Fashion Flirt

Welcome back....

2006-11-06T23:39:00.000-08:00

And I usher in a new era of Fashion Flirt with this luscious treasure.....

Behold, the Emily Quilted Leather Bag courtesy of the master Marc Jacobs:

Pre-order at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Weekly wish list...

2006-08-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, so my last attempt at a weekly column failed miserably, largely because having a "Friday Fav" meant getting up on time on Friday morning to right about it, and alas, I love my Thursday night happy hours. So a new column... The Weekly Wish List. An ongoing tally of things I love and wish I could add to my wardrobe....

1. New running kit: An ipod nano (4GB please), the nike + sports kit, nike runners and a nike seamless tank... all available at nike.com (except the nano, get that at store.apple.com)

2. Marc Jacob's bowler bag in black (available at www.neimanmarcus.com):
More coming soon....

In my absence, apparently I am not alone....

2006-08-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have a real job, and yes, recently my life has become completely crazy busy, and yes, I have sadly paid little attention to this blog. But, that can change! I am every impressed that a number of you still stop by even when I haven't posted in ages. Perhaps absence make's the heart grow fonder?

So for this weeks discovery.... how to wear flats if you have huge clown feet (like me). So, I never ever wear sneakers, flats, etc, with anything but long jeans, and even then, I don't like to do it. I always wished I could look like one of those sprightly girls about town moving about in her cute flats and shorts/skirt/cropped pants, but alas, every time I tried I felt like I had phone books tied to my feet. In a curious mood about the new skinny jeans thing, I bought a pair of jeans and cropped them off a few inches above my ankles (because any childhood attempts to "stretch" my legs, they still aren't of the bean pole variety). But with high heels, they just felt crass. So I tried them on with my Pumas. Now, note that my fiance is constantly bugging me to wear my pumas but I never do because I think that they make me look short and dumpy. BUT, with the skinny jeans? I looked like a modern hip girl. I was totally counterintuitive... I really don't know how to explain it. So here are my favorite new skinny jeans and flats... Give it a try, you might be surprised (FYI, turn down and crop those jeans... way cuter):

Joe's Cuffed jeans in Cocoa - available at www.revolveclothing.com
BC shoes - Fast track in brown, available at www.shoes.com

Marc Jacob's box bag

2006-08-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I've been on a crazy Marc Jacob's kick lately. But I went to my local Nordstrom's the other day and fell in love with this bag:

Available at www.eluxury.com

There's no place like home...

2006-08-01T06:43:00.000-07:00

I'm digging little red flats right now in a big way. There is somethig very coquettish about adding a little punch of color to your outfit in the form of a red shoe, and wearing flats rather than heels keeps the look fresh and new. My favorites:

From top left: Charles Albert flats, available at www.urbn.com; bcshoes available at www.bcfootwear.net; Bronx Dorothee flat, available at www.zappos.com; Red skimmer flats available at www.urbn.com; bcshoes threes company wedges (okay, they aren't flats but they are really cute) available at www.bcfootwear.net; London Sole ballet flats available at www.shopbop.com

Sweet Suits

2006-07-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

I love the look of a suit: tidy, professional, put together. But unless you're a lawyer or in finance, a plain black suit will only take you so far. I'm constantly searching for the perfect alternative suit. You know, the suit that is so much more than a well tailored jacket and flattering pants and that explores colours and materials that have depth and personality. Pretty and feminine, this Rebecca Taylor suit might do the job:

As an added bonus, the wide leg pants are a perfect addition to your fall wardrobe.

Available at www.shopbop.com

Like taking a lollipop away from a child...

2006-07-29T09:09:00.000-07:00

It's too easy. Marc Jacobs Patent Mary Jane's for less than $150? You've got to be kidding me....

Available at www.eluxury.com

Oh la la tres chic

2006-07-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

I am going to Paris! Not for the first time (I have a secret or not so secret obsession with Paris and everything French) but I finally am returning for the first time in two or three years. Which of course, means that I need something to wear. My mental image of a trip to Paris is repleat with me sporting a wardrobe full of dresses, which is perhaps why I've spent the last three days alternatively searching for cheap airfares and obsessing over these dresses from Anthropologie:

Devil's in the details...

2006-07-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't coloured my hair in years, but a trip (finally) to see the Devil Wears Prada last night might have changed that trend. I used to keep my hair fairly blonde, but since it's long and I don't like to go to the hairdresser more than necessary (budget my friends, budget), I decided I couldn't handle the upkeep. Now it's a rather lovely brown with touchs of natural blonde highlights. Fine and dandy, right? Until I saw Anne Hathaway's hair in the Devil Wears Prada. It's done me in. I've been thinking all night about how badly I want that rich chesnut brown colour, perfectly in time for Fall.

Time to head to the salon!

Fall bags for everyone

2006-07-24T06:43:00.000-07:00

I love Botkier's Bianca handbag, but even more, I love it in this colour:

I also am lusting after the Mike & Chris Austin Antiqued Leather Satchel (available at www.shopintuition.com):

And finally Juicy Couture's It Girl Bag (available at www.neimanmarcus.com):

Happy Shopping!

How to hide a gnarly case of pink eye....

2006-07-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

After a week of being away from home and working late in the office, I was looking forward to a weekend of spending time with people that I care about. But, alas, not to be. Friday night brought a disgusting case of pink eye. I had always thought that it was an imaginary disease of childhood, but apparently not. My right eye is now swollen and gross, so, any trips into public today will require the most glamourous of oversized sunglasses (I need not expose the world to my cyclopse image). That or a pirate eye patch.

A couple of things about wearing sunglasses to hide an eye problem: They need to be really really oversized and preferably have a bit of wrap-around to them as well. A flat frame means that people will be able to see your eye from the side, so aim for a curvature to the frame or wide temples. You also need to be able to see indoors if you are going to keep your grotesqueness hidden from the world. That means that dark, dark grey/black lenses are not the way to go unless you want to be walking into everything, giving you a black eye to boot. Try a paler brown, preferably with a gradient to the lens tint so that you can see out of the bottom if you need to.

These are the frames I wish I owned this morning:

Oliver People's Athena Sunglasses:

Tom Ford's Marissa Sunglasses:

Gucci's Rimless Shield Logo Sunglasses:

Eye drops, here I come.

Passing time...

2006-07-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

I am in desperate need of a new watch. Really. At the moment I'm relying on my not so sexy Timex Ironman (and no, it's not a pastel ladies version but rather the honking large black and grey men's version). I always love the way that tennis player wear their watches: oversized and edgy, but still full of sex appeal. For example, I love a Tag Heuer on a woman. However, a four (or more) figured price tage is not in my budget right now, but this cute Michael Kors number is: On sale at Nordstrom for only $106.90, it's right smack dab in my budget. Hooray! Now maybe I won't be late all the time...

Hooray hoorah

2006-07-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

In celebration of my successful return to the country, let's look at my favorite Marc Jacobs handbags for fall (okay, they are not at all related, except in that I would have loved to have one while making my way through the airport yesterday!).

