::Shop Thought::

Gossip Girl: Marketing Machine

2010-05-14T01:58:00.006-04:00

Watching Gossip Girl is one of my guilty pleasures because I like the clothes and accessories. In addition to this, I am beginning to think I shop too much because I recognized a dress that they flashed for literally a split second in the beginning of the episode entitled: "Ex Husbands and Wives".

This is the Rebecca Taylor Blush Kew Gardens Corset Dress, featured in the May 2010 People Stylewatch (Pg. 30).

It's $495 and already sold out on Saks.com, so don't bother looking.

The next picture is the evidence, so I am positive this dress flashed by while they were busy name dropping at the beginning of the show (boxes from Henri Bendel, Lanvin, Prada, blah blah blah).

(Actual snippet from the episode.)

Also, Blair is holding the dress, but didn't end up wearing it at all. Instead, she wore a little Marc Jacobs number for her next scene.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but it appears to be a better (toned-down) version of this Bird Print wrap dress $995. These past two days Neiman Marcus had a special 30% off some of the new collections and this was included.

Another observation: they used music by Massive Attack - Paradise Circus. You know where I heard this song first? On my iPad. On the hit game Tap Tap Radiation. This just goes to show that they are targeting people like me and uh... it works! The song is good. Check it out.

The iPad sleeve business must be doing well

2010-05-11T19:56:00.008-04:00

I cannot believe that I did not think about a bag for my iPad until now. I could have used this reason to cheat the diet a long time ago...... but not if I wanted the LV sleeve that comes in classic monogram and graphite damier, which isn't out until 2011. I've seen different prices reported so far, but it should cost something like $365. I just don't know if I want it. Well I definitely want it, but I love my iPad more and want to protect it a little better.

First of all, I need a case that serves as an adjustable stand. Depending on app that you are using, you will need different angles and views (horizontal/vertical). So the case has to be versatile, safe, and of course aesthetically pleasing.

I went with this white leather booklet for only $25 on Amazon versus ones at the store that are plain, ugly, and $50. Do please note, there is not a lot of padding here.... but that was exactly what I was looking for, which leads me to the second accessory for additional protection.

For slightly less than the LV sleeve, I could have a beautiful and well-made Rebecca Minkoff Heartthrob $330.

I checked the dimensions and it fits like a glove. The iPad is 9.5" x 7.5" and slimmer than my Blackberry Bold. Tons of shoulder bags this season would accommodate perfectly. (Notice how the word love is inside glove? Yeah, it means nothing.)

I also want this Gucci messenger for $595, but in another color, not brown. Well, maybe brown....it's not bad.

The cost is justified because it's not merely an iPad bag. Other things go in it good too.

Chloe on sale

2010-05-04T04:36:00.003-04:00

It's on sale because the only color left is kind of "poo brown" to be accurate. I never see Chloe on sale, and although I like this model a lot, the color just doesn't do it for me.

I thought the friends and family sale just passed, but it must not have done well since it was only 20%, while the last couple times have been 25% at least I believe. Anyways, you can view the sneak preview now, but the sale goes on during the 6th and 7th officially.

Too bad this color is all gone

Current Cravings

2010-05-03T19:51:00.008-04:00

I love Louis Vuitton Vernis so much that I often times consider buying the same bag in different colors. It happened again last week when I was walking by the store. I love that the Roxbury Drive is back, in PINK my faaaaaaaave. Although I've been tempted to buy multiples, I have yet to succumb. So chances are this won't be mine, but maybe on a day when willpower is weaker... and I'll have $1040 to spare.

I'm pretty sure I have to have this. It's taking forever to choose a City Classic. Love em all. Can't play favorites, but a handbag is a long-term investment with sentimental value as well. Never buy unless it's true love.

Really wish I could splurge on this Exclusive City Classic Craquelle, Bois de Rose $1395 right now though. I just don't know if I love it because I've never seen this exact one in real life. Last week Neiman Marcus.com began selling exclusive Balenciaga bags in celebration of the 10 Year anniversary of the Classic bag. It'd be nice if they would put some Balenciaga in the Copley store for us to peruse and fully inspect. It's very photogenic, but that just adds to the uncertainty.

