Lanvin. Fall Ready To Wear 2010

If Lanvin does an affordable feathered coat or anything close to these pieces for H&M I'll be happy.









Photo's: (Via) nymag.com

Lanvin Confirmed To Collaborate With H&M

I am so excited to learn that one of my favorite fashion houses, Lanvin will join the ranks of Rei Kawakubo for Commes Des Garcons (I managed to get a sweater), Karl Lagerfeld and Jimmy Choo by teaming up with affordable fashion retailer H&M.

Alber Elbaz will work his magic on the women's end of things and Lucas Ossendrijver will be handling the menswear.

In Los Angeles, it seems the stylists always get there first and completely buy out these limited edition designs, but maybe I'll get lucky!
In America get in line November 20 whenthe fashions will be available but look for cool video teasers like this one prior to release on youtube.

Daily Bliss.

Photo: (Via) Erbe Design. Marcel Schurman

Adidas 'Originals By Originals'. Jeremy Scott

Generally, I only wear sneakers when I'm going for a workout. That said, I want these silver Jeremy Scott Adidas with wings from their 'Originals by Originals' line. I would totally rock them, so funky and fab.










Photo: (Via) highsnobiety.com

What Time Is It? Swatch Knows.

I adore these colors and complete simplicity of the newly updated classic watches from Swatch. The New Gents Collection will be available in the fall.

Click the header of the post to learn more.






Photo: (via) highsnobiety.com

Notes. Quote of The Day

"The best way out is always through." - Robert Frost

Key Piece. The Chambray Shirt

One of my favorite things to do with clothing is to mix and match. Whether it's a piece that's inexpensive with another that may be more pricey or something vintage with a contemporary item and so on. Personal style is really about doing what works for you and having fun with it.

This denim or 'chambray' shirt from H&M looks really cool paired with a more luxe pair of slacks and the Chanel bag. I like this look, including the color palette and may have to pay another visit to H&M soon. The shirt retails for a modest $19.95.








Photo: (via) Harper's Bazaar. August 2010

Notes. Quote of The Day

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself, any direction you choose." - Dr. Seuss

All About Lace.

Always elegant and in style from my point of view, lace makes a more commercial return this fall with a variation of options ranging from clothing, shoes and bags to accessories.

















Photo: (via) British VOGUE, September 2010

Nature's Beauty. Aloe Vera

There's so much goodness in aloe vera. The plant should be a home staple. Most people are aware it's great for sun and other burns as a topical aid, but there are so many other ways in which the gel inside the plant can be used once juiced.

A natural healer and full of a range of vitamins and minerals, aloe vera reportedly halts the growth of cancerous tumors, eases inflammation associated with arthritis, lowers cholesterol, stabilizes blood sugar in diabetics, assists in digestive issues, and supposedly can help in treating colon polyps.

Click the header of the post to learn more useful tips about aloe vera and watch the video which demonstrates how to fillet the leaves.
Crank up the blender!

Daily Bliss.

His Shoe Game. Missoni Converse?

To learn more about the collaboration between designer Missoni and the Chuck Taylor All-Star brand, click the header of this post; kind of cool.




Photo: (via) highsnobiety.com

Nature's Beauty. Watermelon Juice. Reduce Bloating.

I'd recommend investing in a juicer if possible. Making fresh juice, you all of the nutrients without added sugar and preservatives found in what you buy from the store. Otherwise read and pay attention to labels.

Watermelon juice is one of my favorites as a summer thirst quencher. It contains Vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as potassium and the anti-oxidant lycopene which is found in tomatoes. Add to the benefits: it's fat free and reduces bloat. Need I say more?








Photo: (via) thecattylife.com

Kmart Updates Fall Style.

For the fall, Kmart has taken inspiration from Target with a stylish ad campaign featuring casual and modern wardrobe staples. If they could do something with the store layout and organization like Target I'd say they are on the right track.







Photo: (via) Vogue, September 2010

Notes. Mind. Body. Spirit.

"Meditation and prayer are to the soul what reflection, study and conversation are to the mind and what exercise, physical work and sports are the the body." - Anonymous

Customize Your Denim.

