Conversations About Fashion and Makeup

Alert!

2006-08-22T10:52:00.000-04:00

Conversations About Fashion has split into two features, beauty with DistressedJeans and fashion with SSLove!

for beauty news and reviews with DistressedJeans, please go to
www.Hellodollface.com

for funky fashion and style join SS Love at Scarletbdesigns

see you there, fabulous fashionistas!

Too Faced

2006-08-19T15:03:00.000-04:00

Starry Eyed liquid liner will give you more sparkle than Miss America's crown. Shine on baby! This liner contains teeny glitter particles that adds lots of drama to your peepers, trust me on this. I line my lashes with Lava Matte, then add a few dots of Starry Eyed for high impact and lots of dazzle.

The best part is that this product doesn't bother sensitive eyes. It stays put and will not run or drip. Starry Eyed will wash off easily too.

Label Whore eyeshadow is described as a metallic brown with blue iridescent. For this glamour girl, it's a swirly combination of sultry browns and mossy greens. People will look twice and wonder how you so successfully and beautifully combined these two colors while you bat your lashes like a true bombshell.

The consistancy is very light and powdery. I use a damp eyeliner brush to rim my lash line with this color, adding of course several layers of brown mascara.

Don't you hate caked, creased eyeshadow? Does it make you wipe your delicate lids with whatever is nearby? Panic no more, gorgeous girls. Too Faced has a solution with their base products, First Base - a shimmery foundation for color. Stroke it on with a finger then load up your lid with color.

Second Base is matte with a soft, soothing consistancy that will erase any discolor around your eyes. If you stay up drinking martini's till dawn, pat Second Base on your lids and no one will ever know what you were up to!

These products contains no odor, are creamy, and come in a thin, handy compact.

Because you are a truly dazzling woman, you love glossy lips with a blinding shine! Nothing adds to self-confidence like a good product and one of my favorites is a juicy lipgloss. Fat Kiss boasts that it will add va-va-voom to your mouth with its ingredients of essential oils. A swipe across your lips will provide a pleasant tingle. I used Fat Daquiri which was a pale, almost clear, pink that gave shine to my naturally dark lips.

Fat Kiss has a pleasurable, almost cinnamon scent with no strong taste- yes I licked my lips while wearing it. My only problemo with this gloss was the roller ball got stuck and I had to pop it out and apply with a brush. Not a big deal! It will give you a high-shine and is not sticky or goopy. My lips looked very succulent if I say so myself.

A true beauty goddess loves her color. The Quickie Chronicles invites you to whip up a pinup- worthy face with different shades in one palette.

I have Fabulous Flirt featuring three eyeshadows (sparkly gray, frosty pink and a shimmery cream) a dusty pink blush and four shades of pink lipgloss. A brush for lips and an applicator is tucked inside the kit. What I like about this is that the eyeshadow and blush are not greasy, oily, or bright. I appreciate that.

Yes, I'm a gloss glutton. It's an addiction that I'm not willing to overcome. Diamond Gloss contains jojoba seed oil, violet extract and vitamin A to soften and enrich your lips and how can you turn that down?

The colors are light and sheer with tiny crystals adding depth to your mouth. The smell is coconut-ish, candy sweet. There is no taste or tingle to Diamond Gloss. It's not as thick in consistancy as Fat Kiss, I think this product is perfect for a casual day or to soften and add brilliance to a dark lipstick.

I didn't know a whole lot about Too Faced other than they make Lip Injection which is a remarkable product for bombshell lippage.

I skipped over to their site and perused the eyes, lips, face and kits pages and found a bunch of things I would love to put in my makeup case. Too Faced is a brand that is fun and flirty, heavy on the glamour. Along with that, Too Faced products are well made and do not irritate (my) sensitive skin. Check out the Foiled Makeup Bag, Liquifi-Eye Kit and the Flushed Blush- these have made their way onto my WishList.

Scarlet B. Designs

2006-08-18T14:49:00.000-04:00

Betsey Johnson knows how to bring it on.
The buttons, the bow, the sleeves, sheer perfection!

I'm wearing these leggings with my roller skates and pig-tails today.

my favorite color for shirts and lip gloss. Pepto Pink

Betsey Johnson again. I want everything she creates.

My dear SSLove has started her own fashionista blog. She is one to watch, that girl. Eye on the trends, fingers on the pulse of all that happens in the world of fashion. Find her any day of the week sporting leggings and chunky sandals and a unique piece of jewelry with a funky purse slung across her chest, messenger style.

While SSLove is going to pursue her love fashion via Scarlet B. I'm going to be focusing on beauty-skin-hair-nails-body-perfume. Look for a new name and new look coming soon.

Be sure to check both blogs often. SSLove, lover of red buttons, and I will be guest -blogging on each others sites, cross pollination if you will.

We love our beautiful fashionista readers!

Classified Era Primer

2006-08-17T19:13:00.000-04:00

Primer. How did I exist before? By wiping pressed powder all over my skin for a not- so -flattering chalky effect that’s how. But now companies are understanding that we need to prep our skin before foundation and mascara and eyeshadow. Fill in the pores, erase the wrinkles and smooth our skin. I like a flawless face, I don't want to see a single pore. Pores bother me. So does makeup sliding off my face before the day is through. I don't want to keep looking in store windows when I'm shopping or trying to see my reflection in a knife when I'm eating. I just want to know that my skin looks good and my makeup is still on.

If you are looking for an outstanding primer, then this is for you- Classified ERA Face primer. It is revolutionary.

Simply shake the aerosal can and spray on your face in a zig-zag pattern for a few seconds. Lightly dab your skin with a soft pad to set the product and absorb excess moisture. That’s all it takes to prime your skin for makeup application. My makeup lasted all day, the only touch up being on my lipgloss because I have a strange compulsion to apply it all day long.

This amazing primer was developed by makeup artist Yolanda Halston after years of research. She also developed an air brush foundation which I would like to get my little hands on. Who doesn’t want a flawless face? Classified products are used by almost every major celebrity in Hollywood as well as on the sets of television shows and movies and awards shows and events. Everyone is using it. Have you seen a celebrity with perfect skin? It's the ERA primer I bet.

For more information and to see a complete list of products, please go to the Classified website.

Fall Preview

2006-08-17T15:23:00.000-04:00

Suggested perfume for fall: L'Occitane Green Tea with Mint. This is a sophisticated scent. With notes of bitter orange , spearmint, thyme and cedar. It's pure and fresh, the ideal fragrance for this fall's wool shorts and neutral colors with leather boots and oversized bags. Not overpowering, no alcoholish undertones as many perfumes can contain. It's neither masculine or feminine, simply a very pleasant scent.

Diane Von Furstenberg dress. Menswear prints are big this fall. I love some plaid, not like golfers pants or a lumberjack shirt but subtle and neutral. And I adore Diane Von F.

BCBG shorts. Flannel shorts, wool knickers, buy a pair for the chilly October weather. Is there a better time or place on earth than autumn in New York City? Too bad I'm in southern California.

On the model the shorts are cute and lovely and perfect, but on me, no. I would look like Little Lord Fauntleroy.

My favorite designer, Michael Kors. Wide belts. Voluminous skirt. Not the bubble skirt which I personally dislike because who wants to look like a mushroom butt? My badonkadonk is not going to be tucked into a bubble skirt this fall, I promise. I prefer Michael's verison. He always gets it right.

Again, Kors. Dresses are "in" for fall. Sure, I'm going to buy up a bunch. There's nothing like a savvy soccer mom in a dress.

bodily improvements ...

2006-08-16T23:49:00.000-04:00

a certain well- known doctor in the 90210 area...

Fat Girl Slim: please let this be a miracle cream...

not me, but I think it could be...

this IS me, wanting a set of Angelina-ish, puffier lips...

who needs a lip implant when we have the Too Faced Lip Injection Kit?

Recently I went to visit a very well known plastic surgeon. It was none other than Dr. 90210 himself, Dr. Rey. I accompanied a friend- a certain celebrity and I won't name names- to see the good doc for her consultation. Not that I didn't go in with a mental laundry list of all the things I wanted done. Where to start? We don't have all day so I will spare you the details of my own aesthetic shortcomings.

There is a four hour wait to see him, I'm not exaggerating. An 11 o'clock appointment turned into a 3 o'clock appointment. This is common we were told by a very buxom office girl who brought us paper cups of Coke while we waited.

He swooped in wearing a pinstriped suit like the guy in the Mentos commercial who rolls around on a freshly painted park bench and ends up with white stripes all over his black suit. Under the stripes he wore a vivid pink pin-striped shirt (more stripes) with a hot pink tie and coordinating hankerchief hanging out of his pocket. Dr. Rey is exactly like his persona on television, quite the friendly showman!

I enjoyed picking out my own set of breast implants as he chatted with my friend and showed us photos of befores and afters. I had no problem sticking the squishy bags down my shirt when he wasn't looking. Just for fun. Should I mention how he was admiring himself in the large mirror behind us?

Plastic surgery and tens of thousands of dollars aside, there are short- cuts to getting the results you want. Products you can use to fake it. Yeah, I fake it. It was Lucky beauty editor Jean Godfrey-June who mentioned using self tanner to disguise those awful lumps, the much hated cellulite. I've been faithfully using my Fat Girl Slim by Bliss to combat this horror. If only we woman could accept ourselves as we are...

I've tried Avon and L'Oreal cellulite reduction creams and unfortunately, no luck. I read that deep massage aids in getting rid of the lumpy pockets of fat. So I began voilently rubbing and kneading like I was in a dough making contest and my life depending on winning. Black and blue marks all over my thighs and butt ensued.

I'm giving the Bliss cream a shot, I think it's improving my upper legs. It's worth a try, right? Along with daily exercise of course.

And who needs a lip implant or a painful shot of collagen when you can simply use the lip plumping kit from Too Faced? Save yourself time and money and the possible side effect of a lopsided pucker and apply Lip Injection daily. I've been using the kit and you know what? It works. I love the tingling sensation and my lips are super soft and smooth. One kiss from me and you'll see what I mean.

Now, if only technology could come up with a cream, lotion or plumping kit for the chest...then we'd be in business.

Trends

2006-08-16T18:03:00.000-04:00

Red lips never really go out of style. This fall expect to see more cherry lips as red lipstick is a must according to Elle magazine. Is there a perfect red out there, a color suitable to everyone? I fear instead of looking like Gwen Stefani (who is rumored to have given birth while wearing her signature crimson pout) I will end up looking like a Ringling Bros. clown.

I've yet to find the ideal shade but Lucy B. makes adorable pots of shiny glosses and their red is pretty outstanding.

Messy updos are the hairstyle of the season. I have trouble in the hairstyling arena. Instead of loose, sexy, bedhead curls, my coif appears to have been copied from Jon Bon Jovi circa the Slippery When Wet tour. Sadly, my locks confuse loose waves with kinky frizz. An updo is the perfect answer. I hate it when girls put their hair up and expose fifty haphazardly placed bobby pins. Messy indeed.

Heavy black smudged eyeliner. I have the perfect product for this effect: Too Faced Lava Matte. It's thick and soft and as black as the lava from the volcanic remains of Pompeii.

You dont have to actually do the drugs to get the heroin chic look. Kate Moss, I'm talking to you.

What mascara is she wearing? I want to know. Hopefully cosmetic companies will be jumping on the bandwagon and creating a wet looking, lengthening, volumizing mascara that makes your lashes look like the above photo. Spikey lashes are hot hot hot for fall. I've always loved the look of lots o' lashes and sit here wondering if its perfectly acceptable to wear some false lashes everyday to get this look. Why not?

all photos except Marilyn are from the Elle.com website

Cake

2006-08-14T17:50:00.000-04:00

Desserted Island Creamy Body Buffer smells like the coconut syrup I used to put on my taro root pancakes when I lived in Hawaii. So washing with the Body Buffer puts me right back in Honolulu, sitting outside drinking my kona coffee, looking out over the blue waves of Waikiki.

This product contains little capsules of jojoba "sprinkles" that feel slightly rough on the skin. It's a good rough, you know you are sloughing off the end of the day and allowing yourself to relax and indulge in some sweet goodness. I love how sleek and soft my skin is after using this product.

On my wishlist: Satin Sugar Hair and Body Refreshing Powder, rumored to smell like lemon cookies. Scrumptious! Right now I'm really into having my hair smell delicious. I want this product and a few more...like the Desserted Island Body Glaze.

Milk Made Velveteen Hand Creme is the best hand lotion ever! I love it. Love it. It's sweet and it does what it says. It contains extract of marshmellows, really it does. So basically you are rubbing your hands with... candy. The shea butter and mango butter soothe your tired hands.

Milk Made Smoothing Hand & Cuticle Buffer will buff and polish your hands and fingers and if you like, your feet and toes. This sweet potion is sugary in texture with oils to soften your hands and fingers, especially those cuticle beds. You will feel a difference as soon as you start rubbing this product into your skin.

I once read that the typical woman will lick off five pounds of lipstick in one year. Well, if she wears Cake products, she will certainly want to lick her lips all day long. Cake Kiss Caramel Cream Lip Butter contains shea butter, coconut oil and sunflower to keep your pucker hydrated and drenched in nourishment.

Creme de la Cream Supremely Rich Body Mousse contains such delicious ingedients as coconut oil, mango butter and macadamia nut butter. Douse your washcloth/loofah with this and lose yourself in the scent of butterscotch cake. YUM.

Heather Reier slaved away, working her fingers to the bone in her kitchen for a long, long time before coming up with just the right blend of oils and butters and extracts to bring us these decadant products.

Cake Beauty has been baking up batches of lavish lotions and creams since 2001. This line of indulgent body care has been not only featured in magazines like People, US, Elle, Oxygen, Shape, and Self but has been snapped up by stars such as Naomi Watts, Kate Hudson, Daryl Hannah and many more.

I'm just waiting for them to come out with a whole line of scented hair care products, butterscotch and coconut scented candles and nail polishes, as pink is their signature color. And I would be remiss if I didn't say that their customore service is fantastic.

For more information, go to Cake Beauty.

Stay Sweet, girls!

Zeno

2006-08-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

Zeno Acne Treatment device promises to get rid of your unsightly pimples quickly and discreetly. It looks like a cellphone but has the capability to erase your zits in seconds! Well, not actually seconds but it does work quickly. Its probably a better option than my remedy of choice which features lots of odd poses in the mirror and often results in a large swollen bump on my face.

Here is what their website claims:

The proprietary Zeno technology triggers a heat shock response in microorganisms that cause skin lesions, bringing about the self-destruction of those bacteria and allowing the skin to return to a healthy, normal state. In the case of acne, the P. acnes bacterium is the root cause of 90% of all acne pimples.

I've been gently dabbing Aveda Acne Spot Relief on random pimples that pop up, but would love to give Zeno a try. I know, it's crazy. Why must we still deal with pimples over age nineteen? The least we can do is undulge in a tool that will get rid of those spots in a few hours! Have you tried it? Let me know!

Kerastase

2006-08-11T17:15:00.000-04:00

"Kérastase is premium, luxury hair care at its finest, and since 1964 L'Oréal Advanced Research has selected its most advanced technology for the Kérastase Collection. Kérastase products are unique, avant-garde formulas with innovative ingredients. Women aspire to Kérastase for the ultimate in hair care and the ultimate in beautiful hair."

