365 Fashion Rehab

Lust or Must? The "Mullet" Skirt

2012-05-17T10:53:00.002-07:00

Teal "Mullet" skirt $19.80 from Forever 21

It's hard to know just where to begin with this one... I can't say I was surprised to see it walking down the street after having seen it walk down the spring/summer runways early last fall, and I must admit every time one walks by, I turn my head. Not necessarily in a "Wow, what is she wearing?" kind of way. It's more quizzical than admiring.

Being a good Canadian girl (and unabashed Toronto Maple Leafs fan), I am no stranger to the famed hockey hairdo that is known far and wide as the Mullet. As far as I'm concerned, this skirt is the fashion version of a Mullet; party up front, business in the back. Am I right?

Now, I can tell you without a doubt that I never met a Mullet I didn't hate (except for maybe on Johnny Depp) which makes the Mullet skirt that much more perplexing to me... I feel that by all accounts I should hate it. And yet, I don't. But, I'm not filling my closet with one in each color either. That said, I'm squarely on the fashion fence when it comes to this latest trend.

What do you think? To Mullet Skirt or not to Mullet Skirt? That is the couture question...

poll by twiigs.com

Love, P

Weekend Getaway: The Peplum

2012-05-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tees
Platforms

So much to say, so little time! Sadly I am not going on a weekend getaway anytime soon, but I have been dreaming of one for eons. If money were no object I would plan the perfect trip to New York (or Toronto) and pack an in-my-dreams Longchamp Pliage Cuir weekender full with everything pictured above! I am so gaga over those orange snakeskin sandals! And the Current Elliot skinnies are so fab.

But wait...what about the peplum? How do you feel about this not-so-flattering silhouette? I think it can be tricky if you are not model-thin BUT if I was going to take the leap I would definitely choose one of these puckered pieces. That white Topshop dress is so chic that even I could get peppy for the peplum.

Love, A

The 5 W's - Rag & Bone Jeans

2012-04-17T09:16:00.014-07:00

Rag & Bone jeans $198 from ShopStyle

Now, I am aware that $198 is a lot of dough to spend on a pair of pants/jeans. I will also not sit here pretending that I haven't done so in the past. Buuuuut, it has been awhile, certainly well before surviving and successfully completing our year without since I have laid down that kind of cash for jeans/pants.

All this to say, that when I tried this pair on, I felt like my body had morphed into that of a kick-ass rock star (specifically that my backside had morphed into that of a super fit, kick-ass rock star), and that I had won the lottery, simultaneously. Though, if you actually do have the body (specifically the backside) of a kick-ass rock star you have already won the lottery, no? At least the genetic one. But, I digress...

My thighs felt tighter, the aforementioned booty perkier and I knew that this was one purchase that it would be unwise to walk away from. When pants of any kind, jeans, jeggings, leggings or otherwise make you feel the way I've described, you must buy them. We here at 365FR believe, actually, that it is your duty to buy them. Your duty to yourself. Because of their sheer dope-ness, you'll wear them all the time, getting one hell of a cost per wear ratio. And that is something that is always 365FR approved.

So, I did what I was meant to do and I bought them. (And if you want to too, all you have to do is click on the photo below.)

Love, P

Lust or Must? Merona Wedge Sandal

2012-03-24T14:36:00.009-07:00

Merona Wedge Sandal, target.com $24.99

I love Target but I am wary of their shoes. I do own one fantastically practical yet stylish pair of black rain boots from Target but that is it. My avoidance is intentional. Their footwear is usually faux leather and it can look cheap. But these Merona wedges seem different! No need to worry about low-grade "leather" because these babies are canvas. And canvas really is just canvas whether it is on a pair of Meronas or a pair of Monolos.

I know they would add the perfect amount of punch to my summer wardrobe and the price is oh so right!
So, you ask, what is the problem? Comfort and longevity, my friends, comfort and longevity! I am almost positive they will fall short in both of those categories.

So what say you? Lust or Must?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

A's Picks...for Pastel Perfection

2012-03-07T14:12:00.006-08:00

Sleeveless Tops by Topshop
Totes by Furla

Pastels for spring? Yes, please! Whether it is a fabulous Furla bag (as pictured above) or a perfectly peachy necklace (like this one from Forever 21), this trend really is for everyone. I am loving pastel dresses and tops, too, but sadly there isn't that much inventory out there as of yet (the trickle down effect from the runway sometimes can take sooo long). I do recommend ASOS or Topshop for great of the moment pastel pieces and I would also suspect that H&M and Zara have some, too! And J. Brand and Current Elliot have tons of light colored denim for spring and the Michel Kors jeans above retail for less than $100.

