Fashionosophy

Diamonds, A Single Girl's BFF

2007-06-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

Sooo, why should a girl (woman) have to wait to be engaged to get a fabulous diamond ring?

Short answer, she shouldn't. So I'm not. Realistically, given my romantic history, and the fact that I haven't had a relationship longer than a couple of months in 6 years, I know I'm not getting engaged anytime soon.

So I'm taking the bauble by the horns. I have a 1+-carat diamond that I wear as a necklace solitaire, and I'm sick of it; I want a ring. So this is what I'm thinking of having Norman Landsberg copy for me (from Barneys). What do we think?

I would do it in white gold, since I'd want to wear it every day. I lurve it...

2007-05-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the slacking my sartorial sisters. I have been busy, busy, busy and traveling nearly every weekend.

And of course, I've been shopping.

The highlights of recent weeks, most of which I've been back in Miami:

One gorgeous, silk and satin sea foam green dress by Cacharel found at this boutique on Collins Ave. Original price: $450; I paid $99. Aww yeah.

One stunning Temperley silk, cream, fuchsia and black dress from Neiman Marcus Last Call. Original price: $950; I paid like $230-ish. It's GORGE.

Also at NM Last Call—the best store ever, ever—a Nanette Lepore silk top about $60 from $250.

And yesterday, for mother's day, we went to the outlets in St. Augustine, where the only designer stores are Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren.

At Calvin I got a very mod looking black-and-white DVF-style wrap dress for $99 and a pretty, cotton navy sundress for about $80 I think.

At Ralph, I got my first pair of shorts in like 15 years; Bermuda length, simple navy cotton.

I will upload pics when I have time.

And today, the best gift of all, my amazing, stunning, woven pearl necklace from my new friend and favorite jewelry designer, Indian princess Suhani Pittie.

How fabulous is this piece? I'm in love.

Thanks mom! Happy mother's day! She got some cute stuff too, and I made her an album of our Italy trip for her present.

I also have some great beauty recs for you girls, but I think I will wait on those until I have enough time for proper descriptions.

Jewel of the Ganges

2007-04-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

So I went to Fashion Week in Miami this past weekend and didn't fall in love with too many products, save for those of fabulous Indian jewelry designer Suhani Pittie.

Her designs are gorgeous, unique and reasonably priced. I think she's going to be huge. So check out her web site and catch her on the way up.

Here are a few of my faves; I may just wire brother some money in India and have him stop by one of her boutiques there.

Moda Mania

2007-04-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

Well, it was substantially colder in Italy than I anticipated, and we all know how climate impacts fashion. Leave it to me to pack lots of cute, little cotton jackets, cotton tees, sleeveless shirts and dresses for night time and merely one tiny cashmere shrug. So I either ended up borrowing mom's blanket-like shawl or layering, until I could buy something that would keep me a little warmer. In Positano, the shopping was pretty pathetic—lots of Miami-esque glittery linen type garments or overpriced designer merch.

The value of the dollar was piss poor. Amalfi, however, boasted some great buried treasures.

First, I found a fabulous, plain black, leather, wide belt for like 7 Euros. Next I found this woven wool sweater thingy to keep me warm, and last I discovered this amazing, super trendy necklace with semi-precious stones. It can be worn long or doubled up. I am wearing all three of my Amalfi finds in this pic:

Next stop, an outlet mall on our way to Rome; our driver, Rino, was cool like that. I had been wanting a cool pair of sneakers and I managed to find these groovy, black Costume National ones at the outlet mall.

Final destination: Rome, where Via Condotti is the equivalent of 5th Avenue, but the prices are substantially higher thanks to the damn Euro. The last time I went to Italy was in the good ol' days of Lire, so it was quite a shock to the system to see how thin my shopping money would be stretched. Nonetheless, I managed a couple good finds on Via Condotti.

First, and I know you're saying, "Good god, the last thing this girl needs is another handbag." But hear this: You can never be too rich, too thin or have too many designer handbags and shoes.

I just fell in love with this adorable little Yves St. Laurent wristlet. And I actually don't have a small, white, evening bag, so my demented designer brain functioning is thus justified.

Finalmente, this cute little tee at Gianfranco Ferre. It's appropriate for this trip, as it has a map of the Amalfi Coast on it and reads, "I want to live my life, not record it." Plus the back is really cute too. Love polkadots.

I'm wearing it in this pic with my very Hollywood-looking bro . . .

and in these you can see the whole shebang:

But the speed-shopping prize goes to mom, who, in an 11th-hour hail mary pass managed to score a fab frock at Etro in the Rome airport, just outside our gate, as our plane was literally boarding. It was hands-down the quickest sartorial decision I've ever seen her make. Cute, signature paisley-print, lightweight trenchcoat. It rains a lot in Florida you know. . . .

Thursday I am off to Miami to cover Miami fashion week, so I will have more fashiony stuff next week. Though no more shopping. I am soo done. Unless there are really good sales at Bal Harbour . . .

A Writer's Revenge

2007-03-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

So my embattled former Star coworker Jared Paul Stern has had a rough year with regards to some sort of "Page Six Payola" scandal that involves billionaire Ron Burkle and Page Six/The New York Post. For years JPS was involved with Page Six, second-in-command I think to Richard Johnson.

Okay, so some of you outside the NYC media bubble may not know about all this hoopla, and frankly I don't really understand it either. All I know is that JPS, who is humble, soft-spoken and incredibly dapper, was slandered, libeled, defamed and generally kicked around by the very same media that he'd once been an integral part of.

This was big news—Burkle, according to Wikipedia, "is a supermarket billionaire from Beverly Hills. . . . [and] a close friend of former President Bill Clinton, who calls Burkle's Boeing 757
private jet "Ron Air."

Also from Wikipedia: "In April 2006, Ron Burkle accused New York Post columnist Jared Paul Stern of attempting to extort money from him in exchange for more favorable Page Six coverage. Page Six, a popular and influential gossip column in the New York Post, appears to have increased their coverage of Burkle's private life over the past year. Ron Burkle secretly videotaped several private meetings between him and Jared Paul Stern, and has since presented the tapes to the FBI. During the meetings, Stern allegedly asked Burkle for a $220,000 investment in his clothing business in exchange for better Page Six coverage. No charges were ever filed against Stern, however, and Stern announced plans to sue Burkle for defamation. Stern filed suit on March 22, 2007, on several counts including defamation and civil conspiracy."

