On A Magazine Mission

The strong aroma of freshly brewed coffee and decadent pastries, the scent of glossy magazines filled with rich, colorful images, and the muffled chatter of shoppers...such is the mild rush of sensory input that occasionally overwhelmes me upon entering the magazine section of Barnes & Noble. Comparable to the rush that overcomes me when I walk into a River Island store in Europe, the Zara store

Big City Of Dreams

When you think about New York, a few things may come to mind: riding the subway, walking through Central Park, catching a cab, grabbing a bite to eat from a street vendor, window shopping on the Upper East Side, people watching at Union Square, browsing the art at Moma or the Met, eating New York-style pizza, or watching indie bands play at a park. As I absorbed the energy of this frenetic city,

Splendid And Ella Moss Sale

One thing is for sure - New York certainly has an abundance of sample sales. Looking through my inbox this morning, I observed that I get notified of several each week. But since my blog is based in southern California, I tend to focus more on sales that happen in my area. (Selfish, I know, because I have readers in the New York region.) Fortunately for my Los Angeles-area readers, we don't have

Valerie Jarrett, Desirée Rogers and Susan Rice Strike a Pose

As well as the article below, I also discovered this article in the current issue of Washington, D.C.'s Capitol File magazine. Valerie Jarrett is President Obama's senior advisor (I'm sure you saw photos of her all over the country during the campaign) and Desirée Rogers is of course the White House's Social Secretary. Click here for full interview and more pics.

Below is Susan Rice. The current, and third youngest ever, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. Rice is featured in the June 2009 issue of Vogue. You can click here for the full interview and more pics, but below is just a snippet. I don't know about you but I love reading about all these successful women, including Michelle Obama!

At 44, Rice is, in fact, the second-youngest U.S. ambassador to the United Nations since its inception in 1945. (Donald McHenry, appointed in 1979 by Jimmy Carter, was a hair younger.) But Rice is used to being the youngest person at the table. As someone who went to high school with her puts it, "She was always highly respected by adults and seen as a future force to be reckoned with." A Rhodes scholar who earned a doctorate in international relations at Oxford University, Rice joined President Clinton's National Security Council staff in 1993, at the tender age of 28. Within a few years she catapulted over several more senior staffers to become, at 32, the youngest-ever assistant secretary of State. Her accelerated résumé notwithstanding, she seems to be at the beginning of the public phase of what may very well turn out to be one of the more substantial careers in politics.

Desirée Rogers Covers Wall Street Journal Magazine

Desirée Rogers, the White House Social Secretary, covers the latest issue of Wall Street Journal Magazine. For those who don't know, she organizes all the social events at the White House - what an amazing job! She's an old time friend of the Obamas and has had some pretty high profile jobs prior to this one including Chief Marketing Officer for Peoples Energy (now Integrys Energy Group); President of both Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas; and she serves on several Boards. Click here to read the full interview and see photos from her first 100 days at the White House.

Desirée Glapion Rogers is the descendant of a Creole voodoo priestess named Marie Laveau Glapion. The first time I meet her, she welcomes me into her East Wing lair—a rhythm and blues tune plays on a white iPod, a potted white orchid perches between two windows, fresh flowers sit on a heavy wooden desk. This is a woman who never sees a wilted bloom. The 49-year-old turns on just enough Southern charm to camouflage an aura of self-assuredness typically reserved for runway models or first ladies. Wearing a crisp white shirt, black patent flats and high-waisted navy slacks that would look terrible on almost anyone else, Rogers talks about her job as White House social secretary.

If there’s one thing Desirée Rogers and Desirée Rogers’ staff want you to know—and will keep reminding you until you get it—it’s that the president and Michelle Obama plan to open up the White House and once again make it the “people’s house.” They want to create an environment where average Americans might stop by and catch the first lady serving homemade huckleberry cobbler and caramel ice cream to students, tending to the vegetable garden on the South Lawn or watching the romantic comedy “He’s Just Not That Into You” with her girlfriends. The president is, of course, meeting with foreign dignitaries. In one of the most visible roles in the Obama administration, Rogers is out to solidify the first family as one of the most memorable in presidential history, and the Ivy League–educated first lady, in particular, as the most popular mom-in-chief. [Read more]

Above: Rogers works down the hall from Michelle Obama, her friend of nearly 20 years, in the East Wing.

