Pleats Please…

Posted on January 26, 2012 by Monica

To go shopping in search of the perfect outfit, one can easily return empty handed.  This is typically the case for women, as too much thought is put into it. Instead, as I like to say, let the look come to you.  It can be as easy as waking up and thinking, “I need something bold and bordeaux in my life”! This was such the occasion for me, stumbling upon these super wide-leg, pleated pants. One of my favorite little boutiques, http://shop.norestforbridget.com/, always has such particular finds. This is an outfit that I like to call, a “super score”, as both my top and pants were marked over 50% off.  Mixing high and low is a skill I have perfected, along with finding the best deals out there.  Retail is a world that is always in a state of “sale”.  Unless something is so incredible, (typically shoes or a bag) there is no reason to pay full price.  With new inventory always coming in, your local shops have to clear the way, so be there to help them when they do!  I always look to sale items first.  Often these discounted pieces are more forward, unique, (thus why they did not move as quick), and what I like anyway.  If you have built up your wardrobe with strong accessories, staple shoes and bags, getting creative with clothes is that much simpler. Invest in the foundation, you always build from the ground up!

Pants by “Lush”, Chanel bag, and BCBG knit cardigan.  I loved the long cardi and pleats together, it created the breezy relaxed look I was going for.

The pleated pants are so long, thank goodness these Alaia platforms saved me from them dragging all over the ground.  I truly believe that once you alter the hem of pants or jeans, they never look the same.  Therefore, buying extra high shoes is essential, (wink)! When I found them on www.theoutnet.com, a sensation of true love overcame me. They are one of the most comfortable shoes I own, and I still marvel over the black studs when I wear them!

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New Years Resolutions…

Posted on January 1, 2012 by Monica

A new year means new beginnings, and the will to implement changes in your life, for the better! Looking back, there are so many things I could have done better.  Yet, there is no time like the present to rectify it. My goals for this year are to give back even more, listen intently, react less, and enjoy every day for what it is. The only thing we have control over, is ourselves.  Luckily, this also applies to style, and how we put it together.  Dressing for my mood will always dictate my outfit choices.  As I evolve, I find myself leaning towards looks that are sexy, in a very subtle way.  A sequin and chiffon dress, with cobalt Fendi sandals, was what I needed to ring in the new year. Leave something to the imagination.  Add an element of the unexpected, like a bold colored shoe. These are the details that are memorable, and get people talking. A first impression is the only one that stays! Adding the blue details of my shoes and ring, was a last minute choice that I loved! It broke up the black and white sequins perfectly.  Sometimes monochromatic just does not work, and in that case, always go for color.  Often people don’t think to do this, and your look ends up lost in sea of LBD’s.  My dress is Aubrey 3+1, and was a steal at $60! Wishing everyone a year full of hope, heroism, charity, and fabulous outfits!

 

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All Dressed Up…

Posted on December 26, 2011 by Monica

Throughout my life, people have always asked me, “where are you going all dressed up”?  My reply is simple, “Here, now, exactly where I am”.  I find inspiration in the mundaneness of every day.  Never needing a reason to creatively put together an outfit.  Fashion is a daily evolution, a way to use yourself as a canvas for self expression.  We identify ourselves with other individuals of our same “tribe”.  Beyond the physical elements of the attire and accessories we choose, is the energy and attitude exuded.  The eternal question when we admire someone is, “How did they think to do that, and how can I do it too”!  We take mental photographs of someones style that we admire, or look at real ones through social media.  Every person is completely unique, and trying to replicate something exactly, is nearly impossible.
In a culture where going about your day in pajamas or sweats has become acceptable, one must remain steadfast against it.  The image you project, is what people take away with them.  Would one not rather be known for always presenting the best version of themselves?  I have always said, “I would rather be over-dressed, then under-dressed”.  No one ever got noticed for not taking risks, and people appreciate that.  The holidays are the perfect occasion to go all out, and I did just that! St John makes the most beautiful knit wear, and wearing a couture suit makes one feel regal.  http://www.discoverstjohn.com/The intricacy of the gold threading, beading, and, fit, is simply a work of art.  I typically wear these pieces separately, but together just feels so rich! I tucked my Leifsdottir silk top into my pencil skirt, which is extremely flattering and elongating.  For accessories, I kept it simple, making the focal points the Gucci patent bow belt and clutch.  Patent “Bianca” Louboutin’s always seal the deal, wrapping my outfit up in a classy, and sexy little bow!

