Dear Ether,

Gosh, we’ve hit yet another “Fashion Friday!”which means that I’ve been blogging with you for quite awhile now.  Fab!  

Well, I’ve been feeling very 1960’s lately.  I don’t know why.  I think it might be that I’ve been very successful at vintage stores that carry 1950’s garb and up and have been working my 60’s gear because it is so punchy and bright–perfect for summer.  So for this week I’ve decided to go for a vintage mix of 1960’s, citrus, resort glam (look, I don’t know how I come up with these trends either, okay?).  I always get loads of compliments on my vintage finds which always makes me proud because nowadays you REALLY have to scour the shops to find anything good anymore.  So when you score, you feel like you’ve gotten a real prize.  

So picture me on a cruise en route somewhere fabulous like Monaco (Grace Kelly style) leaning over the railing of the deck basking in the sun getting ready for an evening of craps, roulette and funky cocktails (a Mai Tai with lots of fruit, maraschino cherries and umbrellas sticking out of it maybe?).  God, the 60’s were SO swinging weren’t they?  Enjoy and DO VOTE! 

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365

Ahoy Matey! I won't die of scurvy with this squeeze of citrus flavor on board my glamour cruise! Check out the nail polish. It's Essie "Shorty Pants." A really bold, matte yellow that looks amazing on hands and feet and gives you that extra punch to your groovin' look. Yeah Baby!

This might appear more orange on your screen but it is the loveliest shade of coral. The buttons are little brass anchors (perfect for that cruise-wear touch) and it is completely handmade! It's amazing to me that someone 40+ years ago had my same measurements. It looks BRAND NEW and I swear to god, if you didn't know it was vintage you'd think it was a pricey designer piece. Coral 1960's Vintage Dress, $18, (Can you believe it!?!) Jet Rag Los Angeles

These made me "green with envy" when I saw them. They look just like Choo's or Blahnik's, but honey, the price is right! The trend now is to add a pop of color to your outfit--something out of the blue--forgive the pun. So I thought a bright green with the coral would add to the citrus/summer flavor but also add to that trend of the "wow" factor color accessory. Brass Plum Satin Sling-back, Peep-Toe Heels, $60, Nordstrom's Los Angeles

If you're gonna be a high-roller on board, you gotta have the bling to prove it, right? Well, as you MIGHT have guessed, this baby isn't real (shame, I could retire). But what fun is a huge cocktail ring and so 60's! And this picture gives you an even better look at the nail polish I mentioned above. Great shade, eh? Faux Diamond Cocktail Ring, press gift from Liberty (price unknown) London

I tried taking my own picture of this fab vintage fragrance, but it came out blurry so had to use this kinda tacky stock photo (sorry!). I LOVE this scent. Dior was plugging this back again in 2006 and I fell in love with it when it landed on my desk. The label and box are so old school, and the scent itself is so ladylike and proper for the time with hints of lily of the valley and jasmine. Maybe a bit more 50's than 60's (launched in 1956) but I thought it went with the mood of the page. Christian Dior "Diorissimo" 50ml $65, at any fine department store.

This is Master One of 365--AKA my older Brother. A lovely, caring A+ guy who has been looking for a girl to share his future with and is just unable to find love in this lonesome town. This entry is dedicated to him. By the way, he'd kill me if he ever found out about this, so let's pray he never sees this post. He DOES NOT know I have a blog--oh man--can you imagine if he found out? Anyway, I did block his face--but he does sort of have a JFK Jr. vibe about him, no? Aww, maybe I have blinders because he is my brother and I adore him. Anyway, read on....you'll see why I think this guy emerging from the sea is a helluva catch. PS: The writing across his face is supposed to say: "Bachelor One Of 365" in case you were wondering---the pic was just too small for the letters to show through.

