chic simplicity - a fashion memoir

chic simplicity life lesson #99: b is for bold-colored blazer

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:51:00 PDT

For reasons completely unidentified ― and really, inconsequential whatever they'd be ― I want a cherry red blazer. I've been admiring these two pieces for the past month or so. You might say there's nothing incredibly remarkable about either blazer, especially to warrant their RRPs. True. But doesn't the cherry brightness just make you cheery.

I've resolved to keep an eye out for Rag & Bone's piece, pictured right, (Browns) (and Neiman's, Bergdorf's, and Barneys, in store) once it's sale season (which, by the way, you'd think folks would be smart enough to start sales much earlier this year! People are hardly buying anything! Sheesh!!). The blazer by DSquared (Luisa Via Roma) seems very well cut. But it's got a cropped back vent ― striking detail, yes, but not one I particularly like; I'd thought about extending it with a similar fabric in black, if I ever got the jacket. Perhaps more importantly, at almost thirteen hundred dollars the jacket is over twice the price of the Rag & Bone piece!! So I'm biding my time. I've also been on staple blazer territories, JCrew and Ralph Lauren; nothing in just plain red (yet! keeping my fingers crossed.)

Cherry kisses.

a little pep in your step (boys)!

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 11:46:00 PDT

As I contemplated what'd recently caught my eye in men's fashions ― but, never really taken root in my consciousness because, well, I'm not shopping for any men! ― I exhausted my brain recalling some of the most inspiring and innovative contemporary brands/names I'd heard floating around. An hour, two crosswords and a slice of quiche later...
Nope, nothing.

You see, for 'it' to have even the slightest bit of flair for the typical gentleman, (true, even when dressing women) one has got to take one's cues, very frequently, from brazen, avant-garde designers who aren't afraid to go to extremes. Most certainly, you'll find a striking detail to make your own from the designer's seemingly Gordian, or ― *ahem* ~~crazy~~ absurd ― runway pieces, for instance. And yes, of its on accord, my mind was running amok with selfish desires to recreate such (essentially) male details/pieces to fit myself as a woman.

It was in this despairingly distracted state that I thought of ~~love potion~~ Number (N)ine. And thank the Lord for men.style.com, because I couldn't remember the designer's name, Takahiro Miyashita. Now, I know not very men ― actually, I can't even think of a single male friend ― that would look favorably at Miyashita's ensembles, well, as they appeared on the runway (pics, men.style.com). And I get it. You really don't want to look like a bleach-blond Juliette Gréco channeling a disconcerted, hallucinating Renaissance androgyne sans paint brush (this spring, left pic) or Ali Baba's step-son, reincarnated, and still running from the sharia police (fall collection). I don't want you to either.

But, let's look a little closely at the brilliance of a series of shoes Miyashita showed for this spring season. The uppers are actually made from heavy rich jacquard, the kind normally used in curtains, yep drapery! Have you seen anything like it?? I haven't, and I think it's charming. I mean, seriously, worn with a pair of your usual (ho-hum *chuckle* plain) linen shorts/trousers or sport coat/blazer ensemble say for spring, it's bound to give you a little more oomph in your step. I'd totally do a double take!! Really, let's think about it: I'm not asking you to go crazy because you'd still be in your regular (more or less presentable) clothes; your shoes would just be a little more special. *smile* (at Number (N)ine, Brownsfashion)

So I decided to search out more of such interesting (proper) shoes (brogues, oxfords etc. wait, there are only three?! shoe options for you poor, poor men!). I found some, nothing more in jacquard like I was hoping.

I showed the Martin Margiela's confetti sneakers (I h.a.t.e. sneakers), but compare it to the proper shoes (of which I'm now a huge! fan) and which I could only find on darling site, LuxuryCulture. It's exquisite decadence. The confetti pieces on both the sneakers and the proper shoes ― I think these are derbies, I can't tell the difference ― are supposed to fall off with time, carrying on the uniqueness of the shoes. Gosh I'm in love. (with shoes I can't even own! or can I?)

Shoes:
Top: Raf Simons, Colette Paris; Middle: Gucci, Saks, Neiman's, Gucci; Bottom: Sneakers: MMM, Brownsfashion, or Eluxury.

Big kisses.

le smoking

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:30:00 PDT

I have this thing: a love for women ― no, no men this time, just women ― smoking in fashion eds. I know, I know... whatever. And you know, it's really a complex concept that measures, very carefully, the chicness factor and (usually) sex appeal of the entire spread.

