Sale-ing Away
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Sandro Dress on SALE here, Jimmy Choo Sandals, Gucci Purse, Robin Terman Beaded Bracelets, Hipanema Earrings.
Wrap It Up
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Dodo Bar Or Dress, Jimmy Choo Sandals, Victoria Beckahm Clutch, similar here, Celine Sunglasses, Lanvin Bracelet.
“Who is Dodo Bar Or?” I asked my friends at Scoop NYC just before they closed their doors for good. “She is an Israeli designer who is taking the fashion world by storm. All the New York fashionistas are wearing her dresses.” I stood there dumbfounded for two reasons. I am obviously not a New York fashionista; this made me quite sad. And how could I not have heard of a hot Israeli designer, when I consider myself to be someone who has her pulse on all things Israeli!
The girls advised me to try on this dress, which I will admit had very little hanger appeal. I wasn’t totally convinced about the wrap and the drop waist, since I am on the shorter side. However, once I slipped it on, I could see to what they were referring. First off, the shoulder baring detail flatters most anyone, and the drop waist hides whatever it is you may not want revealed. Its design is so original and the fabric so soft and comfy, that it is no wonder why the “young” and now “more mature” fashionistas are wearing Dodo Bar Or.
Cold Shoulder
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Maje Shirt, True Royal Pants, Maje Belt, Jewelry Bar Bracelets and Earrings, Jimmy Choo Heels, Chanel Sunglasses, Gucci Bag.
In the 1980’s, Donna Karan, pioneer of the off the shoulder top, pointed out that the shoulder is the one part of the woman’s body that never ages. How right she was. Her shoulder baring pieces became her signature. Now, all these years later, the off the shoulder top is all the rage. And for good reason; it is sexy, but not as overtly as showing too much cleavage, and it is universally flattering. I have collected a few pieces this summer from an inexpensive white Zara top to this soft cotton print by Maje. I won’t lie to you, though, when you expose your shoulder, you have to make an undergarment adjustment. I use a strapless bra because it gives me more support than pulling down my bra straps or going all together bra-less.
When you bare your shoulders, try to keep the décolletage bare as well, and pull out your shoulder grazing earrings for a wow effect.
The Magic of Missoni
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Missoni Dress, Jimmy Choo Heels, Dolce and Gabbana Handbag, Chanel Bracelet (Right Arm), Robin Terman Bracelet (Left Arm), Jewelry Bar earrings, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses.
I have always been partial to Missoni. The signature knits with geometric designs appeal to me. The price, however, does not. I have always been fortunate to acquire my Missoni pieces when they go on sale. As I have mentioned to you time and time again, unless it is a fashion emergency, you never have to pay full price for any item of clothing. Simply watch for the sales and you will be awesomely rewarded.
It was a sad day for me when I learned that Scoop NYC was closing its doors forever. I loved this company, which had stores all over the country. I even celebrated the second anniversary of my blog at the Brentwood location. Scoop always had a great selection of Missoni, and I always scored at sale time. But when they got ready for the final markdown, I got very lucky with this dress. I love the colors and design and when I wore it to Temple last week, it was a big hit. We photographed it next to this pink wall in Melrose Place and I think the colorful choice was fabulous.
Color Me Long
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Comrags Long Maxi Dress, Chloe Sandals, Celine Shades, Jewelry Bar Earrings and Bracelet, Caroline Di Marchi Handbag.
Whenever I go for a visit to my home town of Winnipeg, I never miss an opportunity to get a blow dry at my favorite salon, Edward Carriere. As a salon-boutique hybrid, the salon also offers a perfectly curated selection of clothes, jewelry and accessories. Deborah Seguin, who co-owns the salon with her long time partner Edward Carriere, has fabulous taste and style; I can always rely on her to find eclectic and beautiful things from all over the world.
The print and feel of this dress is so appealing that I am glad it is a maxi, so that there is more of it. It is by one of my favorite Canadian designers, Comrags, which I have been wearing for nearly 30 years—a testament to my loyalty and their great product!
And I am so happy to see the return of decorative hair accessories like this flower clip. It is the perfect addition to this very feminine look. Clip clip hooray!
Flowers Worth Wearing
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Worth New York Top and Skirt, Miu Miu Denim Clutch, Stella McCartney Sandals, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, Jewelry Bar Earrings and Bracelet.
It is no secret that I love flowers. A quick glance at my Instagram feed will confirm that. So it comes as no surprise that I gravitate towards floral prints in hues that are interesting and appealing. Leave it to Worth New York to come up with this cotton/rayon skirt that doesn’t crease or wrinkle which is of great importance to me, especially since I travel a lot. I loved this cotton knit tank so much that I bought it in white as well as this navy. I have worn it constantly. I love the peek-a-boo bold flowers. They lend just the right amount of sexiness without being overtly see through. This ensemble is traveling with me to New York next week; however, I will definitely opt out of my beloved and now vintage Stella McCartney strappies and replace them with a 2 inch heel sandal…comfort above all when you are pounding the pavement and it is summer in the city…New York, that is.
