The Kitten Lounge is a lifestyle blog that brings the best in entertainment, fashion, beauty and style together. Kimmie presents various options from behind the scenes events to trips to some of her favorite showrooms that carry amazing pieces. As a former model, Internet personality and someone that just enjoys style in general, her site provides daily tidbits!
Today is Saturday, November 28, 2009
A classic dress is an essential to any wardrobe regardless of your style. When it comes to the It dress that everyone should have, I urge everyone to think about getting the classic wrap dress from Diane Von Furstenberg. It never goes out of style and it doesn't take a lot to add to it whether you're going out for drinks, heading to work etc! Of course being someone who loves accessories, you know that I can't leave you without adding a few gems! First of all make sure to have a cute heel (check my Jimmy Choo's would be perfect for this) and then think about your cute hand bag whether you opt for a clutch, hobo, etc. Finally, jewelry is always an essential. Now Nicole Ritchie has been a part of a lot of fashionable collaborations but her jewelry line, House of Harlow, is such a great boho chic line. Now what I love about this is that she is actually about to make pieces exclusively for Bebe and will be available on their site and in stores by the end of the week!
I love that although this jewelry is super cute, they're best when separated to add a little more oomph to your outfit which is perfect to mix and match everything! I love the pattern and love the tribal elements of the pieces which adds a great flavor to the classic wrap dress! Take some time to think about classic elements that you should be adding to your closet while making sure your accessories allow us to know more about your personality!
Before I even got here, I had a few people on my list that I wanted to see and one of them was Hudson Jeans which is showing at ENK Shows at the Wynn. Now the first thing is that I didn't know a lot about them until a friend of mine (who worked with them at one time) introduced me to some people at a party they threw in Vegas in Feb 2008. Everytime I complained about not getting the perfect jean and the fact that I had a small waist but a bigger bootie that made it difficult, he kept saying you have to get Hudsons. Then, I got my first pair last spring and wore them so much that it was a tearful departure when we had to part ways. Lets speed it up to the present when I needed the perfect jean to wear for my reality show taping, only one jean represented cool, chic and casual and I was so pleased to receive an awesome pair that worked well with heels. So I knew when I came to Vegas, I had to check out the booth and Casey, their Social Media PR person (let me say that they get the world of social and that I can't wait to continue to expand my denim knowledge and working them into the spreads that you guys love so much) walked me through the line and we even hit the ENK Show floor to look at fab pairings! She happened to have on the the Legging Jean. Now I know there has been much debate about this pair of jeans but let me say that after seeing them in person I thought it was denim but the fact that you have the great denim look, their signature 2 buttons, the classic flap that gives all booties that perfect look and the perfect fit, this is something that we should all have in our closets. Expect to hear a lot more from Hudson as they have definitely stepped up their presence with the addition of making Georgia Jagger the face of the brand. Casey and I hit the floor and saw a great shirt company that many of the celebs have been seen in - LnA Clothing. I love that these are simple tees that really provide a dynamic look. The Side Tail Tee is something that I am loving. It comes in a tank or a tee and what better shirt to pair with your jeans? Of course when it comes to an awesome shoe, I have to say that Jimmy Choo is my go to pair. Now they were not at the show but if you were wearing this to go out for a night with the girls or a very cool event, the Kurt would be your shoe. I love that it's suede and embossed leather and lets the rocker chick in you come out. As always the links above can be clicked on so that you can grab fab pieces to create your look! Just another day at the shows in Vegas!
