SALE! REBAJA! SOLDE! VERKAUF! (And How To Beat 'Em.)

I'd first like to wish a very happy holiday to all of you who have spent the past few weeks fretting about gifts and cards and food and parties and... well, unfortunately weight gain. But now, we can take a collective sigh of relief. Christmas is over, and while the holiday season isn't over just yet, the brunt of the storm is.

And if you're like me and slightly overwhelmed with the kindness of family and friends (or, at least with their gifts), the idea that there is still more shopping- some great shopping, at that-left to do doesn't help to calm the Christmas Jitters.

I'm going to NYC for the next few days. I've gotten several gift cards that I'm almost certainly going to use during my stay. My justification for over-indulgence after the holiday? EVERYTHING'S ON SALE! Everything! I mean, walk down any street in your town and look for a store that DOESN'T have a big "x% off" or "SALE SALE SALE!" sign hanging flashily in the window. Storeowners want to make money, and the chances that people who have gotten money for the holidays will spend that money and more if the word SALE screams at them from every wall are quite good.

The sale is really a psychological attack on your wallet. Granted, I usually keep to my budget whilst shopping, I know that I can be tempted (and seduced) to the dark side of overspending. And I don't have a job, so... yeah. I need that money. And I'm sure many of you are in the same position. So, how do you deal with sales? And also, how can you keep rational during the Post-Holiday Frenzy?

Never pass up an in-store sale, especially if there is shipping online. When I purchase things online, I try to go at or above the minimum total for free shipping. A general rule I use when I'm going to pay sale prices online is to look at the total prices both in-store and online. Say the total of the shipping cost plus the total of the purchased items on sale equals or is greater than the price in-store. I'm obviously going to take a trip to that store, unless I don't have one nearby me.

I have several great malls near where I live, including the most distant King of Prussia Mall, which houses everything I could ever want or need to purchase. It is about an hour away from where I live, so I tend to buy from online stores when those particular stores aren't anywhere else near me; Urban Outfitters is a good example, but I do think they're getting one in the mall I go to most often. Almost everything I buy from Urban I get from the online store. It is easier that way, but also because crossing the free-shipping threshold is relatively easy when making an order. That's the great exception.

And businesses have free-shipping options on purpose. Let's say I want to spend $300 at Urban Outfitters. The online store wants me to spend more than the minimum of $150 because for them, the benefits of giving free shipping on, say, a $300 order outweigh the cost of shipping they must then pay. It's just good marketing, and it really doesn't benefit me any more than in-store shopping does, because although I might not be paying a shipping fee, I'm still paying significantly more than I would be if I did have to pay for shipping. However, I will be paying exactly what I would be paying in-store, which is a good thing, considering I'm not also paying for gas and resources to get to and from the store.

Basically, crossing the free-shipping threshold is only truly worthwhile on large orders of items that you would almost certainly buy in-store for the same price. I would rather go to a store for small orders rather than pay shipping and handling. And in-store sales are almost always beneficial, unless, of course, they lead you to impulsive shopping, which can be a real burden...

Don't let the shiny, exciting 50% Off Everything! signs push you into debt. Naturally, when things are on sale, it's easy to purchase more, because things cost less. However, this should mean that that little number at the bottom of your receipt should be lower than it would have been originally, not higher. Even though it seems worthwhile to stock up when things are on sale, if you have a budget to stick to, you need to stick to it regardless of how excellent the deal on jeans is.

The easiest way to combat impulsive shopping is to make a list of needs (or wants) prior to entering the arena. That way, your mind is clear of provocative signs and images seducing you into evil, dark alleys where they rape your wallet. Put that list on paper, stick in safely in your purse or better yet, in front of your credit cards in your wallet, and rest assured knowing that you have one more weapon to use against the deep-seated psychological urges you may feel when let lose in the wild, er... store.

This really helps me think about whether or not a purchase is TRULY necessary. Obviously, nothing besides the vitals (water, nutrients, shelter, oxygen) are actually necessities, but maybe a pair of pants has finally worn itself out, or a blouse just doesn't fit well anymore. These are the kinds of necessities I'm talking about. For the sake of not preaching, I'm just going to make up a quick list of things I need right now.

1. Pair of earbuds to replace the faulty pair - stay in the $15-30 range.
   
2. Bra/panties - 1 nice black bra, 5 panties. Normally Victoria's Secret has that great 5 for $25 sale on underwear, so I'll take advantage of that most certainly. Also, I have a gift card which will help.
3. Make-up - Right now Sephora is having a decent sale, so I will probably go there to restock on mascara, eye-liner, eyeshadow and an eye-liner sharpener from Urban Decay (I love their products!) with my gift card for Sephora.

