Going, Going, Back, Back, to Cali, Cali

Ah, technically not BACK to Cali, since I've never been before, but I'm pretty excited for my upcoming vacation, counting down the days.

However, as "official" summertime is upon soon (6/20 or 6/21 I think?) and I'll be in sunny Cali for an entire week, it's time to break out the sunblock, SPF 50 please! It must be said, I am quite pale...if you couldn't tell from my photo, hehe, so going without sunscreen is definitely not an option. I've made mistakes in that regard before, and let me tell you...it isn't pretty. On a spring break trip to Puerto Rico I somehow left the tops of my feet untouched by any sunblock and they ended up about as red as the ballet flats I wore...true story.

At the Polo Classic a few weekends ago, I decided to try out a new find:


I'm a huge fan of the Bare Escentuals and their bareMinerals make-up line, in fact, so much so that I should probably get paid for all the free advertising they get from me since I'm such a big advocate for their brand. Anyhow, logic should follow that I would like their unique, powder formula sunscreen. My verdict? Overall it worked well for my face and I love that it doesn't make my skin feel greasy like so many other sunblocks seem to do, but as for my body? I'm not entirely sure it's suited for such use. Perhaps I didn't use it properly or reapply as often as is necessary, but I ended with a white band across my wrist where I had a bracelet and was surrounded by the redness on my hand and arm...not to mention my legs were bright red too.

Still, I plan to give it another try, and at least continue its use for my face. I'm considering trying out their self-tanner for my trip as well, but we'll see...

Any other sunscreen suggestions?

Ciao,
B

The Beauty of Polo

So, a few weekends ago I dragged two of my very dear friends along with me to see Prince Harry play in the Veuve Clicquot Manhattan Polo Classic. It was marvelous and I loved every celeb-tastic moment of it. Therefore, I will share two photos out of the hundreds I took since I get a little photo happy:

Action shot:

Beautiful. I'd never actually seen a single polo match until that day and it was pretty exciting.

Prince Harry shot:


Well, he's just fantastic. AND such a do-gooder as the event helped raise funds for his charity, Sentebale.

You may also note that none other than Nacho Figueras, the face of Ralph Lauren's Polo fragrance, was also a player in the match on the opposing team, Blackwatch. Here's a look at one of his Polo ads:


He's not shy, that's for sure, and certainly seems to think he's pretty special. The again, JUST LOOK AT HIM. Yes, that's right. He IS special.

That's all for now.

-B

WTF Moment: Dakota Fanning

I like Dakota Fanning. I think she's a lovely girl. Inspite of being in the spotlight from a very young age I think she handles herself rather gracefully and with a maturity that has rarely been seen among past reining Teen Queens, ahem, cough*LiLo*cough.

I've also been very pleased and every impressed with her fashion choices. Always very classy, and more importantly, AGE APPROPRIATE. So, I have to ask, WTF was she was thinking here?

When I first saw this photo (via Jezebel) I thought, ok, nothing terribly interesting about this, but it's fine, I might even wear a similar look. Mind you, my eyes started at the top of the photo. As I scanned down to the bottom, what did I see? The SHOES! Is it just me, or are those some rather gigantic, and not even remotely attractive heels at that, for a 15 year old girl to be wearing? And not even to go out for an event. It actually appears she is wearing them out and about, perhaps on her day-to-day errands or even school!

Oh Dakota...what happened here? There MUST be an explanation for this.

I'll try to let it slide this once...after all, it's Friday and I'm feeling generous.

Have a fantastic weekend! And let's all hope for no rain in NYC.

-B

Dost thou think, because thou art virtuous, there shall be no more cakes and ale?

"The spinsters and the knitters in the sun."

"Accost!"

Oh, how I do love comedic Shakespeare. Last night was the opening of Twelfth Night at Shakespeare in the Park and it did not disappoint. There was wit, there was laughter...and of course, there were celebs.

Anne Hathaway, I must say made a pretty great Viola and has now made me respect her much more as an actress. I have to give the girl props for stepping out of the glossy world of film and into some real theater. Bonus, the girl can actually sing!

