Exclusive Interview: A Peek at Life/After/Denim

From the streets, in the clubs to laid-back weekends... We live and breathe denim and it's become a universal staple. Even so, emerging mens label Life/After/Denim challenges the notion there's more to a man's wardrobe than just jeans. Bringing back chinos in the freshest way with timeless pieces that combine function and quality. LAD's look is a touch preppy meets urban chic. Influenced by music, travel, film, and their love for the arts... I chatted with designer Michael Choi and creative director Alexis Frey to learn more about this hot new LA label.














BB: I consider denim as a lifestyle and your brand immediately caught my attention. Tell us more about the name/face behind Life/After/Denim.

MC, AF: We also love denim but the market is just so saturated with it. We believe that there is "life after denim" and ours is a collection built to compliment that idea. Buttery soft poplin shirts and functional jackets can be worn with jeans. Or try our chinos which feel great and have a super flattering fit.


BB: Mike, your father co-owns a manufacturing company in Hong Kong. Did you always think you would end up in fashion?

MC, AF: Our fathers have been business partners for 30 years in the manufacturing trade. We both have a passion for the arts, ­ painting, music, drama ­ but we were on separate paths. Michael was on his way to becoming a doctor. But a few years ago things aligned and the time was right for life after denim.


BB: Just launched in Fall 09 and the brand already has a huge celebrity following with the likes of Zac Efron, Channing Tatum, and Kellan Lutz. Who else would you like to dress?

MC, AF: And we're so grateful! We just hope they'll continue to wear LAD.


BB: Love what you're doing for men and the collection totally fits my aesthetic as a stylist. But we're wondering... Are you designing with women in mind as well?

MC, AF: Thank you! We've heard that women want to wear the clothes, too. Oversized cardigans, long flannels, etc... That is so great. We have a few things in the mix and looking forward to sharing soon...;)


BB: What are your favorite spring pieces from the collection and what can we expect from Life/After/Denim this fall?

MC, AF: We're getting a nice response to the Walkabout Shirt (oversized plaid), Maldives Chino Short (cut-off, roll-up), and the Slim Fit Chinos (we heard Ringo Starr bought a pair at Kitson.) The Fall collection for 2010 is clean, modern, and dapper with lots of plaids, flannels, cozy sweaters in flattering silhouettes, and tailored jackets to polish the look. It plays on the dichotomies of dark and light, good and bad. Every good guy needs a little bad boy image to keep things interesting.


BB: There's something about "pants on the ground" that really hits a chord with me. What is one thing that men do/wear that gets you p-oed?

MC, AF: Yeah, the pants below the butt thing, held up with a belt, it's just too much. Low rise is good enough.


BB: LA is known for some really great hotspots. But if you could get away anywhere else in the world all expenses paid, where would you go?

AF: Oh, great question. Tahiti. That's my mood right now.
MC: There are so many places I want to go that it would be hard to choose one. If it's all expenses paid I don¹t think there's a place on Earth I would complain about!


BB: Of the four of you (Michael, Alexis, Jason, and Jessica), who would be the first person to hit the dance floor?

LAD: Alexis!
MC: Yes I agree.



photo courtesy/Life/After/Denim

Zac Posen for Target: My Top 5

The wait is over! Zac Posen for Target arrived in stores and is available online today. The capsule includes everything from swimwear to party dresses at a pricepoint of $16.99-$199. But if you're just logging on now to shop, you'll find many styles are already sold out. Lets hope for a re-stock soon Target. Here's a look at some of my favorite picks!

Note: This limited edition will be available through May 30th.

Tie-Dye Tank Dress

This tank dress really fits my casual lifestyle; easy to wear and so fabulous with gladiator or flat laced sandals. Also love it for a day at the beach-great price!

Zac Lipstick Tank

Racerback tanks are a great spring to summer addition. This is showing your love for Zac without looking like a total label fiend. Fab with cuffed shorts or dress it up with a blazer, premium denim, and platform sandals.

Ruched Skirt in Black

A twist on the pencil skirt; so sexy, flattering, and hugs curves just right. Finished back zipper and ruching conceals any flaws. Fabulous for night out!

Floral Print Brocade Tie Dress

For the girly girls (that's me). Love the fresh colors, pretty floral design, and over-sized bow. Perfect occasion dress for weddings to summer soirees.

Tiger Print Sailor Dress

Although this made the list, it's not for everyone. Bright print is perfect for anyone with an equally bright personality. Bold design definitely says, "look at me." Love it, but use caution on this one.

Designer Sample Sale: Tibi New York

New Yorkers, get ready and save the date for two very fabulous designer events by Tibi. Starting April 26th-May 2nd, the contemporary label partners with Dress for Success. Donate your gently worn business attire and accessories and receive 20% off your Tibi purchase. Then, in May it's sample sale time!!!!

Note: Designer and founder Amy Smilovic is the talent behind Tibi. Her collections are a personal favorite and a hit with celebrities Scarlett Johansson, Drew Barrymore, Reese Witherspoon, and Liv Tyler.



*Click on photo for larger view.

Happy Earth Day!!!

Celebrating Mother Nature's gift....

