BrandHabit

Pliner Spring Soiree

by Carlina Harris

This Thursday head to Santana Row in San Jose on your lunch break or after work to do some spring retail therapy! The Donald J Pliner boutique- a luxe shoe house is hosting a Spring Soiree March 24th from noon until 5pm, where guests will be imbibing in cocktails, tasty nibbles, and cake.  Even acrobats will be on hand to entertain shoppers while they are perusing the new spring collection, where 10% of all proceeds from the day benefit Peace for the Children's Foundation- the Pilner's charity.

So head on over- because giving back is always in style.

 

Fur Trend- Dolls Kill

by Carlina Harris

Fox tails have been cropping up on the like of celebs, fashion bloggers, and the eccentric for many years now, but with the recent reemergence of fur at recent fashion weeks- think Gucci's wildly deep hued fur stoles- one can only wonder, is it time to get a foxtail? At least that's what is going back and forth in my head. I recently came across Dolls Kill, and became obsessed smitten with their on trend bushy tailed clip-on's- 100% real by the way.

 
 
 

I have been dreaming about clipping the middle burgundy colored fox tail to many a handbag, clutch, chain linked crossbody, and totes of all sizes- alas my dream turned into nightmare when I realized said burgundy tail would not be mine.  Due to such popular demand, the tail of my dreams was sold out!! Never fear I am still on the hunt for my perfect tail, there are a ton of other great colors. I probably will keep my options open, if not just for the amazing 20% off discount code (SPRINGTAILS). I may just check out my local thrift shop, goodies like this vintage trend can be lurking around any corner.

 
 

Shearling for Spring

by Carlina Harris

With March finally here, thoughts of sunnier days ahead of us seem within reach. That is until Mother Nature decided to grace California with unpredictable weather including but not limited to: rain, freezing cold bursts, and the occasional sunny day- what gives lady? I’m not sure what pouting is going to get me, but I do think I have a solution- and pretty fashionable one at that! Hello Shearling!

Shearling has been at the fashion forefront as of late last year, when darling designer Christopher Bailey sent his Burberry models cascading down the runway in Amelia Earhart-esque shearling aviator jackets! I’m not one to snub my nose at greatness- but who realistically can afford a $3000 jacket? One can only hope- for now (until Bachelor Brad comes knocking on my door for a proposal and bearing gifts of um Burberry jackets?) to still achieve this stature of cool with many more affordable and equally fierce options!  

My favorites from the bunch include the ever popular- Nastygal- picks. The Shearling Drape Jacket in camel makes my heart swoon, and at only $68, my finger is on the trigger to purchase this baby! Another luxe option is the longer version of the UHIF Chelsea Shearling coat in a tamer cream shade ($178).  Throw on a pair of cat-eye shades, whip up your ‘slept in’ hair and call it day- cuz you look hot lady!

    

                                                                

                                                           

                                                     
 

top to bottom: Nasty Gal jacket, Nasty gal coat, image cool girl sporting Helmut Lang, models from S/S 11 Burberry show

 

The Bra Bible

by Sara Caspi

 

And we’re back on track. I hope you've all had a fun and frisky day with friends or lover(s) this past Valentines day! Whether you bought new lingerie for the day, or just need some replenishment in your current lingerie drawer, I've found a really useful tool to help you out along your way. The website explains various types of main bra styles, explaining the differences with imagery and words. Check out LingeriePlease. It clearly defines the basic shapes of bras out on the market today.

While I’m a fan of more brands than they offer on the site – which I’ll get back to in future posts, I thought the education behind what they’re saying is really great and informative and a definite one-stop shop of know-how in assessing what styles are right for your shape and clothes. But, as always, I encourage recommendations from a trained professional in your area, such as with Nordstrom, or high-end boutiques such as Alla Prima in SF. I can’t vouch for many others as I haven’t experienced their fit-process personally when it comes to cup sizes higher than a DD, however, wherever you choose to go, make sure that if you’re on the extremes on the scales in band sizes (smaller than a 32 to a 38 or larger or have a small bust or large bust – regardless of what size you think you’re wearing) it’s important to find a store that carries those sizes. I know there’s a store in San Mateo for the petite sizes, and Nordstrom and Alla Prima have been best for variety and sizes F cup (DDD/DDDD) and up.  

Knowledge is Power. Live it up!

 

Valentine's Gifts: Single or Attached

by Carlina Harris

I hope all of you have picked up your sweetheart something special with Valentine's Day already here, but if not I composed a must have list of some of the best, holiday appropriate goodies to make this love filled day even more special. Pick up one, or all of these items and you'll be sure to have a sweet day!

Nothing to wear? For day or night the above Crimson Cross Bow Dress ($48, Nastygal.com) is the red version of the LBD- the sassy back on this mini just begs to be shown off! Rock the Jefferey Campbell Lita's ($159), and stomp all over your competition. These bad boys come in a sweet vintage pattern, but immediately spice things up with that ubiquitous platform heel! Accessorize your look on this holiday with worthy kiss-y bling- this Kiss me Crystal Ring ($44, Nastygal.com) will show them you mean business! Or how about giving yourself the celebrity treatment in the Lolita heart shades ($44- Nastygal.com)?

After you woo your dinner date with your style, take the party home and enjoy dessert behind closed doors! Tired of sticky, messy, artificial lube? Try the all new natural, 95% organic Aloe Cadaba lubricant ($9.95) in one of the three scents (Tahitian Vanilla, French Lavender, or Natural Aloe). And don't forget about chocolate and flowers- a girl can never have too much of that!

Keep in mind that whether your single or attached these gift idea's are ideal for every situation. I mean who doesn't need some dark chocolate in their life once in a while- Valentine's or not!