Christian Louboutin Rosella Damas Silk Ballet Flat $475

Unlike other Louboutins, these actually fit true to size. I tried these on in the store and they were very light and comfortable. They only have a bit of flex though and very little cushion. I couldn't justify the cost, so, sadly, I left them at the store, but still think about them sometimes. I suppose I'll just dream until we meet again, in the shoe salon.

These Giuseppe Zanotti's are the best value. They're $465 on Shop Savanah's, but I think it was more like $595 when I saw these at Saks. They're made of the softest leather, with a generously cushioned sole, dazzling gold studs and cap toe. The small heel in the back is a big plus. That tiny millimeter of a heel actually makes a difference for walking.

I almost gave in and bought these new Tory Burch studded flats today at Saks. They have a pre-sale going on right now and these shoes are 30% off. Original Price $275. (It's only in black online) Also on sale at Saks were other select new shoes from designers including Elizabeth and James, Belle by Sigerson Morrison, and Juicy Couture.

It was difficult, but I managed to put them down and forge ahead towards Sephora instead. The End.

Gift Idea

2010-04-24T12:10:00.000-04:00

What girl would not be completely elated to receive this gift from somebody special? Plus, it's worth the money, because it's so versatile - I'd just never take it off, never ever.

Kitty Friend Swarovski Hello Kitty Pendant $559

Retro sunglasses

2010-04-22T14:43:00.004-04:00

I keep seeing these Retro Super Future Frank2 Super Flats on Katy Perry. I'm glad she really loves them because they've been sold out for a while. Flaunt it, you and your skinny face. This line of sunglasses does not fit gargantuan heads like mine.

However, my search for big, flat top, two tone sunglasses lead me to the pair below...

The Oliver People's Zadie glasses ($295)

I plan to wear them all summer long, and have to thank my sweet lovey for giving me such a dope V-day gift. =0)
A lot of European sunglass makers do not cater to flatter nose bridges, however Oliver People's was actually founded in West Hollywood and the saleswoman at Saks informed me that glasses are handmade in Japan.
I don't see them in stores much, but at some point they were available for the unbelievable price of $137.50 on Net-a-porter.

Cool, Tim Gunn was in town. Okay why?

2010-04-16T10:34:00.016-04:00

Here's the scoop. First, let me preface by saying he's exactly the same man in real life as he is on TV. He was extremely eloquent and so on point during the Q&A.

Quick background: Tim Gunn was part of the faculty at Parson's for about 20 years and by 2000, he had become the Chair of Fashion Design. The CEO of Liz Claiborne, recognizing Gunn's expert sense of style and mentor persona on Project Runway, decided he was someone who could to reinvigorate their brands. So in 2007 he became Chief Creative Officer, in charge of popular labels like Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Lucky Brand, and DKNY Jeans.

Basic fashion tips from "The Gunn":
(Fashion mavens already know these things, but I think it doesn't hurt to be reminded now and then)

- Motto:
Emphasizing fit, proportion, appropriateness for the occasion

- High importance of color complementing skin tone

- Layering to add interest, but also practical to accommodate weather and/or going from day to night.

- Rules were meant to be broken. Anyone can wear practically anything, as long as there's confidence and that must come from within.

My own babble...Fashion has an unfairly negative label as something totally superficial, but it seems short-sighted to consider only the monetary aspect when there isn't a single industry not corrupted by money.
Desire to reflect individual character and confidence, shaped by unique experiences and societal upbringing, are two aspects deeply rooted to the human psyche. Without the psyche, we're just shells of human beings.

- Skirt length - No matter the age, do not go more than an inch below the knee, otherwise it's frumpy and unflattering (small exception for sexy pencil skirts). Conversely, if you are age 27+ (roughly) steer clear of mini skirts, unless you are a celebrity or model or in another unreal profession. Although Pam Anderson should really stop....