Blah, blah, blah. The good news is that JPS is finally striking back and surely will kick some billionaire butt. When you've been in your own lawsuit, you kind of get the heebie jeebies reading about those of people you know, so I largely ignored the coverage due to my gut reaction of, Jared would never do such a thing. Nice Jewish guy. Classy.

What does this have to with fashion you ask?
I'm getting there. First, Jared is one of the most uniquely stylish straight men I've met.

Second, JPS has his own line of clothing and accessories that are tres cool.
The line is preppy with a punk edge: Skull and Bones. For someone like me who has recently taken up tennis, but is not a typical Ralph Lauren WASP, I'm totally digging the canvas tote and the polo shirts. And the cuff links are bad-ass, perfect for that edgy guy who doesn't want to dress up but occasionally must.

And how amusing is the description of the canvas tote?
"Perfect for carrying your books, a bottle of Scotch, clothes for the weekend, the shopping, multiple personalities, cigarettes, a sweater (in case it gets cold), tennis balls, the dog's leash and just about anything else you can think of...." Hmm, what else? Bottle of Xanax, stun gun and tub of La Mer;)

Diamonds and Djimon

2007-03-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

Ladies, I have four words for you: Rent Blood Diamond, now. It is not only one of the most powerful and passionate films I have seen in recent years, but it will also cause you to question the myriad ways in which you buy diamonds. From here on out, when you buy a rock, be it one carat or 30, you must insist (and you will after seeing this movie) to see papers ensuring that it is from a Conflict-Free Zone.

I am seriously thinking of trying to trace the diamonds I currently have to see where they came from.

This movie is simply awesome and disturbing and heartwarming and makes you think about real issues, which all great movies should do. I have been a longtime fan of Djimon Hounsou
ever since watching Spielberg's woefully underrated and ignored Amistad (also a MUST SEE), but his performance is simply staggering in this movie. And though I adored Alan Arkin's Little Miss Sunshine performance, Djimon was robbed of the Academy Award for Blood Diamond.

He may even be my new Michael Jordan.

Buon Giorno Balenciaga

2007-03-22T12:33:00.000-07:00

Nine days till I leave for Rome, Positano and Amalfi. Natch, what I fret about most when going on vacation is what to pack. Usually I start with the handbags, shoes and jewelry and work backwards towards clothes. However, since this is a family vacay, and we have a private driver shuttling us from city to city, there will be limited space for luggage.

For weeks I have been fretting about the handbag and shoe situation: namely, which every day handbag to bring and which every day shoes to bring that of course must match the bag. Nighttime shoes are not a problem—either black pumps or boots. But this was my quandary—it's spring in Italy and I didn't want to carry a black bag. But the eggshell bag I have is just too heavy. And my red bag too small. Same with the yellow, pink and gold bags. So that's why I so wanted the silver Tod's bag.

Typically, for a week long vacation, I would bring at least four handbags; two day, two night. And probably six pairs of shoes—can't forget the sneakers and the slippers.

The point is that I'm trying to simplify sartorially for this trip. One pair of day shoes; one pair of night shoes. One pair of sneakers. Not a ton of jewelry. No belts. But everything boiled down to the handbag—I needed that perfect, trendy (it is Italy after all) every day bag that would go with any color shoes.

And out of all my bags (this is my new handbag hookup; sick, I know) none fit the bill.

Enter mom. Stylish yet simple—she's elected to carry an old-school, lightweight, black, nylon Prada—she's generously offered up her coppery/grayish awesome Balenciaga that I helped her choose at Barneys.

Packing problems solved. Now onto jewelry, shoes and clothes. I already got this fab Caudalie travel kit at Sephora to cut down on the toiletries.

Fresh Finds

2007-03-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Adoring, but not affording these things. . . Obv. the major trends this spring/summer are metallics, animal prints, prints of all kinds really and oversized bags. Much like, well, last spring/summer.

Louis Vuitton Beverly XXL

Dior Metallic Cannage Medium Shoulder Bag

B. Fendi Patent Leather Large Satchel

Tod's Restyled D-Bag Media

Tod's Milky Nylon T-Bag

Tod's Wave Lace-up

My Dior Stamped Python Ballerina

Giuseppe Zanotti Jeweled Mule

Blumarine Vintage Chain Print Top

Derek Lam Asymmetrical Braided Silk Dress

Etro Multi-print Dress

Jean Paul Gaultier Printed Dress

Nanette Lepore Lucky Leopard Silk Dress
I am so getting this one; perfect for Florida summers.

2007-03-15T19:53:00.001-07:00

Juli B Beauty Picks for March.

Suddenly Slimmer

2007-03-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, once again, I am the guinea piglet. I'm booked for the fat burning wrap Ellen DeGeneres made famous in a couple of weeks.

It's only $109, but for $40 more, they offer to measure you before and after to guarantee the inches you've lost. Since I elected not to have my body measured (don't really want to know, thank you very much), she said bring tight clothes and I'll be able to fit into them at the end.

We'll see. . . You're wrapped from head-to-toe and then you do a light cardio workout for 45 minutes! I'll be sure to take pics of mummified me working out. In preparation, they tell you to drink 68 oz. of water a day and take multivitamins, both of which I already do. I can't wait.

Lose inches in hours!!!!!!!!!!

2007-03-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

So you all know I worship Ellen DeGeneres, and when I saw this footage of her undergoing a "Slim Wrap," I just laughed it off. . . . But then, she said that this wrap actually worked; as in it took inches off her body in an hour-and-a-half. I just got off the phone with the lovely Slim Wrap woman who wrapped Ellen personally and let me tell you sisters—I'm so there.

Ellen had the Power Wrap, which is only $125. Cheaper than most massages. And Ellen says it's not just water weight; that the weight actually stays off. Now, it's true, I'd believe Ellen if she said that Jesus Christ was actually Moses, but in preparation for Italy, I need all the help I can get.

Onto my beauty, fashion and luxury good picks. . .

