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 7, 2009
Earlier this summer, I told you guys about a party that I had attended that launched new collaborations and styles that Charlotte Russe had incorporated into their collections. We are all familiar with Charlotte Russe; however, that night I could see that they had stepped into a new direction. In fact, one of the items in my goodie bag has made appearances at various events and girl's nights out as well (I love the bib necklace and the cuff that goes with it)!
This week I went to their Editor's preview and saw various accessories and outfits that will hit the stores of CR later on this month through Feb! When it comes to adding sparkle and bling there are plenty of dresses and tops that can be paired over leggings. There are quite a few cute options for footwear and the pieces are truly versatile. Above is a video of some of their key looks that you'll definitely want to pick up for later!
One of my favorite questions tends to give me the most pause - where did you get your outfit? Literally it comes from bits and places? What does that mean - some items I have had forever and others I picked up from Forever 21, a gifting event, online and more. I never feel the need to wear something simply because I bought it and it's new; however, when I start putting items together, the overall effect is one that seems like I planned for everything to work well with one another. What would I wear on a casual day?
When I have no set plans, I tend to wear something that works well when I'm pounding away at Starbucks on my laptop yet will be perfect for an unexpected launch event that I was invited to where I can still enjoy wearing my jeans and top but may need to grab an accessory. As a rule, I am a firm believer in my accessories dominating my entire look! It's essential that I have the perfect cuff and many times my shoes do match or at least correspond to my bag or wallet. I love the Nina Raye Crocodile Wallet which has that great luxe feel. When you're in a meeting at Starbucks and are running back and forth for another infusion of a Soy Chai Latte, people can't help but notice that this accessory compliments these boots by Frye! In addition, I am a fan of skinny jeans so the Dolman top by Velvet looks so comfortable and casual while having rhinestones to give a hint of elegance which comes in handy when you realize that you have drinks with the girls. A bare arm is never an excuse so find a cuff that works well for you and this one by Anna Beck Rajua is perfect! When you shop don't just think about something event specific, thing about items that you'll need in terms of a collection. A collection must be balances and yet work into different themes. As always, the links above are clickable!
When you're busting your butt and you're running all over the place, you need a second to come up for air. I find that it helps when I'm wearing something that's comfortable and not so confining. In my world of copious visits to various coffee houses, showrooms, lounges and more - I never know when a friendly chat turns into a fab business opportunity so my best bet is to be chic. With the changing of the seasons it can be a little difficult. One day I'm in full winter mode and the next I'm reminded that it's just fall. Whatever way you decide to bridge that gap (thin knitted caps are your best bet until it starts getting cold enough where you only see your breath), make sure that once your coat is off that you look transitional.
My biggest thing is in the accessories department, just because the weather has turned doesn't mean I still can't wear seashells - I'll just get some whose color is reflective of the season. I have this ring in a cream color that I got from the Dominican Republic; however, a dear friend @KarenRobinovitz, Creatrix of Purple Lab NYC told me that I should check out Mesi Jilly! Of course I realize that although I have yet to meet her, I am very familiar with her work as I have been drooling over it for a couple of years at least! I love that she takes the natural shell to another level and encrusts it with enough glitz to make me giddy!
So I have many days where I do "Kimmie old school" or I love to wear black as I do believe in the whole Audrey sense of style and although I know that the color palette extends beyond my faves (black, grey and cream), I am allowed to go back and embrace them anytime I want. LC by Lauren Conrad presents a fashionably classic approach to the Dolman sweater which also makes it perfect in terms of price point. Growing up, I remember my mom wearing these sweaters with a Calvin Klein jean and riding boots - interesting how it all comes back again except I'll reach for this TopShop jean which is not only a skinny but will have a few extra inches which will look fab with the Dolce & Gabbana snakeskin heels. As a side note, you can be super casual and once you throw on a heel with a little texture you come from coffee house to cute cafe or bistro in ten seconds. A lariat is a cute way to include a messy but uber classy look and this touch of golden essence is perfect for this outfit since it creates pops of vibrant color. Finally, complete the look with an awesome bag. As you know, I'm a huge fan of my Cole Haan woven bag. The shape is great and once again that texture is devine; therefore, how much more do you think I love this one by Jimmy Choo? I love the bangle that you can actually wear or let it stay as hardware and I like it has a hint of metallic as well.
