Pink Starberries: The small stuff

Black Friday

2011-11-25T09:05:00.001-08:00

A little delayed on my Black Friday shopping palooza fter cooking my first Thanksgiving feast and cleaning up. But, here is the update 2011 Black Friday list from A-to-Z.

Adobe - Save up to 50% off software until Nov 29
Apple - Save 10-15% on selected Apple products today
Amazon - Rotating timed Black Friday deals in cell phones, Kindles, electronics, clothing and more
Ann Taylor - 40% off everything with code THANKS - end date not listed
Banana Republic - 35% off your order with code BRFRIDAY - today only
BabiesRus and ToysRus - deals until 11pm; and sale ends Sunday, Nov 26
BCBGMaxAzria - 50% off all outwear, sweater, leather and boots
Bloomingdales - Save 25-40% and $25 on your purchase of $200 or more - ends Sunday, Nov 27
Costco - Black Friday online deals and Cyber Monday deals
JanieandJack - Extra 30% off online and only until noon in-stores
Gap - Up to 60% off today
Hotels.com - Four day Black Friday Sale up to 50% off
Kenneth Cole - Up to 50% off on top of sale prices
Macys - Thanksgiving Sale plus extra 15% off
ModCloth - Up to 50% off
Net-a-Porter - End of seasons sale
Old Navy - Everything is on sale with up to 50% off outwear
Philosophy - Up to 50% or more with doorbuster and Free Shipping
QVC - Black Friday sales with electronics and my favorite - jewelery

Walmart - Black Friday sale prices today only; Cyber Monday deals beginning Sunday, Nov 27

Ok, this is my curated list as of this morning. Let me know if you have more!

Black Friday: Apple

2011-11-22T12:53:00.001-08:00

Holiday Sparkle

2011-11-21T22:27:00.001-08:00

With Thanksgiving coming up this week, I've been all about the holidays. I've got Christmas carols on my Pandora, cookies in the oven and holiday shopping on my mind! We all want the festive spirit to last, but the month of December (the year, really) always flies by.

And that's why, to help keep me fa-la-la-la-ing, I'm adding a little sparkle to my daily wardrobe. But, really, I just can't resist anything sparkly.

Here's a round-up of the best holiday (sparkle) sweaters I've found:

Lace-stitch open cardigan

Banana Republic $89.50

Comes in black, cafe au lait, orange ginger and grey

Sparkly Elbow Sleeve Pullover

Ann Tyalor $98 (40% off with code THANKS)

Now all I need is a little sparkly!

Hervé Léger Private Sale 30% Off

2011-11-10T20:51:00.001-08:00

Hervé Léger is having a private sale for 30% off. The offer is valid today until November 13, 2011 exclusively at Hervé Léger by Max Azria boutiques and at bcbg.com on regularly priced Hervé Léger. You also get free shipping on merchandise over $200, which is pretty easy if you've seen Hervé Léger prices.

I took a looksee and really loved the bandage gown with tulle skirt. I love the silhouette and the elegant v-neck that shows off a sexy hint of collar bone. But, I don't have a big day coming up, so...

Perhaps a shorter little white dress?

Can we wear white dresses after Labor Day?
White dress, red lips seems so... winter wonderland to me. :)

Check out the private sale before November 13th.

J.Crew Biennial handbag (The American Princess)

2011-10-31T23:48:00.000-07:00

J.Crew released their Biennial handbag and it looks like the American twin of the Modalu Pippa bag!

Pippa became a style icon overnight with her easy ladylike style and created a handbag craze by debuting the Modalu handbag (above) in several different colors. The handbag became so popular that Modalu renamed the bag "Pippa." Modalu also released new colors and the bag in different sizes.

But now, you can own a piece of the Pippa inspired bag in the Biennial by J.Crew.

From J.Crew:

We're head over heels for the perfect proportions of this luxe satchel. Crafted in supple pebbled leather, this sleek two-handle bag—a design team pick—has enough room for a mini laptop, your lipstick and even your little cashmere cardigan. It's just what we've always wanted: a can-do carryall with effortless elegance. Zip closure. Brass-finish hardware. Interior patch pocket. Cotton twill lining. Comes with dust bag. Import. 6" handle drop.

