Moon in the Tenth House

Reminder Please follow on the new site

2010-05-29T22:12:00.000-04:00

To all my "networked blog" followers and "google connect" followers....PLEASE be sure to go to the NEW site...mooninthetenthhouse.com to sign up for RSS feeds (coming soon), Networked Blogs following (click button on new site), or become a FAN on Facebook if you want to continue to receive content! Thanks for all your support!

EXCITING NEWS WE HAVE MOVED TO A NEW SITE!!!!!

2010-05-25T18:29:00.000-04:00

Please find our new and improved site at MOONINTTHETHENTHHOUSE.COM (I actually have my OWN URL now!)
LINK HERE:::: *******Moon in the Tenth House*********

See you there! Thank you all for your support to make this happen....:) XO J

Who Remembers Swatch? They're BAAACCCKKK

2010-05-24T20:06:00.000-04:00

photos: swatch.com

I have been nostalgic about everything 80's and I have been noticing the return of the Swiss Swatch Watch in the fashion press latley. As it goes, everything that is old is new again in fashion, and the Swatch is no exception.

I have memories of proudly displaying my colored bands and bright watch faces to my friends as we "oohed and ahhad" over every new style and color. It was quite trendy to wear several of them on your arm at once. I have a clear memory of a camp friend of mine wearing her big bright white swatch watch on her ankle! Wow...was she ever ahead of the trend...so cool.

I've added some fun pictures of the Swatch watches of today. Available at swatch.com. Did you ever own a Swatch? I KNOW some of you did. Do you remember what color yours was? What the watch face looked like?

Oscar on a Spring Afternoon; Rabbits Run Wild Near the Honeysuckle; and Lilly of the Valley

2010-05-23T15:40:00.001-04:00

I've added a bit of a photo expose today to celebrate the sense of serenity that only nature and pets can provide. Oscar loves lounging in the mulch. Every day I find him in the same spot in the garden enjoying the sweet spring breeze.

I've have been noticing that every year, the rabbit population seems to be exploding. I tried to get a better shot of this guy. I was afraid that if I got closer, he would surely bolt, so I attempted to get the shot from standing on the deck. I admit it could be a much better photo, had I a better lens, but alas, this is the best I could do....the hedgerow is blooming with Honeysuckle this time of year and the sent is heavenly.

Lilly of the Valley is one of my favorite sents. I noticed that there is a huge amount suddenly blooming in the side garden. This particular flower always brings back memories of grandmother, Molly, as she told me that this was her favorite.

My tiny bouquet of Lilly of the Valley to bring into the house.

Mia Tyler, Crystal Renn, and Tyra Banks: "Women Come in all Shapes and Sizes, a Size 12 is no less Beautiful than a Size 2"

2010-05-23T14:52:00.002-04:00

Mia Tyler, half-sister to actress Liv Tyler, and daughter of legendary Aerosmith rocker, Steven, has found success as a plus size model. Like many women, Mia has struggled with her weight and was a contestant on "Celebrity Fit Club", where she tipped the scales at 210 lbs. She has since taken off some of that weight, adapted a healthier diet and exercise regime, and is now down to a healthy size 12/14.

Mia Tyler: Plus size model, daughter of Rock Legend Steven Tyler.

photo: perfectpeople.net

Crystal Renn: High Fashion is changing its attitudes about size.

Chanel uses Renn in their Cruise Runway Show in St. Tropez.

Chrystal Renn rocks the fashion industry in Chanel. Another win for the plus sized fashion group.

Chrystal Renn at the Chanel Cruise Runway Show. Crystal is a size 12.

Tyra Banks has endured media criticism for gaining weight. She has since re-invented herself as "plus sized". Eating disorders are rampant across america and many critics point to Hollywood and the Media for glamorizing skinny as beautiful and sexy. Most young women who try to break into the modeling and acting field are told by agents that they need to drop any excess weight to have a shot at a career. Crystal Renn accounts for the disease first hand in her book "Hungry", where she used every trick in the book to get her body size down to 0. She eventually choose her health over her career and let her body set at its natural size. [Refer to the link of my post on Crystal: Crystal Renn: "Hungry"]

To put things in perspective, below are photos of women need to EAT...before they just break, or crack or fade away...

Rachel Zoe: The Queen of 'Too Damn Skinny.'

Rachel reports that "eating sometimes doesn't make it on my to-do list" and that she survives on "coffee and grapefruit."

photo: Auntiefashion.wordpress.com

Rachel Zoe has been criticized for perpetuating a culture of "dangerously skinny is stylish and chic" among her famous clients.

Longtime client, Nicole Richie, who was becoming painfully thin in past years, recently dropped Zoe as her stylist; on speculation that Rachel's advice on her being too thin was destroying her health. Nicole has since put weight back on and has maintained a healthy weight since the birth of her children.

Nicole Richie in her Dangerous Skeltor Days

photo: hollywoodgrind.com

Healthy and fit Nicole now.

photo: tinymels.wordpress.com

Faboo Design Ideas from Boston to Manhattan Beach: All White and Pops of Red

2010-05-22T00:14:00.004-04:00

Headboard and bathroom door traveled from the designer's Victorian home in Boston to Manhattan Beach. Megan Arquette of Beach Bungalow 8.
beachbungalow8.blogspot.com
www. houzz.com

Lattice Wallpaper on one of the walls in the dining area gives a more refined feel to the beach house. The black geometric backed chairs mimic the shapes in the wallpaper beautifully.

