The InSatiable Hedonism

Rouge, for the New Year!

2012-01-22T19:48:00.000-05:00

Earlier last year, I mentioned that I had finally found something close to my holy grail of Sprouse leopard scarf, as showcased by my style icon Emmanuelle Alt below...well scratch that, because now I have found "THE" Sprouse leopard scarf for me...rouge! It may not be the red from the first season, but I believe this is as close as it's gonna get. The new rouge is a shade cooler than the original red, which had a warmer tone in comparison. Also, the little squiggly circle is now lined in beige instead of pale grey. But the most noticeable difference is the color change for the LOUIS VUITTON logo print. One thing to point out is that the new scarf feels less "fuzzy" than my marine one, even though the composition is identical. Not sure if it's treated a little differently as this is meant for resort instead of Fall/Winter but I do appreciate the change because this one gets no static while my older marine zaps all over the place in the drier climate...

Rolex Daytona vs Piguet Royal Oak

2011-08-29T21:25:00.000-04:00

I've been plotting my debut in the world of fine watches with the upcoming Rolex everose Daytona with cerachrom bezel...

Ahh...doesn't the view of its chocolate dial, everose case, and black alligator strap make you salivate?

However, lately I'm been distracted by another rose gold watch with black croc strap...the ever-so-classic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak...

I love its slightly more industrial and rugged look, and the substantial rose gold case is a huge plus! Also featured is the transparent sapphire caseback that allows you to view ts superb movement. Even Mary Kate can't resist its charm! If given the chance, which one would you pick?

Easy, Breezy, Céline Cabas

2011-08-04T17:44:00.000-04:00

There's always a need for a casual, throw-around tote and the Céline cabas is perfect for the description. It's super light and comfortable to carry. I've wanted the Céline cabas since its introduction; the horizontal version proved to be an optimal choice for now due to its longer handles and wider profile, but perhaps there will be a vertical cabas in the future...?

Vuitton Etole Léopard

2011-07-31T23:39:00.001-04:00

Ahh...my first Vuitton etole leopard! I've been admiring this little feline print by Stephen Sprouse ever since it was first introduced in 2006; I hesitated and lost the opportunity to possess my favorite colorway of red/black. This fall, Vuitton decides to come out with something similar to my holy grail. It's done in a midnight blue/marine with the leopard accents in festive red. From a distance, the red leopard print almost reminds me of colorful pheasant feathers! I love the color combination and believe it will accent any outfit for the upcoming season. Now the question is: Fall, when will you be here?

Summer Uniform

2011-07-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Typical summer uniform for the night

Jacket: Balmain

Shirt: AA

Pants: Uniqlo

Bag: Celine

Belt: Custom

Emilio Pucci Fringes

2011-06-30T12:29:00.000-04:00

If there's one element of design in clothing and accessories that I can't get enough of, it's tassels and fringes. It's about the movement and whimsy that I can't resist. Needless to say, once I saw this fringy confection from Pucci, I knew I had to have it. I love the black jacquard silk done in a 1972 archival Pucci print. Very different from the bright, colorful prints Pucci usually does; the subtle tone on tone pattern is much more sensual and chic.

Vacation outfit

2011-06-28T23:51:00.000-04:00

Jacket: Zara

Shirt: vintage

Jeans: Uniqlo

Bracelet, Watch: Hermes

Shoes: Louboutin

Last Piece of Balmain...I promise?

2011-06-05T20:06:00.000-04:00

Has everyone geared up for some serious shopping? Why? Because the Spring/Summer sale has just started!!! I was strolling along my neighborhood recently and noticed all the sales for the season. I debated whether to spend on some sales item or to keep the options open for Fall/Winter...until I came across "the jacket." Shawl collar has been on my mind forever...but I could never find one that looks right on me. This Balmain shawl collar jacket has the perfect cut for my body and the material is very trans-seasonal...which makes it a perfect item to splurge on, especially during sales season. There's nothing more wasteful than buying something at a sale because it's discounted and then tossing it after the season's over. Also, since this is pretty much the last season to buy a piece of Decarnin/Alt for Balmain, it makes the purchase even more worth while.

