Stella McCartney for GapKids and babyGap

Stella McCartney to design a children's collection for GapKids and babyGap!!! As a parent, this may be one of the most exciting news I've heard all year! Fabrics used in the line will be kid-sensitive; in organic cotton, wool, and cashmere. Included in the 70-piece collection: superhero tees, pjs, peacoats, and denim for the boys; cable knit and cardigan dresses, silk party dresses, and cutesy tulle tutu skirts for the girls. The conscious vegetarian will also be including leather-free accessories in sneakers and glossy yellow-laced grey rain boots.

Note: The collection will hit select GapKids and babyGap stores on Nov 2nd. Those in LA can find yours at The Grove and Glendale locations.






photo courtesy/wwd.com

Men: These Boots Are NOT Made For Walking

Shoes can make or break an outfit. The wrong choice can throw it all off. I've seen it too often; a fantastic jacket, woven shirt, cool jeans, and then these shoes (below). Oh no he didn't!!!

They're narrow, super pointy, with a turned up toe, and by far the ugliest shoe/boot I've seen this season. Is there a reason why they're designed with an extra two inches of toe space? Designer excluded; you know the style. Men, consider this your fashionable PSA. Please just stay away from these boots!!

Note: The hottest boot trends for fall 09 are rugged, edgy, urban, utilitarian.


"PLEASE DON'T"



"DEFINITE DO"

Bed Stu Black Develop Lace Boot



John Varvatos Star USA 'Idea' Boot



Frye 'Fulton' Boot

Celeb Style for Less: Michelle Obama's Glamour Dress

Glamour Magazine reveals its Women of the Year issue with First Lady Michelle Obama. Love this holiday-ready look; the picture of modern elegance. Mrs. "O" is absolutely stunning in a red A-line dress and multi-strand pearl necklace adorned with silk ribbons. The dress is from her very own collection; keeping mum on the designer. Lucky us, we can get the look for so much less.

photo/glamour.com

SPLURGE

Donna Karan Collection

Pleated Tie Dress



FOR LESS

Lauren by Ralph Lauren

Sleeveless Dupioni Fit Flare Silk Dress

Mens Fabulous for Less Under $275: Casual Cool

It's football season which usually means oversized sweatshirts and jeans; so we'll give you a weekend pass. But when it comes to going cas, there's just no slop about it. Hence, the inspiration for this week's "fabulous for less."

This is one of my favorite casual fall looks for men. The idea again is layer, layer, and layer. On trend this season: the military jacket, easy hoodie, plaid shirt, straight leg denim, and fresh black sneakers for that casual, cool "running around town" style.





UO Standard New Valley Military Jacket $68
Heritage 1981 Slub Knit Hoodie $30.90
Heritage 1981 Fitted Plaid Shirt in Purple/Aqua $24.90
Levi's Jeans Vintage Welder Pants $54
UO Waxed Web Belt $16.99
Converse Jack Purcell -Race Around Hi Sneaker $79.95
(Totat $274.74)

Fall/Winter 09 Trend: Belted Coats

Aside from balmy So Cal, the rest of the country is definitely having a "fall" moment. Translation...chilly coat season!!! "Thank you" Twin Cities family for putting it all into perspective for me. I'm ready to shop.

One of the hottest coat trends and my faves for fall/winter are long, belted coats, and styles fashioned in the classic trench. A little cinch of the waist is what makes them so flattering. Single or double-breasted, each one is artfully designed with a gorgeous neckline and fantastic military detailing. Love how these little extras give it a modern feel. Note: In your search for the perfect coat...always consider quality, fit, and style.