The most killer touch to the dining area is.....

the FAB red bamboo chandelier. OMG to DIE for.It adds the perfect pop of color.

How important is art in our world? More pops of red.

contemporary bedroom design by san francisco interior designer Faiella Design

eclectic entry design by chicago interior designer Allison Cosmos
A front door painted in such a unique way really brings interest to the front of the house. It is sure to be a memorable entryway that will not be easily forgotten.

eclectic bedroom design by los angeles interior designer Brooke Giannetti

Again, as I always re-iterate...if you want to create serenity in your home, go with ALL WHITE. It will give your space an airy peaceful feeling. Worried about cleaning white furniture? If you use slipcovers on all your furniture, you will be able to whisk them off and throw them in the wash. This bedroom is beautiful. I would go one step further and paint the fireplace mantel white.

traditional family room design by los angeles interior designer Brooke Giannetti
Another example of use of white and neutral tones to create a serene breezy feel.

RETRO summer :: Fun Friday Fashion:: MORE Lilly

2010-05-21T12:56:00.001-04:00

Some things just scream RETRO to me. I don't know if it is nostalgia that keeps bringing me back to Lilly patterns, or if it's simply the fun bright colors that cheer my day. More supremely throwback looks to warm your Friday afternoon. Happy Summer...bring it on!!!!!!!

Lilly Pulitzer Haley Skirt Lattice Jacquard
$138.00
lillypulitzer.com

Roselyn Skirt Bouquet

$118.00

Roselyn Skirt

Frisky Business $118.00

Lilly Website Skirt Link

Nikki Maxi Skirt Striped

$298.00

Lilly Link to Maxi Skirt

Maho Skirted Bottom

$88.00

Lilly Link to Swim Attire

Worth Shift Hen House

$178.00

Lilly Link to Shift Dress

New Trends in Leggings: Amazing Where The Legging Craze is Taking Us

2010-05-20T14:48:00.000-04:00

Let's get real about something here. Leggings are very comfortable. The are cute on most people if worn with the right choice top and virtually ANY shoe looks good with leggings. Boots look cute with leggings..so why NOT have all these cute style choices available for leggings? The only thing that is crucial to understand when wearing leggings, is that they are NOT pants, so always make sure to cover your a$$. I have seen women walking around town and college campuses with waist length shirts while wearing leggings. NOT a good look.

Also, take a look at the Stella McCartney leggings for $905.00. Who the hell does she think she's kidding? Seriously, most of us can find a hundred thousand more things better to spend our $905.00 dollars on than some " lace stretch detail leggings." Yeesh.

On a positive note, I am loving the silver stretch riding leggings from LnA. I think those are a great re-engineered version of the legging. The Plan B black mesh leggings for $26.00, look much more like silver silky leggings in the picture, so it's hard to tell what those really will look like until you see it live. Not sure what to make of the tie dye version...not loving it right now. Remember, if in doubt, you can also never go wrong with a classic black legging which can be found almost anywhere. I think that leggings are a part of our permanent wardrobe now since they have been resurrected from the '80's. They are here to stay..so if you don't like them..get used to it! LOL.

All available at Bluefly.com.

New Trends In Leggings by Bluefly.com featuring Charley 5.0 leggings

Items in this set:
Charley 5.0 blue tie-dye denim skinny leggings, $115
Stella McCartney black stretch lace detail leggings at Bluefly, $905
LnA silver stretch nylon riding leggings at Bluefly, $70
French Connection dove leopard print 'Fast Hot Rod' leggings at..., $48
Plan B black mesh leggings at Bluefly, $26

Different Design Elements: Wonderful Ways to Make Any Space Your Own

2010-05-19T20:59:00.002-04:00

New York Home Design: Wendy Goodman

"Neo Victorians" Young Williamsburg Couple collects antiques from the wife's grandmother and the street.

Olive Oil contained in an old glass skull.

NY Mag Website Link

I wanted to write a piece about claiming space, any living space and making it your own. This space could be a house, an apartment, a bathroom, office or even a closet. The important thing is that you stake out the space and make every inch of that space exactly what you want it to be. It doesn't matter if you are renting the space or own it. You occupy it, therefore it is yours. It should be a place of comfort, retreat and relaxation. It should reflect who you are. I came upon an article thoughtfully sent to me by a friend. She believed that I would get a kick out of all the different ranges of style found around New York and the creative ways in which the owners decorated their space. Be it large or small, owned or rented, each owner's personality and style comes through in ways that are charming, definitive and beautiful.

New York Home Design: Wendy Goodman

"Neo Victorians" Young Williamsburg Couple collects antiques from the wife's grandmother and the street.

The apartment of clothing designer Anthony Malat and his wife, photographer Jamie, is decorated solely on reclaimed and inherited items. They felt there was a sense of nostalgia that they wanted to represent in their living space. The couple uses creative and innovative was to showcase their antiques and their own personal style. The use of elements is key, for example, using the glass skull as a container for olive oil.

"The office interiors of the film Downfall were a big influence on our color palette. In general, it was a mixture of Flowers in the Attic, Pretty Baby, The City of Lost Children, and Spaceballs." Anthony Malat on what influenced their decorating style.

Desk is a flea market find for $48.00. Malet built the shelves himself. The wood is reclaimed from an old torpedo factory.

