nicolette mason

Bienvenidos a Miami

2012-05-17T04:04:00.002-04:00

A couple of months back, in the dead of winter, I went on a little weekend getaway to Miami. I stayed in South Beach and soaked up the sun, the smell of the ocean, the colorful landscape. Dreamed that my expansive room at The W was, in some alternate universe, my warm-weather pied-a-terr, (I mean, look at it. How could I not start day dreaming?) Though my visit was brief (a mere 48-hours), I found myself falling in love with the smell of the ocean, the colorful landscape, and perhaps most of all - THE WEBSTER (swoon, crush, lust, etc.) Oh, just kidding. I went south to Miami to rendezvous with one of my favorite PR gals from Evans and we caught-up on our trans-atlantic friendship on top of swanky rooftop bars overlooking the beach and while soaking up some of the sun. And boy, did I ever need a dose of sun.

One of the highlights of my trip, however, was meeting Philomena Kwao - a devastatingly beautiful, wickedly smart London-based graduate student who, on a whim, decided to enter a modeling competition - only to find herself in a major contract and sent off to Miami to shoot her very first story, ever, for Cosmopolitan.

Follow the jump for a low-key shoot I did with Philomena, and a special little Q&A I got to do with her! She's an amazing woman!!

Continue reading... How did your entry into the model search come about?
I've always wanted to be a model, but finding my right area and learning to accept myself as I am took a long time. I was actually about to embark on an agency search when two of my closest friends sent me a link to the Style369 competition via Facebook. After a lot of persuasion, I eventually entered; not being sure about the outcome but with the mindset that I had nothing to loose. I entered in early October and I forgot about it until I received an email in November saying I had made the finalists day! I was elated and I guess the rest of the story is taking place now.

What are you looking to gain out of your relationship with Style369 and Evans?
I hope to use this opportunity to become the first black British plus size supermodel, thereby using this as a platform by which I can hopefully empower girls and young women like myself. Evans and Style369 have some of the most amazing campaigns, using the supermodels of the plus size world. I hope to learn from them and use their invaluable knowledge and experience to shape my own successful modelling career.

What role do you want to play for young girls/women?
I want to be a figure-head for young girls today who sometimes may become disillusioned by 'the glamorous lifestyle'. I want to show them that you can really do it all if you try; that is to pursue your dreams, whatever they maybe and get an education. Your education doesn’t have to suffer! I also want to help spread the message that there is beauty in everything: every shape, colour, size, and height … whatever. We are all beautiful.

What is your relationship with your body like? How do you celebrate your curviness?
My relationship with my body has been a turbulent roller-coaster ride. To say I've always been happy with my body would be a lie. But over the years, with the support of my parents, my family and my friends (I have incredible friends, I don’t even call them friends anymore they are my sisters and brothers!), I have learnt to feel beautiful in the body I have. I also have stopped obsessing over trying to fit into a particular size. I just try to keep healthy and within a healthy weight range for my height, regardless of whether that’s an 8 or an 16. I celebrate my curviness by frequently wearing body-con style dresses that exaggerate and enhance my shape.

Where does your confidence and sense of self come from?
My sense of self is firmly based in my faith, however I wouldn't say I am particularly religious. I feel there is a difference between the two. I also feel that I am a melting pot of all the strong woman in my family, and I especially look up to my mum and my grandma as inspiration. And confidence?, I gained confidence the day I realised that I really am my own person and only the opinions of those that love me count and that comes from having a strong network of people around me who are constantly there to support me and remind me that at the end of the day I should always be myself, because you can’t please everyone.

What are the things you love to look for when you shop? What are your struggles or frustrations with looking for clothes?
I love staples and current trends inspire me. I tend to interpret them in my own way as I feel that style is an expression of one’s individuality. I also buy investment pieces that I can mix and match. Such things are timeless and it actually saves me a lot of money. I like to look for good jeans, beautiful day dresses and blazers. I dress very simply most of the time, leggings and tunic/ dress; sometimes with a splash of African print. I tend not to wear jewellery; I guess I just never really made it habitual so now I never remember to put it on. However when I go out I like bright colours, statement pieces: Loud outfits that are still beautiful and classy.

