The Recessionista™ Blog, frugal fashion trends

Monday, October 31, 2011

The Recessionista Reviews Giambattista Valli for Macy's Impulse

With much of the Karl Lagerfeld collection still languishing on the Macy's racks on clearance, the new Giambattista Valli holiday collection is in stores and online. This is really a beautiful collection of party dresses, chic little handbags and blouses. There is even a leopard coat that looks like it walked right out of a vintage Bullock's Wilshire advertisement. The 32 piece collection (I originally reported that is was 17 pieces, but it is a larger collection) has a luxury feel and a deep richness to it. I like this collection, although the 1920s drop waists and slim flapper style dresses won't suit every figure. Many of the women I meet at Macy's today noted they couldn't wear some of the styles, including the leopard chiffon dress with the red waistband and the fuchsia strapless dress. Sizing for the collection goes only up to size 12, and I would say it is more junior sized that traditional woman's sizing.

Pictured: Many different looks from the Giambattista Valli Impulse line.

However, unlike most of the Lagerfeld Impulse collection, this collection has some pieces that everyone will be able to enjoy. While it's true many of the cocktail dresses have a slim cut, there are some beautiful blouses and dresses with fuller skirts that those of us who are curvy will be able to enjoy. I actually bought a smaller size than I normally wear in the cap sleeve, ruched pink chiffon blouse. There are two stunning rich red blouses and several lush red print dresses in the collection that will be perfect for the Christmas holiday and New Year's Party season. Sizing varies quite a bit in this collection, so do try on several sizes before you make your final buying decisions. There really is no uniform sizing here, each garment has a different cut. For example, the red satin blouse is a blousy oversized cut, whereas the matching red petal mini skirt is a very slim cut. I didn't see the red strapless maxi dress I was lusting for on the racks, but it is available via Macys.com for ordering.

Pictured: The Red Rose print on the blouses and dresses is lush (photo: M. Hall)

If you see this collection at your local Macy's store, do give it a look. I like the fabrics and the flirty playfulness of the pieces. The red rose print on the dresses and one of the blouses is amazing in person. It looks much more expensive than the Macy's prices. I also like the short jacket with the faux fur collar, although for $139.00, I would probably wait for it to go on sale. If you want to save now when you shop, check out the Macy's Coupons at ShopatHome.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

The Recessionista Reviews Albertus Swanepoel Hats for Target


Pictured: Two lonely Swanepoel Hats on the racks at Target, Francoise hat on left, Katherine hat on the right.

Today Target launched a 14 piece collection of hats by Albertus Swanepoel. The hats will be on sale at Target stores and online until December 22nd (or until they are gone.) Although Albertus Swanepoel is a well-respected designer in fashion circles, he's not exactly a household name. A hat from Swanepoel's designer collection sells for $500.00 or more. Each hat in the Target collection sells for $19.99. The Target collection is made up of colorful felt fedoras with playful accent ribbons and bows (see above.) I wasn't sure Target buyers would appreciate the hats by Albertus Swanepoel, by judging by the empty racks, it was clear that the hats were selling briskly. Only a handful of the Swanepoel hats were left, sandwiched in between many Mossimo hats. The Swanepoel hats stood out because of their more striking colors and accents, but otherwise they were indistinguishable. There was no special signage or display area for the collection. I was surprised that my local store didn't have more marketing for the new products.

Pictured: The Jill Hat features violets and black flowers over a baby blue ribbon (photo: M Hall)

The leopard spotted fedoras and faux fur riding hats were not at my store, although they are available on the semi-reliable Target.com (the site as down again this week for a few hours.) They look good, especially when you consider the low price tag. I liked all the various versions of the Fedoras. The styles are very true to the original 1940's style, and I've read that Swanepoel uses an original 1940s block to recreate the style and shape of his Fedoras. The lavender Fedora Katherine hat is particularly striking, although the one I saw had very irregular stitching around the brim. But hey, for $19.99, you can't really expect perfection.


Pictured: Two hats not in stock at my store, the Leopard Kwele and the Ganache Cloche.

The hat I liked most in the collection was not available at either at my local store or online, the Ganache Cloche, pictured above. The style is a bit more understated and will compliment the colors of my winter coats and sweaters. I'll have to keep searching for it. Right now, only 8 of the 14 hats reported to be in the collection are available on Target.com. (Update: as of 10/31 all 14 hats are available on Target.com to order.) Have any of you seen the Cloche at your local stores? So far, I have not seen any of the Albertus Swanepoel hats being resold in mass quantities on eBay, which is good news for those of us who want to own a Swanepoel hat without paying an outrageous price for it. With the vintage vibe of the collection, bright colors on the bands and flowers, I'm wondering how many Target shoppers will be anxious to get their hands on these. These are definitely for the fashionista who wants to stand out and make a statement.

