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Welcome to our blog. You can find more things here. This is the space where Katie writes something witty for the blog. And yes, we need something cute and witty here. Something about how chatty and awesome we are. This is the space where Katie writes something witty for the blog. And yes, we need something cute and witty here. Something about how chatty and awesome we are.

Outfits - Starting with the Vanessa Bruno Scarf Neck Top

Cooler weather brings out the love of everything warm and cozy in me, so naturally, I was immediately drawn to this Vanessa Bruno scarf top. Refined and nonchalantly cool, this piece can be adapted to a variety of purposes and worn with the ease of a t-shirt.
Vanessa Bruno scarf neck top @ Net-A-Porter

The Vanessa Bruno Scarf Neck Top


“A Night on the Town”

Rick Owens Shearling Lining Biker Jacket @ Net-A-Porterr
Vivienne Westwood Asymmetric Skirt @ Net-A-Porter
Christian Louboutin Super T Shoes @ Net-A-Porter

“Office Casual”

Rick Owens Shawl Collar Cardigan @ Net-A-Porter
Chloé Wide-Leg Pants @ Net-A-Porter
Marc Jacobs grey ankle boots @ YOOX.COM
The Vanessa Bruno top can be used as a base for either a casual office look, or dressed up for a night out. For a look that will take you out on the town without freezing your Louboutins off, add a dramatic Rick Owens shearling lining biker jacket, a Vivienne Westwood Red Label skirt, and elegant, but playful Christian Louboutin Super T shoes. The big collar and draping will get you noticed without dancing on a table. To create a casual office look, pair the top with a Rick Owens Shawl Collar Cardi, a pair of Chloé Wide-Leg Pants, and Marc Jacobs grey ankle boots.

A Mulberry Alpaca Blend Beret adds a chic Parisian touch, and for a little more dash, add a Missoni large stone cuff or the Simone Vera Bath bracelet.
Mulberry Alpaca Blend Beret @ Net-A-Porter Missoni Large Stone Cuff @ Net-A-Porter Simone Vera Bath Bracelet @ YOOX.COM
September 30th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Outfits

Betsey Johnson – Prom Dress Queen

See It

Betsey Johnson’s boutique at Stanford Shopping Center in Palo Alto, California.


Betsey Johnson Boutique

Photo by WearIt.com

Want It

Betsey Johnson – the prom dress queen. This creative, courageous designer’s career spans more than four decades. From designing rocking outfits for the Andy Warhol scene to dressing teen girls dreaming of moonlight high school proms, Betsey Johnson has left her mark on fashion.


Betsey launched her fashion career in 1964 when she won Mademoiselle magazine’s “Guest Editor Contest.” Soon after the award, Betsey joined Paraphernalia as the hot clothing boutique’s top designer. After her stint at Paraphernalia, Johnson assumed creative control of the Alley Cat label before deciding to set out on her own. Joining together with model Chantal Bacon, Johnson launched the Betsey Johnson label and opened her first store in the heart of Soho in 1978.


The independence Betsey enjoys from owning her own label enables her to remain true to her style. While continuing to evolve and remain current in the public’s eye, Betsey maintains her trademark look of sexy silhouettes and vibrant floral patterns. Today, her fashion week collections are greeted with much expectation. The exuberant Johnson completes each new collection show by performing a cartwheel on the runway.


For reviews of Betsey Johnson’s latest show at New York Fashion Week, check out FabSugar’s coverage of the runway show. Style.com also offers an enticing glimpse into the new collection with their runway reviews and photos, and Fashionista.com provides a front row view on the action.

Wear It

Betsey Johnson dresses, handbags, jewelry, and shoes can be purchased from one of her boutique locations or online from Nordstroms.com, YOOX.com, or Piperlime.com.


Betsey Johnson short dress with Georgette silk Betsey Johnson 3/4 length dress made with Satin velvet Betsey Johnson 3/4 length dress Broderie anglaise and Satin

Photos courtesy of YOOX.com

Betsey Johnson Ruffle Trim Babydoll Betsey Johnson Pleated Sleeve Wrap Betsey Johnson Ruffle Shimmer Babydoll
Betseyville by Betsey Johnson 'Born to Rock - Large' Frame Bag Betseyville by Betsey Johnson 'Bling Drawstring' Bag Betseyville by Betsey Johnson 'Krystal King' Tote

Photos courtesy of Nordstroms.com

Betsey Johnson Limon Betsey Johnson Warwick Betsey Johnson Lavonne
Betsey Johnson Landen Betsey Johnson Lucca Betsey Johnson Lidia

Photos courtesy of Piperlime.com

For feedback on Betsey Johnson products, try Luxist’s review of Betsey Johnson’s ‘Betsey Be Bad’ satchel or All Women’s Talk’s thoughts on how to include Betsey Johnson in your outfit.

