A Sheer Winner
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Ramy Brook Top, Sandro Skirt, Lanvin Belt, Christian Dior Heels, also seen here, Badgley Mischka Handbag, Calypso Earrings, Ray Ban Sunglasses, "Cinnamon Sweet" OPI Nail Polish.
Mix and Match
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Worth New York Skirt, Vince Ribbed Sweater and Vest, Gucci Scarf, Wolford Tights, Jimmy Choo Boots, Lanvin Bag, Hamilton Watch, Oliver Peoples Shades.
Although I have an aversion to the green olive, I love the color olive green. I think it was engrained in me at an early age. My mother suffused our house in the color. Our front door was painted olive green; in fact that was how we identified the house “it’s the house with the “olive” green door.” I was immediately attracted to this olive green quilted skirt by Worth New York. Not only is it adorable, because of the quilting, and the front zipper, but it is oh so comfortable. Since I love the color so much, I just happened to have an olive green leather vest by Vince. Adding black to the olive green is always a rich pairing and accenting it with gold accessories gives it polish and finesse, like this chunky gold chained black bag by Lanvin that I scored when it went on sale at Savannah. This is a great travel bag, because it packs flat and is chic. I added this colorful scarf by Gucci to bring the outfit to life.
All Dressed Up With Somewhere To Go
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WORTH New York Leather Wrap, Alice and Olivia Beaded Top, Elizabeth and James Skirt, Sergio Rossi Shoes, St. John Bracelet, similar here, Christian Dior Tribal Tribal Earrings, similar for less here, Vintage (Grandmother's) Beaded Handbag, Chanel Shades.
With the holidays in full swing, that means there are plenty of reasons to dress up. Although I love all of the glam and glitz of a fancy affair, not everyone does. The thought of putting together a dressy outfit can be intimidating. What is always important to remember is to dress within your comfort zone. That is to say, choose an outfit that flatters your figure, makes you feel confident and is comfortable to wear for several hours. This white skirt by Elizabeth and James is classic in its simple style and figure flattering fit. I paired it with a beaded tank top by Alice and Olivia, and this fabulous leather wrap by Worth New York. Here is an example of three wonderful stand alone pieces that will stand the test of time; they can also be worn over and over again incorporated into other outfits. The shoes, by Sergio Rossi, are a perfect example of this. Purchased five years ago, their front platform provides incredible comfort while adding about 4 inches to my barely 5’4 height, so that when I stand next to my 6’2 husband, I do not feel so short. Wearing white in winter is not only acceptable, it is chic and on trend. Hence, I fell I love with this skirt and plan to wear it many ways; more casually with a pullover sweater and professionally with a black blazer. When choosing investment pieces, versatility is key.
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).
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.
Risky Business
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If you ask any woman whether she owns a little black dress, I guarantee you that she will answer “yes!” This is the one clothing item that will take you from casual to dressy, in a matter of minutes. If you are really clever, you will purchase one that is travel friendly. You can never go wrong with this dress; as long as the cut and fit are flattering to your body, you certainly don’t need to spend a fortune on it.
I have several of these versatile little numbers and find that I wear them often, no matter the weather or event. This one, by Prabal Gurung, is the perfect travel or event companion, as I have demonstrated here. Here is how I changed it up. In both looks I decided to “go for it,” by adding one fabulous accessory in which to alter the look. This is a fun, creative and rewarding fashion exercise!
In look #1, I keep it funky in a more casual way. Adding a (go for it) laser cut leather jacket, a modern belt along with a simple shoe boot, gives it a little bit of an edge, but keeps it casual. If this is not really your look, you could just as well add a cardigan and a flat or boot, depending on your height and what look is more flattering to you.
Giorgio Brato Laser Cut Leather Jacket (available at Savannah, Santa Monica), Prabal Gurung Dress, Barbara Bui Belt, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, John Hardy Dragon Wrap Bracelet, Zadig and Voltaire Clutch.
In look #2, I feature the dress with this fabulous “go for it” feather collar, sparkly heels, a skinny rhinestone belt and my new BFFs, the Christian Dior Tribal Earrings, a gift form my stylish cousin, Susan. Since I am short waisted, which means the distance from my shoulders to my waist is on the short side, (read more here), I like to define my waist with a skinny belt. Extremely wide belts don’t usually work well on me. My chest butts up against the top of the belt, which is not flattering.