I don't feel like writing or I'd go into detail. Maybe sometime later, when I forget completely that I sat through Larry King interviewing Joan Rivers' face the other night. No, I still don't know what they were talking about. I couldn't think, much less move my hands to change the channel, I was just paralyzed, in awe of the wonder that is Ms Rivers' bust (sculpture, that is). Both puns intended. Anyway, Kate Moss in this studded Balmain jackie got me thinking... Yes, she's a badd! ass! and I'd so steal that jacket from her. (No, I don't smoke, let's not talk ethics, just enjoy the pics) ~~I think~~ I want to do a spread just like hers. Now.Tom Ford gets an honorary mention. Haha. You know I love this man!

Kiss. Kiss. Don't get too close, I don't wanna smell the ciggie on your breath. Thanks.

mlle roitfeld: cnn

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:50:00 PDT

Bonjour tout le monde.
Oui, c'est Mlle Roitfeld! Je paresse ...pense à son éclat parisien.
CNN Video: Carine Roitfeld

La fin.
xoxxxo
Tu ceci appele une entrée ?!! Shame haha

soft iridescence (and a djebellah i'm crazy for) from sophie theallet

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 11:09:00 PDT

It's the airiness of the overlaid, silk chiffons in her spring pieces; each layer, a single color ― primarily ― emerging softly, shimmering into a mellow iridescence. It's what struck me about Sophie Théallet's first showing at NY fashwk last September. Then, add a smattering of floral: subdued, and yet, eye-catching, eye-pleasing.

Pics: Style.com, Top: Spring. Bottom: Fall.

Just as I sat musing about the Native American influences in Théallet's fall collection (on her (seemingly) bohemian flair), I reverted to that djellabah piece from her spring collection. How perfectly chic! And what if I could wear it both 'as is' and as a djellabah-mini, of sorts; the two bottom tiers a removable piece?? I'm serious. Brilliant, no?? And at least I'd have two pieces for the pricey one.

Btw...
Yes, she did use all black models for her spring show debut last September. Frankly, I'm amazed; as I did not know there were that many black models in my great America.
No, she was not making a political statement, she'd said. The colors just looked better on brown skin.
― No, I don't believe the former (statement) one bit. (Okay, a 95% degree certainty.)
― Duhhh?!!! re the latter notion. I think you'd be hard pressed to find colors that didn't look much better on brown skin.

PS. Her spring pieces debuted on Eluxe just about the same time the fall collections started showing. Pretty fast huh?? Well, she did spend ten years at Alaïa.

Beaucoup de bisous!

prada transformer

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:43:00 PDT

I'll be b.a.c.k.
Meanwhile, do click on the absolute spectacularity that is the Prada Transformation concept: a structure composed of (four) distinct shapes, which rotates according to one of four events it's expected to host at any given time. It's currently being built in Seoul; construction started in Feb. You must watch the video! I only found out about it yesterday. I'm completely amazed; but I do have a few questions. Most importantly, "Where will the internal bits i.e. furniture, design pieces, etc be stored and how will they be moved about as the transformer undoubtedly uhhh... transforms (sorry) to host each event??" Might turn out to be a pain, if they have to be moved often, whatever "often" means. Although I'm sure the smart people at FRCH Design Worldwide have thought alot about this already.

butterfly kisses.

adeline andre (i, personally, prefer seven arm-holes please)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 10:53:00 PDT

Speaking of Parisian couture, I've had this a bit now... The subdued Adeline André, who hosts her enduringly effortless couture collections fondly dubbed Top-of-wear pieces thinks an aquamarine blue seven arm-holed knee-length dress is just fine for fall, and I agree. What makes this piece especially endearing is its layered skirt, which at first glance, is simple enough. But, on further inspection, one realizes it simply must've taken some measure of fastidious perfection to get it to fall correctly, otherwise one would, just as easily, end up with a lopsided garment (yes, that could be fashionable too, but it's obvs not Ms André's goal for her private clientele!). I have a vision of being unwrapped from this dress as I twirl away from a yummy hunk holding the outer sleeve at one end *bows head in mock shame* It wouldn't work as easily as I envision, I know. Images: Madame Le Figaro

And to say I'm taken with Adeline André is an understatement. Just when I'd pegged the Central African Republic born Ms André as a restrained woman (err... given her recent garments!), I found a youtube video that dispelled my naive notion.

Not only is there a compelling woman behind the clothes, a woman who designs a myriad of pieces; there's an intriguing intuition that accompanies her simple pieces; ironically, so obvious, it's easily overlooked. Her pieces are extremely wearable, to say the least; additonally, they offer the fashionably discerning wearer greater control and possibilities on wearing, dressing up or down. And as if her brilliance isn't enough, she had to have her three arm-sleeve garment registered in Paris only a year after setting up shop as a designer!! Umm.. do you know how difficult it is to get anything trademarked, much less anything in fashion?! Let's not even talk about in France?! ...the snobbish French manner of doing things. (Je vous aime toujours, mes chéris!)

