J. Crew January 2012...At Last, At Last!

I must admit that I am a little biased because my birthday is January.  The truth of  the matter is that January is slim pickens for just about everything.  The fashion magazines are as thin as envelopes and the retailers such as J. Crew are just getting ready to make the transitions to the next season in this case Spring.  I know that I am not ready for Spring at least from a wardrobe perspective, but I love to see anything new.  J. Crew's January 2012 catalog is posted online and I saw a pop of color, hurray!

So let's take a look.  I've listed a few items that catch my eye both new or last set of pieces.  I love the Biennial satchel in saddle. It is very classic, like a simple pump.  This is the kind of bag you can carry from season to season.  Paired with the Valentina pump, you have a beautiful look.

The Cece ballet flat is crafted in Italy.  I love all the "custom colors" (fresh mango is my color choice).  This ballet slipper seems to boast some extra comfort in the heal, a shock-absorbing sole and on the top of the toe.

I love the new Tillary handbag collection reminds me of classic Coach with the bucket and flap over bag.  I love the bucket in dark poppy which is a color that crosses over well.  I had a major poppy love so I am not sick of it yet!

Overall, the new items are lackluster.  The color combinations seem confused between Spring and Fall/Winter.  I do not like the floral print which comes in a skirt,  (printed a-line in Ashbury print), perfect shirt and Jules dress.  It is awful (in my opinion).  It is vintage or trying to be vintage.

I loved the Miansai Nantucket bracelets which have a retro-inspired look with fishhook cast and a "military grade woven cord".  My favorite was the red rope bracelet.  This is one that I would leave on all of the time or hook on to one of the Tillary handbags!

The last item that really caught my eye was the Double-breasted Ivy blazer with a borrowed from the boys look, but more tailored with features such as the gold-crested buttons that make this one special.

I am sure I will come across some other items, but these were the first I either adored or wouldn't touch!  I look forward to your reviews for January.  Do you have a fav or worst out of the new items?

Cheers.

Winter's Charm

Who can resist J. Crew's lollipop-colored cashmere, shoes and beautiful accessories.  It is a great Winter when you pair these beauties to any conservative outfit.  It brings out the cheer and shows a fun side to dressing.  I hope that some of these colors transition into the next season of clothing...Love!

Winter's Charm by crewcat featuring long sleeve shirts

Happy Holidays and A Sparkly New Year!

First of all, Happy Holidays to you all.  I have appreciated you following me and I am looking to a wonderful New Year and with a little sparkle.

There is nothing better than to add some cheer than with a little bling.  Having a special piece of sparkle be it a ring, a statement piece necklace or a fabulous bracelet is sure to make you smile and catch the attention of others.

One of my favorite jewelry designers is Ben Amun.  Isaac Manevitz is the luxury jewelry designer and founder (the name is after his eldest son).  He has quite an A-list following both fashion insiders and celebrities alike.

The piece above is the sapphire and crystal deco bracelet.  I actually purchased this piece through Moda Operandi (membership-only pre-order of runway collection pieces). I have worn this piece twice now and literally have had five or six people ask me about it or say how stunning it is.  It captures the light gorgeously.

I am also wishing for this pearl bracelet with crystal pin.  Manavitz is able to capture delicately designed crystals, gems with a little vintage appeal.  I look at these pieces and am transcended back in time, roaring 20's anyone?  Love.

I purchased his sapphire sunburst earrings to pair with the bracelet above and they are also stunning.  It can take a little black dress to a whole other level.

Whatever you love, wear it with passion and I hope whether you spend it quietly or dance the night away, have a wonderful and "sparkly" New Year.  Cheers.

Once Upon a Swarovski...

Once Upon a Swarovski... by crewcat featuring faux jewelry

The Very Merry Gift Guide...J. Crew!

