Target's Go International: Rogan

After a post office boondoggle that required 3 trips, two frantic phone calls, and a lost Metrocard (please don’t ask) I was finally introduced to my latest Target acquisitions, namely two items from Rogan’s much hyped Go International Line.

And by golly was it worth the wait. Despite the grumblings from fellow bloghers whose critiques of the collection…how shall I put this delicately…range from ‘meh’ to ‘merde’ I was pleasantly surprised with my booty.

First, the striped waistcoat that has a total Kate Moss vibe that I so love. I’ll pair it with my Superfine skinny jeans and Thomas Wylde Egyptian tank for starters, but it does offer myriad wardrobe extending options. I was unable to find a pic of it in their store so I assume it has sold out. It’s been featured in every fashion rag in existence so I'm sure you’ve probably seen it.

I also took the plunge into romper territory with the “Black Sheep” jumper (how very metal – love it!), which I have to say looks miles better in person than it does online. There are subtle stripes in the fabric, cute buttons, and it’s got a flattering neckline. The only word of caution here is with the sizing – way off. Definitely go up a size if you’re unsure or risk a camel toe of epic proportions. Seriously, I nearly had to cut myself out of it -- it’s so wonky. Though I could stand to lose a few lbs before I attempt wearing this in public, I’m elated that I don’t look like a shop class flunkie.

Get yourself to a local Target or see the collection online here.

To those who’ve already checked it out do let me know what you think – I’m dying to know!

On a side note, how does the most stylish mass marketer in the biz manage to have the dowdiest website ever? I’m sending our very own Doris Pooser for a much needed makeover.

Have a wonderful weekend my lovelies.

For The Love Of All That Is Sparkly

Blogville has been all abuzz with recaps from the SATC New York premier so of course I couldn't resist a little snark, even if it is just too easy. Behold, the lovely Lydia Hearst.

A replay of Lydia's pre-premier activities (according to moi):

6:00 p.m. Lightly coats herself in adhesive.

6:05 p.m. Dumps every piece of tacky jewelry she owns onto the floor.

6:15 p.m. Drops to floor belly first and rolls around in even, circular motions to ensure proper coverage.

6:20 p.m. Looks at herself in the mirror and decides something is missing.

6:25 p.m. Frantically digs out the souvenir filled shoe box she keeps under her bed.

6:30 p.m. Settles on the pendant that her 6th grade boyfriend Skip made for her at summer camp in the Poconos.

6:35 p.m. Proclaims herself red carpet-ready but not before popping a Xanax.

Trends Report: Black and White

There’s something undeniably chic about a black & white “color” palette. The stark contrast is well-groomed, effortlessly cool, tidy and appropriate for any occasion – thoughtful but never over-thought.

Done well, it evokes an art deco feel in graphic patterns that look crisp and fresh. Architectural details like peaked shoulders, ruffles, and pleats pop in this color scheme. Think about this season’s other Must-Haves: polka dots, ikats, florals, animal prints, etc. – all get a stylish update in black & white. Though you could play it safe with solid color mixes, we suggest shaking things up a bit with trendy prints and decorative accents.

Florals. If you shy away from floral prints, you may want to reconsider. In black & white they become a little less saccharin, a little more urban sophisticate. A maxi dress with strappy metallic gladiator sandals and bangles makes a statement for a dressy evening event.

Bold Graphics. Polka dots are always a bit playful, while damask is a classy “do” if you’re more traditional. Stripes, horizontal or otherwise, are big. Try a tunic or a cardigan with tapered pants, platform pumps, and a lightweight scarf to channel your inner French coquette. A wide-brimmed hat brings retro Palm Springs glam poolside.

Decorative Accents. Look for face-framing collars, variable sleeve lengths, and contrasting textures. A crisp white shirt is perfectly cinched with a black patent belt; ditto a girly black bow-tie on a drapey Grecian-inspired gown. Layer a cropped black jacket over a long slim-fitting white tank and you’re good to go.

The Poolside Ribbon Hat Hats in the Belfry	Taryn Rose Cheval Oxfords Nordstrom	Tropical Patio Dress Banana Republic
Sula Kimono Blouse White House Black Market	Jacques Cardigan Tory Burch	Margo Damask Capris Ann Taylor

New York, New York It’s A Wonderful Town

The Bronx is up but the Battery’s down
The people ride in a hole in the ground
New York, New York it’s a helluva town!

