Dear Diary

Today I went on an impromptu hunt for a fashionable notebook, one chic enough to pull out of my purse to oohs and aahs.

Seeing as how I need to represent The V List Magazine -- being it's editorial coordinator now -- I can't very well be pulling out a Hello Kitty or tacky pattern-ed notebook out during an interview or meeting.

Chapters is currently having a great journal and notebook sale with savings up to 50% off (just adored the silver pewter metallic number!), but something from Smythson would be even better.

It's a hardcover classic.










* Photos property of smythson.com

Aw Naw You Di'nt!

Bow Wow Wow once sang (and recently in Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette), "I want candy!"

I want it, too -- especially when it comes to the top accoutrement picks from Milan, chosen by Style.com's accessories director Candy Pratts Price.

Forget Caramilk, Kit Kat and Aero bars. Get some of the Pratts Price kind instead.

Milan Fall 2007 Top Accessories


* Note: Please pay homage to the Dolce & Gabbana crocodile pump, Emilio Pucci box clutch, Gucci golden platform, Versace graphic heel, Burberry Prorsum studded bag and Prada curved heel. Many apologies, was unable to upload their images so click on the above link.

Ked-Head

It's no big secret that I'm a fan of wearing heels: knee-high boots, stilettos, round-toes, square-toes, peep-toes, platforms, mules, pumps and wedges in patent, leather, suede, macrame, wood and raffia.

But sometimes, every now and again, I like to slip into a comfy pair of flats -- my patent, square-toe, mock-croc tasseled pair from Zara are fantastic. Sadly, they're still in L.A., awaiting relocation. And may my white ballet Delman flats rest in peace, having acquired a huge hole in the right sole after too many wears (I was actually forced by several family members and my friend Reems to finally give them up).

Now, don't mistake the term "flats" for plain old Havianas flip flops -- those are so passe.

When former The OC-er and ex-Brandon Davis lover Mischa Barton signed on to be the new spokesmodel for Keds, I was rather skeptical of this old school flat sneaker revival. Yes, I had a pair of white leathers in grade school, but still. Then Maria Cornejo from the label Zero came on board to design a few skimmers for the company -- using the same fabrics as her Fall 2006 runway collection -- piquing my interest ten-fold.

I wouldn't mind flitting about town this spring in a pair of these.

If you've got long, lovely legs like Tina Turner, buddy them up with long, twill bermuda shorts. If you're of diminutive stature like Kylie Minogue, a swinging mid-length skirt or flirty sundress will do just fine.

And if your feet kill from sporting heels every week, then these re-vamped Keds are a lifesaver.









I'm Lovin' It: Yesterday, all my Vancouver shopping dreams came true. Accompanying my friend Pashos on a hip sneaker hunt in Gastown, I stumbled upon a store by the name of One Of A Few. Once I pushed through the glass doors, I was knew I was in high heaven, traipsing among the Geren Ford tops, Fremont overalls, Graham & Spencer tunics and leather utility belts with gold metal buckles in black, red and gray (which, in my opinion, is the best shade of the three). It felt like I was browsing through one of my favorite quaint stores on La Brea or Third Avenue in Los Angeles. Michelle Pizzaro (one of the proprietors) is lovely, bubbly and knows her fashion. And what a small world this is: the Fremont showroom in L.A. where she buys from -- and which I've been in before -- happens to be the suite next door to the fashion PR firm I worked for a year ago. Quel chance!

I'm Over it: Snow on the ground this a.m., which thankfully melted away under today's sunshine. Thought I was going to ruin my Italian boots for sure this morning.

Musical Announcement of the Day: Peter Bjorn and John at The Commodore on Saturday, May 12th at 8 p.m.! Super stoked for this -- and as fate would have it, the show is eight days after my birthday. Which would make a PB and J ticket a very special B-Day present, indeed. Wink wink, nudge nudge, hint hint. And yes, that makes me a Taurus.








* Photos property of keds.com, myspace.com/peterbjornandjohn

Milan Madness

When it comes to RTW Fashion Weeks, I get equally excited about Paris and Milan -- my number one draft picks.

But, oh Milan, the fabulous labels that come out of your city! Missoni, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Alessandro Dell'acqua, Rick Owens, Yohji Yamamoto, Viktor & Rolf, Moschino and Moschino Cheap & Chic, DSquared, Blumarine, Martin Margiela, Marni, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Gianfranco Ferre, La Perla, Burberry Prorsum...

It's always rather tough choosing the top collections out of Milan, simply because all of them are strong, sultry and feminine. They're luxe and unapologetically sexy. I will, however, profess huge crushes on Missoni (the label's chic heiress Margherita Missoni is a style favorite of mine) and Moschino Cheap & Chic.

Missoni constantly stays true to its vast color palette. Keeping in theme with fall, the palette was naturally deeper and richer in tone -- purples, blues and browns with yellow to punch it up a little. The short skirts were consistently voluminous, while the long skirts and dresses hugged closer to the body. Waists were emphasized obi-like belts and wide ribbed hems that started below the bust and hit at the hip. This season, fur has been a major runway contender, as seen here at Missoni and many, many other labels apart from furrier to the socialite set Dennis Basso. PETA is sure going to have a hard time keeping up the picketing protests this year.

Moschino Cheap & Chic equals fun and good times. As the kid sister label to Moschino, the little girl in all of us is represented in an rainbow of colors and flirty cuts. Britain and its countryside were big references in this collection: houndstooth, gloves, perky hats and hound dog purses. Silhouettes were mainly puffy and big, but a few sleeker outfits made it down the runway. The white tights were very Alice In Wonderland, which makes me think Gwen Stefani would look fabulous in the collection, given her homage to the Lewis Carroll tale in her "Whatcha Waitin' For" music video. Constrasting prints made the cut, too: animal, plaid, houndstooth, flower, big paint splatter and stripes. Fur also reared its fuzzy head as the finishing touches to a few pieces, like on the collar of a tan flower petal-esque mid-length jacket. Colored tights also made a splash on two-tones outfits, while short puffer jackets were the new pashmina, thrown over dresses. Count on Moschino Cheap & Chic to keep you visually stimulated.

If I order a double shot of espresso, sat down, closed my eyes really tight and visualize exactly the way popular, New Age DVD "The Secret" tells us to, just maybe I'll look into the mirror and see one the above outfits on me.

Or not. Oh well.

I'm Lovin' it: Amazon offshoot website Endless. Here you'll find scores and scores of fabulous shoes for men, women and children from Bandolino to BCBG to Charles David to Isaac Mizrahi to Oscar de la Renta to Penny Loves Kenny to Steve Madden to Richard Tyler. Best part? Shipping is free and there's a 110% price guarantee. I'm not too sure how the mathematical logistics of the former work, but it sounds good to me.

I'm Over it: Red-carpet coverage by American Idol and KIIS FM host Ryan Seacrest. Is it me, or does award show interviewing on the carpet always seem awkward. My favorite moment this year had to be when Cate Blanchett responded to Seacrest's comment that he never seem to know who's who at these crowded events with "I'm Cate Blanchett." She barely cracked a smile with her delivery, which made it even funnier.

Artist of the Day: Lily Allen. This 21-year-old Brit warbler hit it big with her song "Smile" -- every track that follows is an equally frothy, musical confection of non-sensical lyrics and happy beats. She claims her lyrics come from day to day observations, coming out in an almost stream of consciousness-like manner. "LDN" (great old school horns intro) and "Knock Me Out" (funky jazzy piano and drum kicks intro and Lady Sovereign-ish rapping follow up) are note-worthy as well.

www.myspace.com/gastroheart

* Photos property of style.com, nymag.com, myspace.com/gastroheart

And The Fashion Oscar Goes To...

Reese Witherspoon, by far.

America's Sweetheart was simply stunning in her Nina Ricci by Olivier Theyskens frock. It appears as if the single life has actually done Witherspoon a lot of good. Then again, when has the girl ever, ever looked nothing less than gorgeous.




Here's a better look at some other A-listers who did the famed Academy Awards walk yesterday evening:


Nothing says perfection more than two-time Oscar nominee Will Smith, his stunning wife Jada Pinkett-Smith (classic in Carolina Herrera) and their little acting hybrid Jaden Christopher Smith. Truly the reigning African-American Hollywood family.

Mark Wahlberg has certainly hit a great stride in his acting career with the advent of his The Departed role. Here he looks dashing in his Giorgio Armani suit, while main squeeze Rhea Durham is flawless in Marchesa.

