Bombshells And Birds

CLOSET SALE.

2010-08-19T14:40:00.001-07:00

Hey There,

So i'm ending my long absence with a closet sale over at CHRISSSTTTIIINE. Starting today you can buy some of my old treasures through paypal. Feel free to email me at patriciarealini@gmail.com with any questions.

<3 stay classy

PS I still love you guys, but a girl's gotta get away sometimes...

Love Affair.

2010-03-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

I’ve spent the last week OBSESSED with getting new makeup. I think it’s because I’m slightly less than enamored with ready to wear clothes in the stores these days and I’m sick of buying clothes from Forever 21 and watching them wither and die before I even get a chance to include them in my wardrobe.

Ironically, make up is not forever either. But I think make up is an even more well planned love affair than clothing. Clothing is like pets and make up is like a relationships. Make up is a passionate love.

With clothing you have to care for it and clean it constantly, sometimes to be groomed by a dry cleaner. If you pop a button, snap a zipper or scuff a shoe you have to take them in to be treated by a clobber or a seamstress. The responsibility mounts and the love diminishes as the light gets less and less flattering. But make up.

Make up is the kind of love they write about in poetry and show you in movies. It’s the kind of love you invest in. Sometimes you look past the packaging and see the quality. Other times, the packaging makes you swoon and brings out the glitter and glam of an eyeshadow or lip gloss. You have to use it more than once a week. You find yourself touching up even when you don’t need to just because you can. And god forbid something bad happens, you drop your bag and your eyeshadow shatters. The mourning will leave you scarred for weeks.

Then you hit the bottom. When you hit the metal plate under your powder and start scrapping the bottom of your lip gloss pot you feel the beginning of the end. You begin to yearn for the good ol’ days when you just started to use the product. You look for it in the stores but it’s gone, it’s not the same, it’s not what you remembered. You slowly start to get angry at it for no reason. The cap doesn’t stick the back like it used to so you hurl it across the room. It’s not the make up’s fault. It’s just time to let go. So you begin to use it less and less. The lip sticks and eyeliners that are just nubs get lost in your purse and left on your dresser table. Eventually, you clean out your life and clean out your bag. But whenever you see pictures of you wearing that lip stain you remember how easy and fun things used to be. You move on, fall in love again, live your life but always smile when you think back on the good times you had.

SHOPPING LIST

1. Lipstick Queen’s Chinatown Glossy Pencil in Genre

2. NARS Orgasm Illuminator

3. NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Kuala Lumpur

4. MAC Eye Pencil in Stubborn Brown

5. Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect in Chiffon Beige

6. Nude & Bright Red Nail Polish

7. Sephora's Tinted Moisturizer with SPF

8. MAC Mineralized Powder

9. Benefit’s Bathina Body So Fine

10. Tocca Perfume Brigitte

<3 stay classy

[Painting By Kat Macleod from Michi Girl]

Think Spring.

2010-02-18T10:59:00.000-08:00

<3 stay classy

Rest In Peace.

2010-02-13T23:36:00.000-08:00

Lee Alexander McQueen
March 16, 1969 - February 11, 2010

<3 stay classy

Rapunzel, Rapunzel, Let Down Your Hair.

2010-01-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks NAST!

<3 stay classy

A Whole New Hair Do.

2010-01-18T01:12:00.000-08:00

<3 stay classy

Invisishoes!

2009-12-12T14:30:00.000-08:00

Andreia Chaves' Invisible Shoes. It's like wearing nothing at all!

<3 stay classy

ZAPATOS!

2009-11-02T09:17:00.000-08:00

A shoe stopping showcase of the combined efforts of myself and Chrissstttiiine (of http://chrissstttiiine.blogspot.com/
and http://www.youtube.com/user/chrissstttiiine).

<3 stay classy

Magazines Have Gone To Rags.

2009-10-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

With the recent passing of Gourmet magazine and Domino's death earlier this year, i'm kind of sick of magazines. CORRECTION. i'm sick of magazine publishers. Conde Nastique needs to take a minute to conduct an attitude check. When a magazine starts to dip you don't just cut it because you don't feel like weathering the storm. Gourmet has been around for almost a century. A CENTURY. And honestly, i hate Bon Appetit's format, i liked Gourmet and there are a HUNDRED ways to try and save something worth saving! I'm positive that if Conde Nastique had put out a call for help, people would have jumped. I would have subscribed, companies would have bought ad space, they could have just cut the budget. But no, there was no call for help, Editor In Chief Ruth Reichl was shocked when they shut her down, and it was like they didn't even bat a lash. And as for everyone else, Nylon is selling out, if you took all the ads out of Art Forum it would weight as much as a feather, and i wouldn't touch Vogue with a ten foot pole these days. Quality has just gone out the window. And i'm sick of it, so here are my favorite magazines right now.

BTW I'll admit, i hardly read fashion magazines, they are alright but i'll be honest none of them are really that interesting, they have no heart when it comes to style because their afraid they'll fall into a niche market and won't sell enough copies. So i stick to blogs, it's easier this way. Plus, you can get inspiration from everywhere, you don't need to only look at fashion magazines to find something interesting you can integrate in your wardrobe, look up, i'm sure there is something right in front of you you could use.

Art Lies - Excellent writing and really in depth coverage of what's going in the art world. It's like a litmus test of what people in the art world are talking about and their opinions. Each issue is a different topic and it's like a starter kit. It's great cause I read it, get educated and if i'm really interested, i can go and find out more. And they don't sacrifice anything for what they do, it's all about the message.

Monocle - Current events and such for the NPR listening/humanities major/world traveler in us all. Really smart and saavy with a hand on the pulse of culture. They never miss a beat. Plus they do great features on politics and world news that get you thinking about what's going on in the world around you.

Edible LA - It's easy to ignore the touch of amateur behind this Los Angeles food publication because of their whole hearted dedication to the community of food lovers in LA. They have a great section on the Farmer's Market and mention whenever there is a food related art show in town. Plus they're writers profiles are so fun to read at the end of each article. A real publication by real people who clearly care about what they are writing about. Kudos.

Wall Street Journal - Be smart, it's sexy.

Sunset - Ok, i'm a total mom. I love Sunset magazine for it's food tips, wine tips, decor tips, gardening tips (even though i don't garden), day trips tips, tips tips, etc, etc. It's just very insightful and i love to read it and bookmark it and know that one day i will go and do all those things. PS my mom hates me cause i always steal her copy haha.

Dwell - I love their whole modern day take on architecture and interior design. It's chic and contemporary plus it's interesting to read for everything else they mention. From their reviews of ice cream making machines to news about a swimming deck in the middle of the ocean in Northern Europe and everything in between. Also their latest publication Afar, a travel magazine, is pretty cool too. They've only come out with one issue but the article about England and Brick Lane was pretty interesting. I'm definitely keeping an eye on that one.

Also I love Magcloud! It's a self publishing website where anyone with internet access can publish their own magazine! Copies are printed to order and start at $0.20 a page up to 100 pages plus whatever the author wants to charge for profits. I just ordered a magazine from Australia called Strange Light that featured photographs taken on September 23rd 2009 in and all over Australia during a sand storm of sorts. it's GORGEOUS! Check 'em out publish your own, whatever, but the best part? Magcloud doesn't tell you you can't print something because it's over budget or not profitable! Yay!

As for other internet finds Title Magazine, an Orange County internet based publication, is pretty fine if i say so myself, plus it's free, so check them out. They have wonderful coverage of what's new in indie music and art from all over and their style is great. It's the kind of thing I would pass along like a scribbled out note of gossip or a party invite flyer to all my friends. It's pure eye candy.

And even though this post is about magazines not blogs I have to mention i've recently discovered IMBOYCRAZY, an honest, raw and whimsical blog about being a girl in LA and having boy fever, Alexi Wasser is really cute and fun and silly and her writing hits me hard, it's great. She isn't afraid, she's confidant and brave and says what needs to be said. I love it and would make it necessary reading for every girl in high school going through puberty if i could. So check her out too.

By the by, contrary to popular belief PRINT IS NOT DEAD. It is simply experiencing a revolution of sorts. With the environmental stance that has overcome the nation - AMEN sister(!) - print is changing into a medium of art. Like painting and pottery, it will not pass on like a phase of technology caught between software updates (see the beta tape) but rather move up on the ladder and occupy a space of elitism. I welcome this change. No longer will print be soiled by the gossip and ads that clutter our daily lives but rather it will enrich and accentuate the written word in and around us all. I subscribe to this theory because like many out there, i adore print. I collect magazines, coffee table books on art and such, hardback classic novels, various posters and stationary. Since the first papyrus reeds in Egypt people will always go back to paper.

Oh and Kindle sucks.

<3 stay classy

Lacy Little Things.

2009-10-12T10:09:00.000-07:00

A palette of inspiration disguised as an amuse-bouche.

<3 stay classy

Frugalistas Can Too Be Ferosh.

2009-10-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

Thank G O D someone in marketing down at Payless picked up on the frugalista wave that is going to hit harder than a tsunami in Indonesia this fall. Sure we have all donned a pair of gigantic sunglasses and other various undercover clothing to scrounge the aisles of our local child infested/elevator music ridden/high school gum popping and cynically staffed store that we love/hate for their cheap thrills (don't tell me you haven't found a great pair of staple shoes there that falls to bits in precisely 2.5 months when you're running late to insert important event here and you're already half way there. We've all been there, it breaks my heart too dollface). But as i'm sure you all know they have been branching out in the last few years to draw in what was once a niche market of people who would starve for a week rather than not buy that article of clothing that as we economically challenged and fashion conscious say "completes me", however now that that niche market has exponentially grown to the size of Jenna Jameson's collagen injected face their bet is about to pay off.

In the last few years Payless has collaborated with Alice+ Olivia and Lela Rose to create what they call fashionably acceptable footwear. I scoff at their attempts. Their Alice + Olivia line belongs in the back of a midwest Macy's in a box labelled PLEASE GIVE ME A HOME. Anyone who considers what Alice + Olivia has put out for Payless shoe-stopping probably thinks implementing safety pins and/or bows in their outfits is a fashion statement. I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. And as for Lela Rose, I'd say their execution lacked more than a sharp edge. No one is going to stand out in a crowd wearing their mom's office appropriate footwear. I quickly classified their collection as comfortable. That's fashion lingo for S O C I A L S U I C I D E.

It seems though that in Payless's good fortune, two wrongs make a right. This fall they launched a collaborative collection with Christian V. Siriano, beloved winner of Project Runway Season 4. Stemming from his Fall 2009 Ready To Wear collection that focused on Cleopatra, Siriano won the shoe-stopping challenge in my book. Featuring teals and chocolates, spikes and chains, it's actually a convincingly fierce collection. Granted it does lend artistic license from Rodarte Fall 2008, but I feel like it was a platform for growth. Siriano took what Rodarte started and came full circle providing us with a edgy and complete interpretation of fab footwear. It's fun loving in the color department, eye grabbing in the style department and reusable in the wardrobe department. I honestly see this collection as pretty well endowed in terms of fulfilling the needs of a fashion fixed frugalista.

Clockwise from the top left: Sandstrap, Saunter, Strut and Slither.
Check Out Siriano's Fall 2009 collection and what he has to say about his collection with Payless Shoes. I have to say I L O V E the texture of ruffles he implemented in his collection and the wide spectrum he covered. His collection as a whole is impressive and mature; each piece stands out and marks its territory but they all work like a team too. Tim Gunn was right, he is our generation's Marc Jacobs. Oh and his ever so cute little cameo at the end of his show drives me wild. I could just eat him he's so cute.