September 29th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Fashion

Fashion Fact: What are the colors for Spring 2008?

The Pantone color forecast for Spring 2008 calls for Snorkel Blue, Silver Gray, Freesia, Spring Crocus, Daiquiri Green, Cantaloupe, Croissant, Pink Mist, Rococco Red, and Golden Olive.


Pantone Spring 2008

Image courtesy of Pantone.com

Pantone, the world-renowned authority on color, creates the PANTONE Fashion Color Report based on the color selections, inspirations, and feedback of designers at New York Fashion Week. This report serves as an industry reference for designers, fashionista, and retail buyers throughout the year.


According to the report, “The spring ‘08 color palette perfectly reflects the cheerfulness of the season,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Stabilizing neutrals combined with pops of brighter colors to create unique, distinctive looks are the basis for a great spring and summer wardrobe.”


For those interested in learning more about the Spring 2008 Fashion Color Report, Fashiontribes Daily provides an excellent commentary on each of the 10 top colors and The Budget Fashionista offers a first hand view of the report which Kathryn received when attending Fashion Week in New York.


See below for excerpts from the report or visit www.pantone.com/spring2008 to download a copy for free.


Bill Blass Pantone Spring 2008 Michael Kors Pantone Spring 2008 Y&Kei Pantone Spring 2008


Tracy Reese Pantone Spring 2008 Douglas Hannant Pantone Spring 2008 Reem Acra Pantone Spring 2008


Peter Som Pantone Spring 2008 Zac Posen Pantone Spring 2008 Elie Tahari Pantone Spring 2008


Carmen Marc Valvo Pantone Spring 2008 Dennis Basso Pantone Spring 2008 Yigal Azrouel Pantone Spring 2008


Kai Milla Pantone Spring 2008 Wichy Hassan Pantone Spring 2008 Nanette Lepore Pantone Spring 2008


Lela Rose Pantone Spring 2008 Doori Chung Pantone Spring 2008 Charlotte Ronson Pantone Spring 2008


Luca Luca Pantone Spring 2008 David Rodriguez Pantone Spring 2008 Tia Cibani Pantone Spring 2008


Laura Poretzky Pantone Spring 2008 James Coviello Pantone Spring 2008 Betsey Johnson Pantone Spring 2008

Images courtesy of Pantone.com

September 28th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Uncategorized

Alberta Ferretti - Pretty, Please

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“I love the pretty colors!” was my immediate reaction to Alberta Ferretti’s SS’08 collection. Pretty would sum up the essence of A. F. The goddess drapery, toga-tunics, and loose fit were complemented by a sharp elegance stemming from the sexy lines. The intermixing of the faded colors with the bright, frescoes, and beautiful vertical pleating all contribute to the rhythm and theme. Some of the other highlights were the jewelling, the prominent and apropos use of open wedges, and belts. Nothing groundbreaking, but with A.F. there doesn’t have to be to make a beautiful collection.

Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show
Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show
Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show
Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show Alberta Ferretti - SS08 show

Photos courtesy of Style.com

Want It

The strength of Alberta Ferretti’s designs lie in an ever-evolving prettiness that continues to preserve a real femininity and define the concept of prettiness in the fashion lexicon. Her streamlined, feminine collections have ranged from romantic chiffon dresses and princess coats to the Greco-Roman-inspired pieces of late. Alberta has been in the industry for many years, launching her own label in 1974, and launching her diffusion line Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti line in 2005, adding a young, cool twist.

Her appreciation for the materials (particularly chiffon) is evident in all of her collections, blending bejeweled details and an artful balance of tasteful glamour and ease. Her designs convey an underlying frizzante passion while maintaining a sense of structure and smart design that follows the current trends. Alberta Ferretti understands how to draw flattering shapes that hang beautifully and result in the lyrical sense of style she’s known for.

Wear It

Here are a few items from her older collections. The Printed Satin Dress, with its wide and pleated neckline and warm hues, has a sophisticated look and would catch my eye at a party. The black ¾ length chiffon dress with its open back and Ruches detailing could go well with these textured Tapeet Zip Front boots for an urban femininity, or you could edge it up with these Pierre Hardy Closed-Toe Slip-Ons.

Alberta Ferretti - Printed Satin Dress at Net-A-Porter Alberta Ferretti - 3/4 length Chiffon Dress Alberta Ferretti - Long Sleeve Shirt with Chiffon and V-Neckline

Photos courtesy of Style.com and YOOX.COM

YOOX.COM and Bergdorf Goodman have a good selection of Alberta Ferretti, and both also carry some Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti designs.
September 27th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Fashion

Stuart Weitzman’s Seventh Annual Celebrity Shoe Auction

Stuart Weitzman’s seventh annual celebrity shoe auction helps raise awarness and funds for Ovarian Cancer.


