Read My Lips

WE'VE MOVED

2011-03-15T19:40:00.002-04:00

If you've been wondering why you haven't seen much going on on this blog after I vowed to blog more, it's not because I've abandoned my resolutions. It's because I've started a new & better venture, bringing you the same wit, sass and style of Read My Lips is the new site Spoils of Style.

Check it out.

Lip Service: 29.01.11

2011-01-29T09:25:00.006-05:00

"One [wo]man's style must not be the rule of another's."

-Jane Austen

I may get a lot of flack for saying this but even though I sometimes adore celebrity style choices I know they're not for me. Even things Anna Wintour wears or puts in Vogue don't necessarily pique my fancy, because this tiny little woman (who by the way usually scares the living daylights out of me) has a completely different style perspective from me and I'm completely unapologetic about it. When I was in college my professor told me I had an intriguing way of writing and that I should take some time to identify writers that I liked and try to combine their style with my own, to some extent I listened, but in another breath I'm completely secure in my own abilities. Vera Wang once said that nothing hasn't been done before in fashion, so what fashion is about now is finding a way to meld different things together to create a signature look that's completely you. My style icons give me pause, because not one of them has a body type similar to my own. Yet still three of my favorite stylish women couldn't be more different if they tried, Audrey Hepburn is classic, Leighton Meester is your all-American beauty, and Tami Chynn is a shot of Jamaican flavor.

I'm a girl from the tropics who loves color in an age where everyone would just rather wear black, and I'm always going to stay true to that. My rules for style aren't the same as anyone else's and while I'm sure people can appreciate my taste, when it boils down to styling it for themselves, they'll always opt for something different. Why? Because as Jane Austen says: one man's style must not be the rule for another's. Unless you're one of those people that likes to blend into the background instead of stepping out on your own. Point and case, that's decidedly not me. While I'm not a total fan of Rihanna and her outlandish style statements, the girl has guts and I'm loving her new scent -Reb'l Fleur - because every woman has a little bit of rebellion inside of her and letting that shine through is what makes style so diverse. Did I mention that Reb'l Fleur has the sweet notes of coconut and hibiscus that beckon me back to my childhood in a grown up way.

Getting the Look: Inside Leighton Meester's February 2011 Nylon Editorial

2011-01-28T22:52:00.003-05:00

After the insane snowpocalypse of the winter season my mail finally made it to my door and along with it my was February issue of Nylon that the mailman stuffed in a plastic bag for me. As per usual when receiving a magazine with the lovely Leighton Meester on the cover I flipped right past the staple stories and delved straight into the latest lowdown on Ms. Meester. She's so down to earth it should be sickening but every article I read about her never gets old, nor does the fashion that accompanies it. My favorite shot from the editorial spread was ripe for spring picking, and with the weather the way it is, this is the closest way to a girl can dream that I'll get while wide awake.

While I'm coveting the mustard yellow Chloé dress Leighton rocks, it's still winter and most of the Spring Summer 2011 collections are either still being sewn or sitting in storage rooms waiting for the weather or at least the time of year to improve. The almost nude peach Dolce & Gabbana backless silk chiffon dress has the same billowy flow of the Chloé frock without coming on strong with next season's color palette. Pulling winter's love for layers into the next season gets even better with the Dorothy Perkins cream lace crocheted waistcoat and an ASOS mustard yellow leather waist belt. Add in one part Alexander McQueen studded boots, one part extra long vintage Chanel necklace, a chain layered necklace and a few doses of House of Harlow 1960 14kt Aztec bangles for good measure. Voila! You've got an outfit fit for Nylon's latest cover girl or yourself.

I Want to Feel Like: A Courtesan

2011-01-28T16:32:00.003-05:00

I'm fully aware that 'courtesan' is just a nice way of saying prostitute, except courtesans seem to have more fun. Think Moulin Rouge, minus the perilous STD. or the fact that courtesans were supposed to be fairly well off in their own rite. From accessories to home decor, I'd like to imagine myself, if only for a moment, as an Indian Courtesan with the world as my oyster, and while the former may not be true, I like to believe the world is mine to shape as I see fit. I own my fair share of clutches, but something is so seductive about the grape hue and gold Hindi looking inscription on this particular clutch. As for my home, Indian tapestry is often handmade with beading that I'd die for whether its on clothing or curtains, and this artisan creation is just that and more. If you study Hindu scriptures there's more to this decorated elephant than meets the eye, Ganesha is meant to bring joy, and enrich wisdom and knowledge so keeping this Jay Strongwater adorned figurine close is a sign of good luck. Last but not least, you can't be a courtesan with out a few bangles and these facets of color would have a girl like me who loves color even more than sparkle in lust.

Cult Chronicles: Gossip Girl

2011-01-24T23:23:00.004-05:00

I (la la la la) love Gossip Girl to the point where it could be nauseating to people that don’t share my love of what NYMag calls ‘the greatest show of our time.’ I feel like I’ve grown up with Gossip Girl. I live and breathe with GG on a daily basis, from the books in high school to the show in college. Blair instigated my love affair with Audrey Hepburn and led me to my decision to pursue a career as an editor, or rather to dream of becoming an Editor-in-Chief. In some ways my life has been tied to GG in unexpected ways. Between the Gossip Girl whisper as my text message ringtone, my obsession with Gossip Girl fashion, and my willingness to stick it out even when I thought the writers weren’t getting it, Gossip Girl will always have a special place in my heart.

How do I count the ways I love Blair Waldorf? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, she’s the only character the writers and actors have gotten perfectly right. Blair’s a bitch, the Queen B if you will, but she’s got so many secrets, a heart of gold, and she’s loyal to a fault, I’m attached to this Audrey Hepburn lover in ways I can’t describe. This is the character in pop culture that single handedly revived stockings and headbands. And while her onscreen counterpart couldn’t be more different, I gravitate to Leighton Meester because I realize that the daring style statements and not so elite upbringing behind Ms. Meester have made her an actress that plays roles outside of herself so well. The fact that Blair and I have come to want the same career is just a little icing on the cake in my Blair Waldorf-Gossip Girl love affair.

The Look

As for getting the look, I'm in love with the mix of chiffon and tweed, but as per usual Eric Daman likes to use pieces that are unavailable to us masses so here are a few comparable pieces and a contrasting scarf to add a little bit of me into the Blair Waldorf equation.

Square Lust - Good Morning Scarf; $250.00, Boticca.com

Jason Wu - Crinkled Floral-Chiffon Blouse; $945.00, NeimanMarcus.com

See by Chloé - Tweed Miniskirt; $275.00 (on sale - $77.00), Bloomingdales.com

Wolford - Souvenir Lace Tights; $150.00 (on sale - $60.00), Outnet.com

From Film to Fashion

2011-01-22T13:24:00.007-05:00

Reversible Turban from Madame Framboise; $59.00, Boticca.com

It's my belief in life that everything can be likened to an Audrey Hepburn movie, at least everything in my life. From fashion to philosophy, I can more than likely always tie something back to the woman who taught me a lot about 'how to be lovely.' Moonriver remains one of my favorite songs, simply because its notes of longing and complexity lurk beneath the surface, and Audrey Hepburn's reprisal was, in my completely biased opinion, made for her. Audrey poses off along the windowsil on the fire escape with a guitar in hand and her hair tied up in a towel made to look like a turban. The turban may not have been meant to be as chic as it has become, but everytime I see one or wrap my head in a scarf in the same manner I can't help but picture myself as Audrey Hepburn while humming or belting out a little bit of 'Moonriver.' This reversible turban is perfection, if only I could have a few scarfs made the same way, I'd be in heaven.

Lip Service: 21.01.11

2011-01-21T17:02:00.006-05:00

"I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass."

-Maya Angelou

Quite frankly that statement works literally and figuratively. Exhibit A: Janelle Monae's contrasting-lapel jacket in black on stark white, or the Stella McCartney version with black on ivory. Janelle Monae has possibly taken the fifties menswear thing to an unparalleled level of chic, and I'm looking forward to the day when she replaces Blake Lively as the face of Chanel (hint hint Mr. Lagerfeld). This Maya Angelou quote is the perfect sort of lip service, the kind you keep in the front of a notebook and have it printed, framed and hung on a wall. I plan full well to take this year by storm and grab the world by the now proverbial 'lapels'.

Red Carpet: Golden Globes Jewels

2011-01-17T20:11:00.002-05:00

Jewel tones were hot on the red carpet last night and at least one of my faves was a surprise. I usually hate what January Jones wears, partially because I can't really differentiate between my dislike of Betty Draper and the actual woman behind the character. Nevertheless, I have to hand it to January Jones, that red Versace fringe gown was out of this world stunning, proving that her Grace Jones-esque looks work best when she's glammed up circa 50s and 60s style. I gravitate to the color green, and Mila Kunis and Catherine Zeta Jones look positively stunning. The emerald hue of Mila 'Sweet Lips' (according to Natalie Portman) Kunis' ruched Vera Wang dress couldn't have been more flattering, I kept hoping to catch another glimpse of it during the camera scans throughout the entire show. Catherine Zeta Jones's beauty would radiate in a paper bag, but this Monique Lhuillier ball gown has heightened her goddess like divinity. Surprisingly, accessories were at a lull for the evening, letting the pops of color really set in on the red carpet.

Red Carpet: Golden Globes Sparkle

2011-01-17T13:23:00.004-05:00

Red carpet style kicked off with a little glitz and glamour from the likes of Olivia Wilde, Jennifer Lopez and Jennifer Love Hewitt. I'm obsessed with glitter and shine so spotting these three gowns on the red carpet was a delight to my eyes. Olivia Wilde's full Marchesa ball gown is absolutely gorgeous, paired, the dress alone makes the perfect statement. For all I know she was wearing flip-flops under the gown, but her sleek cut and basic bangs made the look a perfect statement. I'm in love with Romona Keveza. as a matter of fact the Spring/Summer 2011 collection made me cry at Toronto Fashion Week. As for Jennifer Love Hewitt, her updo and dress looked stunning in the understated blue gown and it's sparkly crystal belt. She could have added a veil and taken that dress straight from the red carpet to a chapel for her wedding, which may or may not be a good thing. Nobody does the red carpet like Jennifer Lopez and this white Zuhair Murad gown with the crystal embellished sheer shawl is breathtaking and the slit makes it ultra sexy.

Kristen Stewart's Vogue Cover

2011-01-15T08:28:00.003-05:00

I'm increasingly annoyed with Vogue. It's not that I don't admire Anna Wintour for all of her strides in the publishing industry, and her undeniable reinvention of the fashion magazine. It's also in spite of the fact that Grace Coddington has the uncanny ability to make every Vogue piece she constructs look like a dream I'd like to live in. I find myself saying - 'this magazine just doesn't get me,' for that matter neither does Elle. Between the latest Kristen Stewart February Cover, and Anna Wintour's obsession with Blake Lively, I'm more than a little turned off of Vogue. I think if my subscription ran out and I forgot to renew it, it wouldn't even register to me until someone I actually think is cool was on the cover or the September Issue came out (my guess is as good as yours which would come first). I'd be much more content to sit around reading Lucky and Nylon but these aren't considered the pinnacle of my chosen profession, then again I'm inclined to think that those people deciding what the 'pinnacle' is are a little out of touch.

More to the point of this Kristen Stewart cover, maybe it's because I'm not a huge Twilight fan, or maybe it has something to do with her unsightly lack of confidence. Shyness can be endearing, but I'm more endeared with a bee fluttering about, tempted to sting me. I have to hand it to her stylist, or maybe she was just 'Vogued' like Blake Lively, because I'm still holding a grudge against her for ruining the look of my favorite piece from Yigal Azourel's Fall 2009 collection. I understand if Vogue is trying to reach out to a younger, albeit slightly immature audience (yes I'm calling all of you Twilight heads out), but I'm still waiting to see more faces of color that aren't Halle Berry on the cover of Vogue, even Rihanna is too overdone for me. Speaking of Vogue, I have yet to receive my February Copy, which is actually annoying me because I don't subscribe for kicks.