-"The day of the $26,000 handbag is over" - I wouldn't agree 100%, but the economic downturn has re-defined our definition of luxury. Since money is tighter, quality and sustainability have become more important than brand value. We still want brand value, but the level of quality in diffusion brands is satisfying consumers. (I just hope that when the age of $26K bags comes back, I'll be financially healthy enough to hop on board LOL)

A couple pieces from from the S/S 2010 line, showcased at the Kate Spade event.

Tutti Frutti Eileen Dress $355
This dress actually has a lower neckline than most of the tops for the brand. I have to admit that the brand suits my age now. Most of the necklines are suitable for work, which I prefer for the office as well as weekend attire. (Firm believer that sexy doesn't have to be short, low-cut, or spandex).

Tim also talked about the importance of color in the Kate Spade line and it was clearly evident looking around the boutique. Their choice of colors are impeccable; sophisticated and true to the brand, but fun, modern, and charming. With saturated greens, yellows, and papaya, prim and proper prints and cuts, you can recognize Kate Spade from a mile away.

Jungle Jacquard Mona Jacket - $455
The style may be better for a woman in her 30s+, but I'm really drawn to the color and the print. Nothing jack-o-lantern about this shade of orange. Designers who carry gorgeous oranges (non-tacky or jarring) get a big plus in my book. I've always been a citrus lover.

That pretty much wraps up the Kate Spade/Tim Gunn event.

I must now give a shout out to Celine handbags.

Even though I'm on handbag diet, I plan on having one of these in the distant future. This is the first season that I've noticed the French fashion house, and I've heard the same from a few other girls. Maybe because Phoebe Philo has made it more youthful than the image back in the 90's.

If you think Tim Gunn is a classy man

2010-04-12T09:33:00.003-04:00

Then you'll be excited to know that he'll be at the Kate Spade store on Newbury St. Wednesday April 14th 6-8pm and Bloomingdales 6-8pm Thursday April 15th.
I think the event at the store will be interesting since it's cozier and more intimate, but I like excuses to hit up Bloomies too.

In stores but not online

2010-04-08T19:54:00.004-04:00

This little guy is part of the Rebecca Minkoff S/S 2010 collection. Too bad I was low on time and did not catch the name or price and it's nowhere to be found online.

This means I'm going to have to check it out tomorrow in hopes that no one bought it. For now, it's the Mini MAB with shoulder pads. It'll require more investigation before going any further.

In other superficial fashion news, I have been looking for a nice evening bag, a minaudiere specifically, that doesn't cost like a million dollars. I like them flashy, like this little box by Judith Lieber.

Solution: Rebecca Minkoff Lace Fling Clutch $195

Damier Verona

2010-04-06T10:24:00.005-04:00

LV is really satisfying the public lately by pumping out new Vernis and Mini Lin, while the usual S/S collections have hit the stores as well. Guess they decided the time has come for new Damier.

The Damier Verona
Available in 3 sizes
PM (11" x 8.6"x5.9"), MM (11.8" x 10.2" x 7.1") and GM (16.5" x 12.6" x 8.6")

The small one pictured below is $1030.

The Damier line is attractive and all, but the brown/black checkers just does not suit me. If I wanted a bag this size/shape, I would prefer the Tivoli PM in monogram. (Picture on right)

Other than the difference in material, this bag feels more casual and functional. It is not as bulky and has flat leather handles instead of rolled handles on the Tivoli.

Project Runway: Maya Luz

2010-04-05T17:06:00.008-04:00

I do not watch Project Runway religiously, maybe because it's a little annoying how Heidi Klum critiques everyone's work when she doesn't have any design background whatsoever. I don't know what it is about her accent, but I feel it adds to the annoyance. And also, why does she have to bid farewell in German? "Auf weidersehen." I'm sure she says "goodbye" in real life.

