Is your hair color right for you?"
A Girl's Gotta Spa! thinks the Baby Quasar LED Light Therapy is a splendid secret weapon against acne & wrinkles.
Makeup Minute thinks Billy B's Paintbrushes are splendid beauty tools that are worth every penny.
Cinnamon Kitten's 2007 in Review: 5 Favorite New Products.
Beautyholics Anonymous has Effective Ways To Losing Weight.
Beautiful Makeup Search says that this is one must-have beauty product that works for everyone.
FASHION
Eagle eyed ShopDiary was the first blogger to point out the startling similarities between dresses by Diane Von Furstenberg and Forever 21. A week later, DVF sued Forever 21.
Style...a work in progress says "...Sea Bass, Sea Bass...that's four Sea Bass".
STYLEnosh asks the the difficult question, "Have You Let Yourself Go?"
She Knows Best has a Men's Fashion Don't List.
Spork Fashion Exclusive! Actress Shannyn Sossamon Shares her Style.
The Snarkstress needs your help in finding out just what exactly is on David Beckham's head.
Indie Style File has A Take five interview with Kelly of Killer Cotton fame.
The Fashionable Kiffen says that fashion is an art form.
CelebLOOK tells you where to get Emmy Award Dress Look-a-Likes.
SHOPPING
Laya's EYE shows us a new class of wine glass charms.
Her Accessories has a list of 10 reasons (or excuses) to treat yourself to a really good pair of shoes.
Style It Less '07 Review | List Of Under $100 Stylish Looks.
Style Tots has some Spring 2008 Pediped News.
Shopalicious is convinced that these knickers will put you in a festive mood to ring in the new year!
Kim at All That and a got in lots of pics of Simply Vera, the Vera Wang line at Kohl's.
The Latest Luxe says to Set Your Gold Standard with Stiletto Patent Sandals by Bruno Frisoni.
Aging Fabulous says that these are Must-Have Wicking Pajamas.
The Splendicity community wishes you and yours a very happy, healthy, and splendid new year!
I am now going to commit fashion heresy and say that, up until this point, I have not been a fan of Kate Moss' latest haircut. It's not just the fact that it's aging and unflattering on her...there's the additional thought that it's going to be a whole lot more aging and unflattering on everyone who gets a copycat cut. In addition, there's the disturbing fact that the overall vibe is more suburban mom than edgy supermodel.
Having said all that, in the new ads for Yves Saint Laurent, the fringe works. I have a feeling though that this is a temporary, ad-induced, change of mind...I wasn't keen on the jewelery from the YSL show either and even it looks good in this picture. Ah, advertising Gods...if only you could wave your magic wand in my direction occasionally...I wouldn't mind the "rose colored glasses" effect every now and then. |  |
When you're a child, the main problem you run into at Christmas is whether or not anyone remembered to buy the batteries for whatever game they bought you. As an adult, though you still may have battery problems, the issue more often becomes what much needed accessories the gift-giver forgot to buy. This Christmas, for example, I bought Mr. Heb an iPod Touch, but not a carrying case. In my defense, I didn't actually forget to buy a case...it was just that the only case I found that I actually liked was on back-order until the end of time.
And so...as happens in times of desperation...the sewing kit came out...
Mr. Heb favors the English-Bohemian-alcoholic-writer look, i.e. the mix of patterns and textures found at Paul Smith with a dash of Trovata and memories of Hemingway, and the goal was for the case to reflect that aesthetic. Armed with felt (for the lining), polka-dot fabric (from a worn-out shirt), braid (from a bandleader's uniform), ribbon, and a vintage mother of pearl shirt button this is the end result...more Sergeant Pepper than Hemingway but protection nonetheless.
Wouldn't you know it...just as I was getting ready to congratulate myself that there was nothing in the sea of post-Christmas reductions to cause my credit card any angst...along came the APC sale.
On the plus side, I feel mildly virtuous...having turned a blind eye to several items that were heavily marked down but weren't actually things that I needed...
One the other hand, a couple of items did make their way into my cart...a black crew neck sweater (to replace my black APC zip-front cardigan which is beginning to show signs of wear) and the marled scarf which I mentioned before but couldn't rationalize at full price (and ended up being too lazy to knit myself).
“She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes:
Thus mellow'd to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies” - Lord Byron
Having, at this stage in the festivities, indulged in one too many Finger o' Fudge, Crunchie bar, and chocolate digestive I'm drawn to the volume of these pieces from Rodarte's Spring collection.
Yes, I have a chocolate hangover and need something beautiful, yet spacious, to see me through the day. |  |
As I sit here wondering if that last glass of champagne yesterday was a good idea...yes, "mummy is feeling delicate"...I find myself looking over at the "gift chair" (i.e. the temporary resting place for Christmas goodness until it is moved to its permanent storage area) and pondering the fact that the striped sweater which Mr. Heb unwrapped yesterday goes very well with the flannel and leather Day bag which was my gift. They obviously demand to be worn together...and, as Mr. Heb is not a big handbag carrier, I have a feeling we all know who will be borrowing what from whom at some future date...
"Coveting thy husband's gift"...the eighth deadly sin...
But back to the bag...and the reason for the title of this post...
I know that I've mentioned my "look books" before...scrapbooks filled with magazine clippings which act as reference, inspiration, and wish-list all rolled into one. I find it strangely fitting when a new purchase references back to an old clipping...like it was "meant to be"...in this case, my new Balenciaga has some striking similarities to a (I believe Gucci) jacket that I clipped out about 10 years ago...
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