Oct 13 2009

Wigging-Out!

I think wigs have come a LONG way from these beauties!  I discovered what I would do with my new "do" after trying on a wig that I never thought would take my fancy.  I always imagined myself a blonde....sighhh......

I think wigs have come a LONG way from these beauties! I discovered what I would do if I got a NEW "do" after trying on a wig that I never thought would take my fancy. I always imagined myself a blonde....sighhh......

Dear Ether,

My mom’s friend has a fun wig collection.  Not the cheap, crummy kind that you wear for fancy dress, but natural looking wigs that you would never know weren’t real.  Sadly, she had cancer.  BUT, she was one of these women who had a fantastic attitude and embraced her baldness. She decided to have the hairstyles she could never achieve with her natural coif.

Well, thank goodness she is 100% better, and her lovely grayish-blonde hair has grown back with luster. BUT she still has these fab (and might I say expensive) wigs hanging around that she likes to play with.  I was at her house the other day and she took me to her closet.  Sitting on busts were about 6 styles and colors that were tantalizing.  Blonde, black, chestnut and red.  Short, long, layered and curly.  She had the works!

I’ve never tried on a wig before because often places make you pay to do it.  Or they just say no because you obviously aren’t interested in making a purchase.  This time I had free reign!  I don’t know why, but I immediately gravitated towards the blonde bombshell with light streaking.  I was always jealous of the girls who had blonde hair in High School and dreamt of having glittering wisps of gold attached to my head—so on it went!  Here’s the problem.  I have really dark eyebrows, so I looked atrocious because the wig was SO blonde and my eyebrows were SO dark.  However, I didn’t think with my skin color I look too bad as a blonde. But my eyes are also very dark brown.  I looked too yin and yang.   Maybe if I dyed the brows—but then my lovely hair would be fried and cracking off, and my eyebrows would have roots!!!!!  A definite no-no.

The red was tres-saucy.  I used to dye my hair auburn.  I was trying to conjure Julia Roberts circa “Pretty Woman” and it was groovy at the time—or so I thought.  When I look back at pictures, I ask myself how my hairdresser could do that to me!  But this red was a brilliant color and short.  It worked well with my brows and after a decade of long hair, my adult face looked kinda sweet with a short bob.  But then I thought—oooo—this is a little too “I’m on the brink of 30 and I have to grow up look,” so I said NAY!

Can I tell you the one that was perfect?  One that I NEVER thought I would EVER choose? The pixie cut in my own shade–brown!  It matched my hair color perfectly and it was short–just like how Victoria Beckham did it.  It was such an extreme from my long hair that it really was a shocker.  It showcased my face beautifully and it also seemed so easy to manage.  I didn’t have any wild pieces flying anywhere or un-brushed bits that made me look poorly groomed.  My mom’s friend said it was always styled and perfectly polished—it was the easiest wig of them all.  I have a pretty angular face and it fit well with my facial structure—it almost convinced me to lop my hair off right there and then.

The offer stands if I ever want to borrow it I can, and I am so going to take her up on it.  I just wish I had someone who I could really shock.  I took digital pics so English gent saw me with it (LOVED IT).  But I can’t show YOU Ethers!  Anyway, my advice: For a fun day out, go and try on a wig.  You may be surprised what looks good on you and what your next hair-do is going to be!  If I ever chop this lengthy mop of mine off, it’s gonna be 100% pixie for me.

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365


Sep 30 2009

Don’t Fuck With My Hair!!!!

 

I

I'm not going to say much, because it'll ruin the story. But see this girl. She looks somewhat surprised, but not in a "I'm going to kill myself because someone shaved off all of my hair" kinda way. Well. This photo could have been me....but with a VERY different expression on ol' One of 365's face. Seriously---don't ever fuck with my hair.

Dear Ethers, 

OH MY GOD.  I have the CRAZIEST story to tell you.  Right.  So, you know how I’m always going on about my hair and its length.  I mean, by this time you know the diameter of each follicle.  But you also know how much I treasure it.  I swore the only way I would ever cut my hair is if I became destitute and it was the last thing I had to pawn to eat that night. 

