Fancy Frock

Ring in Spring: My New Favorite Color Palette

2009-03-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

After flipping through the latest crop of Spring fashion magazine (and naturally flipping through them over and over again), I was suprised by the three ads that stood out to me. I, as most of my good friends know, am a student of the color black. I live in it, every season, in some way or another. But these three ads, all representing these muted colors of mauves and camels and rose pinks took the cake for me. Whether I will find myself in these colors, I'll let you know. For now, enjoy the colors of the season.

Lacoste

Chloe

Missoni

Get into Spring, sweetnesses!

My Latest Thrifty Purchases

2009-02-21T17:42:00.000-08:00

As I'm sure we all know by now, fashion doesn't have to mean a large sum of money. I know for all of us here at Fancy Frock, the bargain is the real treasure. Here are 4 of my most recent bargain buys and how I came about them.

At a local thrift store in San Diego, I found a leather blazer similar to this one for a mere $12.95. Mine is more of a camel tan color and made of super supple leather. Perhaps someone discarded it due to the ever-present heat? But as I get ready for my trip back to my sweet Seattle, it's a perfect vintage layering piece.

This simple Matix brand tee I found new at the swap meet. $5, people. And stripes are timeless!

For $10 at Urban Outfitters (who doesn't love the sale items!), this faux fur stole seems to add a touch of luxe to any simple outfit.

Steve Madden sandals from Ross. At only $20, these are a steal to me! So much attitude for so little money. Also in bronze!

What are your latest bargains?

Confessions of a Shopaholic: a Petit Review

2009-02-20T21:55:00.000-08:00

There are a few things that should just be said initially about this film. One: Obviously, the movie is never going to be as good as the book. In what case is it EVER as good? Two: It's a movie about shopping. Read: meant to be frivolous. Three: Chick flick in February. Four: Certainly not the SATC movie. Five: Poorly acted.

BUT! ASIDE from these obvious facets of the movie COAS, it was actually reasonably entertaining. To me, it did it's hour and a half job. And in a lot of ways, like the book was, the story is honestly relatable; especially for avid shoppers. For instance: On numerous occasions, the importance of good window displays in shops is highlighted. Also expressed: that nagging feeling of when you pass up some item you were on-the-fence about, then see someone else rep'n in some extraordinary way, meaning you must now, more than ever, own than once previously on-the-fence item. These seemingly small things were actual quite present, making this seemingly vapid film also really charming.

Point: do not expect your shopping life and mindset to be changed nor to feel like you wasted ten dollars. See this movie for that it is: purely entertaining.

Top 12-ish favorite songs and what I wore today.

2009-02-17T14:28:00.000-08:00

A typical "rainy day at school" outfit.

Faux leather jacket-H&M

Cardigan-The Gap

White top-Some cheapo store on Sunset in LA

Leggings-AA

Bag-Marc by Marc Jacobs [always so heavy, I swear my right side is going to be lower that my left for the rest of my life!]

Circle Scarf-Held Over on Haight [Thanks to Rachel!]

Docs-Via. Buffalo Exchange in the Mission

Music is one of the key influences in my life and therefore affects my mood and the way I dress. Here are some of my favorite songs as of late: [in no particular order... none at all!]

#Talking Heads-Sugar on My Tongue

#Yelle-Tu Es Beau

#Department of Eagles-No One Does It Like You

#Handsome Furs-Cannot Get Started

#Bon Iver-Re:Stacks

#Beyonce-[OK, it's a tie] Video Phone, Diva, Ego

#CSS-Alala

#Pulp-Sorted for E's and Wizz

#Weezer-No One Else

#Madcon-Beggin'

#Juelz Santana and Jim Jones-Pop Champagne

ANNND pretty much every song off of Merriweather Post Pavillion.

As of late;

2009-02-10T13:10:00.000-08:00

I attended a 90s alternative dance/sing-a-long party on Saturday night with fellow Fancy Frocker Rachel and I've been stuck in the 90s ever since!

I even traded in some clothes for a pair of Doc's at Buffalo Exchange!
[$35 at 50% off...what a steal]

Wearing my hair all messy.