My main frustration with clothes is that I have a large difference in my top half to my bottom half, I also find I get a gap with my jeans and regular trousers are often short.

How do you incorporate your own heritage and love for Ghanaian culture and prints into your contemporary style? I absolutely adore West African print, the vivid colours especially attract me. I have a number of blazers, tops dresses and skirts made out of various clothes. I used to make clothes when I was younger and now some of my favourite designers include Christie Brown and Sika Designs. I also take a lot of inspiration from the designers behind the seasonal Vlisco campaigns. Additionally, at family functions (funerals, birthdays, weddings etc) I tend to embrace my heritage by wearing differing variations of the Kaba and Slit, Ghana’s traditional dress.

Now that you've been signed with a modelling agency, do you think you career will take a different path? Will you continue to pursue your education?
Not at all; the end career goal is essentially the same; be instrumental in improving health equity across the world. I hope to use modelling as a platform by which to do that. Currently I am studying for an MSc in international Health Management, having graduated with an economics degree last year. I feel blessed because this opportunity couldn’t have come at a better time. My MSc is a year in duration, and I am already half way through so the doubled workload will only be for a little while longer. Models1 have also been very supportive in recognising the importance of finishing my education to the best of my ability.

What was it like to shoot with the Cosmopolitan team? Have you ever been part of a large photoshoot before?
I have never been a part of a large photoshoot before and shooting with the Cosmo team was nothing short of incredible. I felt so special and the Cosmo team were amazing! Shelly, Lisa, Clare and Nicola from Acardia were all very supportive and made me feel extremely confident and relaxed. The photography and production team were also very friendly. Regardless of the crazy weather (manically switching between rain and wind and extreme sunshine), and the extremely early call time (5.30 am) everyone was relatively calm and I had an enormous amount of fun. I feel extremely fortunate that my first major shoot was with such wonderful people.

Any tips for women who want to break into modelling? How did you prepare for the big shoot.
Believe it or not I actually studied to prepare for the shoot. This being my big opportunity I didn’t want to spoil it. As soon as I found out about the shoot, I searched the internet, studying the pictures of well known models such as Crystal Renn, Tara Lynn, Candice Huffine, Robyn Lawley lean and Marquita Pring; watching the way they posed, moved and how they were confident and comfortable with their bodies. I also had major prep talks and words of encouragement from Joe at Models1, my parents and sisters and my best friends.

Breaking into modelling can be extremely difficult. This competition has given me a huge boost and I appreciate how long others work to be given the opportunity I have been given. My advice would be to never give up, keep on trying! Also, don’t take anything personally, criticism is not directed at you personally so don’t take it to heart, and finally work hard and always be optimistic.

Spring Fever.

2012-05-16T09:15:00.000-04:00

This spring has been significantly more rainy and grey than any spring I can remember, but it has certainly felt incredibly sunny. I keep forgetting my umbrella at home, but it almost doesn't matter, even if my overly processed hair does take a turn for the frizzy. My strides are long (thank you, platforms) and cheery and I'm eager to take the next step. Maybe the sunshine is coming from my generally positive attitude or the influx of sparkly things in my life (blame a little bit of birthday indulgence, here and there - oh, to be 26), or a visit from my unconditionally loving parents, or the presence of peonies bursting from the entrances of New York City's delis and bodegas. Maybe it's the extra time spent outdoors, on my bike or at the waterfront or on café patios sipping cool gin cocktails and slurping back fresh seasalty oysters. Indeed, it could also be my weekend visits to Smorgasburg or the Brooklyn Flea, and the many, many friends and co-conspirators and relics from my past that I keep bumping into and having impromptu catch-up sessions with, all while I impulsively purchase mason jars in colors like the sea and the sky. Or, getting lost just several miles from my home and playing tourist in my own town with a certain someone on my arm. Then, it could be immersing myself into new creative endeavors and projects, and being continually inspired and renewed by my mentors and colleagues at Marie Claire.
Or, perhaps, it's the very literal feeling of warmth and affection and endearment that's getting to me in a way that is hard to express out loud, or in words, or in any manner at all that does it justice. I promised myself not to be overly cryptic, but let me just say, sometimes allowing yourself to stop thinking and lean into it (whatever it is,) is the best gift you could give yourself. It's likely a combination of all of the above, and the bright colors saturating this crazy, bustling metropolis, but that last bit? Overwhelmingly taking the cake.
Mmm, cake.