Dear Ether,

My lovely, attractive, lawyer sibling Maestro One of 365 has been dating forever!  He simply cannot find the right girl.  He’s 31, has a decent job, is absolutely BRILLIANT (the guy is a veritable encyclopedia), has perfect manners and speaks fluent Japanese.  He has all of his hair (thick, lovely black hair) BUT does not have crazy amounts of chest hair or ANY back hair.  He also has lovely warm brown eyes, good skin and excellent pecs! 

I’ll be honest with you with his shortcomings—look is anyone perfect?: 

1. He does drive a 12-year old car (a black Camaro that looks like it is brand new).  He doesn’t drive the car due to lack of funds, but because it runs beautifully since he’s taken such good care of it and he thinks it would be foolish to waste money on a new one when he has a great set of wheels now.  See, a very good guy who knows how to handle his finances!

2. He doesn’t earn a boatload of money (but, good enough) because, though he is a lawyer, he works for a dot.com and does legal work for them as well as internet-based stuff so he isn’t making 6 figures in a big name firm.  He really wants to be a screenwriter, or a TV writer (and writes BEAUTIFULLY) but can’t seem to break in yet—but give him time  and he’ll get there.

3. He’s a little on the short side—he’s a bit over 5’9.

4. He’s incredibly fastidious (good for some, I suppose, but as you can imagine for me, a real bummer, read: http://bit.ly/i50Eb). 

5. He LOVES computer games and all that Playstation shit. 

Okay.  But let’s go back to why he is SO fab.  He is extremely well read, kind, has a great nose, full Angelina Jolie like-lips, a lovely body (yikes, this is my brother we’re talking about…), a deep soul, a generous nature, a love of history and art, music, he’s well-travelled, and has a really loyal heart. So, ladies, what’s the deal?  Why are you all going for Mr. Wrong!?!?!

Squire One of 365 goes out on all of these dates (he’s been doing the internet craziness recently) and they either lie about what they look like (they submit photos of themselves 5 years ago when they weren’t 20lbs overweight or they submit a picture a la Photoshop) or they are really money grubbing and superficial.  AND, some of them have STD’s.  What sucks is that if my brother does like one of them, they don’t tell him right away—and then boom—they drop the bomb and he is gutted because hey, no matter what, herpes sucks.  

Look, I know I’m biased, but my brother is a swell sorta fella.  A really ace bloke.  Like I have my English gent, I wish he had his English rose (or Japanese flower…he loves Asian women) and I’m worried about him.  He’s 31, lonely and really wants to start a real relationship and feels so defeated.  I don’t know what to do—I don’t know anyone to introduce him to, and these websites seem sketchy.  He’s such a gentleman too.  He always picks up the tab (none of this going “Dutch” stuff we modern women insist on–though don’t take advantage of him!) and isn’t gross like the sweaty dude at the club where he is a drunken mess and starts grinding on you.  Is that what it will take, though, for him to get a date?  Do the frat boys win?  Do good guys ever prevail? 

So, Ethers who live in Los Angeles, who want a really great guy and are single, contact me.  I’ll send you a photo—you send me a photo and a bio and maybe we can make a hook-up.  How fun—a One of 365 dating service for my big bro!  By the way, let me re-iterate, he has no idea I have a blog and he’d kill me if he knew I was doing this, so we’d have to hatch a plan.  But, we’ll figure it out when it comes to it.  

So, if you like dining (especially Asian cuisine), great films, maybe a bit of karaoke, love pop culture, are funny, not money grubbing, bright, like to read, are non-religious, not over 5’7, slim (I know—but he likes em’ trim), don’t smoke, don’t have kids (hey, nothing against little-ones, I just don’t think he’s ready for that kind of responsibility…) and are a really nice person sans STD’s please—would you drop me an e-mail.  Oh, yeah and you have to live in the greater Los Angeles area.  Oh, a few more LITTLE requests: can you love fashion and beauty and ADORE my blog? (of course, that’s just MY criteria;)). 

Awwwwww………to my future Mrs. One of 365! I know you are out there in the ether—–oh, and feel free to ask me a slew of questions.  I am ready and willing to be of any assistance!

