Feral Watches Review

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Feral Watches offers fun and feminine timepieces that were inspired by everything that perfectly captures the essence of being on the beach - sun kissed faces, salty hair, and sandy toes.


The Black Suede Fringe Wrap Watch ($45; Also Available in Turquoise) is a simplistic, yet stylish timepiece that makes a bold fashion statement without a steeply price tag to match. It features a faux-suede fringe that enables you to wrap around your wrist effortlessly, despite wrist size. I like layering my jewelry from time to time, but it can be conflicting with a watch and bracelet since one usually overshadows the other. This isn't the case at all with this watch, because you can easily layer it with bracelets since it blends well.

Adjustable total length is approximately 44". Face is approximately .75" and features a stainless steel back. Japanese quartz movement. Water resistant up to 1 atm.

It always looks good to be on time, but there's no need to break the bank in order to do so. Feral Watches price range from $35 - $45. Not only they're budget-friendly, but Feral offers 6 different watches that will easily suit your style.

No one within your vicinity will be wearing a watch cool as yours!

I received an item to facilitate my review, but my opinions are entirely my own.

Transition Your Wardrobe from Summer to Fall

Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Transitioning between seasons can be difficult for any fashionista. By the time summer’s winding down, you’re so over the season’s outfits that you can’t imagine wearing them for another second. But, transitioning is about pairing summer and fall styles to work together. Here, fashion designer and expert Claudia Patel shares her favorite looks to take you from summer to fall with ease.



Add Tights to Summer Dresses

Have a favorite dress you’ve been wearing all summer long, barelegged and fancy-free? Try it with tights! “With so many fun options for colored and textured tights these days, you can get really creative with your dress collection. Pair unexpected colors and patterns together for a fresh, fashion-forward look, utilizing the dresses you’ve worn all summer long,” says Claudia.

Pair Summer Sandals with Fall Ensembles

Dying to work your summer sandals for just a little bit longer? As Claudia suggests: just do it! “The transition between summer and fall leaves a lot of room for fashion rules to go out the window. Pair a decidedly fall outfit with sandals to keep things interesting, and take your outfit to the next level of fun. Nothing is more sophisticated than a skinny jean with a high, open heel.”

Fall into Color

A great way to start switching up your wardrobe focus is to start to wear fall colors in summer silhouettes. Claudia explains, “Bringing in classic fall tones, like oranges, reds and rusts are so flattering on summer styles. Start to transition to these colors with your summer wardrobe and you’ll fall into the part in no time.”



Accessorize with Purpose

What’s more versatile than a scarf? Nothing, according to Claudia: “Scarves are just about the most flexible accessory you can wear. Take summer outfits into fall by adding a light scarf or wear one with a fall ensemble to bring it all together. Either way, you’re making a serious style statement that’s both flattering and fun, and also keeps you warm when that unexpected fall chill enters the air.”

Bare At Least One Area

It wouldn’t be a transition if you were totally bare or covered up, now would it? Claudia explains, “It’s important to balance out your look when you’re transitioning your wardrobe. For instance, wear a t-shirt with skinny jeans and a scarf, baring your arms on a warmer day, or go with a dress that exposes your legs but has long sleeves for cooler temperatures. Looking chic is about fashion equilibrium.”

As Claudia puts it, “Fashion is fun, and expressing your personality should always be your ultimate goal when it comes to putting together your look. Transitioning doesn’t have to mean buying a whole new wardrobe, just as long as you know the tricks to pairing unexpected items together!”

Koret Handbags Review and Giveaway

Saturday, August 25, 2012



Richard Koret was a renown designer and visionary during his time. His passion for handbags led to innovations of unique and functional hardware, handles, and shapes. He soon became known for his dramatic handbags and impeccable taste.

Koret traveled in many social circles that enabled him to do a lot of personal promotion. It allowed him to develop and maintain relationships with several celebrities that were devoted customers, such as Grace Kelly, Nancy Kissinger, Madeline Albright, and Claudette Colbert He also made several handbags for Jacqueline Kennedy while she in the White House. Cary Grant and Kirk Douglas wooed the women in their lives by purchasing handbags designed by Koret.



His handbags exuded femininity and elegance with traditional styling, exquisite details, and attention to quality and design.

On November 14th, 1965, Richard Koret, age 64, along with 7 others were tragically killed in a plane crash while flying from Palm Spings to Burbank, California. Malcolm Kingsberg, a life time friend, acquired the business until 1968 when Michael Gordon purchased the company. It was Michael who signed the license agreement in 1995 for Pierre Cardin. In 2009, Chateau International acquired the business. Today, the business remains to Richard Koret's philosophy and bring you a touch of the past with a modern twist in the form of two collections, Koret and Koret Luxe.