I've long read about Kerastase, usually a celebrity of some sort waxing about how they simply cannot live without their Kerastase conditioner or hair masque or shampoo. The brand is brought to you by the people over at L'Oreal. This is their high-end product line, better quality ingredients and superior results than what you can buy at the drugstore.

Kerastase offers six lines depending on what you need for your particular hair type: Nutritive, Reflection, Dermo-Calm, Resistance, Specifique and Soleil. Mine type happens to be dry, damaged, color treated, thin and limp. I know! I'm blessed.

I was super excited to drench my hair in the healing powers of Kerastase. I have the NutriDefense rinse -off treatment, Creme Richesse for color treated hair and the Double Force hairspray for weakened hair. Because I'm a Jersey girl at heart, I like my hair big and stiff so this hairspray gets the job done without being sticky. I do not need to retouch my hair throughout the day, a few hearty blasts of the spray and my coif lasts throughout business meetings, lunches at the Polo Lounge and PR events.

The conditioners work well too. I use them in the shower, leave them on for about three minutes and my hair is instantly soft. I can get a wide tooth comb through my hair without snagging and pulling which is good since its falling out from heat styling every day. The product smells good, nothing overpowering or anything that will stay with you all day long and make you sneeze. I love the feeling of clean, soft hair. With stiff hard bangs! Just kidding.

I'm happy I got the chance to try these products. I recently overheard Kate Hudson talking about the Nutritive Masquintense and naturally I must try that now. Have you experienced this brand and what did you think?

Pout

2006-08-09T21:17:00.000-04:00

Pout Lip Plump is said to put a big glossy pout on your very own lips. This high shine gloss has the essence of mint so it tastes and smells clean, like freshly brushed teeth. Pout Plump contains MAXI-Lip "which hydrates the lips" and makes them full and sexy. Mwah! I think shine creates a full lipped...pout.

I have the Lip Polish in a color named Horny Hilda. I feel so feminine when I pull out the compact and apply the bright pinky shade. I dig it. I'm such a sucker for any lip polish or gloss or stick that's pink and shiny. These are small and portable and can be applied with a brush or your finger. I use my pinky.

Pout Bustier comes in a little box that's pink with black lace. It's so glamorous. Packaging is important. You want to feel the excitement building as you take hold of the box and have a moment where you wonder what's inside. Will it give you a boost of confidence? Will it make you feel good about yourself and make you stand a little taller and hold your shoulders back?

You twist off the lid and find a beautiful pink creme that promises to highlight and firm your decollete. The scent is subtle rose and the creme itself is thick and sensual. Wear it for yourself. No one needs to know you get your support from this pot of luxury lotion.

I read that Kate Hudson loves Pout Big Lash Mascara. Naturally I had to try it. If it's good for Kate then it's good for me. Yes, it's big and it's black. This volumizing mascara will plump those lashes especially if you apply several coats of it like I do, concentrating on the very tips of the lashes.

To me curled or long lashes are nothing if they are not lush and thick. Again with the packaging, this product arrives in a blue box held together by a flirty little ribbon. I'd love to test out Pout fake lashes for an even more eye opening experience. If nothing else, apply some mascara and a hint of Horny Hilda and you are good to skip out to the store for more goodies.

I'm always interested in the inspiration behind the brand and here is the story of Pout:

Over 5 years ago, Emily, Anna and Chantal started on their mission to make make-up light hearted, inspiring and accessible. "We felt that the beauty industry was taking itself far too seriously and we wanted women to rediscover the fun and playfulness that make-up should be about" explains Emily, "Pout embodies women today. We want things to look beautiful, but at the same time, deliver quick and easy solutions that fit into our busy lives. We don't have time to spend hours in front of the mirror airbrushing our way to perfection - we want glamour on the go and five minutes to fabulous!"

For more information on this feminine and flirty brand, go here to read about the company and to shop online. And remember, your lashes can never be too thick and your lips can never be too shiny.

Peter Thomas Roth

2006-08-09T16:54:00.000-04:00

Peter Thomas Roth is a brand I have seen mentioned in magazines countless times, but never had the opportunity to try.

Peter launched the line of skincare back in 1993 and the therapeutic products include "19th century recipes with 21st century skin care technologies and ingredients". And the result is a high quality line of no frills products. And by no frills I mean simple black and white packaging, no strong scents and gentle formulas. No frills doesn't mean skimpy or cheap, on the contrary!

I used the Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel in the horrible southern California heat. The product itself is thick, reminding me of elementary school paste from the artroom. Luckily, it has no smell and works like a charm. Standing in 100* heat, I thought for sure my makeup would be melted and oily like butter left in the sun. When I inspected my face at home, everything was in place and my skin had not a lick of shine to it. It works!

Although I'm not officially in my mid-thirties, I have slight sun damage around my eyes. Light sun spots...ugh, from just a handfuls of summer at the Jersey Shore. That's where the Potent Skin Lightening Gel Complex comes into play. This product boasts the ability to fade those unsightly spots, again with no irritating fragrances.

I am in love with the Gentle Complexion Correction Pads. These are rough on one side for exfoliation, smooth on the other for cleansing. The pads contain glycolic acid and salicylic acid, aloe vera, chamomile and green tea and the pads smell like a peach bellini. I use these every night after my shower and my skin is glowing and healthy. But then I'm craving a peach bellini.

When I do any kind of at-home peel or scrub, I like to spray the Aloe Tonic Mist on my face. This clear spray has a very light clean scent and contains healthy ingedients like aloe vera, vitamins C, B, A and E and can be used on any skin type. It's very refreshing and feels good on the face, not heavy or sticky or smelly. You can spritz it on your clean skin or apply with a cotton ball. I don't consider it a toner but technically that's what it is.

If you have been looking high and low for a fabulous skin care line, let me recommend Peter Thomas Roth. I'd like to try the Age Defense Kit and the Body Sculpting Slimming Gel. Yes, I want to look young and erase that cellulite!

Paul and Joe and Mossimo

2006-08-07T21:41:00.000-04:00

Upon my arrival in San Diego back in 1994 I scoured the beach town I lived in for some funky fashion. I came upon a cool store with limited inventory (always love that, means every other person won't be wearing the same ass thing). I found and devoured a rack of EXPENSIVE Mossimo clothes. I think I paid $60 for a plaid skirt. Hey, it was expensive to me as a young lady.
SO, Mass to the Mo sold out to Target. Fine by me because on many a celebratory occasion I find some interesting great pieces. Behold.

**Update. I just returned form the bullseye mecca.....I neglected to do my "due dilligence"..turns out Paul and Joe is the name behind a woman. Paul and Joe are designer Sophie Albou's sons names.
This isn't MR Mo. This cute coin purse comes a la tag team Paul and Joe. My Fall syllabus came a few days ago and was peppered with pieces by that wacky duo.
I have a thing for owls. Hey Swirlogirl! There is a pix in Lucky with a cute blondie holding a large tote covered in plaid and an owl. LOVE it. Paul and Joe

Mossimo. I own this black gown. It is made of a nice durable jersey. I wear mine with flip-flops. I think the heels are kinda' ugly.

My boo. You know who you are! I know you are heaving. I purchased this with glee a couple of months ago. I came home, put it on, checked out my butt in the mirror and recoiled at the nasty orange make-up streaks screaming across the material in the back. Why do people slob out like that? I had to return it. I am sure my friend "Liersten" is applauding.

Paul and Joe. More like Paula and Josephina designing a hottie like this. I have a bright orange vintage necklace I would throw on with this. Snap.

Molton Brown

2006-08-07T18:21:00.000-04:00

Softcleanse Rosewax Liquefier will wash away your stubborn makeup and mascara and lipstick. It will make your face as pretty as a rose petal and as soft as a butterfly's wing. It contains shea butter which I think it the key to super soft skin. You will feel luxurious and pampered when you use this gentle product.

I went to a wedding over the weekend and didn't get much sleep. I used Recover Eyes Firmlift the next day and fooled everyone into thinking I got more than three hours of zzz's. Haha. This product boasts a super formula that will reduce signs of aging. Sign me up. I want to look 24 again.

After a hot shower using the Heavenly Gingerlily wash, I then applied the shimmer oil and topped it off with...

...the body cream. This smells heavenly. And like Ginger. And Lilies. I cannot describe the particular scent but yes, its lovely. I was smelling myself all night long. I applied a triple treat of perfume, lotion and body oil.
The Soft Eye Shade eyecolor is enriched with "sequoia sempervires and meadowfoam seed oil". That sounds lovely, does it not? The shade of eyeshadow I used is called Walnut Tree. It is lightweight with a subtle sparkle and perfect for a glow on my lids. It gave a nice touch of color to make my blue eyes appear bluer.
Cheek Bloom powder blush contains extract of waterlily flower! I have never used a product which uses that particular ingredient. My shade is peach which gave my skin a light flush, perfect. The consistency is like velvet.

I am a Molton Brown addict now. I've seen the brand occasionally mentioned in magazines, but didn't know much about what Molton Brown was all about. I think my interpretation was that Molton Brown was an old English company making pharmacy tools. No. So wrong on so many levels.

You can read about the company history here but rest assured Molton Brown is a brand specializing in luxury goods. They use flowers, marine extracts and plants in their products, and each item is designed to promote a feeling of well being. I would like to try their candles and have one burning in every room for the ultimate sensory experience.

You can visit a Molton Brown spa and be treated to a variety of indulgencies. The spa I'd like to visit is in Ireland. Someday I'll get there, but for now I will be content to slather on my Molton Brown products and dream.

Free Gift With Purchase

2006-08-07T17:06:00.000-04:00

Jean Godfrey-June is the beauty editor at Lucky magazine. She wrote a memoir dishing about her dream job, telling us little tidbits about acne and cellulite and haircuts and all things we girls deal with. She speaks of spa visits and runway shows and models. Jean writes with humor and the book is a lot of fun to read. I highly recommend it! Check out our interview here and be sure to read Free Gift With Purchase!

I asked Jean what her favorite beauty products were, here is the list. Have you tried any of these products?

Lancome Flash Bronzer for Legs. I know it says “for legs”, but I use this all over my body & face — it has the best color by far, and it’s tinted so you see any mistakes you’ve made. Self-tanner conceals a multitude of sins, from undereye bags to cellulite, and this is truly the ultimate one— I’ve tried them all.

Mac Tinted Lip Conditioner Stick SPF 15 in Fuchsia Fix. This looks wild and daring in the tube, and your-lips-but-better in reality—my favorite combination. Plus it smells and feels amazing.

Cover Girl Lash Exact mascara. I tried this while on my book tour—I would wake up in a new city, looking exhausted & scheduled to go on the local morning show at 6am —this genuinely wakes up my entire face. There’s not a single clump and your eyes look huge.

Laura Mercier Secret Concealer. Without this under my eyes, I look 60,000 years older & as if I’ve been drinking, smoking and staying up all night. It is definitely the most transformative item I own. My friend calls it “That stuff that makes you look awake.” You dab it on with a brush (I use the concealer brush from Fresh) and then pat—don’t rub—with your finger until the concealer and your circles disappear.

MAC blot film. Powder gets cakey on me. These weird sheets of high-tech blue plastic-like stuff are amazing.

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20. Incredible coverage, natural look.
Tazorac (prescription retin-A cream for acne) This erases both acne and wrinkles & I could not live without it.

Phytojojoba Shampoo from Phyto. A guaranteed good hair day, every time. I always try new shampoos, and nothing every measures up.

Fresh Meadowfoam Cream Conditioner. I love the smell and the resulting shine, texture, etc.

Burt’s Bees shower gel & Crabtree & Evelyn’s Naturals shower mousse — they smell fantastic & have no parabens, SLS, etc.

PLUS: Anything by Douglas Little, particularly his Salem candle that smells like the charred remains of a bonfire. He is truly the most imaginative, interesting person in beauty at the moment.

Falling Down

2006-08-04T20:18:00.000-04:00

Here is a sample platter of Fall finds. I love Fall. It is in fact my favorite season. There is something about the hazy orange October dusk that jives me to the bone. Fall fashion sails right on in. Throw on a beanie. Break out your thick cableknit over the knee socks and sashay on down the road.

Work it Etro. Work the magic out!

Sexy in "I am going to tie you up and beat the shit out of you" kind of way. I feel it. Blumarine.

Love it. Love it and then I love it some more. A little Lisa Loeb-ish. The neckline is delightful! Max Azria.
I will be struttin around in something like this VERY soon. Love the boots. Max Azria.

I kinda like the whole good girl/bad girl/school girl thing. I am a sucker for knee high socks. I own several pair. Max Azria.

I threw this in to see if you guys are paying attention. Gareth Pugh. Fitting.

Despite the fact that she looks like she was just assaulted with an industrial paper shredder, It works for me. I like paper shredders. Blumarine.

Slap on some Juicy Tubes in Honey Violet...dab on some Lancome Pink Pool blush and call me. This outfit is delicioso. Funky floral 70's-ish cape. Sold. The boots-sign me up. The black tights-nuff said. Need some color on the lips. Blumarine.

L'Occitane

2006-08-03T16:02:00.000-04:00

Shea Butter Hand Cream

Immortelle Eye Makeup Remover

Lavender Harvest Clarifying Shampoo & Condtioner

Shea Butter Ultra Rich Conditioner

I've heard about L'Occitane products in magazines but never had the opportunity to try them. When I think of L'Occitane, I think of living in the south of France and eating cheese on baguettes and drinking red wine and breathing air scented with lemons.

Known for being naturally luxurious, these products will make you feel like you are lounging in a field of lavender in the south of France while your lover feds you freshly picked grapes and the warm sun shines down on your linen dress. Okay, maybe not, but you will feel like you are being pampered and spoiled when you wash your locks with the Lavender Harvest shampoo and detangling conditioner.

If you have colored treated hair like yours truly, and who doesn't get a highlight here and there, the shampoo will cleanse your hair and leave it feeling untouched by harsh coloring chemicals. The detangling conditioner will help your comb/brush glide through without a knot or snarl. Shea Butter Ultra Rich conditioner promises to nourish any dry or split ends. You will see a difference when you use it, I've become addicted.

My hands have been so dry that the nail beds look like tree bark so I'm especially excited to tell you about Shea Butter Hand Cream. This is L'Occitane's number one selling product and with good reason. The fast absorbing cream will make your rough hands feel like velvet gloves. I smooth it on my feet too because I cannot stand rough heels in sandals.

In the past I have stayed away from eye makeup removers, choosing instead to use Dove soap in the shower to take off my heavy eyeliner and multiple coats of mascara. Immortelle Eye Makeup Remover has made me change my naughty ways. The people at L'Occitane have extracted the oils from immortelle flowers and mixed them with rose water and cornflower water. This eyemakeup remover will comfort the delicate skin around your eyes.

Head over to L'Occitane and treat yourself to some glorious products.

Fresh

2006-08-03T15:24:00.000-04:00

Cannabis Santal eau de Parfum is the new scent from Fresh. With notes of bergamot, orange and black plum, it smells as cativating as it sounds.

I sprayed a hint on each of my wrists and by the end of the day, the heady fragrance had worn down to a subtle, sexy smell. Should I mention the base notes are chocolate, vetiver and vanilla mush? For a man or a woman, Cannabis is equally sensuous on everyone.

The Appleseed Resurfacing Kit will be available in September but I was very fortunate to get a sneak peek. I used the 3-step kit and sure enough my face was lustrous and clear after all was said and done.

The kit deep cleans and gently removes the top surface layer of skin and then rehydrates for a glowing complexion. I do believe this deep cleaned so well that it brough impurities to the surface for the next day I had a few pimples here and there. A few touches of my pimple lotion however, and everything was right with the world again.