A listening to a lot of:

Pictures to INSPIRE

2009-01-24T21:43:00.000-08:00

There is a website that I frequently go to for my daily dose of fashion, art, craft, and simple living inspiration. There is so much out there to draw inspiration from and flick is definitely an awesome place to go. Check it out, set up an account, join some groups and get inspired...and upload your own photos and start inspiring others! Here are a few photos, out of almost 500, that I currently have on my favorites list on flickr! Enjoy!

Proenza Schouler, you guys always impress me.

2009-01-20T12:47:00.000-08:00

Flawless.

sneakers or heels...or both

2009-01-20T10:18:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing these all over the place...blogs, magazines, but I've yet to see anyone wearing these out in the real world. What do you think? Sneaker heels, yay or nay? I can't decide...but I think for now, I'll leave them for the tween models in Teen Vogue! haha.

It's Time to Care...

2009-01-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

...but no one said you can't look good at the same time! Email us a pic of your inauguration day outfit and you may be featured on Fancy Frock!

Email - fancy.frock@gmail.com

Yay change!

Back!

2009-01-08T21:07:00.000-08:00

Luckily, I got to spend the last three weeks in my home, Seattle. I really should've taken more pictures, but here are a few of my favorite moments from my trip captured on "film".

3/4 of the Fancy Frock Crew. Danni: I wish you were there! Believe me, I drank enough whiskey for the both of us!

Style Icon: Kelly Ripa

2008-12-29T10:27:00.000-08:00

I've started a new morning routine that includes tuning in to Live with Regis and Kelly to get my morning style high. Kelly Ripa is perfect, there's no getting around that. Cute, perky, perfect hair, makeup, and style, she's got the whole package. She's my new style inspiration!

Live with Regis and Kelly is on weekdays at 9:00am on ABC

For those of you who can't watch the show, check out: Our Daily Ripa

Quick Link!

2008-12-02T10:51:00.001-08:00

Check out Pixie Market, this site is pretty much 99% must have stuff.

I warned you!

What's on my list...

2008-11-25T22:15:00.000-08:00

At first, when I was asked by a few people what I wanted for Christmas, I couldn't really come up with anything. After some time to think it over, here is what I came up with. All of these things are amazing and I feel like I can't live without them, which is funny because a few weeks ago I didn't even know that I wanted them!

Black leather wallet w/ heart clasp, Lovcat Paris

Patent leather bag with strap, HOBO International

Plaid coat with ruffle collar, Urban Outfitters

These are my true loves! Patent leather booties, Burberry

Magazine Junkie

2008-11-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

As just about everyone who knows me has probably realized, I love magazines. I have like 5 subscriptions and yet I still end up picking up at least 1 from the grocery store each month. It's a huge part of where I get my inspiration for clothes. I also love keeping my mags. I recently moved from a fabulous little house to (what I like to think) an even more fabulous apartment, which means it was time to cut the fat from my stuff. Now, I have been keeping magazines for years. I've lugged them with me through about 4 moves, and during that time I'd accumulated about... oh I'll just round and say about 10 boxes. 10 boxes of magazines! That's crazy! So I sorted through them all and, kept a few, dumped a lot and somehow narrowed it down to just 1 little box. I feel like a huge weight was lifted, but also just a little empty inside.

Holiday Gifts Under $50: Unintentional Red Theme

2008-11-23T09:03:00.000-08:00

All in the Nordstrom home department, in stores and online. SHOP!

Quick Sale Update: Nordstrom

2008-11-23T08:46:00.000-08:00

During my Christmas shopping this weekend, I happened into my favorite department store of all: Nordstrom. No joke, this place is magical for me, especially during the holidays. AND there are a ton of amazing things on sale. Great gift ideas and amazing finds for you and me. Take a look at my favorite sale pics from Nordies this weekend:

Patent Jessica Simpson Wedges: I am inclined to despise anything and everything about this poptart but I must say, cute shoes

Beautiful Leather Gloves: always appropriate, as a gift or for yourself

Perfect Black Frye Boots: No explanation needed.

Marc By Marc Jacobs Tote Bag: I die.

Get to it, ladies.

