Oscar Winning Looks for Your Academy Award Party from Kohl's

Pictured: The Sequin look for less,  Kohl's Lauren Conrad sequin jacket, on sale for $44.99

If you're looking for some chic but economic looks for a special Oscar night party, check out some of the options at your local Kohl's store.  Even though I amm Kohl's  aficionado and coupon junkie, I am surprised by their current stock of stylish and cheap values.  One of the biggest surprises has been the Lauren Conrad collection.  This collection from the star of The Hills has been a best seller for Kohl's and its easy to see why.  I love this black sequin jacket pictured above and the price is right.  This is not an item I want to invest a lot of my hard earned cash in, and I'll tell you why. Once upon a time, I owned an expensive black beaded sequin jacket.  I wore it to a very elegant charity benefit. It looked amazing.  But there was a "gotcha."  Every time I turned around, something was catching on all those upscale designer beads and pulling. The cocktail tray caught on it.  A lady behind me bumped into me with a big old rock of a ring. Everything conspired to pull at my expensive beads and catch on them.  So while I love this look, my advice is don't invest too much money in it.  The LC jacket for $49.99 fits the bill of an elegant and affordable look.  And check out how fashionable the jacket looks modeled by Lauren with the LC collection skirt, belt and some black pumps.

 Pictured: Lauren Conrad for Kohl's in items from her collection including the sequin jacket ruffled mini-skirt.

This jacket can be worn loose or belted, with jeans or a skirt for a great high-end look. If you're looking for a look with less bling, and something more casual, check out the LC Boyfriend jacket and the pencil jeans, plus camisole.  The jacket is also on sale for $44.99 US.

Pictured: Lauren Conrad for Kohl's in the boyfriend jacket, pencil jeans and cami from her Kohl's collection.  The chunky costume jewelry bracelet adds a nice touch.

A couple of other things for bargainistas to consider from Kohl's that are stylish and affordable are the LC Motorcylce jacket and the Vera Wang Chiffon Top.  They both look far more expensive than their Kohl's prices.

Pictured: The Lauren Conrad Motorcycle Jacket is on sale for $44.99 reduced from $72.00.

Pictured: This elegant Simply Vera Chiffon Top is now $21.99.

So check out your local Kohl's for some chic and cheerful looks.  If you live outside the US look for LC and Vera on eBay.  I know I've shown a lot of black garments, but after all, black is the Los Angeles favorite color (at least during award season!)  If you want something other than black, check out this gorgeous Simply Vera by Vera Wang sage with sequins top that Kohl's sent me as a sample.  This is what I am going to wear to my at home Oscar party! The top is in a few stores now, but not online yet.  Watch for it.  Its beautiful.  The retail price is $85.00, but you can always find coupons, deals and sales at Kohl's to get it for less.

Pictured: My new Simply Vera Sage Sequin Top.  I'll be wearing this to an Oscar Party.  Look for it in stores now and online soon.  This is my own picture, not a stock photo and yes, it really does look this good!

Last tip, if you're shopping Kohl's online, and you spend more that $75.00, use coupon code SHIPNSAVE for free standard shipping.

Oscar Winning Looks for Your Academy Award Party from Kohl's

Throw a Cheap & Cheerful Oscar Party at Home with Help from Wolfgang Puck!

The best free party and display of fashion pageantry in the world is about to begin.  Yes, I'm talking about the  Annual Academy awards.  The show will be broadcast worldwide on Sunday, March 7th.  That is just 7 days away! Here in Los Angeles, the preparations have begun.  Some of the best party planners and chefs in the world are planning the Governor's Ball (the official after party.)  Los Angeles uber-celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck always cooks for the ball and provides his special recipes. He prepares a sumptious spread featuring fresh seafood, blinis with smoked salmon and lots of caviar.  But I was looking for entertaining secrets for all the recessionistas watching at home.  There most be fabuless tips and recipes for throwing your own party.  Recently, I had the chance to talk to the Oscar chef himself, Wolfgang Puck, about how viewers at home can treat themselves to a special Oscar event.

Although Wolfgang will be cooking up some high-end treats for the Oscars, his famous original Spago restaurant on Sunset ( I was amused to see it was right behind a rental car company when I first came to Los Angeles)  was founded on some simple food basics like Pizza that were once considered too low brow to be gourmet.  And that is one of the things I've always loved about Wolfgang Puck,  he makes the simple elegant and delicious.  I should know. Over the years, I have eaten all all his LA restaurants!   So when I was given the opportunity to talk to Wolfgang Puck about the awards, I had to ask, "Which one of your wonderful recipes is cheap and cheerful to make at home for the Oscars?" 

