nicolette mason

Erickson Beamon's Midnight in Paris

2012-02-10T14:00:00.002-05:00

A vaudevillian cabaret, a flapper, a 1920's courtesan,a bottle of moonshine, and a bag of crystal all walk into a prohibition-era speakeasy... Badum, bum. But actually, really, genuinely, I think I want to live inside the warm, glowy, nostalgic world that I was transported into during Erickson Beamon's presentation. It was Midnight in Paris, it was golden age New York City, it was jazzy Boulevard de Saint-Germain... basically everything I long for. And the jewelry? Flawless.

"No One Wants to Kiss a Girl in Black"

2012-02-10T08:00:00.007-05:00

Is anyone else as obsessed with Downton Abbey as I am? PBS has done an incredible thing by importing this show to America, and I think early-20th century North Yorkshire inspired fashion is going to be an ongoing trend this fashion week season, at least I certainly hope so. I mean, is it even at all possible to sit through Downton Abbey without (very intensely) wishing you could steal the entirety of Mary Crawley's wardrobe? (I also wish for the Dowager Countess' incredible collection of hats, but that's another point, and blog post, entirely.)
Without a doubt, Tadashi Shoji's FW12 collection could, indeed, outfit the entire Downton estate for an afternoon tea, flower show, or dinner party fit for a visit from a Turkish Embassy Attaché.

PS, definitely thought of my loves Abby Gardner & Elana Fishman while watching/writing/reading this.
PPS, since Tadashi Shoji is also one of the few NYFW designers to offer plus sizes, I'm super anxious to see what gets bought (& worn) this fall!

Kaelen | New York Fashion Week, FW12

2012-02-10T04:00:00.006-05:00

Kaelen Haworth is one of those designers who I've been REALLY excited to watch develop and grow. I loved her Spring Summer 2012 collection, and I really loved her Fall Winter 2012 Collection that showed yesterday at Lincoln Center. My biggest take away? Texture. Oh my god, I wanted to touch everything. There were so many sensuous textural elements throughout the collection (shearling, laser cut leather, flecked wool, buttery silk, airy chiffon, incredible metallics...) that I was truly seduced by the contrasting materials as much as by the designs and silhouettes themselves. The almost-black, ultra-deep purple lip was the perfect complement to the grey-scaled collection. Turn down the saturation, turn up the moody glam? I'm sold.

"I Literally Have No Life Until After Fashion Week"

2012-02-08T00:00:00.002-05:00

Ah, it's that time of year yet again... It's still hard to believe that nearly eight years since attending my first New York Fashion Week show as a freshman at Parsons, I'm now attending as a legitimate fashion writer and player in the industry. It's hard not to have a pinch-yourself moment when you're rubbing elbows (or at least, admiring the back of the heads) of your idols. I still get nervous when applying for press credentials that the people behind Mercedes Benz Fashion Week may deny me (I imagine it to be somewhat like a University Admissions Committee, but with chicer clothes), or that I may not get a single invitation when sending out requests. It's impossible not to be enormously grateful everytime my anxieties are quelled!

My fashion week survival kit from several season ago has continued to refine itself; I now travel equipped with an entire technological arsenal (DSLR? Check. iPad? Check. Point and Shoot? Check. iPhone? Check. You'd think I was reporting from the frontlines of war -- and in a way, it is.) I've done a handful of pre-show studio visits, and outfitted my home with things like flowers that brighten up my space while I'm working on late-night deadlines. Now comes the excitement and enthusiasm of the shows!!

For those of you following NYFW from home, be sure to follow me on twitter and Instagram for up-to-the-minute updates. I'll also be speaking at IFB Con today on a panel called "Make Your Blog Irresistible" alongside Grace Atwood from Baublebar, Erica Domesek of PS I Made This, Connie Wang of Refinery29, Wendy Nguyen of Wendy's Lookbook, and Andy Torres of Style Scrapbook. Even if you're not in NY, you can catch the streaming broadcast of the conference here!

What shows and collections are you most looking forward to seeing??

Gift Guide: St. Valentine, Cupid, and Nicolette Walk into a Bar....

2012-02-06T08:00:00.006-05:00

You've probably already noticed that I have a penchant for pink and all things girly, so it should be no surprise that I absolutely revel in that time after New Years when all things pink, red, romantic, and bedecked-with-hearts start rolling out. Yes, it's completely cheesy, and yes, Valentine's Day is a total Hallmark-Holiday, but I still ooh-and-ahh at it all. Wonderful love-life aside, Valentine's day has become less about celebrating my relationship (I think that should be done 365-days a year), and more about indulging in the excessively lovey-dovey on a day where my (otherwise) guilty pleasure has taken a turn to the socially acceptable. Of course, I'll gladly accept a bouquet of red roses, bottle of bubbly, or coffret of chocolates (Vosges Viola's, please) from my S.O., too.