If you want to save now on the hats, I recommend shopping with Target Coupons via the ShopatHome portal site. ShopatHome members get 6% cash back when they shop via the ShopatHome link.

Groupon's Haunted Halloween Getaways

Pictured: Boo! The Haunted Lucerne Hotel in Maine (image courtesy of Groupon)

Halloween is coming, and the American TV channels are full of shows on Haunted Places. In the last week, I've seen reports on the Lizzie Borden House (now a Bed & Breakfast) and the Waverly Hills Sanitarium in Lexington Kentucky. Here in Los Angeles, the ghosts of both Montgomery Cliff and Marilyn Monroe are said to haunt the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. And of course, there is the Houdini House over in Hollywood, which is also said to be haunted.

With the current fascination for ghosts and Hauntings, it's the perfect time for Groupon to offer post Halloween travel packages to three haunted hotels. If you like to check out Haunted places, here are the deals:

An evening stay and ghost tour experience at the hotel that inspired The Shining, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado
Two nights at Stowe, Vermont’s Green Mountain Inn, a hotel widely known for its permanent ghost in residence, Boots.
A two-night stay at The Lucerne Inn, a legendary haunted bungalow nestled in New England and surrounded by mysterious area attractions in Maine.

To take advantage of the deals, you'll need to first sign-up for a Groupon account. Then you can see if you can pick up one of these travel packages. I think there are still a few packages available, with the Stanley Hotel from The Shining selling the quickest (not a surprise, considering the red rum hype )

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Macy's Coat Sale featuring Lagerfeld and Lands End Outerwear Sale

Some parts of the East Coast of the US, like my beloved New York City, will be welcoming Halloween with snow. I just heard that the National Weather Service just upgraded all of NYC to a Winter Storm Warning expecting 6-10in of snow by 2am tonight. That just doesn't seem right, but you can't mess with Mother Nature. Winter is officially on the way. With more than a fall chill in the air, it's the right time to let you know about Macy's coat sale. Many coats are reduced by 25% to 30%. One coat I have my eye on is the Lagerfeld Tweed Coat (see above), now on sale for $69.99, reduced from the original price of $169.00. Although the coat is a light tweed fabric, it could be worn as a coat dress if you feel it's not heavy enough to survive a winter storm. For the price, and the tailoring, you may want to check it out.

For heavier winter wear, check out the Lands End Outwear sale. Coats are reduced 20 to 50%.

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Savings at Kohl's Including Jennifer Lopez/J Lo Collection

I have to confess that I have not been paying much attention to the new Jennifer Lopez line at Kohl's. My head has been completely turned by Calvin Klein and other designers at Ross, Lagerfeld at Macy's (now on clearance) and the many upscale designers at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. However, I checked in on Kohls.com the other day, and the entire J.Lo line is now on sale. Not only that, but to my surprise, the customer reviews on the line are very good. Most users who bought and are wearing the garments seem quite pleased with them. So, if you are interested in J Lo at Kohl's, or Simply Vera, or Lauren Conrad, or even a Halloween costume, I wanted to pass on some additional savings. Until Oct. 29th you can save an additional 30% at Kohl's using Coupon code: SAVEATKOHLS. Expires 10/29/2011. I found this coupon via RetailMeNot.com, and you can check out more coupons from them on the widget on the left hand side of the blog.

The coupon is good for anything at Kohl's. I will be going to my local store to check out Kohl's this weekend. I'm really curious about the J Lo collection now. Have any of you seen it? Bought it?

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

H&M Announces Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Collection Inspired by the Movie

Today H&M has surprised fashion and movie fans by announcing a collection based on the movie, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." Seriously, who knew this was coming? Not me! If any of you have seen the movie or read the books, then you know that the heroine Lisbeth Salander is a bad ass. Lisabeth has been done wrong, and in each movie/book she sets out to right the wrongs using her wits and Internet skills. She's like Dirty Harry meets Chrissie Hynde (in my opinion.) For the collection, H&M has hired the film's costume designer , Trish Summerville, to create the dark, goth looks for this one.

“Salander’s look is very real and very lived in, with pieces that her character has worn for a long time, like her jackets that act as her armour to shield her from the world. I wanted the collection to have the essence and strength of Salander, with a fashion edge, and I’m pleased with the result,” Summerville said. The 30 piece collection consists of hoodies, leather jackets and pants, slouchy tees and hooded sweaters. This is fashion to stay on the QT in, like Lisabeth Salander does.

Look for the pieces to surface in H&M stores Dec. 14th to coincide with the American version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, based on Steig Larsson’s novel. The movie, which stars Rooney Mara and Daniel Craig, opens in December.