Vintage Splendor: Accessories

2011-01-13T22:12:00.005-05:00

I'm sure everyone loves to show off the Chanel logo on their quilted purses, but I find the most fantastic ones don't bother with all the label whoring. This Chanel purse is understated elegance at it's best, the perfect evening bag. Brooches are underrated, and I'm not sure I understand why. My grandmother understood the importance of a good broach, they look great and this one adds a little pop of color to even the most contemporary outfit. Frye boots are legendary because they're timeless and built to last, these are a wardrobe staple for any serious vintage lover. I'm obsessed with hats and it's not because I even wear them, it's just because I love to look at them and take pictures in them. Cloches are my absolute favorite, I amp up my curls, add some red lipstick and put on the most seductive pout I can muster, this blueish-purple cloche is handmade and tailored to perfection. Maybe I'm just an accessory and clothes horse but I literally hoard belts, my aunt has this mother of pearl seashell belt that I covet deeply and this belt vaguely reminds me of it, except it's somehow more my style.

The Fantastic Four: Scarves

2011-01-13T18:06:00.008-05:00

It's not that scarves are the most practical accessory, but they're just so darn pretty. I'll wear a scarf around my neck, tied to my purse, and wrapped around my head all because these cuts of fabric look so beautiful. I'll sit down on the floor of a vintage store and rummage through the buckets of scarves to uncover these buried treasures and I don't think I'll ever stop.

From Top Left to Bottom Right:

(1) Foulard - 'Seventy' Scarf; $140.00, Yoox.com. Tons of color make this the perfect seventies chic scarf for a head-tie. (2) Matthew Williamson - 'Batik-print wool-blend' Scarf; $495.00, Net-a-Porter.com. Forget about the weather, I'll wear this in the winter or the summer because it's my favorite thing: colorful. (3) Philippe Roucou - 'Polaroid' Scarf; $349.00, Farfetch.com. I'm in love with this designers take on the scarf, they're like enlarged polaroid prints that I get to admire, tie, and carry. (4) Square Lust - 'Dancing Birds Silk Scarf'; $250.00, Boticca.com. I don't know if I'm just in a Black Swan state of mind or what but this scarf's illustration of bent legs and arms speaks to the dark side of the revered ballerina.

Today's Pick: 12.01.11

2011-01-12T18:18:00.002-05:00

Ebony & Ivory - Bib Necklace, Krista R, $195.00; Boticca.com

Is it just me or is this the total black swan package? Layers and layers of tulle textile, pearls, crystals, and this undone ribbon, tulle, and chains motif make this necklace a signature piece for the inner ballerina. You wouldn't wear it every day, but it's the perfect addition to any little black dress or a plain tank and blazer. It's a perfectly crafted vintage inspiration that I'm sure will prove irreplaceable.

I Want to Feel Like: Marie Antoinette

2011-01-12T11:04:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure which I adore more the French baroque style or French confections like the macaron and croissants. Either way I'd like to follow Marie Antoinette's lead and eat some cake. I'm quite convinced that reincarnation exists, how else can I explain my love for almost every decade and century of fashion we've documented. Right now I'm enraptured by the decadence of French baroque, the extravagance of crystal chandeliers, and the like. Interestingly enough, I'm obsessed with pearls of all shapes and sizes, and although I didn't make the connection, the word baroque initially referred to imperfect, rough pearls. Nevertheless, today I woke up and I thought: I want to feel like Marie Antoinette, and these picks are how I'd do it.

From Top Left to Bottom Right:

(1) Macarons; $2.10, Nadege Patisserie, Toronto, ON. Insanely delectable confections in one cute boutique patisserie, Nadege brings a little bit of France to North America. (2) Erickson Beamon - Talking Heads Chandelier; $40,000.00, Vivre.com. An uber luxurious chandelier, handmade using pearls, Swarovski crystals, vintage cameos and vintage jewelry pieces, also named after the 70s band. (3) Pink French Baroque Chair; $1110, FrenchTouchDeco. A contemporary French baroque designed hot pink chair that'll be the perfect accompaniment to a vanity or white washed desk. (4) Baroque Carved Cabinet; £880, The French Bedroom Company. I can never have too many things to hold my hoards of jewelry and clothing and the detail on this cabinet is utterly divine.

Pop Cult Chronicles: The Game

2011-01-11T23:17:00.001-05:00

They say hindsight is 20/20 and maybe it's for that reason that we're always nostalgic, but I don't think anyone was actually quite ready for what came with the return of The Game. Here are a few things I feel I need to say:

Melanie is a triflin' ass mad woman, and her weave needs a fix up.

Tasha Mac needs to get her swagger back and stop smoking those 'cigarettes' laced with something other than nicotine.

Kelly needs a character overhaul, nothing is right about her character, including her jacked up hair and wardrobe.

Terrence J, err... Devonte needs to go.

Derwin is being taken for a ride, and it's just too damn bad.

Jason is umm... interesting?

TT is less funny, but more likable.

Malik isn't even retired and he's behaving like he's about to become the Brett Favre of The Game (& I don't mean that in a good way).

What in the world did they do with Rick Fox, Camille, and the real Brit Brat?

Hopefully, this and more will be resolved/answered next week.

That's all she wrote... For now

Beauty Booty: Purple Haze

2011-01-11T19:58:00.000-05:00

I'm a self professed beauty addict. When I was in highschool you couldn't get me to wear make up but somehow my bag was always brimming with beauty booty. Fast forward to five years later and I'm officially a make up wearing junky. I put make up on when I'm at home just for fun, and have an almost obsessive addiction with reinventing the smoky eye.

Let's call this one the purple haze:

Thickly line with Estée Lauder Double Wear in Untamed Violet; $19.00.
Dust corner of eyes with opaque shade from Lancôme Holiday Eye Palettes Jewelry Purple; $39.50.
Use the palest pink shade to accentuate your brow.
Dust the mid-tone purple to the rest of the lid.
Layer the mauve-ish purple to the outer corner.
Add a thinner layer of black ELF Brightening Eyeliner; $1.00.
Layer the Estée Lauder Double Wear violet liner on top of the existing liner and blend using the accompanying smudge tool.

Best Brogues

2011-01-06T21:21:00.001-05:00

I don't know if this has something to do with that subliminal crush I have on Janelle Monae or my obsession with Mad Men but I've got this thing for Oxford shoes that I can't quite get over. Here are my five favorite oxfords or brogues at this particular point in time, shoes I've promised myself I'll buy as soon as I stop shopping too often.

Miu Miu - Glitter Crystal-Embellished Brogues

Positively adorable glittery brogue flats.

Price: $585.00

Available at Net-a-Porter.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs - Francesina Oxford

Patent leather beauties, in a deep navy blue.

Price: $295.00

Available at Endless.com

Christian Louboutin - Fred Flat

When you hear Christian Louboutin you think death defying heels, these flats boast the same red sole with an androgynous edge.

Price: $575.00

Available at Barneys

Belle by Sigerson Morrison - Studded Black Leather Oxfords

Studded silver accents on these oxfords give this classic style a little bit more biker chic.

Price: $99.99

Available at Piperlime

Bass - Saddle Oxfords

Last but definitely not least, these classic tuxedo - black and white - flats are the ultimate ode to the good old days and the perfect pair for that Janelle Monae moment I referred to earlier.

Price: $310.00

Available at FarFetch.com

What They Said...

2011-01-04T16:25:00.000-05:00

Hugh Hefner not a sex slave rapist, just a celebration of the Daddy complex. [Gawker]

Art imitates life - M.I.A releases mix tape Vicki Leekx. [VickiLeekx.com]

Think you've got Vampire Diaries all figured out? There may be possibility of a Damon+Bonnie romance. [WetPaint]

Looks like breakup season didn't leave with 2010 - Jake Gyllenhaal & Taylor Swift call it quits. (Am I allowed to smile?) [People]

I remember when I thought Vivica Fox was hot, now she looks like a plastic surgery practice dummy, never mind that she's engaged. [NYPost]

Today's Pick: 03.01.11

2011-01-03T15:24:00.000-05:00

Color-block Silk Dress, 12TH Street Cynthia Vincent, $50.00; TheOutnet.com

In my adolescence you couldn't get me into a dress if you beat me. I distinctly remember my mother beating me into a dress for a family photo that I in turn ruined with a less than attractive, noticeably fake smile. Nevertheless now that I've grown up a little bit, I have an obsession with dresses. When I find myself in a cyber frenzy with a need for some e-retail therapy I more often than not find myself perusing the dress selection. I find silk dresses utterly adorable and after a little window shopping on The Outnet, I've found the latest object of my desire -- a silk turquoise and navy color-blocked silk dress from 12TH Street by Cynthia Vincent.

Things I Covet Deeply

2010-12-30T23:13:00.000-05:00

From Left to Right:

(1) ASOS Bow Headband Turban - $17.24; (2) Alexandria Button Earrings - $145.00; (3) Candela Black Leather 'Pirate Crush' Studded Riding Boots - $284.00; (4) Tsumori Chisato Pleat Shoulder Jacket - $785.00; (5) Rebecca Minkoff - Ostrich Embossed Leather MAB Mini Bag - $525.00

My At Home Vintage Store

2010-08-08T09:02:00.000-04:00

I told my mom her closet was a treasure chest of vintage and she didn't like that. Where else can I find amazing silk or wool pencil skirts and shards of mother of pearl strung together on a necklace for free? I come from a family of shameless pack-rats, my mother still has every stitch of clothing from her pre-marriage wardrobe (future partner promise me you won't let me do that, pry them from my cold dead hands if you must). There are some things that need to toss, if given the chance I might veto more of her current stuff than her old stuff, except for the ones with the dry rot elastics and what-not. Anyway, every now and then she catches me wearing something that actually belongs to her and I have to slap myself for forgetting that her memory is as good as an elephant's. The reprimanding I get for swiping her goodies is worth it, the things I swiped may actually be my favorite wardrobe/accessory pieces so there's no way she's getting them back.

Play Me a Little Ditty

2010-07-30T11:29:00.000-04:00

Chickdowntown.com is back up and running and I've discovered what is quite possibly the cutest necklace + musical instrument combination I've ever seen. The Blow harmonica necklace is too cute, although I have to wonder if it works as well as it looks. There's only one way to find out, pressing the checkout button right now!

A Few Good Pairs

2010-07-01T22:14:00.000-04:00

It wasn't fun when I slid down the water slide and hoisted myself out of the water only to find that one of my favorite earrings went missing. Ever since I lost my knots I've been searching for another pair. Today, as the fates would have it, I finally found another pair. Though they're not exactly the same (they may in all actuality be nicer), I'm officially on cloud nine. I hate that when I'm searching for something I can never find it, the truth of the matter is that even though it's a cliche to say 'it happens when you're not looking' with respect to love it's applicable to practically every aspect of my life (a lesson I've been reminded of day by day).

In January my aunt decided to empty a jewelry box (which was kind of like a pot of gold) on the bed and gave me free reign to take what I wanted. I found these orchid earrings that I love, they're the perfect pair of earrings, so much so that I wear them way too much. I beat myself up every time I fall asleep in them because it always seems like a petal has been distorted by my sleeping habits. I've been worrying about what will happen when I finally do the unthinkable and one of them ends up breaking. Crazy glue had honestly been sounding like a realistic option, until today when I found the beautiful flower earrings listed above.

I may have to wait a few weeks for them to arrive but let me say this incase you haven't heard me say it before: I love ideeli.com. The Antiquities sale is only on for another day or so but if you're interested join the site (here's the link: www.ideeli.com/invite/funnyface.cts) and check them out.

Eat.Shop.Love

2010-06-30T22:09:00.000-04:00

I have to say Georgetown is a beautiful town, from the breathtaking historical architecture to the facts that the boutiques are a shopping lover's dream and the restaurants generously sprinkle delectable food on every block. Today I fell in love with shopping and food all over again. Maybe it's because I've started to develop a new love for my body and myself again (it's amazing what a good book can do) or maybe it had more to do with the setting than anything else. Either way I had fun today.

