She Shoots She Scores
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Aqua Sweater, Oak and Fort Pants and Shoes, Calfun Handbag (also seen here), Jewelry Bar Earrings, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.
A Skort Story
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Peter Cohn Blouse, Worth New York Skort, Bally Sandals and Handbag, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, Chanel Bracelet, Stephanie Kantis Earrings.
I know what you're thinking....this is an awfully short skort. Yes, it is, but I really love the asymmetrical overlay and the big silver buckle. I tried to tone it down with my now go-to top by Peter Cohen. I own it in navy as well, and will be ordering it in every color because it is just that perfect. It can be tied loosely in a front knot as shown HERE or simply tucked in for a neat look as I have done with this this pairing.
And how fabulous are these sandals by Bally? Believe it or not, they are comfortable and wearable. There is a hidden front platform that provides extra cushioning for the balls of your feet.
Since everything is on sale right now, this is the perfect time to purchase great designer pieces at slashed prices!
Ballyhoo
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Dress, Shoes, and Handbag, c/o Bally. Bavna Blue Gold Bangles available at the Jewelry Bar. Elizabeth and James Earrings and Cuff.
As a “professional” shopper, I have always found it to be in my best interest to shop with a personal shopper. In this way, I am kept abreast of any discounts, sales and points that can be accumulated to use at a later date. It is also helpful to have another eye and opinion. I choose carefully, avoiding the people who tell me that I “need it” or that I will get “a lot of wear out of it.” These are the phrases from which a shopaholic must run far and fast. When a sales associate tells me to “wait until it goes on sale and see how you feel about it,” or “I don’t think it is all that flattering from the rear view,” then I stick to them like glue. So it was love at first sight when I met Josh a few months ago at Saks in Beverly Hills. He encouraged me to wait and revisit during the sale, or told me that aside from performing in this Valentino skirt that I had my heart set on, where was I really going to wear it? He gained my trust and I would only work with him. That is, until he informed that he left Saks and moved to the new Bally store on Rodeo Drive. Now let’s just get one thing clear from the get go. I don’t and have never shopped at a high-end design house boutique. I usually purchase my designer clothes from smaller independent boutiques or wait until the item goes through a major price markdown. So when Josh told me about his new work digs, I was deeply disappointed and, for lack of a better phrase, totally and completely “bummed out.” I reluctantly agreed to come by to see the store; imagining super high prices and very conservative clothing and accessories, I was astonished that this was not the case at all. The store, located on the tourist trodden and prestigious Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, is easy to spot from a distance; its red marble exterior is grand and palatial, yet inside it is anything but. The staff greeted me warmly and without pretension. Josh had informed them that I was coming. I am certain that he did not show them my photo, but when I asked for him, they actually called me by name and someone ran to get him. I was a little taken aback, but there was sweet Josh, who had prepared a dressing room for me complete with Fiji water, Perrier, and an array of shoes and clothes. I told him that I was not going to buy ANYTHING, but agreed to try the shoes, because they are known for their shoes, and I had just seen a pair in a magazine ad that I wanted to try. By the way, their shoe and handbag prices are reasonable for the quality and less than some of their competitors.
The entire experience was so enjoyable that when the company manager approached me about hosting an event for my friends, I jumped at the idea. If you live in LA, and have a few minutes to spend in Beverly Hills this coming Tuesday, April 12, come and have a look for yourself. Everything in the store, which includes a full men’s line, will be 10% off! There will be small bites and bubbly from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM. Please come and join us for a day of friendship, fashion and fun!
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.
Culotte-A- Happening Now
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Top, Belt and Culottes by Worth New York, Rupert Sanderson Wedge, on sale here, Myriam Schaefer Handbag, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, John Hardy Bracelet and Hoops, also seen here.
If you wait long enough for the re-run of a TV show, you don’t have to worry about missing an episode. And so it goes for fashion as well. There are usually trends that return, maybe 4 decades later, and when they do, they do so with a vengeance. So it appears with culottes. When I was a teen in the seventies, I owned a couple of pairs of culottes, as did my mother. They were all the rage, but they came and went rather quickly. If you are thinking of diving into a pair, (and you probably should because they are huge for Fall), here are a few tips that you should follow.