BTW did you catch my latest pastel inspired "Lust or Must"? So dreamy...

Love, A

Lust or Must? Medici Cuff

2012-02-27T14:56:00.009-08:00

Medici Cuff, Bauble Bar, $165

I am so completely enamored with this cuff. It is peppered with the pastels of the season yet the classic design means it can be worn for a lifetime! I am sold. Oh, except for the cost. For such a statement piece the price isn't out of this world, but it is hardly no bargain, either. I am sure there are some less expensive versions around but will they be as spectacular as this marvelous Medici cuff? I am not so sure...

What say you?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

Reflections of a Shopaholic - A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words (Roughly)

2012-01-24T14:10:00.000-08:00

(Michael Kors photo via whowhatwear.com)

Do you resemble the girl in this photo? If not akin to her body type, then perhaps you have her style? Truthfully, I couldn't feel further away from this image than if it were a picture of Will Ferrell dressed in drag. Ironically, I do own skinny black pants, sexy black heels, a great black tote (not fur, but still fab), and an oversized gold Michael Kors watch. I also have a few gold (plated) cuffs and a simple black long-sleeve shirt as pictured above, yet my everyday ever-so-casual ensembles are the complete antithesis of what this girl is wearing. (I was unknowingly wearing my t-shirt inside out this morning until my 3-year-old pointed it out...) The last time I looked close to this snazzy (in the daylight) I was sans les bébés!

Seriously, do you know where this fab fashionista is headed because my life seems so drab in comparison! Please tell me! Lunch with a girlfriend? A casting call? How about Paris? How can something as simple as a photo have me questioning my entire existence, leaving me wondering if I should throw in my diaper bag and flats and rack up my credit card for a fantasy life that doesn't even exist? I guess that's advertising for you!

Any unresolved questions about my former shopping habits seem so clear in moments like these - no wonder P and I were shopaholics! Skinny women dressed in black, sporting stylish handbags draped in gold, make me want to shop. There, I said it! (And I bet Michael Kors knows it.) The only difference now (post rehab) is that during these fleeting moments of envy and uncertainty I have a year of real retail therapy (as in the kind where you don't shop) under my belt. Now I have such an acute sense of what I own and a greater sense of self, that a glitzy ad campaign won't be the reason I hand over my savings for the latest and greatest. It doesn't, however, stop me from wanting to be decked out in Michael Kors head to toe, it just makes me appreciate the little things a whole lot more. (Like being out of the red, for example).

What about you? How do you tame your inner (or outer) shopaholic?

Love,

Lust or Must? Nixon Time Teller Rubber Watch

2012-01-12T21:48:00.000-08:00

Nixon Time Teller Watch, $60

A lemon colored watch! How beautiful! In these drab days of winter this little gem seems like the perfect pick-me-up. I own a lovely Michael Kors watch (which I dutifully pined over for a year and a half before taking the plunge) but despite all its gilt and glory it is not appropriate for every occasion. Do I wear it to yoga? Not so much. Is it proper attire for the elliptical? Not really. In those sporty moments my arm is bare. Yes, totally bare! And alas, the clock on the wall of the gym or the digital display on my phone just don't hold a flame to this trendy timepiece.

This watch is sunny, delightful and positively perfect for those days when you want to rock your Lululemons not your Louboutins. So I guess the big question is would a $10 imitation fill the void, or for a few extra dollars (read $50) does this Nixon deserve a place in my wrist candy rotation?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

The Day I Met the Missonis

2012-01-03T05:03:00.000-08:00

This story takes place in early autumn 2011. All the events and anecdotes are completely true. No one's names have been changed. This was one of the highlights of 2011 for me and I'd like to share it with you.