The Denim Kit is available from Bristols 6 and includes all sorts of goodies from bleach pen, studs, stencils, white fabric paint and more for fading, distressing, other customization and fit tools for your jeans. The kit retails for $32.00.
If you're artistic this could be a great way to accentuate your style.

Click the header of this post to visit their website to learn more.




Photo: (via) Bristols 6

Nature's Beauty. Romaine Lettuce

I hope these posts make you think about eating healthier, and including more whole foods into your daily lifestyle.

Romaine is a more robust textured lettuce, which I enjoy. Of course once you add cheese and heavy salad dressings you diminish what's good. Romaine is low in calories and high in water volume. The vitamins include A (which includes beta-carotene), K,C, and folic acid which are all good for the heart.





Photo: (via) Flickr

Affordable Style. Get Chunky At ZARA.

It's hard to be writing about knits in 100 degree weather, but the new arrivals for fall have been trickling in. ZARA is really good store to get current looks without walking out of the store feeling guilty.
Chunky cable knits are always classic pieces. I store them in over-sized ziploc bags. Don't you hate it when you go to wear your favorite sweater and a moth has had it for lunch?

I would wear this entire look with my fluffy afro to funk it up.










Photo: (via) ZARA

Minimal Chic.

Sometimes you don't need a lot to make an outfit work. Just stick to the basics.

Notes. About Life

"We are all personalities that grow and develop as a result of our experiences, relationships, thoughts, and emotions. We are the sum total of all the parts that go into the making of a life." -Dibs in Search of Self, Virginia M. Axline

Banana Republic. Fall 2010

Beyond the clothing and model, I really like the energy and message of the ad: "Life At Work. Exceed Expectations."














Photo: (via) VOGUE, Sepetember 2010

Music Notes. 7 Online Tips

There are countless tips to share with artists in navigating social media and the ever evolving music business. It's a different game for everyone, but remember that you are the captain of your own ship regardless of how much you may choose delegate to others.
Though I am speaking primarily to veteran artists, some of these may be helpful to a broader range.


1. Create your personalized online plan.

2. Define your goals, short and long term.

3. Sign up for services like Giga and Social Mention Alerts to see what's being said about your brand and music, making sure to keep a thick skin and sense of humor. This is particularly helpful if you're promoting new music - if you're only seeing comments about your old material you'll know your message and new endeavors are not getting across.

4. Develop new fans, and know who they are.

5. Ask questions from your audience when appropriate and listen to feedback.

6. Re-educate older fans on what you've if they've been out of the loop.

7. Research. Redefine. Revise. Refresh.

Art and Fashion.

Illustration: Steven Broadway
Via: fabulousdoodles.blogspot.com

Notes.

"You have to trust yourself and chose to believe or not to believe what someone says to you. If others say one thing but do another, you are lying to yourself if you don't listen to their actions. Telling yourself the truth may hurt, but you don't need to be attached to the pain." - Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements

I Like These...

Statement Earrings.







VOGUE Russia, September Issue
Photographer: Mert and Marcus
Model: Natalia Vodianova
Photo: (via) thefashionspot.com
(via) jeremydante.com

Givenchy Booties.

Photo: (via) Bergdorf Goodman

Notes. Celebrate

That you are alive. That you won. That although you were beaten, you are still here. That you feel. That a hummingbird visited you. That the breeze carried the perfume of spring. That the car started and the breaks held. That the sunset was mauve and golden amber.
That the rose broke through at last and bloomed. That you cried. That you were remembered. That you remember. That the wind carried a message of hope. That you love. That you once loved. That all music and art were intended just for you. That you were right. That you forgave. That it rained and the rain forgave all of us. That you are human, after all.

- David Viscott

Levi's. Helps Women Find the Right Fit With Curve ID

I might have to try this.

Notes. About Love..

"Sure I loved him - too much. And he loved me, only not enough. I just want someone who thinks I’m number one in his life. I’m not willing to accept emotional scraps anymore." -The Hundred Secret Senses, Amy Tan

Great Deals. Ideeli

If you like a good deal, you might want to check out Ideeli for all sorts of bargains on clothing, shoes and accessories.


Click the header of this post to learn more.

Classic Looks For Him. Florsheim

Individual Style. Casual with a Bit of Flavor

Recently, a friend and colleague of mine had on an amazing pair of turquoise suede shoes and when I asked where he got them, I was surprised at the reply which was Florsheim. I didn't realize they made a shoe with so much pizazz. I adore the color on this classic men's style. Way to go Michael!