A happy puppy is one that is loved and cared for. To me, it’s one who gets tons of hugs, gets to sit with you on his favorite part of the couch and when he’s out and about – it’s always in style. I don’t have a puppy but am getting one very soon. So for now I obsess over one of my very good friend’s and sister’s puppy. Both have Yorkies and yes, I want one as well! Jimmy Choo is over a year and is my sister’s puppy. He has so much life and is a dog that hasn’t figured out he’s a puppy. He just knows that he has a lot of energy and his auntie (that would be me) buys him cute fashionable accessories such as last Christmas when I bought him a braided leather leash from Cole Haan! I wanted him to be that chatter of her local dog park! So when it comes to accessories, I’m a huge fan of Cole Haan. The leathers are superb and I even like this Madras inspired leash as well which is perfect for the summer (oh yes you should have a seasonal leash and then one for special occasions). I also love when puppies have clothes from time to time. I know that this is definitely more for me then the puppy as I don’t think that they’re a fan; however, if you can get them in a photo with something like this Ralph Lauren polo – how cute is that? Of course if you get your boyfriend to wear the same thing – that’s just too cute! Finally, if you want cute things and to stay in the know, you HAVE to check out Sugar Chic Couture – this is a sushi meal fit for a puppy and fully edible with wasabi to top it off! They have quite a bit of goodies and when I finally get my baby he will be Sugar Chic’d out! Check out the great finds and click around to see more about these fab pieces!
Two of my favorite colors are black and grey! When done right, it's very dramatic! As usual, you can click on the links above to learn more about the designers. Parker is a designer that is new to me that I'm falling in love with! This Three Ruffle Dress is awesome! I can say this as I have the blouse version of this dress and will actually wear it during an upcoming episode of To Be a Star! This line has so many great feminine qualities that still have a bit of an edge so I would definitely wear this dress to brunch or to an opening (even my 30th bday as it is that cute)! I've talked about Ana Reign before and I love the large cocktail ring and the fact that eyes won't be able to look away at your hand! Jimmy Choo is always a favorite and I love the open look of this 'caged' heel!. You know that I have always been a fan of Ted Rossi and I gave this piece which I wear all the time with tanks and leggings. This adds a lot of texture without the heft due to the skin. To tie in the sleek and the texture look that you're putting together, I love the clutch by Carlos Falchi which has a great print while also blending colors. I truly love that if you opt to do black and grey this is a such a fun way to do it without looking old and dated! Take some time to think about how to do an edgy/flirty look with the LBD!
My avid readers know that yesterday, we talked about the importance of going out for a Girl's Night Out. When it comes to going out, if I don't know what the plan is - I like to dress comfortably while having a look that could g anywhere. In these situations, I turn to my summer favorites. I love Express' tube dress which is a bandeau on the top and then hits to about my calves. This is perfect to wear to the beach or on a night out. I got one in black and I love that I can dress it up and down depending on what's going on. When it comes to accessories, I attended Charllotte Russe's launch party which showcased collaborations that they have done for this fall with People's Liberation, Kitson, etc. Within their goodie bag, they had a super cute necklace and magnetic cuff (the clearer picture is courtesy of Budget Babe Blog). I love that these are embellished fabric pieces that definitely add a bit of rockstar glitz to your look! For my footwear if I'm not in heels, I usually go with my Havaianas. I love this pair as these are my go to since they're super comfortable and I love giving a shout out to Brazil (I have a little Brazilian so it's nice to sport the flag). I'm known for wearing a large cocktail ring of sorts and in the summer, I love wearing a large shell! Although I got my ring (worn in the bottom picture) in the Dominican Republic earlier this year, you can check out Lena Bernard's site to see which ring works best for you. It's large and a nice piece of jewelry to where that allows people to stop and ask you about it. Finally, I love the fact that bags are definitely something that you notice when you go out with your girls. Once you have the bag taken care of, you have to think about the wallet. I am in love with my Jimmy Choo wallet which is a great statement and a great pop of color as well! These are great pieces that you can use in various situations and events. All the links within the spread can be clicked on - so think about what your staples are for the summer and what looks great when it comes to going from day to night and event to event.
