XMAS Cookies & Milk

Yay! It's finally here :) I hope everyone has a very joy-filled Christmas & Holidays-get in the spirit by making some milk & cookies (with a fashionable twist...)

Take a break from hokey music this Christmas and look up Sigur Ros on grooveshark.com. It'll fill your heart with love.

[Left: Style.com | Right: Flickr]

 

Super-Simple Infused Lavender Milk

2 c. milk

1tsp. sugar

1tsp. dried lavender (or any other spice or herb)

 

Bring the milk, sugar, and lavender to a boil. Let steep 15 minutes. Strain and ice down.

 

 

Neiman Marcus "$250" Cookies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1-3/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1-1/2 teaspoons instant espresso coffee powder
• 1-1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1.	Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Cream the butter with the sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy (approximately 30 seconds)
2.	Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract for another 30 seconds.
3.	In a mixing bowl, sift together the dry ingredients and beat into the butter mixture at low speed for about 15 seconds. Stir in the espresso coffee powder and chocolate chips.
4.	Using a 1 ounce scoop or a 2 tablespoon measure, drop cookie dough onto a greased cookie sheet about 3 inches apart. Gently press down on the dough with the back of a spoon to spread out into a 2 inch circle. Bake for about 20 minutes or until nicely browned around the edges. Bake a little longer for a crispier cookie.
Yield:	2 dozen cookies

 

 

Miu Miu Fall 2009

[Thanks T.T. @ Jak & Jil ]

I haven't seen a pump with such a nice shape since Lanvin spring 2008. The tall, slim heel, the glowy-nude color, and the perfectly rounded toe make this shoe perfection. The design is simple, but there are so many variations on this shoe that there is a unique miu miu fw/09 pump for everyone!

Just a shout out to this Miu Miu collection: it made me realize that I actually love this line of clothing. I hadn't really paid it much attention before, thinking that it was just a tame-version of Prada. It's actually just a younger version of Prada that's a bit more mainstream, but still very different, design wise. How does Miuccia do it?

"Supermodel"- Presidents of the U.S.A.//note on models

Back when ElleGirl was my fashion bible, fun and carefree fashion were all that I knew. How exciting would this world look to an 11 year old? (Let alone a 16 year old...) Parties, cute clothes, and being fabulous seemed like a pretty great gig to me. Sure, not the best people to look up to, but it was decided, that that's what I would be. A supermodel- just like Gemma Ward, Anna J, and Cintia Dicker!

Reminiscing on the world of fashion from the early thousands makes me feel happy. Like, look at these pictures and tell me that you aren't inspired. Supermodel by the Presidents of the United States of America is an upbeat, perfectly fitting song that makes you want to dance, not unlike the impromptu conga line shown below.

[Supermodel: not just a regular girl]

 

Photos courtesy of Style.com

 

heatwave

This is the way to wear red lipstick. Proenza Schouler spring 2009 (far left image) achieved perfection with an orange hued color, paired with a soft, natural hair. I've always been mystified as to what cheek color to wear with red lips. When I saw the far right image of Kate Moss, I finally understood. Apricot cream blush is the answer. Nars lipstick in Heat Wave or MAC in Vegas Volt are great options for an orange-y shade. As for blush, Stila convertible color in Gerbera works, as does Tarte cheek stain in Green Siren. This pairing was also mimicked in the Proenza Schouler show, further proving that these two products are a match made in heaven.

 

do you want to destroy my sweater?

Laura and Kate! The Mulleavy sisters! A capsule collection! New York City! Hand knit! CFDA award!

These are the words that have been on a constant rotation in the fashion world since 2005. Tired yet? Well here's more.

I know that I'm not a late, breaking news reporter, but I love the tattered look of Rodarte's knits. So, apparently, does everyone else. From  Britain's Topshop, Sweden's H&M, to Canada's Aritzia, sweaters inspired by the Mulleavys are seen all over this fall.

Again with the sweaters, they really tied the collection together with such spiderweb-like stitches. Taking inspiration from their 'obsession' with horror films, the fall 2008 collection took on a slasher-chic esthetic.

[K-Stew's Teen Vogue: wearing Rodarte]

[Sasha Pivovarova & her baby lion friend]

A Natural Selection

What? A sale? In November? At Aritzia? I know.
I also know what I'm doing today...

The Rodarte inspired Wilfred sweater is the best replica I've seen yet ($3000 for an original knit? Non, merci). I really love the color combo, very fall/winter transition-y. I personally don't like the liquid leggings sans butt cover up look- un petit peu unflattering- but I look past it this, keeping in mind that I would pair this with skinny jeans.

More Rodarte to come...

+

[Check out Aritzia.ca for more motivation to head to the nearest location]

Defocused

Finally, a good video for a song that is defin-itely in my top threeee. Angeles by Elliott Smith is lovely and perfectly fitting with this melange from Lost In Translation. Although I usually don't like youtube homemade music videos, this one's an exception, seeing as Elliott will not be making one himself (passed in 2003). I don't know about you, but riding in a car while listening to music is really moving- no pun intended. Watching, I definitely feel this video captures that feeling, what with the spots of light and reflections on the windows. Beautiful.