Photo: (via) Jody Watley

Just For Him. Beauty & Youth Shoes

In collaboration with design team Mata and Mark McNairy, Japanese retailers Beauty & Youth create a rich collection of men's footwear for the fall featuring suede wing tips and a variety of saddle shoes and hiking boots (which I still refer to as desert boots going back to my junior high school days).

Click the header of this post to find out more.




Photo: (via) highsnobiety.com

Daily Bliss.

Taking time to reflect. Taking time to do something you love. Always keeping alive a part of the little person who still lives inside no matter how old you grow to be..







Photo: David Handley, Nouvelle Images

Music Notes. The New Music Business and Social Media For Veteran Artists

It's no secret that the music business is in shambles. Sales have plummeted for most artists with 98 % of albums released supposedly selling less than 5,000 copies. New paradigms are constantly being created and those with enough vision, occupational stamina and enough emotional fortitude continue to work outside of the corporate infrastructure looking for ways to market their music. The definition of success needs to be revised for companies, artists and fans. In the music business one of the primary discussions, aside from how to replace shrinking revenue and sales is figuring out the most effective way to cultivate, grow and maintain increasingly fickle fan bases. Generally, this discussion is surrounding new and younger artists.

With the realities of ageism which exists more and more in the business; where do still viable, marketable veteran, legacy or career artists over 40 fit into this new landscape beyond the various "Classic Hits and More" commercial radio formats? Where are we beyond satellite, internet radio, various streaming outlets, Pandora, Last.fm and TMZ's "Memba Them"? Many continue to work on a regular basis stateside and abroad doing it in what some would call the old fashioned way; earning it. Performing live in a variety of venues and formats from festivals, intimate venues to select private/corporate events become standard. Selling branded limited edition merchandise to the faithful is also the norm for many. I'm not talking about the usual superstar rock bands like Paul McCartney, The Eagles and U2, etc. I'm talking about your everyday working artists in R&B, Jazz, Country, Rock, Adult Contemporary, etc. The faithful I refer to are what are called 'Superfans'. They aren't concerned with record sales and current pop culture status, they simply want to experience the bands and artists they love and continue to support. These fans will take the time to listen and purchase current musical endeavors and provide strong word of mouth support to their friends or out of the loop fans.

Some people assume if they don't hear you or see you these days amongst teen idols such as Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus, or fill in the blank of the latest teen or pop idols from any era - an artist must no longer be in the land of the living or no longer working in the music industry. It's an unfair and rather lazy assessment from my point of view. It couldn't possibly be an artist is continuing to improve their craft doing what they love which happens to be their job of choice. I always find this mentality a bit disappointing. I get it from time to time online and off. I'll be honest, my stomach always sinks a little. It's always an appreciative love of your past "I used to love you. Where have you been? Do you still sing? We miss you. We need you back out there.., etc." that they express but they just don't know if it's not commercially high profile, not a part of a reality TV strategy - and they just don't seem to venture out of the very narrow box created by today's media and music industry. Great places to start are Google, Facebook and iTunes to look for the artists they 'used to love' to see what's going on, it would seem, but even in this day and age the casual fan doesn't seem to take advantage of the technology in this "information age".

Tony Bennett has been working for decades, to name one legacy artist. He went 30 years between Grammy's and won his first "Album of the Year" nearly 45 years after his debut, having survived turbulent private issues and a changing music climate. His return, as well as Tina Turner's ultimate success in her later years, as well as that of Bonnie Raitt returning from what many thought to be total obscurity are true comeback stories. In today's climate I'm unsure if those opportunities could happen within the standard industry. Today, each album for any artist is called "a comeback" instead of a new release, marginalizing the impact of when an artist has really overcome some major form of personal or career struggle.

The music and art of performing doesn't go out of style. You may not pack them in at arenas and stadiums or sell as much but that's not what performing and making music should be all about.

The growth and creativity of the music industry began to go into a bit of free fall once the focus generated from the business end was geared to strictly 'the numbers', like first week of release movie box office receipts. Focus groups, massive marketing dollars or not, tighter play lists; FCC deregulation all changed the game. The numbers mentality eventually trickled to the casual fan or consumers to the detriment of the quality of artists and variety of choice in popular music.