Growing up in the midwest, I couldn't wait to finally come to the beaches of the east coast to spend copius days hanging out on the beach. I practically lived there and as I began hitting the Jersey Shores, then moving on to the islands, I knew that I could never be too far from the ocean. There's something relaxing about it and as I grew up, it was less about me running and jumping into the water. It was about bringing various events to the beach from laying out, having parties, etc. I have to say that I have seriously increased my beach wardrobe and now that I live in Long Beach, I enjoy watching the style of of those who visit and residents (much like when I go to SoBe - I love seeing how people dress up at the beach and oh yes, I'm one of them). So today, I bring you a semi active and snazzy beach approach. I have more bathing suits then I can count and yet, I continue to increase my collection. Casa Bikini has amazing suits of various colors and styles and I think my birthday suit (no seriously my birthday is Sept 12th and I will be in a cabana in South Beach and I absolutely love this bathing suit) will have to come from here. I love these Brazilian bathing suits and speaking of Brazil, a handbag designer that is new to me Brazilian designer, Flavia Sarno has AMAZING handbags and I'm a fan of her clutches (can't wait to include it within future spreads). I think having a gorgeous tote and a cute clutch is an absolute necessity. During the day, you must enjoy these handmade, Mother of Pearl flip flops from Bohemian Babe - based out of Hong Kong. This is perfect for walking about on the beach! For night or throughout the day in the cabana, I have to say that Jimmy Choo's Penelope is a great look! I think a bit of that 70's glam is perfect with a bathing suit and elongates the leg! To complete this fab look, I love this hook necklace by Cynthia Rowley that is apart of her Fashion and Accessories collection for Resort 2010! What a great way to have the glowing goddess look with these pieces! As always, click on the links in the spread and let me know how you head off to the beach!
Whether you're heading out for a summer wedding, having an event on your roofdeck or are going out for a nice dinner, there are times when you want to dress up! Since it's definitely getting toasty, make sure that you include a bit of whimsy and the sea within your look. I love this dress by DVF which has gorgeous layers and a great floral look. Since there are great neutrals, I love that you can pair this with Jimmy Choo's snakeskin shoes, Kate Spade's mother of pearl bracelet and this cute handbag! If you love this look, figure out ways that you can recreate this with other tones as well!
I love that the idea of baby wipes isn't just for those adorable bundles of joy! Jamar Labs not only wants to make sure that you're clean but that it's safe for you as well! This means that you don't have to worry about parabens on the 100% cotton sheets that are completely natural. These wipes come in three packs that are specifically for your hands, feet or face! We all know that it's nice to have your hands cleaned and we're used to wiping our face. But I have to say that I truly love the fact that they had wipes for your feet! I love wearing flip flops but the icky streets in NYC makes you get various grime and don't even think about jumping into bed without cleaning them off! During a Lobster Boil party at my house last weekend, my sister's dog took a walk outside. Since it had been raining on and off, she wanted to make sure that Jimmy Choo wasn't tracking grit from outside on our wood floors. I don't think that Jamar Labs intended for these wipes to be used for a Yorkie's feet; however, it was perfect and he loved it!Take some time to buy your packs at JamarLabs.com!
I'm still in South Beach mode! I just got back yesterday and of course I still have a nice warm tan/glow so I can believe that I'm still there! What's the key to looking amazing when you're there or anywhere? Great accessories that look effortless. I am a HUGE fan of DVF as many of you know and I love the patchwork colors of citrus and blue that are worked within this dress. Don't let a lot of color confuse you when you're faced with this! Think about adding tones that don't fight the color and here I love the golden look - isn't that how we want to look? Of course, I think that Jimmy Choo is the perfect companion and I love the shape of the shoes (imagine when you're sitting an crossing your legs, this will look amazing). A simply necklace is perfect and this Swarovski piece from Objets d'Envy has not only been featured on the Today Show but is the perfect compliment! Longer days means that you may be going from a fab dinner to a night out so think about these sunglasses from Skyla, the perfect dusk wear as you wait for the sun to go down! Love the pieces and want them for yourself, simply click on the names in the spreadsheet and begin to get these goodies in your closet!
I don't care that we have some amazing days and then a few crappy rains that hit us! We have to bring the sunshine with us everyday no matter what's going on seasonally or in life in general. With that said, I had to turn to some inspiration as I'm in desparate need to find a great summer bag and of course, I have to start with Jimmy Choo to decide how I will focus my wardrobe around it. I am in love with the Saba Suede Handbag in Sun! I love the African bangle which definitely adds an interesting twist to this piece while also being the perfect item to wear on your wrist. How easy it is to throw some items in here before running off to brunch, to visit a friend or (dare I say) go to work? This looks amazing with jeans and flouncy skirts and is definitely something that I wouldn't mind adding to my collection. Of course you're bound to find what you're looking for by visiting Jimmy Choo for inspiration and great pieces
Oh yes, I am aware that my post for today isn't up; however, I will be posting a video later on and have been running around to various presentations over the past few days! So there will be a nice video treat up tonight and in the meantime, my new loves have been posted here. Now I have my signature Jimmy Choo's and after seeing various stylish women wearing Christain Louboutin's I have decided that a nice pair in black is quite necessary and you'll be the first to know when I get them! I love the pop of red that these shoes have and after trying on a pair - I know it will be a pleasure to have them in my closet! Watch out for tonight's second episode of On the Radar and you can always see the first episode where I'll share various goodies with you!