The Stam Hobo: A new twist on last season's ever popular Stam bag. I love the Orange. Such a rich colour that reminds me of the Laurentiens in October. It would be stunning with a pale grey wool coat.

The Hudson: Sexy, subtle, soft. All rolled in one sweet package.

The Bowler: It's a classic that is guarenteed to stay in style for a number of years. I prefer this taupe colour to the traditional black. It sets off rich, dark winter colors and, as Stacey and Clinton would say, makes your outfit "pop".

Enjoy!

* photos courtesy of www.neimanmarus.com and www.nordstrom.com

The Great Gorgeous North

2006-07-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts. I'm up in my homeland (Canada) dealing with some serious work visa issues and figuring out some wedding details. Other than enjoying some fantastic family time and home cooking (and a full pantry... Truly a novel concept!), I've been enjoying the local style up here. I am always amazed by how many beautiful people live in my hometown, and not in the plastic - large - boobed - plumped - lipped - LV - carrying - designer - jean - wearing kind of way. It's more an individual style thing, with brands that I can't identify at the drop of a hat and a totally personal outlook on clothing and the world. I'll try to gather some pictures. I spent about 20 minutes trying to figure out what made the one girl on the ferry (yes, I live on an island) look so fantastic. She had this gorgeous blond hair piled high on her head, stylie little black framed glasses, a long green rouched button up shirt with a brown woven belt tied around it and the perfect skinny jeans with a pair of adorable little sandals.

It was the perfect outfit, and not one part of it screamed "I spent a lot of money on this". Something to consider when in most of the US good style is synonymous with high cost.

It's BAAAAAAAAAAAAAACK!!!!

2006-07-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

I'm thrilled that Project Runway is back, and even more thrilled that this season's designers are not only the most talented bunch yet, but also possibly the most likely to be deemed clinically insane. Vincent anyone? And Milan??? I am on a lookout for some footage of Milan getting out of the shower... I need to know how much gel/grease he actually has to put in his hair to get it to look like that.... Or perhaps he just never ever touches a bottle of shampoo. I'm waiting for his pet ferret to crawl out of it.

I love Alison Kelly though, not only cause her photo spread was truly phenominal (seriously, I would almost enlarge those and put them on my wall) but because her style is not only truly her own, it's also really wearable. Which, as we all can see, is not a quality shared by the other designers (like Vincent. What was up with the basket on the head? Apparently fashion design is not like riding a bike, Tim).

Check out her dress from last night. It's gorgeous:

Also, I love Kayne 'cause I think that pagent girls are a trip. And I want to hear all his gossip about them.

I heart winter

2006-07-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

I've been in California for three years now and I've been relishing the sunshine. I adore the heat and everthing that comes along with it, including flip flops, tank tops and summer dresses. But after three years here, I've started to feel a little out of sorts. The weather here is always THE SAME and I miss having seasons. At least a the Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer cycle forced me into acknowledging the passage of time, but here, in San Francisco, January feels like July and I can hardly believe that a whole 6 months (let along 3 years) has flown by. Mind you, none of this is aided by the fact that I work is a termperature controlled office building and have very little interaction with the outside world. Hence, I am led to believe, my recent obsession with sweaters and wool coats which in the dead heat of summer is otherwise totally inexplicable. I'm having delusional fantasties of moving back to Montreal and trudging through the snow in the winter time clad in sassy knee-high boots, a beautiful wool coat and a cashmere scarf (and as anyone who has actually lived in Montreal in the hell-has-actually-frozen-over days of winter knows, this is not an experience to be desired). Maybe I should just buy the clothes and head up to Tahoe more often....

* photo courtesy of anthropologie.com - Funnelneck cardigan

Smell the part too...

2006-07-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the afternoon sunshine, but I'm definitely in a beachy kind of mood. Hence the Roxy post. But my all time favorite way to feel like I'm at the beach when I'm not (like when I'm at work) is to use my all time favorite fragrance, Comptoir Sud Pacifique's Couer de Vahine. I've been a devotee since way back in the day, when it was still called "Les Enfants Du Soleil". Still smells great though!

*photos courtesy of nordstrom.com

Wahine

2006-07-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

I have a very big soft spot for Roxy fueled by delusional fantasies of becoming a pro surfer (never mind my fear of sharks or total lack of coordination). As an adult I'm finding it increasingly hard to pull of their clothing (although I still wear the t-shirts to bed now and again) but I still have a fetish for their shoes. Like these!

*photos courtesy of Nordstroms and PacSum

Welcome back

2006-07-10T06:26:00.000-07:00

I am a Jessica Simpson fan, at least fashionwise. I used to obsessively follow what she wore on jessicastyle.com. Lately, though, she's been freaking me out a little bit with some terribly unwise fashion choices (don't even talk to me about the dragon fly dress). So, when I saw these recent photos of her (courtesy of sweetkisses.net), I was extremely relieved to see that some semblance of her old style still exists under there:

Welcome back Jessica! Stick around for a while!

The skinny jean quandry.

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

Okay, I'm starting to get the whole skinny jean thing. It's cute, it's modern, it's unexpected. However, I think it is a look to be approached with caution. Unless you are super skinny, it's super hard to pull off. My solution has been to try cropped skinny jeans. They are a lot more flattering than the long skinny jeans that bunch around the ankle (no kidding, if you have a body that even verges on curvy, those jeans are not for you). My favorites are these cropped skinny jeans by Goldsign, available at www.shopbop.com:

The Phillip Lim Sweater Dress....

2006-07-09T19:50:00.001-07:00

So, I track my site entries and exits, and I've noticed that a lot of you are finding this site when searching google for the 3.1 Phillip Lim Cowl Neck Sweater Dress... I was fortunate enough to find one the other day in my local Nordstroms (in SF, for those of you in the area). Can I just say, I am often disappointed when finally seeing clothes that I've seen in magazines in person (cause I don't have a model body and never will). This, happily, was not one of those occassions. The dress is fantastic. In so many ways. Here are my favorite things about it:

1. It is the softest thing I have ever laid hands on. And considering that I used to spend hours fondling the cashmere in Neiman Marcus, that's saying a lot.
2. It seriously is the perfect length to wear as either a dress or a sweater. I'm thinking over jeans and a white oxford shirt under a wool coat in winter, or, to be extra sassy, over a long c&c california tank dress with black manolo pumps. Of course, that all depends on your height, but it really is a great length.
3. It achieves sexiness without being too revealing. The low cowl neck is much more subtle that the usual floppy cowl neck sweater (and a lot easier to wear... I can never get a floppy cowl to look right) but doesn't have that usual low cut shirt look.
4. It's so so cozy. I can almost see it being a jacket replacement... It's that's practical.
5. It's modern, but classic. I'm struggling with a lot of fashion right now because I think it'll be hard to wear in the future. This, however, is one of those investment pieces that should last you a lifetime. Seriously, it is classic but not at all boring.