Prabal Gurung Dress, Louiza Babouryan Feather Collar( available at Savannah, Santa monica, Gloria Ochs Clutch, Dries Van Noten Belt, Christian Dior Heels, available in store at Bloomingdale's, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings, similar for less here.
Everyone is different, has different tastes and styles. I like to try everything, but I always know immediately when I am not in my comfort zone. The influence of many stylish and tasteful women who have helped me choose outfits over the years, has truly taught me everything I know about fashion and style. I have also learned to listen to my inner voice constantly. I am a risk taker, so I still commit the odd fashion faux pas. In light of all that, my motto remains firm; no risk, no return!
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.
And Now Trending......
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Junya Watanabe jacket available at Savannah Santa Monica, Rebecca Taylor lace shirt, available at Scoop NYC, Jet by John Eshaya jeans, available at Yellow Dog, L.A., Laurence Dacade boots, Balenciaga handbag, Ray Ban sunglasses, Calypso St. Barth gold cuff, also seen here.
Although I usually try to avoid looking trendy, I simply could not resist featuring so many trends in one outfit.
Let’s begin with this incredible jacket. Junya Watanabe is one of my favorite designers because he designs clothes as if he was creating an art collage installation. Every detail of his clothes is well thought out, whether it be the placement of a button or a piece of lace. This jacket caught my attention, while it was hanging on a rack at Savannah. Once my friend, Carrie, suggested that I try it on, we both knew that it was a match made in heaven. This is one of those “forever” pieces with which I will never part.
I decided to pair the jacket, with all it’s eclectic application of fabrics, with these oh so comfortable and trendy distressed and patched Jet jeans by John Eshaya.
Lace was all over the fall runways and continues to trend for spring. This lovely shirt by Rebecca Taylor hits the right notes as the perfect harmony line to the jacket and pants’ melody. You will pardon the musical metaphoric reference, but sometimes, I cannot help myself!
Fringe is also a huge trend this season and here it turns up on Laurence Dacade’s black booties.
Laurence is the official footwear designer for the house of Chanel. In 2003, Laurence launched her own label, "Laurence Dacade." Her signature line is no less luxe than Chanel, with buckles and intricate stitching. She added fringe to these booties and I think she has hit a home run. The prices of her boots are reflective of their incredible quality; but if you wait for a sale, as I did, the pain at the checkout, is less severe!
So there you have it-- all the trends: lace, fringe, distress and patchwork-- rolled into one big score!
Lady in Red
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Here is the story of one fabulous red dress that was packed in a suitcase to be worn at two different events.
The first event takes the dress to a party where there will be food, fun and dancing. This dress, by Helmut Lang, fits the aforementioned specifications to a tee. First and foremost, it does NOT cost a fortune; and when you subtract the 20% discount at Bloomingdales' Friends and Family Event (going on this week, Nov. 12-16), it is even more fabulous! The fabric is very easy to pack as it is both lightweight and crease free.
I styled it with these comfortable and sparkly heels by Jimmy Choo and this gold clutch by Mulberry, also seen here.
One accessory look that I love, is matching cuff bracelets. The look is very chic and elegant; I found these while shopping at my local Calypso St.Barth store in Century City. This store has many sales throughout the year, and the quality of their merchanside, whether soft sweaters, great jewelry, or cool boots, is unbeatable.
Helmut Lang Dress, Christian Tse Earrings, Mulberry Clutch, Calypso St. Barth Bracelets, similar here, Jimmy Choo Heels, Essie Topless and Barefoot Nail Polish.
Left: Essie Topless and Barefoot Nail Polish, Chloe Ring Right: Essie Luxedo Nail Polish
In Part II of the story, the dress needs to be worn to a fund raiser. I love wearing red and navy together, so I paired the dress with a conservative yet lively pump by Jimmy Choo, and this beautiful coat by the French label Maje, (also available at Bloomies’during Friends and Family). This dress is incredibly comfortable since the fabric is lightweight, soft and non- constricting.
This is one dress that can be worn two ways, is travel friendly, stylish and comfortable. Who could ask for anything more?