When it comes to our favorite brands, it’s easy to be overcome with excitement on actually owning a brand that you’ve been coveting for who knows how long. Whether it’s seeing it on Sex and the City, your favorite brunch spot or that image you’ve saved from Vogue. After the days, weeks, months and even years of waiting, you bought that present for yourself and have now added to that brands icon status. Seeing it in Neiman’s or Saks you know that it’s a brand that has truly arrived; however, the journey takes many steps. That’s what The Towering World of Jimmy Choo talks about – the business of the shoe and it provides near encounters with investors that could have changed its destiny if it had been acquired.
Now many of you know that I am a HUGE fan of Jimmy Choo and my first encounter was the classic line from Sex and the City “wait I lost my Choo”. From then on it became a shoe I wanted even being someone from Indiana who was studying in college and not exactly sure what I was going to do. Of course flash forward and I found myself at the Jimmy Choo store on Madison holding my first pair that were given to us by the Jimmy Choo team! I was more than thrilled and it’s a unforgettable experience. So, hearing about this book was intriguing and seeing that my mom works with investors that do deals of large sums, I was excited to learn how a couture shoe that was created by Jimmy Choo evolved into a massive brand that grew much farther than the designer’s scope.
This book was created by two women who are not affiliated with the Jimmy Choo camp or the investors that acquired the company. I do believe that the actual events in terms of who acquired the company, those who were in bids and the environment of what was going on in terms of the Luxury Market in general, overall economy pre and post 9/11, LVMH and it’s revamped model, Gucci Group, etc are definitely true. You also get the back story on Tamara who found an interest in Jimmy Choo and became the personality, her father and mother and their role in business and those who came into the company in terms of employees. These are retold accounts via members of the team or by those who were close to them. Either way, from a business standpoint, this is a great book and it’s entertaining to learn about those who came into contact at the company. Ultimately, this book talks about the importance of maintaining a quality product that is enticing to those within the industry, potential investors and those that embrace the brand from a consumer standpoint. In addition, it shows that companies need to emerge when there is a need that has yet to be filled; however, since there is no “right way or document to follow” these companies that we have come to love truly make their mark on unchartered territory. As much as we can love and respect such brands that have been around for a long time: Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci, there is still a place for the new comer who is a little over 10 years old in terms of how we know them (although Jimmy himself, created the shoes much earlier). This is a must read on so many levels!
Not sure about the dress code? You can show a little skin while still being classy and summer ready!
Bring SoBe by having a sizzling top that works well when you're out and about with your entourage!
Perfect for a night out but you can also make it work ready by having a cute cropped jacket, a capri pant and great heels.
I love this boyfriend top which is perfect for running errands or going out - to make the transition from day to night just add more accessories.
A great outfit is a combination of various elements but at the end of the day, it comes to style and mainly time and place. We each have our own style whether you go retro, boho chic or femme. All of these can work with a number of activities that you're heading off to. In the end, it's always about time and place. A top that works well at night may have to have an extra layer or less jewelry so that it can fit within another situation. One of the things that I truly love is when people dress with a number of items together. I love shopping at various boutiques and adding something from Forever 21, with BCBG and then a pair of Jimmy Choos! To prove this point, the tops above are perfect to wear in a number of situations and can be reworked to show whatever style you choose to rock at the moment. In my love of high low fashion (simply meaning items that are either pricey or not that pricey), all of the tops shown today can be found at Mandee ! This goes to show that you never know how an outfit has been completed and that at the end of the day, you're turning heads based on how your brought it together - that's definitely a signature and trend to embrace going into the summer.
