The Reinvention of Me: What Comes Next

UGGS.  Yes, I’m starting out my weekly fashion post with that one word.  Why?  They made a bridal line.  Even if I married in the North Pole, I would search high and low for a Northface Bridal line before wearing these.  Since UGGS mostly now appeal to a much, MUCH younger generation, are they saying they support underage marriages?  I wonder what they are going to do develop for prom season…

Courtesy of UGG

What you should splurge on for your wedding?  Reed Krakoff‘s limited edition perfume.  Not only are there only 100 bottles of each for sale, you also own a beautiful piece of art.

Something not suggested on your wedding day but perhaps any other day?  A sock bun. 

… and while we’re on the subject of nuptuals, we all know Mark Zuckerberg is a married man.  We all have seen Priscilla Chan‘s wedding dress.  Apparently, it was purchased off the rack and the designer had no idea!

Missed Cannes?  So did Jean Paul Gaultier – not once,  but twice!  See why and see who made his “third time’s the charm”.  See all the looks from Cannes 2012 here.

… and it wasn’t just people, walking the red carpet.  This little guy also made an appearance:

If there is one lady who knows something about makeup, it’s Aerin Lauder.  Recently, she announced she will be starting her own lifestyle brand, which will hit stores this summer.

… and speaking of makeup brands, MAC just launched their “Hey Sailor” line and it comes in way cute packaging with nautical hues – including blue eyeshadow.  Never had an easy time applying it?  Watch the how-to video!

In a recent interview with OPI, they let the public in on a little secret about what it takes to name their shades.  A session I would LOVE to sit in on.

… and while picking out your favorite shade with that cute little name, make sure that if it’s going on your toes, it isn’t accompanied with a fish pedicure.  The CDC has finally issued strong warnings, which led to 14 states banning the practice.  For a list of which types of bacteria these fish carry, click here.  If you’re squeamish, just know it isn’t good.

Despite your own opinions on where fashion goods should be made, which countries should create new jobs and provide funding, and the like, a discussion is being had somewhere in the world on these topics (with some very important people), who will help shape the fashion manufacturing industry in countries, such as Africa.  Boy, would I have loved to be a fly on that wall!

When you think the Grimaldis or the Casiraghis, you think royalty, wealth and a fabulous wardrobe.  After all, they rule one of the richest countries in the world – Monaco.  Generations of these families have never worried about money – except for one lady – Charlotte Casiraghi.  See what famous luxury brand she models for, in order to pay for her REAL hobby – horse competitions.

Who isn’t afraid to flaunt their money?  The very gay sons of Stephanie Seymour and Peter Brant.  In an interview with Fashionista.com, see who just learned how to study, despite his continuous partying and who paid $1000 for a gondola ride, during a race.

Also creating a buzz – France’s new First Lady Ms. Trierweiler.  See what outrageously high heels she wore to the G8 summit.  I say “You go girl!”

But if you are the Queen of England, shoes will never be considered uncomfortable.  According to her stylist, someone breaks in the shoes for her.  You know the saying “Walk a mile in her shoes…” or “Try being in her shoes for  a day…”  I say, “Don’t mind if I do!”

The challenge with posting once a week, means that little tid bits of items up for sale, that might be great finds, have expired.  In this case, it was Carey Mulligan‘s Met Gala dress.  See how much it made on eBay and what the money went towards.

With summer almost officially in full-swing, I can’t help but be excited about Resort wear… for NEXT year.  See what Oscar de la Renta has created – hint: it involves neon, gardenias and gingham.  To go with this, they have also created a line of sunscreen, available for purchase now.

What will be an interesting line to watch for: Louis Vuitton‘s latest collaboration with another famous Japanese artist.  The line will be unveiled July 10th.

Almost as fascinating as Karl Lagerfeld is Iris Apfel.  She will be interviewed by Viranda at Sotheby’s.  If you are in the area, you can buy tickets to see her live.

Rather shop? Christian Lacroix announced they are opening a store in Paris!

72 year-old Elsa Peretti is retiring and Tiffany & Co. is trying to buy the rights to her designs (which equate to 10% of all sales). I say she should say no, so that I can selfishly hold onto her collection for 30 years, saying that these were ” retired investment pieces”.

Finally, my new “It” girl of the moment: Lea Michele.

I recently acquired some new summer dresses in some great, vibrant colors.  And although pairing them with heels are perfect for evenings out or quick trips during the day, I prefer to wear wedges if I am going to be out and about all day.

I bought some fabulous Burberry wedges a few months ago but they just don’t go with everything.  Thus, my search continued… and continued… and continued some more.  The challenge?  I hate stacked wedges.  To me, they look trampy (doesn’t mean they are).  For someone who loves high heels, it’s funny that I prefer short over tall.  And wouldn’t you know it, it’s hard to find short wedges that are cute.