Monday, October 24, 2011

eBay Fashion Vault Features Betsey Johnson Pink Patch

The eBay Fashion Vault is open again with sale on Pink Patch by Betsey Johnson. I saw Pink Patch at Fashion Week last year, and was very impressed. Betsey sent her store employees down the runway, not models, in the clothes. There were women of all shapes and sizes wearing the baby doll dresses and tops. The eBay sale featured lots of cocktail dresses, some leggings and fall sweaters. Click here to get in first, and get the best before it's gone !:)

The sale includes a free gift and free shipping with a purchase of Pink Patch. The offer ends Oct. 26th at 9 pm PST.

Online Only: Karl is coming for February 2012

Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld seems to be rapidly diversifying his brand. In the last year, there has been the diffusion line for Macy's, Diet Coke bottles and even a label for a winery with ties to Chanel. Today comes the news that he is going after Internet shoppers with an exclusive label called Karl to be sold on website Net-A-Porter. At 78, the designer is now going to get jiggy with the online world via an Internet exclusive clothing launch. What's next, a Twitter ID? Gasp.

There is not much information available on Karl. I haven't seen any sketches or news about what the collection will consist of. What has been announced via a press release is that Karl "will be sold exclusively for the first month through net-a-porter, the online fashion retail unit of Swiss luxury group Richemont, then on a dedicated website and starting in the spring through a few selected retailers." Prices will range from 60 to 300 euro range, which is about $84.00 USD to $417.00 USD. So, this will be more than the current Macy's Impulse collection. For the more upscale Chanel buyer who wants to go in-store, there is more Karl coming in Autumn 2012. A more upmarket label called "Karl Lagerfeld Paris," sold in multi-brand and department stores, with items priced between 300 and 2,000 euros, which translates to about $417 USD to 2,785 USD.

Clearly, before Karl retires, there's going to be a collection for multiple price points and buyers. An interesting move from a fashion legend.

Iman and Missoni Inducted to the Rodeo Walk of Style.

Last night Iman (pictured above) and the Missoni family received plaques on Rodeo Drive (literally embedded in the street) to honor their contributions to fashion and entertainment from the City of Beverly Hills. In good humor, the graceful Iman invited all the attendees of the ceremony to "walk all over me, shop and be fabulous." And we all know that this is precisely what will happen on the shopping Mecca of Rodeo Drive, where walking and shopping go hand in hand.

Pictured: Rachel Zoe & Iman (photo:Alex J. Berliner/ABImages)

In a small ceremony held outdoors on Rodeo Drive, Iman received the Walk of Style award from Rachel Zoe. In a move that surprised many attendees, she wore a long mocha Rachel Zoe dress with a bow tie blouse and sequined jacket, rather than Missoni. With her typical dedication to raising funds to help children in Africa, Iman used her acceptance speech to mention the devastation and hardships people are still suffering in East Africa. She stated that people in her homeland are faced daily with a “Sophie’s Choice” that no one should have to make. The former model encouraged the audience to donate to “Save the Children” to help raise funds and awareness for the famine and drought that is ravaging East Africa, and in particular, her homeland of Somalia. I had the opportunity to meet and chat briefly with Iman in the Missoni store before the ceremony. She was warm, genuine and completely accessible. She told me that she plans to continue to work with HSN on her fashion and accessories line. As Rachel Zoe said before presenting the award to Iman, “She’s kinda everything” a business mogul, a fashion icon and a philanthropist.

Pictured: Margherita Missoni, Rosita Missoni, Angela Missoni, Jennifer Missoni (photo AJ Berliner/ABImages.)

Pictured: The family's newest superstar, Margherita Missoni (photo: M. Hall)

Following the presentation of the award to Iman, Quincy Jones took the stage to present the award to the Missoni family. A self-described “Missoni junkie,” Mr. Jones lauded the family for their designs characterized by a "kaleidoscope of bold hues, zigzags, stripes, waves, flames, geometric patchworks and floral jacquards." The family turned out in force to accept the award, with founder Rosita in attendance along with children Vittorio, Luca and Angela. Also in attendance was the lovely Margherita Missoni, who Angela acknowledged, “maybe be the most well known member of the family” since the Missoni for Target campaign and Vogue spread featuring her. Angela Missoni thanked the entertainment community for embracing the style of Missoni over the years. She noted that through their designs, the brand had presented "the idea that fashion can be informal. She noted that many clients like Lauren Bacall, Audrey Hepburn and Faye Dunaway had found that Missoni fashions suited them both for the red carpet and in their personal life.