I was rooting for Maya, but she left the show mysteriously with the reasoning that she wasn't ready to make a collection to be shown at Bryant Park. I don't believe any of that crap. Who wouldn't want their collection shown on the runway? Like many of our so-called reality TV shows, that sh.t is rigged. They know who the top three designers are ahead of time, but want 10 designers to make collections in order to fill up the episode. How would you feel going into a competition knowing you won't win? It would probably be hard to give it 100% already knowing the outcome.

These are just rumors obviously, but it's a lot more plausible than that other lame story.

Here's the fishy interview.

Just love it when this happens...

2010-04-01T19:35:00.003-04:00

I felt so happy when I saw this online,

because I have seen the exact same one not long ago.

Hermes Silky Pop is $864 on Bluefly...

I saved $534. Equivalent to an extra 60% off.

Love it when this happens!

Leather Shorts are Hot

2010-03-31T15:32:00.003-04:00

.... in the sense that I'd be pretty sweaty if I was wearing thick leather shorts. However, there's no sweat from looking. This is probably my favorite pair so far. I'm not much a shorts person anyways since I am very self-conscious about my legs, and for good reasons; they're not fat but not muscular, white like silky tofu, and my calves are certainly not long and thin. If I had supermodel physique and didn't get hot easily, I would wear these cream shorts.

Affording them is another fantasy.

New today on Net-A-Porter
Chloe Cream Lambskin Shorts $2,015

More Barney's Co-Op stores

2010-03-31T14:11:00.005-04:00

Back in December it was rumored that Barneys would expand their Co-Op stores. It has now been confirmed that they will add locations in Brooklyn and Santa Monica, giving them a total of 21 stores. I'm a lot more interested in the Brooklyn location since it's just a few hours away. I have never been to Brooklyn before (seriously), but now I must visit Cobble Hill. The picture above is the Google street view of where the store will be located; 194 Atlantic Ave (the right hand side of the picture with the white and green sign). A lot of similarly priced shops are situated in this neighborhood and space for the Co-Op is right next door to Trader Joe's. That's great news considering how much I love my honey sesame covered cashews.

This is very surprising news because the Dubai company that acquired Barneys back in September 2007 is drowning in massive debt. However, the strategy to focus on the expansion through Co-Op stores does make perfect sense in the current economic climate.

Hermes Sample Sale: The damage

2010-03-29T11:10:00.002-04:00

Saturday March 27, 2010

Recap

6:30AM - Depart from South Station. Zombie mode.

10:30AM - Arrive at 34th and 8th.

10:30AM-11AM - Gather sustenance and head towards the sample sale (No time to waste!)

11:00am - 11:45am??? Not sure. Maybe 30 people in line ahead of us. It didn't move steadily since groups in multiples of 5 were let in as they monitored customers who had finished and left. Not a bad wait at all. However, by the time we got in, there was a huge line behind us, not quite to the end of the block though.

11:45am - 3pm - Oh sadness! The Garden Party bags sold out and there were no more belts with the giant H logo. (Plain leather belts marked down to around $500. How much would the logo belt have cost??)

Deals:
70% off bags and shoes (Huge range, best deal % wise)
50% off ties (Regular Price $196)
40% off scarves (Regular Price $375) and jewelry (Earrings Regular Price: $325)

I should mention that perfume was a great deal. $25 for a bottle that's usually $100. I saw many women buying these in multiples (limit 5). I assume they were going to sell them for a profit, because the perfume and cologne reeked to be quite honest. Like spraying skunk juice on yourself.

Clothing - Didn't even see my size. Doubt I could afford it anyways. Let's not waste time here
Shoes - Weird women's footwear was left, but lots of interesting oxfords (men's) still available

*They continually put out new merchandise as the hot sellers were being snatched up. Big plus, but that was the reason why we stayed for 3 whole hours

Very happy to find these orange/gold studs to match the Silky Pop bag (picture above). At first I was not very impressed by the pop bag, but the quality was superb and some of the prints were just amazing. If you love the scarves, you'll love the convenient pop bag just as much. It zips up into what appears to be a medium sized wallet.