Fleet Week is in full swing in the Big Apple and I do love seeing all of the cute young sailors in their pristine white uniforms whooping it up, well, like sailors on leave. It reminds me of that great musical “On The Town” starring Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and that Other Guy. If you haven't already, put it on your Netflix queue, the fashions alone are worth the rental.

I have yet to see one of these modern day Navy hotties break into song and dance but I did feel inspired to seek out some cute nautical-inspired looks perfect for showing the boys a good time in Gotham.

Who does retro sex kitten better than Betsey Johnson? I adore the 40s vibe of this white halter dress.

Or what about this sweet white and teal smocked sundress from one of the cutest eBay sellers ever, Le Robo?

Okay, so this one's not nautical per se, but it is a girly take on the traditional sailor garb.

Shaggadelic, Baby

Check out this great short film (a little under 10 minutes) about the swingin' 60s London scene. Goes to show there isn't much new in the world of trends. Thanks to
Fashion, Evolved for posting!

Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui, I love you both but you've been served!

Makeup For Ever (and ever, Amen).

As promised, here's a post about the 2008 Makeup Show that I attended last week. I'll post another once I emerge from this allergy-induced fog that I've found myself trapped in!

I sat in on a seminar given by Make Up For Ever Director of Artistry & Development Kevin Bennett and was taken with his down-to-earth charm and fun presentation. I felt like I was in the presence of a bona-fide expert – and of course I was, what with 2 Emmys under his belt and over 20 years in the biz, this guy knows his way around an eyelash curler.

He was at the show to talk about the HD trend in makeup and his personal experiences working with actors on set to make them shine-free and flawless. He said something that really hit home with me, and it was along the lines of, as consumers we always hear that products take time to improve our skin’s appearance but as a makeup artist he needs to make someone look gorgeous RIGHT NOW. Amen, my friend. Never one to turn down instant gratification, I was hooked.

He then applied a curiously white powder all over his lovely model's dark skin. The audience's skepticism was palpable but wouldn't ya know, her skin went from pretty to perfectly finished in .02 seconds. The magical dust in question is MUFE's best selling HD High Definition Powder which you can find at Sephora.

Sadly, they were out of the foundation and primer shades that worked best for my skin, but I was able to score a kabuki brush (not in stores until August 2008) in an adorable little pouch. (Retails for $39)

I also took the opportunity to play around with more of Makeup For Ever’s products and I have to admit I haven’t been this impressed with a cosmetics line in a long time. The colors and textures are really heavenly. Their concealer palettes offer plenty of mixing options and the foundation shades are quite natural looking and come in a variety of colors to suit any skin tone. After trying their Mat Velvet foundation with the coordinating powder my skin literally looked airbrushed – no exaggeration.

While their foundations, powders, and concealers are quite natural looking, their eyeshadows and liners are outer-worldly. I was having a little “marine” moment so I played around with some shimmery teal and blue shades that surprisingly complemented my coloring and didn’t make me look like a 15 year old playing dress up.

Best of all, their products are talc and paraben free which is a bonus if you have blemish prone or sensitive skin.

Cute Swimsuit...even if you're a DD

I don't understand why some bathing suit designers make suits for larger busted women without going the extra inch to provide a bit of support. I can't tell you the number of tops I've tried in "full coverage" cuts that leave the girls looking smooshed, droopy, and just plain sad.

Not so with this cute Coco Reef number. Most importantly the underwire cups come without the ubiquitous stuffing that many manufacturers seem to think big-boobied gals need. (As if). The result is a rack that is not crushed, overly-inflated, and thankfully free of weird puckered fabric bits in odd places.

I love the beaded detail at the neck plus the fabric falls slightly away from the cups so that it just skims your waist giving the illusion of a slender torso. It can be paired with a variety of bottoms so you can truly customize your look. Try it with jeans and a cute straw bag and your ready for the green market.

Get it Dillards.

New York Street Beat: Wedge Ya Believe It?