Missoni for Target pop-up

Sarah May and I had arrived in NY just two days earlier, coming to town for the IFB Conference (read more about that here), and having only one day left before heading back across the border, we had a serious pow-wow weighing various options of how to spend our last day and night. We were staying in Brooklyn so we had to decide: would we be coming back for dinner or when we hit the city in the morning would we need to be prepared to stay well into the eve (i.e. what to bring, what not to bring and outfits that would [or wouldn't!] be able to go from day to night, natch) and, once on the isle of Manhattan, where would we go and what would we do? In a city with endless possibilities, we were momentarily immobilized by the sheer wealth and breadth of choice. Plus, it was Fashion's Night Out which we knew we wanted to attend, but added a whole other level of where to go at what time and with whom. There were only two things I knew for sure: since it was Sarah's first time in NYC (and since I am a former resident) I felt it was my duty to show her the best time possible and 2) I really wanted to go to the Missoni for Target pop-up shop in Bryant Park. I had been lusting over practically the entire collection (as had most people!) and the chance to get a sneak peek was too tantalizing to turn down.

Ms. May in the diner

After our brief tete-à-tete, we concluded that first and foremost we were hungry! We took the train over and up to my old subway stop at 66th & Broadway. Perfect, really since the tents for fashion week now live at Lincoln Center. We breezed down the sun filled, super wide sidewalks, ducking into one of my fave hotels The Empire (the site of this epic moment) so I could show Sarah the sumptuous art deco lobby. There were people everywhere and we almost (literally) bumped into Erin Wasson who was coming out as we were going in. It's Fashion Week y'all and when you're right across the street from the tents you're bound to come face to face with a supermodel or two. On we ventured in search of food and found it not too far from the hotel in the form of the quintessential New York diner. We had burgers with french fries and coleslaw, seltzer with ice and watery coffee. And pickles! (Don't even get me started on the pickles!)

The pickles

When we could eat no more, we paid our lovely, diminutive waiter and headed clear down Broadway all the way to Times Square. Seeing Times Square live and in person is quite a sight. And seeing with someone who has never seen it before (and who is one of your closest friends) is a very near second. It is not an exaggeration to say I felt lucky to be by her side and honored to have been the one to take her there first. To cap off this lovely moment, we even caught a glimpse of a few sailors, enabling Sarah to snap this photo and making our visit truly complete.

The sailors

We banged a left at 42nd street bound for Bryant Park. There aren't many things I'll wait in line for, life is just too short, but Sarah and I agreed Missoni for Target would be worth the wait, provided it wasn't unbearably long. When we arrived, incredibly there were only about 25 people there. Sarah looked at me with a wide grin and said, "Are we doing this? I mean, I think we're doing this!" We took our places, strategized our route once inside, prioritized what were our #1's (for me it was a scarf, Sarah a shift dress) and gave thanks many times over that it wasn't cold and/or raining.

Adele from Fashionista Lab

The two+ hours we waited went by surprisingly fast (due, in part, to the fact that we made friends with a group of incredibly nice girls ahead of us in line who fed us cupcakes!) and before we knew it, we were moving! Divide and conquer was our strategy. The super chic and ever lovely Adele (from the Fashionista Lab) had come to meet us and we all agreed - whatever you get, grab three!

The cupcakes

It wasn't quite the psychotic madhouse I thought it would be, the real issue was the heat. Even though it was September and a beautiful, temperate day outside, it was positively sweltering in that place. I mean, really quite unbearable. The heat didn't slow people down and it was still pretty mental. Racks of clothes seemed to disappear into thin air. One minute they were full, the next empty save for one or two XXLs swinging on their hangers as though gale force winds had blown through and they were the only ones strong enough to hang on.

I don't remember all the items I grabbed, but I distinctly remember knowing when I'd had enough. "I've got enough," I thought to myself, "A few pieces is all I need and this heat is stifling." Pre-365FR I think it's quite possible I would have been behaving like a total animal in there, but I wasn't. At all. This came a a bit of a shock but, in truth, I was thrilled. We had gotten in in the first wave, I had three or four items in my hands, I was good. I felt completely satisfied. As per our POA (plan-of-action), I headed straight for the checkout line, scanning left and right for any sign of Adele or Sarah. Unbelievably, they had braved the dressing rooms (and got major fashion girl props from me for doing so) and as I inched my way closer the cash, I saw them scurrying out from behind the curtains towards me. After making our edits and sharing our extras, Sarah passed over her chosen items and her wallet, saying she'd meet me at the end of the line. (Adele, brave girl that she is, headed back into the fray, boldly going up the stairs to where the housewares and luggage - or what remained of them - were housed.) Finally it was my turn at the register and the very nice girl standing behind it offered her congratulations. "Oh yeah," I said, smiling proudly, "I'm so happy we got in!" "No," she said, "You're a winner in our contest: the first 100 people to spend over $100 get to have their photo taken with Margherita and Angela Missoni. Congratulations, you're #100!"