1. Rose Gold Bow Ring, Besty Bow Ring. 2. Loose Color in Twirl, Red Light, and Platonic, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, $12 each. 3. Heart Intarsia Sweater, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel, $295. 4. Valentine's Day Coin Purse, Miu Miu, $450. Part of Miu Miu's insanely cute (and limited!) Valentine's collection! 5. "My Old Flame" and "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy," Deborah Lippmann, $16-$18. 6. Perspex Lips Clutch, Lulu Guinness, $390. 7. Sugar Rose Lip Balm, Fresh, $22.50. I've probably tried every lip balm on the market, and this is still one of my favorites. 8. Rosa Mundi Candle, Diptyque Paris, $65. 9. Wanting II Bow Flat, Melissa, $89. 10. Matte Red Satchel, Cambridge Satchel Company, $170. 11. Angular Cat-Eye Glasses, Cutler and Gross, $400. 12. Dressing Parlor Demi Bra & Panties, Modcloth, $15-$38. 13. Agent Provocateur Parfum, $80.

Christian Louboutin 20 Ans

2012-02-03T11:50:00.001-05:00

This week, landmark department store Bergdorf Goodman hosted Christian Louboutin's 20th anniversary fete - celebrating his iconic red soles with flowing champagne, a red dress code, a collection of Louboutin inspired dresses by Parsons fashion students, and an insanely well-dressed crowd teetering tall in a rainbow of Bamboo Pumps.

Is there a pair of Louboutin's that you're coveting?? If I could have any pair, right now, they'd definitely be the über cool loafers, I mean - just look how happy they make me.

Inside Nanette Lepore's Colorful Studio

2012-01-26T12:00:00.002-05:00

Last week I was invited to an incredible brunch at Nanette Lepore's midtown showroom, where there was a customizable Bloody Mary bar (which, by the way, I think all daytime fashion events should now be required to include), delicious eats, one-on-one time with Lepore herself, a fun and fashionable crowd, and a tour of Lepore's design studio and neighboring factories. It's no secret that I love clothes, but perhaps more thrilling to me is the process - from design to production - that is behind the scenes of all the garments and designers we know and love. I love that Nanette Lepore has decided to keep all of its production in New York, where a once thriving garment industry dominated the apparel market. It's nice to know that there are still NYC-based designers that are passionate and focused on keeping production local!

All Pink Everything

2012-01-20T11:08:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows me in real life (or follows me on twitter, which, these days, is practically the same thing), knows that I'm going through a major pink moment. I hinted at it in this post, but the extent to which I'm pink-washing my life is reaching Barbie-like proportions. Like many girls my age, I went through a serious tom-boy phase, where skirts and dresses and anything pink or purple or pastel were as undesirable as a trip to the dentist. Something happened around my entry to adolescence where I ditched the pants, tossed the Adidas Superstars, and begged for a pair of platforms and bright pink lipstick. I definitely come from a feminist mindset, so as I grew older and more conscious of the way our gender identity is socialized, I began questioning my own unabashed femininity. I've now come to a place of very intentional femininity, and relish in all the stereotypically girly things. Put a bow, a heart, a ruffle on just about anything, and you've won me over.
That said, I know that pink can have an incredibly polarizing effect. My sister, for example, absolutely hates it - and we grew up in the same household, so it's not exactly an issue of nurture!

Pink Jeans - ASOS Curve, Skull Candle - D.L. & Co. via Gil t, Perfume - Juliette Has a Gun, Pink Heels - ASOS, Painted Necklace - Spike the Punch, "The Short List" Notepad - Kate Spade, Nail Polish - CND, I Love You Magazine

The Little Dictionary of Fashion by Christian Dior, Scarf Wrap Watch - Moschino, Metallic Pink Polish & Remover - Butter London, Painted Necklace - Spike the Punch, Bag/Sunglasses/Top/Wallet - Miu Miu

How do you feel about pink? Do you love it? Hate it? Do you find yourself going in and out with specific colors over time?

Baby, It's Cold Outside

2012-01-11T15:42:00.002-05:00

The last eleven days through the eyes of Instagram... It may be cold, but I'm doing my best to start the year off right!

Resolving to "Sparkle Harder" this year...

~~Good~~ Better habits: Starting the day with greek yogurt for breakfast or a green juice!

Amazing care packages from my transatlantic soul sister to bright my days.

Making my space (and my outfits!) a little more colorful.

The Warby Parker Bazaar - where a pair of light blue eyeglasses add pop to an all-black outfit

Pretty things from Butter London and Alexander Wang

Brightening up my beauty routine with pops of bright color! OCC is best

And of course, starting the year in the best city in the world means I already have a head start on doing things right...

2012 is off to a pretty grand start, I must say.