Maje Coat, Jimmy Choo Heels, Lanvin Purse, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.
Skirting the Issue
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MOKA Skirt, The Row Tank, Think Closet Belt, Mantu Jacket, Tom Ford Shoes, also seen here, Parker Ochs Clutch, Un Deux Trois Bracelet.
This gorgeous skirt was purchased at a hair salon. Yes, you read that correctly. Hair salons are now calling themselves spas, and these spas are now selling high fashion clothing and one of a kind accessories. These hybrid salons are the new trend as they allow for a one stop shop; they provide makeovers in every sense of the word.
When I spotted this cowhide skirt at the Edward Carriere Salon in my hometown of Winnipeg, the owner informed me that it was made by a London designer. My mother was so taken with it, that she bought it as a gift for my birthday. Thank you Mom and Dad…I love it!
Oscar De La Renta—The End of an Era
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Oscar De La Renta Dress, Jimmy Choo Heels, Vintage Necklace.
This week, the fashion world lost one of its most creative and legendary heroes, when Oscar de la Renta died at the age of 82. Mr. De La Renta dressed some amazingly glamorous and famous women, most notably one of my beauty and style role models, Jackie Kennedy.
Mr. De La Renta was known for his incredibly warm demeanor and gentle soul. His clothes, however, were dramatic and bold. He made brilliant use of color and texture, volume and embellishment. Mr. De La Renta was an artist in the truest sense of the word, as each of his beautiful dresses and gowns told a story. If you have ever worn one of his designs, you know how glamorous and beautiful it makes you feel.
I had this experience when I purchased my first, (and sadly, my only), Oscar De La Renta dress in 2011. I was doing my cabaret act, “On Broadway,” and looking for a fabulous black dress to wear for the show. I had an idea of what I wanted, and so I hit the sale racks at all the department stores in January. I was on the third floor at Saks, when my eyes fell upon this wonderful strapless dress that had all of the dramatic flair and embellishment that I had hoped for. It was a kismet moment, given the fact that it looked fabulous and was reduced by 60%!
Below is a video clip of me performing in the dress, as well as some recent photos of me modeling what has become a treasured member of my wardrobe.
Farewell, Mr. De La Renta. Your iconic designs live on in many a woman’s closet. You have made women everywhere feel beautiful, glamorous and important. I am thrilled to be counted among them. Oscar De La Renta, music to my ears.
Blueprinted
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Cynthia Rowley Leggings, Equipment Top, Lanvin Necklace, Stuart Weitzman Shoes, Lauren Merkin Clutch.
I was a busy girl at Bloomie’s Friends and Family sale, and one of the items that caught my attention were these whimsical neoprene leggings by Cynthia Rowley. They reminded me of the Versace leggings of the 1980’s.
What does it say when you are around to witness trends twice? Don’t answer that! Doubtful though I was, I seemed to gather an audience as I exited the dressing room, that gave me lots of thumbs up. I did not expect that reaction, given my age and the loudness of the legging, but somehow, it all seemed to work. On the day of the shoot, when Robert saw me emerge from the car in this outfit, he was overjoyed, because he had just found the perfect location with a blue background!
I paired it with this comfortable faux leather top by Equipment, and these oh so comfortable platform heels by Stuart Weitzman which I “scooped “ up at the recent Scoop NYC sale going on now and ending on October 20th.
I have had this fabulous necklace by Lanvin for a few years, having purchased it at Savannah for a specific white dress. However, I could not believe how well it matched the outfit and enhanced whimsical theme.
Venia: Fashion's Next Big Hit
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A few months ago, a friend of mine introduced me to a young couple who are designers of the clothing line Venia, which I later learned is ancient Latin for the word Grace. She thought that I would find the clothing interesting, beautiful and altogether fabulous. The couple, themselves young and beautiful, were utterly charming, gracious and enthusiastic. The woman was wearing one of the dresses she created for the line, a gorgeous silk print flowy dress. My friend thought that if I liked the line, (which they showed me online), I might blog about it. I was genuinely intrigued by what I saw.
VENIA Dress. Sarah Pacini Belt, Necklace, Bracelet, and Ring. Calleen Cordero Sandals. Zadig and Voltaire Clutch.
