Ticked Off The List

After an exhausting but enjoyable ten-mile bike ride, I rushed over to LF to pick up the Jeffrey Campbell "Tick" wedge boots that I just posted about. For those who are curious (or came here via Racked), the boots retail for $170 and are a limited edition style with LF Stores. The heel is about five inches and the platform is one inch, so they're slightly less vertiginous than the Ashish for Topshop wedges. Like the Ashish wedges, they've got the ponyskin texture and are both sturdy and comfortable, although with a more narrow ankle opening and rounded heel cup than Ashish's.

While browsing at LF, I came upon a similar style as the "Tick" with a zebra print and a wedge/platform completely covered in studs. If it weren't for the fact that I've been on a shoe buying frenzy for the past two months, I might have indulged in more footwear. I was also eyeing the Jeffrey Campbell high-heeld creeper boot that comes in a zebra print. Given the overflow of shoes onto my bedroom floor, however, it's best that I get organized and control my footwear addiction by refraining from buying more shoes for now...

**Also, on an unrelated personal note, I have to congratulate my friend S.R. on the big news. I hope you're reading this, and I am so happy and excited for you! Cheers!

Wearing: H&M sunglasses, Mossimo tank, vintage beaded jacket, pants from the Boys' department at Target, Jeffrey Campbell Tick boots, Forever 21 bag, assorted bracelets, knuckle ring from Wet Seal

Jeffrey Campbell's Done It Again

Spotted in the window display at LF in Santa Barbara - these Ashish for Topshop look alike leopard print wedges. When I peeked inside at the label, I wasn't surprised to see the Jeffrey Campbell logo. They're a close match to the originals, with the exception of a less sculpted and more streamlined heel. Even though I already have the zebra pair, I'm still somewhat intrigued by the combination of clunky wedge silhouette, animal print, and towering heel. After seeing the Ashish for Topshop wedges going for outrageous prices on ebay, I'm dying to know the price point on these babies, as the shoe addict within me is about ready to call LF and reserve a pair...

Twisted

Today marks the launch of Forever 21's latest Twist collection called "It's Tutu Cute." If feminine pieces such as floral cardigans, frilly tulle skirts, and sheer, lace fabrics get your heart pounding, then you'll appreciate this collection. Since Halloween is a few days away, and I still haven't decided what to wear, the ballerina-inspired offerings are providing me with plenty of inspiration. This week I've considered dressing up as several of the following: Madonna in the '80s, Rachel Zoe (think faux fur, maxi dress, etc.), an '80s aerobics instructor (with plenty of pieces from American Apparel), a bunny, a flapper, or a grunge girl. After seeing these Forever 21 images, I'm adding ballerina to the list of possible costumes. With girly flourishes including ballet slippers, pearl necklaces, headbands, lace tights, and chignons, I can't help but be reminded of my short-lived days as a five-year-old in ballet class. And who doesn't want to feel like a kid again?

images via forever21.com

Inspired By Zara

It's not often enough that store window displays offer me inspiration for putting together new outfits while I'm out and about shopping. Since I devote a lot of time to photographing such displays as a trendspotter, I'm always tuned in to what retailers are putting on display. The windows at Zara are always among my favorites. They utilize interesting props, they expertly mix various textures, and are quite liberal with their accessorizing. Last week, I was particularly drawn to these four looks, and when it stops feeling like summer here in southern California, I'll gleefully pull out my faux fur jackets, textured tights, thigh high boots, and winter accessories.

Another Chic Read

I'm ashamed to admit that I don't read nearly as many books as I used to, but when it comes to fashion and shopping-related books, I'm still an avid reader. I've just finished reading The Fashion Lover's Guide to Incredible Bargains by shopper extraordinaire Debbie Weisberg. As a self-professed bargain lover myself, I could easily relate to the author's passion for finding great deals. In the book, she shares anecdotes and advice about scoring designer items at low prices. With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, this book has timely and useful tips on how to save money and shop wisely.