My favorite purchase was the yellow scarf. I just love the colors and the size of it. It's big enough to be creative with how you want to wear it.

Tie for my lovey. It was easy to pick one out for him, all I had to do was find the best looking one with the most character and voila, matches my lovey.

Other notes:
3pm to 6:30pm: Agnes B, Bendl's, Bergdorf (just the Paul & Joe cosmetic counter), St. Marks Place to stock up on Japanese snackies and magazines, Pinkberry (Mango yogurt with mochi, strawberry,and mango fruit)

10:15pm: Arrive at home safe and sound. Ah, so fulfilled...

The line for Hermes sample sale

2010-03-25T10:15:00.001-04:00

How awful do you think this line will be on Saturday? I'm taking a little day trip, but I feel like I'm preparing for battle. Battle against hundreds of other women, vying for the ultimate shoes, bags, and scarves at 40-70% off original prices.

NY Racked

Rebecca Minkoff coming to Saks Tomorrow

2010-03-25T10:11:00.000-04:00

I plan on enjoying the freakin' weekend that is finally upon us. A wonderful weekend looks promising since it starts with a visit from Rebecca Minkoff from 3-5pm at Saks in the Prudential mall. For anyone who isn't a fan (*yet) she is a New York designer that's most well known for her handbag line. I only have The Beloved Bag, but the popularly coined it-bag so to speak is the Morning After Bag (a.k.a MAB). I don't think they're very photogenic, but I love them when I see it in person. The quality and attention to detail is obvious; from how the leather was treated to the thoughtful use of hardware and zippers. I would be thrilled if I could get her to sign my bag, just the inside of course. Plus there will be a drawing for a free handbag. Score!

The Beloved Mini - comes in Green, Tan, White, Purple, Passion Fruit, you name it. $395

(The inside is always lined with these little birdies)

The MAB bag comes in what seems to be an endless number of varities - size, color, material, embelishment. Here's a new one from Bloomies. Mini Mab in Neon Nights $695

Spring Pants and Shoes

2010-03-10T23:15:00.003-05:00

Since nude footwear is the #1 trend for spring hands down, here are my top three favorites excluding that.

Pleated / Tapered / Ankle length trousers

A while back I already decided I like the look with some Dolce Vita ones.

These pants by Generra have a lot of character too.

Generra Pleated Front Slouch Pants

$195 at Shopbop

Classic Oxford Shoes

There's no better place than Urban Outfitters or Free People to get a pair of vintage looking oxfords with a bit of flair. In fact, I had trouble finding good oxfords elsewhere. I'm really picky and the scarcity of flattering versions of this androgynous footwear made it extremely difficult to find.

Make sure they are genuine leather like these. Some of the shoes there look like they hurt.

BDG saddle shoe $48

Sexy Denim Heels

A few weeks ago at the S/S 2010 shoe event at Neiman Marcus, I made some chit chat with the other ladies. One woman said, "O I love denim heels. Everyone should have at least one pair of denim heels. Don't you just love denim heels???"

And I thought Ummm yes? I guess it never really occurred to me. Denim jeans seemed like enough, but you never know what you want if you haven't been exposed.

YSL Tribute Sandal - Dark Blue $895 at Barneys

Weird-Shoe Fetish

2010-03-04T23:24:00.001-05:00

Maison Martin Margiela

Peep-toe leather boots $1,045

Chloe

Canvas and Leather sandals $650

Fave Hobo Bags under $500.

2010-03-04T21:31:00.001-05:00

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs - Leola $498

Best Creative Use of Zippers

(Beige from Bergdorf Goodman) (Electric Blue from Bloomingdales)

2. Rebecca Minkoff Olive Nikki Bag $357

Best Color of the Season

(Great deal on Bluefly)

3. Tory Burch Amanda Pebbled Leather Bag $498

Best Versatility

4. Tory Burch Dean Leather Hobo $495

Best Simplicity with Balance

Balenciaga Canvas Craze

2010-03-04T19:59:00.022-05:00

Just when I thought it was safe to go shopping again after firmly reprimanding myself for recent splurges, an extreme temptation from Balenciaga re-emerges. Hey,that rhymes.