An Evening on the Waterfront

2012-05-15T12:25:00.004-04:00

A few nights ago on a rather temperate early May evening, I headed out with my friend Julia to walk through my neighborhood at night, after we made gluten free brussels sprouts pizzas for dinner at my house. Williamsburg has a lot of hustle and bustle at all hours of the day, but the further west you walk towards the water, there's a calm, quiet sereneness that is so totally soothing - especially on a gorgeous, clear night. The views of the expansive New York City skyline are unbeatable.

Dress: Courtesy of ASOS & Reward Style, Leather Motorcycle Jacket: Topshop, Bag: Miu Miu, Heels: Lanvin (via Vinnie)

Photos by Julia Chesky

This look was part of a contest with ASOS, so please click through and vote for me!! You could win $500 to ASOS just by voting!

Underneath It All {N by Natori}

2012-05-07T11:34:00.000-04:00

Despite the fairly personal nature of my blog, I never get that personal - but let me tell you a little secret: I love lingerie. Love. Frills and lace and ruffles make me swoon. It's actually not unlike my love for glitter, or pink, or Parisian things - if I really stop to think about it. In any case, the utility and necessity for undergarments in my life (especially as a particularly busty lady), have made the search for underthings that are actually beautiful all the more challenging. I've found a few brands I love (like Panache and Freya), but the bottom line has been that the pickings are slim, and I'd happily, enthusiastically, and excitedly welcome new additions to the line-up.

And that's where Josie Natori comes in! I met designer Josie Natori last fall during a Target Style preview at Vogue, and instantly fell in love with her. Mrs. Natori has an enormous heart, talent, and a true passion for making fashion and style and beautiful things accessible for all women. The Natori lingerie line has been hugely successful, but Mrs. Natori was on a mission to cater to the DD+ set, as well - and set out to launch N by Natori. Ladies, these pieces aren't just gorgeous, they're comfortable - and let's be honest, as vain as we (or I) might be about the aesthetics of our underpinnings, comfort really is key. I've practically been living in this particular bra, and lord, does it feel good on! I teamed up with the Natori team to celebrate the launch of the new line - such an exciting event for me! There are few things I appreciate more than having the opportunity to work with designers and brands that I really respect.

Last photo via Reesa Lake

So, can we talk bras and breasts? What do you look for in your lingerie and undergarments? Busty ladies, are there particular brands that you go to and trust? Let's discuss. Seriously. The good, the bad, the ugly - even (and especially?) the underwire-popping-out horror stories!

A special thank you to the Natori team for creating such great pieces and inviting me to share them!

In My Purse {Early Spring}

2012-04-12T15:28:00.001-04:00

(L -> R) Furla Candy Bag, Tolstoy & Dostoevsky Books, Miu Miu Glitter Sunnies (super limited in pink!!!), DKNY x Baublebar.com Earrings, iPhone, Miu Miu Wallet (Valentine's Collection), Givenchy Illuminator, Benefit BadGal Lash, Nars Lipstick in "Schiap," Agent Provocatuer Lip Balm, Keys, Lulu Guinness (a gift from Miss B!) & The Webster Keyrings, Business Cards (via Moo.com), Altoids, Orbit, Metrocard, Bliss Hand Cream, Derek Cardigan Eyeglasses, USB Stick, Moleskine Notebook, Art Print by Leigh Viner.