Stupefied from the waiting and the heat and by what she just said to me, I had to ask her kindly to repeat herself. Even then, I couldn't quite believe it. In my fashionista heart, I had already won. I had gotten in, I had gotten my beautiful scarf (which I grabbed off a mannequin and I am pretty sure was the only one in the building), Sarah had gotten not one but two dresses and I still managed to stay upright in my six-inch high Jeffrey Campbell platforms. I was already a winner - this was too much!!! All these thoughts were swirling in my mind as I was shuffled down a line that ended at bona fide fashion royalty. Okay, this is really going to happen, I thought to myself. I am going to meet two generations of one of the most prestigious fashion houses in the world. Okay, deep breath. Italian! Do I know any Italian??? Think, girl, think! Ummm...grazi, prego, tavola... That's ridiculous! I can't say "Thank you for the table", I'll sound like an idiot! Then I was next (and also, last). I walked over and they both smiled with genuine warmth (a remarkable and lovely feat considering they'd already done it 99 times). I shook their hands and managed to say "Grazie mille" - a thousand thank-yous. We had our photo taken, they shook my hand again, smiled again and I was out into the beautifully fresh, cool air feeling like the luckiest little reformed shopaholic in the world.

The Missonis... and me

Love, P

A'S Picks...for Presents Under the Tree

2011-12-11T18:45:00.000-08:00

Cropped Denim by Gold Sign
Boots by Sigerson Morrison

Wouldn't it be great if Santa's workshop was in Bergdorf's and he delivered gifts to those of us over the age of twelve? Because even though I have been on my absolute best behavior this year, I don't think a new pair of boots (let alone three) are in my family budget! I also am currently loving all things red and am drooling over this Kate Spade wallet! How about those sparkly diamond earrings? Simply gor-geous. This all seems like a pipe dream, but with the holidays in mind, I think a little wishful thinking - and sometimes a wee bit of indulging - is just what the doctor ordered.

What is on your wish list this year? And more importantly, will your wishes be granted?

Love,

The 5 W's - Alexis Bittar Cuff

2011-11-29T15:16:00.000-08:00

Love this hand painted peacock cuff as much as I do? Click on the photo to get one for yourself!

A few weeks ago, I had the extreme pleasure of meeting jewellery designer Alexis Bittar. He's the au currant designer who is beloved by Cameron Diaz and who features some of the most amazing women in his ad campaigns - Lauren Hutton and Joan Collins anyone? The newest muse has yet to be revealed, but I suspect it'll be someone just as legendary... Catherine Deneuve perhaps?

Listening to Alexis talk about his journey from 13-year-old kid selling vintage jewellery in St. Marks Place in New York City to becoming one of just a handful jewllery of designers to win the CFDA Accessory Designer of the Year award was so incredibly inspiring. The fact that he is one of the kindest and most down to earth people I've ever met was the cherry on top.

After such an exhilarating meeting, I felt I simply had to have a momento, something to remind me of the depth of inspiration that he someone managed to impart that day. I immediately chose this marvy peacock bangle and every time I wear it, I'm reminded that if you're lucky enough to find your calling and you never, never lose sight of it, your dreams really can come true.

So, this post is a bit of a thank you to Alexis. Thank you for being such a committed and truly brilliant designer and, even more than that, thank you for leading by example and being such a lovely, lovely person.

Love, P

P.S. I'm not an autograph kind of person, but meeting Alexis had such a profound effect on me, I couldn't help myself. Of course, he was kind enough to oblige.

Lust or Must? Sperry Top-Spider Pelican Boot

2011-11-21T21:00:00.000-08:00

Sperry Top-Sider Pelican Boot, $69

My trusty Target rain boots are on the verge of collapse and I need a new pair, stat! Although I bought my old boots for a fraction of the cost of the ones above, and they lasted for almost 5 years, I feel like I am in need of an upgrade. These Sperry's have a fleece lining (yummy) and a super cute, yet classic, print.

What do you think? Should I stick with what I know (Target and a twenty dollar bill), or take the plunge (and make a splash!) in these pretty Pelicans?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

The Uniform: Brilliant or Just Plain Boring?

2011-11-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

For those of you who don't have busy schedules, aren't on a budget, are always on time, and never feel the need to multitask, this post may not be for you. (Feel free to skip to the bottom and vote in the poll). For everyone else, please read on.

