Temple of Glam

I'll never forget walking down the street with my mom one day. I was like 5. There was something on my mind that I had to ask her.

Baby Breezy: Mommy, do I have a big butt?

Mommy: (Sarcastically) Yeah...we're the butt sisters.

Now, let's just say you didn't "get it from your mama". Enter Not Your Daughter's Jeans ($88- $130). NYDJ can make you look a full size smaller, flatten your stomach, and boost your booty. How? So glad you asked. The criss-cross paneling flattens the stomach, the high-rise design prevents muffin top, and the higher back pockets visibly lift the bum.

The spring 2012 collection is chock full of Razzles-hued jeans AND denim skirts (yup, they're back)! Plus, they have amazing animal-print denim that I went wild for (sorry). If you're more of a classic girl, there are new silhouettes (cropped and boyfriend) to accompany their beloved styles.

Denim Skirts...In Living Color!

Anwhoo, I stopped by the showroom to check out the wares and walked out with these sensational snakeskin-print jeans. At first I admonished myself for wearing an oversized dress (knowing I'd be photographed in the jeans I chose), but then I realized I made the right decision.

Check out my 2012 take on '90s grunge. I'm calling it CBGB chic...Boom.

Here's a close-up of the sssssnakeskin print...

And for some musical inspiration...

I was never the hardcore go out-and-play kinda' kid. But one all-too-vivid park memory involves me at age 7 on the see-saw...alone. Yeah, it gets worse.

As I pondered what past life to blame for my grounded position, a boy (about 9 or 10) hopped on the other side and we see-sawed our little hearts out. Until. He jumped off and ran to play somewhere else. As I crashed back down to reality, I was back to my introspective state with a sore butt. I'm fighting to not make this memory a metaphor for my childhood.

Moving on...last week I stopped by Hilary Park's jewelry store. I was super stoked to see how she incorporates astrological-isms in her hand-crafted silver and gold pieces. You know I was interested if I traveled to Brooklyn to  see her earrings, necklaces, and bracelets (starting at $80).

Oh, the pieces she showed: industrial, but undeniably influenced by nature. In short, they're striking.

From the tough girl, leather-woven Whip Stitch Cuff ($475) to the Winding Path Cuff ($1500), I was in awe of the stunning workmanship and the passion Hilary (understandably) has for her designs. And then as I fawned over the Frida Kahlo pendant, she mentioned she created a similar one in Basquiat's image...crowns and all. She was also nice enough to give me a customized citrine (prosperity) pendant on her signature leather cord. Prosperity? Bring it.

As soon as I was sonically introduced to Theophilus London, I knew it was a very special moment. "Flying Overseas" was unquestionably my gateway track; since then I've explored a bunch of his other songs and am rather caught up in "Soles of Fire" (technically the song was made by Chauffeur, a group consisting of Theophilus and Mark Ronson). So yeah, yeah, yeah how does this relate to boat shoes?

"Soles of Fire" opens with Theophilus London's line, "What a coincidence we both wore boat shoes". As soon as I heard it, I scoured my closet in my mind. Is he singing to me? Do we both have boat shoes?

I also remember attending Kimmie Smith's Sebago preview at Robert Verdi's lounge last season. After seeing all of the fantastic colors and styles in her collection, I was officially in a top-sider state of mind. Plus, the classic footwear is an ironic wink to my "fly girl in bohemia" sartorial style.

So does Theophilus London actually wear men's boat shoes? I dunno. Can I imagine him finding a clever way to rock them? Sure. Am I still bitter that I didn't go to the Rebecca Minkoff fashion show (with a surprise  performance by Theophilus London)? Call me Lemonhead. And to my friend who sent me her video of said performance: I thank you, but I kinda' hate you.

As a weird person, I really appreciate and am drawn to the strangeness in others. One of my favorite seemingly-normal-but-obviously-strange encounters involved my 4th grade teacher. I find it important to mention that I had a HUGE crush on Mr. Nieves.

Just when I thought my most memorable experience would be my Catholic school uniform skirt attaching itself to my sweater baring my white slip in front of him (thanks for the static cling, mom), something  even more ridiculous happened.