Celebrity hairstylist, Steven Knoll wanted more space and found it in a loft style apartment, but had to create character out of a very plain liner design.

"Neo Formal"

What was once an old factory with raw edged flooring is now an elegant space akin to Paris apartment.Steven Knoll found the space he craved in this 2,500 square foot loft in the meatpacking district.

Knoll designed this room as a dressing room/office. The lighting behind the racks of clothing is an ingenious design touch. The layers of light, fabric and color matched by the richness of the wood are very masculine, yet refined.

"One of my biggest inspirations was all my time spent at the Paris flea market looking at the beautiful antiques.I wanted a large-enough space where I could offer each antique its own place of appreciation.I was also looking for the combination of Park Avenue refinement and grace with a downtown loft’s edge and freeness."

Inspiration behind Knoll's apartment decor choices.

Brooklyn real estate designers added warmth by using honey toned wood against stark white to create a beautiful rustic like space.

"Neo-Country"

I love what Brooklyn property owners did to this 1,250 square foot brownstone in Park Slope. It looks modern, yet very comfortable by bringing in the natural elements of the warm wood against the beautiful stark white flooring and stainless steel cooking hood. The best element of all, in my opinion, are the wood beams that intersect the ceiling.

Former Domino magazine editor loves to add English Manor charm to her small Greenwich Village apartment.

English Manor Style in Greenwich Village

Interior Designer, Rita Konig, mixes elements beautifully in this small 700 sq ft apartment.

"I have always liked decorating my small apartments as though they are just a few of the rooms in a much larger house, so you have the feeling that you could, should you want to, wander off to the drawing room, library, dining room, but for the moment are just choosing to be in this rather cozy study. Maybe it is peculiar to the English, but you know how people in huge houses live in a tiny room with all the dogs and the television? This is sort of the reverse of that." Konig's influences.

all photos and quotes courtesy of New York Magazine
source article link http://nymag.com/homedesign/

Zebra Print in Decor: Why I LOVE Tracy Porter's Eye for Design

2010-05-19T13:50:00.000-04:00

My inspiration for this post is a picture shot of our cat, Sammy, (aka Tiny) lounging on my faux zebra print rug in our family room. I love how the stripes of his coat mimic the stripes on the pattern of the rug. I the spirit of developing a theme, I went on a quest for ideas of how to incorporate the black and white traditional zebra print into everyday decor.

No one does the eclectic mix better than designer Tracy Porter. She is my "go to" designer for inspiration. I know I can count on her to never let me down. She once again delivers some beautiful ideas of ways to use zebra print in her decor. I love how she masters the use of the zebra rug as a backdrop for her sofa, artfully places the zebra print ottoman in front of her black as-night lacquered fireplace mantel, and how she simply has fun in trying new ways to incorporate layers into her living spaces.

Zebra always looks classic and subdued when presented in a monochromatic theme of simple black and white elements.

Tracy Porter: Consider adding exotic prints to your decor.

The Zebra rug draped over the sofa adds wonderful layers to the living room. Many patterns and colors are at play here, but Tracy makes them work.

photo: tracyporter.com

Zebra looks stunning when paired up with Chinese red. There is something so perfect and exotic about the pairing of that particular pattern and color.

photo: tracyporter.com

Target Website Link

Look for ways to add unexpected layers to your decor. Funky patterns give your space personality. It's what makes you unique and delivers that special authenticity. Your decorated space is a reflection of who you are and who you want to be. Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to make it look like you spent a lot of money.

Zebra Rug: Walmart.com

Always check out Ebay for great steals and deals....

Animal Print Zebra Safari Trunk Ebay.com

Hello Kitty Flash Drives: Lady Gaga Ear-in-buds: For Fashionable Techies

2010-05-18T18:25:00.001-04:00

Essential must haves for fashion forward tech girls! Check out these seriously cute and cutting edge cool tech products that will add some zing to some of the more boring looking things we use on a daily basis. I spotted these today in a technology magazine and HAD to find out more about them!

Hello Kitty USB Drives

$34.95

perpetualkid.com

Perpetual Kid Website

The cutest little USB drive on the block!

OMG..a Hello Kitty Webcam!

Kaboodle.com

What every girl needs; a Hello Kitty Crystal 2GB USB drive!

ladiesgadgets.com

For some serious sound during your workouts, check out these cool ear-in-bud headphones.

Monster Heartbeats ear-in-bud headphones designed by Lady Gaga herself.

They come in black, red and silvertone.

Monster sound has a reputation for being the best in the industry. Reviewed by serious musicians. These tiny speakers are reported to deliver great quality sound that has never before been engineered in an earbud.

Monster Beats by Dr. Dre

Funkiture: What a Cool Concept in Furniture Upholstering and Re-purposing: Not Your Usual Fare

2010-05-17T18:09:00.000-04:00

From the Funkiture website, I could not have said it better myself:

"The basic concept behind "Funkiture” is recycle, renew, and reuse. We take a piece that's forgotten and old, yet made better than most new pieces today, and give it a new lease on life. From a traditional design with a twist to the intricately painted conversation piece, each item is reworked to bring out its once overlooked beauty. "

And how! This recycled and renewed collection is so incredibly rock star cool.