Celine "Original"

2011-04-27T22:32:00.000-04:00

I've never been one to experiment with eyewear. It was always function, not fashion for me in this department...until now. I fell in love with these Celine Original sunglasses and needed to update my tired old opticals, so I came up with the solution to turn them into a pair of regular prescription glasses. The Italian handmade frame is substantial, and the glossy black acetate creates a bold look with the now clear lenses. The look has a lot of personality and I feel it has given me a new attitude and perspective.

Home Scent: by Kilian

2011-04-24T22:11:00.000-04:00

I have recently came upon this amazing fragrance line, by Kilian, on my search for the perfect home scent. Founded by the legendary cognac heir, Kilian Hennessy, the line focuses on elegant and luxurious raw ingredients. I love the latest release "Love and Tear, Surrender" from their collection of L'Oeuvre Noire fragrances. It is a scent primarily focused on jasmine, which is perfect for the upcoming Spring. Fresh, yet slightly warm and sweet, the fragrance includes notes of bergamot, ylang-ylang, lily of the valley, and of course jasmine. All of by Kilian scents are marketed as personal fragrance, but their candle versions are available as well. I chose the candle to liven up my new apartment for the new season. The scent permeates the room quickly and remains potent for hours.

p.s: I love how they publish their formulary list for every new fragrance releases!

Punk trend: Chainmail belt

2011-03-25T20:10:00.000-04:00

Punk has had a huge influence on fashion, especially for this spring. Everyone's doing studs, chains, or safety pins. I have personally been a big fan of the punk/rock style, and I've been searching for the perfect belt with chain details for the longest time. I've toyed with various versions from Balmain, Isabel Marant, and Hermes; however, they were either not very accessible or lacking in certain elements. One day, I stumbled upon this home-crafted chainmail belt...it has the right attitude, look, and price. More importantly, it feels authentic.

Girl in Boy's Clothes: Emmanuelle Alt in Balmain Homme

2011-02-23T22:28:00.001-05:00

Menswear inspired ladies clothes have always been in fashion; however, it takes a true style visionary to rock menswear that was actually intended for men. Lately, I have observed Emmanuelle Alt in this amazing military inspired pea coat running around during Fashion Week. It was a little different from the longer length Balmain that she's been sporting since last show season...this jacket is more relaxed, less severe, and still chic. I had thought it was vintage until I came to the realization that it is my very own Balmain pea coat! This is not the first time Emmanuelle wore clothing made for men; she's been rocking her Dior Homme leather jacket for the past few seasons with aplomb. It probably does require a long and slender body to carry off mens clothes; however, when it is done right, it can be sexier than a cleavage-exposing-crotch-revealing Cavalli mini dress.

Weatherproof Footwear: Aigle to the Rescue

2011-02-20T17:07:00.000-05:00

I have recently come across Aigle through my search for the perfect weather-proof footwear. Established in 1852, Aigle is a French-based American company that specializes in handmade rubber boots. Even after all these years, Aigle boots continue to be hand crafted in Ingrandes, France. My favorite from the line is the "Ecuyer," the perfect combination of function and fashion. It is basically a pair of rubberized riding boots, but you could never tell it's rubber until close examination. It is 100% water-proof and lined in luxurious leather and comfortable cambrelle. The Ecuyer is just what I needed to survive the dirty slushy New York winter. It also comes in a variety of foot/calf size combinations so you don't have to worry about sizing!

CÉLINE Black Box

2010-12-10T19:02:00.000-05:00

This was my holy grail of Céline. So simple, so clean, yet very fragile. I tried not to like it, but it haunts me to no end. The large size for resort works much better for my size. It is made with hand-rolled french calf and lined in buttery soft lambskin. The skin is incredibly sensitive to marks and scratches but I've come to appreciate the charm of well loved patina; the brass toned hardware is supposed to darken with age as well. The removable strap offers two carrying lengths and an option for it to be hand carried like a portfolio. Also, the strap can be double wrapped into a belt. How cool is that?

Cross body

Hand-held

Style.com X Anniversary Ts

2010-10-25T13:53:00.001-04:00

I ordered these Style.com X t-shirts some time ago and I finally received them after about a month of wait. These t-shirts are the collaboration between Style.com and 10 "of the moment" designers. Each design is printed on Loomstate 100% organic cotton t-shirts and limited to 400 pieces.

