Many of you hoped never to see the fashions of the 1980’s again. You look at old photographs of yourself, bangs/fringe so high it’s like they are praying to jesus and jeans that are so acid washed you don’t know how your skin wasn’t burned! But designers have been bringing back the era in a major way—especially with their diffusion lines. See By Chloe is certainly one that has embraced the time when crimping your hair and “The Lost Boys” were hot stuff!
There tends to be a rule of thumb. If you were alive in that era and sporting the clothes, you shouldn’t be pulling out old relics and donning them again. This is a toughie because I think the 80’s weren’t SO far back in time that you couldn’t make it look sassy again. You just really need to buy the new styles and maybe throw in a few of you old favs. The cuts really make or break you looking like you just stepped out for a fancy dress party or rummaging through your boxed up clothes from 87′, or looking like you’re rocking it 2009 style.
I decided to go with more of a rocker-chick meets “Hi, I’m a dancer” vibe in my outfit. I think the top could be modern or hail from that time. The jeans are TOTALLY 80’s and the bag is just so outrageous–it becomes fabulous because it is part of the nuttiness that the 80’s girls rocked. The over-the-knee-boot, as I’ve stressed, is SO on-trend right now, but it is paying homage to the 80’s when everyone was shimmying in these kicks. So, what we’re getting from designers are gorgeous re-invented versions that are much sleeker, richer and modern.
There were a lot of other looks that I could have chosen from See By Chloe (though I must say, much of the collection was inspired by the 80’s), but I really felt that I wanted to do something that you could go out and dance in, or just look suave whilst shopping. I wish the designer had more accessories. If she had–I would have bangled up the arms and done something whacko with the hair–oh, and definitely gone crazy with some fab sunglasses. But alas, I’ve dolled our 80’s beauty up, and I think she looks pretty wicked!
So pump up some Duran Duran and The Cure, or if it’s more to your liking Paula Abdul—and start getting dressed. You are gonna, like, look so frickin’ rad dude!
I really fell for this top because I think it's exactly the perfect mix of 80's meets 2009. The material and the tie reminds me of that stiff taffeta of those party dresses that girls wore to their proms. I like how the strapless top plays with the ruching---very 80's. This could be worn with a modern pair of trousers or a high-waisted skirt. But if it's the 80's you're after--go for how I've styled it. Strapless Twill Bustier Top, $385, seebychloe.com
The wash. The ankle length. The tightness. The cut. I mean, seriously, do we even question See By Chloe paying homage to this great era? These jeans are great because you can wear them with trendy ankle booties, fab flats or sandals in warmer weather. But we're gonna do it with MAJOR statement boots. These jeans SO remind me of something Baby would wear in "Dirty Dancing" to practice with (RIP) MR. Swayze. Total dancer jeans. Totally cool. Logo Skinny Jeans, $265, seebychloe.com
I really want over the knee boots. I think these are really cool because they are suede with little brass studs all over them giving a medieval 80's vibe. They are like the pirate boot meets modern rock-star! I think this is the perfect combination of old meets new. Lush fabric, a great cut and a homage to the old style. Sweet with the jeans and top--but also fab with a mini dress and tights. Above The Knee Flat Boots With Studs, $715, seebychloe.com
Ok. Probably none of us would spend a dime on this bonkers bag. But it SO went with the 80's vibe and the outfit: The rock-chick or a huge tote that a dancer would just throw her stuff in. It's just too nuts to imagine and yet it actually was designed (and it ain't cheap!). There's not a lot to say......it's ugly.....I don't want you to think I have bad taste. Just picture a a girl coming out of Pineapple Studios in Covent Garden in this outfit using this as her tote---it kinda works, right? Doggie Bag, $95, seebychloe.com
This IS NOT from See By Chloe. BUT they had no jewelery and though the "Wish List" is strictly only using an outfit that's 100% from one collection, I broke the rules with this one. Why? Because how 80's and perfect would this be to wear around the neck of the black strapless top? It's so tacky but fun, and really is what everyone wore almost 30 years ago! Also, it says Chloe (it's kinda close enough, right?). I also couldn't leave you without ANY baubles! Charm Necklace, Unknown Price, applesofgold.com
I’ve been looking at my past “Wish Lists” and they have seemed very “adult.” Very “grown-up.” Now, I have nothing against this—in fact, I think there is nothing classier than a woman who is wearing something understated, well-cut, elegant with just a slight tweak of trend to her outfit. But, being on the cusp of (cough, cough) 30, I want to embrace the joy of reckless youth and funky dressing. And I DO indeed mix it up. I don’t have a particular style that you could connect me to. I could buy a smart pair of clean, black trousers from Joseph and then order something from Net-a-Porter and buy something outlandishly fabulous. I think life would be boring if you didn’t put your clothes in a funky blender.