I admit I hate when I try something on and it doesn't fit, sometimes it's disheartening and I leave the store feeling FAT. But for the first time in a long time, regardless of what I tried on today as the pile of what didn't fit mounted, I decided that my curves weren't a curse and the little positive voice inside of me did cartwheels as I consumed Georgetown Cupcakes and a Philly Cheese Steak (yum!).

Check out my spoils, && yes I can style them all three different ways! Considering I came home with only three pieces, I clearly had a lot more fun dressing my doll (well sister).

I ♥ My Ray Bans

2010-06-23T23:46:00.000-04:00

Remember those Ray Ban Wayfarer Rare Print NYC Subway sunglasses I mentioned a couple weeks ago? Well I've got them!

That's all she wrote...For Now

The Wardrobe Challenge

2010-06-23T22:57:00.000-04:00

(image courtesy of bs_Art on deviantart.com)

There's this 'Wardrobe Remix' contest on Chictopia.com that's got me thinking about my wardrobe. The premise of the contest is being able to style one piece in your wardrobe three different ways, a contest that I've come to realize is more of a challenge (after doing a once, twice and thrice over of my closet). Sure I can take a vintage scarf and style it three different ways, but the other elements have made me a little miffed. My challenge for the next 5 wardrobe pieces I buy (with the exception of the 2 or 3 swimsuits I'm planning on buying tomorrow) is to only buy clothing that I can style three different ways. This challenge starts today, think I can do it? (I don't even know if I can.)

That's all she wrote...For Now

Things I Covet Deeply

2010-05-26T21:03:00.000-04:00

Summer is practically here and there are a few things I'm contemplating squandering what money I make from my freelance projects on. (see below & tell me you don't want them too)

Marc New York; Suggested Retail Price $168.00; Ideeli Price $69.00

Isn't it lovely? I have a thing for tulip skirting. Not to mention it's more than 50% off the suggested retail price. Remember you have to be invited to Ideeli, so here's my invitation link: www.ideeli.com/invite/funnyface.cts

Ray Ban, Rare Prints - NYC Subway; Suggested Retail Price $139.00

I tried them on at the Sunglasses Hut && fell absolutely in love. I've promised myself I'll own them in a few weeks.

Bridget Sandals - Made in Jamaica; approximately $100 each

In truth I've been lusting after a pair of these for over a year, they're gorgeous handmade creations and of course I'm even more of a fan because they were made in Jamaica.

Urban Outfitters - Kimchi Skirt; Suggested Retail Price $58.00

It's so adorable, and the lace adds this touch of Victorian elegance that makes it slightly sexy.

OMFG: Gossip Girl Season Finale

2010-05-18T10:48:00.000-04:00

You know I check spoilers more than I should, so the first half of Gossip Girl was everything I expected it to be. I have to wonder if it would have been better if I didn't know that Jenny was going to sleep with Chuck, but I can safely thank the GG Cast & Crew for keeping tight lipped about the second half of the finale. It felt like a sneak attack, everything was as it should be, I knew Chuck was going to propose and that it was going to go horribly awry. But I have to say this finale set up next season for a few OMFG moments. For starters I'm hearing rumors of the Season 4 premiere being filmed in Paris! I'm expecting season 4 to be bigger and better than ever. As for Jenny, am I allowed to say "THANK GOD SHE'S GONE?," or is it too soon? Who really believes that Dan is the father of Georgie's baby? As for Nate turning from the knight in shining armor to Chuck 2.0, he could get interesting, or STD's (sorry I had to say it). But the biggest bang of all wasn't little J throwing away her V card, or finding out that Serena and Dan still have feelings for one another, or even Blair putting the Bitch back in Queen B, but Chuck lying in an alley being shot after trying to hold on to what I can only guess was at least a 4 carat Harry Winston Engagement ring for Blair! It brought me to tears, and as you may all remember I've never been a die hard Chuck & Blair fan.

As I said last night after the GG finale on twitter, rather incoherently I might add: "OMFG! NOOOOO! Chuck! Gha! *tears*." I'm still not sure anything but that tweet explains how completely and utterly flummoxed I was after the finale.

Did I mention that I love that Gossip Girl always finds a way to intertwine the plot with famous love stories, I don't care what anyone says, the writers are brilliant!

Read My Lips: GG Update

2010-03-21T21:56:00.000-04:00

(image courtesy of reereedaflip on deviantart.com)

So Gossip Girl just got complicated, but didn't we already know that mommy dearest to Chuck Bass was going to turn out to be a snake in the grass? I kind of wish Chuck handed over the reigns of his hotel to Blair, at least then we'd get to see the power hungry B**** we love back in action. I miss the real Queen B. As for the rest of the GG cast, is it too soon to say that Serenate bores me - (I mean really!) exchanging I love you's after three episodes of lustful sex, there was hardly any buildup and there's even less real chemistry. Serena just doesn't know how to be alone. As for Nate, I think I'd like to see Nate and Jenny take a dip in the GG cesspool. Even though I should feel bad for her Lil J annoys me, and I probably would have liked it better if she lost the big V in tonight's episode. Instead we've been led down another street of deja vu, where Jenny Humphrey fakes popping her cherry once again (didn't this happen the same time last year too?!?) Moving on to the only thing that really got good tonight, I'm actually loving Dan and Vanessa as a couple - not so boring after all. Looks like I'll need to load up my MetroCard, it's time to leave the posh sites of the Upper East Side and head south to get down and dirty in Brooklyn.

Summer Anthem!

2010-03-14T16:32:00.000-04:00

It's 2 months before my summer starts, and I've already found my 2010 summer anthem! Certified Diva - Tifa featuring Tami Chynn. No surprise there it's by Tami Chynn, I can picture myself now with the sunroof open and the beat blasting through my speakers. Take a listen.

That's all she wrote...For Now

2010-03-07T11:53:00.000-05:00

(image courtesy of ~after-the-party on deviantart.com)

I would like to direct your attention to my new blog, it's called That's all she wrote...For Now. Call me crazy, and rightly so - with the random spattering of thoughts swarming around in my brain I've decided to document the craziness that makes me - Me. Call it my quarter-life antics - born out of the aformentioned quarter-life crisis I'm coming out of - I'm realizing a few things about myself and about life - care to join me for the bumpy (and highly entertaining ride)? You're welcome to join me @ thatsallshewrotefornow.blogspot.com -- You'll still be able to read my lips here too - and I'm promising to get back to the lip service very soon!

Rent The Runway

2010-02-19T15:06:00.000-05:00

Sex and the City introduced us to BagBorrowSteal, and now I'll introduce you to RentTheRunway.com. Even though Anna Wintour encourages us to wear items in our wardrobe more than once we all know that once you've been caught on camera in a dress you love the chances you'll wear it out again just hit below zero (thanks twitter & facebook). Meet the solution to that closet full of dresses you'll never wear more than once, for 10% of the retail price you can rent that Yigal Azrouël frock you spotted (ahem! drooled over) in the pictures you've been filing over from NY Fashion Week. Online shopping has never been easier: 1. Pick the dress you want & when you want it delivered (P.S. it comes in 2 sizes just to be safe!) 2. Wear it (bonus: get the satisfaction of making all your friends jealous) 3. Return it in the prepaid packaging! With labels like Temperly London, Alice + Olivia, Robert Rodriguez, Proenza Schouler and so many more a girl's closet options just gained infinite possibilities.

Re-Wind: Back Track on I Will Always Love You

2010-01-06T19:49:00.000-05:00

I'm one of those people that tends to act like I have a personal relationship with their favourite characters, both in my favourite books and my favourite TV shows. Since I grew up reading Gossip Girl for most of my teenage life the Blair, Serena, Nate love triangle will always hold a special place in my heart. Knowing this is the final novel in the series is actually a little heartbreaking, and in some ways a parallel to the closing chapter of my own adolescence. In my last few posts I've been a bit nostalgic, maybe even overly so, but the truth be told is sometimes you need to look to the past, especially when you're trying to figure out where you're going. I credit Blair Waldorf for my undying love for Audrey Hepburn which at this point in my life surpasses my love and adoration for Blair. It's actually made me into the person I am today, it's the first series I really interacted with and now the final novel was in some ways self reflexive of the last four years of my own life. There are however a few things I'd like to say about the one I will truly always love. I'll forgive Cecily Von Ziegesar and her editor for their momentary lapse in judgement (i.e. the additional, need I say forced) Chuck & Blair story line, that had very little development because she stayed true to the thing that made the books compelling, the never ending love triangle between Blair, Serena and Nate. I may deny that I'm a romantic but when it comes to Nate and Blair, I'll always have a soft spot. It's true what they said when the TV series first started - Nate was always caught between the love of his life and the girl of his dreams, but who does he choose in the end, or for that matter who do Serena and Blair choose in the end: that you'll have to read to believe. You'll love it if you loved the book series, and if you haven't read the series yet, you should seriously think about it (but don't cheat and read just the last one, start from the beginning, it's way more interesting that way). You're nobody 'til your talked about. xoxo - Gossip Girl

The More Things Change...

2009-12-30T20:57:00.000-05:00

The more they stay the same. Now that may sound like a cliche, and I'd ordinarily agree and never even think of using it in this post but in the case of the new and final chapter in the original Gossip Girl series it couldn't be closer to the truth. I finally ordered in online when to my dismay no one bought it for me for my birthday or for Christmas, Yes I am a twenty year old English major and this is technically a young adult/teenage read that my professors would probably be appalled that this made the cut so high on my reading list but meh! It's a guilty pleasure that I am not willing to give up. Seventy Seven pages into Cecily Von Ziegesar's brand new masterpiece, "I Will Always Love You" and I've been transported back to the days before the TV show, when I sat in my room and instead of watching TV and talking on the phone I was enraptured in the likes of "Would I Lie to You" "It Had to Be You" and "Nothing Can Keep Us Together". I was slightly apprehensive about picking up this book, after so many years, could Cecily be able to recapture the essence of the characters? After the It Girl and The Carlyles, would I be as in love with it, or have I matured too much. (Ha, that's a laugh) Turns out, I'm just as much of a kid now as I was 6 years ago when I opened my first Gossip Girl novel. I wish these books could live on forever and find it quite strange to compare it to the TV show when (except for the accurate depiction of Blair) everything else seems so far removed. Thankfully the images of the characters I'd created in my head all those years ago have remained unscathed by the small screen adaptation. To all avid Gossip Girl lovers alike: we may all have to grow up sometime but even if it's just for now pick it up and give Gossip Girl one last read. You know you'll love it xoxo.

Downtown Disaster

2009-12-29T14:40:00.000-05:00

So in 2009 there've been countless letdowns in the fashion industry between the bailouts and the bankrupcies. With designers playing it safe, fashion lovers have been the ones taking the risks, but not with our pocketbooks -- we've been digging into the back of our closests to find those clothes (tags still on or not) that we'd thought we'd never wear again refashioning them into some vogueworthy pieces. Possibly one of the biggest shocks of all was when Christian Lacroix filed for Bankruptcy. Now with a few days before the New Year Chickdowntown has filed for the big B too. I'm sad to see it go, it was one of my favourite fashion find sights for pitches for my freelance projects. Even with all this downsizing despair nothing can cheer a girl up quite like a sale, get your hands on all the remaining stock on Chickdowntown.com with an additional 50% off using the promo code Friend50. Did I mention they've got all the labels I love, from Foley and Corrina, Alice + Olivia, Guiseppe Zanotti, Calypso, MARC by Marc Jacobs and so many more!

