Ked's for Opening Ceremony

Remember Keds?  They were THE shoe that my junior high school heart were after.  Their simplicity and clean lines were the epitome of preppy pre-teen chic.

Now, uber-hipster retailer Opening Ceremony is bringing them back to us in their collaboration online and in stores.  I loved the big intarsia dogs on sweaters and cute ditsy print dresses.  Ladylike and still a bit preppy, with just a bit of irony.  The pieces run anywhere from $45 to $400, making them accessible for those on an allowance or earning their own.

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Boxing Day Sales! Rebecca Minkoff, Armani, DVF, Burberry Brit, Jimmy Choo and Many More

I already bought a few bags at Rebecca Minkoff's end of year sale this morning...I couldn't wait.  Growing up in Canada, Black Friday was never a shopping day, but Boxing Day, stemming from a British tradition, was the shopping day for us folks up North.

As I am doing my online shopping today, I see that many retailers are getting in on this tradition too.  Ann Taylor is offering 50% off your ENTIRE purchase today.  Bloomingdale's is giving up to 75% off designers like Burberry Brit, Diane Von Furstenburg, Juicy Couture, BCBG.

Designers like Diane Von Furstenburg, Kate Spade, Stella McCartney, Armani Collezioni are up to 82% off at the big Neiman Marcus sale...Get there fast!

Cashmere retailer Inhabit is doing 50% off of all their current Fall 2011 collection.

Revolve Clothing is up to 92% off for their post-holiday sale.

Jimmy Choo is up to 40% off.

I'm going to keep adding to this post as the day wears on...

Update:

Coach is up to 70% total discounts for their 48 hour sale: 

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House of Waris Jewelry

Some of the most interesting designers of NY Fashion Week were not on the runway.  Waris Ahluwalia first made waves co-starring in The Darjeeling Limited and other quirky movies like Rosencrantz and Gildenstern are Undead.  He is consistently spotted by NY media as the ultimate global hipster socializing around town.

As a designer, he has craftsmen in Rome and India make the jewelry for the House of Waris.  His collections have been known to sell out at luxury boutiques like Maxfield's in Los Angeles and Bergdorf Goodman in New York.

The collection he showed in the Lincoln Center tents during Mercedes-Benz Fashion week had an elegant look with European and Eastern influences.  Gold pieces were inlaid with delicate stones, shapes were inspired by forms in nature.  I don't know what I like more, the idea of Waris, an international man of style celebrated for his "exotic" look, or that he has the multi-tasking career that any fashionista would dream of (boutique/jewelry/tea shop entrepreneur with an acting career in artsy films).

If you're shopping for a jetsetter this holiday, this collection is the one to complete your gift list.

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Elene Cassis Spring 2012

Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is a hectic week of running from one show to another, standing in lines and a lot of waiting.  I always love seeing what the big-name established designers will come up with each season and what trends will be important.  However, what I really find exciting about the week is the discovery of young fresh talent.

One of those discoveries last season was Elene Cassis.  Having only graduated from Parsons School of Design in 2009, Elene Cassis has already developed a name for herself and piqued my interest.  Her Fall 2011 Collection was focused, sophisticated and very chic.  Utilizing European fabrications that had a vintage feel to them, Elene’s collection played with color blocking, texture, and matte mixed with sequins.

On the heels of such a strong collection, I was very interested to see what she would come up with for Spring 2012 and I wasn’t disappointed.  The show opened with violinist Sarah Charness performing Swan Lake, which set the tone for the whole show.  Elene Cassis’ Spring 2012 collection again played with color blocking, sophisticated silhouettes, textures and a refreshing spring color palette.  Inspired by the Swan Lake theme, gorgeous dresses that mixed white and black together were a big highlight of the show.

We went backstage to talk about the beautiful new collection with Elene Cassis and also had the opportunity to speak with Sarah Charness about her involvement in the show and where she is heading with her music!

Reported by Mdivani Monroe from Ladies Who Lunch Travel, filmed by Nicholas Waickman

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Splurge vs Steal: Burberry Toggle Coat or UK French Connection Toggle Coat

It's winter and it's the battle of the toggle coats.  The toggle coat is a classic silhouette year after year that looks good on mostly everyone.  Burberry makes many of my favorite classics, (I'll hold on to my single breasted trench coat forever) and makes this lovely hooded wool coat pictured above on the left for $895.00.  It has the classic nova plaid lining, leather toggles, can stay in your closet for eternity. 

Now, not everyone can afford to shop at Burberry.  If that's your predicament, Sears has come to the rescue with a MUCH more affordable solution.  They challenged me to style a "Steal" of a look. While we know Sears is the place to go for appliances, they are stepping up their fashion game with collaborations with some big brands.  They have an extensive accessories and party dress collection with the Kardashian sisters, and the UK French Connection line as well.  The wool blend toggle coat I am wearing is currently on sale for $64.00, that's right, less than 1/10th of the Burberry coat.  Yes, it doesn't have a hood, and well, it's not Burberry, but it's cute and keeps me warm this morning.  The navy works well with my bold print Diane von Furstenburg dress from this week's sample sale.  The shoes are another super-affordable find from Spring Shoes, and are surprisingly comfortable for heels this high.  The handbag is a silver leather tote from Coach.