Visit Payless On The Runway for more details on Payless's designer collaborations & to get a preview of what to expect Spring 2010 and Payless.com for Siriano's collection. By and by, the Alice + Olivia collections and Lela Rose collections have been abysmal in the quality department. Mostly, dare I utter the word, plastic pleather, and what seems to be melted legos (though their patent leather is somewhat acceptable), I don't trust Payless in terms of quality footwear fabric. But we'll see how the Siriano collection fares.

<3 stay classy

PS On a side note, I don't think it's worth a whole entry but Lilo's sad sad sad attempt at a celebrity collection with Ungaro was just that, sad sad sad. I hope she never lives it down. And whoever signed off on allowing her to commit such a travesty ought to be given 20 lashings and hung for crimes against humanity.

A-Z Of Fall 2009.

2009-10-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

26 trends for Fall 2009 in a handy guide!

Aubergine - The color of the season this year is Aubergine, an eggplant purple and my personal all time favorite color. Very rich and luscious and a complement to any skin tone, it highlights a tan and brightens a pale tone.

Bondage - Tightly laced up tops, shoes and buckled straps on pants are dominating this season. Talk about whipped. (No seriously. i could go on forever, it's just begging and pleading for it.)

Cuts Trump Prints - Architectural cuts with pleats, sewed in folds, and strong lines in the seams, zippers and even just sewed on have a step up on prints this season.

Do It Yourself - If you know how to crochet, knit or sew than you've already got this one in the bag, but in case you feel handicapped at hand crafting then listen up ladies cause there is nothing more cool than getting a compliment on something you're wearing that you made yourself. Start small, if you like jewelry then go bead shopping, get a little wire and get to work! Prefer bags? Go vintage shopping and spruce up a find with fabric, paint or whatever you like! Plus it's easy to alter something that is good to something great, just add a little lace or hem it short, but whatever you do, don't be afraid to change it up.

Economic Stimulus And The Frugalista - With the economy only now just recovering from a near fatal blow, we should all be doing our part to help stimulate. But for many, spending isn't what it once was. That doesn't mean you still can't get your dollar's worth (if the dollar is still worth anything). Just remember, encourage competition - in other words start comparative shopping - it weeds out unfair retailers, be environmentally minded - and go vintage, why buy something new when there are so many unique pieces already our there for the pickin' - and support the greenback - in other words, give your interest rates a rest and go with cash.

Fabric Sashes - Thin and medium sized, clean cut fabric sashes are replacing belts this season. Softening up the silhouette and giving you another opportunity to kick your outfit up a notch with a bow.

Grey Is The New Black - Grey leather accessories, grey and grease toned tops, grey belts and bags. This fall grey is the new base tone, great for making black pop again and a good complement for all colors.

Hips - Poofed up skirts, ruffles and stiffed dresses are the latest in hip shaking trends adding on what the harem pants of last spring started. So go ahead, flaunt your baby bucket (PS i'm pretty sure 30 Rock has that copyrighted.)

Luella Spring 2010, Thanks Style.com.

Intimates - Underthings are coming out, i mean who didn't love Dior's Fall 2009 couture collection? Don't be afraid to show a little lace and invest in a good garter belt. It's so much sexier to flash a little skin between a skirt and stockings than any other part of a woman's body. It's intimate, it's personal and it boils men's blood. A few other tips, always opt for lace, when you wear black take a walk on the wild side and let your teal bra strap show, and it isn't trashy if it's just the top of a stocking or a bra strap, but anything more is. "it's all about the teasing and not about the pleasing."

Dior Fall 2009 Couture Collection, Thanks New York Magazine.

Jean Jackets - Don't think you can get away with digging out whatever clothes you thought you might just wear and ended up in storing at the end of the 90's, jean jackets are all grown up now, in all sorts of washes, from stone to acid, and in every kind of cut, fitted blazer to bulky bomber, mix up your outwear and go for something a little more rugged. Just don't forget to roll up those sleeves!

Knee High Socks - Pair them with booties in any color you want and you're good to go. My favorite options - match the color to the color of your booties to elongate the leg and give you a pseudo over the knee boots look or go nuts and get some neon eye popping colors, I mean they're just socks.

Long Short Dresses - Perfect for the indecisive, mid thigh length dresses with ankle length sheer over or attached. Go ahead, show a little leg.

Monochrome But Not Monotone - Single color outfits in different shades, tones and hues. By coordinating an outfit in just one color, not only do you look pulled together, but monochromatic also makes you look taller through uninterrupted color. Very chic to say the least.

Jayma Mays from the premiere of Glee and Shades of Blue from The Sartorialist

Neck Pieces - Necks today are to hats of the 1900's. Oversized and ornate is the fad this fall. Go for any texture you like, from feathers and lace wrapped pearls for the sophisticated, to metal detector mayhem with elaborate plates and tangled up chains for those who like to live on the wild side (and maybe exercise their neck muscles while they're at it.) Heck, I wouldn't be surprised to see a whole bird nesting in a women's collarbone anytime soon, though I really hope I don't.

Over the Knee Boots - Don't start thinking Pretty Woman just yet, but boots have reached a new height. With the drop of the vertigo challenge heel to the runway prevalent flat this Fall, came the substitute - the over the knee boot. The holy grail of extreme footwear. Definitely an investment piece, but not something you'll see very often next season. If I had it my way, we'd get a pair with our tax rebates, it would definitely soften the blow of getting an IOU from the state. (I'm just saying!)

Purls of Wisdom - Carefully handknitted or felted scarves that function as necklaces of a sort. Often involving cut out shapes that are arranged, much like florals, to produce a sculptural accessory. Think of it as the aftermath of a junior college transfer from the afghan scarves of last fall to ivy league.

Coral Cashmere Squiggle Scarf and Raspberry Comet Trail Scarf from Anthropologie

Quilted Leather - From skirts to jackets, quilted leather is still loved by the fashion world. But if you want to change it up, try finding an uneven out of the ordinary shaped quilting. Looking for an example? Check out what Akris did with quilted right triangles.

Ruffles - Frilly frou frou ruffles are softening lines and volumizing skirts and shirts. The most prevalent being the short layered ruffles that rule the Preen and Proenza Schouler regimes.

Stud Muffin - Studs are back in full swing so dig your bedazzler back out of storage ladies. But remember, placement is key! Studs are prescribed to bag bottoms, shoulders, shirt pockets, and along seams and hems.

Textured Tights - From simple lace tights and printed patterns to patchwork, different fabrics, neon opaques, ripped, glittered, and screenprinted, textured tights are a great base for layering and intensely eye catching.

By Phil Poynter, thanks Frou Frou Fashionista.

Unitards - Ok. I know. It's like American Apparel drank too much PBR and vomitted on Urban Outfitters after a basement show in Williamsburg, but Alexander Wang's pullover mom sweater unitard and Charlotte Ronson's hoodie unitard were a pair of pretty punk moves on the runway. You've got to give them props for trying their damned hardest to keep the 80's alive.

Voluptuous - Shape means a strong silhouette and a real figure. With the Mad Men craze in full swing, i don't know about you guys but i'm excited to see women, real WOMEN, as the latest in. And there is so much you can do with shape. Dress it up, dress it down, belts, brooches, color and lines. So don't be afraid to don some tight little number and sashay those hips right on down.

White After Labor Day - Stand up and stand out. Our mothers were raised on superstitions, not us, we live in the 21st century where hard labor means physical action and not just web surfing. Anyways, just roll up your sleeves and you'll be sure to stay chic and clean.

Xenophiles - noun individuals attracted to foreign people, manners and culture. Fall fashion is eclectic and ethnic, and it's easy to do! Accesorize with indian bright colored and jeweled bangles, or instead of buying that dress in black, go for the fun ethnic print, scarves are great for this too. One trick I love is whenever I travel, I don't take any jewelry with me, but in the first couple of days i'll go to a flea market or local shops and pick out whatever I think is cute and chic and will compliment what i already have. It's a great way to broaden your horizons and your wardrobe!

You - You are the most important part of any outfit. Show off who YOU are first and foremost and be confident all the time. About everything. People are attracted to people with good energy who are confident about themselves. And when you put yourself first everything that other people think disappears. So smile and flaunt, cause the world is your stage, go take it.

Zippers - Exposed zippers on pants and dresses make a dress look more structural and architectural. Especially colored gold or black zippers on backs of dresses.

<3 stay classy

Marchesa Spring 2010.

2009-09-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

There must be something fantastic going on over at Marchesa's house because when I saw their Spring collection for 2010 it was like getting a splash of water in the face. Refreshing and awakening. I'll tell you right now Marchesa will be getting an Academy Award this year, if it hasn't already got an Emmy. Marchesa's collection of evening wear inspired by Japanese Origami, Kimono and the texture of paper, may be conventional, but it's anything but ordinary.

Many were afraid this season that the state of the economy would be reflected in the designer's collections, many down played the decadence, others disregarded it entirely, but Marchesa did something wonderful. They embraced it. Each gown is a simple architecturally structured creation, each embellishment a reflection of restraint. Personally I was in awe of the way Marchesa integrated paper origami into their gown work and their use of contrast and tailoring that brings each piece to a climax, a crossroads where fashion meets art.

The influence of Japanese culture is blatant, but it is also pronounced and regal. As is the subtle and subdued violets and ceylons in their lace gowns. The lace work and bared skin seems ever so decadent, and just as beautiful from afar as it is up close, yet Marchesa curtails the overabundance common in runway collections and plays up the sophistication of each piece.

Even the violet and white gown of what appears like rolled up paper, feels like it is only there to make an impression on the collection, not to overpower it. The power lies in the high contrasting black and white satins and silks of the gown-work. In the embroidery, appliques, cut outs and prints. My favorite aspect of this collection, which i think we can all appreciate in our own wardrobes is the printed tights. By investing detail in a place where none would go looking for a print of that kind, there is a heightened sense of the richness of quality.

Every detail is brought together, nothing is left undone. There isn't a singles string to pull on. Even the shoes are beautifully constructed. Marchesa adds a pop of color to keep us awake in a pair of violently hot pink gowns. But there are no further embellishments. Just color and fabric. Swathes of fabric.

A emphasis on a set of gowns in primarily white brings to our attention that these are works of art intended for Black and White balls, the Oscars (the white off the shoulder gown below is slightly reminiscent and what seems to be an improvement of Katherine Heigl's Escada dress for Oscars 2009) and charity balls. If Cinderella were true today, she would ask for Marchesa to be her fairy godmother.

The last set of gowns, made up of mostly silver seem fitting for a runway or the likes of a fairytale ending. Queen Frostine of Candyland and Galadriel of Lord Of The Rings both come to mind. Icey silver perfection in chiffon and sequins.

<3 stay classy

PS Thanks Style.com for all your fashion coverage photography.

Oh Baby. Christopher Kane Spring 2010.

2009-09-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

So I've been lagging with all this Fashion Week coverage however it's hard to see anything else when I've been up to my eyeballs in work and school. But now that I have my first exams of the semester behind me, I can start to look forward to what's in store for Spring 2010. Seeing as I've been out of the game for quite some time now I've got a lot of cramming and catching up to do, but i would be behind for long.