These shirts are quite thin and transparent so I think they make great layering pieces. If you live in the hotter climates, the light and breathable material makes it perfect for the sticky humid days.

If you wish to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Style.com with these fun little t-shirts you can still get them at http://stylelimitededition.myshopify.com for $45.00. The Balmain and Givenchy ones are unfortunately sold out, but there are still many great options to choose from.

p.s Please don't fall for those crazy ebayers who are trying to make a profit on these t-shirts...while they are fun and easy to wear, there is no reason anyone should pay over $45 for these...

Navy/Camel

2010-09-12T23:02:00.000-04:00

Two of the biggest color trend for fall are navy and camel. Phoebe Philo did a fabulous collection for Celine with a predominant navy palette and a heavy military influence. Even Peter Dundas inserted solid navy into his kaleidoscopic world of Pucci.

Shades of beige and camel dominated Hannah MacGibbon's Chloe for fall, while Dries van Noten's nude blazer updated the menswear inspired collection with feminine chic.

Although the color stories emerged separately, I love how these two colors play against each other. There is something nostalgic and authentic about the combination of both. With my recent fall purchases, I played around with the color theme. This is how I intend to incorporate the trend into my personal look for fall:

Balmain pea coat

H&M tee

Uniqlo jeans

Dries van Noten laceups

Hermes bag

Vintage jacket
Topman tee

An answer to my clutch quest

2010-09-11T12:05:00.000-04:00

Remember my "Clutch Dilemma" from a few months ago? Well...problem solved! I stumbled upon this beauty and it made my decision very clear. An Hermes is forever, and the classic Jige has never looked so good in this honey hued color. The clean lines fit with the resurgence of minimalism, and the tan color plays with the continuation of camel obsession for fall. I especially love the slightly pre-vintaged look of the skin. I can only imagine the character and patina the leather will develop with use and age...hmm~

Balmainia hits home

2010-08-11T23:58:00.001-04:00

Call me a label whore, but I can't deny my appreciation for Balmain. I agree that the Balmain aesthetic can sometimes be perceived as tacky and that certain pieces are priced beyond reason. However, I remain interested in the brand and constantly find items that I lust after. Balmain jackets are like crack to me, and the only way to get my fix is to acquire one. So, after months of agonizing anticipation, I finally got my first piece: the Balmain Homme navy melton peacoat with gold buttons.

Balmain is expensive, but not without reason. The cut and the fit of the coat are spot on. It's nearly impossible for me to find anything that fits my narrow frame, but this coat in size 44 fits me like a dream. The shoulders are reinforced for structure, and the sleeves hit my wrist at the perfect length. The buttons by the collar add additional flair to the otherwise classic peacoat. The padded lining also allows the option to wear this well into the early winter.

Some may recall a similar peacoat from Balenciaga a few seasons back, but after experiencing both I must say that the Balmain is superior for me. The fit works better, and the wool felt feels softer and more luxurious to the stiffer material Balenciaga used. Also, the more subdued detailing on the Balmain makes it easier to incorporate into everyday dressing.

This jacket is still available at Barneys. They have only ordered a limited stock, so act soon if you're interested! The shoulder and the arms fit true to size, but the body is cut very close to the body, so if you'd like a looser fit, I recommend sizing up. It is 100% wool, and Made in France.

Coat Geometry

2010-07-15T00:54:00.002-04:00

Rick Owens shearling

2010-07-10T14:58:00.000-04:00

I've been looking for the perfect shearling for years...finally I've found one by the master Rick Owens from his F/W 10 collection. The high neck snaps and zipper offer different ways to wear it and allow you to create different shapes; the slim shoulders and arms flatter almost any frame; in addition, the huge pockets make this a versatile option to hold all your winter essentials. I also love the slightly A-line cut that projects out in the bottom and adds drama to the outfit. Can't wait for winter to come so I can cozy up in my coat!

Summer outfit

2010-07-01T13:43:00.001-04:00

The weather has finally cooled down a little to make jackets tolerable again...

Topman jacket
AA shirt
Uniqlo jeans
Hermes watch
Hermes bag
Zara espadrilles

Outerwear for Spring : Lanvin S/S 2011

2010-06-27T21:27:00.000-04:00

The Lanvin Homme S/S 2011 collection is definitely the highlight of the season. I love their fresh interpretation of the trench/windbreaker with the overlapped collar and bodice. It's so unexpected, yet easy to incorporate into anyone's daily wardrobe.