When it all comes together, this look works well when you're running around all day (don't be shy if you feel the need to switch into flats - just make it snakeskin). If you get invited to a signing, drinks after work or anything of that nature, you don't have to think twice about what else needs to be done in order to fit in with whatever everyone else is wearing. The transitional look can be difficult in terms of the season but once you have that part taken care of, everything else falls into place!
When it gets super chilly, I'm not a fan of cold weather; however, I love outerwear for a few reasons. I love coats - if it has to be chilly then it's fun to wear them. Then there are times that you're running around all day and as opposed to your coat being a secondary, it's definitely a primary. The reality is that when you're running from place to place and shopping, you're coat becomes an essential. Recently, I found out about a line that is new to me, Mackage which makes coats for men (my boyfriend is obsessed with Bruce) and women. I love that this a-line coat has a cute neck embellishment. This would be perfect for me to run around to in showrooms, shopping and events. So to that end, it's essential that these looks become accessorized complete with over the knee booths (this is a must when I'm out and about and sometimes it's nice to have a flat boot as opposed to heels). Boots add a bit of an edge look but also a little Paris chic as well. The fingerless gloves are a nice way to add a bit of a rocker chic but when paired with the coat and shoes it's a look that looks like it was super easy to put together and effortless. Finally, it's all about the bag! I'm all about wearing dark colors in the winter but there has to be something which has a pop of color whether it's a scarf or a bag and to me, the bag is essential. This red croc bag is the perfect way to standout and to beat the blahs and greys that can take place once we've been in this weather pattern for too long.
I love hump days! It's the middle of the week and a great benchmark to see what has been worked on and what can still be done with a few days ahead! As Editor in Chief of Kitten Lounge, I get an amazing opportunity to see a lot of great products and to interact with so many great showrooms, brands, designers and so much more. While in Vegas in August, I was so happy to meet Casey of Hudson Jeans (she does their Social Media and various elements of marketing) and to walk with her at ENK Shows Vegas. With so many days hitting all the shows, I started to embrace my love for the maxi dress, Ted Rossi cuffs (I never travel without a number of them), large cocktail ring and of course a cute necklace. It's the act of styling a simple look to show my personality and to present an effortless look whether I'm walking the red carpet, tradeshows, showrooms or wherever I happen to be! I'm obsessed with accessories and I love large pieces. I brought a little of a boho-chic Grecian vibe to everyday that I was at the shows (you would too if it was 100 degrees). As I walked around people asked if I styled (especially when I told them I had just completed an episode of the reality show, To Be a Star, where I was the Style Mentor/Judge for aspiring models who were learning about the importance of having a look. Although I have worked with a select group of people, work with a few showrooms in the city and have been called in on a photoshoot - it wasn't something that I really thought I was doing. But the fact of the matter is that there is no better reward than showing someone how they can take elements of their style and add to it to create an enhanced look! If you're a busy individual who loves the idea of working with someone with great relationships of designers that you may not be familiar with, want to embrace accessories (I feel that they are the outfit) and love seeing your style progression, then feel free to contact me as I would love to work with you! So the answer is yes, I'm an Editor and Stylist!
Diane Von Furstenberg Look Fashion Week Spring 2010
Usually I like for my accessories to jump out from my "primary" color; however, there are times when I love to have an impactful look. This gorgeous golden Diane Von Furstenberg dress hit the runways yesterday and all I could think of was an extension of golden luxe! To this end, I think minimal accessories are ok and that the gorgeous gold heels which have cute detailing on the back are perfect as a secondary focus. The necklace with its multi media adds various elements of depth (not only is this perfect for a night out but can also kick your jeans and tee look up a few notches) and of course the Swarovski bag is an obvious match to the overall look. If anything, one of the things that DVF knows how to do is to take a great style that works with various body types. The selling points of this dress is the length, the gathering and the asymmetrical qualities that allow the eye to follow the lines of your body. Take some time to check out more pieces from her look.
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!