The book also includes practical fashion advice including: what to do about inevitable fashion mistakes, putting together a high style, low cost wardrobe, and the best times to shop for truly great bargains. "Today it is totally chic to get the best for less," explains Weisberg. "The economy has given way to amazing deals, and a smart shopper can put together a stylish designer wardrobe without spending a fortune." She adds, "it's the thrill of the hunt, and for many, it's a powerful lure indeed." I couldn't agree more! I know that rush that comes when I've scored a great deal. Like when I found some studded Donald J. Pliner boots for $50, or the fur jacket I found last year at the thrift store for $30, or that Chloé handbag I bought on ebay for under $300...

I could also relate when she advises the reader to "dress the part" while shopping. In my experience, I receive much better service when I'm dressed more professionally. Like the author, I've found that the sales associates respond to a style-savvy shopper who knows her stuff. Other useful pieces of wisdom in the book include: not to drink and shop, to establish positive relationships with sales associates, to shop often, to never pass up a good bargain, and to go with your instincts. So whether you're a shopaholic like myself looking for a chic read, or you're looking for a gift for a fashionista, or especially if you just want to learn some tips on how to shop wisely and maximize your budget, I highly recommend this book.

New Nails

With some time on my hands and newly found inspiration courtesy of the Jimmy Choo for H&M ad campaign, I opted to kill an hour's time by attempting a snow leopard manicure at home. In order to get an idea for what I was in for, I tried to watch some instructional videos on YouTube, but quickly became bored and just gave it a go. How hard could it be, anyway?

For those of you who want to attempt this manicure, here's how I did it...I began with a clear base coat, then applied two coats of Sally Hansen's Hard as Nails in White On. After that dried, I randomly placed tiny drops of gray for the spots with Revlon's Steel-her Heart. Lastly, I used a Sally Hansen nail art pen in Black to meticulously draw thin outlines around each gray spot. The result is quite eye-catching...

I think that the smaller and more irregular the spots are, the better the manicure looks. So no worries if you haven't got a steady hand! When I become tired of looking at this manicure in a day or two, I think I may attempt it in brown/gold/black or maybe even pale pink/fuschia/red.

More Random Things

This week, I'm:

* Excited about finally discovering the perfect Breton striped top at Asos. The icing on the cake? It comes in black with white stripes as well as white with black stripes. Note to self - at a price of only $31.40 (and a discount code with 25% off at Asos), stock up!

* I'm loving the convenience that Pebble offers for comparison shopping. After typing in "studded bracelet", I found more than several options that matched what I was looking for. The easy-to-navigate site also features a Q&A forum that allows users to ask questions and get quick responses. It certainly makes shopping for specific items at a desired price point much faster and easier!

* After viewing the lookbook for Bebe's sporty new line, PH8, I'm curious to see the line in person. The PH8 website describes the new line as "fusing function and fashion with confidence and ease." I'm hoping the price points will be lower than the Bebe line.

* Super excited about the upcoming Jean Paul Gaultier collaboration with Target. The line is set to launch on March 7, 2010. Let the countdown begin!

* Tempted to buy this edgy chain handbag from Topshop before it sells out. I envision wearing it with chunky platform boots, a sparkly headband, a bodycon mini, and a slouchy sweater.

The Short List

Admittedly I've become obsessed with height ever since I wore my towering Ashish for Topshop zebra wedges for the first time. I just love the extra six inches of height that those ankle boots give me. Somehow I feel stronger and more commanding while wearing them. As a petite person, I've heard the comment "you're short" one too many times. Yes, I know that I'm short, and just about the only thing I can do to counteract it is to: 1) wear heels or 2) wear clothing that makes me appear to be taller. So while I can only dream of being blessed with height, I've got to recognize that there are actually some benefits to being petite. For example:

1. I can shop in the Boys' department at Target for perfect-fitting cropped trousers worthy of the French fashion editor look.

2. Although I'm not a teenager, I can still fit into Juniors' sizes.

3. Sitting in coach on long flights is slightly more comfortable with shorter legs.

4. That person sitting in front of me in coach should be thankful that I'm not jamming my knees into their seat.

5. If needed, I can fit into small spaces.

6. I can wear tunics and long tops as dresses.

7. I can indulge in of-the-moment towering platforms in my search for the perfect five to six inch go-with-anything shoes for fall's cool weather.

