The Glamorous Eccentric

The Basics: The Denim Shirt

2012-05-10T18:59:00.001-07:00

Now that summer is around the corner, I can't stop thinking about denim. Denim dresses, denim overalls, denim shorts, black denim, white denim, faded denim, bleached denim etc, etc.

A denim shirt is a classic American wardrobe staple and it works its way easily into any look. It can be paired with floral prints, leather, bright colour, suede and for a bold statement you can work denim on denim.

My personal favourite way to wear a denim shirt is paired with skinny white jeans and simple pumps.

Here are the best denim shirts available now:

Diesel Sasly Shirt

Madewell Denim Top

J.Crew Dark Denim Shirt

Healthy Cinco De Mayo Meal

2012-05-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today is Cinco De Mayo and while I do enjoy Mexican food, I usually find it to be too heavy. With high calorie margaritas figuring heavily into the day's festivities, I think it's best to balance with a super-healthy, vegan dish like this. On the side, a creamy avocado and cilantro dressing and spinach salad. For dessert, a refreshing mint, berry salad.

The vegan enchiladas are simple to make and so delicious no one will be disappointed (vegan or not), this is one of my all time favourite recipes.

The enchiladas are filled with sweet potatoes (cubed and boiled separately) and chopped spinach, peppers, beans, marinera sauce and onions.

Find the full recipe on Oh She Glows

Enjoy!

Video Art: Natural Hair

2012-04-24T10:57:00.002-07:00

I love having natural hair and the versatility it provides. This video is an homage to those various styles: from locs to afros, braids, blow-outs and twists. Enjoy and share!

See more at http://transitioningmovement.com/

The Basics: The Party Dress and The Pump

2012-04-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

I was invited to a wedding reception at the Four Seasons, very last minute, Saturday night in London. I wore a sculptural Jil Sander dress, from Raf Simons collection which I love, and my simple Louboutin pumps. I accessorised with a silver cuff and black clutch from Nina Gonzalez. This look combines two lessons on The Basics in one.

Refer back to this post to read about the importance of having a dress before the event.

And this post on the shoes that go with everything.

How do you all manage to get ready without thinking? Also, what's the shortest notice you've been able to get ready for a major event? Please share in the comments!

The Basics: Coachella Edition

2012-04-12T11:26:00.002-07:00

The Basics: Denim Brights

2012-03-26T11:42:00.002-07:00

One of the easiest ways to add spring cheer to your look is with brightly coloured denim. I love the entire Christopher Kane for J Brand collaboration. Great denim jackets and jeans in neon green, shocking pink and tangerine.

Keep the rest of your look simple to avoid looking too fashion victim-- it's never good to wear multiple trends at once.

These photos are from SXSW in Austin so I add to pay tribute to Texas with the cowboy boots.

The Basics: The Rain Hat

2012-03-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

I've just come back from SXSW (South by Southwest) in Austin, TX. First time at the festival and first time in Austin. Austin is a great city and it's also very weird. I saw great acts: Frankie Rose, Theophilus London and I even got to see Jay-Z! I also ate from lots and lots of food trucks, maybe one meal too many but it was all great fun.

The first few days of the festival were plagued with rain. Usually, torrential downpours hinder major fashion statements but this doesn't have to be the case. Which brings me to my next must-have basic: a chic rain hat.

This taupe Prada rain hat is both practical, light-weight, waterproof and easy to fold up, and stylish, in a neutral colour with a flattering brim.

Also, check out the beautiful Shala Monroque in her crystal embellished Prada rain hat.

Do you have an umbrella alternative? What do you wear for rainy days?

The Basics: The Dress With Sleeves

2012-03-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

Last month, I wrote about assessing your wardrobe and differentiating between needs and wants. Part of this assessment involves finding the gaps in your wardrobe: where are you lacking? What's missing from your ideal closet?

Last year, I realised I had very few really good pants; pants that fell correctly on the waist, were hemmed to the ideal length and could go from day to night. Now, I'm happy to say I have three pair of trousers I absolutely love.

Fast forward to this season, all of the Fall 2012 collections have been debuted in their various cities and I'm looking to buy on a strictly as-needed basis (even though there are some very tempting trends)!

So what am I lacking most? Dresses with long sleeves. It sounds bizarre, 'dresses with sleeves' aren't a perennial wardrobe staple but allow me to explain....