Pictured: Rodeo Drive decorated for the Walk of Style. (photo: M. Hall)

Tomorrow, Rodeo Drive will open to the public without the celebrities, the red carpet and the champagne. But a little bit of the magic from the Rodeo Walk of Style ceremony will remain embedded in the sidewalk where tourists and residents come to shop. And just as Iman foretold, shoppers will be stepping over her in their quest to be fabulous.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Rodeo Walk of Style to Honor Iman and Missoni

Pictured: Sculptor Robert Graham's "Torso" between Rodeo Drive & Dayton Way is the symbol for the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style

Tonight is the Rodeo Walk of Style on Rodeo Drive, hub of luxury shopping in the heart of Beverly Hills. Although, since the great recession the area is dotted with more consignment stores and lower priced chain stores (Gap, Banana Republic, BCBG and GUESS.) Since 2003, the City of Beverly Hills and the Rodeo Drive committee have been giving out the awards to honor style legends for their contributions to the worlds of fashion and entertainment. This year's honorees are model and cosmetics/fashion mogul Inman and Italian fashion designer Missoni. Both honorees have diversified their brands via lower priced merchandise with their glamorous label. Missoni has expended to their M by Missoni lower priced line sold at Nordstroms and others, as well as a recent Target collaboration. Iman's Global Chic and Platinum Lines are best sellers on the Home Shopping Network.

In addition to her success as a top fashion model and business women, Iman has been very involved in charitable organizations. She has helped to raise funds for The Children’s Defense Fund, Action Against Hunger and the RAISE HOPE FOR CONGO campaign. She is also ambassador for Save the Children to raise funds and awareness for the famine and drought that is ravaging East Africa, and in particular, her homeland Somalia. She deserves to be recognized as much for her humanitarian efforts as for her contributions to fashion.

The Missoni style reflects the successful venture of a husband-and-wife team: married in 1953, Tai and Rosita started a knitwear business that would come to symbolize Italian fashion in the mid-Sixties with its signature designs. Missoni successfully introduced and established an unmistakable way of dressing and living. Identified by unique “put together” combinations of color, texture and iconic patterns, their beautiful designs feature a kaleidoscope of bold hues, zigzags, stripes, waves, flames, geometric patchworks and floral jacquards. Overtime, each of the Missoni children has become part of the business. The Target collection, although it had some worthy pieces, didn't begin to touch the beauty of the patterns that are Missoni knit wear. But it did give the mass market a chance to possess a bit of the Missoni magic at an affordable price, at least before some of the eBay sellers hoarded it and inflated the prices beyond reason.

Tonight's ceremony promises to be star studded. Rachel Zoe will be there and she will be styling Iman. I'm waiting to see if Iman will wear Missoni. What do you think? You can follow all the action tonight on Twitter. I will be there Tweeting using the hashtag #RodeoDriveWOS. Look for Tweets from both honorees (@The_Real_IMAN) and Margherita Missoni (@mmmargherita) plus attendees.

Friday, October 21, 2011

A Simple Look from the CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund Runway Show in Los Angeles

Pictured: Fekkai's sleek & simple ponytail at yesterday's CFDA event.

In case you hadn't heard, yesterday Los Angeles hosted the 2011 CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund finalists event held at Chateau Marmont. Fashion and the beauty of the 1920's architecture of the Chateau are a winning combination. Every year, Vogue throws a pre-party in LA, before the official voting in New York, to show off the designs of the nominees. This year, the nominees include Christian Cota, Joseph Altuzarra, Gregory Parkinson, Prabal Gurung, Billy Reid, Pamela Love, Robert Geller, Loden Daegger, Eddie Borgo and Moss Lipow. One of these talented designers will be awarded up to $200,000 from the CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund. I'm glad that the CFDA gives a little party here on the West Coast for the designers. It adds to the cache of LA Fashion Weak, er I mean LA Fashion Week.

One of the most interesting things to me about yesterday's show was the simple, slicked back ponytail looks designed by Frederic Fekkai's Renato Campora for the runway models. Remember, Fekkai's is no longer strictly a luxury brand for hair, as the products are now sold at Target. It's certainly easy to do a low pony tail accented with a sleek side part at home for a special event. My spies at Fekkai say you can achieve the look, with these easy steps.

Run Fekkai Coiff Bouffant Lifting & Texturizing Spray Gel throughout the hair until the entire head is damp. Next, blow dry the hair using a large round brush. Once the hair is mostly dry straighten hair with a flat iron, separating in to sections, while applying Frederic Fekkai Coiff Piecing and Forming Wax to add shine. Then, create a deep, exaggerated part to the right side of the head.

Next, pull the hair back into a low ponytail. Secure hair with a band, and spray with Fekkai Coiff Sheer Hold Hairspray for added hold. Next, take a small section of hair from the underside of the ponytail and wrap it around to conceal the band. Secure the look by blow drying the ponytail to lock in the straightness of the hair.

Voila!

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Until Oct. 24: The Ross Dress Event and Sweepstakes

For only a few more days, until Oct. 24th, Ross is having their annual dress event. I don't know how many of you shop at Ross, but they have really stepped up their game in the last year or so and they now have many designer brands in house. On a recent trip, I sighted Romeo & Juliet Couture, Calvin Klein, Jones of New York, Juicy Couture and Max Studio. So tomorrow, I am going to my local Ross to see what I can find for a special event (yes, I have one) with the $50.00 gift card Ross sent me. Last time I gave the gift card they gave me away to my readers, so I am looking forward to hunting a deal for myself.