I have a good deal of money to use, but I would like to keep some for later. So I always conclude my list with a DEFINITE budget, which in this case happens to vary from store to store, so that isn't too easy to do. It's always good to have a budget that isn't the ultimate make-or-break limit; keep it a good amount under your "true" budget. Naturally I don't need to meet that budget, but if I do, that's fine.

Also, it's good to keep in mind this little fact: many stores have similar, if not the same, products in stock. And often, there can be quite a discrepancy in prices between those two products, especially during sales. So this is my final tip: do your research.  Figure out what you want to buy ahead of time and plan out money-saving strategies by browsing the websites of potential sellers and calculating the best values. This might be more time consuming than simply winging it, but in the long run, this is just another tactic to prevent impulse spending.

And I lied: I have another. Remember that there will always be more sales to take advantage of, but there won't always be more money on that card. Shop wisely, be rational ALWAYS, and let's hope that I follow my own advice in New York.

Review: Spending the Holiday in Manhattan!

I have a message for the men out there: well, it's December 19th, and if you are still searching for the Perfect Gift for your significant other... well, you have five days. Five. Here's a little suggestion for you: get on it ASAP, unless, of course, you enjoy sleeping on the couch.

But in all seriousness, Christmas is a time to show your deep love and appreciation to those around you who give your life meaning. While the most powerful form of thanks comes in the form of a swift embrace, there are more... material ways of saying, "I love you and thanks!" And those material ways can definitely help when it comes to staying in your most cherished one's good graces.

For the holiday, my family and I are going up to NYC to celebrate, and while I doubt I'll be carrying the gorgeous bag featured to the left (remember, I don't have money), I know that most fashion-forward women and effeminate men out there would get a kick out of unwrapping a lovely leather handbag like this beauty of a purse from Aspinal of London.

The product description for the Manhattan Clutch examines the details of the bag. Aspinal's "best selling bag," each Manhattan Clutch is "handmade in stunning Italian Black Mock Croc Calf Leather... by a small Italian family tannery." It features "shimmering" grosgrain lining, "a gorgeous bijou hand mirror and a separate pocket for tickets and invites," as well as a durable "detachable heavy gold gilt chain." The clutch also comes in four other colors: Amazon Brown, Blue, Red and Purple.




It's a classic wardrobe staple, the black leather bag, and Aspinal's upscale take on that staple is just perfection. What's great about it is that it goes with nearly everything, from skinny jeans, boots and a warm sweater to that sexy cocktail dress you've been hiding in your closet, waiting for a party classy enough for it. Apparently I'm not alone: InStyle magazine wrote that the Manhattan Clutch is "amazing arm candy," and Daily Express defined it as both "evening glitz" and "daytime chic." Versatile!


What I like most about this bag is how extraordinary the quality is. That leather just... exquisite. I don't often buy leather, simply because I am heading in a considerably vegan direction from where I am now (of course, I'll never get there because of products like this), but I can wholeheartedly and without a hint of socially-conscious guilt admit that I would buy this chic clutch in a minute. I don't often find bags that just ooze quality. Though I don't have any cash, and all I earn has to zip on over to my American University funds, I will keep Aspinal of London's Manhattan Clutch in mind for a time when I actually have money. 


Aspinal of London's Manhattan Clutch can be purchased for $405.00 on Aspinal of London's website. Images courtesy of Aspinal of London. 

Offers:




Buy A Brit Tote and Get A Free Brit Clutch Wallet with code BRITOFFER Today! Valid 12.01.09 - 12.31.09.

ECOLOGIE: The Art of Fashion Forward Global Sustainability

From dictionary.com: E - CO - LOG - Y; noun. "The branch of biology dealing with the relations and interactions between organisms and their environment, including other organisms."

First off, you are probably wondering something along the lines of this: "Gee, Caitie, why are you spelling 'ecology' incorrectly?" And you're right. Obviously, the English word ends with a 'y' as opposed to 'ie.' I know this; I consider myself pretty good at vocabulary and spelling.

I actually did have a reason for using the French word for ecology. The French are an inherently fashionable and ecologically advanced people, and seem to be able to weave these two qualities together quite efficiently. At least from the stand point of an American.

