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!