Pictured: Ross Dress Event Sweepstakes from Facebook.

But that doesn't mean you can't still try to win your own gift card from Ross. As part of their Dress event, Ross is giving away two $250.00 gift cards to shop at their stores on their Facebook page. That's a great pre-holiday giveaway. The contest is open to residents of the United States and Canada. I have already entered, and you might want to too. Stay tuned for my report from the Ross fashion trenches.

First Look: Versace for H&M Preview

I just got the preview pictures from H&M for their upcoming Versace collaboration. It's loud, it's bold and oh so bright. This ain't your typical fall collection. Fuchsia anyone? Sequins? Perhaps a metallic rock star look for the holidays? How about some gold studs? If you're looking for all that, and you want to be the center of attention, Versace for H&M is for you. Check it out readers!

Pictured: Versace for H&M womenswear, photography by Kacper Kasprzyk

The womenswear line features everything from a little black dress with subtle cut outs to lots of bling and bring colors. The menswear line is every bit as flash. Check out the pink suit for men. The long sleeved sweater on the lower left with the palm tree print reminds me of the print on the scandalous Versace dress that J. Lo wore to the Grammys a few years ago.

Pictured: Versace for H&M menswear, photography by Kacper Kasprzyk

So you've seen the pictures, now here is what you need to know if you want to snag any of this, because we all know it will sell out, and within minutes you'll find much of it for sale on eBay. All collections will be available in around 300 stores worldwide, as well as on-line, from 17th November. I'm banking H&M will have their website ready for high-demand and that we won't see the type of fail that Target experienced for their Missoni collection. If you're buying at the store, you know the deal, you need to get there early to get in line. Watch this space as I will post details on queuing up when I receive from H&M.

For the first time, this H&M designer collection will include housewares, "reflecting Versace’s influential home designs." My spies tell me that there will be pillows and a bedspread with a multicolour floral Japanese fan print. Sounds intriguing, right? Here's a picture of the pillow, with a nude model alongside as a show accessory. Pillows will be $29.95 and $39.95 depending on size. The floral bedspread will be $149.00 USD.

Pictured: Versace for H&M pillow photography by Kacper Kasprzyk

What do you think readers? Are you lusting for this one, or will you pass on all the buying frenzy that will surround it? Dress prices will range from $149.00 USD to $299.00 USD for the leather dresses. Men's leather jackets will be $299.00 USD, with Blazers/Jackets more reasonably priced at $149.00 USD. Men's shirts will range from $49.95 to $79.95 USD.

More reasonably priced items will be women's jewelry with rings and earrings priced at $19.99, and scarves starting at $19.95. There will also be caps, scarves, bracelets and belts ranging from $34.99 to $59.99 for men.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Announcing the next Macy's Designer: Doo-Ri Chung for February 2012

Sketches from Doo-Ri's Macy's line. ( Courtesy of Doo-Ri for Macy's.)

Macy's is going after some great designers for there Impulse line. We've already seen Matthew Williamson, Karl Lagerfeld and Kinder Aggugini hanging on the Macy's racks. And now, Macy's has announced that Doo-Ri Chung of FLOTUS will be their first designer for 2012. Ironically, Doo-Ri is the first female designer to be signed by Macy's for Impulse. Some of you may remember Doo-Ri from the GAP white shirt project a few years back. I still have some of those shirts--they were terrific. My spies tell me that the collection will include art inspired prints, jersey pieces mixed with leather, beautifully detailed knitwear and Doo-Ri’s iconic draping. Pricing will be on average from $39-$159. Look for both short dresses and maxi dresses, as well as a trench coat.

Pictured: A dress sketch from Macy's Doo-Ri Collection, courtesy of Macy's

Look for Doo-Ri for Macy's Impulse at 225 stores and online at Macys.com on Feb. 15, 2012. I hope that customers won't make the faces from the sketches (see above) when they try on the collection. :) Like the other Macy's designers before her, Doo-Ri notes that this collection will bring her products to new customers. "The customer is very different from whom we’ve catered to before, but I really didn’t have to adapt. Macy’s wanted to keep the design level high. I didn’t feel the challenge was very different," Chung told WWD.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

The Exquisite Taste of Elizabeth Taylor: She Still Fascinates

Pictured: Elizabeth Taylor from the movie BOOM glittering above MOCA.

