By Michelle A Heath, on 08.19.10 | A dear friend recently Tweeted…
WTF are jeggings? #clueless
Dear Clueless, have no fear, your answer is here.
Take one part jeans. Add one part leggings. A dash of spandex. Maybe even some polyester or lycra. And, voila, you have yourself a jegging.
Jeggings really hit the style scene last Fall as models started parading them around paired with sky-high stilettos or knee-high riding boots. Though model I am not, I bought one pair last Fall at my fave local jean store in the North End, Injeanius, and was hooked.
What’s so great about jeggings?
1. They are the most comfortable pair of jeans you will ever own that actually look GOOD and are comfortable – something not typically attained in the fashion department.
2. They are NOT, I repeat not, leggings. Please dear fashionista, promise me you will never ever wear leggings as pants outside of your house. Promise? Phew, we got that over with. Jeggings have all the stylings of jeans – stitching, grommets, hems – but all the stretch and comfort of a legging.
3. They fit like a glove. Jeggings create a slimming effect, which is contrary to popular belief. I’ve heard people say they fear looking like a stuffed sausage. I say, try them and see for yourself. Just like a regular jean, you might need to try a few different brands to find the perfect fit.
4. They are generally cheaper than a pair of True Religions. Most jeggings I’ve seen run under $100. Rue La La just had James Jeans jeggings for under $70 – a steal!
5. They honestly go with everything. A tank and flats. A hot night-on-the-town top and stilettos. A jacket and boots. The slim style is especially great with boots – no pant overhang. I hate it when that happens.
So, I urge to to test-drive the jeggings style jeans for Fall and see what happens. Be careful you might become addicted like me.
PS: Have you tried jeggings? Would love to hear if you are in love, like, hate…tell me all about it.
By Michelle A Heath, on 06.03.10 | Only in Tokyo, could pots, pans, knives and spatulas make it onto the runway. Japan, widely known for it’s fashion eccentricity and trendsetting, is the perfect place to showcase a new fashion trend. Kitchenware. Well, actually, it’s more of a branding and PR stunt than a trend (I hope). The company who produced the kitchenware couture is Fissler, a German cookware manufacturer. They decided to take their stainless steel goodies to their growing market in Asia through a creative kitchenware-inspired runway show. The fashions are not so much “ready to wear” but certainly give new meaning to the phrase “buns of steel.” (Sorry, I couldn’t resist.) I applaud their unique approach to engaging with their market and love the creativity that went into designing each piece. Enjoy!
 Fissler Tokyo Fashion Show  Fissler Tokyo Fashion Show
By Michelle A Heath, on 02.22.10 | “A Rage in the Cage.” Do you remember it? Circa mid 80’s. J. Geils Band of “Freeze Frame” and “Piss on the Wall” fame (my parents’ favorite). Everything in the mid 80’s was ripped, stripped, tattered and torn. Well, it’s happening again, as these things tend to go and it’s all about the “caged shoe” for Spring.
 Yves Saint Laurent Cage Ankle Boots $1500 I wish that I could take credit for coining the term but I have a feeling someone at the House of Prada or Chanel beat me to it. So what is it, you might ask? The caged shoe is like a sandal and a shoe bootie combined. They were all over the runway and most have a leather design that looks like, well, a cage. Some more straight lines. Others geometric shapes. Most of what I saw on the runway and in the early Spring previews are stilettos and va va voom! Some teetering at over 5 inches (for those damsels who walk gingerly to their limo or sit at the club but do not stand or walk) and others more runway than run to the mall (see YSL $1500 beauties). As for the rest of us, there’s just about every style, fabric, color and heel height to choose from. I’ve seen everything from a super-slinky gold to a super-hot fuchsia suede by Linea Paolo (which I had to have).
 Linea Paolo 'Jacadia' Sandal You may wonder, what in pete’s name do I wear these caged beauties with? Here are a few wardrobing ideas. First, start with a pair in a more neutral color so you can wear it with more (black, cream, browns, tans). Yes, it’s kind of boring but, let’s face it, they go with everything. The great thing about these shoes is that you can wear them with just about everything – and I don’t say that about everything. Everything. (Sorry, couldn’t resist).
The Stylish Eye caged shoes outfit ideas:
Outfit #1: Fitted dress with a wide belt.
Outfit #2: Pencil skirt, silk blouse, same wide belt.
Outift #3: Straight-leg jeans, same silk blouse or funky tee.
