Anti-Mall After Christmas Sales

Keep your holiday cheer alive by avoiding all the chaos of the mall and shopping these boutique after christmas sales. Merry Xmas Eve!


DVF 
8407 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90069
323-951-1947
Additional 20% off sale items, which are already marked down 30%

Theory 
8424 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90069
323-782-0163
30% off Fall & holiday select items

Marc Jacobs 
8400 Melrose Place
Los Angeles, CA 90069
323-653-5100
30% off women’s Fall ready-to-wear items

Curve
154 N. Robertson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-360-8008
30-60% off selection items

Alice + Olivia 
134 Robertson Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
310-247-0120
25-40% select items

Max Studio 
2712 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA
310-396-3963
50% off their Winter items

Dolce Vita
2710 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA
310-314-5460
Additional 25% off all shoes (regular and sales items)

Milk Boutique
8209 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-951-0330
30-75% select items

Satine
8134 W. 3rd St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
323-655-2142
40-60% off fall items

Beckley Boutique 
8620 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90069
310-652-3500
40% off select items

A Fashionista in the Making

Prince William & Kate Middleton Engagement Photo

As everyone in the fashion world knows, Kate Middleton wore a 2009 Reiss Nanette dress and a 2008 Whistles silk blouse for her engagement photos by Mario Testino. It was shocking to hear that the future princess chose to wear, not only off-the-rack, but also past season styles. She either intentionally wanted to keep it real or she just didn't think it was a big deal to pull something from her closet. Regardless, I think it's impressive that she's not making a big deal about all of this attention. Most women in her shoes would have hired a top stylist and hair and make-up team for the all important engagement photos. Reiss and Whistles are certainty taking advantage of this publicity by re-releasing the dress and blouse in 2011.

Kate's style over the past few years has been a little plain and sometimes off trend. Nonetheless, I see a lot of potential in Kate and soon enough I predict her style choices will be flawless. She's a fashionita in the making that just needs to take a few fashion risks in order to become a style icon. Designers and stylists are already knocking at her door, and soon enough, access to couture apparel will become effortless. Everyone is looking for another Princess Di in Kate, but even the beloved Diana took some time in developing her style. As Kate puts on a tiara, I'm definitely looking forward to watching her style transformation.

A Hidden Vintage Gem

As part of Petit Ermitage's Shop Hollywood, I attended a cocktail party last Tuesday night for Sielian's Vintage Apparel. The rooftop of the Petit Ermitage was the perfect setting for sipping champagne and shopping vintage.

I've always admired the chic decor and gorgeous dresses that are on display in the store window of Sielian's Vintage Apparel. While chatting with the shop owner, Sielian Lie, she shared with me that collecting vintage apparel is something she has been doing for years and eventually, after acquiring too much, she decided to open a store. In order to get the best merchandise, she travels all over the US in search of vintage apparel and even has contacts in Europe that bring her special items. Every piece has been chosen with a discerning eye which makes her selections impeccable.

As one of the nicest high-end vintage boutiques in Los Angeles, the store carries designer labels such as Chanel, Halston, Givenchy, Alaia, Herve Leger, and YSL. It's no wonder celebrities and celebrity stylists shop Sielian's regularly, as well as the design teams from major clothing manufactures.

So, if you're in need of a unique vintage dress for a holiday or new years eve bash, definitely check out Sielian's Vintage Apparel.  Tucked away on the far west end of Melrose Ave., this store is truly a hidden gem. Who knows? You  might run into Scarlett Johansson or Rachel Zoe while browsing.

Sielian's Vintage Apparel, 9013 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90069, 310.246.9595 

Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sunday

MRE Jewelry Open House & Holiday Giveaway!

Los Angeles-based jewelry designer, Mallory Eisenstein, will be hosting an Open House featuring her gorgeous jewelry line, MRE Jewelry, on Saturday, December 18 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at her Grove adjacent home. Enjoy champagne and small treats at the event. Prices start as low as $15, so stop by for some last minute holiday shopping. MRE Jewelry is a regular vendor on HauteLook and the in-house jewelry designer at Decadestwo. Dry Divas shower caps will also be on hand with their stylish designs.