Stay warm, whether you're treating yourself or styling on a budget!

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Parke and Ronen Spring 2012

Sweet threads for the boys, eye candy for the girls...Happy holidays to ME!  West Coast editor Mdivani Monroe brings us goodies from Parke & Ronen's Spring fashion show and chats with the designers, all for our shopping and viewing pleasure:

As you know, I LOVE to shop!  I especially like shopping for myself, finding new and interesting things to wear and trying on a slew of garments!  Only problem is that I am extremely picky (no big surprise) and there are very few things that really speak to me.  Even more frustrating can be finally finding something I love and it not being available in my size!

Due to my high standards, there really are only a very few collections that really draw me in.  A recent discovery, Parke & Ronen is one of those lines.  As I have stated previously, I am not a super relaxed casual guy and when I am dressed casual, I still like to be stylish and put together.  Parke & Ronen fits my casual style aesthetic perfectly.

With chic swimsuits, workout gear, casual shirts, casual shorts and pants and nicely cut jackets, Parke & Ronen offers me the look I want for the gym, the beach, vacation or just a casual weekend in town!  The Spring 2012 collection offers all of that and in great colors to boot!  As I watched the runway show, I was already making a shopping list in my head!

We went backstage before the show to meet the Parke & Ronen designers, Parke Lutter and Ronen Jehezkel, to find out more about them, where their inspiration comes from and what we will be lusting after for the Spring 2012 Season!

Reported by Mdivani Monoes of Ladies Who Lunch Travel, video by Nicholas Waickman

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SAMPLE SALES! DVF, Theyskens Theory, Proenza Schouler, Carlos Falchi & More...

In NYC:
Diane Von Furstenburg 
She's an icon in her own right.  Current fall stock and samples in all the bold prints you love (along with some furry pieces) are up for grabs.  According to Racked.com and Madison Avenue Spy, the selection is big, though you'll be competing with other fashionistas for it.  Prices are $125 for jackets and dresses, $20 for phone cases, samples are $50, in general, up to 75% off retail.

WHEN: Tuesday, December 13 through Saturday, December 16

Tues 9am to 6:30pm, Wed 10am to 8pm, Thurs 10am to 7pm, Fri 9am to 5pm, Sat 10am to 3pm

WHERE: 260 5th Ave. (bet. 28th & 29th St.)

photo via racked.com

Nanette Lepore

A crusader for keeping fashion made in NYC, shopping Nanette Lepore's contemporary sportswear would just be patriotic... Holiday 2011 available just in time for the best parties:

When:Tuesday, December 13 through Wednesday, December 14. Daily 9am—7pm. 

Where: 225 West 35th St between Seventh and Eighth Aves, fourth floor (no phone)

Helmut Lang & Theyskens Theory

Sleek, avant-garde, cosmopolitan.  The uniform of fashion's  uber-cool, Helmut Lang and Olivier Theysken's capsule collection for Theory will be up to 65% off this week.

When:Thursday, December 15 through Sunday, December 18. Thurs noon—8pm, Fri 8am—8pm, Sat—Sun 10am—6pm. 

Where: 139 Fifth Ave between 20th and 21sts Sts, second floor (212-398-2777)

Proenza Schouler
One of the fastest rising designer duos this century, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez were an instant hit with models and hipsters everywhere.  Look for goodies up to 75% off:
When: Saturday, December 17, 9am—9pm. 
Where: 495 Broadway between Spring and Broome Sts, 3rd Floor


Carlos Falchi
Covetable handbags in exotic skins and leathers.  They're usually too prohibitive for me, but now that there is a sample sale of 40% - 70% off, watch out... Bring this flyer for entry.
When: Thursday, December 15 through Friday, December 16. Daily 9am—4pm. 
Where: 1450 Broadway between 40th and 41st Sts, suite 802


Zang Toi:
Have a truly glam soiree to attend this season?  You can't get more elegant than Zang Toi.  Ballgowns, the richest fabrics, these are the pieces you dream of...
When: December 13th - December 14th
Where: 30 West 57th Street, 7th Floor


 

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Calypso Accessories Boutique Launch

 Finished all of your holiday shopping yet?  What about your own wish list?  Calypso St Barth opened its accessories-focused boutique on Manhattan's Lower East Side Recently.  The creative director designed it to be like a fantasy closet filled with all of your favorite baubles.

The store has an international mix of scarves, candles, handbags, jewelry, wraps, a few furry jackets too. I have to admit, the boutique is exactly what I would personally want as my closet.  It's cozy, and you can sit in the center of the quilted pouf surrounded by your glam goodies.
Calypso Accessories, 280 Mott Street, New York NY 10012, 212-965-0990

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Donna Karan & Urban Zen

Since launching her company in 1985, Donna Karan has become a household name and her collections continue to meet the needs of the modern woman season after season.  Famous for her “Essentials” line that initially consisted of “seven easy pieces” that could be mixed and matched and take a woman from the office to dinner, Donna Karan built her design house on the principle that she would only design clothes that she would wear herself.