[I'd like to thank my friend Cara for recommending I watch this- we had just seen Lost In Translation]

Luella Real Way

How did brit-it-girl Alexa Chung get her hands on Luella's spring 2010 floral heart cutout dress?  The answer is quite simple: she's brit-it-girl Alexa Chung. Fun to type, but even more fun to say. But what's even more saddening than the wave of jealousy that probably washed over you when you saw her ensemble, is the fact that Luella has 'ceased trading' (I looked this up mes amies).

Meaning...one of the financial supporters of the label has pulled out, so at this point, the collection might not be seen in stores this coming spring.  I know. Although I would never actually buy these items, I do think that Luella Bartley has talent and deserves what she has accomplished. The collection was super cute! Why, after this superb collection would they choose to opt out? This just shows that she's too good for them. Luella will find someone else, and they'll be jealous. I can't wait to see it.

Living, breathing

Art imitating art

I wonder if

A. McQueen

had artist

Emmanuel Malin

on his mind

whilst creating his

Atlantisesque spring 2010 collection...?

Merci Sonia!

Is anyone else excited for the holidays yet like I am? Please say yes because it's never to early to get in the spirit! Actually no, that's a lie...right after Halloween is ok, because honestly, who wants to be that jerk who, in the middle of summer is like "I love winter!" No. Looking forward is the curse of this generation, but with so many fun & exciting things going on, it's kind of hard to live in the moment.

I'm not usually one to report on runway, but I do love to point out especially fabulous collections, including that of my beloved Sonia R.! Fifi Lapin is sure to have a hayday with this collection: the graphic plastic trench, the perfectly perched berets, and the vivid splashes of color are perfect illustration material. The energy of this show is uniquely Rykiel, what with the models breaking the barriers between walking clothes hangers to walking, dancing, and SMILING coat hangers! Although the french phrases from last season were ah-door-ahble (french accent encouraged), the drab color palette was quite uninspired for my taste. A rainbow of colors and textures with a sparkly beret on top is oh-so-sonia and what we need to look forward to spring! Oh no...

[Karlie, Tanya D., and Sasha sashay through sparkly confetti and blow kisses. What should happen on a daily basis, non?]

Cool Beans Halloween

At a loss for a costume, even after my ingenious Powerpuff idea? Look no further than everyone's favorite semi-professional stuntman, Rod Kimball (as played by Andy Samberg) from Hot Rod. The first time I saw this movie I laughed 'till I cried. Nooot exactly the same reaction with everyone, but, with all due respect,  they just don't know what they're talking about. Andy Samberg subtly crafted this character to have style, great taste in music, and above all, some kick-butt stunts. Take that as ironically as you will, but after I saw Hot Rod, I have been lusting over the black Vans sneakers pictured below.

To take this look to the next level, persuade a friend to be a "brother Kevin" sidekick. Just sayin'.

Rod has a distinctive style that is easily recognizable. Classic high top Vans, stick-on mustachio, and some ratty gray sweats are the foundation to this ensemble. Add on some of these expertly selected add-ons, such as a Europe soundtrack to your life or a  "soul of a bottle-nosed dolphin" pendant, and you've got a pretty convincing disguise. Now, your only challenge is explaining to every single person you meet who you are dressed up as.

Happy Halloween!

Here They Come Just In Time

[Bubbles, Blossom, or Buttercup- who was your fave?]

 

What is more early 2000s that the Powerpuff Girls? I don't know about you guys, but as a seven year old, the PPGs were an obsession. Living in the States in this time period, the Powerpuff trend was kind of unavoidable. Pillows, backpacks, notebooks, tshirts...the list goes on and on. This craze rose from the dead the other day when I was chez Villiage de Valuer perusing the used Halloween costumes when I came across a Buttercup costume! The only catch is that it's a toddler's size, but the mask will fit anyone- even 'way to old to be into a children's tv show' heads like mine.

Speaking of which, I have been storing some information in my stuck-in-the-past brain from many years (or should I say seasons ago). The D&G spring 2007 show screams 80s punk with neon brights, pvc separates, and lots of stud real-estate. As a 12 year old, I was really into this, but critiques  slammed this collection calling it "80s tart" and when you search for the collection on Style.com, it's mysteriously missing. What this collection brought to mind for me, was not 80s tart, but my dear friends Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup! With colors of eyeshadow matching the hue of the ensemble, little black shoes, and graphic color blocks, this collection is an ideal source for inspiration for completing my costume.

fw '05: Barettes!