Outfit #4: Skinny jeans, flowy top or funky tee and shoe.
Outfit #5: Shorts (yes, I know but everyone in New York is wearing them out at night), funky tee and shoe.
 Nine West Kentaro The thing I love most about this shoe is that, depending on the color, you can wear them pretty much year round. Yes, I know my darling, we live in the North East along with snow, sleet and rain. The life of a sandal is typically limited to June-August. These are different. Because of the “shoe” form of these lovelies, they can stand up to patterned or opaque tights. Blasphemy you might say. I know. I already told you that I am not a big fan of tights with open-toe shoes but you also know about my obsession for Wolford hosiery, which are in a class all their own. These shoes typically have a zipper or significant buckle which makes the pairing of the tights a much better fit than a simple sandal or peep-toe. I see this style taking you right through Fall, which is why they are an excellent choice.
What’s the rage in your cage? Share your caged shoe ideas. I’m cooking up my Spring must-haves and this one is on the list!
Go forth and be caged. 
PS: Since I posted this I came across fellow fashionista, Sabrina, who put together this amazing list of caged and cutout shoes! Enjoy!
By Michelle A Heath, on 01.20.10 | If you haven’t become a Rue La La addict yet, it’s bound to happen soon. Rue La La is the online shopping site for people who love famous brands, star-style and the magic of discovering a great deal. For those of you who know me, you know that I am the girl that manages to find the $750 bag for $99 at TJ Maxx. (Ah, the perils of my stylish eye.) Rue La La is the ultimate destination because of their fabulous prices, great brands and their ability to get you to act..fast. You see, a “boutique” will open for say 48 hours. The countdown begins. Love that ToyWatch? Better scoop it up or it will be gone in seconds. Want those Prada boots? Fuggedabout it. Gone in minutes.
As if that all isn’t enough, Rue La La gives members a $10 credit for inviting other members to join. Great way to incentivize people to do their marketing. Want to join? Here’s my referral link. Pay it forward, baby.
 L.A.M.B. "Zada" Nude & Forrest Leather Sandal Now, on to the ooh la la. For the next 2 hours, you’ll find one of my favorite fabulous and stylish brand on Rue La La. L.A.M.B. Who can resist the most stylish, Gwen Stefani, and her L.A.M.B line of shoes? These coveted, funky, sexy kicks get better and better each season but typically run over $350 (thus my coveting them). Until noonET today, on Rue La La, they are over 50% off. Yes, my dear fashionista, you can now make Gwen proud by strutting your stuff in your deal of the century.
My only word of caution with Rue La La? Don’t fall prey to “I’ll come back later”. I have done this before and would peruse Rue La La, look around, put a few things in my bag and…come back later only to find out that they were gone. If you love it, buy it. Don’t wait only to miss out on a terrific deal. They have a 30 day return for merchandise credit for pretty much all items. Go get yourself some ooh la la today!
By Michelle A Heath, on 11.10.09 | I have some pretty exciting news for you Jimmy Choo lovers out there who, like me, covet thy stilettos but alas cannot part with $500+ for a pair.
Your day, my fellow fashionista, has come.
H&M just announced that they are launching Jimmy Choo for H&M. Now, that’s hot.
 The launch happens on Saturday, November 14, 2009. According to the H&M website, they are expecting a crowd and are providing wrist bands to the first 160 people in line. Wrist bands to buy shoes? I’m sorry, is this 1986 and am I trying to get Bon Jovi tickets at the local music store? Holy, flashback. Okay, back to the shoes.
Here’s the deal. You need to go to this link to see the collection and find out if the pieces you like are available in your area.
Queue record scratching music. After literally clicking on every item and the “collection locator” link, I am disappointed to say that seems Boston is not worthy of Choo’. We are not on the list  . Okay, I know we are no NYC or LA but, honestly, how can a company create a launch and get us all excited and then tell us we can’t get the product? The most frustrating part is that you can’t buy anything online at H&M. Maybe this is more a beef with H&M itself than just the Choo situation but how can you sell stuff in this day and age (man, I sound like my mother) and not have the ability for someon to buy it online?
<End rant>
So, if you do live in Cali, NYC or The Windy City, you’re in luck. Here are some of the gorgeous picks, mostly all under $200.
