Daily Dish - it list

SXSW Style

Each year, SXSW delivers a stylish litmus test. The annual display of personal individuality introduces the perfect opportunity to gauge just how stylish the locals are...

This year the SXSW universal standard uniform was a hundred percent Austin.

Here's a little style "diddy" to take away from those both near and far. Start with a solid monochromatic vintage dress, synch it with a primary colored belt and add a pair of slouchy boots.

Of course, this year you still have the east coast New Yorker with the long shagged hair, bright lips, the baggy jersey top and skinny jeans. The west coast sporting the colorful low topped kicks. Great to see ... just not Austin forward.

our pick: Golden Goose Horse Zip Back Riding Boot at shopbop.com

it list
posted - beth / 8:32 PM / 03.16.08

It pick: Orange Dreamsicle

There's nothing that reminds me more of summer than thinking of those long, lazy days lounging at the pool, eating one of my favorite summer treats-an orange-cream dreamsicle of sugary goodness. Orange hues among with other shockingly bright colors are the fashion lover's candy du jour this season, and what better way to live nostalgically in those long-gone carefree days of summer than adding splashes of orange to your wardrobe? This laid-back color is a great pairing for the 'tribal' trend we are seeing this season-what an exotically unexpected pairing with these bold prints. More conservative women can still appreciate this buttery color when worn in handbags, jewelry, or even shoes, and take comfort in splurging because these accessories can easily transition into fall. Bolder gals can pair this with other rainbow-bright colors (avoiding hot pink and orange, please, we are not in the eighties..), or the bold prints we are also seeing a lot of this season.

Splurge: Let those feet do all the talking in these flashy slingback sandals, on sale for $337. This luxe orange alligator skin bag will last you many seasons to come, $461. Be draped like a goddess in this gorgeous Alberta Ferretti orange chiffon dress, $945. Or add some ege to this sweet Hanii Y flutter sleeve top with some rocker heels or bold jewelry. Speaking of, splurge on this David Yurman ring and pair it with virtually anything in your summer wardrobe.

Save: Keep it chic in these orange peep toe Prada flats, only $208. Have fun in the office but still look like you mean business in this Kay Unger dress, $310. Do the PETA way for donning animal print with this Kenneth Jay Lane tiger print cuff, $115. Go global in this exotic bangle , $188.

Steal: Do casual chic on the cheap with these slingback orange flats from ASOS, $39. Be supremely sweet in this orange ruffle dress, $59. Just add a tribal necklace for some edge. Go back to the sixties in this floral shift dress, $22.80. Keep it simple in this Forever 21 tunic, $19.80. Always count on Forever 21 for trendy jewelry on the cheap-like this tribal bangle or these bold hoop earrings.

(editorial by Kristine Reeves and img source prphotos)

it list
posted - beth / 8:09 PM / 03.13.08

It pick: Grecian goddess

As many fashion lovers know, trends always seem to be passing through one of those rotational doors, patiently waiting for their time to return to the spotlight for a new flock of fashionistas to fall in love with. Arguably, the Grecian trend never truly left our wardrobes, and nor will it truly ever leave. The regal look of goddess-like drape dresses has been in vogue for decades, centuries even. The universally flattering style of these forgiving dresses or tops with their layered draping and soft pleating is great for any age-whether you are fifteen or fifty, as well as any size. Voluptuous women will look regal in a full length maxi dress that will embrace and enhance those curves, and even mamas-to-be can embrace this trendy look, which is great for those hot summer months. Petite chicks may want to proceed with caution, as a loose maxi dress can be risky, but they can achieve Olympian-stature in one shoulder dresses or tops, or gladiator sandals in lieu of overdone flip flops this season.

