BrandHabit

Litter SF: Beautiful, Dirty, Rich

By Carlina Harris

When I saw this jewelry collection, Lady Gaga's " Beautiful Dirty Rich" song bust in my head. Appropriate since I could see the Lady herself rockin' any of the pieces. Stunning jewelry, with a grimy lived in feel, expensive looking = beautiful dirty rich.

 These beautiful and dirty rich pieces, are none other than Litter SF. Litter SF have the dopest selection of chain jewelry designed by sisters Rachael and Mackenzie, a "fashionably-forward girl duo"- affectionately described by the ubiquitous Rachel Zoe. Their collection currently only available by website, is composed of body harnesses, head pieces, thigh garters, shoe jewelry and much more! All of which are bananas! I died the first time I saw a chain harness, but the Litter pieces are out of control cool. Lets just say your bad-ass factor will go up tenfold after rocking the shoulder piece!

I just couldn't pick a favorite piece, so I narrowed it down to my top six. Check them out:

Stunning from top left, clockwise: Leafy Headpiece, $145;  Belly Dancer Shoulder Piece, $325; Sterling Silver Cougar Claw, $48;  Bullets and Chains Knee Strap, $115; Beetle Hand Jewelry, $125; Chain Garter 2, $220

Need me some cougar claws asap, hell who am I kidding--need them all!

xoxo, your fave fashion editor

Punch It Up with the Perfect Poncho

Ponchos are making an appearance again this fall in the form of chunky knits. Think handmade, warm and cozy. Many are a fusion of sweater and poncho that button up the front, making them easier to layer. You’ll see hoods, pockets and zippers as added features as well. Look for all wool styles made with thick yarns and lots of texture in the knitted design. Or try a lighter poncho on for size; it is more like a wrap and much more fluid than chunkier styles. Go for a neutral like gray or brown that can be paired with a variety of items in your wardrobe.

On the chunkier side, from Haute Hippie is the Chunky Wool Poncho (top left, $495.00 at Nordstrom.com) with classic overtones and a cable-knit design. It has a full zip-front closure, pockets to keep your hands warm and a slouchy hood at the back. From Stella McCartney is a pricey and luxe Zip-Front Boucle Poncho (top right, $1,685 at Neiman Marcus) with oversized buttons button as an accent on the cape sleeves. The poncho is an Alpaca/linen/polyamide/wool blend and made in Italy. Helmut Lang has also done a version, all in a minimalist style of course! Helmut Lang Knit Poncho (bottom right, $260 at Saks.com) is an alpaca/merino/polyamide blend and is super soft as well as warm. This poncho also features a generous hood.  From Elizabeth and James is the Olivia Poncho, (bottom left, $545 at Shopbop.com) made of moleskin this is the perfect piece for layering. Pair with a cozy cashmere turtleneck and jeans for a luxe weekend casual look.

Save with Coupon Codes from Shopbop from TheFind.com’s new coupon site

From our friends at thefind.

Martini's to Marathon's

By Carlina Harris

On Friday my sister and I had a date at the ritzy W Hotel to attend "This Old Bag", a benefit for the breast cancer emergency fund. We enjoyed appetizers and cocktails while bidding on scores of handbags donated by fashion designers, celebrities and San Francisco’s leading philanthropists. After checking out all the bags, and having our fill of mini sliders, and martini's, we signed up get manicures!  We had such a great time (even met up with CEO of BrandHabit), but I could not get carried away, I had a big weekend ahead of me. My Nike Women's Half Marathon was less than 48 hours away!!!

For several months prior to last Sunday, I ran religiously four times a week in preparation for my first half marathon.  I was determined to stay healthy, be fit, and prove that I could run 13.1 miles without killing myself. Well I did it. I knew it would be hard, but never did I imagine that the San Francisco hills would make me want to throw myself off of one around mile six! Mile seven couldn't come soon enough, then eight, and nine, and little did I know it, mile 13 was right around  the corner. I did it! I felt accomplished, proud, and tired! I needed to sit down, but first I needed to stretch, maybe a massage?

What a weekend it was, seems like so long ago!

me, after the finish line, in my stylin' silver cape!

Mad for Plaid

This fall brings the English countryside as inspiration for cool weather dressing. Escape the hustle and bustle of urban living with some natty traditional plaids with a modern twist. Think hounds tooth checks, buffalo plaids, and large complex Scotch plaids. Made of natural fibers such as wool and cotton the updated plaid looks best when paired with sleek body hugging denim and fierce heels. Look for plaid jackets, dresses, and even capes for covering up. Elizabeth and James features some of the best plaid blouses adorned with their signature casual yet sophisticated style. Take your new look with you to the country for a tranquil retreat or don the plaid with boyfriend jeans for a casual look in town.