Bisous. Bisous.

chic decadence

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:05:00 PDT

Carrying on ― as though I haven't got some 'splaining to do, except to say I think melancholy prods the frozen recesses of my soul, so a post for my records it is ― did you know I first titled my fashion memoirs CHIC DECADENCE? Yup, it's true, and you can totally see it, can't you?!

I think the decadent part is really a combination of my burgeoning (just plain-old greedy) desire for truly luxurious fabrics that I can't even afford; my mother's impressions on me, growing up, unveiling a treasured item for a special occasion and sometimes, just because... (she felt like it, honestly, mom?! indulgent much?!); and lastly, let's face it: even though I do a very good job of pretending I'm not Nigerian, there is a certain hedonistic 'fanfare' that comes with every ounce of every drop of Nigerian blood and culture (and I love it! more and more!! each day). So you see, nature +nurture, I totally can't escape it!!

So yeah... sorrowfully pensive state well established (fall's line-up alternately permitting me temporary reprieve (and forcing me downward still as it fuels my insatiable hunger)), and it's on to Giambattista Valli F/W 2009-10.

Relatively subdued for the man who'd sooner dress what's (or who's) the left of the world's Lee Radziwills (but just perfect for me!), Mr Valli showed a collection suffused with clean, clear-cut lines, and sprinkled, here and there, with ornate glimmering silks (or brocades). Of course, having foraged as a magpie in a former life, all the shiny fabrics are especially attractive; and yet ― perhaps c almost distracting from the simple wearability of Valli's pieces.

Even then, the shiny (haha) pieces aren't the best of the lot! Okay (I lie and I die!!), save for this long coat (pictured left) accompanied with its exquisite silk-corded tassel, a pleasing theme running through the collection. Really, the coats have it and all I want to say is... I want this (coat)! and this! and this!! Thank you very much. A gyrl can dream, can't she?? BTW, I'd never catch this niggling cold, if I had one of those coats... I'm just saying.

(pics: thanks Style.com)

But seriously, I especially love this peacock-feathered skirt and I ― undoubtedly ― want it for my mom!! She wouldn't buy it herself (given the game-of-pick-four-or-five-random-numbers price-tag that will certainly accompany it) that much I know, but she'll definitely take it from her gyrls (once we compromise our lives for it *on sale*). I know she'll also say something like, "how am I supposed to wear this in the stifling heat (of Nigeria)?" True. So maybe, we'll try to make it into a tea-length affair... (perhaps attach a simple light-weight (sheer?) ruched fabric at the bottom mimicking the edges of the feathers.. It's kinda hard to explain... but I'm altering and refining the skirt in my head... HA!) what am I say?? Nigerians wear much more in the stifling sun, no?? Pictured with that turtle neck, it makes me feel hot (temp-wise), just looking at it. Anyway, I think it's just perfect... Well almost... mommy will soon have been married to daddy for thirty years (next year), and I know it's all about pearls for this anniversary... but this skirt is just. to, die. for. So, we have to make it work. (Scheming: I'll get back to you.) *giggles*

Decadent kisses, leaving lip stains on each of your cheeks.

seven photographs that changed fashion (rankin)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:08:00 PST

I'm sure the folks at BBC4 are wonderful people, I just don't know why they refuse to keep their docu videos online for more than a week! So I went on youtube... Benevolent user Watoic ― however shall I repay you, doll?? ― has the entire documentary following acclaimed photographer, John Rankin Waddell bka Rankin, as he recreates his most inspiring and provocative images shot by fashion's most revered photographers. Truly captivating.

Provocative kisses, swollen lips.

sheer body (bebaroque)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 07:57:00 PST

(My second younger sis and) I had to do a bit of cleaning this past weekend. (Daddy came into town. *happy grin*) In need of gobs of motivation, I switched to MTV Hits on TV, alternating between two or three other music channels. The music blaring, an approving glance ― at regular intervals ― at the crazed woman ― staring back at me ― shaking her seemingly detectable tush in and out of brilliant contortions, I was making progress: a clean square of space for every five minutes of rump-shaking.

Of course, practically everything I was seeing on TV ― and hearing ― was new to me. I hardly ever listen to (new) music, so my pop-culture knowledge is appalling and dwindling continuously.

Anyway, to one of the (long-winded) points I'm trying to make: Britney's Circus video came up. I can't tell you anything about the album's premise, and very little about the song itself, except, that I did admire Britney's reemergent strength and the video concept... performers in a circus/carnival (duh!!).

