New Trend: Clutches Worn during the Daytime

I am not sure if I would call this a new trend or not, but the British edition of In Style is...celebs like Kate Moss, SJP on Sex and the City and Victoria Beckham are all sporting dainty clutches during the day rather than just for evening functions (but, I have to acknowledge that Tracee Ellis Ross has been doing this forever...it is her signature day or night)...I guess I have only used a clutch during the day if I am attending an event or if I stuff it into my oversized handbag...trend, I don't know...but, it is interesting to see that the British Vogue is saying it is a new trend...I see anything done overseas as: ahead-of-the-trends...so, just wanted to share my finding. 

Out of Africa - The gorgeous Meryl Streep

I don't like the music in this that much...but, the pictures really capture the fashion in Out of Africa.

A Marvelous Take On the Safari Look with Out Of Africa

I watched Out of Africa for the first time last night and thoroughly enjoyed the costuming so I thought I would share some images that I found.  Meryl Streep played a wife of the early 1900's but stood strong in what she believed in and worked her butt off like no other and dressed her butt of as well:)  She was a great interpretation of the safari look with chic additions that made the look so distinct. 

ELLE's DIY-I love the first idea-with the coat dress!

Check out this link to find out how to put together your very own military inspired look without spending the same as you would buying items at runway prices.

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid372302730/bclid452310508/bctid1352465355

How to Get Those Eyes: Ashley Olsen

I was reading the British edition of In Style and found the answer to my makeup question, what does Ashley Olsen do to get the bronze smokey eye?  Here is what you can do.

Use Mousse Eyeshadow by Rimmel London-use this color over eyelid

Line eyes with black and bronze eyeliner-try Bobbi Brown, so go over the eyes first with black and then top with bronze

Well, I am no makeup wiz-but this sounds pretty easy!  Good luck!

Funny Face is Back

I see Valentino channeling Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face in these looks from the Paris runway, what do you think?

The Next Ugg, Muks

I am not sure if I would rock these...but, I said that about UGGS and now I really want them (kind of late, I know...but, I don't think that UGGS can really go out of style).  So, you decide...would you wear these?  

The Power House Tool To Get Your New Label Out There is: is Margaux INC

I love the concept of a young woman out of Oregon representing indie designers and boutiques around the states.  When I first heard about Margaux INC I was excited purely because it is based out of Oregon (my home town).  I love that Oregon is built up of entrepreneurs, but this company really spoke to me because Margaux is stepping out of the box and regardless of her location she is ready and willing to put her creative and business juices to work...and she is doing just that.  She has recently been really busy due to an AMAZING partnership between Margaux INC and My Fashion Initiative.  I think that this addition to the company is going to make them on fire, so get connected ASAP to make your brand even stronger. 

1.  Why did you decide to start Margaux INC? 

I saw a need for fashion companies to receive specialized marketing and promotional services. Many fashion businesses can’t afford to use the services of larger agencies, especially indie fashion designers. Margaux INC is affordable and targeted to the needs of the fashion, health, and beauty industry. We are not an intimidating corporation so fashion companies feel comfortable working with us.

2.  I see you work with with brands outside of Portland, do you work solely online? 

I am able to branch out of Portland because so much of my business is ran online. However, I am able to plan events, buy media, and schedule photo shoots around the world. 

3.  How do you find the brands that you work with? 

Referrals and various websites. MySpace is also a great place to meet fashion designers.  (I hope that this blog will help their business as well as others out there reading this.)

4.  How have Portland entrepreneurs responded to your company? 

Many! I have worked with local spas, shoe stores, designers, and even a car dealership!

5.  What do you have in the works for the future of Margaux INC? 

We recently partnered with a New York company called My Fashion Initiative. (This is going to be a dynamic duo, for more information and assistance contact the Agency.) 

6.  What do you recommend to anyone not living in New York City or Los Angeles that would like to get into fashion marketing/PR/consulting? 

It’s all about who you know. Network like crazy! Fashion is everywhere, you just have to tap in to the right people in your community who can get you involved in the industry.

What Could Net-a-Porter Have in Store...

To be one of the first to find out, sign up and Witness the return of an American icon and a fashion first...I am excited to see what it could be...I figured I would share the news I received from the PR rep rather than just keep it for myself:) 

http://www.net-a-porter.com/Content/AmericanIcon

Everyday Great Deals Online for Vintage

I am a HUGE vintage fan, but I hate when you go on eBay and deals get ruined because the seller starts a bidding war...so, if you don't feel like going to go through racks at your local thrift store, check out Thriftonista...I found her on myspace and she has a new opportunity for everyone to shop at a deal you can't say no to...there is a $5 and $10 section.  Just go to http://www.myspace.com/thriftonista and then to check out my albums (or her pics) for the 5ndime.