"I’m serving a variation of my Chicken Pot Pie at the Governors Ball.  It’s easy for the home cook and rather inexpensive too," says master chef Puck with a grin. "You can substitute the puff pastry with some home-made pie crust or store-bought pie crust.  The great thing about it is you can assemble it the day ahead, put it in the refrigerator, then bake it when you’re ready to eat it."

Voila!  Anything that is delicious and easy is an Oscar win for all of us. :) So here is the recipe for you to enjoy at home.

 Pictured: Oscar Worthy  Wolfgang Puck Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Photo (c) 2009 Wolfgang Puck

****************************************************

CHICKEN POT PIE

(recipe courtesy Wolfgang Puck, "Wolfgang Puck Makes it Easy," Rutledge Hill Press, 2004)

 

Yield:  Serves 4

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken, cut into 1-inch chunks

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1/2 pound organic red-skinned potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1/2 pound organic carrots, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1 medium yellow onion, peeled and diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

1 sprig thyme

1 bay leaf

1 cup white wine

2 cups organic chicken stock

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon heavy cream

1/4 cup dry sherry

1/2 cup shelled or frozen peas

Approximately 1/2 pound frozen puff pastry, defrosted following package instructions

1 cage-free egg

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and toss in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of the flour until evenly coated.  In a large skillet over high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil.  Add the chicken pieces, reduce the heat slightly, and sauté, turning them occasionally, until light golden and thoroughly cooked, about 5 to 10 minutes.  Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.  Add the remaining oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter to the pan, then add the potatoes, carrots, and onions and sauté until they begin to look glossy and bright, 2 to 3 minutes.  Reduce the heat to medium, stir in the garlic, red pepper flakes, thyme, and bay leaf, and sauté, just until the vegetables begin to color slightly, 2 to 3 minutes more.

Add the wine, turn up the heat, stir and scrape with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan deposits, and simmer until the liquid reduces by about half, 3 to 5 minutes.  Add the chicken stock and the 1 cup of cream.  Bring the liquid to a boil, reduce the heat slightly, and simmer briskly until the liquid reduces by about half again and is thick and creamy, about 15 minutes.  Remove the sprig of thyme and the bay leaf.

Stir in the reserved chicken pieces and the sherry.  Stir together the butter and remaining flour and stir this paste into the mixture.  Season the sauce to taste with salt and pepper.  Transfer to 4 large individual ovenproof 2-cup soup bowls, 4 ramekins of the same size, or a 2-quart baking dish.  Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the filling is cold, at least 1 hour.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.  Make sure the puff pastry is no thicker than 1/4 inch.  With the tip of a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 4 circles that will overhang the rim of the serving bowls or ramekins by about half an inch; for a single large baking dish, cut 4 circles that will cover its top, or use one large sheet.

In a small bowl, beat together the egg and the remaining 1 tablespoon cream to make an egg wash.  Brush the tops and outsides of the rims of the bowls.  Place the bowls, ramekins, or baking dish on a baking tray and place the puff pastry circles on top, pressing them gently over the sides of the dishes . Pierce the tops with the tip of a paring knife.  Brush the top of the pastry with egg wash.  Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake until the filling is bubbling hot and the pastry is a deep golden brown, 25 to 35 minutes.  Serve hot.

 

 *******************************************

 Pictured: And the winner is you with your at home Oscar party!

Following are some at party tools you can use to enjoy the Oscars at home. The Academy provides sample ballots and games for your use. Here are the links.

Oscar Ballots-- See who is nominated and vote!

Predict the winners using these downloadable Oscar ballots. Download

Oscar Bingo

Download Bingo cards and play along as you watch the show! (Nine different cards available) Download

Oscar Crossword Puzzle

Test your Oscar smarts with this Academy Awards-themed crossword puzzle. Download


Stay tuned for more Oscar event coverage and tips all week!

Throw a Cheap & Cheerful Oscar Party at Home with Help from Wolfgang Puck!

Chanel Vintage Treasures Auctioned in Paris

Pictured: Samples of the Chanel garments from the auction at Paris’ Drouot Riche­lieu Auc­tion House

I'm weeping bitter tears as I write this, since I couldn't afford a trip to Paris to go to the Chanel auction.  Yes, 800 beautiful and some vintage Chanel garments were put on the auction block in Paris last Thursday.  Si injuste (so unjust) that The Recessionista does not have unlimited means to go buy Chanel overseas.  I was  hard at work on the day of the auction, but I am really enjoying looking at the pieces that went on sale, and I thought my readers might enjoy seeing them too. As you can see from the above photo, there were classic collarless suits, classic drop waist gowns from the 1920s and her trademark camellias.  There was also plenty of Chanel's jewelry and even buttons from Chanel garments.  Some of the buttons are works of art themselves.  I have been known to buy the buttons and turn them into brooches and pendants.  I have Chanel faux pearl earrings that I bought on eBay that will be transformed to brooches.