First I want to talk about Christopher Kane's collection in London Fashion Week just this past Monday. And baby oh baby has everyone just been eating it up. With cotton candy baby pink and baby blue overload in full effect, it seems the fashion world's - or at least the internet fashion world's - sweet tooth is getting more than its fill.

Kane flooded the runway with plaid, but there is just enough embroidered lace to keep everyone afloat.

With so much pastel pink and blue, it was nice to see a little black, especially with the lace.

There were also some interesting neutrals

And a last dash of colors and the nude really brought the whole collection together.

Overall I don't think much of plaid but I do respect what Kane has done in terms of cuts. By maximizing design and minimizing pattern and fabric as a focus in this collection, the collection as a whole is almost architectural. It graphs the female figure to a T. A little more variety wouldn't hurt but I think overall it is a respectable collection that I wouldn't be surprised to see echoed in the future.

<3 stay classy

PS Thanks Style.com for all your fashion coverage photography.

We've Moved!

2009-09-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Kat Macleod's "Rummage"

Bombshells And Birds has a new address!

You can now visit Bombshells And Birds @ http://www.bombshellsandbirds.com

You can still visit us through http://bombshellsandbirds.blogspot.com which will redirect you to our new address.

But please change your bookmarks and links to http://www.bombshellsandbirds.com otherwise you're going to be redirected everytime.

In the meantime...

<3 stay classy

You Know You Love Me. XOXO.

2009-09-14T23:12:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the premiere of Gossip Girl Season 3 and it would be fashionably irresponsible of me not to watch it. I have to admit I was extremely pleased with Blair's new grown up look, though the all over print brocade day dress was a bit too grown up for Blair, the gold did make it easier to swallow. Jenny's Missoni dress that she showcased at the very start of the episode was ever so chic considering she will be ruling Constance this year as the new queen bee and I found myself quite jealous of Vanessa's cute little chevron printed shorts, though her accessories were a bit too luxe for her character. And the boy didn't help in the accessory department either. (I'm seriously creeped out by Rufus and Lily's love child that seems to have an agenda of his own.) As for Serena, I went gaga over her colorful little blazer and black romper, a very unique choice for a girl who practically never wears her size, however it's clear she's got a shape under her oversized tanks and vests now that she's stepped into the spotlight. But don't take my word for all of it. I found these great little video blogs from CWTV by Eric Daman, the costume designer for this season of Gossip Girl, where he explains the style choices for all of those pretty little faces we love and hate so much.

Blair. To wear a headband or not to wear a headband, that is the question.

Serena. Star light, star bright, see her star shining just a little too bright.

Jenny. Jenny is still a punk rocker?

Vanessa. Vanity does not suit her.

And in case you are still stuck in the Hamptons and haven't been kept abreast of the latest, Anna Sui's collection of Gossip Girl inspired garments for Target launched just yesterday. With up to five outfits per gal, it'll be sometime before we find ourselves in need of a gossip fix.

Blair. Personally i love the lace mini dress with the ceylon blue bow and long sleeves. Very straight laced Blair and very fun. I would probably pair it with a pair of blue (any shade) tights, patent leather creme mary jane pumps and a creme bow headband, of course.

Serena. A very sharp interpretation of Serena's wardrobe with lots of spikes, sparkles and strong silhouettes, I wasn't as impressed with this collection as with the others. Though I do have a soft spot for leather jackets and mini-skirts. I would however, switch out the black top for, say, a coral or mauve loose silk blouse and switch out those tights and black pumps for a pair of colorful platform strappy sandals, Manolo of course.

Jenny. Anna kept the color combos to a minimum and honestly I feel that the red was not representative of Jenny's black and grey personality. A blush pink or cherry red would have worked far better than the orange red crayon look it seems we have on our hands, and let's face it, Jenny's a senior now. But there was one saving grace piece in this set, the black lace halter dress with the empire waist harkens back to Jenny's vintage days when she would have traded her entire wardrobe for a Valentino gown (of wait, she did that). If you really want to make this dress stand our like Jenny would, I would throw on either a short cropped tux jacket or a extra long cardigan in either ice blue or a oil based color like mustard or olive, studded booties and a cross body bag, Marc By Marc Jacobs of course.

Vanessa. Even though I feel the silk blouse and plaid mini skirt is far more Blair than Vanessa, I like it all the same. Throw with it a fur collared coat in mocha and you're set for either Central Park snow or long walks from the subway station home through Brooklyn. But if you really want to emulate the Vanessa vibe, I would opt for the silk scarf dress in that very uniformed ethnic print. Toss the t-shirt, load up on the chains, chunky rings and chocolate colored leggings and you may not fit in on the upper east side but you wouldn't want to, now would you? Just make sure to make it clear you got all your accessories from your mother's closet of course.

<3 stay classy

September Issue Is Coming Out Soon.

2009-08-12T00:42:00.000-07:00

Can't wait to get my girlfriends together to go and see "The September Issue". Will definitely be dressing up, with (faux) fur and giant sunglasses on opening day. Anyone care to join me?

<3 stay classy

NARS. The Story Of A Woman Obsessed.

2009-07-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Hello my name is Patrician and I am a NARS addict. I have over 20 NARS eyeshadows and an array of Orgasm based products. Like drugs or alcohol, make up costs money and if a drugstore lipstick is equivalent to a beer then NARS is the china white heroin of make up. At $32 a pop, my collection of duo eyeshadows comes to a grand total of a whooping $650 not including tax. However, for the value, NARS is the best investment in make up i've ever made. The highest quality color and pigment with gorgeous packaging to match, you can see why I crave it.

Now as much as we all want to experiment as teens, it's in your human nature to want to see how green the grass is on the other side. But let me spare you the time and energy (and precious dough) with some of the knowledge I've picked up after being exposed to so many shades.

Orgasm. For the best bang for your buck, the best blush for your flush is most definitely Orgasm. It's just the right hue for almost every skin tone and you can never go wrong. I have the powder and the multiple. I like to use them according to the weather. When it's hot out and i'm wearing my tinted moisturizer with spf 15, powder just doesn't stick the way the multiple stick does. With a thicker consistence, the multiple is for someone that doesn't mess and likes their color to last all day. It can be heavy if you're not used to wearing a lot of face makeup but you won't have to worry about touch ups and it can be used on the lips and eyes, though i don't recommend it. The powder on the other hand is perfect for a light touch of color. The color is strong but it doesn't last as long as the multiple and needs a touch up if you're going to wear the look all day and night, i personally don't mind but if you're more of an on the go kind of girl, go for the multiple.

All About Eve. My personal favorite, works as a great alternative to white on tan skin. The pale flesh toned and shimmering nude pair of shadows brings out the pink in the tan, not the yellow. Plus I am a strong advocate of neutral shadows since they highlight the skin around eyes and make you look awake and bright eyed

Kalahari. This deep bronzed tan and velvet chocolate with hints of violet duo is great for bringing out depth. The pigment is dense in color, without being heavy in presence and works well against any skin tone with brown or violet eyes.

Alhambra. A dazzling combination of a rose and a champagne. A perfect pair for taking the neutral up a notch for the night and a gorgeous reminder of how it looks when something makes you so happy that your eyes sparkle.

Bohemian Gold. This shimmering taupe and iridescent polished copper brings out the best in hazel and green eyes. With just the right strength of pigment this pair will always shine through.

Carvaggio. Named for the artist who proved that bright pigments often work wonders for pale skin (and Italian or otherwise olive skin too). The magnetic magnet and violent violet expose the facets of the whites of the eyes and the depth of the iris.

Sugarland. Great for tan skin and brown , hazel or green eyes. A light lavendar purple with golden specks and an birch wood gold (some call it apricot but i think it looks like a pale blonde wood) This set works great for bringing out the glint in your eyes against tan skin. If you like the gold but aren't keen on the purple, it's very similar in tone to "Midnight CowboyRides Again" from Urban Decay.

Demon Lover. Preferably paired with pale skin, the twilight blue purple and matte aubergine shadows gives a new excuse to brush up on your smoky eye skills.

Violetta. Color that doesn't shout can be an advantage when you want to surprise. Violetta's smoky lavendar and metallic violet combination can make making eye contact so much more interesting. Especially when paired with raw sugar brown eyes.

Key Largo. Another classic movie tribute (1950 starring Bogart and Bacall) this duo of color will bring out a golden sheen on any fair skinned beauty. With a striking yet subtle matte apricot and rich bronze this eyeshadow would look best on someone working on their tan of any eye color, though i think there are more flattering colors to be used on those with brown eyes it still looks good none the less.

Paris. A perfect starter for the smoky eye goddess in us all. A silver glittered grey and matte charcoal pairs great with blue eyes. The silver grey goes on very light and shimmers nicely, very subtle, not overpowering at all. The perfect pair to bring out the mystery before the sun sets.

Underworld. Personally I love the dark, smoky eye routine. But with tan skin, brown eyes and brown hair, I find the best pairing for these traits is the aged silver and deep sea blue of Underworld. Especially if you don't use black eyeliner.

Island Fever. A modest set of blue hued shadow, the pool water blue and dove gray with glints of silver don't need to make a bang. It simply is. Good for sunny days and gray skies alike.

South Pacific. A nice break from the heat, this turquoise glass and aquamarine silk really gives you the chance to eye the waves.

Cleo. Very difficult to pull off and not worth it unless you have perfect to match green eyes, a light seafoam green and glittered teal in the night set gives you a chance to go wild and go green.

Wicked. A very light golden sunlight-through-leaves green and shimmering citron, or as i like to think of it electric Elphaba from the book and musical "Wicked!". Anyway you look at it, it's not easy being green, but the best accessory to match anything is confidence.

DISCLAIMER: If your makeup floats around inside your bag like trash in the oceans off the USA's coast then you might want to rethink investing in a make up bag for your purse. The rubber packaging of NARS, though beautiful and mesmerizing, is easily damaged. You'll quickly find that it dulls and nicks easily and can pick up excess powder like a magnet. But if you treat it right, it will protect you're cherished investment better than any plastic package from your local drugstore makeup aisle.

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Oh And This.

2009-07-17T16:57:00.000-07:00

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I'm Kind Of Excited.

2009-07-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

I'll most definitely be seeing this movie.

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You Know You Want To.

2009-07-13T12:56:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Flavorwire and Pipeline

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Murakami and Things I've Found In Purses When Vintage Shopping.

2009-06-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

Was doing some summer surfing on the web and came across the Murakami for LV videos "Superflat Monogram" & "Superflat First Love". So very cute and fun! I wish I could spend a day in Murakami's head, like in "Being John Malchovik" only not as creepy and controlling, just observing. I mean his work is so traditional and yet so contemporary all at once. Who'd have thought to float Japanese folklore and anime/video game influence animation together and let them cook till they become one.

"Superflat Monogram" was put together 6 years ago by Murakami as a kind of branded art short to initiate his relationship with Louis Vuitton. Now, six years later, Murakami follows up with a sequel "Superflat First Love" and the renewing of the relationship. Enjoy!

Anyways, both these films made me think about all the random stuff I've found in purses when I go vintage shopping. Honestly creepy, and not in a cute way like finding Louis V. himself in one of his trunks. Anyways, here's what I've uncovered...

-4 year old coupons. For groceries.
-Tampons. A whole stash of them. In the pocket of a purse I almost bought, made me think twice about it.
-Cloth Measuring Tape. Not the retro kind unfortunately, but rather the 99 cent variety.
-37 cents. In total. Mostly made up of pennies.
-Used Tissues. Didn't buy that bag.
-Chapstick. Mint. And Unopened.
-A Take Out Menu. For a little sushi take-out joint.
-A Mini Stapler. I kid you not. And it was in a clutch.

