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