There are, however, other areas of the huge umbrella topic called GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY. Wikipedia has a really good definition for global sustainability, suggesting that in terms of ecology,it "describes how biological systems remain diverse and productive over time," while "for humans it is the potential for long-term maintenance of well being, which in turn depends on the well being of the natural world and the responsible use of natural resources."

Basically, global sustainability is the ability for the systems of our world (social, ecological, governmental, etc) to endure over time. And while environmental sustainability tends to get the most attention from the media, I would argue that social sustainability is more important for the overall welfare of our species as a whole.

I attended a conference called the Global Youth Forum this past November, and sustainability was our topic. One of our keynote speakers was Mr. Mathis Wagernackel, creator of the Ecological Footprint Network. So, clearly the Western world has a monopoly on the world's consumption. But here's a few pieces of information from the EFN's website to really hit the imperativeness of this situation home:

Factoid 1: "If everyone lived the lifestyle of the average American we would need five planets."

Factoid 2: "Since the late 1970s, humanity has been in ecological overshoot with annual demand on resources exceeding what Earth can regenerate each year."

Factoid 3: "Today humanity uses the equivalent of 1.4 planets to provide the resources we use and absorb our waste. This means it now takes the Earth one year and five months to regenerate what we use in a year."

Factoid 4: "Moderate UN scenarios suggest that if current population and consumption trends continue, by the middle of the next decade we will need the equivalent of two Earths to support us."

... That's not good.

However, in little ways, we can help. And that's why I've devised a short but well-rounded list of companies that specialize in fair trade and organic clothing and products. If we can all work a bit harder to lessen our consumption by participating in this global movement in seemingly insignificant ways like recycling newspapers, cutting down on our showers or purchasing only or mostly organic and environmentally friendly cleaning agents, food products and clothing, we can reduce our global footprint significantly.

1. Ten Thousand Villages

Ten Thousand Villages is one of my favorite fair trade companies. They helped found the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) and so their connections to fair trade dealers and farmers are extensive. Fair trade "provides under- and unemployed artisans with an opportunity to earn vital income and improve their quality of life by establishing a sustainable market for their handcrafted products," according to the Ten Thousand Villages website.

If you're looking for last minute gifts for the holidays (for example, the gorgeous tan scarf in the collage above) your local Ten Thousand Villages store is a great place to search. They have a great collection of sustainable and socially/environmentally friendly items for reasonable prices.

Best of all, "artisans and Ten Thousand Villages agree on a fair price that covers the cost of labor and materials and enables artisans to earn fair compensation for their work." This is what makes fair trade different from free trade: fairness. It seems obvious, but it's such an essential part of these artisans' lives. It allows these people to feed and provide for their families, their villages and their industries.

The products they sell tend to be more in the natural-looking, crunchy vein of sustainable fashion, although they do have a great deal of really neat Asian and African products that help to add a sophisticated and multicultural edge to their products.

2. Nimli

If you prefer more of a quirky, fun approach to sustainability, try Nimli. According to their mission statement, Nimli "is an online marketplace devoted to providing natural, organic, and sustainable lifestyle products while embracing style and aesthetic." This is very important. Aesthetic. Nimli is attempting to enhance their products' overall appeal through their style.

I put a lot of products from Nimli into the collage, but my favorite has to be that adorable owl pillow. So pretty.

Something I found really interesting is that Nimli requires that "all designers to ship their products directly to our customers." This might seem sort of strange, but here's what makes that such a great thing: "by eliminating the unnecessary step of shipping items to a warehouse for future re-shipment," the individual and industrial carbon footprints that normally increase with standard manufacturing processes decrease considerably, thus making Mother Earth a very happy and healthy lady.

Nimli's products are a bit more expensive, though not outrageous; however their products seem to be good quality and worth the price tags. These prices enable them to "embrace a way of life that supports goods that do not cause suffering and damage to the environment" as well as to "animals." (As a vegetarian, that particular part made me quite giddy!)

3. Greenloop

This site is HUGE! It's got so many independent and eco-friendly designers that it overwhelmed me just a tad. However, while some of the designers aren't spectacular, this site has a great selection of those that are.

From their mission statement: "Greenloop supports sustainable textiles, recycling and re-use, renewable energy, reduction of green house gases, organic farming, sweat-shop free production, and environmental non-profit groups every single day through the products we offer."

Similarly to Nimli, Greenloop has "committed to supporting the development of environmentally responsible, renewable energy and to stopping global warming." They "purchase certified carbon offsets for each order placed making each shopping experience even greener."