Splurge: Do Greek luxury in style with these sexy silver sandals by Ralph Lauren, $395. Be a sun goddess in this Phillip Lim 3.1 Silk Pleated Grecian Dress, $795. This sexy one shoulder top in this regal purple will definitely keep all eyes on you, $190. Don't stop at clothing, these sexy drape earrings can be worn with a wrap dress or top, and anything in between.
Save: Go gladiator in these Steve Madden sandals, in every color on the rainbow, only $80. Hip chicks will love this ruche dress from Miss Sixty, $293, with its gorgeous blue hue and quirky button detail. Or wear this edgy studded top for a night on the town and you'll be speaking Greek in no time. For jewelry, these gorgeous hoop earrings definitely channel the Roman era.
Steal: Or go shopping at the forum in these "Forum" sandals, only $29.99. Go for a more subtle Grecian look with this black jersey dress, and for only $78, have some money left over to head to the Mediterranean. Or go for a mini in this fab drape dress by ASOS. Or for a more ritzy option, go for this beaded tunic from Forever 21, $19.80

it list
posted - beth / 8:29 PM / 02.26.08

It pick: Purple haze

With a new season, a new "it" color inevitably becomes seemingly saturated into the wardrobe of any trendsetting fashion addict. This season, ladies, the color du jour is purple. Great for spring, this color reminds us of the warmer weather and more relaxed days. Purple pieces are also key for these awkward few weeks where many fashionistas seem to experience what I like to call sartorial blues- the spring looks are in stores but a gal can't justify wearing whimsical spring pieces while its 40 degrees outside (with the exception of those women bar hopping on 4th or 6th Street -you know who you are). Purple is a sophisticated hue that works well in winter months, by pairing it with the darker fall hues like grey and black but also can easily be reinvented for spring by simply coupling it with lighter neutrals like beige or brown. Go satin for evening like Anne Hathaway in D&G and turn some heads. As Anne perfectly proves, you can't be a wallflower in this regal color-refined purple is not for shrinking violets.

Splurge: This Alexander Wang Double Breasted Top, $345, will have you seeing only purple this spring. Go casual but still be fab in these Missoni flats, $286. Or be a minimalist, in this Dior Wristlet, $990. Or go for a printed dress by Marc Jacobs that's sweet for spring, $149.
Save: Buy some purple pumps and that you'll be wearing these for many seasons to come-especially these luxe-looking Steven Binng pumps, $133. Pair this cute cami with ruffles (another trend for spring) with a badass leather jacket and you'll be nice and cozy for a night out with the flavor of the week. Or tote this trend in style with this Urban Outfitters Sabina Leather Bag, $245. Be chic and sophisticated in this Calypso Silk Dress, on sale for $84.
Steal: Go purple and punky in these casual Converse sneakers, $41. Be a purple pirate in this cute striped tunic, $40. Or layer with a cardigan in this Lux Chalet Cardi, $25. This purple bucket bag from ASOS, $40, is a great everyday bag for this season but can still be tossed away guilt-free after this trend wanes. Or keep it simple in this purple wrap dress by American Apparel, only $44.

*FYI Shakers - American Apparel has set up shop in SOCO. The previous location to Factory People.

it list
posted - beth / 7:36 PM / 02.24.08

This Week's It list

Attend it: Vintage lovers come one, come all to one of Austin hipster-hangouts, Spiderhouse, for their Fashion Freakout, a catwalk event that features clothing from local vintage stores-Buffalo Exchange, New Bohemia, and Prototype Vintage Design, among others.
ACL it: It's about that time again. Get your tix to the hottest music festival in Austin.
Bag it: The perfect go-to bag for Spring, this functional Oscar de la Renta GOYA handbag is already a must-have for those folks over at Bag Snob.
Run it: Fashionable fitness lovers can get their fix by running the AT&T Marathon. Don't worry if you haven't been training, just walk the half.
Read it: Far from the typical diet book, Skinny Bitch tells it like it is in this blunt fitness advice book that'll whip you into shape in time for summer.
Shop it: It's that time of year again-Le Garage Sale at Austin Music Hall has returned, with high-end Austin boutiques selling items at liquidated prices.
Dress it: Perfect for these transitional months, this Alexander Wang pintuck dress can be thrown over a button up shirt for the office, and under a leather jacket for night.
Love it: Thandie Newton's side swept hair at the British Academy of Film and Television Awards
Bag It: Yves Saint Laurent Besace Flap Bag, $1995. This YSL messenger bag inspired tote has been seen on the likes of Sienna Miller, Lily Allen, and Kate Moss. If the Brits are sporting it, you know it's fashionable.
Shoe it: If you are already dreaming of days on the beach, then grab a pair of these sexy silk sandals by Etro, and you'll be ready for the exotic all season long. Don't feel guilty about indulging-enter the promotional code SHOELOVE at checkout to receive an extra 10% off all sale shoes (until 11:59pm EST, 2/11/08).
Dress it: Fall for flowers again in this silk floral tea dress , with a sexy sweetheart neckline.
Girls Night Out it: Head on over to QUA Bottle Lounge for a swanky night on the town. No college kids here-it's 25 and up only.
Cure it: My Valentines Day hangover. Single freedoms and champagne toasts has left me a bit cloudy today.

