Jack's Widow. A book review.

I just finished reading Jack's Widow by Eve Pollard; a novel about Jackie O.
It is my opinion that those who are historical fiction authors are the least acknowledged (and appreciated) for their incredible talent. Certainly not all, but a great many of these literary artists perform the daunting task of both being historians and researchers - which takes a knack for facts and an infinite attention span - AND creative and believable - because they are charged with making true facts more interesting, while maintaining believability, while intertwining pure fiction.
One thing I really like about Pollard is that she speckles her story with great descriptions of Jackie's clothing. "All her lingerie, the tulle, satin and organdy, even the silken threads that held them together, was hand-dyed in Paris to match her skin to perfection." "...she bathed, fluffed up her hair, slipped into a pair of cyclamen-pink tapered trousers and a dyed-to-match cashmere crewneck." You can see her, can't you? Jackie, in all her glamour (and, according to this tale, all her torment) still managing to pull off chic perfection when it comes to her appearance.
USA Today was right - I did get sucked into the hijinks and loved every minute!
BUT...Who is the real Jackie?
This curiousness on my part has led me to finally getting a library card! I just checked out a biography on Jackie Kennedy Onassis as well as on Coco Chanel. This plastic card is one I hope to melt rather quickly from overuse!

Just to whet your appetites...

I have a very lovely blog all planned out--even handwritten on an empty envelope!
I sat down to type it up just now, and realized I left it in my subject's binding at The Tenor's home.
Curious?
Stay tuned....

It's been a month...

since my camera worked!!!
Which is probably why I'm not blogging as much. I had all of these grand ideas for taking pics of things I see that are inspirational or wonderful or frightening...and they are all captured (without a way to escape!) in my camera.

Re: The dress/shoe conundrum:
I found a gorgeous pair of dark fuchsia (magenta, perhaps) suede (I know, I know, not Spring/Summer appropriate, even if it's evening) ruffle-topped peep-toe pumps that were PERFECT. I then paired that lacy LBD with a pair of understated (yet GORG!) Judith Ripka pink quartz and pink sapphire with white diamond earrings! A very new-to-me Judy also came into my life the night of my friend's wedding--Judith Leiber! A coworker purchased the pink Swarovski-d bag a while ago, and while she won't allow her own daughter to borrow it, I've proven my ability to appreciate care for the expensive. :)
I'm waiting for the photographer to post her pictures so I can steal them and repost.

Meanwhile...what questions do you have for me? Summer is around the corner--any fashion faux pas you want to avoid? Wondering about white, linen, rafia, or cork? Comment your questions and I'll get to them!

Help, please?

I now enlist you, faithful fashion followers, to help me find a great shoe to go with this dress! It looked fantastic for runway and winter with tights and black suede booties...but I want to wear this dress to a wedding on May 2! The reception will be at the House of Blues, so chic and stylish is a must! Images are below (click here if you need additional pictures).
This will be my dress' debut, so I need it to be fabulous! (Not to mention the party I am attending will be chock full of stylish gals--including the bride who is wearing a sassy Melissa Sweet dress with cobalt Kate Spades!)
I have pewter python Tahari strappy sandals...but I they are way too much texture for the already sensory heavy dress. I don't want to do boring and black (but I will break glass in case of emergency).
So...what say you?

Personal Shopping!

Are you having a hard time finding the style that work best for you? Are you overwhelmed with the assortment of trends, and how quickly they change? Would you like to have someone shop with you (in your closet and abroad) who will give you honest opinions and advice for improving your look?

I’m a retail therapist, and I’m here to help!

Equipped with a Texas license in counseling, and years of retail experience, I’m ready to help you bridge the gap between your mind and reality when it comes to how you want to look.