Not only the Let It Shine North/South Tote is gorgeously green, but it has a roomy interior that easily holds all of my essentials and more. It has two generously sized inside pockets and a back wall zip compartment, making it easier to find your top priority essentials. It also has an 18″ detachable shoulder strap, flexible round handle with faux tortoise inset, a luggage tag adorned with the Koret logo, detachable round mirror, and a push lock tab closure. The perforated green patent exterior and leopard print interior is wildly sophisticated with a hint of sassiness without the cattiness.



The tote is regularly $108, but you can get it on sale for $64. It's available in Grass Green, Melon, and White. The tote that I received, the Grass Green, is perfect for the upcoming fall season since jewel tone accessories are one of the top trends. Bold and saturated colors, such as emerald and sapphire, are perfect for complementing your outfits. It gives them a pop of color, making you stand out without causing you to blend in with the ho-hum fall colors.

Stay in the loop with Koret Handbags by following them via Twitter and "liking" them on Facebook.

Disclosure: The item(s) in this review was provided to the reviewer for keeps and the purpose of writing a review. This in no way effects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased.

Prize: One winner will receive the Let It Shine North/South Tote (a $108 value) from Koret Handbags.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

The giveaway will conclude on September 10th.

Artifact Boutique Review

Saturday, August 18, 2012

Artifact Boutique is a women’s clothing store, where everything is priced under $60. The retail location is located in West Chester, PA, less than an hour outside of Philadelphia. The owner, Lauren Merkel, opened the store in the spring of 2009 with the goal of providing women a place where they can always find something fashionable and affordable. With new shipments coming in weekly, you can always find affordable women’s clothing; including dresses, tunics, dress tops, skirts, leggings, jeggings, and more.

Exclusive: 20% off with coupon code: FashionFling20 Exp. 9/30/12




The Marilyn Ballerina Dress with Jeweled Belt ($58) was inspired by the white ballerina dress that Marilyn Monroe arrived in for the opening of the "Seven Year Itch" in 1954. They added a twist by combining a black bodice, jeweled belt, and peach-colored skirt to give it a feminine, yet sexier and edgier look. It is different in style, but I think it is just as beautiful as the original, which isn't easily accomplished. I was so worried that this dress wouldn't fit, because I know a lot of online stores clothing runs small. My worries diminished once I slipped this dress on to realize that it fits perfectly!

It's definitely not a dress that should be worn for everyday occasions. I can easily see myself doing so, though. I don't believe fashion should be something that should be taken too seriously, so I like to have fun with it by playing with colors, textures, prints, and lengths. I also like to mix vintage pieces with modern pieces, and mixing designer pieces with budget finds. I know that this dress remarkably stands out on its own, but I paired it with my Jessica Simpson Nichola pumps (regularly $90, but scored a brand new pair at a consignment store for just $5 last year!), black Fresh Produce cardigan, and Scala beach hat, to give it a sweeter touch of sophistication.

Aside from the dress that I received from this company, they have a multitude of fun and noteworthy pieces, such as the Payton Blue Lace Mini Dress ($54), Kimberly Navy A-Line Dress with Skinny Belt ($46), Sophie Crochet Knit Top ($52), and Popi Crochet Knit Open Back Cardigan ($39).

You can get the latest deets by "liking" Artifact Boutique on Facebook.

I received this item to facilitate my review, but my opinions are entirely my own.

Hukkster/L​ouboutin Giveaway

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Hukkster is excited to announce its Louboutin Giveaway! Three lucky winners will receive a pair of Christian Louboutin heels. Here’s what you need to know:



Hukkster is the essential online shopping tool for fashion and beyond that tracks the styles you love and notifies you when they go on sale - Those who love to shop but are short on time are often frustrated with the amount of special offers that pile up in their inboxes. Hukkster acts as an ever-present shopping companion, allowing users to visit their favorite online shops, hukk the products they love and receive sale notifications on those specific products. No more email overload. Hukkster gives you back control over your wardrobe and your wallet.

To participate in the giveaway, participants simply ‘like’ the Hukkster Facebook fan page and visit the giveaway tab. Participants will then be prompted to request an invitation to join Hukkster and receive a chance to win a pair of Louboutin heels.

The winner may select any pair of Louboutin heels available for purchase at select retailers at or below $750 as detailed in the official rules.

Coco Rocha Takes On 'Alter Ego' with White House Black Market

Monday, August 13, 2012



Model Coco Rocha will take center stage in a television ad entitled 'Alter Ego'. Performing a carefully choreographed dance routine, the multi-talented Rocha demonstrates that being a great model can sometimes mean more than just striking a pose. For the spot she perfected her moves with the help of Broadway choreographer Laurin Latarro. Featuring approximately 12 different head-to-toe looks in the 30 second spot - Rocha becomes the tap dance equivalent of a quick change artist. All plays out with a surprise reveal that takes the concept to the next level.