1. Soia & Kyo Asymmetrical Collar Walking Coat

2. Elizabeth and James Fall Trench

3. Calvin Klein Multi Tiered Walking Coat

4. Gryphon Faux Fur Collar Coat

5. Ann Taylor Belted Long Coat

6. Via Spiga Black Trimmed Twill 'Dolcetto' Belted Coat

7. Topshop Trench Belted Coat

8. Michael Kors Belted Coat

9. Burberry Prorsum Cashmere-Blend Trench Coat

Mens Fall/Winter Trend: Peacoats & Overcoats

From Milan to New York, the overwhelming trend in menswear for fall 09...classic sophistication. Look for investment pieces in timeless and luxurious fabrics. Peacoats and overcoats are the styles to buy this season. Love the versatility of these must-haves; amazingly sharp and so effortless with denim or a sleek pant. Finish the look with a cozy scarf and chic boots.

photos/wwd.com

Ben Sherman 'Calzaghe' Wool Blend Coat

Royal Underground Rock n' Roll

Cashmere Pea Coat in Charcoal



Diesel Weghy Service Jacket



Mackage Ashton Jacket in Black



G-Star Decoy Pea Coat in Black



Burberry Prorsum Double Breasted Peacoat

Fabulous for Less Under $250: The Faux Fur Vest

Inspired by yesterday's post... I've included some of my favorite trends this season: hardware and studded accents, destroyed denim, plaids, ruffles, shoe booties, and the faux fur vest. Get it all for under $250!!!! Be sure to check back weekly for more "fabulous for less."


"DAYTIME GLAM"



AE Furry Vest $49.50
Alloy Essential Button-Down in White/Multi $26.90
YMI Destroyed Black Skinny Jean $24.99 (sale)
Forever 21 Tassel Knotted Chain Necklace $12.80
Forever 21 Pyramid Textured Bangle Set $7.80
Forever 21 Pyramid Trimmed Bangle $5.80
Mandee Black Open Toe Platform Boot-Beat $34
Forever 21 Chain Accent Tote $28.80
(Total $190.59)


"NIGHT OUT"



AE Furry Vest $49.50
Alloy Zoe Blouson Blouse $29.90
YMI Premium Destroyed Skinny Jeans $24.99
Forever 21 Mixed Chain Necklace $17.80
Forever 21 Feather Ring Set $4.80
Forever 21 Pyramid Pleather Clutch $14.80
Dollhouse Bayard Peep Toe Platform Bootie $44.95
(Total $186.74)

Fabulous for Less Under $100: Faux Fur Vests

Whether it's luxe or faux, fur is definitely one of fall's more daring trends. You'll see it in just about every store this season and available at every pricepoint. My faves are the vests. Love how they can go from hippie chic to rocker glam with just a quick wardrobe change. Get it in fabulous faux fur; perfect for adding texture and dimension while giving us a totally PETA-friendly look.


Hot Trend!!!!

Gryphon Glam Rock Faux Fur Vest



Rebecca Taylor Faux Fur Gilet



Gryphon The Rocker Vest



FOR LESS

EXPRESS Faux Fur Vest



Damselle Faux Fur Lynx Vest



BB Dakota Potter Faux Fur Vest

Fab Fridays: Denim Perfect

All the ways to wear our favorite denim...


Jessica Biel spotted at LAX in a simple tee, classic trench, cigarette Genetic Denim in Onyx, and chic ballet flats; travel perfection.



Love how Kate Walsh worked her distressed Genentic Denim (the Shane) with a sharp blazer, feminine blouse, and fab peep-toe booties. The look is smart and sexy.



Rock royalties, Gwen Stefani and hubby Gavin Rossdale doing a little family time in Los Angeles. Papa Gavin layered in a long sleeve tee, puff vest, and cool light-washed PRPS.


photos/denimblog.com

Fall Fashion Trend: Capes and Capelets

The cape has been making a fashionable impression since the late 19th century. They were a huge trend just a few years ago. And this season, capes and capelets are back as they graced nearly every fall runway show. From Thakoon to Marc Jacobs, designers were bringing sophistication with cropped to floor-length styles.