What's interesting about the marketing for the auction was that is was billed as an opportunity to people with limited means to own an exclusive Chanel garment. Reportedly, it took a year to assemble the 820 pieces that were part of the auction. Many came from private collections.  Some pieces were behind ropes, but others were accessible to attendees who could touch them and even try them on.   To see the auction and the lucky French ladies trying on the garments, click here to watch video from the Australian Broadcasting network.

Pictured: A beautiful vintage Chanel beaded, drop waist gown from the 1920s. J'adore!

"These are dresses which have lived during Mademoiselle Chanel's time, which went to the most famous parties, which were admired and worn by gorgeous women," said auctioneer Cornette de Saint Cyr. "And they will be worn again by gorgeous women. That's what I want: For (the garments) to live again."

If only they could live again with recessionistas everywhere! :)

Chanel Vintage Treasures Auctioned in Paris

Loehmann's Opening in Costa Mesa with a concert from The Band from TV. Enter to win free concert tickets !

Pictured: Loehmann's is opening a new store in Costa Mesa, CA and featuring a performance from the Band from TV . Read on to learn how to win concert tickets.  See the Band from TV for FREE!

Super shopping store Loehmann's is opening a new store in the OC, in Costa Mesa on March 12th!  If you read here regularly, you know I love me some Loehmann's.  In November, I scored a beautiful Alice Temperley dress at the Beverly Hills, CA store which I wore to the Stevie Awards dinner in New York when I was nominated for Blog of the Year.  The dress retailed for $800.00 and I got it for $200.00 at Loehmann's. I have to give it up to Loehmann's for giving me that deal and helping me look like a million bucks as a nominee feeling like David in a category loaded with Goliaths.  Now, if you live in the OC, you can take advantage of all the designer deals and steals your Los Angeles neighbors have been enjoying. The new store promises to be fabuless.  It will be located at  Metro Pointe Center, 901 South Coast Drive.  The new store will be a superstore with  40,000 square-feet of bargains!  Loehmann's insiders tell me it will have a modern, expansive feel, highlighted by open ceiling architecture, white brick and mirrored columns, and a variety of color and texture to differentiate and punctuate large areas of wall and flooring. Nothing budget looking about this new store. Best of all there will be a boutique-like fitting room with color lighting and soft music designed to make the experience relaxing.  No more group dressing room! The store is opening in 2 weeks, with a big kickoff party on March 13th at 8 pm featuring the Band from TV.

Ok, so let's talk about the Band from TV.  These guys are cool. I heard them recently when they performed on KTLA and covered the classic song, The Letter.  They are superstar actors from popular TV series like House, Heroes, ER, The Bachelor and Desperate Housewives who formed a band to raise money for charity.  Here's a rundown of who in the band will be performing at Loehmann's Costa Mesa.

• Greg Grunberg from “Heroes” 
• Jesse Spencer from “House”
• Bob Guiney  from “The Bachelor.”
• Adrian Pasdar also from “Heroes”
• Scott Grimes from “ER”

These actor-musicians will be helping Loehmann's kickoff the store opening with special concert. Best of all proceeds from the ticket sales (yes, you can buy a ticket for $35.00 , but do try to win a free one first)  benefit the band’s charities including:

• Epilepsy Foundation
• Children’s Hospital of LA
• The Indiana University-Kenya Partnership
• Rush University Medical Center
• Starlight Starbright Children’s Foundation
• Save the Children
• And others

If that isn't enough, the concert will also be featuring special guest star appearances. ( I hope Hugh Laurie from House shows up, or James Denton from the Desperate Housewive.  I have special luv for Hugh.  Hugh, loved you in the PG Wodehouse PBS Series, Bertie and Jeeves!)  Now for the free deal! You have a connection for the  concert...right here on The Recessionista.  I am giving away several sets of tickets for my readers to attend the concert.  Yes, you can enjoy the band for free.  Here's what you need to do to win the tickets.  Leave me a comment here on the blog by midnight PST on March 6. 2010.  Tell me what you love about Loehmann's and what your favorite deals at the store are.   Leave your comment with an email  address like so: lynn at  yahoo dot com.  Leave your address this way so that spammers and robots can't pick it up your email.  Be sure and leave your e-mail address so I can reach you to send the tickets!