Tell me what you think! How are you planning on wearing it?

* photos courtesy of shopjake.com

Sweet and Tasty

2006-07-05T22:58:00.000-07:00

I have a love hate relationship with Juicy Couture. Often it's too gauche and bubblegum for me, but from time to time they hit the nail on the head with perfect wardrobe basics. The new Juicy Fall Collection seems to be leaning towards the latter tendancy, with new girly staples to supplement your more creative fall wardrobe. Check out these three basics:

The Above the Knee Trench:

The Wide Leg Trouser:

The Short Sleeved Shirt:

And can I just say, God bless the wide legs. I am so sick of seeing everyone and their mother looked poured into their pants!

3.1 Phillip Lim

2006-06-29T06:56:00.000-07:00

If I haven't already mentioned it, I'm pretty excited about the new 3.1 Phillip Lim line. Elle magazine did a spread on him in their Mandy Moore issue, and as always, they were right on the money. His clothing is both modern and classic, and different enough that you'll actually have your own style instead of looking like every other girl in town. Here's the spread (courtesy of bluegenes.typepad.com):

I just noticed this morning that shopjake.com has the new fall collection in its online boutique. I'm a little obessed with the cowl neck sweater dress. It's so hot. Oh happy day!

Apologies, apologies....

2006-06-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the huge delay in posting. I have been swamped at work and am (very unsuccessfully mind you) attempting to start training for a half marathon so I haven't had the time in the mornings to blog.

HOWEVER, Kooba has released their new fall lineup, so perhaps I am back in the game. I am in love with the new Hayden bag (maybe its not new... maybe I just never noticed it before). It's so cute. Here it is:

I love the Devil...

2006-06-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

Not THE Devil, but the Devil Wears Prada, of course.

"The Devil Wears Prada" was one of my first summer reads this year, and I cruised through it in an afternoon tanning on my deck. And it was fabulous. I've always trod that fine line between related to the fashionistas of the world and thinking that the people who take it so seriously are a little off their rocker, so the book was perfect for me. Read it before you see the movie, if only to give author Lauren Weisberger props, since the book was, after all, based on her real experiences. We've all been there with that job from hell! Mind you, I'm sure she made a pretty penny from the movie deal!

Which brings me to the movie premiere. I'm excited about Anne Hathaway and I'm excited about Meryl Streep, but I'm really jumping out of my shorts for Adrien Grenier, the movie's male lead. Yummy.

Check him out at the premiere looking all foxy and stuff:

Don't you just want to pinch his cheeks? (Either pair, really...)

(and just FYI, when did Anne Hathaway had such a nice set of ladies? Props to her for showing them off without looking way trashy. Check www.socialitelife.com for a funny story about her breasts).

Isabel Marant and Rachel Bilson

2006-06-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

I love Rachel Bilson's sense of style. It is very rare that I see her in something that I wouldn't want to actually wear myself. I also love that she is into some less well known designers, such as Isabel Marant, the designer of the Chloe-esque dress that she recently wore to the Big Japan show.

This is what I love about it: while digging for Isabel Marant's website, I stumbled upon a new shopping website, www.hejfina.com, which stocks loads of harder to find brand names, such as Les Prairies de Paris, Vanessa Bruno, Rogan, Rachel Comey, Rag and Bone, and our lady of the day, Isabel Marant. Check it out and expand your horizons and find something that all of your friends don't own.

Je ne parle pas francais

2006-06-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

I live in the Bay Area among a bunch of wanna-be Frenchies (and some legit Frenchies) who try and recreate the "sipping a cafeaulait at a streetside cafe and walking home with a baguette under my hairy armpit" atmosphere of France. As someone who has lived in France and Montreal and am engaged to a French Canadian and has French family, I am irritated beyond belief by this failing superficial attempt to imitate French culture and French life. But the worst faux-pas? All of the beret wearing individuals who inhabit the streets of my neighbourhood.

Mes amis, a beret does not a Frenchman (or woman) make. Which, coincidently, is why I will not even attempt this trend this fall:
Seriously. You don't look Parisian. Or even Quebecois (cause if you were Quebecois you'd wear a toque, and no, toque is not a dirty word). And I am sad to say that this is an unfortunate departure from the usually chic www.shopbop.com photoshoots. Please, let this not be an unfortunate sign of fall trends to come.

Yum.

2006-06-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

I hate Brad Pitt for dumping Jennifer Aniston, but I have to admit, the boy is YUM. And, today he chose to prove my point that all men, no matter what their general style is, should own a nice light grey crew neck sweater. It looks hot with a dress shirt, with a polo shirt, with a t shirt, with no shirt, with sneakers and flip flips and dress shoes and most importantly, paired with a pair of their boxer shorts on their girlfriends.

*photo credited to www.popsugar.com

Moment of Genius...

2006-06-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

Rarely do I have true moments of genius, but I definitely did on Tuesday morning... I'm always running late for work (although I never actually am late, I'd like to point out), and I never seem to have enough time to blowdry my hair before I leave. This wasn't a problem when I was in school since my hair air dried nicely in the California sun as I lounged outside drinking coffee between classes, and always looked lovely and full of body. But my current air conditioned office building situation is doing nothing for my damp hair in the morning, and it ends up being stringy and caked to my head all day. And a lot of the time, it remains wet until I go home. Soooo, my moment of genius on Tuesday morning was to blast the heat in the car (with all vents aimed at my head) and periodically shake my hair around on the way to work. And what do you know? In a 10 minute car ride my hair can go from soaking wet to dry and fabulous. How great is that? And it's way less dangerous that the whole putting on mascara while you drive thing. If only I had a covertible, I would look so much more fabulous while doing this....

4F: Fashion Flirt's Friday Fav

2006-06-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

Was I was younger, I used to be a serious card carrying member of a yacht club and spent a lot of my youth out on the water. But I'm not so sure about this whole nautical theme going on in fashion right now. I see far too many girls walking around downtown San Francisco with way too much nautical clothing on, looking like they are trying to replicate the look of skipper from Gilligan's Island (you get the picture). So, when I stumbled across these anchor necklaces on shopbop.com this morning I fell in love: they are perfect for allowing me to reminisce about my nautical youth without looking like a landbound lunitic. From left: Giles and Brother and Yochi Design.

Ahoy Maties!

Going to the chapel....

2006-06-14T18:24:00.000-07:00

So I'm getting married. Not for a while, but I'm getting married, so I need to start looking for a dress. And frankly, it's a little overwhelming. I mean, I'm allowed to own as many little black dresses as I want, but wedding dresses? I only get to pick one. Here are my favorite finds so far:

It's not Shakespeare...