Green with envy

2010-06-21T22:58:00.001-04:00

Bottega Veneta's Spring/Summer 2011 collection for men is full of gorgeous shades of green. This cabat is the perfect shade of distressed sage and celadon. I have not been tempted by another LE color since my platino ossidato cabat but this color is making me green with envy...

Pulling out my old ossidato cabat for a spin...should I get another?

Playing dress up

2010-06-19T17:08:00.002-04:00

Piling on all the trends at once can be a disaster...or is it completely genius?

Zara shirt
R13 jeans
Christian Louboutin jazz shoes
Hermes bracelets
Hermes watch
Hermes bag

Celine Classic Box

2010-06-03T19:59:00.003-04:00

I swore I'd never get sidetracked by another "IT" bag again...but what is it about the Celine Classic Box that got me so obsessed? Is it really "classic"? It's incredibly simple and compact in size. The only flash is the bit of gold on the clasp closure and the shoulder strap. Can I live my life without it? Not so sure...

A clutch?!

2010-06-01T15:56:00.002-04:00

My lack of inspiration lately was downright depressing...until one day I became enamored with the idea of owning a man clutch. Yes, the dreaded man clutch. There are days where a large tote just don't cut it anymore. You want to be easy and on the go and just pack the essentials in a small bag. By essentials, I mean a phone, a pair of sunglasses, a set of keys, and maybe a wallet. I want something classic, multifunctional if possible, and worthy of the investment. So...these are some options I can see myself with...

Entry level options:

PS1 pouchette in black or smoke

Balenciaga black ggh envelope

Advanced options:

Celine Classic Box in black or camel

Hermes Jige

or I've toyed around with the idea of a vintage Hermes constance, but I'm not sure if the H buckle's a little too loud...any thoughts?

Planning ahead

2010-04-12T19:59:00.000-04:00

Several insatiable items to keep me interested until F/W: Balmain, Balmain, and Balmain

New Scents

2010-03-29T18:14:00.002-04:00

Fragrance is something extremely personal and intimate. It reacts with your body chemistry and evolves into a scent that's exclusive to you. I have been loyal to Hermes fragrances for years. I love the clean, unassuming feeling they portray; I especially resonate with the Jardins and the Colognes collection. While I love the scents, I do have a problem with their lasting power. The typical eau de colognes and toilettes dissipate by mid-day. To solve the issue, I decided to venture into the parfum version of Terre D'Hermes. The woodsy/earthy notes blend beautifully with a hint of herbal citrus, and I'm confident that it will stay through the day. The Voyage d'Hermes is Jean-Claude Ellena's latest creation for Hermes. Similar to his pedigree of fragrances, the Voyage is slightly herbal, faintly citrusy, and very sheer. It's a perfect blend to wear for the upcoming summer. Also, the stirrup shaped bottle adds an interesting"twist" to make it a must have for collectors. Hermes is rumored to release more fragrances in the upcoming year so I can't wait to explore those as well.

Top: Dior Homme by Dior, Eau d'Orange Verte by Hermes, Un Jardin Apres La Monsoon by Hermes, Eau De Gentiane Blanche by Hermes, Rose 31 by Le Labo

Bottom: Terre D'Hermes by Hermes, Un Jardin Sur Le Nil by Hermes, Voyage d'Hermes by Hermes

All-season Scarf

2010-03-24T22:56:00.000-04:00

I went through all winter looking for something warm. fluffy, and huge, but only to find this scarf at the brink of spring. This Faliero Sarti massimo scarf from its S/S collection fits all my requirements. Measured at 125 x 180 cm, this scarf is definitely large. The modal material lends the scarf more body, thus more fluffiness, when compared to similar scarves made from cashmere/silk. Also, it is surprisingly warm so it can carry me through the bitter winter. The gradient charcoal color with the lighter boarder trim adds an interesting color/texture combination as well.

For those who may not be as familiar with the label, Faliero Sarti was first founded in 1949. It produces exclusive fabrics and textiles to the fashion- and interior industry. Major fashion houses such as Prada, Chanel, Dries van Noten, Max Mara and Costume National have all used material made by Faliero Sarti. I am very glad to have found this label. I can't wait to discover more lovelies for the upcoming F/W season.