The dark blue maxi dress comes from Greenloop. I want it, but I'm poor. Prices are all over the place because some designers charge more than others.

4. Equita

Equita, interestingly enough, is the Italian word for fairness. It "is a design-conscious shop showcasing the finest in green, sweatshop-free and Fair Trade essentials for the body and home."

They seem to go a long way to ensure that their products are the finest green products they can find. "To accomplish this," they have "developed a strict set of criteria that guides [them] through [their] product selection."

They are also extremely investing in the Fair Trade Organization. I found some great bullet points on their website that help describe what Fair Trade exactly hopes to accomplish.

• Paying a fair wage in the local context
• Advancement opportunities for employees
• Providing equal employment opportunities for all people, particularly the most disadvantaged
• Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices
• Being transparent and open to public accountability
• Providing healthy and safe working conditions within the local context
• Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible

Though one of my personal favorites, Equita is probably the most expensive of the bunch. However, their products are just stunning. Everything from that baby blue sundress to the multi-colored metallic chain necklace just ooze class and simplistic beauty.

5. Gaiam

Gaiam is the ultimate yoga company. My mom is a massive yoga aficionado, and she swears by Gaiam for her supplies. But Gaiam is also quite fashionable, and they have great Fair Trade and organic products, like the ready-for-the-office ruffled purple tunic above.

As told by the founder, Jirka Rysavy, Gaiam looks "to create a global community of like-minded people — a force for positive change." To solidify that statement, Gaiam has worked to much success for the environment.

In 2006, the company created the world's first "carbon-neutral product shipping program." They founded Go Zero, an environmental awareness organization, and use 100% recyclable and biodegradable packaging. They have also partnered with the Fair Trade Organization to ensure that their products, both those labeled Gaiam and non-Gaiam, were created by fairly and justly paid labor.

6. Free People

Free People is quite a well known company. The very first store opened by the Philadelphian owners of Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie, FP specializes in products for the "26-year-old girl, smart, creative, confident and comfortable in all aspects of her being, free and adventurous, sweet to tough to tomboy to romantic. A girl who likes to keep busy and push life to its limits, with traveling and hanging out and everything in between. Who loves Donovan as much as she loves The Dears, and can't resist petting any dog that passes her by on the street." Basically, a free spirit.

However, I add FP to my list with reservation: Free People does not sell solely Fair Trade/organic items. Most of their products are organic and some are Fair Trade as well. They are all, however, very WELL made. I believe that the quality of their products outdoes that of Urban's quality.

I love FP, and all of the items I've purchased from them have been Fair Trade. The products I've gotten in the past have been very well made and I still wear them quite often. FP is a bit more expensive, although you do get a sustainable bag with your purchase!

In addition to these stores, you might want to check out your local boutiques for organic clothing, as well as vintage/consignment stores. Wearing vintage is the ultimate in recycling fashion. When you are finished with clothing, they no longer fits, etc., be sure to donate them to Goodwill/Salvation Army/etc. to give others a chance to lessen their ecological footprints.

And did you know, denim can be used to insulate houses?

Images and information courtesy of the Ecological Footprint Network, Ten Thousand Villages, Nimli, Greenloop, Equita, Gaiam and Free People.

READ THIS: IFB LOVE!!!

The Countdown Begins

Edited by Dramatis Personae The countdown has begun–not only until the end of the year–but until the end of the first decade in the 21st century.  That’s kind of amazing to think about.  Styletastic and Sway, Sway, Away! both look at fashion from the Oughts with two distinctly different visions. [the3st] interviews the founder of ModCloth, while Wicked & Whimsy reviews Closet Confidential (by the hilarious Winona of DaddyLikey fame!).
Since this will be my last edit of links a la mode for this year, see you all in 2010!

Links à la Mode : December 17th

    
• 39thandbroadway.com: – How Brands Get Burned By Celebs
    
• A Typical Atypical: – Suffering from Buyers Remorse: The Real Deal
    
• Brunette and Pink: – Makeup Tutorial: Leighton Meester Inspired Winged-out Smoky Eye Look
    
• DailyDivaDish – Create a sparkling New Year’s look with the Tarte Treasure Chest Giveaway.  Enter to this limited edition kit.
    
• Friend in Fashion – Sugar and spice and all things nice – Unearthing the unique designs of the fabulous, Arizona based designer Monique Martinez, through the captive lense of Galaxie Andrews.
    