I decided to check back on Chickdowntown.com this week & I'm happy to report it is back up and running! =D (06/06/2010)

Toni Toni Toni

2009-12-27T00:57:00.000-05:00

So I've been quite a bit nostalgic these last few months and as much as I idealize my childhood I know full well that aside from the fact that everyone can admit to loving Backstreet Boys, NSync, Britney Spears and Spice Girls, and therefore commiserate on our bad choices (and laugh fondly and belt out one of our favourites at Karaoke) the elitist in me is quite ashamed of almost all of my young music tastes, save for one or two artists. To most people I'm still quite young, but to the younger generation, the fact that I've seen the phasing out of both cassettes and CD's means I'm ahem "Old". If you ask me what I was raised on I'll tell you a mix of probably what ever adolescent in North America was in the 90's and an added measure of the Jamaican stuff that to this day I love with no hesitation or sense of shame (i.e. Bob Marley, Third World, Buju Banton & Peter Tosh, all of which are male mind you) and why would I? Rifling through all the keepsakes and memories I've held onto over the years (you better believe that it's a lot, I will grudgingly admit to my packrattyness) somewhere between the Spice Girls Posters and the costume I wore for my first self choreographed dance performance at camp -- Backstreet Boys "Everybody" (don't laugh, I still think that it was an outstanding showcase of talent) I found the old cassette that I all but burnt a hole into playing over and over (and over) again in my aunts car growing up and on that cassette that I treasured more than life itself is a medley of two female artist -- Toni Braxton and Mariah Carey. Now as much as I'll always love Mariah she's pretty much sold out to the new R&B/Pop Genre, yet there's something about Toni that is just as soulful as the first day I heard "Another Sad Love Song" or "Breathe Again", I can't stop playing her new single featuring Trey Songz "Yesterday" and the funny thing about it is that considering the fact that they've been singing for over 15 years (regardless of how much plastic surgery they may or may not have had) these women still look phenomenal and sexy too, leaving me with hope in tact that I'll be able to age that gracefully.

Resolutions

2009-12-26T18:36:00.000-05:00

So this year I've been really bad with keeping up on my blogging, so the first resolution on my lengthy list is to keep this blog going and start a new blog about my quarter life crisis. Who says that at 20 years old we don't have a care in the world. Since the clock struck 12 on my 20th birthday I've been bombarded with the complexities of life after 19. A - I was no longer a teenager *a fact that made me somewhat happy until my sisters friends proceeded to inform me, as only shreiking teenager girls can "You're OLD!!!", B - I was and am now halfway to 40 (a notion I was all too happy to point out to my older friends, but made me less so when it came to me), in ten years I'd like nothing more than to sign my emails, and proffessional documents Chanelle Sicard, Editor-in-Chief of (insert name of some uber successful Fashion Magazine here). Lauren Conrad had crows feet at 21, so even though I'd like to think it's premature I shallowly inspect my face every morning for even the slightest trace of a wrinkle. Reality has been hitting me hard, both in the months leading up to and the months following my big 2-0. I've developed a seething impostor complex, as if at 20 someone's going discover I'm a fraud of some sort or another, even though I'm not even sure what exactly it is about me that's remotely fraudulent. Between graduating, the impending move to the concrete jungle, my life in retrograde and enough men problems for 5 women I think I've met and exceeded my drama quota for 2009 and 2010 put together. My resolutions this year are appropriately not so much New Year's Resolutions but Resolutions for my 20's. I'll be working on a resolution that by 2020 I should have achieved, tackled, and dealt with as appropriate.

Feet Relief

2009-10-24T21:45:00.000-04:00

Okay, so even with the best foot cushions money can buy, there comes a time when your instep can no longer take the unnatural position courtesy of your stiletto heels. Those used to be comfortable Ellie Tahari heels are posing a health risk, and beckoning for a trip to the chiropractor to undo the damage. It may be two months away but I've already started making my Christmas list, and number one on my list are Footzyrolls, the perfect compact shoes that look great and give your feet the much needed relief they crave after a night on the dancefloor. They beat walking barefoot with heels in hand any day, and I'll never have to worry that my feet won't make the next two steps to get through the doorway.

The Arsenal

2009-10-23T22:38:00.001-04:00

Every girl has her fashion and beauty must haves, the old faithfuls that she'll always go back to no matter what. A concept that makeup companies sometimes don't understand, especially when they decide to discontinue something. Up until I started university the use of makeup was foreign to me, I relied on one thing good old vaseline (the all purpose lip gloss, moisturiser, and sometimes even make up remover). Those days seem so far removed today when my beauty kit is practically overflowing (and in need of some spring cleaning now that I think of it), I've reached the point in my life where I've determined at the very least, half of what works for me, and I've begun to compose my very own arsenal.

The Back Saver
Maidenform's backless bra

As a pretty well endowed female I'd come to hate the backless numbers that looked so cute but offered no semblance of support. I'd written them off as something I wouldn't be able to wear, but thanks to maidenform, that's a song I no longer have to sing, the backless bra actually works, so now I can feel free to show off my nicely toned back muscles (if I do say so myself)!

The Lash Master
Lash Blast from Cover Girl

Forget all the hightech gadgetry with the vibrating wands and the circular shaped tip (my absolute least favourite), nothing makes my thick but not so long lashes pop quite like this baby. I remember when it came out, a friend of mine had chastised me about my mascara obsession and kept me from buying it for months, but I knew even before I'd tried it that this was the answer to my lashful woes.

The Magic Maker

Vasanti Magic Liner

I stumbled upon this treasure during my internship at Sweetspot.ca. As a girl who hates using average colour combinations and loves to make liner out of all of her shadows, I've finally found my (not so secret) secret weapon. Before this gem popped up out of obscurity I was confined to mixing a little visine with my shadows and an eyeliner brush (a perfectly adequate solution if you can't get your hands on this baby).

The Gam Poser
Hue StockingsI've admittedly hated my legs for most of my life, and as I move up into adulthood and accept my toned yet huge thighs I have found their must have accessory, from the lace flowers to the diamond prints to just plain old blacks and blues, Hue gives my legs that extra something that makes me look past how big they are and for lack of a better word sexifies them.

The Foot Doctor
Airplus Foot Cushions

As a shorty standing at 5 foot 3 inches I wear heels as much as I can, which can wreak havoc on my feet, after the Fall LG Fashion Week earlier this year I discovered the most amazing cure to my tootsie troubles. I can wear my heels anywhere, dance the night away and (almost) never have to be that girl walking out of the club barefoot with shoes in hand. These gel cushions give me that extra comfort I need to make those extra ten steps to my door after a night on the town.

LG Fashion Week - The Rundown

2009-10-23T20:11:00.000-04:00

After a week at the tents I'm exhausted, but now it's time for a rundown of the entire week. Plagued by bad weather that couldn't make up its mind between the sunshine and the rain, the cold and a few degrees above that, LG Fashion Week still came out shining. From the Chandeliers in the Showroom to the garments on the Runway, this season's show was decadent & phenomenal. My favourite moments? Maybe it was almost interrupting Stacy McKenzie mid-interview and living to talk about it. OR the fact that I did get a pretty good look at almost every collection shown this week, either way I had fun. This season started off collaborating

Fashion with the Shakespearean Era, featuring lots of lace, capes and lavish fabrics (I'm a sucker for any literature references). Between the Barbie by David Dixon collection and the show's featuring of the soundtrack to Funny Face and a clip from the film I was completely floored by the homage to my favourite Audrey Hepburn classic, not to mention the collection. Aside from my Audrey Hepburn love affair, that makes me completely biased - the NADA show was my absolute favourite, I'd be willing to say this collection was the perfect Spring collection, with just the right combination of florals, lace, and an ethereal quality, NADA's at the top of my list of favourite Canadian Designers. My biggest disappointment: not being able to see the September Issue (but hey I'll see it very soon =D).

The NADA Show

Barbie by David Dixon

Opening Night @ LG Fashion Week

(I love this cape!)

Opening Night @ LG Fashion Week

(Loved the combination of pink, lace and the cape)

Opening Night @ LG Fashion Week

2009-10-12T13:31:00.000-04:00

As a loyal Audrey Hepburn follower, my staple hairstyle is a pinned updo. I've contemplated and nearly convinced myself to cut my hair into a pixie cut (Roman Holiday), then a permanent updo (How to Steal a Million) all to no avail. My hair may be medium length, a little past my shoulders, and offers me some versatility, but if it's one thing you can almost always count on, it's that my hair will be pinned up in some variation or another. As prim and proper as I tend to be, I kind of enjoy making my hair a little dishevled. When I run out of ideas or need inspiration the first place I run to is BellaSugar, their step by step guides have turned me into a pro in making my otherwise basic hair cut into some pretty sweet stylings. Exhibit A: Kristen Bells' hairstyle and my own above, I myself still can't completely master that 4 part braid, but it still came out pretty nicely.

Mercury in Retrograde

2009-10-01T14:28:00.000-04:00

Interested in what goes on in the mind of a NYT Page Six Editor? The woman with the inside scoop on the hottest gossip in the city that never sleeps, Paula Froelich recently published her debut novel, Mercury in Retrograde. When Mercury falls into retrograde, all hell breaks loose for three New York women, in all the chaos and calamity this unlikely trio end up living in the same apartment building and become best friends. When Penelope Mercury burns her office to a crisp and projectile vomits all over her boss, things couldn't possibly get any worse. The fashionable socialite/editor Lena "Lipstick" Lippencrass, is served with a parental eviction notice, forcing her to pull herself up by her Jimmy Choo bootstraps. As for the workaholic/neurotic newly divorced Dana Gluck, when her (seemingly) picture perfect marriage, turns out to be anything but, she's got to learn that working 24/7 and (unneccessarily) attending Weight Watcher meetings isn't the remedy to getting over the depression that follows a failed marriage. The story that follows these three ladies as they're smacked back into orbit had me more than giggling in amusement in less than appropriate places (yes that was me on the train laughing while you were trying to sleep). I'll be waiting for Paula Froelich's next masterpiece.

My Fall Lineup

2009-09-26T15:43:00.000-04:00

A little late I know, but between keeping up with the newest slots on the small screen and getting back to my old favourites, I don't know where I've been. After the TV dry spell of the summer, I may not be delighting in the change in temperature, but what the thermometer lacks on the outside, it more than makes up for on the inside. I never thought I'd love a remake of an 90's classic, but I've got to say Melrose Place has earned itself a spot on my DVR (it's kind of like t boardgame clue, set to the small screen, but more fabulous and set in an LA gated community instead of am odd old creepy mansion). Isn't Ashley Simpson's character more creepy than the crypt keeper? Curiously enough I think I'm actually starting to like The Beautiful Life, wait don't disown me! All things considered when I remember back to the early days of Gossip Girl as hard as I've tried to forget, the Pilot was absolutely terrible, and the Beautiful Life was actually not nearly as atrocious. No one was styled right and the episode may have actually left me reeling from inaccuracy. Back to the future, Gossip Girl is back, and I have to say as much as I've missed it I'm still waiting for it to get really interesting, everyone's happy, well except the brooding, tortured Serena (which isn't the least bit interesting), and of course Blair's got her mountains to conquer (which she eventually will). As for Mad Men, I wish now, more than ever that I was alive in the 60s, the hairstyles, the clothes and the smell of sex in the office come together to create one sinful Sunday. As I sit here typing away I find myself selecting a few unexpected shows to fill my tv fix. Michelle Trachenberg may be giving Blair Waldorf a run for her money and snuggling up to Dan Humphrey, much to my dismay, but I'm interested in seeing what she does with her role on the new wannabe Grey's Anatomy -- Mercy. As I mourn the loss of Lipstick Jungle I'm still searching for the fall show that will fill that void... any ideas?

Gone Mad

2009-08-15T09:01:00.001-04:00

Okay so if you haven't gotten it by now, I'm obsessed with Mad Men, tomorrow is the Season 3 premiere (YAY!). I'd like to abduct the hair and wardrobe stylists pronto - because if it's one thing no other primtime show can touch (except maybe gossip girl in the fashion department) it's the styling. I've never been so tempted to smoke a cigarette (no I haven't and of course I won't), but still this show is just amazing. When one of my favourite professors said it was everything we study about and more (in cultural studies) I was a more than a little bit interested, but I could never figure out how to work it into my busy schedule. Now that I'm all caught up on season's one and two I vow never to miss another episode. Plus it's set in New York, in a time when I should have been alive - my soul is kindred spirits with the 1960's and there's no getting around that. It's so twisted and juicy, after all it's where (even) the truth lies. I'm excited for tomorrow night, it's amazing how much TV keeps me happy - I guess that's the life of a pop culture junkie. I'm off to attempt one of those crazy artistry like updo's, next week it's the Betty Draper coiff.