Compared to the more structured, briefcase-like feel of the Pippa, J.Crew's version is a bit more relaxed with "soft pebble leather." And, best of all? It fits a mini laptop (or iPad) -- a bag for work and play? Perfect.

At $348, I'm really pining for a bit of royalty in the red, especially when the Modalu has been sold out for months. What do you think? Do you like the American version of the Pippa or is there no substitute for the real thing?

Nine West Friends and Family 30% off

2011-10-14T00:11:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, I stopped by Nine West to check out some fall shoes. After seeing Duchess Catherine in her black wedged staples, I was pining for a pair of everyday wedges of my own. To my pleasant surprise, Nine West not only had gorgeous wedges in every color, they also had them in a everyday and sometimes-mommy-friendly heights: low (for running errands with baby), medium (for half-work-half-play[time]), and high for... actually I don't really love high wedges unless they're espadrilles.... maybe.

I tried on a few wedges and loved it. Just as I was about to check out, I overheard the sales clerk tell one of the customers that Nine West's Friends & Family was coming up. I immediately put back the shoes and signed up for email announcements. And volia! Here they are: Save 30% off with Friends and Family.

Sale ends this week!

R.I.P. Steve

2011-10-05T22:59:00.000-07:00

Bloomingdales Friends and Family Event

2011-10-01T21:34:00.000-07:00

Bloomingdales is running their Friends and Family event for 20% off in stores and online from now until October 3rd with code FALLFRIENDS11. They also have a sales section for 20-30% off that's eligible for an additional 20% off with code. I love it when promos stack. Plus, it all comes with with free shipping.

I am comtemplating getting these platforms for work. I love peep-toes for showing off a hint of polish and I love Cole Haan pumps with Nike technology. The reviews are all 5 out of 5. The only thing left to choose is the color... black or tan?

Cole Haan "Mariela Air" Peeptoe Platform Pumps

~~orig. $328~~ with discount $263

I also love these boots for winter:

Cole Haan Air "Violet" Gored Boots

~~orig. $448~~ with discount $358

(not bad for a pair of nice winter boots!)

This is also a great time to pick up Fall blazers, Winter coats and a cute holiday dress!

For a Fall wedding and a Winter business gala in Vegas. I'm thinking...

Theory "Gabe" Blazer

~~orig. $395~~ with discount $316

Parker Short Sleeve Sequin Dress

orig. $330 with discount $264

I love this dress.

Maybe you'll see me ringing in the new year in sequins too!

Friends and Family 20% off with FALLFRIENDS11 ends October 3rd.

Target Booties

2011-09-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

I love Target.

But, it's not the first place I think of when I need shoes.

I was in search of "temporary" comfy, soft-sole, flexible shoes to ease my fatigued feet one day and stopped by Target. There, I found a pair of suede loafers that had soft great supportive insoles and flexible rubber outsoles. There were about $30 and felt oh-so-so-good at first try-on. I picked them up and they actually became my staple comfort shoes. I was so impressed. Target, you done well.

The other day, I was running an errand at Target when I came across a pair of women's booties. It was love at first sight. They were papyrus, suede and just.. friggin' awesome. I slowly slid them on and bam -- the same great supportive insoles and flexible outsoles that confirm to my feets every move. The hue was also perfect. Just in time for Fall greys, blacks, beige, and even bright reds, navy blues and emerald greens. Yes, I decided, they'll with everything.

They're Kate Moss stylish and Anthroplogie girlie. I can wear them with a skirt, leggings and jeans. I simply adore them. Unfortunately (or, really fortunately), the weather went into the 80s after I bought them. Now, I'm still waiting for a semi windy day when I can finally debut them. Booties, oh booties, how you have me pining and pining for Fall.

Mossimo Khadeja Suede Bootie

$29.99

Loves!

I know I mentioned Fall, but here are some looks I love of taupe booties on Kate and Kate.