Saturday night I was privileged to see the small exhibit of Elizabeth Taylor’s jewels and fashions shown at MOCA before the exhibit left Los Angeles. I’m so glad I went. I knew Elizabeth Taylor had wonderful jewelry, but frankly, I’d always thought most of it was oversized and sometimes gauche. Seeing it in person, I realized how amazing most of it was, even though, yes, Elizabeth liked say we say "statement pieces." It’s a special kind of woman who likes to wear a 33.9 karat Diamond everyday. But even her Krupp diamond didn’t look vulgar in person. It has the most beautiful cuts in it. Some people thought it was cursed, but that didn’t deter Elizabeth Taylor from wanting it or Richard Burton from buying it for her. As she told Larry King, “Well, it belonged to the Krupp family who were the munitions family that killed so many Jews, the arms people. And I thought how poetic. What irony, what perfect poetic irony if a nice little Jewish girl like me ended up owning it.”

Pictured: The Krupp Diamond a gift from Richard Burton.

Pictured: Her rubies from Mike Todd.

This nice little Jewish girl owned more than the fabulous diamond. On display were some of her fashions from the 1960s, which were incredible. Check out the exquisite detail on the Christian Dior dress (below) that she wore to the premiere of Dr. Faustus with Richard Burton.

Also on display, is an exquisite beaded and embroidered kimono by Irene Sharif that she wore in the movie “BOOM!” BOOM is a camp classic, with Elizabeth wearing much of her jewelry in the film including the Krupp diamond and her Bvlgari emerald necklace. Only Elizabeth Taylor as Mrs. Goforth could get away with saying she wanted to start her morning with “a cold bottle of mineral water, suntan lotion, cigarettes, codeine tabs, a bucket of ice, a glass, a bottle of brandy, my newspapers: the Paris Trib The Rome Daily American , The Financial Times, the Wall Street Journal, The Daily Express.” Who needs coffee in the morning when you are padding around Sardinia with Richard Burton wearing gorgeous Irene Sharif kaftans and kimonos? (see the pictures of the kimono below)

Although “BOOM” was a box office failure, I’m glad Elizabeth preserved her costumes, because they are amazing as you can see. The exhibit also contained a gown she wore in another critical failure, “Secret Ceremony” (pictured on the left) alongside one of her couture Dior ensembles. Her white Chanel ball gown (pictured on the right) is simply stunning. Elizabeth Taylor was a longtime client of Dior, Chanel and Valentino among others.

Despite the gifts Elizabeth received, my favorite piece of jewelry in her collection was this Boucheron brooch that she purchased for herself. It is exquisite in its fine detail.

Pictured: A Boucheron Brooch

If you have the chance to see the exhibit in New York, Geneva or the other cities is it coming to, please do. It provides rare insight into this fascinating icon. Most of people I met at the exhibit just wanted to get a glimpse of how Elizabeth Taylor lived and a little piece of what she left behind. As Richard Burton said, “She still fascinates.”

I have to admit I am curious to see if some companies buy her jewelry and make replicas of it, as happened with Jackie Kennedy's collection. In 1993, Elizabeth Taylor partnered with AVON to make replicas of some of her pieces. You can still find many of those pieces online for sale via eBay. The AVON pieces provide a low price alternative to the Christie's auction. AVON even made a replica of Elizabeth's Shah Jehan Pendant.

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Bing's Halloween Shop Provides "Do It Yourself" Costume Tips

Halloween is in just a few weeks, so it's that time again. Some of us are preparing our own Halloween looks, or helping kids put their look together. Halloween is one of the most beloved holidays by children, as well as more than a few adult chidlren. Everyone wants to have a great costume, whether a scary one or a fashionable one.

According to a recent survey hosted by Bing (the search engine), 43% of respondents are all about "Do It Yourself" DIY costumers this year. According to the survey, nearly 40 percent of respondents indicated they are abandoning store-bought outfits for a DIY costume, with 43 percent of survey respondents believing that purchasing a Halloween costume you’ll wear for one night is too expensive (nearly a fourfold increase over last year’s 12 percent). In fact, many people are ditching intricate costumes and embracing more “everyman” costumes this year, with Kate Middleton topping the list of celebrity costume picks for women at 47 percent and Edward Cullen ( a vampire from Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series) topping the list for men at 35 percent.

To help adults and teens get the celeb the look, Bing has teamed up with celebrity stylists Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn, best known for their work with fashion gurus Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna and Will and Jada Smith, to share their insight on www.BingHalloween.com into looks that fit every type of budget, fashion sense and DIY (Do it Yourself) skill level.
Here are some of their tips that may leave a lasting impression with your friends:

Dress like a rock star. Some of our favorite costumes are inspired from what stars wear on stage. One way to really impress everyone at your Halloween party is to find the most classic identifiable look from your favorite artist’s performance or music video and break down the look. Everyone wants to party like a rock star, and now you can actually look the part.
Makeup cures all. Makeup and hair styling are a great way to create a fun and easy costume. If you’re able to master the makeup, the rest of the costume is sure to fall in line. Signature looks of classic rock stars are always fan favorites. Think full- face make up ala KISS Gene Simmons, plus a simple black Tee.
Reality TV time. When in doubt, go as a reality TV stars. Love them or hate them, some reality stars have become just as recognizable as movie and rock stars. Please don't try the kids from Jersey Shore, but think about your favorite Real Housewife for any easy costume from your closet. In many cases, you can impersonate a reality star with minimal expense.