Naomi Watts, four months with fellow thespian Liev Schrieber's child and still looking gorgeous in her yellow Escada with chiffon arm bands. Yellow is definitely the color of the season, as witnessed both on the runway and by Watts on the red carpet.

Penelope Cruz looks like a pretty cotton candy cloud in this frock by Atelier Versace. The criss-crossing bodice plays nicely againe a frothy bottom. She sets the look off right by pulling her hair back into a sleek, classy chignon and eschewing neck jewlery. Bellissima!


Portia De Rossi, known for her hilarious roles on both Ally McBeal and Arrested Development, makes good in this deep navy dress by Zac Posen. She certainly does Oscar host Ellen Degeneres proud here -- though I may be on the fence about the front curtain of black tassels.

I don't think I've ever seen Rachel Weisz look as beautiful as she does above in her Vera Wang. Although the dress is dreamy, my delight lies in the fact that Weisz upped the ante with her make-up for the night, opting for a bold red lip color to contrast against her alabaster complexion.

Emily Blunt, how I love thee in The Devil Wears Prada and now in this shimmery number from Calvin Klein. The color is bold, the silhouette suits her lithe frame and she doesn't overdo it with too many jewels and accessories.

I appreciate Faye Dunaway taking the plunge with a more avant-garde dress by J Mendel. However, the double tiered frock would probably be more appealing on a younger actress or a PYT socialite because of its quirky nature.

Couldn't resist putting up this image of acting Latin duo Gael Garcia Bernal (who sports Dior Homme) and best friend Diego Luna. If you remember Y Tu Mama Tambien, then you know why these two are so irresistible.

Zac Posen makes the round twice. It took me awhile to decided whether I liked the shade on Gwyneth Paltrow or not, but the deep peach color is a nice deviation from the typical shades found at such events. The fishtail hem is elegance at its best, as well. Paltrow ends up looking like a 1940s actress during Hollywood's Golden era.

Not particularly Jennifer Lopez' best night. Marchesa is a great label for Oscar-worthy dresses (it helps that studio mogul Harvey Weinstein happens to be designer Georgina Chapman's beau), but somehow this doesn't flatter the Lopez curves. Too many accoutrements at the neckline and too much fabric at the bodice.

Vintage Galanos is making a comeback it seems. Popular among the Hollywood and celebrity stylist set, here it makes on appearance on Celine Dion -- who also made another outfit change before her vocal performance on the telecast. The mossy green works well with her olive skin tone.

Beyonce Knowles shows off in this mint green Armani. I'm not wow-ed by the look, there's something aesthetically off-putting about the flowery one-shoulder strap. It's a bit Miss America to me. But her shoes are gorgeous!

Jessica Biel goes fantastically modern in this hot pink and belted halter dress by Oscar de la Renta. She stays true to her age with the bright color and softer hairdo. A brave style move, one that comes out a winner.

Where is the mustache?? Borat goes glam as Sascha Baron Cohen (ie. himself) with fiancee Isla Fischer on his arm in Monique Lhuillier. Red-headed Fischer makes the right choice by going emerald green.

The now-brunette and always-quirky Cameron Diaz goes futuristic in this pure white Valentino Couture and bedhead hair. She definitely looks in top form when she wears something a bit funky. The neckline is a teeny throwback to an 80s dress-collar, and I love how the front hemline stops well above the ground to show off Diaz' peep-toes.

Giorgio Armani makes another appearance by dressing Cate Blanchett in this metallic, sparkly dress from her Armani Prive collection. Blanchett always makes intersting style choices, and this is another one of them. Here, she's a cross between goddess and warrior.


The Oscars can tend to drag on, but there certainly were some fantastic highlights: a comedic trio of Will Ferrell, Jack Black and John C. Reilly channeling the Three Stooges by singing a funny ditty, Hollywood's new golden girl Jennifer Hudson scoring Best Supporting Actress, Ryan Gosling sitting front row (where I can see him best!) and Martin Scorsese finally winning a Best Director Oscar for The Departed.

But most of all, Ellen Degeneres made the Oscars bearable, relaxing and funny. Her wide-eyed innocence and perfect comedic timing were just what the Academy needed this year. Classic moment? Her slyly giving Scorsese a "screenplay" she had written while browsing the audience.

Here's hoping we get another round of excellent films for the 80th Academy Awards for next year.

And Ellen D. at the helm.



* Photos property of style.com

Fashion Bloggers, Unite!

I'm not the only one out there.

Scores and scores of fashion die-hards -- female and male -- have taken to their computers, blogging the world by storm. From I Am Fashion to The Stylephile to The Style Spy to moi (that's me, en francais), we are the new voice of fashion: regular, everyday guys and gals who adore their couture, accessories and sample sales.

But a new breed of style bloggers have cropped up, ones that hit the mean streets with their digital cameras and snap individuals in the crowd who deserve to be commended for their chic, funky and/or quirky attire. Face Hunter and The Sartorialist are the biggest, most critically-acclaimed of this bunch -- but there's a new boy in town.

I discovered Craig Long, the 21-year-old founder of Vancouver's own The Commodified, today while flipping through the new edition of WE -- this city's urban weekly guide. He has a huge write-up on page 22 -- and rightfully so, because he's the first Vancouverite to start up this kind of blog.

As a person returning into town from the fashion hotbed that is L.A., it's been refreshing and exciting for me to see the progress locals are making with their wardrobes. Experimentation is on the rise, and some of us are slowly moving away from the Lululemon/tracksuit phase -- double whew!

So three cheers to Mister Long for giving props to all those fashionistas milling around Granville, Gastown, Main, Commercial, Robson and anywhere else the stylish may be found.

We needed someone like you.

* A girl from Prince Street in NYC, courtesy of Face Hunter

* A local gal from Gastown, courtesy of The Commodified

I'm Lovin' it: Karl Lagerfeld staging his Fall/Winter 2007 Fendi show on the Great Wall of China. No joke. I know China's an ever-rising economic power, as well as probably the biggest luxury consumer, but how the heck did he land the Great Wall of China?! Oh right. He's Lagerfeld, for gosh sakes.

I'm Over it: Certain individuals who made it to Kaskade last night. Hope you danced as hard to "It's You, It's Me" as I would've if I had been there.

Laugh of the Day: So WE published its annual "The Best Of The City 2007" in the most recent issue, in which one of the categories is "Word(s) To Describe Vancouver" -- though the following were NOT the top ten, a few of them very well should've been (sorry, this may be a bit of an inside for us Vancouverites):

- "A pristine city on the edge of a rainforest, where saying hello is considered attempted rape."

- "A fast, hectic, selfish disease festering in a body of great beauty."

- "A town that wants to be a city."

- "City where you lived until everything stopped fitting into a 100-square-foot apartment."

- "City of spoiled complainers. Go out and see the world and see how nice we have it."

* Note: I may have to somewhat agree with the last statement.

* Photos property of facehunter.blogspot.com, thecommodified.blogspot.com

Muchas Gracias

Where has my head been lately?!

Thanks to the reader who pointed out my link to the French Connection website in my last post went to a dating site, not the clothing company's site.

It's fixed now!


xo
Haute Hippie

Tunic Tart

I can't remember the last time I wore a shirt that hit above or at the hip.

My personal preference is for tops that hit below the hipbone, whether it's by three inches or twelve.

Supposin' that's why I love the tunic so much. Or dresses over denim. French Connection has two particular numbers I'm very into at the moment: the "Blade" and the "Fast Call Of The Wild" styles.

Say good-bye to the generic cotton tunics from those little (but addicting) shops on Melrose or from Aritzia (though I love the joint).

And say hello to the new guard tunic, all grown up.

I'm Lovin' it: The new Scarlett Johansson Hearts Reebok ads. Honestly, it looks like the girl doesn't even work out at all -- her arms are tiny, but really have no definition. Not only has she smooched Hugh Jackman and -- allegedly -- Benicio Del Toro (pre his big belly, trucker cap days) before the age of 25, she still manages to fit her petite yet womanly frame in all that sample size couture wear. Three times lucky.

I'm Over it: No Kaskade tonight -- too many important things to do tomorrow morning that require my undivided and un-tired attention. But I'm sure the sold out Caprice crowd will enjoy shimmying on the dancefloor to his tracks for me.

Most Anticipated Track of the Day: Apparently British soul-ster Joss Stone and Fugees refugee Lauryn Hill have collabo-ed together on a little ditty called "Music". Look for the track to drop along with Stone's new album called (what else?) "Introducing Joss Stone". Though judging by the critical and popular success of her debut album, this newly red-headed songbird needs no second introduction at all.

* Photos property of fcukusa.com

The Oscars Go Wilde

It's time.