(They're wearing Isabel Marant instead of Target)

The Mommy Diaries: Diapers

2011-09-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

I've recently become a mom (you may have already noticed this with the changes seen in my "shopping cart" on this blog). And, some of the biggest ticket items you can purchase while prepping for your little one include:

Crib
Stroller
Carseat (mandatory in most states)
High Chair (not immediate)
Feeding (Bottles & pump if you're planning on breastfeeding)

This is not including all the "fun" stuff like your coming home outfit, diapers, diapers, diapers, wipes, a personal kit (for grooming, temp taking, first fever from vaccinations if you're opting for them, etc.), and the list goes on.

Since I've done so much research and try/buy/rebuy of these items, I thought I'd share some of my adventures here. I will be organizing my mom-related posts as my "Mommy Diaries". If there's interest, I'll continue my series as the little one grows!

Diaper Deals

So, let me start off by sharing my diapers research.

For a good deal, I'd recommend Diapers.com. For every order over $49, you receive $10 off. After your first order, you can continue to get $5 off each box of diaper you buy. However, since diapers are usually $30-$50 a box, $5 off translates to something like 10-17% off. So, for the most savings, I'd recommend switching to Amazon Mom. Amazon simply has the best diaper deals out there. With Amazon Mom, you get 30% off diapers, wipes and any "refillables" through their Subscribe & Save program. With no tax and free 2nd-day shipping, this is the best deal I've seen on diapers.

A box of Pampers Swaddlers at BabiesRUs sells for $29.99. Even if you had a $5 off coupon, it's still come to $24.99 ($0.23/diaper). With tax, you're looking at about a quarter ($0.25) a diaper. With at least 8 diaper changes a day, you're spending $2 a day to keep your little one's bum clean.

At Amazon, Pampers Swaddlers runs $0.19 / count. Through the Subscribe and Save program, the cost goes down to $0.13/diaper, with no tax or shipping. That means you're spending only a little over a dollar ($1.08) a day on the same diapers and number of diaper changes a day. That's 50% less than BabiesRUs (including the $5 coupon!).

Learn more about Amazon Mom.

The Little [Fall] Black Dress

2011-09-17T21:36:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for the perfect LBD for Fall? I am! A statement dress that looks delish and can really go the distance: weddings, business trips to Vegas, professional galas, anniversary dinner with my honey... all rolled into one.

So, without further ado, let me share my leads here. I found two perfect dresses at FCUK's new collection: the Ribbon Knits Shoulder Dress and the Samantha Sleeve Dress.

This Ribbon Knits Shoulder Dress ($188) resembles the Herve Leger bandage dress. It's rare to find a long sleeve dress (not quarter-sleeve!) that's also versatile. Take this timeless silhouette, add a hint of off-the-shoulder sexiness accented by the femininity of the collar bone, pair it with long sleeves to give it an air of elegance -- this dress can be worn to a career making dinner with the execs or to your BFF's holiday party downtown. I just love it! I can imagine myself wearing something this and laughing heartily... like this:

"Ha ha ha ha.... yes, that was just charrrrming!"

(Hm. Well that was no fun. It was supposed to be a moving .gif. What's up Blogger!?)

Moving on.

Feeling a little more modern and edgy? On top of the world and painting the town red? The Samantha Sleeve Dress ($168) offers strong structured shoulders with just enough edge and without the maintenance. Pair it with large gold earrings and bangles for a Sasha Fierce look. Tone it down with booties and a leather jacket for an intimate house party with your inner circle.

Sasha says ...

"I'm thinking... I thinking... I'll take that dress in black too!"

Like what you see?
French Connection

.

Deal: 25% off Pants at H&M

2011-09-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for new fall pants? I received a promotion for pants at H&M and wanted to share it with you. You receive one pair of pants for 25% off with the coupon below. Since it's an universal coupon, I'm sure if you returned another time and reused the coupon, you'd be able to get another pair of pants with the discount.

Get 25% off any pair of pants!
Fall is all about pants. Whether you prefer wide, flared, slim, tapered, denim or loose fit, we have the perfect style for you. Coupon valid through September 18th in US only.

As you know, it's rare for H&M to run promotions, so enjoy!

Print your coupon after the jump. Enjoy!

