When Times Are Tough, Shoes Sell

As you may have gathered, I love shoes...

This morning's New York Times Business section featured a front-page article on the rise of shoe sales during the last quarter, remarking that despite our recessionary woes, we still love our fancy feet (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/06/business/economy/06shoes.html?_r=1&ref=todayspaper).

"For months now, consumers have been hunkering down in an economic storm, buying only what they need to survive, like groceries, diapers, medicine — and shoes," writer Stephanie Bloom observes at the article's beginning. Whether in high-end department stores such as Saks, retailers such as JC Penney and Ross, or even bargain havens like TJ Maxx and Marshalls, shoes are a hot buy.

The reasons are multi-fold. Shoes are easy to try on, without pesky "six items or less" dressing room limits. They easily slip into our existing wardrobes and are safer than an outfit; a full-length leopard-print jumpsuit would likely not work its way into your everyday wardrobe, but leopard print heels add pop to skirts, jeans, pants, etc. Moreover, shoes are AFFORDABLE (ding ding ding!). The Cost-Per-Wear factor of shoes is infinitely higher than that of nearly any item (save underthings or jeans) in a wardrobe.

The old adage, "When times are tough, lipsticks sell," now applies to our footwear as well. The confidence boost that comes from a pair of new shoes is needed more than ever in these changing times. A few options to consider:
Gabrielle Rocha suede flat, $59.95
http://www.zappos.com/gabriella-rocha-lolla-flat-red-suede


Steve Madden "Brio" Boot $89.90
http://www.zappos.com/steve-madden-brio-cognac-leather

AK Anne Klein heel, $68.95
http://www.zappos.com/product/7614164/color/226217

PUMA Simplice $64.95
http://www.zappos.com/puma-simplice-wns-medieval-blue-dark-shadow?zlfid=111

Happy Shopping, everyone!!!

In praise of Crystal Renn's "Hunger"

And they said this bombshell wasn't "right" for modeling...

The beautiful, voluptuous, and scintillating Crystal Renn, model extraordinaire, has written her first autobiography, entitled "Hungry: A Young Model's Story of Appetite, Ambition and the Ultimate Embrace of Curves." Reading it will not leave you starving in any way, shape, or form.

Renn, who began her career with aspirations to do editorial and runway work, was forced to lose seventy-plus pounds after being scouted out in her Mississippi hometown. Even after making it to 95 pounds (at 5'9", no less), she was still told to lose weight and that "the thighs must come down." Truly miserable and realizing that hospitalization or her demise was the next step, Renn made the decision to enter the world of plus-size modeling, and found her greatest successes while a happy (and healthy!) size 10-12.
To look at photos of Renn while basically emaciated compared to her current glory is almost like looking at a reverse Dorian Gray. The happiness and true inner glow Renn currently exudes puts her skin-and-bones self to eternal rest. As proof...

Renn's writing style is witty, thoughtful, and funny as well. Taking the time to cultivate a personality served Renn well, and her ability to gain perspective on her life at the tender age of eighteen is impressive. Co-author Marjorie Ingall helps to shape the story and provide guidance along the way.

Renn's portfolio is packed with images ranging from simple to sensual to outrageous, and everything in between. Working with photographers such as Steven Meisel and Patrick Demarchelier ("Get me Patrick!"~ The Devil Wears Prada) is an accomplishment in itself; spreads such as the one below highlight both Renn's on-camera sizzle and the photog's ability to capture said sizzle seamlessly.
As a lifelong fan of fashion (and former plus-sizer), reading about Renn's struggles with her diet struck a deep chord with me. Her honesty is harsh at times, but when you consider the current state of high fashion, perhaps an upward tip of the scales would inject life into "skeletal chic."

To purchase Crystal's book:

http://www.amazon.com/Hungry-Appetite-Ambition-Ultimate-Embrace/dp/143910123X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1257299515&sr=8-1

New York Magazine profile of Crystal:
http://nymag.com/fashion/models/crenn/crystalrenn/

Fashion and Photoshop

As a little bit of a plug, I must praise my school, the International Academy of Design and Technology (IADT). I will complete my certificate program in Fashion Design this January, and going "back to school" after being at the head of the class as a teacher has been pretty incredible. Incredibly challenging at times, but overall incredible in a good way.

It's so incredible, in fact, that tonight I became a proud user of Photoshop, and may have found my newest hobby! If you've ever been a scrapbooker, collager, or maker of anything that combines multiple images, Photoshop is like the second coming, in a way.