So if you still have those fabulous capes stored away; it's time to make them fresh again. I'm loving the full, swingy silhouette paired with pencil leg pants and skinny denim. Marc Jacobs brightened his fall palette with a lush suede purple over-the-knee boot; loooove!!!


photo/style.com


Sunner Mini Cape in Black



Ann Taylor Loft Snap Front Cape



A.L.C. Cape in Midnight Navy



C'N'C' Costume National Cape in Steel Grey
(also available in Black)

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Tough Chic

Fall season is all about dressing in layers. Jackets, sweaters, tees, scarves, boots... I'm piling it on. But more layers can also mean more $$$. So with the economy in mind, I took it as challenge to create a feature that everyone could enjoy. Highlighting the latest trends, outfits will all be priced for under $250!!!! Be sure to check back weekly for more "fabulous for less."

Today's inspiration came from two of my favorite must-haves this season-the riding boot and boyfriend cardi. I wanted to create a look that was easy and comfy while incorporating that "tough chic" vibe. Considering my usual style veers towards chic and understated; I didn't want to go too extreme with the "bad girl" trend. The best way to make this happen was with edgy accessories; bringing in just a touch of crystal, zipper, and chain-link details. A bold statement necklace would have been a fabulous alternative. Although, in this case the graphic tee gives us all the bling we need. A plaid scarf anchors the look; so cozy and chic!

Note: Also love a structured jacket or boyfriend blazer with this look. Enjoy!





BDG Solid Boyfriend Cardigan in Navy $38
Forever 21 "Necklace" Graphic Tee $11.80
Forever 21 Crinkled Plaid Scarf in Blk/White $6.80
Target Zipper Pocket Legging in Almost Black $12.99
Forever 21 Braided Rhinestone Chain Bracelet $10.80
Enzo Angiolini "Unheard" Tall Leather Riding Boots $169
(Total $249.39)

Mens Fall Must-Have: The Cardigan

For the first time in So Cal, it actually looks and feels like fall. With cool temps in our midst, there's one staple every guy should invest in this season...the cardigan. The look is modern Mr. Rogers; "geek chic' with a touch of rebel cool. Button-down styles in classic black and shades of grey are the must-haves of choice. Go tone on tone for that chic layered look. Love it with this season's plaid shirts; a skinny tie or bow tie gives it that bit of edge.


Raw Correct Line by G-Star
Land Long Cardigan in Black



J Crew Gramery Laureate Cardigan
(available in 3 colors)



Theory Button Cardigan in Black



BDG Gordon Blocked Cardigan

Fab Fridays: Shopping the Town

This week's "fab fridays" is all about casual done easy. Check out Jessica, Kate, and Rachel as they hit the town for a little shopping R&R .

Jessica Alba spotted Thursday (Oct 8) at the Westfield Shopping Center in Culver City, CA. Demonstrating the perfect play on proportion and volume. Alba in signature cardi finishes this casual look with pleated cuffed shorts, colorblock over-the-knee socks, and tall boots.

Actress Rachel Bilson makes a Target run in Glendale, CA in cozy cropped jacket, distressed Paige Premium 'Skyline' jeans, and chic flat boots. Note: For that tucked-in boots look, only skinnies and straight-leg jeans will do; minimizing bulk.

Gorgeous Kate Beckinsale shopping in Beverly Hills (Oct 6) baring a little shoulder in an oversized sweater, sexy shiny leggings, and suede platform boots. Way to work it Momma!!!!

L.A. Fashion Week Lineup

Goodbye New York Fashion Week! Hello LA!!! This year's fashion week lineup will be quite a contrast to New York with events and shows happening throughout the month of October. As a stylist, I am soooo looking forward to experiencing the "sexy side" of LA fashion.