One day, Mr. Nieves wore a terrycloth bathrobe over his suit in class. To top it off, he danced around the room to the freestyle song, "Diamond Girl". No lie. Yes, it was strange and he left at the end of the year to become a cop, but it was cool; he let his freak flag wave in the wind.

And though I've never considered myself a "diamond girl", I was really psyched when I heard about Anjolee Jewelry. You can customize pieces using white or yellow gold.

Choose the style as well as the weight of your diamonds to create a stunning piece you'll love forever. I'm so into the 360-degree and zoom views so you can really see your relatively economical diamond earrings, ring, or bracelet created before your very eyes.

Anjolee was kind enough to make me a pair of amythest hoop earrings (similar to the diamond hoop earrings pictured above). And they are so dainty and pretty, I can't even tell you. I'll take a pic of them at some point, for sure!

Mr. Nieves, this one's for you:

Skinny, Flare, and Bootcut jeans. No matter your favorite fit, there's a chance you'd love a flatter-looking tummy and  um, a more ample-looking butt.

Even if you've been hitting the Amstel too hard, Not Your Daughter's Jeans ($88- $130) can make you look a full size smaller, flatten your stomach, and boost your booty. How? So glad you asked. The criss-cross paneling flattens the stomach, the high-rise design prevents muffin top, and the higher back pockets visually lift the bum. For the record, I'm in love with my red Alisha skinnies.

Wanna win your own pair? Just leave a comment here or tweet me the NYDJ style you want. I'll select a winner. Oh! If you're not a Facebook fan, like us. You gotta' be a FB fan to win!

Image courtesy of: http://fashionsnightout.com/

At its best, Fashion's Night Out (FNO) is a night of fashion, beauty, music, complimentary services, and drinks. At its worst? An over-crowded hotbed of godawful trendsters. I'm slightly bitter.

Look, last year I was so overwhelmed by the platform-and-animal-skin-clad chicks in the West Village, I had to duck into an Italian restaurant to compose myself (eat pasta and drink red wine).

I missed out on celebrity DJs, one-night-only deals, and more. If I hit up FNO tomorrow, the following events look dope.

NYC Fashion's Night Out Schedule: Thursday, September 8

Win Free Tickets to the Rebecca Taylor S/S 2012 Fashion Show

6-11PM

Get your photo snapped on the "step & repeat" at the Rebecca Taylor Flagship Boutique. The person with the fiercest look will win two tickets to the Rebecca Taylor fashion show. P.S. Svedka cocktails & sweets will be there as well. If you're into that kinda' thing. Rebecca Taylor Flagship Boutique: 34 Gansevoort St.

9:30 Solange Knowles Spins at Sephora

Head to the by Carol's Daughter styliing bar at Sephora to get your coiffure "did" in one of four styles: mohawk, fishtail braids, modern updo, and hair accessories. And while you're waiting, you get to watch Solange get down on the ones and twos. Sephora: 597 Fifth Avenue, 48th & 49th St.

"Rhinestonate" Your Hanky Pankys

Ends at 11:00pm

End your night with some Hanky Panky at Blomingdale's Soho. Adorn your Hanky Panky thong or boy short purchase with rhinestones. Word. Bloomingdale's Soho: 504 Broadway between Broome and Spring.

Not planning to be in the NYC area? Get your virtual Fashion's Night Out happening at Piperlime.com. At 6PM on the dot, they'll reveal their new celebrity guest editors. You can be one of the first to shop the editors' top picks!

When Iman slaps her thigh and tells you to get the bag, you get the dang bag. Last night I found myself at the Platinum collection preview, running to the next room for my favorite bag. See? All that time watching "Supermarket Sweep" paid off.

Platinum is the newest addition to the IMAN Global Chic brand, offering moderately priced, yet majorly luxe apparel and accessories. And let me tell you, we're not talking stiff faux leather...we're talking yummy suede and genuine leather with details like pony hair.

Yup, the butter-soft, chocolate brown bag above, which Iman calls "the ultimate carry-on" is a must have in my eyes...and heart.

Iman will appear on HSN today to debut Platinum. The rest of the styles from the line (including the carry-on bag of my dreams) will air on October 26th!

I felt a wave of sweat pour down my back; I was standing still.

I contemplated articles of clothing I could remove without getting arrested.