Print your coupon and don't forget to subscribe to my blog on the top right. :)

I Think I'll Have the Crepe Dress

2011-09-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

It's after Labor Day! Pout: we're now at the official close of summer. More importantly: it's our last chance to whip out our dresses before the chill sets in.

Gone are the sleeveless, spaghetti strapped dresses -- time for transitional pieces that can go summer-day-to chilly-fall-night. Something that's great for in the office and over a glass of red on a nippy evening? I'm a fan of crepe dress.

Crepe dresses are hopelessly classic and carry a hint of fashion. They strike the perfect chord. And, in jewel-tones? Even better. Red for lipstick-inked champagne glass night-out with Clark Gables. Sapphire blue for the modern day woman. Army green with a leather jacket and ankle boots? For a round of tapas with your favorite girls of course!

Selma Blair and Gwyneth Paltrow were both seen at the Venice Film Festival sporting crepe dresses and I just can't get enough! The easy and versatile summer-to-fall silhouette in orange-and-green-oh my! helps end the summer on a high note. I especially love the sleeves and fresh orange hue on Gwyneth.

Gwyneth Paltrow arriving in Prada

Selma Blair in Roland Mouret Wemmick (6-weeks postpartum!)

I also found two bargain crepe dress options in neutral palettes that go the distance.

Mink Zip Back Crepe Dress at Topshop for $90

Ruched Mock Wrap Dress at Forever 21 for $29.80
(I'd recommend always wear this one with a belt)

What about you? Are you ready for Fall?

Oh Baby

2011-09-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

Did you all have a good long weekend? More importantly, did you pick up anything exciting during the Labor Day sales?

This Labor Day, I did a lot of baby shopping. I know, I know... this is probably the other spectrum for the "funner" purchases I've been writing about, but this is equally -if not even more- necessary.

I've recently become a member of Amazon Mom and I LOVE IT. Did I say that in caps? Am I screaming? YES, BECAUSE I LOVE IT. With my free membership, I receive Prime Shipping (2nd day shipping) on all my purchases and up to 30% off with the Subscribe and Save program. This weekend, I purchased a new box of diapers and the savings just add up!

For a box of 246 count Pampers diapers, I received 30% off, no tax, free 2nd day shipping and a coupon for $1.50 savings. My total came to $29.23 from $43.90. Compared to BabiesRUs at $45.99 + tax, that's a minimum of $16.76 in savings for a total of 36% in savings.

Item(s) Subtotal:	$43.90
Shipping & Handling:	$0.00
Promotion Applied:	-$13.17
Your Coupon Savings:	-$1.50
	-----
Total Before Tax:	$29.23
Sales Tax:	$0.00
	-----
Total for This Shipment:	$29.23

Woohoo! Seriously. Amazon owns me.

----

What's Amazon Mom?

Amazon Mom is a free program for new and expecting parents featuring exclusive deals on a wide selection of brands and products to help solve all of your family's needs, plus:

* Exclusively for Amazon Mom members, receive an additional 15% discount on top of the standard 15% discount on select diapers and wipes when you sign up for Subscribe & Save delivery. Subscribe & Save orders are always delivered with free standard shipping, and you can change your delivery schedule or cancel at any time.
* Three months of FREE Two-Day shipping with Amazon Prime. For every $25 you spend within a single order in the Baby store, we'll grant you an additional month of Amazon Prime shipping benefits. You can earn up to one year of Amazon Prime shipping benefits from the date you joined Amazon Mom.

It doesn't cost anything to participate in Amazon Mom.

School Girl Crush

2011-08-29T22:56:00.000-07:00

I'm crushing hard: I'm utterly and totally in love with the wide stacked heel for Fall. Gone are the stiletto days, and back in vogue are the wide heels of the 90s. And this time, the heel has transformed from"chunky" to a more feminine refinement.

I love that this new style offers the powerful height as a stiletto in a more practical package: the wide heel offers more relief on your ankles and lower back. And drainage grates? You don't scare me. The pump subtly mixes sky-high height with a bit of school girl modesty. Just in time for back-to-school Fall.