I'm definitely the type of person whose moods are severely influenced by the weather (I attribute this to 18-years of growing up in sunny Southern California). While I love New York, I'm almost always wishing the weather was bright and sunshiney, (something I seldom admit, especially as I constantly have to reassure myself that the weather "isn't so bad.") The blooming Cherry Blossoms and Magnolias throughout the city, the extra hours of daylight, and the brightened up wardrobes are making me really happy.
So, it's April, we're just 10-days shy of my birthday (thus some of the self-treats above), I'm toting books around to catch quick breaks in New York City's many parks, I've got a super-practical and cute Furla Candy Bag (waterproof! lightweight! awesome!), and maybe, just maybe, there's an extra pep in my step these days...

Eleven Objects {Designers to Watch}

2012-04-04T17:23:00.000-04:00

File this under: People & Things That I'm Obsessed With!

I confess that my first interactions with (and introductions to) Eleven Objects were after rumblings on twitter. There was a frenzy over their expertly crafted, brilliant detachable collars - and clever take on "collar sleeves" - which Elizabeth modeled and I lusted after from afar. It didn't hurt that the 140-character banter from @ElevenObjects was witty and insightful! I guess I'm truly a 21st-Century fashion girl, after all? When my friend Laia told me she was styling the debut womenswear collection from the design duo, I was so super excited to take my relationship with Eleven Objects to the next level (#chictothenextlev). You could say it was a brilliant first date, with a follow-up second date at their studio in Tribeca!

Check out the full collection here; (and yes, you can order one of their must-have collars on the site, as well!)

I See Brooklyn, I See France...

2012-04-02T13:33:00.000-04:00

After a particularly rough week, I couldn't have asked for more than to spend the entire weekend with some of my favorite people and best friends. Trust that despite my best efforts to always view the world through rose-colored lenses, even I sometimes go through a rough patch. Who knew, but it turns out even all the glittery shoes and sparkly jewels still can't make a girl defenseless over a break-up! I'm so grateful for good friends and good adventures. The weekend was a mixture of the best company, a lot of delicious food, good cocktails (it's Pimms Cup season, after all), dancing to soul music in Brooklyn with some lovely ladies, going 3-in into a photobooth, dying Easter Eggs in my go-to neighborhood haunt during happy hour, treking from Park Slope to the Upper East Side and Back to Williamsburg with P.Y.T. Luxirare... I could go on, and on, and on, but suffice to say it was a really fantastic weekend. Never, ever, ever take your friendships for granted. They're everything.

Luxirare and I started our Sunday by heading to Park Slope for brunch. Our original plan was to dine at Blue Ribbon, but much to my dismay it was closed! It ended up being a good thing because it gave me a chance to find a new spot in the neighborhood, so we walked down 5th Avenue (Brooklyn), and found ourselves at Cafe Moutarde, a French bistro with crave-worthy eclairs and baguettes garnishing the windows. We shared the escargot (my first time trying this dish, and I have to say I actually loved it), sipped on champagne, and while Ji opted for a steak, I went for a classic French Omelette. Perfect brunch, indeed!

Jacket - Topshop, Woven Pocket Tee - ASOS Curve, Skirt - Zara, Heels - Urban Outfitters ($20! and SO ridiculously comfortable!), Sequin Purse - Miu Miu via Net-a-Porter (Photos of my by Luxirare)

Of course, Luxi and I had to head uptown for some macarons (we were very determined, and even a sudden rainstorm could not deter us), especially as the collaboration between Hello Kitty and Ladurée had just launched. How cute are these boxes?!

A little window shopping outside Céline before heading home for macarons and a glass of wine with Luxirare and an evening of Mad Men... Maybe the perfect day ever.