Hugh Jackman attended with his wife. We all know he's a fan of the theater, and I imagine he's friends with Anne after their skit at the Academy Awards. If it's possible, I think he might actually look younger in person than on film. Ah, and he's just such a likeable guy.

Moving on to (in my opinion) the most notable appearance: none other than Anna Wintour herself was present. Accompanied by her boyfriend and seated right next to Hugh. She actually put her sunglasses on when the show began, though I hope she took them off again (I noticed she wasn't wearing them prior to the show's start) because it got quite dark. Her hair was perfectly in place as usual and as she was seated it was difficult to get a good look at her outfit, but she appeared to be wearing a white jacket. And, unlike her abrupt leave of Jason Wu's most recent showing, she did sit through the entire performance, not even getting up during the intermission. Showing my true fashion colors...I was admittedly more excited to see Anna than Hugh, and am slightly embarrassed by my own giddiness. Upon first spotting Hugh:

Me to friend: Who is he talking to?
K: I don't know but she has a terrible bob haircut.
Me: (Taking a closer look at said bob). Is that Anna?
K: Anna who, ohhhh...
Turning to each other: It is Anna!
Me: It's Anna Wintour!

Ahh hahaha. I hope we weren't too loud. Sadly, I didn't get to snap a pic though I did walk right over to where they sat to get a better look.

The photo I currently have up is in fact one I stealthily snuck of the finale before the theater Nazis had a chance notice and as they did with many others, actually come over and watch you delete them! Hehe, because when I'm told: "No photos allowed," I instead hear: "Photos allowed as long you don't get caught taking them."

Anyway, the show was really fantastic, it was a great night and I highly recommend trying to get tix.

And remember kids, "But be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them." ~Twelfth Night, II, V

Ciao,
B

I Heart Rei...

‘‘What is important to me is information (in the journalistic sense of relating news),’’ Ms. Kawakubo says. ‘‘Through my collections, other product projects and through my graphic work, or by collaborating with artists and photographers, I like to tell a story. Without news, nothing is alive. The final result of everything must say something. Information deepens the work. ‘‘So, if anything, I am maybe more of a journalist than an artist!’’ -Rei Kawakubo

This quote comes from possibly my fav article this week via the NYT by none other than Suzy Menkes. Check it out, Positive Energy: Comme at 40 and see the slideshow here.

And we're halfway through the week...

-B

Macy's Ups Cool Factor, Designs Clothes Edward Cullen Would Wear

Ok, is it just me...or does this jacket totally look like the gray wool coat that Edward Cullen, aka Rob Pattinson, wore in Twilight? Let's compare shall we? They DO have quite a similar look to them, no? Good for Macy's for bringing back some style into their menswear, even if it does mean taking cues from sparkly vampires (who I admittedly am just a little bit in love with). I doubt any girls will complain if their boys start dressing more like Edward Cullen.

Ciao kids,
B



Photo: [Macy's jacket, NYMag.com]

Sniffle, Cough...I Think I Need Some Retail Therapy

Hey guys and dolls, hope everyone had a fantastic Memorial holiday weekend. Much barbecuing and picnicking I presume? Lovely.

Feeling a bit under the weather today so I'll keep this short and sweet. I do believe that all you Upper East Siders can squeal with glee because the brand spanking new 86th street H&M should finally be opening its doors to all. Oh yes, I can't wait to see the bright, shiny new frocks its glorious shelves have to offer.

Anyhow, I need to do some photo uploading soon so that I can post those of the Bergdorf windows corresponding to the Met's Model as Muse exhibit and I plan to take MANY fab photos this Saturday when I go out to Governor's Island for the Manhattan Polo match (Prince Harry IS single you know!).

Also coming up in just a few short weeks is the Whitney Art Party! Though I don't completely want to part with my hard earned $250 for a ticket...I think I must.

Byeee,
B

Spotted...

On Madison Ave., some lucky girl wearing the YSL cage boots. Sigh. Anyone feel like buying them for me? Size 40 European. I'll love you forever.

Thanks,
B

Cannes-Tastic!

