How Small Is Too Small?

"Since Spain denounced the use of models with a BMI of 18 or less the debate has become a hot topic in the fashion world. Paul Smith announced his belief yesterday that healthier looking models would soon dominate the catwalks. Smith made his announcement after showing a masculine womenswear collection at the Royal Horticultural Halls in Westminster. The models who appeared in show were by no means 'normal' sized but in the fashion world 'normal' means thin and 'thin' means unhealthy. Model Laura Tempany said in the Telegraph that models from poorer countries whose families depended on them for money were under enormous pressure to stay thin.This issue has dominated London Fashion Week... Even the culture minister, Tessa Jowell stepped in to give her tuppence worth.Whether this is going to be a lasting change in the extravagant world of fashion, or just a chance for the industry to jump onto a worthy bandwagon like the fur debates in the 90's remains to be seen." -- Catwalk Queen

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I find this slightly refreshing becuase being not a size 2 sometimes makes me feel self concious of my size, unattractive, and all that garbage that sometimes can't be help when faced with the standard of beauty today. Maybe as people start getting a little more realistic there will be a change in what is the socially acceptable picture of beauty.

Latina Style

As a styling latina fashionista I am always on the lookout for cute ways to express that part of myself without spackling the Puerto Rican flag all over myself. It's not that I'm not proud it's just not subtle and it's been done before many a time. Not to mention, what's the first thing that comes to mind when you see an American with the stars and stripes on their chest, jeans, vest, jacket, back window of their pick-up... yeah that's what I think of too. When I found Lola y Maria it was becuase I got a heads up about their styling new stuff for the fall, which is lovely by the way. But, while searching I stumbled across this adorable t-shirt. Now this is something that my other latina's can get into as well and while some people might stare at me like I'm crazy because they don't get it I know there will be those on the street that know where I'm coming from. Viva la Boriqueña!

In Stitches

We all know that knits are on the list of trendy items for the fall and when I spotted these items that automatically sprung to my mind. Why be like everyone else with their chunky sweaters? Granted they are cute, comfy, and warm but at this point will be everywhere. Why not spice it up? Here's how... with these two adorable knit handbags. First of all the Margaret Nicole cable knit clutch and likewise with this crochet hobo from Nordstrom. I want the clutch in every color!

PARTAY!

If you are looking for something to do this everning instead of the usual happy hour head on over the Edge (65 Bleeker btwn. Broadway & Lafayette) for their one year anniversary party. Shopping and cocktails without having to buy a ticket sounds good to me! Don't forget to RSVP.

You Know You Have A Problem When..

While strolling over to work with my boyfriend early yesterday morning I was faced with a test. Now you might be wondering what test could I have possibly been faced with at 8:15 in the morning in the financial district of NYC? Well, while passing the Coach store on Front Street I noticed stacks and stacks of boxes. I took one quick look at them and I knew that the new shipment of Coach bags was lying on the cobblestone within my reach. I grabbed onto my boyfriend and told him not to let go for fear that if he did I would run over, grab a box, and take off. Considering the physical shape of the delivery men I think I would have made it but I suppose it was smarter of me not to take that chance. But, then again...

Finally, Fall Trends!

Sorry it took so long. I have been sitting on this since I came back from the Bahamas but technically it's not fall yet and you of course still have time to pick up your key items if you haven't already!

1. Layering
2. Menswear
3. Animal Prints
4. Chunky Heels
5. Knits
6. Gloves
7. Skinny Jeans
8. Flat Boot
9. Plaid
10. Oversized Bags
11. Ballet Flats
12. Heavy Gold Accents
13. Colorful Evening Wear
14. Fur
15. Leggings

Get Your Choo's

I'm sure plenty of you fashionista's will be happy to know that instead of having to trek to the Jimmy Choo boutique or shop the limited selections at big name department stores you can now order your Choo's online. This shoe master very recently implemented an online shop and you can click your pick and it will be sent straight to your door, no middleman! I'm going to call this one dangerously convenient.

Out Of Order

I know this is not a fashion item but when I saw these in the September issue of Shop Etc. I thought they were the cutest thing in the world. What a perfect way to organize your personal information at home! I know the whole pile thing seems to be working out but that's just for now wait until it tumbles down and you won't know what's what! Believe me I know. So the least you can do is treat yourself to some unique organizational tools. If I hadn't just finished my long overdue spring cleaning I would totally treat myself...