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Consistently Colorful…

Posted on December 6, 2011 by Monica

Combining colors of the same hue is a tricky feat.  Yet when accomplished, provides the most stellar results! I have long been a fan of looks based on palettes of color.  It draws in the eye, and creates the illusion of a synchronized, extensively thought out plan. The past few weeks these ideas have inspired me, and several outfits came to fruition. On a day with mild temperatures, I like to wear very light fabrics layered together.  My pièce de résistance, was anchored by Rag and Bone “elephant bell” salmon color jeans. They are dramatically long, and add so much leg length, that pairing them with triple platforms are a must.  I found my jacket at Urban Outfitters for seven dollars, which was less then the lunch I had that day! My vintage necklace brightened up the monochromatic tones, and compliments my rings perfectly.  Green was my next color venture, so I naturally reached for my jewel tone Club Monaco cropped jacket, Zara snake embossed pumps, and GoldenBlue clutch.  In this case, keeping your base super clean is of the essence.  Dark denim and a simple white blouse, allows the pairing of eclectic colors and accessories to be the focal point.  Pink and red always looks so good together, everyone should wear it more! I was amazed by the amount of compliments my blazer received, it seems all women secretly wish for a perfect pink blazer. No matter what your coloring is, hot pink is an extremely feminine, flattering, and pleasing tone to wear.  I grabbed my Fendi tote, added a McQueen silk scarf, and slipped on gold YSL Tributes for the final effect.  Blue and orange has long been a favorite pairing of mine, especially a beautiful cobalt.  This paint splattered silk top, allowed for wide leg trousers and a baby blue blazer to easily come together.  I layered up on House of Harlow accessories, my LV Alma, and Hermes orange cuff to seal the deal.  This is an outfit that I want to wear at least two more times. If you have not tried color blocking yet, you must.  You will light up the room in a flash!

 

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3 days of Style…

Posted on November 24, 2011 by Monica

Last week, I was a guest speaker at a bloggers conference for the OC Fashion Association.  Admittedly, public speaking has never been a fear of mine, so when I took to the platform, the words just flowed.  In preparation for the event, I took great care to execute the perfect outfit.  Since our clothes send a message to the universe, I wanted to convey my personal approach to style.  Edgy, glamorous, and subtly sexy, while staying ahead of trends.  Extra wide, high waisted black silk trousers, paired with cozy knit sweater, were just that. My friend and jewelery designer, Nancy Fusco of http://www.nanfusco.com/, was so kind to loan me her exquisite pieces for the night.  Including the one of a kind Green Garnet necklace, priced at $525. I loved the way the black and gold chain “Hook” necklace, that I tied as a lariat, draped behind the garnet pendant. Her jewelry feels so beautiful against the body, is extremely high quality, and light weight. The perfect combination in my book! The Cuattro necklace wrapped on my left hand is so pretty, and I love the way the fringe hangs delicately around the wrist. See all the ways you can wear it here http://www.nanfusco.com/chain3.01.htmlOn Friday, day 2 of the OC Fashion events continued with a presentation at Toni & Guy. There are moments when I am so close to not going out, when suddenly an inspiration for a fun outfit comes to mind, so I go with it.  Forever 21 is a place where one has to be extremely discerning.  Having longed for red denim skinnies, and stumbling upon a pair whist there, was fate.  My sheer leopard top was also a Forever find.  A nipped waist mini satin blazer, Bianca slingback Louboutin pumps, and my classic Gucci patent clutch, made the look very dressy.  Doing the “anti” cocktail dress just right, is the best way to stand out. My third day came to close celebrating a friends birthday at Katsuya in Laguna Beach.  Getting ready in a rush can prove excellent results for me. When the pressure is on and you don’t have excess time to over think, an outfit can be born from items you never thought to pair before.  On this night I pulled my favorite orange silk blouse from Reiss, navy velvet Madewell shorts, patterned tights, and Lanvin for H&M trench together. Having staple shoes and clutches by YSL, like my Tribute stilettos and Y clutch, rescue you from what could potentially be a stressful accessorizing situation! Invest in key pieces, they always pay you back in the end! Color block for extra pop..Veggies are fabulous! Eat more and live compassionately! Happy Thanksgiving!

 

 

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Celebrating Louboutin!