I have heard great things about Fresh cosmetics, most recently from an interview I did with bestselling author Emily Giffin. A look at the website and I see many, many products I want including- but not limited to- the Lip Shine, Freshface Primer and the Pink Jasmine Perfume and lotion.

If you have tried Fresh, let me know what you think. Did the products make your skin glow like a beacon of health? Were the cosmetics dreamy? Tell me!

Project Runway

2006-08-03T15:11:00.000-04:00

The outfit that won the competition. Yes, I liked it, especially the accessories like the cool purse and the long necklace.

Someone seriously needs to stop Angela from making those rosettes she insists on sewing everywhere. Although the placement of them on this particular jacket was well done, thanks to Laura's suggestion. The rosettes are an odd fetish, don't you think?

Its hip! Its trendy! It was done without the group leader because he got the boot. Serious Tim Gunn sent Keith packing. Smuggling in patterm making books? tsk tsk. Although I would have tried to pawn off my work to small people who toil in sweatshops because I can't run a thread through a needle. I'm joking about the sweatshops by the way. And threading a needle is the only thing I can do.

This was an interesting outfit, what confused me just a tad was the loopy things that looked like an upside down tank top. I guess I am getting old. The pants were cool and the jacket rocked. Good job all the way around.

And what did you think?

Win something as fabulous as you are....

2006-08-01T01:10:00.000-04:00

Head over to our new favorite place for your chance to win something fabulous.

DuWop is giving twenty lucky winners a set of three fantastic DuWop products. Winners will receive the unique Hands2Hair, (a hair cream and hand moisturizer in one), a DuWop Toe Polish, and their new Browwow Brow Kit!

I Knew A Girl Named Rachel

2006-07-31T23:31:00.000-04:00

Hear ye Hear ye. The sophisticated yet fresh designs flowing through Rachel Pally's Fall collection are as stunning as her Spring Collection, if that is possible. You must go on her website and take a journey through sexy, free flowing, delicate lines, opportunities to show off your beautiful body, simplicity without boredom, and a hella fine model. I have been a fan of Senorita Pally's designs since the first time I laid eyes on them. I rejoice daily by house dancing ...meaning I like to dance around my house and shake it without breaking it. That being said Rachels clothes are perfect cause a glamour girl like myself can move and groove with ease and fluidity while funking out in yummy jersey creations.

Keep rocking the leggings Rachel!!!!!!

Also....if you live in Los Angeles make sure you stop by Rachels Summer Sample Sale:

PLEASE COME TO OUR SUMMER SAMPLE SALE!SPRING AND SUMMER COLLECTIONS ON SALE, 60-90% OFF OF RETAIL

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE -- BRING YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR MOTHERS, YOUR SISTERS, YOUR GRANDMOTHERS.... THE MORE THE MERRIER! FRIDAY, AUGUST 4 10AM - 8PM SATURDAY, AUGUST 5 10AM - 6 PM SUNDAY, AUGUST 6 11AM - 5 PM 5811 MATILIJA AVE VAN NUYS, CA 91401 323-669-1397

Hard Candy & Urban Decay

2006-07-31T21:48:00.000-04:00

The vintage Hard Candy nail polishes are so girly, flirty and summery. Besides the colors above, Hard Candy makes a silver polish that makes nails look like tin foil, and a light glittery pink shade that is perfect for a clean look.

The color they are best known for has to be Sky, the best blue shade you will ever find for nails. It's my very favorite!

The photo does not do this lip gloss justice at all. First of all, the glosses smell like freshly picked oranges and have the slightest, sweetest flavor. Second, they are very glittery and light with a nice touch of shine.

These Sweet Spot glosses feel so good on the lips that I for one, keep reapplying it just so I can taste and smell it. You could say I'm addicted. Who came up with the names for these -- Hippie Chick, Flower Power, Aquarius, Love Child, Psychedelic, and Groovy? Brilliant.

Urban Decay rocks! The name just conjures up a tough chic with heavy eyeliner and purple nails. I love this stuff! The gloss just slides on like buttah and the colors are tough and funky.

Lip Stain! Just swipe this across your lips and top with a gloss, all day long it will not come off. I love the color Envious which is a nice pinky shade. This stuff stays on forever.

I want the Blow Lip Plumper, it's on my wish list for pouty, pillowy lips. Who doesn't want soft, full lips topped with a slick gloss?

Check out both Hard Candy and Urban Decay NOW.

Coutorture!

2006-07-31T21:36:00.000-04:00

Coutorture is a place where all fashionistas can go to find fashion and beauty related sites. Its a gathering spot of sorts for pretty girls with pretty clothes and shoes. Fashion jobs are listed, there are giveaways each week and a city guide for hip shops in various cities.

We just signed up to this lovely community of clothing and makeup lovers. I was particularly excited to see this post about Kara Janx from Project Runway last season. Who can forget her awesome runway show at Fashion Week?

Check back often, see you there.

xo

distressedjeans

Product Review: Smashbox

2006-07-31T17:29:00.000-04:00

I have an obsession with primers lately. Just over these past several months, I've become intrigued with the pore minimizing effects of a good primer. When I was younger, my mother got a tube of Helena Rubenstein face granules that made my teenage pores disappear as if by magic. I've been searching high and low for a product that would smooth my face and give me the silky skin I have dreamed of ever since swiping the Helena R stuff from my mom.

I'm sure you've heard all the talk about this miracle product, Photo Finish by Smashbox. It is a colorless, odorless, slippery product that smooths your wrinkles and pores and creates an even canvas for makeup application. Who doesn't want a clean backdrop for cosmetic application? One or two small drops is all you need to work the product around your T-zone and cheeks, sparingly around the eyes. I lightly dab Photo Finish on my face, not overzealously rub it all over. Dab. Lightly. Let it dry. Then pile on your foundation and blush.

Just a hint of Smashbox Anti-Shine is all you need for a finished face. Again, I think that a light touch is best. I'll be honest with you, I did glop it on like a bricklayer with a trowel and the product ended up streaky on my face. My skin is so oily, I cannot stand it and will do anything to combat. This has been a problem that has caused me journey to the drugstore and makeup counter and back again for twenty years. Thank heaven for primers!

I went back with Anti-Shine using a gentler touch and saw a big difference. My face looked flawless. And that is the goal, right ladies? Two thumbs up for Smashbox!

Scarlett Jo

2006-07-28T00:51:00.000-04:00

Dark hair, red lips, lovely skin

I demand to know her makeup colors! Scarlett looks flawless. I'm a big fan of the smokey eye paired with pinky pouty lips.

Tan! Healthy! Cute! Thank you, Miss Scarlett, for not being a size 0, thank you for having hips and thighs and a womanly body.

An up close shot of the above look. I do my makeup like this all the time-- okay well, not so dark around the eyes, I'm not a movie star after all. I think she looks mighty fine. I'm dying to know the color of that lip gloss. Any thoughts?

Scarlett Johansson has been looking pretty at all these events she keeps showing up at. I have liked this chick since seeing her in The Horse Whisperer and wrote a book with her in mind for the movie version. She is different from the cookie cutter, blonde haired, superskinny actresses of today and I like that about her. Wouldn't it be nice if more actresses actually...ate?

I've witnessed photos of Scarlett looking as dark an overcooked Hebrew National. But in these photos, her makeup application is flawless and her skin appears healthy and fresh. Two thumbs up, Scar Jo!

Romp In The Ropa

2006-07-27T19:16:00.000-04:00

I go on hunts to find my finds and I always circle back to Anthropologie. Why you ask?
Because I ALWAYS find exactly what I am looking for. All these years. I understand.

Potrait jacket. Sorta kinda military. Sorta kinda fairytale. Sorta kinda pocket-y.

Jumper jumping bean. Go to Scarlet B Designs and check out some more smores.

Product Review: Blinc

2006-07-27T18:38:00.000-04:00

Blinc offers innovative cosmetics for your eyes: moisturizing lash primer, a heated lash curler and a mascara that doesn't merely coat your lashes with color, it "tubes" them, wrapping the lashes in teeny tubes of color that will not flake or smear. Blinc boasts that the mascara will not clump or run, and will last through the summer heat without an unsightly smudge around your eyes making you look like you've been passed out in the back alley of Studio 54.

The lash primer is super easy to use, just swipe it on and wait a few seconds before adding mascara. This helps to keep the lashes looking full and soft. I have been using it as a simple way to condition my delicate and sparse eyelashes. You can wear it with or without a coat of mascara and feel free to keep unruly brows in order with this product as well.

The heated lash curler will not rip out your lashes as a traditional curler might if you tend to get overzealous about curling those lashes. You don't need to pinch your lashes between clamps to get them to curl, you just use the lash curler like a micromini curling iron for your eye lashes. It offers a special guard that will not allow the curler to burn your skin. Excellent!

My favorite of the Blinc products was the Kiss Me eyeliner which is a liquid liner for bringing out your gorgeous eyes. It goes on and doesn't come off, all day and night. That is, until you are ready to take it off with some warm water. And then you won't even see a hint of the product on your eyelids. I enjoyed using this and love the look of a liquid liner--dramatic.

Blinc offers tons more information on their website, Blinc.com. Go ahead and try these neat products, you won't be disappointed.

Random Acts of Juicy Goodness

2006-07-27T11:18:00.000-04:00

S.S.Love is back and raring to go. I am totally rejuvinated and rejoicing in my splenid time spent in Northern New Mexico. Between Sante Fe and Taos in a lucious valley sandwiched by the most gorgeous pines filled with all kinds of color and fresh air. I will be going back there. FOR SURE! If you are an artist type of person who wants to get away from the zany rushing madness head to Rockmirth. Freedom reigns. So does creativity and flowing ideas.
I took tons of pix, and I will be posting them in the next few days.
Meanwhile take a gander at some of my favorite fashion morsels and savor!

This is where I was. This is where I talked with birds and spidey's.

Here is a shot of the artist studio. Big building brimmimg with light and color and a kitchen table that witnessed some lovely conversations...about art.

I fucking love this skirt. Moschino married plaid.

Little pink Betsey number. Gotta have that.

Ay dios. Little Juanes never hurt anyone. Work it papi.

I absolutely love this print.

Check back in a couple of days you crazy fashionista's. Fire it up.

H&M

2006-07-26T13:08:00.000-04:00

Yes on the shirt and the jacket. The skirt would make me look like a pioneer woman.

er...um...I'd go with the cardigan

If I had somewhere glamorous to go, sure, I'd wear it. This wouldn't go over so well at soccer practice though.

I promise I will never wear any type of overall. With that being said, I would totally go for the purse and if I'm feeling kicky, the hat too.

YES YES YES. I like it. I want it.

I need an H&M right here in my backyard. Chic clothes, good prices, funky accessories. When I lived in New Jersey, I would drive the 45 minutes to the nearest H&M which was Palisades Center mall in New York state. Then imagine my delight when an H&M opened up at a mall much closer to me. Each time I go back to NJ, I insist on hitting Garden State Plaza so I can shop at H&M.

Too bad the only store in California is in San Francisco, this does not suit me! H&M people, please open a store in San Diego/Palm Springs/Los Angeles!

VOGUE

2006-07-26T13:01:00.000-04:00

Back in the day Linda Evangelista was the bomb! She was the supermodel of all supermodels. That exclusive group included Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Elle MacPherson. But Linda was my favorite. I've missed her.

I'm glad to see Anna Wintour decided to put her on the cover. At age 41, Linda is still looking fabulous.

It's hard to believe that this is the face with the blunt cut hair that inspired a book which inspired a movie but here she is, Anna Wintour. Who has witnessed the wrath of Anna via Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada movie? Cute film, great novel.

As big as a bitch she may be, as horrible and cruel and nasty as she is portrayed, this woman is brilliant.

Product Review: DuWop

2006-07-24T15:48:00.000-04:00

surface concealer

I knew DuWop made more than their signature Lip Venom but I didn't know how much I would love their Surface product. On the DuWop site Surface is described as:

strong enough to hide imperfections like a concealer, yet sheer enough to be used over the entire face and blended like a foundation.

I've never found a product I liked enough to use on my dark undereye circles, bags and wrinkles. Usually under-eye creams are too yellow or red, but DuWop Surface is just right. It's very light in consistancy and goes on so smooth that you barely need to blend it. I use it sparingly every day and it makes me look awake and bright eyed even if I'm not!

Revolotion is a lighweight facial moisturizer. You can wear it everyday when you want a more casual look. It's perfect for the 100* weather we've been having here in sweltering Southern California. Just a tint of color to give your skin a wakeup. Fans of the site include Cindy Crawford, Hilary Duff and Eve Longoria to name a few.

Revolotion Face uses innovative ingredients to give you a soft, satin matte finish that leaves your complexion radiant, but never shiny or greasy. With subtle light-reflecting pigment and SPF 15, Revolotion Face is all you need to look fresh and natural for that "no makeup" look

I'm wearing both products and loving the high quality of DuWop. Check out their other products by clicking here.

Product Review: Tarte

2006-07-20T17:30:00.000-04:00

I love this easy grip eye lash curler. Just put those lashes in between the soft pads and squeeze! Sexy lashes are all yours!

Yes. Yes. I love this product. I have this oily t-zone thats been plaguing me since the teen years. I wish this product was around years and years ago. This kit is a must have if you've got more oil on your t-zone than a drilling station.

How can you not adore something that comes in such a pretty case? This bronzer is not your usual orange tinted hue. It's more of a brown color for that a burnt caramel (not burnt skin) glow. Even my neighbor commented that I looked pretty and tan. Instant Fiji glow!

These cheek stains smell so good. Each one has its own subtle fruity scent. The colors look dark in the tube but one swipe on your cheek and you will notice the sheer, light color only enhances your skin. I thought Blushing Bride would be way too dark for my pale skin and its the perfect shade! This are the right product for those of you who aren't heavy duty makeup wearers. Just a little natural flush. Or if you want a Harijuku girl look, you can create one by being a bit more heavy handed. The color lasts all day.

These are divine. The double ended gloss can be worn alone or blended together. I have the Ronald/Cindy duo and the name comes from one of my favorite movies, Can't Buy Me Love. How clever are those Tarte chicks to come up with such a neat product with fun names? The gloss isn't gloppy, it's shiny and pretty and feminine. Pucker up!

I simply cannot get enough of mascara. And this is a good one. Just witness the purple alligator skin! How hip, how chic, how sexy! I like the lush, full, voluminous look of long lashes. I think Lights, Camera, Lashes delivers. Did I mention that I loved the purple?

When you have late nights and must get up at the crack of dawn, something like this isn't a luxury, it's a necessity! Simply line your lower eyelid with the light pink pencil for a look that says, "I just got ten hours of beauty sleep!" even if you didn't. And then whip the product around and use the highlighter on the end to give a little boost to your brow area, cheeks and anywhere else that needs a make up call. Rest Assured, you will be looking bright eyed and beautiful!

I thought this was just going to be some kind of chapstick. I didn't expect to LOVE it. It is not chapstick at all! A bit of sheer color, a hint of pink and your lips are protected with an SPF 15 and you look good to boot. 24/7 contains vitamin E, mango & cocoa butter to soften your lips. Mmmm....

I've only read about Tarte products here and there in magazines but I didn't know very much about what they offered to a girl like me: obsessed cosmetics junkie. I didn't know that Tarte is an ultra cool company that produces kick ass cosmetics. You need to take a look.

