Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Versace FW12 - Not because we like Donatella, but for our love of Gianni

Once there was Opera, then Bondage, and for his last collection in July 1997 before he was brutally murdered, his darker more stringent vision was curtailed - RIP.

Donatella was quoted as "facing her demons" which meant taking on the unrealized promise of her brother's last collection.

You've shed your insecurity and embraced your iconic status - thank you, thank you, and thank you Donatella xoxo

Emilio Puccini FW12 - Smoking Hotttt

When Yves Saint Laurent introduced Le Smoking tuxedo suit for women in 1966, it was revolutionary........

Fast forward 46 years later, and Pucci takes it inspiration - ummmmmm luv luv luv.

PS - no prints for Pucci are revolutionary!!!!!!

Watch out Project Runway

ODK COUTURE!

If you're telling me you know the line, you're probably lying!

ODK Couture is a fabulous new creation by the most talented Mr. Kingsley, who will be auditioning for Project Runway.

I have only been to Houston twice (both times this year), and one thing I will really miss about it are the people - too many wonderful personalities to name, but notably, Shawn, Veronica, and Mille!

Support Shawn Kingsley on Project Runway this season (no pressure mate)........

FENDI FW12 - Hail Caesar

The Roman Hybrid.

Hair styled like statues.

Leather jacket and wool coat in one piece.

Matte and shine as one.

Kilt and skirt in harmony.

Cape and shirt combining plant and animal prints.

And...................an iPad carrier.



Stolen Riches - Take your shoes to the next level!

Since 1915, the Canadian family owned Stolen Riches has been making high quality shoe laces.

Their quote is "Shoes make the individual, then the laces make the statement."

My fellow metro, Denis emailed me their link, then my generous darling wife was kind enough to order me several pairs which I wear lovingly on my shoes.

Now it's your turn to freshen up your shoes!

Monday, February 13, 2012

Celine Spring 12

2 years since Phoebe Philo took over the reins at Celine, the French powerhouse is as strong as ever.

What started as a made-to-measure children's shoe business back in 1945, and expanded to ready-to-wear in the 60s has basque as its theme for Spring 12.

I saw the potiron leather dress on the mannequin and was instantly awed by the incredible hand. Wow!

Akris gets down to boogie!

For SS12 the Swiss luxury ready-to-wear brand blends Jagger's classic moves with disco.

The inspiration starts with Bianca Jagger (Mick's second wife), then goes onto Studio 54.

The pictured face print is from an actual crowd lined up to get into the club from the 70s. Incidentally there is also a coral version of this print, as well as miniature versions of the print available in a silk blouse and skirt.

The final delivery which arrives next month is inspired by the 1966 Grand Prix movie. After a difficult fall season, Akris is undeniably back on track!

Monday, January 30, 2012

L'Artusi, West Village, NY

Supported with fabulous write-ups in Food & Wine, and Conde Nast, this West Village Italian eatery is superb with a wine cellar to support.

Highlights are:
- Beef carpaccio.
- Roasted mushrooms with garlic, fried egg, and cheese.
- Roasted chicken - not even close to being bland, the sauce is so incredible that I had to resist licking the plate.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Viva Oscar

From Gaudi's architectural influence to Picasso's Cubism movement, Oscar de la Renta interprets the modern Spanish movement in his romantic Resort 2012 collection.

This truly "Work of Art" collection includes fine bolero's with detachable horse hair sleeves, stunning prints, and intricate details within plisses. There's a surprise in every step!

Thursday, January 19, 2012

The Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas

I started staying here about a year ago, and have been a faithful visitor ever since.

The crowd here is somewhat more sophisticated than the average Vegas hotel. At least we don't see baggy shorts and Hawaiian shirts here when the sun goes down.

The highlights are:

- The Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar and Grill which serves mouthwatering Wagu Beef, Tuna, and the meatballs, yes the meatballs are out of this world.

- 2 great bars. There is a 3 level chandelier bar, and my fav is the small intimate Vesper Bar which has friendly service and serves almost every cocktail imaginable.

- I'm saving the best for last. The rooms (with the execption of the disgusting City Room meant for the 21 year old weekend out with a 1000 friends) are wonderful and the beds, heavenly. Just make sure to book a Studio King or better!

The Little Black Dress

One of the most essential items in a woman's wardrobe is one or a dozen black dresses.

Whether it be from work to a weekend party, cruise to cocktails, there is always a reason to buy another black dress.

Here are 2 uniquely interpreted looks from the SS12 Escada Collection. My fav is the couture cut dress with the raw edges, cap sleeved on one side and off the shoulder sleeve on the other. You don't need color to make a lasting gorgeous impression here!

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

CANALI Fall 2012 - English Dandy

From Oscar Wilde to the Swinging 60s, Canali's F/W 12 English Dandy collection marries quintessential menswear looks with their impeccable tailoring we have become accustomed to.

Leave Austin Powers at home and arrive for any occasion like the chic Talented Mr. Ripley!

Bring on the Chesterfield, plaid and keep on stylin! Can't wait for the collection to arrive in stores this coming July/August!

Red Valentino

Whilst being given the grand tour today at Neiman Marcus in The Galleria, Houston, we perused by Couture, Designer, and D2 which is where Red Valentino lit up my eyes.

Red Valentino is a more youthful and affordable offering by Valentino which combines style and beauty.

Both the Resort, and SS12 collections were fresh, with a distinct direction focusing on femininity and romance.

This is for the modern lady who wants to look distinguished, chic, couture and edgy without having to take out a mortgage!

Love, love, and adore this collection. Be on the lookout for the pink & navy combinations.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Cypress Lounge and Wine Bar @ The Westin Bellevue

What I thought was going to be another average experience with demi-mediocre wine at the hotel lounge turned out very unexpectedly to be a delightful evening.

The enchanting & wonderful Marketing Lead, Maia asked me about what type of wine I would like to enjoy, and consequently brought me 3 samples, all from local WA wineries.

I decided on the fabulous Matthews Estate 2006 Claret. The same vineyard also produces the more exclusive Tenor brand!

2 samples later, We moved on to the Buty Beast Wildebeest 2008 which had more body, and hints of violet (thanks Maia)!

2 things I learned tonight:

- The grapes cultivated here are on same equator parallel as Bordeaux.

- Great vineyards in Washington State produce wines because they like to enjoy them, not just to sell them!





Thursday, January 5, 2012

Fancy a nibble? True Foods in Phoenix, AZ

A health conscious restaurant that actually has great flavor and taste - genius!!!

The edamame dumplings (something that I would normally not order) are to die for. I have eaten at True Foods with several people over the past year and we all concur that the food is amazing!

Oh yeah, and there's a full bar too........

Dayglow denim - Can boys play too?

From cardinal red to luminous yellow, brightly colored slim-fit designer jeans are all the rage amongst young fashion conscience lasses. So what about the lads?

I didn't give it much thought until I was speaking with the Fashion Director of Neimans and noticed he was supporting a pair of lacquer red ones.

My mission had begun.......

Like most fellas, I cannot wear the bright reds, greens, or yellows, as I feel like I stick out like a sore thumb, and want to wear jeans beyond a season. So what was the answer?

A pair of royal blue denim from Canali's SS12 collection finally lit my eyes, and today I get to enjoy wearing them for the first time.

Keep in stylin!