Wish list & Inspiration

2008-11-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Add this to the wish list:

2008-11-18T19:49:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting an oversized gold watch for months now, but I can't seem to find one that strikes my fancy that is in my price range. This Michael Kors one is a beauty and at $250, it's pretty reasonable. But I'm gonna take the "responsible road" and not get it. I suppose I'll have to keep an eye out for a man on the street with a coat full of Bolexes.

BACK!

2008-11-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

So I'm sorry for the absence. Us girls have all been quite busy! My excuse other than school and work? My house didn't have electricity for 11 days so I got out of the routine of getting stuff done and into the routine of procrastinating like crazy. But really, I've been missing it....so here's goes!!

If you comment in the next week, you just might receive an invitation to Gilt Groupe, the one and only members' only website where you can buy super SUPER discounted designer clothes. Where else can you get a super cute $1,550 Chloe dress for $398??

PS. Thank you to those who asked me about what was going on with the blog, we really appreciate you guys! <3

And the winner is...Leanne!

2008-10-17T05:53:00.000-07:00

A fellow Northwest-er, hailing from Portland, Oregon, Leanne is now the 5th winner of Project Runway!

Those who tuned in on Wednesday evening saw her beautiful wave inspired collection in soft blues and creams that won her the prize.

During Wednesday's season finale, I personally was in an internal battle between loving her and Korto's collections, as well as a couple of pieces from Kenley's collection. I imagine they will all have fruitful careers!

Who did you love? What was your fave collection?

Projections: Project Runway 5

2008-10-15T06:33:00.001-07:00

After it's 4th season with it's wildy popular winner, Christian Siriano, I wondered if PR could come into its 5th season successfully. Luckily for me, most Wednesday evenings when I tune in haven't been a disappointment. Now in it's final week, with the finale airing tonight, who do YOU think will get "auf'd" and who will be the lucky winner of PR 5??

Korto? Kenley? or Leanne?

I'll reserve my vote until I see those runway shows!

The Cowl!

2008-10-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

So I was interning [I ended up getting hired, go me] with this fabulous lady named Sunhee Moon. She's a local San Francisco designer that has three boutiques here in San Fran, as well as an online shop. [As a side note, she makes amazing classic pieces and they're all made in the city!] As a thank you gift for being an intern, I was rewarded with this amazing cowl neck scarf....it's now my favorite fall/winter accessory! It can be worn as a structured high collar, slouchy, or even as a hood.

Here's a couple of other great examples of cowl neck scarves!

Found here

Found Here

Lots more can be found on Etsy!

A Quick Dose: of Mary-Kate and Ashley

2008-10-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

Certainly my favorite way to start the day.

Stylish Gal of the Day

2008-10-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

I was browsing one of my favorite key inspiration spots, Wardrobe Remix, and came across this girl. I love the way she paired pink and black and made it look super cute and chic. So don't be afraid to look like a hot topic sk8er girl...it can be done right!

Season Transition Piece: Hats

2008-10-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

Great for reasons ranging from covering up a lazy hair day to putting that final touch on an outfit, hats are my favorite accessory this season. They also are important as the temperature drops and the weather begins to change. Not sure how to add them into your beginning-of-fall wardrobe? Check out Rachel Bilson below for some hot tips.

The Slouchy Beret:

The Funky Fedora:

The Classic:

Take a cue from Bilson, and take a chance on a hat!

Ryan Adam's views on fashion.

2008-10-01T22:46:00.001-07:00

What does Ryan Adams have to say about fashion?

I have those Marc Jacobs gloves. I can't wear them because I feel too hot topic-like.

Lykke Li-one of my favorite new artists!

2008-09-30T22:39:00.000-07:00

So I was at work and my boss had just added some new songs to the work mix and one of Lykke Li's songs came up, "Little Bit"...and I fell in love!

Check out a couple of her videos;

Trend Alert: Harlequin Prints

2008-09-30T18:08:00.000-07:00

According to Style.com, the new trend for prints is the harlequin. I could get into it if it's in some nice neutrals like a lavender-grey/black combo...but personally, I am not one for bright colors. What do you think?