"Skull and Bones"

'Victorian Zebra"

"Iguana Vinyl"

"Carvings and Terracotta"

"Magenta Carvings"

Pillows

I think Sharon and Ozzy would be a huge fan. But seriously, who doesn't love the idea of taking something old and worn out and restoring it to something even beyond its original beauty and/or purpose. I live for this kind of design. The creator, Caitlin Conlow, takes special orders, per her website: funkiturebrooklyn.com

Funkiture Website

94 South 1st Street
Brooklyn, NY 11211
347.400.3172

info@funkiturebrooklyn.com

photos: funkiturebrooklyn.com

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt : Another Laugh Fest!

2010-05-17T15:27:00.000-04:00

I have been obsessed with watching clips from the cable show "Whatever Martha!", co-hosted by her daughter, Alexis and Jennifer Koppelman Hutt. First off, I have to say that these girls are the real deal. They are not blinded by celebrity or perceived status thereof. I wouldn't be writing about them on my blog if I felt there was a single air of pretentiousness between the two of them. Jennifer is more approachable for sure, as Alexis has a reputation for being bitchy, but I believe that it is just her persona, as she likes to strip things to the "bare bones" and refuses to put up with any crap.

I am equally impressed that Jennifer Hutt actually answered my email last night, and for that I love her...she is awesome and so is Alexis. In
this segment of "Whatever Martha!", Martha paints one of her zillion porches, using some serious mathematical equations that will make your head hurt, then tapes out a pattern after using a chalk string, and explains how to avoid painting herself into a corner. She does all this while making some really SERIOUS fashion faux pas. This is one you cannot miss!!

photo: fineliving.com

Charming Finds from Etsy: To Melt Your Heart

2010-05-16T22:35:00.001-04:00

How precious is this charm necklace? I love it because it is a cluster of many different sizes, but all similar shapes, (circles and hearts, and then the oddball long rectangle.) The charms can be imprinted with names of your loved ones, children, pets, etc. I am in LOVE with this necklace. $62.00 Madison Reece Designs (Etsy Shop)

"Sweet Child of Mine"

This little charming vintage Bisque doll necklace is so unique!

The artist states that she believes the doll to be prior to 1930. She even has a matching necklace of her own! $115.00 Rebecca 3030 Vintage "Sweet Child of Mine"

Darling little vintage style tattoo heart necklace. The little ship wheel and anchor really make this necklace to die for. $21.00 1 Bad Attitude

"Le Clef" by Miss Annie May is a show stopper!

This piece is made up of over one dozen chains. The dripping hearts and old fashioned keys make it a one of a kind piece. I especially love the HUGE vintage brooch clasp. $68.00 Le Clef Miss Annie May

ONE MORE by Miss Annie May.....

"The Heart Of the Ocean "

This knockout choker is filled with treasure upon treasure. The small seed pearls, the gold coins, the vintage jewels and the sand dollar clasp are just jaw dropping. There is so much to look at in this piece that it truly is a feast for the eyes. $98.00 The Heart of the Ocean Miss Annie May

Etsy.com has many, many wonderful artists that have all kinds of extraordinary hand made items that cannot be found anywhere else. Etsy.com provides a way for independent artists to showcase their goods to the world without the expense of owning a storefront or spending a lot of money on advertising. I urge everyone to to to Etsy.com first when looking for a special piece of jewelry, home decor or any sort of unique gift. I have found some very special things on Etsy, that I would of never ever in a million years been able to find anywhere else. Some of my most cherished items are found on Etsy.com.

Tracy Melton: Focus Line Art: Up Cycled and Renewed Contemporary Wall Discs

2010-05-15T13:31:00.003-04:00

photo: apartmenttherapy.com

Etsy shop Focus Line Art

Tracy Melton is a full time artist based in Knoxville, TN. He makes these cool tree ring paintings from fallen limbs of Red Elm trees. He sands them down and then adds coats of polyurethane, and then paints them for a cool crisp contemporary look. $94.99 for a set of 3.

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt Get Real About Martha's OCD

2010-05-14T20:08:00.003-04:00

link to Alexis' and Jennifer's Website "Whatever Martha"

My sides are splitting watching a clips of the Alexis Stewart, daughter of Martha Stewart, and her friend, Jennifer Koppelman Hutt, commenting on an old videos of one of Martha Stewart's shows where she demonstrates how to go about making S'mores. Alexis and Jennifer had taped a series of shows for cable tv's Fine Living Network (FLN) and currently have a radio show on Sirius Satellite Radio. I don't have access to Sirius Satellite, but I kind of wish that I did, because I can listen to these two go on and laugh for hours.

We all know what Smores are...but Martha takes the Smore- making activity to a whole new level. S'more making is a fun campfire activity where kids go about gathering twigs or sticks, happily skew a marshmallow on the end of the twig and roast it over the campfire to get it soft enough plop it onto a graham cracker with a healthy dose of Hershey's chocolate. The result is an oeoy gooey melty mess of chocolate and marshmallow. It is not a neat clean affair by any means. And it's not supposed to be.

Well, not in Martha's world. She sets up her supplies with all the usual suspects, the chocolate squares, the crackers, marshmallows, etc, with a few exceptions.

She has a Swiss army knife and battery operated hand drill. What is she going to do with the drill? Alexis asks this question and Jennifer rolls her eyes back in her head and in a dry humor voice she says..."she's going to complicate the s'more process." Understatement of the year!

Martha proceeds to pull out a bunch of perfectly sized twigs and shows the audience how to "whittle" a point onto the twig using the swiss army knife. Whittle a point? Are the marshmallow roasting twigs also used as some sort of Mideavel hunting weapon? Why would you need such a sharp point to skewer a marshmallow? This is the humor of it all. The girls ask these logical questions while viewing the clip.