Starter Kit – You and I meet in your closet. You tell me what you wear and what you haven’t touched in five years, but can’t seem to throw out. I tell you what you should and shouldn’t be wearing from your closet, what shapes, styles, and colors are most complementary on you. You let me know whether or not you want to see me again. $75 (1 hour increments)

Personal Shopping – The basics. Includes shopping for events, interviews, work, day-to-day, vacation, weekends, etc. Think of me as your incredibly honest friend, but with more style. $75/$50 (1^st 2 hours/hourly thereafter)

Re-do! – Are you a jeans and tshirt kind of person who needs a little polishing? Did you just graduate and need help dressing for the corporate world? From consult to shopping, I’ll help you get from where you are to where you want to be. $125 (consult + 1^st shopping)

SOS – For those who need to purge their wardrobes, need a total makeover, don’t know what treasures they have, and want someone else to make the major decisions. My only requirement? Donate whatever you don’t keep. $100 (2 hours)

The Organizer – You know you had that one scarf that looked fantastic? And those shoes that looked perfect with that pencil skirt? But you can’t find it? I’ll get your closet organized in no time—by season, by genre, by whatever makes most sense to you. $150 (3 hours)

Style File – Let’s digitally archive your looks (and hard work!) to give you fingertip access to your wardrobe and all its potential. Notes will be created to give you alternative accessories, shoes, etc. so you won’t feel stuck in a rut. Time consuming to create? Sure. Time saving when you look in your closet and see nothing to wear? Definitely. $250 (start to finish)

Have you Shecky-d?

I forgot to mention that I made my bi-annual trip to Shecky's Girl's Night Out. It's a great way to find out about both local and up-and-coming clothing and jewelry designers--for a fraction of the cost--with goodie bags and free drinks!

Spring's shopping event was held at F.I.G. in downtown Dallas. Though it was a little difficult to get to, the Fashion Institute Gallery is certainly one of the cooler modern spaces nestled into the heart of the city. We were greeted by security, photographed on the pink carpet (pic to come soon!), and got our pre-ordered tickets and wristbands. We walked in to a shopper's paradise! Women were certainly the en masse, Shecky's staff members and drink waiters were all men-and didn't seem to mind being out numbered! The goodie bags were worth every penny of admission, and came in great Louis Vuitton-inspired nylon zipper bags (hello: grocery bag!). We wandered around and I rediscovered the joys of browsing and shopping-without-intent-of-purchase. It was lovely! My girlfriend picked up a cute silver cocktail dress (that I'll have to borrow, in exchange for her picking through cocktail-gate '08) from a local designer. All in all, with the XRated Flirtinis and committment free perusal of wears, it was a delightful evening!

Check out their website and see if there is an event near you!

Pretty in Puce

A quick look at First Lady Obama's Inaugural outfit tells us a few things about her personality that we previously may not have known:

1. She is not afraid of some daytime sparkle. (Yay! Let us all follow suit!)
2. She is brave enough to try colors previously only worn by Pixar characters (see: Mike Wazowski in Monster's Inc.)
3. She does not have to wear schmancy designer labels to feel fabulous. (Isabel Toledo dress, JCrew gloves, Jimmy Choo shoes. See also: interview with Leno outfit)
4. She is classic with a twist. (Like Jackie O. meets an Uptown girl)
5. She plans on keeping us surprised with her fashion choices throughout the Presidency.

I, for one, very much look forward to what fashion wheels she will get turning and what fads she will lead.

Resolution

An explanation about my intention for New Years resolutions: I think you should make as many as necessary, to be amended as needed, added often, and the list completed by the end of January (which is the end of the retail year; how appropriate!) or, at the latest, the last day of February. Resolutions are meant to be kept; though, as with all rules, some bending does occur (sans penalty). Resolutions are to be held in high regard by friends and acquaintances, whether or not agreement is achieved (or sought). Resolutions are non-binding and certainly non-legal. Resolutions usually have a reason; however, no reason must be evident, apparent, needed, or given.

So, without further ado, a resolution:

I will not buy another cocktail dress (this year) no matter how good the sale (and employee discount), the reason (another opera with The Tenor), how magnificent I look and/or feel in it (expensive fabrics always make me feel delicious), or how I may try to convince myself otherwise (remember: Masters in counseling).

coming soon...

a post on my dear, dear (new) friend: Harry Winston.
:)

Mr. Right does Wrong

I know I said I would be sticking with womens fashion, and leaving mens fashion to the Magnificent Bastard. However, I was recently out on a casual afternoon with my own MB-to-be, and he pulled two crimes against fashion.