When the thought of donning clothes led to major heat anxiety (literally walking around my apartment disavowing every sartorial option that came to mind, "no-no-no, you will burst into flames!"), I knew it was time to take action (i.e. create a quick list of summer-proof clothes and find a good therapist):

Lemlem Adama Dress ($245)

When I longingly ogled an older woman's moo-moo, I vowed to find a chic (and age-appropriate) alternative. The handmade caftan-inspired dress is called a beach cover up, but its lightweight fabric and light color are ideal for this little heatwave we're having. Plus, it was designed by supermodel Liya Kebede.

Kimchi Trouser ($59)

Über-tight jeans aren't an option when it's like 100 degrees. At a complete loss for suitable pants to wear, I would have reached for these polyester pants in a heartbeat. Please don't hate on polyester btw; it's machine washable and it never needs to be ironed.

Geren Ford Sheer Panel Dress ($320)

This dress is barely there and it also happens to be super pretty. Truthfully, I don't think you can bend down in it though.  But not for nothing, if you drop something, I'd suggest letting the universe have it; bending is a misuse of precious energy when it's Hades hot.

Before I even knew who Makeda was, I knew the necklace. And since spending quite a bit of bonding time with the glamazon, the knotted pearl necklace has been her accoutrement of choice time after time: brunch, dinner, countless fashion events, and aptartment fetes. In fact, the only time the pearls didn't make an appearance was when we went running along the Chelsea Piers. Knowing her though, she probably wore them under her T-shirt.

Last week, some of my fave beauty & fashion bloggers assembled at Alma G salon for the Glamazon Summer Social. Makeda presented us with her most beloved summer products and introduced us to the super-charismatic owner of the salon, Alma. Alma gave us her handcrafted, essential-oil-based, hair boosting serum, Almatized ($50).

Behold, the truck-load of other treats to make your summer a "glamazonous" one:

I've been wearing these Lucky Brand sunnies ever since I walked away from the social. And the Knockarounds ($14) with moonshine lenses are on my list for this weekend. They're both lightweight, stylish and inexpensive. Three of my  favorite adjectives.

Wellies. Jellies. Stilettos? Typically, one wouldn't consider going out in a torrential downpour in high heels...unless they're eco-friendly and waterproof, Jean Paul Gaultier-Melissa Sandals ($143).

A part of me truly wants to reveal the location of a nail spot that offers $20 mani-pedis, but I just can't. I gotta' keep something to myself. I will, however, share with you the gorgeous Texas collection by OPI ($8.50) and the Braziliant collection by Essie ($8 each).

Makeda and Felicia raved about the anti-aging & brightening Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Facial Peel ($28 for 10 packets). It's the only facial peel on the market that contains five Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids, Retinol, Ubiquinone, Resveratrol, antioxidants, vitamins, and botanicals.

I haven't tried either the Redken Extreme Strength Builder Plus Fortifying Mask or the Extreme CAT Protein Mist, but I'm definitely excited to add some much-needed protein to my relaxed hair. You probably know that relaxed hair loses quite a bit of protein post repeated treatments.

And last, but certainly not least (literally and figuratively):

This Freshwater Pearl Necklace ($298, but appraises for $1000) features pink-to-peach pearls, is knotted in silk, and has a solid 14 karat gold clasp.

Judging from your emails and notes, you guys really liked my spring top picks. So I figured, "hell, let's do it again for summer"!

CK One Summer, $46

From the moment I stole a spritz from my college roommate's bottle, I had a love-love relationship with CK One. Since this limited-edition scent features crisp apple and sweet crushed berry top notes and cedarwood and incense base notes, I'm all over it (well, guess it's all over me).

Avon Peep-Toe Mini Wedges, $19.99

Super light...and inexpensive. They're great for city walking: comfy enough to break into a sprint in case something goes down. And there's always a chance something will go down...don't you watch "Cops"?

Biore Makeup Removing Towelettes, $7.99

For the days when makeup is a must...and waterproof mascara is the only way to go (if you have allergies, you know what I mean), these wipes remove makeup, refresh the skin, and leave it with a light, pleasant scent.

Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipgloss in Fuchsia Therapy, $6.15

If I hear, let alone say, "pop of color" one more time, I shan't be held responsible for my actions. But hey, there really isn't a better way to describe such a glorious color, enriched with moisturizing collagen, Vitamins A, C & E, and SPF 15 gracing soup coolers everywhere.