Blue Bee Bargains

Just in time for summer! This weekend is the Blue Bee sale in Santa Barbara. This year the sale has moved to a new location at 9 E. Figueroa. The savings begin Friday, May 29th at 6am.

Maxx-imized Shopping

Among the small load of things I hauled away from Topshop in NYC were these studded bleach-effect jeans. Upon eyeing them in the store, I had a flashback to the first time I saw them on Topshop's website. Yes, they cost more than I've spent on jeans in ages, but I knew I would not be able to find a similar pair for less or accurately recreate the look myself, as much as I'm tempted to buy some

Off The Runway: Iman & Ubah

Just a quick post today. I wanted to share this video of Iman talking with emerging model Ubah Hassan about their home country and the role race plays in fashion. Share your thoughts after watching.

More Window Shopping In NYC

Fashion moves fast. In one day, out the next. And so it goes. My NYC store window photos from two weeks ago may already be old news as new items are put on display and fresh trends go into rotation. Hence my desire to share a few more things from my NYC trip. When I travel, I capture anything that looks (or sounds) interesting - street art, a new band, street style, and even food. You never know

Window Shopping In NYC

I was going to sell these NYC store window photos to a trend agency, but since that has not yet happened, I just had to share them on my blog. There's no arguing that New York, being the fashion mecca that it is, has some of the best visual merchandising in the world. As I walked around various parts of NYC, I was constantly stopping to spontaneously capture store window displays. The bulk of my

2 Jumpsuits + 2 Blazers = Happiness

I scored this denim jumpsuit along with a sporty turquoise jumpsuit and two blazers while on a four-store thrifting mission today. Freshly energized after eating at one of my favorite restaurants, I found the overall/jumpsuit section tucked into a corner of the first store and my heart raced - I had hit a thrift store gold mine. Then I came upon the second jumpsuit - a sleeveless style with

Shopping For Swimwear

With Memorial Day and the unofficial start of sultry summer days upon us, it's that time of year again - time to shop for swimsuits. Conquer your swimwear fears and hit the stores armed with expert tips on what works for you. Here are some helpful tips to consider, courtesy of designer and swimwear guru Shoshanna Gruss. Q&A WITH DESIGNER SHOSHANNA GRUSSWhat are the key swim trends to look for

In The Army

Ever since oversize handbags became the norm, I've struggled with a way to quickly find things that I stash in my bag. It seems like the bigger the bag, the more I tend to carry. Not one to waste time rummaging to find desired items, I've begun to use small pouches and coin purses to stow my smaller things. Fortunately, there are stylish storage solutions available. Brian Dold, founder and

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant attends the Earth Day event on the Mall on April 19, 2009 in Washington, DC.

During a recent appearance at the "Earth Day" festival, Joy Bryant went au natural and channeled her inner bohemian. Joy isn't afraid to experiment with her style and I love the way she attends high profile events make-up free. Don't be a slave to Hollywood, Ms. Bryant! For tips on how to steal her look scroll below...

Steal Joy's Style

Dress: Paisley Tunic Dress, $44.50, www.alloy.com

Boots: Minnetonka Moccasin, $80, www.piperlime.com

Belt: Jewel & Stud Trim Belt, $15.80, www.forever21.com

Necklace: Faux Pearl Cluster Necklace, $8.80, www.forever21.com

Jacket: Twill 3Q Jacket, $22.80, www.forever21.com

Though the bohemian-gypsy look isn't my thing, Joy has inspired me to try it out. While I may not be able to incorporate Ugg boots into my summer wardrobe (especially here in D.C.), the paisley dresses and hipster belts are doable. If you really want to take this look to a new level wear at least three different lengthed necklaces for a "I just don't care" vibe.

Best of the Rest...

Left to right: Oasis Paisley Print Dress, $78.15, www.asos.com; Pansy Print Corset Dress, $100, www.topshop.com; Ashley Floral Woven Dress, $24.80, www.forever21.com

These floral paisley dresses are perfect for summer and can be dressed up and down. Wear with heels, gladiator sandals or slouchy boots for three completly different looks. My favorite is the Corset Dress from Topshop. So chic!