This Sunday marks another year of the Academy Awards -- best known for it's almost five hour long show, unusually watered-down comedians (save for maybe Chris Rock) and their bad jokes, droning acceptance speeches and a fabulous red carpet show-down among female Hollywood A-listers.

Let me tell you from previous experience working in fashion & luxury PR, big fashion and jewelry houses clamor like crazy for stars to wear their wares. Usually fashion conglomerates like Vera Wang, Carolina Herrera, Valentino, Chanel, Armani and such will devote only one dress to the red-carpet, and it'll be for a dame nominated in a major category: best actress or best supporting actress.

There is always a cachet of actresses who always, always, always look glamorous: Charlize Theron, Cate Blanchett, Hilary Swank, Penelope Cruz, Halle Berry, Salma Hayek, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Reese Witherspoon. My money this year is on Cate (a John Galliano fan) and Penelope (a Ralph Lauren honey).

Hoopla aside, all the fun lies in seeing who wears what -- and, of course, seeing how much more plastic surgery Joan Rivers piled on during the year.

I'm Lovin' it: Seeing girls that can wear anything and look fantastic. Today I was walking on Helmcken behind a girl wearing black cotton leggings tucked into beige Uggs with a brown Gucci utility belt around her waist, Ed Hardy-esque cap on her head with a blonde half-pony tail pulled through, what looked like a Deuce Custom Clothing hoodie under a short black puffer vest. It all seems like fashion overkill, right?? Nope. She looked fabulous.


I'm Over it: Fabulous Mystery Girl's dog. The poor creature was wearing a long tan doggie shirt with writing on it that I couldn't quite see. Probably said something uber-cheesy, like "I'm A Hot Dog".


Power Couple of the Day: One is my favorite quarterback. One is my favorite supermodel. Yes, Tom Brady may have missed the Super Bowl this year, but he sure didn't miss snagging the heart of Victoria's Secret Angel Gisele Bundchen, who finally parted way with Leo DiCaprio after years of on-and-off action. Though it's been confirmed that Brady knocked up actress ex-girlfriend Bridget Moynahan, I can't help but think that Tom and Gisele seem so much sexier together. I suppose their celeb mish-mash name would be something like Brundchen. Hear that, US Weekly??

* Photos property of Google Images, perezhilton.com

Type Uh-Oh

It was brought to my attention -- via anonymous comment -- that I spelled a certain word incorrectly in my second to last post. Spelled erroneously, the word turns into something a little more risque than I mean it to be.

So I shall be correcting it after I push the enter button on my laptop to post this blurb.

As for the anonymous comment-er who brought this to my attention, his/her writing style sounds like he/she might be a close pal.

I could be wrong, but if not...I guess that's what friends are for.

Horoscope Schm-oroscope

Last week, I was reading a local publication and happened across my horoscope for (not to bring this up again) Valentine's Day.

And I must say I was impressed with some of the prose:

"During this lover's holiday, I encourage you to devote yourself full-time to acting like a person who's in love. Even if you're not currently in the throes of passion for a special someone, pretend you are. Everywhere you go, exude that charismatic blend of shell-shocked contentment and blissful turmoil that comes over you when you're infatuated..."

Now if that's not some excellent juxtaposition, then I don't know what is.

And whether I do or do not want to be in the "throes of passion for a special someone"... well...that's yet to be determined.


xo
Haute Hippie

My Solemn Oath

Jewelry is a girl's best friend.

Or is that diamonds??

Either or, it certainly is my BFF when it comes to completing any outfit.

Some women prefer to have one or two pieces on, while others like to load up on bangles, necklaces, rings and earrings -- much like myself (oh yeah, that includes my toe ring, too). No, it doesn't all have to be real -- mine certainly isn't -- but it should to look like it is.

Whether is came from Forever 21 or from that great little store (not Blue Ruby) on Robson Street near Godiva Chocolate, if you flaunt it like it's real, it will be in the eyes of others. Unless someone stops to ask you.

This brings me to Oath NYC, a tongue-in-cheek jewelry line perfect for the urban woman in you. These necklaces and earrings certainly are pretty and sparkly, but the charms dangling from them are a nod to nitty, gritty city life.

From can tabs to cavity teeth to matchsticks to bobby pins to chill pills, if you have Oath NYC on, then you're a true big city girl at heart.













I'm Lovin' it: Kaskade this Thursday. Last Saturday, my pal Oli commented that all the girls in town come out of the woodworks when this DJ rolls into the city and didn't really understand why. Not that he was complaining, I'm sure, but here's the reason: Kaskade is H-O-T.

I'm Over it: Not being able to trust the weather channels here. It seems like local Vancouver stations like to cover all bases when predicting the climate. That means saying tomorrow's going be be sunny, raining and overcast with a possible snowstorm when really it's just going to be sunny.

Artist of the Day: Feist, a jazzy Canadian crooner with a very pretty voice -- and also an integral part of big band Broken Social Scene. Born Leslie Feist, she performs solo with only her last name. After a move to Paris, she then released her first solo album to many accolades and has recently recorded with the red-hot Peaches -- who happens to be her old roommate. Check out the remix of "One Evening". Feist is currently still Parisian, which probably means eating baguettes, drinking red wine between recording sessions while smoking a cigarette for dessert, a la Catherine Deneuve.





www.myspace.com/feist




* Photos property of oathnyc.com, myspace.com/feist

The Tie That Binds

This one's for the boys.

The past few years have seen the relationship between fashion and architecture become even closer: the recent Skin + Bones exhibit at the MOCA in Los Angeles, Philippe Starck or Fabien Baron-designed anything and now these artsy-cool ties from Sovereign Beck.

Ryan Sovereign and William Beck (graduates from the Rhode Island School of Design with separate degrees in Architectural Design and Sculpture) travel among the Williamsburg, Brooklyn crowd and have come up with 100% silk ties that walk the line between the hip and the classic -- admittedly not the typical Williamsburg attire.

While the tie shapes are classic, the prints and designs are anything but -- making them wearably cool to all hipsters of the world. Choose from white doves in flight against diagonal green lines, spray paint-inspired patterns, horizontal stripes with pink tips, all-over leaf prints and even more to suit (no pun intended) your fancy.

Time to toss out your Mexx or Ralph Lauren and tie on a Soverign Beck instead.

I'm Lovin' it: The Style Spy, Vancouver's newest fashion source. Local chic-ette Sunny Shum is now a regular contributor, so look out for an upcoming feature on one of her favorite things: shoes. Sign up for the daily blasts and laugh at its up-front, irreverent narration. Check out the "Shop Talk" section to find out which shopper is in you. Cyndi once said girls just wanna have fun -- The Style Spy is super fun, indeed.

I'm Over it: How today's rain annihilated the chance of rekindling my regular walks along the beach while shooting the breeze with Tom Tom.

Artist of the Day: Garage/Two Step-er MJ Cole. He's influenced by a ton of other artists, a lot of them old school like Sting, Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock. His house tracks lay down the piano, trumpets and other instruments besides just electronics. Check out "Firin' Up" and "Watertight".

www.myspace.com/mjcole100




* Photos property of elseware.com, sovereignbeck.com, myspace.com/mjcole100

Colorblock Cutie

Say the term "colorblock" to me and I'll immediately think Narciso Rodriguez.

Say the term again and I'll envision myself in this candy-colored "Jamie" tank confection from Delia's.

For only $30 US, the thing is a steal.

With this on, I can just imagine me and Spring/Summer being oh-so-happy together.

As long as I have a tan to go with it.

I'm Lovin' it: A visit from granny. Apparently she's flown into Seattle and driving up as I write.

I'm Over it: Yesterday morning. And part of the evening, too. I usually don't do the couch-crashing thing, but somehow I ended up on Mikey and Kenzie's post-Friday night. Thank god it was super comfy, thank god for the purple sleeping bag (of which Mikey proudly stated keeps you warm in -15 degree weather), thank god for Oli's pork roast, thank god for Mikey's risotto and thank god for Sher's Tylenol.

Album of the Day: "Disco Romance" from Sweden's Sally Shapiro. Rumors have been swirling that Sally Shapiro is a fake front for Johan Agebjorn, who really is the master behind everything. Which might explain why there aren't any live shows with Sally. The tracks may be happy, disco confection for the ears, but "I'll Be By Your Side" was good enough to make it as a Top 100 track for 2006 on the coveted Pitchfork Media list. "I know" will definitely get your dance juices flowing, too.

www.myspace.com/shapirosally

Track of the Day: "Since I Left You" by The Avalanches. This was on rotation at Mikey and Kenzie's apartment Friday night pre-Ginger Sixty-Two. It's like shooting back into the 70s, hitting up Studio 54 with Andy Warhol and The Factory crew, then spinning Bee Gees records at the after-party. Summer music for sure and guaranteed to have you smile twenty-four seven.

www.myspace.com/theavalanches

* Photos property of delias.com, myspace.com/shapirosally and myspace.com/theavalanches

A Moment With: Haute Hippie Bradshaw

You know the feeling.

