Cyber Monday Sale Round-Up

The biggest online shopping day of the year is here! I know I should be looking for Christmas presents for friends and family (an especially daunting task this year with my constantly shrinking budget), but with free shipping here, 25% off there, and the infamous net-a-porter sale I am having a hard time thinking about gifts for anyone but me. Enjoy!

The Big Want

These shoes totally remind me of Chloe Sevigny's wildfire-popular open buckle boots, albeit a tamer, more subdued version. They have a bit of the same toughness, though, and of course the open front and buckles, but have quite a bit more wearability (and on sale, they are a little gentler on the debit card). I'd say add this season's must-have leather skirt for a little extra edge.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Webster Peep, now $76.90 (available at Nordstrom).

The Big Want

I am pretty heartily obsessed with jewelry, and we all know by now how I have a soft spot for anything a little odd when it comes to baubles. This little diver caught my eye and I am daydreaming about placing him around my neck. He's armed and dangerous and better swim my way soon.

Killer Dive Necklace, $210 (available at Verameat).

The Big Want

I love a super-feminine silk blouse. I think it started when I was little and my mother's mother would always don the loveliest silk tops - bow-necked, delicately cuffed wonders. This version is perhaps a bit more revealing than my grandmother would have deemed appropriate, but I love its pretty bows and soft ivory hue.

Parker Bow Print Silk Top, now $90 (available at Saks).

The Big Want

I love me a big ring. And I adore Erika Pena's jewelry designs. Made from mini Swarovski crystals, this gigantic bauble is absolutely stunning. I also am crazy about the bright, optimistic colors, the cherry red and turquoise. It's like a ring pop, only less delicious and quite a bit more glam.

Olga Ring, $202 (available at Erika Pena).

Chic of the Week

Who: Another model! My favorite, Karlie Kloss.

What: A simple, red long-sleeved Calvin Klein.

When: Monday, November 16, 2009.

Where: At the CFDA Fashion Fund Awards in New York City.

Why: Okay, so I'm absolutely biased because I adooooore Karlie Kloss. But also, I love how simple yet stunning this look is. I am very much digging the minidress gone modest trend with high necks and long sleeves. I love too how Karlie goes for minimal makeup and daytime hair - and just a basic black clutch and pumps - to keep the look youthful, age-appropriate and let the scarlet frock pop. This is just my totally ideal evening look - equal parts ease and drama.








Photo courtesy of Grazia.

The Big Want

Every holiday season, things seem to take on a sparkling veneer. Sequins adorn everything, from berets to heels to blazers. This time around, it seems like glimmer has been kicked into overdrive. Tanks, tees, scarves, cardigans, vests, skirts, tights...everything is spangled and embellished. I am more than happy to make like Liza Minelli this winter and get festive. A great way to embrace the look? Try this adorable little light-catching mini from Quail. Add a pretty blouse or sweater and your favorite pair of tights and you are perfectly party-ready.

Quail Sweet Marie Skirt, now $173 (available at Les Nouvelles).

P.S. I adore this online boutique - labels like Lover and Gryphon all in one place. Amazing.

The Big Want

I feel like recently I sort of skim through whatever Daily Candy sends me, not paying the same rapt attention I once did. I'll forward a good restaurant suggestion on to my boyfriend, but otherwise I kind of sweep through their daily emails. But at the bottom of today's email about something or other, there was a little blurb about a Vancouver-based label called Dace. So I clicked and was totally wooed by their understated cool and femininity. I particularly clicked with this romantic yet modern blouse and picture it tucked into a crisp black pant or pencil skirt while enjoying a glass of champagne at a holiday soiree. Cheers!

Seamus Blouse, $160 (available at Dace).

*Save 25% by entering DACECANDY at checkout.

The Big Want

I love vintage jewelry, or at least a sparkling find that has the feel of something from years past. So I fell head over heels for this vintage brass whistle necklace from Les Jumelles. It's an actual whistle from a french factory, from the 1960s, placed onto a long antique gold toned chain. There's something so sporty and nautical about this and so unexpected. It's such whimsical perfection.

Le Sifflet Vintage, approx. $30 (available at Les Jumelles).

Shopbop Lookbook Video

Shopbop has put their lookbooks in video form and their first one is pretty fantastic. Poppy Delevingne and Isabelle McNally go out on the town in NY for drinks, a concert, flip cup, and boys, and of course they both look amazing (and like they are having a blast) the whole time.