Some artists have chosen to no longer record new material choosing to stick to the nostalgia route, a solid pipeline to perform the familiar based upon the material most known to the public as the go to comfort zone. This area is quite lucrative for some. Fans of nostalgia acts are less likely to support new music, they just like what they grew up with allowing them to reminisce on their lives back then.
Nostalgia acts are also less likely to have any active online presence to keep their brand alive from what I've seen. Perhaps that category of artist may be painfully aware the chances are extremely remote to be given airtime on commercial radio or face time on the late night talk shows. Others have lost their creative mojo and no longer enjoy the uncertainty of the business and decide to simply move on to other careers or interests.

No matter how good the music or regardless of how many fans may be interested it's been tough for most career artists for well over a decade; that is unless of course you have a scandal or controversy of some sort that can be marketed and capitalized on.

Then there are those, like myself and a handful of others who continue to work independently immersed in the new music world order. Performing at select engagements and events, writing, releasing independently, blogging, social networking with fans while also planting seeds with newer audiences mined from collaborations with respected DJ/Remixers and taste-makers from a global pool in diverse genres such as dance, electronic and jazz. In the independent realm there is a plethora of quality music and numerous alternative fusions.

My suggestion is that it's important to find the format which best suits you and your online strategy, beyond promoting a new album or concert, that is unless you'd like to take the Prince point of view and declare the internet dead.

Blogging (personal interests a bit more humanizing and less based on immediate reaction), Twitter (real time happenings), Facebook Fan Pages (be sure to add a band app like Root Music or Reverbnation) each provide a different experience. Soundcloud is another terrific tool to post new music and get feedback from your fan base and continue to develop a new one, one fan at a time.

Reverbnation is multi-faceted and enables you to create a mailing list, newsletter, stream music and also offer free downloads to those who have signed up among it's benefits. Each outlet offers a different experience for you to continue to build and connect with your fan base, which is highly recommended. The service also gives you the ability to see how effective your newsletters are and who opened or not. It's important to view and analyze your online data.


Balancing accessibility and authenticity in the evolving platforms of social media is a constant learning experience. Most artists choose to outsource and have management or personal assistants act as the artist removing any chance of real interaction or personal presence with fans, I'm at a crossroads on that one currently, seeing the downside of being hands on. There's always the chance of being ambushed by 'haters', or other highly toxic encounters. I've discovered that less and more effective use of your online time reduces the likelihood of those situations.

In most modern business and marketing information there is a general consensus that simply inundating your audience with impersonal concert and release dates isn't effective. People want to feel connected to the brand, or artist and so it's important to find out where to draw the line without being generic. I'm still figuring it all out.

Here are two of my top suggestions navigating your online brand and presence:

#1 - Create and structure a personalized online plan, including time.
#2 - Define your goals, short and long term; remember them with each post.



More to come..

Nature's Beauty. 'Epsom Salts' The Affordable Spa Treatment.

With a down economy, many people are looking for ways to cut costs for themselves and their families. Of course a day at the spa isn't something to splurge on regularly for anyone looking to save whenever possible. That said, I believe in creating a calming and relaxing atmosphere at home.

Though I enjoy luxury bath salts and body washes, one of the most overlooked and inexpensive 'spa' treatments you can give yourself is with 'Epsom Salt', or magnesium sulfate. There are numerous benefits including relieving stress, potentially lowering blood pressure and easing muscle soreness and sprains, in addition it may aid in preventing blood clots and hardened arteries. Pour a couple of cups into your next bath and relax! I also like to add a splash of lavender for a bit of aromatherapy.

Beyond those wonderful benefits, Epsom salt has hundreds of other uses such as being an effective organic gardening aid (helps seeds to germinate and makes plants grow bushier). Have a splinter? Use the salt as a soak to draw it out.

You can also mix Epsom salt with olive or grape seed oil to make your own exfoliant to remove rough skin.

Notes. Quote of The Day

"May your pockets be heavy and your heart be light. May good luck pursue you each morning and night." - Irish Blessing

Global Style. Marie Claire South Africa

In an editorial titled 'Showroom' newcomer Milan is featured wearing some of South Africa's top designers including Terence Bay, David Tiale and Amanda Laird Cherry in The September issue of Marie Claire South Africa. Gorgeous. I like the funky edge mixed with the classic aesthetic. I always notice the greater diversity of models featured in magazines outside of the U.S.