Dedicatedly yours, 

—One of 365 

PS: Please, no mail-order brides! This is a dating service, not a Green Card opportunity! I’m only kidding (sort of….you know who you are……….).

Dear Ether,

So, when we think of QVC and fashion, one image comes to mind:

This is their typical fashion item: a sexy gingham button down embroidered shirt and capri set--it can be yours for $56.26 from the Quacker Factory, QVC.com

OKAY—this is why we think of QVC as the LAST place we’d ever go for fashion bargain hunting or trends.  But, on my weekly internet mission to find a cute collection from an online store’s stock, I amazingly was able to put together a comprehensive look that you would NEVER guess was from the “dare not speak its name” shopping channel.  Look, the truth is it took me FOREVER to find an outfit that I thought would be cute, on trend, and acceptable.  I’m not saying I would flock to QVC after visiting their site, but it definitely opened my eyes to the fact that they do have some stuff that is on offer for young folks.  They are attempting to gain a hipper customer with some up and coming designers and if you’ve got a good eye and need some basics, you’ll fare well.  

So this week I decided to fashion my look as if I were going to Italy during the summer holidays.  I think it is very European, a bit Audrey Hepburn and a slight nod to the 60’s.  Picture your very own oneof365 with a brown chignon, a mint green Vespa, this outfit and chatting with a handsome Italian man (or men…why the hell not, it’s a fantasy…) while having an espresso and a quick smoke leaving only a lipstick stained cigarette butt in my wake!  The clothes are perfect for the Italian heat, but great for when it gets a bit chillier at night.  Okey doke–let’s see how this American lady turned herself into an Italian Contessa—-budget style baby!

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365

PS:  If you’re keen to see other websites I’ve put outfits together for, check out my Bad-Ass look for Net-a-Porter.com at: (http://bit.ly/1UpthT) and my Garden Party Chic look for J.Crew.com at: (http://bit.ly/49jbA).  Enjoy!

This was the first item I saw on QVC and inspired my whole mission for my style guide. I loved the pastel pink trench with the wrist-length sleeves and the funky white buttons. The fabric looked stiff and crisp and I thought it would look fab with tanned skin, and a bit of pink lip gloss with a slight frost a-la 60's fashion. Perfect to leave open and show off what you have underneath or to button up and keep a bit warmer at night when the sun goes down. Chloe Dao Stretch Cotton Twill Double Breasted Jacket w/ Rear Pleat. Originally $64.00 on sale for $31.02, QVC.com

Great 60's suave to this pocketed and zippered sateen tank dress. Open up the zip at the neck to show of the decollete, and cover your arms with loads of bangles or maybe wear with an oversized gold watch which would go really well with the gilded hardware. Has a real swinging vibe, but also a sophisticated Portofino look--it's breezy and chic at the same time. The navy goes beautifully with the pink from the trench. Linea by Louis Dell'Olio Sateen Tank Dress w/ Zipper Detail Originally $49.50 on sale for $34.12, QVC.com

I adore how these peep-toe, sling-backs are are so reminiscent of the sea that the leather actually looks like scales from a mermaid's tale! These are great for shopping in the Italian boutiques (ahhh...Prada, Ferragamo, Gucci!) because the heel-height isn't too limiting and they let air in so your feet breathe and don't swell. The shoe has a very vintage feel about them--they almost look handmade. Lovely People Ruffled Leather Platform Quarter Strap Sandals $115, QVC.com

Italy is the land of the leather bag, so why be caught dead without one! This supple stone colored bag is a great travel item because it can hold a lot but still look very sleek and fashionable--perfect for the chic tourist. The detachable messenger strap is a handy feature for flights and for museums. Goes beautifully with shoes and the pastel daintiness of the coat. B. Makowsky Glove Leather Convertible Satchel w. Seam Design $253.50, QVC.com