Nova-Check It Out

As some might know Burberry will be celebrating it's 150th anniversary this fall and because of this I chose to look back on the origins of this covetable brand. Starting in 1856 Thomas Burberry set out to crate problem solving gear by introducing thrill-seeking adventurer to a waterproof, and very sturdy twill we know as garbardine. Proprietors included Sir Ernest Shackleton on his trek to the North Pole in the early 1900's, as well as, Captain Ronald Amundsen on his trip to the South Pole in 1911. In 1902 Burberry's signature deep pocketed, double breasted jacket was chosen to outfit King Edward's army. With the advent of trench warfare in 1914 the garment was given epaulet's to hold hats, D rings to hold binoculars, compasses, and of course the odd grenade thus gaining the moniker we all know today of "trench coat" Ah, the origins of icons!

Pay Less Indeed

It all started for me with Isaac Mizrahi and his line of clothing at Target and then it seemed that every single fashion designer was busting down doors to get their "affordable" lines out and spread their name to the masses not just the privleged few. Names like Luella, Tara Jarmon, Rafé, Norma Kamali, and the list goes on. Now Abaeté is on that list having just released their new line of shoes for none other than "Bo-Go" Payless Shoe Source. And I swore I would never buy another pair of Payless shoes after I got to high-school. After going to visit these new shoes I totally caved and got the "Casey" flat. (Even though I was tempted by the "Oliver" d'Orsay pump, but I'm realistic about me walking in high heels) They are impeccably manufactured with detailed stitching, bows, and handsome fabrics. Plus, you can't beat the price!

Back To The World Of Fashion

Today will be my first day back at ths comp blogging about fashion since the fifth and I apologize. I sank into a deep depression when Fashion Week came to the city and the only chance I had of getting in the tents was in Istanbul until the day of the show. Sufficet to say I was not contacted until the day after he returned, and after the show. Cest la vie I suppose, there is always the spring. So I return to the world dressed for success and a little but of fun. I'm wearing a Tara Jarmon mini, with a short sleeved scoop neck sweater from The Gap like this, black blazer from The Gap as well like this, and these adorble ballet flats. If I switch the flats to some sexy heels I could go out on the town. And of course my trusty, fit-everything, Spy bag. Translates from office to schools and out on the town. Love it. I've got much new news so check back later as I update.

Be One Of The First

I couldn't go last year because I wasn't of age but this year I am and ready to go! To what you ask? Well, if you though Girl's Night Out was great you will LOVE Lucky's Lucky Shops event. It will take place on November 9th and 10th at Gotham Hall. You'll save as much as 70% on items from Marc Jabobs, Foley + Corina, Paper Denim & Cloth, Rebecca Taylor, Botkier, Catherine Malandrino, Laura Merkin and many more. Get your tickets while they last. From what I've heard there will be a line out the door for regular admission and it will be worth it to go for the pre-sale ones. Free cocktails and the best selection of goods sounds great to me. I haven't even started classes and already I'm trying to rationalize skipping and shopping it up.

So Comfy

I braved the crazy crowds this weekend to do some last minute shopping before it's back to the super grind of work and school and I found the most comfortable sandals ever! I don't have anything to match them and I it didn't matter that's how comfortable they were. I had to have them. I looked up the brand, Born, online and they have tons of shoes, boots, and of course sandals with the signature super padded comfy sole. They even do handbags! Now I know where to look for new work shoes so I'm not clacking around all day but hobbling home.

Everything's Coming Up Roses

I am in love! This reminds me of a bracelet that Sarah Jessica Park wore to the Emmy's or Oscar's a few years back. It was designed by Vera Wang, diamond encrusted, and impossible to replicate believe me I searched. But that's all over now! What's most exciting about what I've found is that it's not a bracelet because I don't wear them, it's a necklace and even more of a bonus, there are matching earrings. Like I said, love and I must order now.

Better Late Than Never

I know that the VMA's are old news already but here are my picks for some of the best and worst dressed:

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I'm always jealous of Shakira, the things she can do with her body! But, I digress. The point is she looks fabulous! Simple yet stunning and of course with her beautiful smile.