                                         

                      

        

                                         

                                          

                    

Practical Platforms

 
 
by Carlina Harris

With visions of spring sunshine, flowy garden dresses, and weekly pedicures dancing in my head-- and in all the glossies, I seem to have forgotten we are still in the midst of winter! Forget thigh high boots, I want platforms and lots of them. Platforms are always huge this time of year, but the newer, less heightened version is a fresh take on an old classic. Fashionista's are raving about this new "it" shoe trend- the latest lowered style are sure to be big come this spring. Easier to walk around in, and still chic- count me in. I am dying for the Fendi pair, sure to be spotted on the likes of Carine, both Anna's (Dello Russo and Wintour), and hopefully me!

Leather platform sandal, Derek Lam, $550, Leather sandal with glitter platform, Marc Jacobs, $550, Embossed leather sandal, Michael Kors, $675, Grosgrain sandal on cork platform, Fendi, $830,

A little bit of sass with class: Charnos

 

by Sara Caspi

Today I wanted to introduce UK-based lingerie brand, Charnos (pronounced Shar-nohs). They've been around since 1958 striving to produce affordable luxury. They are just as much about the fit of the garment as they are about the aesthetic and the reason that I want to introduce them today is because some weeks ago you had asked to show some of my own designs. We recently completed a client project with Charnos and I thought that you should get to know this brand if you haven't heard of them already.Currently they don't have any stockists listed in the U.S., Canada is as close as they come at the moment, but they are sold at figleaves.com should you get the chance to check out their products.

They have a unique thing going - providing quality,luxury and fit at an affordable cost. That's not an easy feat! They have a few ranges to appeal to different consumer's needs, ranging from a more simple silhouette, to ones decorated in lace in different colorways to a bridal collection. Their sizes range from 30C (all you small-backed women out there!) to 38G and even some select styles up to 42E (UK sizing if you are unfamiliar with these letters). They specialize in lingerie and shapewear, and are just the thing if you're looking for a sexier shapewear set. Check them out here

*I've also slipped in a bodysuit I designed during our Charnos project (for you to look at) where I earned a commendation and won a day of work experience at figleaves.com's Head Office in London. Please refer to blond model, Stephanie Middleton, wearing my black bodysuit with purple floral top.

Geeky Chic... it could save your life

by Sara Caspi

Hello lovely readers! I hope you all have had an amazing holiday season and were safe, but if you were in a dangerous situation and needed an immediate protective mask, fear not! the Ebra is here.

This amazing invention is more than just good looks. It's the brain child of Dr. Elena Bodnar of Chicago (originally Ukraine), whose experience while helping to evacuate and treat children in Chernobyl's nuclear plant disaster lead her to this AWE-some invention. So awesome infact, that it won a Nobel prize.

It's not everyday that you can have a functioning, supportive and attractive bra turn into 2 face masks in an emergency situation where other forms of protective devices aren't available.

The emergency bra claims to help prevent the "inhalation of harmful airborne particles" as well as reduce panic attacks. Who knew? And you don't even have to take your clothes off to do it!

Dare to dream 

 

All Tied Up...with corset laces

by Sara Caspi

First off, my apologies for this week's wildly sexy Wednesday delay, but I have good reason. You see, while introducing you to wonderful body-centric brands, I am also in the middle of studying the finer details of lingerie creation, and I had a final presentation this week for a corset of my own design.

But, speaking of corsets, for SF locals, you have a VERY special boutique under your noses! You may or may not have heard of them, but in the corset industry, Dark Garden Unique Corsetry, is one of THE top dogs world wide. Located in Hayes Valley, this established brand sells ready-to-wear and custom built delicacies, and you might recognize some of their handiwork on the likes of celebrity favorite Dita Von Teese, amongst other performers.

They use the finest materials in their work, and are brilliant at what they do. But while they can cost a pretty penny, there is nothing quite like something custom made and explain what you get for your money on their website. But they are multipurpose and can be used for a fun night on the town, period pieces, galas, symphonies, weddings, something kinky, you name it, they might have something worth splurging on, for women and men! You don't actually have to live in the Bay Area to work with them, and their fit is impeccable!

Fancy a gander? Check out their website, look at their calendar of events for ways to catch them out and about (e.g. at Dickens Christmas Fair this weekend) or pop to their shop for a chat and consultation. Also, for anyone recently engaged, or know of someone who is, they also have a bridal salon where you can even help design your own dress!

Enjoy the visual feast! 

Don't Freeze Your Assets of this Winter

by Sara Caspi

 

There are many ways to stay warm this winter, but they aren't always so flattering to wear. One way to keep your feminine flare is through the use of stockings, hose, and tights. They don't always need to be so traditional and boring looking, or tough to wear. It  is possible that you can look great AND keep your gams warm under your winter fashions this season, which can range from pencil skirts to minis, to dresses of all lengths, slouchy sweater dresses and occasionally a pair of summer shorts for the younger, sexy crowd brave enough. Tights are all the rage here in England on women of all ages, worn with your favorite pair of uggs, brogues/oxfords, ballet flats as well as leather boots. Flattering, warm and chic? Ummm...Yes please!

A great, pricier but durable, brand I love is called  who have been pioneers in the hosiery industry for many decades. They have a delectable selection on offer from their current range and lucky Bay Area folk!They actually have a Wolford shop in SF on Maiden Lane, in addition to being stocked in many finer department stores. We spend money on gloves, scarfs, and hats, but sexy hosiery is just as essential. Plus, who can resist feeling sexy while bundled up? Appreciated by both loved ones, and sexy strangers alike... maybe it's time you add a bit of spice back in your life this holiday season 

xx