Goldfaden Daily Scrub, $65

Did you guys know that you're supposed to use your scrub BEFORE cleansing? Yup. When you use a scrub like this one, which includes ruby crystals, anti-aging/free-radical-busting red tea, and seaweed, it will lift up dead skin cells allowing your cleanser to work better. You heard it here, folks.

Hudson Hampton Short Shorts, $143

I love this fresh take on colored denim, plus, you can't have summer without shorts. Well, yeah you can, but why would hue want to? Had to do it...don't hate me.

John Freida Frizz-Ease Hair Serum, $8.99

Humidity...the end.

Hermanny by Vix Kelly One Piece, $107 + Win a FREE $100 Gift Card!

I'm a ride-or-die bikini girl. BUT I think this one piece from Amazon's new Swim Shop, is the perfect combination of color, pattern, and va-va-voominess (thanks to strategic ruching).

Enter to win a $100 Amazon Swim Shop Gift Card: Just tell me "I'm a bikini girl" or "I'm a one-piece girl" in the comment area below or Tweet me. Be sure to include your email address.The giveaway ends at midnight on Friday, June 10th.

I'm sure you remember the DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince classic, "Summertime". I recall thinking how grown up Will Smith looked with facial hair. Gotta' love it.

I suspect if I met Kanye West, I'd react like "Troy" from Community when he met LeVar Burton, but I'd be a lot less cool. And instead of singing, the Reading Rainbow theme, I'd belt out a medley of 808s & Heartbreak. Because I'm just that insane. Then I'd most likely be carried away in a tearful-maniacal-laugh mash up and be put on some kind of list. Hey, a girl can dream.

On to more sane (and exquisite) topics; Kan-yeezy partnered with M/M (Paris) to create a spectacular collection of five, limited-edition 100% silk twill scarves. The designs are direct translations of the artwork West commissioned from George Condo for his My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy album and the frames that M/M (Paris) designed to complement the paintings.

You can buy the scarves online at M/M (Paris) starting...TODAY!

Here's the Community scene. Fast forward to 1:01.

Only a close friend could pick up a hiccup in my otherwise pristine non-dialect, dialect (barring an occasional New York "dawg" and "caw-fee"). In fact, I am the first person to notice inflection, intonation, and any other voice thingy in a person's speech. So, when a friend questioned my pronunciation of the word "umbrella", I thought she was joking.

"UHHM-brella, UHHM-brella...what?" My Southern roots apparently come out to say "howdy" when I say that word.

No matter how you say it, can we agree that this Pasotti Ombre Black Dahlia Umbrella ($189) is phenomenal? Quite a few (if not all) of these jammies are handmade and like this one, feature intricate handles adorned with Swarovski crystals. So I guess that's where the 200 duckets come in.

And though I'm not 100% sure umbrellas fit into a fashion or beauty post, I do know this. Farnsworth Bentley was once Diddy's umbrella guy; and they are both quite fashionable, so there. I also watched "Get Him to the Greek" recently and Diddy's performance was genius ("you cannot outrun me. I am black!").

Diddy...Farnsworth..."I am black"...Back Dahlia umbrella. This umbrella thing makes total sense now, right?

I was recently asked to share my spring must-haves. So I figured, hell, I need to let the TOG peeps know what's up first!

J. Crew Amie Maxi Dress $98

Whether I'm brunching, lipgloss shopping, or dodging crazy NYC tourists, I will most likely be wearing this dress.

Bettye Muller Caprice Scarf Espadrilles $185

If they look like these, I'm officially ready to rock espadrilles. They're a must for spring's '70s fever. I love the deep, dark navy with a dash of orange.

Apart Style Pave Gold Stud Cuff $245

Florals are definitely a "go" this season, but make sure to toughen 'em up with a piece like this. Heck, even I'd feel like a tough chick wearing this bracelet.

Bar III Slouchy Cropped Trouser $48

These high-waist slouchy pants show off your shape without cutting off circulation. Fun fact: I think the model is Danielle's daughter from "Real Housewives of New Jersey".

