I love Monday’s because they mean I can go virtual shopping on some amazing websites and style dream outfits that I would love to wear had I had the bank account of a movie-star. BUT, maybe 1 of you Ethers DO have an enviable credit card limit and can splurge, or might be inspired by the choices from the “The Wish List” and look to your favorite shops for inspiration. What matters most is that I LOVE doing it and I think you guys LOVE seeing it so it shall continue being a weekly staple to help get the dreaded 5-day toil over and done with. It’s a dream that as a magazine writer I wish I could have the liberty to do, but never would be given the space or creativity to do it.
And speaking of work, it’s the recession so many of us are looking for new jobs. This means interviews! I think what separates the men from the boys is often the little details. The cuff-link or the finely-cut suit. But we’re talking womenswear right now, so I’m focusing on being fashion forward but classic. Beautifully made clothes that are cut to perfection, but are simple in design with a pop of personality. I think these days you need to stand out slightly by wearing something a little different than a boring black suit and white button down shirt with black heels. Truthfully, I’ve never gone for a job on Wall Street or to work for a top law firm. So, the choices that I’ve made today might be totally inappropriate (though I don’t know if nowadays places are hipper and want a chicer looking employee).
I went with fashion label Marni, a favorite of mine for years (even though all I’ve been able to do is stand awe-struck through their windows and look at their amazing stores with their minimalist curved hangers and beautifully patterned clothing). I think they embody European, and especially Italian fashion design. With their architectural cuts, Impressionist colors, Marni provides must-have wardrobe staples but gives you the extra edge so you’re always tweaked, looking slightly ahead of the game and never fully part of the crowd. In a nutshell I would call them avant-garde in a way that is very wearable so you’ll always look interesting and different without looking too risky.
Marni began in 1994 as a family business (the Castiglioni’s) who were fur producers to the best fashion houses, but they also wanted to have their own stake in the fashion game. It all began with a women’s collection designed by Consuelo that was eclectic, tailored, researched and unique. A huge success, Marni continues to create “holistic collections for markets that have become more receptive to innovative Italian design.” (Marni.com) Marni also decided not to have a strict advertising campaign which has allowed editor’s to create amazing creations with their clothing each season which has actually given them a lot more coverage had they had stricter look-book structures.
So with your history lesson, a bit of love for the brand from me, and keeping in mind what this outfit is going to be worn for here goes:
It all begins with the wrapping paper when you open the gift, right? Well, this is quite some paper! This coat will set the standard for the rest of the outfit. It looks hand dyed, the colors are that of Italy with its sepia tones and the material is perfect for summer and fall. Made of silk and linen organza, this is a mix n' match version of the trench but with asymmetrical lines, cuffs that are like a dress shirt and a unique belted trapeze shaping. Sun and Violet Runway Duster, Originally $2, 250 now $1,125 Marni.com
Bringing out the ruddy reddish brown in the duster and complimenting the asymmetrical lines as well, this top is ideal. Though it is a plain color, its architectural design is unique so even when you remove your striking outer layer, you still are wearing an interesting piece. You also don't want to compete with too many different patterns so the plain color with the extraordinary detail is the perfect combination (though Marni is famous for making patterns come together that blow your mind!). Cotton and Silk Top w/ Pocket Detail. Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
Sleek, slick and a perfect cut are always what you want to look for in a trouser. Italy is famous for its tailoring and Marni prides itself on this tradition. The color, once again, compliments the duster, but also will work with the rest of your ensemble once it is removed. Great for any occasion, these are just a wonderful wardrobe staple. Cotton Cady Trousers Originally $630 now $315 Marni.com
I have to say, when the shoe selection came up on the screen, I almost fainted and had to be resuscitated. They have a massive selection and it was tough to choose, but I went with this killer heel. I really liked that it tied all the colors together, I thought the leather cutting detail was extraordinary, the heel looked thick enough to walk in and the platform looked hefty enough so you wouldn't die from ball-of-foot pain. I also think these would make your legs look authoratative in those trousers (hey, the less you have to shorten, the taller you are, right?) and if you wore them for going out they'd make your legs look seriously sexy. Hematite Leather Sandals Originally $850 now $425 Marni.com
Okay, I thought, how could I scrape together the cash for this bag? I could sell my computer, but then how would I write? Or, sell English gent for escorting, but he regretfully declined (damn those English manners!). If anyone from Marni is out there, here is my pathetic plea--if you have a bag that you don't want and were gonna toss in the bin because maybe a stitch was off, e-mail me. I will be your indentured servant for all time. Okay. Pathetic begging over. I LOVE THIS BAG. It is big, beautiful and brings out the color of the duster and the top--it just defines everything in this outfit. The tiers in the leather are once again playing on the architectural thought process of the Marni brain. The bag is functional and perfect for your interview with its space for paperwork, but it also is the perfect city bag that just will age beautifully. This is an investment piece because it will last you a lifetime. Bella! Bandoliers Tourmaline Leather Bag Originally $1,975 now $988 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Bracelet Embellished With Applique Ruffle Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
Marni had really fun and organic accessories. I went with these bracelet/bangles. They are within the color scheme and when you take of the duster and have the sleeveless top on, they'll look great on your bare arms. Lovely. Horn Wavy Bangle Originally $290 now $145 Marni.com
I couldn't resist! It's so rare that a label has such lovely lingerie too. And why not be decked out from top to bottom. This 90% cotton 10% silk bra is extremely luxurious, cute and is just a wonderful little treat. Green and Pink Bra Originally $325 now $163 Marni.com
You knew these knickers were coming too! Yes they might be slightly large, but I hate those teensy pants that veer a little too close to, well, I don't want to get graphic. I like a roomy pair of trunks. These are just adorable and so European. Can't you just see a cutie in the 50's sitting in her flat in Italy in this bra and underwear smoking a cigarette, sipping an espresso and peeking out her balcony for her beau to arrive? Ahhhh....those were the days. Green and Pink Briefs, originally $235 now $118 Marni.com
Well, I have given you quite the outfit to choose from. I think this is the biggest selection yet, thanks to Marni’s amazing Website. And remember, I have ZERO affiliation with the brands that I pick so I’m not trying to sell you anything. Think of this as an editorial spread. I hope you enjoyed this and good luck on your interview you hot ticket! You deserve the job if you are looking THIS stylish. Since I put a lot of work into putting this fab frock together I expect you to VOTE! No one ever seems to and I really am curious to know what you think. So, take the 10 seconds and click on the button….please…otherwise, you can buy me the above bag! Which is cheaper and easier? Yeah, I thought so………
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
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.