All of the clothing featured in the video is from designers Siwy and Pencey and is available to buy on Shopbop. The video is so amazing it actually makes me think I can pull off the hot Siwy red sequin leggings below as well as Poppy does, so I may be taking Shopbop Fashion Director Kate Ciepluch's, somewhat obvious, advice on how to style them, "the red sequin leggings provide killer fashion that can be overwhelming if not toned down a bit."

Siwy Sequin Leggings $218

November - A Month of Fashion Don'ts?

Grazia has a hysterical and curiously accurate post on their homepage this morning which asks "Is this the worst month in fashion ever?" Judging by the picture of Leighton Meester (above) that ran with the article, one might have to agree that yes November was full of fashion don'ts.

Check out the article while you enjoy your morning coffee, and wonder how so many fashionistas - including Ms. Wintour and Ashley & MK - missed the mark this month.

The Big Want(s)

Here are a couple of Wants in the form of little things I wouldn't mind finding in my Christmas stocking next month.

First, we have this little Essie polish that reminds me of equal parts Easter candy and 1990s Hard Candy (little plastic ring included). God...remember those incredible glittery and pastel shades? Oh the lavender, the bubblegum pink, the chalky pale blue...I remember the feverish desperation to collect them all way too vividly. And the hoarding of all those little gummy rings - stars, hearts, circles - like the wonderful little prizes that they were.

Mint Candy Apple Nail Polish, $8 (available at Essie).

Today's Want? Well, I have a thing for earmuffs. I don't own any, haven't in awhile, but every winter I always toy with the idea of buying a pair. Especially a really over the top, fluffy, furry pair. I love the huge fur puffs, in this pretty pale shade, paired with a patent leather band. They're so glam and ridiculous and a little more luxe than my current beanie.

Coyote Fur Earmuffs, $75 (available at Saks).

20% Off Blaine Ashley for FB&F Readers!

Blaine Ashley, a Honolulu-based stylist, is celebrating the one-year anniversary of her online boutique, ShopBlaineAshley.com, by giving Flat Broke and Fabulous readers 20% Off everything on her amazing website! Just use the code FABDEAL at checkout to take advantage of this offer through 11/30/09.

This online boutique boasts an artfully edited selection of feminine, flirty, and forward thinking pieces handpicked by Blaine Ashley. Designers include Geren Ford and Hunter Dixon, in addition to the line that Blaine designs herself.

The pieces are fun and most are within an FB&F girl's ideal price range (dresses average about $100). So factor in a 20% discount on top of that and this is a perfect opportunity to pick out a fun party dress for the holidays.

Some of our favorites picks are:

Blaine Ashley Poppy Dress $100, Hunter Dixon Owen Dress $325, Blaine Ashley Jet-Set Jumpsuit $115, Geren Ford Open Back Dress $285

Chic of the Week

Who: Model and humanitarian, Liya Kebede.

What: A black trench-style dress by Stella McCartney, sheer tights and delicate strappy heels.

When: Monday, November 09, 2009.

Where: In New York at Glamour's 2009 Women of the Year Awards.

Why: First of all, I'm so happy that we've had two models in a row here! Last week, Erin, and now Liya. And can you blame me? She looks beyond glamorous and sort of mysterious. Like maybe she has a little pistol in her purse. And can we talk about her insanely shiny hair? And teeny tiny waist? And cheekbones!?! If I could even come close to achieving 1% of this sultriness, I could die a happy broad.






Photo courtesy of Zimbio.

The Big Want

It's old news by now that I absolutely adore any jewelry that is critter or creature oriented. Bears, bunnies, owls...woodland types are always a favorite. So, surprise, surprise, I fell head over heels for this running rabbit necklace. The aged brass gives this piece the feeling of a great vintage score and at $20, well, that's nothing to shake a cottontail at.

Running Hare Necklace, $20 (available at Leviticus Jewelry).

20% Off Your New LBD

I admit that White House | Black Market may not be on the short list of stores I visit regularly, but when the notice above for their Friends and Family Event showed up in my inbox I took a 20% Off discount seriously and visited their website right away. There are so many perfect little black dresses (LBD) and cute accessories to choose from that this store may become a regular destination for me.

I put my favorite dresses and accessories below, but find your own perfect dress (or skirt, pants, jacket, whatever) here and use the code 8955 at checkout to save 20% on all your purchases.

Left to right: Asymmetrical Jersey $98, Strapless Ruffle Dress $128, Contoured Tank Dress $178, Off the Shoulder Dress $98

Left to right: Sequin Pump $88, Collar Necklace $58, Snow Leopard Pump $98, Ecru Collar Blazer $148

Feeling Blue?