Got Love?

My daily browse through Forever 21's website uncovered some interesting news. Today, May 19, marks the launch of their new contemporary line called Love 21. According to the site, the line, which is "designed for the sophisticated shopper" features "quality fabrication and detailing" in addition to "garments made of 100% silk and premium denim but with prices that won't break the bank." After

A Clever Conversation

Two days after my arrival in NYC, I went to 'The Model As Muse' exhibition at the Met. It was one of the things I was most excited about seeing in New York, other than SoHo, Topshop, Central Park, and a Broadway play. As I slowly walked through the galleries, I observed two stylish young women who were having a conversation which caused me to take notice. Girl #1 was dressed in a floral dress, a

More Spring Style On State

In this next batch of store window photos, statement accessories, neutral hues, and feminine embellishments are the main players.

Unbuttoned And Boxy

Cool and gloomy weather today gave me the ideal opportunity to take my new Topshop blazer for a spin. To balance its boxy shape, I paired it with my favorite Zara leggings and some low-heeled boots. Of all the shopping I did in NYC, my haul from Topshop was the largest. Since I went early on a Thursday, the store was easy to shop, although smaller than I was expecting. Hey, space is limited in

In The Mood For The CUBE

My return to the peaceful suburbs (after going to NYC) and an evening shopping trip to Marshalls have left me feeling grateful that I can shop after 5pm without battling the crowds, traffic, and picked over piles of clothing that I encountered in many NYC stores. While NYC has some amazing shopping, there is something to be said for suburban discounters like Marshalls. If you patiently look

Get 'Em Girls: Cocktails & Conversation

New York ladies join the Get 'em Girls and Michaela Angela Davis for the launch of "The Get 'Em Girls Guide to the Perfect Get Together". If you love hosting events for your friends and/or family, this book is full of perfect ideas. During the event, conversation, food and of course cocktails will be available in abundance. Visit www.getemgirls.com for more details.

When: Monday, May 18th
Time: 7:30pm
Where: Borders Books & Music, Columbus Circle, 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019

Denim on State Street

Denim, feminine tops, and fun prints take center stage in this installment of store window photos from Santa Barbara's State Street.

Chain Reaction

The only shoes I bought in New York came from Topshop's Shoe Lounge. While the SoHo store's footwear selection doesn't even come close to the seemingly endless varieties available at London's Oxford Circus store, I fondled some studded surreal heel ankle boots, some perforated oxfords, and some embellished platforms before deciding on this heavily embellished pair. Not usually one to buy

Tracy Feith For Target Two Days Early- A Review

Armed with a gift card and some mild enthusiasm for the latest GO International collection, I popped into Target for a peek at Tracy Feith's designs for the masstige retailer. Fortunately, the goods had just hit the floor, making for neat and orderly racks. Selection appeared to be limited to one piece in each size. Three other shoppers were casually perusing the pieces as I browsed for the key

Harbor Hunting

This afternoon I decided to take advantage of the warm southern California weather. The humidity in NYC has given me a new appreciation for the mild climate in my area. It's something I often take for granted but it makes life so comfortable. After changing into a casual outfit, I took my dog Russell to the scenic harbor area for a leisurely walk and a cold beverage. I'm still breaking in my

Shopping Matthew Williamson For H and M

Being the diehard fan of cheap chic designer collaborations that I am, I went to the H&M location at Westfield Topanga this morning to inspect the new Matthew Williamson summer collection. As I arrived at about half past ten, there were already a few women frantically gathering armloads of goods and scurrying off to the fitting rooms and cash registers. I spotted some forty-somethings trying on

A NY Education

During my five busy days in NYC, I learned a few things:The cacophony of honking and sirens actually blends into the background after a day or two, and you get used to it. As a pedestrian in this city, it's just as important to watch out for bikes as for cars when you cross the street. I witnessed some brazen bike riders narrowly miss having accidents.The Met is so overwhelmingly large that it's

On The Streets of New York

In terms of people watching, NY is one of the best cities I've visited due to its diversity. You can stand at any street corner and simultaneously hear five different languages being spoken while dozens of people walk past. While I generally found the street style to be less edgy and creative than London, Copenhagen, or Stockholm, I captured a couple of images of things that caught my eye. (After

I Woke Up In NY

Six nights and 570 pictures later, I'm back from NYC. As I sit at my desk swamped with emails, I realize how many of them are generated from PR offices in NY and it occurs to me how much of the fashion industry revolves around this energetic, busy city. (Thanks to those of you who sent me emails about sample sales and other events in the NYC area.) And many thanks to the folks over at Shecky's

Zoe Saldana Covers Latina...