Judging by these stylish tootsies spotted about town, the wedge trend doesn’t show signs of letting up anytime soon. And it’s a good thing – wedges are one of those rare style finds: high heels and comfort in one sturdy package. Dressed up for work in black leather or dressed down in cork and canvas for shopping Madison Ave., this workhorse goes the distance in high style – not high maintenance.

We’ve got our eyes on an ultra glam YSL pair at Bergdorf’s but as our taste says “champagne” our budget is most decidely beer. When scoping out more wallet-friendly alternatives, keep the look fresh in patent, gladiator-inspired straps, or electric-bright colors.

Yves Saint Laurent Getty Vernice Wedge Bergdorf Goodman Steve Madden Candyce Espadrille Endless Jeffrey Campbell 'Sissy' Wedge Sandal Nordstrom

Ready, Set, Summer!

It's official -- Memorial Day Weekend is here and that means all of those cute li'l dresses, cuffed shorts, and peep toe shoes that I've been hoarding since January are finally going to see the light of day.

If you're feeling similarly elated, check out these cute finds:


How adorable is this Tibi shift dress? Coo coo kachoo your way into this groovy print and a pair of espadrilles and let the summer of love begin. The bateau neckline and cap sleeves keeps the look sophisticated.

Get it at Saks.

Or elevate the humble barbecue with one of these gauzy Rozae Nichols creations:



Available online at Kate.

Have a mahvelous weekend dahlings!

Red Carpet De Do Do Do’s

Sorry folks, I never met an ‘80s pop culture reference I didn't like. On to more pressing subject matters, like who rocked the red carpet best at the Cannes Film Festival.



Cate Blanchette. In a word: stunning. Step aside kiddies, Cate is the epitome of red-carpet glam in this peachy confection by Armani Prive. The color perfectly accents her glowy complexion, and the one-shoulder look is so on trend. At the risk of sounding horribly cheesy, (and throwing in a ‘70s pop reference) heaven must be missing an angel.

Natalie Portman is one of those rare creatures with an innate sense of style. The fact that she is completely tuned in to what works for her bodyline is a refreshing change from most stylist-employing starlets (Mischa Barton we’re talking to you). The cobalt blue is so of-the-moment and I love that a petite girl can pull off a full-on ruffle look that doesn’t swallow her whole like this.

Gwyneth Paltrow. I have mixed feelings about this dress. I love the body-skimming silk in an inky shade, but I’m a little on the fence about all of those bows. Still, it’s Chanel, the silhouette definitely suits her, and the accessories are fab – especially those Roger Vivier heels so I’d still call this a “do.”

Agree, disagree? Comments please and vote for your fave!

Opinion Polls & Market Research

Sample Sale Alert: Phillip Lim!!!

One of the advantages (or disadvantages, depending upon your budget) of working in the Garment District are the limitless number of sample sales at your disposal. Just returned from the Phillip Lim sale and, although the selection was smaller than expected there were some real jewels.

Take this dress for example. Regular retail $895 -- here it's only $275!! I love the black lace overlay which has girly-girl written all over it, while the gold sequins underneath reveal the seductive li'l minx within. It's the perfect combination of sexy and ladylike.

Run, don't walk to:

260 West 39th Street
17th Floor
Until May 22
10:00 - 5:00

Trends Report: She's Got Legs

Believe it or not, summer can be a little stressful for some. For me, it means being knee-deep in wedding season without the cute knees to show off. Really, my legs look like something from a B-grade horror flick. If your gams are similarly starved for TLC, read on for some tips on how to get them party perfect.

You’re So Vein. If you’re on your feet a lot then chances are spider or varicose veins are a concern. Veins become visible due to faulty valves that control blood flow – exercising daily helps increase circulation, which minimizes this malfunction, as does taking Vitamin C. Horse chestnut pills have been known to reduce inflammation, but check with your health care provider to be sure they’re right for you.

Hairy Scary. Shaving is the quickest way to de-fuzz but it can also be the most painful when not done correctly. Ideally, you should try to limit the shower-time, as exposure to warm water for long periods will cause skin to get “pruney” and create an uneven surface. To avoid ingrown hairs, try shaving more frequently but not as closely. Use a sharp blade as a dull one will grab skin, not hair. Use a body lotion soon after to seal in moisture.