Britney Spears - New Music - More Music Videos

Second point: Britney's nude bodysuit encrusted with crystals at (ahem!) strategic points ― pretty hot. However, my barely-underlying patronizing fashion-self can't help but think that while bodysuits/catsuits are de rigeur for many circus acts, Brit's fashion esthetic played a slightly lesser-to-nonexistent role than her need to wear next to nothing on TV. (But who am I to judge?? My need for barely-derriere-grazing dresses ― or tops disguised as dresses ―knows no bounds!!) Umm, quick question, who died and made bodysuits the uniform for gyrlies' music videos?!!

Drum roll please: Well, Brit's body suit reminded me of Bebaroque's new delightfully sheer and embroidered bodysuits, a hot addition to their truly sublime line of tights.'Tis bad enough that Mses. McNicol and Patience's collection of tights was responsible for something of a mini myocardial infarction when I first glimpsed them early last year! Now, these body suits... I didn't even know they were expanding their line, a darling friend let me in on the pleasurable tidbit of information. Since their inception in 2007, the ladies behind Bebaroque ― a fitting name, when one considers the extravagant details, especially the reconstructed paisley patterns often hand printed on the tights ― have worked with other amusingly brazen lingerie designers ― Barrie, Lascivious, Norreys etc to produce unique pieces. Along with the distinctive kooky tattoos and paisley motifs that adorn their tights, the gyrlies maintain production in Bonnie, Scotland. Yay Scotland!! (I don't know why, but I'm obvs tickled by this whole Scottish thing.) But seriously, the Scots do have this amazing skill. I can't quite put my finger on it... Graeme, Jonathan Saunders, Christopher Kane...

According to DD, this time, Bebaroque's collection of bodysuits and tights dubbed ''Russian Dolls" was inspired by the country's elaborate architectural domes and folklore. I'm not quite certain about a pair of so-called (red, pictured) "babushka" tights. I could've sworn the word 'babushka' meant grandma in Polish/Russian. (Even though I know this, it's the first word that pops in my head when my little bro and I start making up curse words (although said little bro is getting well-versed in real curse words!! Sheesh!!).) The tights are very pretty with the merest hint of scandal! I just wouldn't associate them with a grandma.

Btw, the pieces are so new, they're not even available on their webbie, or anywhere else, except Dazed Digital (oh you dolls are the best!! Can I be your BFF?!!) Im in love with these bodysuits!! However, personally, I'm not crazy about showing my belly button or midriff so I think I imagine another sheer layer on the front half, a more interesting light (one layer sheer in the back) - dark contrast, with a pronounced trompe l'oeil effect for me. *smile* I cant help it, I just love showing off my back better.

The merest puckering of my lips against your cheeks.

seemly avant-garde: YSL spring 2009 collection (the new power suit)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 08:27:00 PST

mood: sombre.

YSL 2009 refashions! the new power suit (a sharply tailored gray jumpsuit).*ow!* I want to kiss Stefano Pilati. Worthy of mention, eons ago, (2007), Mr. Pilati showed the now-seemingly ubiquitous harem/dhoti/*flo'-rider* pants¹ (oooh go Flo Rider!! Actually, it might be 'Rida'!! But, whatevs. I'm unbecomingly proud of my pop culture knowledge.). Like I was saying, that's just how innovative Mr. Pilati is.

So much I could write about these pieces...

Refined, but restrained; restrained, but avant-garde; avant-garde, but familiar; familiar, but new; new but (pleasurably) refined.

Beautiful kisses.

Footnotes:
1. You've seen those pants; and unfortunately you'll be seeing more of them on everybody!! Arrgh, it just doesn't look good on everybody. *sigh*

chic challenge: fair-trade, eco-friendly full skirt a la oscar de la renta

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:56:00 PST

So, I've come up with a challenge for myself; I want to find a gorgeous 'printed' full skirt (knee-length) like Oscar de la Renta makes, but it must be produced with fair-trade organic fabrics. I know, it's daunting! But I'll see what comes of it.

As no one can tuck and gather like my darling adopted God-father¹, Mr de la Renta; I know I'm setting myself up for disappointment already. But notice, I didn't say I just want this skirt instead of one of Mr de la Renta's... (I'll leave it at that.) His fall pieces are seventy! off; the particular print I wanted ― the purple hibiscus dip-dyed skirt ― was, ummm... pretty expensive. 'How do I say, originally over three thou?!' And it's not that de la Renta's pieces couldn't possibly be eco-friendly, I just want to find one made explicitly so on my own.Fall '08. I want the third skirt from the left.

This spring, de la Renta's skirts, some made of (silk) faille, have this extra side-flounce that's just so alluring. Ahhh...

Spring '09

Wish me luck.
xoxo.