Dreaming in Fashion readers who RSVP to dreaminginfashion@yahoo.com will be included in a Holiday Giveaway to win one of three jewelry pieces, a Dry Divas shower cap, or a $50 HauteLook Gift Card.  The jewelry pieces include a pair of diamond shaped earrings (14k gold vermeil), a black onyx ring, and a key to your heart necklace (14k goldfilled chain [18" long] and 14k gold vermeil heart lock & key). Attend the Open House and find out if you won!

 About MRE Jewelry:

What started out as a hobby making handcrafted jewelry for family and friends, soon turned into a flourishing business for MRE designer, Mallory Eisenstein.

Mallory has a keen sense of style and a natural instinct for jewelry design.  Her sexy and sophisticated pieces are inspired by beautiful chains and colorful stones that come from all over the world.  The result is jewelry with classic looks, infused with the current trends.

Some of the famously stylish women who wear MRE Jewelry are; Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, Denise Richards, Paris Hilton, Garcelle Beauvais, Jerri Ryan, Jeremy Piven, Selma Blair, Brooke Sheilds, Kimberly Stewart, Winona Ryder, Lisa Rinna, Kelly Clarkson, Mandy Moore, Eve, Christina Ricci, Helen Mirrin, Amanda Bynes and the list goes on...

Gossip Girl Without Leighton Meester?!?!?!

Ms. Blair recently told E! that she's leaving Gossip Girl in two years, when her contract is up. Oh my, the CW must be really loving this publicity.  It seems a little early to be making her exit announcement, doesn't it? Apparently the show has been supportive and flexible about her doing other projects while filming the show. In fact, she's appearing alongside Gwyneth Paltrow in the upcoming film "Country Strong."  And let's not forgot about her music career. During the E! interview, she also discussed her side projects saying, "It allows you to be ready for when the show's over." Meester then added, "I don't know [if the series will end when I leave,] but I think there's that old saying about wanting to go out on top."  Although she says the producers are supportive of this decision, it's still gotta feel like a bit of a slap in the face. I must say without Meester, Gossip Girl just won't be the same. So, will it continue without her?  I really don't see how it can since she's the best one on the show. Although I do love the recent casting of Katie Cassidy, I'm just not sure she or anyone else can fill the Queen B's scandalous shoes.  P.S. Will the show finally reveal who Gossip Girl is before Meester leaves?  Maybe it can be Ms. Blair's final take down?

Leighton Meester has been a fashion world darling since the beginning of the show.  Her style on and off camera has been one of the main reasons I watch the show. I know this is a bit melodramatic since she's not leaving for another two years, but I've put together a farewell photo montage of some of Ms. Blair's best styles on the show. We bid a long farewell to our Queen B :)  xoxo

A Sneak Peak of Whitney Eve's Seamless Collection

Whitney Eve's Seamless Spring 2011 Collection

Last night during the West 3rd Street Holiday Party in Los Angeles, Whitney Port gave a sneak peak of her Seamless Collection, launching Spring 2011, at the Hillary Rush boutique. I really loved the fun colors and how comfortable the fabric felt. The floral and lace-like details of the fabric added a unique element and are just right for spring.

Hillary Rush is the perfect store to debut this collection. I used to frequently shop there when I lived around the corner. She has the cutest boutique with the best selections. Hillary was at the event and I just couldn't get enough of her fun and outgoing personality.

It was also such a treat to meet Whitney. Just like her persona on TV, she has the sweetest disposition and, although she had heals on, I couldn't believe how tall she was.

Most recently, MTV and Whitney confirmed that "The City" won't be coming back for it's third season. Whitney seems to be settling back into LA with a new home and corporate offices for Whitney Eve. Although I'm disappointed about the show, it's great to have a talented LA native designer come back to LA instead of losing her to New York.

Whitney already posted some photos from last night on her website.  Check it out here...