The One Earring Blues

2009-08-15T08:29:00.000-04:00

Okay so I'm terrible at this keeping a pair of earrings a "pair" of earrings thing. I lost one of my favourite earrings yesterday to a waterpark ride, even though I should have the sense to know not to wear them, stupidity caught me. It's not the first time my duo's have gone solo, so I'm trying to concot the perfect solution to my recurring issue. When I was a teenager in highschool, I used them to decorate my kilt, if they were cute and dangly that was where they went before they ended up in my earring retirement home. I don't quite have the heart to throw them away, so I've got to find a place for them that doesn't include them never being seen again. I've contemplated a modern art project that'll have ever solitary (and I mean solitary) earring that I own that has ever been left alone. But I've been thinking, I can't possibly be the only person that this happens to, so I'm on a mission to solve this one for all of us. That's my new design project, just thought I'd give you all a heads up, because or else we plan to put all our hair to one side for the rest of our lives something's gotta give.

Bloggers remorse

2009-08-14T18:09:00.001-04:00

So I didn't really blog at all in July, nor the first week of August. It was a terrible month for me, I can't lie. I wasn't on vacation soaking up rays of sun (I wish). Instead I was thoroughly entranced in life as an intern/communications department assistant/association president, oh and let me not forget studying for my grad school exams. All these things still exist in my life but in the absence of blogging I've come to appreciate my blog time for everything it gives me and the things it doesn't take from me. While I was gone I dealt with everything from lovers spats (still being dealt with) to the more important stuff like catching up on a TV series I've come to love that's circa 1960's (I'll give you three guesses, but I hope by now it should only take one). I can't apologise enough for leaving without a word, but i'm back, with more lip service than before, so get ready to - Read my lips.

Newfound Love Affair

2009-07-01T21:53:00.001-04:00

So my love for pop culture never stops and since regular television is off season I've had some time to find a new addiction. I can't believe I didn't fall for this show in its first season, mostly because I was so taken up with Gossip Girl, Women's Murder Club and Lipstick Jungle among other things, but after the numerous golden globe wins something should have clicked. I've taken a time warp in the last month and a half. After watching the entire first season of Mad Men it would seem as if i'm living in the 60's (at least in my head).
I love the fashion, since I fell in love with Audrey Hepburn the 1960's stole my heart. Admittedly, I walk around with my hair in rollers and a vintage scarf a la Breakfast at Tiffany's with a ukelele playing Moonriver. As for the show, something about the salacious office affairs and the questionable office politics has me hooked, i'm preordering the season two DVD right now!

Lip Service #12

2009-07-01T19:56:00.000-04:00

So there was this boy that I absolutely positively adored, no matter how hard I tried I couldn't get him out of my mind, but I knew deep down it was pointless. We wanted different things, were completely different people and would probably never agree on anything. Now when I was a teenager those kinds of relationships were the ones I thrived on, the constant fighting and arguing gave me such a rush and the drama was exciting, but now I don't have the time for it so I let prince charming pass me by. Yes I said prince charming, imagine everything you ever wanted in a man plus an ample amount of bonuses personified, well that was him for me... My problem - I don't do commitment and no matter how perfect he is i'm still not ready. So there I sat last night watching PS I Love You (a hilarious book by the way), only to hear the perfect proverbial chick's way to say exactly how I was feeling. Some may say square peg round hole, but this one fits so much better:

Lip Service #12: Your like a pair of shoes that I really want to buy, but they just don't fit!

A different time a different place and it could have all been perfect!

Sound off: GG update

2009-07-01T19:21:00.000-04:00

Okay so in the midst of the Gossip Girl hiatus I've turned to checking out every blog and news site that google would feed me about updates and hints to the upcoming 3rd season's shenanigans. To my deep upset I stumbled upon multiple reports that Hilary Duff will be joing the Gossip Girl cast for a few episodes slated to start airing in October. Can I just say that two letter word I hope you're all thinking; NO! Just plain and simple, why do the casting directors insist on putting has been tween celebs into the mix, it's enough to have Michelle Tratchenberg as Georgina Sparks. I've learned to live with her presence because I actually kind of liked Harriet the Spy but Lizzie McGuire needs to stay away from the Upper East Side. That's my verdict, && the idea of her and Dan Humphrey together isn't winning her any points either.

&& I still haven't found what i'm looking for

2009-06-29T18:02:00.000-04:00

Every season I have my signature shade. My nails are always a distinctly different colour from everyone else around me and there's a certain level of pride that I take in that. This summer I'm wavering between a neon green from OPI nail lacquer called Gargantuan Green Grape (gotta love the name) and a concoction I've created in an attempt to create grey, since I can't find the shade on any shelf from here to Timbuktu. I've heard of OPI's Moon over Mumbai from the India Collection, but can spot it nowhere in sight.

My Mix:

3 coats OPI Funny Bunny
2 coats OPI Stars in My Eyes
Finish 1 top coat OPI Funny Bunny

Lip service #11

2009-06-14T20:36:00.001-04:00

This weekend was a bit of an adventure for me, up until yesterday my lip service inspiration was at a dismal low. On a little expedition of the city with a few friends that came to visit from out of town we began a search for a psychic, itching for someone to read our palms and give us a little insight into our futures. Out of 5 of us our satisfaction with our readings ranged from high 90's to the abysmal mid 50's. Some of us found her extremely accurate, while I myself was taken aback by the sheer ludicrousy of her predictions for my life. Now the sheer fact that I've been made aware of this possible life outcome makes me completely determined for my life not to end up that way and that is where I stumbled upon this weeks lip service.

Lip Service #11: The thing about seeing into the future is that once you've seen it it changes. We are creatures that determine our own destinies.

The fact that I've been made aware of my "future" makes me apprehensive and a bit more determined to choose a path that contradicts what I've been told. I like to believe and the psychic said it herself, we choose where we end up, and let's just say I'm choosing not to end up where my reading says I will.

Lip Service #10

2009-06-05T10:51:00.001-04:00

Truth can be found anywhere, and only the wise ones are likely to discover what is right in front of their eyes. This weeks lip service may run a bit longer than usual but as I sipped my Starbucks passion tea and savoured every bite of my ginger molasses cookie (my number one sugar vice) I stumbled upon a truth I really didn't see coming. Nuzzled in an average activity like my signature starbucks pick me up was trademark "The Way I See It", with words that told me everything I needed to know. Now maybe I'm getting a bit soft because for the first time in a long time I've got someone in my life that makes me believe in the romantic babble I've been so careful to avoid for the past few years, but I really believe that this one is true. My phobia of relationships would like to slap starbucks for knocking my sweet little notions about the confinement of commitment right on it's posterior end, but hey truth is truth I'm nothing if I don't face it.

Lip Service #10: The Way I See It #76: The irony of commitment is that it's deeply liberating - in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from fear that likes to dress itself up and parade itself around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life.

And that truth my dears is all she wrote for now...

Lip Service #9

2009-05-29T14:29:00.000-04:00

I've been talking to a few friends about which of my friendships are the strongest and why. It occurs to me that my relationships are strongest when my friends confront me. I seem to have this notion in my head that the only books I find good and the only people I find interesting are those that without pause call me out with as much disregard for my feelings as possible. I like to hide from myself, I self destruct so I don't have to face the truth... So what I need in my life are people and materials that refuse to let me hide. I think I'm privileged to have friends like this and I guess it takes some serious measures of maturity to not hate these people and push them out of my life. The only way we can truly grow is to open ourselves up to seeing ourselves rather than the facets of ourselves that we'd like to see. So my lip service for the week comes from my own life lessons on soul searching and self analysis:

Lip Service #9: We must allow others to show us the things we can't see in ourselves. Self discovery comes when we acknowledge ourselves fully and lay down our facade.

Now I'm off to enjoy my weekend I hope you all do the same.

That's all she wrote for now...

The New York Woman in Me

2009-05-26T18:56:00.000-04:00

Since I finished 4 Blondes, another Candace Bushnell book I've been left to reflect on the type of woman I am and the type of woman I'll become. Though this book is very low on my list of books I'd suggest anyone read I find that Bushnell's knack for telling it like it is, and saying the things we're not supposed to say has forced me yet again to confront myself. When I read Lipstick Jungle I'd decided that between the ages of 30 and 40 I wanted to be the kind of woman that was at the top of her career, just like Nico, Wendy, and Victory and that I'd do anything to get there. Now I've found the trick, after reading through another tale about New York women I'm confronted with the aftermath. It would seem that although I've spent the better part of the last couple years denying want of marriage and family that I am just as Bushnell writes her characters and quite possibly an all true New York woman (whether or not I was born there). When I've reached the top of my career I'm going to have spent too many nights in my empty apartment and I'm going to want that dream life that I've tried so hard to avoid wanting. I'm going to want to get married and have adorable childen, even if its not what I say I want right now. In their youth New York women love their independence, the belief that their career is what matters and the notion that they don't need anyone else, I can say that that's me now. But in a couple of decades, the other woman, the woman that I don't recognize, the one that wants a family life: husband and child(ren)- I may become her.

Assless Apparel -- WTF?!?!?!

2009-05-25T10:55:00.000-04:00

Okay I'm not going to say anything else. I'm just going to post the pic of American Apparel's latest atrocity... but really assless tights?

Lip Service #8

2009-05-21T22:36:00.000-04:00

I'm one of those people that hates talking about their feelings, all the vulnerability and openness is like a big flaging red danger sign that I've gotten into the habit of taking a detour away from. So where has my detour landed me, I suppose some would call me terminally single, maybe it's because of my irrefutable denial of having actual feelings or the fact that I'm as picky when it comes to men as a serious art collector would be about picking out the next piece to add to their collection. Truth be told I'm terrified of the idea that I could possibly like someone that they could potentially change my entire outlook on life. Recently somethings hit me, being single for too long is just as bad as being in a relationship for too long. Change is good, and even if that change requires somewhat unsettling risks that require that we open ourselves up to the possibility of failure (an option I've also never really welcomed), risks must be taken for personal growth and for us to be able to thrive instead of continuing to survive as we have been. So my lip service for the week puts these risks into contexts and offers some actual advice that I'm actually trying to take.

Lip Service #8: Forget the risk, take the fall if its what you want its worth it all.

It's a Woman's World: Jennifer Hudson's Proposal

2009-05-11T12:05:00.001-04:00

Okay so she was already engaged, he proposed to her a year ago for her birthday but nevertheless the girl popped the question to her already fiance with a five carat diamond and platinum engagement ring by Neil Lane to match her equally exquisite five carat round centre stone platinum ring, also by Neil Lane. It's one of those things that has always haunted me, the history that accompanies the engagement ring always leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. But today I think I may have found a cure, I've always pondered: so if I get engaged is that engagement ring an archaic remnant of past traditions that symbolize matrimonial slavery (I sound extreme but it has historical truth)! Well Jennifer Hudson just solved my problem; it goes both ways. I've never been willing to give up my autonomy, so if I wear an engagement ring (note to my future hubby) expect to wear one too! That is a compromise I'll live with.

Lip Service #7

2009-05-08T19:12:00.001-04:00

This week I started a new journey of some sorts, upon walking through the doors on the first day of my internship I was greeted by a canvas on the wall, scrawled across which is my sweet and simple but nevertheless powerful lip service for the week.

Lip Service #7: Some people pursue happiness; Others create it.

It makes so much sense not to search for something when the answer is within, we have the power to create our own brands of happiness. It was as if something had clicked, when I think of it now I think it should be common sense, and right there is where I prove to myself that for all its worth it can never be. Regardless of what the constitution says its not the divine right to pursue happiness but the right to create it that's worth its weight in gold. I'll continue to take my cues from the characters of Lipstick Jungle even if the tv show doesn't return.

Leighton's Lyrics

2009-05-08T14:14:00.000-04:00

You should all know by now how much I love me some Blair Waldorf and how much that adoration has translated to actress Leighton Meester. As her her music singles get leaked online I scour for blogs and websites trying to get my hands on them the second they hit the airwaves. I love every single, perfectly aware of and content with the fact that I'm completely biased. Her latest single "Good Girls Go Bad" with Cobra Starship is pretty addictive at this point, what do you all think of Leighton's newest single? I'm particularly loving the line "I know your type, boy your dangerous, yeah you're that guy I'd be stupid to trust but just one night couldn't be so wrong - you make me wanna lose control!" Take a listen to the playlist below.