Swan... Clements Ribeiro x Evans

2012-03-28T06:30:00.000-04:00

It probably goes without saying that, like most fashion-obsessed young women, I'm a sucker for designer collaborations.... and by sucker, I mean that I might have queued up outside H&M at 4 AM when the Lanvin ♥ H&M collection launched. When some of the most coveted, celebrated designers in the world dip into mass market territory, there's huge potential for magic to happen. Of course, not every designer collaboration with a high street brand is successful (despite the huge frenzy, Missoni for Target, especially as far as fashion was concerned, was not my favorite).

So, when Evans first announced their collaboration with UK-based duo Clements Ribeiro, I was of course thrilled. To my knowledge, it's the first high street designer collaboration that's been available exclusively in plus sizes, and it's a damn good one to pioneer what I truly hope is a continuing trend in fashion. The Swan collection is filled with sexy retro-inspired silhouettes, sophisticated florals, heart prints, and a perfect LBD. If the clothes weren't enough, the gorgeous models Evans enlisted to front the campaign (Robyn Lawley and Tara Lynn, can we talk about girl crush?!) definitely step up the editorial game.

Thanks to Evans, I was able to get a first look (and play dress up!) with some of my favorite pieces in the collection. Swan will be available on March 30th in sizes 10-28 and priced at $70 to $160. A note on fit, while I find Evans tends to run on the bigger side, the pieces (especially) in the collection are definitely more tailored and true-to-size. The exception to that rule is the pants, which still run on the larger side!

Just 3 more days until it's all available here!

New York to LA and Back Again

2012-03-20T08:00:00.002-04:00

Late nights and early mornings. Hours upon hours of writing and photoshoots and meetings for new and future projects that make me hopeful about work to come. Lobster cooked to perfection with chilled cocktails inside the glittering Boom Boom Room, mesmerized by the three-hundred-sixty-degrees of breathtaking New York City views. Meandering through the streets of the West Village. Admiring the clouds from thirty-thousand feet in the air. That first bite of crispy rice spicy tuna when I touch down in LA. Palm trees overheard. Celebrating my little sister's birthday with my family. Cupcakes in bed. Admiring my mom's vintage threads (Chanel and Fendi and Moschino that could fill a small consignment shop). Lusting and swooning over Prada SS12 hot rod heels. Coming back to a nearly-Spring New York City. The smell of the air when the trees start to blossom. Being grateful for my amazing friends and family. Champagne dreams.
Life lately, via Instagram.

5x5 with StyleCaster and Bloomingdales!

2012-03-19T12:00:00.003-04:00

I was recently invited by StyleCaster & Bloomingdales to participate in their blogger 5x5 - where they pick 5 of their blogging favorites to style a series of looks, (and how could I not be thrilled to be featured alongside Keiko Lynn, On the Racks, My Style Pill, and Sartorial Girl?) The topic for this installation of 5x5 was spring denim - and I was so excited to get to play with tons of lustworthy threads from Marc Jacobs, Equipment, Citizens of Humanity, J. Brand, Helmut Lang, and more. Being the sartorial adventurist that I am, I picked one of my favorite trends for the season: patterned denim, with a bold but definitely pretty floral take on the look by Citizens of Humanity.

Citizens Of Humanity Floral Print Denim, $189; Equipment Blouse, $198; Marc by Marc Jacobs Satchel, $498; Aqua Bangle, $25; Aqua Cuffs, $28; Aqua Gold Necklace, $45; Dolce Vita Platform Sandal, $189.

Where did the idea for your blog begin?

I started blogging as a way to seek and document my inspiration while working at a corporate design firm. Slowly over time, it grew organically to be a visual chronicle of my life and style obsessions.

Has anything changed as your blog has grown? Challenge? Benefits?

Blogging has turned my dream of working as a fashion journalist into a reality! It's also very literally changed my style and forced me to step outside my comfort zone. Another benefit? All the amazing friends I've made through the blogging community.

How would you describe your personal style?