Stuart Weitzman: seventh annual celebrity shoe auction

Check out the beautiful designs from Oprah Winfrey, Courtney Cox, Sharon Stone, Nicolette Sheridan, Vanessa Williams, Debra Messing, Jennifer Love-Hewitt, Anika Noni Rose, Hayden Panettiere, Glenn Close, Fran Drescher, Kyle MacLachlan, Rachel Zoe, Minka Kelly, Charlize Theron, Queen Latifah, Rose McGowan, Mario Lopez, Eric Dane & Rebecca Gayheart, Molly Sims, Kelly Ripa, Matthew Perry, and Jessica Paster.


Remember to place your bid before the auction ends on October 4th, 2007.
Thanks Stuart Weitzman for running such a fantastic event!


Vanessa Williams design Molly Sims design


Oprah design Eric Dane & Rebecca Gayheart design


Matthew Perry design Minka Kelly design


Jennifer Love-Hewitt design Queen Latifah design


Glenn Close design Courtney Cox design


Hayden Panettiere design Charlize Theron design


Debra Messing design Rachel Zoe design


Fran Drescher design Nicolette Sheridan design


Matthew Perry design Sharon Stone design


Kyle MacLachlan design Marcia Cross design


Anika Noni Rose design Mario Lopez design


Jessica Paster design Kelly Ripa design

Photos courtesy of StuartWeitzmanCelebrityAuction.com

To learn more about Stuart Weitzman’s seventh annual celebrity shoe auction, visit:

To shop for more Stuart Weitzman shoes, try:

September 27th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: For a Good Cause

Rag & Bone - Edgy Street Wear

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I’ve never felt a reason to wear a sports jacket-on-safari with tailored shorts – until now. The earthy hues call up the ‘60s and ‘70s Sean Connery-as-James Bond era. The Rag & Bone outfit managed to be retro-mod while still feeling modern, and it just looked comfortable and relaxed. Plus, the little neck scarf was a nice touch. Perhaps a bit more overtly feminine than the rest of R&B’s SS08 collection was this slim-belted trapeze frock layered over a tunic dress, laced with restrained androgynous touches. The rolled-up sleeves and high-collared neckline served up the basics with an edge, while the hat added that bit of ‘pop’ and a little bit Justin Timberlake.

Rag & Bone SS08 - what he's wearing Rag & Bone SS08 - what she's wearing

Photos courtesy of Vogue.com.au

How about pairing her outfit with the rounded simplicity of these white-rimmed sunglasses? Superchic!

Ralph Lauren - white square 'RL' sunglasses

Want It

Started in 2001 by British designers David Neville and Marcus Wainwright, and Nathan Bogle (who left the company in 2006), Rag & Bone is renowned for their well-tailored and dark-washed denims. An interesting tidbit is the origin of the name Rag & Bone – an old English guy traveling by horse and cart, collecting rags and other junk that could be sold or recycled in exchange for candy and other items. The brand’s ethos lies in its quality and craftsmanship, combining utilitarianism with subtle plays on androgyny.

Even with a widening repertoire, the brand is able to maintain its signature punk-rock appeal. The house’s designs are inspired by the American classics, but infuse a luxe, urban chic, and hip-ness that draw in the A-lister and fashion-conscious public alike.

Wear It

The other outfits featured in R&B’s SS08 collection featured pieces that carried on that modern vibe mixed with an edgy-retro feel. Nothing outrageous, just wearable.

Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show
Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show
Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show Rag & Bone - SS08 show

Photos courtesy of Vogue.com.au

And of course, what post on Rag & Bone would be complete without their jeans?

Rag & Bone - Devi II Denim For Her Rag & Bone - Fitted Slim Leg Jean For Him
September 26th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Fashion

Fashion Fact: What do Citizens of Humanity and 7 For All Mankind have in common?

Citizens of Humanity 7 For All Mankind

Photos courtesy of Yoox.com

The two designer denim houses share the same founders.


Jerome Dahan and Michael Glasser founded 7 For All Mankind in 2000. When disputes erupted between the two founders and their financial backer Peter Koral, Jerome Dahan and Michael Glasser left Seven Jeans and launched Citizens of Humanity in 2003. Citizens of Humanity remains an independent company based in Huntington Park, California and donates a portion of all sales to Conservation International. Seven For All Mankind was acquired in 2006 by VF Corporation, which also owns a collection of other brands.


Shop for Citizens of Humanity and 7 For All Mankind.

September 26th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Uncategorized

3.1 phillip lim - Refreshing Classics

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Will someone please wear this outfit to my next housewarming party? The floaty chiffon captures the girlish spirit and the transparent sleeves roll up into distinctive cuffs with a playful charm. Paired with those navy tights and brown lace-up slingbacks, there is an ease and freshness in its modernity – this body-conscious outfit captures the fall feel with the opaque legwear, high-heels, and billowy top.