Well, What Do You Know, the Members Only Company is Back

You know, those vintage jackets you see some people wearing...well, Kelli Delaney, one of the people to start US weekly has taken on relaunching the brand with the Members Only Jackets, but is adding more items to the list of things sold and is selling at Henri Bendel.  I can't say that I can run to Henri's right now and buy anything for $950, but you can sure believe that I am running to my nearby thrift store and scouring the racks for a less than $5 Member's Jacket....I used to have one actually while in college...I don't know what I did with it...I would wear it with my high waist (not dramatic) khaki pencil skirt from Banana Republic and some funky sandals like the ones from Nine West. Good luck searching for the Member's Only jackets at your local thrift store or shopping for them at Henri Bendel's. 

Check out their myspace page for updates as well. 

And if you are in New York, attend the event to celebrate the relaunch of Members Only:

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22-28: MEMBERS ONLY IS BACK! GET IT FIRST AT HENRI BENDEL

Come to Bendel’s and celebrate the launch of the new Members Only collection of leather jackets and sexy little dresses. Members Only representatives will be on hand all week to help you choose the perfect leather jacket. With any Members Only jacket purchase, receive a leather wrist wrap (a $48 value) It’s our gift to you, while supplies last.

And while you visit, treat yourself to a real dose of Hollywood glamour with a complimentary styling session with the Ken Paves stylist team, who will be on hand to present Ken’s newest Hairdo by Ken Paves and Jessica Simpsoncollection of real-hair and synthetic-fiber hair extensions, and assist you with your selections.  For more information, call 1.800.HBENDEL

Old Ways Become New Again, With Shopping That Is...

I have always loved the way women shopped in the 50's...it was a grand event that you had to be invited to...kind of like how fashion week used to be...but, there is a new arrival to how women can shop and it is called a trunk show...now I know everyone has heard of a trunk show and maybe even attended one at a department store.  But, this is different.  Bill Blass New York, is a new division of Bill Blass that will be taking on a new method to selling clothing.  Selling will only take place in the New York Showroom or at exclusive trunk shows by appointment only with consultants in a location near you four times a year.  There are even job opportunities for you to explore to work with a design house in New York if there are no reps in your community.  There nothing but endless opportunities with this new way to shop.  Look for a Bill Blass New York Trunk Show in your area at www.billblassnewyork.com or be invited:)  

Statement Necklaces for This Spring Summer

BIG, BOLD necklaces are everywhere...but, I am believer in not spending all of your money on accessories that will not stand the test of time...so, check out Forever 21 for some great options this Spring and Summer.  

Wear these statement necklaces with swimwear-1 piece preferred (yes, a girl has to dress up her style when she is laying out on the beach or pool side), maxi dresses (evening or day looks), and with a basic white top and jeans.  

Spring is Slowly Approaching The Short Story

*image from the Net-a-Porter Magazine
I so wish I had the legs for shorts...I think that the combo of shorts and pumps is so sexy, and yet I just can't get my legs to do it...so, for those of you who can, enjoy for me. 

 Here are some looks from the street provided by none other than  the infamous Sartorialist.    http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com

Now this is way too short for me...but, I love the look with a billowy top. Maybe I could do this length if I start working out really hard right now with a nice fitted top to show that I have a good proportion at least;)  We shall see...

Ports 1961: The Controversy, The Style, The Look

Feel as though you have travelled to another country like India, Africa or Brazil...the inspiration is truly in the design.  Ports 1961 is one of the only designers that has more than one nationality on the catwalk...the controversy is that rarely any women of color have been on the runway in the past seasons.  (I read about this in the February issue of ELLE.)  Nudes were the STRONG color palette for this season--from the attire to the makeup.  Asymmetric Sleeve Details are back this Spring...I love this look for office attire.  Belts (any width) are still very strong this Spring season. 

Sweet Dreams of H&M

Since I don't exactly live near a H&M I have to drool over what people are to expect for Spring 2008...enjoy you lucky shoppers! I love the neckline on this jacket! I love the tunic length of this blouse and how it is paired with a straight pencil skirt.  I love pairing this look with a mid length jacket-like-trench. I love these pants!  I also love how the look is so sportswear, but paired with heels it looks sexy. 

Designer Spotlight: By Malene Birger

I am in LOVE with Malene Birger so I had to share the new line for Spring/Summer 2008 and my thoughts. I absolutely adore these pants, the length and the leg opening/width...it looks amazing!  I love how they flow!  So dramatic and chic with the leather biker jacket!   Wow, is that a real female body I see walking down the runway???  No twigs, I love it and can still appreciate the clothes...can you believe that???I guess booties from the Fall can be worn through the Spring....what are your thoughts? Isn't this a HUGE bag??  Ballet flats are still strong...I remember when New Yorkers used to use real ballet flats and just conveniently store them in their BIG New Yorker bags (since they were able to fold so easily) when they got to work.