Footnotes:
1. Mr de la Renta may not publicly acknowledge my existence, but no matter. He will someday. And you need not point a finger at me, you calling yourself part of our new prez's family! Umm.. no Barack Obama is not your uncle either. Haha.

labour of love

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 08:46:00 PST

Speaking of, for the most inexplicable of reasons I've become delightfully enamored of these Labour of Love jazz shoes. Paired with cigarette ankle-length trousers or short shorts, they'd be so chic!! This patent fuschia pair is wild!! But, they come in fourteen!! pretty colors. At Far Fetch.

Bubblicious bubble-gum kisses.

the romantic edge (givenchy sandals!)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 07:49:00 PST

Single-handedly Riccardo Tisci (Givenchy) has ensured that the gladiator sandal or its continuously more refined and evolved clones will remain the impossibly chic accessory for the possibly next two seasons!! (...a lifetime in the fashion world!)
Just imagine the delightfully treacherous cycle: pieces appear six months before on runways, editorial buzz, fast fashion replicas months avant la saison (none of which truly eco-conscious glamour gyrls will touch with a twelve foot pole; we know it's not cheap, despite what the price-tag says!), designers feed off buzz and incorporate similar motifs into next season's pieces... Nope! The original pieces haven't hit the stores yet! But that's the way it goes, you see.

'Tis a tremendous feat when we think back to the style icon of my lifetime, the exceptionally chic Carine Roitfeld, sporting Givenchy gladiator sandals last fall/winter! Tisci's pieces, both clothes and accessories, are marked by an unsurpassed sophistication that is the result of his own keen aesthetic, a futuristically cool reinterpretation of a Romantic history.

I will be keeping a close eye on these pieces online and in store and when they do go on sale (believe me, they will, do I even have to say, "look at the economy?!" haha. I know it's not funny, I'm sorry) I will snag possibly three? pairs!! Yikes!! I mean I absolutely need one of the gladiator-applique pairs (top), definitely one of these lace pairs (below) and a pair of this to the right!! *wistful sigh*

The pieces have started arriving in stores, Barneys, Shopbop, Zappos, Net-a-Porter. European designers are cheaper in Europe for Americans without VAT (ha!) so Luisa Via Roma it is for me. Bellissimo!!

Delicious kisses.

flower power (valentino totes!! heart)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 11:13:00 PST

You don't have to dig deep to find that I'm a gyrly gyrl whose heart blossoms into a million little petaled whorls. So why not wear my heart on my sleeves??
This is my bag of the year, hands down. I'll be rocking it like the glamour puss that I am once I can afford it! HA!

I also love these pieces, very terribly. The ends of black bow bag fold inwards to form an irregular hexagon just like the 'Printemps' (French for spring) bag (to the left).

All Valentino
Available at your nearest Valentino boutique; would you still love me if I told you how often I went in the past month just to touch them?! Be back to tell you where I found them online. Dashing to an appt!

**Okay, you'll find these pieces at:
Topmost (my fave!!!): Marissa Collections
The rest; Top Left: Tender Birmingham(Big *heart*)
Top Right: Saks (Also love!)
Bottom: Neimans

Sweet kisses on the lips.

one loopy dress

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:40:00 PST

Is it terribly pathetic that every time I remember, I check the eLuxury website to see if an online sales rep. has become available to chat (with me). I need to ask about this gorg! dress of flattened helical piping overlain on French tulle (currently NOT on sale on the site)??

I would call, but I'm saving my voice to try out on the next Idol and per my voice coach's instructions. Ha!! Okay, it's just too early and if I don't have to speak to anyone, I'd rather not!

Kiss.Kiss.

sprouse it up

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 02:53:00 PST

What I love ― having learned ― about the artist, Stephen Sprouse (1953-2004), is the unreservedly glamorous aptitude that pervaded his 'rock and roll' fashion sensibilities; an intense mix of his ardent love of art and punk-rock. Heralded as the American Punk Glamour God, esp. of the eighties ― and I would say the only one since then ― Sprouse made beautifully tailored "punk" clothes; becoming famous for his natural flair at integrating uptown sophistication with a chic downtown edge. It wasn't just punk garb, it was punk garb made from luxe cashmere from Italy, and constructed delectably. It's a cheeky balance he honed especially whilst under Halston's tutelage.

The on-going retrospective of Sprouse's work at NY's Deitch gallery includes pieces he commissioned for Vuitton, graffiti-tagged bags and RTW pieces with emblazoned large, brightly colored rose prints (2001). Inspired by this original partnership, Marc Jacobs reworks these dominant motifs into a darling of a limited edition Sprouse collection for Vuitton. They're screen-printed on the monogram canvas in reminiscent Day-Glo colors, and I think I might finally be on my way to owning my very! first! piece! of Vuitton monogram canvas accessory.