May the best recessionista win!  Get busy and send a comment.  I have 10 tickets for the concert which is March 13, 2010 at 8:00 pm.  Each winner will receive 2 tickets, one for you, and one for a date or a friend.

Ps, one thing I love about Loehmann's are their clearance sales.  Check out the prices on the one going on now.

Loehmann's Opening in Costa Mesa with a concert from The Band from TV. Enter to win free concert tickets !

Alice in Wonderland Inspires Fashion and Jewelry Designs

Pictured: The poster for the premiere of  the Alice in Wonderland movie in London tonight

Once of my favorite tales from childhood has been updated and turned into a movie starring Johnnie Deep, Anne Hathaway and Helena Bonham-Carter. Some of you may recall that Alice fell down a rabbit hole and then later stepped through the looking glass to explore new worlds and magical adventures. All these adventures happened to her while she wore her blue pinafore, white blouse, white stockings and her black Mary Janes. The illustrator for the Victorian Lewis Carroll classics, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass was Punch cartoonist Sir John Tenniel. His illustrations for the original editions are some of the most famous  illustrations in  English literature.  Now those beautiful drawings are the inspirations for the costumes in the new Disney movie and a fashion line designed by Sue Wong sold on website eDressme.com.

 Pictured: An original Alice illustration by Sir John Tenniel, "Drink Me."

The Sue Wong Alice  line channels some of the Victorian touches from the book and its pictures, but not the little pinafore Alice wore.  The Sue Wong for Walt Disney line features lots of lace, rosettes and bubble skirts.  Some of the looks are inspired by the White Queen (played by Anne Hathaway.)  Check out the pictures of this collection.  Its very Alice in Wonderland goes to the prom, goes to a wedding.  Just my opinion.

Pictured: Dresses inspired by Alice in Wonderland for Walt Disney Signature by Sue Wong.

The prices range from $329 to $609 and the clothes are now in high-end department stores such as Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Macy’s as well as online at http://www.suewong.com/ and http://www.edressme.com/

Ironically, I didn't see any of the actresses in the film wearing the Sue Wong pieces tonight at the premiere.   Helena Bonham-Carter stayed in character in this dress with a handbag showing the Red Queen on its face. Very Lulu Guinness.

Pictured: Helena Bonham Carter arrives for the Royal world premiere 'Alice In Wonderland' after party at The Sanderson Hotel on February 25, 2010 in London, England. (Photo by Jorge Herrera/Getty Images for Disney)

 Pictured: Anne Hathaway at the Royal world premiere 'Alice In Wonderland'.  She is wearing a dress by Vivienne Westwood and Casadel high heels(Photo by Jorge Herrera/Getty Images for Disney)

What do you think readers? Are you anxious to get Alice in Wonderland fashions.  My prediction: it will all go on sale :)

If you love Alice in Wonderland as I do, and the original illustrations, check out these beautiful and affordable Alice earrings from designer Anne Bocci.  These are $35.00.  What a beautiful homage to Sir John Tenniel.

 Pictured: Alice in Wonderland earrings by Anne Bocci.  The "Drink Me" illustration is one of the earrings. Absolutely adorable!

The Alice earrings are available online at Anne Bocci Boutique and Gallery.   And, there is more.  Urban Decay has launched a line of Alice in Wonderland eye shadows and pencils.  Its not available on their website, but I think Sephora is selling them.  Check out the cool box!

Alice in Wonderland Inspires Fashion and Jewelry Designs

Shopaholic for a Good Cause: Oprah's Fashions to Sell on eBay for Charity

 

Pictured: My favorite shopper, Oprah, (Photo: Ruven Afanador)

Overflowing closet? Clothes you haven't worn for years? It sounds like a familiar story...but wait for this twist.  This closet of clothes doesn't just belong to any fashionista, it belongs to the divine O, Oprah!  She is a women of not only wealth and means, but style.  Part of the fun of watching Oprah is to see what she is going to wear everyday.  And I don't care what size she is at, she alway's looks great.  

So good news, recessionistas, Oprah is cleaning out her closet and selling some of her treasures on eBay.  Save the dates: March 1 - 11, shoppers can bid on 150 exclusive items from Oprah’s own closet, including clothing, shoes and accessories; proceeds from the eBay auction will benefit the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy in South Africa.   The auction will be at: www.ebay.com/oprahauction.