On those mornings when I just don't think I can pull it together (normally the result of hitting snooze too many times or too many cocktails the night before) I rely on my make-up to make me look pulled together and ready to face the day. Since this happens more often than not, I like to keep my make-up bag stocked at all times with both my everyday go-tos (Chanel Powder, Bobbi Brown Pink Sugar lip gloss, Dior Show Mascara) and the special occasion must-haves (matte red lipstick, glow foundation, eye brow pencils, etc...).

With the combination of my morning laziness becoming the usual and the upcoming holiday party season which is sure to mean more nightly cocktails, my make-up bag is in dire need of new supplies. Thank goodness Blue Mercury is having their Holiday Shopping Party with champagne and up to 20% off make-up, skincare and spa products from brands we love like La Mer, Bobbi Brown, Fresh, NARS, Kiehl's! Click here to find out when the shopping party is happening at your local Blue Mercury.

The Big Want

I've got winter on the brain. Yesterday, I was all scarves and now I've got my eye on some boots. There are few things better than a pair of classic Bean Boots from L.L. Bean, and as such, I've had my reliable brown and blue pair for years. I've recently been thinking of an even more rugged, snugglier upgrade. I love the deep, dark chocolate color of this pair and its cozy shearling lining. Add snowballs and hot chocolate and I will be all set.

Shearling-Lined Boots, $134 (available at L.L. Bean).

The Big Want

Temperatures are starting to drop and so I, unsurprisingly, have been daydreaming about big, winter-proof scarves to wrap myself up in. This one is so deliciously, and inexpensively, captures the feeling from Rodarte's incredible fall 2008 collection. I love the shades of peach, pale blue and black woven together and its oversized, cozy fit.

Cobweb Knit Scarf, $36 (available at Topshop).

The Big Want

I've been searching for a cozy and kind of snug vintage-feeling flannel. Something that would look cute paired with jeans and not in a baggy grunge kind of way (though don't get me wrong, I love me some grunge). I like the classic red, white and blue color combo on this style, and its feminine yet easy fit. I can't wait to incorporate this shirt in some strategic layering this winter.

Shrunken Bonfire Flannel Shirt, now $24.95 (available at American Eagle).

Gaga Takes it to New Heights

Remember when we asked How High is Too High after Alexander McQueen's models walked his S/S 2010 runway in 10-inch stilettos? Well Lady Gaga has answered and apparently is just fine with 10-inch heels. She wears the said McQueen stilettos and a complete look from his show in the video for her new single Bad Romance (which by the way I am loving). We grabbed these screenshots from the video posted on PerezHilton, but we highly suggest you watch the whole video here.

Whether you love or hate the trends Lady Gaga popularizes (hello no pants), we think thanks need to be given to Lady Gaga for bringing couture into pop and constantly pushing the limits.

Bah-a-nanas

In happier times: Taylor, Rodger, Rachel, and Brad

As you know from reading FB&F, we are faithful watchers of the Rachel Zoe Project and even bigger fans (see style source profile here) of Rachel's hardworking, but brooding assistant stylist Taylor Jacobson. However, after four years of unpacking boxes, packing boxes for returns, driving around L.A., hearing all about Rachel's vertigo, pulling for shoots that never happen, giving up trips to Paris and invitations to Chanel fashion shows (and letting viewers know she wasn't happy about any of it), Taylor is finally moving on from Rachel Zoe. Are you dying?

Fashionista posted that Taylor emailed her contacts saying “After four amazing years at Rachel Zoe Corporation, I’m saddened and exhilarated at the same time to announce my departure. After much thought and consideration, I have decided to take the challenging leap to go off and style on my own.”

There are conflicting reports as to the exact reason for Taylor's departure, People is reporting Rachel fired Taylor, but no matter the reason we hope that Taylor has a bright future in styling and makes it to Paris and the Chanel show on her own.

The Big Want

As you might have picked up already, the long sleeved dress is having a moment (as far as I'm concerned). I love this perfect little green for the holidays long sleeved mini. I, first of all, adore the sleeves. And even more importantly, think you could wear it in so many ways - add a mass of necklaces, a patterned tight (maybe polka dots or hearts?), a furry vest, just a great big pair of earrings, a classic pump, statement boots...I could go on and on here. Though it's not exactly cheap, I think you could get a lot of wear out of it, making the price a little easier to swallow. Want to stretch your dollar even more? Opt for the basic black version, rather than the green.

Luna Zip V Back Silk Dress by Elizabeth and James, $375 (available at Intermix).