2006-06-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

I love to read, and I'm doing this thing right now where I find an author I like and attempt to read everything they've written (for no good reason, really). I've done it with Sophie Kinsella and Jennifer Weiner, but only recently did I discover Marian Keyes. Now, given my penchant for chick lit, I have no idea how I didn't discover her before. Mostly set in Ireland and England, her books are a brilliant look at the lives of young professional women, like most chick lit. But Keyes offers a little more substance and depth than say, the shopping exploits of Sophie Kinsella. They cover divorce, depression, love, loss, cancer, alcoholism and lost friendships. Sounds depressing I know, but they actually offer a refreshingly uplifting, offputtingly accurate and often hilarious assessment of life. My favorites have been the Last Chance Saloon and The Other Side of the Story, but I'd give them all a try.

Hot cocoa and marshmallows

2006-06-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

Even though I'm happy that it's sunny and summery out (finally!) I love the new fall items that are starting to make their appearance in stores and in magazines. This year seems to be more classic that the last few, and some cozy and comfy classics are making an appearence. I love the reworked denim Kiersty jacket by Theory, with its shorter stature and sewn in hoodie. Makes me want to curl up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. And marshmallows, of course.

Je t'aime, Coco...

2006-06-12T06:45:00.000-07:00

I have recently fallen in love with Chanel. It all started with two pairs of sunglasses that I tried on one day at my local Nordstroms: the brown and gold shields with the small rhinestone double c's at the edges of the frames, and the black square plastic glasses with the giant mother of pearl double c's at the temple. Little did I know that was just the beginning. Since I generally tend towards slightly bohemian accessories, I always assumed that Chanel wasn't for me. I'm an oversized brown Kooba bag type of girl more than I am black Manolo pump kind of girl. But the brown shields converted me. They added a whole new glamour to my usual look, and I realized that although I don't wear a lot of black, the black glasses dressed up any vaguely non-bohemian outfit and added this whole glamourpuss edge to everything I own. And they look incredible good poolside with a plain black bikini. Then, the clincher was my discovery of the quilted flap bags. I always knew what they were, and that Mischa Barton had a bit of an obsession, but I was never really a convert until I saw what the glasses could do to an outfit. The bag? A similar effect. I trekked down to my local Chanel this weekend to try a few on, and again, glamour took over. It was such a different look for me, and in a lot of ways I appreciated the originality of adding a quilted chain back to my outfit than my usual oversized sack. I mean, how very refined of me?

So, it's official. I am in love with Chanel....

* Photo credited to www.reviewjournal.com, www.sunglassesportal.com and

Bag rant.... (and retraction on the purchase of a fake bag)

2006-06-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

I don't generally like to judge people about their fashion choices, particularly when it comes to the price of their wardrobe. S0, I've never really expressed by opinion of fake bags. Like the one that I was thinking about buying. The truth is, I have never have bought a fake bag, and despite thinking that I might consider it due to my current financial situation, I've decided that I just can't do it. Why not? Let me tell you...

I hate that girls have become bag whores lately, buying bags that cost as much as their rent and disposing of them a season later because they are no longer hip. These are $1000.00+ bags, they are not meant to be disposed of after a year. They are meant to last you a lifetime.

And I think that's beside the point, because fashion is about expressing yourself . Your vision of yourself shouldn't change every 2 or 3 months if you really have a good grip on who you are. If you love a bag, you love a bag, and you should be able to continue to work it into your wardrobe for at least a few years. And this doesn't mean toting around last seasons it bag with this seasons hippest clothing (to all you balenciaga girls...). Just being designer and recognizable does not make the bag match the outfit. Have a little sense ladies.

Now, I'm not saying that you shouldn't have some trendy disposable bags, because those are integral if you don't want to wear your expensive bag every day. But at least be creative with those and have the balls to go out there and try a bag that no one else is wearing (and no, I don't mean a fake "it" bag, I mean a really legit original bag that isn't a replica of something more expensive). Case in point, my $19.00 H&M tote. I love it, but I don't expect it to last me more than a season. But I only paid $19.00 for it, so how could I? But if I buy a classic Chanel or Louis Vuitton? I should be carrying it for years.

I just hate that people are so afraid to invest in quality pieces that will last a lifetime. And when they do, they only choose what's hip at the moment, instead of something that will last them a lot longer. Let's face it, a classic black quilted Chanel bag will never go out of style. And neither will the classic LV monogram bags.

So, the new Fashion Flirt motto? Just say no to fake bags.

Closet Therapy

2006-06-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

I'm sure I'm not about to gain any new readers by doing this (I'll likely lose them!) but I just have to say that I am a religious reader of closettherapyblog.com and that I would recommend it to anyone and everyone with an interest in fashion. It is a truly brilliant look at clothing in a way that is always fun and approachable. My favorite are her posts on what's she's wearing today... such a great resource for new ideas about how to put outfits together. My favorite is actually her latest outfit for going shopping in the city. It's given me a million ideas ever since.

Outlet Bonanza

2006-06-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

I need a load of new clothes. I have been wearing the same rotation of uninspired outfits to work for weeks now, and that just isn't going to cut it anymore. Living close to the Napa Valley has its benefits (namely, being able to travel greatest wine country in the United States at the drop of a hat), but I've never bothered to explore the wealth of outlet shopping it has to offer. Probably because I've been too busy exploring its other riches (read: too busy enjoying the Zinfandel). So today, I'm making a special trip to check out the Napa Premium Outlets. It offers a wealth of riches for all tastes, including a Banana Republic Outlet, Coach Outlet, PacSun Outlet, TSE Outlet, BCBG Outlet and the icing on the cake, a Barneys New York Outlet. Barneys! At discount prices! This is going to be great.

* Update: It was a great trip. A $50.00 Marc by Marc Jacobs skirt from Barney's New York and a silky soft camel colored cardigan for $30.00 from Banana Republic.

4F: Fashion Flirt's Friday Fav...

2006-06-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

Brought to you with a new name, Fashion Flirt's favorite thing for this week is i-dressup.com. It's like being a kid with paper dolls all over again, except a whole lot more fashionable. i-dressup features blank silhouettes that you can dress with designs from your favorite designers. Louis Vuitton? Got it. Kara Janx? Got her too. Go to town. It's so addictive.

I heart Hudson Jeans

2006-06-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

I love Hudson Jeans because they make me look uber-tall and uber-sexy even though on the average day I'm probably neither. And they do great great things to my thighs. In a mildly, um, intoxicated stupor, I managed to rip mine one night a few months ago, and I have been searching for a replacement pair ever since. I didn't want to just replace the ones I had (it's like boys, if you break up with one you don't want another one that's exactly the same, otherwise life would be boring), so I've been looking for another style. I think I've settled on this style, the New Basic in Dark Wash, available at couturecandy.com. I like that they have a slim leg without being the skinny jean that I think is going to be passing trend, and I also like that they aren't "broken in". Believe me, I break in my jeans plenty as it is, so I might as well start them looking new, right?

Fashion School Dropout...

