Christmas Chic or Faux-Get About It?
Versed on November 20, 2007 by Style-eyes
District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
I am completely obsessed with the color pink, in all of its varieties. As I passed by a magazine in an airport (as I sprinted to my gate) I noticed a wonderfully decorated cotton candy pink christmas tree. I thought about the tree over and over again. I finally found a couple of websites that carried the tree, as well as several ebay sellers.
When I told my best friend I wanted a pink christmas tree, he laughed hysterically. I love things that are off the beaten path. To me, this cotton candy pink tree is hot, it’s chic and it’s unique. What do you think? Christmas Chic or Faux-Get About It??
http://www.christmaspeople.com/LargePix.asp?ItemID=22301
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Love Shopping? Love Social Networking? Then you’ll Love Minx!
Versed on November 14, 2007 by Style-eyes District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
With the development of Facebook and MySpace, I thought I had had my fill of Social Networking sites fully equipped with people who are able to find out exactly what I am doing, where I am doing it and who I am doing it with. Finally, the social networking trend has turned to an issue I always want to talk about…shopping! There are several social shopping sites out there, such as www.kaboodle.com (which, don’t get me wrong, is fantastic). However, none of these sites focus on the young, urban, fabulous, trendsetting fashionista, like myself <wink>. That is, until I came across a site that is very new, but very cool called…Minx xoxo (www.minxxoxo.com). Minx is a brand new Social Shopping network where members can get together, discover and discuss unique, stylish items that are not promoted on many mainstream shopping sites.
Case and point, yesterday’s ‘Item of the Day’ was a fantastic canvas bag that is both femme and gansta. Nothing says “I’m the S%&t” like a bag with pink hearts and pistols.
With the help of Minx, which is targeted towards individuals like myself, I can share truly valuable information to the masses. Information about what I’m buying, who I’m buying it for and where I’m buying it. Now, that is buzzworthy.
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Short & Chic
Versed on November 11, 2007 by Style-eyes District Streets Covered
Uncategorized
In a post 9/11 world, jet setting across the country may appear exciting, but it is mostly an arduous task that involves standing in a security line for an hour for a 45 minute flight. On a recent business trip, I stood in amazement watching confused individuals who, apparently, are not aware of the “No Liquids” policy. As I stared at them with contempt, I reflected on my first flight after this policy was instituted. My FAVORITE perfume, “Flower Bomb” by Viktor & Rolf, was about to be discarded by a man working the security checkpoint. I nearly had an asthma attack and I don’t have asthma. I had to think fast, as beads of sweat formed on my forehead. I batted my eyes, I flirted and when that didn’t work I complained and whined like I had lost my mind. Ultimately, I lost the battle and my perfume. That experience ruined my entire weekend.
What that experience did teach me is that I will never again lose a coveted item due to a lack of attention to detail. Because I look out for those who appreciate good style, below is a list of items which are essential when traveling. Now, when you go through the security checkpoint, you will be the one who keeps it Short & Chic.
1. Liquid Free Perfume.
This solid perfume is compact and scented with the popular Coco Mademoiselle scent from Chanel. The added bonus? The compact comes with a white leather pouch! Purchase this for a limited time only at Neiman Marcus.
2. Laptop Carry Case.
If you can travel light for business, make it easy on yourself at the security check point and keep your laptop in a different case. Liz Claiborne solves this problem with a beautiful cherry red leather tote and laptop case. Check it out at Bestbuy.com.
3. A Stylish Passport.
Stand out from the crowd when travelling internationally. Check in with a metallic leather passport cover in an assortment of colors. At $37 you can’t beat the price. Purchase this item at www.Whatshebuys.com
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Fergie Glams it Up
Versed on October 26, 2007 by Style-eyes District Streets Covered
Uncategorized, Fashion Yohos
G.L.A.M.O.R.O.U.S. Stacy “Fergie” Ferguson, the Grammy Award winning singer, has joined the ranks of Lil’ Kim, Mary J. Blige, Eve and Dita von Teese, among others, as the latest spokeswoman for the iconic MAC Cosmetics brand. Ferguson will be placed in a series of advertisements for MAC Viva Glam. The advertisements are slated for release in February, 2008. MAC will promote a newly created, limited edition Viva Glam Lipglass, inspired by Ferguson.
BEAUTY WITH A CAUSE
Since its inception in 1994, the MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam advertising campaigns have raised and donated more than $95 million dollars to the MAC AIDS Fund, to assist those living with HIV/AIDS globally.
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Label Conscious
Versed on September 6, 2007 by ja.nice District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
I’ve always known that “made in USA” items were not only a status symbol but deep down, I knew they were better. Not only because the product itself did not have to do more traveling than a frequent flyer to get on the dingy racks at the discount store but because I feel more comfortable that information about the product is more accessible (i.e. manufacturing location, safety standards, etc) than say China.