On a typical day, it's a fun balance of girly, whimsy, and a bit of an edge. But, I like to wake up and find inspiration in my mood. On the day of the shoot I was feeling a bit tropical and beachy, knowing that I was heading out to the sunny west coast the following day!

Who are your style icons?

I'm always inspired by Dita von Teese, Beth Ditto, and.. my mom! She's the chicest lady of them all.

If you could go shopping with any person (dead or alive) who would it be?

Cher Horowitz, duh.
Fashion guilty pleasure?
Overindulging! Sometimes I can go a little overboard on shopping my favorite pieces... It's a blessing and a curse.
Tell us about the outfit you styled.
I'm in love with Equipments silky blouses, and this cadmium hued top is the perfect citrus-inspired shade for spring. I think the tone perfectly complements the print on these Citizens of Humanity printed floral jeans - a trend I'm loving at the moment, and how great are the colors in this pair?! I think printed denim is also a trend that looks good on all body types - which isn't necessarily true of all trends in fashion. The blue pop of color on the Marc by Marc Jacobs bag adds a nice, cool balance to the warm colors of the outfit. The Dolce Vita heels are to die for, too!

And here's what I wore the day of the shoot!

Dorothy Perkins Top, SimplyBe Pleated Skirt, Miu Miu Glitter Sunnies (Similar Here), Miu Miu Glitter Heels (Similar Here)

PS - How sick does the new StyleCaster look?!

Rachel Antonoff and Mr. Wendy Cat

2012-03-14T08:00:00.005-04:00

I know that All the Fashion Weeks are over and everything, but I'm enjoying taking time in posting all my favorite shows from the Fall Winter season slowly, savoring the best of the best for as long as I can.

Rachel Antonoff is one of my favorite young designers, and each season I can rely on her presentations being one of the most fun. With a cat in the arms of a model (that's Mr. Wendy Cat, if you didn't know), a live performance by Alia Shawkat, adorable clothes, yet another stellar Bass collaboration, and the company of some of my favorite blogging babes, the FW12 presentation did not disappoint.

Let's Get Colorful

2012-03-12T08:05:00.009-04:00

Blame a long and not-exactly-wintery winter, and maybe an ever-evolving eagerness to step out of my all-black-everything safety zone, and maybe even more so a quick west coast jaunt this past week - but my god am I thirsty for color. A whole, big, icy-cold pitcher of color; (preferably filled with frozen margaritas, no salt). Being a new redhead, (yes, 6-months in, it's still new) has made this whole color invasion into my wardrobe a lot more interesting. I can't quite jump on the orange-tangerine-citrus medley bandwagon (cause, you know, I don't want to be too matchy-matchy with my hair), but I'm grabbing on to all the neon pink, yellow, and aqua that my minty-green tipped hands can grab onto. I think I'm officially starting to tip the scales when it comes to black versus every-other-color-ever.

Preen x Aldo Rise. These have already proven themselves to be a bit polarizing amongst the favorite people in my life, but damn, I love them. I think they're a gift from the Designer-Collaboration-with-a-Mass-Retailer gods, and slightly soften the blow of not managing to find a single piece from the Marni x H&M Collection. This season at Aldo Rise also brings collaborations with Mark Fast and Libertine! Major home-runs all around. Available here.

See by Chloé. I don't have to tell you that neon is a major trend right now (but if I do, please allow me to refer you to my March column in Marie Claire -- where I explore spring trends). I've been waiting to find the right pop o' neon for myself, and a swipe of the good old credit card made this scallop-trimmed beauty mine. Available here.

Dorothy Perkins. Just a few weeks ago I was out in Miami with a great friend from the Arcadia group, and she greeted me with a huge bag of goodies from the team at Dorothy Perkins. Among them, this amazing top - a very "off the runway" look. I've been wearing it everywhere. Literally. Available here.

Karen Walker. Who isn't a huge fan of Karen Walker, the amazingly dazzling Antipodean designer? Covet over her dresses as I do, I couldn't keep myself away from these hot pink sunnies when they popped up on Gilt Groupe last week. I had a $50 credit which put these puppies at just a hair over $30. Score, am I right? Available here.