• Grit and Glamour: – The Trend Conundrum–rends are a tricky thing; what makes some women look so pulled together is not a wardrobe full of the latest styles and trends, but the ability to know which ones to avoid.
    
• i'm the it girl: – My Love Affair With Hermes and the Great Debate: Kelly or Birkin?
    
• Idiosyncratic Style: – 12 Great Holiday DIY Projects – give something special this year (even if you are short on time and money)
    
• kaKofonie Of si(gh)lenS: – My most amazing (and green!) find this year: Denim Therapy, a company who will restore your tattered favorite jeans to like-new condition. Seriously.
    
• La Société de Mode | The Fashion Society: – Combats are stomping their way back into style
    
• Pursed Lips: – Thoughts/quotes on Lady Gaga as a powerful tool, if a difficult one to reach, for designers.
    
• Style on a String – Getting down to the wire: Gifts for the Stylish Geek who is kind of Girly too
    
• Styletastic: – As the 00’s are coming to en end, we look back at the fashion memories that will define the decade. Ah the memories!
    
• Sway Sway Away!: – Sway Sway Away! presents Caitie’s bitching and moaning on the worst trends of the Aughts.
    
• THE COVETED – Love it or Leave it : Rodarte for Target
    
• The Fashion Planner: – The Fashion Planner shows you how to make a jaunty beret.
    
• The Working Wardrobe: – Beware of “business casual” being too casual for the workplace.
    
• tick tick heart: – A focus on the varying fashions of some of our quirkier leading ladies in film.
    
• White Rabbit: – Pros and Contras of Artificial Nails
    
• Wicked Whimsy: – Closet Confidential: A Review
    
• [the3st]: – Success & Getting There: Interview with Susan of ModCloth.com

... I am obsessed in a bad way.

Are these real people? Really? I just had to ask, because it's just too much.

Image courtesy of Frazer Harrison.

What The F...ashion? Decade of the Bitchez and Hoez

What happened to mainstream fashion from 2000-2009? Did the retailers go to some retailer conference and then take a lot of acid before smacking each other over the heads with baseball bats (steel not wooden, naturally)? I look through some of the WTF moments in fashion over the past 10 years, and I really just don't know what to say. This collection contains items that rest somewhere in between disco and the mullet on the fashion spectrum of suckitude.

1. First, I have the jelly awareness bracelet. A fine specimen of silicone (AKA: what women put in their breasts), this bracelet found it's entry into popular culture with the help of Lance Armstrong for his Livestrong foundation. They support excellent causes, these awareness bracelets, but really. When people begin calling them "sex bracelets," you know you have a keeper. Different colors have different meanings, so if I cover my entire arm with a rainbow of jelly bracelets, you can almost guarantee I've been infected with at least three different STDs.

It's wonderful to show support of good causes. But really, are these bracelets the way to do it?

2. Okay. The Trucker Hat. WHYYYY??? WHO WANTS TO LOOK LIKE A TRUCKER??????

(Don't mention Dsquared². Don't. I actually liked that collection, but I think the whole trucker hat thing was a bit tongue in cheek.)

Just look at it. Tell me you don't want to wear a hat that says something like, "I have issues."

3. She's-Just-Gone-Swimmin' Leggings, like the one's on Lisa Cant to the left, are a more recent development. I still don't know how I feel about them. I'd rather just wear leather pants and go all sexy cat lady ala Idina Menzel in Rent. Leggings are wonderful, just PLEASE wear something that doesn't show your camel toe on top.

As told by Wikipedia: "Opaque leggings are sometimes worn by women without a skirt. However, unless the woman is also wearing a very long top, her buttocks will be exposed. There may be a visible panty line."

Panty lines are NEVER sexy, even paired with sexy catsuits. Just... no.

4. Camo = Hell no. All I have to do is show you a photo of this fashion conscious deer hunter (an oxymoron, no?) to (hopefully) convince you of the absolute atrociousness of camoflague. Leave it to the boys overseas. 

Chris Brown and Kanye West both have been known to wear camo and military garb. So, the moral of the story is this: if you want to look like a douchebag, pile on the redneck gear and load your gun.

5. Crocs. Sexy....

...

... Enough said.

But seriously. I know people who own these. Still. And they're not gardeners.  And apparently my dear Mama Bama ain't a saint. According to Wiki, "in August 2009, they were even spotted on the feet of America's First Lady." I want to die.

Thanks, 2006.