The one where you feel like a complete douchebag/idiot when it comes to someone you like. Past or present tense -- or maybe even the gray area between the two.

Why do so many of us -- women and men both -- feel compelled to act cool, hide the truth or pretend everything is fine in order to: (a) somehow feel like you have the upper hand, (b) protect someone you care about and/or (c) not be "that" person (ie. emotional/dramatic retard)


Here's are the real questions stemming from this particular tangent:

Is honesty really the best policy when it comes to the dynamics between men and women??

If women are open and honest with men about their feelings, does the sudden lack of emotional mystery make us boring?

When does it become too late to be honest with that certain someone??

If the the truth no longer pertains to your current circumstances, is it necessary to reveal it??


I'm sure a lot of us, men included, have found themselves in some way, shape or form of the situation just presented. I've been there, done that and still have yet to figure out the best way to navigate this issue.

So unfortunately, I have no real answers.

Just figured if I put it out there, maybe someone will have them for me.


xo
Haute Hippie

Have You Driven A (Geren) Ford Lately?

Ever had that "A-ha!" moment in your life where you finally realize what you've been doing all along was never really what you wanted to be doing in the first place?

That's exactly was happened to L.A.-based designer Geren Ford. After spending over a decade in the advertising world, one day she decided to put her Parsons and Otis schooling to use and launch her own clothing line.

The result? Classy, casual clothes that epitmomize the uptown girl who enjoys weekend jaunts to the the beach. Everything about Geren Ford is easy: pair the dresses with flip flops, gussy the shirts up with denim trousers and heels, cinch the tunics with your favorite wide or skinny belt, go rock 'n' roll with the Bedford vest and a ribbed tank -- the options are endless.

And if you still want to be classy, casual while lounging around the house (with or without your man), make sure to pick up some Geren Ford lingerie.

The coquette-ish short shorts will be your new best friend.

I'm Lovin' it: This Mayle tunic. The ivory, navy blue and lime green color combination is very spring/summer; it'll also go well with the on-going leggings trend that suits those particular seasons. Nautical goes romantic with stripes on the racerback and lace pockets on the front.

I'm Also Lovin': Having thoughtful roomies. Especially whenyou cook them a mango salsa chicken dinner and they reward you with a nice, fat bar of Caramilk. The diet begins tomorrow. Again.

I'm Over it: How time flies. The weekend is here already?! Before you know it, my birthday will be around the bend, meaning I'll be that much closer to the big 3-0. Well, not really. But kinda.

Track of the Day: "Queremos Paz" by Gotan Project. The track starts off soft and crescendos into a blaze of passionate, heat-inducing instrumentals without going into auditory overload. This trio -- Eduardo, Phillipe and Christoph -- from Brazil broke ground by creating a sensual hybrid between tango and electronica. Unfortunately, the only Canadian stop Gotan Project made was last year in Montreal and so far, it looks like they'll be in Europe for most of 2007. Good thing the world has MySpace Music and YouTube.

* Photos property of dailycandy.com, shopbop.com, gotanproject.com, net-a-porter.com, Google Images

Mary Had A Little L.A.M.B.

Ever since laying eyes on that navy and white L.A.M.B. wallet at Holts the other day, I've been thinking non-stop about how I need to acquire a Gwen S.-created, L.A.M.B. piece for my closet.

As you know, the Fall 2007 collections have either already shown or are currently showing at the moment in London. Since fashion works seasons ahead, the L.A.M.B. presentation I'm about the show you is for Spring/Summer 2007 -- which is, in truth, just around the corner.

Blonde, blunt-bang wigs crowned the head of each model -- an obvious nod to the cover of Stefani's new album "Sweet Escape". This particular collection is very glam, street chic: plenty of hoods, hardware, shorts, slouchy pants and extra detail. The thing about L.A.M.B. is that you can picture Stefani in every outfit. Or it's better to say that every outfit has a bit of Gwen in it. I'm hardly every disappointed with her brand.

Thank the lord, if I ever wanted to snatch up one of these pieces, Leone at the Sinclair Centre is only a ten minute drive into downtown.

They say it's better to be the shepherd than the sheep -- or lamb. But in this case...baaaa, baaaa!














I'm Lovin' it: Getting inspiration from those around me. Two are budding designers, while another is an up-and-coming fashion photographer. One is a fledgling actor, while the other can remember music lyrics and spout them out just like that. One knows finances like the back of his hand, while a few have this great, innate sense of style. One is an amazing graphic artist, while this other one just recently produced her own CD (she's bound to get some play on the airwaves). One's a fantastic house DJ, while another blows me away with his knowledge of art. One has a painting talent very few know of, but everyone out there should. One is so fiercely loyal, it's awe-inspiring. One can talk his way out of any situation, while two or three can whip up a meal as good as the Iron Chef. One can instantly make you feel more sane and grounded within two minutes of being with her. And that just scratches the surface. These people -- with all kinds of talents and personalities -- are my daily muses. Without them, I just might not have as much to write about.

I'm Over it: Waiting. Especially when it has to do with career. Forgive me for my impatience. It's the Taurus in me, you know.

Art of the Day: This absolutely haunting video by Anthony Huang. I believe it's called Doll Face. It'll give you little chills. Big ups to Wooster Collective for bringing it to my attention. If the link doesn't work for some reason, try searching it on YouTube.



* Photos property of nymag.com

Happy Valentine's Day '07!

Happy V-Day, all!

One of my last week's posts pin-pointed my eventual whereabouts this evening to be at my friend Heath B.'s place, taking part in an anti-Valentine's Day celebration with no men, a little hockey-watching (Heath, I know your pad is an anti-sports zone but just for one night!) and a possible viewing of the ultimately-girly chick flick "Step Up".

Just because I'm attending an anti-Valentine's function doesn't mean I'm bitter and miserly. Having a special someone would be absolutely fantastic -- never been opposed to that -- it's just not happening this year. But getting V-day texts from those you care about is kinda nice, too.

I may not be in love with anyone at the moment, but there are many, many things I DO love:

1. The Free People faded black, sleeveless silk shift I saw yesterday at Aritzia. Perfect with either super-opaque or super-shiny-opaque tights (which have been a nightmare to find on the internet). Would also go well with those purple square-toe heels sitting on the shelf at Winners downtown, calling my name over and over again (no, I'm not crazy).

2. Urban Outfitters and H & M opening shop in Vancouver. H & M will open this fall, while Urban Outfitters is still TBA. Once this happens, expect a slew of people wearing the same thing, so make sure to mix and match. Avoid head-to-toe H & M/Urban Outfitters looks, unless it truly is a one-piece.

3. The expansion of Holt Renfrew Vancouver. It's the Saks Fifth Avenue/Bergdorf Goodman of Canada, so enough said.

4. That schwarma place DanTang took us to on Commerical Drive, pre-Prison Break last week. The chicken platter is the way to go. And the tabouli is awesome, great for taking away garlick-y hummus breath.

3. Anything Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Jason Brooks, or Miss Van.

4. Daily, trashy gossip from Perez Hilton. Had the pleasure of meeting him a couple months ago -- the guy is a freakin' hoot.

5. Sebastian Super Shaper hairspray. You can find it at any upscale drugstore or salon. It gives me Tinsley Mortimer-worthy curls -- and it's less than $20.

6. Watching Lost DVDs till 2 am. Well, I don't love the lack of sleep but that's my own damn fault. Oh, and Sawyer rules.

7. Joe Zee, the new creative director for Elle Magazine who comes with a portfolio as W Magazine fashion director, Vitals editor, stylist and major fashion heavy-weight with a dapper, likeable demeanor. His first full-reign issue will be this September. He's on my top ten list of people to meet, along with Miranda Priestly. Right. I mean Anna Wintour, who may or may not cold-stare me to death.

8. All skin care products by world-reknowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi. Had a consultation with him at his Beverly Hills headquarters last December and he literally saved my ailing complexion. He's not cheap at all -- a consultation run into the few hundreds and a first round of his product system goes well into the early thousands. But believe me when I say he works miracles.

