Archive for October, 2008

missed that gondola

How good does it feel to be a soothsayer of trends? Recognizing the glory of a look before most others do—well gee, it’s as gratifying to oneself as it is grating on others (”I’ve had those since…”). But unless you’ve got the goods—either in your closet or on your blog, ahem—you have no bragging rights whatsoever should the trend come of age.

Which is why I am so sad to admit that I have missed an excellent opportunity for self-satisfied smugness. Years ago, I saw this adorable Italian woman wearing Superga sneakers (the Torino in acid green, in case you’re interested) and thought, “damn, those look smart.” I’ve wanted to post on them ever since, but never did. And when I looked, I had trouble finding them online. But now, ladies and gentlemen, they are available online and in some stores. So Euro-prep and reasonably priced, I think Superga could conquer the world. Or at least New York City.

I shall put them on and kick myself.

Superga Red
(Pic from Jildor Shoes)

the bright side

Even the insanely beautiful fall weather and the likelihood— seemingly growing!— that we’re going to elect Barack Obama can’t counter the grim economic forecast looming before us. All the more reason, I say, to indulge in sartorial details that surprise and delight. Here are some of my favorites:

* neon
At the end of March, Seth predicted that neon would be big. I kept my eyes open and, lo and behold, it was all over this summer. As far as I’m concerned, day-glo tones need not go the way of white pants after Labor Day; just check out this tie-dye scarf from Sunshine & Shadow:
sunshine & shadow scarf
(Pic lifted from the S&S website)
I particularly love it paired with a grey tee, as shown above. But like most such startling items, I saw this scarf exactly twice: once at Bird; once at Steven Alan; and then it was nowhere to be found. The moral of my story, ladies? Don’t blink! (wink wink)

* red accents (steel yourselves for some pics of yours truly):
red hat
My new red hat is just awesome. Another fabulous hand-me-down from a dear friend (Connie!), I wore it while watching “Hannah and Her Sisters” the other night. Very apropos.

red lips
So many guys object to an obviously lipsticked mouth, but so what? It’s my new look, and it makes me damn happy.

* metal details
These days studs are being used to a distinctly dreamy effect. Like this
sweater dress by Manoush:
Manoush stud detail sweater dress
(At Diane T. in Cobble Hill)

And this studded belt from Dear Fieldbinder scratches the same itch without requiring quite the investment:
stud belt

can any woman do menswear

Clearly I’m not the only girl who’s been captivated by the many menswear-inspired pieces out this fall. But I am NOT the kind of girl who can rock the full menswear look (think Daryl Hannah in Splash, looking all willowy wandering around NYC in Tom Hanks’ button up, suit pants and shoes). No, I end up looking distinctly boys-wear (think your little brother on the day of his Bar Mitzvah).

So I’ve messed around with it, and concluded that I can do menswear; I just can’t overdo menswear. I’m pairing those boxy blazers, oversized button-ups, trousers and sweater vests with ultra fem pieces: revealing camis, long gold necklaces, lacy tights, heels. I think it works. If you see me out and feel differently, let me know.

Some guy-inspired pieces I’m loving:
* A.P.C. lace-up ankle boots
APC lace up boots
These are available at Bird in Brooklyn

* Who What Wear shares my interest in penny loafers:
Who What Wear penny loafers
Though I haven’t fixed on a good pair yet. Suggestions?

* My new Brooks Brothers kid’s blazer is shrunken (duh) and perfect:
Brooks Brothers boy's blazer
I can say with complete confidence that I look better in it than this young neo-con.

Then hop over to the women’s department and check out BB’s classic-fit non-iron shirts, too. Oversized perfection.