Azzedine Alaia F/W 10/11

2010-03-12T14:52:00.005-05:00

Azzedine Alaia's Fall/Winter 10/11 collection is full of well cut, superbly tailored classics. I have admired his work for a long time and often encourage close female friends/family members to indulge in his sexy yet sophisticated creations. It's interesting to note that he doesn't sketch but does all of his pattern-cutting, leather work, embroidery, draping, pleating, and the invention of new fabrications himself. Alaia's work stands the test of time; his classic silhouettes are always present in his collections season after season. The master states "There are no moodboards and none of that.  I do not think about the clothes or about 'trends.' I just pick up the fabric and go to the girl and the ideas come." If you don't have a piece in your closet, it's not too late to start collecting. A classic coat or a knitted dress is a good place to begin. Skirts and cardigans are also worth the splurge.

Fashion Week Holy Trinity: Carine Roitfeld

2010-03-11T23:56:00.001-05:00

credit:style and the city

Fashion Week finally wrapped up with the conclusion of Paris; however, I can't say I was impressed with the looks of my third Fashion Week Holy Trinity--Carine Roitfeld. They were mostly repetitive and uninspired. Despite the repetitive looks, I do find her at her best in this Prada coat. I love the cinched waist, the exaggerated bottom, and the way she flipped up the collar. It was architectural and womanly at the same time. Hopefully, next season Carine will wow us with something new and exciting.

Too Early to Buy Fall/Winter?

2010-03-08T20:19:00.000-05:00

I know it's barely Spring, but some items on my Fall list are already available for pre-order. Not only that, one of my favorite coat is sold out in my size! What to do? Should I pre-order now to secure the items that I wanted or wait until they arrive by late Summer? I have a few contenders in mind...are they worth the plunge months in advance? Help!

Givenchy Hooded Blazer/Parka $3655

--my size is gone, but maybe they run small?

Balmain Peacoat $3750

Balmain Jacket $3170

--not too crazy about the insignia on the sleeves though

credits:luisaviaroma

And no I'm not trying to copy Ms.Alt...ok, maybe just a little, but I simply love the look of the strong sculpted shoulders and the tiny gold accents...

Fashion Week Holy Trinity: Emmanuelle Alt

2010-03-05T21:02:00.003-05:00

credit: thesartorialist

The queen of cool, Emmanuelle Alt, is a personal style icon. Her uniform is simple; it's always a key jacket worn over a simple shirt paired with a pair of jeans and cool heels. What makes it so interesting? It's the fit. Everything she wears fits her to a T. Her jackets always have immaculately sculpted shoulders and shorter sleeves. Her shirts and pants always hug her body appropriately, and her heels always lengthen her already long legs. The look is always androgynous. strong, and urban. Thousands try to imitate the look but no one can replicate her attitude.

credit:cafe mode

Who Wears It First: Anna Dello Russo

2010-03-04T21:47:00.000-05:00

credit:style.com

Here's Miss Anna Dello Russo and that fantastic fish belt of Francesco Scognamiglio from my last entry! Amazing!

credit:twitter

Francesco Scognamiglio F/W 10/11

2010-02-28T18:36:00.002-05:00

Milan Fashion Week has been lackluster as usual...however, I was most intrigued by Francesco Scognamiglio's collection. Reminiscent of the master Azzedine Alaia's work, it was tough, urban, and glamorous at the same time. It was almost a Milanese interpretation of Parisian chic. Opened and closed by my favorite model of all time, Carmen Kass, the show was streamlined and incredibly chic.

credit:style.com

Fashion Week Holy Trinity: Anna Dello Russo

2010-02-16T21:43:00.005-05:00

Every time comes fashion week, I get excited to see the fantastic "street" style of my fashion week holy trinity. There's no doubt that Anna Dello Russo, Fashion Director at Large and Creative Consultant of Vogue Nippon, holds a special place in my heart.

credit: style.com

Some may say that her look is "victimy" or that she is overtly trendy and inappropriate, but she is a true fashion enthusiast, a fashion collector. New York Magazine has recently featured this interview that I find extremely funny and inspiring at the same time. Here are some excerpts that resonate the most with me:

When did you realize you were obsessed with fashion?
I think I was born with this idea, working on fashion. Generally, I was stealing clothes from everyone—my mother, my sister, my friends. I was looking desperately for fashion, for clothes. When I was a teenager, you know, you want to be cool. I don’t want to be cool! I want to be fashion.