Candy Girl, You Are My World

2012-01-07T04:36:00.008-05:00

A recent candy-colored bubblegum pink shopping spree (a pair of cotton candy shoes, a saccharine sweet pair of jeans, and even some rose tinted lenses, and god-forbid we forget that blush feather situation), sent me spinning back to a particularly colorful collection presented for Fall 1994.
If you haven't seen Unzipped with Isaac Mizrahi, which is undoubtedly one of the best fashion films to have ever been made, well, you should get on that ASAP, (psst, it's on Netflix Instant). It's one of my favorites (ever). Our generation has a habit of waxing poetic about the 1990's, romanticizing the knee highs socks and unabashed love for plaid and maribou-topped pens and tie-dye and hackey-sacks and TLC, but rewinding back to 1994 is a bit of a different experience. The supermodels (Linda Evangelista! Naomi Cambell! Kate Moss! Cindy Crawford!)smiled, and interacted with fashion show attendees, and danced. Photographers sat stageside with A-listers and editors behind them. Spectators were smiling and excited. It makes the all too serious attitudes (piousness, almost) of fashion show attendees today seem a bit ridiculous.
Of course, my nostalgia is a little misplaced. Let's be real, I was all of eight years old at the time, and while fashion certainly had a subliminal impact on my identity, even then, the runway collections of 1994 were not a conscious part of my awareness. After all, at the time, I was still trying to make a case to my mom about the necessity of having real Doc Marten lace-ups as opposed to the (rainbow-in-place-of-yellow-stitching, and therefore a dead giveaway) knock-off version I had. Oh, the things that seem important to a 2nd grader... Doc Martens and Sanrio pencils.
In any case, my bubblegum pink fixation and a bout of insomnia made this all seem all the more relevant, important, influential - everything that I need (er, want) during the cold and slightly stir-crazy inducing month of January.

PINK: Acne Beals Cotton-Terry Sweater, Miu Miu Cropped Pants, Karen Walker Sunglasses, ASOS Santo Pumps. PISTACHIO: Acne Lucile Taffeta Dress, See by Chloe Knitted Cotton Sweater, Mulberry Bayswater, ASOS Macabee Patent Loafer. ORANGE: See By Chloe Knit Sweater Dress, Jil Sander Lagos Double Breasted Coat, ASOS Cowbell Drop Earrings, Reed Krakoff Soft Boxer, Butter London "Minger" Lacquer

New Year, New Wardrobe - Giveaway from SimplyBe!

2012-01-04T00:30:00.013-05:00

As a kick-off to celebrate the new year, I've partnered with UK-based plus-size retailer Simply Be to give away 5 gift cards of $100 each -- meaning you could win up to $500 towards a new wardrobe. Do you have any wardrobe based resolutions this year? One of mine is to donate/sell one item of clothing for every new piece of clothing I bring into my wardrobe! Simply Be helped me jump-start my resolution by adding a few lovely pieces to my closet... Does anyone else dream about lounging around their home in pink feathers? Just me?
And, if you're not plus-sized, fear not: alongside clothing (which starts at a size 10), Simply Be has some killer accessories. Not to be missed? Simply Be's amazing selection of lingerie! No photos on my blog, but trust me - the Gok Wan collection is divine.

1. Leather-Like Leggings, Anna Scholz for Simply Be 2. Feather Jacket, Anna Scholz for Simply Be 3. Jeffrey & Paula Roll Sleeve Blouse

Photos by Austin Manning

GIVEAWAY RULES:

1. Visit SimplyBe.com and pick a piece that you'd love to introduce to your wardrobe!
2. Comment on this entry with a link to your favorite items and short description of how you'd wear them, your name, and e-mail address. Your e-mail address is essential so that we can contact you!
3. "Like" Simply Be USA and Nicolette Mason on Facebook.
4. For an EXTRA entry, tweet "I'm entering to win up to $500 to @simplybeusa from @nicolettemason! http://tinyurl.com/6rwjhc7" (or something like that. I encourage your use of poetic license).

5. That's it! Winner(s) will be selected at random a week from today, (January 11, 2012).

Looking Back (That Was So Last Year)

2012-01-03T08:00:00.101-05:00

This years recap has taken especially long for me as I've tried to wrap my head around how completely life-changing the last twelve months have been. It was only 15 months ago that I set out on a quest to completely turn my life (and career) around, and sometime over the past year, everything I've been dreaming and hoping for has started happening. I can't even begin to articulate how grateful, appreciative, and hopeful I am. 2011 will forever be the year that I knew, for sure, that my life was going in the right direction; I know without a doubt that 2012 will be even better!

JANUARY. Ringing in the new year surrounded by my best friends, a killer playlist, more Prosecco and champagne than we could ever need, sequins, cupcakes, and mylar balloons. Blistering cold blizzards and the boots to pair with the snowflakes. Reminiscing about my December trip to Bali, and my September trip to London. Three-hour lunches at Del Posto for my SO's birthday. Ice skating in the middle of the Meatpacking District. A new year's promise to actually eat breakfast. Swooning over Dior Couture. Picture perfect sunsets. Cosmetic lusts.

FEBRUARY. The month I put myself to the test: No shopping. An early screening of Bill Cunningham New Yor k, (one of my favorite films of the year). Snow, snow, snow, snowy-snow. Seeing Robyn and visiting a midtown Izakaya with Peppi & Rachel. New York Fashion Week. Putting together my power survival kit. Cozy knits at M. Patmos. Major Americana moments. Being a lady who lunches with Phillip at The Standard Grill. Dying over Christian Siriano's absolutely perfect gowns. The Marc by Marc Jacobs runway show. The absolutely incredible 4-song EP released by Beth Ditto (my spirit animal). Karaoke, plaid parties, and adventures with my BFFs.