Sass & Bide

Miu Miu

Dries Van Noten

Kenneth Jay Lane

Petit Ode to a Fashion Couple of the Past: Pete and Kate

2008-09-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Once in a while, there comes a couple that just emits something unexplainable. Maybe for these two it was their reckless abandon, but I think some of it might be contributed to just how great they looked together. Don't get me wrong, I truly do love these two seperately: Pete for his contribution to his former band, the Libertines, and also his current project, Babyshambles, and of course Kate for being a visionary kind of model and designer for Topshop. And although they are no longer "Pete and Kate", we can always remember the combined beauty of the two and the progressive style they wore together.

Love 'em or hate 'em, the two had something.

Alert: New MK and A!

2008-09-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

The lovely and talented sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have a new partnership in the works! Get ready: shoes for Steve Madden!! Through their label Elizabeth and James, they will be coming out with a limited line of likely AMAZING shoes! Once I get more details about when we can expect this, I'll let you guys know. I will be outside the closest store waiting for a pair of my own! Will you??

Treasure Island Music Fest

2008-09-23T14:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I was lucky enough to attend two Fleet Foxes shows [thanks to Skye!], one at the Independent and the other at Treasure Island Music Fest. I thought the festival would be a good opportunity to find fashionable people to take pictures of...alas, it was not. But I did get a picture of two very fashionable people, Skye and Olivia. I LOVE her cape...

Stylish Girl of the Day:

2008-09-22T19:02:00.000-07:00

This girl from the suburbs of Chicago has a super sweet and cute sense of style...and she also has her own Ebay shop that is chocked full of amazing vintage finds!

Here's an example of what you can find at her store, Liebmarlene Vintage

Me and some friends at Blow Up-San Francisco

2008-09-21T11:49:00.001-07:00

Quick Look: The Oversized Jacket

2008-09-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

I saw this on The Sartorialist and immediately fell in love with this look!

PS: How do you guys feel about us girls posting looks of our own? Fun? Narcissistic? Yes or no?

Right Off The Runway: 3.1 Phillip Lim

2008-09-19T08:27:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorites from his Spring ready to wear line. Check out the whole show at www.elle.com

Beautiful clothes, beautiful show. 3 cheers for 3.1!!

My Heart Belongs To: Jenny Lewis

2008-09-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

For me, music is my number one love, with fashion following a close second. Thus, I like to observe the way they inform eachother. For instance, when a band or group gains popularity, you see a hundred fans looking like baby clones of the band, wearing the same clothes, walking with the same swagger (see: Emo revolution). Alternatively, people get into music and construct their own fashion ideals based on their ethics they are often writing about (see: the beginnings of Punk). Whichever it is, they are certainly linked, for the modern world and especially for me.

My absolute favorite musician also happens to be my favorite fashionista, and that is the sweetfaced Jenny Lewis.

As she continues to delve deeper into her incredible solo project (Acid Tongue debuts on the 23rd of this month!), she also continues to posess this unexplained sassy and daring way of dress that ladies can only hope to achieve. Often mixing current trends with her own staples, Lady Lewis presents herself in plenty of folk inspired vintage with an enviable classic feel that makes you believe she belongs beside Bob Dylan during the folk revival in the late 60's. Check her out:

This lady has got the look. And the voice. Check her out on the 23rd and in the meantime, search for her previous records that could move you like they moved me.

A few things that inspire me:

2008-09-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

Fashion week review: day two brought to you by Elle Magazine

2008-09-15T17:31:00.000-07:00

Online vintage shopping!

2008-09-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

So all of us Fancy Frock girls love vintage clothes and buying them [hence the fact that we all met when we worked at Buffalo Exchange together], but sometimes a girl just doesn't have enough time to go from store to store looking for the perfect vintage piece. That's why I've compiled a list of some of my favorite online vintage stores. Sure, they can be a bit overpriced, but they do the work for you!

Nasty Gal Vintage

"A hip boutique for gals who appreciate chic, understated fashions from the 1950s-1980s.

NASTY GAL VINTAGE offers the ultimate in vintage & designer clothing, shoes and accessories.Currently we do all of our sales through our Ebay store, so stop by to see what's new!"