We set up a time for me to come by their studio and interview them. This would also serve as an opportunity to view the clothes for their fall 2015 line in person. My assistant, Lauren, and I, set off for hip and happening downtown Los Angeles.
Their living quarters, which double as their design studio, are modern and sleek, with a comfortable edginess, much like their clothes. One of the things I loved, was their “Inspiration Board,” surrounded by twine and wood, and filled with fabrics and sketches.
The couple are 22 and 24 years old. They are intelligent and deep thinkers, having designed the line with a purposeful story and contemporary theme. Their youth, drive and ambition coupled with their intelligence and talent, are the perfect recipe for what I am calling “the next big thing to arrive on the fashion scene. “ After trying on the clothes, I was convinced of it. Like Jason Wu, and others who came before him, I am certain that these two designers will find their way to the top of the fashion industry’s A list.
VENIA Coat and Blouse. Theory Pants. Jimmy Choo Heels. Céline Handbag. Oliver Peoples Shades.
They met at FIDM, and describe each other as polar opposites. He describes himself as technical; he was planning to embark on a career in architecture. She describes herself as conceptual; math phobic, yet drawn to things embodied by technology, such as auto design. On their first date, while watching the movie “How To Train Your Dragon,” in the comfort of her living room, they found themselves spontaneously and symbiotically sketching jackets inspired by the film’s time period. After examining each other’s drawings, they realized that they had much more in common than they originally thought, and decided to team up, (in more ways than one), and attempt to create a collection of women’s ready to wear.
All manufactured in the USA, the pieces are edgy and cozy. Venia uses luxurious Italian leather and the softest of cottons. Once you slip into their perfectly designed black T, you will not want to remove the soft fabric from your body. These are clothes that would find themselves in high-end luxury boutiques or the designer floors of Bergdorf’s, Neimans, Saks and Barneys.
VENIA Jacket and T-Shirt. CAbi Faux Leather Leggings. Aquazzura Shoes. Gemma Redux Necklace. Zadig and Voltaire Clutch. Irit Design Earrings.
I couldn’t wait to model their sample collection! Robert and I hit the streets of Melrose, in the heart of L.A.’s design neighborhood to find the perfect backdrop for these fabulous pieces.
VENIA Top and Skirt. Jimmy Choo Boots. Sarah Pacini Necklace and Bracelets. Céline Handbag.
To purchase special orders visit the VENIA website.
Recycling The Bag
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Take the inner tube from a tire, decorate it with soda can pull tabs, line it with fabric and what do you get? You get a chic, recycled handbag that can go from casual to dressy in the blink of an eye. When I first heard about these bags, I must admit that I was skeptical. I had seen bags made out of soda can pull tabs years ago when my mother and I were out shopping at the Palm Desert Swap Meet. Although we found them to be creative, we decided they weren’t for us, and moved on. Over the years I have seen many versions of this bag. I have remained unimpressed; that is, until I met Linnea Duvall, owner and designer of Glad Rag Bags, a super cool recycled bag that appeals to biker chicks just as easily as to stay at home moms.
Haute Hippie Jumpsuit, Gianvito Rossi Sandals, also seen here. Glad Rag Bags Handbag and Cuff, Oliver Peoples Shades.
Linnea’s background is just the opposite of where she landed today. Raised in a religious town in rural Pennsylvania, Linnea says she “grew up in a town where people were intimidated by fashion.” Straight out of college, at the age of 21, Linnea landed a job as an editor at Vogue magazine. As the youngest person on the staff, she eagerly absorbed everything she could about the fashion industry and wound up as one of the Make Over editors at Glamour Magazine. After retiring from the magazine industry, Linnea ran her own make over clinics around the country and moved to Los Angeles, where she now resides.
Me (in a CAbi Top and WORTH New York Belt) with Linnea (also in a CAbi top).