Today's theme is the gala as last night I attended the American Cancer Society's "Pink & Black Tie Gala" which took place in Brooklyn and was hosted by TLC's, Stacy London. Although these images will be up shortly on the site, I wanted to share another gala that took place on Mon.
I think that Jimmy Choo's are appropriate for any occassion; however, one of the most obvious places is when they're included at a gala or an event that dressing up is required! This week the Met Costume Institute Benefit Gala hosted by Marc Jacobs, Anna Wintour, Kate Moss and Justin Timberlake took place and various celebrities hit the red carpet wearing and holding their beloved Jimmy Choos. So enjoy some fab pictures of amazing gowns and of course accessorized with the glam that is Jimmy Choo! As a side note, last weekend, I picked up The Towering World of Jimmy Choo which talks about how the brand began and how it was extended to be what we know it as today! I will definitely include this within a future post as I won't have started reading it until later on this weekend!
If you don't know what Forever 21 is I truly feel bad for you! They're always a store that I pop into and fortunately in NYC, we have quite a few that I can hit up on a Saturday as I complete a variety of looks! Of course when I'm super lazy (or find that my size was no where to be found) I also go online! What do I love about this store/site? There's always something new, they have the super cute tank tops that are $2.50 and I've been able to experiment with certain items in a way that is much easier on my pocket book. In addition, I can't say how many times I have worn a $24.99 dress from them and paired it with my Jimmy Choo heels and Ted Rossi python bag and received a ton of compliments!
As we now hit May officially, we're only days away from consistently warm weather. One of my favorite looks to wear in the summer is a whimsical ensemble. I love super cute tunics that are in various weights of fabrics that when worn over skinny jeans or leggings, make you look amazing! These are perfect for work, going out and more. With so many pieces and with items being a little over or under $20, you can definitely buy quite a few items! So this Friday, we have a gallery of tunics that you should keep your eye on whether you're here in NY as they are in stores in the area (my favorite location is Union Square) or whether you're online! Check out their various collections within Forever 21: Heritage 1981 and Twelve by Twelve.
Finally, when it comes to accessible fashion, I like to know that it's not only pocket friendly (which is why in my posts I include various pieces that are within various price ranges from steals to splurge) but more importantly that various people regardless of size can also enjoy various looks as well. Nothing is worse whether you're talking about shoes or a dress and to find that they ran out of your size or that they never had it to begin with. Forever 21 recently launched Faith 21 which ensures that plus sized women can also enjoy fab finds and amazing fashion as well! Definitely check this out as well.
If you have heard me talk about style Audrey always pops into my conversation. I love that she always looked amazing and dressed for anything without looking like she had a team of stylists that complicated her look! As much as I love her look, I do think it's important to put your own spin on it. I created a look that I would wear (when I'm not in jeans, a tank and flip flops) which is perfect to run around and also to go out. To keep it sensible, I love the fact that you can have a ballet shoe or a great heel! The best way to increase your closet is to think of the subtle ways that you can make it versatile! Here it is as if you have two completely different looks. Whether you add a belt, cocktail ring (I love wearing them with everything), a necklace and a cute bag - you'll definitely stand out while looking like a glamazon!
Keeping it "Signature". What exactly does that mean? Well a signature is something that is your version of the "back to basics", "the classics" or an "old standby". It may not sound like it's fashion forward but it can be! For me, my signature works no matter where I may be heading to! It's the look(s) you pick when you have multiple things and you don't have a lot of time to change (or if you do need to bring something it may be a belt of sorts). As we head into this in-between weather, we start peeling the heavy layers for something that is lighter.
I am a fan of the Lauren Conrad collection as I have quite a few pieces. I love this wrap. It's a dynamic look, love the layers and it works when you're feeling 100% or even when you think that you may be bloated (we've all been there). This look is great with a simple black tank or tee and worn over leggings (the liquid leggings is a hot look and one that you should definitely put within your closet). You can also pop various colors into this scheme if you like.
A look like this needs a good pair of sunglasses - who doesn't love a retro pair like the ones from Tom Ford? Currently, I have a large pair by Marc Jacobs that has an olive tone in the frames which is a nice way to add a slight amount of color and yet keeps it to my signature look.
