Posts from — August 2008

Despite the zipper’s potentially dangerous aftermath [read: Ben Stiller's bathroom scene from 'Something About Mary,'] it’s a ridiculously useful tool and as of late, a rather seductive addition when executed in a non-traditional way.

This Acne Jeans Zipper Charm Dress has a zipper that runs down the entire front, for a rather suggestive vibe that’s perfectly offset by the loose pockets. For nighttime, I’d pair this with a bra in a jewel-tone color and some black booties. Extra bonus if you’re a size 4 or 8 since it’s 50% off at La Garconne, a great online resource for under-the-radar brands.

Alexander McQueen’s Exposed Zip Tank is just the piece I’ve been looking for to pair with my closet full of pencil skirts for Fall. I love the black-lined zipper that runs down the spine since it complements the bright cherry color in such a dramatic way. Since $213 is astronomical for a simple tank, I only wish I had the skills to buy a zipper from JoAnn’s and apply one myself.

I’m crazy about nearly every piece in Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent’s clothing line, so it’s no surprise that her Allison Zip Front Platform Bootie is now on my wish list.  I love that the zipper is a focal point with a matching little tassel that zips down towards the toes.  With dark, textured tights and a plaid skirt, this would be such a lovely homage to prep-school chic.

Today marked the end of an era that lasted three blissful years. My archive of Domino Magazines, that I had been accumulating since its launch in 2005, simply grew too large for my bookshelf to accommodate. Despite the sense of order that was created with all of my issues lined up chronologically in their contrasting colors, I knew it was time to downsize my collection. Since I also used to work for the magazine, my archive holds even more significance, so instead of parting with it all, I selected only my favorite images that I’ve compiled into a binder. Here are just a few of the rooms that make my heart flutter that are luckily still available online.

When it comes to belts, they certainly have other purposes besides just holding up a pair of Levis. They’re an excellent way to add a bit of edge to an outfit, either with a low slung, braided belt in the Summer or a more refined, waist-cinching option in the cooler months. Despite the plethora of candy colored choices available now, I like the idea of finding black belts that stand out simply because of their intricate detailing.

Linea Pelle’s Leather 2 1/2″ Contour Waist Belt is simple in its construction with an over sized buckle, but it’s the antiqued gold hardware that give it that hand-me-down feel. I love that it’s thick, so that when thrown over a white collared shirt, it adds a substantial piece of hardware that also creates a slimming silhouette.

I’m not usually one for obvious labels on clothing and accessories, but the double C’s of this Chloe Heloise Belt has won my affection. I even like the fact that the size can’t be adjusted since it gives the illusion that the belt is custom-fit.   It would be perfect for tempering a billowy blouse in a paisley print.

I’m crazy about this Studded Double Wrap Leather Belt since it combines two of my current obsessions: studs and layering.  As a proud owner of a wrap belt, which I wore several days ago here, they truly add an entirely different dimension to an outfit.  I like the stud detailing on this one that isn’t overkill thanks to its diminutive width.

You would think that since I majored in Media Studies, I wouldn’t be tempted by movies like “Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.” This is not the case. Luckily, my best friend shares the same affinity for girl bonding movies and she’s agreed to accompany me tonight for some popcorn and unrealistic story lines. The notion that these four friends can all squeeze into the same pair of jeans truly behooves me considering my Citizens of Humanity certainly don’t have the same kind of stretch. Since I don’t plan on sharing my denim, I’ve found three pairs that fit my criteria for Fall: high-waisted and flared, skinny and dark and loose and distressed.

Grey Ant’s high-waisted Welt Jean has a sophisticated silhouette that more closely resembles a pair of trousers. The slightly flared legs are sure to make any one’s thighs appear smaller by comparison and the fitted waist makes for the perfect canvas to tuck inflowy blouses. Just hold the braids in your hair and fringed bags so you don’t look too Flower Child.

When skinny jeans first emerged back on the scene a few years back, I was reluctant to try this unforgiving style due to my rather curvy legs. It wasn’t until a stylish friend suggested I look at them more as a pair of comfy leggings instead of like any regular denim. Since then, I’ve been hooked, and J Brand’s 10″ Ankle Skinny Stretch Jean is far and away the best out there. Whether worn with comfy flats on the weekend, sexy pumps at night or tucked neatly into riding boots, they’re amazingly versatile and surprisingly comfortable.

Since my boyfriend would probably be creeped out if he found me in a pair of his jeans, Gap’s Long and Lean Jeans are a fantastic alternative. With gentle distressing at the top and a slim, relaxed fit, I know I’d have a hard time tearing myself out of these. Additionally, for those of you anxious about recreating Katie’s new look, these would most definitely suffice.