The Rise N Shine gloss/stain is a waterproof color with a shiny gloss topper. It can easily slip in your purse or pocket with subtle touch ups from the gloss end because the stain won't budge. Other products that caught the attention my blue eyes were the Celebutante dry oil body spray, don't you want your summer skin to shimmer? I do! I was left wanting the eyeshadows because there are simply so many vibrant colors to choose from. And the eyeshadow duos in Grace Bay? Must have it. Check Tarte products out here.

Product Review: Dianne Brill

2006-07-17T16:41:00.000-04:00

Lip Liner in Demi-Cup. This lip liner is a neutral pink shade that works well with all my pink-nude-mauve lipsticks. The quality is superb and it even comes with a small brush at one end so you can multi-task. Use the lipliner and then sweep it into your lips and coat with gloss. Or apply Lipgloss with the brush for precision. Then go ahead and pout.

Lip Lingerie Lipgloss in Tiffany Trim (neutral pink) is my favorite. The packaging is so well done that you feel like you are unwrapping a special gift as you pull out the small pot of gloss from the ruffled paper and pink box. Yum.

Lip Lingerie Lipstick – I have the shade DB Pink which is a sheerish rose/ nude that lightly sparkles. I dont use it as an every day lipstick but one to pull out for a night on the town. Top with a sheer gloss and kiss someone special.

Midnight Lace mascara contains small fibers that adhere to you own lashes and make them long and sexy. Go ahead, bat those eyelashes! The consistency is a bit dryer than I’m used to but it’s fabulous. I just need an outstanding eye makeup remover to wash away this waterproof product.

I had never heard of Dianne Brill Cosmetics before and I consider myself on the up and up where cosmetics are concerned. How could she have slipped through the cracks of my knowledge? I don’t know. It makes me wonder what else I am missing out on.

It is a genuine public service to point you in the direction of Ms. Brill's outstanding products! Each comes specially packaged in cute pink boxes and tubes. I think the small things are worth mentioning. The quality is above average, the products have a light subtle sweet scent and they are fun to wear. Glamorous.

The website is done well, you get a feeling that Ms. Dianne Brill is a flirty vixen with a good sense of humor. I'd love to meet her!

On my wish list is the Eye Lingerie Eye Shadows. Splendid colors, go take a peek! Tell her Distressed Jeans sent you!

PS. Thanks to the lovely Nicole for her help!

Down In New Mexico.....

2006-07-17T10:22:00.000-04:00

Something about the open road! So, yours truly is leaving to go on an "artist retreat" emphasis on "treat" in New Mexico. Rockmirth is a unique eco-arts retreat in New Mexico that awaits me. Anyone that knows me knows how much I LOVE Mexico so, New Mexico will probably suit me just fine. I have several projects in motion that I need to finish. Poetry book, childrens book, inspiration cards, MYSELF!

Below you will find some hot treats that I will NOT be wearing on my sojourn. I think the elk, birds, and mountain lions would up and laugh at me if I showed up in the following delights.

Oh Help Me! Size 7 1/2 Horita. Pronto!! Andale!!! RIGHT NOW!!!!! If you are a fashionista and don't like these sexy as hell shoes hop on over to Easy Spirit or Mephitso(....^^^.....) and spend away. Yves Saint Laurent. Bring it home Dadddy.

Keep on keeping on with the leggings. I am a fan and I will not desert my fellow legging wearing hotties. Theory nails the dress. What a dress. How super stylish and sexy and current.

My oh my. Guissepi Zanotti. Wow. Yum. Ouch. I feel the urge to spank a leopord.

Nanette LePore.....Delivers everytime. Retro metro and let yo hair down!

Print this! Friggin cute as hell. Nieves Levi.

Ana Sui always loves me berry long time.

I bid all you fashion hounds a savvy slap happy week without yours truly S.S.Love. Oh believe you me, I will come back with some ideas and fashion tips via the Southwest. I will post pictures of my artistic adventures upon my return. S.S.Love Loves you!

A new funky fun site to behold

2006-07-17T01:23:00.000-04:00

I want to point you in the direction of a lovely, fashiony blog>>>> this way >>>> check it out right this minute! Click here and be sure to leave a comment and say hello!

Product Review: Fresh Scents by Terri

2006-07-13T18:30:00.000-04:00

I have multiple personality disorder when it comes to perfumes. One day I want something that smells like clean laundry, the next I'm in a honeysuckle mood then I want to smell like laundry and honeysuckle with a touch of jasmine. Next, I want to smell like the beach. The next day its something else.

For a long time all I wore was Norell which is sophisticated, classic and hard to find. I've been dousing myself with Kai combined with a lilac perfume but have been looking for something else.

Before you can say "Loves Baby Soft", here comes Fresh Scents By Terri. Let me tell you a little about this perfume maven. She has been in business for only three years but can claim a roster of celebrity clients who wear her fragrances. Terri has been featured in Women's Wear Daily and Beauty Biz magazine as well as one of my favorites, InTouch. New mama Gwen Stefani loves Terri's products as do Heather Locklear, Faith Hill, Tori Spelling and Ashlee Simpson, just to name a few.

I am so lucky to have the chance to test out these deliciously magic potions. I received lots of samples which I have been using faithfully for the past two weeks. Today I am wearing Zoe and I can't stop sniffing where I applied the light perfume. I'm walking around the house all day smelling my wrists. Weird, yes. But if you wear her perfumes, you will understand. I need some Fresh Scents by Terri candles now.

There is Breathe which is a nice marriage of white rain and light musk. Oh Baby unites china musk and a flower called pikaki into a fresh floral scent. Dream mixes vanilla and fig for a comforting yet lightly spicy scent. My Lulu carries the subtle, pleasing undertones of china rain and gardenia.

Terri just introduced her latest scents, Berry Cute, Peachy Keen and Tangerine Kiss which all offer a shimmery glow. I'm not one for fruity scents but these are lovely, light and perfect for summer. I've been wearing Tangerine Kiss and loving it.

I'm so pleased to introduce you to Fresh Scents By Terri. I just know you will love escaping into these dreamy fragrances!

Delicious Drops of Dew

2006-06-30T15:16:00.000-04:00

In light of Wimbledon I decided to begin this bejeweled post with one of the BEST tennis players in history (herstory) with the one and only (really cute too) Pete Sampras. Yes, the designer I bring you frothing fashionistas today is a lovely latina: Tina Steinberg. She creates some really cool-funky, eclectic, heartfelt pieces that celebrities like Gwen Stefani, Amber Valletta, Pete Sampras and his GORGEOUS wife Bridget, Melissa Joan-Hart, Kimberly Elise, Tori Spelling(our thoughts are with you), Hal Sparks, Shana Barker ect ect...are taking notice. Go to Tina's website and click on fingerprint charm jewelry to see what celeb moms are LOVING and wearing proudly!

Here is the master of the wand Pete and his son having a personalized silver fingerprint charm made!!!

Super cool coin bracelet featuring coins from Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands and the Soviet Union. How worldly and well traveled.

Danish coin earrings. Ka-ching. A nice twist on hoops.
Lovely cinnabar heart earrings. I love the word Cinnabar. I love these earrings too!
Here is something that Tinas spealizes in and is a huge hit. Heartfelt custom silver inscribed with beautiful sayings and poetic charming words. This one says "I love you, I am at rest with you, I have come home" S.S. Love owns a couple of these custom pieces!!! They are well worn and worn well. These earrings are totally cool. Diamonds and garnets. What more could a girl ask for other than a sack or hundreds or world peace? Tina uses interesting rough cut diamonds that have an earthy sage color and plenty of twinkles and sparkles. My personal favorite! I smell Lucky Magazine lurking around these gems.

A close second favorite is this burnt horn and citrine hand wrapped creation. I happen to know that E! Entertaiment requested this one. Why? Because it's fucking cute!

Go to TinaSteinberg.com and check out her killer selection of unique one of a kind jewelry.
You won't be disappointed.

Totally Jazzed(jizzed) to the Maxx

2006-06-29T14:10:00.000-04:00

Today I was FORCED to spend a little time at TJ Maxx. My dear sweet friend informed me that Aaron Brothers was having a penny sale....buy one canvas and get the next one for a penny. Great! Both myself and my significant other paint, so, booya and bring it.
I walked up to the doors of Mr. Brothers and realized that they don't open until 10am. What is a girl to do with time to spare and a gleaming TJ Maxx within earshot? I mosied on over to the Maxx and found a treasure or two. Maybe three. I found two Free People pieces at FANTASTIC prices and a couple of other goodies. I came home and jumped on Free People's website to see if I could find my purchases. I found only one. I did however find these golden nuggets of love:

Not a look everyone can pull off. I would give it my best effort. I think I would succeed.

Done. Done! DONE!!!! For $99-I am taking it! Don't think I won't pair this up with the above leg warmers.

CUTE! Very Gwen Stefani-ish....without the tee underneath it all.....
Voile ribbon dress.
Here is the dress I purchased at TJ Maxx. Originally $138. On the Free People site it is on sale for $89 and I got my grubby hands on it for $50. Boom. I also purchased a super sweet and delicate Free People cardigan (VERY WHIMSICAL) for $24.99-originally $89.
All of this because Aaron Brothers didn't open until 10am and I had 35 minutes to kill.

Product Review: Philosophy

2006-06-27T22:05:00.000-04:00

This lipgloss is light and simple and gives lips a slight tingle. Feels good. Looks pretty.

I am totally in love with this lotion. It smells so nice, clean. Perfect for my before bedtime routine. I take a shower and slather this on, all over my body. Im so in love with the scent, I now wish for the Amazing Grace perfume.

The Purity cleanser is like nothing I have ever tried. It makes my face squeaky clean and smells so good, I wish Philosophy would introduce a perfume created out of this scent. I was using the Hope in a Jar moisturizer and I did see a difference in my skin shortly after trying it out. I have highly sensitive skin and this stuff didnt bother my epidermis one bit. I dabbed the Hope in a Tube around my eye area and instantly looked better. Im fighting off those mid-thirties crows feet with all my might. I use When Hope is Not Enough sparingly, it too is a miracle product. I now see what all the rave over Philosophy is all about.

Before I left for vacation, I did the Micro-delivery peel which features vitamin C/peptide crystals combined with a salicylic acid gel and results in skin so clean and soft it might be confused with the skin of a newborn. It seemed to bring toxins to the surface because my skin broke out a little bit the next day. And then it was smooth sailing from there.

I love it. LOVE IT. I'm not crazy about things like fruit and cinnamon body lotion, shower gel or perfume but Cinnamon Buns smells like a Cinnabon while you are bathing and washes off leaving you clean but not smelling like Big Red. YUM. You can use it as bath gel, shower gel or shampoo. Talk about multi-tasking.

This is my wish product. I want the Amazing Grace perfume right now. A friend of mine used to wear this and she was overprotective of it as if were the Hope Diamond. I'd love to use the Amazing Grace Perfumed hair conditioner. The whole line of hair care products is probably amazingly wonderful.

I have long heard about Philosophy products, read about them in magazines and sniffed some lotions and potions in Sephora. Sometimes I have a hard time buying into the hype over certain products. Consider me a convert! Everything is lightly and pleasantly scented, high quality, neat packaging and might I add, excellent customer service.

I suppose you could say my new philosophy is to use Philosophy. Every night I take a hot shower and then slather on my lotion and use my skincare products. I feel like a new woman!

Product Review: Stila

2006-06-25T17:43:00.000-04:00

The Stila girl is smart, confident, inherently stylish and up on what’s happening in the world. She likes clean, pretty, fresh looks and desires the high quality and luxury of the brand. The stila girl is anything she wants to be from a young fashionista in the city to a sophisticated professional woman.

Jade Blossom perfume is a light scent with notes of cucumber, lemon verbena and green tea. A bit different from my normal floral scent, smells clean and fresh like a spring day after rain.

The Smudge Pot I have is called Bronze, a brown shade with hints of gold. It's perfect in every way. Goes on without clumping or spreading, stays all day and makes the blue of my eyes *pop*. Smudge with a fingertip for a more dramatic look. I'm all about the drama.

I'm always looking for a mascara that lengthens and coats and looks like Im wearing a mini fur coat on my eyes (faux of course!). I was anxious to try the Fiber Optics mascara and it didnt disappoint, it goes on like velvet. I applied extra mascara to the very tips of my lashes and they did look much longer. What I like best about this product is how soft and shiny it is. Goes on like silk. And washes off nicely too.

I have this Kajal pencil in Tigers Eye. I've used all, and I do mean all, of the drugstore brands quite a few upscale products as well. How hard is it to find a simple dark brown? Very.

Most shades are either too light, they contain a reddish tint or are a poor quality that crumbles or pulls at my eye as its applied. Not this one. It slides on powdery soft with staying power.

Spiced Ginger is a shimmery bronzed peach Lip Glaze that has the essence of a Starbucks Gingerbread Latte with none of the calories. It smells so amazing, I wouldn't be surprised if Stila came out with a Spiced Ginger body lotion/shower gel someday. The lip glaze is thick but not sticky.

The first Stila product I ever bought was a tube of lip shine. They reworked the tube and added a little tip. They have pretty new shades since I last purchased my little tube -- more than seven years ago.

Stila claims the runaway hit for fall will be the Silver Maple eyeshadow trio. It features shades of silver and gray with a shimmery cream. I applied it with a small brush and made a very smokey eye, too sexy for daytime. Good thing I'm not one for rules especially where makeup is concerned. Wear it dark and layered and look smoldering in the daylight, why don't you?

Stila was one of the main reasons for my trips to Garden State Plaza in NJ back in the day. I would go to Sephora and test everything out on my hands, wrists, arms... where ever I could. Stila always had cool packaging and neat products, they were my first stop in my cosmetics lusting. Over the years many new cosmetics companies have come on the scene, each one hip and trendy in their own way. I forgot about Stila and their high quality cosmetics. I'm so glad I thought about them again because their products are awesome!

I was surprised to see an entire petal infusions skincare line on their website. I didnt know Stila offered skincare items! What caught my eye was the h20ff cleansing cloths which contain bergamot oil and sweet orange oil. I bet that would make my skin glow.

You can check out Stila's cosmetics and skinscare lines right *here. I highly recommend the Smudge Pots. My dream product is the entire Creme Bouquet perfume line because I'm a sucker for anything with gardenia in it!

Product Review: BeneFit

2006-06-21T15:52:00.000-04:00

Dr. Feelgood is a product I must try. The catalog says it will get rid of pores and fine lines while soaking up excess oil. It's skin perfecting. But is it likely to clog my pores? That's the question.

Recently I was able to test out Color Plump! It is a thick pencil of wondrous color that fluffs and smooths lips. I see a definite plumping effect on when I apply it. The pencil is soft and it goes on evenly with less waxiness than a lipstick. The color I have is called Hey Sailor, a frosty mauvey hue which for me, is a bit dark but perfect for those nights when I go out on the town.

I love lotions and moisturizers. This is Touch Me Then Try to Leave. Lush and creamy, lightly scented. I want it.

If you want to buy a friend a gift, this is it. A whole kit for the face. The other day I was shopping and the salesgirl ringing me up had amazing lashes, thick and dark and long.

"What mascara do you use?" I asked, hoping she didn't say Great Lash by Maybelline because on other people, Great Lash is lovely but on me, my lashes clump together and look stubbier than usual. The salesgirl told me she wore Bad Gal lash. Hello! Now it's on my list of things to buy. It's a very long list.