MAC Cosmetics Viva Glam Gaga 2 $14.50

Yes, bright color is pretty, but the upkeep throughout the work day? No thanks. A nude lip is always a DO for spring. It wears off seamlessly and you can apply it without a mirror: win-win!

I guess I realized the weather was getting to me when I heard myself say with a deadpan expression, "So help me. If this weather continues through April, I'm jumping off a bridge." That, of course, led to another less-dramatic thought/question: What do we gals do when we have "a case of the Mondays" all week?

Sometimes we head to the hair salon: We color. We cut. We regret. We wait for hair to grow out.

I'm suggesting retail therapy. When life gives you lemons, take out the plastic and buy something pretty.

For instance, I'm kinda' having a floral moment lately. Admittedly, the moment is mostly happening in my mind, but it's HUGE. I really like this dress from Very.co.uk; they have a great range of women's clothes.

Even though they don't deliver to the U.S., you can use it as style inspiration...or if you know someone with a UK address, maybe you can get them to send it to you. If so, holler. I want that dress.

Yes, my floral moment is mostly a cerebral one, but let me tell you. I am ROCKING florals in my mind. I"m wearing them to work, to the store, on a boat, and with a goat. I do! I do like florals, Sam I Am. I like them more than green eggs and ham.

Maybe it's my way of summoning spring, but these floral harem pants are adorable. I know, I know you might be saying, "enough with the harem pants", but I really am digging the print and the structure.Check them and other Joe Browns women's clothing out today.

True. The Calvin Klein Friends & Family event starts on 3/17, but 30% OFF (even sale)? We gotta' prep our shopping lists now! What...am I the only one who thinks like that?

Thanks to my dear blogger friend, Lorna from The Fabulous Report, I found myself at the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation event. Here's the skinny: Italian wine brand Ecco Domani annually awards designers with a New York Fashion Week showcase and a $25,000 grant.

This year's winners are Bibhu Mohapatra, The Lake & Stars, M. Patmos, Mandy Coon, Native Son, Pamela Love, and Study NY. Before checking out the winners' looks along with the rest of the pre-Fashion Week crowd, an Essence.com photographer asked if he could take a picture. Here it is!

As he took close-ups of my accessories, I looked to the left and saw...*wait for it* super stylist, June Ambrose. I know, right?!?! After threatening to die and cry simultaneously, the photographer was kind enough to introduce me to her. She's even more incredible than I imagined. Seriously.

Image courtesy of Essence.com

Valentine's Day can conjur up a range of feelings in different people. I've already mentioned what happens to me at the very sight of Russell Stover chocolates; for those who don't remember, I take a one-way trip to Puke Town (sorry, grandma).

So let's be real. Whether you're in a relationship or not, Valentine's Day can be a big ol' cliche wrapped in a huge red bow.

As a result, this week I'm on a quest to scope out Valentine's Day gifts that are (dare I say) interesting and hell, maybe even appropriate for singletons! That said, I give you the Tough Love Necklace ($34). I love this sterling silver and pewter number because it's applicable to the "single", "in a relationship", and even the "it's complicated" folks.

For the singles, it's a reminder that you gotta' stay strong in the crazy dating world. For the "in a relationship" peeps, love is a beautifully resilient thing. For the "it's complicated" clan, love can sometimes feel like he's taken a hammer and smashed your heart to smithereens. Poetic, ain't it?

Fun fact #876: I have developed a little headache situation when I drink white wine. We're talking one glass, people!  So...the next time you see me with a glass of white, slap it out of my hand and consider it a charitable act. Sensing a segue?

I was so so sad that I couldn't attend the bar III launch party last week. Luckily, I got a few pics from the new collection that launches in Macy's next month.

And guess what, New Yorkers. A bar III pop-up shop is er, popping up on 20th Street and 5th Avenue from 2/10 to 3/6. I'm kinda' all over the basic pieces (like the Missoni-esque bustier dress) that can be worn clasically or morphed into rocker-chic and hippie-hot looks.

Editor's Note: bar III is now available online (the dress I really need now isn't available till March, but nevertheless), check it out!

I ignored the strange looks knowing my tootsies were warm and cozy. It wasn't until the fashion director at work complimented my slippers, but curiously looked at me as I donned my winter coat, that I realized how potentially avant garde the move might have been. "You can't wear those outside, can you?" I proudly showed him the rubber sole and said "Yes, I can!".