Cynthia Vincent for Target: Gone Too Soon

So I'm a bit late in posting this as the latest collabo by designer Cynthia Vincent for Target debuted this Sunday the 18th. Today, I had the opportunity to stop by our local store to check out the collection in person, only to find just a few pairs left on display.

No surprise, the tribal-inspired wedge and gladiator styles (to die) were nowhere to be found!!!! Black and yellow strappy flat sandals and two pairs of black strappy heels were my only choices. Just three days after its debut and this is what you can expect (below)? If there's a Target store in LA that still has a pair of wedges in a size 6, please contact me.

Note: The collection should be available in stores through July 1, 2010. Although, good luck finding those coveted wedges.









Print Wedge Sandals in Multicolor $29.99
(only available in-store)




Gladiator Wedge Sandals in Cognac $29.99
(only available in-store)




Strappy Ring Flat Sandals $24.99

You're Invited: Rebecca Minkoff Designer Event

Celebrity handbag designer Rebecca Minkoff is coming to So Cal this week! Friends and fashionistas mark your calendars!!! You're cordially invited:




Note: Click on photos for larger view.

Gotta Have It: French Connection 'Fast Graingers Glitter' Dress

A goddess style dress that's so stunningly out of this world... It hits on another big trend this season with beautiful draping. With all the fabulous designer details, you'll be surprised by the price. Bead and jewel-encrusted shoulder, soft crisscross draping to flatter every shape and size all the while concealing any bulge. Perfect for black tie or the red carpet. Love, love!!!





French Connection 'Fast Grainers Glitter'
Draped Chiffon Dress with Embellished Shoulders

Celeb Style: Whitney Port Loves Her Some Rebecca Minkoff

Studded bags are the latest obsession this spring! Spotted carrying her favorite THREE days in a row was "The City" star Whitney Port with the 'Heavy Metal Flame' by Rebecca Minkoff. This fab handbag retails for $495 and will be available in the fall. In the meantime, you can check out the hot spring 2010 collection online at www.rebeccaminkoff.com

Mens Spring Trends: What You Should Buy Now

Men, if you haven't already done your spring shopping... Now is the time. Give your wardrobe an instant lift with my top three picks!

Cotton Sport Coats

For a fabulous day to night style; so versatile and chic with jeans.

ZARA Sport Coat (available in store)
John Varvatos Two to Four Button Jacket

Chambray Shirts

Get the look of denim on denim; one of my favorite trends this season.

Theory 'Hank' Chambray Shirt

Gitman Vintage Grey Chambray Shirt

Plaid Shirts

An essential spring to summer look; love them with white or distressed denim. Faves are bright and multi-colored styles.

Just a Cheap Shirt Plaid Shirt in Blue/Orange

Alexander McQueen McQ Plaid SS Shirt

Fabulous for Less Under $250: Mixing Stripes and Florals

Being allowed creative expression is one of the best things about my job. But as a mom, it's also necessary to find balance in my work wardrobe as well as everyday life. It's gotta be comfortable, chic, and always on trend.

In this fab for less, I tackle the latest trend in pattern mixing. From tribal, floral, techni to nautical stripes... It's anything goes this spring. The inspiration... Around town to picking up the kids from school; a modern twist on the classic stripes with feminine florals. No matter what's happening in fashion, love these prints and they'll never leave my closet.

Comfort is definitely key with leggings being my new staple, but distressed boyfriend jeans would be just as chic. A softly structured jacket brings sophistication to a loose casual tee and denim; so polished. Black and white accessories anchors the look while floral scarf adds a fabulous contrast of colors.

Note: To successfully pull off pattern mixing, it's all about the scale and choosing a base color to tie in the look. Make sure the size of print is larger or smaller from one another and you're good to go.






"Mixing Stripes and Florals"


Alloy Cropped Zip Blazer $29.99 (sale)
Fred Flare Oversized Jailbird Top $18
Pins and Needles Floral Print Square Scarf $18
ASOS Mid Indigo Denim Legging $37.20
The Limited Gathered Top Satchel $59.50
Free People Lace Up Wedge Sandal $58
Forever 21 Beaded Wraparound Bracelet $6.80
(Total $227.49)

Steal of the Day: Gap The New Cargo Pant

Casual, cool, and at the center of the utility trend... The cargo pant is a spring staple and this slimmed down version by Gap delivers on all levels of style. Looove and it's on sale!!!

Gap The New Cargo

Zara Mens Spring Picks: Parkas & Safari Jackets

This spring, women aren't the only ones having a utility moment. It seems Zara has found a way to make this trend uber cool and affordable for the fellas as well. Check out some of my favorite spring jackets in safari chic styles with fresh military detailing.

Note: Jackets are available at select Zara stores.



Three-Quarter Jacket $89




Safari Jacket $99




Safari Jacket $99

Celeb Style: Jessica Alba is Parka Lovin in Charley 5.0

Gotta love it when casual looks so cool! Recent chilly Cali temps have brought out some fab spring jackets. One of my faves being the parka spotted on momma Jessica Alba during a coffee run in the Charley 5.0 Leaving On a Jet Plane Parka, boyfriend tee, Charley 5.0 Skinny Mini Denim Leggings, colorful scarf, and fab moto boots.