Whitney and I at Hillary Rush

The Secret Santa Gift Dilemma

This year at work we have a secret santa gift exchange.  The limit is $10 and the first thing I thought was...what could I possibly get for $10 that's not totally lame?  So, I did some research and found some great little items that are within the dollar limit.  Shocking, I know!  Instead of keeping these great finds to myself, I'm sharing them here with my readers. And if none of these gifts are right for your co-workers, then get them the never fail back-up gift, a Starbucks or Coffee Bean gift card. I hope my secret santa likes their gift :)

LADIES:

PRADA Parfums - Infusion D'Homme & Infusion D'Iris Duo - $10

Kate Spade – Get Organized Notepad - $9

Voluspa - French Cade and Lavender Votive - $8

GUYS:

Marc Jacbos - Velcro Billfold - $10

Polo - Stretch Wool Argyle Socks - $7.99

The Art of Shaving - The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave™ Travel Size - $10

QUIRKY CO-WORKER:

Sur la Table - Sock Monkey Wine Sleeve - $9.95

Holiday Parties/Walks This Weekend

The holiday spirit is making it's way around LA with two fun shopping events this weekend.

One of my favorite events is the Holiday Party on West 3rd Street (between Fairfax and La Cienega).  Most of the shops offer discounts, complementary champagne/wine and holiday treats. Drunk shopping can be dangerous territory for your wallet so make sure to give yourself a limit beforehand. A few highlights during this year's walk include: Douglas Fur's annual taco stand (get there early cause the line get's crazy!), Swerve is offering a tequila shot with any purchase, a gelato cart at Noddles Stories, $5 individual cakes at Doughboys, Magnolia Bakery will be sampling their yummy banana pudding, YADA will have carolers, and if you want to continue the party well into the night, The Little Door is offering 20% off wine by the glass and by the bottle after 9:30 p.m.  Also, Whitney Port will be offering styling tips and giving an exclusive look at her new collection, Seamless, at Hillary Rush Boutique. The W. 3rd Street Holiday Party is tomorrow, Thursday, December 9 from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.  The permit parking in the area is a bit tricky so make sure to read the signs.  There is also public valet along W. 3rd Street.


If you want to continue the Holiday festivities through the weekend, then the Holiday Walk on The Avenues is the perfect solution. The walk takes place on Melrose Ave between San Vicente and Orlando on Friday, December 10, 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 11, 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.  A few reasons to attend include: Chocolate Sun Studio is offering complimentary organic face tanning treatments, Makeup Mandy will give one-week party lashes with purchase, 20% off the entire store at Kitson on Friday only, Soolip is giving out a free letterpress gift on Saturday when you mention the walk, and if you get hungry, Taste is offering a 20% discount when you mention "The Avenues." I haven't been to this Holiday Walk before but I'm excited to check it out this year.

THREAD Is Worth A Look This Weekend

Last night after work, I headed over to the THREAD press preview at The Bay Salone in Downtown LA.  This shopping event, which lasts through the weekend, showcases emerging fashion designers in a fun environment.  They have complementary drinks, free nail services by Dipped Nail Salon, a style lounge, food trucks, massages, a DJ spinning, and fashion shows.  If your shopping for Xmas gifts it's definitely worth checking out, plus it supports indie designers instead of large department store.

Here are a few of my favorite designers from the event (and click here for event details and to RSVP):

liaMolly, Isadora Sweater

liaMolly - This designer is based in New Orleans and specializes in knitwear. Her clothing reminded me so much of Anthropologie, except you can tell it's not mass produced. A synergy of Modern Technology mixed with design and classic knitting goes into every piece. They are truly gorgeous pieces of craftmanship. At Thread, they had a whole rack of sweaters that were only $45.

Tiffany Kunz Design, August Ring

Tiffany Kunz Design - All her jewelry is created by hand in Los Angeles from reclaimed precious metals and ethically sourced stones. Some of her pieces seemed a little pricey but compared to the other cheap looking jewelry nearby it seemed worth it for her unique designs. I loved this ring pictured to the left. It was priced somewhere between $100 - $150 and online it's $200.

Rough Roses, Jewel Wallet with Custom Lock

Rough Roses - This was one of the first tables I visited when I arrived.  The soft Italian leather definitely made me go crazy over these handbags.  The designs were pretty much on trend but without the super expensive price tag.  Most of the bags and wallets had metal hardware and studded details.  The wallet with a metal claps was my favorite and is pictured to the right.  Prices ranged from below $100 to $200.