The bag is from my dear friends at Ted Rossi. You have heard me talk about how much I love wearing their cuffs and carrying their clutches (I wore them throughout my recent trip to the Dominican Republic). There is a definitely a feel of luxury when you carry their items and this looks amazing on your arm with this look!
Finally, add a pop of color (especially when you decide to go monotone - which I love doing) with the shoes. I love the Corsica strappy sandal which looks AMAZING with leggings. At my recent Jimmy Choo event, I saw girls with leggings wearing this shoe and it was very nuvo-glam! Not only does this add height but it creates a very nice silhouette that will leave people begging to know who your stylist is! My look incorporates simple pieces with pops of something here and there. What's your signature look and what is a must in your wardrobe?
Last night was an interesting night. First, it never fails that I accept one invitation only to find that there are a few more events going on the same night! But what's a girl to do but think about which one is the perfect one for the readers and of course, herself. Last night one of my two events that I attended was a Jimmy Choo and Vogue.tv event that was held at their boutique on Madison Ave. Now words can't express what I felt just going to this store. It had been a crazy day but upon entering, I became relaxed and went from feeling rushed to being in awe. I have to say that I have never been to the store and the intimate vibe that it gives off is one that instantly makes you feel at home. This event allowed bloggers to come and intereact with not only those that worked with the store but their president, Brian (who was amazing and so down to earth in explaining the brand) in addition to other key individuals in the company. To see the passion that they felt for the brand, made me think of my photoshoot with DVF and working with their staff.
When I think of Jimmy Choo, I do think of it as such an iconic brand - to me, it's like Tiffany's and a staple in the industry (I can't say how many times I enjoyed watching Breakfast at Tiffany's and how I identified with the Holly Golightly in her affinity for the brand). The same can be said here; however, it's amazing that the company has only been around since 1996! But the icon factor for me, came while seeing it on various episodes of Sex and the City. As much as I loved the design, I have always had a hard time fitting into designer shoes. As much as my feet are small, they are also a little wide and sometimes a delicate shoe makes my foot look as it has been stuffed in! This was not the case here!
In this economy where people are making choices about many of their shopping purchases, I find myself still buying the same way and feeling that having something that is a quality purchase means more then buying something that won't last as long or that I won't feel excited about the purchase. Although Jimmy Choo may be at a price that's above the moderate range, the comfort that one feels is AMAZING. These shoes with amazing heels make your foot feel comfortable and as Brian said, you can run in them (don't even get me started on my experience in airports to catch a flight). From day to night and everything in between this is definitely a shoe that's worth having in your closet and one that you will go back to in time.
Not only was this presentation about the iconic nature of the brand but also where they're going. We were given a peek into the world of Jimmy Choo with peeks at the handbags and shoes that will be hitting shelves in the fall. I definitely had my eye on a few pieces which you will see in the gallery. In addition, I also saw an amazing wellie that is one my list. In a collaboration with Hunter boots, they have made a croc wellie that's $395! It's amazing and as much as I love my Marc Jacobs wellies, I must have the ones from Hunter & Jimmy Choo. At the end of the night, and after hours of being surrounded by shoe luxury, we were given a pair of shoes (which will be included in a future post). I am in LOVE with this pair and couldn't stop looking at them even when I got home! A brand that works for all times of the day, all types of situations and one that continues to push what it means for them to be competitive within the market as well as maintaining their quality and percision is one that I definitely want to continue to have in my closet!
Now I love sunglasses! I have a pair of Marc Jacobs (not shown here) that I recently purchased; however, I'm always searching for other pairs. I'm a fan of large sunglasses and all of these are definitely something that you could see me in. I love Oliver Peoples, Marc Jacobs, Roberto Cavalli and Jimmy Choo. All of these bring out your inner celeb and look amazing with jeans, bathing suit, dress and more. Take a look at some great sunglasses and decide which one is the best for you.
We love hearing from you! Suggestions, ideas and thoughts are always welcome.
Please send all food related questions to Paul, spa and wellness items to Keren and all other queries to Kimmie.
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