Next, Martha takes some sort of small wood block and starts drilling the twig to the block. Why?????? She starts going off on a tangent about making some sort of campfire tool. As if you NEED a campfire tool. Martha takes the s'more making process was too seriously and Alexis and Jennifer get real and show the humor in all of this in an fun, refreshing way. Now we know that no one can really live like Martha Stewart.

photo: Wikipedia.com

Friday Fun! Picks from Around the Web...

2010-05-14T13:10:00.002-04:00

The DKNY COZY

photos: dkny.com

There are 12 ways to wear this fabulous sweater by DKNY. It is probably the most versatile garment ever invented. Below are some examples of ways to wear the Cozy, but head over to dkny.com to see them all and watch a cool video on all the possible looks you can get out of this ONE sweater! Sweaters above in summer linen fabric.

SUMMER DRESSES: What says summer more than a Lilly dress?

"Lola" Dress 50's Poplin $180.00 lillypulitzer.com

"Bowen" Dress Floral Lace $328.00 lillypulitzer.com

Awesome new arrivals: Logo sandals from Tory Burch

""Miller" flat $195.00

boomingdales.com

RETRO, RETRO, RETRO

Nanette Lapore "Firecracker" one shoulder striped sweater-dress

$298.00 bloomingdales.com

(Seriously Retro Cool)

Can't ever go wrong with a Tory Burch "Reva" Ballet Flat

Metallic Flat

bloomingdales.com $195.00

For a little more edge: go with some animal magnetism.

Marc by Marc Jacobs$198.00

bloomingdales.com

Joe Zee: Questions for Elle Magazine's Creative Director: Sponsored by Fashion Website Rue La La

2010-05-13T11:38:00.004-04:00

Yesterday I was exicted to take part in the in the question and answer steaming webcast sponsored by Ruelala.com with the famous and well respected Joe Zee, Creative Director of Elle magazine. Joe has styled many celebrities such as Julia Roberts and most recently, Fergie, who is on the May cover of Elle magazine. Joe has received some national attention on national cable TV lately, playing himself in his role on the MTV reality show, The City, about young designer Whitney Port and her rise in the fashion industry and all the milieu that comes along with that. Other cast of characters in the show include the less popular, Olivia Palermo, all around mean girl,who is constantly trying to sabotage our heroine, and the 'can do no wrong in my book', PR wonder, Kelly Cutrone, and your usual fare of drama queens and all out nasty behavior.

photo: auntiefashion.wordpress.com
Joe has to professionally manage these girls and shut down the cat-fights to actually get some work done. But again, I am guilty of straying from the intention of this post; Joe's advice. Joe gives styling advice about summer outfit choices, staying true to your personal style and not falling for trends, the perfect black shoe, how to incorporate vintage and classics into your wardrobe with out looking old, and classics for men on how to look updated and modern without looking having to buy new pieces or look at trends. During the hour conversation, one point Joe kept making was to be true to your own personal style. If it works for you do it, don't fall for trends. For optimal style solutions, look to mix vintages piece with modern ones. Try adding a vintage silk scarf with jeans to your outfit instead of a classic skirt. Or if the skirt is vintage, try adding denim on top such as denim shirt from Gap, or a jean jacket. Pearls look hip and modern with a jean jacket, but take on a whole different vibe if added with a silk shirt and blazer jacket. If you have a hand me down leather bag, such as a vintage Coach, by all means wear it, but put it on with some dark jeans and heels. Keep it fresh and youthful as you want to be careful not to age yourself.

Fergie is Elle magazine's May 2010 Cover Girl (styled by Joe Zee) photo: elle.com

Also, there are no rules. You can wear black boots and shoes in the summertime. The key to pulling it off, again lies in the mix. Brown and black CAN go together as well as navy and black. (Joe exclaims that navy and black look dynamite together if done correctly, he finds that people are just afraid to try).

He covers the question of how the internet and social media have opened up the fashion industry in a way that was is unprecedented. He believes that fashion should be accessible to everyone in every corner of America and that they shouldn't be limited by their geographic location. Fashion bloggers are weighing in on trends in their city and attitudes among their peer groups, giving the industry insight into many other demographics besides those around them in New York, London or Paris. Webcasts are giving people everywhere access to fashion experts such as himself, to speak to his audience and take their questions. People are shopping online more than they are going into brick and mortar stores. The landscape is always changing and is sometimes hard for even an industry insider to keep up.

Joe Zee's recommendations for every woman's wardrobe:

Traditional Trench Coat
Good Pair Black High Heels
Statement Necklace
Dark Jeans That Fit
Ballet Flats, Ballet Flats and again, for running around, Ballet Flats
Wrap dresses (states that they are flattering on everyone)
And most important, he emphasizes to be sure that the clothes you wear fit. He states that nothing ruins an outfit more than a bad fit. Buy the best you can afford, most likely a classic piece, and get yourself to a tailor!!! Alterations mean the WORLD.

Rachel Roy Pulls Off Another Stunner

2010-05-13T05:35:00.001-04:00

Rachel Roy New York

Photo: Rachel Roy Facebook Upload

Melania Trump

Roy pulls off another beautiful design. The draping and the cuts in the front of the skirt are beautifully done, as is the folded fabric on the bodice. The blue color is an alternative to black but not so pastely or bright; perfect sophistication for the spring/summer season! The jeweled accent is just the right touch. Rachel comments how the flesh tone shoes make Melania's legs look like they go on non stop! Bravo, Rachel, you ROCK.