My first foray...a "Mood Board" for Computer Graphics which combines two inspirations: Art Nouveau and Glassware.

Please enjoy!

Thirty years of Irish Hair

A brief look at Bono's various styles throughout the years...remember, the 80's was a time when EVERYONE did odd things to their hair, myself included. "Judge not lest ye be judged..."





A brief look at Bono's various styles throughout the years...remember, the 80's was a time when EVERYONE did odd things to their hair, myself included. "Judge not lest ye be judged..."

More U2 musings..let's talk about Bono's hair

"How's my hair?"

Several friends have told me they really enjoyed how Sunday's entry brought pop culture (via U2) to the blog, so I decided to do a short and sweet "day after" post about U2. This time, let's talk about a different sort of style: hair-style.

As you can guess from yesterday's post, I am a great admirer of Bono. I think his sense of style is always appropriate, and distinctive without being outlandish. His "lea-thuh" and shades (see yesterday's entry) suit him to a T.

I have mixed feelings about his new cropped 'do, though.

Bono's hair has only been super-short twice: during the Popmart tour era ('96-98), and at present (about 2006-now). For visual reference...


LEFT: Bono in 1997, almost a dead-ringer for Elvis Costello

RIGHT: Bono in Long Beach, CA in 2008, smiling for the ladies at the annual Women's Conference



My ultimate "Bono hair" preference would probably be Bono's dark locks in the "Achtung Baby" (1990-1993) era. Likely, this is because "Achtung Baby" was what really got me listening to U2, and I was instantly drawn to the look of videos such as "Mysterious Ways" and "One."

And if I may say, he looked quite attractive in both videos :) Judge for yourself below...

U2's Sense of Style :)

Ah, Bono.

Where do I begin?

Bono and his cohorts in U2 opened their "360 tour" in Chicago last night. A stadium tour which (from where we sat) had great views all around, the lads are promoting their multi-textured latest release, "No Line on the Horizon" to tens of thousands of people each night. As possibly the biggest U2 fan in the Chicagoland area (and having been such since I was about 8 years old), my evening at Soldier Field was simply awe-inspiring and downright excellent.

(Our excitement could not be contained to just a photograph, but we tried..at right, my best friend Monica and I in our seats before showtime)

However, since this is a fashion blog, I feel we must turn to the matter at hand: what were the boys in the band attired in?






We'll start with Bono

Let's start with my hero/favorite/dream husband, Bono.

NOTE: my husband supports my Bono love...all is well in the Kendall household.

Last night, Bono took the stage attired in a black tee, black trousers, and piecework black leather jacket (along with the perfect specs). He truly made it look easy to perform in front of almost 70,000 people and not overheat in his "lea-thuh."

The original "black leather Bono" appeared during the band's 1992 ZooTV tour, and has come in various inceptions since then (lined with an American flag or red silk in the 2000's, glossy and lizard-y in the early 90's). The current inception seems natural, far from costume-like, and pretty cool to boot.

CONCLUSION: It seems leather and shades = the essence of Bono. Keep it up, Mr. Hewson :)

Edge, anyone?

U2's virtuoso genius, The Edge, has so many things going for him. The trademark facial hair, stevedore cap, and Chuck Taylors...alone, they are basic. On Edge, they are as recognizable as the opening riff of "Where the Streets Have No Name."

Edge also debuted this look during the ZooTV tour in 1992, though, again, it had theatrical elements to it. The jeans now are simple and broken in: back then, they were black and BeDazzled. The button-down (or tee shirt, which he also favors) is casually cool: the ripped vests of '92 were purple and loud.

CONCLUSION: Edge's fashion sense is akin to pizza: there's really no such thing as bad Edge (pizza), just different varieties (mushroom vs. peppers, the journey from glam to casually cool).

Shall we talk Adam Clayton?


Adam has always held the air of an English nobleman to me, which definitely suits his place as King of Bass in U2. Adam creates what Bill Flanagan once called the "fat, funky bottom" of U2's rhythm, and he himself has allowed his fashion to truly be funky as well. In a good way.

Observe last night's dark trousers and gorgeously detailed jacket. Rock star-appropriate, but not garish. The ZooTV tour brought out Adam's colorful side, plus a very bright blond hairdo. The close-cropped style he wears now definitely suits his features. Also, if instruments are fashionable, Adam wears bass couture on the 360 tour.