What I Wore: Sunday Brunch

2012-03-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

Fur Stole: Vintage, Top: Courtesy of Style369, Skirt: Warehouse via ASOS, Necklace: Topshop, Sunglasses: Miu Miu, Bag: Coach Classic Willis
Yesterday was my last full day of pretend living (or, "Eloising") in the Meatpacking District, so I took advantage of the proximity (and burst of sunshine in a week of mostly grey skies) to wander through the West Village most of the afternoon, window shopping and enjoying an absolutely yummy brunch at Little Owl. Though this skirt is positively "spring" in its personality and tone, I've been craving an escape from the cold, so it's become a fun transitional piece for me between the seasons. This outfit is definitely out of the norm for me, but I love how all the colors play into each other, and adore the whimsy of the bug collar necklace paired with the floral print! (I apologize for the crazy amount of creases on the skirt, but seeing as I've essentially --and literally-- been living out of a suitcase for the last two weeks, hopefully you'll forgive me.)

Photos of me by Austin Manning

What spring pieces have you started incorporating into your wardrobe?? I must say, this season is going to be big on color for me.

Rainbowgasms & The Triumphant Return of Lisa Frank

2012-02-29T11:45:00.003-05:00

I always look forward to Jeremy Scott's shows each season. They're hardly the most wearable of collections, but they do the job of adding levity and playfulness in the face of all-too-stern fashion attitudes. I truly revel in and appreciate being part of this crazy industry, but there are times when everyone just seems a bit too serious, and I want to shout "Lighten up, it's just fashion" (circa Project Runway Season 2). Where I might not have ever worn last season's cow-printed chaps, I actually would wear a rainbow-wigged-out jacket or a Lisa Frank Sticker laden bustier -- hello, how could I not? I absolutely was one of those girls who had a trapper keeper filled with stickers and pencils and folders covered in unicorns and sparkling golden retriever puppies and glittery dolphins.

The collection was actually inspired by computers and the digital age - with pixelated prints and a Midi file soundtrack to boot - but overall it felt like an ode to the candy-coated, Bindi-wearing, raver kids and cyber goths of the 90's. I've never seen so many smiles on the front row!

So, would you dare to wear these looks? Do they remind you of any pieces from your past? (For example, I'm sure I had a pair of Chinese Laundry platforms in my per-adolescence that were exactly the same material as that skirt-and-bra combo paired under the rainbow fur jacket...)

Smell the Roses

2012-02-28T17:00:00.000-05:00

Among the ever-growing list of things that I fall head-over-heels-for without hesitation (bows, hearts, polka dots, the color pink...) is roses. Perhaps it's partially ingrained in me thanks to my Persian heritage and an early fondness and relationship with roses and rose water? In any case, rose prints, colors, scents, and even flavors are constantly luring me in. Each year around Valentine's day, I take the opportunity to indulge in what is often a limited-edition fragrance from Diptyque. This years' Rosa Mundi selection is especially captivating! Pretty packaging and a luscious fragrance? I'll take two, (and I did: in the form of a candle and their roll-on fragrance, both picked up at Jeffrey). They say (whoever they are, I don't know, but they say it) that scent is the most most memorable of the senses. Floral scents remind me of my childhood, of the flower arrangements my mom would painstakingly arrange, of the mornings my dad spent gardening, of the Gardenia tree that grew next to my grandparents' home. Florals always make me nostalgic; they transport me to my happy place.

What are your favorite scents? What are your favorite memories associated with scent?

PS: If you're in NYC, maybe this is a good time to get familiar with Diptyque's sample sale? I've never been, but the thought of 90% off luxe candles and home fragrances is enough to reel me towards East 26th Street.

A Brief Digression From Fashion...