1. Is that really a rolled sleeve?
2. What color did that hat start out as?
Magpies: Please keep your men under control when out in public with them! (When they are alone, it's their own problem...)

*thanks Transcendental Steve!

Election Day!

In light of all the political conversations going on today, I'd like to take this opportunity for a moment of fluff.

When considering your options at the poll, please take into consideration how influential the style of our elected leaders can be (see: Jackie O., JFK...that's about it). Then, think about the individual styles presented by our options today. I'd like to take a closer look at the women being represented (for the men's fashion, see what The Magnificent Bastard has to say).

If elected, Palin will entice scads of women (who haven't already done so) to run to their local beauty salon and ask for the "Sarah Palin". Although in it's most perfected state (left) this is a classic half-chignon with backcombing and slight bouffant. It's a beautiful updo for a middle-aged woman heading to an event. It is NOT an everyday look. In it's daily (or end-of-day) state (right) it's a messy and easy-gone-awry way to look. This rush to the salon will remind us of the "Rachel" haircut donned by Jennifer Aniston in Friends. And, quite frankly, although the look was stunning on her, it wasn't necessarily as flattering on the millions of others who got it then (and continue now). This comparison is accurate not only because of the similar rush already being felt among moms nation-wide, but also because both looks are overworked and most appropriate for the mid-90s.


If elected, Obama('s wife) will encourage everywoman to look her best. She does not spend outrageously (see article on Palin's wardrobe ravamping); rather she shops at stores we can all find in our local malls. Michelle recently rocked this JCrew outfit on The Tonight Show, surprising both Jay Leno and the audience with her admittance to e-commerce (as well as causign a 64% spike on JCrew's website!). Michelle Obama has already inspired moms across the country to take a harder look at White House Black Market, Banana Republic, and department stores. Sure, Michelle is guilty of picking up luxury items by Thakoon and Tory Burch...but she does so in the same moderation that other middle-class American women do. (For more on Michelle Obama's style, click here).


So, Magpies, when headed to the polls today, think: Which candidate's style will I be less sick of emulating at the end of four years? Which candidate will inspire women the most while in office?

GET OUT AND VOTE!

Now, for the record, I am a firm believer in knowing your candidates before making a decision that will affect not only your life, but the lives of those around you. Go to the Obama and McCain websites and make an informed decision.

Calling all chicks*!

What do you want to read about on here? Do you have questions about existing fashion? About your wardrobe? About jewelry? Accessories? ANYTHING?
Leave a comment or email me and I'll post for you!


*for any of you who are concerned about the negative connotation that frequently accompanies this slang term for women, let me point out that I am a Magpie, and I like to think of my readers as fellow birds. That's it. Just a little thing I have...

Monogram

...is the luxury line for Banana Republic. It has never quite made sense to us why the Banana Republic in Highland Park Village did not have this line, especially considering our neighbors.
It has been made known that we will be getting Monogram SOON!!!!
Stay tuned for more details....

Judith Ripka

If you would like to enjoy a truly "Highland Park Village" experience, and not be guilted by sales associates who recognize you do not have the funding to be in their store, go to Judith Ripka.

Katie has been the sales associate/jewelry connoisseur I have worked with the times I have visited. She understands that not everybody who walks in her door has the appropriate budget, but also understands that diamonds are a girl's best friend and encourages trying on.

You will see local legends and Hollywood stars alike donning the gilt and glitter that Judith Ripka has to offer. From Cindy Crawford to Kate Hudson to Lisa Edelstein, glamour girls from the runway and the big and small screens recognize the talent, versatility, and statement that Judith Ripka so effortlessly makes.

Some may compare Ripka to David Yurman. I find this connection both a positive and a negative. Yes, both Ripka and Yurman utilize lab-created gemstones to guarantee depth of color and quality; however, Ripka has a much softer, more romantic side than does the chain-burdened and often heavy-handed Yurman. I would much rather compare Ripka to Van Cleef and Arpels, with a dash of Tiffany & Co., and a generous helping of her unique style.

My favorites?

The Jubilee Necklace 18k gold with small diamond accents, 17" $4550
The Garland Ring sterling silver and 18K gold with small diamond accents $500

and the non-pictured Clover necklace

I predict that Judith Ripka's signature Clover (available in the Dallas bourtique) will soon have the same status and demand as the Elsa Peretti Bean.