Here are some of the hottest events to check out:

Who: Houstina Summers, Leondra Renee, and Rochelle Carino

What: Heaven on the Runway. Spring/Summer 2010 presentation
Where: Palooza Studios, Santa Monica
When: October 8, 2009. 8pm
More Info: www.cowgirlheavenfashions.com & lafashionweekend@hotmail.com
**This event is invitation only. Red Carpet 7-9pm Fashion Show 9pm

Who: Sjobeck
What: Sjobeck Malibu’s Spring 2010 presentation
Where: Live! on Sunset, West Hollywood
When: October 10 2009, 7pm
More Info: www.sjobeckmalibu.com & www.liveonsunset.com

Who: Hollywood Life
What: The Hollywood Style Awards 2009
Where: Hammer Museum, Los Angeles
When: October 11, 2009
More Info: www.hollywoodlife.com
**Red Carpet 5:30 Awards Show 7pm

Who: Downtown LA Fashion Week
What: Kick off to Downtown LA Fashion Week// Meet the Designers at The Standard Hotel
Where: Standard Hotel Rooftop, Los Angeles
When: October 12, 2009 6:30pm
More Info: www.downtownlafashionweek.com & http://fgila.org

Who: Downtown LA Fashion Week
What: Runway shows from Louis Verdad, Skingraft, Le Chapeau Designs by Alakazia, Custo Barcelona, Oliver Tolentino, The Battalion, and the Emerging Designers presentation
Where: The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
When: October 13-15, 2009. 5pm -11pm
More Info: www.downtownlafashionweek.com

Who: Downtown LA Fashion Week
What: MODE Israel runway presentations of Israeli designers: Alembika, Bracha Baron, Kedem Sasson, Keren Naftali, Sugar Daddy, Yosef Peretz
Where: The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
When: October 14, 2009. 9pm
More Info: www.downtownlafashionweek.com

Who: Nicholas Clements-Lindsey
What: NCL Couture Spring 2010 runway show presentation
Where: Smashbox studios
When: October 14, 2009. 8pm
More Info: www.nclcouture.com

Who: David Alexander
What: Dare Me to Love You. Spring / Summer 2010 Runway Collection
Where: Los Angeles Theater
When: October 14, 2009. 7pm
More Info: www.davidalexanderfashion.com

Who: Downtown LA Fashion Week
What: Elizabeth Mason, The Paper Bag Princess Vintage Couture, Celebrates Valentino, the Last Emperor, Gala to Benefit MOCA
Where: The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA
When: October 15, 2009. 8pm
More Info: www.downtownlafashionweek.com & www.thepaperbagprincess.com
Cocktails 8pm Show 9pm After Party 9:30-11:30pm

Who: Fashion Rocks produced by Jae Joseph
What: Runway shows from Project Runway Alums Jerell Scott and Korto Momolu
Where: Chic Little Devid Style House
When: October 16 2009. time: TBA
More Info: www.chiclittledevilstylehouse.com & www.jerellscottdesign.com

Who: The Gallery LA
What: LA Fashion Weekend with runway shows from Tavik Swimwear, Raw-7, Division E.
Where: Sunset Gower Studios, Los Angeles
When: October 17th, 2009. 7pm
More Info: www.losangelesfw.com & www.thegalleryla.com

Who: Lauren Elaine
What: Encore featuring both the Black Label and Laine Collections for Spring 2010
Where: Kress Rooftop, Los Angeles
When: October 21 2009, 9:30pm
More Info: www.lauren-elainedesigns.com

Who: Rock Fashion Week
What: 3 days of fashion shows and one blow out Halloween Party
Where: Paramount Studios
When: October 29-31 2009. Time: TBA
More Info: www.rockfashionwk.com

Who: Rock Fashion Week
What: The Pink Dress Collection benefiting the Susan G Komen for the Cure. Featuring Pink dresses from designers like Karen Zambos, Binetti, Sue Wong, Guess by Marciano, Luca Luca, and Juicy Couture.
Where: Paramount Studios
When: TBA

More Info: www.rockfashionwk.com