MARCH. The transformation from raven-haired to my-little-pony. Discovering what would quickly become a favorite California-Mexican haunt. Photo booths with my BFFs. Trans-continental interludes to the West Coast. Sister bonding. Tea parties with the ladies in my family at the Peninsula Beverly Hills. Finally visiting Ten Over Six. Winter strolls in Prospect Park. Bare trees. The Brooklyn Botanic Gardens. JD Samson and MEN (and again just a few weeks later). Being picked up as the contributing fashion editor to Brooklyn Magazine.

APRIL. McCarren Park with a puppy. Ramps season, (fresh from a farm upstate). The beginning of spring. Fresh flowers. The royal wedding, (somehow, my invitation got lost). My 25th birthday. Shoes, shoes, shoes. and more shoes. Miu Miu petals. Abstaining from black in my wardrobe with an unexpected burst of pastel. Peonies. Midnight strolls in my neighborhood.

MAY. Wanderlusting. Jet-setting back to Los Angeles. Christopher Kane cosmic prints. Studded oxfords. Charm bracelets. Gorgeous weather. Swooning over Cast of Vices at Royal-T. More tea parties. Shooting editorials for Brooklyn Magazine. Puppies. Kittens. Baby animals. Flora. Blooming manicures.

JUNE. Putting my styling skills to the test with Brooklyn Magazine. Summer nights on a Brooklyn rooftop, on a picnic blanket, with a chilled glass of white wine. Oyster happy hours in Williamsburg. Beirut at the Northside Festival. The earth shattering, mind-blowing McQueen retrospective at The Met. Full on color. McQuuen tees and Prada baroque glasses.

JULY.Photoshoots at Fort Tilden, (my favorite beach in New York). Fireworks from a Soho Penthouse. Bushwick pool parties. Sassy magazine tribute. Midnight in Paris at Nitehawk Cinema. Breaking my own rules with a maxi. Loving Lula, (always). BUGS!

AUGUST. A visit to the Farmacy. A love affair with shoes. Pre-fall pattern mixing. A stormy day made better by pink glitter. Minor home improvements. Crushing on Charlotte Olympia. New tattoos with Jeremy. Chanel in print. Prepping for fall with pink feathers and leopard print leather. Ladurée takes Manhattan.

SEPTEMBER. Non-stop fashion week grind (my busiest show season yet!) Contributing to Marie Claire!!! Falling in love at Chris Benz's spring presentations. Meeting so many of my blogging favorites & making new friends. Becoming a redhead, (a long, painful 7-hour process that was TOTALLY worth it). Upper east side jaunts with my Transatlantic soul sister, Briony. Stealing Sergio's Chanel lab glasses at MC headquarters. My best friends wedding in rural Illinois; two of my favorite people in the world committing themselves to each other in one of the most beautiful ceremonies and receptions I've ever witnessed... It came with many tears, (all were tears of joy).

OCTOBER. Pumpkins and squash and Brussels sprouts and kale and all of autumns amazing produce. The Culinary Council's incredible Catalan feast. Dozens of market appointments and a wish list of accessories to follow. Participating in Rafaella's Style Council. Makeup roundups and fall cleaning. Seeing Stars at Music Hall of Williamsburg, (with major college nostalgia to follow).

NOVEMBER. My favorite new indie cosmetics brand, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics. Remembering the 30-year fight against AIDS. November material favorites. Thanksgiving in California. Late nights & early mornings at Chateau Marmont. Lusting after pink Miu Miu madras. Holiday season prep with my gift guides. Chanel's "Peridot." Autumn leaves.

DECEMBER. Being on the cover of Plus Model Magazine with BFF Gabi Fresh. Miu Miu glitter x 2. Discovering DUMBO. Lots of sparkle. Family visiting for the holidays. The art of the three-hour lunch at Jean Georges. Being featured on xoJane.com. Window shopping 5th avenue. Spectacular, sweeping views of Manhattan from the 39th floor at Trump Soho. Unseasonal leather weather. A mini-staycation in the Meatpacking District. Breakfast and lunch at Pastis. Bejeweled shoes. A hope for a beautiful new year.

With all the tremendous chaos throughout the world, I've managed to come out a bit stronger. Thank you for joining me on an incredible year and CHEERS to a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2012.

A Very 5th Avenue Christmas

2011-12-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

First things first: I'm not Julia Chesky, nor do I have her photographic prowess, but I do love a good shop window, and no one brings it quite like New York City's visual merchandisers during Christmastime. Item the second: the 50mm lens I brought with me on this day was totally inappropriate for shooting store windows, but hey, the day was December 25th, the streets were crowded, and the air was cold; while my photos certainly don't do the brilliance of these windows justice, it is a nice little snapshot into the scenes along 5th Avenue. At least, I hope.

Sometimes It's All About the Shoes

2011-12-15T08:00:00.010-05:00

If you've been following me on twitter for some time, you know I've been completely obsessed with Miu Miu's glitter shoes from the FW11 collection from the moment (literally, because I was watching the livestream like the maniacal Miu Miu obsessive that I am), they hit the runway. So, I might have gone a little crazy when they finally hit the Net-a-Porter sale... Just a liiiittle crazy. Can you blame me? A little shout-out to my transatlantic blogging soul sister Briony who has enabled and encouraged me for... many, many months. In other news, pants. Yeah, that happened. I realize I have repeatedly said "pants are stupid" and I don't necessarily retract my previous statements. I wore this outfit when I went to have brunch at Five Leaves with my friends Luxirare and Julia Chesky, (Luxi recapped our brunch outing here).