So, I had straightened my hair for an event and had been wearing it down because I usually don’t take much care to make a fuss over it (you know, tying it in a messy bun etc…) and wanted to work my “do.”  I’m walking down the street and this woman comes up to me and says, “You have the most beautiful hair.”  Well, of course I was pleased and thanked her very much.  But she went on.  “Is that your natural color?”  I politely responded, “Yes, it’s my own.”  “So you don’t use any dyes at all?” Okay, now not only was I getting annoyed, but I was getting weirded out.  I said, “Look, I’m real busy…” and she cut me off and started telling me that she worked for this charity called “Locks of Love” and they were really desperate for donors because all of the salon owners were paying a fortune to girls and it was the recession. 

Now, I’m not saying I’m the most benevolent person in the world, but I do give to certain charities.  But they are ones that I choose and that I approach.  I make it a policy NEVER to give to charities on streets or on the phone.  I like to do my research on the net and donate via e-mail.  But regardless, where was this woman’s badge?  Who the hell was she?  And I’m sure “Locks of Love” didn’t have a bombard you policy that freaked young women out on the street.  

I calmly told her that I had no intention of cutting my hair and that I would appreciate her leaving me alone as I felt this was very inappropriate.  Now, a normal person would walk away.  Oh no, this lady got PISSED.  “Don’t you care about kids with cancer?  Women who’ve been burned and lost parts of their scalp?”  Did I mention I’m standing on a street where there were cafes and people were staring at us?  I just started walking away—but she followed.  I started to reach for my cell phone and my keys. 

And then I felt a tug. 

My whole body went numb and I swear to god for a second I thought she took out shears and lopped my hair off. 

I spun around and screamed at her to never fucking touch me again and that I was dialing 911.  I’ve never seen a skinny woman with a bob-cut run so fast in my whole life. 

When I got home I called “Locks of Love” and told them my story.  And Ethers, I’m not joking (and you might think I’m a pussy) I was crying.  I think they were afraid I was going to sue for assault charges.  But the truth is I didn’t have the woman’s name and they said they have so many volunteers that even with my description of her, it was hopeless. 

I think “Locks of Love” do a wonderful thing and I do not want to incriminate them for one woman’s insane breakdown.  But I have to tell you that I will never forget that moment.  I did wonder if that woman was really from “Locks of Love” because they told me that dyed hair WAS acceptable though bleached wasn’t.  And if the lady had cut my hair without it being in a braid or ponytail first she would have done it for nothing—they can’t accept it loose.  Oh and FYI, if you ever DO want to donate, your hair needs to be 10” tip-tip minimum (and they do request it to be clean, thank you very much).  

Later that night I took a shower, used my special Kerastase shampoo that I pull out for special occasions and my Redkin conditioner that is for VERY special moments, and lathered up grateful for something to still be attached to my head.  My waves re-appeared, and as my hair dried, up it went into its lazy bun happy to be protected.  I was just so happy to have given my OWN locks some love that night when it all could have been snipped away by some nutter with a bad bowl cut.  Sheesh.  Only in L.A. 

Dedicatedly yours,

—One of 365


Aug 30 2009

Beauty Writing: The Advertising Side vs. Editorial

Dear Ether,

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

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 shaving gel $20 sephora.com

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  

  1. 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!
  2. Make sure you have a sharp blade.  Dull blades are going to tear skin, cause ingrown hairs and create razor burn.
  3. 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).
  4. When you’re finished shaving, always rinse with cool water.  This closes the pores and calms the skin.
  5. Moisturize! Use an after-shave balm, lotion or cream and avoid anything alcohol based (unless you want to encourage burning!).
  6. 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.


