Fashion conFusion

Calypso St. Barth Handbag, CAbi Sorbet Pullover, Paradise Cropped Jean, Gianvito Rossi Sandals, Robin Terman Bracelets, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, John Hardy Hoops.

When I texted CAbi Stylist, Becky Jantzen, that I was going to wear the Sorbet Pullover with the Paradise Cropped Jean, I waited nervously for her reply. I thought that she might give it the thumbs down. Much to my relief, I got 2 thumbs up! Becky is big on mixing patterns and prints. As long as the patterns are from the same color family, it is a wonderful way to create an outfit. I took it one step further with this wonderful and constantly complimented upon, boho bag that I picked up for a song at Calypso St. Barth during their recent sale.

 My message to you is clear: try to think outside the box and re-imagine an outfit in an entirely different way. To me, fashion is wearable art. It should be creative and not contrived, and mostly, it should be a reflection of you. 

When White is Right

Top and Skirt T by Alexander Wang, Stuart Weitzman Sandals, CAbi Hat, Celine Sunglasses. Diane Cotton Beads and Celine Handbag both available at Savannah Santa Monica. John Hardy Bracelets and Hoops, also seen here.

Once upon a time, in a far off world of yesteryear when I was growing up, people did not wear white from Labor Day until Memorial Day. It was considered gauche, taboo, and a major fashion faux pas. Over the last decade, however, that rule has lost its fervor and white is seasonless, hence the term, “winter white.” Here in California, people have always seemed to wear white all year round. I recall being shocked, when I moved to LA in 1996, to see my friend in white Levis in February! Now it is  commonplace, though people from colder climates generally adhere to the old rule.

In honor of its steadfastness, I am wearing all white this Memorial Day; and this adorable shirt themed ensemble by Alexander Wang, is perfect. The colorful beads by Diane Cotton and orange bag by Celine, add the right amount of color to declare that summer is around the corner…YAY!

When the sun is beating down on your outdoor picnic, pool or BBQ, don’t forget to don your shades and a hat. As always, remember to wear your sunscreen to protect from the harmful rays. White may be acceptable all year long, but it seems most right…now!

Digging The Trenches

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

Blouse, Pants, Belt and Clutch all by Worth New York. Earrings, Necklace, and Bracelets by John Hardy. Oliver Peoples shades and Bottega Venetta Sandals. 

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

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

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!​

Mixed Messages

Alice and Olivia Beaded Top, Rebecca Minkoff Skirt, Chloe Handbag, Christian Louboutin Heels, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, Bracelet and Earrings by Elizabeth and James, MAC Ruby Woo Lipliner and Lipstick.

Often times, when you think outside the box, and your creative juices flow, the end result can be either outrageous or wonderful. At first, I thought this combo, (beaded top by Alice and Olivia and lace skirt by Rebecca Minkoff),  was outrageous, then, as I made my way around a party, I heard from others, that it was wonderful….who knew??!!

The primary colors of red, blue and yellow always play well together; this is what led me to combine them despite the fact that they are showcased in such completely different ways, lace juxtaposed with beads.

It was exactly that kind of thinking that led Alice and Olivia designer, Stacey Bendet (a U of Penn alum), to create the uber successful design house that it is today. Rebecca Minkoff, also young and enormously successful, must have done her share of out of the box thinking, as she is one of the top contemporary designers of her generation. Add to this mix the young, talented and beautiful Olsen twins, Mary Kate and Ashley, whose “Elizabeth and James” line has skyrocketed over the last few years. They launched a jewelry line under the E and J umbrella. These earrings and bracelet are both moderately priced and fabulous.

I am in awe of all of these young women, as they inspire me to continue to work at and grow my little blog. Their message is not mixed, but clear—work hard at something you love, and eventually you will succeed!

Lots-A-Dots

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!!

Elaris Design: Sweaters You Will Love and Live In

Twenty five years ago, Hanna Friedman dared to do what most of us can only dream about; she created a line of sweaters that have become an international success. Growing up in Israel and relocating to the U.S. as a teenager, Hanna always loved to sew. In fact, she made most of her clothes, and as she describes it, became “obsessed” with creating new and exciting pieces for evening and weekend outings.

Hanna in her studio.

  In her 20’s, after giving birth to two little girls, Hanna took up knitting and made many of the outfits her daughters wore. Wherever Hanna went, she wore her own creations, and received compliments from both co- workers and strangers. After the home décor business she worked for closed its downtown doors, the owner suggested that she open her own business and sell her fabulous sweaters and dresses. She decided to heed that advice; by combining the names of her daughters, Elanit and Eris, “Elaris Design” was born.