When it comes to making your outfit truly standout, the only way that this can be done (in my opinion of course), is via accessories! I love that someone could wear a cute black tank and black leggings with flip flops and they look comfortable. But then as it goes from day to night, including a studded cuff, a pair of heels and sunglasses (the days are longer so I think about my sunglasses) - now you're look simply fab heading out t wherver you've been invited. Above are two series of tones that you should think of including within your look. I love red as a great element of color. I used to never wear red as I felt a little uncomfortable; however, using it as an accessories, I like the idea of wearing red heels as in this gorgeous pair from SOS Mark. I love the black braiding! These Chanel sunglasses are a great mod look that add a bit of that color. For my Ladies of Pop, this is perfect! For those who want a neutral color but want a shoe that speaks for them, then I suggest this pair of shoes from the Tribal Collection of Casadei! I love the heel and that this is not only a peep toe shoe but has great cutouts that follow the angle of your foot. To top it off, the sunglasses by Carmen Marc Valvo (love his outfits and have been proud to attend one of his Fashion Week Shows last Sept) which has a bit of that innovative look while also being supremely casual! Take some time to think about what pops of color must be infused within your wardrobe to take your outfit from a look to one that realy shows who you are! As always, the links above can be clicked on!
I love the Fourth of July and the fact that it's tomorrow, my boyfriend and I have decided that today will be a shopping day! I love when he decides to shop as that means we will have to make some stops at a few places to have a drink every now and then. Now when it comes to themes, I know people will want to find ways to wear red, white and blue without making it look like it comes off as a costume. So for all of those who will be at rooftop parties or anything of that nature, I though a simple white dress would be a nice look. Then, build your love of red and blue with your accessories. You have to decide are you a blue or a red person? I decided that I love blue so I would rather my purse have this color and allow my jewelry to bring in the red. I also love sapphires as this is my birthstone and didn't want the blue clutch to seem like an after thought so I brought in the necklace. You could do the same thing if you're a red person and just switch up the colors. Either way, this is a great Americana palette while also being perfect to wear with other item! Take some time to think about how you will show your pride tomorrow night! I'll be in Brooklyn tomorrow at an amazing roofdeck!
I am such a bedding fan! I spend a lot of time in my bedroom - hey keep your mind out of the gutter, there are plenty of things to do! It's my escape when there's way too much going on, I watch all of my Bravo Reality TV Shows and so much more. There is something about having an inviting bed! My absolute favorite is the one on the upper left from Anthropologie. All the ruffles make it like a creamy relaxation spot. Whether you're all about minimal or you're about bringing pops of color, what you do with your bed is completely up to you. Just remember that just like you spruce up your wardrobe, you'll want to do the same with your bed whether it's changing it up with the duvet or adding some cute accent pillows.
Today is my last full day in South Beach! It was an amazing weekend which we will cover on Girly Getaways. What I love best is that I always get ideas of things that would be perfect for the house! I spend a lot of time on my balcony and also in the bathroom! Both of these areas should be comfortable and can be turned into a spa! I find that wicker is not only durable but brings a sense of relaxation to your home. Pottery Barn has a great selection of items that are perfect for your patio or roofdeck. In addition, I love that Bed Bath and Beyond has fun pieces that will ensure that your bathroom gets functional accessories that have a flair all their own. Take some time to look at your home with new eyes! You spend so much time away from home, that the moments you're there should be enjoyed!
I fell in love with containers when my dad used to give my sister and I presents. Instead of using paper and boxes (not to say he was being green), he would gift them in various containers. This way we always knew that we would have yet another container that could store whatever. It definitely came in handy for college as we had containers of various sizes. This storage was definitely functional but not art (but yet it was great to put in a closet, store under the bed, etc).
66 Degrees, a site that I love as they always have designers that are on the brink of something new and innovative whether it's jewelry, bags, etc just told me about John Wiggers, Pyramid Keepsake Box. Is it art or is it a place to store your jewelry? Yes and yes without a doubt. Created from 8 aromatic woods which have been known to have various healing powers, he constructed this piece within the Divine Proportion (a mathematical principle) that was found by Leonardo Fibonacci and would later be included within Leondardo Da Vinci's 'Vitruvian Man'. To learn the details and explanation behind these boxes, I encourage you to go to the site to find out more as I could go on for paragraphs. But what you should know is that these are handmade and in keeping with 66 Degrees' believe in limited quantities, there were only 10 that were created and each is named after a pyramid and will arrive with a certificate of authenticity. Whether you use it as something to display on a table or you place your most treasured items in it, this is definitely something that will have people asking you about this piece!
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.