Here's a sneak peak at some of the items that will be up for sale, that I covet.  There will be a Carolina Herrera dress and a Chanel handbag.  In the words of Rachael Zoe, I DIE! :) 

Pictured: Mi amour, O's Carolina Herrera dress.  I attended Carolina's show at NYFW, it was amazing!  I'd love to pick up one of her dresses for less than retail.

Pictured: Oprah's Chanel bag with trademark twisted gold braid chain.  I will be bidding.

To see more of the 150 items going on the block, click here and visit Oprah.com! Oprah--hhah  Win---frey. Win-free, Winfrey, how symbolic that she should turn to eBay do a discount sales sell off. I wish we could all win her clothes for free! :)

Ps, Oprah, don't you think you should donate that Carolina Herrera dress to The Recessionista? :)

Shopaholic for a Good Cause: Oprah's Fashions to Sell on eBay for Charity

The Velvet Dressing Gown: The Nanette Lepore Fall 2010 Collection

Pictured: My Favorite Piece from Nanette Lepore's Fall Collection, a nouveau  little black dress

One of the more intriguing fashion week collections from the recent New York Fashion Week was Nanette Lepore's collection.  Nanette's designs have long been a favorite of mine. Her clothes are chic and feminine, and accessible via sales at major department stores.  Her fall collection was a bit of  a departure with rich autumn colors, lots of velvet, mini skirts and full length dresses (the velvet dressing gown look) plus chunky coats. I could write more, but instead, I thought I'd give my readers a front row seat and let you see what I saw.  The drop waists on many of the long dresses reminded me of 1920s style.  What do you think?

Note, this video of Nannette Lepore's Fall 2010 Collection is provided courtesy of Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week.

The Velvet Dressing Gown: The Nanette Lepore Fall 2010 Collection

LA Story: Vote for an Oscar Worthy Gown to be Worn at the Academy Awards

I love the pageantry of the Oscars.  Living in LA, the excitement has already started.  The town is getting ready, and designers and nominees are already on high-alert.  Who will wear what? Designed by who? Now the  Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is getting into the act with a Project Runway style design contest.  The Academy is having an “Oscars Designer Challenge 2010.”  This Academy Awards design contest features nine up-and-coming fashion designers.  The winner will have their original evening gown worn by one of the Awards escorts during the 82nd Academy Awards on Sunday, March 7. Today in Los Angeles members of the fashion and entertainment press were introduced to the nine designers and their creations at a runway fashion show at the Academy’s Beverly Hills headquarters.

Pictured: One of the nominees, a gown by Oliver Tolentino of  Los Angeles

Check out the gowns at by the talented designers participating in “Oscars Designer Challenge 2010” are Fernanda Carneiro, Los Angeles; Elda De La Rosa, Chicago; Ivy Higa, New York; Phong Hong, Los Angeles; Rania Salibi, Phoenix; Oday Shakar, Los Angeles; Ari Sheuhmelian, Los Angeles; Oliver Tolentino, Los Angeles; and Kelsy Zimba, New York.

Public voting for “Oscars Designer Challenge 2010” is now open at Oscar.com. Anyone over the age of 18 can register to participate and will be eligible to vote once a day through 11:59 p.m. PT on March 1, 2010, when the voting period ends.  Best of all, this fashion fantasy is free!  Stay tuned for more awards fashion coverage right here on The Recessionista!

LA Story: Vote for an Oscar Worthy Gown to be Worn at the Academy Awards

Liberty Love? First Look at the Liberty of London Target Collection

Pictured: Halter Maxi Dress in Teal Peacock Print $34.99 USD

As a Liberty of London Lurver who doesn't get across the pond to their London shop as often as I would like, I am excited over the first look images from Target for their Liberty collection. The above Teal print dress is my favorite. This line includes housewares, ties, handbags, children's clothes and womenswear. The prints look like the real deal. It will be interesting to see how they look on the rack and in-store. I'm still smarting over the Liberty of London Kate Moss sellout at Topshop, so I hope for better luck March14th at Target. Here are a few of my top picks.

Pictured: Liberty Maxi Dress in Floral Print $34.99

Pictured; Shirred Bandeau One-Piece Swimsuit in Turquoise Print $34.99 and Duffle in Green/Yellow Floral Print $19.99

Pictured: Newborn, Infant and Toddler Swimsuit in Pink Floral Print
$9.99 (newborn and infant) $11.99 (toddler)

What do you think readers? Are you excited for this collection? It might be time for a good old English tea party with Liberty of London cups from Tar-jay!  UK readers, remember you'll get to buy the collection too. Liberty for Target will be available at Liberty of London following its launch in March.