Aug 17 2009

Opening Ceremony-The Wish List (Get Upgraded To First Class When Flying Outfit)

Dear Ethers,

So, I found this really groovy store on La Cienega in West Hollywood en route to my gym which is on Sunset.  It’s the most amazing little place. Stationed between a car wash and a crummy parking lot, it’s the sleekest little boutique with a white awning.  Written in the coolest black lettering simply states the name Opening Ceremony.  I’d driven by a few times and wondered what this place was all about.  Was it a club, a restaurant?  The LAST thing I expected for it to be was the most unique clothing store I’d been to in Los Angeles thus far.  Opening Ceremony carries everything from their own label (which is very Euro-vintage) and Topshop to Acne Jeans and bonkers labels you’ve never heard of.  I was thrilled when I walked into their groovy labyrinth where their very attractive and well-dressed staff point you in all directions so you can get lost in this candy shop of clothing, shoes, accessories and more.  I was thrilled to see a whole rack of Topshop, though it was mainly the Kate Moss collection.  It was ridiculously expensive (Londoners, if you thought you paid through the roof for the scraggle-toothed waifs creations, try buying a tank-top for $100 where they even have the chutzaph to leave the UK tag on that says 25 quid. Um. No.)  So, even though I couldn’t afford a single thing in this hot-house for hipsters, I thought if they had a website it would be great to share their wonderful world with you.  So I was thrilled when I Googled the shop and found out they did indeed sell online.  Their collection is SO much more limited on their website then what they have to offer in store, but you still get the groove factor from the cool graphics, off-beat models and unique clothing selections.  If you’re looking for a brand that nobody else is really going to be sporting, or a label that is uber cool that you’d see the likes of Sienna Miller wearing, than you’ve hit the right spot.  Opening Ceremony likes to show that they don’t carry the regular stuff that your local mall does–but truthfully you’ll have to pay.  The stuff ain’t cheap, even on sale.  

The “Wish List” look this week is all about travel and getting upgraded to First Class when you’re flying.  Why shell out the big bucks on a plane seat when you could spend it on an outfit you’ll wear for ages!  Even if you spend 24 grueling hours flying, the amount of money you spent on a First Class ticket could buy you a runway look that will make you the envy of all your friends and may even get you snapped by “The Satorialist.”  I could have chosen a wack-a-doodle outfit from Opening Ceremony (and trust me, if you visit their shop or site, you can see nutty stuff.  Chloe Sevigny has her own label there, just to give you some idea!) but I wanted to pick something that was unique, still wearable, and that would be comfy to fly in. And when you nonchalantly ask the narrow-eyed flight attendant about being upgraded, she’ll take one look at you and say to herself, “yep, this girl is used to high-flyin’ style.” The only thing that it’ll cost you is the price of an economy class seat and some killer clothes from this choice selection. So, get out your passport, dust off your luggage and get your doctor to prescribe you some sleeping pills because honey, you are about to see some duds that will get you an oversized leather seat, champagne and rid you of that screaming kid who keeps peering over his chair making crazy eyes at you (don’t you hate that!).

 

 

I love this jacket because it sort of has that fencing coat feel, but also a old-fashioned bodice look to it too.  I love the darting and the the lines that will hug you and show off your figure.  The arms are nice and long and snug which will only elongate your limbs.  The front zip is handy making the jacket easy to take on and off, perfect for when you fly (the temperatures in those planes are so unpredictable!).  The material is also great.  A mix of cotton and rayon, this baby won

I love this jacket because it sort of has that fencing coat feel, but also an old-fashioned bodice look to it too. I adore the darting. The lines will hug your body and show off your figure in all of the right places. The arms are cut long so they will give the appearance of elongating your limbs. The front zip is handy, making the jacket easy to take on and off. This is perfect for when you fly (the temperatures in those planes are so unpredictable!). The material is also great. A mix of cotton and rayon, this lovely jacket won't wrinkle too badly so you'll leave the plane as crisp as you entered it. G. V. G. V. Arch Braid Zip-Up Jacket In Beige, Originally $1,025 now $513, openingceremony.com