6. Ed Hardy. Not that I ever particularly liked Ed Hardy, but I can safely say that when Jon Gosselin began walking around Philly in his Ed Hardy tees was when I swore never to touch a piece from the collection by Christian Audigier.

Just look at that sexy, sexy piece of man meat. But while Jon's... expressive features are quite eyecatching, it is the ensemble that really makes me want to gouge my eyes out with spoons.

7. Heavy Metal FASHIONISTAZZZ! A little studdage is fine, but... this is when it crosses into the category of not fine. At all.

Even if you're Judas Priest. It's not okay to look like a convicted serial killer.

This particular section from Wiki made me chuckle. "The studded leather look was extended in subsequent variations, to the wearing of combat boots, studded belts and bracelets, bullet belts, spiked gauntlets, etc. The codpiece, however, appears to have been less popular among the general public." Well, to each his own.

8. Harem pants. I really, really hate these. MC Hammer could work them, but that was back in the middle of Hammer Time, and well, that's long since passed.

BUT THEY'RE BACK!! WHY? WHYY? I already have enough nut space in my ponte pants, thank you. These are UNFLATTERING as hell, and they're also extremely popular. Why? I don't get this trend, but I'm hoping they'll go away ASAP.

Furthermore, take a look at this list of pants that are practically synonymous with harem pants: "Similar pants are also known as dimije, tshalvar, schalwar, patiala salwar, sirwal, shintijan, sirwal, sharovary, turkish pants, aladdin pants, balloon pants, drop crotch pants, pantaloons, zouave, pluderhose, pumphose" (Wikipedia).

9. Keep it real, my bitchez. Fuck that shit.

Why is it fashionable to be a gun-totin', boozin', ass-tappin' gangsta?

I really can't wrap my head around this orange shirt-thing.








Drumroll, please...


10. UGGS!

Wear them at home, and they're slippers. Wear them anywhere else, and... I won't even say what will happen, but it isn't good. Not one bit.

Everyone I know wears these little fluffy bastards. They wear them with their little Abercrombie pants and sweaters or pull a Britney or Miley and pair them with JEAN SHORTS and flannel shirts. They're about eight times uglier than Crocs and three times uglier than harem pants. On top of the ugliness, every time someone wears a pair, a puppy dies.

(Not really. But I'm just fired up. Not libel suits, kthnxxx.)


So that's my take on the Aughts. Forgive me for my bitchiness; I'm PMS-ing.

Images courtesy of Style.com, Wikipedia.org and BabyPhat.com.

Fierce Miss Freja

I don't have much to say, just wanted to post this glory from the Twin Magazine fall 2009 issue. FREJA BEHA IS A SEXGODDESS.

Oh, new header. I like it.

Asian-spiration: East Meets West

en I went to Japan in July, my friend Justine and I went sort of crazy in Harajuku. And by sort of, I mean absolutely INSANE. Amazing place, Harajuku, Tokyo is! It's just... alive and youthful and indulgent. I remember a group of girls were in a particular idol (celebrity) store that we happened to be looking around in, and without really any linguistic understanding (to her credit, Justine is learning and is getting pretty good at Japanese) we gushed over how "kawaii" all of the boys were and all of our respective styles.

One of the best memories I have of Japan was in Kyoto. We got to see a stunning kimono fashion show. I remember turning to Justine and going, "Why can't I be pretty like Japanese ladies?"

While I've always loved Japanese (as well as other Asian) fashions, I've never really had an opportunity to EXPRESS that adoration. However, I found several cute little dresses and accessories in Japan that I wear quite often.

One of my best friends moved this past summer to Shanghai, China for our senior year of high school. And for my birthday, she sent me a gorgeous red scarf as well as a silk satchel and a beautiful little peacock-print notebook. I've gotten so much use out of that scarf, and I'm sure I'll be posting some street shots of that baby soon enough.

For a little Asian-spiration (oh, I kill myself) I've complied a collage of photos which mix eastern and western influences into glamorous and eccentric multi-cultural style.

From the top left (curve around in rows to follow, m'dears): red clutch from 3.1 Phillip Lim runway, coral necklace from Urban Outfitters, Comme des Garçons runway, Dsquared² runway, Marc by Marc Jacobs runway, Vivitar digital camera, streamers from PARTYPARTY by CONFETTISYSTEM, dress by Topshop, Betsey Johnson runway, Vogue Nippon, nautical earrings from Urban Outfitters, Ayumi Hamasaki in Sweet Magazine, Dree Hemingway for Vogue Nippon, Hello Kitty plush from Urban Outfitters, Tao Okamoto in Vogue Nippon, Tomokazu Matsuyama for LeSportsac backpack, cover text from Vogue Nippon, Liu Wen for Vogue China, Claudia Schiffer, blue Timex watch, Dirty Japanese book, Where the Wild Things Are leggings by Mary Meyer for Urban Outfitters and yellow vest (source?).