  Traveling door to door to local boutiques was not easy, but Hanna persevered, and after hiring a rep, and showing her lines at the LA and NY markets, soon found that she was getting more orders than her two little hands could handle. It was then that she made the decision to hire a contractor who would help her keep up with the demand. Soon she found herself doing trunk shows up and down the East Coast, as well as California. Today she has the same loyal customer base that she had when she first started. This is remarkable given the fickle nature of our economy and the perils of the “Shmata” business in general.

  Hanna and I became fast friends after being introduced to each other by her brother, Abe,  who happens to be a good friend of mine. She is warm, sweet, fun and smart, and her designs reflect that. Hanna’s sweaters are creatively designed and comfortable. She gets her inspiration from photographs, nature, art and her own intuition.  There is something for every woman no matter her age. She designed the suit that my daughter wore to her Bat Mitzvah, gowns that I performed in, as well as countless sweaters for my mother, who is a huge fan. It is dangerous for me to go over to visit Hanna…rarely do I leave empty handed, and when we meet for dinner, or see each other at a party, I usually ask her if she could make me a duplicate of what she is wearing!

Serena in her Bat Mitzvah Suit

With my Mom, Irene, also a huge fan of Elaris. 

  This month I will be hosting a trunk show for Hanna. If you are interested in seeing her line and ordering sweaters for yourself or for someone else, please write to me and let me know.  Hanna will be offering her sweaters at wholesale prices, so this is not to be missed! There is a reason that Elaris is so popular…but don’t take my word for it, come see for yourself! For more information, or to order your own Elaris creation, visit www.elarisdesigns.com.

With my friend Hanna of Elaris

Floral Art

Roberto Cavalli Pants, similar for less here, Joie Top, Aquazzura Heels, also seen here, Tom Ford Clutch, Vintage YSL Cuff. 

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. 

Leafing Through CAbi

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.

POP Goes the Color

Mason Sweater similar for less here, Rag and Bone Jeans, similar here, Gianvito Rossi Heels, Caroline De Marchi Handbag,  Spinelli-Kilcollin Ring, [all three also available at Savannah Santa Monica].  Cartier Watch, Vintage Necklace, NARS Heat Wave Lipstick. 

No matter what the weather is like in your part of the Northern Hemisphere right now, I promise you that Spring 2015 is right around the corner. Even though you are still looking at snow and “not feeling it,” it truly is the right time to think about adding a little color to your wardrobe so that it is ready to pull out when the temperatures rise. Here in Los Angeles, we are spoiled by the warmer temperatures. The disadvantage of that is that we do not have four definitive seasons. Sometimes I feel as if we get summer before we get spring, as the temperatures here are traditionally higher in March and April, than they are in May and June, so that sweaters and even booties do not get put away until the end of June.

The colors for spring this year, run the gamut from pale pastels to pops of color. Since I tend to look washed out in pastels, I always feel better in a little color. If you are not the type of person to wear bright colors, adding them as accessories is a great option. I like the look of a muted outfit with a pop of color, such as this one.

Don’t be afraid to wear a black dress with a colorful shoe, or to add a colorful handbag to a  white pantsuit. Traditionally, spring is associated with a time of rebirth, and what better time to give your wardrobe a new life than right now.

Another way of adding color is with a bright lipstick. If you are not bold enough to wear full on color on your lips, there are many new sheer options that look great, as I have featured in the article HERE.

No matter how you choose to use it, a pop of color goes a long way!  

Jungle Fever

Roberto Cavalli Dress, similar for less here, Manolo Blahnik Pumps, similar here, Bottega Veneta Clutch, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, also seen here. Monique Pean Ring, Lucifer Vir Honestus Bracelet.

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

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.

CAbi…A Girl’s Best Friend

Zip Line Blazer, Tiffany Pant, Sleeveless Double Drape Tee, (all by CAbi). Caroline De Marchi Handbag, available at Savannah Santa Monica. Aquazzura Heels, similar for less here. Barry Brinker Bracelet, available at Saks Fifth Avenue. 

Back in the Spring of 2009, my friend, Sandi announced that she would be selling a line of clothing called CAbi, which stands for “Carol Anderson by invitation.” The concept behind this unique line is the way in which it is sold; friends, old and new, gather at someone’s home, view a presentation of the collection, and then proceed to try on the items. To me, it sounded like a Tupperware party, but when clothes are involved, count this girl in! I remember sitting with 10 of my closest friends along with 2 full racks of clothing, crammed into Sandi’s living room while Sandi proceeded to show us the line. The next thing I recall was clothes flying in and out of rooms as we tried on item after item. There was a lot of laughter, kinship and just plain fun.

I was instantly smitten with the entire idea and volunteered to host a party.

Fast forward 6 years and 12 seasons later, I am still hosting CAbi parties and we are still shopping, laughing, and styling each other. My friend, Sandi, switched careers, and I began hosting parties for my new friend, Lois Kolker. Lois is very adept at fashion, styling and selling and she creates a relaxed atmosphere in which the women feel comfortable and motivated to shop.