Since having two children, dressing myself has gone from being one of the best parts of my day to one of my least favorite. (Far above changing diapers but well below having my morning coffee). I have roughly twenty minutes to get ready each morning, including hair and makeup, so needless to say I am always in a rush. How is a girl supposed to look fab on that kind of time crunch? There is no time to ponder the perfect outfit, no time for creativity, and certainly no time to play dress-up. Inevitably I end up running out of time, coming up with an outfit that is either super uncomfortable, or just plain unflattering. (I am too embarrassed to tell you what I am wearing right now but I will give you a hint: it rhymes with poga yants - absolutely horrifying!)

Kate Moss in "uniform"

In an effort to solve this dilemma I looked to some of the most fashionable women in history and dissected their 'drobes. I realized that they each had their own formula, a uniform if you will. Audrey Hepburn always wore a black top or dress with ballet flats, Jackie O consistently sported oversized sunglasses, pearls, and a crew neck, and Kate Moss (see photos above) often dons skinny jeans, chunky boots, and some type of faux fur coat. Creating an everyday uniform could be the answer to my problems. In my case, this uniform would be a variation of pieces that are washable (oversized cotton tops), fashionable (cute ankle or knee boots), and active-able (stretchy skinny pants for kneeling, bending, chasing, etc.). I think I would be (consistently) better dressed, and it would bring serenity to my morning routine!

So what do you think? Am I being a lazy fashionista, or am I on to something?

poll by twiigs.com

Love, A

A's Picks...for Understated Color Blocking

2011-11-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Crewnecks & Scoopnecks by Vince
Platforms by 7 For All Mankind

I love that bright pinks and oranges are all the rage right now, but when it comes to color blocking sometimes less can be so much more. I have always loved brown and black together, it is very understated yet so chic. The sweater is a bit of a splurge (it is Vince, $275) but the bags are all under $15o and the belt is only $8! (Click on each piece to go directly to their respective retailers.) These pieces prove that you can follow this trend (color blocking) without looking like you stepped out of an 80's music video. Finish the look with a candy-colored lip and a pair of skinny black jeans and you are all set!

Love, A

Lust or Must? Joe's Jeans Chelsea Slim Fit in Red Orange

2011-11-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

Joe's Jeans Chelsea Ultra Slim Fit in Red Orange, $158

Loving the color. Loving the cut. Hating the price.

Thoughts?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

Reflections of a (Reformed) Shopaholic...and the Iconic 5

2011-10-27T15:11:00.000-07:00

Giving up shopping for a year taught me more than just how to shop in my closet. It sparked my creativity, brought me closer to my best friend, and it gave me a sense of purpose in a time when money was tight and my new role of a mom was proving more challenging than I ever could have imagined. Going without also taught me that clothes don't define you, that they are merely a form of self expression (combined with an obvious practicality) and you will survive (and perhaps even thrive) without owning the latest everything. However (with a capital H), life lessons aside (this is a fashion blog after all, not a gratitude journal - though we do like to think we have a bit more to offer than your average "this is how I wore it" blog), there is one other thing that came out of my year without, and that, my friends, was a Gucci bag. I LOVE that bag. One, because I think it is so damn fabulous and two, it is a reminder of how much I sacrificed to get it.

On to my next point: I started thinking about sacrifice and wondered if there were any other iconic fashion pieces that would be worth another year in Fashion Rehab. What would you give up for one of these classics beauties? And, more importantly, which one would you choose?

poll by twiigs.com

Love, A

Lust or Must? Gold Zara Brogues

2011-10-25T16:15:00.000-07:00

Zara Laminated Gold Brogues $99

There have been some changes to my lifestyle that have occurred, shall we say, quite quickly and I suddenly find myself in need of a great (read: stylish) pair of flats. I have to thank Man Repeller for alerting me to this gilded pair of oxfords. She put her stamp of approval on them months ago, and though I admired them at the time, they really weren't necessary for my lifestyle. Now that those particulars have changed (and the fact that they fit in with the rest of our 365FR LBC checklist - Lifestlye, Budget, Climate) I am giving them a second look. They are admittedly flashy, but could be the perfect topper (or in this case, bottom-er) to an all black (again, read: easy to put together) outfit.

The thing is, even though they're Man Repeller approved (we *heart* her), I am still a bit, I don't know, shy, I guess, about they're shininess...