The wide, expansive leg of the pant tends to shorten the leg, so you really should wear a wedge, a mid height heeled boot, or a heel (even a kitten heel helps). Alternatively, there are those culottes that are not as voluminous, enabling you to pair with a more casual shoe, but never a sneaker unless you are hip and cool and in your 20’s. Remember, that a culotte will always feature your shoe, front and center. I am in love with these mirrored wedge sandals, also seen here.
I have seen culottes with a feminine print that really resemble more of a skirt. In this case, you could possibly get away with a flat, unless of course, you are very tall, and can wear a flat with any style…I am extremely jealous and so are my toes!
These cotton culottes, by Worth New York, is ultra comfortable and chic, especially in navy blue. The off the shoulder top, also by Worth, and which is also off the hook in popularity right now, is not always easy to wear, especially if you are big busted. Try a comfortable strapless bra, that stays put and you should be fine. I love my unpadded one by Wacoal. It is lacy but very comfortable, and I never have to yank it up as I do most of my padded ones. If you want to go for a padded one, I recommend the L’aventure by Marie Jo. (Stay tuned for an entire post about lingerie…it is time, girls!).
Jailhouse Frock
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When I first saw this skirt in December at Bloomingdales, I admired it, but was not in the mood to shop for anymore formal attire. In other words, as difficult as this may be to believe, I was burned out! Fast forward to February, when I was visiting one of my favorite fashion blogs, Atlantic Pacific. Thirty something blogger, Blair Eadie, was sporting that same skirt with a hot pink J Crew cashmere pullover and orange red jacket. On her, it looked fabulous…on me I suspected not.
This past April I found the skirt on sale (seriously reduced from $650 to $230), and decided to give it a try. I paired it with its matching silk sleeveless cropped top (also on Friends and Family sale), and the outfit came to life. This is a perfect outfit to wear to a summer or early fall wedding.
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.
Going Places
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CAbi Dress, Barbara Bui Belt, also seen here, Bottega Veneta Shoes, Caroline De Marchi Handbag, also seen here, Chanel Shades, Sarah Pacini Necklace, John Hardy Bracelet, Spinellikilcollin Ring, available at Savannah Santa Monica, NARS Heat Wave Lipstick.
I have been looking for an all purpose dress that could take me from a school meeting to a board meeting and then to an evening event without having to change in the middle of the day. What I didn’t expect, is that it would cost $118.00!
This “Brushstroke Dress,” by CAbi achieves all of the above, and does so beautifully. It also got the thumbs up from my husband, Jeff….a huge plus!
I ditched the thin fabric belt that came with the dress and added this wide black Barbara Bui belt for a little drama. Not one to ever shy away from color, or anything else for that matter, I have been wearing these coral red Bottega Veneta shoes for over 5 years, and never grow tired of them. I was thrilled to see how perfectly they went with the dress. My new favorite bag from Caroline De Marchi, completes the outfit perfectly. One should always consider lip color as accessory, as I did here, with NARS, Heatwave.
Thank you CAbi, this dress is definitely going places, and I am coming along for the ride!
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!!
Leafing Through CAbi
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CAbi Leaf Print Dress, J Crew Belt, similar here, Gianvito Rossi Heels, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, Calypso Bracelets, Mulberry Clutch.
A fan of CAbi for 7 years, I have never been as enthusiastic about a season’s collection as I am about Spring 2015. The CAbi design team has hit this one out of the park. Each season, friends new and old, gather in my home to see and shop the collection. It never ceases to amaze me how the clothes appeal to everyone; the low price point is an added appeal.
Case in point, is this “Leaf Print”dress for only $118.00
I chose to wear it short and sweet, adding this platinum belt by J Crew and these oldie but goodie sandals by Gianvito Rossi.
Several of my friends loved the leaf print but were skeptical about the short length. If you find the dress too short for you, just add skinny white jeans as I did, and it becomes an adorable tunic.
CAbi Leaf Print Dress, Worth New York Belt, J Brand Jeans, Robert Clergerie Sandals, similar here, Fendi Bag, similar for less here.