2012-02-23T09:30:00.007-05:00

Once upon a time there was a girl who moved into a brand-spanking-new apartment in Williamsburg. There were exposed brick walls and 100-year-old original wood beams and industrial remnants from the masonry factory that once lived in the very same space. She lived a merry life with merry things and romanticized everything about her Brooklandia abode. That is, until one day, when she received a frantic phone-call from her neighbor, "The building is flooding! The building is flooding!" - all while she was stationed across the borough.

Fast forward: that girl was me, (obviously). When I finally rushed home and walked into my apartment, I found that it looked not unlike an NYC street after a short, but serious, downpour. My precious Chanel bag was soaked, the paint from my walls and ceiling were peeling back and ripping away from the walls, and raindrops literally streamed down through my roof. Thank god for a good insurance policy, (shout out to Mike at Travelers for making this otherwise headache-of-an-experience a relief). This past week I packed up the entirety (and trust me, I have a lot of things) of my apartment (an unfortunate necessity in trying to repair my floors) and moved myself across the East River and into a nice little hotel on the edge of Manhattan: The Standard.

A peak into my Standardized life, thus far... Yes, it's my own Eloise-meets-Kevin McCallister alternate reality all rolled into one.

The room, the view, and the cat that joined.

The welcome "home" drinks - The Standard's "Penny Drop" (deliciousness in a tumbler), the makeshift wardrobe.

The in-room entertainment, the downstairs beer garden.

The neighbors! Jeffrey's NYC: A giant Louboutin 20th Birthday Cake, Prada's SS12 Flame Heels

Chanel's new summer polish colors in Attraction, Frisson, and Tentation. Plus, a Franca-as-Madonna's-doppleganger moment on the cover of Industrie.

Kate the Great!!!

Flowers from a bodega ($10 for 2 dozen) for my room and a gluten free crepe from Bar Suzette, located inside the neighborhood Chelsea Market.

Spring lurking around the corner...!

Pretty new things from Topshop: Lace & Perspex flats and a new bug necklace.

Bullet ring gift from Plukka; The Highline down below.

A couple things about The Standard: it's located in the most amazing below-14th (thank god) location, situated (literally) on top of The Highline, there are amazing views, and the service has been impeccable from the moment I arrived. For a small fee, I was even allowed to bring my cat with me, (though admittedly, this got a few stares upon check-in... But would you leave your cat in a kennel for 2+ weeks?)

I won't lie, now that the headache of hastily packing my life into boxes is a few days into the past, I'm quite enjoying the staycation. And the moral of the story? Get home insurance!! I can't imagine where I'd be in this process without it.

A Love Letter to Chris Benz, (Again)

2012-02-21T03:13:00.005-05:00

I love, love, love Chris Benz's work. I've talked about my adoration for the pink-haired ingenue in the past, but each season, my heart grows fonder. I love his collections for being so multilayered and full of depth, color, texture - a palette that is absolutely not lacking in diversity. Dripping with sequins, beading, brocade, lamé, a rainbow of color, crazy-innovative gloves, and cloud-like jockey caps (and I'm sure there's a technical name for these, but my Dictionary of Fashion is stowed away in a storage unit in Newark... more on this later), I pretty much found myself dying for the holidays all over again. I've only just barely recovered from the last holiday season (can you believe it's not even been two months?) and here I am, waiting for a reason to walk out the door in a frock covered in pailettes, as if I ever need a reason...

It's been interesting to observe the transitions in fashion over the last three years, ever since our economy took a turn for the worse. Immediately after the recession hit clothes became a bit more rigid, conservative, tailored, and minimal; it was a shift that was incredibly visible on the runways and highly documented. Our economy is far from recovered, but perhaps the shifts in fashion back towards opulence and grandeur and embellishment are an indicator of our attitudes towards the economy? Are we becoming more comfortable? More at ease to step out in fashion full of flamboyance and life because we're adjusted to the initial shock of our down-turned economy? If there were ever rules, are we "allowed" to have fun with fashion, again? Just a thought...

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?