Fashion
Manolo Blahnik Leopard print open toe pump

Valentino silver logo flat

Valentino satin and crystal eve pump

Manolo Blahnik Cessabi Jeweled Thong sandal (exclusively neiman's online)

Christian Louboutin Patent Platform Pump

Jewelry
m2 by Mary Margrill charm necklaces

Ippolita charm bangles

Jude Frances Fleur-de-lis ring

Linda Lee Johnson Rosetta Ring

Astercast Zodiac stellium charm necklaces

Anthony Nak Turquoise Sapphire earrings

Luxury Goods

Lalique Jade Buddha

Jay Stongwater "Miles" Coral Reef Alarm Clock

John Derian Paperweights

Handbags
Gucci mirror evening clutch

Fendi Crossworld Grande Mirrored Bag

Burberry Nautical Bucket Tote

Chloe Denim & Leather Logo Tote

Valentino Leopard print evening bag

2007-03-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

So, we all know I have a shopping addiction. That's what makes this monthly column for Juli B so enjoyable. I get to sift through Neiman's, Bergdorf's, ELuxury, Saks and Barneys, pick out my dream items and pitch them. Then, if I'm lucky, the editor chooses the picks I like and I get to write about them.

Okay, I don't actually get the items, but for me—a gimme, gimme, now, now!—person, this is a big step. I'm submitting my pitches early this month b/c of Italy, so whatever Juli rejects I will post here as the must-haves for spring.

I am totally salivating over silver bags and just don't know how I'm going to make it to Italy without one. I mean, silver is the one color of bag I don't have. Last year—gold, gold, gold. Now silver. I've got the cute silver shoes, now I just need the bag.

Esp. this one, which mom and I spotted at Bal Harbour and oohed and aahed over way before it became the de rigeur celeb bag of choice. Ahem.

In fact, I am adding it to my Neiman's wish list. Just in case; you never know. But the way to this girl's heart is through her accessories addiction. Oh, nevermind, it's not at Neiman's online, it's at Saks.

Cosmetics Crackhead

2007-03-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

You know you're crazy when: You dream of products, especially items that haven't been invented yet. I'm obsessed with Dr. Hauschka lip balm and lip care stick. Yet last night I had a dream I was at Neiman's and they had a whole line of Dr. Hauschka lip products, glosses etc. Oy ya yoy. Crazy!

My other recent product favorites: BORBA. I use the Skin Balance Clarifying Aqua-Less Crystalline (Pomegranate flavor) every day, and as sketchy as it seems, the stuff actually works miracles. You mix it in your water, drink it up, and moments later, literally, you look as if you've just had a facial. Plus, it tastes good and each packet contains just about every daily vitamin you need. You can buy it at Sephora. I have only tried the clarifying formula, so I can't vouch for the other lines/tastes, but let me tell you, this is well worth the money.

The other day, I was out of my Kiehl's eye cream, which I've been using for years, but here in East Bumblefuck, there is only ONE place that has Kiehl's. Since I had to go stock up at Sephora anyway, I tried something new and quite like it. It's Philosophy's Hope in a Tube High Density Eye and Lip Firming Cream.

Now, it's not as good as my old standard: Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, but it will do for the next month or so.

Many of my friends my age do not understand the importance of moisturizing, and given the fact that they grew up in Florida, I think they are insane. Moisturizing the facial area, esp. the eyes where you get crow's feet is so important in preventing fine lines and wrinkles. So if you're not using under eye creams ladies, please start! The Kiehl's one is $24 and it will last you a couple months. You can order it online.

That's my beauty binge for today. Must go eat lunch and then go see my dentist, who is (thankfully a good family friend) and is seeing me today because my goddamn temporary crown has a mind of its own.

2007-03-08T17:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lag, there simply is no fashion where I am, but when I have a moment I will share my latest beauty findings.

My newest story on Juli B—the coolest sneakers ever.

And the must-have luxe picks for March.

Botox Anyone?

2007-02-28T10:52:00.000-08:00

So the numbers are in and they are staggering.

Cate Blanchett's dazzling Armani number? $200,000.

Helen Mirren's divine Christian Lacroix frock? $400,000.

Kate Winslet's Valentino? $100,000.

Helen gets to keep hers; I don't know about the others.

Now, I love Kate Winslet. Great actress. Fabulous role model in that she's not ana like most Oscar-worthy actresses. However, I'm sorry to say that she is an argument in favor of Botoxing while you're young. She's my age, yet, if any of you saw the official pre-show on the network that the Academy Awards were broadcast on, you probably couldn't help but notice her terrible crow's feet and forehead lines. Even dad, who thinks I'm ridiculous with my Botox and Restylane at my age, finally saw the light. "She looks terrible," he agreed. And the truly scary thing is that she's never been in the sun and has great skin! But look at those lines! I've taken the liberty of posting some before and after pics. The after pics are me airbrushing away the lines using iPhoto. Take a gander.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Oscar's Best- and Worst-Dressed

2007-02-26T15:08:00.000-08:00

BEST

PENÉLOPE CRUZ, my longstanding girl crush, can do no wrong, especially in this unbelievably glamorous Atelier Versace gown. And it certainly doesn't hurt that she's wearing my favorite brand of jewelry: Chopard.

CATE BLANCHETT

Cate is just rocking the red carpet this year. Her Armani Privé gown, as well as her lean frame, is just to-die-for. And her Lorraine Schwartz earrings? I'm orgasming.

MAGGIE GYLLENHAAL
Ladies, this woman gave birth four months ago. My friends who did the same are still wearing maternity clothes. This crystal-embroidered Proenza Schouler fit her seamlessly.

GWYNETH PALTROW
She could have made better hair and makeup choices, but I'm digging this Zac Posen gown; I'm also digging the fact that she looks like a real woman now as opposed to skin and bones.

HELEN MIRREN
I've already extolled the magnificence of this haute couture Christian Lacroix gown on Dishalicious, but this woman, at 61, has a body to aspire to. This amazing, hand sewn, hand embroidered gown probably cost more than you make in a year (and if you're in publishing, make that two years.) Lacroix, darling. Lacroix. And that 62-carat Chopard brooch ain't bad either.

REESE WITHERSPOON
Radiant in Nina Ricci, for the third awards show in a row. That divorce diet is seriously doing magic for her skin, bod and face. Love the hair. Love the makeup. Love the dress. Love her.

WORST
JENNIFER LOPEZ
I'm biased here, as I think la Lopez is pure trailer trash, but this Marchesa gown is just all wrong, as is the random, weird hairstyle. I seriously think she's hiding a baby bump. Her last red carpet appearance was a loose-fitting Marchesa frock as well.