Nine by Design: Upcycling, Charity and MY LOVES

2010-05-11T23:59:00.001-04:00

photo: usatoday.com

The Novogratz Family:Cortney and Robert, Wolfie, twins Bellamy and Talullah, twins Hollander and Five, Breaker and baby Major

In tonight's episode of 9 by Design, Cortney and Bob try to raise money for two charitable events; one for a friend's adorable little girl diagnosed with leukemia to help offset the high cost of her medical bills and the second is organizing a fundraiser for a local boy's basketball team for underprivileged kids in NY. Cortney takes on a project for their friend/client Dave, to redecorate his office where the major problem starts out with one very large white wall which dwarfs the small desk and dinky office chairs that are in there.

We first met Dave in a prior episode where Bob and Cortney are tasked with redesigning a wrestling gym, where they did a wonderful job, clearing out ugly fixtures, such as a bar and knocking down walls. They added vintage items and mixed them with sleek and contemporary fixtures and furniture. This is what Sixx design does best...that mix...it makes you love the coolness and hipness of it all, but then takes you a step back to a nostalgic place, a place of comfort, that is so touching and enduring in your heart. I think this is their magic mix, their elixir, the thing that makes them authentic.

The Novogratz kids are adorable. Bob and Cortney seem to be trying to instill as sense of 'giving back' in the kids. They are on TV, and have semi-famous parents, a unusual boatload of sibs, and yet they seem grounded. In last week's episode, the twin girls, Bellamy and Tallulah had to come up with a list of legitimate reasons why they should have a cell phone. Bellamy took a great deal of time to research the EXACT phone she wanted online, so that when she got to the store there would be no mistakes. She took the time, realized that she was getting a special gift, and truly appreciated it. Maybe that's what you do when you six siblings to compete with. At any rate, she stole my heart...and the oldest boy, Wolfie, is growing into a boy with good values. He donated some of his basketball trophies for the charity and spoke in front of a group of adults about what the team meant to him. They were able to raise a sufficient amount of money for the progam.

As for the design aspect of tonight's show, well that is my LOVE. Cortney gets very creative in taking some of Dave's photographs of his family, enlarging them, and making them into wallpaper for the HUGE white wall. She then goes on a mission to find some upcycled chairs, and adds just the right fabric to them to change them into uber cool pieces. I have always loved the idea of finding crazy old chairs and put a "hip" modern spin on them. The idea is to take something old and weather beaten, and add all kinds of funky modern fabrics, or some cool paint color to make it reusable again. Cortney is a master of this style...and I LOVE it. Why do I always feel the need to find something old, something discarded, and upcycle it...and make it LOVED again..there is HISTORY in this kind of design, it is authentic and unique. People crave this kind of style and Cortney pulls it off. The office is an amazing simple pallet of black and white with a splash of yellow in the rug and funky cast off furnishings that are pulled together oh so well.

Crystal Renn: Plus Size Model : Changing Attitudes in the Fashion Industry?

2010-05-11T16:15:00.009-04:00

photos:amazon.com and
belezasustentavel.wordpress.com (Renn in Jean Paul Gaultier)

Could the inclusion of a larger sized model in such a high profile, iconic fashion show be an indication that attitudes are changing about beauty and healthy lifestyles in the fashion industry? Karl Lagerfeld seems to be changing his stance on hiring only stick thin models for his legendary brand, that was pioneered by the one and only Coco Chanel.

I believe Coco would be proud. Coco Chanel was a woman who challenged the mainstream of her time and broke down barriers for women; she was the first to be photographed in the 1920's wearing pants, and it became a fashion rage, for crying out loud!

Crystal Renn, of the plus size division of Ford Models, (I wasn't aware that such a division even existed until I researched this piece) saw her career kick into high gear as soon as she stopped starving herself and let herself reach her natural size 14-16 shape. Renn admits that trying to stay thin to keep up with the modeling standards has damaged her psychologically and led her to unhealthy eating habits. Renn has released a book on the subject called "Hungry, Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves". In the book, she admits that in order to get into the modeling industry, she had to restrict her diet by cutting out meat, eggs, sugar, and animal fat. She started eating whole grains and exercising constantly. While any of us can advocate cutting back on unhealthy foods such as animal fat and sugar, she started to take it to an extreme. When Crystal was 14, she was told by a modeling scout (not from Ford) that she had to lose 4 inches on her hips and lose 30 pounds. She did all this. At the age of 14. Then she plateaued.

She was successful as a young model in New York, as her eating disorder continued, maintaining her weight at 95-105lbs. When she hit age 17, her body rebelled. She couldn't lose any more weight. Chastised by her agents, she was taken aside and told she could either do commercials or become a plus sized model. She chose the latter. Renn continues to have an explosive career in modeling and has maintained her size 14 figure. She is an inspiration to women everywhere to accept themselves as they truly are, to be healthy, and not try to shove your body into a size 2 dress, or fit a square peg into a round hole.

Crystal Renn's book;

Hungry: A Young Model's Story of Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves, $22.00 is available at amazon.com.

