Dear Ether,

I haven’t had time to do a proper Wish List in forever!  Yes, I have been perusing the Web drooling at collections knowing that by the time I’ll be able to afford these gorgeous clothes, I’ll be too old for them.  And that was what I always adored about my Wish List.  That I could shop and put together an ensemble as if I were ready to slam down that credit card after making my selection.

So, eyebrows knit, concentration at the highest level, I hit the Matthew Williamson website and was blown away by the easy to use and fun virtual closet that lay before me.  Many times I visit high-end designer  sites and they are embedded with so many bells and whistles.  Too much Flash and crazy music.  You can’t even figure out how to navigate the bloody thing and you give up before you even get to see what they have on offer.  I also love that you can copy and paste images allowing you to make a visual tick-list for later consideration.  So many designers have posted their pictures with such high security that you can’t pull pieces that you might want to save on your desktop or share with your friends and ask for advice.  The only crummy thing that Maestro Williamson has done is not posted the prices.  Dun, dun, dun!  We know what that means.  That the goods are so damned pricey they are afraid to show you what they cost for fear of you collapsing right in front of your screen.  They offer you a NYC phone number to call for advice about any frock, but I hate this feature.  I want to have the privacy of working online and cutting out dealing with a pushy sales person.  Bad move Matthew!

Anyway, I wanted to go for something sexy, badass, uber luxe and probably worth a zillion dollars because–fuck—the prices weren’t there so I figured why shouldn’t we live in fantasy land this once?  Matthew Williamson kits out all the cool kids from Sienna Miller to Kate Moss.  This Brit, believe it or not, actually started with some of his first goodies in Marks & Spencer’s in their “Autograph” range……whoa!  Williamson, has actually stayed quite close to his department store grass roots having been part of Designer’s At Debenhams in the UK since 2002 under the name “Butterfly” (his famous insignia) and more recently, by partnering up with a one-off collection with H&M.  In 2006, Williamson took over as Creative Director at Pucci (not surprising as he is known for his brilliant patterns and color palettes, just as Emilio Pucci was).  And, he has a lovely line of fragrance and candles that he launched in 2005.  Not surprising, this 38 year old is a graduate from Central St. Martin’s in London and has now become one of the staple names on the runways today.

So, picture this.  You are out in London.  It is cold, but man have you got the MOST amazing shoes you want to show off and anyway, when you get inside, it’ll be warm.  So sporting a short dress (again, don’t worry, you have a “pimp” coat covering you) you are almost ready to go.  While applying your make-up, you’ve lit a lovely scented candle to get you in a sexy, chilled out mood.  You’ve grabbed your blingalicious, but beyond jealousy-enducing bag, just as you’ve heard the taxi honk its horn.  Damn, you look HOT!  Let’s GO!

Yep. This hugs you in ALL the right places. The pattern is beyond cool with a futuristic/Asian inspired feel. The hand-beading at the chest allows you to forget about the need for jewelery as it's built in! The tulip shaped skirt and the polo neck make the dress architectural in cut (which is on trend). The black band around the waist looks like a belt giving the appearance of a petite ribcage and the sleeves are fitted to elongate the arms. The length is perfectly cut to show off the right amount of leg and the right amount of heel! Lace Jersey Polo Neck Dress-Black Multi, www.matthewwilliamson.com (price upon request)

Yeah. These aren't your ordinary black court shoe. From the platform, to the wings on the side to the hot-pink piping---these are killer heels. Again, these are slightly architectural in design which match the quirkiness of the dress and the heel height will make your legs soar! Nappa Patent Court Shoe-Black www.matthewwillamson.com (price upon request)

These are from the runway....but I thought I'd give you another alternative to the basic black if you really wanted to go wild! I think the blue snakeskin might actually work with the patterns in the dress and certainly the color scheme. These shoes are NOT for the shy violet--though neither is this ensemble. I like that these shoe-boots are a bit more punk-funk and make the dress slightly more daring. Call me crazy! But hey, it's always YOUR choice. Runway Shoe-Boots, No Price or Name.