 Jimmy Choo for H&M  Jimmy Choo for H&M  Jimmy Choo for H&M
By Michelle A Heath, on 10.18.09 | The biggest question I’ve had over the past few weeks is…”What’s your top-five must-haves for Fall?” I’ve been thinking about it alot and, I’ll tell you that it’s not easy to pick only 5 must-haves for Fall. It’s hard to pick only a handful of things to add to your wardrobe when confronted with the many choices of great Fall trends. But, IMHO, these trends will survive more than one season and will easily mix, match and update your wardrobe in no time. Why 5? It’s easy to remember and nice to your wallet. So, focus on the Fab Five and consider it your personal shopping list. Each picture is a link to the item in case you want to consider adding it to your Fall wardrobe. Here goes…
 Robbi & Nikki Bow Shoulder Chiffon Top @ Nordstrom 1. Leopard-print anything. There’s nothing like a little call of the wild to spice up your Fall wardrobe. It’s an interesting trend that keeps coming back every few years. This year I’ve seen boots, pumps, belts, scarves, blouses, sweaters and coats (okay, the coat goes too far). I have a leopard-print J.Crew sweater that I bought about 10 years ago and it has somehow survived the test of time. Look for more “subtle” versions of the big cat, which will likely mix and match easier with the other items in your closet. I love this flouncy beauty – great shoulder detail and goes great with Fall Fab #2 and #4.
2. Ankle boots. I bought several pairs of these last season including an amazing pair of purple leather Faryl Robins, which I have already worn several times this season.
 Pour la Victoire grey woven patent 'Elise' ankle booties @ Blue Fly I am semi-obsessed with ankle booties and believe they will last more than one season. Here’s what’s great about ankle booties…there’s alot of different ways to wear them. You can wear them under a straight leg or bootleg pant or jean, which is a nice alternative to a tall boot against your skin all day or all night. You can wear them with a pair of skinny jeans for a very hip look a la Fall Fab #4. You can pair them with a super-opaque pair of tights and a short skirt. I think these grey patent leathers would look Fab with a red plaid miniskirt or kilt and black tights.
3. Colorful, textured scarves. Scarves were everywhere on the run-way and in the fashion mags. Everything from bright colors to ruffles to lace trim. Scarves are a great fall and winter accessory for a bunch of different reasons. They can take a very simple black blazer or navy pea-coat and add a serious punch of color and interest.
 Hollywood Intuition Rouched Scarf in Purple @ Target Scarves draw the eye up to your oh, so fab face – what’s better than that? They are a great way to update your wardrobe on a shoestring. Target, Kohls and all the discount stores have some great scarves for under $20. I say pick up a few different colors or patterns and see how you can mix and match them with your Fall wardrobe. PS: This Target scarf is UNDER $10. Now that’s a must-have!
4. Skinny jeans. I can’t get enough of these staple jeans. I love the J Brand jeans – they have great stretch and come in a fabulous dark wash and a super dark black wash.
 J Brand Jeans 910 Super Skinny Jeans in Ink @ Cusp They are great when paired with a long or flowy top or a layered cardigan and long tee. Contrary to popular belief, these jeans work on a wide variety of body types. I’ve heard so many women say “I could never pull those off!” Then, they try them on and they look amazing. But, if you don’t feel you can pull off the super-skinny look, try a straight-leg instead of the wider bootleg. It’s a nice change, an update for Fall and looks great with Fall Fab #1 and #2.
5. Long, layered necklaces. Again, another trend I can’t get enough of. I’ve seen lots of mixed metals, which is a fun way to combine gold and silver for a new look.
 Aqua Multi Chain with Flower Necklace @ Bloomingdales It’s a great way to integrate the embellished “rocker-chick” look that is a big trend this Fall and do it in an inexpensive way. A fab, long necklace can transform an outfit from blah to bling and take a tired dress or top and breathe new life into it. The runway is showing everything from pearls (not your grandmother’s pearls, mind you) to flowers, to chains to beads. I love this black and gold 22″ necklace from Aqua. It’s a great combo of feminine flowers and bows with rocker mixed metals…and a steal at $35. I think I might have to get one for myself.
As I think about how to make your Fall wardrobe fabulous, it’s not about buying an entirely new wardrobe – who has the time or money? It’s about picking a few great trends and transforming or rejuvenating your existing wardrobe. Now that’s smart and stylish.
There were so many other items that I could have thrown into the mix but these were my top picks. So, what’s on your Fall Fab list? Would love to hear your style ideas.
By Michelle A Heath, on 10.04.09 | I often have a crisis. Not your typical breakdown because of work or life (okay those happen too). More of a “need to have them all, can’t choose, must put pretty shoes in bag” type of crisis. Are you with me here?
