i heart shaun white collage.

As the world’s greatest non-athlete, one might find it surprising that I become completely immersed in Olympic mania once every four years. The Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics have proved particularly interesting thanks to 2 things: men’s figure skating (that’s a whole ‘nother story) and gold medalist snowboarder Shaun White. My personal snowboarding career never quite got off the ground (I only went once and sold my board for beer money back in college), but Shaun is the king of half pipe! As a snowboarder (went pro at 13!) and skateboarder (went pro at 17!) he has earned a record set of X Games and Olympic gold medals. As if he wasn’t awesome enough, he also collaborates on clothing lines for Burton and Target. This kid is all over the place, and it’s no wonder he’s been dubbed The Flying Tomato. I think this is the guy to be, but if you can’t be him, just dress like him!

Red, White & You.

1. VO5 “Curvaceous Curls” Styling Mousse, Vitacost.com

2. Anchor Tab Plaid Shirt, Forever21.com

3. Roxy Skyscraper Studs Jeans, Roxy.com

4. Burton White Collection “Lady Windsor’s Finest Jacket,” ShaunWhite.com

5. Oakley Collector’s Edition Shaun White “Frogskins” Sunglasses, Oakley.com

6. Teong Kay Jade Turquoise Ring, ShopRumor.com

where art thou susan powter?

On this beloved holiday, I hit the streets to find my soul mate: a pair of high-rise skinny jeans. I declared that I could only purchase said item and nothing else. Period. But then it happened… the shopping mania set in and there was no going back! All of a sudden there I was, and there they were: open cardigans, studded flats, long basic T’s, workout tanks, leggings, gold pendants, flashy tops, fitted blazers and everything that is not skinny jeans but I swear I need… and all on SALE!! It was a nightmare made worse by my fear of commitment and total inability to prioritize. I dragged myself through five hours of rigorous downtown mall shopping because I figured the next store was sure to have my skinnies! Needless to say, I had to pull a citizen’s arrest and send myself home without my intended valentine, but not necessarily empty handed…

1. Matty M “Waterfall” Cardigan, Bluefly.com

2. Skinny Stretch Pants, Gap.com

3. Roll-Up Chambray “Camper” Shirt, OldNavy.com

4. “Owl Carry You” Necklace, Forever21.com

5. Essie nail polish in “Mucho Dinero,” Essie.com

6. Jessica Simpson suede “Tulip” boots, Zappos.com

Dig in!

Baby it’s cold outside, but spring has sprung indoors! Retail establishments are showing off the season’s top trends as their buyers have attempted to fluently translate the runways into real world practicality. I consider myself somewhat of a savvy consumer; thus, I find it’s easier to mimic what’s hot on the floors while at a thrift shop than it is to splurge on the “real” deal. Fashion may be ever-changing, but in the end it’s cyclical. Is this really the first time that floral skirts have been the must-have? Or that leggings are a necessity? Or that oversized [insert garment here] was très chic? Answer: absolutely not! Save your money girlfriend, because trends pass overnight and your closet doesn’t need another pair of designer shredded jeans or an “updated” boyfriend blazer. Make a date with your favorite vintage store and put the following items on your To-Dig list.

 Oversized/Oxford. 

1. Vince Oversized Roll Sleeve Shirt, Piperlime.com

2. “Boyfriend” Woven Shirt, Forever21.com

3. Trouve Button Front Boyfriend Shirt, Nordstrom.com

Floral/Mini.

 1. Floral Skirt, Forever21.com

2. Eight Sixty Floral Print Silk Skirt, Nordstrom.com

3. “Pollen Promise” Skirt, Anthropologie.com

Pleated/Harem.

1. Rick Owens “Kady” Pleated Pants, Outnet.com

2. La La Berlin “Jim” Trousers, RevolveClothing.com

3. Bird by Juicy Couture Cashmere Harem Pant, NetAPorter.com

Tapered/Khaki.