Lip service #6

2009-05-02T00:58:00.000-04:00

I opened this book thinking I'd start the summer off with a bit of meaningless, frivolous reading, and instead I was confronted with a future image of myself that is lets just say, not what I want. Reading for identification I suppose is my weakness, I constantly see facets of myself in the books that I read that entrance me and keep me wholly consumed in the lives of the characters in the books. I cringe when they cringe, I feel what they feel, and it's become somewhat unavoidable. Today I read something that hit home so hard it was startling, so my lip service of the day is:

Lip Service #6: I'm blessed and cursed with "a heart that invites people without permission, holds them in a special place she never had any say in and then yearns for them to remain there longer than they plan" - (Cecilia Ahern, If You Could See me Now)

It's why I tend to gravitate to the idea of never letting my heart see the light of day. But it's also something that has brought so much joy and happiness into my life, maybe the things I can't control are the best things a control freak like me can ever hope for, and maybe just maybe I should find solace in not having a stranglehold on that as I do on everything else.

It's Chic-Onomics Revised

2009-04-30T10:15:00.001-04:00

So the Outnet's a great idea and all but I'm still not sure Net-A-Porter is getting the idea of what chic-onomics really is. I may buy one or two things on the site, but I've got a little gem, that's even better. Their stock is nowhere near as high, but neither are their prices. They have giveaways, and you'll find labels like Michael Kors, Valentino, Rebecca Minkoff, YSL, Just Cavalli, and Vera Wang to name a few, the secret is that it's pretty much invitation only! So you want to get in on the good stuff? Find an Escada Gown for around 83% off its retail price? Here's my invitation link: www.ideeli.com/invite/funnyface.cts, register now and open yourself up to a whole new kind of chic-onomics! They'll send you email updates letting you know what's going on sale, or what's up for giveaways and when. They just added a return policy so you've got 14 days to return it for store credit if you don't absolutely love whatever it is you buy. Happy Spending!!

Lip service # 5

2009-04-29T17:55:00.001-04:00

Which is worse being a person that takes every risk possible or a person that risks nothing? The skill I have yet to learn is which risks are worth it and which aren't, so instead I risk nothing. I think as long as I don't risk anything I'll never have to be vulnerable, turns out that's the biggest risk of all. The trick to mastering life is to get the right combination of risk and caution. But who are we all kidding in this life we're all just trying to survive.

Lip Service #5: Sometimes the hardest thing in life to know is which bridge to burn and which to cross.

Lip Service #4

2009-04-20T22:37:00.000-04:00

Ever get the feeling that when you rebel against something you create a war with yourself? Like you're an alien in your own body? I've come to the conclusion that maybe sometimes no matter how hard you try to avoid doing something, the fact that you're avoiding it puts you right where you weren't trying to be. Social constructions tend to put you in that predicament. Sometimes you just want to prove something isn't true so badly and instead of proving that you end up fitting the mold. That need to define yourself, to have control over who you are and what you'll be, in the end proves that we have no control, we're products of our social environments no matter what we do. I guess I believe in destiny, that whats meant to be will be, no matter what you do, and how many times you get in your own way. This weeks Lip Service is simple:

Lip Service #4: Sometimes the path you take to avoid your destiny, is the path that leads you to it.

It's Chic-Onomics

2009-04-16T09:29:00.000-04:00

So I woke up this morning and up popped a message from the heavens (also known as gmail) letting me know that Net-A-Porter's new sister site TheOutnet.com launched today. After browsing the site I still get the distinct feeling that the title Chic-Onomics doesn't exactly fit, the clothes are definitely cheaper than Net-A-Porter, but I'd still probably be breaking my little piggy bank to purchase anything in their beautiful stock. With stock at up to 80% off its original price you will get a good deal, the site features Designers like Diane Von Furstenburg, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Zac Posen, Bottega Venetta, Vera Wang and so many more. I'll pick my favourites later, but I no doubt will only be able afford one at a time.

1000

2009-04-11T13:39:00.000-04:00

1000 Hits. Yay me! lol, well I don't know when it happened but it did, thanks for reading, check back soon && continue reading...

Lip Service #3

2009-04-11T13:11:00.001-04:00

I've been accused of being random many times of late, it's true I am, but the question that I pose after being told this so frequently is "what's wrong with being random?" Variety after all is the spice of life, there's nothing great about being boring and monotonous. My mind wavers and changes as seconds go by, and my thoughts contradict each other and result in daily changes to my character, without it I don't think I'd survive.

Lip Service #3: There's nothing incredible or even bearable about being the same from day to day, constant reinvention, the breaking down and building up, that is the way we regenerate.

Think about it. What makes Madonna amazing?? How do designers survive in the fashion industry?? and when did Rihanna's career really take off?? If you want to enjoy life, rather than be content, reinvention, and regeneration are key. Good style doesn't come from having the same thing in your closet as seasons go by, Oscar Wilde once said that "Fashion is a form of ugliness so intolerable that we have to alter it every 6 months." Though I don't think he actually meant that it's 'ugly', I believe wholly that if it didn't change with the seasons I'd die from the boredom.

Lip Service #2

2009-04-05T12:11:00.000-04:00

It seems I've hit a stride of good luck in life, everything's going my way, (except for the relationship stuff) but I'm inclined to believe it's going the way my subconscious wants it to. I don't believe that I'm carrying around a super good luck charm so I'm more willing to believe in this week's Lip Service.

Lip Service Lesson #2: Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. (Little Black Book) Except for matters concerning love.

So it's not like everything good that ever happens to you is due to some preparation, but the really good things are usually things you prep endlessly for. I think I've hit a stride of balance when it comes to Work, School, Career Planning and Fashion. For the most part I've planned everything out, and it's working out just as I had hoped. I've blended my style into the perfect cross between Audrey Hepburn Classic and Island Flavour. I've got an internship for the summer and my summer job too, grades are for the first time in a while better than I even expected, and my career plans are off the ground running. But I'm convinced that love has nothing to do with luck, your love life isn't the result of serious planning, but it does need the opportunity to grow. You can't plan something you can't control, and if you're controlling your love life, I suggest you take a step back and free yourself. =D

PS: Little Black Book = Good Movie; a more honest take on the dating world than most of us ever see in the movies

Thoughts

2009-03-20T10:55:00.000-04:00

I realize now that my love for TV shows and Fashion has taken up most of my blogging regimen, and not that I don't still adore those two subject matters, but I'm thinking of starting a weekly life lesson mandate. With a mind that goes a million miles a minute like my own, I've got to find somewhere to channel all that rather profound wisdom right??? Well I'm going to try and there's no better place to start but here!

Lip service Lesson #1: Don't string all your pearls on one necklace (translation: Don't put all your eggs in one basket!) proverbial I know, I never understood why my father was always so adamant about it, until now. Whether it's your professional or private life, don't ever not have a fall back plan, variety is after all the spice of life.

Fashion: try new things, don't get caught up in the same boring routine, check out new stores, and new styles, who knows you might find something you really love.

Love: one guy isn't a good enough prospect, don't count on him to be your prince charming, because well fairy tales don't really exist, sorry. For all intensive purposes I believe in monogamy (as an end result), but what I don't believe in is only dating exclusively, and filling your mind with the thoughts of only one person when you've got your whole life ahead of you.

Career Planning: it's all good and well to have career plans, because Ambition is a wonderful thing, but there's no excuse not to have a plan B, sometimes they'll save your life.

Whatever the case may be, don't lock yourself up into an all or nothing situation, you set yourself up for disappointment 99.9% of the time.

LG Fashion Week: Carlton Brown

2009-03-20T09:53:00.000-04:00

This week has been an absolute whirlwind adventure for me as I've been volunteering at LG Toronto Fashion Week. It's been a lot of hard work but amazing nonetheless and last night I began to understand why I had to be there so much. Carlton Brown's collection was simply phenomenal, and as I danced to the sounds of Sean Paul, while peeking through to catch a glimpse of my fellow Jamaican, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride rush through me, heightening every sense in my body. I was tingling with excitement, there it was before my very eyes, one of Jamaica's own showing an exciting inventive, cohesive and bold menswear collection, while simultaneously promoting Jamaican music with Stacey McKenzie at his side. When such an occasion comes before me it is not only blogworthy but a moment where I am proudest of the land of my birth. We are as our national motto says "Out of Many One People" and Carlton Brown made us all very proud. Our vibrancy as a country showed through in his collection's vivid pops of colour, and those male models were gorgeous! All I can say now is "We likkle but wi talawa" (translation: we are small but mighty) and I am so thankful that I was able to witness this proud moment for Jamaicans all over the world!

Read My Lips: Red Carpet at the Oscars

2009-02-23T11:14:00.000-05:00

The 81st Annual Academy Awards were, as usual the premiere Red Carpet event of the year. It was no surprise that Kate Winslet took home the Oscar for Best Actress Every actress, Natalie Portman looked divine as per usual, and Anne Hathaway beamed in her glittering jewel encrusted Giorgio Armani Dress. I can't say I really found anything I thought was a definite miss except maybe this big bow trend that looks straight out of an 80's prom catalogue, but moving on here are my favourites.

My #1 Favourite
Taraji P Henson in Roberto Cavalli
The gown looks like an upside down Cala Lily
The tiers of fabric are gorgeous.

#2
Freida Pinto wearing John Galliano
The jewel tone is perfect for her skin tone!

#3
Natalie Portman, stunning as always!
This Rodarte dress confirms exactly why she's so fabulous

#4
Anne Hathaway in Giorgio Armani
In all her beautiful glory, glittering on the red carpet

#5
Sarah Jessica Parker in Dior Haute Couture
Even if the gown was a little bit like the Miley Cyrus frock
She can do no wrong

Have to Have it...

2009-02-22T22:33:00.001-05:00

I woke up today with the deepest desire to find myself a sequined black/purple/white (or almost any other colour) mini skirt...I'm going to scour every vintage store in downtown Toronto until I find what I'm looking for. If you happen to see it online let me know, I won't rest until I find it.

NY Fashion Week: Last But Not Least

2009-02-22T22:15:00.000-05:00

The shows are over but we will see the trends again in the fall. Look out for the Brilliant Blues and Purples,and the Burnt Oranges and Yellows. Here are my last picks...

Anna Sui

Anna Sui

Carolina Herrera

Chris Benz

Lorick

NY Fashion Week Update II

2009-02-18T21:42:00.000-05:00

Today's top three: It's a tie between Marc by Marc Jacobs, and Matthew Williamson, followed by Badgley Mischka. Okay so I was enthralled by the Marc by Marc Jacobs collection, and I wish I had a closet full of Mattew Williamson.

I'm totally coveting this Matthew Williamson Tunic, the embellishment is reminiscent of Pre-Columbian Perfection!

Marc by Marc Jacobs went heavy on the belts and the stockings, I absolutely adore this skirt and the way the sweater, belt, scarf, tights, hat and boots work with it is just perfection.

This Badgley Mischka is the formal dress of my dreams.

Desoliel Diesel =(

2009-02-18T20:59:00.000-05:00

So I like the disheveled look, when it's done right! Browsing the photos from the Diesel Black Gold collection I just couldn't get it, for a pret a port line this collection had homeless written all over it rather than vagabond.Immediately below is what I didn't like.

There were few redemptions to speak of, but I'll let you see those too.

Are we thinking the same thing? Where is the Cohesion, some pieces look so beautiful and others fall below the waist.

NY Fashion Week Update

2009-02-17T13:07:00.000-05:00

NY Fashion Week is here and The runways are hot...I've chosen my top ten Fall 2009 Collections so far...