Pretty Little Holiday Gift Guide

A few pretty little gift ideas for the holidays. Sometimes a small treat is all anyone wants under the tree.

1. DVF - Elaina Cami in Vintage Hearts - $125

2. Marc Jacobs - Pretty Nylon Small Cosmetic Case - $78

3. The Little Dictionary of Fashion by Christian Dior - $19.95

4. Henri Bendel - Go Anywhere Travel Set - $38

5. Anthropologie - Estate Jewelry Box, Ring - $18

6. Tory Burch - Slim Card Case - $85

7. CHANEL - Trendy Nail Trio – Le Vernis (Particulière, Paradoxal and Steel) - $69

8. CC Skye - Super Woman Ring - $110

9. Rebecca Minkoff - “Stevie” iPhone Sleeve - $50

The Perfectly Intense "Black Swan"

Last night, I went to a preview screening of Black Swan at LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) starring Natalie Portman as the prima ballerina who, in pursuit of being perfect, loses herself and ultimately becomes the black swan.  From the trailer, Mila Kunis is portrayed as the evil rival that's out to get her but in the movie it's Portman's character Nina that's her own worst enemy.  At a few points in the film, this psycho-thriller really tests your tolerance for gore and even had everyone in the audience expressing their anguish out loud.

There is so much buzz about the film being an Oscar contender and after seeing Portman's intense performance, I can see why. Director Darren Aronofsky, also known for his critically acclaimed 2008 film The Wrestler, conceived the idea for this film several years ago. Portman had long been slated for the film and once it began taking shape she trained for a full year with former New York City Ballet dancer Mary Hellen Bowers. Although Portman had ballet training from the age of 4 to about 13, when she first met with choreographer Benjamin Millepied he was concerned about her abilities. I myself had training as a child and don't think I could have pulled off those dance sequences, even after a year of training.  Apparently she did have a body double but according to an LA Times interview with the director, she did 90% of the scenes, which is pretty incredible.

One of the main reasons I wanted to see Black Swan was to finally see the ballet costumes designed by Rodarte.  Although photos of the costumes have been circulating everywhere, it was quite a treat to see them in action, twirling around the stage.  As a loyal Rodarte costumer, Portman introduced Kate and Laura Mulleavy to Aronofsky and from there a wonderful collaboration was created. In an interview by New York Magazine, the sisters said that their biggest challenge was making the tutus. Since they had never designed a ballet costume, let alone seen one up close, they had to start from scratch. Although it was their first time working with layers of tulle, the costumes were absolutely gorgeous and created a dark, romantic aesthetic which really made those intense ballet scenes come alive. During the film, I noticed all the intricate details and obvious hard work that went into each costume. They should be in a museum, maybe donated to LACMA's Costume and Textiles department perhaps? Swarovski also donated nearly 250,000 crystals, weighing 40kgs for the ballet costumes, which added some sparkle.

Black Swan comes out this Friday, December 3rd. If you're seeing it this weekend, get ready for an intense and amazing film.

Related Articles:
Rodarte's "Black Swan" Tutus on Display
Black Swan's Costume Designer (No, Not Rodarte) Speaks Out, But Why Now?  
    

Store Openings Around the City

Although it seems that more and more stores are shutting their doors, there are a few exciting LA openings coming up soon.

On Rodeo Drive, the opening of the Tom Ford store has been abuzz since December 2008, when WWD got wind that a space had been leased.  If it opens soon, it seems perfectly timed to the release of Mr. Ford's Spring/Summer 2011 collection.  Since Vogue's sneak peek in their December issue, I can hardly wait to see the whole collection!

Just down the street,  Lanvin recently put up a very cute "Opening Soon" sign in front of their soon-to-be store.  I absolutely love the whimsical graphics on the windows. In early August, WWD reported that the store will be 6,000 square feet and include an underground VIP entrance for celebrity clients. After my euphoria from the Lanvin for H&M debut, I'm even more excited about the new Lanvin store!

A few doors down, Agent Provocateur will open a store in Spring 2011.  Earlier this month, they put out a Craigslist ad that they were hiring for the new store.  And down the street closer to Tom Ford, Badgley Mischka is opening a fancy new two-level flagship store (bridal on second level), which was suppose to open Summer 2010.