1. g-star “Army Rovic” Tapered Pants, SSense.com

2. My-Pants “Dublin” Cargo Pants, ShopBop.com

3. “Whitney” Low-Rise Boyfriend, Delias.com

nina ricci. fendi. antonio berardi. photos: marcio madeira for style.com

Rarely am I at a loss for words, but it’s taken some time for me to lay the groundwork for introducing the sensual seduction trend. Silk, lace and chiffon peep-shows have been taking over the runways and are coming soon to a mall near you. I am a proud supporter of all things feminine, but I would die (a fashionable death) if any of you take away the impression that I’ve encouraged you to rock out with your bra out!  After careful examination, I’ve ruled in favor of soft silhouettes assuming one obeys the following laws:

} Back to basics. In terms of color, go light (cream, nude, pastel) or dark (navy or black). It’s best to avoid brights and/or prints.

} Stay on top. No need for provacative pants or risqué rompers.

} Keep it simple. Swap in a silky camisole in place of your typical tank and done. No need for silky + lacy + poofy + pink.

} Girl meets Boy. Always balance the feminine with the masculine. I say this repeatedly because you’re at risk of looking like a costume character if you take any look too far. Watch how J.Crew’s Jenna Lyons wins the battles of the sexes here.

Frisky Foundation.

"Zen" contour cami bra by Natori, Nordstrom.com

wireless bralettes, VictoriasSecret.com

Brazen Bodice.

Crisp Indigo Blouse, Anthropologie.com

silk camisole, Jcrew.com

corset cami by Elizabeth & James, DianiBoutique.com

"Joyce" lace sleeve voile top by Joie, Nordstrom.com

ruffle sleeve top by Twelve by Twelve, Forever21.com

silk chiffon pleated blouse, VictoriasSecret.com

"Jolene" sweater by Corey Lynn Calter, Piperlime.com

"field game" cardigan, Anthropologie.com

draped silk-crepe blazer by Elizabeth & James, NetaPorter.com

} Most importantly, if this trend isn’t your thing then surely skip it. Might I suggest trying on some sassy separates in a proper lingerie department instead (and get accurately fit for undergarments!). We all know Victoria’s secret, but some of us just prefer to keep it in our pants.

photo courtesy of The Sartorialist, click on photo for link.

After delving into spring’s fashionable future, it’s time to take a step back and enjoy the present. During the winter months we may start feeling un-stylishly stale, and I find nothing quite as refreshing as seeing how others continue to work it, rain or shine. They say that good things come in 3’s, and I concur after spying these lovely ladies amongst the Sartorialist’s January 2010 post. These gal pals look high on style by all accounts: the color combination of black, green, navy blue, earthy browns and peachy pink is beautiful; the gaucho, slim fit and plaid pants are equally intriguing; the accessories are such enviable add-ons; also, the simplistic layering looks warm and chic! Thankfully, one needn’t live in Milan to pull off such an enticing ensemble. Simply follow my lead, as a little creative shopping is all you need to pull off…

1. the bold minimalist.

Jessica Simpson Empire Waist Walking Coat, Nordstrom.com

Sunner smocked pant, Shopbop.com

"On-The-Spot" bag, Anthropologie.com

CC Skye Esalen Wooden Bangle, Couture.Zappos.com

2. the sassy romantic.

Jade necklace, Joanne-Moore.com

Leifsdottir "Precious" Silk Ruffled Blouse, Bloomingdales.com

Slim Cropped Pant, Gap.com

Steve Madden "Tricked" Suede Heels in Blush, LorisShoes.com

3. the lively fashionista.

Ray Ban "High Street Wayfarer" Sunglasses, Nordstrom.com

Circular Organic Cotton Blend Scarf in Blue Jewel, Nordstrom.com

A-Line Wool Coat, Alloy.com

Christine Bec Leather Gloves, Polyvore.com

A.L.C. Tux Pant, LaGarconne.com

Now go get dressed and pencil in a Ladies Night!

Groundhog cupcakes: the dish du jour.