BeneFit is a funky, flirty brand created by twin sisters. The products are innovative and fun with cute names and good quality. I believe what put BeneFit on the map was Benetint, a top selling, rose scented cheek and lip tint that gives skin a natural looking flush.

I eagerly paged through the newest catalog and choose a bunch of products including Dr. Feelgood mentioned above. I currently use Clinique's Pore Minimizer and am curious to see how Dr. Feelgood measures up. I want those pores gone!

I like Play Sticks, foundation in a stick form with soothing ingredients like chamomile and tea tree extracts. Glamazon might give me the lightly tanned skin I desire without the sun damage while Bad Gal kohl pencil would probably make me look heroin chic which is so appropriate for a mother of two. But I like it! There are so many awesome products from BeneFit that I'd like to try.

Have you tried anything and loved it? Have something to recommend? Let me know! Post your comments and tell me what you think.

This Explains Why......

2006-06-19T20:39:00.000-04:00

I recieved consistent A's in Anthropology in college. I always loved the study of culture and all the nitty gritty that comes with homo homo sapiens ect. It helps that my professors were always light hearted and funny cussers!

Childs apron. How cute is this. Buy it in an extra large and throw on a tank underneath with some well worn jeans and strut!
I know the stripes lend itself to peppermint and candycanes, but, this dress is all Summer. Sizzling Sassy Sexy and Slammin'.

Yum. Wanna wear this tonight!

Anna Sui never does me wrong. Me love Anna long time.

Lady Marmalade. Sweet orange goodness.

Girls, go get your "A" in Anthropologie!

Shopbop!

2006-06-19T18:43:00.000-04:00

Ignore the fact that the model looks like Tara Reid with short hair. Cute dress. I love it for lounging by the pool drinking frothy cool alcholic beverages.

I would wear this with my hair pulled back into a low ponytail and a daisy behind my ear. Sweet but not innocent.

Smile! The drape of the dress is flattering, this one comes in several colors. I like the purple.

Is she fixing her strap or showing us that she shaved? Either way I'm digging the loose dress. Very unrestricting.

Its a cross between a nightie and a summer dress. Lindsay Lohan would pair this number with some black leggings but I would go for bare legs and cute shoes.

Thanks to the fashiony chica who suggested I try Shopbop.com. Everything you could ever want on one glorious website.

Chic, Lisy, and Ford

2006-06-16T12:31:00.000-04:00

This was one of those posts where my love of fashion and style over-rode my technology frustrations. I received the below email from the oh so great ChicShops (go there quickly, it's addicting) announcing a Summer Sale from Lisy B. Enter "chicshops" at checkout and recieve a 20% discount on orders of $100 or more. Not bad I thought to myself. I galloped my way over to Lisy B and found a boatload of awesome, stunning, cute this and thats. I started hungrily saving pictures as I went. To my horror when I went to post and celebrate, the pictures didn't save and the one that did was microscopic. SO, I hunted around for my favorite designer on the site: Geren Ford. Oh sweet Geren, how my heart beats songs of love for your designs.

I know the pictures are small. I suspect you lovely fashion hungry divas can handle it.
Go to Lisy B and Geren Ford to see more detail. You won't be dissapointed!

Small, but you get the idea. SOOOOO CUTE!

Tiny. Her waist that is. I love this.
There are great pictures of this one on Lisy B.

Check out the lines on this number. I want one!

S.S.Love loves you!

A good blush is hard to find

2006-06-15T19:00:00.000-04:00

When I was growing up, Clinique makeup was the bomb. My mother would only shop for it when they offered those little gift bags with free samples which always included that yellow moisturizer. My friends mother only wore Clinique and started my friend on a daily regime of Clinique skincare when she was thirteen. I was happy with Ivory soap and Sea Breeze.

But the lure of the free gift bag lulled me to the Clinique makeup counter where I started wearing blush in Mocha Pink. For years, that was all I wore. Even though it wore off quickly and didn't really give me the look I was going for, I was steadfast in my application of Mocha Pink.

Giving up on Mocha Pink, I moved to Elizabeth Arden. The salesgirl swore to me that this color would compliment my skintone and bring out my eyecolor. Okay! I'm sold. But Sugar Plum failed to give me that just-ran-around-the -block- on- a- cold- day flush.

In fact, Sugar Plum looked suspiciously like Mocha Pink. What does a girl have to do to find the perfect color for her skin tone? I tried Maybelline and found something to last me for a while. The color was Pure Berry and I read about it in a magazine. On me the color appeared too bright. Clown cheeks. I did not give up on my quest.

I couldn't help but feel a bit off with every single color I chose. My cheeks were in desperate need of something, but what? I purchased what I thought would be an excellent hue for me, L'Oreal in Rustica/Rustique. Not too pink, not to brown.

I have found over the years that any shade of blush from L'Oreal makes me look like I have a bad tan but only on my cheeks. The pink fades to bright orange and then it completely wears off. I still have this compact practically brand new. The search continued.... ...until one day I mentioned to my makeup artist friend Lisa that I wanted to try Orgasm by Nars. It's the color almost every makeup artist has in their box of tricks. She loaned me the blush to try and I loved it. I found the Holy Grail.

It's magic for me but might be a tad iridescent for some. It's a slightly glimmery peachy color that gives me the flushed look I've been after for ten years. TEN YEARS. The lipgloss by the same name is a bit gloopy and MAC's Prrrr is very similar but with less gloppage. Yes, that's a word.

Right now with the summer months upon us, I slightly dust a very inexpensive Bonnie Bell bronzing powder on my cheeks and nose then give myself a light dusting of Nars Orgasm. It may not last for hours and hours and it does settle into my pores just a little but I'm happy with the color overall.

At this moment I'm searching for the Perfect Mascara and the Perfect Pore Minimizer/Primer, I hear Smashbox makes a good one and Lisa- my- makeup- artist promises that Benefit's Dr. Feelgood will in fact, deliver the goods. I don't wear any foundation but am not opposed to finding an amazing product that will give me flawless and beautiful skin. And since I refuse to get tan by sitting in the sun, I'm using my Nature's Gate Sundercover Sunscreen spf 30 and my ProCyte Ti-Silc spf 60 like a good California girl.

All I want is a nice dress....

2006-06-15T00:31:00.000-04:00

A Common Thread

Tracy Reese

Karanina braided halter

Nanette Lepore

Kara Janx kimono dress

Diane Von Furstenberg

You'd think it would be easy, finding a hip dress in a flattering cut. Nothing too long that makes me look like I just hopped off a stagecoach, nothing that indicates I'm trying to recapture my youth and nothing that hints I'm a hoochie. But nooooooo. It's not easy unless you are shopping in a fantasy world where you can spend hundreds of dollars on one dress. It has been a dream of mine ever since I was a little girl to own a Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress. Yeah, not this month.

I'm going on vacation and all I want is a new dress for dinners out. I also have an August wedding to attend and I'd like something for that. Every photo of me at a special event features me in either one of two dresses, both black. Both blahhhhh.

I'll take that Kara Janx dress, check it out. I hear Kara's signature dress is not only flattering but super comfortable too. I have jeans in various washes, skirts galore, tee shirts- more than I can count, but dresses, those are lacking in my cluttered closet. We need to remedy this stat.

Product Review...French Mani, oui oui

2006-06-08T15:26:00.000-04:00

For the longest time I've been saying there should be a white paint pen for nails so I (and you) could do lovely French Manicures easily at home. And lo and behold, from my lips to Sally Hanson's ears, comes The Five Minute French Manicure set. Nothing thrills me more than a new beauty item, something to make me feel good about myself and my ragged nails. I bought it at Target this morning along with some Sally Hanson Lip Plumping gloss which did nothing to plump my lips but did however, make them super shiny.

I tore open the package and proceeded to paint my nails. It took me multiple times to get a nice thick application of the white paint across my toenails. The problem I had was that the pen made a gloopy dot every time I pressed down or lifted up. After I slowly and somewhat evenly, applied the paint to my toes, I attempted my fingers. By the way, don't look too closely at those toenails. From a distance they look good but up close you can see my mistakes.

It took several tries to get the line thick and opaque and straight across my fingernails. I had such a difficult time using my left hand to do my right, that the end result appeared to be that my nails were done by a blind person with a hand tremor. By this time, the color had smudged on my left hand and I had to do it all again. Either the line across was not straight or the color was not thick. Finally I gave up and made a cup of green tea with the intention to paint my nails something totally different after lunch. I tucked the paint pen back into the packaging, I think this is going to be a return.

I'm going to stick with my regular nail polish, Hard Candy in baby blue. I love the clean summery look of french manicured nails and will leave it to the professionals. But the pen is a brilliant idea, I just wish the color came out more uniform in thickness.

Hangin' With The Raisin Girls.....

2006-06-05T16:50:00.000-04:00

Raisins has always been one of my top picks when shop for bikini's. There is a killer store in Mission Beach (San Diego) called Pilars that carries tons of suits and always has a massive collection of Raisins. A mecca of spandex/nylon/ties and such. With the temperature rising high to the sky lately, swimming/ocean/pools/backyard sprinklers/seasonal streams has me daydreaming about new bathing suits. Fashionistas must carry the style torch wherever we may roam!

Cute! I like the new dangly charms that seem to be adorning this seasons suits.

This is my favorite print. Sexy, bright, and full of delight.

Yum.

An apple a day will keep you throwing this on (with sunscreen) and taking on that summer tan!

No orange streaks or bronzed palms.

I have this suit in a different color palette. More blues. Looks kinda vintage O.P.

See my favorite suit in action. Looks like Cabo waters. Sweet sweet Cabo San Lucas. Pony up to the pool bar and order a round of chilly margaritas with lots of salt!

Product Review

2006-06-03T16:29:00.000-04:00

Not fashion per se, but a close cousin to fashion is cosmetics and skin care and tooth care. I love cosmetics (love as in obsessed) and am a skin care junkie. I also am deeply committed to flossing and brushing so the kicky light- up toothbrushes from Dr. Fresh were pretty darn exciting to me. We came back with some cool items from a variety of vendors when we attended the Platinum Publicity event that SS love mentioned below.

Among the goodies we sampled were products from ProCyte. I never heard of this company, but apparently they have some high quality products available through your dermatologists office.

I was pretty stoked to come home and wash the smog off my face with my sample of Neova Herbal Wash, a light cleanser. It felt so good. Clean. Fresh. Two tumbs up. Left my skin feeling like a peach but less fuzzy.

Next was the Creme de la Copper face cream. This stuff is super light, almost watery. I was thinking it would be thick like paste but nope. I've been using it for two days and love it. I just pat it on gently all around my eyes and cheeks. I'm hoping it works miracles and eradicates those wrinkles that seem to be popping up since I turned 34. Aging sucks! So I'm more than happy to indulge in some good products that can turn back the hands of time just a pinch.

I used the Body Smoother in the shower, squirted a nice plump drop on my body brush and scrubbed my epidermis down. This didn't have a particularly distinct smell which is neither good or bad. It was not gritty or rough, it was gentle to the skin. It washes off without leaving a filmy residue which is definitely good.

Lastly was the Neova Cuticle Therapy which I desperatly needed. My nail beds are always dry probably because I'm constantly washing my hands trying to avoid colds and the flu. No matter how much I slather moisturizer on my hands, those cuticles remain as dry as something left in the desert. I nourished my hands with the sample of Cuticle Therapy and was pleased with the result. In a short time, my fingertips are in better shape.

I would be interested in trying out more of ProCyte's products, specifically the Night therapy, Mattifying serum, and Green Tea Serum. I'm a big giant sucker for new products and cosmetics and like most every other woman in the world, am in constant search mode for the best skin care on the market. As I find good stuff, I feel it is my duty to report back to you with product reviews. When I find a miraculously wonderful item I will be more than happy to direct you towards youth and beauty and good oral care.

Put A Little Swag In Your Step!

2006-06-02T09:40:00.000-04:00

Distressed Jeans and I attended a tastefully done pre-MTV Movie Awards gifting suite yesterday in "hot in herre" Los Angeles. I have to say after being at a few of these product promotion parties, this one put on by Platinum Publicity was quite lovely. Intimate, classy, sassy, non-cheesey, tactful, and fun.
Melanie, the cutie who runs the show was gracious and did a fine job out of the gate! Well done Melanie, well done. I will be posting individual goodness on some of the cool finds that I found in the weeks to come. Carry on fashionistas and enjoy your day!

Here Cris Judd shows off how he gets his smooth head tan and happy. The company is Natures Gate Organics. The super yummy smelling product is Happy Glow Lucky bronzing creme. I tried some last night and I shimmered and glowed my way to bed.

My favorite Mean Girl Lacey Chabert sporting a new Barbie Fairytopia doll. She's cute. So is Lacey. There was an entire gigantic room soley for Ms. Barbie herself. Since when did she become a diva? Mermaida mania will be sweeping the nation any day now.

Good ol Corey Feldman scoring a portable electronic device from Coby. I actually have never heard of Coby....They have been around for several years and are similar to Sony. Lots of small contraptions with earphones.

Dancing with the Stars hottie Stacey Kiebler holds up a cute tank by Henry III denim. Denim for all three generations that is. A brand new hot off the press denim company. The rep told me that the wash did not come out the way they wanted it so they are redoing the initital batch of jeans. I like that they won't settle for less. The logo is cute and regal.

Mr. Pearly whites, Chase Crawford is holding my favorite thing at the event. Behold the Hummer laptop. I totally want one! Indestructible. Made out of magnesium. You can drop it, spill molten lava (liquids) on it, get frustrated and slam it shut and it will keep on keeping on! My birthday is next month. I know what I am asking for. I am not a huge fan of the Hummer SUV, however, I can handle a boxy manly laptop.

Chic Savings

2006-06-01T21:08:00.000-04:00

If you live in and around the Los Angeles area be sure to saunter on over to this shindig.
Sounds like a party!

Fashion Co-Op Summer Shopping Event

Get ready to shop ‘til you drop at the summer’s first sample sale – Fashion Co-Op, whereover 160 of Southern California’s hottest new fashion designers will be selling their clothing, handbags, & jewelry at 40-80% off! Be the first in line to snag up deals on denim brands such as Blue Cult, Hudson, and Antik at up to 80% off.

While you’re there, step into the Geffen Playhouse “Girl’s Night Out” Lounge and treat yourself to a mini-makeover, get pampered in style with complimentary eyelash extensions by Thi Cosmetics, cool down at the beverage bar courtesy of TAB Energy and Function Drinks, and rock out to the tunes of DJ Pesce. Grab your friends and come out to what’s sure to be the best sale this season.

Fashion Co-Op LA Saturday, June 3rd, 2006General Admission: 1pm – 5pm
Santa Monica Civic1855 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

$3 RSVP, $5 DoorRSVP: fashioncoop.com

Chic Shops is a fabulous place to find cool and unique designers and goodies. S.S.Love would never steer you in the wrong direction! Dive in and have some Summer fun.....

In Honor Of Kingston, Mon.

2006-05-30T20:42:00.000-04:00

In honor of my boo Gwen and the new heir to coolness, I decided to post some pictures from her L.A.M.B. website. Cute website by the way. I always love the artwork and graphics she uses. Don't freak out over the shoe. I had to post it because it is really quite ugly. It reminds me of something Mercury would wear. Anyway, I decided to post it first to get the golden WTF out of the way so I may move on to prettier lovelier items. Take a gander my friends......