9. My beloved Toyota Scion TC, which is currently missing me like crazy in L.A. while waiting to be shipped to me in Vancouver. We're going to have a beautiful Summer 2007 together.

10. Net-A-Porter, where fashionistas with Dom Perignon tastes and Miller Lite budgets can either: a) blow their entire month's rent or b) drool onto their computer keys while browsing new product from Chloe, Matthew Williamson, Jovovich-Hawk, Christian Louboutin, Prada and...need I go on?

11. Chocolate-covered strawberries from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Or any hotel with it on their room service menu.

12. Sliced mushrooms and zucchini, sauteed in olive oil and pepper. A random love, I know. But it's tasty and keeps the figure trim for all that haute couture and skinny pants.

13. Bulgari, Thierry Mugler or Del Mar by Baldessarini cologne on men. I'm such an olfactory-inclined person, so sexy, strong scents on a male (that I like, of course) get me every time. And please let me know if I spray too much Gucci Rush or Christian Dior Addict on myself...such a bad habit of mine! Two or three spritzes: good. Five or more sprays: mucho dinero.



14. Heels of all shapes, colors, silhouettes and brands. I WILL own a pair of Christian Louboutins someday, just you see.

15. That white and navy blue L.A.M.B. wallet I saw at Holt Renfrew the other day. White is certainly not practical -- given the tossing around my current wallet gets -- but it sure as heck looks pretty. Nordstrom doesn't carry that particular style, but it has other equally good choices.





16. My family -- whom I miss and love like crazy. Hi mom and dad!

17. My friends -- some Angeleno pals whom I miss dearly while living up north, but most friends of whom are so near in promixity and dear to my heart here in Vancouver.

18. My new editorial coordinator position at The V List Magazine! Literally just received the good news via phone. This side job should satisfy my appetite for fashion/luxury/lifestyle writing, and I'm beyond excited to work with the Virani team.

19. 944 Magazine. Always and forever.




20. "Me" time. Usually consists of comfy clothes, a toasty room, a stack of magazines, hot chocolate, chilling background music and maybe some Junior Mints. Or browsing the shelves at Chapters, trying to read everything possible without having to break out the change. I whipped through "He's Just Not That Into You" in 30 minutes at Barnes & Noble in 2005.



21. Photography. Anyone from Mario Testino to Annie Leibowitz to Man Ray to Steven Klein to Patrick McMullan (does he count?) to Bruce Webber to Irving Penn. As someone who occasionally has trouble with digital cameras, I'm insanely jealous of those who have the knack for taking beautiful images.

22. Fashion. If I need to explain this (after all, you are reading this blog), then you're -- pardon my french -- an imbecile.








23. All of you out there who read my blog on a daily basis and who love reading it as much as I love writing it. Thank you.


As a closing comment, let me just say this: if you have a special someone, make sure that every day -- not just February 14th -- is Valentine's Day.

Intimate moments, passionate kisses, warm hugs, loving looks, admiration, respect, laughter and all.


xo
Haute Hippie

* Photos property of Google Images

Playing On My Boombox

Forget those horrendous lines at Republic, Ginger Sixty-Two or Barnone in Vancouver. The same goes for those air-tight velvet ropes at Area, Les Deux and Hyde in La-La Land.

Because none of them compare to London's Boombox Sundays, run by Brit-ster Richard Mortimer and held at Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen in the East End.

If you want a party full of eye-candy and people-watching, this is the place to be. It's the ultimate style dance-off: designers, fashion students, drag queens and hipsters congregate as one teeming crowd in outfits (you can even go as far as to say costumes) and make-up fit for the next Baz Luhrmann movie.

The night's resident photographer is Alistair Allan, who snaps fabulous shots, airbrushes them to perfection, then posts the pics on his merry-go-round of a website Dirty Dirty Dancing.

Boombox's downside? If you want entrance through the aesthetically hedonistic gates, you need to go with a regular. Expect the atmosphere to be of the everyone-knows-everyone, six-degrees-of-separation variety.

So hop on a place to London with your craziest outfit on, your best falsies and a pack of sugar-free Red Bull because you'll be dancing all night long.

Dirty Dirty Dancing on MySpace





I'm Lovin' it: The Street Style section on Style.com. It's so-called "Sartorialist" photographers snap chic, fashion-forward people on the sidewalks of New York, Paris, Milan, London and Hong Kong who just have to be shouted-out for their style. I love how the girl below looks like she took her (equally fashionable) boyfriend's long-sleeve shirt, rolled up the sleeves and cinched the waist with a great belt. Actually, that's probably exactly what the chic-ette did. Kudos for the Ali Mcgraw-esque hippie headband, too.



I'm Over it: All the men coming forward to say they fathered Anna Nicole Smith's baby. A paparazzo, her lawyer, Zsa Zsa Gabor's husband and now Smith's old bodyguard. The woman had a tragic life, so please let her finally rest in peace.

Guilty Pleasure of the Day: The new Nintendo Wii. My friend Tom Tom purchased one via Craigslist, and I spent part of yesterday evening playing gamer tennis, bowling and boxing with it. In tennis, I was the virtual Maria Sharapova. In boxing, however, I was totally KO-ed by Saritz. Looks like I gotta start taking up cardio kickboxing again to keep up with her.



* Photos property of style.com, londontimes.com

And The Fashion Grammy Goes To...

Miz Christina Aguilera!

There's no doubt here. This beautiful girl ditches her signature red for a curve-hugging pure white dress with blue trim and gray-taupe (or it it dark khaki?) sash.

Who is her stylist?? Better yet, who designed her dress??

If you have answers to either -- or both -- questions, you know where to find me!



Another dress I'm digging comes from Erdem's Fall 2007 ready-to-wear collection out of London.

It's like watching a flapper on Ritalin, rolling in layer upon layer of gorgeous navy blue silk.





* Photos property of style.com, nypost.com

Fashion Week Favorite, Part I

I love alice + olivia.

And not just because I think the brand's designer Stacey Bendet is a total sweetie, but because her Fall 2007 collection is so approachable and pretty at the same time.

Sequins, minis, pleated ruffles, irresistible pant shapes, interestingly cut jackets, classy long-sleeve shirts and chiffon abounded, as Bendet's good L.A.-based friend/model/DJ Caroline D'Amore sported the collection's top looks.

Big, big thanks to Stacey for the a + o VIP card. Still need to do major damage with it! Planning on opening a store up north anytime soon??

















* Photos property of nymag.com

Sunday Styles

Forget breakfast. Brunch is the true meal of champions.

Especially when brunch is made at D. Venus', complete with a gaggle of good friends, fresh sangria, delicious mojitos, a gorgeous view of English Bay from the 20th floor of a sweet one-bedroom bachelor pad in the West End -- and lasts from noon to 7 pm.

Here's a peek at yesterday's events:

Enter Venus' apartment to a cheery chorus of "Hey!"s. Venus pours me my first glass of sangria, despite my feeble attempt at refusal due to a long Saturday night. Eat a handful of honey mustard kettle chips to ease an extremely vocal and hungry tummy. Somehow my wine glass is quickly emptied and refilled. Aggs gets into her fashion photographer zone and whips out the camera. I get all excited about the way Saritz did her eye make-up and have Aggs take a just-eyes shot for this blog. I also get all excited about how Tom Tom rearranged the Japanese meditation sandbox on Venus' coffee table into his own personal take on globalization by strategically littering the space with tiny WWII airplanes and placing plastic toy soldiers pointing weapons at the dragon and old-man-fishing-on-a-rock figurines. Clever. I order Aggs to take photos from different perspectives, furiously intent on making Tom Tom the next big artiste by submitting them to Wooster Collective and seeing if his work makes the cut for daily email blasts. Aggs takes some beautiful shots. Ads needs a joyride partner for trip back to his apartment for more camera equipment, but not before I drain another wine glass. A four block walk to Saritz's car ensues, as well as a major detour on Cambie Street bridge due to some annoying weekend construction. Finally make it to the Commercial area. Ads retrieves the equipment while I field calls from my fam in California. Return to 1150 Jervis, where brunch is served! Avocado quesdillas packed to the hilt with peppers, cilantro, cajun shrimp, fresh slices of avocado and Venus' secret spice, topped off with cucumber tzatziki, accompanied by fresh fruit and artfully arranged on a square black plate. We enjoy our meal watching a video of the second to last house party at Venus', where Ads and our host cause complete ruckus at the grocery store by pretending to be secret shoppers. They also capture on camera this cute old lady, who gives them the peace sign, a friendly wave and then the finger -- all while smiling from ear to ear. Classic. Brunch somehow turns into a dance party, which lasts till the night.