I'd kill for this bag. Kill! It's sexy, elegant, trendy, youthful, seductive.....it is THE perfect evening bag. I love the shimmering colors and the scales on the shell. The chain in the gunmetal looks very evening---and chains as straps again are on trend. This will go magically with the colors of the dress. LOVE THIS! Hard Evening Acid Python Oval Bag-Blue, www.matthewwilliamson.com (price upon request)

I promised you a ridiculously opulent jacket--well here it is! A fox fur coat fashioned to look like mink, is going to keep you warm and trendy. Typical of Williamson, there are panels of bespoke brocade near the lapels in orange and gold. Curvy, with loads of volume and class, as much as you are going to want to reveal your dead-hot dress---this is going to be a pity to take off. Fox Brocade Coat-Mink, www.matthewwilliamson.com (price upon request)

And finally, just to get you going before the night begins and calm you down after it ends, here is one cool candle from Matthew's extensive collection. With loads of colors and scents, you'll find the one perfect for your groove for the night. I just chose this one because I thought the color looked nice and the name "Dusk" seemed appropriate Matthew Williamson Scented Candles, www.matthewwilliamson.com (price upon request)

Dear Ethers,

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh (arms stretching behind my back).  The Wish List is back!  What tremendous joy I had shopping again, choosing dream pieces without having to lay down my credit card.  Though one day I would like to place an order on some of the glorious goodies I’ve chosen, it’s always fun to fantasize and see something come together from a collection that you’ve chopped and changed.  I mean, of course I imagine myself with a Kate Moss frame when I select such pieces so I also imagine that they would look stellar on me.  But sadly, this girl whose stature of 5′6 and with a bust larger than a 32A would not look catwalk cool.  But that’s what’s so fun about Monday’s.  You can dream!

Today is all about navy blue bliss.  I don’t think this lovely shade gets enough credit and I really love wearing it.  It looks surprisingly good with denim, excellent with white, brilliant with black (just kidding…wanted to see if you were paying attention) and is just a classy, classic color.  I also think it’s a great transitional hue both seasonally and day to night.  Navy can be worn both in the summer and the winter and for work and drinks.

I chose Paul & Joe Sister this week because I really like the playful French fun that they have in their collection this season.  It’s kind of Topshop meets rockstar. Love it!  For a diffusion line it isn’t THAT expensive, though I wouldn’t call it cheap—but compared to something like Miu Miu it’s a steal (I mean, they sell it in Urban Outfitters!).  I also thought it would be fun to integrate beauty into this Wish List because Paul & Joe have such a comprehensive line.

I have mixed feelings about their make-up line.  The packaging is gorgeous.  I think the palettes and the colors for shadows and foundations have tremendous variety.  However, I think it is way too expensive for a brand that isn’t established.  It’s tricky.  You can’t really start off cheaper and then hike up prices.  But a lot of folks haven’t heard of Paul & Joe and therefore wouldn’t pay 30 bucks for a lipstick when blingalicious Chanel is right around the corner with competitive prices. Truthfully, at the end of the day, the double C’s are gonna win out.  I know the line does well in Europe, but I think it is really struggling in the United States.  The packaging is targeted for a younger audience, but again, the price tag is for an older audience.  Anyway, in case it’s new too you, I thought I’d introduce you to it.

So here’s our girl.  She’s going out in L.A. during the day but it’s going to transition to a nighttime hang out too.  She’s got her lightweight dress because it’s sill hot during the day, but she’s brought a long, cozy cardigan when it gets chilly during the evening (hey, chivalry is dead—you can’t rely on gentlemen to offer you their coats anymore!).  Her boots are perfect for walking around in because of the extra gooey, padded platform and if she wants she can stick a pair of tights in her bag if her gams get cold.  She’s brought along some perfume just in case she wants to freshen up, and she’s done up her eyes in this lovely palette that matches the colors of the pattern on her dress perfectly.    This is not a party evening, just a laid back time with friends where she wants to look hip and chic but also be comfortable.  So, welcome back to the Wish List and enjoy our navy nymph.

Meow! This cat print silk dress with a ruffle detail is cute and sexy at the same time. I love how it's got a baggy top that makes it slouchy and casual, but also that dainty skirt which is attached that is short and flirty allowing you to show off those legs. Great for a hot summer day. Or, throw on some tights and voila, you've got your evening look. The sleeves end mid-arm so great for the hip bangle look and again, because this shows so much leg, wait until you see this paired with the rad ankle boots our chica is sporting. Horlane Silk Print Dress, $200, paul&joe.com

How lovely is this cardigan? It looks handmade by someone you love...awww! I think it's the perfect color. An added bonus? It's the same length as the dress, so you'll be totally toasty when night falls! This is a great piece to own because it's a classic. It'll never date because it already has a vintage feel. You could probably wear this as a sweater dress---just add some leggings and some cute boots and you're ready to go. Navy Deneuve Cardigan, $321.75, paul&joe.com