If you know anything about me ― anything at all― you know my utter aversion to the monogram, damier and really all 'logo'-fied canvassed bits and pieces!! (It's not the styles, of course, but the widely-accepted notion of LV monogram bags, wallets etc as some sad status symbol amongst overlapping circles of my beloved wannabe-fashionable sets. Yes, I said it. (I think to myself, "Is it really a status symbol if you get the cheapest logo-fied bag of the bunch?? (usually a Speedy 30 or whatever))
Sad that I might be joining the disillusioned pack, even if the bright Day-Glo colors of the Sprouse collection offer a pretty distraction. But, that's just how much I love the collection!! ...And the legend, as which Sprouse should be celebrated, even though he never quite reached that pinnacle during his lifetime.

Lip smacking kisses on each cheek!!
P.S. An incredible article in the NYMag at the time of Sprouse's death.

the heel factor

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:09:00 PST

It wasn't impulse shopping, not in the least. I knew when I got into London ― en route to cold-as-numbskulls New England, from holiday (I love this word) ― I'd need a pair of heels. (I'd checked my luggage all the way through. Pathetic excuse.)

Besides, my stay wouldn't have been half as thrilling, myself, half as sexy, if I hadn't made the mad dash to Harrods that evening; barely giving myself a measly hour to find a worthy pair of pumps (and anything else that caught my eye). I must have encircled the shoe dept. at least three times, but I kept coming back to 'it'. It was as if there was some gravitational force drawing me back... to this pair of shoes.
New season too.
Way to thwart my non-resolution for the new year.

When I accepted that I wouldn't be leaving the store ― which happened to be closing in ummm... twelve-fifteen minutes ― without the lovelies, the world became a much more pleasing space.

(Really, it was the black faceted fake haematites ― or whatever those stones are ― on the heels that kept whispering my name oh so seductively. I told you I was a magpie in my former life.) I've tried to look for them on the Dior webbie, but they aren't there. There is a silver pair with plain heels, but that's no even close to what I paid for my encrusted heels. All the better, notwithstading. My brain, being the clever center that it is, has helped me remove the memory of the price I'd paid for it, so I don't have to dwell on it. Such brilliance. I just know I must subsist on air and ramen noodles for the next few weeks, I think.

I may have found a mini-dress/top (call it what you want) whose sleeves I may have chopped off; but these are the things we must do for style. I'm going to incorporate the sequined portions of the chopped sleeves (ha!), which really is about six inches long! and possibly ten inches wide per sleeve into a fab new black mini that my darling tailor will sew!!

Big kisses with sugar atop.

green is the new black (by tasmin blanchard) :: swishing parties

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 03:09:00 PST

I finally got to read my book Green is the new black : How to change the world with style by Tasmin Blanchard over Christmas break. I'd misplaced the book since September after returning from LFW, so I was quite thrilled to find it just before leaving for Christmas. Then, of course, it took me all of one day to read... But no matter, it was terribly enlightening. I advocate that if you ― like me ― have been slacking off in your fashionably eco-conscious lifestyle, then you really ought to read this book. Simple.
(At Amazon UK and Amazon, but apparently not in American bookstores til Feb?!)

While I'd love to delight in you in what-would-be a grossly inadequate summary of the book's wonderful points ― of which there are many, I'll pass. I always hated writing book reports!! However, from its discerning perspective on 'fast fashion' to its all-encompassing little green book: the stylish and sustainable shopping directory at the end, its well thought-out guidelines to pleasures of guilt-free sprees and swishing parties!!, Ms Blanchard's book is a must-read for every fashionably-green, chic chick.

I didn't even know the concept of swishing parties existed!! I'm always toying with the idea of swapping purses, belts, accessories, and sometimes, clothes I know I'd never wear again. I think I'm developing a bit of a thing about my clothes; they're really personal, but even more complicating, I usually have them reworked so I doubt anyone could really use them but me. Anyway, my obsession for purses, really, has always been the repressed motivation for wanting to swap pieces with friends, either temporarily or forever. *gasp* *faint* I am now, however, thinking very seriously about organizing a quarterly-sort-of event. It'd be such a great way to get rid of stuff one doesn't use regularly, and perhaps, lay claim to a friend's say Smythson purse for a bit.

So, If green is the new black, and the new black is 60 percent off, does this mean what you think it does?!! Perhaps. If you're thinking of that Stella McCartney cardi or McQueen hand-stitched ostrich-feathered skirt (eco-fashion is all relative, I think, except for obvious gaffes like cheap, non-decomposable fabrics of indeterminate origins!!); it's probably is 60 off now, but that's because the economy is undeniably the pits!! The truth is wearing well-made, eco-friendly styles made by socially-responsible designers isn't cheap. Not that I wear cheap clothing, but you know what I mean... In the simplest of terms, it explains why couture is so expensive; the best fabrics sourced out by astute craftsmen to make the finest of garments!
Ahhh.... *pleasurable sigh*

Pretty, pretty kisses.

great escapes (resort 09)

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:07:00 PST

A bit gloomy.
Back in the cold of New England. While it could be construed as partly my fault,¹ my suffering from rather irritable cold symptoms, that is; I'm awfully grumpy and wishing for terribly hot weather (the kind that permits only the merest of fabric patches to cover the bare necessities!!).