Now, many of you will think this Monday’s choice is a little bonkers. But, I figured if I am going to go for it, MAN am I going to go for it! I chose Sonia Rykiel because she is so French and so fun. English Gent’s mother bought me a sweater from Madame Rykiel that is so beautiful. It’s taupe with multi-colored cherries all over it. I get compliments every single time I wear it. What’s ideal about her collection is she has a diffusion line for the younger crowd and a higher-end line for the more sophisticated bunch. But what’s great is that both collections mix and match beautifully, and I’ve done that with my “Wish List.” Just keep in mind, Rykiel is MEANT to be a bit off the beaten path. I’m not crazy here—she is known for her abstract colors and wild ways. But that is what makes her so unique! Now remember, a “Wish List” has to be all from one designer top-to-toe, so you are getting 100% Sonia!
So here’s the back story on our girl. She’s a trendy-chick who is studying in France for the year and really wants to embrace everything she can about the country. She’s REALLY into fashion and she knows that she looks totally tongue and cheek in this get-up but loves the attention. It’s a bit of old world Paris style that’s been given some LSD and brought to 2009. She’s got a great figure so even though this might look a little out there, it’s “catwalk crazy” to the folks who notice her and they might applaud the endeavour. She’s keeping slightly toasty because the season is changing, but no need for a heavy coat or stockings yet. She loves art, Karl Lagerfeld (but of course, he’s a “LEGEND DARLING”), crepes, black coffee and men with nicotine stained fingers and wing-tipped shoes. She’s bloody wealthy, but shhhhhh, you mustn’t tell anyone, for she must be part of the starving artists to get in with the salon sitting groups and must secretly sneak into Colette to get her fashions. She’s always got a camera with her snapping away the sites and a great group of friends whom she rides the Metro with and speaks scatty French to. She loves to have a smoke on the top of the Musee de Orsay and her dream is to fall in love with a man who looks like Cary Grant, but can dance like Justin Timberlake. Shall we meet our belle femme?
PS: This is dedicated to a follower of mine named Julie who is French Canadian and who I thought of right away when I began to think of this post. To you Julie, une source d’inspiration! xoxoxoxox
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
This cheeky and fun sweater is fab because of the French word play (come here darling, pull over)--but it is also describing what the actually piece is--a pull-over! I think it would fit our girl snugly, be very cool and she would make a lot of her French citizens laugh. I also think it looks kinda retro with the lettering--almost as if her granny sewed the words on for her! Wool Intarsia Sweater, 550 pounds, soniarykiel.com
I love that this has an artists look to it. There is an illusion of a belt there, but it is merely just part of the fabric. Slung low on the hips with the sweater, I think it is all Tres Artistic! And again, playing with different mediums in cloth is really fun. You'll see how the pink will be key with the other elements of the outfit in the next few choices. Trompe L'Oeil Belt Skirt, 198 pounds, soniarykiel.com
How fun are these! They are the perfect pop of color, they match the top and the pink in the skirt perfectly and they show off the legs beautifully in a wild and funky way. I think this is such a great alternative to tights because you are not corseted around the waist and they are not as heavy and stuffy. If you think these are bonkers, wait till you see what's coming up! Isn't our belle incroyable? Multi Striped Socks, 25 pounds, soniarykiel.com
Aren't these so old world French? They are the perfect shoe to wear with the socks and the skirt. This is a girl who is running about town. She is in no mood to be dealing with heels and besides, these are very "I'm an artist!" The vintage feel goes with the sweater and the whole idea of French culture. This style shoe is globally very hip right now so this can be worn with shorts, linen trousers, a skirt. They are just a good, comfy purchase. Derby Moccasin Flat, Originally 207 pounds Now 100 pounds, soniarykiel.com