CAMERON DIAZ
I don't get Cameron's style; I really don't. As a former model, she's got the ideal body for clothes and a pretty face. She seems really cool, but her "funky" style always ends up coming off as fugly. Valentino, such a red carpet master, dropped the ball here as well. But the Cartier earrings are fabulous.

NICOLE KIDMAN

Ugh. Again, I'm biased, as I think she's a weird, uptight, gay-Tom-Cruise-marrying fembot whose face has so much Botox in it she could open up her own dermatology center. And true to her fembot ways, this Balenciaga dress would be more at home on a StarTrek set.

JENNIFER HUDSON
Oh, honey, this is just a disgrace. And Andre Leon Talley, Anna Wintour should whip your ass for pulling this ensemble together. First, girl needs to take a lesson from Queen Latifah on how to appropriately dress bigger bodies. The Queen is much larger and always gorgeous. I'm sure this Oscar de la Renta chocolate gown would have looked fab on, say, Karolina Kurkova, but on a plus-size woman? Uh uh. And that gold python jacket would have been cute with a black top and jeans for a night out in New York—if you're a size 2/4. Simply disastrous. I even hated the antique Fred Leighton necklace and the side-swept hair. Someone please get this girl a stylist, stat.

MERYL STREEP
Oh, Meryl, Meryl, Meryl. Last night she gave that crazy freak Sally Kirkland a run for her money in this disastrous Prada garbage bag. I've never been a big Prada fan when it comes to clothing; some of their collections are downright hideous. Though I do like most of their bags and shoes. And that necklace? Oy vey.

2007-02-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

I'm live-blogging over at Dishalicious, since that's where the bulk of my readers are.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

2007-02-18T20:59:00.000-08:00

I've been reading A LOT of magazines lately--some highlights:

Can I just say how brilliant this evening bag is simply for the fact that you can wear it with both white and yellow gold? Divine.

Christian Dior

OK more to come; I'm spent.

2007-02-09T11:50:00.000-08:00

Oh Anna, say it isn't so! Mixing and matching furs!? Sigh. My case of idol worship just weakened a little bit. Pictured at the Badgley Mischka show, image from Gawker.

2007-02-07T20:28:00.000-08:00

So I'm an official trendsetter, albeit a self-annointed one? Why, Shop It to Me, you make me blush.

Speaking of shopping, I had to go to Off 5th today to return the damn Marc Jacobs bag that did not sell on either Dishalicious or eBay. And despite the myriad temptations, I didn't buy anything. Oh wait—I did, okay? I almost forgot. Two C+C long sleeve T-shirts; $15 from $50. But T-shirts don't count. They had these fabulous Stuart Weitzman, pointy toe, patent pumps in both red and black for $150 and I still refrained. I think I deserve a present for being so good. Like a pair of Stuart Weitzman pumps perhaps. . .

Ode to Vogue

2007-02-06T23:18:00.001-08:00

Oh lord how I miss NYC at times like these: Fashion Week. Obv. I'm a little obsessed with fashion and fashion magazines. Yesterday I wrote a letter to the good folks at Gawker, because they are looking for a writer to cover women's magazines. The job ad requested a paragraph about you and a couple paragraphs about the women's magazine you are obsessed with.

I have always been obsessed with Vogue. My grandmother was an obsessive-compulsive hoarder, and in addition to collecting designer clothing, accessories and jewelry as if they were cheap trinkets, she also kept every magazine she ever read, including priceless back issues of Vogue and W. So when I went to her condo in Sarasota, I pored over the Vogue back issues and sifted through the designer duds and escaped into this fantastic, fashionable fantasy world. Thus my Vogue obsession was born.

Naturally, Vogue is the magazine I chose to wrote about to illustrate my obsession with women's magazines. My dream since about the age of 16 was to work for Vogue. I've long-ago faced the fact that this likely will not happen, but I continue to hold the magazine in great esteem. Obv. this job is a complete long shot; I'm sure they got hundreds of letters, so I thought I would share mine with you. (Keep in mind that the web site is a very snarky, tongue-in-cheek site that pokes fun at the media from an insider's perspective, hence the informal tone of the letter.) Anywho, here's the excerpt from the letter detailing my ongoing Vogue fixation:

Now, as far as women's magazines go, I have to admit I'm a devotee of the much-maligned, yet truly essential fashion bible, Vogue. I've always worshiped at Anna's altar, Devil Wears Prada or not. Off the record, I'll share with you a couple of embarrassing tidbits to illustrate my Vogue obsession. My first official clip—if you can call it that—was a letter to the editor in Vogue, published when I was 17. And (this is the truly embarrassing part) the cake at my high school graduation party was a mock-up of a Vogue cover, replete with headlines and decks that I wrote. I kid you not—I still have the photos. In my opinion, Vogue continues to be the arbiter of the fashion industry, and no other editor in chief in the history of women's magazines, aside from Diana Vreeland, has been as influential, infamous and intimidating as Anna. Sure, the layouts are increasingly, er, whimsical, the items featured are completely unaffordable, the covers are often messy and the writers' tones sometimes make you want to hurl, yet the magazine is still relevant. It's like family—you can't live without it, you can't kill it and it's always there for you when you're feeling down.

Okay, so I exaggerate, but the truth is that Vogue is a magazine that is aspirational, and in today's age of instant gratification that's somehow comforting. I know I won't be able to afford the handbag, shoes or bauble featured on the last page, yet I am still dying to see what it is. A girl has to dream, and if my fantasies were spilled out onto four-color spreads, they would look a lot like Vogue's Index.

And though I haven't reviewed the Fashion Week collections as yet, I did look at photos from the shows and was absolutely horrified to behold this picture of Vogue editor/writer Plum Sykes. Ugh. She's giving writers, fashionistas and Conde Nasties a bad name with this ensemble; the jeans are too long, the hair is disheveled, the scarf is taking up half her body, the redneck hat that I know is all the rage but is still hideous, the clunky black shoes paired with a beige bag and a gray coat. She's just all over the place:

On the other hand, Anna Wintour is uber-chic in this delectable sheared (what looks like beaver) fur coat, during a season when most other NYC girls' furs look like just-killed raccoons fresh off Davy Crockett's farm. Although I am a vegetarian simply because I don't care for meat or fish, I love a good fur. But there's a fine line between fur fabulousity and fur atrocity.

