The Blue and The White
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Scoop NYC Top, McGuire Jeans, Jimmy Choo Pumps, Hermes Belt, Prada Bag, Chanel Bracelet, The Jewelry Bar Bracelets and Earrings.
Ebony and Ivory
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Balenciaga Sweater, The Row Leather Legging, similar here, Manolo Blahnik Shoes, Gucci Handbag, Diane Cotton Lariat, John Hardy Earrings, Oliver Peoples Glasses.
Like the songs says, “ebony and ivory live together in perfect harmony.” What’s not to love about this perfect duo? Opposites attract and yet compliment each other perfectly. I purposely did not add another color to this ensemble, because sometimes, less is more. Ebony and Ivory are chic and understated all on their own, right down to the shoes!
Uncovering the Lace
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Co Coat, Sandro Dress, Jimmy Choo Heels, Gucci Handbag, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings.
One fashion investment that I believe strongly in, is a good quality spring coat; if you happen to find on one sale, even better. In Los Angeles, a good spring coat will take you through chilly nights and cool winter days. In Canada and the Northeast, it will see you through the spring and well into the fall. I love this one for many reasons. Firstly, it is black so it will go with everything. There is no metal detail so you so you don’t have to worry about matching accessories to the hardware. This is a subject about which people have differing opinions, and so instead of delving into it right now, I will postpone the discussion to a future post. This coat is tapered at the waist, which is a feature that I, as someone of shorter stature, appreciates. This coat is well made and feels good. I know it is one of those “forever” items with which I will never part.
This lace dress is by Sandro, one of my favorite designers. The minute I put it on, I knew it would be a keeper. The lace detail is feminine, sexy and demure all at the same time. I wasn’t sure (and still am not), about the tie below the collar. I added the pearls to offset it and it seemed to soften the look immediately. The heels with their thin ankle strap do not cut off the leg. One of my fashion pet peeves is an ankle strap that cuts off the leg. Unless you are a leggy five foot ten, it can be quite unflattering. This one, by Jimmy Choo, is not, because it is both thin and loose. Lace is provocative, but the way this designer has used it, is both simple and interesting.
Be Mine
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Roberto Cavalli Dress, St. John Bracelet, Gianvito Rossi Pumps (available at Savannah Santa Monica), Mulberry Clutch, Celine Sunglasses, Robin Terman necklace (diamond bar) and earrings, Heart necklace; family heirloom
For me, a great dress comes with a great story; and so it goes for this one by Roberto Cavalli. I first came upon this dress when I discovered it in a forest green color at The Scoop Brentwood store back in December. A woman was returning it, and rather than just stand there in silence, I told her that it was really pretty. She told me that she was buying it to wear to a wedding but thought that the place and time of year (San Francisco in December), seemed a tad too cold and wintry for this lightweight little dress, so she was returning it. Unable to resist the urge, I asked her if, since she was returning it, I try it on. She told me to go ahead since she was definitely not taking it. When I emerged from the dressing room, it was love at first sight. Comfy and pretty were what it had going for it, and I was definitely purchasing this dress, especially since it was marked down by 40%. What I didn’t realize is that the more I raved about it, the more the woman who was returning it softened towards the dress. Inevitably, she changed her mind. I was quietly crushed, and with a smile, I reluctantly changed back into my clothes and handed it over to the original buyer. The sales people assured me that they would order me one immediately and not to worry. I drove off feeling like all was well in the world of shopping; only moments later, I received a call from Scoop telling me that the dress was sold out in my size. I scolded myself for having opened my mouth in the first place. Had I simply stood there, lips sealed at the time of the dress’s return, it would be in my car on its way to MY closet.
Lucky for me, this story has a happy ending. While sifting through racks and racks of 75% off dresses at Saks, I came upon the same dress in red…more my color, and in my size. I took this as a sign from above (Jeff probably has a perplexed expression or is rolling his eyes as he reads this), and bought it. The feeling of vindication championed my emotions and I knew just when I would be wearing this dress. This would be my Valentines Day dress, because like my Valentine, Jeff, this dress was also “meant to be!”