Linnea came across her new career by chance. While vacationing in Mexico a few years ago, she came across a handbag that was made from the inner tube of a tire and soda can tabs. The bag itself was basic, that is to say it did not have lining, pockets, soft materials or any hint of luxury that would appeal to her and her American friends. She approached the owner and asked him if he would agree to make the bag with all the bells and whistles she considered necessary to meet her standards. He agreed, and the Glad Rag Bag was born. These bags are optical illusions. They are decadently decorated in pull tops that make them sparkle and shine, but in a chic and cool sort of way. They come in numerous designs from a large tote to a delicate clutch. You will think that they are made from leather, until you pick them up, when you realize that the rubber makes them as light as air, and their price is a quarter of what you would pay for a designer leather bag!
James Pearse T-Shirt, Rebecca Taylor Faux Leather Skirt, Wolford Tights, Jimmy Choo Boots, Glad Rag Bag Handbag and Cuff, Oliver Peoples Shades.
In addition, because they are constructed from rubber, they can stretch to accommodate what ever you put inside.
Linnea has designed accessories to go with the bags, such as a cuff and a wrap bracelet that doubles as a boot band!
As a special favor to my readers, Linnea is offering a 25% discount, just because you are so FABULOUS!!
Simply go to her website, Glad Rag Bags and enter the code "neagirl25" and follow the instructions.
Linnea’s Glad Rag Bags are recycled chic, pulling their weight in tabs!
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.
Falling Away From Summer
/With the temperatures soaring into the 90’s here in Los Angeles, and the stores filled with cozy knits, wool dresses and perfect blazers, it is difficult to think of shopping for fall. Yet, when you walk into a boutique or department store, where the AC is cranked up to a winter like temperature, you almost need to grab one of those gorgeous coats from off the rack and don it just to keep warm. This is a very smart strategy, and one that works. I am someone who loves to wait for a sale, but often my size is one of the first to go and when the sale comes along, most of my faves are long gone. I do, however, opt for Saks' and Bloomies' Friends and Family sales in October, where the savings amount to 25% and the merchandise is not picked over. If you choose to partake in these sales, you should go early for pre-sale when the selection is at its fullest.
My typical attire this time of year is usually comprised of items from my summer wardrobe that are somewhat autumnal in nature, such as this little number.
Never one to shy away from animal (leopard) print, seen way back here in 1993, I fell in love with this silk skirt by Elizabeth and James. The skirt, which is 100% silk, is pricey. I searched and searched for something similar at a lower price, only to find more expensive ones, until I came upon this steal of a cotton version at Zara for $49.00!
I decided to bite the bullet and buy it. It multitasks well, as I can pair it with a t-shirt just as easily as with a beautiful sweater like this one from the Worth New York Spring 2014 collection.
I cannot wait for the temperatures to cool down so that I can move my fall wardrobe into the spotlight. For now, I will continue to incorporate some autumnal looks that are lighter weight into my daily look, and hope that those temperatures start to drop soon.
Worth New York Top, Elizabeth and James Skirt, also available at Yellow Dog, Louis Vuitton Heels, Tom Ford Clutch.
Fringe Benefits
/How can a dress be a girl’s best friend; supportive, reliable, and loyal?
It must hide flaws, be incredibly comfortable, beautifully designed, one of a kind, and extremely flattering. This particular dress, by Viviana Uchitel, has not usurped my BFFs of their status, but it has fulfilled all of the above requirements to gain a prominent place in my closet.
It caught my eye on a rack of one of a kind pieces at BOCA, and my friend, Denise, who was wearing the tunic version in black, encouraged me to try it on. At first glance, I was attracted to the color and the fringes at the bottom, but doubtful of the tent like shape. However, once I got it on, I discovered that the fabric and design are not overly voluminous, but allow for free flowing movement. In addition, the overlay is sheer allowing the body hugging fabric underneath to show through. The angle of the sleeveless cut is particularly helpful for the aging skin between the armpit and the breast, of which I am extremely conscious. That in itself, gets the FabuLesley seal of approval!
That same day, Robin Terman happened to be at the store, and was wearing one of her necklaces that seemed as if it was designed specifically for this dress. In true Robin fashion, she took it off and put it on me—perfection!
The sandals, by Calleen Cordero, are worthy of their own blog post. Each of her shoes are handmade, beautifully crafted, and most of all, comfortable. I walked all over Europe in these shoes and my feet remained blister and agony free.
When I was looking for something to wear for the photo shoot, this dress got Jeff’s immediate and strong vote of approval. Not one to voice a fashion opinion with great frequency, whenever he does so, I pay very close attention. Jeff’s vocal thumbs up cast this little number in the leading role!