it list
posted - beth / 7:35 AM / 02.15.08

It pick: Cookies and Cream

Another classic is trickling into our wardrobe this season, and its one that every fashion lover can appreciate: black and white. This versatile combo can be worn in so many different ways and styles, from punk to preppy, dainty to dominatrix. The ebony and ivory combination popped up in everything this season, from the zebra safari-chic prints, to demure dresses, to bold stripes and color blocking. These pieces can be easily paired with feminine details to soften the look, be it a ruffled top, satin fabric, or a sexy high waist. Bolder gals can pair their look with shockingly bright accessories, such as bright pink pumps, or even evoke old Hollywood glamour with bright red lips. Or for a true classic, simply purchase and black and white handbag to wear with virtually anything in your spring wardrobe. Splurging is allowed, because frankly, black and white is never truly out of style.

Splurge: Dress (literally) like Friday Night Lights star Minka Kelly in this BCBG Max Azaria black and white dress, $300. Go for classic houndstooth and you'll always be chic in this Fontanelli handbag, $589. Or buckle your shoe in these sexy buckled peep toe shoes, $595. Count on Michael Kors for preppy-chic, especially in this striped bell skirt, $1295.
Save: Or do the polka, dot, that is, in this babydoll polka dot tunic that's perfect for breezy spring days. Go bold with Betsey in this Betsey Johnson zebra tote , $275. If flats are more your thing, then look to "it" designer Tory Burch for her classic flats , $225. If mod's your thing, then go for this color blocked skirt , $158. Go old Hollywood in this sexy pencil skirt, $68.
Steal: We love Urban Outfitters for chic-on-the-cheap, so check out this "Black Tie Optional" dress, on sale for $40. Or tote a classic with this woven black and white purse , only $59. Or go edgy in these striped pointed heels, $99. Flirty gals will love this black and white blossom skirt, only $38.

(editorial by Kristine Reeves and img source prphotos)

it list
posted - beth / 9:49 PM / 02.06.08

It pick: T-Strap Heels

If you longed to live in the twenties and sport those fabulous frocks and rebelliously boyish yet feminine accessories, then prepare to fall in love with your spring wardrobe. Designers this season have channeled the "Great Gatsby," accessorizing looks with cloche hats, flapper-like fringe, and those sexy little T-strap heels. A classic, these heels are truly timeless, reinvented each and every decade for a new set of fashionistas to fall in love with. These prim and proper pumps can be paired with anything from a formal frock to skinny jeans, polishing a casual look. To update this classic shoe, designers have embellished them with anything from decadent rhinestones to geometric jewels to sexy cutouts. These modern T-straps are all about making a statement, so let your shoes steal the spotlight this spring.

Splurge: If you're a punk-rock princess with some cash to burn, then go glam with attitude in these Roberto Cavalli Skull T-Strap Heels, $1230. You can't go wrong in classic black, and by Prada to boot, so look no further than these classy suede T-strap pumps, $590. Or do safari-chic in these sexy but sweet Roger Vivier T-strap shoes, $1046.
Save: Be ready to jet set in the Caribbean in these luxe Le Stila high heel sandals, $291. Those who like more sleek designs will love these D&G Disc T-strap Heels , $476.
Steal: For a glitzy option, check out these Antonia glitteri T-strap heels, $149. Or for a quirky-cute vibe consider these Free People's T-strap heels , $158. Funkier fashionistas can go mod in these mod T-strap heels, $44. And finally, for a less expensive simple-chic option, these Nine West T-strap heels in black or fuchsia (great color for Spring!) will strike your fancy.