Of course I never saw it in political, economical, and ethical terms, but common sense did play its role. A New York Times article is pretty much reasserting what I’ve always believed. Not only are “Made in China” labels causing concern about product inferiority and consumer safety but it is also sparking the conscience of eco-friendly people who would like to preserve the environment. (Locally made products take less to transport thus reducing carbon emissions and the concern for toxic goods is placated by regulated standards.) Plus, people are finally catching on to what die hard Ford buyers have been standing by for years. American companies who make American products, employ American workers and that benefits American consumers ultimately boosting the American economy.
Aside from the “buy American” attitude that is sure to proliferate with issues regarding major recalls on Chinese products, something else will be sure to come out of this. Marketers now have it so easy to exploit xenophobic consumers and brazen flag waving of labels will now be appealing to people with a bad taste in their mouths for China. I’m afraid that the “I will never buy anything that’s made in China” rhetoric will be an anchor for negative attitudes against other foreign goods. Now, I’m not negating what I previously said about American products but this whole situation can get overboard. I don’t think we realize how hard it is to go into a store and buy only American. Forget going to Walmart, you’ll find no luck there. But is this buy American attitude really sensible or are we just caught up in a scare that’s got us badmouthing Made in China products? I simply think there is more to it than product recalls and support for local brands. So let’s just chill out with the paranoia on foreign products and imagine when buying American gets too expensive. I’m sure we’ll realize a thing or two.
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Simply Vera at Kohl’s
Versed on September 5, 2007 by ja.nice District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
Word is that wedding dress designer extraordinaire, celebrity fashion designer and former Vogue editor and stylist will be releasing a new line of clothing called Simply Vera by Vera Wang for discount chain Kohl’s at prices that are considerably lower than her notable high-end collections which typically range from dresses at $20,000 and jackets around $2,000. The new line will feature junior and women’s apparel, accessories, and home furnishings between $20 - $200. This is a new endeavor for the stylist who is among the elite in fashion design and in a Wall Street Journal interview, she comments on the trepidations she faces as she ventures out into discount retail. She is faced with the possibility of weakening her high-priced brand and image by delving into new markets and mass production.
For those of us who have simply resigned to designer knockoffs and have come to appreciate what discount stores have to offer, it will be interesting to see how Ms. Wang’s collection will fare in Kohl’s department stores whose competition, Target, has been filling their racks with Mossimo, Isaac Mizrahi and Proenza Schouler for a more accessible design campaign under the philosophy that “great design isn’t reserved for the few.” The Kohl’s line is focused on edgy yet comfortable fashion that is designed for everyone from the high school fashionista, casual college student, sexy professional, to the comfortable mom who feels that the details and execution of the product is worth the price she paid for in a store like Kohl’s.
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Don’t Be Fooled
Versed on August 14, 2007 by ja.nice District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
I bet you still have the box that encased the Coach key chain that you bought for an ungodly amount of money just for some metal and some glued on charms that are utterly inconsequential. You convince yourself that the box is of equal value and must be cherished and preserved should the key chain be questioned for its authenticity since who can really tell that a particular key chain should be worth $40, $60 or even $100.
As a recent WSJ article has pointed out, there is a psychology behind the irrational purchases that people make when amidst luxury items such as Ralph Lauren purses priced at $14,000 or Channel sunglasses with 1 too many zeros on the pretty little tag. 
It’s simple and plain mind-trickery is what it is when you really look at it. Walking in to a store and knowing you can’t afford that purse, or pair of shoes, or blouse that is placed so alluringly at the window complete with spotlights like it’s the headliner at a sold out concert, it ends up feeling really good that you can walk away with a little piece at least. If you can’t buy the shoes buy a simple tank top instead. Even though that Hanes looking tank top cost $45, you just spared yourself the guilt of blowing your precious cash away on $800 stilettos. Now, let’s step it up a notch since that’s actually looking at it conservatively. Many people readily convince themselves that $300 is not bad for Christian Dior sunglasses when its obvious that the $10,000 alligator handbag is just way out of their league. From that point on, $300 starts to look pretty reasonable. This is what the WSJ called setting a new ceiling for what is “reasonable.” And once that bar is raised, it only goes higher and higher.
The scary part of this whole concept is the amount of time that your mind changes about what is reasonable and unreasonable. It only takes a few shopping trips before an emotional attachment is developed for certain products and before too long, the math just doesn’t add up. And it starts to become an addiction from the day you get your first taste of authentic Chanels . According to the article, Chanel suit owners start out by picking up one or two sunglasses. It’s that easy to get sucked in. But please, don’t be naive about this strategy. This is practically a rule of thumb in the industry and there is nothing fishy going on here. It’s just that ever since fashion and luxury items hit the mainstream, it caught on very easily and people are still happy to walk through the doors of Louis Vuitton, Coach, Chanel and others. But next time, just know that you’re not actually buying the key chain because it’s superior to all key chains (although for $40 it better hold the key to some sought after magnificent treasure,) but that it’s only part of your training for when that spotlighted item on the window is finally yours.