On Melrose, Vivienne Westwood will open sometime in the new year, according to their PR person.  I'm really looking forward to that opening since it's their first U.S. store.

In Beverly Hills on Canon, Priscilla of Boston will debut their first SoCal store in December.  For my wedding, I had my girls wear a super cute Melissa Sweet, which is under the Priscilla of Boston label, short babydoll dress. Their wedding dresses are gorgeous as well.

For those interested in interior design, their are two stores opening on Melrose Place and Melrose. Pratesi, luxury home linens, and Siglo Moderno, contemporary designs, are preparing to open their doors very soon.

For Lease signs are still up at the former Anthropologie store in Beverly Hills, the Miss Sixty and Fornarina stores on Melrose, and large retail spaces next to Toast on 3rd Street.  I can't wait to see what pops up at those prime spaces.

More storefront photos after the jump...

Lizzie Mandler + Gilt City LA = Champagne, Cupcakes, & Shopping

Jewelry designer Lizzie Mandler is teaming up with Gilt City for a "Jewelry and Hands Night Out" on December 2, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Polish Salon on Sunset Blvd in West Hollywood. This mix and mingle event will have champagne, baked goods from Buttercake Bakery, and a gift card for a manicure at Polish. Plus Lizzie will be on hand for style advice as you shop her gorgeous collection of unique jewelry. A ticket purchase through Gilt City will get you all kinds of goodies at the event but if you and a few girlfriends want to show up to only browse the trunk show, then the more the merrier. Could you ask for a better evening with your girlfriends? I think not.


More about Lizzie, event details and a link to purchase tickets after the jump...

J. Crew Goes Private; Sold for $3 Billion

J. Crew announced today that it's officially going private. There has been a lot of talk about this buyout, which sold for $3 billion to two private equity firms, Leonard Green & Partners and TPG Capital.  Despite their popularity among women across the country, including the First Lady, sales in the last year have been slow (mostly women's sales; men's sales have, in fact, gone up), therefore going private will allow them to stay out of the public eye while they fix what's broke. The company will remain under the control of CEO Mickey Drexler, who, before this slump, was known for reviving the J. Crew brand along with Jenna Lyons. He's also well known for transforming GAP into an industry leader during his tenure . On a side note, can someone please explain the Valentino and GAP collaboration. Valentino ruffles on military khakis?  Really?

“It is a clear endorsement of J.Crew and of the hard work and commitment of each and every one of our associates,” Drexler said in a statement. “As I have always said, we are in this for the long term and we do what we do day in and day out so we can deliver the best possible products to our customers.”

Over the weekend, I was discussing with a friend how we've noticed the price point for J. Crew has increased over the past year.  Although I love their clothing I was starting to feel more and more ambivalent about their style, which has recently remained stagnant instead of being on trend.  So, because of that, I started only buying from the sales section, in-store and online, since those prices seemed more reasonable. As I read the CNN article this morning, Brian Sozzi, equity research analyst at Wall Street Strategies, was quoted saying just that, "It really drills down to the women's assortment," Sozzi said. "It's just a little off trend from what we've seen in the past and items have gotten a little pricier, which might be causing consumers to look elsewhere in the mall."

I still do love their new Spring 2011 collection but might have to wait till it goes on sale.  In the meantime, I think I'll start shopping more at their sister store, Madewell.

Lanvin for H&M Debuts This Morning!

H&M Sunset Plaza Window Display

Bright and early this morning, the Lanvin for H&M collection debuted at selected stores across the country.  I woke up at 4:00 a.m. in anticipation of my alarm clock and then realized it was only 4:00 a.m.!  When my alarm finally did go off, I jumped out of bed as if I was a child on Christmas morning.  I threw on some clothes and picked up my friend on the way to Sunset Plaza.  We got there at 7:45 a.m. and the line was as long as I anticipated. We had debated whether or not go to the Beverly Center since it was raining, but then figured the line there would be out of control.  So I brought with me an oversized umbrella and we waited in the rain, which actually stopped.  The line was the length of the H&M store and there was a tented overflow area nearby.  We were handed wrist bands with a time and told we could come back 20 minutes before if we didn't want to wait in line.  As we waited, I noticed actress Tracee Ellis Ross (see photo below) was also in the tented area, guess everyone has to wait in line.  One of the security guards mentioned that there were a few people camping out since 11:00 p.m. last night, in the rain no less. Then as the line started moving and we got closer to the door, celebrity stylist Jessica Paster walked out with loads of garment and shopping bags (see photo below).  I worked with her in a previous life and it was actually quite entertaining to see her all stressed out and crazy, guess some things never change.  Finally, we were able to go in and see the collection and it's as amazing as I imagined it.  I picked up the black dress I featured in a previous post and can't wait to wear it out!  I heart Lanvin for H&M.