Hot Pink On A Cold Day
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Ralph Lauren Dress, Mantu Jacket, John Hardy Necklace, Michael Kors Belt, Gucci Handbag, Pomwum Charms (contact pomwum@gmail.com to order), Christian Dior Heels.
I love to wear bright colors, especially in winter, since they have the ability to elevate an otherwise dreary, or overcast day. I admit that this particular shade of pink is quite hot; however, over the years, I have learned that bright colors look better on me than do pastels, so I readily gravitate towards them. What I love about this dress is that it is a stretchy knit which means that if you over-indulge the night before, you needn’t worry about struggling with a tight zipper or button; and by adding a wide belt, you are able to camouflage a myriad of figure flaws. This one, by Michael Kors, which I have owned for years, will never vacate my closet, for that very reason!
My little Mantu jacket has become this winter’s staple since it is flared on the bottom and falls at just the right length to reveal the waistline.
The little furry pom-poms are my Fab Find for this month. I saw them on a handbag on Instagram, and fell madly in love with them. I ordered them in a few colors and now add them to my handbags as I would any charm. Everyone asks me where I got them, and now I will share the information with you. The company is called Pomwum and you can order yours by contacting pomwum@gmail.com.
Stay warm this winter by dressing in a hot shade!
Sugar Coated
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Cabi Coat, True Royal Pants, Worth New York Tank and Belt, Jimmy Choo Pumps, Chanel Clutch, Christian Dior Shades, Cox and Power Ring, Robin Terman Choker and Earrings.
This coat by Cabi is a sweet deal. At $169.00, it is worth every penny. First off, is it easy to wear either dressed up with a pair of tailored pants, or casually with a pair of jeans. A dressy coat over a pair of pants does double duty as a pantsuit, but with even more versatility. In my opinion, it is a far better investment than a blazer.
In addition, you can wear it over a skirt or dress for a more polished look. Either way, you cannot lose. These days, when the temperatures have been mild on both coasts, it is a balmy 64 degrees in NYC today, you can wear this coat now and then again in the spring. Here in southern California, you can layer a sweater underneath for added warmth.
I want to reiterate that navy and black pair beautifully. I have many friends who ask me what they can wear with navy, and when I tell them, “black,” they look at me quizzically. Black and navy go together like salt and pepper. They don’t appear to be likely partners, but they compliment each other in just the right way. This coat would look great over a pair of black pants, skirt or dress.
A dressy coat over a pair of pants does double duty as a pantsuit, but with even more versatility. In my opinion, it is a far better investment than a blazer.
Going Greek
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Obakki Dress, Stuart Weitzman sandals, John Hardy: necklace, earrings, bracelet, Zadig and Voltaire Clutch, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, Cartier Watch.
I bought this dress in the early summer, at Yellow Dog, and had to be talked into trying it on because it had absolutely no hanger appeal whatsoever! Since it really doesn’t take all that much effort to twist my arm, my friend, Venetta, who manages the boutique, easily convinced me to slip it on. Lo and behold, the dress changed entirely, once it was on the body, in this case, mine. It reminded me of a chic Greek toga, if such a thing ever existed, and I thought these gladiator-like sandals, by Stuart Weitzman, completed the look in the right way.
The moral of this fable, is “never judge a dress by its look on a hanger,” and “going Greek never felt so good!”
Going Down
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A.L.C. Top and Skirt, similar on sale here, Sophia Webster Heels, Worth New York Clutch, Christian Dior Sunglasses.
Throughout recent years, skirt lengths have gone up and down; right now they are going down. The “midi” as it was referred to in the 70’s is popular now, and you will find many dresses and skirts that fall mid calf. For us short girls, I am not certain that this is ideal, but I am going to give it a whirl and see how it feels. This lovely summer print set is a perfect example of how to work this new work length. The skirt fits tight to the body and the vent at the back allows for freedom of movement. Word to the wise: Sometimes skirts and dresses come with a slit or vent that is lightly tacked at the bottom. I have made the mistake of not checking it before I wear it and have been known to cut it open in a bathroom stall with my key!