Carlos Miele

Lela R ose

Abaeté

Jill Stuart

Elie Tahari

Jason Wu

Yigal Azrouel

James Cov iello

Tracy Re ese

Miss Sixty

for more on these collections check out nymag.com

Lucky Gives It Up

2009-02-17T08:23:00.000-05:00

Yet another reason to love Lucky Magazine. It's my favourite magazine because every page is loaded with stuff, minus the padding because it really doesn't need it. From now up until the end of March Lucky is hosting a giveaway a day; 45 days worth of prizes, what other magazine do you read that gives you that much incentive? 2,100 items, ranging from Mulberry purses and Palm Treo Pro's to Edun Silk Cami's, Ipods and Gucci Sunglasses. Check www.luckymag.com for more details and to enter each day, it's a fabulous opportunity you don't want to miss.

Stuck In Limbo

2009-02-16T23:22:00.000-05:00

So the season's over but it's neither been confirmed or denied that the Lipstick Jungle series is over, (stop listening to the rumors and wait til NBC announces its fall lineup). The fact that the Peacock network is still undecided about a show as great as Lipstick makes me a little upset, to say the least. The difference between my love for Lipstick Jungle and Gossip Girl has always been that caught in the middle feeling where I'm almost in the real world but still holding onto my teenage years, how's that for stuck in limbo? Just as my fate looms over the line of adulthood, NBC proves to me that it's not so different when it comes to marketing demographics. For now I'll keep praying NBC will wisen up and decide to keep the Jungle going for another season, because if I have to be an adult I'd want to live in the Jungle.

For the love of Lipstick! NBC don't cancel this show!

GG Update

2009-02-16T21:41:00.000-05:00

Soooo...Carrnal Knowledge was amazing, blowing all Gossip Girl expectations out of the water, is Blair back on track? will Dan and Ms. Carr's relationship fold? what will Serena do? what's up with Chuck and the ghost of his father's past? So many questions, leaving more to unfold than ever before over the rest of the season. Packed with a steamy affair and Blair's brilliant antics, the last Gossip Girl episode set up a series of intricate mini drama's that I can't wait to see it all unravel. I'm not sure what to do with myself since Gossip Girl will be on hiatus for a month, so the spoiler browsing will have to keep me content.

**Spoiler Alert**
In case you didn't get the memo I've been a Blair and Nate fan since I can remember, and I was hoping the writers would see fit to see it my way again soon. I'm thanking the writing Gods for finally leading the CW writers in the right direction. Not that I haven't loved every misleading move along the way, but as a devout N&B fan I'm beyond happy that pictures have surfaced corroborating my deepest GG wish that Prince Charming and Queen B will reunite again. I'll be awaiting Blair Waldorf's Day Off, hoping that for once everything will fall into place for Blair Bear, Yale and love included.

There and Back Again...

2009-02-16T21:23:00.001-05:00

Coordinating a fashion show is no easy feet, it was amazing but thank God it's over, and just in time for New York Fashion Week. Now I'm catching up on my favourite tv shows, all the fashion, celebrity gossip, some school reading, and browsing diligently on every website for NY Fashion Week updates. I received my notification email this week letting me know that I'll be volunteering for Toronto's LG Fashion Week, YAY! The game is on, with internship applications being sent off and school heading into high gear the intensity is about to rise up again. There's something about being endlessly busy that makes me feel so alive, it's why New York is the perfect place to live. I've been there and back again, and ready to get back to blogging, at least for a little while.

The Contemporary Goddess of All things Sex, Love and New York

2009-01-02T22:26:00.000-05:00

After finishing One Fifth Avenue, the 4th Candace Bushnell book I've read to date I have to say if she wasn't my favourite author for writing my favourite book Lipstick Jungle (and Sex and the City) she is now. Maybe it's the way her description of New York Society makes you feel like an insider or the sheer philosophy of her writing but I can't help but love her. In this installment of the brilliant author's published works she takes on the task of describing the women of New York, this time not through the eyes of a bunch of gal pals learning the ins and outs of life in the Big City, but through the eyes of the Beautiful, Historical, Co-op landmark she describes as One Fifth Avenue. She explores the mixing of Old and New people, money, and society. The women of One Fifth prove to be none other than interesting, with one woman not ready to admit she's out of her prime and who's still grasping at straws to make it as somebody in New York society, and a little twenty two year old twit who tries to inveigle her way into the lives of the residents of One Fifth Avenue only to find out selling your body in one form or another only leads to more pain than pleasure. The way Bushnell captures the very soul of New York in her books makes me think that if I could live in any place written by anyone I'd want it to be New York as told by Candace Bushnell. She is truly the Contemporary Goddess of all things Sex, Love and New York.

It's a Happy New Year Indeed

2009-01-02T21:46:00.000-05:00

The second day of the New Year was made especially great when I hopped off the plane and spotted the February issue of Teen Vogue already on newsstands. Not because I love Teen Vogue (which I still do), but because Leighton Meester is on the cover, when Lucky magazine put Leighton on the cover last year it prompted me to buy the magazine even though it had never caught my eye before. To my surprise I fell in love with Lucky, from the Lucky deals to great mock ups of all the latest trends Lucky began to be my favourite monthly indulgence. The tab like stickers that they feature every month to help you bookmark what you love in the magazine don't hurt either, even if I don't use them all in Lucky I find it helpful for all the other magazines that lack Lucky's practical perfection. Anyway, back to February's issue of Teen Vogue, the spread of Leighton was interesting but I found it disappointing because I'd read almost all of it already on their website. Word to the wise, give us teasers not the entire story when you do an online post, if you give it all away there's no reason to buy the magazine anymore.

Not a Happy New Year for Kira Plastinina

2009-01-02T18:48:00.000-05:00

With a new year comes new fashion news, and in the current recession it's not good. In October of last year Kira Plastinina spoke at one of the Teen Vogue Fashion U seminars, hers aptly named: You're Never too Young to Succeed", seeing as how the 16 year old was making waves on the fashion scene and had brought 12 of her stores to the U.S. While her stores in Russia are still doing well it seems that us North Americans are going to have to say bye bye to the stylings of this teenager as her U.S. division recently filed for Bankruptcy. Her stores in Russia and Ukraine will remain open but I guess she's still a little too young to succeed on this side of the world. Here's to hope that when this recession is over she'll be older and wiser and be ready to bounce back in the U.S. market. By then hopefully she'll have figured out how to make art, glamour and sporty work together without putting cute little phrases all over her clothes that scream tiny teenage twits (okay that may be a little harsh but I can't wear those things anymore or else I'm trying to pass as someone between the ages of 13 and 17). I found one thing in the entire store during her shopping event that didn't make me look 5 years younger and from that one item I can say the girl has promise.

2009-01-01T08:42:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! I hope all of yours were more eventful than mine, sadly I didn't get to watch the ball drop in NYC like I had hoped because a storm flew past to knock 2008 out and along with it went my lights. So while you were all toasting champagne I was in the theatre watching The Curious Case of Benjamin button, sort of a reminder of Titanic and the Notebook, except for the growing young part. Best wishes to all for 2009, it's a new day, a new year, and time to fix all the things we didn't last year. My New Years Resolution: Stop being such a hermit, and try to save some of my money! Though the latter isn't likely to happen I'm hopeful

Tell Me a Bedtime Story

2008-12-31T08:54:00.000-05:00

Bedtime Stories was a surprisingly good comedy about an Uncle, Skeeter who babysits his niece, Bobbi and nephew, Patrick for a week and learns that they have the power to bring the stories they tell to life. When they add in their quirky parts and combine them with his bedtime stories they turn his life upside down as they manipulate his life's main events, from job prospects to romantic relationships. If the story was real instead of raining gumballs I'd wish for raining shoes and purses, but since I'm stuck in everyday life with no superpowers to speak of, this film was a refreshing view into a fantasy world. It was fantastically amusing, a family film that you couldn't help but burst into uncontrollable laughter watching. Starring Adam Sandler, Kerry Russell, Courtney Cox Arquette, Laura Ann Kesling, Johnathan Morgan Heit and of course Bugsy the bugeyed guinea pig.

Jungle Update

2008-12-31T08:29:00.000-05:00

The ratings went up in the last episode but the fate of my dearly beloved still hangs in the balance. The decision whether or not the show will be pulled relies completely on what happens in the next few episodes. So Lipstick and non-Lipstick lovers alike tune in on Fridays from now until the season is over, blog about it, post on nbc, sign the petition, do everything you can to save our dear lipstick from becoming another discontinued shade. They can't cancel it now, everyones lives just got so much more interesting. Will Nico and Griffin hook up, or will she and Kirby hook up again, this love triangle is about to steam up the jungle. What will happen to Wendy and Shane now that she wants therapy and he's planning on running off on this international tour with Natasha Bedingfield at the urging of Josie, his manager whose nursing a thing for him. Most importantly, now that Victory has shocked us all (in a good way) by saying its her turn to pop the question to Joe, we have so many questions, like how she plans to flip the script and when she does what will Joe's answer be.

Let us not forget: It's a jungle out there, Dress appropriately.

Spotted: Leighton Meester Teen Vogue Cover Girl

2008-12-23T13:17:00.000-05:00

(photo taken from TeenVogue.com)

The beautiful Leighton Meester will be seen on the cover of Teen Vogue in the upcoming February issue. Teen Vogue reported that Leighton says she doesn't want to stop playing the character, and was quoted saying "It would be like part of me going away." Her spread in Teen Vogue will detail all we want to know about this classic beauty, from the truth about that rumour that she was born in jail, to what she thinks about her co-star Ed Westwick (Chuck Bass), the article will also include what she really thinks about Blair Waldorf's signature style, her childhood and some insider information on her debut album (I can't wait to get my hands on that one!).

P.S. New Episodes of Gossip Girl Start January 5th, The next few episodes will answer a few questions about our upper eastsiders, Like how Serena's trip to South America went, or whether or not Blair will attend her father's alma mater, and what about little Jenny Humphrey's return to constance, she's bound to make waves, most importantly we'll finally get some closure from our burning questions from the last episode. Will Chuck and Blair finally be together, will Dan and Aaron have a showdown for Serena's love, what will happen with Rufus and Lily? There's so much we're about to find out. Gossip Girl's New Years Resolution: Keep Getting Better!

SOS: Lipstick Jungle about to be CANCELLED

2008-12-12T09:17:00.000-05:00

I haven't complained about the economy because it really didn't hit me until I got slapped with this this morning. I've had enough of these studios cancelling good shows, first it was Women's Murder Club, and now the show that is near and dear to my heart; Lipstick Jungle. Why is it so hard for them to keep a show on the air that's about women on top? Help me save my dearly beloved, sign the petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/lsj777/petition.html, you'll not only be doing yourself some good if you watch the show, but you'll be keeping tears off my pillow!

Gossip Girl: Waldass Translation

2008-12-08T12:55:00.000-05:00

As you all are well aware I’ve never been much of a Waldass (or Chair) fan because I consider myself a purist to the books, not that I don’t love the show, it gets my week started on the right foot and I’d consider myself a fanatic. After much dismay I must say I’ve finally been converted over to the darkside. Even though I’d love for the Nate and Blair saga to continue some time in the future, I’ve come to love and appreciate their antics and that whole star-crossed lovers thing that Blair and Chuck have going on. After last nights episode I’m no longer on the fence about this twosome, Blair really loves him and I say ‘Give the Queen what she wants!’ But poor Chuck in the midst of all this, he’s become a very lonely orphan. How does one deal with losing their parents on the upper-east side, holing yourself up in your fathers hotel and drowning yourself in booze and the company of women seemed like the Chuck Bass way, but what about his one true love? Will he eventually come back to her, a little less soulless and more ready to love her? We can only hope, after that touching moment with them crying together on Blair’s bed only for Chuck to disappear yet again when Blair fell asleep. Or will Blair go looking for him, disregarding the note he left on her pillow? I personally hope the latter, their relationship just got good and in the midst of all this chaos I’d hate for them not to follow through.

As for the rest of the Gossip Girl Cast, as one love triangle, namely Bart-Lily-Rufus comes to an end; another one takes its place Aaron-Serena-Dan. But what can we say for the romances that seem to have met their untimely end. How could Lily not tell Rufus that they had a child? Why doesn't Celia stay out of her daughters life? Can it really be over now that Rufus knows? If Rufus has anything to say about it I guess so, and that just leaves more drama for our other triangle to stir up. Now that Dan got the free and clear from dear old dad, what will Serena do when she comes back from Buenos Aires. Since the recent Waldorf-Rose nuptials we can assume that Aaron isn’t going anywhere, but we don’t expect Serena to fall out of love with Dan so easily do we, especially now that her mother’s love affair is over? And we don’t expect Dan to go out without a fight!