CONCLUSION: Lord Clayton has a valid claim to the throne of fashion royalty.

And, of course, the beloved Larry Mullen, Jr.

U2 would not exist without Mr. Mullen, a fact that many biographers relish with added stories of the band practicing in Larry's kitchen early on. Larry is, as Bono said last night, "the thunder and lighting of the band." He is the solid, steady force that makes the band as tight as it is.

Larry's fashion statement is the equivalent of the infinitely cool transfer student who sat behind you in high school English class: with only a tee shirt, jeans, and two drumsticks, he has no need for airs, for posing, or for extraneous speaking: he just is. And this is why we love Larry. He has worn this variation for many years, and has every right to do so for many more.

CONCLUSION: Both Larry's drumming and sense of style are direct, honest, and strong. If only we all could be so minimalistically cool.

Storefront Style #2: Loehmann's

Our Storefront Style feature #2 is overstock haven Loehmann's. As in the last S.S. post, here are the fit letters:

LETTERS
A= Athletic (broad shoulders, muscular build)
C= Curvy (hourglass/pear shape)
F= Full-figured (big and beautiful)
P= Petite (5'4" and under)
T= Tall (5'8" and up)

Encore Resale and the NSAR Thrift Store were the backbone of my wardrobe growing up. Compelled by necessity AND ingenuity, my mother, sister, and I would spend hours peeking at the racks of these places, unearthing truly great finds each time. The marvel really came when the cash registers rang up the totals and our grocery bag full of clothes totaled out at $75 or so. Bargains galore!

Flash forward twenty years, and I am loading my arms up with $39 DVF blouses, $79 Alice & Olivia dresses, and beautiful knit sweaters for less than $30. Loehmann's, I love you!

According to its website, " more than 87 years after opening its first off-price apparel store in Brooklyn, NY, Loehmann’s continues to distinguish itself as a preeminent, upscale, off-price specialty retailer for name brand designer fashions." For those who sometimes get overwhelmed by the never ending racks at TJ Maxx or Marshall's, Loehmann's seemed like the promised land to me!

And for the most part, it was. While shopping for a petite client, I was struck by the classic cardigan below from MICHAEL Michael Kors, complete with his signature logo belt. It was chic, perfect for the season, and a flattering shade most of us can wear. Running for $59.99, it's a deal when you think of how often we wear these cardis in Chicago.

LETTERS: C, P, T


After finding my client's pieces, I headed back downstairs and found this beautiful display, which featured a gorgeous pink and black zigzag print Alice & Olivia dress for $79 (a bargain indeed...it might normally retail in the $300's). While the dress itself is short and sweet, adding the capelet topper lends a bit of modesty to the look and making it very modern and chic. After all, the rule of "Mams or Gams" should never falter. A great pick for fall, esp. if paired with opaque tights.

(A further explanation: "Mams or Gams" refers to the decision a woman makes when selecting to highlight her top ("Mams'') or bottom ("Gams)." The general rule is never reveal both at the same time, unless a swimsuit is involved. It's all a balancing act, ladies!)

LETTERS: A, C, P, T

Store Information

Loehmann's
151 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60602
312-705-3810
http://www.loehmanns.com

STA Press Coverage

Hooray for NBC5 Chicago! They did a great featurette on STA's opening last week, and if you look at the 25 second marker, you;ll see a lady who looks a bit like me :)

LINK: http://www.nbcchicago.com/around-town/fashion/Real_Housewives_Wears_Resale_Chicago.html

Second Time Around (STA) Comes Around to Chi-town

The beautiful, boutique-like consignment shop Second Time Around (STA) is officially open in Chicago! Located on the lovely Armitage Avenue corridor (right across from Charlie Trotter's--delish), STA is set up like a fine clothing store, with prices that will make you grin from ear to ear.

Attending the grand opening tonight (akin to attending an after-party inside a really big walk-in closet), I was thrilled at how many people showed up. It proves that even in challenging times, we are still drawn to good style in fashion, and it doesn't have to cost a small fortune to look fab.

It also didn't hurt that Alex McCord, who is currently working with STA, attended the opening. (For those unfamiliar, Alex is featured in the Bravo series "The Real Housewives of New York," and she definitely knows her way around fashion. She is also very nice, and very willowy. The lady knows how to fit her frame!)