Hey Venus...what's on the menu for next Sunday?? * My choice for eye make-up colors to use this Spinrg/Summer 2007. Kudos to Saritz for already rocking the palette.
* Nightscape from Venus' pad. How I love this pretty city!


I'm Lovin' it: That hilarious man-about-town Gooch, who's a friend of a friend and who literally knows every single person in this town. Walking down the street with him takes forever, as he fields greetings left and right. Good, random Saturday night fun with a shiny, happy crowd. Oh, and can I just say again what a small world this is? There is some serious six degrees of separation happening in this town. No, make that two degrees of separation.

I'm Over it: Nothing outstanding at the moment.


* Photos property (of the fabulous) Agata Baranowska!!!!!!

A Moment With: Haute Hippie Bradshaw

The second I sat down with a huge bar of mint-flavored organic dark chocolate and the latest issue of Elle Magazine (by the way, Gwen Stefani looks like a modern day Greek goddess in that pure white Michael Kors dress on the cover), I knew I was going to have a total Carrie Bradshaw moment. So here it is.

Halfway through my careful inch-by-inch reading of Elle's glossy pages, I suddenly had the urge to sit in front of my computer and wax poetic about -- what else do they discuss on Sex And The City? -- men and relationships (minus Carrie's cute Mac laptop, New York City apartment and incredibly witty, rhetorical intro).

The reason for this urge for a written purge is two-fold. One has to do with [redacted] [redacted] -- sorry 'bout that, kids, it's a bit too personal -- while two has to do with Valentine's Day being just around the corner and romance being in the air.

For the record, I haven't had a real Valentine in about two years -- I'm not ashamed to admit it and I'm not embarassed, it's simply just fact. And a "Happy V-day" text message (misspelled to boot) from a very emotionally unavailable ex-boyfriend in 2005 does not count.

But here's the real issue I wish to discuss: what do men really want in a woman?

This is my take on things, some of it gleaned from personal experience and some of it gleaned from conversations with close girlfriends in the company of copious amounts of vino (red and/or white).

Men always say they want an independent, fun, intelligent, witty, sexy but not slutty, stylish and ambitious girl who has her own life, doesn't take sh*t from anyone, tolerates (if not enjoys) watching sports, is fantastic in the sack, drinks the occasional brewski, enjoys a real meal (Note: vinaigrette salads are not real meals) and gets along with their friends and family.

Then you come along, fulfilling that wish list to at least 90% to 95%. You meet at the bar, via friends, through work or by chance (happened to me at Save-On-Foods in 1997). Sparks fly, physical chemistry is hot, all's well, his buddies love you and good times are had all around. Perfect-o, right?

The next thing you know, phone calls grow non-existent and texts get less frequent. You make up excuses for his dodgy behavior, then start over-analyzing every single thing you did and said...or didn't do and didn't say. The Ms. "I-Got-It-Going-On" you goes into -- gasp! -- psycho girl mode and you hate every moment of it.

To top it off, the next thing you hear is he's with another girl who seems very nice, but just doesn't seem as awesome as you. What gives??

In a time of uber-feminism, you'd think women would be moving forward in terms of finding the right guy and relationship. Knowing I'm not the only girl with this exact same problem, it only seems like we're moving backwards -- or at the very least, staying in the same place. Call me cynical, call me guarded, call me wary but it seems that a good bulk of men eventually go for women who are just simply easier to deal with.

Shame on me, I shouldn't generalize. I do know a few guys -- emotionally and mentally mature ones -- that respect the female psyche, but you know what? They're already taken, sometimes by girls equally as awesome as they are, and sometimes not. I wish I had a magical solution for finding the right mate for me and for every gal out there like me.

For now, I'll keep doing my thing. I figure I'll just know when he comes along.

And in the meantime -- to cope with this dilemma-- here's a little five-step program that's helped me in the past:

1. Pick up the book "He's Just Not That Into You" by Liz Tuccillo and Greg Behrendt (former writers for Sex And The City...coincidence much?).

2. Read from start to finish.

3. Laugh your arse off at situations in the book that you've found yourself in many a-time and marvel at how knowing the phrase "he's just not that into you" beforehand could have saved you from so much grief.

4. Banish from your mind the guy who's been plaguing your thoughts.

5. Call up your best girlfriends for a night on the town, because one thing's for sure -- they'll always, always love you.

Repeat if necessary.


xo
Haute Hippie


PS. So where's my phone again??

Triad Of Power

Anna Wintour: biggest grande dame the fashion world has even seen, owner of the most severe bob on the planet and editrix of style bible Vogue Magazine.

Andre Leon Talley: right-hand man to Wintour, Vogue Magazine scribe and all-around fashion dandy.

Diane Von Furstenburg: one-time countess, wife of media mogul Barry Diller, current CFDA president and brilliant inventor of the classic wrap-dress.

These three form what is known as a fashion triad of power.

Oh, how I wish I knew what they were thinking in this Fashion Week photo-op.





I'm Lovin' it: Local Vancouver graffiti artists like The Dark, Weakhand, Office Supplies Inc. and Nokin. I've really gotten into street art lately, and it's amazing just how big this sub-culture is all around the world. Check it below.








I'm Over it: Awkward moments. Knowing things you wished you didn't know.

Track of the Day: That Out Hud song K-Dawg played for me off his iPod post-Barnone. Though he told me last night the band is Norweigan, a little internet research pin-pointed them as Berkeley, California natives. Their music is like a frothy, layered confection -- each section is different than the last and completely unexpected. It's music that'll never bore your ears.




www.myspace.com/outhudband


* Photo property of nymag.com, Google Images, prettycity.blogspot.com

TGIF

Y'all know what that means...weekend!

Vancouver is still a growing city, which mean the usual local haunts come to mind.

One thing that Vancity does better than L.A. is the chain restaurant.

Which means Earl's Paramount at Burrard and Smithe, in T-minus 24 minutes.

Happy Friday!

xo
Haute Hippie

Struttin' And Posen

Zac Posen was barely legal when he started his label six years ago.

Now he's a bonafide design star with hordes of fans both in and out of Hollywood, a CFDA award under his belt, financial backing from self-proclaimed "Bad Boy" P. Diddy and completely timeless -- not trendy -- collections that have won over ever-hard-to-please fashion critics.

His Fall 2007 showing was so sublimely Zac. Shimmery pencil skirts, ruffled blouses and dresses, bias-cuts, magnificent red carpet-worthy dresses and his famous friends sitting front row.

I expect Demi Moore, Diddy, Natalie Portman, Claire Danes and indie darling Paz de la Huerta made the cut.

I'm Lovin' it: Vogue Magazine may be called the "fashion bible", but Le Book is a pretty darn close runner-up. This beautiful, extremely pricey publication contains valuable fashion resources enough to make your head spin: fashion, beauty, design, publishing, advertising and entertainment. It covers three major fashion centers: Paris, New York and London. Icing on the cake? Contributions from famous photographers, graphic designers, illustrators and the like litter its pages.

I'm Over it: Apartment hunting. It's hard to find an apartment downtown because everyone and their mother wants to live there, too. How can there be no vacancies when there are so many darn buildings?!

Track of the Day: "Careless Whisper" by George Michael and Wham. Who can resist soulful saxophone intro and smooth (pre-drug abuse) George Michael vocals? I heard this track recently while out and about, reminding me how much cheesy 80s ballads rule.

Careless Whisper on YouTube

* Photos property of nymag.com

Making His-Tory

I have the utmost respect for Tory Burch.

Yes, she can be classified as one of those PYT socialites, but she's not one that reached fame through getting photographed by Patrick McMullan, being featured in Vogue Magazine at least twice, getting draped in the latest haute couture as exposure for a major fashion house or attending every single high-society event in New York.

Burch climbed her way to the top by putting her patrician nose to the grindstone and actually working.

And now she's a brand unto herself.

Her Fall 2007 collection simply cannot compare to that of Proenza Schouler, Zac Posen, Oscar de la Renta or Trovata. That's a given. But time and time again, Burch proves that her designs (and price points) are marketable -- and more importantly, wearable -- to the regular masses.

I still need to snap up a pair of her Reva ballerina flats. In every color, preferably.

















* Photos property of nymag.com

Don't Mendel With Me

When I think of Gilles Mendel of J. Mendel, I think of all those trust-fund, old money PYTs living in Upper Eastside apartments with their perfectly coiffed offspring, financier husbands and closets full of couture.

Think Dr. Lisa Airan, the well-known dermatologist and current socialite muse/arm-candy of Gilles Mendel himself.