So late one night, I’m on the Saks Fifth Avenue website, desperate for something in gold and at the right height.  After  flipping through three pages, there they were.

By Prada

I assumed they would be slightly uncomfortable but no.  It’s so cliche but you feel like you’re wearing sneakers.  I’m so thrilled with these that I may just get them in black too!

Happy summer to my feet!

Last week, I announced that Marc Jacobs’ store in Soho was tagged by none other than graffiti artist Kidult.  To fight back, this week, Marc Jacobs has created a t-shirt, with the image of the tagged store, printed on the front.  See how much these t-shirts cost.  They are in-stock but you have to have some serious cash to want to throw away – or you are a lover of petty fights.

… and another designer is set to create a beauty line.  This time, it raises a well-shaped eyebrow.  Christian Louboutin announced he has partnered with a cosmetics company to create his own line of unspecified beauty products.  Now, I could see his own brand of red lipstick but anything else in red would just look vampy.

What will be a downright weird partnership: Isabeli Fontana and Rohan Marley – the Marley famous for having five kids with Lauren Hill.  According to Fontana’s mother this will be the 28 year-old’s THIRD marriage.

Also in the weird category: men getting pejazzled.  One of Buzzfeed’s male employees documented his process.  I can honestly say… I’d run.  Not enough dazzle?  Check out Alber Elbaz‘s jeweled crown design for the Queen’s Jubilee.  All I can say is, “Yikes!”

Alexander McQueen has officially become my new favorite label – not just because of the beautiful clothing that seems to tell a story, but also their continual success in their ad campaigns. This time, they managed to marry their latest collection with the Olympics.  Sound crazy?  Check out the pics.

… and just a Eurostar ride away, Chanel held their 2013 Cruisewear show at Versailles a few days ago.  Take a look at the highlights.

But… according to Karl Lagerfeld – this show is NOTHING, compared to next year’s.

Also completed?  Day One of Cannes.  See the fashions here.

Didn’t make it over to France for either?  Here’s a new excuse: stationery.  Louis Vuitton has announced they are getting into the stationery business, inspired by the expansion of their Saint-Germain-des-Prés store.  What’s the connection?  This store is located in a neighborhood where many authors go to write.

Bright colors are in for the season and it’s not exclusive to just clothes.  Check out the 35 must-have cross-body bags for summer!

What is also hot right now – fajas – a type of girdle, popular in Columbia… and now in Latino communities in Queens.  They are uncomfortable, tighter and harder to want to keep on – this means they must work wonders.  Or… eating and exercising might also be an option.

… and for the cuteness of the day – Choupette – Karl Lagerfeld‘s kitty, playing with his iPad.  The good news: You don’t need thumbs to play Angry Birds.

Anyone that followed my posts on Washington Life, knows that each week, I ended with S**t Karl Says.  May I now present to you a whole new slew of commentary from the man himself.

Believe it or not, I have unruly hair.  When humidity sets in, I start wearing a lot of ponytails and using a lot of hair spray.  Otherwise, I’d fit right in with the people of Texas.  Sure, I could get the straightening treatment done to my hair or more cost effectively, I could find the right straightening iron for me.

After years of using ceramic and titanium irons that were cheap (some of which worked well but broke my hair), I finally decided to invest in a good one.  And, from everything I’ve experienced so far, it was a smart move.

GHD is one of the best hair product companies out there today – it’s what salons trust for both hair dryers and straightening irons.  They heat up quick and don’t break or pull hair.  I’ve used it once and I’m already in love!

Even comes with a stylish heat-resistant case!

Me as a baby with my mom

My mom is a saint – seriously.  She had four girls and somehow, managed to live through hair pulling, temper tantrums, clothes-stealing and other seemingly diva behavior.  All she wanted was for us to get along.

Us in 1989

She was a Girl Scout leader, an avid supporter of our dancing and cheerleading activities, and while on vacation, loved to take us on what we affectionately described as “death marches” or long hikes/walks.  During the summers, she wanted us to be well-rounded.  We spent many a day outside but also spent many a day at summer camps, day programs at the library and of course, workbooks – doing school work on non-school time (we dreaded the days it was raining).

Still, through all of that, she managed to always make sure we were taken care of – taking us in when we needed support, providing us tough love when we needed a “kick in the pants” and giving us  encouragement to be whomever we wanted to be.

SURPRISE!

So this year, we decided to surprise her, more so than any other year in my 34 years of existence.

Surprise #1: My step dad flew two of my sisters in from California, so that they could surprise her Friday evening.  By Saturday night, she was still in the dark about the activities we had planned (kudos to my sisters for being able to hold a secret, as I vaguely remember them not being able to keep other secrets ).