Pictured: Liberty for Target teacups

Liberty Love? First Look at the Liberty of London Target Collection

Bien: The Recessionista Reviews Sonia Rykiel Knitwear for H&M

Pictured: One of the pieces I loved, the sweater with the knit rosette for $34.99

This Saturday, Feb. 20th, the Queen of Knits (‘Reine du Tricot’) Sonia Rykiel debuted her knitwear collection for women and children at H&M stores around the globe. I so wanted to love this collection. On trips to Paris, I remember window shopping at Sonia Rykiel and wishing I could afford the pieces. The H&M collection has many of the trademarks of the original Sonia designs. Bright colors, seams on the outside of garments and printed words knitted into the pattern of the sweaters. The printed words are in French with sayings like "Mon Pull" which means "My Sweater" and "Mon Sac" or " My Bag." Its good to let people know that your clothing belongs to you in an elegant way, en francais right? :)

With high hopes of finding the pieces I wanted, I journeyed to two H&M stores and called other stores on the phone. But alas, my yen for Sonia Rykiel knitwear at an affordable piece has only been partially satisfied. (This really a good thing budget-wise, since I bought a little too much H&M Jimmy Choo ) For this review, I visited H&M San Francisco on Powell St. and H&M Beverly Center to shop the collection. Both stores told the same story. From what I saw, the collection came in sizes extra Small, Small and a few Mediums. There were few if any of the sweaters made in size L. According to sales staff, the few that were made sold in the blink of an eye as that was the most popular size. This is because the collection, with a few exceptions like the knit jumpers and pullover tunics, runs small. The sizing is definitely junior-sized in my opinion. And my opinion was shared by shoppers at both stores I visited. Shoppers voiced their opinion on the fit by leaving plenty of Sonia Rykiel on the racks. This was no Jimmy Choo style sell-out on day one in a few hours. Both stores had most of the pieces in sizes extra small to small, with a thimble full of mediums sprinkled about. The garments were left on the racks with plenty of stock. I went to H&M with my friend from Australia who was looking forward to shopping the collection, since there are no H&M stores in the land down under. She was also very disappointed in the fit and passed on the entire collection.

The original Sonia Rykiel store in Paris offers what I would call a form fitting, figure skimming knitwear look. However, from what I recall, the sweaters were the right length and did reach the waist or even skim a little below it for a comfortable fit. The original Sonia Rykiel designs were created when the designer was pregnant and wanted cozy knitwear designed for comfort. Not so the H&M Sonia collection. Most of the pieces seemed short waisted and too short to me. They would ride up on the wearer when in a sitting position. The cute striped sweaters with bow on the bodice or at the sleeves were very short cropped. The pieces that are a much longer are the striped jumpers, and they are actually oversized. In the jumpers, a medium is actually a large. And they are knee length. There is a pink and black striped tunic pullover that is generously sized with little rhinestones sewn onto it. Its very pretty, if you have the occasion to wear a sweater like that. For me, I would've liked it better without the stripes. There are lots of horizontal stripes in this collection. Horizontal stripes are not slimming for most wearers. Especially when they are yellow, purple and pink. A vision of John Belushi in his killer bee outfit flashed in my head when I saw the knit jumper with bright stripes. This is not supposed to happen when you look at Sonia Rykiel!!

Pictured: One of the few pieces in the collection with a roomy fit, this striped jumper is $29.99 US. I liked this piece, but I only saw one left in the store and it was too over sized for my taste. I found the last one, but ended up putting it back.

The shorts in the collection are very short, and again would ride up on the wearer when sitting. The skirts are mini skirts and might work best in winter with the knit leggings underneath them. The blazers in bright yellow and raspberry are very pretty, but also seemed miniature sized.
I wanted one of the brooches, but they were apparently the first thing to sell out. All that was left were the over sized chunky plastic bracelets. There were cute little knit handbags that were interesting. One has little rhinestone brooches on it and could be worn as an evening bag. Of the accessories, I loved the berets and the scarves. I did snatch up the raspberry beret and would've also bought the black one with rhinestones if I had occasion to wear it. The biggest surprise for me, and the best fit in my opinion, was the black and pink Sonia Rykiel ‘Reine du Tricot’ branded sweater. Although I was once told that it is bad taste to wear the name of your tailor on the outside of your garment, I fell in love with this sweater and could not resist it.

Pictured: Mon favoritie, the piece I did not set out to buy but loved. This sweater is $49.95 USD. I know its not a classic, but its cute.

From what I saw at the San Francisco H&M the children's clothes were adorable and were selling briskly. The knitwear looked precious on little girls with no adult curves. There was also a darling little knit doll on display wearing the striped dress. The doll was completely sold out. Shame. I wanted that doll for my niece!