Posted on November 14, 2011 by Monica

This past week my local Christian Louboutin boutique at South Coast Plaza, celebrated the launch of CL’s new book and collection.  Clearly this was one party I did not want to miss! A beautiful custom made cake greeted everyone upon arrival, the artistry of this creation was spectacular.  What a unique and awe-inspiring design! I have had similar cakes made for my own birthdays over the past three years, but this one is clearly on another level…As the DJ played music, and sharp waiters handed us glasses of Veuve Clicquot, we attempted to contain our excitement.  The bevy of incredible red soled shoes that engulfed us, was almost too much to bear! Each pair was more enticing then the next, so what is a girl to do? Try on as many as she can of course…I was clearly going into meltdown mode when my size was not available in a single pair I wanted.  The hot pink Daffodil pumps, peep-toe gold spikes, and silver spikes, are too hot to process! Thankfully, there are many other styles to console a girl when she is down…My leopard print obsession is getting stronger by the day, and I felt it essential to pair my sweater dress with red tights, in homage to my hero.  Clearly I was channeling leopard, since the Daff peep-toes’ in my hand told me to take them home. No really, they did! Red photo ops galore, I could not resist a flip up of my own “Madame Butterfly” heels I wore to the party.  After several wears, I can finally enjoy them without the pain. The new Louboutin book is a true work of art, and must be on every Stiletto girls Christmas wish list. Sadly, the crystal pumps do not come with the book, what a shame! My girlfriends and I could not leave without our goodie bags, which included red Essie polish, brow gel, makeup remover pads, and discounts at the Kim Vo salon.  At least we go the “illusion” of walking out with a CL bag in our hand! Yet we left with the best gift of all, the bond between great friends, and a of love of shoes! Who could ask for more… Check out the fab oversize blue clutch my girl Rasha is carrying by Emily Cho.  The entire collection is beyond, find it here http://www.emily-cho.com/ and contact her directly for orders at RRyen@emily-cho.com! Fall is here and new accessories are a must!

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Classic, with a Pop of Citrus…

Posted on November 10, 2011 by Monica

Whenever I attend the PROJECT fashion convention in Las Vegas, I more intrigued by what people are wearing then the collections featured.  These two Japanese transplants from Toronto, were the perfect subjects.  While standing in line for a quick espresso, I spotted the acid yellow Balenciaga, and felt a wave of jealousy overcome me.  Both girls had their outfits edited to perfection.  The all black ensemble, complete with opaque tights and Chanel ballerina flats, allowed her Balenciaga bag to truly pop.  Her counterparts bare legs, patent YSL Tributes, and mini Chanel bag, complimented her simple velvet shift and oversize cardigan. Together they represented their individual taste, without clashing. I find that we are drawn to our friends for more then common interests.  Our overall look and sense of style inspires us, and further bonds us.  I kept in simple in black leggings, nude top, Givenchy booties, and Prada ruched cross-body bag.  My “working outfit” as I like to call it. Walking the show all day requires a versatile, and somewhat comfortable look. The windows at Stella McCartney and Prada were so striking, I had to stop to appreciate them!

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Pink and Red

Posted on November 7, 2011 by Monica

Over the rainy weekend I browsed through countless shops, in hopes of taking home a special piece to fawn over later.  Anthropologie is a bohemian dream merchandised to perfection, and there is always a killer sale rack. Here amongst sweaters, coats, and silk tops, was the red maxi skirt I never knew I needed to have…  Until I tried it on!  Marked down to sixty bucks, I visualized countless outfits for my Winter Holiday wardrobe.  When I really love something, I feel the need to wear it immediately, that is how I truly know it’s right! The next day proved to be just the occasion to make its debut.  Driving past the Paul Smith store-front on Melrose, with it’s magnificent pink wall, I had to make a stop! The contrast of pink and red always proves visually stunning results. I paired my skirt with a button down denim shirt from Lucky, a skinny belt to define the waist, black star print scarf by Free People, Banana Republic felt hat, Kooba “Sienna” bag, MIA hiker booties, and DITA “Century”shades.  This is a great look for days when you want to stay warm, but aren’t in the mood for jeans or leggings.  Adding hats and scarves is the best part of the weather finally cooling down. It adds so much dimension and texture, allowing basics to come alive by breathing new life into them. We love red and pink!

 

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Mmmmm is for Mercato di Vetro!