Photos courtesy of Style.com, UrbanOutfitters.com, Net-a-porter.com, FashionGoneRogue.com, Sweet Magazine and Modelcouture.

WHY AM I POOR?

Sad girl is sad. But really, wow. So much win is in the Pre-Fall '10 collections. There's a lot of Chinese influence, I noticed, especially in the Chanel line and in that first Versace piece. Anyway, I was a little underwhelmed by a lot of the designers, but there were a few gems to mention:

The entire Chanel collection was awesome, but I chose this one because I just adore it:

By Diane von Furstenberg:

And Michael Kors (pretty, I want):

 

But... oh god. Oscar, Oscar, Oscar. BEAUTY DEFINED!!!!!

 

I'm jizzing.

So sophisticated and sparkly!

But my favorite collection is the Versace. So cool. I would wear these (if I weren't fat and broke.)

I seriously need to get a job, or find a new hobby.

Oh No! The Black Sheep of The Family Is On His Way!

No, I'm not talking about Uncle Pete (although we need to get him help before he ruins his life!) Actually, I'm referring to a very, very unfortunate guy by the name of SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD wreaks havoc mostly during the winter doldrums, as this writer knows quite well, because the sun decides to stick its middle finger up at us for a couple of months. The lack of sunlight that begins in late fall and continues through the blustery, bluesy chill of winter creates a sort of depression that, to put it simply, kind of sucks. If you A) hemorrhage from your pretty place once a month, B) live far from the equator and C) have a family history of depression, congratulations! You're right on track to developing SAD!

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are other causes for SAD: "Your biological clock (circadian rhythm), melatonin levels, and serotonin levels."  Hmm. For those of us who aren't psychologists, I'll put this into layman's terms.

Our bodies have internal clocks that tell us when to sleep, when to eat, when we need to have babies, etc. The lack of sunlight seems to be able to "disrupt your body's internal clock," causing your melatonin and serotonin levels to drop and BAM! depression arrives. Melatonin is a hormone that helps maintain steady sleeping patterns and serotonin is a brain chemical or neurotransmitter that stabilizes mood. So when your Serotonin goes haywire, so do your moods.

But before you reach for your pills, wait! I may just have a flourescent light bulb bright enough to keep you from reaching for your collection of Poe.

COLOR, BEAUTY AND LIGHT! Springtime may be a while off, but that doesn't mean we can't celebrate its eventual arrival with a splash of pastels, neons and sparkle. (FYI: Jude Law is in there to serve as a natural anti-depressant of sorts.) The Mayo Clinic agree with me, suggesting that sufferers make their "environment[s] sunnier and brighter." Fill your life with springy color and you'll be surprised with how much more sun you'll find in your life.


The fashion world seems to understand the importance of freshness and color in life. Just look at the runway. From the rosy 3.1 Phillip Limset to that stunning blue Alexander McQueen print , vibrant color reigns supreme. And even if, like me, couture is a little bit out of your price range, there are SO many other (equally wonderful) options. Everyone loves color, and so you won't be able to walk into your favorite store (except maybe White House/Black Market) and find nothing but shades of gray. Everyone loves color. And designers want to capitalize on that adoration, so naturally, you'll find color.

Take this lovely and sophisticated Forever 21 blouse. For only $22.80, you can seriously give yourself a new kind of blues. Haha. Oh, I kill myself. Ugh.

But really, it astounds me what power a touch of color can have over mood. I try to include a colorful piece in every outfit I wear because I know that SAD gets me quite severely.

In a way, wearing vivid hues is like a preventative vaccine against depression. Color your mood and you'll considerably build up your immunity.

But color can't do it all. You're probably wondering why I included in my collage a couple of items that really don't appear to belong.

During the winter, I find it not only helpful but necessary to find hobbies to fill my time. Don't sit around the house twiddling your thumbs all day, unless of course you want to go back to the bottle. Go to a museum, take up photography, exercise at the gym, peruse the local Borders or Barnes and Noble and read some new novels/foreign fashion magazines while sipping on lattes (or in my friend Caryn's case, hot chocolate.) Take the time to fill your life with things that make you happy, that give you pleasure. Don't let the clouds rain all over you without putting up a fight.