I know Paris Hilton was seen wearing these recently. Nothing like some gold boullion for the size 11 beasts.

How much do we love this simple yet stylish cashmere number? Colors are splendid and the shape is tip top too.

Go ahead and think it. Go right ahead. I LOVE this jacket. I know it is a wee maniacal and looney bin-ish looking, but, I see through that buckledom and I see STYLE!

Take off the ruffles. Keep the print and the buttons (me and buttons, an affair to remember)

Keep the ruffle at the top. Intriguing, yes?!

FABULOUS!

Boo-ya. Killer sweater. Too expensive for me.....Being in the design world and knowing what things really cost to produce makes it tricky and difficult for me to ever pay full retail for anything. I mean, I just purchased a SUPER-CUTE LUX skirt at TJ MAXX for $14.99. Back to Gwen, my girl. She owns something that I designed, hee hee.

I can't wait too see what kind of mom style she pulls off. You know it will be funky fresh and inspire legions.

Click here to visit L.A.M.B

Purple Haze

2006-05-25T01:13:00.000-04:00

I am in a hurry. I have not a lot of time to scour around and find relevant photos of his holy purpleness....What I can tell you is this:

Prince is the MAN. Boy rules the roost like no other. Boy tore it up tonight on that bullshit American Idol stage. My path crossed with "his" about 12 years ago in Los Angeles. More than twice. He is tiny. I mean TINY. He seriously is the shit. I worked in Beverly Hills for a "certain optician" and Prince's bodyguard purchased his colored contacts at our store. He "the bodyguard" informed me that Prince had some wacked out swing/sling/sex machine hanging from the cieling of his "sex room".

I shared space with him and I can attest that powerful boy is tiny, yet, packs a mean punch.

Hella-Foine

2006-05-21T13:00:00.000-04:00

Take a little stroll with me through the streets of Finland.

Talk about The Power Of Orange Knickers! How fucking awesome is this lady!

Running through the violets. How super cute is this number! Look at the petticoat peeking out.

Check out those boots! Lovely

Classy sassy. WOW!

How cute! This lil lady is sporting Moschino and Vivienne Westwood. She claims she wants to have a themed party; 1920's and nude. Bring pearls and high heels.

What a cool cat. Great style.

I wonder if this is what I will look like in 30 years????

I like this.

These two nuggets state that Elvis and David Beckham are their fashion inspiration. Looks more like Criss Cross.

I love Hel Looks! Those hummming beans in Finland are totally inspiring. They have such a freedom and respect for self expression via fashion. Fearless and fancy free.

Whats New Is Free, People

2006-05-17T11:26:00.000-04:00

Here are some new fun morsels from Free People. One of my all time favorite brands. I find that they pay wonderful attention to detail. My favorite pick is the last picture. Those will be in my shoe repitoire(sp?) in approximately 5-7 business days. heeee heeeee

Loving the neckline. Color and print aren't too shabby either. Sucker for buttons also.
You can't tell from this picture, but, the bottom of the dress has a sweet lace border. The material is a sturdy blend. Sexy sexy.
Sexy beach pants. Yes they are. I love the back pocket. The tawney thread on the pocket reminds me of sand. The pants feature a wide leg. Hear the waves beckoning?

Fabulous print a check out the sweet detalils on the cuff. I'd buy this.
Saved the best for last. Mine mine mine. And, Plie.

Go to Free People and have a ball

Life Lines

2006-05-09T20:07:00.000-04:00

Fall 2006. My excitement is bubbling to the tippy top. Some choice cuts from Chloe and Arkas.
Keep those minds open and enjoy.

The lines. Oh the lines and the soft swish. Chloe

Georgous. Devine by design. The shoes make me nervous. The dress makes me smile. Chloe

Sugar please. This is my favorite ensemble in the collection. I need this and this needs me. Chloe

Points off for the shoes. All the rest is wonderful. I know the top appears kind of boxy...Yet it works. Chloe
Yes yes and then yes. Chloe

CUTE! Great color for Fall. Work it out. Arkas

I like this so very much that I posted it twice. Seriously. How hot is this? Arkas

Arkas strikes again. Loving the color combo and the softness.

Preppy and sexy and fresh and super stylish. Arkas

Revolving Door

2006-05-07T12:48:00.000-04:00

I stumbled across yet another online store chock full of sweet fashion goodness. I posted some of my favorites. Give yourself a good half hour to scope it all out if you make the wise decision to check it out!!

Also, lovely beautiful readers...if you love Conversations About Fashion tell your friends. If you work at a land line magazine hook S.S. Love up. You all know who you are! Every stylish magazine needs a keen trend watcher/quasi style reporter/idea generator. Thank you and thank you!

Modish laminated purdy purse by Orly Kiely. Great shape. Fabulous colors.

Funky yellow bag. I think it is a wee expensive at $435. I bet we can find something similar for under $100. Tara Smith.

I can hear the dry heaving from here. I really can. I care not. I think these shorts are totally hot. I will wear them proudly to my next golf game. Rosasen. The shoes.....

Mint can be counted on to always deliver the goods. I have never been put in the position to try and scrape up something nice to say about Mint. Minty Fresh. This creamy dress is perfect!

The following 4 shots of shorts are all from Johnson. Stop it. I like them all. I especially like the green satiny ones. I would were those in a hot second. I am a huge fan of shorty shorts. Not daisy dukes. Or as I calmly call them at times...Daisy Pukes. Short shorts can be worn in many delightful sassy ways. As a sidenote...I perused the racks at my local Gap outlet and found some cute ones for under $20. Throw a ribbon around your waist or sew some buttons on and call it done.

Heatherette!
Normally not a huge fan, but, this dress is damn cute!!!

GO to Revolve Clothing! Much to see, even more to buy! Hope you have deep pockets.

Something New and then.......

2006-05-06T11:51:00.000-04:00

A bunch of vintage stuff.

Cute cute. Tara Tarantino

Vintage clutch. My fave out of all of them.

Not a very good picture...crotcheted (sp?)...I bet it's cute in person.

Vintage tooled leather. Lookin' good!

Vintage summer donna dress. Obviously the belt was added by zesty photograper. Minus that and I lovey love.

My Golden Guadalupe

2006-05-01T01:19:00.000-04:00

Having been familiar, very familiar, with the whole pregnancy wonderland I can tell you that this sweet peach is about to drop her watermelon seed. The look. She has the "look" of ripeness. This is good. Let's all applaud her ability to keep the style all the while.

She is already holding her monkey in her hand..it can't be helped. It's like the "wall" has come down and baby is born!

S.S. Love gives her 4 weeks max. LOVE!

**photos via The Superficial

AAAhhhhhhhh Flip flop

2006-04-27T11:56:00.000-04:00

I did a little write up on this cool website a while ago....They have some nice new refreshing items. I plucked up my favorites and I present them to you.!

These cuties by BC have a slight scent of aerosoles meets rockports....but they somehow pull off some style. They look comfy, I love the green, and the lines are fabulous. Two corns up!

I know. CUTE! Feet look a tad squelched, but the shoes are way cool!

Nice. Sweet. Classy yet silly.

Stunning!
I am a sucker for ric rak. Simple as it may seem, the swervy line that comes in so many colors always adds that special twist to anything. These shoes by Sugar are ADORABLE. Great colors.

I know what you are all thinking. I agree with you, I really do. Maybe not the best foot model in the world for these lovely sparkly sandals. Whoa.

Nice and colorful sacky backbacks to take to the beach.

Go to flipflop trunkshow!

Happy Monday Cuties!

2006-04-24T11:55:00.000-04:00

Pregnancy is not always the easiest fashion time in a womans life. Nowadays there are much kinder, lovlier, wonderful pregnancy designs out there in the land of milk n honey. Gwen has loads of style and grace. She exudes cuteness and funkiness and that makes me smile!

Look at how beautiful the color combo is! Delightful!

Gwen looks like a golden goddess. She does it up right maternity style. Magic.

Target Practice

2006-04-23T13:30:00.000-04:00

I made my bimonthly haul to Target yesterday to buy hangers. Hangers. All I really needed was hangars. How hard is it to walk toward the back, place hangars into the plastic red basket and mosey into the cashier line and get the hell out? $96 later. Let's see. A unique white tank, two delicious long thin sweater dresses (I wore one last night over leggings and looked mighty fine). One in black and one in Buttercup. Ouchless hair bands in bright colors(I often wear pig-tails), lotion that is suppose to give you a "glow" without turning you orange, toothbrushes....Yes, I think that's it. See what hangars brought on. Christos. Target has some cute things. I forbade myself from picking through the bikini section. Too tempting.

How adorable is this? Delicate, demure, sexy, sassy, vintage-y, interchangable all at the same time.

Lovely.

VERY H&M. I have a cute shirt that I purchased with glee at H&M in the exact same color and has the EXACT side elastic lines. Those vixen designers at Target are treating us bargain huntresses nicely. Yes?

Love the vest. Not paired with with that drab grey shirt underneath. Long dress like shirt?Perhaps white? Pearls. Leggings? Funkified shoes? I smell an outfit fit for my closet.

Admittedly I don't so much like the color. You see, I needed to use this color to show the cut and lines. This sweater in black is hot hot hot. Literally if you wear it in Summer you will be hot. Seriously. It is yummy cute.

Good Ol' Target. The incredible $100 store.

The Bees Knees

2006-04-19T12:38:00.000-04:00

You know me always on the hunt for great fashion. Different. Slightly off kilter. I stumbled upon the site Blue Bee. They have stores in Santa Barbara on State Street if you live in the area you probably already are in the know. Great site. Super easy to navigate with fantastic photo's of merchandise. Check it out Diva's!

How adorable! Joystick. Sooooooooooooooo awesome!

I am not normally into clutches. Clutching my chest looking at this fine specimen.

Okay. Moschino. I think I may have juiced a little.

I have always been a huge lover of clogs. How funky are these? Set you back a little.

Cydney Mandel did a mighty fine job designing these hot shoes. Damn!

Size 7 1/2 please. Shit these are cute. Cute!

Go to Blue Bee and check out their killer selections!

Cami-Soul

2006-04-18T10:06:00.000-04:00

The woman behind this design is Alanna Hill. She owns the site where I found all of these adorable underthings and obvioulsy has a knack for designing. She used to travel with a circus in Australia as a trapeze artist. Quirky quirky!

WOW! I just want to lay around the chateau sipping champagne and reading great novels in this Oscar De La Renta snazzy get-up. Seriously. It's on sale for under $80 too. Sweetheart necklines are amongst my faves. Did anyone see him on Oprah yesterday. Man has a whopper of a pad.

LOVE LOVE LOVE this! So super cute. I am a huge fan of prints. Nice n sweet bow detail.

Doesn't this model kinda' look like the actress from the movie The Craft? Anyway, cami by Frost French. Pretty expensive but I think it's yummy!

Darlingly sexy cami by Roberto Cavalli. Only white is left in stock. Killer cut!

How cute is this little number from Betsey Johnson. On sale too! Oh Betsey.

Go to Figleaves.com for a HUGE selection of intimate apparel and swimsuits. Cute stuff.

Summer Donna..Simma Dawn Naw

2006-04-13T20:25:00.000-04:00

Here's a little Donna Karan to top of your Thursday.

Great skirt. Pockets. Perfect for my pocket rocket.
Bastille wedges have stolen my heart. My brother would say they look like orthopedic shoes, but to me, love. They come in a killer brown color too...see above picture.
This is my favorite choice outfit. I would maybe throw some color in there somewhere.

Gorgeous. Soft. Perfect length. Great color.

Cute Cute Cute. Digging the pleat-y detail around the neckline.

It looks slightly slouchy on the model, but, I think it is a keeper. I am dying over the shoes.

While speaking with a successful desinger about her favorite fashion icon she quickly mentioned that Donna Karan was it! She mentioned that most designers don't actually design for the everyday size 4-14 woman, they design for size 00-0. Donna Karan really understands a womans body and it shoes (Freudian slip), I mean shows.
www.donnakaran.com

Back and Happy

2006-04-11T10:28:00.000-04:00

I am back from my soul vacation and happy as can be. If you people out there in online land have never been to the central coast of California....go! The monarch butterflies were making a pit stop in Cambria on their migration from Washington to Mexico . I woke up in the mornings and looked out the window to see hundreds fluttering all over the flowers. Beautiful and inspiring.
Speaking of flowers. Spring was definitely springing. Flowers flowers and more flowers. Growing everywhere in every color in every yard, lot, and street. Magical I say.

Ohhhhh...and there is a huge antique mall/store with all kinds of hidden nooks and crannys. Every time I go I find a clothing treasure. A woman from South Carolina hunts through estate sales and sends her finds to this antique store. Well. ahem. Yours truly purchased a West Indies inspired block print wrap skirt and matching blousy sexy top from a 1950's Parisian designer. It is DEEEVINE! All flirty and sexy.

Now, back to business:
I present to you some cute cute tops from Michael Stars. Key word Stars.
His shirts fit so well and are cut with feminine zeal. I personally don't own any, but friends of mine do and I have tried them on. Yum yum.

This is my favorite. I love anything that hints at ballerina gear. Wrap tops, leggings, skirts, leg warmers...Love it.

Great color. Great cut. Cute model. Who can ask for anything more?

I wouldn't necessarily pair these colors together, but, the tunic-y top has tons of potential!

Here we are with the whole distressed notion. Nice long tank. Supima cotton. Supreme.

The description for this tank states that it knots in the back. I wish they had a picture. I love things knotted in the back. Not knots in my back. You know what I mean. I like the low cut. I would absolutely buy this.
CUTE! I want to see that belt. Wonerful detail.
Nice. I want to go on a tropical beach and run around in my underwear and a Michael Stars shirt!

A/X Exchange

2006-04-04T16:10:00.000-04:00

A/X Armani Exchange

Armani has a new promo music video for Escape.

Here is a link for you to watch the video which has a beachy feel to it, a slightly retro 80's vibe...
If you prefer to watch this on You Tube click here...

Enjoy it!

S.S.Love is Sailin' On...

2006-03-30T15:10:00.000-05:00

I am taking off this afternoon to one of my favorite places on the planet. The Central Coast of California. I spent many a summer there throughout my childhood and something about the misty cool air there inspires me to new heights. We are staying in a house nestled in pine trees overlooking the ocean. AHhhhhhhh.

Here are some funky little ones to leave you with. I will return to normally scheduled programming when I return late next week.

S.S. Love!

Wood and leather necklace from Urban Outfitters. I believe this is on sale.

Marc by Marc Jacobs. Saks.
Cool as hell folky doll necklace. Fred Flare. Stylin sandals at Anthro.

Fantasy Shopping at Neimans

2006-03-29T16:30:00.000-05:00

Joie eyelet dress. Yuk on the shoes.

A little Nanette Lapore is always nice.

I am speechless. Anna Sui.

YUM! Makes me want to go running through a field of flowers.... Twelfth Street

Lovely little party dress. Jil Stuart.

Oh how I love thee! Moschino.

Super cute tank by Tori Burch.

Anna Sui crotched top.

Oh. I do love fashion. Click here to do some fantasizing of your own.