As seen on the Fall ‘09 runways, the Marc By Marc Jacobs “Abbey” Plaid Dress (upper left, $458 at Bloomingdales.com) is a twist on the traditional. The pure wool mini dress tunic has a drop waist, cowl neck, two front pockets and banded sleeves. The Fei Polaire Vest (top middle, $118 at Anthropologie.com) is a pretty and dramatic corset-style top with a flared peplum. This vest would pair nicely with a slim pencil skirt and platform pumps. From Smythe, a wool-blend jacket (top right, $525 at Net-a-Porter) Pair Smythe’s blue tweed plaid jacket over a tank and skinny jeans for a dose of English countryside eccentricity. From Ann Taylor Loft, a sweeping and dramatic Brushed Plaid Cape (Bottom right, $148 at Ann Taylor Loft). This classic double-breasted cape is lined, has a banded collar with button closure. From Elizabeth and James (Bottom left, $245 at Net-a-Porter) a gray and cream cotton-blend plaid shirt with a distressed finish, button front and two patch pockets. Pair this wardrobe staple with your favorite pair of jeans and fiercest boots for a cool downtown look.

Save with Coupon Codes from Bloomingdales.com TheFind.com’s new coupon site

From our friends at thefind.

The Great Cowboy Boot Debacle of '09

Currently I work on a college campus with a diverse student body (almost 4,000 of the 20,000 students are international students).  Diverse bodies generate diverse styles and I loathe not taking the opportunity to judge, I mean silently observe, all fashion statements.

I could take this time to discuss the lackluster interview garb I’ve seen at On Campus Recruiting events, but lately the fashion oddity trumping bland power suits is the cowboy boots epidemic.  And I’m not sure how I feel about it.

A few weeks ago I walked along the main strip of Ivy League brick cutting through campus, my eyes wandering from very cute undergraduates (cougar-in-training?  It’s surprising how mature those boys look. . .) to the disgraceful amount of clog-wearing-intellects galumphing through campus (and we’re not talking about Chanel clogs, we’re talking about dowdy clogs).  Then my eyes caught glimps of a pair of pointed toes, not stilettos, no.  Not a pair of sleek flats.  It was a pair of black cowboy boots.

In Philadelphia?  Was this young collegiate trying to imbue the Urban Cowboy into the lives of Ivy Leauge co-eds?

I craned my neck, following her until I could no longer see her trotting along.  I thought about her decision to wear those boots until I reached my destinations, and then like the other audacious looks I see on campus I soon forgot about them.  About a week later a fashionable friend publically wondered on Facebook if she should purchase a pair of cowboy boots during her upcoming trip to Dallas.  I immediately chimed in, saying no; cowboy boots in Philadelphia would be kitschy.  The other reactions she received, which were aplenty, were mixed.  Most told her to go for the bold.

Last week in NYC’s Penn Station I saw a woman in black cowboy boots hurtling herself and her luggage towards a moving train.  She had on dark wash bootcut jeans, rolled about four inches to show a fashionably tattered hem, and a long black t-shirt that advantageously fit her every curve.  The outfit was effortless and completely befitting for her scramble to the train.  The cowboy boots she wore were not the emphasis of her outfit, the simplicity of her ensemble shined brighter than the kitsch. 

After seeing the woman in Penn Station I took my friend aside and confessed that after much debate she can pull these boots off, by puttin’ em on.  She, like the train chaser, has a breezy and classy approach to dressing that will tame the corny label that many of us apply to such a costume-y item of footwear.  It is possible for a woman to make a stylish statement without looking like Daisy Duke or Jessica Simpson. . .or Jessica Simpson as Daisy Duke.

So, after considerable debate I have decided to make public my support for integrating cowboy boots into one’s wardrobe.  However, there are stipulations accompanying my appreciation.  Like neon or animal prints, these boots pack a punch and should not be the main focus.  They need to be tempered down to avoid making a theme.  Here are some things to consider before putting on cowboy boots:

1)      Avoid listening to any music from the southern region as it may cloud your judgment when getting dressed.

2)      Definitely restrain yourself from pulling out your favorite license plate sized belt buckle.

3)      Stay away from plaid button down shirts, gingham, pigtails, and any denim that has a hint of the ol’ west. I should not have to tell you to leave the bandana tied around Fido’s neck. 