The matching crop top updates the look of this outfit. Pairing it with this polka dot high heel shoe, seemed a little wild at first, but I really like the way the two prints work together. With a skirt this long, you really must wear a heel, regardless of whether you are 5’4 or 5’10. A flat would definitely be a fashion no- no. Certainly for us short girls, I am not certain that this long length is ideal, but I am down to give it a whirl! It is definitely growing on me!!
Digging The Trenches
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Moschino Dress, Worth New York Trench, Christian Dior Pumps, also seen here, Nancy Gonzalez Handbag, YSL Vintage Cuff, Nordstrom Necklace, Christian Dior Tribale Earrings (similar for less here), Celine Sunglasses.
I love a trench coat. It is a classic look that adds instant polish to any outfit. Throw it on over a pair of jeans and a blouse and you go from plain casual to casual chic. What I never thought to try, until now however, was a trench over a trench!
This fabulous dress by Moschino is a great find. A white sleeveless trench is modern, clean and classic; it is something that is a little unexpected from Moschino, whose whimsical looks are anything but classic. Adding a hot pink shoe and bag gives it the punch that is so reminiscent of said design house. I heightened the look by throwing on this cluster of pearls chocker, and voila, the dress went from simple to fabulous.
I wondered how the dress would look with a trench coat on top. Dubious though I was, I took this great striped trench by Worth New York, slipped it on-- and lo and behold, it fit the bill perfectly. Never assume that two things of the same family are too redundant to work in harmony. Here is a perfect example of how they can make beautiful music together.
Hardy Worth The Effort
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This is a play on the expression, “hardly worth the effort,” but it turns the expression on its head with a positive message. This outfit, outside of the shoes, is comprised of two design houses, Worth New York and John Hardy. I am a fan of both, and was pleased that they complimented each other in this way.
Navy and white is so easy to wear and adding a pop of red, whether it be on the lips, shoes or bracelet is always a winning decision. Here, I decided to do all three!
Worth has always been my go to for chic and classic clothes. The blouse and pants are as comfortable with the just the right amount of dressiness. I added the belt for some definition. This is a great lunch or dinner outfit for a warm spring or summer day.
Classic meets modern when you add John Hardy to Worth. I have always been attracted to John Hardy’s jewelry because it is edgy and cool. He uses the themes of dragonheads and bamboo with mixed metals. I embrace it all and wear them together. The added bonus is that his jewelry is sold at most fine department stress….which means if you are a points and gift card person, you can purchase these as gifts for yourself or others.
Marsala Moment
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Sandro Dress, Valentino Heels, similar for less here, Lanvin Bag, similar for less here, Celine Sunglasses, Calypso St. Barth Bracelets, Ippolita Ring.
When Pantone, announced its spring 2015 colors, I sat up took note. When the color, Marsala, was one of the top choices, I was puzzled. I typically associate this color with autumn; the changing leaves and the chill in the air seem to signal a need for warmth and comfort, and that is where the color of wine comes into play. However, as the red family is one of my favorites, I nudged myself to embrace this wine color for spring. I had to look no further than to this beautiful dress by one of my favorite French labels, “Sandro.”
What makes Sandro a stand out design house for me, aside from their mid price, is their feminine, chic and stylized dresses, shoes, jackets and pants. I first discovered them in Bloomingdales where they have a “leased” boutique. This means that Bloomingdales sells the line, but the design house, in this case Sandro, controls the inventory, price, staff and selection. Sandro will be opening its own boutique on Beverly Drive, in Beverly Hills this summer.
Owned and operated by the Jewish Moroccan born Parisian, Evelyne Chetrite, the company was founded by both Evelyne and her husband, Didier, in 1984. She currently designs with her son Ilan.