Enjoy The Silence

2006-03-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

This is a fashion website, plain and simple. I could not however NOT comment on this whole silent birth crazy business going on in Scientology. It fucking hurts to have a baby. HURTS. Post traumatic stress syndrome hurts. Yelling, screaming, grunting, moaning, groaning, crying, and begging are all part of the process. Whether or not you take drugs or go au natural. Contractions hurt and get worse as labor progresses. IT depends on the woman, but for the most part it is painful. So, for those (forgive my judgements) crazy-assed scientologists to expect women to make nary a peep while going through the birth process is RIDICULOUS! I say sit Tom Cruise down and strap him to a chair and rip his fingernails off with rusty pliers and put signs in front of him that read "Be silent and make movements slow and....." whatever.

I also read that Katie is not allowed to hold or "coddle" her baby for 24 hours??!!! Real nice and natural. Yes. Baby has just spent 9 months in warm dark womb with only one person surrounding him/her...now thrust baby into the world and don't let the baby be next to loved on by it's mother???????? I think that is some backwards bullshit if I ever hear it!!!!!

Okay. There I said my peace. Back to fashion......................................

Urban Outfitters is Outstanding.

2006-03-27T21:52:00.000-05:00

I always have room for Urban Outfitters. There is one in downtown San Diego that I fancy. I ALWAYS find something unique and stylish there. Here is a quick round up of my fave finds.
Enjoy and Inspire!

Perfect for Spring and Summer. Wear it to a barbeque. I would pair it with white shorts.

I would like this in a different color, but for $4.99, I'll take it. C'mon. Everybody needs a dashboard Jesus. $10.

I have been searching for a new suitcase. Found it.

I have a thing for Russian stacking dolls....makes this cool wifebeater all mine. Comes in other colors.

I am contemplating this suit by Diesel. Sexy sexy.

Lux printed cami. Comes in other colors.

Sweet babydoll dress. I thought I would switch things up and give you a back shot. Loving this fabric.

SOOOO cute! Don't like the shoe choice.

Betsey Johnson killer weekender bag. Totally cute! Plenty of room for my goods.

GO to Urban Outfitters.com

Nautical Nuns

2006-03-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

Hunted down some nautical flavor for shits and giggles.

Tse does it up simple style. I LOVE LOVE thier ad campaign. Great lighting. Que Romantico.

CUTE! Sonya Rykiel
Not my style, but nice and comfy. Ralph Lauren

Bikini by Lola Pout.

Found all of these in the Nautical section on Elle.com. Ay ay cap'n. Check out the site. Great finds.

West Soy-ide

2006-03-23T23:28:00.000-05:00

Here's a little story about Fashion Week via the City of Angels.

Luu. I am so encantado with this number. Love the tights. The shoes. The dress. The sweater. The purse. Such a funky beat!

The braids, not so much. The top portion of the ensemble, priceless. Love polka dots! Bring it!
Jennifer Nicholson.

Awesome print. Jennifer Nicholson.

Jennifer Nicholson rules! Her collection was my favorite this week. She does it up right nice! Smellin' like a rose. T

Anthony Franco brings the manpurse/satchel/s&m/hooky/holster thing to new heights.

Here is my fave Chloe rocking the clod hoppers that I love so much! Check out the pair in the front with no laces. I guess a model fell. Not surprising. You try walking in those elevators with no seatbelt....

Kara Saun. Girl, work it out!

Okay. The backs of her dresses are killin' me. So sexy and yummy! Kara Saun

Leave you with some Agent Provacateur

There you have it lovlies! Big Ups to The West Side Playa's.

New Navy To Me!

2006-03-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

I have been an Old Navy snob until today. I admit I have found a funky shoe there from time to time, but, I can honestly say I don't venture into that land more than twice a year at best. My need for golf attire lead me there today. What a find. They've been funking it up it seems. I seriously had an H&M flashback. Serioulsy. Cotton seems nicer, cuts sharper, detail all over, and delicious prints. I will not turn my nose up any more as I pass Wicks and Sticks knowing that Old Navy is next. I will be back. Oh yes. I will.

Great beach or pool cover-up. perfect length!

Nice lines. Great detail. Pretty simple. Love the straps.

I like sparkly things. Cheap and cute.

I bought this in white. Nice material and the hood makes a crunky little statement.

Sweet victorian-y top. Comes in white too!

Great print!

I recently started playing golf with my main squeeze. Santa up and brought me a set of clubs (PINK ones I might add) for Christmas and I am loving it! The only problem is my wardrobe is far from golf attire.
**side note- If there are any big labels out there who want to take a happy chance at allowing me to design some cute-as-hell golf clothes for women, contact me! Let's do some samples! Caps and pin-tucks and detail and sass, with class!

Ahem, a dear friend pointed me in Old Navy's direction because she recently had purchased this here polo shirt. I immediately went there today before a golf game and snapped up these "distressed polos" in every color. They have funky red threads here and there...great fit too!!

Slightly Marni-esque. I saw them on person, they are really cute. What a bargain!

Click here to indulge in some Old Navy

Noble Deeds

2006-03-18T20:19:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday you fashionista's. Blogger has been cranky lately making it arduous to post much. Thankfully this one has been easy breezy.
Luscious reader Sara M. sent me a heads up on a new belt designer. Sara was out galavanting and shopping in Boston when she became increasingly frustrated with the price and style of belts she was coming across. Girl, I can relate! I refuse to spend $300-$400 on a belt.
She hopped online and found Wesley Noble.
Cute/vintage-y/unique/great for Spring-Summer! Most of these would look dee-vine with white pants. I keep imagining myself in white shorts (short shorts, but not Daisy's) with a Wesley Noble belt! Strut away.
The best best best (did I mention best?) part is ALL of her belts are $25 off of for the month of March. Holy shit people. Get there quick and snap some up while the gettin's good!

I couldn't decide which one I liked best so I posted all of my favorites!

Go here to check out Wesley's one of kind belts!

Jackie's Strength

2006-03-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

Oleg Cassini, the man who designed beautiful pieces worn by the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis has passed away at the ripe old age of 92. Thats one hell of a long life. Here are some pictures of Cassini's designs from an exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Azure blue silk crepe. This one is my favorite. You can see by looking at these pieces designed by Cassini how the style stilll holds today.

Celadon silk jersey. Grecian goddess.

Greige wool melton. Nice nice.

Apricot silk zibertine. Sweet and demure.

You can read the article about Cassini http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/obituaries/article/0,1299,DRMN_45_4552106,00.html

Los Angelenos......Sample Sale

2006-03-15T17:25:00.000-05:00

Make sure you ladies and gents make your way to Rachel's Sample Sale. Don't miss out on those bargains! Well worth it.

PLEASE COME TO OUR SPRING SAMPLE SALE!FALL, HOLIDAY, AND RESORT COLLECTIONS ON SALE, 60-90% OFF OF RETAIL

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE -- BRING YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR MOTHERS, YOUR SISTERS, YOUR GRANDMOTHERS.... THE MORE THE MERRIER!

FRIDAY, MARCH 17 10AM - 8PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 18 9AM - 6 PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 19 11AM - 5 PM

5811 MATILIJA AVE
VAN NUYS, CA 91401
323-669-1397

FOR THOSE WHO DONT KNOW, RACHEL PALLY CAN BE FOUND AT NEARLY TWO HUNDRED SPECIALTY BOUTIQUES NATIONWIDE, AS WELL AS NORDSTROMS AND NEIMAN MARCUS. THE LINE IS WORN AND LOVED BY EVERYONE FROM JESSICA SIMPSON TO SARAH JESSICA PARKER TO CAMERON DIAZ AND HAS BEEN SEEN IN PUBLICATIONS SUCH AS MARIE CLAIRE, LUCKY, AND ELLE....IT LOOKS WONDERFUL ON DIFFERENT WOMEN WITH DIFFERENT STYLES, BODIES, AGES... THE COLLECTIONS CAN BE VIEWED AT http://www.rachelpally.com/HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

Saks Attacks

2006-03-14T16:21:00.000-05:00

Here are some selections from Saks. Not the round sacks. No, not those little hairy beasts.

My favorite cutie, Nanette Lapore. Lovely as usual.

Missoni cotton wrap skirt. Delicious.

Joystick embroidered babydoll. Love the dress. The shoes...not so much. Looks like they would kill the inbetween of your toes. Hot spot.

Isabella Fiore.

Izzy yet again. Cute and cute!

Pink Tartan. Gorgeous.

Dirty Dianna Von Furst! Polka this.

Sunday Soup

2006-03-12T13:03:00.000-05:00

Blue Fly Shoo Fly

2006-03-10T20:23:00.000-05:00

I am bombarded by ads for Blue Fly and I have only visited the site once or twice. Today, feeling a lot tired and ready to be inspired I decided to see what the raging site had in store for me. I found it quite nice. Check it out: Blue Fly .

Jersey dress by Tocca. Gotta have it!

Jill Stuart. I know Winter is almost over and Spring is around the corner, but one can never have too many hats....especially cuties like this one!

Tufi Dek cotton apron dress. Have I told you lately that I LOVE apron anythings.?

Chanel. You've rendered me speechless.

Prada does it up! These are so way totally completely mine!

Peter Pan collar makes me steamy.

I lamed out after my zillionth page of viewing clothes and shoes and belts and bags and ay ay ay.

Fashion Dig

2006-03-09T15:17:00.000-05:00

A couple items to make you smile. Or puke. Or laugh. Website is Fashion Dig-kind of ebay-ish. Clothes/shoes/yadda yadda. Worth a trip there for you fashion hungry lovlies!

Funky little 1960's purse.

1970's Spanish Platforms. Muy Caliente!

check out the website here

Girl, You've Got Style

2006-03-08T23:07:00.000-05:00

How cute is this mamita? She wears la bump well! Do I sense jersey? I met a couple of gals last week who went to high school and partied with her back in the day ( I know, so song lyrical) and said she was way cool and normal. They told me that she was a girly girl all the way with make-up and clothes and all that she sings about. How she lives really.

Like a bunny in the grass.

Great picture! Still rockin the nautical flavor.

*pictures courtesy of rosie

Anna Sui Sweetness

2006-03-08T13:43:00.000-05:00

Some gems from Ms. Sui's Fall collection.

Love the jacket! I really love all of the pieces here, just not sure I would wear them together all at once. Orange. Yum.

I'm a tights wearing girl, so printed/fishnets/embroidered are all fine by me. Fantastic skirt.

Sweet and sassy. Great lines.

Anna's attention to detail is flawless.

My favorite skirt in the collection.

I am not a fan of fur.....However I love the print and lines here. Totally chic!

Chloe-esque. Loving the tights. Super cute!

Peter-Pan collars are amongst my favorite. They lend innocense to even the sexiest of items.

Off you go then...................

Oscar Wild

2006-03-06T12:00:00.000-05:00

This isn't the best picture, but she looked georgous last night. Her dress was quite nice and her boobs looked great.

And then this. Yawn.

Could she be any prettier? That necklace is stunning!!!

Kate Capshaw sure dressed up for the occasion.

Look how uber-classy Pamela looks at Elton Johns par-tay. Girl always steps out in style. I guess she plans on showing tomatoe paste a thing or two about cantaloups.

Reese looked lovely. A little mature, but it was her own vintage Dior that she purchased in Paris. I mean after that whole Kirsten Dunst debacle, who can blame her. I like to see her in more frilly sweet things.

Let's take a looksee at Ms. Therons get up. It looked pretty last night on all of the Oscar coverage. It really did. Except for that monsterous appendage on her shoulder. I was watching her being interviewed by Miss Mizrahi and I thought to myself how completely uncomfortable and annoying that thing would be to deal with. The color was beautiful. She is beautiful. I am not digging all of the lines and construction on the gown. Not my favorite. Next time Charlize.

I like this in theory. I like the all black. I am loving the shoes. I am really loving that Peruvian/Indian belt thingy. What I do not get in any way shape or form are the dingleberries hanging from the hem of her pants. When will that accent go away? There is never a time when that looks cute. EVER!

*sigh* Sienna. Sienna why. Why are you trying so hard to create this "look" of vintage-y hip sixties wonderland? This dress belongs on Phyllis Diller not Sienna Miller. Does anybody agree that she is trying waaaay too hard? She is such a pretty girl. Shine your light Sienna.

Perfection. Uma looked beautiful head to toe...well, I didn't see the shoes so unless she's wearing biker boots or Uggs, I think head to TOE is a safe statement.

What is this mess? I am the first to champion uniqueness and one of a kindness, but at the Oscars? The event of the year where class is suppose to resonate throughout! Yuk.

I loved this dress and her whole look. I think Michelle Williams is on of the most beautiful women in that scene. She has such a luminous quality about her. I loved the color and I loved her bright red lipstick with it. She is in my top 3.

I thought Naomi looked super pretty. The dress was a great choice for her. I loved the material and the one shoulder look. Well done Naomi, well done.

We can always count on Helena to do something off. Her hair is an interesting blend of teasing, matronly, and mussed. She did the whole red white and blue patriotic thing too. Not my favorite look, but I do really love her.

Overall I thought the Oscars were tame and safe and un-eventful. Nothing wrong with that. The most uncomfortable parts for me is when reporters are asking repetative questions and you can see in the eyes of Reese or Ang or Rachel that they are fading fast. I cringe. Especially when it is a local news reporter. Totally awkward.
I thought Jon Stewart did well, but could've done better.
On to the next thing, yes?!

Saucy Sample Sale!!!!

2006-03-01T18:39:00.000-05:00

Rachel Pally sprinkles us yet again with goodness. She is having a GLORIOUS Sample Sale mid March....If you live in and around the Los Angeles area get to "The Valley" and score some deals on Rachel's amazing clothes!!!!!!!

Here are the deets:

PLEASE COME TO OUR SPRING SAMPLE SALE!FALL, HOLIDAY, AND RESORT COLLECTIONS ON SALE, 60-90% OFF OF RETAIL

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE -- BRING YOUR FRIENDS, YOUR MOTHERS, YOUR SISTERS, YOUR GRANDMOTHERS.... THE MORE THE MERRIER!

FRIDAY, MARCH 17 10AM - 8PM
SATURDAY, MARCH 18 9AM - 6 PM
SUNDAY, MARCH 19 11AM - 5 PM

5811 MATILIJA AVE VAN NUYS, CA 91401 323-669-1397

Cuckoo Couture

2006-03-01T09:56:00.000-05:00

Here is one of Gwen Stefani's favorite designers...Vivienne Westwood. I actually think the devil horns are kinda' cute. Shut it!

I know I know the couture shows are about artsy interpretation/vision/pushing boundries, but what the hell is this? A braided hair hockey mask? A throat eating urchin? There were more of these gems to be found in the Viktor and Rolf show. Seriously.

Mom in a bad mood after a night out? JPG

Redrum...............JPG.

Harry Potter? The imagination runs deep. I think someone was smoking some Humboldt purple haired sappy green while planning out their Fall collection. Jean Paul Gaultier.

Marilyn Manson post-op? Issey Miyake.

African tribal? Issey Miyake.

I actually like the lines without that ruffle midsection. Balenciaga.

Doesn't this remind you of a spider? I think Little Miss Muffet. Let's see how this translates into the mainstream fashion lines.................. Balenciaga

A Sorta' Fairy Tale.....For Real!

2006-02-28T10:25:00.000-05:00

The first time I saw cutey Rachel Palley's creations I clapped my hands together and giggled. I instantly became intrigued and fell in love with her clothes. There is a real simplicity coupled with sexiness woven throughout her collections that, in my opinion, makes her clothes instant classics. Rachel used to dance which explains the fluidity and relaxed nature of her collections. I had the chance to chat with her and find out what makes this young lady tic and toc.......

