Facing the Fear

I want to dedicate this post to a non-fashion topic. Although this is a fashion blog, there is something else that I love just as much (and that I spend a lot of time doing) and that's cycling. I spend several hours per week on the scenic bike trail pictured above, and have been doing do for almost two years. In that time, I've probably pedaled over a thousand miles.

On today's bike ride I spotted two lizards and one squirrel. The week before last, I spotted one alpaca, one cottontail rabbit, and several lizards. The trail and surrounding scenery, pictured here on Sarah's blog, passes through some remote and beautiful landscape. So it's not unusual to see a variety of wildlife while biking. There's always been a lingering anxiety in my mind that one day I might spot a particular species of animal that I've always disliked. Last Monday that anxiety became a reality. As I was just beginning to warm up, I rode past a chemical processing plant and noticed something small on the trail. (Having skinny tires, it's become second nature to scan the trail or road for potential nails, rocks, tree branches, and hazards.)

That particular morning, I observed something a few feet ahead and to my left that appeared to be a shoelace, but upon closer inspection, it turned out to be what I feared most - a yellow and black snake. I gulped, swerved slightly around it (as it was skinny and less than a foot long), and then my fight or flight response kicked in. I immediately broke out in a cold sweat, became slightly nauseated, and began to pedal faster. You see, snakes disgust me and are the last thing I'd want to see, whether in person, on my computer screen, behind the glass of an aquarium at a zoo, etc.

Ever since last Monday, I've been dreading getting back on the same trail for obvious reasons. Despite thinking about the many logical reasons for not harboring this fear, I couldn't bring myself to be enthusiastic about riding that same stretch of the trail. So I rode on other trails and streets where I knew I would not see snakes until this morning, when I decided that I love biking more than I dislike snakes. So I faced my fear by getting back on the trail, and kept repeating to myself that I'd be ok, and you know what? I was.

I wanted to share this story because I think people can relate to facing their fears, whether it's giving a speech in front of a group of people, getting on a plane for the first time, driving on the freeway, climbing a mountain, etc. Just be confident and tell yourself that you can do it, and if you repeat this mantra over and over to yourself, you'll believe it.

Trend on the Rise - Tropical Temptation

It's almost May and I can't wait for warm summer weather. Despite not being outdoorsy, I can still appreciate a bright and sunny day at the beach (as long as it involves some form of biking or walking). Hence my recent affinity for tropical prints. They're getting me in the mood for summer, and right now, they're the perfect antidote to this breezy, cloudy weather that's making me want to stay indoors. Channel a tropical beach vibe with bright hibiscus prints, tropical hues such as turquoise, electric orange, and fuchsia, and anything inspired by Hawaiian landscapes, especially swimwear. Below are my favorite of-the-moment picks for looking like you're ready for a tropical vacation.

images from forver21.com, ardenb.com, topshop.com, motelrocks.com & urbanog.com

A Review of Zac Posen for Target

I spent a few minutes at Target this afternoon inspecting the Zac Posen for Target collection a day before the April 25th release date. I found the racks to be thoroughly picked through, with the tuxedo jacket, tie dye tank dress, and black prom dress being the most scarce. A handful of interested young female shoppers admired the goods, and one even made a call to inform her friend that "Zac Posen is here early." As I browsed, an employee was placing armfuls of go-backs on the racks, and she informed me that each piece had probably been "tried on ten times already." Given that quite a few items went back on the racks, that led me to believe that customers weren't buying much, but were trying many items on. Here is what the slightly disheveled racks looked like around 1pm.

I was told the merchandise was placed on the floor overnight, meaning that it had only been available for about five hours before I arrived. I grabbed five of my top picks and took some photos in the fitting room.

First up, the lipstick tank in size XS, one of the least expensive pieces in the line. Priced at $16.99, it has a textured finish, racerback silhouette, is made of 97% cotton and 3% spandex, and is slightly sheer. I'd layer this over a black lace tank top and tuck it into a body con skirt for a night out or layer it under a printed cardigan and pair with jeans for daytime.