Shoes: Miu Miu via Netaporter, Coat: Diane von Furstenberg via Zoe (also comes in blue! want!), Top: ASOS, Pants: ASOS Curve, Sunglasses: Miu Miu, Purse: Miu Miu*

Photos by my BFF and unparalleled photog Julia Chesky

*My best friend's husband (Hi Nathan! You're one of 5 straight men who read my blog, including my Dad) recently asked if I am paid by Miu Miu to constantly obsess and endorse their goods. The answer is no, but this is definitely a goal for me to work towards!

Speaking of things that are glittery, be sure to check out the December issue of Plus Model Magazine, if you haven't had the chance to do so yet! I am so honored to have been featured on the cover with my bestie and blogger favorite GabiFresh, with an editorial featuring some of our favorite extra sparkly holiday wares (and me in curls)! Thank you to Maddy, Lucas, Tara, and Eliza for helping to make the shoot an amazing experience!

Leather Weather is Better Than Sweater Weather

2011-12-08T19:30:00.004-05:00

Jacket from Wilsons Leather (courtesy of Wilsons), Top from ASOS Curve, Skirt from ASOS, Polka Dot Scarf by Marc Jacobs, Bag by Louis Vuitton, Spectator Heels by Chanel

Photos by Austin Manning

If there is one piece of clothing that I could never live without, it is a great leather jacket. I've long lamented the fact that I couldn't wear my favorite leather bits year round, but I finally found a longer length leather jacket that's lined with Thinsulate to be wearable through even the colder months of the year, (and the leather itself is so buttery soft... Definitely one of the softest leather garments I've ever owned. Not exaggerating). I also love the little details - from the lapels to the buttoned shoulders and yoke. I'm definitely swooning... And if you are, too, the jacket is on sale now at Wilsons!
It also feels important to talk about my skirt, because, if for no other reason, I've had a long, complicated relationship with light colors, especially white. Being a bigger girl practically my whole life has lead to being told that wearing white would only "make me look bigger" - something I've been listening to for years. It's taken a bit of re-learning to work my mind around something that I've been conditioned to believe for so long. Anyways, I think it looks great - and it's a great, bright balance to the black jacket and mostly-grey weather.

How do you wear your leather year-round??

Gift Guide: Gifts that Give Back!

2011-12-08T08:00:00.003-05:00

The holidays are a great time to give, but the truth is most of us have more than we need, (at least, I know I certainly do). In the spirit of giving, I've rounded up some of my favorite products with philanthropic roots and ambitions. If it's within your means to donate your time (or money) to your favorite non-profit organization or charity, consider a time during the holiday season to contribute!

1. Warby Parker Jasper Sunglasses, Warby Parker Mabel Sunglasses, $95 each. Warby Parker's "Buy a Pair, Give a Pair" program puts glasses in the hands of one person in need for ever pair of glasses sold. 2. FEED Guatemala Ikat Bag, $45. Each FEED Guatemala bag will provide 15 school meals through the UN World Food Programme. The bags are made by Nest, a non-profit that empowers local artisans. 3. Lush Cosmetics Charity Pot Body Lotion, $21.95. 100% of each penny spent on a Charity Pot goes to one of many grassroots organizations throughout the world - including TreePeople, WaterCan, Amazon Conservation Team, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare. 4. M.A.C. Viva Glam Lipglass and Lipstick, $14.50 each. Since 1994, M.A.C.'s Viva Glam has been supporting the M.A.C. AIDS Fund. 5. Papier-Mâché Animal Sculptures, $19 - $149. West Elm collaborated with Aid to Artisans to work with artisans in Haiti using recycled materials. 6. Roma Rain Boots, $84. Roma's fair trade labor and one-for-one program gives a pair of boots to a child in need for each pair purchased. 7. TOMS Black Glitters, $54. One-for-one program; each pair of shoes purchased puts a pair on a child in need. 8. Konaworld Africabike Three, $489. For every two bikes purchased, Kona gives a bicycle to a home-healthcare aid in Sub-Saharan Africa. 9. Shop Give Large Leather Pouch, $72. 10% of all net-profits at Shop Give go to charities worldwide. 10. 31 Bits Daphne Bracelets, $10 each. 31 Bits empowers Ugandan women and helps them rise above poverty, while using 100% recycled, local materials. 11. Pangea Organics Pyrenees Lavender & Cardamom Body Lotion, $18. Lip Balm, $12. Pangea Organics is dedicated to working with local artisans on to create small batches of high quality, natural products, while supporting Women for Women International and Jane Goodall.

Don't forget to check out Community Collection, too, while you're gift-giving! Community Collection is a (fairly) new website that puts major fashion brands in touch with global non-profits. Expect partnerships like Mackage for Operation USA, Elizabeth and James for Heal the Bay, and Diane von Furstenberg for Girls Inc.