To lift my mood ― somewhat, I settled under my blanket to review this season's resort wear. Granted, I don't vacation mid-January/February like the rest of you, my fab beau monde (ahem!!), the timing is just right (for me). I know for a fact, disconcerting as it may be, that I can NOT spend a brass farthing on any 'new' pieces this month because... Well, I'll just mention that on my stop-over in London (from holiday in Nigeria), I thought it wise to nip into Harrods. (I really needed a pair of shoes; and it was supposed to be my primary purchase... *end of explanation*)
I'm spewing venom at the venerable Harrods.
*whisper: I still treasure it, however.*

Like I was saying, I won't be buying anything new, so I can just refresh my mental cache of pretty resort pieces and wait for the sales so I can get a measly one or two pieces!! (In my head, I'm thinking, "Shouldn't some of these darned pieces be on sale already?? They've been in the shoppes since fecking December, really.) The pieces that catch my eye are made of feathery light fabrics and pale in color ― best not to assault my cones with bright bursts of colors at four in the morning, eh??² Even more desirable, many of the pieces afford a seamless transition between settings. So, in my sunny castle in the air, I'd be walking through a busy little district at 5.47pm; and at 7.00pm I'd be polishing off tasty canapés in an open air³ gallery; a change of shoes, perhaps, being the only spot of difference.
L two: Elie Tahari. R two: Phillip Lim. The Phillip Lim sequin/beaded dress is in stores but as separates: a tank and skirt. Fine by me
L-R: Marc Jacobs (I AM getting this pair of pants, if I get anything), Roberto Cavalli, Giambattista Valli, Zac Posen
L-R: Temperley London, Stella McCartney, Missioni, Tory Burch
L-R: Marc Jacobs, Valentino, Zac Posen, Roberto Cavalli

Two feet away, air kisses. (I told you; I'm sick.)

Footnotes:
1. Let's move past finger-pointing. So what if I love to sleep with little to nothing on, and especially in the cold.
2. Insomnia
3. I'm so eco-conscious now, you'd be so proud!!

engaging time: haute (joaillerie) horlogerie

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:47:00 PST

In my dreams: Chanel tweeds, smoked salmon blinis and secret pleasurable rendezvous everyday ― my joie de vivre. But, this is neither here nor there.

Aptly, I'm taken with the passing of time; seemingly infinite and yet, a constant measurement of the beautifully intricate details in the lives we lead, so to speak. Perhaps, not as timely ― in, dare I say it, these economic times ― these jeweled pieces, now the objects of my desires set the mood for my year's fantastical journey and kiss-off of the on-going r.e.ce.ss.ion. Shouldn't my fashion indulgences be a reprieve from our depressed states?? I totally think so. (I hear too much about 'it', 'it' saddens me, but we can and should dream in the most resplendent of colors... So, not just watches, but haute time pieces.)

I've hardly worn a watch in the past two?? years (I know, it's so unladylike, maybe I'll start wearing one again). Natch, these aren't just any timepieces. Two autumns ago (2007), when Jaeger LeCoultre launched its 'Extraordinary Watches' collection at the Venice Film Festival, I was simply awestruck. In a most delightful reverie, I think I'd rather therose watch than an engagement ring. HA!! Let's saunter down a most enchanted path...

Some of my fave pieces:

Top. L: Jaeger LeCoultre la tulipe watch. R: Audemars Piguet Carnet de Bal haute joaillerie cuff watch (There's a matching choker necklace!!)
Bottom. L: Chanel coco watch, Cometes Collection. R: Van Cleef & Arpels Farandole watch.

There's also a Boucheron time piece I really fancy, but I can't find a piccie of it.

Happy New Year.

Best wishes and deep mouth-searching kisses.

the new black is 60 percent off (Richard Jaffe) :: Colette's new website advertises sale boldly

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 03:45:00 PST

"It's still very clear from the results the most important thing is price," Richard Jaffe, retail analyst at Stifel Nicolaus, said. "The new fashion is frugal. The new black is 60 percent off."