2006-06-09T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am loving "The Hills"! It's so unbelievably trashy and flaky that its totally engrossing, sort of like watching a car wreck (except that car wrecks are neither trashy or flaky, just strangely compelling). I like to say that watching these shows is a little like an anthropological experiment.... how weird is pop culture getting? Based on this episode, pretty weird and definitely not more intellectual. Not much to say on the fashion front this episode, except that I have come to the conclusion that Heidi has terrible hair, a fact which was confirmed for me by this photo of her at The Hills viewing party. I mean, for a 19 year old, her hair makes her look like a 50 year old ex Dallas cheerleader (all that hairspray does nasty things). Anyway, I won't attempt a recap cause it won't be as totally hilarious as the recap by tvgasm. Read it. And laugh.

Louis vuitton perforated monogram, part deux

2006-06-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

Still contemplating the ioffer.com perforated monogram bags. While looking for the best deal and trying to figure out which seller looks most legit, I stumbled upon the matching wallets. I mean, look how cute?

Obsession

2006-06-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

I adore sunglasses. Some girls could spend their life savings on handbags. I could do it on sunglasses. I owe about 50 pair. My latest sunglass obsession is the super hot plastic aviator sunglasses that I keep seeing on celebrities right now. I mean, Rachel Bilson wears them, and that child can do no wrong. And even though I'm not usually into Ashlee Simpson's style, they look super hot on her as well. I think it's that they have that glamorous huge-sunglass effect but with a little bit of an edge, and unlike last season's Nicole Richie specials they don't have the unfortunate side effect of making the wearer look like a bug.

My favorite brands? From left, Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs and Chanel. Check out the Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford at www.eluxury.com

Three by two

2006-06-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Three weeks early, here comes Laguna Beach season 2 on DVD. How fun! Now I can stalk Taylor's wardrobe whenever I want! And laugh at Casey and her tasteless but expensive wardrobe. Yippee!

Lucien Pellat Finet

2006-06-08T19:47:00.000-07:00

I tried to come up with a clever title for this post, but to no avail. I've been lusting after Lucien Pellat Finet's products ever since I first saw a feature of him in a French fashion magazine a few years ago. Aside from the fact that he's French (always a bonus in my books), I love his graphic design inspired pieces. He takes his motto of "play with logos" pretty seriously, since almost everything he makes is both labelled (but not in the LV kind of way) and playful. Yes, his logos are playful, and feature, among other things, marijuana plants, skulls and pandas. Sounds a little like your local hooka shop? Not so, Finet pulls it off with French flare (like his diamond skull watch, which is made for men but I think would look really hot women). If you don't believe me, check out his website at www.lucienpellat-finet.com .

What the *^&% is Jessica Simpson wearing?

2006-06-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

I'm probably one of the few people left, but I love Jessica Simpson. And I usually love her clothes too. Except this. Definitely not this:

Seriously, did she, like, fall face first onto a giant pre-historic dragonfly (do you see the wings?) after leaping out of bed with her newest man of the moment, wrapping herself with a tacky silk asian inspired sheet for coverage in the process, and then decide, "hey, photo op!"???!

Um, right......

*photo courtesy of sweetkisses.net

Sale at Ron Herman

2006-06-08T06:42:00.000-07:00

Yippee! 50% off sale at Ron Herman! Check out these fabulous finds:

3.1 Phillip Lim Dress with Gold Waist Tie $182.50 (from $364.00)

575 Denim Boot Cut Dark Denim Jeans $100.00 (from $200.00)

Rebecca Taylor Lace Cami with Tie $99.00 (from $198.00)

Generra Sleeveless Tunic in White $42.50 (from $85.00)

Lotta Beaded Gathered Cami $109.00 (from $218.00)

3.1 Phillip Lim Tuxedo Shorts $116.00 (from $232.00)

Sanctuary Plaid Capri Pants $65.00 (from $130.00)

Miguelina Strapless Tiered Belted Dress $215.00 (from $430.00)

Jill Stuart Eyelet Spaghetti Strap Halter Dress $219.00 (from $438.00)

HAPPY SHOPPING!

i offer you.....

2006-06-08T06:27:00.000-07:00

Has anyone ever checked out ioffer.com? About two years ago when I was searching for a seafoam green Balenciaga knock-off, I stumbled upon ioffer.com after being totally disillusioned by prices on ebay. ioffer appears to have high quality knock offs for a fraction of the price of the real thing (and more tellingly, they seem to use the same selling points as ebay sellers, except admit to their items being knock-offs). I'm back in a state of bag-lust again with the recent release of the Louis Vuitton perforated monogram series, and just can't afford a real Speedy 30. In fuschia. Should, you know, anyone have a free one they want to send me. Ioffer.com seems to sell what looks like pretty convincing knock-offs for only around $100. I really hate the idea of buying a knock off, but the reality is my bank account is no where near adequate to allow me the real thing. So, perhaps I'll risk it? I'll keep you updated!

Let's play a game...

2006-06-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

I'm not feeling particularly inspired this morning, so let's play one of my favorite games: if I had $1000 to spend at shopbop.com what would I buy? Here are this morning's fantasty shopping choices:

Bellekat Sarah Top with Garden Embroidery $163.00

Adina Square Stackable Rings, 14K Gold $330.00

Susana Monaco Tube Tie String Bikini, $106.00

Alice and Olivia Wide Waistband Pants $330.00

Kors Shoes Hamptom $235.00

Okay, so the grand total is a few hundred more than $1000, but hey, it's all a fantasty anyway so what does it matter? And actually, looking at it now, looks like I've made myself a nice beach outfit!

No more daisy dukes

2006-06-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

Daisy duke's can be sexy, but only if you have spent months in the gym or are particularly genetically blessed, or worn in certain context, like at your lake house running to get beer after a hot day on the dock. But for the average city girl, they are so not cute. But sometimes real bermuda's (like, the chino type) are just too preppy for your mood. Enter the daisy-duke bermudas. Okay, so they are just long jean cut offs, but they are so much cuter and more wearable. My favorite is the AE Stretch Skinny Cut Off, mostly because I refuse to spend loads of cash on an item that is like going to get grass stains on it during the summer. For only $39.50, they are definitely affordable, and with stretch and long inseam, they are made for everyone.

It's in the bag

2006-06-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

Check out the new Anna Corinna Lady Duffle Bag. How cute? It's roomy and slouchy but practical and big enough to drag all of my stuff around with me. Should straps also bold well, especially if they are long enough that I can sling them across my body while travelling. And the butterscotch color is just divine.

I love I love I love. Can't wait to get my hands on one. Check them out at www.lunaboston.com.

Working for a living.

2006-06-05T07:09:00.000-07:00

I need some more appropriate work clothes, stat. The difficult thing is striking the balance between looking professional (and refusing to go to work in flip-flops and track pants, even though I can get away with it) and looking overdressed (a real suit just wouldn't do in my office). I found this BCBG suit jacket this weekend while purusing the stores, and just can't stop thinking about it. It's cute, without being too casual, and it would go nicely with nice jeans, white pants, some skirts that I already own and so on. It actually also has matching shorts, which I also loved, but I think the two together might be a little too matchy matchy for where I work. The shorts with a different top though (like a deep cut white cashmere v-neck with a camisole underneath in an unexpected color), could really spice up my wardrobe too. Check them out at www.nordstroms.com.