It has been awhile since my last post...so sorry.  Like so many, have been wrapped up (no pun intended) with so many work projects.  Doesn't November and December seem to roll on Fast Forward!  It is hectic.  I know you all must feel the same.  I have to say though that so many of my favorite retailers have beautiful offerings for the holidays and their online sites are beautiful.  I love the catalogs too, but would much prefer saving a tree since I do so much shopping online.  J. Crew has come into December with a jingle and a fantastic color splash.  Their Very Merry Gift Guide aims to please and I only wish I looked great with this beautiful yellow! The photography is just exquisite.  The bright colors with snow white backgrounds throughout the calendar add an extra pop.  If you have been paying attention, they've had fab sales including up to 30% off + free ship $150 over.  This is great whether you have a small list or one that is growing!  When I logged in tonight, I also got a note for free ship and free monogramming regardless of total!  I love these touches.  The monogramming is something that I have been taking advantage of lately.  It is such a great personalization.  I love ordering men's shirts oversized and adding the monogram - great alternative to sleepwear too!

I am loving all the Lulu Frost for J. Crew deco bangles.  The tortoise is pretty much the only one that I do not have (note to self!).  These would be lovely gifts for your fav girl's.  And, who says personal gift giving is not allowed!

It is hard to get through J. Crew's site this holiday without self-gifting.  My favorite purchase so far has been the Edie tote in flame which I bought through 30% off.  It is absolutely gorgeous.  I though initially it would be too thin, but it is quite roomy and feels amazing!  Go ahead, splurge a little for yourself too!  Do you have any items that you are wishing for soon?

Cheers.

From Nordstrom's Blog, The Thread - "Can’t Live Without: Fall’s Perfectly Polished"

Cheri Botiz, Nordstrom National Beauty and Fragrance Director, dishes on her favorite fall accessory: nails!

9 – butter LONDON ’3 Free Wallis’ Nail Lacquer (Nordstrom Exclusive)
This new, exclusive fall shade is a showstopping metallic black-green. You can wear this with anything. What is ‘3 free’? butter LONDON is a 3-free company: no formaldehyde, no toluene, no DBP (dibutyl phthalate). $14


10 – Clarins Hand & Nail Treatment Cream
You always want to make sure you pamper your hands. This hand and nail treatment cream is formulated to preserve the smooth, supple appearance of hands. $30


I've raved about Nordy's blog before, The Thread. And I love the beauty focus of recent.  I highlighted a couple of the products from this post.  Cheri Botiz, Nordstrom National Beauty and Fragrance Director, dishes on her favorite fall accessory: nails!
I love, love, love the butter nail polish. In absolutely beautiful colors, you have to love one of the fall shades, exclusive to Nordstrom.  It is a metallic green, which is a bit out there, but I like the edginess this line offers.  And, I never leave the house without Clarins Hand & Nail Treatment cream.  It is amazing and really does strengthen the nails and cuticles.


So if you want some fun shades for Halloween, these are great options and perfectly wearable to work.  Cheers!

All Things Teal!

I hate to be trendy and even colors get trendy.  Last Fall moss and Summer blazing coral...and I have officially fallen in love with teal.  So much so, that my recent spends have had at least one item with this gorgeous shade.  And what better to have than a bag boasting this fashionable little number.  The Kate Spade New York "Knightsbridge Mod" - little Helena Shoulder Bag comes in the prettiest dark teal.  And I might add that I am not a big fan of patent, but this glazed leather beauty has the richest shine.

But why stop there.  I found this glorious color in J. Crew's wears as well.  The Tippi sweater in viridian is closest to and I must say this has become one of my favorite weekend grabs. The soft merino wool make it an easy staple with Fall's cool winds blowing in.

And how about "Bogs" for the coming rains, in teal -- too, shiny teal to be specific!  Love these, and who'd a thought that a rain boot could be so stylishly pretty!

And shoes, the DV by Dolce Vita Lucca Flat in teal are really a nice alternative to navy blue or even black.  These comfy numbers are in a beautiful, darker teal.

And undergarments, of course! Love these Hanky Panky Signature Lace Briefs.  These are so pretty and so comfortable!  I love the retro style and they truly are "no-line" which make them even better.

And probably my absolute favorite teal number is Diane von Furstenberg's Genevieve Dress.  In deep teal, this dress can really go from office to cocktail. I love the silk wrap and its right above the knee length give it just a him of sexy.  Love.

And in case you were not worn out of this sumptuous color there is more!  Sephora carried an exclusive OPI nail color called "Teal We Meet Again" and it is so gorgeous!  This is one of those colors in my opinion that can replace my navy for awhile.  It is like the fun cousin of teal...the zany mom!  ;)

What is your favorite color this Fall?  Cheers!

