McQueen at the MET

From May 4th to July 31st, the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) is showing an exhibit on Alexander McQueen.  This edgy, masterful designer's tragic suicide last year has lead to an onslaught of interest in his designs.  McQueen always turned heads.  If you don't think you've ever heard of him, check out some of Lady Gaga's outfits.  Even Kate Middleton patronized his company by wearing her wedding gown from the house of McQueen's new designer, Sarah Burton.  For more information, check out this article in the Wall Street Journal, or go to the MET's website. I for one can't wait to go... several times.

I heart sample sales

Anyone know of any good ones?

Librarian Chic

For the girl who raids her grandma's closet looking to re-vamp demure 40's footwear, a shoe brand has emerged to fill your Librarian Chic needs: Chelsea Crew.  I cannot find their website, so if anyone knows it, do share!  Great quality, affordable leather shoes.  They make super cute oxfords, but the pair I am coveting is a pair of sandals called the "Jiminy" (pictured above).   Sure beats wearing flip flops!

"To our Wives and Sweethearts. May they Never Meet"

I was shopping in Williamsburg, BK today and while scrounging through thrift stores, I came upon a brand of vintage-esque jewelry by a designer named Erica Weiner.  Her website describes her designs as: "locally made, affordable vintage inspired jewelry, designed with a sense of humor." Many of her pieces are based on her original vintage finds.  I purchased the Boozy Wisdom Bracelet.  This piece has many hilarious sayings that seem as if they are from another time, such as the title of this post.  I love that her products are vintage-inspired but are brand new because as fun as it is to buy vintage, I like having pieces that are not already worn-out.  Erica Weiner has quite a fan following, and I will be checking out her store in the city soon!

80%20: B/c we wear 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time

I discovered the brand 80%20 at Atrium in Soho, after a long and drawn out boot saga.  I'll spare you the details, but it involved many broken side zippers and boots that were too narrow (damn calves).  My mission was to find a boot that fit and that was dressy yet comfortable.  If I find a garment/ shoe that I love, I wear it into the ground, so it has to withstand my obsessive love.  I tried on the "Montana Black" on a whim because I was getting desperate and thought "why not"?  I usually can't bear to spend the Atrium prices, but they were having a sale in December so it was bearable.  Lo and behold, I found my boot-mate.  The shoes slip right on and are roomy at the ankle to suggest a svelte leg.  The studded up beauties fit over my skinny jeans and can easily be worn all day and into the night without causing a sidewalk wipe out.  The brand has many great shoes.  Check them out for yourself!

The Magic of Macy's

I finally caved and got a Macy's card.  Macy's Herald Square is magical.  They sell amazing brand name items and somehow manage to slash the prices so much so, you always feel like you are getting a great deal... even if you may just be deceived by strategic price tags.  Today, I bought a stylish trench coat that was originally priced at $168 and they knocked it down to $112.  Not too shabby.  I can't wait for more discounts!

Furniture with a SOUL

When I was in New Orleans this past December, I saw a furniture store called Nadeau.  The store had the one of a kind feel of carrying hand-crafted items.  I feared it would be very expensive, so I was only hoping for a quick browse.  Lo and behold, the prices were reasonable, with some items no more than $100.  I joined their mailing list in the idle hope that I'd one day return to NOLA to buy furniture.  Then, a month later, I got an e-mail that they opened up a NYC location.  This store is on my list of places to visit and as soon as I get a bigger apartment, I'm totally buying something from here.  Nadeau calls itself "furniture with a soul" because most of their pieces are hand crafted, original designs with character and depth.  Check the out!  You'll be glad you did.

Cross-Body Bags

I am loving my cross-body bag.   It is so easy to carry around the city because it is "hands free" so I can load it up with everything from cosmetics to umbrellas without writhing in shoulder pain.  Many people have complimented me on my turquoise bag by a brand called Sorial.  This company sells to Nordstrom and many boutiques.  The bag I use is called the "Medium" Accordion Satchel.  It has a modern rectangular shape with several zipper and magnetic compartments that pop open in an accordion-like fashion to reveal its adorable leopard print lining.

Denim Obsession- 360 degrees of stretch

For the gal who follows the "Eat Pray Love" philosophy of "Why deprive yourself of delicious food when you can buy new pants?", comes 4-way stretch jeans!  Tired of uncomfortable fabrics that cut into your stomach and legs?  Check out DL1961.  These are my latest denim obsession. They are so comfy, they fit great, and they look awesome!  I bought a pair of the "Kim Skinny" at National Jean Company since they are having a friends and family sale, but this brand is sold at many fine vendors.

Hauntingly Delicious Scent

Scents have the power to evoke a memory.  The last time that I smelled "Narciso Rodriguez For Her" was a few years ago when I was waiting in line at Macy's Herald Sq. to meet SJP.  I remember that day and how nervous I was to shake hands with my fashion idol.  While on the waiting line, a salesperson handed me a grosgrain ribbon scented with "For Her".  The scent caught me by surprise because it was musky yet sophisticatedly feminine.  The other day, I received a free sample at Sephora.  The smell brought me back to the first moment I smelled it, and I knew I had to have it.  

The Camera Ring!

      After walking into Urban Outfitters and almost knocking over a gigantic display of retro-looking cameras, I realized that the camera is an icon in itself.  Between paparazzi, camera phones, and youtube, everyone seem to be obsessed with capturing and broadcasting the moment.  

    When I spotted this camera ring at the eclectic jewelry store "Jillery" near Astor Place, I knew I had to have it.  I love watching my friends do a double take when they spot my quirky ring.  Do a quick google search and you will see, these rings are everywhere!  

Comfiest Shorts!

Only I would go to the Levi's store to buy jeans and end up purchasing 3 shirts and a pair of knit shorts instead.  These are the comfiest shorts I have ever owned.  They are so soft and slouchy, perfect for lounging around the apartment or for a weekend stroll.

STUDS! On Sneakers!

I found the perfect mix of casual "rubber soled shoe" meets punk-inspired studs meets soft neutral palette.  The result is one sophisticated sneaker that has a ladylike twist: the Sam Edelman "Alexander".  It will add a fun edge to any basic look.  I'll be rocking mine with skinny jeans and a slouchy tee.  Check out Edelman's other great stuff. If I could, I'd but them all!

Linda The Bra Lady in Murray Hill

Linda the "Bra Lady" has finally opened up her shop in Murray Hill, NYC.  I've heard wonders about her custom fitting abilities, and with this new convenient location, I'm sure appointments will be filling up fast!  Can't wait to check it out!

Brandy Melville

I discovered the Brandy Melville store in Soho a few weeks ago. Don't let the unassuming windows fool you. This store is chock full of lovely. A gold mine for slouchy, comfy knit tops that will flatter any figure. The best part is, that the clothes are high quality from Italy but won't set you back much more than a trip to Forever 21. Check it out before they get smart and raise their prices!