A few of my favorites:

Pour La Victoire

Irina II Suede Platform Pumps $450

Loeffler Randall

Esther Platform Pumps $250

More affordable options I'm also loving:

Charles by Charles David

Pursuit $116 (on sale)

Steve Madden

Sarrina $99.95

I'm wearing my new pumps with straight leg cigarette denim. I'll be heading back to school (work) with my pumps, pipped blazer, relax fit shirt with a loose skinny tie. What about you? Do you have a first day of school outfit picked out? Will you be giving these a try or will you be sticking with your spikes this Fall?

Missoni For Target

2011-08-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

The Missoni for Target collection is almost here!

There's been a lot of buzz around the new Missoni collection for Target. The Missoni brand is famous for its beautifully colored and patterned knitwear. Not only are their designs immediately recognizable, but I've always enjoyed their naturalist look. I haven't been a devoted fan of the Missoni pattern (mostly because I can't pull it off), but don't you just love a good steal on designer brand?

Below are a few of their looks from the look book:

For those looking for a piece of the Missoni pattern for cheap: Target will be launch the collection on September 22nd. What do you guys think? Are you looking forward to picking up a piece of Missoni's fabulous knitwear at Target?

Not so Plain Jane

2011-08-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

Is the era of the "it" bags over? Lately, I've seen a revival of structured vintage-inspired handbags. You know, the "classic" handbag as we know it: boxy, flip-over flap, hangs about waist-high... formally perceived as unimaginative?

-----

My preference for bags have always lean towards "slouchy." I love the young, hip and urbanite feel of a slouchy bag. I also love the low maintenance of it. I don't have to worry about wearing the bag facing "out," nor do I have to worry about making sure it's "set down" properly... I know it always looks great. I do, however, hate having to dig through it. And that [frustration] is what brings me back to more structured formal handbags every time.

So, with our sunnier days numbered, now is the time to begin the search for the ladylike handbag to complement our more formal fall and winter wardrobe...

The Prada Glace Calfskin Degrade Top-Handle Bag ($2,050) comes in a gorgeous gradient leather (easy-to-match grey). The interior is a soft beige suede and its dual handles offer versatility. It can be dressed up or down and best of all it's roomy! This handbag has a timeless style that will stay on trend for a few decades.

The Lanvin Lovely Leopold leather tote ($2,185) is a good blend of classic and modern. The hardware gives it enough "city tough" for it to be an easy day-to-night candidate. Overall a great modern handbag in the classic flap silhouette.

Lastly, my two favorites, which are wonderfully affordable:

Coach's Court Bag

$258

J.Crew Edie nubuck bag

$240

Yes, the original handbag is back.
Until one day when I'm dining al fresco under the California sun... I'll be a slouchy girl once more.

Which classic do you love?

Pull Up a Chair

2011-08-10T23:25:00.000-07:00

I am so excited: Rosanna tableware will be on sale on Gilt tomorrow.

You know how when you're in the consideration phase of shopping, you get a visual of how the new piece would rotate into your wardrobe? Then, you start envisioning situations you can wear the ensemble to (for cocktails! for work? for a date in the city). Finally, after you've settled on a few ways to mix-and-match and appropriate scenarios, you happily check out?

Well, that's nothing compared to home shopping!

Every time I step into a tradition-rich Potterybarn, an ultra modern Bo Concept or a humble antique shop, I am immediately transformed.

My imagination carries me away: I'm standing in my living room that's opened up to the patio overlooking the cape. I've neatly rolled monogrammed towels in my bathroom, and peonies and hydrangeas accent the kitchen and bedside tables. Next: I live in a monochromatic home in the yuppie part of the city. It's a luxe bachelorette pad with all the modern day conveniences. I shower while watching hidden television behind the glass wall. Finally: I live in a studio where every piece has a story. The upholstery on the mismatched chair in the living room, the frames on the walls, my jewelery...

That's the thing about home shopping: you don't get to just envision a scenario - you get to imagine an entire lifestyle. That's why I'm so excited about Gilt's Rosanna tableware sale tomorrow. She, Rosanna Bowles, designs gorgeous and unique tableware inspired by nature and traditions. I'm thinking girlish giggles and first loves. Romantic discovery trips to Europe. I'm thinking... I'm thinking... these are two of my favorite collections:

Bella Boudoir

European Souvenir

Tory Burch Private Sale

2011-03-24T22:43:00.000-07:00

Tory Burch's Private Sale started today and will run for the next four days, March 24 - 28th.