Pictured: The Sonia Rykiel H&M doll is a miniature of the designer and retails for $25.00 US.

In sum, the Sonia Rykiel H&M collection is a mixed bag. There are a many cute looking pieces, but overall, I don't believe this will be as popular as other H&M collections due to the fit. The Sonia Rykiel buyer is not a tween. Most fashionistas who know who Sonia Rykiel is are a bit more mature and I think the collection should've been sized for them. There is still plenty of stock at many H&M stores, so you are not to late to try it on and see if it works for you. If it does not, check out individual listings for the high-end Sonia Rykiel line for less on eBay. There are some good deals to be found there.

Bien: The Recessionista Reviews Sonia Rykiel Knitwear for H&M

Invitation to Watch the Burberry Prorsum Fall 2010 Show - 3D Screening Tues, Feb. 23

Psst, you're invited to Burberry Prorsum's Womenswear Fall 2010 show 3D screening. Yes, you can watch it right here on The Recessionista, on Tues, Feb. 23 at 10:30 am EST/7:30 am PST. So save the date, and tune in here for this special show. I can't wait to see it streaming live, right here from the blog via London!

Invitation to Watch the Burberry Prorsum Fall 2010 Show - 3D Screening Tues, Feb. 23

Narcisco Rodriguez Launches eBay Store Featuring Limited Edition Designs

As a follow-up to his collection at New York Fashion Week, designer Narcisco Rodriguez has launched an eBay store. Rodriguez follows in the footsteps of Norma Kamali who opened an eBay store last year to sell more moderately priced versions of her high-end line. So far, there are eight items for sale in the Narcisco Rodriguez eBay collection. The limited collection went on sale quietly on Feb. 15th during NY Fashion Week. The eBay store information notes that the collection will be available only as long as supplies last. The collection features pieces similar to some of Rodriguez' signature color block piece show at Fashion Week. All pieces are made from imported Italian fabrics. Prices range from $62.00 US to $363 US. Highlights of the collection include stunning scoop neck jersey dresses and a beautiful trench coat ranging in price from $250.00 to $300.00. They look great. But my favorite item is lower priced. Check out this Jersey top for $65.00. Mi Amour!

Pictured: The Recessionista's Top Pick, the Narcisco Rodriguez eBay top for $65.00

Sizing for the line ranges from 0 -14, with International sizing equivalents listed in the eBay store. Have any of you stumbled up this range via eBay? If so, leave a comment and let us know your thoughts. The collection is very new, but so far feedback from eBay users is terrific. The buyers leaving feedback seem to feel the fit and styles are a very good value.

Pictured: The Reversible Trench from the collection is $350.00 US.

If you like Narcisco Rodriguez, but not the prices at Saks, Barney's and Neiman Marcus, then you might want to check this out. Note, no hoarding allowed. eBay is limiting shoppers to ten total purchases from the Narciso Rodriguez for eBay Collection.

Narcisco Rodriguez Launches eBay Store Featuring Limited Edition Designs

Sunday Savvy: Savings on Virgin America and Banana Republic

Pictured: Virgin America and Banana Republic are offering some special savings

Yesterday, I endured the horror of waiting for over 3 hours at LAX (Los Angeles Airport) for a simple flight to San Francisco. The major carrier I booked with had endless delays. This lead me to do some Internet sleuthing for codes to purchase a ticket on another airline. Low and behold, I found this little deal on Virgin America travel plus shopping at Banana Republic. Above is the promotion. Book between Feb 21 and March 2nd to enjoy 20% off travel on Virgin America between Feb 21 and June 9, 2010. Use coupon code: B4CC3053. Visit Banana Republic's site to be entered into a sweepstakes challenge to win $1,000 USD in wardrobe from Banana Republic. The winner will fly on Virgin America to New York City, stay at the Hudson Hotel and receive a personal style-out in New York by Banana Republic. Even if you don't win the sweepstakes online, you can receive a coupon good for 20% off your shopping at Banana Republic. And you can keep playing the game (called Land the Look) on the Banana website until March 31, 2010 for more chances to win. Good savings all around, discounted travel and a little shopping too! Check out landthelook.com for more details.

Sunday Savvy: Savings on Virgin America and Banana Republic

Save the Date: Shop for Haiti - Gilt Groupe Sale, Sunday 2/21

Save the date! Tomorrow Gilt Groupe is having a special sale to help Haiti. The sale will include TOMS shoes and FEED totes, as well as limited-edition T-shirts by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Net proceeds from this exclusive sale on Gilt Groupe will benefit charities directly assisting victims of the earthquake. If you're not already a member of Gilt, click here to join as my guest. I saw the limited-edition T-shirt on Donna Karan at NY Fashion Week. It looks pretty cool.