WANT MORE GIFT GUIDES?
Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
Gift Guide: The Party Girl
Gift Guide: The Boy(ish)
Gift Guide: The Host(ess)
Gift Guide: Gifts that Give Back

Discovering DUMBO

2011-12-01T09:00:00.107-05:00

One of my favorite Brooklyn neighborhoods, (which I don't get to spend nearly enough time in,) is DUMBO, the area between the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges right on the waterfront. The views are spectacular, it's riddled with chic boutiques and cafes and bookstores, the streets are paved with cobblestone and it's just... beautiful. Since the East River Ferry started running from my neighborhood in Williamsburg to the Fulton Ferry Landing, I've been making it a point to get over there more often; (the trip is 4 bucks, 10-minutes, and offers unbeatable views of Manhattan and Brooklyn). In an effort to get to know the neighborhood better, I thought I'd highlight some of my favorite destinations...

I think the photos probably speak for themselves... The Skyline is pretty breathtaking. Both Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges top my list of favorite architectural works in the city, and the waterfront parks have been developed beautifully, too. Added landmarks like the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, The River Cafe, and Bubby's make for a well-rounded (and satiating) waterfront experience.

It's probably not surprising that one of my first destinations every time I'm in DUMBO is at one of Brooklyn's (and perhaps NYC's) best boutiques, Zoë. The Brooklyn branch just celebrated its 5th anniversary and boasts one of the best collections throughout New York. The selection is honestly, really, exceptionally curated (sorry, Jannuzzi) - with some of the best from Stella McCartney and Lanvin and and Carven and Proenza Schouler and Miu Miu and Celine (PHOEBE!) and Givenchy. I fell in love with an amazing wool and alpaca Diane von Furstenberg coat on my last visit, and made the plunge into investing in a proper, quality coat for the first time since I've moved to the east coast... It doesn't hurt that the shape reminds me of a more wearable version of the incredible oversized menswear inspired pieces from the Stella McCartney FW11 collection. Zoë also has an awesome selection of shoes (like my much coveted Miu Miu glitter heels!) and handbags (orange Celine luggage tote.... 'nough said) and casual pieces as well as menswear. If a generous benefactor would like to fund a few shopping trips, for me... feel free to email.
Zoë is located at 68 Washington Street between Front and York, and they also have a shop in Princeton!
Also! The folks from Zoe have been super kind and offered my blog readers 10%
off from now until December 7th with the code "NICOLETTE"! Time to buy those presents... For yourself?!

Brooklyn has a fairly huge community of French ex-pats which means that there are kind of amazing gems sprinkled throughout my fair borough, including Almondine Bakery. Their display case is filled to the brim with majorly indulgent pastries, colorful macarons, fresh baguettes and enormous cloud-like meringues; the chai lattes aren't bad, either. If you're more of a chocolate type of person, Jacques Torres is across the street.
Tip: Almondine is cash only.

If you're into coffee table books (and who isn't, really?) this is your place. I mostly say "coffee table books" in jest, but the enormous warehouse space PowerHouse has hundreds of art and photography books that provide eye candy, thought, contemporary reflection... You know, all that good, artsy-fartsy stuff; (I can say that because I went to art school). I walked out with a copy of Anna Gaskell's interpretation of Alice in Wonderland. They also have a pretty thorough round-up of best-sellers at the front end of the store - loads of Murakami, for example - it's perfect for Brooklynites.

Jane's Carousel is a new(er) addition to DUMBO's landscape, with a glass enclosure designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. The carousel itself was crafted in 1922 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company and has been completely restored. After a long restoration process that began when the carousel was bought at auction in 1984, the carousel finally arrived at its permanent home this past summer.

Do you know of any secret gems in DUMBO that you'd like to share with me? I'm always looking for new places to visit!

Gift Guide: The Host(ess)!

2011-11-30T08:00:00.004-05:00

One of the things my mother has always taught me was that you should never show up to someone's door empty handed when they've invited you over - whether it's for dinner, a cocktail hour, or a party. It's nice to show up with a small token of your appreciation (and it doesn't have to be expensive!) - anything from a homemade dish to a bunch of flowers to a bottle of wine. Even for the Martha Stewart's in our lives that make entertaining look so easy, I think it's so important to acknowledge all the hard work that goes into a party!

1. Babycakes Gluten Free & Vegan Brownies, $15.95. In a world of ever growing food sensitivities and allergies, there's a good chance someone at your holiday party will be of the gluten free/vegan/lactose intolerant set, and there are few things yummier than Babycakes! 2. Sofia Blanc de Blancs 187ML, $19.99. It rivals some of my favorite champagnes, and you can't beat the pretty pink wrapping! 3. Kate Spade 2012 Desktop Calendar, $38. A busy host needs a place to keep their dates! 4. Z. Gallerie Gelato Frames, $12.95 - $19.95. 5. Bleaker Bar 3-Tiered Stand, $139. The perfect destination for your brownies, cupcakes, or macarons. 6. Jonathan Adler Acrylic, $28. Who said competing for gelt had to stop once you grew up? 7. Bloom Etched Martini Glasses (Set of Four), $19.80. 8. Momofuku Milk Bar Cookbook, $21. Momofuku Cookbook, $22. Perfect for the host who isn't intimidated by a culinary challenge. 9. KitchenAid 5-Quart Stand-Up Mixer, $299. 10. Paw Me a Cup Tea Set, $45.99. 11. Crate&Barrel Kiki Vase, $12.95. Small, cute, and budget-friendly means you can easily fill this one with flowers! 12. Calypso Bellini Bougie Candle, $45. Sometimes cooking smells can linger, but this fragrant candle will overpower them!