Most of us can relate to this dilemma:

We have found the perfect dress, shoe, bag and overcoat. We arrive, store our coat and then suddenly find ourselves in this awkward middle ground: between our sleeveless party dress and our coat (now in coat check) we're bound to be a little chilly. Pashminas once warmed our cold shoulders, but since 2000 we've stored them away. A simple cropped cardigan can work but too often than not, the sweater covers the beauty of the dress. Many run to the smoking jacket or boyfriend blazer, but it's still not the same as showing off the dress. Time to cut out the middle-man and get straight to the point: the dress with sleeves! No need for sweaters, wraps, blazers or cropped knits because the function is already built in.

Here are the long sleeved dresses I've got my eye on for F/W 2012.

Video Art: Running

2012-03-04T10:33:00.001-08:00

My latest video. Part II of my Video Art series. Enjoy!

Because I always feel like running
Not away, because there is no such place
Because, if there was I would have found it by now
Because it's easier to run,
Easier than staying and finding out you're the only one...who didn't run
Because running will be the way your life and mine will be described
As in "the long run"
Or as in having given someone a "run for his money"
Or as in "running out of time"
Because running makes me look like everyone else, though I hope there will ever be cause for that
Because I will be running in the other direction, not running for cover
Because if I knew where cover was, I would stay there and never have to run for it
Not running for my life, because I have to be running for something of more value to be running and not in fear
Because the thing I fear cannot be escaped, eluded, avoided, hidden from, protected from, gotten away from,
Not without showing the fear as I see it now
Because closer, clearer, no sir, nearer
Because of you and because of that nice
That you quietly, quickly be causing
And because you're going to see me run soon and because you're going to know why I'm running then
You'll know then
Because I'm not going to tell you now.

The Basics: The Party Dress

2012-02-28T04:33:00.000-08:00

Dress: Giambattista Valli

My Mom taught me that you always get the dress, before you know you need it. You buy in advance so that you're not running around a week before an event searching and inevitably settling on something you don't necessarily love.

I found this dress in January at Saks in Los Angeles. Did I have anywhere to wear it to? No. But the colour was perfect, the shape was fun and I knew it was only a matter of time before I could debut this piece. Fast forward a month later and I've been invited to the Brit Awards, the UK equivalent of the Grammy's.

Since it was a music industry event, I knew my fun two tone dress would be perfect. Before leaving I checked the iternerary for the night; at 3PM we took the Warner Music label boat to the O2 arena, where dinner was served, the show started at 7 finished by 10pm, and we returned on the boat only to be brought to the after party. That's a long night, roughly 8 hours, and if you remember from this post-- nothing beats comfort. With comfort in mind, I opted for these shoes and felt wonderfully at ease the entire night.

Highlights: Seeing Adele, listening to Adele sing, meeting Ed Sheeran, Boy George sighting, Rihanna's performance, boat ride with Bruno Mars and being in the same room as....Adele.

Have any of you bought a dress before you needed it? Only to find the perfect place to wear it months later. Please share!

The Basics: The Little Red Dress

2012-02-15T07:52:00.001-08:00

Dress: Donna Karan

A vivid red will always get a second look, which makes the 'little red dress' essential for festive occasions, holiday parties and special dates.

According to Edith, "Color in your wardrobe is more than something to please the eye and more than just a matter of personal preference. It is a kind of magic that can transform you from what you are to what you would like to be."

But there are a spectrum of reds, and much like choosing the right lipstick, you have to find the tone that will compliment you best.

Between all of the possibilities: crimson, scarlet, coral, flame red, ruby red, raspberry etc., there is a flattering option for every, unique skin tone.

Read More To See: Tips For Finding Your Perfect Red Dress

Decide if your best suited towards warm or cool tones of red. Use your cosmetics, nail polishes or lipsticks, as a guide for finding the right shade of red.
This Donna Karan dress is cut on a bias, so it's figure flattering. Find a dress that's well constructed and emphasises your best assets.
Keeping my first tip in mind, with a curve-hugging, cocktail dress, it's very important you don't go too short.
Find one that you can wear throughout the seasons, with the addition of tights.

Shop Below

Donna Karan Draped Jersey Dress

Herve Leger Off The Shoulder Bandage Dress

Future Star: Lena Gora

2012-02-13T06:54:00.000-08:00

Photography by me. November 2011, London.

Three years ago we met in Paris, last summer I cast her for a movie in NY, and I photographed her this fall in London. Now, Lena has arrived in California and set her sights on a Hollywood takeover.

She's undeniably talented and willing to go above and beyond to deliver a memorable performance. Moreover, she has true star quality. Lena is full of paradoxes--the fluctuation between her tough, 'bad girl' exterior and her genuine innocence and vulnerability makes her unforgettable.

She's determined to be a star and believe me when I say: everything Lena wants, Lena gets.