What was the first designer piece you owned?
I remember because I used to go to school with my collection of Fendi bags—wallet, bag, umbrella. Everything matching. It’s never raining in my country—it’s so hot! All the people in my class used to make a joke about me, say, you know, “Where you going with umbrella?! No rain outside?!” I said, “I know, but it’s part of the look!” I was, I think, 12.

You still like to dress in complete looks—but from the runway.
I always do that. I make fun of me because sometimes I find me really hilarious, ridiculous.

Because it’s part of the look?
Whatever. I don’t care where I go. I don’t care if it’s freezing or cold or raining—whatever is part of the look. That’s my philosophy.

Why don’t you mix and match pieces?
I don’t know why you ask me that, because you see the runway look—they look fantastic! Why change? I like to take the dream and put it on me.

You’re famous for your clothing collection.
I started twenty years ago when prêt-à-porter was just starting. Just now—two years ago—I started collecting Marc Jacobs. But before it was just Italian, French prêt-à-porter. It’s really well done, the collection, because I select all the pieces. It’s so scientifically done.

Where do you store all the clothes?
I have another apartment—two big rooms. It’s next to my apartment, but it’s another one just for clothes.

How do you care for so many clothes?
Collecting clothes is complicated because the clothes need a space and the right temperature. You really destroy clothes if you leave it there, no? It’s dusty, it’s hot—it ruins the clothes. It’s so freezing in my house! The clothes need to be cold.

What’s the ideal temperature?
Has to be no more than 15 degrees Celsius.

What about shoes?
Oh, shoes—another nightmare, because I love the shoes. I have many, many pairs. I have the shoes in a big library—a huge library, everything together. Louboutin shoes, Prada shoes, Yves Saint Laurent shoes, Gucci shoes. Rather than books, you have shoes library.

How many pairs? Hundreds?
Noooo. Thousands.

How much do you spend each season?
It’s not good to talking about money. But of course I spend—I buy great pieces. It’s quite a lot of money.

Do you have a boyfriend?
Yes, but he doesn’t live with me. There is no space because of the clothes.

Thanks Ms. Anna Dello Russo. When will I have a separate apartment set at 15 degrees Celsius for my clothes and a shoe library?

Stay tuned, I will reveal the rest of my holy trinity once Milan and Paris roll around.

In Memory...

2010-02-13T12:23:00.002-05:00

F/W 06 Kama Sutra Skeleton

Lee Alexander McQueen
(16 March 1969 – 11 February 2010)

Travel in style

2010-02-09T16:34:00.002-05:00

credit: purple-diary.com

I have never owned a piece of "real" luggage, and I wasn't sure where to start...trolleys, duffels, carryalls, trunks...it all became extremely confusing. I knew I want to stick with a traditional luggage making company. I have always loved Globetrotter's nostalgic design, but I find the trolleys to be a little space limiting. I feel that a hand-held carryon sized duffel would be a more versatile option. Vuitton was an obvious choice but for the same reason I try to stay away from Vuitton as much as possible. After Vuitton and Globetrotter, I shifted my attention to Goyard. Similar to Vuittion, I was originally troubled by the blatant display of logo. However, after this video I began to appreciate the house's chevron signature as an identity, similar to the intrecciato of Bottega Veneta, instead of a logo.

Since I wanted a piece that can be used for years and develop gorgeous patina, I stumbled upon this model...Boeing 55. It's done in black fabric, a mixture of cotton, hemp, and linen, not plasticized canvas, stenciled by hand in black, brown, and white dots, trimmed in black cowhide, lined in cotton, and adored with silver-toned hardware.

For convenience, I ordered a black shoulder strap to go with the bag.

It's light weight, and the substantial leather trim seems extremely durable. Also, the wide opening on top and the side panel loops offer two carrying options. I can't wait to use this extensively and let it age like a beautiful piece of luggage should. There's nothing more beautiful to me than a beat-up luggage that speaks history and experience. Already, I'm dying to order some trunks to decorate my future apartment.