Fabulous Fur on Anna with her gorgeous clone daughter Bee Shaffer:

Fugly fur on longtime media figure Lauren Ezersky:

2007-02-06T11:53:00.000-08:00

My latest journalistic endeavor, though humble, is at least related to subject matter I adore. Why fashion and fragrance and design of course . . . Juli B February Picks.

SAG's Sartorial Superstars

2007-01-29T13:40:00.000-08:00

My best-dressed highlights from the SAG Awards last night; I hate E!'s coverage since Joan and Melissa left; Ryan Seacrest simply can't be counted on to religiously ask, "Who are you wearing?"

Cate Blanchett takes the cake I think, radiant in her Armani Prive gown.

I also thought Anne Hathaway looked magnificent in Marchesa, no doubt channeling her Devil Wears Prada character.

Joy Bryant went for a fail-safe, red Valentino number, though some experts take issue with the whole red-dress-on-red-carpet thing, my opinion is that one cannot go wrong in a red Valentino.

Usually funky fashionista Sandra Oh is toned down in Armani.

Reese Witherspoon also looked great, again in Nina Ricci, playing it safe I guess but her bod has never looked better. Depression over the divorce, probably.

And Kyra Sedgwick, who was a mess at the Golden Globes, redeemed herself in Herve Leger, showing off a sick body (she's 41!) in a dress that leaves no room for, well, anything.

eBaying

2007-01-27T22:46:00.000-08:00

My unsold Marc Jacobs Kira bag is now up for sale on eBay, though despite posting several items on eBay in the past nothing has ever sold? Am I missing something here? Either way, I'll return the bag or keep it for spring.

And, oh, wouldn't it be just perfect for Italy in April??? We booked our flights today, yay!

But, seriously, what is the secret of success to selling on eBay. Somebody please enlighten me.

Fashionosophy's Frugal Finds

2007-01-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

Once again, all culled from the Neiman Marcus Last Call in Miami.

My favorite score is this lovely Tracy Reese sundress, that retailed for $350. Neiman's Last Call price? $80. Aww yeah.

Then there's this adorable LaRok jacket, which retailed for $270. I got it for $41.

This Nanette Lepore skirt though was brought about by true designer intervention, as I already possessed the matching top, purchased last year at Bergdorf's. Retail: $275. My price: $44.

The skirt . . .

And, now, a complete set . . .

Now, vote, damnit, vote!

Retail Research

2007-01-15T14:42:00.000-08:00

Naturally I am marooned in my condo watching E!'s pre-show red carpet coverage of the Golden Globes. On Saturday I was on assignment at Bal Harbour, scoping out fabulous things for Juli B.

I was a little pressed for time, since it took me like an hour to get there due to road closures that resulted in me pulling up to the security gate in an exclusive Miami Beach community and sitting in the gatehouse with the lovely security officer who was kind enough to draw me a map to Bal Harbour.

I hit Hermes, Chopard, Van Cleef, Judith Ripka and Books & Books. (It's a varied assignment.) Mom arrives on Thursday, so assuming therapist doesn't intervene any further into our shopping habits, we will return on Friday for more "research."

My favorite finds:

Chopard

Van Cleef

Products, Pretty Please

2007-01-10T21:12:00.000-08:00

So I know it's been a while, but I had to show my apartment this morning, and find myself awake with some time to kill. I wanted to share with you five readers my beauty and product tips, because of late, I've gotten to try some really nifty stuff courtesy of my beauty writing gig. I'll also share with you my beauty staples; I'm one of those loyal product whores, who believes, why fix it if it's not broken.

First, my staples:

Mascara: Make Up Forever Lengthening Mascara. This is availabe only at Sephora I believe. But it's the best mascara, lengthening without being clumpy.

Blush: Stila Convertible Color Dual Lip and Cheek Creme in Camellia (#1). Available at most Saks and also Sephora I think. I don't use on my lips, but I use on the face and on the eyes as a great natural daytime highlighter.

Lips: For glosses I use Laura Mercier Bronze Glitz (for years now) and Chanel Force (#39) for evening. For day I wear Mercier and for night I combine the two. For moisturizing/chapping, I'm now addicted to Dr. Hauschka's products. There's the Lip Care Stick
and the Lip Balm. Both are equally fantastic.

Eyes: I prefer cremes for shadow and blush, etc. So lately I've been using, in order of application: Revlon EyeGlide Shimmer Shadow in Charcoal. Next, I line the upper lids with either liquid liner that has a brush or Revlon ColorStay eyeliner pencil in black. This Revlon ColorStay pencil stays on even in flash floods I swear. It's amazing. I use it on the upper and lower lids and then smude it onthe lowers.

I also use, depending on the day or look I am going for, Stila's Convertible Eye Color dual shadow and liner in Onyx. I don't know what they mean by dual, because basically it's a liner on one end with a smudge brush on the other. (Actually, now that I'm reading the Sephora description, apparently the brush has shadow in it, so maybe I just have to figure out how to get it out.) I think you are supposed to use it in tandem with Stila's Smudge Pot creme eyeshadow, which I have in grey. If you want a more dramatic look, you can simply dip the smudge brush into the smudge pot and use that as a liner, which gives you that whole smoldering, smoky look.

Foundation: This foundation has absolutely changed my life, and if you buy one thing I recommend, buy this. It's brand-new and is the first-ever brush on foundation. It's Yves Saint Laurent's Perfect Touch Foundation. It's an all-in-one foundation with a wide applicator brush attached. It literally provides a flawless finish and is not oily at all. I use color #7

Face: For moisturizer, I use the Creme de la Mer, which is pricey yes, but a 1 oz tub should last you about 3-4 months for $110. For me, it just works.

Body: I'm addicted to the Bliss Body Butter in several scents, the best being the lemon+sage one.

Perfume: Jo Malone, a mixture of the Lime Basil and the Grapefruit. And here's a hint: their samples are in these huge bottles, so they can last you for months. I've been using samples for like 6 mos. I'm not kidding.

Hair: Since I've got the Jap straightening, I have to use no products. I let it air dry if I'm not doing anything special, apply the Frederic Fekkai glossing cream, and then when it's dry I apply the Frederic Fekkai Finishing Polish. (They are both in green packaging.)