Help!

poll by twiigs.com

Love, P

Closets & Cocktails with Natasha from Fashionalities

2011-10-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

P and I are thrilled to be featuring stylist and blogger Natasha from the super-cute and fashionably fabulous blog Fashionalities! With a penchant for all things vintage and lucky enough to have her own walk-in closet, this mama-of-one prefers to take it up a notch and believes you can never be too overdressed, and we couldn't agree more! (We wouldn't want any of our party dresses and platforms to go to waste, right?) So without further adieu, an insight into Natasha's fashion philosophies and closet confessions...

Natasha from Fashionalities looking fab in her walk-in closet!

What is your style motto? You can never be too dressed up. I'd rather be overdressed than underdressed.

If you could change one thing about your closet, what would it be? Gosh I have a LONG list since having my daughter over a year ago. But, I'd want to organize it better first, and then dress it up to reflect my style. I have an entire walk-in closet to myself and I should take better care of it...I just wish I had more time.

Who's style, past or present, do you most admire? I admire so many people's style...but if I had to pick one right now, it would be Tracee Ellis Ross. I love her mix of high/low vintage. She is definitely true to her own style and I LOVE that even though she is a celeb, she doesn't have a stylist.

What is your most treasured possession in your closet? All of my clothes from India. I love finding creative ways to wear them with my Western clothes, and also as they were supposed to be worn.

What is your greatest shopping regret? I never say regrets with anything... more like I learn from my mistakes.

What do you consider your greatest score? I am always getting amazing scores at Buffalo Exchange and thrift stores! Too many to count : ) I mainly love finding vintage dresses that no one else will have at a great price that usually fit like a glove.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Gosh I used to say fabulous a lot and had to retire it...now I'd say I use "shut up!" way too much. It's basically used in response to something I can't believe, or I'm excited about...way overused!

What is your greatest extravagance? My diamond earrings that I wear almost everyday. My husband got them for me one Christmas. They are classic and will always go with everything in my closet.

BONUS QUESTION: What is your favorite cocktail? The French Martini.

Thanks, Natasha! Please visit Natasha on her blog, Fashionalities (while sipping your favorite cocktail, of course) and don't forget to follow her on Twitter! You won't be disappointed.

Love,

A&P

P.S. So just what is in a French Martini? Hint: It involves Chambord and pineapple juice! De-licious.

HGF, Me & the IFB

2011-10-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sarah May and I in the crowd at the Independent Fashion Blogger's Conference held this past September at Milk Studios, NYC

Just over a month ago, I hit the road with the ever-lovely Ms. Sarah May (vintage retailer, Fashion Matchmaker, creator of Hunt. Gather. Fashion. & our regular featured guest blogger) bound for NYC. I have done quite a lot of traveling since then, hence the delay in getting this post up, but now that I am finally back home I decided it was time to share the first part of my adventure with you!

We set off in our little mini SUV rental and took to the highways. Our destination? The Independent Fashion Blogger's Conference! I was tres excited - I love NYC (my old hometown) and early autumn is one of the absolute best times to go - and doubly so, because I would be accompanying Sarah on her inaugural visit to Gotham City!

After torrential downpours, a harrowing drive and a poor, suffering, sick Sarah, we arrived later than expected and so, headed right to bed! The next day was the IFBCon and we had to be up bright and early.

Some of our fave blogger's were on this panel: Leandra Medine a.k.a The Manrepeller, far left and Lauren & Erica BFF's and co-creators of Honestly...WTF, splitting center

Another marvy panel! This time we got the lovely (and fellow Canadian) Coco Rocha, far right and, Ari Goldberg, CEO of Stylcaster, next to her (He was my all-time favorite of the whole day - he was great!)

Even though it was a rainy grey day and Sarah was still under the weather, the conference was a great success! I got to meet old friends (in person!), make new ones and I even got my hair and nails did!

I got to meet Wendy Brandes, jewellery designer extrodinaire and one our C&C ladies! She is wearing her famous logo dress!

Even when she's sick, she works! Maybe all work and no play is what makes you sick...?

Doesn't it look like I'm having fun?

My awesome Minx nails! My fuchsia Rebecca Minkoff makes a rather fetching backdrop, don't you think?

Our trip to New York was just one of many I was lucky enough to take over the summer/early fall, and it was definitely one of my faves. Now... Sarah May and I need to get planning our next adventure. Treasure hunting, anyone?