Celebrity Stylist Jessica Paster Walking Out Of H&M

More photos after the jump...

What Will Kate Middleton Wear...To All Those Wedding Events?

The big buzz these days is the engagement of Kate Middleton and Prince William.  There is so much speculation about the wedding dress she'll choose to wear, however, I'm dying to know what she'll wear to all those pre-wedding events, including the engagement party, girl's weekend, and bridal shower.  I've put together a few of my favorites as suggestions for Kate.

Engagement Party: This event is all about being classy and well put together, especially for a future queen.  The Vivienne Westwood dress shows off her great figure without being too revealing, plus it supports a British designer. The Miu Miu's keep it polished while the low-heal gives it a bit of style, as does the leopard print Valentino handbag.

Vivienne Westwood Dress, Valentino Aphrodite Leopard Bag, Miu Miu Shoes (Spring 2011 Collections)

Girls Weekend:  Most likely she won't have a traditional bachelorette party, but it doesn't mean she can't have a girls weekend. A Diane von Furstenberg flowy dress for wine tasting and shopping, a Burberry Prorsum dress (yes, I'm trying to incorporate another British designer) to sex it up a bit for dinner and drinks, and a causal J. Crew ensemble for brunch the next morning.

Left to right: Diane von Furstenberg, Burberry Prorsum, J. Crew (Spring 2011 Collections)

Bridal Shower:  I'm imaging a tea party for the bridal shower, since she's British, of course.  A very girly dress with pastel colors is a must for such an event.  The Lauren Moffatt dress is perfect with it's light and airy style.  The Miu Miu handbag adds a little more color and the Louisa Beccaria espadrilles are the right touch for an afternoon of Earl Grey and crumpets.

Lauren Moffatt Dress, Miu Miu Handbag, Louisa Beccaria Espadrilles (Spring 2011 Collections)

Rachel Zoe Confirms She's Pregnant Via Twitter

Rachel Zoe and Rodger Berman at MOCA's Gala

Last night, after an event at Petit Ermitage, I was checking twitter and came across a tweet from Rachel Zoe which said, "Hey everyone! I want to officially confirm to my loyal friends and followers that I am pregnant!..." and "I feel great, Rodger and I are beyond excited and so thankful for all of your love and support. xoRZ & RB." Then Rodger tweeted, "Thanks everyone for all of the well wishes. I can't believe I'm going to be a dad :) So excited!!!!"

After rumors have been swirling around for months, it's finally confirmed. Zoe herself had even denied the rumors many times. Most recently, there were photos of Zoe at MOCA's Annual Gala last Saturday in a black grown with a very visual bump.  I guess there was no denying it this time.

I'm definitely looking forward to the next season of The Rachel Zoe Project.  That will be one stylish baby!

'Tis the Season for Sample Sales!

Ladies, hold on to your wallets, it's sample sale season! This weekend there are a plethora of sales around town which, to quote Rachel Zoe, will make you go BA-NANAS. Here goes the list (click on address for goggle map directions):

Vince
The sample sale features cashmere sweaters, tees, pants, skirts, jackets, and leather for 50-90 percent off retail.
Thursday 11/18, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Friday 11/19, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
5410/5420 Wilshire Blvd. (between Cloverdale & Cochran Aves., Mid-Wilshire)
[Daily Candy]

Ella Moss/Splendid
Great prices on cozy knits, luxe tees, and basics for women, men, tween, toddler, and baby.
Friday 11/19 and Saturday 11/20, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
The Cooper Building, 860 S. Los Angeles Street, 11th Floor, Downtown (between E. 8th & 9th St.)
[Racked LA]