What have you found?

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EDIT: Once I found a corkscrew too. That's probably the weirdest I guess, I don't know how I forgot about that one...

Summer of '09.

2009-06-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Ahh, summer. Growing up in Southern California that word often invokes a strong desire to go to the beach, eat ice cream all day, bask in the intoxicating scent of jasmine and throw open all the windows in the house. But it also means a complete overhaul in wardrobe. As I am still unprepared for the coming heat wave I definitely have a shopping list that needs a great deal of attention.

A few key pieces I will most definitely be investing in this year...

- A Bathing Suit. I haven't had the guts to try a new one on in about 2 years, I think it's about time.
- Strappy Heels. So my feet can bear the heat and I can get rid of my rainbow sandals.
- A Couple Colorful Wrap Dresses. Maybe a DVF if I can swing it.
- White, White, White. This summer I'm going to try and go retro. Think 1920's Great Gatsby or Governor's Island Polo Tournament. White Trousers, White Blouses, White Dresses, White Shoes, White Bags, White Gloves, White Hats.
- Big Skirts. Think Carrie Bradshaw, end of season six when she is with Alexsandr Petrovsky and all she wears is big Cinderella Skirts and ballgowns. I have been obsessed lately with an H&M full bodied nude skirt I got last season and I want more. Plus Mad Men is kind of getting to me. Joan Holloway aka Christina Henderickson is such a knock out!
- Long Necklaces. I'm on the hunt for waist length necklaces with small or medium pendants. I don't ever really wear jewelry and if i do i often take it off before i get wherever i'm going, but i love the way these kinds of necklaces can accentuate a cut and make it appear that you are wearing something low cut when you are not. Again, see Joan Holloway.
- High Waisted Everything.
- Trench Coat. Light and simple in a classic beige tone.
- Anything Airy. Really trying to just go light and simple this time around. Not so much fuss, and more moving space without going, dare i say it, casual.

But that's mot the only list of things for the summer i have. I also have a list of things to do, which i'll be honest, i'm very excited about.

- The Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market. Can you believe I've never been? I've lived in Southern California my whole life and i've never been! Well this summer that's gonna change.
- Muckenthaler Leisure League. Every Second Sunday this summer in Fullerton, people will be amassing to listen to big band, bossa nova and play bocce ball in all white attire, not to mention they will be giving out prizes for winning teams and best dressed. How can I not go? Get In On This.
- Santa Barbara. I must visit Santa Barbara not only for the beach and the leisure of it all but because my bestest Ian lives there and i still haven't been.
- Gagosian Gallery Opening. SInce I missed the Yayoi Kusama Opening at the Gagosian Beverly Hills, I will most definitly be going to the Vera Lutter Opening later in July.
- Hollywood Forever Cemetery Screenings. I've been dying to go to the cinema screenings at the famous cemetery in Hollywood. Get In On This.
- Chateau Marmont. Gotta get gussied up and head up there for drinks sometime soon.
- Shows. I used to be such an avid show hopper, now i'm starting to collect dust and I haven't checked Radio Free Silverlake in so long that their layout has changed! I'm ashamed of myself, really.
- Eat. and eat and eat and eat. This summer will be the epicureans dream, i'm determined to try every good restaurant I can find between Southern Orange County and LA.
- Conquer the Pin Curl. I hate doing my hair. I love the way it looks afterwards but i'm always just too lazy to do it. This summer I will change all that. I hope.
- Host. I have always wanted to host so many events. A supper club, a movie night, pool party, dance party, clothes swap (the last one was a flop), book swap, and so much more. I'm going to try and do at least 3 of these this summer.
- Redecorate My Room. Doing a complete overhaul and on the lookout for a vanity.
- Read Tropic of Cancer. Among many other books I'm already in the middle of.
- Bake. Every couple of months I try a new recipe. The Spring was profiteroles, sugar cookies and madeleines. This summer it will be the lemon souffle, chocolate truffles, macaroons and chocolate mousse.
- Learn To Bartend. I'm determined to be a mixologist master (well maybe not master but protege) by the end of the year.
- Video Blog. I'm determined to master iMovie and get some videos up for you guys. Maybe some how to's and interviews.
- And the other things I probably won't get around to... start a zine, learn to wheatpaste, start doing street art, go to Minnesota to visit my other bestest SarahsaurusREX, write a manuscript or a manifesto (just for kicks, haha), save up for my next vacation (destination still undecided), sew some of those cute felt cakes, practice Tae Kwon Do, practice fencing, practice piano and practice guitar.

Any other suggestions for must do things this summer? What are you guys up to now that the heat is creeping in on us?

<3 stay classy

Fashion Faux-Pas.

2009-06-11T17:40:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we all have a little trouble pronouncing designers names, even if we don't want to admit it we sometime stare in disbelief at a name like Ann Demeulemeester, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Nicolas Ghesquière, Gaia Pervoinni orAzzedine Alaia. I embarassingly own up to pronouncing Givenchy the wrong way for years. But here is a quirky little video I found that covers the major designer names these days and will hopefully help you avoid saying anything that will clash with your outfit.

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Deadline.

2009-06-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

Lately work has consumed whatever free thought i have and even though i love it i wish i had more time to myself to counter act the adverse affects of the mondays and my notorious knack for being 5 minutes late, i can't help but love my job, every minute of it. But I promise there will be more soon.

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Jingles.

2009-06-10T22:46:00.001-07:00

Jingles give music a bad name. But these days it looks like music is trying to give jingles a good name.

Ingrid Michaelson - Twitter

Zooey Deschanel - The Fabric Of My Life

Good luck girls.

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That's How I Feel.

2009-06-05T02:05:00.000-07:00

Went to Disneyland for the first time in over two years on tuesday. Jeff didn't want to play "your team" so we ended up playing "that's how i feel". Not as ill hearted and in my opinion not as fun. Basically, this is how I feel. I know, sad and cheesy. But hey, I can't help it.

ABBA - Knowing Me, Knowing You

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Diane Von Fierce-tenburg.

2009-06-05T01:27:00.000-07:00

DVF has invaded my closet, and soul. I was always a believer in the power of her wrap dress, and hope to some day be a proud owner. But after seeing her Cruise Collection for 2009, "Her Name Is Rio", I might just run off to Brazil for a much needed fashion tryst. Especially seeing as how swimsuit season is approaching at a dangerously fast rate and it's been two years since i've bought a new swimsuit out of fear of trying another one on. But after witnessing these beauties I think i've become ready to face my fears and take the plunge.

Not only was the swimwear superb but the dresses as well. Makes me with I had an excuse to go on vacation, and the means.

PS LOVE the head bows. So playful and chic. Can't wait to see my silk scarf collection come out yet again with a new purpose. Maybe I'll throw together a tutorial video soon to show you all how to tie a simple square scarf into anything you please, including one of these head bows.

But if you can't take a trip to Rio, you can at least take a look.

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Twat.

2009-05-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

For all you twatters out there, you might get a kick out of this little april fools joke i've been sitting on for quite some time.

Even though I think twitter is a total joke sometimes, I'm still on it cause it can be quirky and fun sometimes. Follow Me.

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Morning Had To Come. Part II.

2009-05-27T18:38:00.000-07:00

More pictures from Saturday. The Roosevelt Pool Party.

Luke & Abby @ TS.
Reza & Kenneth's Hat @ Justy's

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Morning Had To Come.

2009-05-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Laine's birthday. We had a beautiful bash at TS for her and I made her my infamous cheesecake. The free wine that night was an added plus and the after party included aqua church, fire escapes and drinking champagne from the bottle. Plus breakfast @ Fred 62's and a quick visit to Space 15 Twenty.

PS Slow And Steady Wins The Race has a pop up shop @ Space 15 Twenty featuring an exclusive line called Cool, Casual. I got to see the bag's i've been dying for in person and i'll admit the quality was a lot lower than I expected, but i might just get the quilted bag anyway.

As for the cheesecake, there is no more left. Maybe someday I'll share my secret recipe with all of you. Ok, I lied.

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Shhhhh....

2009-05-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

As a shout out to all my new followers, I'm gonna let you guys in on a little secret. Some tried and true shopping tips and tricks. Now even though you may not be able to barter and bargain your way through the mall, there are some tricks you should definitely keep up your sleeve, especially now that the economy isn't what it once was.

For starters, I get the best retail deals when traveling abroad in January and July. That's when the end of the season sales happen in Europe and Mexico City. Now granted, you probably can't travel just to shop for good deals but some of those Euro stores who's prices drop drastically at the end of the season are online or happen to be in the US as well, they just don't publicize it as much. Zara, H&M and French Connection - who are all already pretty economical lines - are big players in the end of the season sales. The trick is go early and scout what you want. Figure out which pieces you want and then set a price for yourself. For example, I go to Zara in say June and I try on anything I like. Then say to myself, "Ok. If the prices for these shoes goes below $50 i'll buy them." Then when the sales hit, go in around once a week and check on your shoes. If they have more than 5 pairs in your size out on the floor, chances are there are some in the back so don't be afraid to wait for the price to drop a little more. If there are only two pairs in your size on the floor, make up your mind on the spot. Are they worth the price they are set at now? Or would you risk waiting? I have scored many of my shoes from Zara for $20. I'm talking $90+ shoes here. Trust me, the time will feel like pennies in comparision.

Also, don't be afraid to ask the sales associate questions about the garment. You have to know what you're getting into. Do the shoes come with a spare set of tacks for the heel? (some Zara shoes do.) If it's dry clean only, what is the fabric? The dry cleaning could rack up to more than the garment is worth if it's a basic that you will probably wear often. Or simply ask if there are more in the back. Don't be afraid to wait. And READ UP ON THE RETURN POLICY. This is a vital part of bargain shopping. Because the real test is whether or not you go home and feel comfortable wearing it. Or does it just sit in your closet. I like to staple the receipt to the item's tag and hang it in my closet to see if it ever comes out. If it doesn't get worn within 2 days of the return policy deadline, I take it back.

Thrifting and vintage shopping though can be much more fun. Definitely not for the faint of heart (I spend hours and one store and come out with nothing sometimes and other times I will spend minutes and come out with an armful of clothing), but if you're a penny pincher like me you definitely get more bang for your buck. Scout the Goodwill's and Salvation Army's in your area. For example, I live in Orange County so I scout Goodwill's by zip code. I know I can find old Target shoes at the Goodwill on Bristol, one block away from Target for $8-10. The Salvation Army on Harbor Blvd. has a lot of button up blouses and funky jackets. The Goodwill's in Santa Ana are full of old tee shirts and 80's dresses, but they are great for hunting for really cheap pencil skirts and matching jackets because they stock women's work type clothes for the working moms of Santa Ana. The Goodwill's in Newport Beach and Laguna Beach on the other hand are great for vintage gloves and costume jewelry. Figure out where they are and try them out. Also keep an eye out for sale days and weekends. There is a great consignment and thrift store in Costa Mesa just a few blocks from the local junior college where everything is half off on the first thursday of the month. And don't be afraid to barter. Especially in stores like Buffalo Exchange. If there is a stain you don't think you can get out, missing buttons or a broken zipper you'll have to replace and the tag doesn't say "as is" tell them! They'll normally knock off a few bucks.