The TV spot is part of the White House Black Market overall Fall 2012 marketing campaign that includes broadcast, print advertising and direct mail.



The print ads and marketing images, photographed by Glen Luchford, also carry through with the dance theme. Shot on the same set at the TV spot, the images feature Rocha in various states of dance as well as some more traditional fashion poses.

Iconic Boot Brand Durango Preps for First Ever NY Fashion Week Pop-Up/Art Installati​on

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Americana boot brand Durango announces the highly anticipated photo installation with photographer Ashley Walker for New York Fashion Week as a preview of the Fall ’12 ‘City’ Collection. The collaboration will be captured in a reportage style table book of 100 images profiling young New Yorkers who serve as fashion influencers and future cultural icons of the ‘now’ generation. The individuals will be photographed over the next two weeks with their stylized interpretation of how Durango Boots fits within their personal wardrobe. The exhibit is expected to profile familiar names like ASAP Rocky, Azaelia Banks, Raul Lopez, Steve Rojas and more. The event will take place Sunday, September 9th, 2012 in New York City with spirit partner Cayrum Rum Company from the Dominican Republic.

Amber Vanwy Marketing Manager for Durango Notes the Collaboration:
With our new City Collection, we thought this would be a great way to reach the young, cool, urban crowd. Durango is an American staple in fashion and we look to re-introduce the iconic cowboy boot to the cool downtown consumer.
The iconic boot brand Durango will roll out this fall a very brave and daring collection catered to the urban city dweller and fashionista. There will be four amazing T-shirts sold at the ‘Durango Love’s New York!’ art installation featuring photos and illustrations that represent the theme of the night. Let’s celebrate New York, fashion and American youthfulness with Durango!

The "It" List - VC Signature Echo Boots

Friday, August 10, 2012



The sleek and sexy shape of the knee-skimming VC Signature Echo Boots ($495; Available in Dark Taupe or Black Soft Nappa at Vince Camuto) resonate with all style types. Which color and material do you have on your wishlist, dark taupe in crocodile print or supple black Nappa leather?

Worn to be Wild: The Black Leather Jacket Showcases History of Iconic Garment

EMP Museum chronicles the fascinating story and evolution of what is arguably one of the most iconic pieces of clothing of the 20th century when it opens Worn to be Wild: The Black Leather Jacket on October 20, 2012. This major exhibition will feature nearly 60 leather jackets once worn by rock legends, film stars, runway models, and World War II fighter pilots. Worn to be Wild kicks off with Project Leather, a fashion show organized by EMP featuring works by emerging designers from the Pacific Northwest. The show will take place on October 20 at EMP. Tickets go on sale in mid-August.



Worn to be Wild: The Black Leather Jacket is presented in partnership with the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee and runs through January 13, 2013 at EMP. It’s the first time the complete history of the black leather jacket is being showcased, giving visitors a glimpse into all facets of how the jacket has become a main staple in popular culture.

“This exhibition traces the black leather jacket from its utilitarian roots in the 1920s, protecting bikers and pilots from the elements; to its adoption by celebrities, rock stars and counterculture youth as a symbol of rebellion and cool; to its modern day designs seen on runways and in stores around the world,” notes Jacob McMurray, Senior Curator, EMP Museum.

The jackets featured in Worn to be Wild range from the first leather jacket made by Harley-Davidson in 1929 and other early riding jackets, to artfully adorned punk jackets. Hollywood plays a big role in the collection, featuring jackets worn on the screen and stage by stars like Elvis, Fergie, Arnold Schwarzenegger (Terminator 2), Gene Vincent, Harry Shearer (Spinal Tap), and more. And high fashion stakes its claim in the exhibit with five outfits and leather jackets on loan from French designer Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as jackets by Gianni Versace, Jeremy Scott, and several other designers.

Worn to be Wild uses an amazing array of garments with unique stories to depict the role the black leather jacket has played in popular culture,” said Jim Fricke, Curatorial Director at the Harley-Davidson Museum. “With materials on loan from around the world – including key pieces from EMP, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, and Jean Paul Gaultier – the exhibit is the first comprehensive look at the impact of this iconic jacket. The combination of motorcycling, pop culture and fashion will appeal to a wide audience.”

In addition to the jackets, the exhibition will feature classic motorcycles including a 1920 JH-D pristine condition early Harley model and Elvis Presley’s 1956 Harley-Davidson KH motorcycle. Another Harley will be on-site for visitors to sit on for photos.