Young but classy...

2006-06-05T06:51:00.000-07:00

In the world of trashy looking young celebrities (....Miss Paris Hilton, among others), I am always pleased to see photos of the young and famous looking both their age but also totally classy. And preferably, not like Skeletor (Miss Richie). Enter Miss Amanda Bynes at the MTV Movie Awards. Now, seriously, the last time I remember seeing this girl was on "What a Girl Wants" (a movie that I have seen an embarassing four or five times, but blame that on HBO's programming schedule), and she certainly wasn't looking as pulled together, and well, sophisticated then as she does now!

Now leave me with my happy memories of Colin Firth dancing around in leather pants and go check out more celeb red carpet pics at www.popsugar.com.
*Photos credited to www.popsugar.com

My little rainforest

2006-06-04T21:32:00.000-07:00

I have greenish eyes, so I tend to wear a lot of green, since in dark shades at least, it makes them stand-out in a way that I have never been able to accomplish with make-up (without looking like a hooker). But green is a tough color, and either really works, or really doesn't, so I'm always thrilled to find a new piece of clothing that is green and gorgeous. My newest finds are two new dresses by Susana Monaco:the Zig Zag Bronwen Dress and the Mia dress, both in Rainforest. They are both phenomenal, and in my experience Susana Monaco always fits wonderfully. Sexy, sassy, and guarenteed to make my eyes look as green as the tropical rainforest. I can't wait. Check out www.susanamonaco.com for more details!

The Hills on MTV

2006-06-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm a little embarassed by my love of MTV reality TV (of the Laguna Beach, My Super Sweet 16 genre, not of the Date My Mom genre) given that I'm in my mid 20's, have a Masters degree and really should be interested in more intellectual programming by now, right? Admittedly, I watched every episode of Laguna Beach, but I couldn't figure out why I was so intrigued (it wasn't that entertaining if you really think about it). I think at least part of it is that I love to check out what these kids were wearing, both the good (Kristen when she met Steven for coffee after getting hair extensions in season 2) and the bad (Casey, every time she graced the screen). I think that Taylor always had the best sense of style. I'm still trying to figure out what brand of bag she showed us all in the MTV Overdrive aftershow (okay, I was unemployed for a while last year, maybe that's my excuse!).

On Wednesday I checked out "The Hills", MTVs newest addition to the reality-TV family, which follows Lauren Conrad (aka LC) during her new life in West Hollywood and through her internship at Teen Vogue. Well, let me tell you, this is going to be so much better than Laguna Beach ever was. There was so much good fashion happening in the first episode that I've spent the past few days trying to find screenshots online to get a closer look (to no avail; if you know where I can find them, email me!). LC's interview dress? Love it love it love it. And her and Heidi's dresses at the Teen Vogue hollywood party? Even better. With all the partying promised this season and the fact that Lauren has access to the Teen Vogue Closet?

I can hardly wait.

Spring cleaning

2006-06-04T14:05:00.000-07:00

I was feeling a little frustrated with my life yesterday, so I took my usual approach to "cleaning house".

Step one: Go for a really long, really hot run, therefore sweating all toxins out of my body and getting the blood moving to my skin. Also has the secondary side effect of giving me a bit of color (not pasty = looks good).

Step two: Do a load of laundry. While load in the wash, clean out closet and get rid of things that are worn out, looking grubby, or just don't fit anymore. Fail to feel guilty about gaining a clothing size in the last year (the run helps with this too).

Step three: Go shopping! I hit up my local suburban shopping area (which means that it has basically the same selection, especially for basics, but without the crowds of downtown San Francisco). I actually didn't buy anything, since my BF is out of town next weekend and I plan on shopping 'til I drop then, but I did a little scoping out of some key items I want to buy. My most surprising find was that there are a load of cool dresses out right now. I'll post some photos later (once I can find them) but I found no less than four fabulous dresses that I think I'll add to my spring wardrobe. AND, I'm eating my words about the peg legged jeans (well sort of). I tried on a pair of cropped cigarette jeans (so they ended about four inches above my ankle) and then actually were really cute, and I think they would look fabulous with a pair of flats. Maybe it was just the post dress euphoria, though. It definitely needs to be approached carefully.

Step four: Go to Sephora, and spend far too much money on skin care products. I'm a big believer that the most attractive women aren't the ones who have the best makeup (although that helps), instead its the ones who have great skincare, and as a result, great skin. I've finally graduated out of using drug store products (although I still am addicted to my Neutrogena sunscreen), and have moved onto to professional grade stuff. I'm totally hooked on Bliss skin care, which works like a dream and smells good. Usually I just use their Fabulous Foaming Face Wash and Sleeping Peel Resurfacing Gel for my face, in addition to a twice monthly home facial with their Sleeping Peel Face Mask. However, yesterday after restocking my usuals, I also splurged on their Vanilla and Bergamot Body Buff and Body Butter. And oh my god. It is so heavenly. It totally got rid of any dry spots on my skin, and left me feeling silky smooth and smelling so sweet. Yum!

Sporting side

2006-06-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

If any of you has ever been to Europe, you likely understand the international craze that is soccer, or as it's better known around the world, football. With the World Cup starting in just a few days, the globe is about to get colored by soccer houligans and regular fans sporting their teams' jerseys. So get your game on and join in the fun. Check out Fidel's World Cup Series 2006 t-shirts. Pick your country and start cheering. Or, if you don't have any affiliation to a soccer powerhouse, check out this cute soccer player t-shirt at right, also from Fidel. Just don't be afraid by their sizing. Fidel makes t-shirts for both boys and girls, and their girls shirts are sized 0, 1 and 2 for small, medium and large. The fit wonderfully and wash like a dream, so check them out!

And, if you need more information on the world cup, go to the Fifa World Cup homepage. Cheers on ladies, cheer on.

Alice goes to wonderland (and meets a new friend)

2006-06-04T14:01:00.001-07:00

I spent the memorial day weekend in LA, and noticed that a new boutique had opened up on Robertson, Alice+Olivia. I've heard rumors of how fabulous their pants are over the past couple of years, but have never really bothered to take a close look. Well, how stupid am I?! Their pants are truly a thing of wonder, cut to look both modern and classic. Little details like a wider waistband, perfectly positioned rise, sexy slanted and piped pockets and an ideal flare at the bottom make them fit a wide range of body types with ease. And things just get better with the smaller details, like buttons, piping and patterns. I think the best thing, though, is that Alice+Olivia has moved beyond pants! They have tops, dresses, and my favorite, skirts, all executed with the same attention to fit, and a woman's body. I fell in love with their tiered white lace skirt, shown here. So take some time, and read about the Alice+Olivia story (which, FYI, is a great read, and something I dream about every day...) on their website, stop by their store if you are in LA (134 South Robertson Blvd) or shop online at www.shopbop.com or www.neimanmarcus.com.