Also thrift stores like Buffalo Exchange, Crossroads and many others buy clothes. That's how they have clothes to sell in the first place. So bring in your old wares for new ones. But most of you knew that already I'm sure. Here's the trick. Go in first and ask them what they're taking. Don't just bring in a big bag of stuff. Hand pick what you are gonna sell them, the more quality rather than quantity in your "big bag of stuff" the more money or credit they'll give you. Of course, please wash it first, throw a lavender dryer bag in with it and iron it. Once I brought in a $12 dress and they wouldn't buy it. A week later I brought in the same dress after I ironed it and they gave me $1o credit! Make sure there are no loose stitches, stains or tears. Fold it up nice and neat and bring it in a nice bag. Trust me. The buyers price the way you treat it just as much as they price the style.

When it comes to thrifting and vintage shopping. Get a good tailor! Or better yet, learn how to hand sew (Local craft and fabric store often host classes on survival stitches and repair tricks). You're going to find amazing piece that may or may not fit you right and hemming and fixing will need to occur on some occasions. And if it is a higher prices item, make friends with the sales associate ask them if they'll knock a couple bucks off because you'll have to have it hemmed. Sometimes being sweet pays off.

Trust me, sales associates - especially vintage sales associates - are your best friend. Ask them anything and everything. They can point you in the right direction for a certain style and introduce you to great new hidden shops. Also a little flattery never hurt anyone. Ask them where they got what they're wearing.

For designers and labels, scout sample sales. Sample sales offer anywhere from 50-85% off retail prices and the clothes are normally the line that is about to hit the racks, however if you're like me and can't stand standing in line for hours on end or camping out all alone since no one would drive with you to LA at 3 AM, then do you're research. A couple months ahead of time, search for the location and dates of your favorite designers sample sales. Since I live close to Los Angeles, I rely on certain over advertised sales to be a nightmare aka American Apparel. But if you get the news a month or so ahead of time, try and find out if they have a private sample sale the day before the public one. Email whoever you can and try to get in. For example, the Obey sample sale in Orange County is a whole weekend, but the friday before is the vip sample sale. Most people think you have to be invited, but in a city as big as LA or in a town as small as Costa Mesa, there is always someone you know who knows someone who knows the guys running the show. But a great, reliable place to go for a good deal is California Market Center in downtown LA. Normally, their sample sales are private, but on the last Friday of every month they are open to the public. Check their website, California Market Center, for more details.

Trunk shows are another option. But unlike a sample sale, trunk shows are normally directed at selling merchandise to a retail store, not the individual. There are exceptions. And the result is literally one-of-a-kind product. The merchandise won't be in stores for a good couple of months and they normally only come in sizes 0-4. Trunk shows are posh and are normally strictly by invitation, so if you can get in by all means milk the opportunity, but be warned, there probably won't be a discount of any kind. The purpose of a trunk show is to be first, not economical. But if the designer is a new kid on the block, there could be anywhere from 10-20% off the retail price. Of course a downside to most sample sales and trunk shows is that you can't actually try the clothes on, so know what cuts look good on you and familiarize yourself with their sizing, otherwise you could just be wasting your cash.

Also, if you are lucky enough to live in Los Angeles, or close by, then definitely try your hand at the studio wardrobe stores scattered all over town. Shops like It's A Wrap, offer used wardrobe from tv and movies that studios sell to them for very low prices. You can get upwards to 90% off retail value. A great source for halloween costumes, clearly, but an even better source for vintage and period clothing. But be warned, a studio wardrobe store is like the 7th circle of hell. Bring string, because you won't be able to find your way out without a plan. I always have a plan of attack for stores like these because often the lay out if haphazard and scattered not to mention these stores are the size of Costco. They should have shuttles. I often go with a purpose, a couple of key pieces that I need. Ignore everything else in the store unless the magnetic pull is so strong you just have to try on a couple of extra items. But trust me, if you let yourself get sucked into the vortex of clothing, you won't make it out. But in the end it will be worth the time and effort when you walk out with some of the most unique clothing you'll ever see, not to mention, you won't run into many people wearing the same dress or jacket as you. Unless of course you are at home watching television.

The internet is for another day. But personally I would much rather experience shopping then just blindly order it online. I love being able to try on clothing, the tactile aspect is much more rewarding then the divorced feeling of ordering online. But that's just me.

Most importantly, don't buy it just because the price is right or because it "could" work. Only buy clothes you love. Clothes you put on hold and still think about the next day. Because you know it'll just hang in your closet if you don't. Style is about being yourself despite the commercialization of the fashion world. And you should never sell yourself out for anything, let alone clothing.

<3 stay classy

Lost + Found.

2009-05-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

The Lost Tribes of New York City from Carolyn London on Vimeo.

Going through my bookmarks, cleaning out all the clutter and i found this amazing video that was posted on Flavorwire. It's just so well made. And a beautiful homage to the culture and people of New York City. Someday, i'll be one of them.

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Slow And Steady Wins The Race.

2009-05-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

A few things i live for... food that makes your mind go blank, a conversation worth talking about, movies that make you forget about your own life and invest emotion in the lives of the people on the screen, an exhibition of art that makes me rethink my own theories and assumptions, a great party, and good design.

Food is amplified by the environment, but an exceptional conversation can happen anywhere at anytime. Likewise good design can be decadent and luxurious or it can be sincere and effortless. Some of the best design I have ever seen is from a group called Slow And Steady Wins The Race, mostly producing innovative designs with the most basic of materials or visa versa, SASWTR is a bimonthly clothing diary. They concentrate on details and instead of issuing a whole collection they focus on only a handfull of items to put forth the best effort possible. Each collection is astonishingly satisfying for being only a few items but I personally crave their bags.

Collection No.3 is a collection of classic bags made from canvas. The honesty of the Dior Baguete, the quilted Chanel and Herme's Birkin is moving.

Collection No.11 is a line of new bags based on the combination of classic bags from their first collection. My favorites are the Dior Baguette+Hermes Birkin, Balenciaga+Chanel and the Birkin+Asfour and like Collection No.3, they are all made of white canvas.

Collection No.13 is a line of bags that are cut from regular shopping bags that are made up of high quality fabrics. The Kraft Carrier shaped bags are made of tobacco suede and white leather, while the Bodega bag is made of black leather. Talk about reusable grocery bags.

The best part, nothing is over $100. For more visit Slow and Steady Wins The Race

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Hunting For Handbags Part Two

2009-04-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

A few more whimsical bags have struck me as winsome. Here are the rest of my choices.
The Louise Vuitton classic print in Miroir Gold is much more eye catching than that drab brown two tone print. I personally find that print appalling and very outdated and overrated so I think the gold version of it is a fresh take.
Of course the Sprouse collection for Louis V is also a fresh take not just for the print but for the label as well. LV has done a good job in my book with their guest designers, though i'm slightly frightened to see what Kanye comes out with for them. Though the Sprouse collection and Murakami collections were quite promising.
The all over graffiti text really gives the bag a pop. (Also Sprouse)
Of course Murakami is the king of pop art today. I got to see his exhibit at eh Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles last year and it was quite fantastical. The pop up shop was hard to resist. I almost blew $400 on a silk Murakami LV scarf for my collection but I didn't have the guts to rip that much out of my savings.
I like the duality of these bags though and the way you can change the shape with the side straps. Like Murakami's art, the bag itself is also anthropomorphic.
I also like the Masala print for Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B. line this season.
The signature carry all was a tempting investment with it's strong shape and sharp cut out print.
Of course a little extra outlandish, this crocheted Chanel I found online was quite entertaining. I must say I'd love to make my own Chanel. Brings a little flavor to the over populated quilted look.

And you can't get much more mischievous than Prada's Fairy Bag. The print is just so enchanting. Plus with so many colors you can match it with almost anything.

<3 stay classy

Hunting For Handbags Part One

2009-04-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

My dual style personalities have been having a hard time trying to pick a new handbag. One side of me wants something whimsical and cute, preferably with hearts or ruffles or something girly. While the other side of me wants something classic and simple, in black patent leather with no embellishment. One side wants a big clutch or carry all, the other a small hard case bag for the bare essentials. These are my picks so far.

A cute overload clutch from Marc By Marc Jacobs covered in purple hearts of all shapes sizes and texture.

A simple purple bag with a cross body strap and bright silver and gold label also from Marc By Marc Jacobs.

The Owl Lady Bag from Marc by Marc Jacobs. When I saw this bag in cream at my local Bloomingdales I craved it so badly I went everyday to visit it until the season was past. I still regret not purchasing it. If someone were to offer it to me today I would not think twice about taking them up on their offer if the price was right. I still hunt ebay for it.
I also really craved The Owl Convert Clutch from Marc By Marc Jacobs in black patent leather. A little more classic, a little more simplistic.
But not as classic as the Hermes Kelly Bag.

The epitome of grace, Grace Kelly was the namesake for Hermes' creation and it's most popular celebrity owner. There is a waiting list for the Kelly Bag, but i wold love a vintage Kelly bag from the 1960's.
This Yves Saint Laurent Oversized Muse Bag in patent leather is also a very classy bag. It's the kind of bag that screams LA and oversized sunglasses but i can't help myself. It's big Y down the middle and subtle lock detail are so different from all the rest.
But most of all I want this black patent leather Yves Saint Laurent Uptown Bag. The hard case, medium size and perfectly formed hands remind me of the Kelly bag but with it's own character. It is like the Joan Holloway to the Betty Draper of Mad Men. Voluptuous and full bodied, it's the bag with hips and attitude that still sits upon the fashion world with power and class.

<3 stay classy

Rad Rags.

2009-04-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

I have always liked paper; I love the weight of a book in my hands, the crisp feeling of a sheet between my fingers, it's potential for being so many things. At the same time I understand the wastefulness it encourages and the overflowing amounts of ads and useless information that saturates the media today through paper. Nonetheless I still look forward to my many guilt pleasures. I've cut back on my magazines lately and will always encourage recycling, but here are the magazines I just don't think i could part with...

Dazed And Confused - Since I'm always trying to get in on what's new and exciting I often have to filter through stuff that I have already seen. But for some reason Dazed And Confused is always ahead of the curve. They always have the scoop on the news in the art and culture world. Plus their prose is unique and their photo shoots quite avant-garde. I love that they collage most of their shoots and they always have a fresh take on the context of the clothes.

i-D - This magazine is like fashion porn. Mostly made up of images, i-D magazine is a huge draw for inspiration. I just love to saturate my mind with their concepts and then go out and make them my own. The fashion isn't particularly fantastic, but the magazine is a fresh take on how to shake up your closet

Pop! - A great season starter, Pop! is quarterly so you have to keep and eye out and snatch it up quickly but it is well worth the hunt. It's bright fun and great to use for making collages and getting inspiration. A bit more mainstream then i-D, but they often feature more prominent collections and cat walk fashion.

Nylon - Very mainstream and just a little bit guilty pleasure, Nylon is all about semi-affordable fashion for pretty young things. It's quite generic actually compared to Dazed And Confused, i-D and Pop! but I like it's relevance and their new layout is quite well done. They lose points for they're cover girls, but they gain points because they try out products that i don't have the money to try out and want the reassurance that they are no good. PS Like I said, I think Nylon is overrated, if you do too, listen to this... Dear Nylon

I read a lot of art world magazines too but the only one i read religiously is Art Lies. It's a beautiful book really. They pick a topic (below is featured Death of the Curator) and then the whole issue is articles and images that argue a point about the topic. They feature articles by art critics, artists, curators, art directors and contributors from all aspects of the art world. It really challenges your concepts of art and is a wonderful read.