Beyond The Pale. There are so many ways to get tan without the sun. Lotions and sprays are always nice options but exfoliate, moisturize, and blend well to ensure a consistent, all-over color. Even products that claim to be “streak-free” can result in a zebra look. If you do get some unwanted stripes, try pre-moistened make up remover wipes to erase noticeable lines. Alternatively, you could use shimmery bronzing powders that add nice color without the risk of streaking. The added bonus of a faux-glow? Bronzers can be used to easily “sculpt” legs to make them appear leaner.

One final word of advice: use insect repellent! I’m still regretting the easily-prevented marks on my legs left behind by critters of yesteryear.

Bliss High Thighs Slimmer Scrub Sephora	Revivo-Tonic Cool Comfort Leg and Foot Gel Ren Skin Care	Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Drugstore.com
Schick Intuition Razor Cartridge, Cucumber Melon Drugstore.com	Schick Intuition Plus Razor, Lathers & Shaves, Sensitive Skin Drugstore.com	NSI Horse Chestnut Complex Vitacost.com

If It Pleases and Sparkles...The 2008 Makeup Show!

Here's a little glimmer of things to come. Stay tuned for a more detailed post.

Red Carpet Don't

By now everyone who cares about SATC has already seen this pic. And nope, I'm not going to start with that Philip Treacy chapeau -- it's just low hanging fruit as far as I'm concerned.

What I do find disturbing about this ensemble is it's disjointedness. Matcy-matchy but then again, not so much. Look closely at the sweetheart neckline and you'll see tiny feathers that match that car wreck propped up on top of her head. Never mind that the color is baby snot green - scan down to Ms. Parker's shoes. Those peep toe pumps are just so wrong. One can only assume that SJP suffered a major wardrobe malfunction en route and had to fish out these clunky pumps from her assistant's tote.

Really, a pair of strappy metallic Manolos or Jimmy Choos would have saved this look.

This is the stuff of fashion don't history. Hope the movie doesn't disappoint as much.

Photo credit: Celebutopia

New York Street Beat: One Trend Two Ways

Style is not about blindly following trends, it’s about finding what works for you. We love the look of a chunky artisan necklace but admit it can be easily goofed if you’re not too careful. Fortunately, we found two prime examples of great personal style over trendy fashion.

We caught socialite designer Tory Burch (right) walking the red carpet in Midtown recently, and were struck by her bold enamel necklace and just-right Bergdorf Blonde highlights. Her eye-catching bauble played nicely off her classic LBD – pure Uptown elegance.

Somewhere below 14th Street, Kristen’s (Left) take on the trend mirrors her aesthetic perfectly. She describes her style as “often messy and undone,” and is inspired by European classics with a vintage twist. We love her feminine waves and soft, natural makeup (MAC). Her statement necklace lends an urban edge to an otherwise romantic look. The vibe is thoroughly fresh, modern, and Downtown.

Notice too that both women keep other details simple – natural makeup, a neutral color palette, and the lack of competing accessories keeps this look balanced.

Bubble Necklace J. Crew

Barton Bib Necklace Tory Burch

Nicole Miller Gold Bib Necklace Edressme.com

Working Overtime on Vacay

Since booking our trip to Sicily, I have been obsessed with finding cute lounging-around-the-pool tunics or cover-ups that pull double duty.

First, it’s gotta cover up the ol’ pooch I’ve managed to acquire after months of sitting at my computer revamping our website: www.alwaysinstyle.com for our beloved members and blog readers; and second: it must be versatile enough to go from our beach front rental to some spur of the moment vineyard hopping wine-tasting and still look fabulous.

Though a terry number would be a perfectly acceptable, albeit tired choice for the pool, it is severely lacking in meeting criteria due.

Enter this utterly chic Velvet tank dress:

I adore the I-don't-obsess-too-much-about-my-outfits-but-still-look-freaking-cool vibe that it projects. I’d pair it with a delicate gold pendant; a pair of gladiator sandals and a straw clutch.

And that thing about double duty? Well, iThreads has got you covered. Buy from them and not only receive superb customer service, (After a recent order I received an unexpected and very kind follow up email) but a portion of the sale proceeds go to families with children who are undergoing cancer treatment at Albany Medical Hospital.