Lena Gora Show Reel

Lena Gora Facebook

The Basics: Sunglasses

2012-02-10T10:50:00.000-08:00

The only four styles of shades you will ever need: Round, Square, Aviator and something quirky and stand-out, in this case Cat-Eye.

Dolce &Gabbanna

Square-framed sunglasses are classic and compliment long faces.

Tom Ford

Small round-shaped sunglasses are best in neutral materials like tortoise shell. They're also ideal for people with smaller features because they aren't overpowering

Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban aviators accomplish the classic American sports look. These are the only pair of sunglasses I will purchase time and time again.

Alexander Wang

Everyone should have one pair of fun sunglasses: heart shaped, neon, mirrored lenses, snakeskin etc. This pair from Alexander Wang takes the 1950s Housewife 'Cat Eye' shades to the next level.

The Basics: Evening Wear

2012-02-09T05:23:00.000-08:00

When an event calls for black tie, one’s mind quickly goes to hours of discomfort inflicted by high heels, tight undergarments, frills and trains.

A few years ago I attended BET Honors, an event I will remember for the rest of my life. No, I don’t remember who preformed, who spoke or even who was honoured, what I do remember is hours of unbearable discomfort. I wore a beautiful dress that was composed of a short sheath, which fit close to the body, with an intricate lace overlay. The reality however, was that the two parts of the dress crept up with every single move I made. I was paralyzed for the entire night.

Learn from my mistakes.

Today, I’m more interested in a modern approach to evening wear. This dress from The Row, accomplishes high style and maximum comfort. I don’t believe in elegance without comfort, you simply can’t have one without the other. I first wore this gown to the President’s Inaugural Ball in 2008, but it’s also been worn with a leather jacket and boots out to dinner. It’s simple in the front with a flair of drama in the back and the drop waist makes it feel vintage. The crushed velvet means it’s easily transported and there’s no steaming necessary. The dress hits a 10/10 for wearability, style and timelessness.

The next time you’re invited to an event that calls for black tie, move towards comfort. You will enjoy sashaying across the room and traipsing across the dance floor, completely uninhibited and free.

Ease and simplicity for all!

The Basics: According to Edith

2012-02-07T11:43:00.000-08:00

In 1967, Random House, New York, published Edith Head’s “How to Dress For Success”, a book so packed with fashion wisdom that it remains in print today.

After reading and re-reading this book many times, Edith Head has become my fashion God Fairy, the voice in my head guiding me towards eternal style and wardrobe success. Because she dressed all of the iconic Hollywood stars of her generation, she became a master at selecting clothes to make an impression.

Chapter 4, “How to Build a Successful Wardrobe”, should be photocopied and handed out on street corners as a service to women everywhere.

I’ll share a few gems with you below:

“ At the same time that most women claim they have ‘nothing to wear’, they repeatedly grouse and groan about closet space. They have dozens of things hanging around that they never wear, either because they don’t fit, are unbecoming or are inappropriate for the things they do and the places they go.”

“As women, we all have certain weaknesses and are inclined to go for certain types of clothes whether we need them or not. I know a woman who can’t resist pretty shoes, and her closet is full of them, but she has nothing to wear them with. One friend of mine, who has little need for dressy cocktail and evening clothes, is forever buying new ones. The result of this unfortunate indulgence is her startling appearance at the most casual gatherings all done up like a circus horse.”

...does any of this sound like you?

“Building a proper wardrobe is somewhat like building a home. Think of it like a home -- because your wardrobe is something you’re going to live in. It must not only be comfortable, but adequate for all of your needs.”

“Many faux-pas of fashion can be avoided if you curb your instinctive desire to buy things with your heart instead of your head. If you hunger for certain types of clothes, for which you have little use, put yourself on a diet.”

So first and foremost, assess your life and daily activities and then decide what you absolutely need. Avoid impulse buying, the pieces you want ‘just because’, and with all of the money you’ve saved you’ll be able to buy the worthwhile foundations of a successful wardrobe.

The Basics: Costume Jewellery

2012-02-01T13:22:00.000-08:00

Costume jewellery is the easiest way to add drama to a simple look. The clip-on earrings pictured here have been handed down to me from my Grandmother and Mother, but you can hunt for them at estate sales, vintage stores and flea markets and easily find unique pieces with big personality.

Some of these earrings feel very disco, like the dangling pair with red balls and gold chains while others remind me of Dynasty and Old Society. But not all costume jewellery has to be over the top: the wooden pair are bohemian and understated.

Read more for helpful tips on how to find the best costume jewellery and how to style it:

- Find pieces with character, something that makes a statement and could start a conversation. One of the best pair of clip-on earrings I’ve seen were bright yellow bananas.There’s little use for being conservative when buying costume jewellery.