Outfit Nirvana
/You know those times in your life when you just get it right? For me, it happened 3 times…1) when I met and married Jeff, 2) when Yale was born , and 3) when Serena was born.
Of course over the years, I have hit the mark with friends and career, but when it comes to fashion, I classify the moment of getting it right as “outfit nirvana.”
Thus it was when I assembled this ensemble. The skirt, by Elizabeth and James, seemed to call out my name immediately, and once I stepped into it and zipped it up, I knew we belonged together. Before I had the chance to wear it out in public, I wanted to model it on the blog. I realized it would require just the right top to create the perfect tone. As the master of high low dressing, I reached for my tried and true Jason Wu lace and chiffon blouse (circa spring 2013) and a Jason Wu black satin belt that was part of another dress of his, which I sold long ago at my favorite resale boutique, Great Labels; thankfully, I hung onto the belt. As soon as I looked in the mirror, I knew I got it right.
Robert and I shot these photos in this charming West Hollywood neighborhood, amid the elegant glamour of bygone days. When passers by asked me about and complimented me on the ensemble, it was a divine moment... true “outfit nirvana!”
Tickled Pink
/Labor Day typically marks the end of “summer vacation” and the beginning of the new school year. Although many schools have now adopted the middle of August as the start of their school calendar, I am of the “old school” mind set, and assign Labor Day as the demarcation line between summer and fall. Thus, as tradition dictates, this famous weekend is spent enjoying last trips to the beach, lazy strolls and barbecues. However, mother nature follows her own set of rules, and often the temperatures continue to be on the warmer side, making fall fashion choices difficult. In light of this, and because this weekend is the unofficial end of summer, I chose to wear this pink themed outfit this weekend when Jeff and I went for dinner in West Hollywood. When I first got into the car, Jeff looked at my pants and said, “Nice outfit, but don’t you think we can afford to get you pants without holes in them?” “Very funny,” I answered, “distressed denim is still trending...'" I replied, and he looked at me knowing not to argue with that!
West Hollywood, or WeHo, as it is commonly referred to, is hip and trendy but not over the top. We love to stroll the streets of this neighborhood, where we once lived when we first arrived in Los Angeles from New York. Its streets are lined with eclectic and diverse shops, galleries and restaurants, and packed with young people. One feels alive and well in this vibrant part of the city.
I specifically chose this outfit because I felt that it perfectly suited the area: hip and trendy but not over the top. I added these cool summer sandals with their arty Lucite heel from last summer’s Stuart Weitzman collection, and my new Dior bag and sunglasses, treasured reminders of our trip to France earlier this summer, which now seems like a lifetime ago!
One Dress, Two Ways
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So you purchased a beautiful dress this season to wear to a wedding, engagement party, graduation or some other special event. You dropped a chunk of change on this item, and now that you have worn it, you think it should wait until the next big event before you wear it again… WRONG! If anyone is a huge believer in wearing the clothes that are in your closet, and getting the most out of your purchase, it is yours truly!
I bought this beautiful dress by Elizabeth and James, way back in early spring, when my friend, Venetta Aguilar, showed it to me during a visit to one of my favorite haunts, “Yellow Dog,” the store she manages. I did not have a specific event in mind, but I knew that the instant I zipped it up, I would find somewhere to wear it….and wear it I did-- out to dinner, to a wedding, a party, even just to run around during the day when I dressed it down. In the evening, I added a leather jacket, which really altered the vibe, and kept me warm on those cool Los Angeles summer nights. Versatility is the key to good style, and reinvention is both smart and practical. I challenge you to think about the pretty dresses in your closet, and be inspired to wear them in ways you wouldn’t necessarily have imagined when they were first purchased. Try to think outside the box, and get more bang from your buck; you will be glad that you did.
Take One...
Elizabeth and James Dress, on sale here, J Crew Belt, Prada Sandals, Christian Dior Sunglasses.
Take Two...
Elizabeth and James Dress, on sale here, Sarah Pacini Belt, Necklace and Bracelets, Calleen Cordero Sandals, IRO Leather Jacket, Chanel Sunglasses.