I am in LOVE! These may not look that different from all the black ankle boots out there...but look closely. That sole is what makes these babies ACE! They are going to be so comfy, the ball of your foot is going to thank you. Finally you can be stylish without being in agony. The heel height is sexy, the padded leather looks like badass motorcycle jacket texture. These, paired with the sweetness of the sweet dress above---dead on! Imagine these with tights or bare legs--you are gonna be working it. These are THE black ankle boots of the season. Venus Quilted Booties With Crepe Sole, $634, paul&joe.com

Really cute packaging right? Kinda shabby chic, meets Victorian lady. These colors are the perfect duo to match your dress pattern. The blue is perfect for your lids and the silver is fab for the inner parts of the eye to make them shimmer and catch the light. For more of their endless beauty products look at their ample supply on the website. However, I'm going to recommend a better URL that has, oddly enough, a more comprehensive outlet for their products. Limited Edition Color Powder-The Wild One, $24, www.beautyhabit.com

Truthfully, I chose this fragrance because of the color of the bottle--hey, I'm not gonna lie to you. And honestly, that's what happens a lot in consumer magazines. Products are chosen for their looks and not always for their quality. However, I own this fragrance and it is sweet--literally. Would I run out and buy it? No, but it was given to me for free and sometimes in the summer when I want to smell sweet and fun I'll spritz it on. The Web says it is a sexy, oriental and musky scent. I don't know if I'd agree. The notes are as follow: Top notes: Bergamot/Coriander/Cumin/Ylang-Ylang, Heart notes: Jasmine/Rose/Magnolia/ Heliotrope, Base notes: Oak/Moss/Patchouli/Sandalwood/Myrrh/Labdanum/ Vanilla/Musk. Paul & Joe Bleu EDT, $65 50ml, www.beautyhabit.com

Dear Ether,

The “Wish List” is meant to show the many varieties fashion has to offer from the many wonderful online shopping sites on the Web.  My goal is to try and feature the big guys online and throw in a few of the smaller lads just so I can style some really cool outfits that are occasion appropriate.  I was eager to check out the Ralph Lauren site.  I don’t know if any of you have been to his store on Madison Avenue in New York, but it is in a stunning old mansion and you feel like you’ve walked into shoppers paradise.  Warm wood panels and lush ferns greet you with oversized urns filled with lily’s, orchids and amaryllis.  It is how the rich must have shopped before 1929–before taxes–before the second World War.  It blows you away.  To me, Ralph Lauren (FYI: his real last name is Lifshitz and he is a lovely Jewish man who began his career selling ties!) is the epitome of New York style.  His look is sleek, it is the Hamptons it IS the Polo fields.  What I love about Ralph Lauren today is that you can still count on his label being recognizable, but being modern and updated.  He moves with the times but never strays from his staple looks and designs.  You know you can always get a polo shirt with his famous insignia, but it will always be a modern cut, fit and color for the season.

When I visited his site I was blown away by how many things I wanted.  For me, Ralph Lauren was always a label I aspired to for when I got a little older and couldn’t wear diffusion lines anymore.  But I saw unique takes on the ruffled blouse, the pussy bow blouse, wonderful balloon sleeves, sleek trousers you would kill for and amazing suede and leather designs that were of the highest quality.  His bags were amazing, but only if you had a cool $16,000 (yep, the extra zero is in there for a reason) to drop.  The weakest part of the site, I would say, were his shoes and his accessories/jewellery.  I’m sure in-store there was more, but I wasn’t thrilled with the selection.  I felt they could have offered the customer more to go with their outfits.  I could’ve gone a bit funky with Mr. Lauren, but decided to keep it as it should be: classic.  I wanted my “Wish List” from Ralph Lauren to be aspirational, elegant, timeless, classic, and just simple.  A lot of the other “Wish Lists” will have styles that will come and go.  But what I have chosen you can pull out 20 years later and still wear and even pass on to your daughter.  I chose things with cuts and fabrics that mattered so even though they may not look bright and shiny, it’s all in the way it falls and hangs and feels.  I think that embodies Ralph Lauren.  