Julie Starr Dresner Ear Jacket, Robin Terman Necklace, all available at BOCA. Zina Ring, Cartier Watch.
No matter how you choose to wear it, this dress is a winner.
Jungle Fever
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Once in a while I will look at a dress on a hanger, size it up and down, and then return it to its original spot on the rack. Then the sales associate will tell me that I should try it on because I will be surprised at how it transforms itself on the body. Thus it was with this loud print, high neck dress by Roberto Cavalli. I was not feeling it, but just to placate her, I tried it on. Instantly, it went from wrong to right. The vibrant colors seemed to transform my mood from blah to bling. The black stripe down the back of the dress had that J Lo/Beyonce effect, that gave my booty a boost! Best of all I snagged it on sale at Scoop NYC. Thank you Mr. Cavalli, as usual you are full of surprises.
Green is making a strong comeback this season, and I am bringing all of my green and gold accessories from the back to the front of the closet. For instance, it’s amazing how you can keep a pair of shoes that you bought for a specific outfit, at the back of your closet thinking “I will keep these, although I probably won’t get much wear out of them,” and then suddenly they seem to go with everything. These camel and mint green pumps by Manolo Blahnik were purchased for a specific outfit; they have been sitting in my closet virtually unworn for 2 years. That is until now. I have so much green and camel in my wardrobe, and I have decided to mix and match colors that are within the same family. It is as if new life has been breathed into them. It’s funny how clothing, when you adore it as I do, can anthropomorphize so easily!
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.
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!"
FabuLesley Turns One, Party at Calypso!
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About 18 months ago, my dear friend, Orna, and I met for our weekly coffee clatch. I was lamenting over what I would do to fill my days once my youngest, Serena, then 16, goes off to College. Yes I would continue with my community service work and my music, but I was craving something else that would be creatively satisfying. Orna, who had just certified as a life coach, suggested that I write a blog. As she put it, “you are a source of information for all of us; from diagnosing ailments and referring to physicians, to who gives the best and cheapest blow dry in Beverly Hills, to what to eat when you want to lose weight, to what moisturizer and makeup work the best. People want to know these things, and you can supplement the posts with your love of fashion, food, culture, health and beauty.”
At the time, I didn’t really know what writing a blog entailed, so I began to do my research. I combed through many fashion, food, and lifestyle blogs. There were multitudes of these blogs, mostly written by 20-30 year olds. Rarely did I come across any blogs that were written by 45 plus year old women who weren’t already famous, that actually appealed to me.
That is when it dawned on me that maybe my market wasn’t saturated; maybe there was room for a 45 plus year old fashion, food, culture, beauty and health obsessed Jewish woman in the “Blogosphere.”
To that end, FabuLesley was born. What Orna and my other close friends find remarkable, is the vocabulary that this blog has spawned. There have been "Fabuluncheons" in honor of people’s birthdays, as well as accolades for “Fabulicious” food. People write to me adding “Fabu” as a prefix to theirs as well as their spouse’s names! It is truly hilarious and fun.
I have no idea what will come of this blog, but right now I am having a great time creating each week’s posts. There is nothing I like more than to write about things that bring so much joy, significance and inspiration to my life.
I am both shocked and delighted to have gained so many followers on the web, and I continue to be overwhelmed by your support and encouragement.
To that end, I am celebrating in a Fabu-way. The wonderful store, Calypso St Barth has generously offered to host a party for me as way of marking this milestone. Everything in the store will be at least 20% off. Calypso has a well curated collection of beautiful cashmere sweaters, jackets and vests, dresses, skirts and jeans, as well as fabulous shoes, boots and bags. Their jewelry collection is off the hook.
Please join me on Monday, December 15 from 7:00 PM- 9:00 PM at the Westfield Mall in Century City. It will be a fabulous evening of food, fashion and fun!
I am tying this event to the SOVA food pantry, which provides food for homeless people in the Los Angeles area. Please bring at least one non-perishable food item to be donated to this wonderful and important organization.
RSVP HERE for Fabulesley at Calypso!
Sweater, Tank, Necklace, and AG Jeans all available at Calypso.
Hat, Sweater, Vest, Jeans, Boots, Purse, Necklace and Earrings all available at Calypso.