Well, surely this is breaking news: Angelina Jolie has finally shown up for an event in something other than a drab, black boring dress. The woman looks AMAZING. I absolutely love this, the thigh-high slit, low-cut and yet the lightness and flowy chiffon fabric don't scream "vamp." The shoes are fab and I think she looks especially Hollywood glam for Brad's Inglorious Basterds premiere in Cannes.

And the week is halfway through!

Later,
B

[Photo: FJITC]

OMG You Guys, The Gossip Girls Graduate

Finally! I remember, back in the day, because I am of course an old lady now...the joyousness of graduation day. It just couldn't get any better, and Gossip Girl did not disappoint. Part of me had hoped that GG her (or himself?) would at last be revealed. However, it shall not be...for now. If you haven't yet watched, possible spoilers lie ahead...

I can't really argue with all of the wardrobe for the finale, even fabulous Upper East Side grads must don the traditional cap and gown, which, let's be honest, never look good on anyone. The one item I've been truly coveting: B's gold rope knotted headband. Love it!

Anyway, to recap quickly, GG dished the juiciest gossip she'd been saving to purge her mind of everyone's silly high school dalliances. B named Little J her successor, so we'll have to see if she will reign supreme as the new Queen B.

It is finally somewhat more clear as to what this whole Santorini biz has been all about: Carter Baizen revealed he knows where Serena's father is now.

Mr. Archibald's morals have somehow been renewed and since he know longer has affairs with cougars he decided to take V up on her backpacking adventure. While Lonely Boy Dan was ever boring (though it seems he has a stalker - obviously the half-brother he knows Rufus had with Lily and who they believe to be dead).

Last but not least, Chuckles, in a very sweet move, flew around the world gathering B's favorite things and at last, said those three magic little words...

'Til next season.

xoxo,
B

[Photo: IMDB]

Prom: The Left Coast vs. The Right Coast

K, I think it's about time we discussed the latest TV fashion happenings. Gossip Girl and 90210. These are two supposedly stylish shows, so what, may I ask, is going on with the prom attire? Is it me, or have prom dresses worsened considerably over the years? Yes, they both had a few bright moments, such as Blair Waldorf's lovely Marchesa gown.

However, S failed miserably. Honestly, what was her stylist thinking? The entire ensemble is an unflattering fit and much too frumpy for a fabulous socialite's all-important senior prom. Granted, the girl did clean up nicely after having just been bailed out of the slammer by Lonely Boy.





Moving on, can somebody please explain to me why Shenae Grimes constantly looks like she's just come back from traveling back in time to the '80s? Let's compare, shall we? Here we have Shenae (photo courtesy JustJared). Yes, that is what little miss sunshine Annie wore to her prom. Why? I have no idea. If I could have gotten to her before filmin I'd have cut off that horrid blue polka dot skirt and tried to reattach something at least halfway decent, because the top portion could actually work. Let's just be thankful she didn't drag those ugly Uggs to the prom as well. My point, however, is that her chosen prom dress looks rather similar to young Lily Rhodes aka Van der Woodsen on GG's '80s flashback:










On the positive side of 90210, I actually quite liked Naomi's simple, but pretty, emerald green floor length dress.



Perhaps this is because I absolutely adored Kiera Knightley's green stunner in Atonement, but I think I really just love Naomi's whole look, her hair looks elegant, very old Hollywood glamour. LOVE IT!

So, who wins? Left coast LA or the east side? Eh, perhaps they all break even at C, but I think we all know I'm partial to those Upper East Siders.

xoxo,
B

[Photos: 90210, IMDB, GG, IMDB]

Met, Models and Muses...

That's right kids, I'm back! Or rather, my computer is back. It's been a while I know, but now I have a shiny new hard drive to help delve back into New York's fashion centric universe.