With that in mind, this outfit is all about you going to a Black-Tie event.  You need a gown that’s going to be striking because it is clean, and shows YOU off, and not the other way around.  The attention is drawn to the silhouette through the cut of the gown, the soft-hugging fabric and the chain detail drawing attention to your back (a very sensual part of the body, I might add).  Being floor length with high-heels, you look long and lean.  Because of the open back detail I’d wear the hair up to show off as much of your body as possible (neck included).  A nicely made up face with a touch of luminizing cream in your foundation (keep it natural and light) a gentle touch of pink to the apples of your cheeks, a strong red lip, a base color eyeshadow (as in a taupe or pale cream) with liner in a small cat-eye and heavy on the mascara.  Make sure your brows are tidy, and even add brow gel to keep them in place.  A nice touch would be square nails, short, in a matching red varnish.  Same with the toes.  

You know, we still look at that picture of Audrey Hepburn from “Breakfast At Tiffany’s” and envy her look.  She made us love the LBD.  This “Wish List” look will have the same effect.  All the women at the gala wearing the trends of the season will give their dresses away or look back and will be able to pin-point exactly the season the outfit was from.  Not you.  You’ll be as classic as Ms. Hepburn.  Let’s roll out the red carpet!

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365

Whenever you walk into a room feeling beautiful, you feel like all eyes are on you. That's not just hubris, it's usually true. And in this dress, your hunch will be probably be right again. This cashmere, floor-length dress will show off all of the curves of your body. The boat-neck front looks clean, simple and elegant giving your body the chance to show-off its killer silhouette, but when you turn around and reveal the plunging v-back with multi-tiered chain adornments, well, that's the big reveal. The muscles in your back will get their chance to expose themselves and the chains act as jewellery where you couldn't have any on the front. Tell me this isn't a classic? You'll feel good because the fabric is amazing, you'll look gorgeous because of the cut and you know you're the class act at a classy affair. Not bad. Not bad at all. Cashmere Chain-Back Gown, $1898, ralphlauren.com

Though the heel won't really show, if you do end up revealing your tootsies you want the world to know you're working it top to toe. These suede and Swarovski crystal embellished sandals are straight from the runway collection so if they are good enough to work it on a catwalk they are good enough to work it for your Black Tie affair. The crystals will go nicely with the earrings I will show you in the next shot and the wrapping around of the suede is a play on the dripping chain on the back of the dress. The heel height is also great (4"), because the taller you are, the longer and leaner you look in that gown. Brea Suede Crystal Sandal, $795, ralphlauren.com

I was surprised that Maestro Lauren didn't have a fine jewellery section. Maybe it's not featured online. I HATE that I'm promoting CZ's but the look goes with the classic and timelessness of the whole outfit so I am going to settle (but let's pretend they are real diamonds, okay?). A diamond stud is something that you aspire to. It's like a coming of age gift. You can wear them day to night and they will always match any outfit. These studs will go with the simplicity of the dress. We don't want anything hanging--it would compete with the chains in the back. We just want a touch of glimmer every so often when you catch the light you shine. Large Cubic Zirconia Stud, $45, ralphlauren.com

With lush Swarovski crystals, a satin finish, African crocodile trim and a classic Art-Deco clasp this is the perfect clutch to go with your outfit. I love that it is also lined in a bright purple! Again, it's the quality of the materials and the classic shape, design and ability to use over and over again. Perfection. Satin, Crystal & Croco Clutch, $1,995, ralphlauren.com

And of course you need that finishing touch when you are just about to step out the door. It's a sexy scent for evening and the bottle and packaging even go with your outfit so if you were to take it with you, it would look like a great accessory! Notorious is a sparkling spiced scent with notes of deep black currant, chocolate and patchouli musk. Spritz on pulse points. Ooo la la. Notorious 1.7 oz Eau de Parfum, $65, ralphlauren.com

Dar Ether,

I’ve been going to events hosted by PR’s for a long time now and the color worn by the ladies of the night is always black.  I don’t know if any of you lovely PR girls will be reading this, but I’m sure you’ll agree that sometimes it’s hard to find something flattering and work-appropriate for an event.  You don’t want to out-dress your attendees, but you also don’t want to be mistaken for a waiter.  

I went to the lovely Calvin Klein website and was very surprised.  They’ve come along way since the 90’s where ghetto people were wearing oversized Calvin Klein knock-off T-shirts or you’d see CK jeans rotting in the racks of TJ Maxx.  Oh and do you remember the era of CK One?  I thought I’d never breathe fresh air again!  Truthfully, it’s happening with Thierry Mugler’s Angel, but I suppose every decade has its fragrance trend. The site wasn’t Mr. Klein’s runway collection.  It was his reasonably priced clothing that had amazing sales and truthfully, the full price goodies were fair given they were really on trend, the fabrics were top-notch and the cuts looked excellent.  There is a Calvin Klein in a mall near my house and simply from looking at this site I’m going, credit card in hand, and shopping!  