WANT MORE GIFT GUIDES?
Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
Gift Guide: The Party Girl
Gift Guide: The Boy(ish)
Next Up: Gifts that Give Back!

Back Home To The West Coast

2011-11-28T08:00:00.012-05:00

Los Angeles. A bit of sunshine and palm trees can do a body (and mind) good... Family love. Luxury window shopping. Chanel flats (redux). Pink Miu Miu wishlisting. Untraditional Thanksgiving traditions at Mel's Diner. Alexander Wang Devere lust. Late nights in Hollywood; Old Hollywood vs. New Hollywood. Moscow Mule's at Bar Marmont. Brunching babes with Jazzi & Wandie. Celebrity sightings galore. Mimosa vs. Bellini debate 2011. Windows-down cruising. Rihanna marathons, (because I can't help but love her). Polka-dot scarves with leather jackets. A little bit of calm before the storm.

PS: Are you on Instagram? Add me! My username is (surprise): nicolettemason

Gift Guide: For the Boy(ish)!

2011-11-22T08:00:00.013-05:00

Whether you're shopping for your boyfriend, your butch girlfriend, your favorite tomboy, your little brother, your dad, or yourself: here's hoping my round-up of products for the masculine-of-center people in your life help cross a couple of items off your list!

1. Engineered Garments Chambray Workshirt, $175. The red contrast stitching is so good that you'll want to steal this shirt for yourself. 2. Jack Spade "Le Dirt Coal Bag" Tote, $250. Whatever you do, don't call it a "Man Bag." 3. Suede Buck Chukka Boot, $88. 4. Mast Brothers Chocolate, $9 each. 5. Jack Black Lip Balm, $7.50. Jack Black Face Moisturizer, $17. Jack Black Beard Lube Conditioning Shave, $16. 6. House of Papillon Faded Denim Bowtie, $40. 7. Field Notes 18-Month Calendar, $12. 8. Maxx & Unicorn Card Sleeve, $55. Hand-crafted in Brooklyn from a single piece of leather, it's like fancy origami! 9. Urbanears Headphones, $60. 10. Johnny Walker Black Label Scotch, $51. Okay, it might not be Blue Label, but it'll make a damn good Highball.

WANT MORE GIFT GUIDES?
Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
Gift Guide: The Party Girl

Gift Guide: Party Girl!

2011-11-15T08:00:00.031-05:00

We all know a party girl... or maybe you are the party girl!

1. Confetti System Neutral Tassel Garland, $130. Essential decorations for your festive fête or year-round enjoyment. 2. Gap Metallic Miniskirt, $60. A total stunner - and can you believe it's from The Gap?! 3. Help! I Have a Headache, $4. Well, you know... 4. ASOS Hysterical Bow Platform, $74. A party shoe you can actually stand (and dance) in all night! 5. Kate Spade Grace Avenue Toasting Flutes, $60 for set of two. 6. NCLA LA Collection Nail Polish, $16 each. 7. Dannijo "Capella" Necklace, $250. 8. Lips Flask, $24. Pick your poison! 9. Alexander Wang Devere Satchel, $855. Hint, hint: I'll gladly take this now!

WANT MORE GIFT GUIDES?
Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
Gift Guide: The Party Girl

11:11, Make a Wish

2011-11-11T11:11:00.059-05:00

So, the title of the post has little to do with what's to follow, but being that I am one of those people who almost always glances at the clock as it hits 11:11, it was obvious to acknowledge that compulsion on this day - 11.11.11. I'm not generally superstitious, and I certainly don't pray, but my 11:11 wishes have become one of my daily rituals, reminding me to take a minute twice each day to think about the things I want, what my goals are, what changes I want to happen in my life; it's almost like a condensed form of meditation that actually works with my overwhelmingly busy, chaotic lifestyle. I wish for health and happiness and success and for those around me to find the same, and occasionally, I might make a selfish wish for a pair of shoes. Hey, with seven-hundred-thirty wishing opportunities a year, there are bound to be a few selfish and materialistic wishes thrown in...

In other news, some recent acquisitions that I'm particularly excited about!

I've been on the hunt for the perfect red bag for a while now, and finally decided on this classic approach from Marc Jacobs. I'm in love with it, and the slightly smaller size than my typical handbags has forced me to purge a lot of contents from my daily haul; my shoulder blades are overwhelmingly grateful.

I have a confession: I can pretty much NEVER say no to a good red lipstick. It's possible that red lipstick is my personal kryptonite. I'm pretty defenseless against it. From the Glitter & Ice MAC holiday collection, I picked up these two: Such Flare and What Joy - a true blue/red and a deep burgundy red.