Nails: I always do my own nails and toenails, always in French-style. But the secret is NailTek II Intensive Therapy clear gloss. If you have weak, chippy nails, this product will change your life. Seriously. I used to have the weakest nails and after years of using NailTek, they are now hard as rocks.

Cleansing and Moisturizing: I have to admit I go back and forth on cleansers. Lately I sampled Kiehl's Brightening Botanical Cleansing Cream and I dig it, so I might just buy it. For eye moisturizing, I've been using Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avacado. It's very gentle and absorbs quickly so you can use morning and night.

Now for some good products I've test-marketed:
The La Mer Radiant Facial kit. This works pretty well, although personally I'd have to think twice about shelling out $320 for a treatment you use once a week. Here's what you'll look like while using it, well, if you were me.

La Mer, The Eye Balm. Good, but $100 better than Kiehl's? Not really.

Yves Saint Laurent Temps Majeur Eye Cream. Nice, but again, worth the price differential? Probably not. But it is substantially lighter than the Kiehl's one I use, which has its advantages.

My God, I'm link-exhausted. I'm off to Bal Harbour to stock up on La Mer and do some more market research for a Valentine's story I'm working on...

Barneys, Balenciaga and Bugs

2007-01-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember that the last time I was in Barneys in New York, mom had a rather funny encounter with a bee and a Prada bag.

Well, it seems that the Prada department on the ground floor of Barneys has some sort of critter problem, as this past weekend, something equally troublesome was afoot in amid the overpriced bags. As I entered Barneys and wandered over to the Prada dept., I witnessed the salesgirl fleeing away from behind the counter and shrieking, "Ewww, Omigod, Omigod!"

"What?" I asked, horrified and amused at once. "Is it a bug? That happened last time I was in this dept.!"

She shook her head and her eyes were wide with fear. To me this translates to one thing: Rodents, capital R. As you all know, I have a thing about Rodents. In fact, they are one of the main reasons I was driven out of Manhattan, the Rodent capital of the country.

I asked the saleswoman what she'd seen and she just shook her head and kept running. Hello, enough of a cue for me to move over to the Balenciaga section. I often have to aid and abet mom and her friends in their fashion purchases.

"Steph, what will I wear this with? Can I wear this with jeans? Is this too young? Will this go out of style in a year? What do you think?" they often ask. Of course I always tell them the truth and they often buy the pieces and wear them for years. Such was the case with mom and all her Habitual, Citizens, Seven and Marc Jacobs jeans, and often is the case with Lynn. This time, I talked mom into another pair of jeans (she seems to think five pairs is "enough"), faded brown Habitual ones, after I lost a bet with her in which I proclaimed, "Mom, they just don't make jeans in brown anymore." Well, imagine my chagrin when I found just such a pair, by my favorite jeans-maker nonetheless, at Barneys. You can't win em all.

So I would love to start a personal shopping advisory business to cater to my mom and her friends, and others interested, but this is just a dream at the moment. In the interim, they get my profound wisdom for free. As do you;)

Anywho, such was the case as mom and I moved away from the rodent and into Balenciaga-land. I have been trying to convince mom to bite the Balenciaga bullet for a few years, mainly cause I love the bags, they are super-soft and lightweight and she desperately needed a large every day bag. (Plus, when she gets sick of it, I'll be the lucky recipient.) This time it worked, and as is always the case when my advice is sought by her in fashion matters, she is wary at first and then happy. She lurves this bag as much as I do. Check it out:

I myself didn't score so big this time—just a new pair of Habituals, a new pair of Nikes for the gym and two shirts at Bergdorf's, which I actually purchased myself, a first among shopping expeditions with mom—thanks to a clandestine rule/deal crafted between my dad and my therapist, for which she will be read the riot act. I mean, shopping is one of the pre-eminent bonding rituals between mom and me. So, brilliant therapist or not, she can't take that away from me. And, finally, I got a good shot of my mom's beloved (on my behalf) Chopard watch. I got to wear it New Year's Eve, and proceeded to stroke and kiss its beautiful face throughout the evening. Yummy, yummy, yummy, I've got love in my tummy for this watch.

And this is the facade of the Cartier store through the window of a cab, which I just thought was pretty.

Neiman's Last Call

2006-12-22T10:16:00.000-08:00

Shit! I didn't even realize people were reading this. I promise to post something relevant later today. Bear with me.

OK, as promised, my Neiman's finds for all of you freaky fashionistas like me:

The biggest score: These Lambertson Truex booties, 75% off. Also notice my favorite picture of my beloved Wally in the background.

The favorite find: This yummy, fabulous Marc Jacobs evening bag, 50% off. I'm obsessed with golds, browns, coppers, etc. right now.

The other big score: This cashmere La Rok (I just love their stuff) sweater, also about %75 off.

The cute blouse: Alice & Olivia, which goes swimmingly with the booties and the bag—I tend to think in entire outfits, which either makes me truly deranged or a true fashionista—also %75 off.

And just so you don't think me a selfish, superficial bitch, which this anonymous commenter has accused me of being over at Dish, I also picked up some great Hanukkah gifts for dad, mom, godson Kobi and best friend.

I also wanted to post some pics of my soon-to-be-evacuated apartment while it's looking all spiffy for my house guests arriving today.

The living room:

The bedroom:

Looking the Part

2006-12-13T16:38:00.000-08:00

I have many philosophies, most of them silly. One of them relates to careers and success, and is quite simple: look the part.

Fashion editors should be fashion plates. Beauty editors should be pretty, well-groomed or at the very least have fabulous skin.

I once lost a job because of this philosophy. Often, job interviews are about concealing your true self and spouting the company line. Well, I interviewed for an editor position at this shopping magazine called Shop Etc. Naturally, I dressed to the nines to meet with the editor in chief. Me: Calvin Klein silk skirt and top, Wolford tights, Chanel pumps, fab jewelry. Mandi Norwood, editor-in-chief: Pleated gray trousers, beige turtleneck, no jewelry. Ugh. (OMG, even in the Hearst company bio she looks frumpy. Oy!) This is a fashion magazine? I wanted to scream. Look the part, Mandi. And then, when she asked me what my favorite store was, and I answered (you betcha) "Bergdorf's," she actually scoffed and said that the magazine would be a little more downmarket. Well, then, I guess she did look the part.