The polka dot dress, priced at $39.99, is made of a sturdy cotton fabric, and drapes nicely, creating an hourglass silhouette. I didn't like the cutaway sleeve styling in the back, I found the front to be too low cut, and the zipper to be of poor quality. Although I generally liked the dress, the combination of pink and polka dots proved to be a bit too girly for my taste.

The snap tape dress was by far my favorite item. Although the price ($69.99) was steep, I appreciated the snap tape detail, the fitted waist, and the flattering flared silhouette. Supposedly, it can be customized with the snaps, but I didn't experiment with that. My only concerns with this dress are the side zip, which is a pain in the neck due to the bad quality, and the visible bra issue (although some layering might solve that).

I have to admit that Nicky Hilton made the 100% polyester tiger print dress look great. The vibrant colors and eye-catching print will definitely turn some heads. In the fitting room, I found it incredibly difficult to put on, as it has a barely attached slip underneath, a tricky back zipper, and a fabric tie on the upper back. It draped beautifully and made me feel glamorous, however, which is more than I can say (or write) about previous Go International collections. I'd remove the fabric tie belt and use a studded belt for a more personalized look. Overall, a decent dress for $39.99 if you're patient while putting it on. (There's also a cotton racerback tank top in cotton with the same bold tiger print.)

Although I had no intention of spending $79.99 on the prom dress, I couldn't resist trying it on. Here it is without the removable piece. It has an edgy cage-like structure and bell shape, which I was drawn to. Once again, the zipper was tricky due to its cheap fabrication, making it a challenge to put on.

Below is the same dress with the ruffled polyester piece attached. I wasn't crazy about the shiny fabric or the navy hue, and it didn't feel like it was on very securely. I wanted to see the red version of the dress, however, my store didn't stock it. Just like with the tiger print dress, this one made me feel glamorous. Too bad I'd have nowhere to wear it. For others, it would be perfect for prom, parties, and dressier events.

Surprisingly, the black pleated skirt, which I didn't try on, looked like a quality piece. Made of hefty polyester, it appeared well sewn and worth its $39.99 price tag.

I didn't bother trying on the red t-shirt, either. For the right person, I think it would make a fun shirt for pairing with skirts and jeans.

Lastly, here's the Michael Jackson-inspired red leather jacket, the most expensive piece at $199.99. I pulled an XS off the rack, proceeded to unzip it, and it got stuck. Upon closer inspection, I observed that the zipper teeth weren't lined up, so I gave up. I tried again with a S, got it open, tried it on, and took a quick photo. It felt ok, was nicely lined, and had suede sleeves, but the tricky zipper was a deal breaker.

My overall observations based upon the pieces I saw:
1. Zippers were very cheap and difficult to manage in this collection.
2. Dresses run small compared to other Go International collections - so size up if you're unsure. I typically wear XS or 3, and I sized up to S and 5 on some pieces.
3. The safety pin print gown is incredibly long. It would fit a woman of 5'10" with 4" heels nicely. Everyone else might have to have it hemmed, or let it trail on the ground. Perhaps a shorter version of this dress would've appealed to more customers.
4. The polka dot dress and tiger print dress are well tailored and ultra feminine.
5. Colors and prints are true to Zac's playful, vibrant aesthetic.
6. Prices seem to be generally higher than previous Go collections. Two dresses for $69.99, two for $79.99, and one for $74.99 - maybe a bit more than typical Target customers might want to pay, especially if polyester is involved.
7. The pleated black skirt, brocade skirt, and brocade dress are all made of sturdy, structured fabric, making them appear luxe.
8. Overall a dressy, fun collection with a variety of bold prints and some party-appropriate pieces.

On Your Feet

As I write this, it feels like the dead of winter, complete with unusually chilly temperatures and wind gusts over 30 mph. Quite an abnormality for April in southern California, but that doesn't mean that I can't daydream about spring footwear. This past weekend, I spotted a few lustworthy styles on State St. in Santa Barbara. From studded combat boots and animal print wedges to boyish oxfords and lace up sandals, shoes of all types managed to inspire me. My favorite? The first pair - they'd be perfect for a sunny spring day with a flirty floral dress, slouchy socks, a dark denim vest, a quilted crossbody bag, and a sun-shielding floppy hat.