Jimmy Choo...Behind the Scenes with Tamara Mellon

Tamara Mellon, OBE Founder and Chief Creative goes behind the scenes to talk about the 2012 Icons Collection.  Mellon says:


"I wanted to create a modern capsule collection inspired by memorable styles from our history that represented milestone moments for the brand and embody the DNA of our house style.  These modern interpretations of classic designs represent the iconic glamour of Jimmy Choo today."

My personal favorite from the Collection which is an iconic sandal, and you may remember Carrie from SATC wearing this beauty in the episode she lost one (Carrie Bradshaw's Lost Choo in Sex and the City).  I love the bright colors.  It has been "remained as MARLENE for this collection with couture elements such as "hand-applied feathers and crystals."  Tamara introduces the capsule collection with some background on these iconic shoes.  


Check out the Behind the Scenes video with Tamara talking about the Icons Collection which was shot in New York (of course).


I also love that with its launch, 10% of the proceeds go to The Jimmy Choo Foundation which helps to empower women in leading healthier and safer lives.

J. Crew's Kirtley Tote...Great City Bag!

Mind you, the 30% off already on sale made this bag all the more appealing, but when the Kirtley arrived, I fell in love.  This is the kind of bag I'd take to New York walking through the city.  I love the way it slouches, but in a really good way.  The zippered top closure is great.  It can go from subtly sleek to a fabulous cross-body bag.  I agree with J. Crew
s description "as rugged as it is refined..." exactly.
It is a bit darker than the picture in "cobblestone".
I am certain it may make another mark-down so ladies, it is worth it!

Cheers.

J. Crew description: As rugged as it is refined, this roomy carryall is a must for urban adventures. In washed leather for that soft, had-it-forever feel with sturdy, reinforced corners so it can take whatever you throw at (or in) it. Three zippered interior compartments keep everything organized, and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap adds endless versatility. An interior front-wall patch pocket and a back-wall zip pocket keep pencils, cell phone and keys organized. Leather-covered chain handles, leather shoulder strap. Top zip closure. Brass-finish hardware. Cotton twill lining. Comes with dust bag. Import. Removable, adjustable shoulder strap fully extends to 20". 3" handle drop. 15 1/2"H x 14 1/4"W x 6"D.

Sephora Reveals...Allure's Best of Beauty!

For beauty junkies like myself, you thrive on "Best of  Products"that are all beauty.  I always like to check in on these lists to see how many are gracing and crowding my vanity!

Sephora has reported Allure's Best of Beauty Awards illustrating "the best and most innovative products of the year.  That in itself is a pretty big shoe to fill, but they are all there, each with beautiful and interesting packaging which in my opinion can be the first thing that draws me to them.

I wanted to highlight just a few of these "innovative products" and why I love them:

1.  I love Bobbi Brown's Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner.  While I often use a liquid liner, I prefer the ease in application of this gel-based formula.  It is easier to build the line and simple to correct.  And the beauty of this formula is that it dries quickly so it is not smudging on your lid.  It lasts ALL DAY!  I would agree that it is pretty "water resistant" this one is on my "favorite's list" for sure.

2.  Nar's blush is always on my number one product's list.  If you loved the color "orgasm" you'll love "super orgasm" even better! Compared to its sister, it has a "gold glittery" boost to this shade that is pretty perfect for just about any skin-tone.  In my opinion, this shade is pretty special and can be work during the day and layered further for an evening out.  I keep this baby on my vanity an in my purse.  And recently, I've been using two other shades for highlighting the upper cheekbone and above the eyes which really pops your eyes and cheeks.  Two of the shades I would recommend for this include Nico and Albatross.

Nico has more of natural look and Albatross more of a gold shimmer which also goes day to night.

3.  Nars Pro-Prime Multi-Protect Primer has a SPF of 30 (major bonus).  Nars boasts the "antioxidant", "anti-stress" and "anti-pollution" which protects and smoothes.  I just love how light it is on top of all of these benefits.  With so many products encouraging primer before make-up, this product includes all the things you would want to have and it prepares the skin perfectly and quickly before application of makeup.  The only negative is the size which I think they've reduced :( , but don't waste your time on the others!