Back to the dress; as you can see from the photos, the color is rich, warm and classic. The fabric is very comfortable, no tugging required. These unbelievably gorgeous Valentino shoes, go so perfectly with this dress that nothing more needs to be said… and thankfully they were found on sale at Neiman Marcus at the end of the winter season. I could not believe no one had snapped them up!
Marsala is apparently trending this spring, and although I have not seen much of it on the racks, I am satisfied with this purchase which will take me through the summer and into the fall.
Lots-A-Dots
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I am a sucker for polka dots…always have been and I expect that I always will be. I put this little ensemble together because it is bright, cheerful and easy to wear. All of the clothes are by none other than Worth New York. What can I say? Their clothes and designs speak for themselves; stylish, flattering and well made. I paired this adorable polka dot skirt, which I shortened into a mini, with this oh-so-easy to wear sleeveless knit top. My red suede flats seem to give it the perfect ease for a daytime run-around look, and my tried and true red handbag by Myriam Schaefer seemed to complete the look with a chic and edgy bend.
Top and Skirt Worth New York, Prada Flats, Sarah Pacini Bracelet, Myriam Schaefer Handbag, Chanel Shades.
Adding heels, switching out the bag for a clutch, a swipe of red lipstick, and this cotton jacket (from their Spring 2014 collection), transitions the outfit from day to night. Wearer beware…adding heels to a mini skirt, shortens it considerably, so either commit or quit!
Top, Skirt, Jacket and Clutch Worth New York. Sergio Rossi Pumps (also seen here). Sarah Pacini Necklace, MAC Ruby Woo Lipliner and Lipstick.
As you can see, I am committing to Worth…we are enjoying a major love affair!!
Floral Art
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If you are looking for a beautiful floral print, look no further than to Roberto Cavalli, who used it throughout his Fall and Spring collections. He is an artist in the truest sense of the word, and he really “gets” it when it comes to dressing a woman.
These lightweight pants, that I found during the Scoop NYC sale this past January, are from his Fall collection. Flattering, flowy and featherweight, the triple alliteration does these pants justice. Add a sheer black top, chic heels and a vibrant necklace and you’ve got a fashion happening.
And now a word about my bracelet: This vintage YSL cuff, a gift from a close friend, with its musical notes and JAZZ embossed letters is a true reflection of me. It is one of my all time favorite pieces.
Basic Black
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Skirt and Jacket by Elizabeth and James, Subtle Luxury Lace Camisole, Calinana Necklace (all from Yellow Dog, Los Angeles). John Hardy Earrings. Manolo Blahnik Heels. Balenciaga Handbag. Chanel Shades.
One thing that we are often told is that black is a basic. While this is true, black is anything but basic. It is classic, quiet, edgy and cool all at the same time. I happen to own a lot of black. I seem to accumulate a lot of black t-shirts, blouses, sweaters, skirts and jackets. Black is season-less, so it transitions just as perfectly from winter to spring as it does from summer to fall. It also goes with everything and acts as the perfect backdrop for any color or pattern. Black is the most packable color because its neutrality is perfect for any occasion, even a wedding. Black is a must for everyone.
This outfit, all by Elizabeth and James, has all the edgy cool of its designers, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. I have had the skirt for several years, and this jacket, with the blouse insert, caught my attention immediately. It has the illusion of being a jacket within a jacket, and I think that is what makes it so cool. I choose to wear a lace camisole underneath in order to maintain the beauty of the sheer blouse. When glancing at these photos, I am keenly aware of the shortness of this skirt, and that I may have committed the over 50 fashion faux pas, so I apologize in advance! I just love the skirt and its little “flirty bounce.” Is that where the word flounce comes from?
As you have gathered by now, I have a love affair with shoes; I have for as long as I can remember. These spat like shoes, by Manolo Blahnik, seemed to elevate the spirit of this outfit. They bring a smile to my face every time I glance at them in my closet.