In love with my new "Mimosa" knee-high boots from Duo!! They're basically perfect.... And shockingly comfortable/walkable for the heel height.

Another things I'm defenseless against? A slightly sheer button down shirt. I definitely love my polka dots, but when it comes to classic patterns, houndstooth is a close second! This one is from Topshop, and I LOVE the volume of the sleeves.

More reading material from some of my favorite writers - Joan Didion and Haruki Murakami. Of course, their newest releases are also en route to me! Have you read their books?? Kafka on the Shore and The Year of Magical Thinking were both pretty life changing, for me.

Gift Guide: Jetsetter!

2011-11-08T08:00:00.017-05:00

I've started hearing Christmas music in stores around New York, Starbucks is serving Grande Triple Peppermint Mochas in their famous ornament-laden red cups, and the first snow fall came shockingly early over a week ago. Before we know it, we'll be tripping over wrapping paper, twinkle lights, and rolling our eyes at the I-Can't-Believe-I'm-Hearing-This-Again sounds of Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You, (or perhaps more apropos, Justin Bieber's Misteltoe). As the holiday season seems to be starting earlier and earlier, I thought I'd stay on top of things myself by rolling out a series of gift guides (every Tuesday from now until the new year) to commemorate the most wonderful time of the year. Have a topic in mind? I'd love your suggestions!

1. Diptyque Mini Candles, $84. Perfect for those surprisingly musky hotel rooms. 2. Benefit Benetint, $28. Benefit Eye Bright, $20. Benefit Ooh La Lift, $22. Jet-lag, be gone! 3. House of Harlow "Chelsea" Glasses, $138. 4. Kate Spade Rainspot iPad Case, $50. 5. Holly GoNightly Sleep Mask, $15. 6. ASOS Suede Aggie Booties, $82. Giving Isabel Marant a run for the money! 7. Sonia Rykiel Spotted Twill Scarf, $150. 8. Lulu Guinness Hard Sided Lips Spinner Cases, $299 - $399. 9. Leopard Passport Holder, $14. 10. Wallpaper* City Guides, $5 (Digital), $10 (Paper). 11. Fuji Instax 7S, $130. 12. GHD Gold Series Styler, $195. Life-changing styler, and universal voltage means you won't fry your flatiron (or your hair, thanks to ceramic plates) abroad!

WANT MORE GIFT GUIDES?
Gift Guide: The Jetsetter
Gift Guide: The Party Girl

Come Together

2011-11-04T08:00:00.006-04:00

In commemoration of the discovery of the AIDS Virus, 30 years ago, Kenneth Cole has partnered with MTV International's Staying Alive Foundation and amfAR to reinterpret the AIDS ribbon. The ribbon was redesigned with the theme of coming together in mind, with two intersection ribbons; the double loop symbolizes individuals re-doubling efforts to fight against HIV and AIDS.

I have 4 pins I'd like to share with readers; just comment below if you would like one. If you'd like to share a story, an anecdote, a memoriam of an individual who has touched you or personalized the struggle against AIDS for you, please feel free to do so. I don't normally post about issues or campaigns like this, but I feel as though our generation, in some ways, feels untouchable by HIV/AIDS, and as if it's a thing of the past; it's important to remember that both at home and abroad, this is certainly not the case. I don't know a single person who has not, to some capacity, been affected by AIDS or HIV, and I hope you will join in commemorating this time and continuing the fight.

You can purchase the pins here for $5 - 100% of the net profits from the newly redesigned pin will go to supporting MTV Staying Alive Foundation and amfAR. The pins will be available at Kenneth Cole retail and outlet stores in the US, Latin America, Israel, the Phillippines, Kennethcole.com, Bloomingdales, Gilt Groupe, and House of Fraser in the UK.

Store Visit: Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

2011-11-03T12:35:00.000-04:00

I've written about Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics a few times on my blog, and I'm not sure it's been fully discussed before, but I do have a small habit of hoarding their products. I finally found the time to get down to their brand spanking new shop on the Lower East Side - an exposed-brick space filled to the brim with their amazingly pigmented, cruelty free products. Emily, one OCC's in-house make up artist (and total gem!) walked me through the entire collection and even introduced me to their airbrush line. It was the most perfect, even make-up application I've EVER had.

Must Have Lip Tars: NSFW (true red), Trick (pale beige), Anime (neon pink), Pretty Boy (bright fuschia), Clear (for infinite mixing possibilities!)

Must Have Loose Colors: Smote (shimmery taupe), Glisten (shimmery pink), Nori (deep emerald green), Mirrorball (holographic glitter), Jubilee (shimmery pale green/blue, Twirl (shimmery peach, perfect for highlighting)

Must Have Nail Lacquers: Pool Boy (pale blue), Dangerous (charcoal grey), Pansy (lavender), Cruising (shimmery gold), Flatline (matte topcoat)

As for the new "Pretty Boy" collection? I'm pretty in love. Other than the incredible, vibrant color palette, I love how the names throughout the collection were inspired by Paris is Burning, one of my favorite documentaries, and New York City's House Culture. How could I not fall in love with a collection that has a lip gloss called "Femme"? Really now!