- If you’re shopping at a vintage boutique, inquire seriously with the seller about the origin of the piece and check the clamps to insure it’s well made. If you’re shopping at a flea market, don’t be turned off if the silver isn’t pristine as it can always be cleaned.

- Large earrings look fabulous with short hair, but if you have long hair consider wearing it up so that you don’t distract from jewellery.

- Also try to keep the rest of your look simple and streamlined. Big costume jewellery with large shoulder pads, ruffled blouses or busy prints makes for a sartorial disaster.

- Edie Sedgwick lashes optional.

Good luck and happy shopping!

The Basics before The Basics: The Detox Juice

2012-01-30T12:24:00.000-08:00

Every other day I hear about a new juice detox that promises to help you shed 10 pounds in a week. As tempting as these sound, I urge you not to attempt surviving on cayenne pepper, maple syrup and lemon water for days at a time (trust me I've tried and after four days of sheer irritability, crankiness and fatigue I ordered an entire pizza and finished it myself).

The key to weight loss and great skin comes down to fundamental nutrition: packing as many fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet as possible. This approach helps to curb cravings and get your metabolism running at it's optimum pace.

It can be daunting trying to get your recommended dose of fruits and vegetables every single day but this recipe makes it easy.

Some notes before you make this at home:

- Wait for the green tea to cool before adding it to the blender, otherwise the hot water will cook the spinach.

- Cayenne pepper is a fantastic healing herb and it increases blood flow in the body. It gives the juice an extra kick, which I like, but feel free to omit the spice if it doesn’t suit your tastes.

- The juice is naturally sweet but you can add honey or agave nectar to give added sweetness.

This tea-based juice is delicious and you can finish each class knowing you’ve had 3 servings of fruit, 1 serving of vegtables and a cup of antioxidant rich green tea! I have this juice for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. This particular concoction also does wonders after a particularly rough night.

Enjoy!

Berlin City Guide

2012-01-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

Berlin is quickly becoming one of my favourite places. This past week was my second time visiting and once again, I was overwhelmed with the endless amount of creative energy and vibrancy throughout the city. Everyone seems to express themselves through some creative medium: whether it be music, art, or simply what they wear and how they cut their hair. The clubs go on all night and people dance straight through to the next morning, the shopping is unique and well-priced and the art scene ranges from contemporary and experimental to Baroque 17th century palaces. The architecture is far from beautiful, harsh even, but the amazing people make Berlin unforgettable.

Soho House Berlin

Charlottenburg Palace

Contemporary Art Museum-- Hamburger Banhof

Flamingo Club

If you haven't been, plan to go. If you're an expert, e-mail me some great places to put on my list for next time!

Video Art: Far Nearer

2012-01-25T17:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

I’d like to introduce you to part 1 of my Video Art series.

Music and dance make up a universal language that cuts across all generations and social boundaries.

I wanted to create a visual collage using found footage of dance, both spontaneous and choreographed in all of its forms: 70s disco, swing dance, animated movement, gazelles in nature, tribal dance and newer forms of krumping and jerking and put them in conversation with each other, hopefully creating something new and unique.

I hope you enjoy the video and thank you for watching.

Future Star: Abteen Bagheri

2012-01-25T13:58:00.000-08:00

(Photography by me. December 2011, Los Angeles)

Abteen is a filmmaker, and he's been at it for a decade. When he was in middle school, he would gather his friends, a camcorder and a loosely written script to tell stories using whatever resources he could find.

Often times the key to success is just to keep going. Now twenty-two, his technique and eye has developed but he still creates with the same enthusiasm.

He's determined to do things the right way and never cuts corners. I've watched him edit meticulously for hours, aiming for perfection each time. He's broken his ankle in pursuit of a great shot for a documentary in Chicago, shot 16 models in a single day for a fashion story, managed a 60 person crew for an on-campus music video, and chased down actors in green screen suits through a cactus garden.

But his effort isn't wasted; a three-day shoot in Harlem resulted in the brilliant hip-hop video Peso. He proved his talents yet again in his latest video for Milli Mars, which is equal parts dark and beautiful all while managing to provide a gripping narrative.

In May of 2011, with a 48 hour deadline, he brought together close friends, a script written on his iPhone, a camera, whatever set materials and costumes we could find and created Experiment 93473. Essentially, nothing about his process has changed since he was a kid: he still adapts to his environment and uses limited resources to create, except this time the product of his labour landed him in Cannes.

Keep creating with enthusiasm and determination and somehow, you will end up right where you're supposed to be.

The Basics: The Sweater

2012-01-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

It's winter time, it's cold, it's grey and it's hard to find enthusiasm in your wardrobe. The only cure-all seems to be a cozy knit sweater.