Light as Air
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Cabi Maxi Dress, Gianvito Rossi Sandals, Prada Handbag, Jewelry Bar Necklace, Chanel Sunglasses.
Who doesn’t love the look of a long dress? I, for one, am a huge fan for a couple of reasons. If my legs need a bit of coverage, either for warmth or lack of color, then long is my go-to. In the case of this dress by Cabi, the look is ethereal, and the soft washes of blue, add to its dream quality.
I accessorized with the blues in the dress, adding navy shoes and handbag, and this stunning blue necklace. I cannot stop singing the praises of the Jewelry Bar in Palm Desert. I doubt you will ever be able to beat their price or selection of jewelry. Take my word for it, this store is a must if and when you are in Palm Desert.
When I wear something this light and airy, I like to keep my makeup soft and subtle, rather than bold and brassy. A tinted moisturizer like Laura Mercier’s, or my new favorite, La Prairie’s Ice Crystal Transforming Cream. Both have a high SPF and are ideal for summer or all year long.
Sheer Length
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Maje Skirt and Top, Laurence Decade Sandals, Oliver Peoples Shades, Celine Handbag, Vintage YSL Cuff,
Who doesn’t like the look of a long skirt? Whether you are going to a formal affair or just feel like giving it a twirl, it is one item that all of us could use in our closets. When one is as pretty was this one by Maje, it is hard to resist. I love the pretty pastel colors of this one and the way that they are offset by yellow seems pretty perfect to me. The fact that my tried and true, now vintage Celine yellow handbag matched perfectly, was too good to be true. In addition to all of that, the sheerness of both the skirt and top add a little mystery and peek-a- boo quality to this ensemble that I love. Maje was created by Judith Milgrom, the younger sister of Sandro founder, Evelynne Chetrite. Clearly this is one talented family, and I am a huge fan of both lines.
A Walk in the Park
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Diane Cotton Necklace, Fendi Shoes, Worth New York Blouse and Sweater, J Brand Jeans, Maison Margiela Handbag, Christian Dior Sunglasses.
I love shoes. There, I said it. It comes as no surprise to those who know me, and if you read my blog on a regular basis, you can see that I cherish these accessories and collect them. I do not keep my shoes in boxes, stored on shelves never to see the light of day. On the contrary, I keep them on display, perched on shelves so that I can admire them as the works of art that they are. Years ago, I read an article in which Eva Longoria claimed to have several hundreds of pairs of shoes which she displayed in her closet, because they were artistic masterpieces. Eva, I couldn’t agree more.
This is how I felt when I saw these flats by Fendi. If you look at these shoes, you can see that the top of the shoe resembles a face, specifically a cartoonish character face. I will admit that they are not for everyone, but they reminded me of a doll that my grandfather brought home for me from one of his trips to Europe. It was a cartoon character that was made of leather. I loved that doll and I renamed her Mindel the Monster. Everyone thought that it was strange that I was enamored with such an odd looking and definitely not soft and cuddly doll; but she had character and a uniqueness about her that appealed to me, and she came from my grandpa, which gave her an even more special appeal.
Let’s discuss the appeal of flats. I have finally succumbed to this comfy and certainly welcome form of footwear. I can no longer traipse around the streets of New York and Europe in high heels. The bygone days of sore feet and corns on my baby toes will not be missed. The only draw back for me is my height. At barely 5’3 and a half, (yes, that half inch really matters to me), I feel so small in my flats. However, since my feet are so happy, I can’t bear to upset them. I have bought a lot of flats this season and I am really excited to wear them. By no means does that imply that I will be saying goodbye to my heels anytime soon, it just means that when my feet are my sole (you will pardon the pun), mode of transportation, I will be flat footed for sure!
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!
Swansong in Red
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Lanvin Red Dress, Gianvitto Rossi Heels, Mulberry Clutch, St. Johns Bracelet, The Jewelry Bar Bangles.
My first recollection of the label “Lanvin,” was my mother's bottle of Arpege perfume that she kept on her vanity. It was a sweet and spicy fragrance that she would spray on daily. The aroma wafted through the air and settled in my senses, so that I always associated it with her.
It wasn’t until about 40 years later, that I made my first Lanvin purchase—a 1920’s style navy blue silk dress and matching necklace that I wore to countless events, weddings and Bar Mitzvahs. It was my “go-to” special occasion dress and I cherished it. Lanvin’s head designer at the time was Alber Elbez. His style was edgy and chic and his designs hugged in just the right places. Some of the dresses reminded me of Grecian togas, which he belted and ruched in feminine and flattering ways, highlighting the shoulders, legs or waistline.