Surprise #1.5: On Sunday morning, all dressed up, we accompanied my mom to church – something she hasn’t seen in years – all four of us, all dressed up and actually going – to church.  When we do go to church together, we always joke that she’s going to threaten to separate us if we talk too much. Good thing we had to take up two separate rows because true to form, Ashley and I don’t know how NOT to talk.

Surprise #2: When we returned, our limo awaited us.  Mom’s grin widens, followed by, “Nichole!  Can you afford this?”  (I patiently remind her how old I am and that yes, I can afford this.)

(Special plug: Chariots for Hire is a GREAT limo company!)

Onto surprise #3: We were heading to Bourbon Steak for lunch.  On our ride down to Georgetown, we sipped sparkling cider and told childhood stories that once infuriated my mom (although payback was in the form of telling our friends’ moms, which in turn told my friends and somehow, it was playground gossip) but now, she found funny (go figure).  I’d like to share some of said tales now:

Tale #1: The time my sister Ashley and I called 911 and hung up.  Yep – the whole fleet showed up and surprised my mom in her long t-shirt and underwear.  Law enforcement:1 Kids: 0 Mom: 12

Tale #2: Using our sister Cassie as bait on road trips to get mom and dad to stop so Ashley and I could use the restroom for the 30th time.

Tale #3: Using our baby sister as bait so Ashley and I could acquire additional snacks when we were home for the summer.

Tale #4: Cassie pulling every available toy (within toddler reach) off the shelf, knowing mom was going to yell at Ashley and I for making a mess.

Tale #5: Making Cassie cry for no other reason than she drove us crazy.

Cassie, Alex, Ashley and mom

When we arrived at Bourbon Steak, we sat down to a lovely three-course brunch, regaling more tales of our youth, conversed about plastic surgery (we’re old enough now), our friends that are married with kids (still don’t feel old enough for that) and somehow, got on the discussion of Lady Gaga and Madonna (yes, most conversations end up being random with no natural progression from topic to topic).  By the time lunch was over, we were full and ready for our next destination – the movie theater.

Surprise #4: My mom grew up watching Dark Shadows – she said everyday after school she raced home to see the show and that it was so exciting that not only did they make a movie, but that Johnny Depp was playing the lead.  So, off we went to see the movie. To make it more fun I (yes, I know it’s illegal) bought enough boxed candy at the store for everyone to have their favorite.  It was a wonderful movie and a great time!

Shortly after, the limo picked us up to take us home, with mom still all smiles from what she calls “the Mother’s Day I’m going to brag about all day tomorrow”.

Happy Mother’s Day to the best mom in the world!  Next year, I guess I’m gonna have to “one up” it with a trip.

In news last week, Alaskan Airlines‘ flight attendants claim their new uniforms make them ill. Hmmm… I wish I had thought of that excuse in my 12 years of Catholic school.

What could one day become an intriguing uniform for mankind?  Solar-powered clothing.  Imagine putting your cell in your pocket and it charging.  These are the types of designs Nicola Formichetti wants to include in his new collection.

Just because someone is named “World’s Most Beautiful Person”, doesn’t mean that everything they wear is right.  See which newly-crowned “World’s Most Beautiful Woman” had (in my opinion) a major fashion “no” at the Met Gala.  She wasn’t the only one – flip through the slideshow and see others that missed the mark.  Hint: GALA = GOWN, not a short dress, meant for a cocktail hour.  Oh, and Tom Brady, just because your wife is a supermodel, doesn’t mean she’s right on everything fashion – including your hair styles.

Still, the man that stole the red carpet that night was none other than Marc Jacobs.  His pilgrim-Daphne Guiness-undwear ad-esque outfit was talked about by many.  Marc, may I suggest a new type of underwear to go with that dress? But seriously, am I the only one who thinks he should have just gone in his underwear?

And while some outfits are “out there”, there are others that are “out of this world”.  See who Jennifer Lopez tapped to design her tour wardrobe.  If you have been watching American Idol lately, that spacey-glittery look she’s been wearing isn’t going away any time soon.

… and to add to the sparkle, maybe Miss Lopez should pick up one of Kanye West‘s Jacob & Co. name necklaces that spell out “Yeezy”.

… or why not try Katy Perry‘s 3-D manicure.

When one thinks of museum gift shops, one thinks of tacky souvenirs – but not the Met.  See what souvenirs they’re currently selling.  Trust me, you will want to get your hands on some of it while you can.

Not exactly what you’re looking for?  Maybe this will grab your attention: Prada is re-creating limited editions of their most popular bags from 1991-2005 (click the link to view the entire collection).  The challenge: They will only be sold at their three boutiques in New York.  Road trip!

Once you’re done shopping, head over to Château de Versailles for the Chanel Cruise wear show.