Oh yes! You knew it was coming! A beret of course! But in hot pink--never! And now you know why the belt on the skirt and the stripes in the socks make sense! This is such a cute play on the classic and she can wear it with her tresses long and flowing or in a side bun with a dollop of gloss and some cat eyes and mascara and she'll look gorgeous. LOVE IT! Beret, 35 pounds, soniarykiel.com
And as a final little accessory, this is a lovely little ribbon pin that she can put in her beret....but I was thinking what would be cooler is if she held her bun up with bobby pins and then attached the ribbon to it using the bobby pins to keep it in place. Look, it may be too much, but ribbons are SO on trend right now and this girl is going for it, so I say tack it on! Little Ribbon Pin, 80 pounds, soniarykiel.com
PS: If you enjoyed this “Wish List” please visit my sidebar under Wish List for other brands and see the fab stories and colorful creations I’ve come up with. I’m a magazine writer so the posts are like fun editorial pages. Also check out “Fashion Fridays” on the side bar if the Wish List still hasn’t fed your fashionista fancy. It’s a lot of fun too. Happy Monday
People seemed to really like some examples of some beauty writing that I’ve done in the past. Well, I just had a freelancing gig and wrote for a pretty famous company (hence the XXX when you see them in the writing below) about shaving and self-tanners. I worked with the advertising and promotions teams to create an advertising page for the magazine promoting 2 beauty products. Basically a magazine and a brand will work together to get a product(s) promoted without making it too obvious by having it mesh with the editorial feel of the magazine. You’ll usually see in the upper-right hand corner of the page, “Advertisement.” But if you can pull it off, sometimes you can get the reader to think it’s part of the mag and that’s when you can really hit home and maybe get the sell. I did this for two brands. “Billy Jealousy,” a shaving product and “Mystic Tan,” a self-tanning product. You’ll see how I write the pieces as if they are 100% editorial, but I am promoting their products ONLY. Clever, eh? This was for one pretty famous beauty supplier who was advertising in a mag. So here you go and enjoy. I think it’s fun and I enjoyed writing it. And, you do learn about self-tanning and shaving. It is, in theory, really and editorial piece. I just used specific brands rather than brands of my own choosing. It’s amazing how many elements go in to making a magazine, right? Anywhooooo…the fun part is when you see it laid out. Have a great Sunday and I will see you for the “Wish List” tomorrow.
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
Self-Tanners:
Mystic Tan's Perfect Tan Kit, $54, Sephora.com
Self-tanning has always been tricky. When the first products came on the market we were left with a radioactive tangerine tint that made us look more George Hamilton than groovin’ with a J-Lo glow. But since those “dark days,” products have evolved. Cutting- edge brands like Mystic Tan have given natural-looking hues to almost 200 million people. XXXX is delighted to carry Mystic Tan’s new luxe line of DIY products that have revolutionized the self-tanning world. Their collection includes the Perfect Tan Kit Body, Perfect Tan Kit Face, Sunless Tanning Spray Face and Body, Sunless Enhancing Moisturizer Body and Shimmer Face. [Pssst!] If you’ve ever envied Jessica Simpson’s golden skin, Mystic Tan is her secret.
But no matter how “golden” the self-tanner becomes, the application process is not always fail-safe. So…Welcome to Self-tanner 101!
The first step for any self-tanning guru is exfoliation. Removing dead skin cells is key because you don’t want dry zones like knees and elbows to collect tanner and make the product appear dark, muddy and uneven. Now, here comes the fun part…the application! But be wary. Many of us have earned the Scarlet Letter of self-tanners: discolored palms (the true sign of a novice). A helpful hint: Use latex gloves for application. Worried about having white hands? Problem solved. All you need to do is rub the backs of your palms with self-tanner in a clockwise direction. Works every time!