Think fur and trimmings -- lots of it.

Think breathtaking Fall 2007 collection that -- though it shared a similiar color palette to the disappointing Calvin Klein show -- had so much inspiration in terms of cut, fall and aesthetic of the clothes.

Sure wish I had a good old trust-fund to buy it all.

* Photos property of nymag.com

In-Kleined To Do So

I think Francisco Costa of Calvin Klein is utterly adorable.

Unfortunately, his Fall 2007 collection was not so much.

Call it a matter of opinion, but the collection was drab: no colors (except for two dirty-looking beige shift dresses), shapeless jackets, simpletown silhouettes and a very boring strapless frock to close the show. Fall wardrobes don't have to look so serious!

I always try to find the best in things, so here are Costa's top designs below.

And here's to a more scintillating collection for Spring 2008.

* Photos property of nymag.com

So Hard Kors

Ever since the term "fashion slave" became synonymous with my first and last name, I've loved Michael Kors ad campaigns.

Supermodel Carmen Kass more often than not splashed across the glossy ad, wearing the most killer gold-shielded aviators, shimmering in the most bronzed skin and gallavanting around with the most handsome guy around (a male supermodel, of course -- but not Zoolander).

His Fall 2007 collection is signature Kors: the jet-set lifestyle.

Which is precisely the reason I love it. I can only imagine what it's like to not care about anything in the world, except to live the life exactly the way you want to -- and look good doing it, at the same time.

You'll see. The day I flit off in my private jet to set sail on my yacht off the coast of Monaco, I'll be wearing Michael Kors.

* Are you surprised there's fur on this catwalk, too?

* I like the splashes of unexpected color amongst the neutrals. This blue has been a hit with most designers at Fashion Week.

* Giant cowlnecks scream luxurious, on both men and women.

* The combination of camel and heather gray is something I definitely want to try. Once again, unexpected in terms of color -- but utterly chic!

* Photos property of nymag.com

Candy Kayne

Jenni Kayne is one of the hottest designers to hit it big in and out of Los Angeles.

With the help of big name friends (Rachel Bilson, Nicole Richie, Mischa Barton, Rachel Zoe, the Olsen twins) and a real estate mogul fiancee (Richard Ehrlich), Miz Kayne -- who reminds me a little of alice + olivia's Stacey Bendet -- has recently brought her collection out east.

Her Fall 2007 showing was all grown-up, too. The easy, breezy L.A. silhouettes were transformed into sleeker, more tailored fits and the models sported Breakfast At Tiffany's-worthy hair.

All in all, I was duly impressed with the collection and can't wait to see what Spring 2008 brings.

* Can I pretty please own this metallic brown top?! I'd wear it exactly like the model -- furry scarf, skinny pants and big hair -- in the Canadian cold, even if others think it looks ridiculous. Though it's totally not.

* Photos property of nymag.com

How Sui It Is

Anna Sui. You know I write something about her brand every couple of posts!

Looks like her creative juices for Fall 2007 flowed from the source as Kimora Lee Simmons for Baby Phat, because there was a little Russian and a whole lotta fur hats mixed in with the usual boho chic that is Anna S. Her bright color palette was toned down a bit for fall, ranging from black to gray to burnt orange to deep purples to muted blues. Boots were ubiquitous as always, sleeves stayed long and shapes remained flattering.

Sui can do no wrong in my books.

Hot Item: This Rega P3 turntable in bright candy colors. If you want to go the DJ and vinyl route, there's literally no other way to do it than with this puppy.

* Photos property of nymag.com, rega.co.uk.com

Dancing Queen

In a celebrity boxing match of Ellen DeGeneres vs. Oprah Winfrey, Ellen executes the KO.

After a three-year hiatus from showbiz (due to a self-outing on her wildly popular eponymous sitcom), she returned in full force on Hollywood Squares and then knocked it out of the ballpark with her gut-busting, dance-machining, 15 Emmy Award-winning Ellen DeGeneres show.

Now the funny lady is this month's W Magazine cover darling and major inside feature.

And must I say -- though I don't swing that way -- Ellen looks mighty fine.





* Photo property of style.com

Love Is In The Air...

Except for the air surrounding me.

I'm getting inundated with fashion newsletters touting products related to Valentine's Day, which serves to remind me I won't be having a romantic, candlelit dinner for two or getting flowers next Wednesday.

No, I'm not complaining. Instead, I get to enjoy a girls' night at Heath B.'s. Golden!

I also enjoy taking a look at these saucy items from the North American website of Coco De Mer, the high-end erotic emporium from the United Kingdom.

And who can resist a site that sells "Tools For Bedroom Arts"?!

Those kinky Brits.

This is the Coco De Mer "Tally Ho" chair. The options that come with it are endless. Use your imagination. And apparently it goes well with... (see below)

...this Coco de Mer Diamante Crystal Whip. The whole set will set you back nearly $6000, so if you're not an erotic arts aficionado, don't even bother.

I'm Lovin' it: The Project Gallery hosting an exhibition called Project Presents: Love Conquers All in Culver City this Saturday from 7 to 10 pm and continuing till March 1st. This collaboration between two art collectives -- The Love Bandits and The Love Movement -- explores the different themes related to that thing we call...well...love.

I'm Over it: Uh, did anyone and everyone see Kevin Bieksa's terrible game for the Canucks last night? He may be ruggedly good-looking, but tipping a puck into your OWN NET brings personal stock down more than a few points. Especially to a female hockey fan.

Album of the Day: His And Hers, a new annual compilation from none other than former Teddy's at The Roosevelt uber-promoter Amanda Scheer Demme. Once heavily in the musis business, she turned into a party promoter with a golden guest list of A-listers after the death of her husband Ted Demme. Now it seems like she's back in music action with this amazing compilation, influenced by the warm, fuzzy feeling called love. But don't expect ballads from Van Morrison. Instead, check out the Postal Service cover of "Against All Odds". Classically new!

* Photos property of cocodemerusa.com, amazon.com

Narciso Makes Good

I'm not usually a fan of Narciso Rodriguez.

His clothes are a bit too simple in silhouette and geometrically-blocked for me.

However, I did spot two looks out of his Fall 2007 collection that grew on me.

* This cream jacket looks like a shorter, less-adorned and less-embroidered version of the Chulo Pony coat I almost snagged at Zebra Club on South Granville a few weeks ago. Figured I didn't need another coat in Los Angeles. Considering how chilly it is in my new habitat that is Vancouver, I suppose it would have been a good -- and fabulous -- buy at $135. And to be honest, Chulo Pony's version outdoes Narciso's.

* I think the versatility of this sweater/coat/dress is what takes my breath away. I love the high-neck and voluminous sleeves, too -- there's something very feminine about the overall silhouette, despite the presence of ruffles and frills. The silver zipper is great for giving the all-black ensemble a bit of flash.

* Photos property of nymag.com

Ballerina Girl

Lionel Richie crooned about one.


Margot Fonteyn was one.


Stella McCartney for Adidas can make you as close to a ballerina girl as possible with her new Adidas collection Asheni ballet flats.

Continuing along the line of satin slippers, here's a satin stiletto stunner from none other than Bruno Frisoni.

You may not being able to execute pirouettes or plies in these babies, but you'll sure be dancing circles around jealous front-row fashionettes if you bust them out at Fashion Week.

* Photos property of julib.com

Shout Out To I. Erickson

Hey there I.E.,

Thanks so much for your last comment. I shot you an email yesterday, but not sure if it went to your junkmail box so thought I'd give you the old blog shout-out, just in case! Looking forward to hearing your ideas...

xo
Haute Hippie

Tea For Two

Thanks to my pal Tom-Tom, I've been obsessively OBSESSED with London Fog drinks at the local java joint. Not only is it delicious, it's way easier on the pocket than your typical non-fat and non-sugar soy lattes.

For those who need some clarification, a London Fog is Earl Grey Tea mixed with steamed milk and a generous shot of vanilla flavor.

Hermes -- of silk scarf and bright orange shopping bag fame (if you're seen swinging this 'round your wrist, people know you've dropped serious coin) -- has a home collection, complete with this gorgeous Demianka silver and bamboo wood tea set.




Sure would love to have my London Fog served on this Hermes platter.

I'm Lovin' it: This chic, nautically-inspired dress from recent Project Runway winner Jeffrey Sebelia. Methinks the reason it's so beautiful is the combination of emerald green, ivory, gold and voluminous bottom. Aye aye, captain.

