stylebirds: by carla & amy

Anna Dello Russo

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 19:27:00 +0000

I am fascinated with Anna Dello Russo.

Something about her look seems as if she shouldn't be able to pull off some of the things that she pulls off. She's fearless and she has ridiculously lovely legs. I respect that.

But now, ADR has won me over with her "10 CHRISTMAS party RULES" (on her blog) which are as follows (this is exactly as written, and I find her English completely charming; I liked reading it with an Italian accent):

"Now begins the critical period for PARTIES to celebrate CHRISTMAS.

They involving not only the family andfriends, as well as formal events.

I'm going to remember you my10 RULES to be always on TOP!

1. Don't wear RED or GREEN outfits.
You will look alike a Christmas tree.

2. Forget any COATS(also if outside it's only 5 degrees).
You should make a big impactjust with your dress.

3. Choose a GOLD.
You will emphasize the ideato be a Christmas GIFT to unwrap.

4. Go to the hairdresser, facial,manicure and pedicure.
Don't be worry to be OVER-DONE!

5. Choose between HAT and MAKEUP,
if you wear a hat keep fresh faceotherwise you will looks like a transvestite.

6. Wearing lots of JEWELLERY.
the sound of JEWELLERY banishbad thoughts and bad ghosts.

7. Focus on the SHOES.
Generally at Christmas party you spenda lot of time seated on the sofa.

8. Shoes have to carry all the magicalatmosphere of Christmas:
Choose sparkling, shiny, eccentric, metallic, decorative, precious, brocade, extravagant, color-full, magnificent, enchanting, ... PAIR OF SHOES.

9. Don't be worry about your BAG,
you immediately will forget it on some chairs.

10. Don't throw yourself on the drinksand on the food.
It's not POLITE!

Particularly excellent advice in #5, birdies.

Whew, I was planning on a green and red dress to the holiday party.

Love this Amy!!

In another case of Who's Dressing You...

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 19:09:00 +0000

Here's your girl, Tory Burch, somewhere underneath a pile of ostrich feathers. This is a problem. Everything from the feather-top to the flats with the oversized bow.

I could see this top potentially working if layered over a long sleeve shirt, hot black pants or jeans and a killer pair of boots. Something more along the lines of the Aspen look; not with the office skirt and shoes as spotted above.

Ok, let's not get too carried away here Carla... I do not claim her. This looks like an animal is hugging her.

I am not sure this top could work at all. Maybe (MAYBE) with something very tight on the bottom. Her shoe choice is confusing at best.

The shoes crack me up...

Death at the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Awards

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 23:57:00 +0000

Minimalist style was spotted all over the recent CFDA/Vogue Fashion Awards. From Alexander Wang to the Olsen twins, it was a funeral prosession of black, from head to toe. The third duo, Peter Dundas and Joan Smalls looked smoking cool. In short, layer on the black and add the punch with accessories.

Keep in mind this is New York as well. But not many people can pull off that feathered jacket. She rocks it.

(Image #1 Alexander Wang & Vanessa Traina, Image #2 Olsen Twins, Image #3 Emilio Pucci's Peter Dundas and Joan Smalls, and Image #4 Michael Kors).

Get your goat on

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 02:23:00 +0000

Here are a couple of looks from J.Crew Fall 2010.

Loving the shorts + tights, neutrals, and the the Mongolian Lamb vest ($800). I'm going to go ahead and say that look #2 may not be the most flattering...but definitely looks interesting.

I'm into those brown legs. J.Crew always does this- puts together good ensembles, but when I go to shop, I can't sort through it all and come up with anything much. I use these more as inspiration.

You're right! That happens to me as well. I've seen some cute coats though.

Kate's final collection for Topshop

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 15:58:00 +0000

The Kate Moss + Topshop powerhouse began in 2007 and is sadly coming to an end. First Prince William gets engaged, and now this...what's the point of going to London?

Below are the preview looks from the final collection. So...most of the pieces featured in the ads are sold out, but there are a few other really cool standouts in the collection, now available for shipping in the USA: Topshop.com.

Check out the nylons vs. leggings or tights. It's a bit more elegant vs. bohemian. I haven't really worn a lot of nylons, but I think about it for winter. We're headed for stockings for sure. They've got a throwback ladylike vibe and I agree, do it.

That last look is just torturing me with its non-availability. Gorgeous. I'm headed to DC Tuesday by the way and will be looking into the Lanvin/H&M line.