Get it now.

Somewhere Beyond The Sea

Having missed the boat (yuk yuk) on a recent Seaton sample sale I drowned my sorrows by turning to my old favorite bud eBay in search of some cute nautical inspired gear. Type the word "seahorse" into it's mighty search engine and amazingly you'll get 2,000 item matches (including actual seahorse food - who knew?)

Plowing through the muck of kiddie onesies and cheesy wall art, my faith was restored when I stumbled upon this:



This oh-so-cute Primp thermal is a celeb fave and totally perfect for my current L.A. obsessed mind set.

Feeling somewhat less deflated, I continued to scour the web for interesting items and came across this necklace from The Aquarium of the Pacific located in Long Beach California:



I could totally see this working with a flowy strapless maxi dress at some summer soiree - don't you agree?!

Trends Report: Everything's Coming Up Roses

They symbolize love, smell fabulous, and just so happen to be good for you. Really. Since ancient times, roses have been prized not only for their great beauty and fragrance, but also for the restorative effects that rosehip oil has on skin.

Rosehips are the little pods that are left after buds have fallen off the flower. These pods are high in Vitamin C and naturally contain something called trans-retinoic acid, a form of Vitamin A effective in not only helping regulate skin’s sebum production, but actually regenerating skin damaged by acne, eczema, and sunburns – rosehips even help fade post surgical scarring. If this sounds familiar, it’s because rosehips are a distant relative of the popular prescription Retin-A.

In addition to its curative powers, rosehip oil is also highly moisturizing without being too heavy, so it is ideal for all skin types. Although it may sound counter-intuitive, if you’re blemish prone, apply a little of this non-greasy oil before bedtime to help heal any flare-ups.

Look for products containing rosehip oil to prevent or reverse the signs of aging or scarring, counteract dryness, or prevent inflammation. As is the case with any beauty product, you must use it frequently and for a long period of time before you see any results – so hang in there.

Fortunately, there are loads of rose-infused products to choose from. Pluck one or gather a dozen, the possibilities are endless!

Decleor Aromessence Rose d’Orient Nordstrom	Korres Natural Products Wild Rose Brightening Serum HSN	Dr. Hunter's Rosewater & Glycerine Hand Creme Caswell-Massey
Labello Velvet Rose Lip Balm Amazon	Wild Rose Body Oil Weleda	Stella McCartney Stella Crystallized Rose Body Scrub Fresh Fragrances

Here Comes The Bride in Oscar de la Renta

I have a confession to make. I’m hopelessly addicted to The Knot message boards. The fact that I was married nearly two years ago doesn’t preclude me from delighting in “knottie” bios in search of gratuitous engagement ring shots, dress fitting successes and failures, and hair trials from hell pics.

Needless to say, the wedding of our Commander in Chief’s daughter Jenna is no different. Unfortunately, online images are scarce. This one is lovely but just leaves me champing at the bit to get my fix for more bridey goodness!

Since finding the right dress is almost as difficult as finding the right guy I had to comment on this exquisite Oscar de la Renta. I love the juxtaposition of the intricate details of an haute couture gown with the low-key mussed up hair and simple accessories – Jenna pulls off the whole outdoor, casual yet elegant wedding vibe flawlessly.

I’m still waiting for photos of the undoubtedly fabulous Lela Rose designed attendant dresses…

What do you think?

(Photo credit: Getty Images)

New York Street Beat: Bootieful

Ah…warm weather…we’ve just been dying to slip our freshly-pedicured toes into fab new gladiators, flip-flops, wedges, boots…um, come again?

Yep, you heard right – boots.

Seems stylish Manhattanites can’t kick their bootie addiction even when temperatures soar. We’ve spotted quite a few pair gracing cute sundresses, minis, even shorts. While we wouldn’t suggest pairing knee-high boots with shorts (a little too Britney, and not in a good way) we’re warming up to the idea of experimenting with different options. We were surprised to find many warm weather-friendly styles in perforated leather, large cut-out buckles, or the old tried and true peep toe.

Jeffrey Cambell Cyndi Boot Urban Outfitters Merritt Bronze Leather Peep Toe Booties Steve Madden Chanel Knee High Boots eBay