You're the bomb.

2006-06-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

My fiance informed me yesterday that "chicks in camo are hot". Feeling somewhat disturbed and a little confused, I feared that I needed to run to my nearest army supply store and get some combat boots and military fatigues. Thankfully he clarified: "girls with a touch of something camo on are sexy but have a little edge, and that's hot".

So, this is for him. Add a little camo pattern to your summer wardrobe. Try the Roxy Surf Soldier Reversable Bikini or the Havaianas Camo Flip Flops for a day at the beach. My favorite summer camo staple are these Bailey Twill Shorts by Abercrombie. They have the same sort of sex appeal as wearing your boyfriend's v-neck sweater, except they have a great fit and are super comfortable. Pair them with a white ribbed boy tank and some flip flops, huge sunglasses and perfect hair, and go for a walk. Trust me, the fiance is right. Boys love them.

Now, my only question is when did he start talking like Paris Hilton?

Fashion Flirt's least favorite thing

2006-06-04T14:00:00.001-07:00

A change from the usual Friday favorite-thing post. This week, I would like to discuss my current least favorite trend: skinny-legged jeans. I need to clarify: if you have a body like Kate Moss, skinny jeans are fabulous, hot, and definitely trend setting. So, like my previous thoughts on leggings, ignore this if you are both leggy and skinny and are on the outlying edges of the population in terms of clothing size and body shape. If, however, you are not one of those lucky few, I beg you to avoid the skinny jean trend. It brings together the worst parts of low-riders (by emphasizing your love handles, already adding the illusion of girth to your waist and hips) but completely fails to balance them out with a little more width in the lower part of the pant. In my opinion, I think this makes you look like a housewife with bad tapered jeans from Costco. Why would you do it? I just don't understand, it is so unflattering. I've seen so many girls with totally normal bodies suddenly look like they have thunderthighs and saddle bags from hell as a result of these jeans. My advice? Just don't bother. If you want to move away from flared jeans, great, go for the slightly more tailored bootcut. But please, please, avoid the skinny and cigarette jeans. Please.

Eyelet of wonder

2006-06-04T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm getting married sometime next year (don't have a date yet) and accordingly have been on a bit of a wedding magazine binge over the past few months. Although a lot of the advice is either just not my style or just so painfully obvious it makes me wonder who these magazines are geared towards, I did happen upon one really fantastic article that outlined the reasons for using your wedding as an opportunity to update your wardrobe into something more adult, more lady-like. This, my friends, is advice I need to take. Having just finished multiple degrees, I still am living in the wardrobe of a student, replete with jeans, t-shirts and flip flops. Not that I am complaining, I love most of my clothes, it's just time to flesh out my selection with some more adult numbers. My favorite new find is this Jill Stuart dress, which I think could be a great rehearsal dinner dress. Or maybe it's just a nice adult dress to update my wardrobe a bit in the mean time, for some breezy summer dinners with my fiance. Check it out at www.ronherman.com

Foot SOS

2006-06-04T13:59:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I think that my feet have loose skin, because no matter what I do, I always always always get blisters, and it's really getting to be a problem now that I am switching over from my winter shoes to my summer shoes. Over the years, people have given me loads of suggestions about how to handle them, but honestly, I think my best fashion discovery has been that masking tape (the brown dull stuff, not to be confused with packing tape, the sheer shiny stuff) works wonders on blisters. As soon as you feel the blister start to form, tape it up with masking tape (directly on the blister) and presto! Your feet won't hurt so much anymore! I know what you're thinking... taking it off must hurt, right? Well, not so. Masking tape also appears to dry out the blister if you leave it on for long enough, so it doesn't hurt terribly when you take it off. And, as an added bonus, it's sort of flesh toned so it doesn't scream to everyone around you that you have taped up your feet.

Like Lanvin but less expensive...

2006-06-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

While I am not a huge fan of the boho/homeless look so commonly seen on the skinnier of the two Olsen twins, I have been lusting after one particular item in her wardrobe for quite some time: her Lanvin round toe shoes. Apparently I'm not the only one, since these shoes were seen on a plethora of Hollywood fashionistas this past year, including Jessica Simpson, Mary-Kate's sister Ashley and I believe, Nicole Richie. While most of these ladies wouldn't be caught dead in the same outfit twice, these shoes kept making a reappearance. And for good reason. They really are a classic, which is why cheaper versions are beginning to surface for the rest of us to own. My favorite is the Marilyn Round Toe Heels available at www.shopintuition.com.

Happy trails

2006-06-04T13:58:00.000-07:00

I love to run. It's my main stress reliever and source of exercise (I'm just not a gym bunny), but this rainy, disgusting spring that we have been having in Northern California has been anything but inspiring. My solution has been to stay indoors, but alas, that was not a good idea. As a result, I have apprently grown a clothing size and now need to go and buy a new pair of jeans. Or just get my butt out the door, equipped with some better gear for keeping dry in the spring rains that refuse to go away. Here are my best finds for spring running jackets:

Lululemon Globe Trot Jacket: This particular color is not the best, but this jacket is also available in a fantastic purplish-magenta. My favorite part is that it has thumb holes, so I can quit carving my own in every long-sleeved shirt I own. It's also long and sits much lower than your waist, which is a must for me because I like to keep my love handles covered (at least until I can burn them off with all this activity).

Nike Dri-Fit Slacker Jacket: This isn't really a performance piece, but it's perfect for those slow early morning runs where you want to be wearing the closest thing to pyjamas. I love the pale pink, but this jacket also comes in black and navy.

New Balance Tag Jacket: This is my personal fave, in large part because the zip-off sleeves convert this into a vest (and I'm been known to stop halfway through a run, zip them off, stuff them in the handy back pocket and keep going). It also has a nice long back to it, so it never rides up when you're running. It comes in loads of colors and is a total classic.

Happy trails!

Allo mademoiselle...

2006-06-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, nothing in this world is a sexy and flattering on a woman as the perfect little black dress. Of course, it helps if you have the shoulders and upper arms of a true yogi to pull off the little spaghetti strap numbers, but for many of us that just isn't an option without having to engage in the eternal quest for the perfect little pullover (and really, haven't we all seen far too many imperfect little pull-overs ruin perfectly good dresses?). Enter the Ya Ya Air off the shoulder dress, courtesy of shopbop.com. It offer enough coverage so that you can wear a bra underneath, but shows just enough skin to ensure that you get to feel a little sexy too. Throw on a great pair of strappy sandals and you're off. As an added bonus? Keep this around for winter. With a great pair of sheer tights and some stiletto pumps, this dress will carry you through all seasons. ¶ 4:33 PM 0 comments

Fashion Flirt's favorite thing

2006-06-04T13:56:00.000-07:00

Annoucing: a new weekly post! Closet Monkey's favorite thing!