You can clickthrough to the sale, but then you must enter your email to be on the "list." If you're looking for Tory flats, you're out of luck - there's only one pair in camo.

Spring is here! So, of course I had to take a peek at their dresses.

Here are a few of my faves:

Ceres Dress

A boldly embellished neckline transforms the simple LBD into a festive modern classic.

~~$450.00~~

$180.00

Dora Dress

Our colorful abstract print gives the sweet Dora Dress an artsy edge.

~~$350.00~~

$140.00

Petula Dress

Rich, multi colored tweed brings vibrant dimension to the Petula Dress's classic sheath silhouette.

~~$425.00~~

$170.00

Gap Give and Get Event

2011-03-18T03:04:00.000-07:00

Gap's Give and Get Event is back!

Beginning March 17th to the 20th, Gap will donate 5% of your purchase to the non-profit organization of your choice. You will also receive 30% off all purchases at Gap and its sister stores.

You give and you get.

Don't forget our friends in Japan who really need our support right now.

Nordstrom Private Beauty Event

2011-03-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

Nordstrom's invitation-only Private Beauty Event is here from March 16 - 20th. If you have Nordstrom card, you receive 3x the points and you'll get a fabulous gift with your beauty purchase.

I love getting gifts with my beauty purchase! They're great for travel and it makes me feel like I'm "saving" (just a little) and being rewarded for picking up my beauty staples that never go on sale.

Some of my favorite goodies:

Ok, this isn't actually a gift. It's a special purchase for $60 for this Bobbi Brown shadow and eyeliner palette in one. This is the perfect eye kit for everyday wear. Neutrals for day and turn up the drama at night. I love it!

Bobbi Brown Shadow Options Eye Palette

Exclusively ours! The ultimate day-to-night palette for women on the go, with four beautifully wearable neutrals for a natural daytime look and four sparkling, metallic shades to dress up your eyes once the sun goes down. Also includes a dual-ended eyeshadow and eyeliner brush so you can apply everything like a pro.

Bestselling Mini 'Super Orgasm' Blush

Receive a mini Blush in 'Super Orgasm' with your $100 NARS purchase.

Lar Mer is offering this Small Miracles kit with their best selling miracle products

La Mer Small Miracles

You are invited to indulge in Small Miracles—a luxurious introduction to La Mer's transformational treatments. Offer includes Crème de la Mer, The Eye Balm Intense, The Regenerating Serum and The Cleansing Foam, with any La Mer purchase of $300 or more.

Balenciaga is giving away a small companion pouch. Who wouldn't love having a mini-BBag cosmetic bag? Tres chic and appeals to the bag-lady in me!

Mini Balenciaga Companion Pouch

Receive a deluxe mini Eau de Parfum and companion pouch with your $130 Balenciaga Paris purchase.

Oh. Em. GLee!

2011-03-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Any Gleeks out there?

Last night's Glee was the best episode ever!

(spoilers ahead)

The Glee club killed it with all the original songs -- though the lyrics might be questionable in a few (Trouty Lips?), the music was fantastic and spot-on with each songwriter's personality. The biggest moment came (spoiler! spoiler!) when Blaine finally realized his feelings for Kurt. The lines were written so beautifully and not only did our Kurt finally get a new boyfriend, but he also got... a kiss! A real to-die-for first kiss, not a cop-out boys kiss for television.

Watch it below:

Lastly, the episode finished off strong with Glee's new anthem "Loser like Me."
Beware though, you might catch yourself skipping to the song for the rest of the day! ;)

Loser Like Me:

Prada Creepers

2011-03-15T13:53:00.000-07:00

Prada reinvented brogues and showed off the new "Creeper" shoe collection for Spring/Summer.

The shoes are regular brogues with basketweave, sneaker and treaded soles. The shoes flew off the shelves of Prada when they went on sale. What do you think?

Would you own a pair of Creepers?