Posted on October 20, 2011 by Monica

My experience at Mercato di Vetro, the latest offering from SBE was, simply put, amazing! The Italian eatery, marketplace and bar, has the key ingredients to a successful restaurant. Visually stunning decor, a dedicated and upbeat staff,  and palpable energy. The menu is made up of truly delicious, unpretentious food that everyone can enjoy!  Executive chef Danny Elmaleh heads up the multiple kitchens.  Just by watching the cooks move around in harmonious chaos, it seems to be working very well.  Everyone loves to flock the latest hot spot in town, so choosing Mercato was easy for a girls night out.  Housed in the old MI6 spot on Santa Monica Blvd, the two story venue embraces you right as you walk in.  The faux “red carpet” staircase, mile high floor-to-ceiling glass wine case, and grey marble come together seemlessly creating the “wow” effect.  Right away we were greeted by Tony pictured here with me, who checked us in and showed us around.   A 9pm reservation is a great time to be in the midst of bustling restaurant. Luckily, my friend and manager, Kwesi Dei, was there to treat us to a round of champagne upstairs.  With so much going on, we didn’t realize that thirty minutes had passed, and are table still wasn’t ready. The place is so enjoyable, no one wants to get up and leave! Kwesi explained this to me, offered another round, and promised to make it up to us once we sat down. He certainly made good on his word.  Four women in towering stilettos can make for some pretty sassy customers, and you don’t want to mess with that! Having a really attractive staff makes it hard to complain about the little things! I wore a classic white Herve Leger dress, and subtle lace bra to complete my black and white look. The second we sat down, our server Micheal took over, and the food just starting flowing! Luckily for me it was almost entirely vegetarian, and as savory as it gets.  We were treated to a medley of crostinis, including the asparagus ricotta, with brown butter, ceci giardiniere, olives, za’atar, and kale with ricotta, pine nuts, and currants.I can’t even begin to explain how amazing this bread and mushrooms were, need more!All the veggie side dishes were too good to be true.  Artichokes, tomatoes, and beets with avocado.  I am still dreaming out them…Mussels sofritto, linguica, grilled bread and three types of pasta! From left to right, the Pescatore: shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, the Pomodoro: spaghetti, tomato, basil, and the Raviolo: potato, ricotta, egg. I love the tile floors and the bar counter tops.  The chairs are really comfortable too, maybe that’s why it takes so long for people to get up and leave! Jeremy Gursey prepared us the most fabulous custom coffee creation, I have never seen or tasted anything like it. The doughnut holes for dessert melted in your mouth! The final and ultimate gesture on behalf of Mercato di Vetro, was treating us to the entire meal! Since we waited almost an hour to sit, they really made it up to us.  This is how you treat customers, ensuring their loyalty and recommendations.  Of course this doesn’t happen all the time, but it sure makes you feel good to know that good service still exists. Thank you to everyone that night, especially to Kwesi and Terrence. They know how to take care of the ladies! My girlfriends and I were truly delighted. Can’t wait to go back again, I literally have been dreaming of crostinis since I left.  Make your reservation today! http://www.sbe.com/mercatodivetro

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Rooftop Romance

Posted on October 13, 2011 by Monica

The final look for L.O.V Project shoot were soft cream neutrals, that offset beautifully with the natural light.  Tying a silk scarf into a bow, ups the ante on a classic outfit, and adds a touch of glam. The bow was fitting for this elegant look, and added a touch of romance! My Philip Lim rosette blouse is a piece I scored at sale at Neimas a few seasons back.  Vintage style lace shorts, by Ark & Co.  If it ever gets cold, I can’t wait to pair them with black tights, booties, and a cashmere top. Take your best summer basics, and transition them easily into fall by adding boots and sweaters.  The downtown LA skyline is so gorgeous! Shooting these images from the rooftop made me appreciate so much more, what feels like a mini NYC here at home.  How fab are head scarves? I can’t rave enough about all the styles that L.O.V offers.  I decided adding one to my collection a week isn’t a bad idea.  They literally put the final touch on any outfit, feel amazing on, and give back! What is better then my reigning theme of “fashion with compassion”! Stone cuff from Urban Outfitters, oversize ring from Intermix. My Alaia platforms sing to me each time I put them on, and are easy to walk in! Making a shoe investment is much like dating a man.  Is he worth the investment and ultimately, pain of potential heartbreak? Choose wisely and avoid regrets later! Find all your show stopping scarves here: http://www.liveonevisionproject.com/

 

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