What a gem Ms. Pally is! This spitfire spot-on young business women has it going on. At 25, she has created a multi-million dollar apparel company with no design experience. Her story is truly inspiring, so all you of you young or old designers in the making take heed..........
Rachel took modern and African dance while studying city planning in college and started making a few things for herself and friends. Simple pieces. Pieces a woman could move and groove in. While visiting a gallery in downtown Los Angeles the owner gasped in excitement at what Rachel was wearing and insisted she have a few peices for her gallery. Rachel made and sent one piece a week to the gallery and finally the owner told her that she really had something special. The best part of her story in my opinion is that Rachel started her company with $300 she saved up from babysitting. She made a smart choice to move back into her parents house to cut back on living expenses and started going for it. She has never borrowed a penny and didn't take a salary for three years. Up until then all money was reinvested in her company.
She tells me that she can't believe where she is based on where she thought she was headed. When the universe has something in store for you put on your seatbelt and have some fun I say.

Donna Karan and Norma Kamali are two very successful designers that Rachel looks up to and admires tremedously. "She [Donna Karan] is an icon...she understands a womans body and how women carry themselves" Like Donna Karan, Rachels medium is jersey. Soft, body lovin', yummy jersey.

As for her future she has goals to open up her own flagship store and to continue to grow her empire! You can find her clothing in stores across the country. Go to Rachel Pally.com to find a store near you. I will be announcing upcoming sample sales and trunk shows, so stay tuned you beautiful fashionistas!

Georgeous!
Sweet and sexy!
Hot hot hot!!!
I can see myself in this on my sojourns to Mexico.

I know there are a lot of leggin haters out thers, but, I LOVE THEM!

Wonderful color combo.

Love the buttons. Jeez, that model has nice boobs!

Summer evenings on the patio, jasmine on the breeze, glass of cabernet......

One of my favorite pieces. I am a huge fan of deep v-necks.

Orangina. Flattering!

Cute cute. Babydoll heaven.

Great!

Another one of my favorites! The color is AWESOME! Lovely lovely.

Marky Mark and His Funky Grunge

2006-02-27T19:28:00.000-05:00

In honor of my girl Oprah I decided to do a little post on Marc Jacobs. She interviewed him on her show today and he previewed a few of his Spring pieces. He is a busy dude! Not only does he run Marc Jacobs and his less expensive line Marc by Marc Jacobs...he also lends his creative prowess to Louis Vuitton. I am creative director/designer for a company and I stay pretty busy. Running 3 ships is no small task. Bravo Mr. Jacobs. I am loving the grungey spirit his Fall lines are showing. Relaxed and layered and free.

Love it!

I have a sweater that I purchased at Anthropolgie last fall in New York that is cut similar to this coat. Sooooo cute. I am really digging the layers.

Kind of a tweedy plaid sarong thing going on. I quite like it. I also really like the shoulder detail!

I am in love with the jacket. I love the cut.

I think I posted this same outfit before. I like the silhoette and the layers.

**As a sidenote......I was hiking today on a trail near my home in Southern California and I ran into a famous person. I live about an hour and a half from Los Angeles, so I was quite suprised. I usually only see coyotes and birds. I looked up and around the bend came two people. The woman asked me a couple of questions, like why did we have a golf club on a hiking trail. I explained that I am a pussy when it comes to mountain lions, so, the puny golf club is my protection. As we were chatting I realized I was talking to Cybill Shepard. She had extremely kind happy eyes and beautiful skin. Totally friendly. I didn't metnion that I recognized her. Let her think she is safe from prying eyes. I should've asked her about Bruce Willis.

Spring La Redoute

2006-02-26T15:22:00.000-05:00

I received my La Redoute catalog in the mail last week. I sat on the couch and lazily flipped through the pages. I found some wonderful things! A couple of the items, dare I say, even felt a little Anthropologie to me. The prices are super reasonable and If you are reading this and love clothes it's worth your while to check out their online catalog! Enjoy!

Two tanks for $12.99. What a bargain for a cute and simple tank. I live in tanks in the summer. Cut em up, tie em in knots, sew random things on them. At this price you can't go wrong.

Apron pants. Always a necessity in a gals mix. Throw on with sexy tank and some sandals and off to Mexico you go. They look sloppy in this picture, but I am sure they are cute and relaxed on.

Georgeous wrap dress. So feminine and sexy!

Totally hot shirt.

I am posting this picture to show the racerback tank with crotchet detailing around neckline AND to highlight that nasty cute necklace.

Awesome canvas messenger tote.

Stylish skirt with buckle detail. I like the boots with it. The skirt comes in different colors and I think a great buy.

This is my favorite dress from the catalog. I love the color and the sweet detail on the sleeves has me won over. Easy to wear and can be interchangeable with many pieces.

La Redoute is not my favorite favorite overall collection, but there are some cute pieces that can spice up any wardrobe.

Project Runway- or more about me

2006-02-24T12:30:00.000-05:00

Santino, the evil yet brilliant designer whose balding head needs buffing

softspoken and quiet Chloe, slightly bloated this episode

sweet and young Daniel V.

Long ago I sat in my guidance counselor's hideous rust colored chair explaining how I wanted to go to art school and become a fashion designer. I spent much of my time alone in my room, designing clothes for Denise Huxtable and Madonna, this is true. I had reams of paper where I would meticulously sketch, color and cut out the clothes for my fashion icons which at the time were limited. I dreamed of living in a big city, preferably New York, and creating clothes better than the Camp Beverly Hills and Esprit of my youth. I wanted to live the life of Carrie on Sex and the City before the show was even invented.

My guidance counselor leaned across his tattered desk blotter, false teeth clickety- clacking in his mouth, licked his dry lips in need of a Chapstick bath and said, "I don't know that you're college material. How about Miss Katherines Secretarial School?" Dreams were crushed! My heart dropped into my granny boot. What? Who isn't college material?

Fashion design is super competitive, he told me, patting his limp oily hair over his balding head. Mind you, I was a straight A student. Yes I did poorly on the math portion of the SATs partly because I randomly colored in the dots in a floral pattern. (I still hate math!) I went on to the nearest community college where I took all the art and writing classes I could and tucked the dreams of becoming a designer away, sort of like cleaning up the childhood toys I would never play with again.

At the college, my art teacher encouraged me to apply to Parson's School of Design. When I watch Project Runway, I see what could have been. I see my kin. People who like me are creative and sensitive and moody and yes, slightly off kilter. Artists are tortured souls! I could be BFF with Chloe and Daniel. I could do an imitation of Tim to rival Santino. And let's not forget Andrae, who comes sweeping in through the door like a fashiony fairy, prancing and skipping. Love him! I simply cannot believe I haven't watched show until four weeks ago. It's like crack, easy to become addicted to. Oh, and Michael Kors. He's like a catty schoolgirl gossiping every time a back is turned. Maybe I could have been a part of that show, I will never know...sigh.

Did you see Project Jay? Another new friend for me. You have to love a chubby, chain smoking, poncho wearing designer who comes from the back woods of PA. And what Heidi Klum did to him by canceling the dress at the last minute made me so angry on his behalf! How dare she! Auf weidersehen to you, Klum. The dress was gorgeous. I want to see more of Jay. How am I going to bide my time as I wait for Project Runway 3?

Slovenia Style

2006-02-22T22:41:00.000-05:00

Lara Bohinc works her metal magic in her line of innovative and eye catching jewelry.
This beauty is from Slovenia and now lives and works in London town. She has such a unique sharp style. I am loving it!

Fabulous!

Butterfly hoop earrings. Quite nice!

Set of three butterfly broaches. Butterfly's hold a special place in my heart! CUTE!

This is my favorite piece of hers. Gorgeous. Lovely. Sexy. Bold.
Is it me or is there a ton of wasted space here? Anyway I am loving these silver disc hoops. They have an asian-y vibe to them. She laser cuts most of her jewlery; such precision. I find her designs refreshing, sophisticated with notes of sex appeal!

You kind find Lara's goods HERE.

Purdy Shoes

2006-02-22T15:25:00.000-05:00

I spent some time trolling around Zappos this morning and here are some of my finds:

Chinese Laundry. SOOOOO cute! Peep toe action. Wedge havin'.
Naughty Monkey. I can hear the roaring laughter and feel the eye rolls from here. I like them though.
Naughty Monkey. I have these. I scored at T.J. Maxx. There was no price tag on them and the lovely worker slapped on $6.99 . Done. Totally cute and comfy.
Naughty Monkey. I like the concept of these, however, the print smells like that Dooney Bourke colored hearts and logo purse trend......Nice try though.
Mia. Awesome color. Very retro-y.
Mia. I have these. I wear them ALL the time. They go with just about everything.
Mama Mia! WTF?????!!!! I have never been able to get into the whole gladiator look. These ones are over the top ugly.
Mia. Super cute and comfy. Bonus for the bunions.

Go to Zappos.com for a little looksee. You're going to need at least a 1/2 hour. The selection is enormous. The site is easy to navigate and you can view 99 pairs on one page. Makes it easy to zip right on through. Oh, and shipping is free!

February Showers Bring May Flowers

2006-02-15T12:15:00.000-05:00

Tracy Reese silk strapless dress o' cuteness. LOVELY.
Tracy Reese, yet again, did it up with this bolero. Who knew ric-rac could be so hot? Tracy is talented!

Mint-y fresh. Scalloped edges and all......
MY MY MY! I must have this! I LOVE it! Miss Fiore

Chloe. Sexy stuff!
Ella Moss. Great dress. Sunny and happy.
Simple basic white braided belt. Club Monaco. Throw this on with a brightly colored skirt, sexy white tank and some platforms and your good to go.

Charles David.
Juicy Couture looking mighty juicy. SSOOOOO CUTE!

Alice Ritter. I am totally into the closure in the front. Gorgeous.

It is a drizzly grey day in Southern California (look out So Calians for the maniacal drizzle drivers). The grey sky provides a great palatte for my garden full of flowers. The colors seem amplified. We have had almost NO RAIN this winter and it is a nice change of pace.

Now go through your closet and start cleansing and making room for your Spring sunshine wardrobe!

Project Runway: Kara

2006-02-13T19:37:00.000-05:00

I love the hot pink, the jacket and the tights

okay, I'm not feeling the hat on this one but I do like the dress

the hat! Luckily the model can pull it off and it fits the outfit.

I love love love the deep color and the flash of blue. But the hat? Again?

The first episode I watched of Project Runway was when Kara designed the black dress with the stripe inspired by street signs. I thought for sure she was gone that night. The dress was way too simple. And I have to say, Kara's lopsided severe ponytail reminds me of Dev's hair in Napoleon Dynamite.

Kara stepped it up with the intricate work on the garden-foliage dress which turned out like a piece of art.

I'm impressed with her collection, above. I believe Kara is willing to take a risk and think outside of the weinershnitzel, if you know what I mean and I'm talking to you Miz Klum.

PR: Santino

2006-02-13T19:32:00.000-05:00

I love the deep crimson color and the bustier of the dress

simple, flirty and floaty

the color is stunning: caramel macchiato

Where are the feathers? The first time I watched the show, I thought...WHO IS THIS CRAZY PERSON? Unfortunately for me I came on board late in the season and didnt get to know the designers as well as I would have liked. Although Santino's impression of Tim was the funniest moment of the show, I got to see that much.

Santino has redeemed himself with his collection of lovely gowns and dresses.

Project Runway: Daniel V

2006-02-13T19:24:00.000-05:00

perfectly pretty from head to toe

lovely coat, absolutely beautiful and elegant

simple and form-fitted yet still sexy

Daniel is so young to have all this talent! He could step into the role of a Banana Republic fashion designer seamlessly. Seamlessly, get it?

I'd like Daniel jump out of his comfort zone and sew up a doozy of an outfit that's not so clean and tailored. However, that's not his style. Whatever happens to Daniel, I'm certain he is headed for a fantastic career.

Project Runway: Chloe Dao

2006-02-13T19:18:00.000-05:00

cocktail party

summer nights in Miami Beach or martinis at Mar- a- lago with the Trumps

opera house ensemble

I would wear this to the Golden Globes...if only I were invited

Chloe understands what looks good on a woman. I would wear any one of these dresses and strut my stuff. She is uber talented. Everything she creates is lovely.

Human Rights Campaign

2006-02-13T18:48:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited. Why? Because I have the opportunity to make a small difference in the world by wearing my Marc Jacobs shirt for the HRC. I signed up to volunteer for this worth-while cause. Love for all!

I wholeheartedly believe in the beauty of the human spirit and feel that no one should be embarrassed of who they are, no one should feel left out because they don't quite fit in and if you are a little different, you should have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

From the HRC website:

Designed by style-maker of the year Marc Jacobs, exclusively for the Human Rights Campaign. A bold fashion statement with a deeper meaning, this is the perfect tee for the activist, fashionista and lover in you. Whenever and wherever you wear this tee — you wear your heart on your sleeve. You say, without even speaking a word, that you support everyone’s right to love — including members of the GLBT community. Wear it with love, conviction and pride.

To buy a shirt or a lovely piece of jewelry (I'm partial to those sterling silver rings) click here.

Hurricane Force Inspiration

2006-02-13T11:32:00.000-05:00

Check out jewelry designer Jessica's line of stylish earrings. Her story is a great one that I am excited to share. Jessica works as an administrative assistant for an online publication and lives in Florida. During the stanky 2005 hurricane season, her power was out for 2 weeks. Bored, hot and frustrated she had decided to dabble in the art of jewelry design. She made upwards of 75 pairs of earrings during the power outage. The power outage EMPOWERED Jessica. Her friends noticed the jewels hanging from her lobes and she was bombarded with requests! Boom. Isabelle Online was born. She loves doing it and plans to expand her line in the near future!

CUTE! Jasper beads lend an earthy quality to these hoops o' joy!

Blue chalcedony...such a beautiful tropical blue. Gorgeous. Brings back memories of the waters at Waimea Bay in Hawaii.

These remind me of juicy ripe blackberry! Lovely.

These are my favorite! I love the buttery yellow jade. Sweet and delicate.
Go here to see Jessica's full collection. She is fast at work designing a line of necklaces and bridal pieces. I expect to see more of her beauties in the future! Work it on out Jess.

Funny how disasterous events can open new doors to new journey's! Jessica's story sure illustrates this brightly.

Perfect Target. Or Tarjay

2006-02-11T20:26:00.000-05:00

Luella Bartley is joining the ranks alongside Isaac Miz and Mossimo (dare we mention Merona)
designing an exclusive line of clothing for Target. I was there today buying fun things like bleach and toothpaste and lipgloss and while I was trolling the womens/juniors section for some inspiration I stumbled across Luella's section. I have been enjoying her ad campaign in magazines and on T.V. lately and was curious. I think she has done a great job. There could be a bigger selection in my opinion. I want more! Have a gander:

I quite like this! A teensy too trendy, but I really like the color. $29.99.

This picture does't do the tank justice. It is a simple comfy tank with different colored buttons.
The cut is kind of boxy and the length is great. I purchased this. $12.99.
Admit that you like this. For $12.99! All sold out online.

This is my favorite piece. The color is bright and the cut is excellent. You have lots of options with this one.

CUTE! Only $39.99. Not bad. It's sold out online but I do believe I saw a similar dress today.

I was quite impressed. A refreshing break from Mossimo-land. I know everyone and their mother will be strutting around wearing the same thing, but if Little Miss Luella pumps out a wider selection the world will continue to spin on it's axis! One unique fashionista at a time.
Click Here to see the whole collection.