Okay. Body exfoliated? Latex gloves snapped on? You’re ready! Believe it or not, this is the easy part. Using gentle, long strokes, apply the tanner as evenly as possible along your skin. A great tip is to add a dollop of moisturizer to the tanner, making the product a bit more malleable and therefore easier to apply. This is also excellent for tan enhancement, because it helps saturate the color into your skin.
So you’ve tanned yourself, and you’re wondering, “what now?” Well, don’t allow your skin to get near water for at least 4 hours. Also, this stuff can stain! If you’re planning to throw on that white Prada maxi-dress right away, that’s a huge no-no.
If you have the time to tan and set during the day, more power to you. But the ideal time is just before you turn in for the night. Then you can shower off the residual product in the morning. (To protect your sheets, wear a scruffy pair of old pj’s.) This is ideal because you maximize the amount of tan time allowing, for the deepest color possible, and you don’t have to worry that any of the above uh-oh’s will happen.
So now that you’re tan and gorgeous, all you have to do is maintain your new radiance. Moisturizing is key, because it keeps skin from sloughing off and also prolongs your beautiful bronze. Use Mystic Tan’s Sunless Enhancing Moisturizer Body that provides offers a subtle amount of color while keeping skin hydrated.
(Okay. That’s it.) You glow, girl!
Shaving:
Billy Jealousy Hydroplane Super-Slick Shave Cream $20 sephora.com
We all—men and women alike– have nightmare stories about shaving. Many a prom night photo has been ruined by guys with Band-Aids slapped over razor burns. And surely there have been countless summer BBQ’s where girls showed up in pants instead of cute new dresses because they had a shaving fiasco.
The simple fact is we didn’t have the “cutting-edge” razors that populate the market today–razors with names that sound like launch vehicles designed by NASA! Well, we’ve come a long way from that scary man in the barbershop wielding a straight edge blade, a leather strop and a shaky hand. What’s so exciting about this razor revolution are all the brilliant products that have arrived to help us in the fine art of shaving. Creams, waxes, oils, foams—even lasers!
XXXX’s team of specialists is always on hand to help you select the shaving option that’s perfect for you (and we’ve got quite a selection). And now we’ve found something genuinely unique that’s going to make any shaving aficionado “jealous.” Hint: it also won Best Shaving Cream at Esquire’s 2007 Grooming Awards. Oh, and George Clooney is a fan. Care to read on?
Hydroplane, by Billy Jealousy, is a foamless shave cream that lubricates the skin to give you the closest shave possible while also protecting against razor burn, nicks, bumps and ingrown hairs. A little goes a long way with this 8oz. bottle, because it miraculously gets slicker and more powerful as you add warm water to it. As we all know–ouch!–shaving can leave a burning sensation but Hydroplane provides a pleasant cooling effect as it performs its magic. The formula includes micro-silicon beads that have a slight exfoliation action–also fantastic for an ultra-soft finish because it sloughs off dead skin cells. And with chamomile and aloe to keep skin calm and humectants to preserve moisture, it’ll give you the happiest skin on the planet. Because Hydroplane is perfect for every skin type, all you have to do is massage onto face, shave, and rinse with cool water. And, because it’s such a smooth product, women are grabbing it off the shelves after rave reviews from the men in their lives. Hey, if a guy can steal your shampoo and conditioner, why can’t you steal his shaving cream?
XXXXXX’s Tick List: Do’s and Don’ts of Shaving
Always shave with warm water. The best time is after a steaming, hot shower. Or, ladies, a great time to shave is IN a steaming, hot shower!
Make sure you have a sharp blade. Dull blades are going to tear skin, cause ingrown hairs and create razor burn.
Never shave against the grain (even though we’re tempted because we think we’re getting a closer and quicker shave: we’re actually causing small cuts to the skin that could lead to infection and ingrown hairs).
When you’re finished shaving, always rinse with cool water. This closes the pores and calms the skin.