The UGG Australia site states that the Dakota Slipper ($100) is "perfect for indoor or outdoor use". And maybe to UGG "outdoor" means going out to pick up the paper. My interpretation is traveling over 4 miles to get to work.

I will say, since I tend to wear my jeans on the high-water side of life, my ankles were a little cold as I hopped over slushy puddles and dodged buses. Regardless, I felt comfy (and pretty rebellious to boot *er, slipper*).

I was ca-rushed when I realized I couldn't attend the Sephora at Shop Bop party a couple of weeks ago. Luckily one of my favorite blogger friends, The Fab Chick, wrote all about it so I kinda felt like I was there. Kinda. It wasn't until I received a Color Play 5-in 1 Kit: Fashion Edition ($30) and played with the eye, lip, and cheek colors, that I truly understood the concept.

Shop Bop created five fashion looks (Faces of Fashion). Sephora came up with complementary palettes: Boho Bombshell, Nod to Mod, Classics Never Die, Angelic Boudoir, and Black is the New Black.

Here's Boho Bombshell (I'm living for the Tibi dress!!):

You can shop the fashion look at Shop Bop, get the beauty look at Sephora, AND enter the Faces of Fashion sweepstakes to win a $2,500 Shop Bop shopping spree and a year's worth of Sephora-brand makeup! Contest ends on February 2nd.

I love primping and pumping (wearing pumps...geez!) like any other girl, but I also enjoy getting my tomboy on. I get my love for boxy tops and jackets from my grandma, Emma Jean. The only difference is, she doesn't wear circulation-inhibiting skinnies like I do. I also have a pop culture mind that just won't quit. Pair the two and you get...

Image courtesy of eyefivestyle.com

Don't recognize him? He's "Jake Ryan" from "Sixteen Candles" (super dreamy, I know, I know), but check the boots. I have been so in love with them since I was little. And like my "Desperately Seeking Susan" studded boot quest, I have been on a tacit hunt for boots that'd make me feel like the coolest boy in school. Yeah, I said it.

I landed on these Cooperative Sweater Cuff Boots ($78) from Urban Outfitters. They're my birthday gift to myself this year. I'm planning to switch out the laces with some bright red ones. That's as much vibrant color that my black NYC soul can handle.

Last night I went to the Levi's Spring 2011 Press Preview. There I spotted the trends for the season including high-waisted styles and pastel-hued denim.

Among the amazing models donning the collection, I saw the models from the Curve ID party. As Misha, one of my blogger besties took a pic with a male model, I was bff-ing it up with my favorite model girl. Favorite because she was gracious enough to hold her pose as my ancient Canon "warmed up" at the Curve ID party. Why would a digital camera EVER need to warm up? No flippin' idea.

Anyways, as I knocked my tooth into the straw (this time it wasn't yet another display of my clumsiness; the straw was metal!), I watched The Duke Spirit perform. The lead singer, Liela Moss had the most incredible feather necklace...I'll see if I can get my hands on a pic for ya.

Editor's Note:
I got a pic of Liela Moss' necklace!! Dope, ain't it?

Dolman sleeves. Harem pants. One-shoulder tops. Nope, I'm not referring to a Fashion's Night Out outfit, I'm talking about the super-soft collection of sleepwear from Norma Kamali, OMO. OMO Norma Kamali also features maxi dresses and convertible tops.

I'm not sure how transparent the pieces are, but if there is a decent amount of opacity, I'd totally rock some of them out. Prices range from $85 - $270.

Oh-oh-oh! Norma Kamali offers a "Try Before You Buy" option. Order your favorite OMO sleepwear and you have 48 hours to decide what you want and pay for what you keep.

Last night I went to the Club Monaco at Shop Bop Preview. Not only  was the night super fun, but there was also a delicious mushroom hors d'oeuvre. In fact, as I went on and on about it, I was asked if I was a food blogger. And...scene.

Here are a couple of other looks from the collection as well as shots I took with el iPhone.

I know, I know: THE DOPENESS!

Now here's where you come in. Enter the Club Monaco-Shopbop Sweepstakes and you could win a $1000 Shopbop gift certificate, a $1000 Club Monaco gift card, and more!