 

Your going to be in the clouds anyway so why not represent the mood of the flight?  The attendants will appreciate YOUR appreciation for their jobs (okay, maybe I

You're going to be in the clouds anyway so why not represent the mood of the flight? The attendants will appreciate YOUR appreciation for their jobs (okay, maybe I'm taking this a bit too far) but it is a cute thought, no? I just loved how light and airy this top was. It looked like a watercolor painting and I loved how the fluffiness of the blouse mimicked the fluffiness of the clouds. It's actually hand printed in Japan, and I reckon just a lovely summertime top. It think it will layer nicely under the cotton jacket because the fabric is so thin (the jacket really needs to not have anything too bulky underneath as it is so snug, it fits like a top in its own right). Made of silk and cotton, you'll be breathing fresher air in this ethereal piece of cloth in the front of the cabin then in the back, that's for sure. Wakana Koike Fluffy Cloud Blouse, $300, openingceremony.com

 

Don

Don't these just look comfortable? The loose tied waist? The wide legs? The linen and cotton blend? The chilled out Japanese-inspired cut? You know they'll just sit well on you, be a great fit and won't make you sweat bullets in the summer heat but protect you from the sun. I think the cloud blouse would look lovely tucked into the trousers showing off the tied waist and I like the idea of the natural looking jacket and pants matching together to make a really "green" look. And if you spill champagne on these compliments of First Class, I bet you it won't even show! United Bamboo Baggy Pants, Originally $405 now $122, openingceremony.com

 

I really like these because they tie the whole outfit together in a glamorous way without being to "bling" but show you have style and know your fashion.  They are architecturally very interesting with the layering of the suede, the heel is almost like a bamboo reed, and they just look comfortable.  They work with the whole organic look of the outfit.  It

I really like these because they tie the whole outfit together in a glamorous way without being too "bling" but show you have style and know your fashion. They are architecturally very interesting with the layering of the suede. The heel is almost like a bamboo reed, and they just look comfortable. They work with the whole organic look of the outfit. It's like you aren't trying too hard, but you're letting people know you've got style. That's what the flight attendant's will pick up about you. That you aren't pushy, but you know what you want and you get it. They'll see you "own it" and they'll wanna give it to you. High-heels=high-flying. Hussein Chalayan Flap Boot, Originally $849 now $249, openingceremony.com

 

If you want to "bag the deal" you can

If you want to "bag the deal" you can't be schleping around a beaten up purse that says "there is a hole in the lining of this baby that has about $3 worth of parking meter change in it that I can pull out if I turn it upside down." You need to look like you're carrying important things in an important case. This will hold all of your key documents and even a small laptop. It goes beautifully with the colors of your outfit and is crisp and clean for summer. Want Les Essentials De La Vie Bag, $625, openingceremony.com

 

Any hot-mama traveller sports the shades.  Even if it is nighttime.  Crazy.  I know.  That

Any hot-mama traveller sports major shades. Even if it's nighttime. Crazy. I know. That's why these babies are good, because the tint isn't too dark so you won't look totally nuts if you have a evening flight. These vintage inspired sunnies are wonderful with the whole bohemian-sleek look of your outfit and just add that finishing touch to make you look polished. If you've had a rough night, they won't be able to see it in your face (these are HUGE) and if it comes to a stare down for that upgrade, you're hiding behind lenses and they're not. Who do YOU think is gonna win? Linda Farrow Vintage For Charles Anastase Sunglasses ca1-c6, $275, openingceremony.com


Aug 3 2009

French Connection-The Wish List (Art Deco/Boho Edition)

