Eye-4-Style

LANVIN is a fashion house I “ooh and aah” over their well-made collections. I believe consumers hold certain labels in high regard for various reasons. For me, it’s “Why yes, it’s Lanvin.” And that says it all.

Python Shoulder Bag

Brassy woven chain will go equally well with gold or silver.

Metallic Amalia Tote

Great everyday bag!

About Lanvin:
’Lanvin is the oldest French house of fashion still creating collections. Founded by Jeanne Lanvin as a millinery on Faubourg Saint-Honore in 1889 Paris, the company earned a following among French socialites. Today, critically acclaimed designer Alber Elbaz upholds the Lanvin tradition of supremely well-made clothes, adding shoes, handbags, jewelry and accessories to the collection.’

About Lafayette 148 New York
Named for their street address and known for impeccable tailoring, Lafayette 148 quickly became a destination for the modern, intelligent woman. Design director Edward Wilkerson takes an intensely personal approach to learning the needs of his customers, traveling to more than 200 trunk shows a year to gain perspective into the lives of the professional women and the on-the-go mothers that he has come to call "my women."

A quick peek at Fall dresses:

Leopard-Print Dress, Leather Gloves and Obi Belt

Timeless and modern at the same time, this Lafayette 148 New York look is a rich blend of leopard-print and leather that exudes unparalleled luxury.

What’s behind the red sole? As Christian Louboutin’s registered trademark is challenged (see my August 14th post), they give us their story along with the PMS (Pantone Color Matching System) of the coveted red soles they trademarked in 2008.

Maggie Cap-Toe Pump

Calf Hair Mid-Heel Pump: The chunky heel is back!

“This Christian Louboutin pump features a sturdy, easy-to-handle heel, so you can show off the red sole all day—and all night. Think of the leopard print as a neutral, a bettered basic to enhance both solid and patterned apparel alike.”

Metallic Fabric Mid-Heel Slingback: beautiful shimmer with texture. Wear with cocktail attire, power-suiting separates, and blue jeans alike.

Crystal-Heel Patent Pump: Beautiful!

I’m a curious person and like to know what people think and what their habits are. I find it interesting that shoppers can be very rigid in their shopping habits; they may never set foot in Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus. They don’t buy from catalogs because of returns. They only shop at certain retailers because they think they can’t afford or won’t find anything in a boutique or higher-end store. I say, don’t limit your choices. There are possibilities everywhere!

I like seeing clothing on models as it’s easy to visualize the outfit on my body, so catalog or on-line shopping is good for that. The larger retailers have made returning items very easy. You usually have a return label and an amount is deducted from your credit. When I calculate time and gas, the amount to return the item is less than what I’d spend on the streets. Just be sure to try on the items right away, keep the original packaging, carefully repackage the item and return as quickly as possible if it doesn’t work.  It is worth it to me when the stores I’m ordering from are further away or “on-line” has sales.

I enjoy going to the boutiques on Oak Street in Chicago.  They are fun to visit and there’s a limited amount of square footage, but you’ll find items there you won’t find elsewhere. If your time is limited, I’d go to Nordstrom or Saks, Macy’s, Bloomingdales. They have your favorite designers under one roof. When visiting Chicago, I plan my time carefully with boutiques and department store shopping. While some labels are out of reach for the average consumer, it’s an adventure to touch and see the fabrics and designs. Believe me, you will see that filter down to your price level in a different fabric, but it makes you aware of what is out there and a better-informed consumer. Try on different brands and designers to find what works for your body type.   Also watch for the “clear it out” sales – I’ve made great purchases at 75% off!

There’s a bit of “hunter and gatherer” in all of us and the outlet malls are just the place to seek out bargains. Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th and Polo Ralph Lauren are three stores I usually have great success. You may not find THE color or TREND of the season, but it’s a good opportunity to try different designers or replace worn-out pieces. Plan on spending time going through the racks…. and I’d suggest trying everything on if making a return would be inconvenient. It’s well worth the time and effort, in fact, make it an outing and include lunch! 

Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH

Polo Ralph Lauren outlet

It’s time to think about your Spring/Summer makeup. Click HERE to see a few items Neiman Marcus offers to brighten your face as we change out our closets from winter to summer wardrobe. If you don’t want to completely revamp your makeup, a new lipstick or nail polish will start you on your way to warmer days ahead.

Laura Mercier

Mystique Collection

When you want to totally change out your makeup, I’d suggest going to your favorite cosmetics counter or watch for  a “gift with purchase.” I like to change my foundation as winter in the Midwest requires more moisturizing and lighter color.  In summer, I like to wear a darker foundation to go with my tan skin (outdoor activities), which calls for a coordinating blush and lipstick. If you meet with a cosmetic consultant or makeup artist, have her write down all the colors she uses(along with her phone number or business card), then wear it for the rest of the day before purchasing. I like to see how it wears, looks in the daylight, etc. This will help you make better purchases, as the price for a “new look” can be expensive. Take the time to see if this is really what you’re looking for and is best for you. If the look turns out to be a winner, you can go back to the consultant or call her and make your purchases.

Several department stores have events that include a gift bag and samples, and usually free shipping. These events are a great time to make your purchases and try new products.

Good luck, have fun, and enjoy your fresh new look!

I’m happy to see so much coral!

I’m always looking for a ‘flat with flair’ that I can wear all day. For a ‘work-out-walk,’ tennis shoes are in order… otherwise, I want to comfortably stroll the city with my footwear adding style to my outfit. Always on the lookout, here’s a few fabulous finds from Neiman Marcus.

Wake up penny loafers – these are adorable!

Stuart Weitzman Glitter Penny Loafer

“Stuart Weitzman surprises us, taking the classic penny loafer and bedazzling with glitter. It’s just the thing to spice up your jean or trouser look.

• Glitter adds sparkle to the toe and backstay.
• Choose leather or twill upper.
• Topstitching on square toe.
• Scalloped band across vamp with center cutout.
• Leather lining.
• Rubber driving sole.
• "Aunt Penny" is made in Spain.”

Stuart Weitzman

Love the detail of the glitter and canvas. Cool footwear and I bet flattering to the leg.

Perforated Glitter Ballerina Flat

Kate Spade

Open-toe and soft. Good for travel- day or night activities.

Fierce Jewel Ballerina Flat

Kate Spade 

Jellies are fun! Great for a fast slip-on or pool side.

Beau Flower Jelly Slide

Michael Kors watches

From $180 to $495. Great choices for function and style.

Double-Knit Felt Jacket, Jersey Long-Sleeve Top & Ponte Boot-Cut Pants

Eileen Fisher – great outfit for gal on the go

Faux-Fur-Lined Nylon Wedge Boot $170

Juicy Couture spells fun with these nylon and suede boots

‘The simple elegance of the link bracelet enhanced by the signature stylish logo engraving of MARC by Marc Jacobs.’

At $98, you can order one each silver or gold

Spend a day at home to relax, refresh, rejuvenate. Be comfortable; this is the top priority but doesn’t mean you can’t look good!  Neiman Marcus fulfills a niche in this regard. They offer wonderful lounging outfits; soft and great looking! Here’s a new one…and a few sales  (

Jeweled Front Jogsuit

Allure with velour—rhinestone detail takes leisure wear to the next level.

Foil-print Jogging Suit

Chic foil print lends luxe appeal to sleek tailoring.

  On sale.

Ruffle-Front Tracksuit

Take on vacation to warmer climates. 50% off.

Ruffles and bohemian raw edging make this two-piece lounge set stand out from the rest.

• Choose yellow or black.

Dylan Ruffled Jumpsuit

Remarkable cutaway cuff detail is a chic addition to the jumpsuit.

On sale.

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/templates/P5b.jhtml?itemId=cat21080733&parentId=cat000003&masterId=cat000001

For you gals who like Diane von Furstenberg, click on the above link to see her new designs for spring/summer! I love the prints she’s going with. For cool days and nights, add a neutral jacket, shawl or cardigan (which you already have in your closet) and you’ve updated your wardrobe!