Bird Baths

A fashion student at CCA, Ashley, the gal behind Bird Baths not only sells vintage clothing, but does handmade clothing and accessories. She even does custom made skirt orders!

Fancy Finds Vintage

So they almost share a name with us, but that's not why I chose to put them on the list! Just going to their myspace and looking at their photographs is a testament to their eye for style.

My Fall Five: Accessories

2008-09-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

Below is my fall accessory wishlist. Clearly, season after season, I will never be tired of two components: rock n' roll and BLACK.

Miss Sixty Boots

Tom Ford Sunnies

Betsey Johnson Necklace

Fendi Timepiece

Chloe Shopper

Bring on the chill.

Looking back on day 1 of NY fashion week; brought to you by Elle Magazine

2008-09-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

Must Watch: The Rachel Zoe Project

2008-09-09T23:52:00.000-07:00

This show premiered last night on Bravo and I'm postive it will be my new fashion fave. The show follows the career of stylist to the stars, Rachel Zoe, and the beautiful people (and clothes!) she is surrounded by. Yes, it is incredibely indulgent. But it is also super FUN, not to mention funny. Check it out Tuesdays at 10pm on Bravo.

PS! One person in particular caught my eye, and not because of her terrible attitude. Taylor Jacobson, Rachel's associate, rocks the best ensembles. The perfect example of rock chic, if anyone needs a little brush up. Watch her, watch the show. "I DIE."

Inspiration: 60's fashion videos

2008-09-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

Quick Links

2008-09-06T11:10:00.001-07:00

Check out this blog for amazing info and pictures on vintage trends, silhouettes, etc!!

Couture Allure Fashion

Where are they now: Alison Kelly

2008-09-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

After seasons of Project Runway end, I'm always curious about where my favorite designers end up. One of my all time faves from season 3, Alison Kelly, I loved for creating innovative and chic pieces in my favorite color palette, black and white. Thus, I recently did a little research and found her website of beautiful trinkets and treasures, http://dahlbyalisonkelly.com There are a select number of pieces in the same aesthetic from the show, which I'm more or less dying for. Heres some of my favorites of Miss Kelly:

Here she is in one of her own. I LOVE when she uses the crochet netting:

Adorable dress for anyone:

I saw this necklace on her during the show and now I MUST have it:

Go and check her out. Gorgeous things, lovely gal.

Oh Dolly!

2008-09-04T19:18:00.000-07:00

Who says you're too old to play with dolls?! I've recently discovered this new world- where people are spending hundreds and hundreds of dollars for these new, cooler versions of barbies. I would rather blow my money on shoes, but I'll give props to these people that are so dedicated to their dolls, that they make them a new wardrobe for every season! OH, to be one of these dolls...

Check out
pressplayforme on flickr! All of these images are from his account and he's absolutely one of my favorite contacts. You will fall in love with all of his beautiful dolls and his lovely designs! Inspired by dolls? I know I am!

Shoe Sale Alert: Nordstrom!

2008-09-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Check out Nordie's shoe clearance, online and in stores. AMAZING fall trend styles, like gladiator pumps, chunky heels, and oxford booties. They run 40% off and up! Check it out at Nordstrom.com and see below for a few of my personal faves!

Excellent deal, sizes dwindling! Happy shoe shopping!

Bold & Natural Brows

2008-09-02T17:34:00.000-07:00

One of my very favorite makeup looks is bold lips and brows. There's almost nothing that I love more than a dark & thick, yet perfectly groomed brow, ala-Audrey Hepburn.

This look is easy to achieve with a few tools; brow gel, pencil/shadow, and a good lip color. And remember, the key to having bold brows that don't look unkempt is getting them waxed or tweezed just enough to pick up the stray hairs and highlight your natural arch.

Here are some tips on keeping up those brows from Madison Mag:

Eyebrows are too often the forgotten facial feature. Show them a little love and they can turn out to be the perfect frame for your face.

Step one: invest in a professional brow-shaping session – the difference this makes is nothing short of astonishing. Then, maintain the shape by following the outline created by the expert, plucking stray hairs every couple of days. According to beauty guru Bobbi Brown: “You are born with a brow shape that works naturally with your eyes and face. Your brow’s own natural line should always be your guide.”