Pearls are just a classic staple that have been timeless for decades. These are great for travel because you can wear them day and night, they're lightweight and they always add a touch of class and polish to your outfit. They match the shoes and the bag perfectly as well as the femininity of the coat. Excellent investment. Honora Round Freshwater Cultured Pearl Stud Earrings-8mm $133.00, QVC.com

Could this bangle bracelet be more perfect! When I saw this I said bellissima! What a great homage to old Italy and what a fun conversation piece. A really funky, but also classic piece of jewellery that literally has stood the test of time. Hey, and if you run out of money, maybe you can try and go to the bank and exchange the bracelet for some Euros? No, probably not. Nice thought though Lire Coin Bangle Bracelet 14k $219, QVC.com

Dear Ether,

Who says fashion and politics can’t go hand and hand and still be chic?  I mean, I don’t have to get a bubble cut (why Michelle Obama?) or wear comfortable shoes and a matching Ungaro skirt-suit to be political and state my cause.  Well, truthfully, my look isn’t THAT political in the sense that I’m not really trying to emulate any First Ladies (or really state a cause).  I’m sorta conjuring up the hippies of the 70’s and putting a modern spin on it in a groovy kinda way.  I felt you could look a bit retro and vintage without wearing a single item that WAS retro OR vintage and put a funky twist on it.  

Ahhh, Just a fine example of one of our First Ladies being FUNKY!

I think my “Fashion Fridays!” outfit is reminiscent of when our Mom’s were wearing platforms, bell-bottoms, crocheted vests and scarves tied around their arms.  My hippie Mrs. Oneof365 marched that wonderful day when Martin Luther King Jr. said his famous “I have a dream” speech, and I’ve dug through many wonderful old pictures of her where she’s wearing fab boots, crazy skin-tight denim and peace-symbol shirts.  So I thought, “hey, why not pay homage to Mom and her days of politics and fashion?”  So, looking through my wardrobe I came up with something I thought was a lot more “chic” than any of those First Lady babes like Nancy Reagan, Laura Bush and Hillary Clinton wore in their days in the White House.  Look, I understand they couldn’t be as funk-ified as this—but to me this outfit puts political chic back on the map (circa 1970’s) and brings it back to 2009.  Right On, Man!

If I was Mrs. Obama, this is what I would wear during down-time (though I don't know if Barack would dig it--the girls certainly would think it was cool). It has a retro vibe with a modern feel. It's also really comfy--important for any chilled out peace-lovin' lady!

The "V" sign can be misused in places such as the UK as being obscene (yeah, you know who you are you little chavs!). In WWII Mr. Churchill made it famous for "Victory" and in the United States in the 1960's onwards it became a symbol for peace. T-Shirt bought from Opportunity Shop in Larchmont Village Los Angeles, on sale for $17 originally $35 (hand silk-screened)

High-waisted, full-leg and ultra 70's style wash and stitching--even the logo looks old skool. These jeans are perfect for wearing with boots, sky-high heels, espadrilles, or even shortening and wearing with Birkenstocks. I suggest wearing your top tucked into them so you show off the waist-line which is reminiscent of the period. Bought from Madison on Melrose. Originally, (gulp) $440 and bought for a steal for 41 bucks--hippies would be proud I was getting one up from "the man!"

These were a hell of an indulgence. Like many people, I went into All Saints to browse and ended up with a purchase I SO couldn't afford. BUT, I've worn them everywhere and they go with everything. And the more I wear them the more comfy they get. An ace investment--just wish it didn't take me a year to pay them off! Boots are excellent to wear with jeans, but also lovely with flowing dresses. Excellent 70's staple. All Saint's "Irina" Boots 180 pounds sterling.

Another gift from the English gent's Mum. Really beautiful Bedouin cuff with semi-precious stones in them (for the life of me I can't remember what she told me they were--shit!) Heavy, strong and beautifully crafted, this is a treasure but also something you can see a hippie in the 70's wearing at a peace rally after they traveled to the Middle East and bought it from a stranger on the side of a road in some hidden village! Okay, maybe I'm giving this too much credit. But, it is a stunning item. Bedouin cuff, priceless.