As you may know, The Costume Institute Gala was held at The Met last Monday (May 5th). Sadly, I didn't seem to make the invite list, sigh. Anyhow, I did make it to the museum to check out the exhibit: The Model as Muse. LOVED IT! I definitely recommend going to see this...and remember, the pay as you wish policy at The Met means you shouldn't be deterred by prices, and that's something I think we can ALL appreciate in an economic slump. So, go to view fashion stylings from the '50's up to the present and learn all about the must-have faces of every decade including Twiggy, Dovima, Naomi, Paulina and of course, Kate the Great. I might also mention that Bergdorf's currently has some lovely window displays that correspond with the Model as Muse exhibit using updated attire of course. I'll try to get some pics this weekend!

The exhibit will be on display through August 9th, so go, run along now and SEE IT.

Speaking of Paulina Porizkova, all of you ANTM fans out there may have heard that the one-time supermodel was just fired from the show. Creative differences perhaps? Poriskova claims it was due to her "big ego." Umm...cough*TyraBanks*cough.

[Photo: The Met]

Later,
B

Zooey is the Fabric of Our Lives...

Sooo, I'm sitting in my apartmtent as usual, most likely getting ready to watch one of my shows, when I see a commercial come on featuring Zooey Deschanel. Not only is she in the commercial, she also apparently does the vocal track for it. And what, of all things, do you think was being advertised? Ohhh that's right, COTTON, it is the fabric of our lives you know. Hmm, I don't know, Zooey...schilling for cotton? I guess I've always found it a bit odd for some reason to advertise cotton, simply because I don't really think of it as a product in and of itself, though of course it is to those, a.k.a designers, buying it for their clothing. Anyhow, you can check it out via BuzzSugar.

-B

Lollipop, Lollipop, Ohh Lolli, Lolli...Ba da da dum.

Eek, so how much do you LOVE these lollipops?


Created by photographer Massimo Gammacurta. I'd like one of each flavor, please and thank you!

-B

Spring Is Where My Heart Is...

I know, I know, long time no posting. Apologies and all that, inspiration has been lacking, and that in spite of all of the Fashion Weekness. Just wanted to share these lovely Matt Bernson sandals that have me lusting for pretty Springy things despite the less than cooperative NY weather.


Via MattBernson.com, I'm feeling the Estancia (top) and Barracuda (bottom) styles. A little bit gladiator, but edgier and updated with the studs. Unfortunately my bank account is not loving them back, at nearly $200 per pair.

Don't forget to "spring ahead" as they say and set your clocks correctly this weekend kids!

Ciao,

B

Uninspired...

Ah, well kids...clearly I haven't been so great (yet again) at keeping up with my posting. I suppose I've been feeling a little uninspired, in large part due to the cold I think...


Ok, so maybe it isn't really that bad out there, but believe me, it's still freezing! Only a high of 23 today. This unfortunate weather is really causing a rut in repeated, uninspired attire consisting of jeans and a sweater or some other drab top and my boots that are FALLING APART to the point that water and/or snow actually leaks into them. It's pretty disgusting. However, it's actually supposed to warm up to a much more pleasant 52 degrees by Sunday. Perhaps I'll do something with my life then...

-B

In An Effort to Be Less Self-Indulgent...

Via Grub Street (photo: NY Mag/Jenny Miller), Ray Alvrez of East Village shop Ray's Candy Store (Ave. A nr. 7th St.) needs our help! Go get some delicious Belgian fries or some sugary goodness and keep the man in business people.

Now go, be good New Yorkers...or tourists if you aren't from around these parts...and give our economy a boost.

Happy Friday!

-B

Inauguration Celebration! | Obama Watch Begins

So I think we can all agree that yesterday was a pretty amazing day. Very cool to be around for such a historical moment. Unfortunately I have to catch up on his speech because EVERY live stream I tried was just not working. Since I only caught fragments, I won't comment on how moving, profound or not, the speech turned out to be.

The clothes, however, are fair game and Michelle Obama is certainly going to be under much scrutiny concerning her wardrobe choices. Seems a bit silly sometimes, what with our recessiony economic downtown, the war and all that super important business, but it is what it is.

I for one really liked her day look. The yellow Isabel Toledo dress and jacket ensemble is beautiful and looks fantastic on her, and it's definitely an unexpected choice, not your typical safe, plain jane suit. I also hear Simon Doonan, so thrilled was he with this choice, he took down he usual Barney's windows and created a display for Isabel Toledo. Can't wait to check it out!

