Wear Now Buy Now

SHOP: Prada Open Toe Suede Wedge, Jill Sander Leather Wedge Ankle Boots, Aliaia Two Toned Ankle Boots, Rick Owens Shearling Ankle Boots  

The definition of the over used saying “casual chic” is this winter’s must have shoe: the wedge bootie. Once the leaves start changing and the air gets crisp I immediately pull out my F/W boot stash. My first go to pair is my Miu Miu chocolate distressed leather riding boots, then my Tory Burch knee high wedges, followed by another black Tory Burch tall stacked, and finally my Prada lace up motorcycle boots. Each pair classic and never go out of style, but this Winter I have found myself in desperate need of a footwear update! Something to fill in the gap between casual riding boots, and thigh high stilettos. Something work appropriate but fashionably edgy. Something that looks dauntingly uncomfortable but can be worn eight hours straight without even a pinch. Here are my picks for my new favorite trend. The Prada Open Toe Suede Wedge definitely being at the top of my list for Santa. 

FOR MORE SHOP NET-A-PORTER

Trend Report: Cut it Out

One of my favorite new updates for S/S12 is the shoulder cutout creations of contemporary designers like Versus, Jen Kao, and Opening Ceremony and spotted on Stockholm Streetstyle . The look mixes a little sexy with a lot of hip attitude. Modifying a L/S sweater or basic blouse with a shoulder cutout is a great way to add a fresh fashion forward twist to any classic silhouette.

OPENING CEREMONY VIDEO

Thankful

Vogue Spain April 2011

Images via Vogue featuring Toni Garrn, Carlos Nunez Photography, Oneill Holiday Lookbook, Beck Rocchi, Trendhunter.com

My Friend Mickey

In life there are those who constantly inspire you. My friend Mickey is undoubtedly one of those people. Amazingly innovative, truly original, mind-blowingly on trend, historically informative, unapologetically pragmatic, with a keep you on your toes energy; her home is no different. Every time I step foot into her meticulously decorated house I am reminded that design at any capacity is truly just being yourself and reaching into your soul to pull out the darkest, brightest, nitty-gritty thing that sets you apart from the mass.

SEE MICKEY AT DUCKYSHINKCRACKERS

Sunday at Home: Los Angeles

The new LA loft was such a blast to decorate. My inspiration came from the surrounding downtown art (especially graffiti), local events, the garment district, and the flower mart. I knew I wanted a color palette just as exciting so "feel the energy" green sounded like the perfect paint color. To check out my initial mood board CLICK HERE

California Rain

Rain. It's just one of those gloomy days downtown.

 I cant think of anything more fulfilling then curling

 up in bed for a movie night with the one you love.

Images via the contributor, photodonuts, guerrillasunshinespreading, trendhunter

Tightly Knit

images via trend hunter, kosiuko, le love

Market Research and Report

WHAT'S HOT WHAT'S NOT? I hit the streets last week to gather inspiration and knowledge of current market trends in silhouettes, colors, fabrics, trims, details and hot sellers. Here is a trend board of what I observed while shopping everywhere from high-end retailers: Nordstrom LA, fast fashion: Forever21, and my very favorite vintage shop: Deja Vu Palm Springs.

TOP TRENDS (HOT): Metallic blends, sequin trim, purple and black, foiled suede, leather appliques, mesh sleeves, sheer sleeves, treated leather, long shirt tails, geometric cut-outs, matte black, nude and gray palettes, mermaid hemlines, microfiber Viscose, matte jersey, sheer burnout maxi skirts, 70's silhouettes, asymmetrical necklines, and an endless supply of GOLD AND SILVER.

ON THE SALE RACK (NOT): Oversized crop shirts, pink and maroon, lace dresses, cashmere, feather vests and details, mustard yellow and turquoise, raglan sleeve knits, A-line skirts.

Runway Hair

Valentino integrates whimsical Norwegian braids into his S/S12 runway show for a touch of romance. This nomadic yet traditional hairstyle compliments Valentino’s equally romantic spring designs. I found a great DIY video on detailing how to create the braid at home. The perfect style for those physical days setting up photo shoots, preparing runway shows, carrying bolts of fabric, processing in the lab, cataloguing apparel or what ever it is that requires your hair up out of your face but still looking fashionable.

DIY VIDEO