… and speaking of Chanel, check out who their new Chanel No. 5 spokesperson is.

A little known fact: Movies and TV shows are two of the biggest ways for designers to make some bucks, while marketing their  collection.  As of late, it’s been slim pickings, due to specific periodic costume needs.  SO, I propose we bring back the 1800′s, the 60′s and 70′s – all at the same time.  That should about cover it… and make for interesting themed parties (can you imagine a Mad Men theme, 1800′s style?).

One new collection I’m thrilled about: Marchesa‘s contemporary line.  They will bring many of their embroidery designs and prints to the newer line – at an affordable price.

What I’m not excited about: Piperlime opening a brick-and-mortar store.  We already have the Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic.  The last thing I want to do is walk in one more mass-produced store, only to be overwhelmed by messy piles of clothes, in which none of it is in my size.

In odd news, Panasonic has come out with a robot that washes your hair.  I think I hear George Jetson, saying “that was so 20 years ago.”  Still, if this robot can just give a good scalp massage, I’ll take four.

On a sad note, Vidal Sassoon – the orphan-turned-salon mogul – died at 84.  See a history of his haircuts, through the years.

… and to leave you on a happy note: See Tom Ford‘s latest interview.

On June 6, 2012, I will be participating in the Summer Hope, benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, fashion show.  It’s a great cause that will showcase some spectacular fashions from Saks Fifth Avenue at Tysons Galleria!  The full information is below.

I hope you can make it!

Who says a gown has to cost thousands of dollars?  Ginnifer Goodwin proved otherwise in her $299 H&M gown for the WHCD.

Courtesy of People.com

But while Ginnifer might have been frugal and chose a dress that looked a little like a fancy use for old sweatpants, other celebs just missed the mark entirely on appropriate WHCD-wear.  Honestly, just because you hear “DC is the Hollywood for ugly people” doesn’t mean you should strive for that – someone needs to get this memo to some of these celebs’ stylists.

For all of those sporting the “rocker” look and wishing your four-legged companion could match, it looks like this will be a reality .  See which famous rock star is now designing for dogs.  Long-live the ‘do rag.

Each week, there seems to be a stellar property going on the market, owned by someone stylish.  This week,  Robert Duffy‘s Savannah mansion is on the market because get this… he needs more room for entertaining.  So… if you want small, 400-person-ish parties, this might be the mansion for you.

But while some are selling for bigger spaces, others are consolidating.  Sadly, this past week, Bestsey Johnson has announced that the company has filed for Chapter 11.  Although Steve Madden bought into the brand last year, the two have not agreed on a vision and thus, stores will be closing all over the world.  In true Betsey fashion, those laid off were thrown a goodbye party.

On the other side of the world, Shanghai is booming and to prove it, Harry Winston has opened up its only free-standing pavilion in the world.  See the slideshow here.  What’s more impressive, all the men in suits, on bikes.

… and while on the way to Shanghai, make sure to get to New York’s Kennedy airport early, as you don’t want to miss Virgin Airline‘s new Upper Class lounge Spa that has just opened.

While you’re jet-setting, head over to London to visit Christian Louboutin‘s Retrospective at the London Design Museum.

In the last year, children’s designer dud sales have skyrocketed and the New York Times has responded to this, saying it’s a waste of money.  I say why not?  I mean aren’t designer heels and purses appropriate for 3 year-olds?

Still, it seems there could be good reason for kids to hop on the fashion train early.  A new UK study has confirmed that women do not hit their fashion stride until they are 35.  Maybe Katie Holmes is onto something.  I mean, maybe next year I’ll learn to ditch my sweats for a pencil skirt (insert sarcasm).

But while some drop a ton of money on fashionable ensembles for their little one, there are people out there that drop $75,000 on a kimono that belonged to a passenger on the Titanic.  Honestly, the more I think about wearable items that are recovered from devastating events, the less appealing they are – it just seems like bad luck.

From dancing to a Cat Daddy song in a bikini, to throwing a football in Louboutins, Kate Upton seems to keep gaining attention.

… and speaking of not paying attention to what is actually going on, Tom Ford‘s new menswear catalog is out.  I bet dollars to donuts that some of his more heterosexual clientele won’t remember a single article of clothing in them.  Although, he might gain more clientele because of it.

Bored with your skin care products?  Korean skin care product companies are touting that snail slime is the new beauty treatment.  So if mud, 14K gold, diamonds and sea salts aren’t glamorous enough, go out to your garden (in your finest Pradas) and catch yourself a snail.

Who needs more than a beauty treatment?  The woman who “put her daughter in a tanning bed”.  I’ve been zooming in and out of this picture and the lady also needs to lay off the bronzer.

To end this week’s post, it should be known that Isaac Mizrahi likes granny panties.