 

Donna Karan could easily rest on her hard earned success. But instead, she has chosen to reach out to people across the globe and aid those less fortunate than herself.  In 2007, Karan launched the Urban Zen Foundation, an organization with a mission to preserve world cultures, empower children and reshape healthcare.  Taking that mission to countries around the world, Donna Karan has brought the Urban Zen Foundation to Haiti.  Aiding in the rebuilding of the earthquake ravaged country, the Urban Zen Foundation is employing all of the tenets of the organization to do so.


With stores already in New York and Sag Harbor, Urban Zen has now opened a store on the West Coast!  Originally opened as a temporary “pop-up” store in West Hollywood in March of 2011, the success of Urban Zen on the West Coast has led to its opening as a permanent store there.  The store is a perfect match for the L.A. lifestyle, carrying everything form yoga inspired clothing, jewelry, essential oils, body care products and home furnishing.


We visited the West Hollywood store and spoke with John Omlor, Director of Stores, about the store, the foundation and what Urban Zen is all about.  We also got to speak to Donna Karan about the foundation and what it is currently working on!


Reported by Mdivani Monroe of Ladies Who Lunch Travel, Photography by Omri Escalante

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Irish Fashion Night and Artist of the Light - THEIA & Roisin Fitzpatrick

The next capital of style?  The Consulate General of Ireland hosted an evening to highlight the creative accomplishments of their own.  Don O'Neill's collection THEIA was highlighted.  He has often drawn from stories of his native Ireland in his work. The fushia gown at the top was embroidered with intricate Celtic patterns inspired by the Book of Kells.  THEIA, the collection's namesake was the Goddess of Light.  Fans now include the First Lady of Ireland, Sabina Higgins. 

To complement the stellar gowns of the night, the work of Roisin Fitzpatrick was featured.  Ms. Fitzpatrick is known as the "Artist of the Light" after surviving a near-death experience.  Her canvases consist of natural silk embroidered with Swarovski crystals with vortex and celestial patterns.  

Guests of the event enjoyed Irish treats, with Lily O'Brien's chocolates a particular favorite.  Celebs like Angela Bassett and Melyssa Ford looked terrific in Theia dresses and admired the show.

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Sample Sales! Temperley, Rebecca Minkoff, Theory

In Los Angeles:
Rebecca Minkoff  has the bright colors, edgy details and pockets for everything you need during the day (and the morning after).  A favorite of many celebs like the Gossip Girl cast, Jenna Elfman and most of Hollywood...

When: Friday, December 2 - Sunday, December 4, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Where: 4661 Hollywood Boulevard

In New York:

Theory's sleek sportswear got a boost of luxe designer input with Nina Ricci's Olivier Theyskens this year.  Grab current season clothing for women at this well stocked sale.

When: Now through (updated!) Monday, December 5, 10 AM to 8 PM, now extra 25% off

Where: 261 West 36th street (between 7th and 8th ave)

In London:

I love Alice Temperley's feminine, luxurious, edgy frocks.  So does Jennifer Hudson, Kerry Washington, The British Fashion Awards...the list goes on...

When: Monday, December 5, 11 AM - 7 PM, Tuesday, December 6, 9 AM - 7 PM.

Where: 20th Century Theatre

291 Westbourne Grove, W11 2QA London, United Kingdom

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Nautica Spring 2012

At a recent trip to a museum exhibit, I met up with friends wearing a polo shirt and jeans.  My friends ribbed me, saying that it was the most casual they had ever seen me dressed!  Admittedly, my “casual” would oftentimes be what others would call business casual, but I’m just not that laid back of a dresser.  I’m kind of a preppy guy at heart and wearing flip-flops and grunge clothing is really not my thing.

Which brings me to the Nautica Spring 2012 Collection.  The presentation was held on the rooftop deck of the Empire Hotel (you’ll recognize it as Chuck Bass’ hotel on Gossip Girl) and I attended with my dear friend and partner Mariana Leung of MsFABulous.com.  We were able to snag an interview with Creative Director Chris Cox to find out more about the line.  We also spoke with up-and-coming hip hip star fame and got his views on the collection.

I personally own several pieces of Nautica clothing from board shorts and windbreakers to hoodies.  I love the semi-preppy style of Nautica and this season gave me more of what I want.  Great polos, board shorts, hoodies, pants and a few great jackets!  I loved the color range this season, from nautical blues, yellows and whites to bold reds, oranges and yellows.  I have been craving more color in my wardrobe and this line delivers!

As a lifestyle brand, Nautica is a great fit for me and I know that it will answer the needs of a very wide audience.  I can’t wait for the line to hit the stores and go shopping!

-Reported by Mdivani Monroe of LadiesWhoLunchTravel.com

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