For additional tips and tricks from Zangardi and Haenn and Halloween inspiration, visit http://www.BingHalloween.com. And if you are buying a costume, check out your local Goodwill. They have a lot of great costumes, some vintage, some barely worn.

Missoni for Target and eBay: Is it Selling?

The marketplace phenomenon of Missoni for Target continues to fascinate me. It's a modern day scrabble for luxury goods gone wrong. Just my opinion, maybe but look at the facts. Today there are $14,590 items labeled Missoni for Target for sale via eBay. That's a helluva lot of items to have for sale four weeks after the collection's launch in Target stores. Although The New York Times reports that some eBay sellers are making handsome profits, frankly, I just don't see it. A brief search of eBay this morning shows me that there are thousands of items for sale, many with zero bids. Sure, maybe some people are willing to pay triple the Target retail price for some of these items, but I think many consumers are disgusted by the inflated prices some sellers are asking. The returns rack at my local Target shows evidence of this. There is now a nice collection of Missoni for Target dresses and sweaters hiding in the back of my local Target store near the clearance rack. With the returns coming in, I've had the opportunity to see more of the pieces in person, and I can tell you, some look good, and some are simply awful. The ladies dress shirts in polyester with the bright Missoni prints really don't look good. They remind me of the 80's disco looks, and not in a good way. The puffer jacket in blue, with the complimentary blue zig-zag print looks cheap, and runs small. It's not worth the price whether it's the Target retail price or the inflated eBay sales price.

Pictured: My new Missoni for Target Gold Cardigan Sweater

I just picked up a cardigan set for the Target retail price at my local store. I have to say, that it is one of the better pieces in the collection. But, I also own the pumps, and they are downright painful. I would return them if I could, but since I wore them I can not. Bottom line, don't believe the hype here. This collection has good pieces and bad pieces as has every single Target Go collection to date. Most of the lingerie is painful to look at. Some of the tote bags look cheap.

As I write, there are almost 5,000 pieces from the Missoni Women's collection on sale via eBay sellers. That's a lot of inventory. What do you think readers? Are you in a hurry to snap them up? I'm not. In my opinion most of it will end up back on the Target return racks, and when it does, this collection won't be the hot new must have. Something else will have come along by then. For tips on shopping Missoni returns, check out Target Addict.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Announcing Giambattista Valli For Macy’s Impulse

Pictured: Giambattista Valli for Macy’s image via Courtesy Photo, provided by Macy's

Just in time for the holidays, and that is precisely the intent, Macy's has announced that Giambattista Valli for Macy’s Impulse is on the way to Macy's stores on Oct. 26th. My spies tell me that all pieces will be priced under $150.00. Macy's has released a look book for the collection and as you can see from the photos this is traditional holiday party wear. The colors are similar to last year's Lanvin H&M collection with bright pink and red dresses in the mix. Of course, there are plenty of LBDs (Little Black Dresses too) in updated flapper styles with drop waists. There are also leopard print dresses and color block dresses with the leopard print. My favorite so far, based on the look book, is this strapless red print maxi dress.

Pictured: Giambattista Valli Maix dress for Macy’s image via Courtesy Photo, provided by Macy's

The collection of cocktail dresses is made up of 17 pieces which I think is very smart on Macy's part. A smaller collection reduces inventory and should help sales in store. The 45 piece Lagerfeld collection is still to be found in most Macy's stores. A few pieces of Lagerfeld are now on sale at Macy's online and I think more of the pieces will be soon. The tweed coat is now reduced to $99.00 from $169.00.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

For Sale at Christie's: Elizabeth Tayor's Jewelry and Fashions

Dame Elizabeth Taylor's jewels and fashions are about to hit the auction block to benefit her AIDs foundation. But before Christie's auctions her amazing collection, her belongings are on display at several venues around the globe: Moscow, Los Angeles, New York, London, Dubai, Hong Kong, Geneva and Paris. Much of the collection is completely over the top, including a circa 1880 Tiara given to Elizabeth by Mike Todd and a set of Bvlgari Emeralds from Richard Burton. And of course, that is part of the fascination. There are also costumes from Dame Elizabeth's films and personal collection.

The Los Angeles exhibit tickets sold out quickly for the exhibit at MOCA at the Pacific Design Center. But, if you're in Southern California, here's bit of good news. New tickets for late night exhibits over the weekend (Oct. 14th & 15th) have been added. I already purchased mine. Tickets are $50.00 and available for order on the web. Click here for details. For fifty dollars you can have a glimpse at Elizabeth's extravagant lifestyle, a lifestyle most of us can only dream of. I remember reading that her own son, Michael Wilding Jr., had once said his mother's lifestyle seemed as fantastic to him as it did to everyone else.