This dark red Celine sweater is easy to fall in love with: the texture, the colour and the extra long sleeves.

Adam Chunky Grey Knit

Alexander Wang Black and White Knit

Derek Lam Chunky Knit

The Basics: Swimwear

2012-01-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

A good cut-out swimsuit is hard to find. Most styles look tooVegas showgirl for my comfort, or have too many straps, belts, and other frivolous bands resulting in awkward tan lines.

Cut-outs around the abdomen are flattering because they give the illusion of a smaller waist. This Catherine Malindrino suit has the right amount of stretch because it's crotched and the self-tie halter top is easily adjusted.

How do you feel about cut-out swimsuits? Would you wear one, or opt for more conservative styles?

Here are some of my favourites available online:

Coral Cut-Out Suit Mara Hoffman

Balmain One Shoulder Cut Out

Asos Asymmetric Cut Out

Free People Cut Out Suit

The Basics: The Pump

2012-01-17T08:53:00.000-08:00

These are the only two shoes you need. One pair of super sexy, 5 inch black patent leather stilettos and one pair of wear-with-everything, nude, kitten heels.

Readers, I must warn you, the tall black shoes are to be worn with extreme caution. The Louboutin Pigalle pumps are best for events that don’t call for much movement: think seated dinner party instead of dancing all night. This is the ‘my driver’s waiting just outside’ fantasy shoe.

The nude pumps however, are incredibly comfortable and allow you to move with grace for hours, even through a full work day. Ideal for lunch dates or an evening at the theatre. Because they’re neutral, you can wear this shoe with every colour, pattern and print imaginable. I have yet to find one thing in my closet that doesn’t compliment this pair of pumps.

These two styles of shoe are a good investment. Beware of less expensive options, they're unlikely to last 5+ years. Hit up eBay for great discounts or large department store sales.

Pigalle Patent Leather Pump

Nude Piou Piou Louboutin Kitten Heel

Stella Mccartney Nude Sling Back Kitten Heel

The Basics, Before The Basics: Vitamins

2012-01-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

True life: I’m addicted to vitamins. I’ve been taking these supplements religiously for a little over a year now and there’s no turning back.

Some are for health, most are for vanity but they’re all essential.

1.Women’s ‘Ultra Mega Active’ Multivitamin

This multivitamin has all of the necessaries: Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron etc. but it also has an added metabolism boost from green tea leaf extracts and B-12 for energy. When I don’t take this multivitamin, I truly feel a difference.

2. Spirulina

I’ve just recently incorporated spirulina into my daily regimen; It’s a green little pill filled with blue-green microalgae. It’s nutrient dense and a natural source of protein and amino acids. Like 5 kale salads in one pill.

3. Cold-pressed Flax Seed Oil

Flax seed oil is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, a good fat that our bodies need to work at their best. I’ve also found ground flax seeds which are great to sprinkle over oatmeal or throw in a smoothie. Flax seed is an anti-inflammatory so it prevents bloating and water retention.

4. Biotin

The beauty supplement that needs no introduction. Biotin is the ultimate for hair, skin and nails.

5. Echinacea

This herb ensures your immune system is 100% and I hate being sick so as a preventative measure, I take Echinacea daily.

I usually buy my vitamins at Whole Foods or GNC but every time I'm in Paris, I raid their pharmacies for herbal supplements.

Also essential a weekly pill container!

Have I sold you yet? Are you ready to ride the vitamin train? Or are you already like me, addicted? What do you take? How often? And what can I add to my already insane daily regimen? Please share, don't hold back!

The Basics: The Coat

2012-01-15T07:11:00.000-08:00

Every weekend, I see too many girls walking to their next event, party, bar, restaurant, date, dance etc. absolutely freezing. While they may look great in their minidresses, you know they must be cold. Well there's a solution to this epidemic: an evening coat. The coat doesn't have to be incredibly formal but it should be dressier than a North Face fleece. The coat can also be worn for work or for errands during the day.

This Marni coat is great because it's a neutral; the material is almost burlap and it can be worn over everything. The round collar and hidden buttons make it feel like the 50s but the overall design is fairly classic.

Read more to see what you should look for in a coat and put an end to freezing on street corners!

1. Think about buying one size up, this will ensure you can layer the coat over what you're already wearing.

2. Make sure the colour is neutral enough to be worn with everything. Camel, grey or black are safe choices. Beware of trends on an item like this. You're smart to avoid studs, complicated belts and embellished shoulders.

3. Make sure the coat hits your leg at the right place. I prefer slightly above the knee.

Don't forget to bring money for coat check!