This afternoon, I was off to Hundred Acres to have a fun brunch, see the unveiling of the Cadillac collaboration with Vogue productions and to hear stylist, Erin Walsh (who styled Kerry Washington and Greta Gerwig) who is not only in the video but shared her tips. This video follows how she works (this video when it ends will instantly start into the next video as it's 5 videos total), how she integrates Cadillac within her day to day and how it is to style the Met Ball which I posted on earlier today in terms of the red carpet arrivals! Enjoy seeing the video which is a great partnership within these three partners. In addition, I love that Erin's tips in terms of styling mirror my own - be comfortable this means that you should be able to walk in your shoes without an issue or to wear articles without pulling at them constantly, make sure to have the right under garments as this is an essential as lines are not pretty to look at and finally, don't underestimate good tailoring which will make you look your best! These are great rules to follow and it's understandable how Erin came across this career path during her days at Vogue to assist the Fashion Editor and then to branch off to create great looks for her clients!
As someone who grew up in the automotive industry, my parents were execs at General Motors, I truly loved seeing a new way to integrate their brand heritage and technology within a new vertical via the video, event and with Erin Walsh. Just last week I was running around Baltimore and DC doing segments for a number of local affiliates and it was great to be driven (it was not a Cadillac but a competitor's luxury car) in a luxury car in order to get everything done, to run errands and to tote a number of items that I had curated for each segment. Doing the mini road trip from NYC to Baltimore/DC reminded me of how important it is to enjoy modern luxuries and what it means to me.
I think that every well rounded closet needs a day dress! There's something about a fitted bodice that then has a fun full skirt (if there are pockets, it's even better). This is something that can be worn in the day whether it's to work, meetings, a wedding, brunch etc and then goes into night as well. This Preen Line color blocked dress in cobalt and black is a great addition to your collection. Because this is such a classic look, the accessories that you pair with it can go in a number of directions. Roll over the above images so that you can see how I have styled the look in an edgy way including - Nancy Gonzalez, Marni, Givenchy, Rachel Zoe, Jack Vartanian.
I always tell people that brunch is the most important meal of the week! It's a great way to touchbase with friends and to chat about what's going on and what you plan to do together. As we continue to transition into spring weather we can wear less outerwear and get back into wearing heels and cycling through a number of fun accessories! Roll over the above images to see how this fun look with a focus on yellow is the perfect look for wherever you're heading off to this weekend. I love Tory Burch, J Brand, Roberto Cavalli, Kimberly McDonald, Rachel Zoe, Will Leather Goods and Alexandra Tempestato.
I love my beauty trunks as there are a number of goodies that are in there for any given situation. Since I'm always receiving mascaras, eyeshadows and more prior to their release, I know that whatever look I'm going for is bound to be in one of cases! With that said, sometimes I go for what speaks to me in theory - it's not even lifestyle specific. Right now I'm definitely loving a few pieces that will be included in future outings from traveling, brunch and just being out and about.
ACCESSORIES INSPIRATIONS
My inspiration comes from this fabulous multi colored cocktail ring which reminds me of a kaleidoscope from Sharon Khazzam who is known for her one of a kind pieces. I love a great ring and many of you know that it's my signature without a doubt. This ring has a number of colors in it which also inspired me when I'm thinking of looking great for whatever the occasion happens to be.
GET THE BEAUTY LOOK
Last week, I attended HSN's Oz Preview which had a number of brands that had created products for the launch of the movie which is coming out on Friday (so excited). Urban Decay created two kinds of color palettes and I have been loving the one I received which embodies Glinda the Good Witch! The collection comes with eyeshadows, eyeliner and a lip pencil. It's such a great number of hues and I love that everything (minus the lip pencil) can be stored within the case. Another eyeshadow favorite (which is perfect for smoky eyes) of mine is Sue Devitt and although I have the purple version of this, the green Marine Minerals is definitely on trend and a great series of hues to have. Another eyeshadow that I love is YSL's Ombre in Topaz Blue! When I feel that it's a bit bright, I love blending it in with charcoal. Another beauty fave that pulls tones of the ring into this selection is Deborah Lippmann's Ruby Slippers which is a rich garnet with a bit of shimmer.
Obviously great skin is maintained skin! I LOVE cleansing wipes and have a number of brands I use that are amazing in a number of ways. I also carry a to go version with me as there are times where I have to change from one makeup look to another - these Sephora Express Cleansing Wipes are perfect! I think it can never be said enough but SPF regardless of whether the sun is out, regardless of the season and DEFINITELY regardless of your skin tone is an essential. I just started trying out Murad's Age-Proof Suncare Oil Free Sunblock. I love that it has pom in it and is great coverage for the skin.