Elbez ruled the Lanvin runways for over a decade, and this year, due to differences with its Board of Directors, he sadly made his exit. This dress is from his final collection, and since I have always been a fan of this line, I thought it would be apt to feature it on my blog.
It has so much going for it, that I don’t know where to begin. It shows off the shoulders, legs, bustline and waist. The front bustle is original and so perfectly placed. The minute Jeff saw it, he gave it the 2 thumbs up in a whole hearted voice of approval. And right before he began to photograph me, Robert commented, “this is a forever dress…” a phrase he learned from me a long time ago! Yes, Robert, this is a forever dress. Mr. Elbez, you have truly outdone yourself!
Sign on the Dotted A Line
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See by Chloe Skirt, Mantu Blouse, Vintage Belt, Fendi Sandals, Maison Margiela Hangbag, John Hardy Hoops, Chanel Bracelet.
Who doesn’t love an A-line skirt? It is easy to wear, flattering, and comfortable. This denim one, is from See by Chloe, which is the drop down line of its parent company, Chloe. I love drop down lines because they provide good quality and original design at a fraction of the cost of the fashion house to which they belong. I am in love with this Mantu polka dot blouse which I have worn with everything from pantsuits to bell bottom jeans. It has become my go to blouse for this spring. Adding a brown belt offsets the white of the espadrilles and oversized bag, and matches the brown polka dots. This outfit is fun and easy to wear and will take you from day to evening without adding or subtracting a thing.
Red White and Blue
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Bally Red Leather Jacket, Peter Cohen Top, Rag and Bone Jeans, Gianvito Rossi Shoes, Chanel Bracelet, Oliver Peoples Sunglasses, John Hardy Wrap Bracelet worn as a necklace.
As a thematic dresser, I will be wearing red, white and blue this Memorial Day.
RED: A red leather jacket seems a bit extravagant, but I had my eye on this one, by Bally, for months. I waited patiently for it to go on sale, and when it went to 50% off, I snagged it! I feel comfortable in color, so it was easy for me to slip this one on. I added some more red on the bottom with the addition of the red pumps.
WHITE: Since May and June in Los Angeles are typically the gloomier and chillier of the spring months, it is customary to layer; you peel the clothes throughout the day, and put them all back on in the evening. I layered this white camisole under this wonderful blue and white print Peter Cohen blouse, so that I could open it up and show some neckline. I do not look great in a blouse that closes me up on top. When I was an acting student in Boston, my teacher told me to always expose my décolletage because it was most flattering. I have heeded that advice ever since. My white handbag by Maison Margiela is the white accent here.
BLUE: There is nothing that says blue better than a pair of jeans, and my go-to for years has been Rag and Bone. I don’t know what it is, but they flatter the leg in both an elongating and shape hugging way. They are my favorites.
Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!
Everything Old is New Again
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The Row Blazer, Splendid Tank, DWP Pants, Dries Van Noten Heels, John Hardy Earrings, The Jewelry Bar Bracelets, Robin Terman Necklace, Christian Dior Shades, Maison Margiela Handbag, similar here.
For this post, I decided to do an outfit comprised mostly of pieces that I have owned for 4 -5 years. I equate classic with black and white. Since I did not want to appear dressy for a recent meeting, I decided on my comfy black cotton sweats by DWP and a super soft and oft worn white tank by Splendid. Because the temperatures have not climbed out of the 60’s this week, I threw on my wonderful go-to sweater blazer by The Row that I purchased years ago. These well “heeled” sling backs by Dries Van Noten, and my beloved John Hardy earrings, a gift from a group of friends for one of my birthdays, complete the look.
I hope that this inspires you to look through your closet before deeming its contents useless, and to think of new ways to combine your old favorites!
Romper Room
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Cabi Romper, Vince Sandals, Chanel Bracelet, Proenza Schouler Handbag, Gucci Scarf, John Hardy Earrings.
“Romper, stomper, bomper, boo. Tell me, tell me, tell me, do. Magic mirror tell me today, did all my friends have fun at play?”
Do you remember the children’s TV show “Romper Room?” If so, then you are probably somewhere between ages 45-60, which also means that you may question why a middle- aged person like me would even attempt to wear a romper?
Here is my response:
I am a 56 year old woman, but I am also a fashion rule breaker, and I was determined to style this romper, from Cabi, so that even someone my age could wear it with confidence.