More view with flash

F/W 2010

2010-02-06T15:20:00.005-05:00

I know it may be too early to think about next Fall but I have already compiled a list of insatiable lustings. However, I know by the time these items start rolling into the stores I will have narrowed my choices. So far, I'm after

1. The perfect shearling...Cerruti
I will always have the perfect Rick Owens shearling in my heart...but until I can find the right version, I will settle with this light grey Cerruti. It's in my favorite shade of light dusty lavender grey with the biker style side zipper closure and pockets. I can imagine wearing this for years to come.

2. The perfect coat...Givenchy and Rick Owens
It's a tie between Givenchy and RO.
I love this slightly exaggerated A-line coat from Givenchy. It feels so fresh and chic pairing with a pair of slim pants or dark denim. Polished, yet slightly sinister...that's my favorite kind of dressing.

The standout from Rick Owens for me was the stiff-shouldered coat. The severe shoulders reminded me of Frankenstein with no neck, but I love the awkwardness. As for someone with extremely narrow shoulders, I believe it'll act as some sort of prosthetic to lend me some shape.

3. The perfect casual outerwear...Hermes and Givenchy
I'm typically not a fan of casual outerwear, but these options are simply too tempting.
Toggle coats make me cringe, but this Hermes parka with the cute little fox trim convinced me think otherwise. So cozy, so luxurious, so effortless.

The same could be said of this Givenchy. I love this blazer-parka hybrid with an oversized hood. If I can find a store brave enough to purchase this version in my size I will definitely have this in my wardrobe.

Honorable mentions...Burberry Prorsum and Ann Demeulemeester
As always, Prorsum puts out an incredible collection of coats, but since I already have a trench-inspired woolen coat from them I want to venture out to something different.

I also can't get enough of Ann D.'s goth glam, but I wonder if I can do these wonderful feathered concoction justice.

Credits: all gq.com

Utilitarian chic

2010-01-30T22:41:00.013-05:00

Have I fallen victim to the army/utilitarian trend this season? Not quite, but I have recently acquired something that fits the mood. The story began last fall when I first saw this pair Ann Demeulemeester

Unfortunately this pair was not available anywhere in the US except for the pony hair version...so then I found a pair of buttero boots as a nice alternative. I held off on purchasing the buttero for awhile, and then I discovered this pair of Balmain for mens S/S 2010

Fast forward to a few weeks ago when the F/W 2010 shows were presented for men...the similar style of combat boots with extra long laces and side zippers are back at Ann D and Balmain

credit:gq

Needless to say, I went back and purchased the buttero without hesitation. I especially love the thick sole and the distressed/sueded leather

Paired with my vintage flannel shirt, AA tee, Uniqlo jeans and Balenciaga jacket, the boots brought me back to the grungy 90s where the music had attitude and the style was cool and unpretentious...wouldn't you agree?

Worn Perfection

2010-01-24T17:43:00.007-05:00

Do you possess something that you've fancied for a long time but afraid to use or wear? I used to be one of you...or rather, I'm slowly transitioning away from the mentality. Why purchase something you don't use? Not only are you missing the joy of owning something you love, but you are also losing out on their true beauty.

Are you one of those who strap your birkin up neatly and hold it like a dying baby or those who step carefully in fear of ruining the red sole of your Louboutins? I used to be one, but I'm beginning to realize that true luxury items look better with use. The perfect Rick Owen jackets are worn to mold to your bodies and the unpretentious nappa cabat from Bottega Veneta drapes beautifully with age.

Here are my personal collection of beauties that I feel have matured into perfection. My 2 year old ossidato cabat flops and drapes with nonchalant coolness; the alligator straps from my Hermes watch and CDC have lost their original shine, but the matte and worn skin now adds an understated charm to the pieces; finally the worn soles of my relatively new Louboutin Freddy taught me to enjoy all my pieces to their fullest. Why spend thousands of dollars on shoes if you are not going to wear them?

Introduction

2010-01-19T22:50:00.004-05:00

Inspiration of the Day

credit: lanvin.com

Why is she running? What is she running away from?
Sometimes we all wish to escape...but when you do, drape yourselves in Lanvin! I invite you to join my hedonistic bubble...to escape from the realities of the world. Indulge in the silly, superfluous, and unnecessary for a bit. Life is too short...if you can't live in happiness, then why live at all?