Spotted: Waldass in an ad campaign for Nikon’s new line of Coolpix cameras. I’ve got to say they look adorable & those camera's look pretty good too (I know what I want for Christmas). Where: You can find the ad spread in the current issues of Teen Vogue and Lucky.

Back for the very first time

2008-12-08T12:54:00.001-05:00

Okay so I’ve been MIA for a little over a month now, after I got back from Teen Vogue Fashion U life caught up with me. November was a hellish month with midterms and assignments, but I’m back and ready to spill.

Closet Raid: Bluefly Invades the Gossip Girl Cast's Closets

2008-10-21T13:08:00.000-04:00

On a less dramatic more fashion concerned note Bluefly just launched a Haute Gossip section to their site so you can afford to shop like your favourite Gossip Girl characters. The site made categories for Serena, Blair and Jenny worthy pieces that you can add to your wardrobe featuring ensembles from Nanette Lepore, BCBG Max Azria, Michael Kors and Yves Saint Laurent to name a few. They've also got a section for the guys that want to dress like the men of Gossip Girl, I don't know what it is but Dan's vests paired with jeans and a dress shirt is so appealing. Check it out now "'cause there's more than skeletons in their closets..."

Gossip Girl: The Heat Intensifies

2008-10-21T12:35:00.000-04:00

It looks like things are about to heat up on the set of Gossip Girl. With the latest Chuck and Blair cat and mouse game turned on its head what's next, will Vanessa turn out to pose a threat to the good at being bad duo? Will Blair ever say those three little words (with 8 letters) to Chuck? Well I don't see it happening any time soon, Blair might have a battle ahead of her if she wants to hold onto her pride and get Chuck in her bed.

With Nate moving into the Humphrey loft what's next? For those of you avid Gossip Girl fans that skulk around online looking for spoilers you may have caught a glimpse of a certain character I've taken a shine to disliking and Nate in what seemed like an intense liplock. Jenny's about to get a story line, and at the expense of my dream couple Nate and Blair (yes I know they're not together but a girl can dream). So with the little relationship brewing in the background what will Vanessa have to say about it considering she still has feelings for Nate and she and Jenny are friends. We'll have to watch and see.

Watch Out New York I'm on My Way

2008-10-16T12:41:00.001-04:00

With exactly a week to go before I leave for NYC I'm a bit frantic. Now it's real, I'll be on a flight to the Big Apple this time next week doing everything I can not to squeel from the excitement. So what should I do when I get there? any ideas? I plan to visit the Met and the New York Public Library because the last time I was there I ended up getting too caught up in the hustle and bustle. Of course I'll be scouring the city for some delicious new pieces to add to my already overflowing closet. I need questions to ask the editors, it felt like it would take forever for time to pass last month and now I feel like I haven't had enough time. I'm not sure of what to wear either, what does one wear to meet the people that could possibly change their lives?

Read My Lips: Win a Trip for Two to NYC!

2008-10-14T14:13:00.000-04:00

Love NY? Well Flare and Fido are giving us the chance to fly to the big apple for a shopping spree and one nights stay in a hotel. Anyone up for a $1000 Canadian shopping spree in NYC??? I'm first in line (especially because I'm supposed to be going there anyway on the weekend of the 25th of October), the contest closes soon so enter today!

Read My Lips: Contest - Nine West - Your Shoe Craving Sweeps

2008-09-29T07:43:00.001-04:00

Visit ninewest.com and let them fill your shoe cravings, one pair at a time! ...plus, how about a tripto New York City and a $1,000 shopping spree?

Nine West is holding a shoe craving sweepstakes where you can win one pair of shoes per month for the year (all shoes must be valued up to $100 each). The Grand prize is 1 year of free shoes, an indulgent two day trip to New York City plus a $1,000 shopping spree and a subscription to Lucky Magazine. The Second Prize is six months free shoes, and the Third Prize is three months free shoes all prizes include a subscription to Lucky Magazine.

This is a sweepstake you can't miss, whether or not you think you won't win it's still a great chance.

GG Hysteria

2008-09-21T21:29:00.000-04:00

I’m a bit wound up after watching tonight’s episode of Gossip Girl. I always manage to somehow feel personally slighted when something bad happens to Blair and this episode was no exception. I have to get a few things off my chest, Lord Marcus should be beheaded, sleeping with step-mommy dearest isn’t a good look especially for a suitor of our Queen B. Next ‘UGHH’, this episode reminded me of why I HATE Vanessa’s character, it’s one thing to basically dump Nate Archibald but to take it upon herself to dish out revenge when we all know nobody does it better than B is just idiotic. Chuck Bass should be shot! I know he and Blair are kindred spirits when it comes to orchestrating drama but he continues to hurt her over and over again and for that I cannot and will not forgive him. I somehow managed to feel anger towards Serena in this episode too, I mean Blair is allegedly her best friend and is loyal to a fault (one of the many things I love about her) and because Serena is hurt from the D&S break-up she just decides to disregard the good girl image she manicured last year along with an attempt to dethrone Queen B. I feel a storm brewing on the Upper East Side, a school divided and the Manhattan Monarchies at war. We all know whose team I’m fighting for, TEAM B, Long live the Queen!

It looks like Serena’s character is about to shed the good girl image and get back to the bad girl from the books. Queen B will once again have to fight for her title, mark my words the claws will come out! I’m still a diehard Blair and Nate fan; so maybe, just maybe they’ll end up back together at some point this season. As for Jenny, her character serves only one purpose; to annoy me. My prediction still stands the only way that girl is going to have an actual purpose in the show again is if the writers somehow concoct some crazy relationship with her and Nate.

My favourite quote from this episode

Dan: Google Revenge and you'll get BlairWaldorf.com!

Attention: All Teen Vogue FASHION U Class of 2008

2008-09-21T07:46:00.000-04:00

So a bunch of us are going to go to Carmines for dinner before the concert, to get to know each other and to get some good food. I figured this would be a great way for us to meet up before the weekend really begins. If you're interested we'll be there from around 4:00-5:30 pm (2450 Broadway) before we head over to the fashion show and concert. Carmines servings are family style: one plate can feed like 4 people, so come hungry. Check the facebook event page for more details and for any updates...See you there!

Pandora's Box

2008-09-18T13:58:00.000-04:00

Less than one Week from today my life will regain balance as Lipstick Jungle returns to the small screen. TV.com says Nico's guilt from her tawdry affair will lead her to try to do anything to fix her marriage. Poor Nico, saying no to Kirby might just be the hardest thing any woman would ever have to do. As for Wendy as she tries to set aside some family time, along comes her mother to throw a monkey wrench into her plans. Victory will yet again fight falling in love with her billionaire (ex)lover Joe Bennett. All this and more will be unleashed when ABC opens "Pandora's Box" in the season premiere on Friday September 24th.

My New Favourite Zip Code - 90210

2008-09-17T18:37:00.000-04:00

It's a little late but I still have to say that I kind of love the CW's new 90210. Maybe I love it because I'm not as familiar with the old one, so I don't have a strong loyalty tied to it. I like the mix of the characters and the drama that's already began to ensue, I also love the idea that the show plays around with the old cast as well as giving us fresh new drama. I'm still not sure which couple I'm rooting for, it could be the one that looks like it'll never be (Annie & Ethan, the shows Canadian stars) or the two misfits that fit (Dixon & Silver) I'll have to keep watching to figure it out, but I know I'm not a fan of Naomi (it may be because she has too many beautiful features on her one face that manage to clash in every episode). For a recycled rich kid prime time soap this show has something that's got me hooked, I just can't put my finger on it quite yet.

TEEN VOGUE FASHION U: Class of 2008

2008-09-17T15:13:00.000-04:00

So I realize this blog has started to follow tv a bit too closely so instead of telling you how I almost cried watching One Tree Hill this week, or that Gossip Girl was again phenomenal and a damn good surprise (the writers managed not to be predictable…YAY!) I’m going to share some of my good news with you. I recently got my acceptance to TEEN VOGUE FASHION U 2008, now for those of you that don’t know this is a pretty sweet event. FASHION U is a three day event consisting of a fashion show, concert, movie screening and best of all Seminars with the Editors of Teen Vogue and top fashion designers. I’m still reeling with excitement since I’ve been waiting since July 7th to find out if I got in. Since I want to be an editor of a fashion magazine sometime in the near future I kind of feel like I’ve broken some proverbial glass ceiling, now all I’ll need to do is make sure the editors remember me. Now I realize I haven’t been as interactive as I should but if anyone has any questions they think I should ask I’d love your suggestions, I’m sure there are things I’m not thinking about. For the fellow class of ’08 I can’t wait to see you there, and for those of you who weren’t aware of this awesome opportunity there is always next year (you can get a jump start on your sketching for the admissions form && check teen vogues website in and around June and July of next year).

Rekindling My Love for TV

2008-09-07T08:41:00.000-04:00

This past week was the jump start on the CW’s earlier season premieres, and I have to say the flame is still there. Okay so I was a bit disappointed with the One Tree Hill Season Premiere, it had its intense moments and the crazy Nanny Carrie is back and bringing with her a load of drama with a capital D(an). I found myself asking why the hell Lucas is with Peyton, no offence to all you Leyton fans but Peyton really does bore me. Brooke and Lucas however are my favourite One TreOe Hill couple of all time. So after the episode I went spoiler searching to find out if it’s really over between them, I mean marriage never means much to the writers now does it. I’m happy to report for all the Brucas/Looke fans that Leyton may not be living so happily ever after; throughout the season Lucas and Brooke will be faced with their not so dead feelings. The love triangle continues, and I’m oh so happy for it. I hope Brooke’s okay from her run in with the robber and that both Nanny Carrie and Dan spontaneously combust in that house she’s keeping him in, I’ll Miss Marvin McFadden and Millicent if they actually stay away their the only stable couple in the entire group.

On another note, did anyone understand America’s Next Top Model’s new Techno/Galactic vibe, because I sure as hell didn’t. Tyra redeemed herself with the rest of the episode, but I have to wonder is ANTM running out of ideas on how to make it interesting. So within the top 14, 13 remain and I’ve obviously already picked my top and bottom 5. I’ll start with the girls I think have the goods to win and an appealing personality along with it (in no specific order at the moment I don’t know them well enough to label them yet). Majorie’s nervous yet adorable nature is intriguing and her bone structure is pretty damn awesome. Elina is so different I couldn’t help but love her, it seems like she understands herself pretty well and I can’t wait to see how that translates into her photos. Kimora Lee #2 had to be on the list, the Harlem Honey Sheena has so much personality it’s hard not to think she’s going somewhere in this competition. Isis, yes I know she was born a man and all that but I admire her strength and determination and going on a show that is watched internationally and broadcasting that takes some serious guts, she’s got potential and as much as other people say she doesn’t belong I think she does. McKey, if that girl isn’t high fashion I don’t know what is, she’s got it in the bag if she can quit being so damn awkward in front of the camera. Now for the bottom 5, the girls that I barely remember or just don’t like. Nikeysha, sorry girl but something about you just doesn’t fit, maybe when Tyra does your make over you’ll make a serious transformation because that shoulder length cut with bangs is making your face look scary skinny. Clark, she’s already my least favourite person in the house, maybe if this sheltered little southern bell gets a taste of the real world I’ll like her better but for now I think she’s too closed minded. The only thing I remember about Lauren Brie is that she scares me and she has a big forehead, I hope they soften her up a little bit in the makeovers. As for the two I don’t remember Analeigh and Samantha there isn’t much I can say except get some camera time, viewers need to see you’re personality, the good, the bad, and the ugly. As September goes by more season premieres will trickle in and I’ll have so much more to talk about.

I’m going to start posting my weekly predictions for whose getting the boot on ANTM next week, who knows my top 5 may even change