For one thing, the romper’s length falls about mid thigh, which is really where I draw the line, so to speak. Anything that lands above mid thigh is truly a “glamour don’t” for someone my age. Next, it is long sleeved so that one’s arms and shoulders are covered. I added a silk scarf to give it some color and a little sophistication. The flat slip on nude sandals, keep it mellow and casual. These sandals, by Vince, are so comfortable that it is almost like going barefoot. I saved up my Saks Fifth Avenue gift card so that I would be able to get this fabulous Chanel bracelet which you can wear in two completely different ways. I cannot reiterate enough that you must pay attention to your department store gift cards! And you don’t need to spend them when you receive them. Sometimes it’s much better to save!
All in all, I am obsessed with this romper and I plan to wear it a lot this summer, both along the streets of Paris or to my local grocery store.
The Blue and The White
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Scoop NYC Top, McGuire Jeans, Jimmy Choo Pumps, Hermes Belt, Prada Bag, Chanel Bracelet, The Jewelry Bar Bracelets and Earrings.
I suppose that you could call me patriotic. I was born and raised a Canadian Jew, lived in Israel for a year, and became a U.S. citizen in 2001. So even though I am a lover of the red and the white, (Canada), the red, white and blue, (America), my heart belongs to the blue and the white (Israel). This Thursday is Yom Ha’atzmaut, also known as Israel’s Independence Day. This young country, (it was declared a state in 1948), is a start up nation of the highest degree. From the cell phone you store in your pocket to the e-book you are reading on your Kindle, to the cherry tomatoes you just popped into your mouth, this tiny country is responsible for some of the most important and indispensible advancements in health, technology and lifestyle. For a full list, click HERE.
In honor of Israel’s birthday I decided to put together an outfit comprised entirely of blue and white. I love these white jeans by McGuire, which are cropped, flared and frayed at the bottom. I have been front-tucking my tops for many years, as it adds interest to an outfit, defines the waist and minimizes an oversized shirt. In the case of this shapeless top, I needed a little waist definition. My heels give me the height I so desperately crave, (if I stand up straight, I am a whopping 5’3 1/2”), and prevent me from getting a stiff neck from looking up to Jeff (6’1 1/2”)…who I request to be seated any time I have something important to discuss!
Happy Birthday Eretz Yisrael…Happy Birthday to us all!
Orange Is The New Black
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The pop of this orange tank when coupled with this beautiful skirt and scarf is so reminiscent of the 60’s, that I instantly fell in love with it. Thanks to Worth New York, this fabulous ensemble is making its debut here on the blog, but will certainly be making repeat performances throughout the spring and upcoming summer. It can be dressed up as I have done here, or simply worn with a white t-shirt and sandals for a more casual look. No matter how you choose to wear a cute skirt such as this one, always bear in mind that the possibilities are endless. I always encourage my friends to throw on a T-shirt and flipflops with a fun skirt. In this way you are getting more wear out of an item rather than having it sit in your closet only to be worn on special occasions.
Never shy away from color, especially now, when loud pops of color are all over the fashion runways. For me, orange is a natural mood changer. It has always suited my skin’s natural yellow undertones. If you find just the right shade, it may do the same for you. Who knows, orange just may your new black!
Ebony and Ivory
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Balenciaga Sweater, The Row Leather Legging, similar here, Manolo Blahnik Shoes, Gucci Handbag, Diane Cotton Lariat, John Hardy Earrings, Oliver Peoples Glasses.
Like the songs says, “ebony and ivory live together in perfect harmony.” What’s not to love about this perfect duo? Opposites attract and yet compliment each other perfectly. I purposely did not add another color to this ensemble, because sometimes, less is more. Ebony and Ivory are chic and understated all on their own, right down to the shoes!
C'est Si Bon!
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Worth new york Skirt , Lareida Blouse, Ferragamo Scarf, Nicholas Kirkwood Pumps, Balenciaga Handbag, Think Closet Choker.
This outfit seems to call out in French, so I gave it a French title. The ladylike skirt, white blouse and scarf seem to give this outfit a certain je ne sais quoi. From the inception of this blog, I have made it no secret that I love France, its food, culture, landscape and of course the fashion. I am fairly certain that my facility with the language helps to sway me to La Rive Gauche. Whatever it is, I am drawn to it like a bee to miel…..that’s French for honey.
The skirt is by Worth New York, and I was instantly attracted to it when I was sorting through their Spring sample rack. I decided to pair it with a white blouse, because I wanted to enhance the yellow and white stripes of the fabric. I have owned this Ferragamo scarf for years, and the fact that it, along with this fabulous choker, ($20.00 at Think Closet in NYC), were blue and yellow, made this match a fait accompli! I just can’t seem to stop myself from throwing in the French, so I will end with this. The next time you have the urge to travel to one of your favorite places, see if your closet will take you there first. I guarantee, you will always find an accoutrement or two to send you on your way….Bon Voyage and a bientôt!
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.