So, back to out PR princess.  She’s a tough cookie because she’s gotta handle high-level clients, keep her cool, look attractive, but also understated. She also needs to be classy.  She can’t stand out and experiment with trends.  So let’s pretend that this is an event for Calvin Klein.  She’s donning everything from his collection to be supportive and represent, so if anyone asks what she is wearing she can boast that it is indeed from Mr. Klein. The base color is black with the only other shades being golds, coppers and caramels.  The leopard print on the heel is the only bit of sass in the outfit, but it’s good.  It show she is stylish, has some funk and knows her fashion.  Okay, the doors are about to open.  Time to primp the outfit and make sure she looks as sleek as the label she’s representing.

The dress of the night! This basic black dress is very deceptive in its simplicity. It's bustier and criss cross straps give support allowing for her to not have to wear a bra. This eliminates unsightly straps and uncomfortable underwires so she can feel completely at ease to do her work. The cinched waist holds her in at the right spot to make her look her slimmest and the pockets are excellent for holding spare pens, blackberry; whatever she may need to throw in at the last second if she is without her purse. The dress is deceptively simple, but because the cut and tailoring are so well done, she looks elegant and well-presented. Criss Cross Bustier Dress, Originally $138 now $69, calvinklein.com

These are sexy and add a splash of fun to the all black attire. They have a severe heel, but the platform will allow ball of foot comfort. The straps and sling-back will keep the heel on tight so no slipping out of the shoe. It also shows you've got a bit of personality to your fashion sense even if you can't really show it at this event. The dress is on the shorter side, and these heels have height (4"!) so you're gonna have elongated legs which will make you stand out above the crowd giving you a good vantage point, but also allowing you to maybe get snagged by a hot celebrity because DAMN your legs will look AMAZING! Prive Leopard Print Pony Sandal, $118, calvinklein.com

Blackberry Check! Guest-list? Check! Perfume? Check! Mirror? Check! What else? That's the beauty of this bag. It can hold whatever you need and more! It's big, it's classy and though understated with its black leather and gold hardware, the C shaped design and handle make it architectural and sleek. It'll fit cozily under your arm ready to be unzipped and opened for whatever you need. It's in the bag, baby! C Link Crescent Hobo, $198, calvinklein.com

You're SO gonna need a watch, right? This goes perfectly with the ensemble. It's dressy, looks a bit like a bracelet so you don't have to worry that you are sans baubles, and most importantly it tells the bloody time. Truthfully, I'm not one for branded watches unless the name Rolex or Cartier comes into the mix (wink) but if you're representing the brand or need a reasonable evening watch, this one ain't too shabby. If you were to wear it with a bunch of really cool black enamel bracelets and gold bangles it could be gorgeous! Gold Lexington Watch, $255, calvinklein.com

I had to insert a fragrance in the mix! C'mon, it's Calvin Klein! I chose one of his less familiar names, though truthfully they are all sold at a Boots or a CVS pharmacy, right? As a little trail-off, I'm a fragrance fanatic and own a beyond belief amount from my beauty days. I have a special place in my heart for the art of perfume and hate mass produced ones like these. BUT, I do understand their necessity in the world, and that's why I am including this. I just feel if you wear a perfume, try and find one that's not worn by every Joe Schmo on the street. Really investigate and experiment to find "you" in a scent. Okay, I'll shut up. Basically, I chose this because of the bottle. I thought if Miss PR girl were to pull it out, it would match her outfit! It's also a sultry fragrance with top notes: plum, mace, rose de damas mid notes: egyptian jasmine, french orange flower, tuberose base notes: cashmere woods, burnt amber, madagascan vanilla, australian sandalwood. Really good for a night out and to mask any sweat building up from a stressed out evening! Secret Obsession, 3.4 oz EDP Originally $72 now $36, calvinklein.com

Now, sniffle, if you’ve noticed, there is NO poll! I have done this purposefully to punish you all!!!!! Jokes aside, no one was voting.  So I decided to try 1 “Wish List” without it to see if I would get any comments asking for it back.  If you want it, you got it.  But if you don’t miss it, I won’t bring it back from the dead.  Poor poll.  He’s the only guy I knew who actually wanted his buttons pushed

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365

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.