Antropologie: Vintage Beauty Made Modern

2010-05-11T12:19:00.002-04:00

These beautiful tanks can be dressed up or down for summer. Pair with jeans and flats for a more casual look, add heels, some statement jewelry, a lightweight jacket and voila! It becomes evening wear! My picks from Antro for summer tanks and necklaces....(all items can be found online at antropologie.com)

Self Possessed Tank $78.00 anthropologie.com

Fragrant Fields Scoopneck $78.00

Akira Tank $68.00 Antropologie.com

One of my faves!

The shoulder detail on this top is very unique! Lily Top $78.00

Pacific Pavilion Tank $78.00 anthropologie.com

This could almost be a dress!!! (sadly, couldn't get a larger image)

Forest Shower Necklace..a statement piece. $48.00 antropologie.comCluster and bib necklaces are everywhere these days! This turquoise and silver combo is updated for summer. $188.00

I DIE for this Antholgy Necklace $78.00

How cute is this covered dowel necklace? $138.00

Japanese Influenced Cosmetic Line: Harajuku Lovers

2010-05-10T12:04:00.002-04:00

Musician and fashion designer, Gwen Stefani's fashion line, L.A.M.B, produces a fun line of designs inspired by Japanese street style. Harajuku Lovers is a product of L.A.M.B. The delightful little fragrances are unique. They come in 5 different personalities, all appropriately named, with small doll figurines as the cap to the bottle. You will want this collection for your tween or teen daughter..but why do they get to have all the fun?? I own three of the collection and have given them away as gifts...this is, for sure, is a bottle that you will never want to throw away!!!! Keep to display in your bath or vanity. These girls are just too cute; you will want to keep them around for a long time. L.A.M.B is an acronym for Love, Angel, Music, Baby, one of Gwen's slogans...the perfumes are named after each of one of these themes.

Photo: Sephora.com

Harajuku Lovers "G"

sephora.com

10z $45.00

Fragrance Notes: Mandarin, Coconut, Apple Skin, Jasmine Sambac, Freesia, Magnolia, Coconut Cream, White Sandalwood, and Cottonwoods

"Love" $45.00 sephora.com

Notes: Bergamot, Pink Pomelo, Peach, Bamboo Leaf, Watery Peony, Living Hydroponic Lace Rose, Jasmine Sambac, Nectarine Blossom, Creamy Paperwhites, Egyptian Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Vanilla, Musk, and Blond Wood

"Music" $45.00 sephora.com

Notes:
Clementine, Pear, Jasmine Sambac, Sweet Pea, Honeysuckle, Vanilla, Skin Musk, and Sleek Woods

"Lil' Angel " $45.00 sephora.com

Notes:
Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

"Baby" $45.00 Sephora.com

Notes:
Freesia, Bergamot, White Rose, Orange Flower, Tiare, Jasmine, White Musk, Soft Woods, Heliotrope, Vanilla, and Violet

The Talented Ms.Tory Burch

2010-05-10T00:06:00.048-04:00

photo: Tory with her mother, Reva

Classic "Reva" Ballet Flat

$195.00 toryburch.com

Another one of my favorite designers is Tory Burch. Burch began her fashion label in 2004 and probably most well know for her classic beautiful shoe, the "Reva" Ballet Flat. A shoe which she has named after her mother whom she credits as an inspiration for a lot of her fashion sense and designs. Tory saw her business explode shortly after she opened her first boutique in Manhattan when Oprah gave her endorsement.

New Arrivals: Embellished Tunics and Crisp Summer Whites

Tory Burch style clothing is a cross between preppy and bohemian chic. I don't believe that Tory takes her designs too seriously as she adds a touch of laid back bohemian style by mixing caftans, tunics and Moroccan inspired prints to her preppy east coast vibe.

Swala Clutch available for pre-order on toryburch.com

Tory is well known for large collection of handbags, including the classic "Tory Tote". The Swala clutch is an example of the bohemian chic vibe that accompanies a lot of different elements in her collection.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes....you can never have too many different colors of Reva flats.

photo: toryburch.com

Some of my picks from the spring collection for Jewelry......

These wrap cuffs are to die for! Skinny Cuff with logo studs $95.00 each at toryburch.com

Chainmaille Necklace $395.00

toryburch.com

Karen Cuff $195.00

toryburch.com

The Birth (and death) of MTV

2010-05-08T19:52:00.002-04:00

MTV once played music videos! They played very artistic videos with talented artists who actually played music that was good and the songs were written and sang by them. With no voice effects. I know, it sounds crazy and I am probably showing my age, but I think it's sad what has happened to MTV and the music industry in general. It's sold its soul to commercialism. I know this is not a newsflash, nor did anything in particular occur which raised my ire, besides listening to some old songs and realizing how good they were. Then comparing those songs to songs written today...ugh and yuck!

The artists that were played in regular rotation back when MTV was in its infancy were not always glossy and polished like they are today, but they had one thing that a lot of artists on the station now don't have. Those things are: 1) Authenticity and 2) actual talent. Reality Television was unheard of and the thought of anything but music being played on the station would of been laughable. Whoa, how times have changed, and not for the better.

MTV revolutionized the music industry in 1981. The first video to be played on MTV was called Video Killed the Radio Star, by the British band, The Buggles. (Below)

Moon in the Tenth House

Reminder Please follow on the new site

EXCITING NEWS WE HAVE MOVED TO A NEW SITE!!!!!