That's why I included the transparent umbrella from Urban Outfitters. Classy and simple, the umbrella lets the natural light from the sky shine through, brightening all rainy days significantly. "Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help," continues the entry at the Mayo Cliic. It's organic, beautiful light. Using a stylish umbrella like this one can really only serve to make users happier.

Fill your life to the brim with shimmering, simmering excitement. The moment you give in to boredom is the moment SAD wins a point. And even if you fall off of the wagon for a day or two, that's okay! We're all human, right? But just climb back on and smile at the promise of spring.

Images courtesy of Style.com, Modelcouture, Forever21.com, UrbanOutfitters.com, Uglydolls.com, Amazon.com and FashionGoneRogue.com.

Kinga Rajzak - Ten Magazine Winter '09

I... am speechless.

Images courtesy of Modelcouture.

LUXE FOR LESS: Shine On

Unfortunately, a lot of the most beautiful nightlife clothing and accessories are WAY, WAY out of my budget. But this isn't to say that there aren't wonderful and far less expensive options out there. In the first edition of Luxe for Less, I will examine one of the latest trends (shine, sparkle and sequin) and provide several wonderful pieces all under $100.During the holiday season, you go to a lot of parties. You need a dress with style and uniqueness, something new and exciting. But you probably, if you're like me, aren't going to be working the F/W '09 3.1 Phillip Lim beauty below. Instead, you're going to go to your local mall and frantically search for something that isn't Jessica McClintock...

When I'm looking for original and quirky dresses to wear to parties and dances, I usually go to Urban Outfitters. I'm usually looking in the $50-60 range, and I've had pretty good luck there. The black sequin dress above is by Silence + Noise, priced at $98, is just one of the great finds from Urban.

Naturally, not everyone likes Urban Outfitters. In my research, I came across two other great dresses: one from JcPenney's (the white babydoll) and the other from Topshop (the beaded, long-sleeved LBD). I believe the JcPenney's dress was $61, while the beaded was $90. And if you really want to find something chic and EXTREMELY cheap (of the inexpensive variety) head on over to Forever 21.

My favorite pastime happens to be thrifting. I cannot say how many wonderful dresses I've bought while in vintage stores. The dress I wore to prom last year is a simple black sheath from the '60s with a gorgeous bow on the back. It was downwards of $50 in NYC. My homecoming LBD was only $20. However, my favorite purchase has to have been this baby blue dress that I found at the Woodstock Reunion concert this past summer. If you have vintage stores, Goodwill or flea markets, check them out. You might be surprised at what you find.

The dress is only part of the equation. You'll need leggings, pantyhose or tights to cover up your naughty bits (the key to being sexy is only hinting as to what lies north of the thighs; overly revealing outfits rarely look enticing.) One constant I usually use when I go out is the simple black tight. However, if you are wearing a plain dress, a pair of sequin leggings, like the ones from Topshop ($85) above. Granted, these are a bit pricey (in my opinion) for leggings, but as a statement piece I'm certain they could get a lot of use.

Underneath those shimmering legs better be a great pair of heels, wedges or flats. I generally shoe shop at DSW, but I've found great pairs of durable flats at places like Urban Outfitters and Steve Madden. However, pictured above is a beautiful metallic wedge from H&M that really caught my eye. For $59.95, that shoe is really something.

Accessories happen to be my favorite part of the complete party outfit. Featured in my collage is a rhinestone bracelet by BleachBlack ($28 at UrbanOutfitters.com) as well as a statement ring ($18, UO), barette ($16) and a gorgeous Kimchi Blue beaded clutch ($48). Department stores tend to have really wonderful accessories, and even the local drugstores like Walgreens and Rite Aid carry great little trinkets for mere dollars.

When it comes to shopping for luxurious pieces, use judgment. Occasionally I will spend a bit more on an item if I believe it will be a true investment; mostly, I budget myself and learn to work within the line I've drawn.

And here's a little secret: you really don't have to spend a lot on shine luxe. Go for one flashy item and temper the rest. The purpose of sequins really isn't to attract children with ADHD, so you can and should tone it down a bit.

Images courtesy of Elle, UrbanOutfitters, Jcpenney, H&M and Topshop.

ETSY BROWSING LEADS TO HEARTBREAK.

Just... just look at these beautiful little finds. Someone buy them so I can live vicariously through you!