If you're a dedicated reader to my site and are unaware of Ted Rossi then I'm definitely not doing my job of sharing my favorite finds with all of you! I have been a fan of Ted Rossi's pieces since my first blog back in 2005 and continue to write about them, wear them and more! The pieces are upscale, versatile and very classic! With that said, they will have a one day Sample Sale and with limited items available, when it's gone - it's gone! Take some time to check out their fab space on Fri the 15th from noon - 7pm and snag items which will become your accessories go to pieces no matter what you happen to wear at the time!
Right before I left for Chicago, I had the pleasure of being introduced to an accessories designer that was completely new to me! Perry Gargano is definitely a designer who embraces nature and just the natural order of life in general! His pieces are made in silver and in gold (so you'll definitely enjoy adding both metals into your jewelry wardrobe). I love that since his passion is being a sculptor, his pieces have that living art element to them! From belts, cuffs and rings - he will ensure that you're adorned. I love these pieces as I love to have a simple look, a great pair of jeans and a tank. But since my clothing tends to be "simple", I love for my pieces to really reflect my style when it comes to the accessories.
Consider this to be your first introduction to this designer as Kitten Lounge, will continue to keep you updated on this designer! In addition, if you love the pieces included here, you will enjoy seeing more of his pieces on Perry Gargano's site!
As many of you know, I have my own jewelry line, Kitten Couture which uses natural stones and seashells. Now my pieces are for all seasons; however, now that we are officially in Spring - this is the perfect time to reintroduce you to the collection. I love having pops of color within my jewelry as I tend to wear a lot of solids and simple pieces. This is a great way to change your look and really play up many of your favorite pieces. Above, I have a piece made of Botswana Agate, Mother of Pearl, Carnelian, Tiger Eye and Turquoise. Known as Ariel, this is a great piece that brings in elements of the sea while also being perfect with the addition of neutral tones as well.
Below is one of my other favorites and is also a chunky necklace that contains many of the same pieces that are above. The Alexandra has large Mother of Pearl shells, Carnelian, Agate and Snail Sell as well. Both pieces are done as lariats so that you can choose how many times you like to wrap them around your neck and how you wish to tie them. From now until April 15th, I am offering a special deal via this site where you can receive any piece at 50% off. Simply email me and let me know your piece; however, everyone should have a great piece that stands out or is perfect for a special day. I'll keep you guys up to date on what's going on with Kitten Couture and where you can find us! In the mean time, enjoy our Spring Fling Sale from now through April 15th where each piece has been reduced for a limited time to boost your look!
Bamboo! It's something that I have loved from the time that I could remember! Many of you know that I love accessories so I had to do a nice ode to bamboo. My favorite piece, the Tania Bamboo Clutch by Glorinha Paranagua. These are so cute and the tassel definitely add that perfect touch! Check out these fun pieces that are perfect for spring and are meant to be carried into the summer.
Last night was a crazy night! I was on Pop17 with Sarah Austin, a lifecaster who I find funny and love that she responds pretty quick to email (PS if it wasn't for @JuliaRoy, I would not have known about her and been on the show - you have to love Twitter)! Pop17 is a super cute show that looks at internet celebrity, issues and more. I was able to meet Famous Andrew who you should all follow on Twitter (FamousAndrew). Currently, he is a student at Parsons and is taking a course there about being famous on the Internet. He generates suggestions from those who visit his site and then he does various videos. Last week he pretended to be a banker that was affected by the current economical environment. You definitely should check out his videos since they are not only amusing but it helps him get a great grade for his course.
As a guest, I shared how Internet Celebrity works in terms of Fashion. Sarah made a great point that Paris Hilton became famous by appearing on the red carpet and I gave some examples of people that I know! Although this video is about 27 minutes, I am towards the end of this video and I give shout outs to Natali del Conte of Cnet's Loaded, Sarah Conley of Style It and Kiki Kannibal. Of course we chat about my sites and interests as well. I love being a guest and sharing how the internet and fashion work so well so enjoy!
Of course, not only was I running to get to Mogulus Studios to get to the interview, but I also ran from there to go to the Clearisil presentation at Bowlmor Lanes to look at new products that will launch in March. I will definitely do a special post on this later on today but let me just say that it was amazing and worth being out of breath to get there in order to enjoy great nibbles, a few beers and to see the products up close (a little teaser: I can always tell when a pimple is starting and now I have something that can fit in any bag that will stop it! Absolute love!!). More on this later on today as I am super tired and wanted to get you guys an early post to enjoy for the nightowls this Friday!