What a few days this has been! Yesterday I invited my sister, who recently became engaged, to a number of bridal shows. It was an amazing time and I love the fact that there is nothing better then having a weekend with bridal runway shows and brunch as well! Being chic is always an essential and can be done with these fun pieces with this brocade jacket by Stella McCartney and pair it with these leggings from Theory. Accessorize it all with these fabulous Ralph Lauren burnished calf boots, Clementina ring and gorgeous Balenciaga bag with rose gold hardware.
I love a weekend prior to a holiday! In my case, the weekend prior to a holiday means that I can get odds and ends done prior to the 4th and my upcoming travel! It's all about the perfect pot of tea (whether I sip it in the morning, chill it or add a little champagne to it) which starts off with my Breville. I'm loving Kusmi Tea especially in Detox which is a great way to kick off the day. Since this weekend is bound to be gorgeous, I want to be ready for anything whether it's a lunch or a night out so slip on this Missoni jumpsuit which reminds me of candy and all the sweetness that a weekend is meant to have. Pair this with Gerard Yosca with this fab necklace and pendant. Slip on Zariin Jewelry's Green Agate Gold. Round out the look with Givenchy and this large leather bag as it's perfect to store items that you shop for when you're out and about. Finally clad your feet in Prada to make your weekend perfection!
On a rainy afternoon earlier this week, I headed to Milos for a Beauty Brunch that was hosted by my friend and Social Media Director, Michelle Joni Lapidos of Spa Week - also make sure to check out their blog as well. The brunch allowed attendees to sit and chat skincare with Miami Beach based Dermatologist, Dr Loretta who has her own practice, a skincare line in her own name as well as a line that does private label for various spas. For those that follow Kitten Lounge on Facebook, you saw a number of my videos popping up talking about how gum (sugarless free is suggested) is great to keep your neck muscles firm, her skincare's innovation with stem cells that contain lavendar as well as other information regarding African Americans and the types of peels that they should use. The video above shares why we should apply new beauty products to only half of our face as they are done during clinical trials! It's a great way of seeing how well the product works for you and what results you can expect to see - a novel idea and one that we should always remember to do!
In addition to a fabulous lunch, we were able to have many of our skincare issues answered as well as to test a number of products within the Dr Loretta line including Age Change Daily Moisturizer (includes SPF 30+ which is perfect to use day and night), Age Change Body (which is great for all skin types and allows your skin to glow) and Age Change Eye (which lessens dark circles, bags and puffiness and protects the thin skin that is around the eye area). These can be purchased individually OR you can select the Age Change Kit which allows you to receive the Age Change Body for free when you purchase the Age Change Eye as well as the Age Change Face (which is the daily moisturizer).
I hope everyone had fun partying it up yesterday no matter what you were celebrating! With all of the warm fuzzies that come with so much going on, it's all about looking fabulous for brunch with a large pair of sunglasses. With that said DVF was our inspiration as this fabulous one shoulder dress is the perfect item to wear to be out and about on a Sunday. I'm loving the Moritz pendant lamp at Neiman Marcus which is perfect with your living space. Make the living room even nicer with this fun Mathilde Sofa at Anthropologie which adds a fab bit of character to your room. I'm loving this fabulous stool available at CB2 which adds color, can be spare seating and more. Finally, the canisters that we love to hold bits and baubles are from Kohl's which is another way of bringing in this fab and vibrant hue!
Who doesn't love a casual look? This is one that is perfect for whatever he has in mind whether it's a long weekend, a brunch, heading out to work or taking a half day and taking some time for himself. This easy look is a casual one that kicks off with a Club Monaco and it's simple cornwall blue classic shirt. Pair it with these perfectly distressed Chimala jeans available at J. Crew. Complete this look with a fab pair of casual chic Christian Dior beige suede captoe shoes (just a bit of a way to luxe up this style of sneaker). Pop on this gingham fedora with beige and the cornwall blue color by Comme des Garcons and finally - the bag is everything whether he's planned a little nibble in the park or is hitting the friendly skies, I'm loving this twill weekend travel tote by Gucci.