If you need some additional inspiration, our favourite brows this season have been sported by Grey’s Anatomy star Ellen Pompeo and actress Jennifer Love Hewitt. Right now, the trend is to have stronger, fuller brows. To get this look you may need to leave over-tweezed brows alone for a couple of months. In the interim, give yours a good going over with a stiff brow brush or toothbrush. Then, fill in any sparse areas with brow powder using a small angled brush. Alternatively, fine brow pencil strokes in the direction of the hair growth will give the area depth and define the shape.

If you are blonde, use a powder or pencil that is one shade darker than your hair colour. For any other hair hue, opt for one shade lighter than your natural colour. Next, examine the area closely and pluck any wayward hairs with a pair of angled, pincered tweezers – but don’t stray above the brow bone. To set your groomed eyebrows in place for the day, brush a brow gel up and out towards the temples and then down slightly to enhance the arch.

The Tool Kit:

1. Tweezers, $30 plus delivery, by Tweezlight, 1300 762 683. It’s amazing how many stray hairs you will see with this illuminated instrument.

2. Brow Fantasy in Brunette, $21.95, by Revlon, 1800 025 488. This double-wand eyebrow tool has an easy-to-apply pencil at one end and a setting gel at the other.

3. Brow Zings Brow Shaping Kit, $53, by Benefit, 02 9695 4800. Keep a compact brow grooming kit close by for regular tidy-ups.

4. After Tweeze Soothing Cream, $25.95, by Tweezerman, 02 9666 3611. Removes any post-pluck redness.

5. Essential Kit for Beautiful Brows, $65, by Jemma Kidd Makeup School, 02 9360 7711. This handbag-friendly kit contains angled tweezers, a white pencil to draw the shape you want, a magnifying mirror and an eyebrow brush.

New Arrivals: Target's GO International

2008-08-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

Well we're starting to see transition wear in stores and Target is no exception. Check out the new looks for Target's GO International line!

Iphone + fashion

2008-08-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

So with the new iphone applications, you can pretty much do anything with your phone. One great thing is being linked to all things fashion related. Here are a couple of great fashion related iphone apps:

1. Style.com app;
This app allows you to see the latest runway shows from Paris, Milan, London and New York right on your phone...for free.

2. Chanel Haute Couture Fall 2008 app;
With this app, stream videos of the looks, accessories, and runway shows of the Chanel Haute Couture Fall 2008 line. This app is also free.

Hopefully others will jump on the bandwagon and create new apps for fashion related items...possibly something that keeps track of all your clothing so you can create outfits?

Inspiration from a Fashionable Family

2008-08-28T21:38:00.001-07:00

Aside from the completely inspiring speech given by presidential hopeful, Barack Obama, I noticed how perfectly dressed he and his family were. From the superbly tailored suit on Mr. Obama, to the daring bright floral on Michelle, and the cute way their kids' dress colors tied right in, the Obama family are inspiring, not only politically, but also stylistically.

Obama, '08, for me!

Love Your Leopard

2008-08-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

Get into fall fashion with something chic and LEOPARD print! A bold choice for any gal, fashionista or otherwise, this is an important print for your wardrobe this season. Invest in one amazing and timeless piece, with prints you don't need to own multiples. Nervous for the daring print? Try something simple, like a leopard scarf, seen below on Mary-Kate Olsen.

Wanna go further? Take a cue from Kate Moss, who frequently wears her vintage leopard jacket out and about. If you keep your eyes open at resale and vintage stores, you can find one of your own, usually between $30-$100. I did and I'll own it forever.

Most importantly when wearing leopard print: It's all in your attitude. Wear it like you mean it and own your look. Fierce.

I'm In Love With My Straightner

2008-08-26T21:21:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of deals, finding things on the cheap... thrift stores, yard sales, bargain basements, I'm there. But sometimes it's good to splurge! I did that a few months ago on a fantastic hair straighter and have never looked back. I bought the Solia Tourmaline Ceramic Ion Flat Iron 1 1/4". This straightener is amazing. I am very low maintenance when it comes to my hair, I won't spend more that 10 minutes on it in the mornings. All I can say is this thing gets it done: stick straight, fliped ends, or curls - it does it all. Folica.com has all the technical info you'll need to sell you (plus over 3000 positive reviews! wowza!) Regularly priced at $140 and marked down to $88 plus free shipping.... it's kind of a good deal!