Love, P

Lust or Must? Charlotte Russe Velvet Glitter Bootie

2011-10-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Charlotte Russe Glitter Bootie, $42.50

To be completely honest I am not a huge fan of these booties. They are the obvious knockoffs of the Miu Miu ones that everyone is dying over (click here to view) but I think I am having one of those "I just don't get it" fashion moments. Perhaps they are too reminiscent of a style Gene Simmons rocked many years ago (that is a KISS reference for all of you youngins), or maybe it is one of those times where "unique" just translates as awful, not awesome. Either way, I am a skeptic.

BUT if the poll numbers below prove me wrong, I could be swayed. And for $42.50 (vs. $890 for the Miu Miu ones...) they may not be so bad after all!

What say you?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

Closets & Cocktails with Tamika from Shop Socials

2011-10-06T16:18:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to have the ever-lovely Tamika, founder of Shop Socials, joining us for this edition of Closets & Cocktails! Shop Socials are marvy, stylish events organized by Tamika that combine exclusive shopping with delicious drinks, tasty eats and the opportunity to shop with old friends and make new ones! Tamika has long been a 365FR supporter, we have been lucky enough to count her as one of our very first Fashionista friends! We liked Tamika instantly (and not just because of her amazing shopping parties - when we first met we were going without, remember?), but now our mutual love of bags bonds us eternally! And I couldn't agree with her more, when it comes to her answer to #7 - everything is definitely fabulous! So without further adieu, a few insights into Tamika's fashion philosophies and closet confessions...

Tamika, Shop Socials founder, in her closet with her favorite (bubbly!) cocktail

What is your style motto? I live by two. First, always dress for yourself. Don't worry about what others are wearing, or what's on trend. Just wear what you love and feel great in. Second, make an effort to mix and match fast fashion with indie boutique and designer finds. It keeps your look interesting, eclectic and memorable.

If you could change one thing about your closet, what would it be? The size and level of organization. It looks photo ready now but you should've seen it a few weeks ago. Life gets busy and my closet feels the wrath.

Who's style, past or present, do you most admire? My grandmother! We just celebrated her 80th birthday and she waltzed in wearing a gorgeous feather print dress and oversized Jackie O shades so nobody could see her getting teary-eyed. Her ability to evolve her style as she ages and fashion changes is something I really hope to emulate.

What is your most treasured possession in your closet? Such a hard question! I'd have to say some vintage leather clutches (circa 1970) I lifted from my mom. I'm sucker for a great bag, and those are among the most rotated in my closet.

What is your greatest shopping regret? I try not to let this happen as often, but I do get sucked into buying things that aren't quite right, just because they're on a mega sale. I got a fabulous River Island brocade tulip skirt at a sample sale for next to nothing, which would've been a huge score except that they didn't have my size and I bought it anyway ... still working on that fitness regime to wiggle my way in.

What do you consider your greatest score? Vintage always brings about the best deals in my eyes. I got a silk vintage Dior scarf for $5 once.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Fabulous fabulous fabulous. Everything is fabulous. But it is, isn't it?

What is your greatest extravagance? Taking time to enjoy the pleasure of doing NOTHING. I'm always busy working on my business. hosting or attending events and taking care of my family. I wouldn't trade the busy for anything but being able to take 10 feels more indulgent than any purchase I could make these days.

BONUS QUESTION: What is your favorite cocktail? Champagne, straight up. Bubbly delicious...and fabulous!

Thanks, Tamika, we think you're pretty fabulous too! Go to Shop Socials and join the guest list. And then, get your social shop on!

Love, P

Lust or Must? BCBG Statement Necklace

2011-10-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

BCBG necklace $98 from Lord & Taylor via ShopStyle

It occurred to me, whilst playing in my closet this afternoon, that I am in want of a statement necklace. A big, fat, Gossip Girl-esque, instantly able to elevate any outfit kind of neck candy. (I just went to my beloved Go Fug Yourself in search of the perfect GG statement necklace photo and, I kid you not, I was denied! But if any of you watch the show, especially this season, you will know the neck decorations to which I refer.)

Now things being what they are (me being a reformed shopaholic) I did quite a bit of looking until I found this one. I like 95% of it. My only cause for pause is that I wonder, when shelling out a not insufficient sum of money for a piece like this, should one not hold out for something with a bit of ... color?