I have been obsessed with mint for a number of months and when I saw that one of my favorite designers and friends, Aiisha had this gorgeous piece, it made me think of all the things that I love about summer, rooftop parties and jetsetting! I love how it looks on the runway with a simple sandal and hair pushed up so that you definitely look like a sun kissed goddess, but of course I had to add the full on look! I love how simple and eye catching these Virgins, Saints and Angels earrings are as they have such a whimsical feel for this look. Pair this with the fabulous Alberto Juan Prohibition Cocktail that's a fabulous peridot cluster cocktail ring! Jil Sander has a fabulouse envelope clutch in my favorite material - python! Finally, a simple freshwater pendant is an excellent way to cap off this look by Athena Designs.
Today is National Sake Day which kicks off the sake season (and the 1st day of October can you believe next month is Thanksgiving!?!)! My Glammie Kittens know that I love sake and enjoy drinking it with a number of dishes but on this day, it's all about having it with Sushi. Of course you could go out and enjoy an amazing spread but sushi is so amazing when it's made at home and you can invite people over. So how does one create a snazzy sushi spread? First of all you have to have great beverages I'm a huge fan of Gekkeikan which is one of the leading brands with a number of sakes and plum wines within their company! Below, I have a fab recipe that you can make. For those who love sake, they can have it alone or make a nice martini. Plum wine is always a nice sweet beverage to have as well to shake it up a bit! Above is an image of the rice patties where they harvest the crop in order to make the decadent sake that will be enjoyed throughout the year! I'm loving the Sake cups and pitchers that are great way to jazz up your affair available at Sur La Table.
As many of you know, one of my dear friends works with Uoriki Fresh which comes from the Tsukiji Markets in Japan. They're known for a style of frozen fish that allows it to arrive here in the US fresh after you thaw it out by simply leaving it on your counter before you begin using it. With this fish, you can make a number of rolls which is fun to do whether you do it in advance or have guests come to make their own! Definitely make it easier on yourself by having a rice cooker which ensures perfection each time and is available at Williams Sonoma. In terms of presentation it's all about having phenom chopsticks (loving the stainless steel) which you can get from Cooking.com and these GORG Agate plates and coasters which add a nice natural flair thanks to Viva Terra. Finally, the guest needs to match the sentiment of the event. During NYFW, I rocked this Nanami dress during my Meet and Greets at Robert Verdi for the launch of my Kimmie Smith x Sebago Spring 12 line. This dress by Josie Natori can be worn alone or over leggings if you choose. I love that although it's not quite a kimono, it's done in the style and essence of one and has gorgeous colors and tones to it! Make your night or brunch fabulous today and below is one of my fave drinks known as the Gekkeikan Apple Blossom by Todd Richman.
Gekkeikan Apple Blossom by Todd Richman
4 parts Gekkeikan Sake
1 part Kobai Plum Wine
1 part Cranberry Juice
1 part Apple Juice
Top with Ginger Ale
Combine ingredients (except the ginger ale) in a mixing glass, add ice and shake well. Pour into a tall glass and top with ginger ale. Garnish with a green apple slice.
As promised we are wrapping up our New York Fashion Week coverage into the weekend. This way we will be back to our regularly scheduled program on Mon! With that said, I had many people ask me how did I get through NYFW? I wish I could say that I was eating well balanced meals, getting plenty of rest and exercising to start each day. But in reality Fashion Week is a hectic schedule and with this season launching my line and doing appearances, it was even crazier! With that said, you find comfort where you can! In the day, that may mean spending an extra 20 mins to mingle with friends between shows, maximizing the fun of lounges or just taking a moment to go off site to get some work done so you're not as stressed.
For me, I took the night time to get comfortable while I worked to stay current with shows. During UGG's Post Fashion Night Out brunch, I soaked in the sun, yummie nibbles/bevvies and loved our gift - fabulous Ansley shoes in Grey. Seeing that I was in heels everyday and standing for long periods, my feet deserved the ultimate in comfort! Due to all the fun outfits I wore (which I can't thank Natori enough, it simply meant that in coming home, I had to slip into something comfortable that wouldn't stop my work flow. LnA hits the spot as it's cozy, cute and in a pinch, I can throw on leggings and make a quick errand if need me. Finally, my skin is another way that I revitalized my self after hours. Bliss' Sugar Scrub in Blood Orange White Pepper Sugar Scrub ensures that my skin stays soft and glows so that I can rock my Ted Rossi pieces and my Virgins, Saints and Angels one as well.
My after hours routine in terms of NYFW is all about obtaining comfort without distracting from the work that had to be taken care of. Having these at my disposal ensured that I looked great and was prepping for the next day of events.