4.  Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture SPF 15 lipstick, need I say more!  Rich, highly pigmented color for medium to full coverage.  It touts YSL's "red, fuchsia, and orange" reinterpretation for a "tailor-made experience for each woman.  I just love the formula that is packed with good things without the other chemicals which can be found in other lip products.  My favorite colors include 20 Rouge Flame (cranberry red, blue undertones), 13 Le Orange (bright orange) which has been a hot color for summer and I'm taking it in to Fall!  And I also love 28 Rose Boheme (pink plum) which is perfect for everyday wear.  And like all YSL's product packaging, the beautiful gold-tone case is a beautiful piece for any handbag!

5. Last but not least, love Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads.  These little pads exfoliate with a self-tanner leaving your skin absolutely radiant.  The "Alpha Beta Glow Pads" tan without the harmful UVA/UVB rays.  There is also a healthy dose of Vitamin D which is known to benefit other vitamins and antioxidants found in this formula.  Bonus:  "Gentle enough for all skin-types, vegan and cruelty-free"!

Love, love.  So check out Allure's list which is packed with some really great beauty products and tools.  "Allure's Best of Beauty" and "Reader's Choice" Awards are recognized world-wide.  That is enough for me!

Cheers.

Shop Women's Fashion Clothing By Item at Eileen Fisher

Shop Women's Fashion Clothing By Item at Eileen Fisher (clipped to polyvore.com)

Eileen Fisher for Fall, Beautiful, Comfortable and Always Sustainable...

There many reasons to love Eileen Fisher.  The superficial reasons being that the colors are sumptuous and feel amazing on your body.  And I must admit that I thought for a long time that Eileen Fisher was for a much older set of women, but the truth is, her garments are ultra-flattering on every body type and can go through a casual weekend to a night on the town.

The bigger and more important reasons to love EF are the fact that her products and practices work toward sustaining the environment.  Eileen Fisher also supports women through "social initiatives that address their well-being".  They also have a set of business practices that act responsibly with regard for human rights.  That being said, I guess I've grown up too, because these are things that really do matter and if I can support the world while supporting the clothes on my back, then I also become part of this positive change.

Each Fall, I love to feature some of the beautiful clothes that are coming in online and in stores such as Nordstrom and Saks.  I've recently dropped a healthy chunk of change for some amazing pieces that will extend from season to season.

With colors like Storm, Sienna, Cranberry, Cinnabar, African Violet and Dark Blueberry, it is hard not to completely succumb to Fall.  The beautiful thing about all the pieces from EF is that they are interchangeable and perfect for layering.  Eileen Fisher's design values connect through:  "Simple. Sensual. Beautiful. Timeless. and Functional."  I couldn't have said it better myself (hee!).

Here are a few of my favorites:

Fold-over maxi skirt

Drape neck slouchy top

1.  The drape neck slouchy top in fine gauge cashmere (favorite color, Sienna)
2.  The Fold-over maxi skirt in Viscose Jersey (favorite color, Olive)
3.  The Scoop neck shirred dress in cotton steel stretch (favorite color, Cranberry)
4.  The Fair Trade poncho wrap in organic cotton links (color, Ash)
5.  The Long Cocoon cardigan in royal alpaca (favorite color, Greengold)

Fair trade poncho wrap

Scoop neck shirred dress

I could go on and on.  The pieces are expensive, but worth every penny once you understand the principles that the Company follows and the design aesthetic that clearly makes you feel like a woman no matter what your age or what your body type is.  I'm hooked and after this weekend can honestly say that I am a cult follower (or at least my pocket book shows it!).

Long cocoon cardigan

Happy Fall and let me know if you have favorite Eileen Fisher pieces.

Cheers.

J. Crew's Runway Debut at NYFW...vogue.com!

 "J.Crew has gone from being a preppy brand with a beautifully shot catalogue to a quirkily preppy brand with a beautifully shot catalogue and a significant voice in the conversation on American style . Sure, it might not be pushing capital-F fashion forward, but it is influencing and, one could argue, changing the way real women dress. So why not show in Lincoln Center during New York Fashion Week?"

Photograph by J. Crew

Photograph by J. Crew

Photograph by J. Crew

Need I say more?  Absolutely beautiful J. Crew's 2012 Spring Preview from vogue.com by Emily Holt.  Marissa Webb (now the former head of women's design) describes this as nautical with "crisp greens and blues perhaps inspired by the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas she sailed during a recent holiday."  "Reds and oranges are thrown in the mix too, as is Françoise Hardy, for her feminine-slash-tomboy aesthetic."