Designer spotlight: Viktor & Rolf

2008-08-25T19:52:00.001-07:00

Viktor Horsting & Rolf Snoreren are the dutch duo behind Viktor & Rolf and they are anything but normal. They design their shows before designing their lines for each season so that everything truly fits into their themes. Earlier this year, V&R opened up a boutique where everything was upside down.

And just by checking out their website, you can see how they truly think everything that they do through. After the dolls that are wearing their designs walk down the dramatic staircase, you can click on the doors in the room to navigate through the website. Click on the door that is marked "archives" to watch their past shows. A couple of my personal favorites are "upside down" and "Russian doll" where, much like a Russian

doll, a single model is dressed up in layers of clothing by the designers themselves.

So check out their website!

I'll leave you with their fall 2008 show, "no".

These shoes are from Payless?

2008-08-23T11:07:00.000-07:00

Payless jumped on the guest designer bandwagon made popular by stores like Target and H&M.

$30

$24.99

$39.99

27.99

Quick Look: The Blazer

2008-08-22T06:57:00.000-07:00

A simple little jacket can do alot for a look. But if you're not ready to put on your moto jacket just yet, try the blazer. It instantly upgrades your ensemble and isn't just meant for the office. Below, Kate Hudson pairs is with a cream blouse (black and cream almost always look chic) and attains a sort of powerful girl-on-the-go persona.

You can also just pair it with an easy tee shirt. Try throwing a blazer over an AA deep v with skinny black pants and pumps. Comfort but presence, my friends. You'll look effortlessly pulled together, like this gal in an Elizabeth and James blazer.

Don't be afraid to go even more casual with the season staple. Put one over your favorite vintage rock tee, some precisely deconstructed demin and a pair of flats. Then go grab your Starbucks coffee and watch people try to tell if you're one of those perfectly casual but somehow pulled together celebs.

Lastly, if you have the money to invest in a quality blazer, do. You'll likely have it all your life. If not though, don't fret! Check you local resale store and see fashionistas lastest cast-offs. Still no? Hit the thrift store, baby. I found my most prized cream vintage blazer at a Goodwill for $2.99.

Blaze away, ladies.

The Great Knee Sock Divide

2008-08-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite trends for the coming months is the gloriously playful knee sock. Although I was initially skeptical of their apparent wonder, I must say I am now a believer. As I started researching ways to incorporate them into my wardrobe, I found two very different, very geographical takes on the trend.

WEST Coast Style:

In this picture with her band Rilo Kiley, Jenny Lewis pairs her socks with of-the-moment heels, daringly short shorts and a fun belted top; a perfect combo for life in SoCal.

EAST Coast Style:

Fictional Gossip Girl, Blair Waldorf (played by fashion gal in her own right, Leighton Meester) displays a much more WASP-y version, with her socks accenting her pleated skirt and collared shirt prep ensemble.

Each of these looks are certainly attractive, but not exactly universal. For that, I look to SJP.

Sarah Jessica pairs her socks with another fall trend, the oversize sweater, representing the East coast importance of modesty. She keeps it young however with her sassy short printed skirt, West coast style's contribution. This adorable outfit could easily work on either side of the US.

This last look is on a great friend and coworker, Misty Acosta. Misty is one of those gals who just gets it and with ease makes current trends her own, truly looking stylish everyday. Today she reps the knee socks Seattle style, complete with the token down pour.

Rock the socks, everyone. Whatever your geography.

Silhouette Trend for Fall: The Bell

2008-08-16T12:54:00.000-07:00

Preen

Lanvin

Etro

Diane Von Furstenburg

Burberry Possum

Balenciaga

One of the trends spotted on runways for this fall is the bell silhouette. This trend is easy to achieve with a skinny belt. Check it out!

Check out this and other Fall 2008 trends here

@style.com