Cameras as gifts:

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 23:39:00 +0000

Urban Outfitters has a fantastic selection of unusual cameras that are in every price range. Worth checking out for someone that's hard to buy for, whether you'd like instant, digital or film.

Pictured above, Holgawood flashless 120mm in white.

What do you really desire?

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 17:22:00 +0000

So sure, this is a little editorial, but I'm over it. Consumption seems so... tired.

Like Proust's Albertine, who couldn't afford new outfits on a whim like the wealthy Duchesse, we can give ourselves the gift of purchasing only the very special, very desired items, whether we have to save up for them or not.

Like every obstacle in the way of possessing something...poverty, more generous than opulence, gives women far more than the clothes they cannot afford to buy: the desire for clothes, which creates a genuine, detailed, thorough knowledge of them.

- Marcel Proust

Isn't that lovely?

Yes! I love this. Fashion is art and not every piece is made to own. I think you can really appreciate and be inspired by things when you're not thinking of buying.

Now, this is not to say that I am against Forever 21. However, it is sort of like the fast-food of fashion. I am just recognizing the beauty of the wait, the delay of the gratification, which can foster a deeper love with said objecct.

Red Lips

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 19:27:00 +0000

My Favorite Red lipstick (which is all OVER the spring runways....so we'll probably be ready for something else by then):

It Girl by Sephora Collection

An orangey-red that doesn't dry your lips out.

Carla? What's your fave?

Here is a link to a nice article on choosing the best red for your skin tone on stylecaster.

(Photo, Vena Cava Spring 2011).

Forget the Jacket...

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 02:06:00 +0000

Go with leather on the legs. Skirt. Boots. Jeans. Shorts. Whatever. Throw some leather on your legs! And keep it black.

Yes, these look good... but I think there is room for grey and brown. They can soften this look and make it easier for day, no? I will get back to you with ideas...

(Jennifer Lopez, Alessandra Ambrosio)

Roots to your ears

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 01:51:00 +0000

More two-toned hair. And now I love it, too!! You should do it...

Should I? If I wait much longer the trend is over! But I like it. A lot.

(Behati Princloo, Ashelee Simpson-Wentz and Whitney Port)

Daily Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 15:53:00 +0000

Audrey. Scarves. Brows. Button down shirts. Ankle length pants.

When your skinny jeans are slouchy at the bottom....

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 15:27:00 +0000

Roll them up. (Or tailor them ankle length. Part of my new ankle-length obsession.)

I'm loving rolled skinny jeans right now, with heels or flats or Tom's or sandals.... I like them just at or above the ankle. Very 80's, very fresh. I recommend keeping the cuff on the small side as well.

(Bottom photo from The Sartorialist, where everyone is rolling up everything.)

Lightning Bracelet

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:46:00 +0000

This could look cheap, but here, it's so playful and cute! Yes, I am on a Blake kick.

Check out that bracelette! Love it. Want it.

The button down

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:39:00 +0000

Ashlee: yes. I'm obsessing over button downs right now. Love her styling. (And note the two-tone hair, again.)

Obsessing over button-downs? Yes, I am. Interesting. I'm not a fan of Ashelee's ensemble but maybe you'll catch my attention later.

I like the gray as well. Shirt is sexy without trying. Or without looking like you're trying, anyway.

What??? I think it's trying too hard! I don't like when button downs look tight. This looks like it could pop at any moment.

Jessica: no. And stop spray tanning. You look like a carrot. She's making me want to stop mystic-ing forever.

I'm with you here!

Quick Style & Shopping Cuts

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:26:00 +0000

Valentino to collaborate with Gap (November)
Good. I'm keeping my excitement at 4 or 5.

Lanvin to do a collection with H&M (November)
Badass. The Lanvin & H&M love child has to rock.

Tom Ford coming out with a women's collection (Sneak Preview Sept 12)
Oh yeahhhhh. This man can do no wrong.

Target and Mulberry Handbags (Oct-Dec)
ZZZZ.....

Birdwatch: Celebs

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 14:18:00 +0000

Blake is adorable here: trendy, but not too; and styled so simply and beautifully.

Purchasing now

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:17:00 +0000

I am buying this Tory Burch bag in brown. Has a strap that comes off to convert it to a big slouchy clutch. A lady can't beat versatility, especially when out partying/dancing.

Also comes in black or purple, $365.

UPDATE: I just got it in. I freakin love it, especially for travel. Folds out for a larger messenger style for day.