Webb also describes two evolutions 1) of the "dorky mid-calf skirt lengths and 2) "sequins in saturated brights for spring, as opposed to the sophisticated, if not muted metallics of late."

September 13, 2011 3:28 a.m

For me it is just as much about the styling and accessories as it is the beautiful clothes.  It could be a lovely scarf or bright bangle  which can stand alone just as beautiful or be layered up for a more eclectic feel.  I like the obvious print mixing whether it is polka dots over a plaid print and also color blocking, one of my favorites for this season.  I am really excited about Spring 2012 (could we just fast forward through Winter?).  Seriously!

I also like the subtle sophistication of some of the Collection pieces too.  It makes me feel like J. Crew as I remember the brand (too long ago I'm afraid), has grown up and has landed in so many of our closets like a crazy cult favorite.  A woman can never have enough pencil skirts and lollipop colored cashmere.

So, I am glad that J. Crew made it to FW.  As the article described, "J. Crew may not be pushing capital F-fashion forward", but they are definitely "influencing".  I don't know about you, but I would consider myself a modern woman and my closet is filled with plenty-o-pieces from J. Crew.  Are you a loyal follower?  Cheers.

Fresh Faces for Fall...

I am inspired again, not from fashion week's clothing (well that too!), but also from the fresh faces that continue to be a trend including those makeup tricks from J. Crew and showcased on the blog J. Crew}770 Behind the Line.

In addition to the bright pops of color which we seeing from many designers, the clean color palette is just breathtaking.  J. Crew describes the need for a fresh, "blank" palette using in foundation that covers the skin but allows each model's real skin shine through.  J. Crew uses Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer to accomplish this with a touch of luminizer on the cheekbones and "bow of the lips".

I certainly don't have flawless skin, but now that I am a bit older, I would rather focus on good cleansing and moisturizing instead of covering it up with foundation and powders.  I have posted before on my favorite skincare regimen and it starts with Clarins.  The products that I use continually include:  Gentle Foaming Cleanser with Cottonseed, Bright Plus HP Brightening Hydration Day Lotion with 20 SPF and Bright Plus HP Brightening Repairing Night Cream.  And of course I use just about every other product from Clarins including the marvelous toners, serums and body oils and moisturizers.  I never used to be a one product brand woman, but I am very hooked on this line.  And the products smell absolutely feminine and beautiful.

Another trick of the trade from J. Crew includes pulling the hair tight into a sleek ponytail.  This is also a favorite trick of mine because it lifts your face and really allows for your best features to shine through whether that is your cheekbones, nose and/or eyes as examples.  I love to use the Goody hairbands in natural color to match my hair.  And then as J. Crew also illustrates, use the Elnett hairspray.  In my opinion, there is no better hairspray and I use "Extra Hold".  The beauty of this hairspray is that it makes your hairstyle look natural and not too product heavy and it is easy enough to brush through if you need to re-style.

Over at racked.com, they share this trend from Herve Leger showing the fresh faces and slicked back and smooth ponytails.  While these designers are showing this for Spring, I love it for F/W as well because it gets us out of the "covering up" and again, allows for best features to shine-through.

Blog.Temptu.com shows that featuring eyes with a subtle face turns out to be a beautiful option for Fall/Winter makeup.  Trends here illustrate using a strong liner or an unusual color such as "pumpkin" or what they are featuring as "spider eyes".  With this trend, they suggest throwing out and perception of "good" mascara, but rather use multiple layers for a "thicker, more intense" look for Fall/Winter.

I personally love this because it really plays up the eyes and then I follow with very minimalistic makeup for the cheeks and lips.  I use more of a nude look for those features.

Photo Credit: Sean Cunningham

From Harper's BAZAAR "Sitting Pretty:  Checkout Fall's Best Beauty Trends" we see similar trends including the slicked back ponytail, a metallic eye or a "towering undo", all trends which really showcase the face.

I hope this gave you some ideas for Fall and Winter right around the corner.  I really loved how so many of the designers showcased a more natural palette and less about trends makeup and hair.  With these trends, I feel like it allows for each of us to play up our best features.  Do you have any favorite makeup or beauty regimens you would like to share?  Happy Fall.
Cheers.