The Big Want

I love a little touch of wrist-candy. Bold and big, small and delicate....whatever, whenever. This enamel bangle by Kate Spade (whose quirky, glamorous baubles I adore) feels somewhat Hermes-y or a little like Roberta di Camerino's trompe l'oeil velvet bags (faux buckles, etc). This bracelet belongs on the wrist of a chic lady toting a Jackie O-approved Hermes trim and wearing a terrific scarf and perfect flat...which is sometimes how I like to picture myself in my mind, so this bangle thankfully offers me a little tangible proof of my fantasy jet-setting self (trip to Capri not included)!

Top Notch Idiom Bangle, $78 (available at Kate Spade).

Chic of the Week

Who: Model/Muse/Designer/Etc, Erin Wasson.

What: A down-to-the ground, long sleeved Victoria Beckham gown.

When: Monday, November 2, 2009.

Where: 13th Annual 2009 ACE Awards Presented by the Accessories Council, in New York.

Why: Recently I've been getting a little annoyed at all the Wasson-based hype there is out there in the blogosphere. But this proves me totally, utterly, dead wrong. The hype is not hype at all, as far as this look is concerned. It's 50% 70s bohemian, 50% Morticia Adams and 100% amazing. I love that she is wearing a floor length gown, and nothing shredded, slouchy, micro-sized or beanie-topped. The look is grown up and appropriate but still devastatingly cool. I stand corrected, blogosphere.





Photo courtesy of Coutorture.

The Big Want

This shirt reminds me so much of Dries Van Noten S/S 2009 - I love the casual fit, rendered in silk to make it a little bit special and ladylike. Wear with a jean and slip on some flats or pair with an incredible trouser for a night out. I am absolutely calling right now to order this...well, once my bank account becomes a little more accommodating (aka I get paid).

Silk Boyshirt, $110 (available at Madewell).

The Big Want

I really love playful jewelry. Especially when it takes the form of some type of creature or is perhaps masquerading as an object of function, but has no real use (see this and this). So of course I fell for this quirky necklace from Anthropologie. At first glimpse, it looks like a little a quaint pair of glasses chained around your neck, but then you see said spectacles are twined in intricately braided silk, playing dress up, as it were. Amazing. To me, there are few things better than baubles with a sense of humor.

Spectacle Necklace, $118 (available at Anthropologie).

Good Girl Gone Bad?

Most of the time I love Leighton Meester's style (see Chic of the Week here, here, and here). We at FB&F think she has a knack for making everything she wears seem contemporary, feminine, and stunning. However recently I have been noticing that it seems as though there is always a detail or two that was overlooked...for example it was her severe make-up paired with her etheral white gown at the Emmy's (see Emmy wrap-up here) and I cannot help but comment that the shoes seem totally mismatched with her most recent outfit (below).

When this image first arrived in my inbox and I saw the dreamy loose and wavy hair, the dewy make-up, and the gorgeous neckline on a painted Prabal Gurung dress I was drooling. However, when I scrolled down past the perfect black patent leather belt and got to the shoes my mouth dropped (and not in awe).

Again a little detail ruined one of Leighton's outfits for me...the shoes! This ensemble was absolutely stunning - ladylike and feminine while at the same time current and fresh - but the shoes seem campy and totally wrong for this outfit, almost like Mickey Mouse ears sitting on her feet!

What do you think? Am I being too harsh because I expect more from Meester, or do you agree that these shoes were not the best choice for this Gossip Girl?

Image courtesy of InStyle

The Big Want

Almost more than any of the recent additions to my ever-growing list of Wants, I want in a big way this beautiful silk romper from Kate Moss's latest collection for Topshop. For this line, Ms. Moss has introduced sleepwear that is totally elegant, feminine and sexy, to boot. The abstract butterfly pattern lends it the "oriental feeling" that Kate says describes the entire collection, indeed looking inspired by an opulent kimono. Though I honestly want every little knicker and tap pant and flirty robe from this luxe line, this piece I think is my very favorite - I so want to slink into it immediately and enjoy some decadent dessert and a glass of wine.

Butterfly Teddy, $100 (available at Topshop).

The Big Want

Though he made me want to return the gifts of hearing of sight indefinitely during his tenure on Project Runway, I must say I am kind of in love with this pair of pumps by Christian Siriano. From his collection for Payless, these shoes recall Prada in the very best way - from the conical heel to the two-tone coloration. And for under $50, this is a Want that can easily become the newest member of my shoe family.

Christian Siriano for Payless Carolina Pump, $34.99 (available at Payless).