A few weekends ago, I went to an 80s themed birthday party. I was really inspired by the hair & makeup at Chloe fall 2009, (which is inspired by Brooke Shields.) A few hours were spent trying to achieve this swishy, soft curly hairstyle, but I could never get it to look like it did on the runway. I honestly did try, but the texture of my hair would not hold a curl, no matter how much hairspray I used. The moral of the story is...give up! :) Models backstage are worked on by 3 or more people at a time! Not to mention it only needs to stay in for the 30 seconds tops they walk down the runway.

That's why I love low maintenance hair doodads! Seen all over the place in fall 2005, they're a super cute way to make your 'do for the day interesting. On that note, I just wanted to say that I am a firm believer that if anything is super stylish, it will last through many seasons. I honestly don't care that this style is "so four years ago." No, no it's not. It's cute. That's it.

Lily Donaldson and Heather Marks wearing barettes

Prada Spring 2010

[Photos courtesy of Style.com]

What is it with everything shiny and sparkly that makes people like me swoon? Prada Spring 2010 is a dream come true for all magpie fashionistas. This collection is fabulous. Possibly my favorite thus far! Miuccia is a designer who looks for a completely different look and inspiration each time. By doing this, each collection results in a ripple effect with everyone being inspired by these new trends, whether they know it's from Miuccia or not.

Transparencies in the form of lucite and chandelier jewels  create a watery, refreshing feel. I'm SO psyched about the pigtails. They're so adorable. I can't wait to try this on my own. Paired with an electric red lip? Perfection. I haven't been this inspired by a runway beauty look in a while.

The only problem with this collection is the lack of pants. Being a pants-wearer myself, I don't think I'll be participating in that particular Miuccia innovation.

Transition season dressing

On fall mornings, it's common to either underdress or overdress. It's always a battle to try to figure out who to believe weather wise: the sketchy weatherpeople, or your own gut-instincts. One way to quickly remedy this situation (without commitment) is layering with new fall cover-ups. XL sweaters are great with leggings, tights, or bare legs (only if it covers your derriere!) I'm really liking the "big on top, slim on bottom" silhouette that has been super popular lately. This look is easily achieved with a chunky-knit slouchy sweater.  Preppy Gossip Girl inspired blazers have been a fall wardrobe staple ever since the show started. Adding cute pins to the lapel or adding a felt hat can make the look fresh again. Summer tops can be made autumn-ready by being paired with a large shawl. There are so many ways to wrap these giant scarves that the look stays fresh for ages. Another plus? Scarves are super compact and can be stored in your bag or locker for a quick outfit add-on. Faux-furry vests may seem kind of out there in a bad way, but not all faux fur is created equal. Look for cropped, monotone vests that are 100% for sure faux. In my opinion, fur is super hard to pull off, especially at school. Model off-duty looks like black leggings, floral tops, skinny jeans, and leather boots are great bases for pairing with fun fur vests. Don't be a victim of mother nature's indecisiveness, changes in weather come unexpectedly nowadays, so come prepared!

[Photos courtesy of Elle Street Style]

discovering Lula magazine

Hurray! Fall anticipation! On an early evening walk this week, I noticed that fall colors had suddenly appeared, when a day before, green foliage was all that I saw. Another blow that enforced the fact that fall is just about here was the nippy autumn-like weather today! To most, these realizations might seem depressing, but I'm kind of delighted about it fall weather being here.

Other than the chance to wear my new trench (purchased this summer, which I have been visualizing myself wearing for months) this fall, there are the new fall products to get excited about! There's the Lula fall 2009 edition that should be hitting Canadian newsstands either this week or the next. Karen Elson is covering it and looks great, especially her gorgeous red hair and its styling. I'm expecting some whimsical yet edgy tinged styling on some of fall's standout trends and designs. MAC is also coming out with a new addition: the style black collection. Some products featured are black and purple lipstick, punky nail polishes, and shimmery jewel toned eyeshadows.

[Photos Courtesy of...Lula: The Fashion Spot and M.A.C.:Temptalia]

Backstage Inspiration: F/W 09

While perusing Style.com, I have "favourite-ed" many cute, inspiring images that capture Fall 2009 backstage action. Featured are Vlada Roslyakova showing off her personal style before getting gussied up in Sonya Rykiel duds. I spied some look-order boards from Max Azria and a beauty guide from DSquared. A photo of red glitter being applied to a model's eyes at Prada also caught my eye. Backstage at Burberry, new modelling phenom Jac shows off this season's frequently seen accessory: the feminine bowler.

Backstage at Marc by Marc Jacobs, models show off the designer's cute, fashion blogger Julia Frakes (from bunny bisous) inspired collection. Finally, there are the Chloe girls hanging out backstage at the Hannah McGibbon designed collection. Models backstage mug for the camera in the fitted, luxurious-looking, perfectly accessorized collection that is Chloe Fall 2009. Meanwhile, Spring 09 Chloe cover girl Anna Jagodzinska totes the "Sally" shoulder bag, and flaunts her own fashion eye before the show.

[ Photos courtesy of Style.com ]