The Blitzi Boot

In true Steve Madden form, they've created a version of the Isabel Marant studded ankle boot I recently spotted in Santa Barbara. It's called Blitzi, retails for $189.95, and comes in either black or brown suede. There are two minor differences from the originals, though. If you look closely, you'll see that unlike the originals, the heel is synthetic and slightly less cone-shaped. For a truly Parisian-chic take on these boots, I'd wear the black pair with slouchy, tapered trousers, a Breton striped top, red lipstick, tousled hair, and a trench coat.

image via stevemadden.com

Oh, Isabel!

Spotted on the streets of Santa Barbara on Thursday night - these amazing studded boots by Isabel Marant. Like a true shoe fanatic and Tommy Ton wannabe, my style radar zoomed right in on them. Having seen them on blogs and in magazines, I shamelessly admired them with unbridled envy. Although the photo doesn't show the rest of the outfit, the boots were worn by an incredibly chic and jovial Norwegian woman with layered scarves and wavy hair. Although she was super sweet for allowing me to photograph her boots, what she didn't know was that she was lucky I didn't snatch those gorgeous babies off her feet! The combination of the cone-shaped heel, silver studs, and a hefty strap are sheer perfection.

A Plus

I somehow managed to stumble upon these superbly bondage-style thigh high boots during an online browsing session yesterday. I'm not quite sure how I discovered them (perhaps while doing a search on Shopstyle.com), but I'm convinced they're the perfect over-the-knee boot that I've been holding out for. Despite having purchased three inexpensive pairs (a flat pair in faux leather, a high heeled pair in faux suede, and a high heeled pair in faux leather), I've been looking for yet another pair with Nicholas Kirkwood for Rodarte-esque strappy details and a sufficiently chunky 4" heel. Although I'm still regretting passing on Topshop's similar "Plectrum" thigh high boot (which was priced at upwards of $300 and sold out in a few days), I'm equally drawn to this pair. It's aptly called the "A-Plus" by Jeffrey Campbell, and is currently available at Lori's.

image via lorisshoes.com

How To Wear Strong Shoulder Silhouettes

Lately I've been scouring thrift stores for vintage velvet, sequin, and beaded dresses. Luckily, the previously dreaded shoulder pads that such dresses often contain are currently de rigueur, and I've ceased cutting them out of my most recent thrift store finds. After wearing a few pieces with plenty of padding in the shoulder area, I've learned a few tips for trying to make this trendy '80s-inspired shape work for me.

Do: take into consideration the proportions of your outfit. Since a prominent shoulder will draw attention to your upper body, keep the rest of the look slim and streamlined. For instance, pair a sleek pencil skirt or leggings with a power-shoulder blazer.

Don't: overdo the hair and makeup when wearing a look with strong shoulders. Keep it modern and avoid the Dynasty effect with tame hair and natural makeup.

Do: enjoy how small your waist will look in comparison to your artificially enhanced shoulders!

Don't: clutter the look with long, dangly earrings. (Leave those for strapless styles.)

Do: consider carrying an of-the-moment mid-sized clutch in your hand instead of a shoulder or cross-body bag, which can dig into your shoulder and ruin the look.

Don't: kill your budget with this trend by shopping for new pieces with shoulder pads. Instead, opt for a quick DIY by buying some shoulder pads for about $5 at a sewing store and adding them to your favorite tops, blazers, and dresses. Even better, check secondhand shops for big-shouldered styles from the '80s.

Do: have fun with this trend!

Back For Black

In my recent attempts to snag another pair of Ashish for Topshop wedges (this time in black and on ebay), I somehow stumbled upon a similar version at none other than Asos. Each time I visit Asos, I immediately check their new arrivals section, then I inevitably get sucked into the endless vortex of on-trend, affordable clothing and accessories that they carry. Since my chances of scoring a black pair of Ashish wedges under $400 seem pretty minimal (unless of course a kind reader who wears a UK size 5/US size 7 wishes to sell), I am contemplating buying these babies, as the price is much more reasonable, the vertiginous silhouette is the same, and the heel/platform combination is probably equally as high.

image via asos.com

Asos Black Bella Boot, $182.37

Cuz You've Been Nighttiming Baby

Although I enjoy living where I live, for me, the biggest downfall of being in a beach town equates to a casual dress code, even at the swankest bars, lounges and restaurants. So you can imagine that I don't draw much inspiration for going-out outfits from the people I see around town, and I often feel like I'm overdressed. Case in point...