(Editorial by: Kristine Reeves and img source prphotos)

it list
posted - beth / 11:25 PM / 02.01.08

It pick: Bold and bright accessories

With cooler weather still lingering, this time of year seems to pose an awkward time for fashionistas who love to stay on top of (or ahead of) the trends. Spring trends are starting to trickle into our store windows, yet it seems just too darn cold outside to throw on a bold pair of gladiator sandals and walk out the door. So what's a trendsetter to do? Follow the example set by celebrities such as Rachel Bilson by simply wearing bold, bright accessories that hint at the days of warmer weather to come. Bold hues in every shape and size are literally saturating our wardrobes this spring, so get ahead of the season and stock up on bright necklaces and scarves to wear with the gloomier black and grey hues we loved so much this winter. Your other fashion-loving amigas will wonder how you've managed to practically predict what's haute for spring-you will have been wearing it for months already.

Splurge: A splurge indeed, this Versace Floral Scarf , $318, will keep you posh in the winter and trendy in the spring-florals are everywhere this season. Make those feet steal the spotlight in these L.A.M.B. 'Darrel' pumps , $335. You'll bound to be happy toting this bright Lanvin Happy Bag, $1795. Cinch that waist in an attention-getting Phillip Lim Criss Cross belt, $72.
Save: Go bright and indie in this Check Scarf from ASOS, $20. If you're looking for a bag that will last you (practically) all year, go for this Steve Madden Bluckyy purse in bright red, $150. For cool Saturday mornings, keep it cute and comfy in these bright Micheal Kors skimmers in bold red or bright yellow, $198. Or simply add these bright bangles, $42 to any outfit for a bold pop of color.
Steal: If you can't decide what bold color will keep your neck cozy in the next few months, head to American Apparel to get anything from Rachel's yellow scarf to a blindingly bright fuchsia number, and at $8, you can get every color under the rainbow. Add some color to a night on the town with this bright satin evening bag , $27. Or "get skinny" in a bright belt from the Gap, $24.50. And lastly, a gals gotta have a killer pair of heels, and these turquoise shoes definitely fit the bill at only $40.

(editorial by Kristine Reeves and img source Just Jared)

it list
posted - beth / 10:59 PM / 01.30.08

This Week's Styleshaker It List

Clutch it: If you are getting your wardrobe ready for Spring, this unique Chloe clutch is a must-have, with its origami-like shape and bright orange color.
Envy it: Jennifer Connolly is the muse for the Balenciaga Spring/Summer 2008 Line . Wonder how long it took her to get into those boots?
Eat it: One of Austin's best kept secrets, Stortini, is a quaint little Italian food restaurant with unique dishes and a romantic, Lady-and-the-Tramp atmosphere, minus the lack of silverware, of course.
Just say it: Jessica Kagan's famous cheeky bangles are now in color.
Flaunt it: For those gals with a man to please for Valentine's Day, head on over to Underwear for a little something that both of you can appreciate.
Add it: Statement necklaces are haute for Spring-they can take an entire look from simple to chic in mere moments. And with this Forever 21 eclectic necklace , you can keep guilt at bay knowing you paid less than your weekly lunch date at Trudy's.
Shoe it: Shoe addicts will love (or hate to love) Goodie Two Shoes, a shoe boutique that's high in style but not in price.
Hair it: Add this whimsical hair piece to your outfit for an eclectic but classy twist.
Question It: Shoulder pads, Eva Longoria? Really? We love the new pleated curtain sleeve but should advise against shoulder pads and a large belt on such a petite frame.

it list
posted - beth / 8:03 AM / 01.25.08

It List - Deconstructed Tuxedo Shirt

A deconstructed tuxedo shirt with pleated curtain sleeves is the hottest thing you may never find.

So, carefully select a man's tuxedo shirt focusing on the neck size. I love going into Marshalls or TJ Maxx to dig through a varied selection of shirts all under $25 dollars.

Pull the collar and sleeves off the shirt with a seam ripper. Cutting the sleeve horizontal (straight down the middle). Use the fabric to create two tortoise shape cups and add a hem. Pleat the top of both tortoise shaped shells and attach a shell to either shoulder of the shirt. Adjust the hemline and add darts where needed.

If this task seems to daunting simply take the shirt and instructions to your local tailor.

it list
posted - beth / 9:35 PM / 01.17.08

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