Yeah baby! These are timeless! These have been cool for years so your working it retro and you working it NOW! You'll feel very "Top Gun" and "Charlie's Angels" in these. Your future is so bright, you gotta wear shades! Ray Ban P Aviator Sunglasses, $90 Bloomingdales

Merde! Why is it when you love something, they always discontinue it? Sigh, you're looking at a relic, a creation of genius in the beauty world that now is just a memory. But I will not let it go down without its story being told--and maybe it will come back someday (brands have been known to re-stock items if enough desire is out there for them...). And when it does, you'll know all about its "magic."

Dear Ether,

Because I wrote such a damning report on YSL Touche Éclat (http://www.oneof365.com/category/ysl-touch-eclat/ysl-touche-eclat/), I wanted to give you guys a product that would be its foil.  An item I KNEW was fail-safe and amazing for your eyes.  BUT, as if the YSL gods had damned me, the product that I loved most (seriously, it was like my beauty secret weapon) HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED.  Yes, it’s true.  Sniffle.

It is…….

L’OCCITANE Magic Eye Balm.

So now this post has become an obituary rather than a plug for one of my favorite beauty products.  But MAYBE, just MAYBE,  if I write a wonderful review about it and you guys get excited and e-mail L’OCCITANE, they’ll revive it from the dead.  It deserves resurrection really.  It did so for me many mornings!

So, I look online to write about my piece and can’t find Magic Eye Balm on the L’OCCITANE website.  I call the store and the woman tells me that the product has been DISCONTNUED in the United States for 3 years!  IMPOSSIBLE!  She tries calming me (I’m sure if I was in the shop it would have been through a lavender bottle of smelling salts) and tells me that it was hugely successful and has NO idea why they pulled the plug.  I tell her I’m still using the one from the UK I got 4 years ago (yep, that’s how long this 15ml $20 puppy lasts)—and yes, of all people I know I shouldn’t be using make-up that is older than a kitten.  However, Magic Eye Balm has no expiry date and after asking the lovely manager at L’OCCITANE if this was kosher (a pro member of the team for 4 years) she said because of the nature of the packaging, you could continue use until the product emits a strong odor or becomes lumpy.

So, here is my little spiel about my French “ami”.  This little metal tube contained the elixir of perfection.  L’OCCITANE is famous for its heavenly shea butter.  Magic Eye Balm contained a 5% dollop, just enough to soften skin and gently moisturize the delicate under-eye area. And even though the product used silicones to help with the appearance of smoothing fine lines, there was never greasy residue.  The balm meshed beautifully with skin and sat gently under a delicate dusting of powder.  Illuminating those lovely eyes came from a mixture of titanium dioxide (a whitening enhancer) and mica, but there was never any glimmering or frosting that was caught shimmering in any light (natural or faux).  Being L’OCCITANE, it also had lovely natural ingredients like calendula, ruscus and centella asiatica to help increase microcirculation (and naturally help in combating dark circles).  It also contained sunflower and ivy extracts to fight pollutants.

Its downfalls: it only came in one shade—which was a natural neutral (truthfully it was only created for Caucasian skin) and it didn’t come with a brush built in (though that never mattered to me because I used my own concealer brush which I could clean deeper—also better to let friends borrow—more hygienic).  Magic Eye Balm did everything YSL Touche Éclat promised it would, but never could provide.

What’s my next step?  I’ll go through my beauty cupboard, make some phone calls and chat with some PR’s.  I’ll sample some new product (I, too, am going to have to eventually make the change) but will have to really trust the product before I can give it my “wink” and a glowing review.  I wish I could give you an alternative, but I refuse to just tell you to go out and buy the newest thing a PR sent me or that I read about without really trying it myself.

For now…………

Au Revoir Baume Regard Magique!  R.I.P.

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365