Baby It's (Not That) Cold Outside
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Vest from Savannah Santa Monica, Carven Sweater from Scoop NYC, Current/Elliot Pants, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, also seen here, Balenciaga Handbag, Chanel Shades.
I realize that living in Los Angeles, where the lowest daytime temperatures average around 65 degrees and at night, might dip into the 50’s, leaves me with very little to complain about. Growing up in Winnipeg, Canada, I know about cold, and I assure you that my friends back home will not be donning an outfit like this until the end of April, or beginning of May! Vests have become my mainstay for keeping my body warm and remaining loyal to the trends. I got this vest over 5 years ago, and remains one of my favorites. I cannot tell a lie, it is suede and fox, and very warm. I paired it with my new favorite winter white jeans by Current Elliott that in all honesty are perfect for Southern California winters, but too light for winter out east or up north; yet they will be perfect for the spring. I love the French designer, Carven, and was immediately attracted to this print, which works well with black and white.
To my Canadian and East Coast friends and family, I say 2 things: come visit me in California, and hang in there, Spring is on its way!
Worth Wearing Red
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I don’t usually dress head to toe in one specific designer, but I was in a “je ne sais quoi” mood and feeling a little “Française.” The red white and blue of this outfit by Worth New York seemed to fit the bill perfectly. It is also apt since this is the American Heart Association’s ”Go Red For Women,” which highlights the very pervasive health issue of women and heart disease.
The red sweater and the black cotton pants had me at "bonjour," but this gorgeous scarf tied, (pun very much intended!), the ensemble together. The adorable little zippered clutch is as easy to handle as it is to look at.
When an outfit such as this works so well, there isn’t much else to say except…"c’est magnifique!"
Short and Sweet
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Jonathan Simkhai Skirt, Scoop NYC Sweater, Ashneil Handbag, Vince Heels, Calypso Bracelets, also seen here, Ippolita Ring, Ray Ban Sunglasses, Savannah Belt, Robin Terman Hoop Earrings.
When I look at this outfit, I can’t help but smile. To me it is a very happy outfit for a number of reasons. The pattern and cut of the skirt is beautiful and bouncy. It hits me at just the right point of my leg; admittedly, perhaps it is a little on the short side, but as you know I have already broken my own rule, several times now!
The busy pattern of the skirt demands simplicity on top, so I paired it with this soft cashmere sweater by Scoop NYC. It is a tad thin and therefore see through, so I decided to go for it and opted for a black bra.
I cannot say enough good things about these Vince heels, starting with the fact that they were purchased on sale at Bloomies this December. They are chic and comfortable, high enough to flatter the leg, but low enough to wear all day long. This design is a classic of theirs and it will be featured in their spring and summer collection.
My black handbag, by the company, Ashneil, is one of my favorites. It is both dressy and casual, classic and modern. You may recall that I have featured the Ashneil company in previous posts. They do not “knock off;” instead, they do their take on a classic. Ashneil’s bags and belts, of which I own several, are incredibly well made and well priced. Family owned and run out of North Carolina, they travel to several cities throughout the year and sell their merchandise through trunk shows. My mother and I discovered them a number of years ago, when they held a trunk show in Palm Desert. We have been loyal fans ever since, as has my sister in law and now a few of my friends. You can visit their website for more information.
I love it when an outfit is as easy to create as it is to wear. Sometimes you have to break your own rules, and enjoy the sweetness of doing so!
Cynthia Vincent, I've Always Been a Fan.
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One of the amazing things that has come out of this blog, is the incredible people whom I have had the opportunity to interview. One such woman is the awesomely talented and lovely Cynthia Vincent.
I met Cynthia at an event at Bloomingdales to which I was invited by favorite Bloomie’s associate, Natasha Cecere, whom I highly recommend to you. I have been a huge fan of Cynthia Vincent for several years. I own many of her dresses, tops and shoes; the fact that these black strappy sandals are still a FabuLesley closet staple, attest to the fact her designs, are timeless, well made and comfortable!
Born and raised in Claremont, California, Cynthia received her fashion education at the prestigious Parsons School of Design in NYC.