I think this is why Vogue is my book of choice among the glossies. All of its editors, each and every one (with the exception of Alexandra Kotur, whose mommy is someone famous), is chic, pretty and sophisticated. They practice what they preach. I worship at the altar of Vogue and always have.

The other rags? Eh, not so much. Nina Garcia at Elle

is a trainwreck. That hair? Ugh. Go see Fekkai or Blandi, honey, please. She looks like she belongs down here in Miami. And don't even get me started on Glenda Bailey at Bazaar.

Ewwwwwwwwww. A picture speaks volumes (she's on the right).

The Ghost of Grandmom's Past

2006-12-04T12:52:00.001-08:00

Roxy, my deceased grandmother on mom's side, was gifted at one thing: shopping. She was an intriguing, striking woman in both wardrobe and wit, but she wasn't the nicest person in the world, so we remember her most fondly for the jewels and accessories she left behind. Sad, but true. I could analyze her to death, but the truth is that Roxy cared mostly about appearances, and, as a result, amassed a collection of clothing and jewelry that could rival any Park Avenue grande dame.

My mom and her sister inherited everything, and I've been the lucky recipient of many of mom's hand-me-downs. 75% of my jewelry is from Roxy's collection. And a few of my most prized accessories as well. Of the latter, I especially adore these snakeskin, vintage Judith Leiber belts, and I wear them frequently. I have never seen them either in stores or worn by anyone else.

Imagine my utter shock when I looked over at one of my parents' friends at the bat mitzvah party Saturday night and saw her sporting this Roxy belt.

Mom was unconvinced, so I had to confront the woman, introduce myself and tell her my Roxy anecdotes. I examined the belt with my eagle eyes and sure enough, it was the same. I was curious--where had she gotten the belt? How old was it? I needed to know, for Roxy was long gone, and these are grave issues people! She said she'd just pulled it out of her closet and that she'd bought it about 20 years ago. Mom and I have carbon dated it to more like 30 years, but whatever.

I also have a particular favorite item among my mother's Roxy haul. It's an exquisite, unique, Chopard cocktail watch that practically gives me orgasms every time I gaze upon it. It's on a black alligator strap, with yellow gold and white diamond pave hearts framing the diamond-shaped face, which is also yellow gold with rows of diamonds and the company's trademark floating diamonds inside. If I had to choose one item from Roxy's stash, this watch would be it.

So mom lets me wear it to black-tie events when we're together. I wore it to the party Saturday, and had my mom's friend photograph it to share with all three of you loyal fashionistas, but damnit if the stupid photos are nowhere to be found on the roll. (It most resembles this--click on the fourth from the right picture--beauty from Chopard's current Happy Diamonds collection.)

Sometimes I think Roxy haunts us. Perhaps it's because we scattered her ashes around the oak tree in our backyard next to those of her mother, whom she abhored, while hastily reciting the mourner's kadish. (And then later we scattered the ashes of our beloved lhaso apso, Betsy there too, but Roxy actually liked dogs....so that couldn't be it.) Perhaps she thinks I'm not divine enough to fill her diva shoes. I mean, we are talking about a woman who stipulated in her will that her jewelry could not be sold or traded in by her heirs; it could only be reset. The woman was beyond batty, so missing pictures of her beloved Chopard? Par for the Longboat Key Club Course.

This Site Rocks

2006-11-21T07:11:00.000-08:00

One of my 2 daily readers e-mailed me about this site he works for called Shop it to Me. It's awesome; you choose your favorite designers--lots of good, high-end ones are listed--and then the site e-mails you sales these designers are having online. You also choose your size, so the e-mails you receive are specifically catered to your designers, sizes, etc. No more need to scour the web for deals. Why didn't I think of this? I eagerly await the post-Thanksgiving e-mail.

My favorite things

2006-11-15T10:48:00.000-08:00

Obviously, I am one terrible photographer.
But you know how despite a closet (or several closets) full of clothes, you tend to wear the same favorite pieces over and over? The same goes for jewelry. In fact, I'll let you in on an insane little secret: One of the reasons I joined all these charity boards/organizations down here was so that I would have excuses to wear a lot of the fancy clothes and jewelry I never get the chance to wear. I know, I am truly, truly sick. Anywho, here are some of my favorite and most-worn pieces of jewelry.

These jade-and-diamond earrings and bracelet were Roxy's. They are some of my favorite hand-me-downs, and even the blind date guy, who happened to work for Graff Diamonds, approved. The heart pendant was a cast-off from mom, and when she gave it to me it was yellow gold. It is embedded with diamonds, rubies, emeralds and saphhires, and I decided it would be much chicer in white gold. Lynn has the same pendant and when I visited her in PB a couple of weeks ago, she couldn't believe how great it looked in white and said she was going to do the same thing. Now, I'm sure mom will want it back.

Anyway, for those of you jewelry newbies, did you know that any item of gold you have can be turned from yellow to white and vice-versa by the simple use of rhodium? Any jeweler will do it for you; I do it at Landsberg all the time. Just ask them to "dip it" in rhodium. So, since the popularity of yellow vs. white gold tends to fluctuate along with fashion trends, don't buy new jewels, just dip your old ones!

This was originally a brooch of my paternal grandmother Lillian (nanny). Last time I was in New York, I had Landsberg turn it into a pendant, and with its diamonds and emeralds, it goes very well with the above jade set.

Mental Fashionations

2006-11-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

Damn, I just stumbled upon another possible title for this blog. I kind of like "Fashionation" better than Fashionosophy, but hell, I'm not doing this all over again.

Today's post on Dishalicious is fashion-related, so be sure to check that out too. I'm trying not to overlap. Long story short, you can create a non-wedding-related-pseudo registry over at Neiman's web site that's called a Wish List. Here's the link to my over-the-top Wish List, and I encourage you all to create one as well. It's soo fun. You can e-mail it to friends, family, lovers, spouses etc. and you can look up someone else's by punching in their e-mail address.

Anyway, do any of you fashionistas plan out your wardrobe for certain occassions (even mundane ones) days, even weeks in advance? No? OK, then you're not as sick as I am. Because when I know I have an event, a date or a party coming up, the mental wardrobe preparations begin as far in advance as possible.