Two weekends ago (for a night at a fancy lounge/bar), I attempted to execute the underwear-as-outerwear trend with my new sequin hot pants from Topshop. Taking a cue from Topshop's Marianne lookbook, I hastily put together this look consisting of a cropped tee, vintage beaded jacket, and the most comfortable leg-lengthening heels I could find. To avoid competing with the flashiness of the jacket and hot pants, I skipped out on jewelery, and went with minimal makeup. The mix of prints and textures doesn't translate as well in photographs, as it is best appreciated in person. I realize that it's quite a daring look for my conservative town, but I enjoy knowing that I won't have the same outfit as anyone else. Furthermore, not only was the outfit comfortable, but I also found the silhouette to be intriguing because it's both modest (the upper portion) and daring (the lower half) simultaneously. And with designers putting lots of Lady Gaga-esque skimpy shorts/underwear on the Spring 2010 runways, I have a hunch that the legs will take center stage as the new erogenous zone come next summer.

Wearing: cropped zebra tee - Strawberry, beaded jacket - vintage, hot pants - Topshop, leggings - Forever 21, heels - Steve Madden

Random Things This Week

I've always got a lot of things (and thoughts) on my fashion to-do list. Whether it's a new site to inspect, a stylish must-have item that I want to purchase, or just something I've seen that's inspiring, sometimes I just have to jot such things down in a notebook. So why not also share them on my blog? Here are a few things on my mind this week:

* I've been searching high and low for the perfect black furry coat for winter. This morning, I found it on Topshop's website. Why, oh why is this glamorous goat hair coat from Topshop priced at $460? Damn you, Topshop for having such an outrageously out-of-my-price-range price on such a beautiful coat! (I'd happily settle for a more affordable acrylic version.)

* I'm checking out Elle.com’s online fashion guide, called Fall A to Zee. The guide is a list of Creative Director Joe Zee’s fall favorites, where each letter is paired with one of his 26 trend picks for the season. It also includes related clothing, accessories, and beauty products.

* I'm also liking the idea of the recently launched Gift Card Rescue site, which lets customers sell unused gift cards for cash, exchange gift cards for brand new gift cards of choice, or purchase gift cards at discounts of up to 50% off. Now you don't have to be stuck with a gift card you won't use!

* I just discovered that another of my favorite British high street stores, Next, delivers to the U.S., and for only $10. Must spend some time browsing...

*I'm thoroughly enjoying Nina Garcia's mini-makeovers of Target shoppers, which are filmed at Target stores as part of their Target Style Boutique initiative, which lands in my inbox every Friday.

Consolation Prizes

Finally, a slight chill in the air today allowed me to break out one of my new transitional summer-to-fall jackets. When I initially spied this faded denim motorcycle jacket last month at San Francisco Centre's Wet Seal, I scooped it up without thinking about how I'd style it. Little did I know how versatile it would be. Later that night, I wore it out to dinner over H&M's landscape print T-shirt dress. The following day for museum-hopping, I styled it with a floral hanky tee, gray skinnies, and a floral fringe scarf. Then I wore it later that night to shopping, dinner, and the Phoenix show - with a boyfriend tank, glossy leggings, and flat motorcycle boots (perfect for all the dancing I did when Phoenix rocked the house). Coincidentally, as I browsed at Zara on Post St. earlier that night, I discovered a strikingly similar version in darker denim, albeit with a price almost double what I paid at Wet Seal. As much as I love Zara, I couldn't help but pat myself on the back for procuring the less expensive version.