New shoes, old soles

I see many women crammed into very stylish shoes. As much as they protest that they are as comfortable as being barefooted, I see their corns, bunions, and red spots and disagree.
When purchasing shoes, there are several things to remember.
If you are buying heels over 2.5", you will want to go up one half size. The exception to this rule is if there is a covered platform under the toe--with these, you will just want to try them on.
If you are purchasing boots, remember that they may fit fantastically when you are in bare or stocking-feet; however, once you get on tights or a real sock, they may be too snug.
When you try on the shoes, walk around! A sales person will understand if you keep the shoes on your feet for up to ten or fifteen minutes because it is the only way you can get an accurate understanding of what the shoes will feel like once they are yours. Be mindful of walking on carpeted and hardwood surfaces as unworn shoes frequently come with slick soles.
The best way to break in a new pair of heels is to wear them in your driveway/garage with a pair of athletic socks. Not only will you scuff up the bottom of the shoe sufficiently to prevent sliding around on hardwoods and carpet, but the thickness of the athletic sock provides cushioning in the right places to prevent blistering and tightness. My personal way of maintaining non-blistered feet is to wear my heels around the house, vacuuming, cleaning, tv watching, with socks on my feet so that the stretch of the shoe is maintained.
Happy feet will change your outlook for the whole day!

Miss Manners and Purse Etiquette

When was the last time you picked up a copy of Emily Post's Guide to Etiquette? Although I'm sure it has been a while (if not never), it is important for Magpie's to know the subtle nuances of etiquette when out and about on the streets of the world.




Let's take, for today, the proper way to carry your bag*.

(*Note: the difference between a purse and a handbag is price.
A purse is valued at under $100, a bag at over. )

When you are walking around, your bag should be situated in your left hand, in the crook of your left elbow, or on your left shoulder. Notice a pattern? LEFT. When passing a friend on the street, you should be able to easily offer your right hand to greet without jostling your bag out of the way. Your right hand should always be available to socialize. When you carry your bag in your right hand, on your right shoulder, or particularly in the crook of your right elbow, you are, in essence, flipping the world off and letting them know you are rude and socially unavailable.

If you carry a briefcase, this rule does not apply to you as rigidly. It is commonly accepted that one who works, and therefore has a briefcase, does not always have time to be sociable. Your purse may then be carried on your left and your briefcase in your right hand.

When you are dining, your bag may not be placed on the table. Ever. Really. It is considered incredibly rude, even if you are carrying a Judith Leiber, to place your bag on the dining surface. Your bag has two possible resting sites:

• If it is day, you may place your bag in an empty chair (at the same table, do not drag another chair to your table just to avoid the floor. Yes, germs and bacterial goo are disgusting, but you shouldn't be licking the bottom of your bag.). You may also place your bag on the floor to the left of you. (Why the left? Because the server should be coming to your place setting from the right, and you certainly do not want to trip him. Also, for your protection--it is much more obvious to reach with your right hand to the place on your left to try to steal someone's bag than it is to lean with your left. Finally, because when you stand up at the end of your meal, you should be able to seamlessly pick up your bag with your left hand and shake hands with your meal partners.) You may NEVER place your bag on the back or arm of the chair. We are Magpies, and, therefore, we are not tacky.

• If is it evening, you may place your bag in your lap, under your napkin, or behind you in your chair (be careful with any chair that has slats). Those are your only two options. Well, if you are sitting on a bench-style seat, you may place your bag between you and your date--and then quickly find another man. Bench seating is not very classy (see: easy ways to embarrass yourself while rising from the table).

Questions? Comments?

This season's hottest color

...I'm sure you have noticed, is aubergine.
There are plenty of ways you can incorporate this deep and delightful shade of purple in your wardrobe--I've seen tshirts, tanks, pants, tops, headbands, jewelry, etc...
When choosing a shade of amethyst, remember that the best colors are always the most saturated. Keep in mind what colors normally are most complimentary for your skin (blues, reds, yellows) because you can always find a tonal version of purple that is based on the best hue for you.
If you need an example on how to do plum the right way, take note from Carolina Herrera.