From the sexiest LBD you could ever imagine to your cabochon-encrusted clasp clutch (tongue twister, eh??); the hottest pieces in stores are on sale for at least half-off. (I think it'd be a tad inappropriate to say, "Yay recession!!") Even Colette's brand new webbie is celebrating its relaunch with a site-wide sale?!! The Balmain jackets ― to die for, and this asymmetrical satin and voile de tulle skirt by Comme des Garçon, which I'm inexplicably drawn to - 50% off!! (I'm not crazy about the gathered waist; a more structured sash and shorter hemlines, and it'd be perfect. Perhaps, I could update it. *wink*)

in briefs: Trovata S/S 09 sequined short shorts

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:15:00 PST

Given the obvious biting cold settling in on most parts of the northern hemisphere, one would think I'd be raving about the sweater or cashmere sales, like everyone else. Unfortunately, I'm not everybody else. I will mention that my fave sweater dress of the season is now 50% off at Seven NY, Christian Wijnants' dyed interwoven sweater dress. *tickled*

I've taken a tumble, instead, for Trovata's Spring 09 sequined hot pants, or bikini briefs, really. They seem a tad risqué, I know, but I've been in love with them since I saw them on Trovata's runway in September. Okay, maybe I'd prefer an inch more of fabric attached, especially to reduce the shorts' über-convexity or ― how do I say? ― pelvic- and derriere-grazing attribute; which lends itself more to the underwear variety of clothing than typical clothing. The sequins, of course, should convey the fact that it's not a piece of underwear, but you never know... HA!

Notably, Karl Lagerfeld did put out the perfect sequined short shorts, two spring seasons ago. Certainly the appropriate revival of the burlesque shorts with just the right measure of an inch and a half inseam. (I need that entire outfit please, thanks.)

L: Trovata. R: Chanel

So how do I get my style fix ASAP?? Patricia Field's high waist sequin shorts!! I'm a little concerned about the nature of the material used. I can see the outline of the shirt tucked in the shorts. Eeck!! I think I'll google 'sequined shorts' or search out shoppes which sell dance gear and see what I come up with. **Ooh, I just found this pair at Oli UK. They look five sizes too big on the model; but I kinda like 'e a little. The sequins don't pop as much though.

Glitter-smacked kisses.

roger me this

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 19:46:00 PDT

I'd been patiently waiting for the 17th of this month; an otherwise unremarkable day made ― oh ― just a little more remarkable with the launch of the Roger Vivier website.
*cue: Hallelujah Chorus*

You see, when we (women, and some men!) fall in utterly manic love with a pair of "shoes", more often than not, the shoes have "stiletto heels".

"All I want are high heels, high heels. If I was a girl, I'd wear a lot of high heels. High, stiletto heels." ~ Isaac Mizrahi

We glimpse a fabulously grand pair and our hearts beat faster, louder. The second we slip them on, the surge of endorphins transforms our very beings into glamourously chic superheroes. Never mind that an hour standing in our fave heels and they become the banes of our existences; we'll go through great lengths for these, the current objects of our desires!! We owe all our pleasurable shoe-induced frenzies to dear Monsieur Vivier.

After her smile, the second sexiest thing a woman can put on, really, is a pair of heels! ~ Yours truly.

I must have spent at least an hour on the RV webbie. My appreciation for Vivier's signature convex heel and buckle only swell, classic elegance. The couture shoes ― gloriously outrageous ― are to die for, natch. It gets better, I'm thoroughly tickled by the video diary (anchored by Ines de la Fressange, the brand's creative consultant). This first episode explores Paris' Indian Quarter. One shoppe sells lined notebooks like my sisters and I used in kindergarten and first grade whilst learning how to write!! A tad nostalgic. "[Les] carnets très anciens, vintage," she called them. I laughed at the 'vintage' part.

A little secret... My absolute desire for a pair of yellow pumps stems from my love of Roger Vivier's classic (yellow) ballet flats. I didn't find the pumps this season although I'm sure they've been made before and Bruno Frisoni could easily reproduce them. So, I'm biding my time.

Bisou. Bisou.

P.S. You have to watch Ines' video diary and listen for when she mimics an Indian (my most fave! ever!) accent "Mixed curry powder, very good indeed!". I l.o.v.e. it!! (It's about three-fifths into the video.)
P.P.S. Save your dirty thoughts re my title. Thanks. xx
Aren't these just gorg?!!!

chic simplicity life lesson #12: (expect) little treasures in the most unexpected of places

noreply@blogger.com (chic simplicity) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:49:00 PDT

And this, darlings, is why Karl Lagerfeld rocks my world. A man through whom I'd be made whole by the merest caress of his intricately studded jacket, or gloves. So ummm... I'm terribly broke ― apparently there's a recession in my pants and I suspect it's got a fair bit of nothing to do with the price of rice in China. Yes, gibberish. But pants or not, I called my store... and that's all I'm going to say.

Precious lingering kisses.