Junior Drake
Warehouse sale on their amazing soft leather purses as well as the new Herbie men's line.
Friday 11/19 and Saturday 11/20, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday 11/21, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
740 East 60th St., Downtown (between Avalon Blvd. and S. Central Ave.)
[Racked LA]

Kimberly Ovitz
The sale features their Spring 2009 through PreFall 2010 merchandise, prices as follows:
Coats and Jackets: $100-300 (originally priced $500-$800)
Dresses: $100-250 (originally priced $400-600)
Tops: $50-100 (originally priced $200-400)
Bottoms: $50-100 (originally priced $250-$400)
Leather/Suede: $300-500 (originally priced $500-$1,500)
Friday 11/19, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 11/20 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
2601 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica (at 26th St.)
[Racked LA, Daily Candy]

Geren Ford
Hundreds of true samples ($10- $50) and recent season overstock up to 90% off ($30 - $125, including leather and shoes)
According to Racked LA, they're also doing a giveaway: First 15 people who come to the sale and drop the supersecret keyword "prancer" at the door get a free Geren Ford tee.
Friday 11/19, 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 11/20, 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Smashbox Studios, 8549 Higuera Street, Culver City (at Hayden Ave.)
[Racked LA, Daily Candy]
  
More sales after the jump...

Browsing Spring 2011 Lookbooks...

Designer's Spring 2011 lookbooks are popping up everywhere. While making my way through them, I found a few looks I fell in love with and will have to make part of my spring wardrobe.

I've always adored Elizabeth and James, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's brand (also designers of The Row). I feel no different about their Spring 2011 collection which is all about the slouchy and relaxed look (similar to the twins style but a little less homeless). Fashionista got their pretty little hands on the lookbook early and shared the entire collection online. I'm all about parading around town in trendy yet slouchy apparel and I would literally wear both these outfits every lazy weekend.

Photo credit: Fashionista (Elizabeth and James,*Photos by Roderick Angle)


Speaking of slouchy, Creatures of Comforts new collection brings us back to the days of Laura Ingalls. Refinery 29 featured their Spring 2011 collection today and I'm really digging the bright green shorts and pants. I especially love the high waisted look that's starting to catch on among designers.

Photo credit: Refinery 29 LA (Creatures of Comfort)


As the much anticipated Lanvin for H&M collection debuts this weekend, I'm super excited to finally see the collection in person. Their campaign ad looks so similar to the Gossip Girls promo spots, that I was half expecting to see Chuck Bass' snide look pop up as I clicked through the photos.

Photo credit: Lanvin for H&M


And finally, I leave you with a little glamour as the fashion world welcomes back Tom Ford. Vogue's December issue gives us a sneak peak into his Spring 2010 collection and the fashionistas are going mad over it, including me of course.


Photo credit: Vogue (Tom Ford, *Photos by Steven Meisel)

ELLEments of Personal Style Book Launch Party

Last night, I attended the ELLEments of Personal Style book launch event at White House Black Market Boutique in Santa Monica. The event was hosted by Joe Zee, creative director at ELLE, and actress Tracee Ellis Ross, who is also featured in the book.

Co-authored by Joe Zee and ELLE's deputy editor Maggie Bullock, the book looks in depth at the style of twenty-five fashion icons, from Diane Von Furstenberg to Dita Von Teese to Alicia Keys. With behind-the-scenes interviews, the woman intimately discuss their style inspiration through pieces in their personal wardrobe. While thumbing through the book at the event, I loved the way it encourages personal style instead of focusing on the latest trends. It's sometime everyone can relate to without feeling pressure to keep up with what's in style.

A fashionista in the making reading ELLE magazine at the event

Racked LA Takes You to the Front of the Line at the Decadestwo Shoe Sale

Decadestwo is having one of their famous $150 shoe sales this Sunday. Although it's guaranteed that the line will be blocks long, Racked LA is giving away front of the line spots to a lucky few that email them (la@racked.com) with a picture of their dream shoes along with a witty one-liner.

Decadestwo is known for their impeccable selection of upscale designer clothing. They receive most of their consignments from celebrities and fashionistas, therefore this shoe sale cannot be missed!