4)      If you feel like a cowboy when you have them on, immediately remove the boots and take a cold shower.  You have been tainted and will need to wait approximately one year before attempting the cowboy boot look again.

I’m glad that I was able to publically flesh out this cowboy boot debacle for myself.  Hopefully from this we’ve all come away better purveyors of footwear.  If I ever decide to invest in cowboy boots (there are so many things higher on my list; pink booties and cropped flat boots) they will be black, worn with black leggings and a loose sweater dress or structured jacket.  But for now I will ride off into the sunset in my cropped flat boots and skinny jeans.

Wine and Fashion

By Carlina Harris

Last weekend I had the pleasure of attending the Treasure Island Wine Fest. It was smack dab at the end of Fleet week, so I saw some pretty groovy jets fly by in the midst of all the action! It was the inaugural event for the festival, and ran pretty smoothly if you ask me, a ton of unbeatable amenities were included with the entrance fee: all the wine you wanted to try, yummy appetizers, live music, wine seminars, blue angels, and fashion inspired guests!  Lets just say I hope I get invited next year too!

The weather on the day of the event was unbelievably cold, foggy, and overcast. As a member of the fashion community I couldn't just schlep it into the event, wearing layers of sweats, and a puffer jacket!  So, I did what any good fashion editor would do, I stepped up my game, and rocked it out in a cute, comfortable and WARM outfit.

(wearing: navy pea-coat by Alloy, boyfriend pinstripe shirt by Alloy, black J Brand Jeans, Norma Kamali rose print scarf, Franco Sarto riding boots, and you can't see my bag, but it was a beautiful vintage Bottega Venetta!)

(Getting my second taste at the Ironstone vineyard table. "Obsession Symphony" a 2008 California wine was my absolute favorite taste of the day!)

The overall consensus for the handful that dressed up was, comfy is chic. I saw a lot of long sleeved striped tops, every kind of boot imaginable (from rugged short cowboys, to tall heeled beauties), and one pair of short ankle length moccasin's, that were to die for! 

       

"Kick back chic", future fall wine tasting outfit, from left to right: Minnetonka Ankle Tramper Moccasin boots, $60; AE long sleeved striped favorite T, $19.50; Anlo Jamie Ankle Scrunch Skinny Jeans, $185; Volcom Commando Jacket, $98.

Happy wine tasting!

Plouf! Parisian Puddle Jumpers from Aigle

Yes, I’m a fan of Hunter Wellie rain boots, but they seem to be growing in popularity and are showing up on well-dressed feet all round town. I am looking for a new pair of unique rain boots and found Aigle rain boots that are made in France. Mais oui! These boots are a bit more fitted and I love the riding boot style that is made completely of rubber. A lovely boot to throw on with leggings and an over-sized chunky knit sweater when I’m running out the door in a hurry. These boots are tailored and becoming every bit as fashionable as the Hunter wellies. These boots are from Aigle, which provides outdoor gear to French sportsmen, equestrians and those who visit the countryside for pleasure. Yes, these are the real deal and are perfect for urbanites looking for a waterproof and comfortable city rain boot.

Retailers including Martin + Osa and J. Crew now carry Aigle boots. On the upper left is the Aigle Start Riding Boot ($103.20 was $129.00 at Martin and Osa), a lovely plain black riding boot that is a perfect reproduction of their leather counterparts.  On the model are a pair of violet Burberry rain boots (upper right, $195 at Net-a-Porter) to show you how utterly fab skinny jeans look tucked into tall rain boots. On the bottom row far left is the Aigle Women’s Bergen lace up rain boot ($207.95 at Shoebuy.com). I love the lace up fronts, which makes tucking in your jeans easier and ensuring an extra snug fit. Again in the riding boot style these two-toned Aigle Jumping Rubber Boots  ( bottom row middle, $199.99 at saddlesource.com) look like traditional dressage riding boots if you are looking for the Bon chic, bon genre aka French preppy style. Lastly is the two-toned Aigle Women’s Rubber Boot in Brown, ($149.00 at studentmarket.com). I love the two-toned texture of this one, a nice alternative to an all black boot, would look chic and sporty paired with tweed and a chunky cashmere sweater.

Save on your purchases with Coupon Codes from J. Crew from TheFind.com’s new coupon site

From our friends at thefind.