Alex's presence, combined with delicious free food and drinks, made for a really celebratory mood, with guests scooping up their finds and purchasing on the spot! (The cash registers were "cha-chinging" in the background like a musical number)

If possible, make it a point to support STA. You will no be disappointed!

Second Time Around
823 W. Armitage
Chicago, IL
773-698-6260
http://www.secondtimearound.net/

Storefront Style #1: MaxMara

What is Storefront Style?
Storefront Style is a running feature on Windy City Fashion Forum (WCFF) dedicated to the beautiful storefront windows in our fair city and uncovering which pieces will work for you. After each item is listed, the letters following it will tell you which looks to try for yourself.

LETTERS
A= Athletic (broad shoulders, muscular build)
C= Curvy (hourglass/pear shape)
F= Full-figured (big and beautiful)
P= Petite (5'4" and under)
T= Tall (5'8" and up)




Storefront Style #1: MaxMara
Before my interest for fashion reached its current fever pitch, I frequently mixed up the designers MaxMara and Max Azria (throw in BCBG Max Azria, BCBGirls, and CBGB's in New York and I was one confused lady). Thankfully, I now know the difference between the two, and happily pass MaxMara on my daily commute. This Italian brand, formed by Achille Maramotti in 1951, excels at classic luxury in each piece they put forth.

(Another reason to love MaxMara: they change their windows every couple of weeks. Who doesn't love an endless parade of clothes?)

Their beautiful knits, dresses, coats, bags, and shoes are reason enough to swoon over it. The helpful staff is another reason: no high-pressure sales, just friendly support and a love of their product. On the day I entered the store, I was immediately greeted by the lovely and very knowledgeable Sheliah, who was incredibly helpful. The two pieces featured below caught my eye immediately, and Sheliah was able to make additional pairings with both the leather/shearling swing coat and timeless suit.

Though the clothes definitely fall under "investment piece" prices, everything is so gorgeous you can see why the cost (and bulk!) of ten hooded sweatshirts would never compare to one of their flawless cashmere pullovers.



The Goods

The two fantastic jackets pictured at right are true staples and can be tailored to any woman's specific look.

The "Hilde" jacket at near right is part of a two-piece suit, with flawless construction and pants that fit me better than any I've tried before. The jacket is the perfect length, hitting at the "sweet spot" on the hips where it looks just right. The waist is perfect, and would make anyone who wears it look proportionate. Imagine a great skirt, dark denim, a camisole peeking out, a loud statement necklace, vintage band pins running up and down the blazer's lapels...any of these would work fantastically.

The "Tenente" leather/shearling swing coat at far right is a more specific style, feeling both Jackie and Audrey-like without being retro, and is absolutely chic and perfect for fall and winter. Paired with elbow-length leather gloves (the lipstick red ones did it for me), the look proves you can be both warm and fashionable while living in Chicago. Oh, and being reversible doesn't hurt, either.


"Hilde" suit (made of virgin wool/nylon) runs for $1595 and is available in sizes 0-14
LETTERS: C, F, T

"Tenente" (made of butter-soft leather and shearling) runs for $2495 and is available in sizes 0-14
LETTERS: A, C, T, P

Store Information
MaxMara
900 N. Michigan Avenue
312-475-9500
http://shop900.com/shop/maxmara

The first post...praising the Ballet Flat

As I sit here in a sarong and half-cami, in between washing dishes and getting dressed for my best friend's wedding shower, it occurs to me that now, more than ever, fashion has to be multi-purpose. Not in the style of a Norma Kamali sleeping bag coat, but multi-purpose in the sense that we all (men, women, teens, pets) need clothing that fits our needs and goes many places in a day. Just like we do.

With that said, this post will be short (previously mentioned dishes and wedding shower), so I will take a moment to give praise to a wardrobe staple no woman should ever be without, since it is the absolute definition of multi-purpose: THE BALLET FLAT. Easy to store, forever chic, and perfect with almost anything you wear, the best ones lengthen your legs without giving them the "hoof-y" look (thanks to my friend Kelly T. for that perfect term). They make walking and commuting in a city like Chicago a possibility, and they easily slip into your bag when you need to trade up to the heels.

Given the choice between a ballet flat and anti-microbial clog...ballet flats win every time.

Above fab shoe: Kenneth Cole "Ballet Parking" (my personal favorite); though it came out last season, searching for it online will lead to listings on amazon.com and zappos.com. A perfect shoe, in my book.