Carolina Herrera, Fall 2008

(This is a silk dress with a built-in bodice, with pockets. I love a pocket on a dress!)
CH has a beautiful boutique located in Highland Park Village (girls take note: they have a full couture bridal salon in the store). Having spent several hours there, I can personally attest that the staff is knowledgeable, not pushy, and very complementary to their environment. They know everything that is important to know when working in womens fashion, including how we need Manolo Blahniks to most accurately get a picture of what we will look like while wearing the beautiful CH cocktail dress,

and that we need time to think about such a large purchase ($2990 to be exact).

Thanks to the Michael and Javier at Carolina Herrera!

Good Morning Texas - WFAA (Dallas)

I appreciate what they are trying to do. However, two things are very important for an up-and-coming morning television program, especially if they are trying to cultivate a following and credibility:
1. American Airlines Center's Victory Plaza is not Rockefeller Plaza, nor will it ever be. Make this plaza your own.
2. Please get a stylist! Nothing says "amateur" quite like a bad outfit (especially when said in quartet). Please see: Amy's outfit this morning: a bright red, short-sleeved scoop-neck knit top, with a red on black pinstripe wide leg pant that was a size too small. When you are petite (and rather beautiful, I must add), proportion is everything...especially when petite and curvy.

Suiting

Q I think I need you to do a post on the classic business suit because I need to go shopping for one for interviews and I am LOST. --Samantha

Samantha:
There are guidelines in life, and certainly a specific set exists for suiting. Although I probably allow more grace when it comes to all things professionally oriented, I do have my standards.

1. 2 vs 3 button jacket

It is crucial that the stance on your jacket be perfect. Not only will it ensure that the girls are “locked & loaded” (thanks Stacy & Clinton), but it is one of the first things that a potential employer/professional colleague will see. Look in the mirror and put your arm out as if you are going to shake someone’s hand. If you follow the line of sight from your hand, up your arm, to your chest, then up to your face, you realize that the stance of the jacket serves as a frame for your figure and for your face. Whether you wear a button-up or a silk tie-neck under your suiting, the construction and shape of the jacket is of most importance. Two or three buttons is a personal preference (but also one of logistics, see: aforementioned need to lock & load). I prefer a two.

2. Pants AND skirt

Every Magpie needs versatility: it is what we thrive on. This is why I highly suggest that wherever you go to look for suiting, be sure they sell both pants and skirt in the same fabric. On top of that, if the brand carries both a trouser leg and a wide leg pant, as well as a skirt, you’ve hit the suiting holy grail. While the suit you wear will be your first impression in your interview (and therefore must be outstanding) you have to remember that the suit is now a part of your larger wardrobe. Long gone are the days of “interview wear” and “job wear”. In fact, I’ve seen many a girl take her jacket out with her for a night on the town while wearing a slinky top and jeans. Bottom line: the more options, the better. Think about wearing your suiting pant(s) and skirt multiple times throughout the month (or even week, if done craftily). Now think about how many ways you could wear a jacket, skirt, and pant while integrating the rest of your wardrobe. Benefits: less time spent figuring out what to wear in the morning, cheaper dry cleaning bills, more time and money for play.

3. Fabric

The suiting fabric of choice would be a summer weight wool blend. My theory is you can always layer, but you can only take off so many clothes and still be considered socially appropriate. You can purchase a cotton-blend suit (like Banana Republic’s Smart Suit), but you limit your options (e.g., cotton-blend suits tend to show wrinkles more quickly, don’t always travel well, and are usually only weighted appropriately for the South. They do not layer well.)

In my previous life (when I didn’t know any better) I bought a denim suit. It was a perfectly fitting jacket and skirt; the jacket had a zipper (ew) and leopard lining (cute, but professionally inappropriate), and all the hems and seams were contrast stitched (ew). Although I felt very cute while wearing it, I soon realized that a frequent appearance from this suit may lead my boss to realize that (1) I have no taste, (2) I don’t understand the meaning of business professional/casual, and (3) I’m not spending my hard earned money appropriately. Termination? Probably not. Snickering by the water cooler? Definitely.