ABOUT EMP MUSEUM

EMP is a leading-edge, nonprofit museum, dedicated to the ideas and risk-taking that fuel popular culture. With its roots in rock ‘n’ roll, EMP serves as a gateway museum, reaching multigenerational audiences through our collections, exhibitions, and educational programs, using interactive technologies to engage and empower our visitors. At EMP, artists, audiences, and ideas converge, bringing understanding, interpretation, and scholarship to the popular culture of our time. EMP is housed in a 140,000 square-foot Frank O. Gehry-designed building. This spectacular, prominently visible structure has the presence of a monumental sculpture set against the backdrop of the Seattle Center.

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS AT EMP

Rolling Stones 1972: Photographs by Jim Marshall
Open Now

 Icons of Science Fiction
Open Now

AC/DC: Australia’s Family Jewels
Now through September 24, 2012

Can’t Look Away: The Lure of Horror Film
Open Now

AVATAR: The Exhibition
Now through September 3, 2012

Nirvana: Taking Punk to the Masses
Now through April 22, 2013

EMP MUSEUM HOURS

Summer Hours: Now through September 3, 2012, 10:00AM-7:00PM
Winter Hours: September 4, 2012 through May 25, 2013, 10:00AM-5:00PM

Dressing Marilyn: How a Hollywood Icon Was Styled by William Travilla Review

Thursday, August 02, 2012



August marks 50 years since Marilyn Monroe's death. There will be a special memorial for her in Los Angeles, so this book comes at a perfect time, showcasing previously unseen material, including original sketches, patterns, rare costume test shots, and photographs of Marilyn wearing the dresses. It also includes insights from lost interviews with William Travilla, one of the most sought after designers during the golden age of Hollywood, who revealed Marilyn's fashion secrets. He was known to create unforgettable outfits for Paul Newman, Dionne Warwick, Judy Garland, Marilyn Monroe, Jane Russell, Lauren Bacall, Sharon Tate, Faye Dunaway, Joanne Woodward, Barbara Stanwyck, Betty Grable, and many others.



"Billy Dear, please dress me forever. I love you, Marilyn"


Dressing Marilyn: How a Hollywood Icon Was Styled by William Travilla is argumentatively one of the best coffee table books I've come across so far. It goes above and beyond to provide the background story behind each costume and dress that Marilyn Monroe is famously known for wearing, such as the enthralling pink dress in which Marilyn sang “Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend” in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes to the timeless white dress from The Seven Year Itch, which arguably contributed to the collapse of Marilyn's marriage to Joe DiMaggio. I am pleasantly surprised that this book is just $19.79 on Amazon, when I am sure that people would be willing to pay more to have it in their collection.


An extremely rare photograph of Marilyn, Travilla, and an unidentified African American. At the time, the picture was cut in the middle and only the right-hand half used, never including the unidentified gentleman, as this was an age of racial segregation.

The story of this photo, as Travilla and Bill Sarris tell it, is that he and Marilyn spent the evening at an almost exclusively black club in Los Angeles - something that just wasn’t done in 1952. The studio was outraged, especially after her nude photograph scandal in March of that year, and the fact that she had just been on the April cover of Life magazine and hailed as ‘The Talk of Hollywood.’ As a result of being ‘caught on camera,’ they fired Travilla from the film they were working on. But Marilyn - one of Travilla’s closest friends - stood up and said ‘If he goes, I go.’ And of course, they let him stay, but they were successful in keeping this picture out of the press.”

“Marilyn was ahead of her time in terms of racial equality and civil rights. Even Ella Fitzgerald credits Marilyn with getting her into some of the ‘upper-crust’ jazz clubs of the day. She knew how to throw her weight around and it fits that she would stand up for Travilla.


Whether you're a Marilyn Monroe fan and/or simply adore the impeccable and timeless fashion during the heyday of Hollywood, I highly recommend buying a copy of Dressing Marilyn: How a Hollywood Icon Was Styled by William Travilla. This book is bound to be a highly coveted collectible someday.

About the Author


Andrew Hansford has been involved in fashion for many years, having worked as a model and established his own business in the beauty industry. However, his life changed dramatically in 2007 when, after a phone call from a friend, a box of dresses designed by William Travilla for the screen legend Marilyn Monroe arrived on his doorstep. Since then, Andrew has worked with the Travilla Estate to help Travilla regain the renown he deserves. Andrew now manages Travilla's archive and has been responsible for six exhibitions showcasing Travilla's stunning work.

Disclosure: The item(s) in this review was provided to the reviewer for keeps and the purpose of writing a review. This in no way affects the quality of the review provided. No monetary exchange occurred in exchange for the writing of the review. The views expressed in this review are strictly that of the reviewer. All reviews provided here are the work of the reviewer and remain completely unbiased.