I'm Over it: The characters on Lost finally breaking into the hatch. Yeah, yeah. I'm a little behind, but K-Dawg, Nate and I are catching up via DVD. I've waited till the end of five discs to get to this point, and now it all seems so drawn out and anti-climactic. NOT.

Flick of the Day: It's All Gone Pete Tong, starring Paul Kaye. This fictional story follows the figurative demise and reincarnation of a massively popular and perpetually drugged out DJ in Ibiza named Frankie Wilde, who rapidly loses his hearing. Filmed in a pseudo-documentary style, expect cameos from famous turn-tablists like Carl Cox, Tiesto and Pete Tong himself. Break out your decks and vinyl, because this most excellent, critically-acclaimed film is cause for musical celebration.

* Photos property of julib.com, sheckys.com, a-film.nl

The Long And Shorts Of It

My girl R-Shizz out in L.A. rocked a look that I always thought looked so funky cool, it was criminal: shorts paired with long socks tucked into boots.

Here's a similar look from Johnson that shows exactly what I mean.




Just make sure if you buy these shorts from Shop Bop, you get them in either the Penny or Bullet shades.

Please, for the love of fashion, skip on the Astroturf color.


* Photos property of shopbop.com

Playing Ruffian

There's something to be said about a fashion collection that doesn't have to be flashy or ostentatious to be beautifully effective.

Brian Wolk and Claude Morais of Ruffian have a sophisticated, slighty androgynous label that channels Katharine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. Their Fall 2007 collection manifested a lot of simple silhouettes in fluid silk fabrics. The models trounced down the catwalk in simple hair, simple make-up, no jewelry and the best shiny, black opaque tights I've ever seen. It's nice to see a showcasing of clothing and not just the runway production.

Being a ruffian may have negative connotations, but most certainly not in the case!


* I'm in complete adoration of this piece! Still debating whether it's a long dress or a fitted tank tucked into a very high-waisted skirt -- though my sixth fashion sense is telling me it's the former.












I'm Lovin' it: Celebrities. Not the red-carpet kind, but the Vancouver gay bar kind. Saritz's birthday night Number #2 was filled with dancing, dancing and more dancing. And seeing (a very straight) Nate getting hit on left and right by fawning little boys wasn't too shabby, either.

I'm Over it: Girls who wear x-ray goggles on their head and plastic shorts with clear panels down the side out while on the town and think it's fashion. Take note, chick with the pink bob and aforementioned outfit last night.

Artist of the Day: The electronica band Metro Station out of Hollywood, California made up of Trace, Mason and Blake. Their track "California" is not only so very appropriate for me, it's also got this infectious hand-clapping mixed into the background synthesis that I can't help keeping up with.




www.myspace.com/metrostation





* Photos property of nymag.com, myspace.com/metrostation

"Everywhere I Go, I See The Same..."

Well, Tupac couldn't have said it better.

So tonight, Saritz is having Night #2 of her birthday festivities.

Final destination: Celebrities -- Vancouver's equivalent to L.A.'s The Abbey.

Theme for the night: Rap video chicks.

I don't do booty-shorts and bling, so I'm going as Kim Porter.

That should be an easy fit.

Ha.










* Photo property of usatoday.com, Google Images

My Overalls Thinking

I informed Saritz the other day that my wardrobe goal for this coming Spring/Summer 2007 was to procure the perfect shortall in either denim, camo-green or dark khaki.

No, I'm not talking Osh Kosh B'Gosh or Please Mum.

I'm talking about a ready-to-wear quality, super-sassy pair to go with either boots or chunky heels.

Here's a pair from Miss Sixty's Fall 2007 collection that you'll have to imagine are cropped to the upper thigh.




Oh, yeah. And here are some other looks from the show that caught my attention.











When it comes to picking favorite runway outfits, it's just like eating pringles. You can't just have one.

But don't tell the models that.



* Photos property of nymag.com

That's So Phat

As you may know, the Big Apple is under siege by the showing of Fall 2007 collections at New York Fashion Week.

Everyone expects fun, glitz and glamour at this bi-annual event, and there's no one better to deliver all three at once but Ms. Kimora Lee Simmons with her Baby Phat label.

Her runway show was a mish-mash of Russian influences (furry hats and boots, brocade), 70s disco glam (gold, gold, gold), street-wear (intricately detailed hoodies for the fellas and bling), rock 'n' roll (skintight skinny pants, a la Mick Jagger) and My Fair Lady (dress suits, lace and velvet).

I'm sure one of the biggest -- and recurring -- negative critiques of the glamazon Baby Phat collection is that it suffers from fashionable ADD and lacks a coherent theme.

My verdict is, who cares? It's full of high-energy, sexy and show-stopping clothing that'll make anyone look and feel like a private yacht-cruising, Dom Perignon-drinking, Maserati-driving, million dollar estate-living, diamonds-are-a-girl's-best-friend-wearing jetsetter.

In short, you'll feel just like Kimora -- for a day.

Minus the political soapbox-spouting, yoga-loving Russell.








* This glittery mini is my absolute favorite by far!!


















I'm Lovin' it: The big ole sale Guess is currently having across the board. Everything that's already been reduced is an additional 60% off. It's time to clear out all the winter items for spring -- meaning all fashionistas reap the wardrobe benefits.

I'm Over it: All the chocolate chip peanut butter cookies, crackers smothered in asiago artichoke dip, honey garlic wings, sausage rolls, chips and salsa, T&T fruit and whip cake, caramel Kisses and chocolate fondue I devoured -- along with everyone else -- at Saritz's little girls-only birthday bash. Thank god for the gym yesterday morning, but curse my bottomless appetite yesterday night.

Artist of the Day: By far, The Rapture. Aggs and I seriously rocked out to them while decorating for the night's birthday festivities. Unfortunately, The Rapture -- comprised of Gabriel Andruzzi, Luke Jenner, Vito Roccoforte and Mattie Safer -- is not making a stop here on their North American tour, opting to set sail for Europe and Australia instead. So for now, I'll just have to jam to them via iPod.




www.myspace.com/therapture



* Photos property of nymag.com, rhapsody.com

Kaskade-ing Tears Of Joy

So I was majorly bummed when I realized Kaskade was rolling into L.A. earlier this month while I was still in Vancouver.

Now that I'm a Vancouverite -- and since I just gave this 'Frisco Bay area DJ a shout-out in a recent "Artist of the Day" -- I couldn't have been any happier to find out (via The Georgia Strait) that Kaskade is playing this February 22nd at Caprice Nightclub downtown, presented by Nordic Trax.

Tickets are only $25 and get sold out like that, so get on it.

"It's you, it's me" and it's Kaskade* on February 22nd.

* The boy's pretty fly lookin', too!


Kaskade performing "It's You, It's Me" at Sol in NYC

* Photo property of clubzone.com

What's Your IQ??

Nestled in my email inbox today was this very interesting (and slightly time-consuming) I.Q. test, brought to my attention by Daily Candy under the "Weekend Guide Everywhere" blast: Intelligence Test (or www.intelligence-test.net/part1).

I managed to squeak by with a 20 out of 33, which puts me a single point above the minimum "genius" level -- or so the disclaimer at the bottom says.

My verdict is that if you're a writer like myself, you'll probably get around the same score.

And consequently, you'll probably go to bed not counting sheep, but trying to figure out all the sequences you missed.

Yup, just call me Einstein.

* Photo property of Google Images

The Devil Wears Anna

Some consider a highlight to their day being the sun shining outside on a typically rainy day. Or a running into an old friend. Or getting a smile on the street from a complete stranger. Or getting flowers on a random day from that special someone.

The highlight of my Thursday, February 1st, 2007?

This extremely interesting New York Times article on the one and only Anna Wintour.

Hate her or love her, if you know your fashion, one just can't help but worship Anna.

Even just a l'il bit.







I'm Lovin' it: Despite my sore back today, yesterday's Cardio Kickbox class was the bomb. I expect firm, taut abs by springtime. As long as I lay off my favorite "healthy" dessert -- bananas 'n' apples drizzled in caramel -- after 7 pm.

I'm Over it: Missing The Roots show tonight at The Commodore. I saw those Craigslist ticket scalper prices! I'm just gonna have to bite the bullet and watch "Ugly Betty" on the boob-tube this evening. Which is not such a bad thing, I suppose.

Track of the Day: Anything and everything Bloc Party. For all you fellow fans in Vancity, they're playing at the Orpheum Theatre on March 12th, 7:30 pm. Better start getting your "So Here We Are", "Banquet" and "This Modern Love" lyrics straight.



www.myspace.com/blocparty


* Photos property of mediabistro.com, socialiterank.com, redsonica.com