Two New Shoes

I went a little shoe crazy this week, and purchased four pairs - three pairs from Topshop and one pair from the Cynthia Vincent for Target collection, which was released a few days early. Luckily, the first Topshop pair I ordered was shipped before the volcanic ash halted flights from England, and I received them much earlier than expected. (The other two pairs will likely be delayed, thereby causing my anticipation to increase.) Admittedly, the two pairs I have aren't very comfortable, but will work perfectly for nights at the movies or dinner, or any occasion where I'll spend more time seated than standing, walking, or dancing.

Cynthia Vincent for Target printed wedges worn with Betsey Johnson knee socks

Topshop Unique skater boots worn with Rodarte for Target knee socks

On My Radar - Spring Florals

Although I prefer not to label my personal style as girlie or romantic, I clearly have an affinity for floral prints. A quick glance at my closet and some of my recent purchases (floral challis shorts, a strapless rose print dress, a floral wrap headband, and floral print booties) are evidence of my desire to adorn myself with flowers. Fortunately, floral prints and motifs are always blooming during the spring/summer retail season. A few of my favorite items that I've spotted in store windows this week are pictured below.

Five Picks for April

1. Tropical print blousant dress, Arden B., $59, 2. Four Leaves head piece, Free People, $118, 3. Flower cup corset, Topshop, $60, 4. Jeffrey Campbell Exam, Solestruck, $179.95, 5. Motel rose garden bowtastic dress, Asos, $67.64.

images from ardenb.com, freepeople.com, topshop.com, solestruck.com, & asos.com

Photo Diary - The Past Ten Days

1. a dog on a motorcycle (photo taken through a dirty car window at a red light on Topanga Canyon Blvd.)

2. butterfly display at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

3. starfish at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

4. the Santa Barbara mission

5. an unknown species of bird at the beach

6. my dog taking a nap on the contents of his stuffed bear

© 2010 Fashion Trend Guide

Kardashians by Bebe Part 2

Given how quickly the first Kardashians by Bebe pieces sold, there are probably some of you still looking to get your hands on the line. Here's a sneak peek at the second installment of the Kardashians by Bebe collection, scheduled to launch on April 20. Expect to see more sexy separates and slinky dresses, pefect for warm summer nights.

images courtesy of bebe

Five Trends To Watch for Spring 2010

As I sort through hundreds of trend spotting photos that I've collected in March and April, some predominant retail trends have risen to my attention. Here are the five that I'm currently seeing everywhere from Angl and Urban Outfitters to Forever 21, Guess, and Zara.

1. Embellished necklines are popping up on knit tops and dresses. Opt for one if you want to draw attention to this area or you'd like to forgo wearing a necklace.

2. Bold prints are an easy way to make a strong statement. Be sure to keep the accessories neutral and understated in order to keep the focal point on the print.

3. Refined military is a sophisticated take on the old military trend. Swap slouchy cargo pants and band jackets from past seasons for sleek, utilitarian trousers in khaki or olive green, tailored cargo jackets or vests, and lace-up boots in luxe materials.

4. Express your girly side and celebrate the onset of spring in a floral print. Whether it's a pair of floral flats, a flirty pencil skirt, or a fabric belt, it's hard not to feel cheerful while wearing a fun floral.

5. Wearing lightweight layers is a stylish and practical way to transition from winter to spring. Add diaphanous scarves for a bit of warmth or shed outer layers when temperatures rise.

All photos © 2010 Fashion Trend Guide

The Spring Transition

With spring in full swing, it's time to transition to lightweight layers, peep-toe footwear, and embellished sandals. Recent shopping trips have offered me plenty of inspiration to trade my faux fur jackets for lighter knits, my beanies for floral headbands, and my beloved boots for lace-up sandals. Below are six of my most recent spring picks from various retailers in the L.A. area.