Wearing: Fruit of the Loom tee, Wet Seal jacket, Forever 21 bag & jeans, Charlotte Russe boots, random studded cuffs

Listening to: Consolation Prizes by Phoenix

Forever Fashion

Many thanks to the folks at Forever 21, who included a photo of me on the Forever 21 Flickr page as part of the Summer '09 Street Style feature. As much as I read the Forever 21 blog, and since I shop and spend quite excessively at Forever 21, it feels great to be recognized by them, especially as I'm wearing their Shibuya Mon Amour bunny tank top and Wang-inspired fringe booties in the photo they've chosen. I'm amongst great company, as they also featured Erika and Christina, two of my favorite fashion bloggers. Congrats, ladies!

Dress Code

It's that time of year again when my birthday is on the horizon and I envision what I'll be doing to celebrate, where I'll be, who I'll be hanging out with, and most importantly, what I'll be wearing. As a clothes horse, I probably place too much significance on the "what I'll be wearing" aspect of the equation, but what I'm wearing directly affects how I feel, and for my birthday, I certainly want my outfit to make a strong statement.

On the topic of the perfect birthday ensemble, I found a jaw-droppingly lustworthy dress while browsing Bebe's new online magazine last month. Equal parts rocker chick and Fall '09 Prada-esque glam, it's called the "slashed dress", and it's exactly what I want to wear for a celebratory night out on the town. I'd style it with a slightly smoky eye, teased hair, some opaque black tights, a few rhinestone bracelets, and the highest platform heels I own. For day, I might dress it down with a sleek/low ponytail, faded denim moto jacket, charcoal leggings, and perhaps some Chucks. Unfortunately, it's not presently in stock on the website, so it may take some effort to hunt it down. (Oh yeah, to any of my friends/family who read this blog, this dress would sure make a great birthday gift!)

image via bebe.com

Sweaty

In protest of the heat wave we're experiencing in southern California, I'm wearing sweatpants (yes, sweatpants) with a boyfriend blazer. It's not exactly appropriate attire for weather that's edging towards 80 degrees, however, I'm more than ready for fall's cool breezes and somewhat chilly evenings. While many people don't see sweats as acceptable everyday attire, I'm still slightly intrigued by the contrast between casual sweatpants and a business-like blazer, and I'm currently imagining myriad ways in which to dress sweatpants up and make them look less like they're for the gym or for lounging. Recent photos of the always chic Betty Autier wearing some sweatpant-esque Topshop trousers have newly inspired my imagination. Below, I've kept the look understated with a simple chignon, my new lace-up boots, and another one of my latest obsessions - a quilted and studded minibag.

Wearing: H&M sunglasses, Mossimo tank top, H&M blazer, Styles for Less sweatpants, Steve Madden "Korset" boots, handbag from Target.com

Profresh-ional

Many thanks to Christina of the newly launched Profresh Style for her interview with me, which can be read here. It's such an honor to be included amongst such stylish bloggers!

Vintage Knowledge

This week I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Melody Fortier's The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping. As someone who recently began to enjoy shopping at flea markets and secondhand shops, I found the book to be extremely helpful. Unlike many other books in the Fashion/Style genre that I've read, I think this one is intelligently written, and the author clearly has expert knowledge of vintage clothing and accessories. (Melody Fortier, founder of Tangerine Boutique, has been collecting and selling vintage clothing since the mid-1990s.) After reading the book, I've gained a new appreciation for pretty details and intricate construction techniques that are seldom found in mass-produced modern clothing. (Unfortunately, I've become accustomed to the poor quality of today's cheap chic garments.)

In the book, the author provides tips on how to: distinguish time periods, determine whether vintage prices are fair, take your own measurements, ensure a good fit, clean and care for vintage clothing, and reinvent vintage pieces with alterations. Who couldn't use tips like this? Particularly helpful is the specific advice on how to treat and remove stains, store vintage clothing, and fix fabric flaws. For example, here's something new I learned...from now on, I'm going to air out my woolens once a year (on a cool day, in the shade) as recommended. You can bet I'll definitely be keeping some of Melody's tips in mind the next time I shop on ebay, or visit a thrift store, flea market, or vintage boutique.