Photographer: Steve Tanchel
Location: 12 Decades Hotel


Photos: (via) fashiongonerogue.com

I Like His Style. Lenny Kravitz

T by Alexander Wang

Zoe Kravitz (daughter of the oh so fine and talented Lenny and the lovely actress Lisa Bonet) is featured in the fall ad campaign for T by Alexander Wang along with model Max Motta. The line of super soft T-shirts and casual pieces will only be seen in New York's Soho, East and West Village this fall. I really like the look of the ads. Zoe knows her angles.















Photos: (via) Instyle.com, fashionista.com

Daily Bliss.

Notes. Quote of The Day

"Do not complain, make every effort to change things you do not like.
If you can not make a change, change the way you have been thinking, you might find a new solution." - Maya Angelou, "Letter to My Daughter"

Nature's Beauty. Oats

Consumption of whole grains and dietary fiber is known to lower your cholesterol, blood pressure as well as reduce risk of heart disease.


Just don't add too much butter and sugar to that bowl of oatmeal!








Photo: (via) Flickr

Style Tip. It's Worth Spending Major Coins When..

1. It's seasonless.
2. It's versatile.
3. It has great craftsmanship, high quality and made to last.
4. It's timeless.
5. It's rare and unique.

Get The Look For Less at Forever 21

Miu Miu's whimsical satin cat print Mary Jane platform which retails for approximately $590.00 gets the 'inspired by' treatement from Forever 21 with it's own polka dot version coming in at under $30.00.

Music Notes. Esperanza Spalding "Little Fly"

Update Your Style. 2 Quick Tips For Women

1. Change your lipstick, try something new.

2. Get your eyebrows done professionally, and while you're at it take care of your lip line, remove that mustache! A clean lip line and beautifully groomed brows really do wonders for your face. You'll see the difference.

Before it Hits Stores. Target Partners with Gilt

Get a jump on the limited edition fall fashion Friday August 20.

Read the full post by clicking header of article.
















Photo: (via) www.mashable.com

Notes. Quote of the Day

"You may not control all events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." - Maya Angelou

In My Beauty Bag. RoC Daily Moisturizer

Despite rumors and special effects photo's seen out of context on a few blogs several years ago from my album 'The Makeover', I have not had any facial plastic surgery. The concept of those photo's was in fact inspired by a layout from Italian VOGUE in July 0f 2005 called "Makeover Madness". The issue featured Linda Evangelista and was a satire on the lengths some women will go through to appear younger. I haven't even tried botox or any of the many fillers available either. Living in Los Angeles I see the stretched, pulled and overly plumped faces all the time. From my eyes it doesn't make anyone look younger, just 'different'.

What I have done is become somewhat of a moisturizer and anti-aging skin cream addict. I'm always trying new products. We all get older which is a blessing of course and rather than going nuts bemoaning the fact, I believe we can slow the down the wrinkle process by simply pampering our skin in addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

When choosing moisturizers, especially if you're over 40, Retinol (one of the animal forms of Vitamin A), Matrixyl 3000, Resveratrol (produced naturally by several plants) is something to look for as well as SPF and other essential minerals, fatty acids, and collagen. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
I'm currently using this daily moisturizer by RoC which was under $20.00 having just finished another by Chanel. I try them at all price points.











Photo: (via) Jody Watley

Liya Kibede Rocks Italian VOGUE

The always gorgeous fashion icon Liya Kebede appears in a more edgy layout for Italian VOGUE photographed by Tom Munro. These are two of the 7 page layout. Feathers and velvet for fall it is!









Photo:
Italian VOGUE, August 2010
(via) thefashionspot.com

Art and Fashion.

Sketches from designers Christian Lacroix and Diane Von Furstenberg for First Lady Michelle Obama for 2009's inauguaration. Many wondered what she'd wear and which designer. She went with Jason Wu, though it was fun to see the inspirations of others.

Notes.

"There is everything you know and there is everything that happens. When the two do not line up, you make a choice." - For One More Day, Mitch Albom