As much as I can't stand Christina Aguilera's constant desire to look like she's Marilyn Monroe I have to say right here, as much as that want is defintially still there, I'm getting another vibe that's a little more just Christina. Maybe I'm crazy but she looks fabulous.

As much as I want to hunt here down and just start shoving cake in her mouth Nicole Richie is hiding her skeletal look very well here in this wonderfully frilly dress. To bad her arms are a dead giveaway, maybe she should have gone all retro and wore evening gloves.

I know that Marc Anthony has JLo under his thumb but he really needs to hire a stylist instead of picking out her clothes for himself. The whole retro femme bot look might work for him but it doesn't for me, or anyone else for that matter.

Paris need to take a stlye lesson from ex-best friend Nicole for sure. Maybe without the tutu skirt that dres would have been ok. Either way that doesn't mean the boots or that quaf work. This is a great example that there are things that money can't buy.

On The Job

Working on Saturdays is not the kind of thing that I looked forward too during the summer because it was beautiful, sunny, and I could have been at the beach working on my tan. But with the start of September comes the crappy weather and back to school so I suppose sitting in my solitary office on my solitary floor just chilling isn't that bad. You can get your work done in your own time and as long as it's done it's done, no one breathing down your neck or throwing more things on the pile (I literally do have piles on my desk) and being comfy. Right now I'm wearing my brand spankin' new Apple Bottom jeans (love them and I managed to get into a crazy small size for me yay!), graphic tee, and Puma speed cats. I've also traded in the Spy that I have been attached to all week for my Vintage Louis Vuitton Speedy. Honestly, I just need to start carrying a smaller bag but that's a whole different story.

Crazyness

When I first got a look at this picture I really thought that it was a fake Canal Street knock off of a Louis Vuitton. But, I was so wrong. This could be the perfect gift for someone you know. If for no other reason than that they won't believe what they are seeing.

Gassed

(NEW YORK) Although Kimora Lee Simmons is staging her Baby Phat show in the largest venue at Bryant Park this September, don’t get your hopes up. Several fashion editors were flummoxed Monday morning upon receiving unsolicited rejections from the fashion label. E-mails were dropped into the inboxes of several editors—who had not requested Baby Phat seats—with the following message: “Thank you for your interest in attending the upcoming Baby Phat by Kimora Lee Simmons Spring 07 Fashion Show. Unfortunately, due to the limited amount of seats we are unable to accommodate your request at this time. Thank you again.” -- Fashion Week Daily

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I am not surprised considering Kimora Lee's tendencies...

Angela Keslar I Love You

I was lucky enough to be able to watch Project Runway with my mom last night. It's probably the first time all season that I was able to catch the show on Wednesday night as opposed to the marathon re-runs that they have every weekend. I was so sad that Angela got sent home. She was a crazy bird but she definitally had unbelievable talent in her own little niches. And I was not the only person who was crushed I'm sure considering someone spent $710.00 on her winning design for I.N.C on Bravo's auction site. Honestly, couldn't they have just waited till they could order from Macy's? You can even buy a t-shirt that has the design screen printed on it! The whole thing is a bit pricey considering she put it together for only a mere $125.oo or whatever but it has all the Angela style and is perfect for the fall. I will miss her but now I'm rooting for Michael. That boy is gonna win!

Who Wears The Pants?

Wouldn't it me nice not to be wearing lace thongs or tangas all the time, come on be honest somehtimes you know you just want to trade them in for granny panties but fear being discovered in some spontaneous passion by your significant other. Inspired by the simple, nonchafing men’s boxer and tailored just for women, the little shorty-shorts are saucy and sexy without any girlish frills. The plaid and striped numbers are made from the same fine Italian and Japanese cotton fabrics that Steven Alan uses in his button-down shirts. They look comfy and you can feel free to pull a Marilyn on top of the subway grates or join the boxer vs. brief debate. Available at Steven Alan Annex, 229 Elizabeth Street (btwn. Prince and Spring), 103 Franklin Street, at Church Street, 465 Amsterdam Avenue, (btwn 82nd and 83rd) and of course online.