3.1 phillip lim floaty chiffon dress 3.1 phillip lim lace-up slingbacks

Photos courtesy of Style.com

Want It

Phillip Lim draws together the appeal of striking contrasts and the classic – a tasteful simplicity coupled with tame embellishment. His designs are classic with a twist, fulfilling the modern woman’s desire to buy Fashion that is affordable, wearable, and charming. His clothes have a mass appeal that is easy to understand, with a looseness that is together natural and sexy, with the charm that comes from unexpected combinations that work.

When he started the brand in 2005, Phillip and his business partner were both 31, hence the name 3.1 phillip lim. Rolling out his first collection in 2 months, it was almost immediately clear that the design house would be in hot demand. Never straying from that original philosophy, he mixes everything together in a way that hits all the right notes, at a contemporary price that allows the young woman to dress the way she really wants to dress.

Wear It

Combining the almost saccharine-sweet floaty chiffon dress and these black leather Chloé motorcycle boots (keep the blue tights) would lend the outfit an edge of posh sexiness. The Chloé Contrast Stitched Flat Boots with their panel detail, slim cut, and muted shade would also complement the dress. Oh, and these MARC By Marc Jacobs Saddle Platforms - gorgeous detailing and laces!

Chloé - Buckle Detail Boots Chloé - Contrast Stitched Flat Boots Boots MARC by Marc Jacobs - Saddle Platform
I’m also a fan of quite a few of the other items in Phillip Lim’s recent collections. His Fall 2007 collection was all about “Clothes people wear”, and the volume dresses are a highlight. I’m especially loving the sleeves and the neck tie-around in the middle dress below.

3.1 phillip lim 3.1 phillip lim 3.1 phillip lim

Photos courtesy of Style.com

On the other hand, his Spring 2008 was more about escapism and travel – the collection was infused with signature minimalist touches, touting earthy hues and muted greys, but found an edge through pieces featuring royal blues, violets, and rich yellows.

3.1 phillip lim 3.1 phillip lim 3.1 phillip lim
3.1 phillip lim 3.1 phillip lim

Photos courtesy of Style.com

September 25th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Fashion

Where does Fashion Week have its roots?


New York Fashion Week		 New York hosted the first fashion week in 1943. Organized by Eleanor Lamber, the event was called “Press Week.” Paris followed in 1973. Prominent Fashion Weeks:
New York
Paris
London
Milan
Source: http://flickr.com/photos/artcomments/  
September 25th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Uncategorized

Chuck Taylors - The Go Everywhere Shoes

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I needed shoes – all-purpose shoes that I could use for almost any occasion, including the occasional business meeting, dates, and trips to the Whole Foods around the corner. For the past two years, I had managed to get by on a trusty pair of Birkenstock Arizonas and a pair of sneakers that had seen everything from Australia to Machu Picchu, but when it came time to upgrade, I found what I needed in the sale aisles of Nordstrom Rack - a pair of size-9 Chuck Taylor Low Canvas All-Stars. I left the Rack wearing my wonderful new All-Stars.

Want It

All-Stars were first produced in 1917 as Converse’s attempt to capture the basketball shoe market, but it was basketball player Chuck Taylor’s contribution to its design and marketing that really brought the shoe to the forefront and to date, over 750 million pairs have been sold. The enduring popularity lies in its simplicity and adaptability - the shoe has come from the basketball court to find an ubiquity in various sub-cultures, altogether symbols of the punk rock (most notably The Ramones) and indie rock scenes, 90’s grunge culture, modern hip hop and emo culture, pop-culture, the nouveau investment banker, and the resurgence of the retro.
The shoes’ increasing popularity can be attributed to the extensive customizability and personalization possibilities – one can choose the colors and prints, striping and accents, shoelaces or no shoelaces, and canvas or leather or suede. One could also break out the Sharpies and transform the shoe into a literal canvas of individual expression.

Wear It

I’ve found myself wearing my Chucks all over – on epic roadtrips, to business meetings, to the local coffee roastery on weekends, and even dates. I’ve worn them with pretty much my entire wardrobe, whether it be a pair of cargo shorts and a polo, slacks with a white button-down and hoodie, or dark-blue jeans and anything. I’ve been bitten by the All-Stars bug, and I’m slowly filling my wishlist on the Converse website with colorful ideas for a new pair. I haven’t even come close to getting bored with the nifty design app on Converse’s website, but below are just two of the designs that I’ve come up with.

Chuck Taylor Hi Canvas All-Stars Chuck Taylor Low Canvas All-Stars

I liked this pair of classic All-Star Hi Tops in Optical White so much that I just ordered a pair from Amazon! And just for fun…

Converse Men's All-Star Hi Tops in Optical White Chuck Taylor First Star Infants
September 24th, 2007 • by: dolce • posted in: Fashion
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