It was so refreshing to come across a fellow fashion-crisis lover, Abigail Beshkin, aka Crisis in Denim, who recently wrote a blog post about her inability to choose among three lovely frocks. So,what did she do? She took them home.
Queue ominous music.
That is where choice becomes chosen. If there is a choice to be made, you must make it at the store or chances are you will 1) Fall in love with all of whatever you brought home 2) Justify that you really really need it and will wear it all the time 3) Forget to return it 4) Stuff it in a corner and forget you have it 5) Miss the window to return it (return to either #2 or #4). You see, dear reader, I have fallen prey to this tempting delight. An array of shoes. All too fabulous to leave without. I tell myself I will bring them back. Instead, some combination of #1-5 of the above happen and, well, my closet has seen it’s fair share of my choosing crisis.
So, because I can feel her pain, I decided to help Abigail make her decision on which lovely frock to keep. Let’s face it. A dress is just a dress with out the accompaniment of the perfect pair of shoes. Am I right? So, I picked a few lovelies and matched them with her frocks to help her decide.
I would pair her purple, belted frock with the FABULOUS Harajuku Lovers ‘Airlie’ Mary Jane platforms. Really glams up the dress and accents the belt.
.
.
Then, there’s the purple and grey tweed short-sleeved plaid dress, very Mad Men, with the “jaunty little flower pin with a purple crystal center.” I’d pair this one up with these sexy Betsey Johnson ‘Calais’ peep-toes. Love the accent of the flowers and the purple is sassy!
.
.
.
And, last but not least, the mod-meets-greek goddess white & black dress. I see this one with a pair of super opaque black tights and these sleek and shiny black J. Reneé ‘Farrah’ beauties.
.
.
So, you see, a style crisis CAN have a happy ending. Especially one that ends with glamourous, affordable and must-havable shoes.
By Michelle A Heath, on 09.06.09 | Just in time for Fashion Week, my son appeared in the living room wearing his sister’s party dress and a strand of pearls. Let’s just say that personal style is cultivated early in my house. Whether it’s my 6-yr old donning one of my dresses and strappy gold heels or my son wearing his “fancy clothes” or sometimes my favorite stilettos, they share a passion for fashion. That’s why I’m so excited about the latest website I came across by way of Sarah McIlroy, Founder and CEO of Fashion Playtes.
Fashion Playtes is a revolutionary online custom clothing company where tween girls design clothing they can actually wear. I love this idea for so many reasons. First, girls often succumb to wearing what everyone else is wearing because it’s safe and they can blend in. They never develop their personal style and just end up dressing like everyone else. Do you really need to see one more AF or Hollister shirt? I think not. Second, girls’ self-esteem is formed very early and the encouragement of thinking outside the box leads to confidence and trust in their own personal style. Third, it’s creative, fun and stimulates an artistic side of the brain which leads to lots of great ideas and spurs new passions. Okay, I could go on but suffice it to say, I am a huge fan of getting girls involved in fashion early.
Sarah was kind enough to give me a coveted invite to the Fashion Playtes beta. My daughter was beyond excited to design something so  we went online and got started. The site is very easy to use and the application takes you through exactly what you need to do to get started and move through the design process. I’d consider my daughter computer literate but she’s certainly not a tween. Even still, the site was well designed for her and she was able to do most of the designing herself. She selected an empire-waste bohemian style dress and went to town trying out colors, customizing underlayers, ribbons, ruffles and rhinestones. The best part was designing her very own label, which is both a great word of mouth marketing tool for Fashion Playtes and a confidence-boost for a 6-yr old fashion designer. We clicked “buy” and we waited for our dresses to arrive (yes, we ended up ordering two additional dresses for her friends’ birthdays:).
About two weeks later, the dresses arrived. My daughter called me at my office to tell me “Mommy, it is exactly the way I designed it!” I  came home to find her still in the dress and jumping around the living room. I gave it the once over and was very impressed with the quality of the dress. The fabric was a very soft cotton with a bit of lycra for a good fit and the ribbons and designs we chose were adorable. Most important, my girl was ecstatic to see her name on the label on the back of the dress. Priceless.
So, if you’re a fashion-lover like me and have a young girl who is following in your footsteps, check out Fashion Playtes. It’s a perfect place to watch your child develop their stylish eye and build a passion for fashion. I can get a few beta invites for anyone who wants to create a label and let the designing begin!
|
|