I love visiting boutiques that really know how to showcase items. Many times when I shop, I know what I want and without a need for a dramatic display - I go in and get what I want. But there are times that you are out and about and you know that there is something of interest that you could get and it's simply a matter of what tickles your fancy at the moment. Right now, I am looking for sunglasses that have a lot of pop to them and yet I am completely open to what I could purchase. Hearing about Ilori, a store made for those that want to be in the lap of luxury when it comes to sunglasses, I had to share!
Ilori loves to bring your favorite brands, first editions, exclusives and more together. I know when I am ready to get a pair of Oliver People's there are a number of Ilori boutiques available for me to stop in at. In addition, on the occassions when you want something new but are open to the possibilities, you can enjoy relaxing in a chair or peruse the wall of all the styles that they are carrying. Check out the images of the boutique and learn more by visiting the site.
I love a good selection of bling and I am not afraid to say it! if you have seen me out and about, you know that I love those large cocktail rings and am prone to wear it with any and every outfit no matter how casual or dressy! I throw all caution to the wind and I love it! Well I love pieces that pop and glimmer and am such a fan of LOLA (Lots of Little Accesories) Jewelry. These are bold statement pieces that are not for the shy or faint of heart, I really love the Smoky Quartz ring and would love it to be in my collection but there are also other colors that also pop out and look just as amazing with all of the outfits that you are prone to wear. These rings are apart of the collection 'Pop Rocks' which is very appropriately named in my opnion. In addition, you will love other pieves such as these pink ribbon earrings! Not only do they look elegant but they still have a lot of bling that gets you noticed.
This morning as I walked out of my boyfriend's balcony on his condo, I realized that although there wasn't a chill in the air, the seasons were changing and with all the rain, there was a alot of fog. Instantly, I began thinking of all the warm elements that I like to infuse within my living spaces! So of course, the best way to begin adding items into the house, is to look online. After a review of some fun pieces from West Elm, this is a great way to generate some ideas for all of your areas in your home.
I don't like to play favorites in some things but when it comes to my accessories, all bets are off. I have my go to pieces that I wear without even thinking about it and although I try a number of items - it's not an instant access into my tried and true collection. This is a hard decision and one that can't be taken lightly. You want pieces that scream you without suggesting that you were trying to hard when putting everything together. So when deciding upon new jewelry, I like to go with that which has a lot of style and I have to say that K. Amato is one of those designers.
No matter what piece you're looking at you get the notion that the pieces are classic while also being on trend. This isn't exactly an easy balance to strike but you will find it here! One of my favorites is The Chicago. Those of you who know me and have been out with me know that I am a sterling silver girl at heart. But there is something about this Oval Filagree piece that brings out your inner regal sensabilities and makes you want to pair it with cowl neck boucle sweaters, tunics paired over leggings and so much more as we go into the fall. At the same time, it's also perfect for the summer or any vacation spot. Ah The Chicago with all its Jazz, it just might be one of the tried and true that you've been looking for. Take some time to check out more pieces to fill up your jewelry case!
After seeing the Michael Kors Fashion Week show a few days ago, as I sat thinking about my post for today, I knew that I wanted to add some of his fab accessories. I am all about his bags (have always been a fan) and of course, how could I not mention the footwear which are perfect. I feel that he has quite a few items within his collection that use the olivine color which is the perfect neutral while adding quite a pop of color. Take some time to check out these items and then of course start putting together items from his label as well.
I am a huge fan of the purses that are available at Ports 1961! I love their clutches and how they merge leathers and wooden materials together! There is something very natural about their pieces, In today's gallery, I have combined a few pieces from their Spring 08 line and with their Fall/Winter line. You'll always look put together with their pieces and no one will be able to stop chatting about how amazing you look with their clutches!
I think it says super cute and sleek! What can you say about these great looks - first off, a great tunic top. This is a great way to highlight your shoulders and I love that there is extra length which looks so cozy.
Next I love the belt, it's simple and black and yet there is a pop of color, this is definitely something that you want to incorporate into a few looks. Not only is this belt cute, but I love the boots which will pair nicely with these liquefied leggings! They look great with booties and also with something much longer.
Top everything off with this poor boy knit cap in grey which is perfect on a not so great hair day or just to look super cute and then there is the bag. I love bags with fun shapes which are perfect to lug what you need while making sure you look super cute! What a great look to wear together and with other pieces as well!
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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