Who Remembers Swatch? They're BAAACCCKKK

Oscar on a Spring Afternoon; Rabbits Run Wild Near the Honeysuckle; and Lilly of the Valley

Mia Tyler, Crystal Renn, and Tyra Banks: "Women Come in all Shapes and Sizes, a Size 12 is no less Beautiful than a Size 2"

Faboo Design Ideas from Boston to Manhattan Beach: All White and Pops of Red

RETRO summer :: Fun Friday Fashion:: MORE Lilly

New Trends in Leggings: Amazing Where The Legging Craze is Taking Us

Different Design Elements: Wonderful Ways to Make Any Space Your Own

Zebra Print in Decor: Why I LOVE Tracy Porter's Eye for Design

Hello Kitty Flash Drives: Lady Gaga Ear-in-buds: For Fashionable Techies

Funkiture: What a Cool Concept in Furniture Upholstering and Re-purposing: Not Your Usual Fare

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt : Another Laugh Fest!

Charming Finds from Etsy: To Melt Your Heart

Tracy Melton: Focus Line Art: Up Cycled and Renewed Contemporary Wall Discs

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt Get Real About Martha's OCD

Friday Fun! Picks from Around the Web...

Joe Zee: Questions for Elle Magazine's Creative Director: Sponsored by Fashion Website Rue La La

Rachel Roy Pulls Off Another Stunner

Nine by Design: Upcycling, Charity and MY LOVES

Crystal Renn: Plus Size Model : Changing Attitudes in the Fashion Industry?

Hungry: A Young Model's Story of Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves, $22.00 is available at amazon.com.

Antropologie: Vintage Beauty Made Modern

Japanese Influenced Cosmetic Line: Harajuku Lovers

Notes: Bergamot, Pink Pomelo, Peach, Bamboo Leaf, Watery Peony, Living Hydroponic Lace Rose, Jasmine Sambac, Nectarine Blossom, Creamy Paperwhites, Egyptian Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Vanilla, Musk, and Blond Wood

Notes:
Clementine, Pear, Jasmine Sambac, Sweet Pea, Honeysuckle, Vanilla, Skin Musk, and Sleek Woods

Notes:
Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes:
Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes:
Freesia, Bergamot, White Rose, Orange Flower, Tiare, Jasmine, White Musk, Soft Woods, Heliotrope, Vanilla, and Violet

The Talented Ms.Tory Burch

The Birth (and death) of MTV

Moon in the Tenth House

Reminder**** Please follow on the new site****

EXCITING NEWS WE HAVE MOVED TO A NEW SITE!!!!!

Who Remembers Swatch? They're BAAACCCKKK

Oscar on a Spring Afternoon; Rabbits Run Wild Near the Honeysuckle; and Lilly of the Valley

Mia Tyler, Crystal Renn, and Tyra Banks: "Women Come in all Shapes and Sizes, a Size 12 is no less Beautiful than a Size 2"

Faboo Design Ideas from Boston to Manhattan Beach: All White and Pops of Red

RETRO summer :: Fun Friday Fashion:: MORE Lilly

New Trends in Leggings: Amazing Where The Legging Craze is Taking Us

Different Design Elements: Wonderful Ways to Make Any Space Your Own

Zebra Print in Decor: Why I LOVE Tracy Porter's Eye for Design

Hello Kitty Flash Drives: Lady Gaga Ear-in-buds: For Fashionable Techies

Funkiture: What a Cool Concept in Furniture Upholstering and Re-purposing: Not Your Usual Fare

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt : Another Laugh Fest!

Charming Finds from Etsy: To Melt Your Heart

Tracy Melton: Focus Line Art: Up Cycled and Renewed Contemporary Wall Discs

"Whatever Martha!" Alexis Stewart and Jennifer Hutt Get Real About Martha's OCD

Friday Fun! Picks from Around the Web...

Joe Zee: Questions for Elle Magazine's Creative Director: Sponsored by Fashion Website Rue La La

Rachel Roy Pulls Off Another Stunner

Nine by Design: Upcycling, Charity and MY LOVES

Crystal Renn: Plus Size Model : Changing Attitudes in the Fashion Industry?

Hungry: A Young Model's Story of Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves, $22.00 is available at amazon.com.

Antropologie: Vintage Beauty Made Modern

Japanese Influenced Cosmetic Line: Harajuku Lovers

Notes: Bergamot, Pink Pomelo, Peach, Bamboo Leaf, Watery Peony, Living Hydroponic Lace Rose, Jasmine Sambac, Nectarine Blossom, Creamy Paperwhites, Egyptian Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Vanilla, Musk, and Blond Wood

Notes: Clementine, Pear, Jasmine Sambac, Sweet Pea, Honeysuckle, Vanilla, Skin Musk, and Sleek Woods

Notes: Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes: Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes: Freesia, Bergamot, White Rose, Orange Flower, Tiare, Jasmine, White Musk, Soft Woods, Heliotrope, Vanilla, and Violet

The Talented Ms.Tory Burch

The Birth (and death) of MTV

Reminder Please follow on the new site

Notes:
Clementine, Pear, Jasmine Sambac, Sweet Pea, Honeysuckle, Vanilla, Skin Musk, and Sleek Woods

Notes:
Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes:
Raspberry, Cranberry, Blackberry, Pineapple, Pear Blossom, Violet, Rose, Lollipop Accord, Hinoki Wood, and Crystal Amber

Notes:
Freesia, Bergamot, White Rose, Orange Flower, Tiare, Jasmine, White Musk, Soft Woods, Heliotrope, Vanilla, and Violet