This week: TRENCH COATS

It has been absolutely miserable weather in the Bay Area recently. Spotty sunshine is quickly run down by huge looming rain clouds and day long downpours. Fun times? Not so much. But, it is a great excuse to indulge in Closet Monkey's new favorite piece of clothing: the trench coat.

A few things to know about a trench coat:

1) They will always make you look like you are upper class. It's true, a women walking around town with a beautifully belted trench will always look classy, dressed up and stylish, no matter if she bought the coat at Target or Burberry.

2) They are not going to go out of style. Trench coats have been around for years, and they are not going anywhere. They are truely one of the wardrobe classics that you will love and be able to wear for years.

3) They are forgiving. Trenchcoats can hide a multitude of fashion sins. They look equally good thrown over gym clothes, a dressy suit or a pair of jeans and a sweater. If you are trying to run out of the house on laundry day to grab something at the store, and you don't want everyone to know that you down to your huge butt jeans and yellow armpit stained t shirt, throw a trenchcoat on top and walk proud. No one ever needs to know.

4) They are great for "fat days" too. Trenchcoats are not like your favorite jeans: gain a few pounds, and they won't torture you with tight waistlines and zippers that won't do up. Always buy them a little big, so that you have room to work with them as you gain and lose weight over time. A slightly oversized trench wraped tightly with its belt always looks fabulous.

5) They are really really practical . Young mom with grubby little fingers grabbing at you all day? A bit of a klutz, and always spilling your coffee down your front? Trench coats can take it. They are waterproof after all, and most of them can take a bit of a beating without showing it!

6) They are great for going incognito . If you want to have a day about town where you look at little mysterious, through on a pair of oversized sunglasses and a trench. Just make sure you have pants on, so people don't think you're a flasher. Otherwise, you're good to go. People might even mistake you for a paparazzi-avoiding Hollywood star!

So enjoy. Trenches are the way to go.

Bon voyage!

2006-06-04T13:55:00.000-07:00

I'll be frank, I miss Montreal. A lot. Everyday. Even when its forty below there and its plus eighty and sunny here in California. Montreal ranks highest of all North American cities in terms of culture, style and just that “je ne sais quoi” that you can’t find anywhere else on this lil’ continent of ours. It's unfortunate that a lot of Americans miss Montreal in favor of Toronto, a Banana Republic compared to Montreal's Louis Vuitton or Lanvin style, on their rare trips to their friendly neighbor up north. I could never figure out why, but I have to blame it on ignorance alone because otherwise, the reasons are hard to find. Montreal is cheaper, easier to navigate, has more character and more things to do than any other city I've been to outside of the developing world. Nightlife? You got enough to drink yourself into a tizzy every night. Great food? Definitely. A recent Gourmet issue that focused entirely on the city brought back a flood of happy memories for me… the smoked meat, the poutine, the bring-your-own-wine restaurants (my very favorite).

But by far and away the best part? The fashion...

If you manage to visit and stay the same clothing size that you were when you arrived (a feat in and of itself), you will be pleasantly greeted by a plethora of wonderful shopping experiences. The city is known for its small boutiques and local designers, whose clothes, in general, are accessible and wearable no matter who you are and where you live. And they are unique. There is nothing like coming back from a petit sejours with a stack of new clothes that can’t be found within a 1000 mile radius of your hometown! So for those of you that can’t afford a trip to Paris, head to Montreal. It’s a lot cheaper, and most of the locals even speak English. Here’s my list of my visit stores:

Space FB: I first discovered space fb for its low rise cheap solution to the juicy couture phase that was the early 2000s. Since then, though, the store has graduated to some seriously beautiful basics. Their neverending supply of perfect t-shirts in every shade and cut are staples, particularly at end of season sales when the are often 2 for $35 (Canadian bucks, that is). My favorite things, though, are their pants and coats. The coats change every season but there is always a supply of beautiful wool coats and cozy down parkas at prices that will leave you thinking you're shopping at Target!! Located on St Laurent near Prince Arthur and in the Cours de Montreal.

Fidel Clothing: Fidel is also another staple for great cheap coats and cutre t shirt basics. But even better are their pants. I love their pants. Don't be discouraged by the sizes... They often size their clothes using sizes 1-5, but that just refers to a XXS-L type system. My size 4 pants have stuck with my through a 15 pound weight gain and loss, and have always made my butt look perky and fabulous in the process. Located on St Denis near Roy.

Boutique XTC: XTC has by far and away the best jeans selection in Montreal, in addition to a load of other fun fairs that will keep you coming back. Check out the Guido and Mary and Second jeans (local denim companies that makes the hottest jeans you'll ever find in cuts and colors that will never make you blend in with the rest of the citizen and seven wearing crowd in the US). Located on Prince Arthur near St Laurent.

Lola and Emily: These guys weren't around when I was living in Montreal, but I think that if they had been they would have been a regular stop for the California basics oft seen in magazine that I was always lusting after. Susana Monaco? Got it. Havianas? Got it. A bunch of other obscure Canadian brands that you (or I) have never heard it? Yup. Got that too. Located on St Laurent near Sherbrooke.

Bon voyage!

Goldilock's bags

2006-06-04T13:54:00.000-07:00

After being in school for the last decade or more of my life, I am finding myself a little lost on the handbag front now that I have a job that doesn’t require dragging binders and text books with me everywhere. In fact, I’ve realized that my bag closet only contains either a) huge book bags that are stained with fluorescent highlighter and blue ink from some leaky pens or b) cute clutches that I would use on nights out but that can fit only a cell phone, credit card and ID and some lip gloss. Neither of these is really appropriate for my new working professional self.

So what do I really need? Those clutches, no matter how cute, just ain’t going to cut it. I need to be able to carry my monstrous wallet, my cell phone, my agenda, my current novel of choice, my sunglasses, some lotion, and about 5 tubes of lip gloss (because a girl can never go without). In short, they are just too small. But a huge bag capable of carrying 3 notebooks and a binder and maybe my laptop is no longer necessary either. It’s just too big. What to do?

Enter Kooba. I’ve been lusting after Kooba bags for years, but they were never practical when I was a student because they were never designed to carry huge unwieldy rectangular objects. Their “Sienna” bag has long been a favorite of mine, but I have a policy against buying the “it” bag of the moment, because its always only “it” for a very short time. Their spring line, however, contains a plethora of tasty little numbers that are just right. Perfect size, perfect colors, perfect styles. And the best part? They are all a little different but equally wonderful meaning that there’s a little something for everyone. My favorites? As follows:

The Marcelle:

The Carla:

The Mia:

The Natalia:

And, if you insist, The Sienna (okay, it’s an “it” bag, but it is beautiful, so just make sure that you love it enough to carry through many a season).

Check them out at
www.kooba.com
www.shopbop.com

Welcome to Fashion Flirt

2006-06-04T13:50:00.000-07:00

Because life is always better if you're dressed well....