Thoughts?

poll by twiigs.com

Love, P

The Fashion Pit - Charlotte Olympia Cat-Face Wedge

2011-09-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last month lusting after anything and everything found in the September issues. Fall will do that to you. Fall makes you want to shop. Fall makes you want to sell everything you own just so you can buy those coveted over-the-knee suede boots, it makes you want to spend your last twenty dollars on that so-called "perfect" red lipstick, and it can make you want to buy copious amounts of leather and fur even if you are a die-hard PETA member. Trying to be Zen about consumption and buying only what you need doesn't come as easily to this fashion rehabber as I thought it would; I still struggle with shopping on an almost daily basis! (Only now I am better at weeding through the senseless stuff but great at picking out the sensational!) Hmm...where was I? Oh, I hadn't got there yet. What I am trying to say is sometimes you shouldn't take yourself (or fashion) too seriously. All of this obsessing and the idea of keeping up with the Joneses is sometimes really just a load of BS. On that note I have a few things to say about the "shoe" below:

Charlotte Olympia Cat-Face Ankle-Strap Wedge, $895

No need to reload the page, people, your eyes do not deceive you! You are indeed looking at a $900 shoe with the face of a cat on the toe. C'est quoi? Say what? They are selling them at Bergdorf's so clearly their shoe buyer thought they were a fab-u-lous pick for this fall. I think these shoes are insane with a capital "I". The price, the cat face, and heel are beyond my comprehension. And they are complete misrepresentation of the state of affairs of 99.9% of the population. If you do have this much money to burn, please keep it you yourself.

Love, A

P.S. I am putting out an APB on which celeb is going to don these first. (If you spot them on someone, please email us!)

Lust or Must? J. Crew Edie Purse

2011-09-24T07:27:00.000-07:00

J. Crew Edie Purse, $238

Yesterday I was flipping through the latest J. Crew catalog and came across this Edie bag. I love the detachable strap and the leather looks quite luscious in this pecan color. Although cute, and definitely a bag I do not have in my wardrobe, I was struck by the heavy-hitting tag line beneath the photo of it in the catalog. It said "It's the Bag of a Lifetime". Wow! I thought to myself (and then out loud to P as we commiserated over it in my kitchen), that is quite a statement! It actually made me pause and wonder if it really is the bag of a lifetime. At $238 it is on the pricier side, but if it is as major as J. Crew claims it to be than that seems like a mere pittance.

Please do me the honor by putting your two cents in below. Lust or Must?

Love, A

poll by twiigs.com

P's Picks - Best Dressed from the Emmy's

2011-09-20T22:50:00.001-07:00

I don't know how many of you tuned in to last Sunday night's airing of the 2011 Emmy Awards, but I sure did! Even though I was in the middle of an epic road trip with CB24 (that's another post for another time), both of us agreed we'd rise early Sunday morn so we would have plenty of time to hunker down in a hotel, pop some bubbly and check out some good ol' fashioned Hollywood glamour. (We had our priorities very straight, obviously.) I thought Ms. Lynch did a great job hosting and I loved the bit the ladies of comedy did when their category came up (CB24 and I were howling!), but my favorite part of the show had to be the Mad Men cameo in the opening. Though it had to have been only three minutes max, it was brilliantly written and brilliantly acted. Which brings me to the most brilliant beauty of the night - as far as I'm concerned. She didn't make an appearance in that witty sketch, but she is an integral member of the cast. And she is my pick for best dressed. (Note: all pictures below are from Go Fug Yourself one of my favorite sites of all time. Seriously. Do yourself a favour and RSS that URL toute suite!)

My favorite by far, Jessica Pare from Mad Men in a gorgeous strapless wonder by Pamela Rolland. It combines many of my favorite things like sparklies, feathers and ombre, not to mention it fits her like a dream! (I realize this may not be the best image of the dress, but I loved this photo too much not to feature it. I mean, come on! Could those two be any marvy-ier???)

This is one of my runner-ups. I love it for the color just as much as the wee cap sleeves.

Another runner-up. This dress is the perfect mix: it's unique and glamorous all at the same time and the fit is perfect for her teeny tiny (maybe a titch too teeny) frame.

And last but not least there's this:

I don't always love what LM has going on, but I do love this. It's the perfect red, the shoulders are great - very glam - and it's backless. I love, love, love a good backless dress!

All in all, I thought there was a lot to see style-wise. Who made your BD list?

Love, P