In case you can't make it to the exhibit, I thought it would be fun to give my readers a glimpse of Elizabeth Taylor's fashions. Here's a peak. As you can see, the word frugal did not apply to Elizabeth Taylor. The exhibit is valued at 30 million.

Pictured: The Sunflower Yellow Silk Chiffon Wedding Dress, 1964
Worn to Ms. Taylor’s first wedding to Richard Burton
Estimate: $40,000-60,000 (copyright Christie's Images)

Pictured: A Versace Beaded Evening Jacket, ‘The Face’
Labeled Atelier Versace, 1990s
Estimate: $15,000-20,000 (copyright Christie's Images)

Pictured: A Chanel Ballgown, Cape, Shoes, and Matching Clutch Bag
Labeled ‘Chanel’, 1960s
Estimate: $6,000-8,000 (copyright Christie's Images)

Please note, the pictured items are for sale and will be auctioned by Christie's on December 13, 2011, when Christie’s New York will present 80 of Ms. Taylor’s most iconic jewels in a special Evening Sale, followed by 189 additional jewels in two Day Sale sessions on December 14. Elizabeth's fashion will be sold on Dec. 14th and 15th. For information on the sale, go to www.christies.com/elizabethtaylor As far as I know, there are no coupons or discounts on this sale, but the proceeds do benefit a worthy cause.

All images in this post are the property of Christie's Images. I will be displaying them here on the blog for only 14 days. After that, the images will be returned to Christie's.

Los Angeles Treat: Giveaway for Sassy City Chick shopping event tickets

This is a little Halloween treat for my Los Angeles/Southern California readers. I'm giving away up to 25 free tickets/ Free passes to a the Sassy City Chick shopping event in Los Angeles, on Thursday, Nov. 3rd at the Petersen Auto Museum. Here's the deal:

The FIRST 25 fashionistas who enter discount code RECESSIONISTA at checkout will win a FREE Sassy Tote Ticket! *Ticket includes: admission, swag bag, cocktails, & free spa treatments.

WHO: Sassy City Chicks

WHAT: Los Angeles Fall Fashion Bash

WHERE: Petersen Automotive Museum (@ Wilshire and Fairfax)

WHEN: Thursday, November 3, 2011 from 5 – 10PM

DETAILS: Major discounts on Fall apparel & accessories- just in time for the holidays! Featuring Tebi Jewels, Stella Row, Lavit Lingerie, Club Tutto Mio, and many more. Complimentary cocktails will be served, courtesy of Pinnacle Vodka and Qream Liqueur. Guests can also enjoy FREE mini spa services from a selection of LA’s hottest salons.

I attended the event last year, and it was good. I picked up some great finds from Brit Boy, Christine Price, One Grey Day + Michael Stars via Excess Baggage, Renee Vintage and more. To get the free tickets, click on this link, then:

1) Go to the Ticket Info tab across the top of the invite picture on the website, and select a Sassy City Chicks Tote Ticket (the $25 ticket).
2) At checkout just enter the code RECESSIONISTA in Promotion/Discount space and you'’ll receive the ticket for free.

If you like to shop, and want to see the Petersen Auto Museum (which is a very cool place) , plus get a little swag bag for free, this is a good deal! I'll be there on and hope to see some of you there.

Inspiring Fall Styles: Christina Applegate for Breast Cancer Awareness sale on Gilt Groupe

In case you haven't heard, October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. It's time to make your appointment to get a mammogram, and think about giving to support Breast Cancer research. You can do some fashionable giving by checking out Gilt Groupe's Awareness sale curated by Christina Applegate today. If you're not a member of Gilt Groupe already, click here to use my invite to shop. The sale features items from Robert Rodriguez, Mark + James, Giuseppe Zanotti, Black Halo, Lauren Merkin, Badgley Mischka, Reem Acra, and Alex Woo's exclusive necklace he designed for Christina Applegate's charity Right Action for Women.

Applegate tells Gilt, "The reason I started Right Action for Women was to get the word out that this doesn't just happen to women who are over 55...I was 36 years old when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The reason that I was able to beat it was by early detection and that was by the smarts of my doctor, who said, 'Mammograms are not for you; we're going to do an MRI.' An MRI can find breast cancer many years before a mammogram can. That's something that I learned, and that I didn't know about until I found out in my own life." And the actress reminds that you can take matters into your hands—literally. "Early detection is key. Breast health is key. It's to know your body, to be able to do self-examinations, to talk to your doctor if you know that you have a history in your family on either side," she explains. To hear Christina talk more about her charity and the Gilt sale, click here to watch her video statement.

Note: In the interest of full disclosure, please note that I do earn a referral fee if you shop Gilt using my invite.