I say re-emerge because we were introduced over a month ago at Barney's. This is around the same time that I noticed the new Proenza Schouler PS1 schoolboy and also around the time that I missed out on the canvas Louboutin boots. Although picking up a Balenciaga would have satisfied both cravings for bags and canvas, I couldn't justify the cost being equal to their sumptuous leather counterparts.

A month later, finally making their e-debut.

I want this bag, but with a white trim like the one I saw in the store. Canvas City Classic - Beige/White $1,395.00

Large Sunday Tote - Beige/Marine $1,345.00

Medium Sunday Tote - Navy/Blue
$1,195.00

I almost never wear sneakers, unless I'm at the gym, but somehow I'm drawn to these. Canvas Boat Shoe, Ivory $945

Lastly, this is jumping out at me, partly due to the recent popularity of all things beige or nude. Arena Classic Velo - Sahara $1,395

Shopping Bot Results

2010-02-26T22:08:00.003-05:00

(I'm really suprised by this one)

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Original $320

The Outnet $128 (60% off)

6PM $48 (85% off)

Chloe

The Outnet Blush Leather $397.50

(Original Price $795 or 50% off)

vs.

Bluefly Black Canvas $636

(Original Price $795 or 20% off)

J Crew is Going Global in a Super Savvy Way

2010-02-25T16:58:00.005-05:00

Jcrew is expected to distribute their clothing globally through a partnership with Net-A-Porter in May.
The company has proved itself to be amazingly successful in North America, but needed a strategy to further the brand on a global scale.

It's an excellent idea to team up with Net-A-Porter, a highly reputable, luxury online retailer. Developing brand equity is extremely difficult in the competitive retail industry, but partnering up with the NAP will add significant value straight from the get-go. And of course e-commerce is a preferable route nowadays, especially in test markets as the risk and overhead costs are so high.

See the article at InStyle.

Trend to avoid; Designer Jellies

2010-02-25T16:35:00.009-05:00

I hoped this fad would die down, but the sluggish economy seems to be driving the sales of these supposed "low-cost" items. I'm all for affordability - fashion should be for everyone, it affects every facet of life whether you like it or not, but quality is equally as important.

Shoes made from synthetic materials will destroy your feet (perhaps with the exception of foam flip flops). This is one of those cases where mom was right. Does anyone remember those old school discount stores like Zare and Ames? As a little girl I asked my mom to buy these adorable, seemingly harmless footwear. She did since they were only 2 for $5 or something, but warned me about the long-term damage. She knew from experience; most of our mom's wore jelly shoes at one point in their youth.

In fact, jellies are a clear example of how fashion trends often arise from plain old necessity. The demand for leather spiked as thousands of soldier's needed sturdy shoes to fight in WWII. As a result, they turned to other affordable, relatively durable materials.

Now, do you consider jellies a necessity in our current economy? Hardly. It's only a necessity if you are a slave to trends and labels. It doesn't matter what logo you use, it's still a hunk of overpriced plastic. I wouldn't spend a dime on these shoes so any price is overpriced in my opinion.

Here are some of the more creative reincarnations of the jelly. Warning: these are very cute and I admit they are difficult to resist.

Valentino Couture Bow Jelly Sandal $275 at Bergdorf Goodman

See By Chloe Ankle-Wrap Jelly Thongs $75 at Saks

Gucci Marola Sandals $150 at Saks

Stuart Weitzman Blingy Sandals $158 at Saks

Tory Burch Thora $65 at Bloomingdales

Mystery Mini Lin

2010-02-24T09:00:00.001-05:00

Can anyone name this bag? How did you sneak by my LV radar?

*Update: Thanks to my walking mecca of LV information (Margaret), it's called Romance.