No pic of her evening dress, but I'm sure everyone knows by now she chose a white, one-shoulder gown designed by Jason Wu. I can't say it was my favorite, but she looked nice and I respect her for choosing so many up and coming designers. Great publicity for them, and they deserve the recognition, Wu himself was a CFDA nom.

And just to note, Sasha and Malia looked adorable as usual.

Yay for our new Pres. and First Family!

-B

Oh. Em. Gee.

So I'm sure I'm more than a little behind on this, but I got two of the GG books through work and decided I'd start reading them.

OMFG! Is it just me, or are these some of the poorest written books EVER? Don't get me wrong, I love GG, the TV show at least. But the books just don't cut it. I realize that these are marketed to a much younger audience than myself, but hey, so is the show.

My argument? These books read like one long, terrible, product placement ad. To describe things strictly by a luxury brand is a cop out in writing. How much intelligence does it take to write sentence after sentence about the new Coach, Prada, Christian Louboutin (feel free to insert any designer you like here) shoes, etc. that these UES kids are wearing, buying, coveting, etc. They may as well include a catalogue in the back of the books so that after you read them you can also purchase all of the items (and there would be A LOT) that S, B and Little J wear. On top of this being a poor, and not very writerly way to develop a story, how much of the desired audience of these books can actually afford these things? How many of them truly even understand what and who some of these designers are?

Personally, I feel the show accomplishes something similar in a much more tactful manner. Instead of constantly dropping designer names, they drop New York names! That's the point. We already know they're wealthy, so it's much more important to have a more real connection by means of actual faces and places related to and present in the city. They go to actual NY restos, clubs, lounges and stores. They hang out with Tinsley Mortimer, etc. They DO NOT go around saying things like, "omg B, I love your Tory Burch headband...Coach flip-flops" or "hey Chuckles, hang on 2 seconds so I can adjust the camera angle to zoom in on the Prada logo on your sandals."

Thoughts?

Ciao,

B

I'm Baaaaack...

Hey! Yes, I'm officially back to blogging...I hope, haha. Sorry for my long absence, but I needed a little break for the holidays, family time and the like. And just generally, things have been crazy busy. C'est la vie, right?

Happily enough, all of my fave peeps (meaning TV characters, hehe) are back as well! Possible Spoiler Alert:

S and Lonely Boy are sort of, maybe, back together again. Of course with the minor issue of them sharing a half-brother. That could put a damper on all of their happy-go-lucky coupleness.

AND Mr. Zac P. graced Ugly Betty with his fantabulous presence last night. LOVE him.

Now I've recently started netflixing and am almost through Heroes: Season 1. I didn't really get into it when the show first started, but I'm quite liking it now. And I'm a little bit in love with Milo V. Seriously, why is he with H.P.? I only just realized how much younger she is! He and I would be much more suited to one another, hehe.

Anyhow, on to some fashiony stuff. I'm in the market for some new boots. I still love my tall black flat Anne Klein's, but everyone tells me they've had their day. The toes are scuffed up and now they also a sort of white line across the front from snow salt. Boo. So I'm looking at a two styles by Pour La Victoire, one being the Rosella Toggle Boot on Shopbop. On sale but still kind of expensive. I'd really like a pair of brown boots as well AND a new pair of rain boots. I've been eyeing these Aigle boots (that's eagle en francais mes cheries). I think they have a simple, classy look and would be great to wear on a rainy day without obviously wearing rain boots because they're styled as riding boots.

However, I recently came across these fab rain boots by Jimmy Choo/Hunter via FashionIndie. Soooo pretty. But not sure if I'm willing to fork over $395 to have them. Esp since I used to think I just HAD TO HAVE some Hunter boots, until I tried them on and realized not so much. I'm tall so I have big feet and oftentimes because of that the calf area of boots is just too big, and that was the case. Just looked ridiculous.

La la la, ok, must get back to work. Yay Friday!

Have a glorious weekend kids! Ciao.

-B