I'm also a bit of a foodie and though I don't read these magazines regularly, I do go to these for great recipes.

Gastronomica - A wonderful prose filled magazine that features articles on gastronomy. I normally go to this magazine when I am going to travel, they often discuss the theory and practice of making food and gourmet cooking. It's a good read, almost no recipes though.

Gourmet - Some of the best recipes I have are from Gourmet. The magazine from Epicurious, a website that features stories, videos and recipes about food, and a wonderful source of learning how to make basic foods that can be evolved into great dishes. The issue pictured above, the French Bistro issue, is my favorite yet. I learned how to make a basic choux paste with their step by step techniques sections and got great recipes for profiteroles and cream puffs, mmmm.

Bon Appetit and Saveur - Two other great recipe magazines. Not as interesting as Gourmet, but just as good of recipes.

Since most of these magazines are hard to find, try visiting their websites where they list their distributors. If you are in Orange County or LA, try Standard Issue @ The Lab in Costa Mesa or Skylight Books in Los Feliz.

<3 stay classy

PS Sorry it's been so long since my last post. I promise there will be more soon, now that Earth Day is past and work has slowed down and midterms have past. I still love you guys!

In The Nude.

2009-04-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

Lately, women on the runway have been in the nude. No, this does not mean that birthday suits are in fashion - even though with the economy today I wouldn't be surprised if someone introduced the emperor's new clothes as a line - but rather that the runways have gone monochrome. I am personally excited for this latest trend. Nude is easy to match with colors you already have and brings out your tan without making you look orange. I personally prefer nude over white because for one it doesn't dirt as easily, it's easier to match than all those versions of white that float around your closet, and it doesn't yellow.

And even though we would all like to revamp our closets for every season, with a trend like nude you don't have to. The best solution, I find, is to just reinvent your key pieces. A new carry-all bag, a pair of open toe flats, or even just a simple belt, when matched with the dominant color of your closet or even just black can make your look fresh and chic. I collect silk scarves, so i am on the hunt for vintage scarves in very pale pastel tones for the spring to go with my favorite pair of white jeans.
Here is some inspiration I tore from the pages of some of my favorite magazines: Vogue, i-D, Dazed And Confused and more. The YSL suit in the middle is so classic. And the Alexander McQueen dress on the left is a huge inspiration for me this season. The white detail on nude makes me want to dye some old jeans and embroider them.

What's been inspiring you this season?

<3 stay classy

Fuzzy Faux Fur.

2009-04-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

<3 stay classy

I Can Give You Want You Want.

2009-04-06T10:59:00.000-07:00

<3 stay classy

I Only Have To Close My Eyes, Dear & Suddenly I'm Where You Are.

2009-04-05T18:20:00.000-07:00

<3 stay classy

You Can Do Anything You Want, But Lay Off Of My Blue Suede Shoes.

2009-04-05T17:26:00.000-07:00

A very dear friend of mine, Christine Machine, recently asked me to showcase my shoe collection for her youtube channel. I featured my top ten favorite shoes from my collection.

1) Vivienne Westwood + Melissa - Lady Dragon's in Pearl with Red Hearts
2) L.A.M.B. - Suede Platform Wedges in Beige with Red Leather Detail
3) Jeffrey Campbell - Reddish Brown Leather Oxford Pumps
4) Chanel - Circa 1950's Patent Leather Toe Heels
5) Delicious - Black Peep Toe Pumps
6) Zara - Black Patent Leather Oxford Flats
7) Topshop - White Leather MaryJane/Oxfords with Black Laces
8) We Who See - Black Leather Booties
9) Zara - Slingback Brown Patent Leather Platform Pumps
10) Unlisted (Kenneth Cole) - Black Leather Hybrid Oxfords

If you haven't already noticed I have a strong bias for patent leather and oxfords. There is something about the oxford that works with every structured look. Since most of my outfits are either strongly feminine - dresses, silk blouses, ruffles and lace - or they are much more structured and organized - high waisted skirts, button up shirts and blazers - I normally turn to these stand by shoes for either the overtly feminine charm of something like the Lady Dragon's or the L.A.M.B.'s or the subtle good taste of something like the Zara patent leather Oxfords or the Chanel Patent Leather Toes.

For more from Christine Machine, visit her youtube channel Chrissstttiiine

<3 stay classy

Read My Lips.

2009-04-04T18:57:00.000-07:00

Just got my Vivienne Westwood's in the mail and i love them! So much! They are unbelieveably cute and comfy and the best part is that i even feel a little show envy for myself. They cheer me up so much, Christine Machine was right, they are my shoes without a doubt.

tanya came over and we took some lookbook pictures, cause i'm such a lookbook noob, haha. I kind of just like to hype other looks and get inspiration but i also want a little recognition. Anyways. More to come soon, including a video of my top ten shoes that i did for Christine Machine's youtube channel. So check back soon!

<3 stay classy

La Nouvelle Vague.

2009-03-31T20:42:00.000-07:00

I have a few guilty pleasures, the ones that i indulge in too much often begin to take over and become obsessions. One of those is what the wonderful folks down at Flavorwire call design porn. Basically it is the frivolous art and design related things you find scattered throughout the world that you just can't help but ogle. Most of the time i keep these discoveries to myself or share them with close friends but this one i just couldn't keep to myself.

Stella Artois has blown me out of the water. They just manufactured a campaign called Smooth Originals where they claim that americans stole the plots of the tv series 24, and the movies 8 Mile and Die Hard from the following films that Hollywood didn't want you to see. But the good people of Stella Artois have opened the vault to reveal something beyond amazing. C'est Magnifique!

<3 stay classy

Slacking Off.

2009-03-27T09:45:00.000-07:00

I'm extremely intrigued by the latest trouser trend. Harem, Aladdin, drop crotch or tapered-mchammer-status-slacks have been expanding their regime over the runway lately. At first I felt a little scared of the massive amount of 80's influence we have had recently but then after careful consideration i have come to adore the way stylists have played up their class factor these last couple of seasons.

YSL Fall 2009 Collection

Keep in mind this trend is probably one of the most easily abused. Many come out the other side looking like they 1) rolled out of bed in their oversized pajamas 2) decided to be a hot air balloon for halloween 3) are trying to hide a pregnancy or 4) didn't iron their renaissance fair outfit.

But it seems that people have begun to splash water on their face before they go groping through their closets in the morning as i have begun to see more outfits that actually work. My favorite rendition of the harem pants outfit happens to include stellar platforms, a fitted blazer with the sleeves rolled up and a clutch. Harem pants, along with many other risky fashion moves, should come with a disclaimer that warn people that if you are not at least 5'7" and 120 lbs. it's probably better that you don't wear the generic full length trousers and instead opted for the tapered or capri harem pants that show off the shoes and give some balance to the mass of fabric. Also the puffiness of harem pants is to the figure like hemorrhoid cream is to those who have dark circles under their eyes. When tapered or capri, the harem pants give the illusion of small ankles; and when high-waisted give the illusion of a smaller waist. And when high waisted, tapered and belted can give the illusion of spider legs and a nice waist.

I am very tempted to get this harem one piece from forever 21 and roll up the legs to pull off a look like in the picture above.

Or these capri harem pants, also from forever 21.

Overall, as long as you keep it balanced with something fitted - blazers, strappy blouses or a tank top - harem pants will definitely help you stand out. And don't be afraid of color! Because harem pants will probably be gone in a couple years, don't worry about investing and get them in a color you want to try out.

The Sartorialist

<3 stay classy

Shoes Are A Girl's Best Friend.

2009-03-26T12:46:00.000-07:00

I'm a very impatient person, that's why i never buy anything online. But all this waiting for my Vivienne Westwood heels is making me anxious and has caused a stirring in my sweet tooth. I am going to try and quell the desire to order these Christian Louboutin Joli Noeud's in nude. Not an easy task mind you.

And L.A.M.B. ...

And Celine...

And Marni...

And Oh...deer ...

And Oscar De La Renta...

The list goes on, but i must stop there, i am starting to feel fear for my bank account.

<3 stay classy

I <3 Shoes.

2009-03-23T20:53:00.000-07:00

I have officially entered the world of fashionistas, I just spent $150+tax i don't have on the most adorable shoes I have ever seen. Honestly, affordable and chic Vivienne Westwood for Melissa. I couldn't resist. I got a call from Christine Machine telling me she just spotted the shoes of my dreams (that i've only been raving about for a month or so, since they were featured in the March issue of Nylon without any credits) at Nordstrom's, I shamelessly allowed her to talk me into purchasing them. First I looked on the internet to no avail, then I rang up Nordstrom's to find that there was only one pair left in my size in the color i wanted IN THE WHOLE NATION. I ordered them. Keep in mind this is the first article of clothing I have ever spent more than $100 on. I am still feeling the sting of buyers remorse, but hopefully in a week when they arrive in the mail, it will have worn off.... we'll see. Tell me the truth, do you think they're worth it?

<3 stay classy

Friday Films, Pisces Party and Sunday Screening

2009-03-23T01:05:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, tantan, christine machine and myself went to see Tokyo! a three part film featuring the city as a theme among the story lines of each part. The first part of Tokyo! was my favorite. Michel Gondry's Interior Design is about a girl who is full of life but lacks the motivation of ambition. She begins to feel useless and self loathing and then the transformation begins...

Leos Carax's Merde is about a leprauchaun cracked out on cash and chrysanthemums who lives underground and assaults the citizens of Tokyo because he thinks they are disguisting. Overall it was extremely interesting but perhaps a little too intense for a short film, i woul have been very interested in seeing it as a feature though...

Bong Joon-Ho's Shaking Tokyo is about a Hikkokomori, a japanese shut in, who escapes the confines of him self imposed house arrest to track down another Hikkokomori only to find that the entirety of Tokyo has because encased in their homes. Very well shot but it was kind of lacking in the shock value after seeing Interior Design and Merde, kind of wish they had begun with this film. It kind of reminded me of Jean Luc Godard's Breatheless. The scenes were all very delicately constructed and the dialogue was sparse. I felt like the fact that this film actually pertained to Japan and Eastern culture made it that much more interesting however after the groundbreaking visual work of Michel Gondry and the astounding film style of Leos Carax, it was kind of a let down to end with Bong Joon-Ho.

tantan and i had the munchies after Tokyo! so we dragged christinemachine to eat copious amounts of korean bbq (mmm, ma favorite!!)

Korean BBQ was followed by a late night screening of Boondock Saints, i found it slightly odd that both Interior Design and Boondock Saints involve dead cats... what's up with that??

Saturday Night consisted of Ian's return from Santa Barbara for his spring break, Shin Sen Gumi and Pisces Riot - Christine Machine's big birthday bash. JAZZinterface dj'ed, i scored my first and last shot at beer pong, saw the end of bottle rocket, felt confusion when some kid started a fight with me for no reason, danced the night away, made a 3am run down to del taco, and saw tyrese (wtf?!?) on parental control. Christine fashioned a photobooth out of her closet and we basically monoplolized it for most of the night.