I must admit that I have been fascinated with Carol Anderson’s story ever since I googled her 6 years ago. She was a fashion designer whose label was being featured and sold in department stores. It was her business partner and husband, (yes, a man), who gave birth to the idea of women shopping together at someone’s home. And what an idea he had. The company is incredibly successful with hundreds of “consultants” across the nation; it has mushroomed into a competitive clothing line that is both reasonably priced and on trend.

Three years ago I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting Carol’s niece and CAbi’s  style director, Becky Jantzen. She and I hit it off immediately, as we are both fluent in the language of fashion. Becky tells me that CAbi’s target audience is women 40-45, yet it appeals to my 18 year old daughter as well as my 75 year old mother. Their ability to keep the price point extremely low is difficult, but they manage to do so successfully, season after season. Becky brings her unique sense of style and design to the clothes as she has taken the look books and turned them into virtual magazines, always presenting the trends of the season and remaining au courant. The CAbi website contains so much content, that one could spend hours browsing and watching videos about how to create different looks from 3 items in the collection.

What I find remarkable is that season after season, my friends and I return for more of CAbi. We just can’t seem to get enough of it and with the price being right, it is easier on the bank account than some of its competitors.

In this photo I am wearing the extremely comfortable Tiffany Pant, in which I plan to travel,  since it is not binding and looks chic. The Sleeveless Double Drape black top will hug every body in all the right places. The criss cross fabric gives this basic black tee a twist and an edge. The Zip Line Blazer, which was designed by Carol, is a true gem, since the peplum is removable and the jacket converts to a fabulous bolero, a length that I am always in search of.

CAbi mixes beautifully with high end pieces such as this Caroline De Marchi bag, Aquazzura Heels and this Barry Brinker Bracelet. 

The company’s tag line says it all;  “CAbi…fashion, friends and fun.” I couldn’t agree more!

Baby It's (Not That) Cold Outside

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

Scarf, Sweater, Pants, Clutch all Worth NY Spring 2015 Collection. Necklace and earring John Hardy, Oliver People's Shades, Sergio Rossi Heels.

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

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!

Faux the Fun Of It

Aqua Faux Fur Coat, similar here, Nina Ricci Cardigan, The Row Tank, René Lezard Trousers, Valentino Shoes, Tom Ford Clutch, Chanel Sunglasses, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings,  also seen here).

 I know I will not win a lot of popularity contests with this statement, but I am someone who has grown accustomed to wearing fur. As a Canadian, I am very comfortable with fur. I grew up in Winnipeg, Canada, where the average temperature during a 3-4 month winter, does not climb much above 30 below zero, and often dips to 70 below when you factor in the wind chill. Last year, on December 31, Winnipeg’s temperature was colder than the surface temperature on Mars!

My friends and I were forced to play outside twice a day for a 15 minute recess, during which time my cheeks would harden as they froze, since I refused to wear a face mask. Most adults I knew, including men, wore fur to stay warm in the winter.

Here in Los Angeles, there is not much need for fur, but I still love this luxe look. That is why, when I spotted this pastel pink fluffy faux version by Aqua (for a mere $160.00), I grabbed it. The fact that it goes perfectly with these cute buff colored trousers by René Lezard and this beautiful beaded Nina Ricci cardigan with pops of pink in it, was kismet. The icing on the cake are these tried and true Valentino rock studded shoes in pink and black. I will never tire of them, with their comfortable heel and pop of pizzaz. This outfit is pure faux fun!

Spring into Worth

Worth New York Dress and Sweater, Christian Dior Tribal Earrings also seen here, Worth New York (Spring 2014) Clutch, Manolo Blahnik Heels.

This is the second time I have had the opportunity to host a travel trunk show for Worth New York.  For me, it is both rewarding and exciting. It gives me great pleasure to help my good friend, Sigal Byrnes, style old as well as new friends. As you well know by now, I am a huge fan of Worth New York. Not surprisingly, the Spring 2015 collection is beautiful. From soft pastels to bold reds, from lady like classics to edgy cool, Worth New York’s design versatility covers the gamut.

This week, I chose to model this beautiful tapestry-like dress and cardigan. I was immediately attracted to its floral design; I paired it with this chic Chanel-like cardigan, that seemed to frame it perfectly. Compliments abounded at our photo shoot, which took place at the Maple Drive Post Office in Beverly Hills.  Given all of the thumbs up I received, it is no wonder why this is such a popular line. I am hosting this trunk show for the rest of the week. If you are interested in seeing the line, I encourage you to contact me so that you too can benefit from Sigal’s talent and expertise. I will be also be on hand to offer my “FabuLesley” opinion and advice.

Makeup and photography by Robert Raphael.