Zoe Saldana is on a non-stop publicity tour for her upcoming movie Star Trek and she made a quick pit stop on the cover of Latina magazine. The online version of Latina is pretty good. I encourage all to check it out here. For snippets of Zoe's interview read below...

ON HER OWN SEXY CONFIDENCE: “Look at me. I’m skinny, I have a big nose, no tits and no ass, but in a room full of beautiful women, I would still leave with the most gorgeous guy.”

ON SHOOTING STEAMY SEX SCENES WITH STAR TREK CO-STAR CHRIS PINE: “There’s nothing sexual about shooting a sex scene, you must know!” she says. “You are sweating your ass off under the lights, or you’re freezing. You’re hungry, or you’re bloated and gassy because they had pizza on the set that day.”

ON HER DREAMS OF WINNING AN OSCAR: “You know that cover that Kate Winslet did for Vanity Fair recently, where she said, ‘You bet your ass I want that Oscar’?” Saldana asks. “Well, it’s the same with me. I’m not going to be like, ‘I just want to be known for my work.’ No, I want that golden statue on my shelf. Whether it happens or not, it will not determine the kind of substance that I feel I contributed. But I want it… Shoot for the stars and I’ll settle for a cloud.”

ON AVOIDING A HOLLYWOOD EGO: “You’ll never see me shopping on Robertson Boulevard or hanging out in super-public spaces like that. I’m fiercely territorial about my privacy. And I cannot follow a crowd,” she says. “I never want to get to the point where I’m walking a red carpet thinking, ‘I’m fabulous.’ At times, Hollywood is going to get the best of you, and you will wake up feeling overconfident. But I have too many people that keep me in check if I fail to do so myself.”

The issue will be out in June/July.

Live From New York

Tonight is my second night in NYC, and I snapped this photo of the Empire State Building as I hungrily browsed menus in search of a restaurant in Murray Hill. Today I quickly learned something about shopping in this city. The best time to go is when the stores open, as they are cleaner, more organized, and well stocked than later in the day. A visit to the large H&M location at 34th/Herald

What Say We?... Yay or Nay

Rihanna attends "The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion" Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 4, 2009 in New York City.

By now I'm sure you've all seen the Dolce & Gabbana suit Rihanna wore to the Met's Costume Institute Gala. Much like Estelle's attempt to be eclectic and cutting-edge on the red carpet this look just didn't translate once captured on film. I'm sure she looked "fierce" in person but I'm going to have to give the usually stylish Rihanna a "nay". I know puff-sleeves are all-the-rage right now, but this is overkill.

Trend On The Rise - "I Dye"

Why not take a cue from the hippies this season and inject your wardrobe with some color by wearing tie dye? For a fresh and modern take on the trend, try a loose tie dye tee or tank top. To avoid looking like a Haight Ashbury holdover, skip the flared jeans and beaded headband, opting instead for leggings or boyfriend shorts. If the trend appeals to you but you're still feeling timid about it,

High And Low

Last week, The Promenade opened at The Camarillo Outlets, so I had to go check it out. My first stop was the Nieman Marcus Last Call. After trying on some Balenciaga boots, I realized two things: 1) designer footwear, although well made, isn't necessarily comfortable and 2) if you can afford to do so, then now is the time to score some deals on luxury merchandise that isn't selling at full price.

A Ponytail And A Pop Of Neon

Along with my newly trimmed bangs, I'm embracing anything neon this week. Suddenly, the tunics and leggings that I was so fond of the past few weeks have taken a back seat to my new spring obsessions. While some people may advise you to skip out on a trend like neon if you lived through it the first time, I, being the trend slave that I am, tend to disagree. I remember the less than flattering