After sleeping in on Christine's couch and waking up late Sunday morning to eat girl scout shortbread cookies i dutifully went to work at The Lab to screen The Birds and Psycho. Unfortunately we had a few technical issues, some equipment was missing, but after some McGyver-esque endeavors involving duct tape, bobby pins and about 12 copies of 944 magazine we got the show up and running. I'd never seen either movies before and was actually quite excited. Even though i spent much of the time entertaining the guests, making popcorn and keeping and eye on the equipment , i did get a good idea of what happened, but i can't wait to rent them and watch them in full at home. I'll report back with more soon, in the mean time...

<3 stay classy

Screaming Screening.

2009-03-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

Photographer: Erik Madigan For The Row

This Sunday March 22nd @ The Lab in Costa Mesa
Screening Psycho & The Birds @ 7pm

I'm very excited, I've never seen either of these Hitchcock films and on Sunday I'm screening both of them at The Lab. Bring a blanket, oh and I'm making free popcorn but it might be gone if you don't show up early, hehe.

See you there!

<3 stay classy

I'm Planning A Revolution.

2009-03-19T16:28:00.000-07:00

Who's with me?

<3 stay classy

"Lighten Up, It's Just Fashion" Week

2009-03-18T11:23:00.000-07:00

LA Fashion Week has swooped down upon us and honestly, after seeing New York, Paris and London, LA is so disenchanting. Gen Art's Fall 2009 show last weekend was abysmal. Not at all flattering. Nothing stood out in the least. But I'm still oogling over Chris Benz's Fall 2009 collection. It is my imagination come to life. I want to eat it all up. I really do want the whole collection, i'm obsessed. The colors are so vibrant and well arranged, and the paint drip print reminds me of a more sophisticated version of Damien Hirst for Levi's (which are also on my list of unattainable fashion desires this season). But alas, money is not aplenty. In the meantime I will continue to stare endlessly while I am reading FML and eating girl scout cookies.

These are my personal favorites, enjoy!

PS DAMIEN HIRST FOR LEVI <3

<3 stay classy

Good Food And Good Friends

2009-03-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

Every other year or so i go down to Mexico City to visit my mother's family, eat great food and have an amazing time. Now most of the great food available in Mexico City isn't available up here. And probably the one thing I miss the most is Tacos Al Pastor. See in Mexico, they make these tacos that aren't available north of the border (i mean you'll see taco stands that say tacos al pastor, but they taste nothing like they do back in D.F.). Tacos Al Pastor consist of a steak and lamb combination that has been slow cooked on a skewer (think of those gyro machines they have at Daphne's Greek Cafe) with a special secret salsa, onions, pineapple and guajillo chiles that melt in your mouth. My mother and I search for them incessantly all other southern california to no avail. But this Friday the search was over. I went out to dinner with my folks to the Orange Circle and we decided to go to this little restaurant called Gabbi's Mexican Kitchen. The atmosphere was gorgeous, the presentation divine and the food sublime. We had a queso fundido to start, basically a hot cheese dip that is cooked with chorizo and eaten with salsa or guacamole on a corn tortilla. Then came the tacos. And man oh man, it was love at first bite. Everything about those tacos was what I remembered and a little bit more. The tacos had been prepared with a sirloin steak and a guajillo sauce that overwhelmed me. The onions and pineapples were chopped to just the right porportion so that you didn't get a whole chunk but rather a sweet aftertaste and the guacamole was so fresh it spread like butter on the tortilla.

Saturday I tried Persian cooking for the first time at tantan's place. Her mother makes a magnificent curry that had some kind of meat and mushrooms in it, I was too enthralled to ask her what it was. But it was damn fine. Then I took tantan to temporary spaces and we kicked it for a while with the usual suspects.

Sunday Afternoon the New Limb played at The Lab along with Luke Ford and Franklin For Short.

A lot of people came, even tantan and meesheo!

After the show, we went back to the bird house and barbequed.

I made french fries.

If you missed the show this weekend, come and cheer on The New Limb with me on Saturday the 28th at the Yost Theater in Santa Ana. They're finalist in this year's Orange County Music Awards! For more information, visit their myspace: The New Limb

Until Then,

<3 stay classy

Je t'aime Yelle!

2009-03-14T16:28:00.000-07:00

Yelle was perfection. I have been dying to see her since i missed last year's Coachella. She's so full of energy and has the greatest style. Honestly, I wish women would look up to someone like her. She is confident and strong and completely herself. That's why I wanted to see her so bad, because she is such a powerhouse on stage.

After the show, we went to Fred 62's for a midnight snack. Bossa Nova Waffle, mmmmm.

<3 stay classy

Y is for Yelle.

2009-03-09T23:54:00.000-07:00

I'm going to see Yelle this Thursday night. I'm so excited that I want to learn how to tecktonik. How do french kids make it look so easy to be cool?

<3 stay classy

Springing Forward

2009-03-09T02:58:00.000-07:00

This weekend consisted of:

Art Walk

Temporary Spaces

Work (still don't have a name for my event yet)

And a midnight snack of sauteed zucchini and brie omelette. mmmmmm.

I was kind of upset because I've been dying to go to an opening at the Gagosin up in Beverly Hills and this saturday was supposed to be the opening of Chris Burden's "One Ton, One Kilo" where he would be unveiling a new body of work and juxtaposing it next to some of his old work. But the downfall of the economy is even affecting the number one gallery in the world.

"We regret to inform you that the opening reception on Saturday, March 7 must be cancelled.
100 kilos of gold bricks bought by Gagosian Gallery for CHRIS BURDEN: One Ton One Kilo was purchased from Stanford Coins and Bullion, a subsidiary of Stanford Financial Group, which as widely reported in the press, is now in receivership. Unfortunately, the gallery's gold has been frozen while the SEC investigates Stanford.
CHRIS BURDEN: One Ton One Kilo cannot be mounted until the gold bullion is released. Please continue to check our website for a new opening date."

Too bad, so sad. Rich people are buying fake gold, what is the world coming too!

Random Websites I Love And Will Now Divulge With You:

Wooster Collective: A website that documents street art and graffiti from New York City and around the world.

Scanwiches: Scanned in sandwiches.

Cool Hunting: New and interesting design in everything from the arts to electronics.

Daytrotter: A website that is part studio, part reviews and a 100% great music. They post interviews and exclusively in studio recordings of obscure and sometimes not so obscure bands that pass through their Rock Island studios. They have some of the best music i've discovered. I honestly think this is one of the best websites of all time.

Free Rice: A website that tests your vocabulary or knowledge in other subjects and donates rice to the UN for every right answer you get.

TasteSpotting: One of many food websites/forums I follow. They have great pictures and link you to the recipes.

<3 stay classy

But In Your Dreams Whatever They Be, Dream A Little Dream Of Me

2009-03-07T19:49:00.000-08:00

<3 stay classy

Oh Leggs, how you've come from rags to riches.

2009-03-05T15:39:00.000-08:00

Inspiration: The Bird And The Bee "Leggs"

I got invited to lookbook, so i finally got down to the business of actually putting together a look. Tell me what you think and stick around for more to come.

<3 stay classy

Coming Soon.

2009-03-04T20:56:00.000-08:00

I love watching previews, mostly because I never have the time to go to the movie theater anymore. Here are some movies I really want to see that haven't come out yet.

(500) Days of Summer

Tokyo!

Gigantic

Spring Cleaning

The Brothers Bloom

Tokyo! is being screened in my town on the 20th of this month. I can't wait!

<3 stay classy

Pedophilia Memorabilia

2009-03-02T20:41:00.000-08:00

I collect many things, mostly scarves but sometimes i can't resist a fun button. However I find it a little weird that I want this Woody Allen Brooch from Sniffles Co.. It's a good thing it's out of my price range. ($42 AUD=$26USD)

<3 stay classy

Lazy Sunday.

2009-03-01T16:45:00.000-08:00

Today has been rather lazy. I slept in and enjoyed the luxurious new pajamas I recently purchased from of all places, forever 21 (gasp!). Later in the afternoon I decided to make myself a snack. I made some lemonade, a small caprese salad and a prosciutto and brie panini.

While I savored my snack I caught up on my reading, flipped through Rosalind Krauss's "The Optical Unconscious" and did some research on my favorite installation artist, Olafur Eliasson. Personally I have a strong attraction to installation art. I love the way you are immersed in the experience of it all, it isn't just an illusion on a two dimensional canvas, installation art utilizes all of your senses. Eliasson is probably one of the most convincing installation artists and one of the most appreciated outside of the art world.

Eliasson is famous for his manmade waterfalls he was commissioned by the New York City Public Arts Fund to build and install under bridges and all along the East River and Hudson River. They have since been dismantled. He is also famous for dyeing rivers shades of emerald green. Eliasson changes environments through architecture, mechanisms, structures and other installation related elements. He integrates his audience, often by naming pieces "Your _____" in reference to the fact that each of us perceives his work differently. Not just emotionally but visually as well. But don't take my word for it, take his. Here is on of my favorite interview of Eliasson from his solo show with SFMOMA and MOMA on his work and how he perceives his work.

You can view an online version of Take Your Time, his solo show with SFMOMA and MOMA/PS1, so as to get a better idea of his spectrum of work.

<3 stay classy

Catch Me If You Can.

2009-02-28T15:47:00.000-08:00

Zooey Deschanel is just so irresistible as a sharp-tongued artful-dodger in Autumn De Wilde's short for Oliver People's. Of course Matt Costa isn't so bad as her equally sly accomplice. With just the perfect mix of espionage and class, Zooey is a cocktail with a kick in Catch A Tuesday.

<3 stay classy

On The Street. Business Time.

2009-02-26T17:25:00.000-08:00

Suits and heels used to be the norm and now they're the exception. Who says you can't look spiffy everyday. Not just for work but for play. Arthur knows what I'm talking about.

<3 stay classy

No Words.

2009-02-20T03:39:00.000-08:00

There are sometimes, when as talkative as I am, I don't want words. Music fills that void. I sing to release all that energy, but certain music takes over and engulfs me. This is one of those few compositions that moves me so much that it can conjure up every emotion in me.

Ennio Morricone - Love Theme From Cinema Paradiso

If you haven't seen Cinema Paradiso, go and rent it this instant. I insist. It is a classic film about the romance of film. In the meantime you can listen to the soundtrack.

Cinema Paradiso Soundtrack

<3 stay classy

On The Street. Night Owl.

2009-02-19T22:45:00.000-08:00

Tonight I stumbled across a bird.

All gussied up, I just couldn't help admiring her dress: the detail around the pockets and peter pan collar. So very sweet and chic. With a sharp do and snappy shoes, Annie's cute to boot.

<3 stay classy

On The Street. Amber Dropping Hair.

2009-02-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

Milton couldn't have said it any better.

It's not very often that you see someone this well put together in my parts. Finding a fault in her outfit is like playing hide-and-go-seek with your invisible friend. With well pressed high waisted trousers, a strong palette and a good balance of soft texture and sharp edges there is no reason why she shouldn't stand tall. Now then, if only I had asked her where she got her shoes...

<3 stay classy

P.S. "Amber dropping hair" is a line from the poem "Sabrina Fair" By Milton.

Read It.

P.S.S. Thanks Amber for being my first On The Street.

P.S.S.S. Amber if you could please email me it would be much appreciated BombshellsandBirds@gmail.com and again thanks!

Would You Be My Valentine

2009-02-15T22:46:00.000-08:00

This weekend consisted of much debauchery.

