Saturday, July 25, 2009

You had me at studs, leather and double handles.

Just when I feel as though I'm set with my handbag collection at least for 6 months, I find a new "it" bag that I'm obsessed with. Ugh, why sartorial Gods, why? The newest to grab a hold of my heart is the "Mister" by contemporary label, Novella Royale. This studded bad ass bag is sure enough to put major swagger in my walk. No seriously, that is how I feel when I see it. The rows of large studs lined on a simple double handle bag is an even mix of punk goodness and luxury. And the process of making these bags is super cool. They are constructed of recycled vintage leather jackets and lined with organic fabric. Designed and Manufactured in Los Angeles, each bag is one of a kind. It first caught my attention in the August issue of Elle under the Editor's Pick's section (how to emulate LA style) and now I visit it everyday online like a lovesick puppy. A definite must for Fall, I think the "Mister" will get along nicely with its new friends and my reliable "besties" for life- Marc, Louis, Gucci, Foley, Rebecca, JJ and Botkier.


*Image Courtesy of pinkmascara.com

Chop, Chop it Off

I envisioned myself having uber long, flowing hair until my departure from Graduate School. I did this pretty well for about 3 years via hair extensions, patience and deep conditioning treatments. Oh how I wanted to wait until I completed my thesis. For some reason I equated long locks with being rebellious and avante garde- they type of mindset I've been in since starting school (also thought is was very Parisian of me). Truth be told, my long hair was annoying me. I started to realize that my mane looked less like Olivia Palermo and more like Courtney Love . All jokes aside and no offense to Ms. Love, I needed a more updated do that would shape my face more eloquently. When I noticed Jessica Alba's short bob, I got inspired. I did go a bit lighter and am wearing bangs swept to the side, though. See for yourself. Before and After.



From Top to Bottom: Me with long hair at a Madonna Trannyshack soiree in San Francisco, Me Modeling the do' (in Cynthia Vincent dress) my son Rocco and I at his 4th Birthday Party (in Cynthia Vincent top and Tom Ford sunglasses) and Jessica Alba (my inspiration).

*Images courtesy of justjared.buzznet.com

I say "Punk it Up"


After much debate, I've decided to pay homage to my roots and youth and attend the No Doubt concert. And why did I fight the urge for so long? I go to guilty pleasure concerts all the time, a la Miss Britney Spears this past spring. I guess maybe I know that Gwen won't be doing her solo work so I'm a bit hesitant. Also, the band itself hasn't had any new singles so basically it's a reunion tour. Well it is what it is. I thought it would give me an opportunity to get inspired clothing wise. Ms. Stefani has just recently donned the cover of Elle Magazine in an amazing Louis Vuitton ensemble as well as the rest of the issue in brands such as Current Elliott and DSquared. If anything it's going to be great to see Gwen in her No Doubt character wearing contemporary and luxury brands onstage in comparison to the past when she'd run around in Dickies and cropped tanks.


Going through my closet, my wardrobe has shifted just as Gwen's. In high school, everything was vintage and thrift store, thus meaning I was uber "cool" and somewhat of a scenester. During college, I ditched most of those finds and started experimenting with designer denim, pricey jumpsuits, Gucci handbags, and stilettos. Now in my mid 20's I've gone for exclusive denim, luxury and contemporary brands, and iconic as well as classic items. I think tonight, I will mix it all up to create a slightly punk theme- something No Doubt esque, but nothing too juvenile. Check out my digs.


From Top to Bottom: Current Elliot 1968 Love Destroyed Skinny Jeans, Rebecca Minkoff Morning After Clutch, Kettle Black Studded Converse.


Pairing all this with a black ribbed tank will prove for an appropriate outfit for the show. Although No Doubt isn't necessarily punk rock music, it's still fun to play the part. Now, all I need is a fun red lipstick that I haven't worn in years. Who knows I may have a blast tonight? I can still remember driving around screaming "I'm Just a Girl!" It was so liberating at the time.

*Images courtesy of fashionista.com, shopbop.com, singer22.com, rebeccaminkoff.com