Dear Ether,

French Connection was always THE best place to hit the sales when I was living in London.  They were never ashamed to go to the lowest denominator giving their customer exactly what they wanted from the bi-annual sales: a bloody bargain.  I loved that at the tail-end of the sale they would put up a countdown poster on their shop windows and tell you just how long you had  to save.  The pressure was on to grab a deal and I LOVED it!  And man, were there deals.  The place was madhouse of spectacular items I’d only a few months before DREAMED of owning marked down a whopping 75%.  And nope, French Connection didn’t just have a size 0 or a 22 left.  They kept their stock with generous sizes and the store was amazingly well kept and the goods intact.  I would always hit the French Connection on Argyll Street–a tiny but very sufficient little shop that was tucked away between Regent Street and Oxford Circus.  It didn’t have the largest selection, but it always had (I felt) the best handpicked stock and always carried my size.  It was never too nutty in there because it wasn’t a major store, so even during the sales there was breathing room. Sadly, since I wasn’t in London for the July sales, I didn’t get to go to Frenchie’s for their clearance.  But, I discovered their US website and was pleasantly surprised by their wide selection of goodies.  To be honest, the markdowns were not as good on some things (I mean, in Blighty I got a stunning chartreuse wool jacket with an oversize bow that was originally 150+ quid for 40 pounds) but I did notice that they did have jackets (though kinda–ermm—ugly) that were originally $228 bucks for $60.  

My inspiration for my Art/Deco Boho Edition for this entry was fully inspired by the dress I chose–all other items were chosen after the fact.  I just loved the color, the pattern, how I’d know how the fabric would feel in the hot sun or on a sexy evening out.  How you could rock it with black tights or show off those lovely gams sans any covering.  I felt it was a bit flapper, but also a sort of Boho.  Now, as you know, my rule with the “Wish List” is that I must never deviate from the site.  Therefore every item chosen to go with the outfit must be from the website I feature.  I felt French Connection was really lacking in the shoe department.  Their bags weren’t terribly plentiful either.  I don’t know if this was just online or if they had more stock in-store.  But, if I had my choice, I would have gone for different shoes.  I also would have loved some other types of jewelery, though I think what I chose works.  I gave you only one dress, but a day and night alternative with shoes and accessories.  So, for this post, there are more accessories than normal but this was because I felt that the dress had that kind of versatility and I wanted to play with a day and night look.

So…here’s the scenario.  You’re meeting Sienna Miller for lunch at the Chateau.  She’s gonna look amazing no matter what you do so you might as well not try to one up the blonde babe.  If you can’t beat her, join her–right?  So, try to modernize HER Boho with THIS dress and add a bit of glam and sleekness with the Deco aspect of it as well.  As for your drink–order an Appletini–it’ll look adorable with the shift, come in a very Deco glass and it’ll be a lovely taste of summer.  Sienna will probably be watching her calories and will be stuck with a Diet Coke–HAH!  If day turns to night and Ms. Miller asks you to stick around the Chateau a bit longer–throw  on some tights you’ve kept in your little clutch, slide off the sandals, throw on the heels and un-belt the dress.  It’ll go from cute “oh my god, I love that because I’m a girl” to “damn you look hot because I’m a guy” factor.  

Have fun and say hi to Sienna for me–just so you know I have a serious crush on her and will be dedicating, at one point, a whole entry on why she should be made queen (oh don’t roll your eyes at me–I know she’s not that popular at the moment but I’ve loved her–in a totally heterosexual way–for like, 8 years now–and if I wanna dedicate a post to her–that I shall!).

Dedicatedly yours, 

—One of 365

My inspiration for the whole look! A perfect mesh of Boho meets Deco.  Love the old fashioned floral (almost like wildflowers with a hippie feel) printed with the wonderful black arm and neckline detail (really Deco).  The color is fantastic--an unusual emerald.  Day to night this embroidered silk piece is a wardrobe staple.  Wildflower Weave Dress, Originally $218 now $129.99 in Bowling Green, Frenchconnection.com

My inspiration for the whole look! A perfect mesh of Boho meets Deco. Love the old fashioned floral (almost like wildflowers with a hippie feel) printed with the wonderful black arm and neckline detail (really Deco). The color is fantastic--an unusual emerald. Day to night this embroidered silk piece is a wardrobe staple. Wildflower Weave Dress, Originally $218 now $129.99 in Bowling Green, Frenchconnection.com

