On top of that, Gap is already showcasing some of their Spring looks, as is Banana Republic.
Spring seems so far away.
I know that Winter hasn't even officially started yet, but I am already dreaming of Spring -- if only for the clothes. I had already shared with you an exciting preview of H&M's Spring looks, but to add to the excitement, Fashion Web site Coutorture recently provided a preview of some J. Crew and Madewell Spring looks.
Christina Aguilera coming to TopShop?
We've been waiting for the longest time for British retailer TopShop to finally open in NYC (the opening of the SoHo store has been delayed to March '09) and now there are rumors from NY Magazine blog 'The Cut' that Christina Aguilera may be in talks to do a TopShop line.
It's an interesting thought, but I'd have to wonder how drag-queen-tastic the pieces would be. If the pieces are more on the tough-but-chic end of the spectrum, it may turn out to be really cool. But if they are anything like her concert wear, that may just be too much for me.
Thakoon for Target
Have you checked out Thakoon for Target yet? I knew it was supposed to come out on Dec. 28th, but instead of waiting like I used to do to check it out @ one of the store locations, I went right on Target.com and just ordered the pieces I was interested in instead.
If I had waited, I would have found all X-Small and Small, no doubt. And since Michelle Obama is often spotted in Thakoon -- I was suspecting that this would be a really popular line.
Anyway, once I browsed the collection, I decided on ordering the following pieces:
If I had waited, I would have found all X-Small and Small, no doubt. And since Michelle Obama is often spotted in Thakoon -- I was suspecting that this would be a really popular line.
Anyway, once I browsed the collection, I decided on ordering the following pieces:
- The Stripe Dress in a gorgeous blue and green striped print.
- The Shibori Print Cardigan, which almost looks lightly tie-dyed.
- The Cyber Floral Dress, which has a beautiful multi-colored print.
- The Zip Back Top in a great purple, gray, and black floral print.
It'd be a shame to miss H&M in the Spring.
Both FabSugar and Nitro:licious are already offering sneak peaks at H&M's spring '09 collection. Yum.
My vote for Michelle Obama's Inauguration Style
She's worn J. Crew so many times before on the campaign trail, so how completely awesome would it be if Michelle Obama wore off-the-rack J. Crew to the Inauguration and subsequent ball?
I know most fashion fans would absolutely cringe at her not wearing couture ... but my frugal ass thinks it would be fantastic.
For the ceremony -- I could totally see her in this classic wool herringbone skirt suit in the sweet potato color, or this insanely beautiful Victoria Ruffle Blouse and Pembridge-dot pencil skirt combination peeking out underneath an elegant wool coat.


And for the Inaugural Ball, I think she would look completely glamorous and statuesque in the champagne-colored silk taffeta Kate gown.

I know most fashion fans would absolutely cringe at her not wearing couture ... but my frugal ass thinks it would be fantastic.
For the ceremony -- I could totally see her in this classic wool herringbone skirt suit in the sweet potato color, or this insanely beautiful Victoria Ruffle Blouse and Pembridge-dot pencil skirt combination peeking out underneath an elegant wool coat.
And for the Inaugural Ball, I think she would look completely glamorous and statuesque in the champagne-colored silk taffeta Kate gown.
Whatever, a complete long shot, but a girl can dream.
(All images courtesy of J. Crew)
(All images courtesy of J. Crew)
New boots at Target
I am absolutely loving these two new boot styles right now ... each just $34. They scream vintage, without the price tag.


(Images courtesy of Target.com)
(Images courtesy of Target.com)
House of Harlow Jewelry
For a celeb jewelry line, I was both shocked and pleased to learn that some of the pieces in Nicole Richie's new jewelry line House of Harlow 1960 are not obscenely priced.
This gorgeously deco pair of earrings for example is only $22.

In any event, the items are available for pre-orders on Kitson.com right now.
(Image courtesy of Kitson.com)
Holiday Gifts on a Budget
I am going to make a greater-than-usual effort this year to be thrifty while doing my holiday shopping (this of course except for the $1299 I just spent buying a brand new MacBook for myself as a "present").
Some ideas --
One of my favorite spots for holiday gifts is Restoration Hardware -- It's secretly got the most wonderful little gifts and stocking stuffers. Anyway, they have this genius invention which is cleverly called a "Foot Duvet" --- a down-filled bootie slipper with a plush lining. They're regularly $20, on sale right now for $15. Incredibly smart gift for your mom, your sister, your girlfriends ... any ladies who like to snuggle, really.

I will also probably head right to Anthropologie for their beautiful selection of earrings, especially for a gorgeous chandelier-style aqua and green pair, just like this beautiful pair.
Hats, scarves and gloves (I especially love these convertible mittens) are 40% off right now at J. Crew. Their mohair scarf is incredibly beautiful in Brilliant Blue. And if I can set foot into the store without getting something for myself as well, it will be a freaking miracle. Sister store Madewell also has some great items.
I'll probably head right to C.O. Bigelow and get this set of three soda fountain lip glosses for my cousin. Their glosses, which are now also available @ your local Bath 'N' Body Works, come in a variety of flavors.

Another one of my favorite spots for holiday gifts is the Web site UnCommonGoods.com --- they have some of the most unique and beautiful items. Their section called "Recycled" is of course chock full of gifts made from all sorts of random things. Their set of coasters made from old records (they have bowls made from old records, too) is just awesome.

(Items courtesy of Restoration Hardware, C.O. Bigelow, and Uncommon Goods respectively)
Preview of Thakoon for Target
New York Magazine's blog The Cut is offering a slideshow of looks for the upcoming Thakoon line @ Target. Love love love these looks, especially that navy and green stripey looking pattern. The dresses look quite cute as well.
I am freaking elated!
One shining beacon of hope in what will most likely be an otherwise gloomy January ---
One of my fave blogs is reporting that J. Crew will be having its first-ever sample sale this winter, right around the corner from my office building. I guess there are some benefits to having your office in the smelly Garment District.
'Fierce' shoes coming soon to a Payless near you
The New York Post is reporting today that Christian Siriano of Project Runway fame will soon debut a line of shoes and handbags at Payless ... Siriano's line, which will debut at New York Fashion Week in February, will be sold at about 400 - or about one-tenth - of Payless stores across the U.S.
I really did love watching Christian on Project Runway -- his clothes were so visually interesting and you can tell he really loves doing what he does for a living, which should make for some pretty interesting shoes. Perhaps some fierce boots?
I really did love watching Christian on Project Runway -- his clothes were so visually interesting and you can tell he really loves doing what he does for a living, which should make for some pretty interesting shoes. Perhaps some fierce boots?


