Save the Date: Shop for Haiti - Gilt Groupe Sale, Sunday 2/21

Giveaways are The Recessionista's Best Friend: Enter the Seven Deadly Sins Giveaway

Pictured: Sale.com's fabuless 7 Deadly Sins giveaway

In this time of tight budgets and penny pinching, I have turned to giveaways to frequently to satisfy my yen for luxury goods that are ,er, not quit affordable. One that is on my watch list right now is The Sale.com 7 Deadly Sins giveaway. This a great giveaway running over the next few weeks called the 7 deadly sins. It features luxury items we envy and high tech gadgets we lust for. Did I enter already, you betcha! I will be entering every week as the contest progresses. The item I must covet it the listing under Envy. That is the beautiful Y-Bow Bowler Bag from Yves Saint-Laurent. I love it! I need it.

Pictured: I envy anyone who carries this beautiful YSL Y-Bow Bowler Bag. I am in the Sale.com contest to win it! Retail price: $1,365.00 US

Every week there will be a different prize draw. And the prizes, beyond the YSL bag, are amazing! This week the sin is Pride, and the giveaway is Ulta Beauty Basket. Coming up are:

Wrath: Feb 26 — Mar 5 PS3 & Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
Sloth: Mar 5 — Mar 12 Tivo HD DVR
Greed Mar 12 — Mar 19 Raybans in 4 Colors
Lust Mar 19 — Mar 26 Envy Apple iPad
Envy Mar 26 — Apr 2 Yves Saint Laurent Bag

To enter into this giveaway, and try to win each deadly sin object of lust, click here. When you are asked for a referral code, please enter this one: RECESSCHIC like so.

Pictured: When you enter, enter referral code RECESSCHIC in the box to let them know The Recessionista sent you!

Beyond signing up to win some fabuless treats, you'll become a member of Sale.com. Sale.com is The Recessionista's friend. This helpful site aggregates tens of thousands of coupons and savings alerts from favorite retailers. The site even gives you the scoop on more than 1,000 email promotions. Put Sale.com in your recessionista savings toolkit. Every little bit of savings is goodness in today's shopping environment!

Giveaways are The Recessionista's Best Friend: Enter the Seven Deadly Sins Giveaway

Avon's Second Day Chic Look From Fashion Week

Pictured: Easy ponytail styles with side parts dominated the runway at NYFW

One of the cool things about New York Fashion Week was that Avon products were represented there. I like Avon make-up and some of their fashions because they are uber-affordable. Much of the make-up is also highly rated by consumer studies and customers. Price and quality is always a good reason to buy. So Avon stylist Tippi Shorter sent along a look from her New York Fashion Week stylings that she calls "Second Day Chic." That is a great way of saying, coping with "bed head" or the great unwashed, second day hair. Here is the recipe for the style she created. The long ponytail, side parted with hair gently hanging across the face was very popular at Fashion Week. Definitely a Veronica Lake 1940s revival! Tippi explains, "This look was really inspired by the woman who had her hair perfectly done the night before, wakes up and tries to recreate the look. It's a look that I refer to as 'second day chic.' It's a sexy and mysterious look that works perfectly with the designs."

Pictured: Avon stylist Global Stylist Advisor Tippi Shorter working on a model at Fashion Week.

Pictured: The Second Day Chic Comb Over look was spotted on the Runway

Here's the recipe for the Second Day Chic look:
1)Apply Advanced Techniques Volumizing Mousse by Avon to hair that has been dried straight, evenly distributing create a sturdy base for the style. Use a comb to create a deep diagonal part that extends from the hairline just above outside corner of one eye to crown.
2)Using a round barrel brush and blow dryer, create a defined part by blowing the front section forward to create a dramatic sweep across one eye. Just below the crown, backcomb a 2-3″ section of hair and drape over the back of the head to distribute the teased pieces.
3) Gather the bottom section of hair (below the diagonal part) and tie off into a low ponytail using a clear elastic band. Mix Advanced Techniques Moisture Sleek Smoothing Serum and Shaping Gel and apply by hand to the front section of hair enhancing the drape across the front of the face.
4)Gather the draped section of hair and pull into the loose low pony, securing with bobby pins.
5) Finish with Advance Techniques Mirror Shine Spray by Avon for a high shine finish.

What do you think? Would you try this at home? :)

Avon's Second Day Chic Look From Fashion Week