Fast approaching is our nation’s most sacred of holidays, Groundhog Day. On February 2nd, Punxsutawney Phil shall enlighten us all with the most scientific of methods: casting shadows to predict weather. This special day was even commemorated in one of the greatest movies of all time. What a lucky girl I am that my birthday just happens to fall on this monumental holiday. This year I shall share some of the spotlight with Phil, as I do plan to celebrate the new decade that I am stoked to enter into: the 30’s. My 20’s were one hot mess of a learning experience, and I fully intend to use the wisdom I’ve gained to enrich my future. In addition, I subscribe to the notion that “your presence is my present,” but if you don’t buy into that kind of rhetoric then I’ve got some gift suggestions for me…

To Wear.

3 Wolf Moon T-Shirt,$13, Amazon.com

J.K. Livin Bandana, $10, JKLivinStore.com

To Read:

All You Need To Be Impossibly French by Helena Frith Powell, $10, Amazon.com

Domino: The Book of Decorating by Deborah Needleman, $21, Overstock.com

To Listen:

Throw a one-woman Coachella (Phoenix, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Grizzly Bear, She & Him...), iTunes gift card, $10, Apple.com

Brush up on my Deutsch with Drive Time: German: Learn German While You Drive, $10, Powells.com

To Go:

Round-trip tickets to Paris in the springtime, $700, Travelocity.com

A stay at the Opus Hotel, Vancouver B.C., $300, Expedia.com

To Cherish:

Obeying the laws of The Style Trial & spreading the good word, Priceless, TheStyleTrial.com (Photo courtesy of Shmal)

Make a donation. My local pick: Dress For Success, learn more at DressForSuccess.org

Fingers crossed Phil does NOT see his shadow; hence, an early spring. I've got us all prepared just in case!

all that and then some. Collector's Corner, Rancho Mirage

I can now say with complete certainty that I am palm sprung! I absolutely love it here and am convinced that the storm indefinitely delaying my flight is a hint from above that I have no business leaving the lap of luxury! My hosts have been the utmost of gracious, and I have pondered returning in April for the fashion fest that is Coachella. For now, it is my pleasure to show off the results of my whirlwind style stop at Collector’s Corner in Rancho Mirage. In addition to the impressive inventory, this thrift store is clean, organized and incredibly inviting due to the lovely ladies on staff (and again the proceeds benefit a worthwile cause). Check out my very own spring 2010 “Collector’s Collection” below, and I’ll head back into my winter reality check.

see thru.

lovely lace.

glow in the dark.

sheer cover.

flower power.

digital underground.

vintage St. John jumpsuit.

sgt. pepper

spring's color palette du jour! couldn't leave without the red shorts!

down to earth.

these loose, pleated pants were too perfect to pass up!

easter sundae.

soft structure. love this!

subtle undertones.

pastel powerhouse!

my favorite dress, but it didn't fit! if you love something, set it free... go get it at Collector's Corner, Rancho Mirage

Let the sequin begin. Angel View Prestige Boutique, Palm Springs

 So I have come to Palm Springs in search of sun, serenity and style. The Desert offers the best vintage shopping ever… as does probably every other city saturated with rich retirees. After lunching at the newly remodeled Riviera Resort and Spa (the pinnacle of retro chic), it was time to talk shop. My mission was to see how I could take the spring 2010 ready to wear trends and make them work in the real world. You name it, I tried it: reds, blues, pastels, nudes, soft silhouettes, digital prints and even “the kitchen sink.” If you shop the Angel View Prestige Boutique be sure to take a walk around back and hit up the Angel View Thrift Store. I met and fell in love with so many things, but knowing it was only my first day at work, I settled for the red belt (pictured with the red pants), ivory silk blouse, both the hot pink and lavender dresses… and the pleasure of knowing that fashion can benefit a wonderful charity.