Sometimes I start with the jewelry and work backwards. E.G. tonight--I have an outdoor symphony event and I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to wear, but knew that I wanted to sport this awesome new gold-and-diamond ring from Landsberg. So then I went from the ring backwards and here's what I came up with: gold chandelier earrings (paternal grandmother's), antique, blue-enamel-and-gold necklace with enamel, gold and diamond pocketwatch suspended on the chain (Roxy's), gold charm bracelet (mom's), brown-snakeskin, gold- and tiger's-eye Judith Leiber belt (Roxy's), C&C light turquoise T-shirt (Neiman's outlet), Habitual jeans (Barneys), classic, kitten-heel, chocolate-brown Chanel pumps (Bergdorf's) and small, pleated, tan-and-chocolate-brown Dior shoulder bag (Dior outlet at Woodbury Commons).

Whew. I'm exhausted just thinking about it, and I don't know why any of you want to read this, but there it is. All the thought processes and preparations it takes to pull off the whole "casual chic" look. And men wonder why it takes us soo long to get ready? Hello?

Luxe Linens

2006-11-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

I know Pratesi, Frette and Porthault are the linens of choice for the social set nowadays, but I was raised on Yves Delorme. I adore the patterns, the mix and matchy elements and the sheer variety of styles the company offers. But once I moved out of mommy and daddy's abode, these linens were resigned to a fond memory, due to the exorbitant pricetags.

Well, imagine my sheer delight when I discovered an online, Yves Delorme outlet for the company's discontinued patterns (which are some of the prettiest, I must say). It's almost too good to be true, and thanks to this site, I now have a full set to call my very own. This site is brilliant. And nobody seems to know about it.

This is my duvet, and these are my shams. I also have matching hand towels in the Jubilé pattern, but it looks as if they've sold out. I love the message on the web site too: "You spend a third of your life in bed, so make the most of it."

It Starts with the Handbags, Honey

2006-11-08T13:48:00.000-08:00

Fashion 101: Every Day Handbags, Black
As most of you know, I am a bit of a handbag whore, so I'm not advocating my lifestyle in anyway nor am I presuming that building a collection is easy or cheap. I am merely pointlessly pontificating, and hopefully among this dribble, some of you may find some applicable pointers.

First of all, a women should have every day handbags in at least two colors. For me, it's primarily black and some shade of brown. We'll tackle other colors and patterns later. Also, depending on where you live, your colors and fabrics will, unfortunately, vary seasonally. I will tackle that later as well. For now, it's basic black, daytime. Evening is a whole different, er, bag.

Black-and-gold is very in this season, and it's always been a fave combo of mine, so that's what I tend to rock the most right now.

These are my current daytime, black-and-gold bags. Let's start from oldest to newest...

You can never go wrong with a Chanel. And this one is a true classic. Mom and Lynn bought this bag probably 20 years ago. Mom handed it down to me about three years ago, it's still in great shape and apparently, I've inspired Lynn to break it out of the archive. And mom keeps saying how she wants it back, but then she goes into her closet and promptly forgets. My mom rocks.

Another classic, this one the Gucci Jackie O. They've been producing this style for years. When I first moved to NYC six years ago I had a (former) good friend who worked for the company, so I got this one at 40 or 50% off. It's suede though, so I don't get much use of it anymore due to the climate and the fact that suede is sooo difficult to keep pristine. (Schwartz, wanna borrow?:)

I absolutely adore this Dior bowling-type bag. It was a birthday gift from mom, purchased at the Woodbury Commons Dior outlet a few years ago, for more than 50% off. Though as much as I love it, I don't use it much either because it's heavy and hard to get in and out of. Though due to the multitude of hidden pockets and nooks, it really came in handy traveling after the liquid/gel restrictions took effect.

Out of all my daytime black bags, this is my current fave. It's another Chanel classic and I actually bought this one at full price, as a present to myself for my 30th birthday. I love, love, love this bag. It's the perfect size, the shoulder strap is comfy and there's an outer side pocket that fits my cell phone and Bluetooth. I don't think I'll ever tire of this bag.

I don't like writing about fashion when I'm sad

2006-11-07T10:43:00.000-08:00

I'm in a bad mood and in a fight with my best friend, so see today's Dishalicious post. There's a bit of fashion in there. Tomorrow I will post here about laying the foundations of your fabulous new wardrobe. And I'm always available for fashion questions/problems via comments.

Oh yeah, I'm starting to do some freelance stuff for this luxury web site, they are launching a Miami version. I submitted my items today, so I will let you know when they are published. juli b

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, Princess

2006-11-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

So I espouse outlet shopping and bargain-buying, but do I practice what I preach? Indeed I do.

Case in point: For my 31st (ugh!) birthday in September, I wanted a fabulous designer dress to wear to a symphony event I was attending. Prior to moving to Miami, I had never been a dress girl. Who wears dresses in NYC? Nobody-- it's jeans, jeans and more jeans. So where to go at the last-minute and on a budget? Why, Neiman Marcus Last Call of course. I'd already been there previously and made some fab purchases, see Dishalicious: Paradise Found, so I knew it was likely to have just what the doctor ordered.

And it did not disappoint. I ended up with a to-die-for Tuleh NY Mag Tuleh Bio dress that retailed for about $1,500. Neiman's price? Just under $300. Score. I paired it with my favorite hand-me-down baubles from Roxy--jade earrings and a matching jade bracelet--my every day diamond necklaces and my paternal grandmother's diamond-and-emerald brooch in the décolletage. I also threw on some sheer, black Spanx leggings for the trendiness factor (it is South Beach after all) and black, satin, strappy Yves St. Laurent sandals. (Also note that the Spanx were purchased at Neiman's Last Call as well and the YSL sandals at the YSL outlet in Woodbury Commons a couple of years ago).

So people, we are talking about an outfit (sans jewelry) valued at $1,950, purchased for approximately $450. Priceless.

After a quickie Google/NY Mag search today, I discovered that the dress was from the Tuleh Fall 2005 collection. So, it's a year old and a size too big, but it's fairly classic and I will wear it for years to come. And having it altered is on my to-do list.

Here's the picture of the model wearing it on the runway:

And below is how I did it. I added a sheer bodysuit underneath, as it's completely see-through. And now that I'm looking, it seems like the model paired it with sheer leggings too!