In the late 1980’s she decided that she wanted to be a part of the London Fashion scene, and got a job working for London designer, Jane Ong. Living in the chic London neighborhood of Hampstead Heath, Cynthia ran Ong’s Bond Street store.
In the mid 90’s she relocated to Los Angeles and worked for the designer, Harriet Selwin.
After strong encouragement by John Eshaya, who owned and ran Fred Segal, she launched her first line, St. Vincent.
Because the merchandisers wanted to dictate how and what she should design, she left and formed her own company, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent. Twelfth Street is a street in Claremont, her home town.
I am certain that her travel and living experiences have both influenced and inspired many of her designs. I would describe her design look as Boho Chic. The amazing thing about her pieces, however, are that they suit everyone. There is a Cynthia Vincent dress or top for every age and body type. While shopping at Bloomies, I gravitated to this black fringe dress. Even though I do not think of myself as a rock and roll girl, I had to try it on. I will admit that this frock is a little on the short side for us older gals, but adding leggings or tights and boots is a good option.
Cynthia Vincent Dress, Lanvin Necklace, Vintage YSL Gold Cuff, Chloe Ring (right hand), Spinelli Kilcollin ring (left hand), Jimmy Choo Boots, En Shalla Bag.
Cynthia Vincent Dress, Gemma Redux Necklace, En Shalla Bag, Cynthia Vincent Heels (circa 2008).
Fashion Hybrid
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A skirt with pant holes is called a “skort.” But what do you call a pant with a skirt on one side? A “skirpant?” No matter the title, this particular fashion hybrid caught my eye and I find it to be very chic in a sophisticated bohemian way, much like its design house, Haute Hippie.
Being that red is one of my favorite fashion colors, I decided to dress up the pant with this Haute Hippie red blouse, a great wide belt and these fabulous strappy heels by Aquazzura. I think it is transformingly elegant. I would just as easily pair it with a simple white tee, booties and a leather jacket, as a dressed down casual look. I will feature this look in a future post. These pants are going places and will not sit in this closet!
Haute Hippie Pants and Blouse, W by Worth Tank, Sarah Pacini Belt, Bracelet & Ring, Lauren Merkin Clutch, Aquazzura Heels (also seen here,) Chanel Sunglasses.
An Outfit Worth Wearing
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Worth New York has done it again. It has succeeded in meeting all of my expectations, and even surpassing them! I put this outfit together at the trunk show that I hosted with my friend, Sigal. Since the weather wasn’t particularly cooperative when it came to showing off cold weather clothes, I decided to wait until now to feature it on the blog. Although the temperatures continue to be warm here in Los Angeles, I have chosen to give Mother Nature the “cold shoulder,” and model this fabulous ensemble.
Last Spring, when Fall 2014 was featured, so was color. It showed up on virtually every designer's palette and was a welcome respite from the muted tones and ever popular black that has floated down many a runway in the past.
This magenta jacket caught my eye on the rack, and beckoned me to try it on. I usually gravitate towards the more rustic colors of autumn, because I think that they compliment my coloring. Yet when I slipped into this jacket, both Sigal and I exclaimed “wow” at the exact same time. She and I knew instantly that this would be a keeper and certainly blog worthy!
The beauty of assembling an outfit from the same line, is that the colors used in one item are bound to appear in another; this warm and comfy pullover top with the paint like splashes of blues and magenta goes perfectly with the jacket.
It is all about details when it comes to the design of these black ponte pants. The leather detailing which outline the sides of the pant as well as the pockets, give an oo là là to what could have been a blasé pant.
I know I am wearing a “hit,” when passers by offer their thumbs up and compliments on my outfit during our photo shoots. That is exactly what happened when Robert and I shot this in Melrose Place.
Once again, Worth has proven its worth!
WORTH New York Jacket, Pullover, Pants, and Handbag. Manolo Blahnik Pumps. Christian Dior Shades. Tous Earrings. John Hardy Ring.