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The Fashionista Diaries
Versed on August 8, 2007 by ja.nice District Streets Covered
Fashion Yohos
It’s just wrong! This show that is being shown to unfortunately impressionable people in heavily populated countries and dished as a first hand account of expert “fashionistas” is just chockfull of misgivings… not to mention the endless supply of annoying sound bites from eager homecoming queens whose jargon consists of nothing but the words “like,” “ummm,” and “yeah?!?!.” Fashion needs to remain in the hands of those who genuinely appreciate its aesthetic capacity and certainly in those who are certified crazy about the striking beat of meticulous design and astonishing construction. In addition, including the word ‘diaries’ in any title should be subject to ridicule. It seems juvenile and formulaic in terms of television premises since it is a reminder that reality tv is still choking the airwaves.
I don’t mean to sound like a deranged runway dictator but I am disappointed by the show. When I think about fashion, I think about this scenario: a woman thumbing through the glossy pages of a magazine with such admiration for the beauty and art of designers like Valentino, Versace, Balenciaga, and other haute couture official members. On the one hand her admiration triggers her imagination as she pictures herself indulged in artistry, as if she can one day own such pieces. Yet on the other, she is painfully conscious of the fact that she can only be an observer… an admirer. That woman knows it takes more than just studying what clothes go together and which trendy stores to buy outfits from to be considered fashionable. Fashion is not inclusive and should not be. It is unique and creative. It is a graceful interaction between ideas that are translated into impeccable designs and later accompanied by resources such as silk, wool, or cotton to produce something that reflects our natural aesthetic values. It is not a post-modern, run of the mill, anything goes type thing. There is a standard and almost an esoteric pledging process for acceptance that starts the day one realizes it is an art. I don’t consider myself a fashionista, not by a long shot, but I do appreciate art and sadly not everyone is creative enough to be considered a legitimate “fashionista.”
Image by Scherezade Garcia
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All Puffed Up
Versed on July 3, 2007 by The Beautenese Fashionista District Streets Covered
Beauty School
You don’t have to live in Texas to have big things come to you. All you need is a comb, some hair spray, and a round boar brush. Want a perfect looking poof on the top of your head? Of course you do, G. Stefani has mastered this look.
- Use the Ibiza Medium Round Brush to dry your hair, salon style. Section the bottom half first, then top half, to give it a slick, shiny look, and some pre-volume. If you want to cut the time, use a straightener, but skip the roots, just the ends.
- Section off the top of your head, where you want your poof. Starting from the back, take a horizontal strip of hair. With your Mason Pearson Tail Comb tease the strip just on the root area about 3 inches.
- Repeat step 2 with continuous horizontal strips going towards the hair line. There should be about 4 strips.
- Flip all the strips back, use Kerastase Resistance Volumactive Expansion Spray to the top.
- While the hairspray is still a little wet, use the tip of bristles of the round brush to brush back the hair just on the top. DO NOT deep brush your hair, only brush the top layer.
Kerastase products have become the staple of all my hair products. I realize the price of the products are not ideal for the starving college students, but trust me, once you try any one of their products, you too will be hooked! Also, when buying a round brush, skip the whole “ceramic” bristles, and leave ceramic for your straighteners. I’ve stuck with the boar bristles, because they hold the thicker locks better, and last a whole lot longer. Don’t be afraid to spend just a little more on round brushes, because they’re worth it, and so are you!
Products mentioned in this article:
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Men’s Shirtless Issues
Versed on June 14, 2007 by ja.nice District Streets Covered
Health & Beauty
It’s not a passing fad, it’s always been around. Marilyn Monroe had them, Pamela Anderson is still getting milk money from her famous ones, and Danny Devito has a pair too. Everyone knows the symptoms of this often concealed condition known in the medical world as gynecomastia for its more popular colloquial term… man boobs!
According to New York Times, “more men are seeking treatment for it,” and that majority of patients seeking plastic surgery are “adolescent boys” between the ages of 13 and 19. The teenage boys go through breast reduction surgery in order to get rid of the unsightly man boobs often caused by obesity.
Instead of working on their young physiques the natural way, through diet and exercise and waiting while nature takes its course, adolescent boys “are willing to resort to surgery to fix problems their bodies might resolve later on their own.” The pressure to look a certain way is simply too overwhelming for these teens who go under the knife. The combination of factors such as obesity and the value of model-esque bodies in our society are resulting in the increase of plastic surgery for many who suffer from gynecomastia.
[Read the NY Times Article]
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