First I met up with a very dear friend who i had not seen in quite some time. We proceeded to get lost all over the greater West Los Angeles area. All the while I could not get biggie out of my head. After we found ourselves in Manhattan Beach, some of his friends from UCSB took us to Venice Beach for mexican food at a little restaurant called La Cabaña. The food was decent and the atmosphere was fun. Nothing special. I do have to make an exception for the exceptionally delicious and nutritious corn tortillas. Otherwise the only other reason i would return is if I was starving at 2am after a night on the town and I was jonesing for nachos. After a filling feast, we proceeded to my favorite saturday night spot. Temporary Spaces of course.

When you don't have a date, it's nice to have a loud friend filled spot to kick it at.

And as the night came to a relatively early close and I headed home, it suddenly took a nasty turn. The curves of Sunset Blvd and drunks behind the wheel of their daddy's silver Lexus came to bite me in the ass. Or the tire. Ended up waiting almost two hours for the tow truck to come and change my tire. Only took him 15 minutes. And he kept talking about how all the gated driveways on Sunset in Beverly Hills were to hide the weed farms that celebrities own.

I couldn't make it home right away so I stopped to see my friends from the club who had kept me sane on the phone during the fiasco. Much love to the rezanator and my laine-cakes. Without these two I wouldn't have made it home alive.

Stay tuned for more adventures.

<3 stay classy

So This Is Why Head Scarves Were All Over The Dolce And Gabbana Runway

2009-02-12T00:09:00.000-08:00

I personally adored the head scarf trend on the runways last winter. I collect scarves, so you can imagine how thrilled I was to see my favorite accessory in the spotlight.

But I didn't know where it came from until a friend shared this video with me.

With a little bit of confidence, you can rock any style, at any age.

Thanks dj dot

<3 stay classy

Mod Mavericks

2009-02-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

Probably the most appropriate person to first profile for Bombshells And Birds is Inara George. The "Bird" of The Bird And The Bee. Inara, who has an extensive career as a singer, songwriter and musician for many bands and her own solo work, is also famous for her retro style.

Inara often wears mod dresses and trench coats when performing on stage.

Bright pop colors are a must.

And she seems to have a thing for white accesories.

Overall she is a classic retro 60's bird, bob and all.

Get Inspired.

<3 stay classy

Taxidermy & Tunes

2009-02-08T15:54:00.000-08:00

This weekend I went to see The Bird And The Bee perform at the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles. Ever since I first listened to Inara George and Greg Kurstin's jazzy-electro-pop I have been dying to don a mod dress and have my hair cut down to a bob. Unfortunately I do not have the guts to give up my eclectic style and opt for only one trend. So instead I shake it like i just don't care to their music.

Admittedly I am a huge fan of their debut self titled album, but I must say their new album that came out last month, "Ray Guns Are Not Just The Future", has quite a few catchy tunes. Of course they have evolved and most of their new material is so sweet and fun you can't help but tap your toes. I love their retro feel and George's airy vocals that are harmonized to their go-go girls. Some of the songs off their new album I can't help but sing along to including

"Meteor", "Man", "Birthday" and "My Love". And Of course "Diamond Dave", "Love Letter To Japan" and "Polite Dance Song" will get you moving and grooving. I especially adore how the intro to "My Love" is a combination of stomping, clapping, a little electro on Kurstin's part and bells. Their music has moved from soft and yielding to just a little bolder.

Oddly enough, the Natural History Museum was an amazing venue for an intimate performance that accommodated a number of people. The

museum offers such concerts every first friday as

part of a Night At The Museum kind of event and it was pretty obvious that most of the people were there for The Bird And The Bee, I'm pretty sure this kid came for the dinosaurs. The halls were dimmed, drinks served and exhibits open for viewing. We had a chance to mingle with the taxidermy and the fossils while we had our catered dinner. Though I was a little disappointed with the planning. Mid show some of my friends exited the hall where The Bird And The Bee performed to get a drink and found they weren't allowed back in because of the cap on the people allowed in the hall, instead they had to watch the show on screens outside the hall. Overall it was a fun first friday.

<3 stay classy

The Bird And The Bee's Myspace

Natural History Museum's First Fridays

What's In My Bag

2009-02-04T23:39:00.001-08:00

A friend of mine recently mentioned that women have everything in their bags; granola, reading material, full size bottles of hairspray, crochet hooks, even take out menus. Now don't get me wrong, I have seen the weirdest things pocking out of other gal's bags, but i think that the number one sign of a women who has it together is when her purse is organized. For me, it's therapeutic to reorganize my handbag. It gives me a chance to put my mind in order and make sure everything is exactly where it should be. Here are the things I must have on me at all times.

From the top, clockwise.

Business Cards + Business Card Holder. I network most everywhere I go, and for me it's essential to keep a set of business cards on hand. I have a set of professional cards for work that I got for free (plus shipping) from Vista Prints. And a set of home made calling cards for my personal networking. I have numerous business card holders but right now I'm using this clear plastic Paperchase business card holder that I purchased at Borders.

Hand Lotion. I love this Bath & Body Works lotion. It smells of citrus, goes on smooth and dries quickly so as not to leave your hands all gooey, but it moisturizes and keeps your hands soft.

Makeup Bag. Whenever I'm very busy and know I'm going to be running in circles trying to keep everything together, I simplify my life by expanding my makeup bag. Instead of changing out my eyeshadow and perfumes and such everyday, I simply carry everything i need for a quick look. That way, when I'm running out the door I at least know that I have everything I need to at least be presentable. I always need eyeliner, it's my secret weapon, however I'm a firm believer in brown eyeliner for brown eyes. My preferred eyeliner is the MAC eye pencil in coffee. Fragrance is a must, I am infatuated with this roll on perfume from Satu that I purchased at Anthropologie in Vanilla Infusion. It's adorable and the scent is light and airy. Of course I have my Shu Uemura eyelash curler and a couple of MAC eyeshadows in Knight Divine and Electra. And then the one product I can't live without, lip balm. The Medicated Lip Ointment from Blistex is a miracle sent down from the heavens. It will heal even the most aggressive cold sores and cracked lips in a flash. All this and more fits inside my H&M* makeup bag that i purchased while on vacation in London last summer.

Wallet. Keeping the wallet free from too many receipts may not be easy but storing everything in it's own neat spot is. This Jane Street Cameron Kate Spade wallet in gold and rose keeps my gold right where it belongs.

Gloves. Keeping it classy. (Vintage)

Clutch. Can you believe all that fits in this gray Croc (Fake croc skin) Clutch? You better believe it people. What I can't believe is that Urban Outfitters doesn't still carry it.

Notepad+Pen. I am obsessed with lists. I make them all the time. To do lists, wish lists, top ten lists, this list, favorite lists - you name it, I've listed it. A notepad is a must.

Gum. Orbit makes the coolest flavors of gum. I can't get enough of mint mojito.

Silk Scarf. To me, no outfit is complete without at least one stand out accessory. And the most versatile of accessories is the scarf. You can tie it any which way, match the color to your whole situation or mix it up, and they are super classy. This is the first silk scarf I ever purchased. I bought it for the delicate paisley print, but when I walked out of the thrift store with my $5 purchase in hand, I noticed something I hadn't noticed before. It's not just a blue paisley scarf. It's an OSCAR DE LA RENTA blue paisley scarf. Thus began my all consuming need to collect as many vintage scarves as I could get my hands on. (Vintage)

Bobby Pins. I don't understand why they can't package booby pins in a case so you can carry them around with you instead of allowing them to mingle with the junk in the bottom of your purse where you can't find them when you need them. So I keep mine in an old tin gum case. It's the perfect shape and size. Never feel fear for your booby pins again, try it. (Starbucks Vanilla Gum)

Mobile Phone+Bluetooth. Communication is the foundation for all mankind. But today it is so much more than just speech. Not many people would be able to function in today's society without a cellphone - to those that can, I salute you. And now that there is a hands-free law implemented on drivers, bluetooth is essential to the entire population of southern california. It's a little known fact we spend more time on the road getting places, then we do at the places we go.

Sunglasses. Classic aviators with a sweet twist. Turquoise frames and reflective lens make these H&M sunglasses an optimal optical option for dealing with the schizophrenic weather of southern california.

Ipod+Headphones. Though the model of Ipod nano I have is a little outdated, Apple makes a damn durable product. This thing has faced sharp edges and sharp falls from within the confines of my purse and yet somehow the music lives on.

Tea. I don't know if it's the romantic idea behind a cup of tea or the tea itself, but I do know that tea can be a full of surprises and flavor. I personally love a vanilla infused assam or a sencha green but I am not afraid to try something new and different. Right now I've gotten a hold of a sample of Revolution Tea and I'm intrigued. It's one of many lines of tea that is bagging loose leaf instead of turning their tea leaves into a questionable powder, but instead of just producing the usual, they shift the norm. For example, instead of just another Red Tea with cloves and cinnamon like everyone else does, they produce a tea called Honeybush Caramel Tea that is as sweet as it sounds, flavorful and full of antioxidants. And if that's not quite your cup of tea, they have many more where that came from.

Planner+Pens. My planner is my own personal secretary. It reminds me of my appointments, makes sure I have the time to fit people into my hectic schedule, and keeps me on track. I adore the little korean planners I find at Morning Glory and Artbox and every year it's an adventure picking out a new one for the new year. I like to use the Sakura Micron pen in point size 02 with my planners because the lines are so fine and they don't bleed so I can write very small in the month boxes.

<3 stay classy

*H&M does not offer it's makeup line in the United States, sorry folks.

Worst Pick-up Line Ever

2009-01-31T11:09:00.000-08:00

My friends in LA own a club called Temporary Spaces that I got to almost every saturday night. It's all fun and dancing, drinks and debauchery, and everyone there is friends with everybody else. But last saturday, at around 2am when everyone was either clearing out to hit the sack or headed out to another party, I started to go around to say goodbye to everyone. As I went around, this one guy, who i will refer to as C, had been shamelessly flirting with me all night, and who i was slightly intrigued by, pulled me aside to say goodnight. C was quite trashed and needed a ride home, but I needed to get on the road and head back home.

C: "I wish I could take you back to my place"

P: "I can't, I have work in the morning, but i'll see you around."

C: "Maybe you could take me back to your place."

P: "No, not tonight. C."

C: "We should go back to your place."

P: "No, no, I can't."

Then he said something that made me do a double take.

C: "We should go somewhere then, because I don't think I have much semen in me tonight."

.......... what?

P: "Goodnight C."

I just walked away. I really didn't know what to say. When I finally got in the car I was laughing so hard I couldn't start the car. I haven't heard from him since.

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Getting To Know Me

2009-01-30T02:06:00.000-08:00

This being the first post and all, I feel I should formally introduce myself to you, the reader. You can call me Patrician. I was born and raised in southern california, but i have always felt displaced. I feel like i should have been an artist in 1910's Paris, a jazz siren in 1920's Chicago, a starlet in 1930's Hollywood or a socialite in 1940's New York City. But just because those times are long gone doesn't mean I can't dress in the fashions of the past. The only thing I love more than collecting pieces for my wardrobe is talking to my friends about clothes and sharing our finds with each other. It was only a matter of time until I put together a blog about style. But to me this blog isn't about being fashionable or trendy, it's about molding your own style out of what you like and what makes you feel good. It's about putting together an outfit as a way of putting together an expression of yourself. It's about lasting impressions. It's about putting your best foot forward, and the fact that you happen to be wearing a pair of Christian Louboutin peep toe black patent leather pumps never hurt. Bombshells and Birds is a blog for every kind of women, from the curvaceous to the lithe, from the delicate to the bold, from LA to NY.

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