 

For daytime why not cinch the dress in with this adorable leather belt which ties in the black detail of the dress, gives you a sleeker silhouette and adds a bit of whimsy to the outfit.  It

For daytime why not cinch the dress in with this adorable leather belt which ties in the black detail of the dress, gives you a sleeker silhouette and adds a bit of whimsy to the outfit. It'll also look adorable with the matching sandals coming up! Leather Bow Belt, Originally $68 now $49.00, Frenchconnection.com

 

Slip these cute, light-weight thongs on to show off a great pedicure, tanned gams, and to match tat adorable belt you

Slip these cute, light-weight thongs on to show off a great pedicure, tanned gams, and to match that adorable belt you're working. Perfect for daytime shopping for slipping in and out of shoes you might be trying on, and great for airing out swollen feet! Dessa Sandal, Originally $98 now $49.99, Frenchconnection.com

 

Bangles are all the rage right now and are such easy accessories to play with.  The natural wood of this set plays with the nature vibe of the dress and will go well with the evening accessories you

Bangles are all the rage right now and are such easy accessories to have fun with. The natural wood of this set plays with the nature vibe of the dress and will go well with the evening accessories you'll see in the next few jumps! Mixed Wood Bangle Set, Originally $28 now $19.99, Frenchconnection.com

 

Again, bangle madness! It

Again, bangle madness! It's always fun to mix textures and the trend has been to do this with bangles. Enamels, placed with metals, placed with beads. You name it, you try it! This is gonna dress up the look a bit more for the evening aspect if Ms. Miller asks you to stay out a bit later and party at the Chateau. Also, these shiny squares really elongate the arm and catch the sunlight! Linked Square Bangles, Originally $28 now $19.99, Frenchconnection.com

 

Okay, so Sienna wants you to stay at the Chateau.  She digs your style, had a sip of your Appletini and is hooked and is ready for a fun night.  Thank goodness you brought some heels!  These are retro looking.  A bit more 40

Okay, so Sienna wants you to stay at the Chateau. She digs your style, had a sip of your Appletini and is hooked and is ready for a fun night. Thank goodness you brought some heels! These are retro looking. A bit more 40's than Deco, but they have that vintage vibe and they go beautifully with the natural Boho aspect of the dress. The canvas of the roping, the wood at the heel and platform--and the colors all mesh beautifully (and wait until you see the clutch you'll be carrying--matches these shoes to a "T"). Just bring out some black heavy denier tights (no see shiny see-through stockings--blechh) and believe it or not, even though these are summery and open toed, the tights WILL work. And you're legs will look sky-high. Don't forget to un-belt yourself--the waist-cincher no longer matches (you've flipped off those flops--no cute bows anymore) and your dress is flowing and sexy now. Juliet Shoe, Originally $188, now $99, Frenchconnection.com

 

This clutch is so perfect it hurts! The wood detail, the black oriental Deco-styling.  This matches everything from the dress, to the bangles to the shoes. You are working it NOW!  I hope Sienna isn

This clutch is so perfect it hurts! The wood detail, the black oriental Deco-styling. This matches everything from the dress, to the bangles to the shoes. You are working it NOW! I hope Sienna isn't getting green (as your dress) with envy. Cotton Wood Clutch, Originally $88 now $59.99 Frenchconnection.com

 

And the final addition!  This stunning Deco necklace that will sit pretty like a bib on top of your dress.  It matches the gold bangles, it even goes with the shape of the neckline of the patterning of the dress and it is just dramatic enough that you

And the final addition! This stunning Deco necklace that will sit pretty like a bib on top of your dress. It matches the gold bangles, it even goes with the shape of the neckline of the patterning of the dress and it is just dramatic enough that you'll stand out but only just so slightly so that people will say "hey, who is Sienna's friend?" Enamel and Metal Deco Necklace, $68, Frenchconnection.com.com