Ahhh, I should've have written sooner! This just inspired me to contribute my thoughts in a quicker fashion. Look, I get the bag and it's actually not the worse of Burch's designs...but it's not a badass. I actually think Tory Burch ages people. Really, imagine Drew Barrymore (or the like) wearing her over-patterned stuff with gold buttons....? Kate Moss would say no.

The bag is fine, just take it easy on the TB from now on.

Oooh! Noted. But I still adore this bag. Really.

Let's be thankful for a moment

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:35:00 +0000

Thankful that we have a First Lady who rocks stuff like this.

And I must give props to her for pulling off lace and animal print together and still looking ladylike.

Tom's Ubiquitous Wedges

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:32:00 +0000

Tom's hasn't even had these wedges out very long but I already feel slightly tired of them. Yes, they look very cute. Yes, they are a great casual option. And of course, they shoe the feet of someone who needs it when you purchase them. So why won't I participate in the wedge? What is wrong with me? My pals are all swearing by them!

I'm trying to love the cordones right now. And I do heart my originals. Maybe it's something about when Tom's look a little bit uptown, it gives me a tiny inner irk.

That said, I do like the color of this pair of wedges. Burgundy is happening for fall.

Two-tone hair

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:30:00 +0000

I've got VW bug syndrome with this trend lately. I see it everywhere. I am convinced I like it too.

Chanel in your 20's

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 19:16:00 +0000

Check Blake Lively in Chanel at the premier of the movie, Twelve. This choice is really nice. I love the lace detail in the mid-section, the combination of fabrics, and of course, the back. I like how she makes this Chanel piece totally her own.

However, even a dress this sexy doesn't excuse a ratty ponytail. I know this probably won't bother you; and, you may even endorse it.

Well. I do not like this dress! What do you think of that? Love the colors, the lace, the shoes. But I can't get past the fact that I would never ever wear it. My reason: it reminds me of the nineties in some unfortunate way I cannot quite pinpoint.

I kinda like the ponytail, though. It's got a bedhead thing going on that I am currently a fan of. I always love some JBF hair.

A word about sunglasses

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:44:00 +0000

I pulled this image from The Sartorialist today. I've been sitting on a pair of round-eye shades like this for some time now, and I haven't been able to get there in my mind- I've still been stuck on aviators or squared frames (my Vuittons, which should really be retired, for God's sake). These men in Milan are making me want to change, though.

Wherever this guy is heading...he is looking gooood. And you're right, the shades add some edge to this sharp look. Take note, USA guys.

I am ready for something fresh and I'm going for it. Our little buddy MK has been rocking them for some time now.

She doesn't need any extra "edge" ....but she can't help herself.

Of course, cat-eyes are quite happening right now, as well, and my BF has just acquired some sweet Chanels like the ones pictured below and looks smashing and fresh in them.

Rachel Zoe was talking accessories and shades on Regis & Kelly (1:45 mark) a few days ago and I was surprised when she didn't mention the round shape. She talked aviators and cat-eyes. Hmmmm. (And FYI, she also touted the oversize clutch, faux fur, scarves, thigh-high boots, and hats. And there was leopard, naturally!)

LOVE this

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:09:00 +0000

It'll be no surprise that I adore this photo. This whole look, actually. (And I can't stop buying leopard right now, but I digress.)

You're right, no suprise here. I've recently made a couple leopard aquisitions as well. More to come but I'm all over it this fall.

Not only is this pin-up look gorgeous, but I think I am obsessing over this hairstyle. I'm seeing it everywhere, and ready to attempt re-creation. (Photo of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for Love magazine.)

Wedding Dress Monopoly

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:24:00 +0000

Chelsea Clinton's beautiful wedding dress designed by, wait a minute, what's her name? She's designed a few wedding dresses before....Ohhh, what is it? Very interesting choice of designer actually. Darn, I don't remember. Oh wait. Vera Wang. You can't go wrong in Vera. I get it.

Ethereal. Whoever styled this wedding was superb. (However, I wasn't crazy about Hillary's de la Renta.)

Cougar Redefined

noreply@blogger.com (stylebirds) — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 19:07:00 +0000

I just read an incredible article about Leon Bing (on Vouge.com) that interlaces attitude, confidence, forward thinking, and style. Bing was a runway model in the 60's and recapped her memoirs in 2009 in a book titled, Swans and Pistols.

This article describes her feelings about her relationship with a man 20+ years her junior. Her thoughts entertain a series of emotions and reactions. It's a fact that she doesn't seek confirmation from anyone (an attitude necessary to make any type of statement). Anyway just thought you'd like this supermodel/journalist's witty take on relationships...specifically hers.

Vogue Article (August 2010):