Fall's Chunky Look

By Carlina Harris

   



Most women don't like the word "chunky", I thankfully am not one of them. I would like to say for the record, I am referring to fall chunky sweaters of course! The cut, fit, and voluminous-ness of these hand woven knit's are amazing. These oversized toppers, are trendsetters themselves, no extra elaboration needed. Just pair with a simple pair of leggings, or pencil skinny jeans (no lamé gold spandex here), light on the accessories, maybe a long necklace, or thin bangles. Then for the shoes, opt for bad a*s moto chic boots, to toughen out that "grandpa look", flats, or super high platforms for a night out!

Temperatures have recently went from 80 to 60 in less than a week, and I realized, I need to get my hands on something cozy, blanket like, and extremely chic. Lets just say, there are a lot of options out there, ranging from $30 to (gasp) $380. 

Options from top to bottom, left to right: LaRok Pocket Cardigan, Nordstrom, $328; Frenchi Oversized Open Front Cardigan, Nordstrom, $48; Joie 'October' Tunic Sweater, Nordstrom, $378; Laurie B Wrap Sweater, Revolve Clothing, $162; Simply Vera By Vera Wang Poncho, Kohl's, $47; Stripe Shawl Sweater, Forever 21, $29.80.

xoxo, your fearless fall fashion follower, BH Fashion and Accessories Editor

Warm up with Fur Embellished Winter Boots

After making an appearance on the runway at Marc by Marc Jacobs, the fur boot is back. You may recall the mukluk trend from a few seasons ago. Yes, it’s back and it is part of the larger fur trend we are seeing on faux fur vests in particular as well as handbags. So it make sense, but not sure if I am ready to embrace furry winter boots again this year. What do you think of these fur festooned boots? Will you buy them this winter?

The style seen on the runway for fall 2009 is the Marc by Marc Jacobs Faux-fur lace-up boot (bottom right, $350 at Net-a-Porter). A completely fur covered boot this will keep your toes nice and toasty during the snowiest of days or perhaps on the slopes aprè ski?  The gray faux-fur-embellished boots feature black canvas criss-cross laces at the front, silver-tone eyelets and a black rubber sole to prevent slippage on snowy urban sidewalks or while relaxing in the ski lodge. Another style is Givenchy’s Fur-Front Ankle Boot, (top right, $1150 at Saks.com) and obviously not too appropriate for snowy streets, but perhaps a snow-free night out on the town. These rabbit fur embellished booties with a stacked heel will look perfect with black leggings or skinny jeans. From down under Australia Luxe Collective’s Nordic Angel Fur Boot, (middle bottom, $410.00 at Neiman Marcus.com) is a pimped out version of the classic shearling boot. This sheepskin boot would work in snowy surroundings as well as the sunny shores of California. The 16″ tall boots features black double-faced sheepskin and natural rabbit fur trim. As well as a signature logo plate on the back. Ralph Lauren Collection’s Willa Suede Boots, (bottom left, $695 at Saks.com) are tall suede platform boots lined with shearling and a faux fur cuff at the top. More fashion than function these tall boots would work well with skinny jeans tucked in and perhaps a faux fur vest to complete your ensemble.

Save on your purchases with Coupon Codes from Zappos from TheFind.com’s new coupon site

From our friends at thefind.

It's the 80's, Ladies

By Carlina Harris

Everyone who knows, knows its hot! So why is no one rocking this bold shoulder power look? That's right the bold shoulder is back, in a big way--literally. The bigger the better. I die for this look, its a little devil may care, a whole lotta fabulous, and, gasp--- a little bit ridiculous*.

Shoulder pads have reemerged from dancing queens' closets, and have been everywhere globally for the last few months, think: fashion elite, chic Francophile, urban downtown gal, and now you.

  

1. ASOS BLACK Sequin Shoulder Pad Dress, $109.42
2. ASOS Metallic Shoulder Pad Top, $51.06
3. Kiera U Neck T-Shirt with Shoulder Pads, $137
4. T-Bags Diamond Mini Dress, $225

This newer version of the 80's cult classic, is slimmer than its predecessor. The silhouette is more forgiving than Tony Romo's top half on the field. This look screams, "I'm sexy and totally in control of the situation"--whatever that may be!

Whether your into dropping loads of cash for a fleeting trend or not, try DIY-ing it. That way you can try out the look for a few bucks, before you invest in a big statement piece. It's a simple project, just get some shoulder pads, needle, thread, and your soon to be new favorite top.

XOXO, your ever faithful, shoulder pad loving, Fashion and Accessories Editor!

****User Warning: shoulder pads must be worn with the utmost confidence. Or death by utter embarrassment may be possible.