Shopbop Launches Wedding Collection (yawn)

2011-03-14T17:52:00.000-07:00

Shopbop's wedding collection is officially available to the public today and... well, yawn.

The collection consisted of loosely draped shapeless dresses with a more casual appeal. I love weddings, and I especially love laid-back, cozy and intimate weddings where everyone feels like family. But, when I judge a wedding collection, my main metrics are "design range", "drama/flair" and "one-of-a-kind"; this collection scored a 5/10 across all measures.

Here were some of the more "interesting" ones:

Simple spaghetti strapped dress with flowing skirt and a slight train.

Catherine Deane

Justine Long Dress

$1,310.00

A vintage-inspired lace and nude sash tiered dress.

BCBGMAXAZRIA

Carly Layered Lace Gown

$548.00

A Grecian inspired nude sweetheart dress with side train.

BCBGMAXAZRIA

Carly Layered Lace Gown

$548.00

A one-of-a-kind, but semi-glorified petticoat nightgown.

Temperley London

Long Jadeene Dress

$1,650.00

On the other hand, their short "wedding" dresses seemed a bit more inspired:

Thread

One Shoulder Dress

$495.00

Lela Rose

Brocade V Neck Dress with Belt

$1,595.00

What do you think?

Oscars 2011

2011-03-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

fI love the Oscars! I remember I used to stay up late (East Coast time) just to watch the Oscars in my parents' room. Since my parents didn't encourage TV-watching, we didn't have cable. In order to catch even a runny static still of the Hollywood stars, I would stand a foot away from the TV while holding up the antenna throughout the entire three-plus-hours of programming.

I have cable now. I can sit on my couch, hands-free, and even magically rewind, pause and fast-forward my TV programming. I suppose that's a happy ending -though I still believe no-TV-watching was the best childhood experience my parents ever gave me- but, back to the Oscars.

Was anyone else slightly let-down by the Oscars last night? Result wise, I was extremely excited Natalie Portman and Colin Firth won. It would have been a huge upset if they hadn't! I was also very happy Social Network didn't steal the night (sorry, J). After all, the Oscars has -for a few years now- inspired great upset by awarding the golden statue to underdogs, newcomers and outliers alike. This year, although the hosts were "young and hip", the show was... well, to be expected.

Fashion wise, it was also to be expected. Yawn.

Top Three Fashionistas

Anne Hathaway looked amazing in all of her changes. She also looked like she was trying so much harder as hostess than teleprompter-reading James Franco (I still heart you James-from-Palo-Alto). But, if I had to choose, my favorite of her eight amazing dresses was the Givenchy dress she wore during the opening:

Second place is Cate Blanchett. I've been a huge fan of Cate ever since she lost the Oscar for Best Actress to Gywneth Paltrow in 1998 (huge upset, I tell ya). Fast-forward twelve years, Cate's still fierce (and Givenchy for the win!). The flow of her dress is ethereal and the splash of yellow beading on the shoulder criss-crossing at the back gives it a modern twist and makes the dress truly one-of-a-kind. Fashion wise, this would be number one, but personally, I'm making this my number two because I'm easily woo'ed by sparkles.

Third place was challenging to place because no one really stood out. I mean, how does Anne put on eight stunning dresses and others fail to impress in even one? Does anyone else feel this way or am I just spoiled by the Lady Gaga's and Katy Perry's of today (I guess they wear "costumes" by definition)?

Hilary Swank and Halle Berry almost clinched third until I decided both silhouettes (dramatic mermaid trains) were "last year." Mila Kunis was adorable in lavender, but I get so nervous about her having a wardrobe malfunction, I can't bear to post photos. So, finally, I decided to award my personal third place to Sandra Bullock. She gave an altogether different look than what she usually gives us; and, her look channeled the classiness to convey "hey, I'm A-list" and "Best actress coming through!" You go, Sandy!

You didn't ask, but cutest couple of the night? Javier and Penelope.
This is their first public appearance together and she's still sporting the new-mommy glow!

(Second place: Selena and Justin being uber cute at the Vanity Fair party)

What did you think of the Oscars? Who is your fashion pick for first, second and third?