Moisturize! Use an after-shave balm, lotion or cream and avoid anything alcohol based (unless you want to encourage burning!).
Don’t be cheap! Sometimes things are worth spending a little extra money on. That bag of 100 razors for 99 cents is priced that way for a reason. Invest in a quality razor and a well-researched product.
Ok. I’m going to reveal my identity. I’m a Vanderbilt, errr, no a Rothschild (yeah, that’s it). So, being loaded and lazy, I was putting together my dream outfit (for when it gets a bit chilly) on Net-A-Porter. I mean, with no worries about the economy and being loaded beyond my wildest imagination, I chose clothes without even considering the prices. Pish-pash, the rich NEVER look at the sales ticket DAHLING!
Keeping that in mind, I selected a kick-ass outfit that would make me feel like a runway queen going to work (this outfit is probably more appropriate for jobs in a creative field–not so good for conservative work places) or cocktails on a Friday night. It’s a great go to work and then transition to meet friends outfit and the pieces can be broken up and stand on their own beautifully. But MY GOODNESS, united as one, I reckon they are a masterpiece.
Some of you will think what I’ve chosen is a bit dark and monotone. Why couldn’t I bring out a bit more color from the blouse? Truthfully, I think that the look is so sleek you can bring out the exotic hues with some groovy nail varnish, fab eyeshadow (I’m thinking a great pop of color from Mac Pigments) and a oversized cocktail ring. Net-A-Porter didn’t have a bauble that I felt worked well enough with this outfit and I wanted the whole look to be from their website. FYI: I have NO affiliation with Net-A-Porter. I just love their website and thought it would be fun to pick an outfit out from their comprehensive collection. Please vote on the look. It would be fun to get your feedback. Oh, and if anyone does feel charitable and would like to donate the look, do e-mail me
Dedicatedly yours,
—One of 365
Yes Captain! This Balmain Tweed Military Cape (sold out, by the way) makes me drool. Perfect to cover the shoulders for a chill and getting you ready for battle for any meeting. $4,645, Net-A-Porter.com
This silk-blend blouse provides a great pop of color with a striking pattern and stunning ruffle detail. Perfect reveal under the Balmain cape and could take you from the meeting room to drinks with friends. Just undo a few more buttons. 490 pounds sterling, Net-A-Porter.com
These Fendi leather slim-leg pants just scream bad-ass with class. Perfect to tuck into boots, or wear with killer heels. These black beauties are a great way to show off those gams but also a perfect canvas for blouses, like the Matthew Williamson above. 1,060 pounds sterling, Net-A-Porter.com
Right, remember how I just mentioned the leather Fendi's are great for boots to be tucked into. These Givenchy covered heel boots are just the ticket. They are super-sleek, beyond fashion-forward and a good investment. I think these will hang on like a good pair of cowboy boots--an excellent buy. Damn, these are sexy. 1,020 pounds sterling, Net-A-Porter.com
Okay. There are bags AND THEN THERE ARE BAGS! This may look, to some, just like a black, run-of-the-mill satchel. That it ain't! This Proenza Schouler PS1 Large Python Satchel is everything I dream of in a purse. It's huge, it's versatile, the material is to die for, it can get banged around and still look as good as the day you bought it, you can pass this on to your kid one day because it isn't an "it" bag. I could go on and on....but because it is too bloody expensive and I'll never be able to afford it, it'll just be putting a wound in my heart. Enjoy, for those of you lucky enough to be able to buy it. 2,750 pounds sterling, Net-A-Porter.com
And for a finishing touch, how cool are these Fendi Cubetto Sunglasses? They mesh with the whole look--sorta 60's/70's fab with a modern twist. They match the Balmain perfectly and you'll just look like you're "working-it" when you put these babies on just as you're about to leave the house in this knock-out outfit. They're like the cherry on the sundae. Hey, they're also the most affordable item! 130 pounds sterling, Net-A-Porter.com
Step out of the Ether and send me an E-mail. I would be glad to have your thoughts, feelings and ideas.