Sight to See…

Riviera Resort and Spa entrance, Palm Springs

Riviera Resort and Spa lobby booths, Palm Springs

 

Spring Style on Trial…

Jumpstart. Angel View Prestige Boutique, Palm Springs

five alarm fire. Angel View Thrift Store, Palm Springs

my blue heaven. Angel View Thrift Store, Palm Springs

barely there. Angel View Thrift Store, Palm Springs

pretty in pink. Angel View Thrift Store, Palm Springs

wrap it up. Angel View Thrift Store, Palm Springs

 P.S. I love you. Stay tuned for day 2…

In preparation for my upcoming trip to The Dez I wanted to make sure I was up on the Spring 2010 trends to lend some direction to my always amazing thrifty desert finds. Palm Springs is a goldmine of vintage fashion as its many residents have retired their fancy duds in favor of khakis, popped collars and sun visors. Fashion is forever cyclical and nothing brings me more joy than finding the $3 inspired original of today’s highest end designs. As I’ve previously mentioned, I never head into shopping bliss until I am armed with a list of the current must-haves. Take note of which trends you will adopt in the coming months.

 From head to toe.

Braidy Bunch at Oscar de la Renta

Bright Eyes at Michael Kors

Bibs get chunkier! Philppe Ferrandis turqoise resin necklace

Be-Tassled! Marc Jacobs leather "Dancer" knapsack with tassel detail

Woodstock. Celine velvet clog sandal.

Color Coded.                                   

                                    { white }

Bottega Veneta

Michael Kors

                                          { pastels }                 

Missoni

Peter Som

                                           { nude }

Donna Karan

Fendi

                                             { red }

Stella McCartney

3.1 Phillip Lim

                                            { blue }

Lanvin

Thakoon

The New Look.

                       { army meets safari }

Burberry Prorsum

Balmain

                            { hang loose }

Bottega Veneta

Stella McCartney

                           { floral fiasco }

Diane Von Furstenberg

Etro

                     { back to the future }

Proenza Schouler

Alexander McQueen

                               { sneaky peeks }

Miu Miu

Nina Ricci

                         { the kitchen sink }

Aquilano.Rimondi

Rodarte

 … Bon Voyage!

* All photos courtesy of Style.com

Available at ConceptTshirts.com

Thanks to the many holiday splurges (gifts, plane tickets, late nights, etc) most of us find January to be our brokest month of the year. When it comes time to tightening your belt you needn’t sacrifice style. Everyone and anyone can look and feel fabulous on a budget, you just need to know how to allocate your fashion funds. The first step is to purge your closet and transform it from a clearance sale into a brand new boutique. Get rid of what doesn’t fit or flatter and toss out a couple trends of your fashion past. Let go of all the clothes that aren’t your size because chances are once you get to that size again you will want all new clothes! Go invest in having that oversized blazer perfectly tailored once and for all. The big idea is to uncover the hidden jackpot that already exists in your wardrobe and make shopping it more efficient. For those who can’t stop the impulse buy altogether, I have some suggestions of ways to remain chic but for cheap.

 I don’t want no scrubs.

Banish the checkered scarf!

Ill-fitting undergarments: toss 'em and go get professionally fit.

No crying over spilt wine and yellow pits. Simply bid adieu to stained Tshirts and Tanks!

Put away the pastels... for now.

Anything too big or too small has to go. Get rid of the emotional ties and hoarding habits!

Cheapskate.

Forever fabulous! MAC Viva Glam Lipstick, $14, Nordstrom.com. Bonus: Every cent goes to the MAC AIDS Fund. Recycle your MAC containers and receive any lipstick for free!

Is that from Anthro? Why no I bought it on Etsy! Ruffled flower petal gown, Foundlings Vintage, Etsy.com

Browse the clearance sales! Tip: If you wouldn't love it at full price, do NOT buy it on sale!

Winterize your summer wardrobe. Layer tights, booties, leather jacket, belt, scarf... Photo courtesy of The Sartorialist

Make the most of a vintage scarf! Tie one on your handbag, in your hair a la Jackie O or tie in front and let the pattern show in back, etc... Silk bird & flower print scarf, Ibona Design at Etsy.com

Invest in tailoring your staple outdoor coat. Double-Cloth Lady Day Coat, Jcrew.com

Disclaimer: I love hair color; however, when it comes time to penny pinch one must ditch the highlights! Unless you've got the funds, there is no better time like the present to darken back up.

By the time Spring Cleaning rolls around you should be ahead of the game and stylish as ever!