4. Neutral colors

This should be the easiest rule. Stay with black, brown, grey, tan. My personal preference is a dark mottled grey because it can be worn with black or brown, thus offering you the most options for your money.

5. Subtle or no pattern

I once went to a church in South Dallas where the men and women were wearing suits with half-inch wide stripes (in blaring colors). This is NOT the way to wear a suit (especially if you want to wear it multiple times in a month/week). Stick with a light pinstripe, heathered fabric, or glenplaid.

6. Short sleeves?

The fad this summer was to have suiting with a short (usually puffy-sleeved) jacket. I’m not a fan. Although I believe in the right to bear arms, I do not believe that baring arms in the professional world is always well-accepted. (see: BR) *Note: if you did purchase the short-sleeved jacket, it looks great layered with a thin knit—probably turtleneck or vneck is best…and with jeans.

There is some fear, I am sure, that you will be too well dressed. NONSENSE! You can never be too well dressed or too appropriate. It is ok if you are dressed better than those with whom you are interviewing. If you choose to accept the position, just be sure to tailor your look to fit into their environment. However, this does not mean skimping on what you already know to be true: quality construction and good fabrics are always in style and should not be skimped on.

Remember: your suiting should be classic, wearable, impressionable, but not too memorable because you want to get maximum wear. Your most important professional investment should be the perfectly tailored suit (oh, and your education!).

Vintage vs. New: The Battle Continues

I will start this blogging adventure with a topic I am very familiar and comfortable with: jewelry.

Just a brief background of myself and my experience with baubles: I have always loved jewelry. Not necessarily in the same way that all little girls liked to dress up and play with their mother's gems, I mean I really love jewelry. So much so that I brought my mother's diamonds and pearls to show and tell in kindergarten, only to have them confiscated by the school nurse (and family friend) and transferred safely back to my mother's hands. So much so that I was started a charm bracelet that was filled up with over 50 charms by the time I graduated from college. So much so that every summer, for six years, on my way to summer camp, my parents would drive through Kerrville, just so we could go to the James Avery home and store. So much so that my first antique auction purchase was a garnet and sapphire vermeil ring that I still wear to this day. So much would be the key phrase. I probably have more rings than I do socks, and more earrings than I do underwear. I wholeheartedly believe that you can change any outfit's intentions with jewelry. You can make jeans and a tshirt sultry and a little black dress simply and day-appropriate. Although Coco Chanel had very good intentions, I do not believe in her "remove one piece of jewelry before you leave your home" rule--I say add, don't detract. The more the better. Layer, stack, bangle. Now, please hear me: I am NOT an overkill kind of girl. I believe jewelry should be worn in moderation, and (of course) in taste. I certainly ascribe to quality over quantity...but sometimes a girl just wants to have fun!

Back to the present. Not only do I love and appreciate new jewelry, I also have a great affinity for the antique/vintage/old. This is where today's post is headed: Do you save for the things of the past? or splurge on the things of the present?

I think you can do both.

Take for example, if you will, my 15 carat smokey topaz that sits high aloft a 14k gold band and swirl setting. (Please note: tasteful 6-prong setting. Quantity and quality are not synonymous when one is choosing a prong setting.) This is a gorgeous cocktail ring, similar to the styles of the 1950s and 1960s, but purchased from an estate containing more pieces from the 1920s and 1930s. This ring is a classic eye-catcher for all the right reasons. It's slightly larger than socially appropriate for day wear, and slightly undersized for typical cocktail, allowing me to wear it day and night. It's classic proportions and timeless style are just as appreciated now as they were then.

In Texas, this is considered a "rang", not a simple ring.

However, such things do not come cheaply. This is why I fully support the current jewelry trend of bringing back vintage at a fraction of the price.

Banana Republic, 18mm smokey topaz and 18k gold-plated brass $49

This is a GREAT alternative to a truly vintage piece, not only because it is priced so well, but because you will be able to wear it for years, and you won't be heartbroken if you break it.

The moral of this story is: purchasing and wearing vintage is great for the environment (it's recycling at its best!). However, when push comes to shove (and the budget is a consideration), well-made imitations of the real thing are certainly a better alternative to nothing at all.