Although we have all see the Fall 11 campaigns, I had to share the DKNY Men's campaign which started popping up in July. I love that models Jon K, Patrick Kafka and Corey Baptiste were styled by Melanie Ward to go from various dress styles for work and then the weekend! There is such a casual cool and we see it through the eyes of Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin. This is definitely a great collection for your guy to rock.
We know that the LBD is a staple in our wardrobes and we've all seen that the Little White Dress is also a seasonless essential as well! Of course you can always pair it up with black or blush but you can also kick it up a few notches. We've been sampling Kanon Organic Vodka and we've been loving it! One of my fave ways to enjoy it happens to be a Bloody Mary and I have always been a fan of using things that I love as an inspiration for my outfit selections such as the LWD. The gorgeous orange hue made me think of my favorite stone - Carnelian as well as python in a fab orange and rust hue. I'm loving Theory's dress which is a fab sleeveless white and Grecian inspired dress!
When it comes to accessories, pair this look with Alexandra Beth's jasper necklace which look fabulous and can be worn with a number of looks from casual to dressed. Pair this with Bottega Veneta's clutch which has such a rich look that you'll have no problem holding it all night. Free People'sVeda Stone Ring has another casual to luxe look that I'm loving and it has such an antiqued look. Finally, rock it out with Yves Saint Laurent's python wedge heels that are a fab neutral with pops of orange.
For the ultimate accessory at brunch, we couldn't leave you without sharing Kanon Organic Vodka (made from 100% organic wheat, distilled in a continuous, single column and mixed with fresh spring water - it has a light and aromatic taste with a warming feeling, but without the typical vodka burn) Bloody Mary's recipe which is super easy to make and refreshing!
Kanon Organic Vodka Bloody Mary
Yield: 1 quart pitcher
4 cups of organic tomato juice
1/2 tsp celery salt
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
2 pinches pepper
Sweet splash of Sriracha sauce
1/2 tbsp horseradish
Stir together and combine with 8 ounces Kanon Vodka. Serve over ice, garnish with celery and pickles, and enjoy!
You know its hot when I passed up the opportunity to go out because I knew there would be a wait to get a cab and I didn't want to stand there sweaty waiting for it. For those fearless women who will brunch regardless and still believe in dressing to the nines - do so while keeping hydrated of course! Today's posts echos the sentiment of looking fabulous while keeping in mind that we are still in the midst of a heat wave that we are all battling in our own way! I imagined sorbet in a dream and it became the inspiration of this morning's post. Free People has a fabulous sleeveless colorblocked swing style dress that I am so loving. It mixes in that classic raspberry sorbet color, a nice peach hue as well as a lavendar. It's whimsical, will help you stay cool and is perfect for allowing you a full range of motion.
Pair it up with your sandals of choice as we have a million gladiators laying around begging to be worn. I'm loving this satin sorbet Cole Haan clutch which is perfect for brunch and finalize the look with additional whimsy from Noir Jewelry with a parakeet! It's all about staying phenomenally cool, making sure you are SPF'd up and that you're having fun while doing so!
I think munchkins are adorable and when they're running around the UWS dressed to the nines and in their own distinct styles, you know and hope that they will continue to have a great sense of style as they grow up! Just as we enjoy flipping through magazines for fun ways to dress when we are in need of inspiration, Elias and Grace does the same thing each season by publishing their key looks as a guide for this super cute line of designers kids clothing. I love these looks and with everyone running off to brunch, you can not only ensure that your girl's clothing is rocked out in the above ways but the older girls can also take notes and follow this site's lead as those of us in our 20's+ would look cute in these as well!
When he likes to hang out and have a good day to himself, he has to be comfortable and we're all for that. But sometimes he wants to have a spa day and when he does, nothing says comfy casual like mixing hues of grey, slipping on some Havaianas and making sure that he is only an arms length away from some of his fave products to maintain his skin! Whether you're there to assist him in exfoliating or he does it when you're out with brunch for the girls, this is the perfect look around the house and later on in the spring when the temperatures begin to rise. For now, we're all about keeping him cozy casual but later this week, we'll look at some fab items that he will be sneaking out of your cabinets to ensure that he is sexy smooth now as well as perfect for Valentine's Day, Fashion Week and more!
Don't tell me that there is yet another blizzard like warning? We've gotten a lot of snow on the Northeast and I know we're not the only ones I'm sure. It's the kind of weather that makes you want to leave your normal surroundings and to hit the road! Whether you're going upstate to go snowboarding or heading for a long weekend in Miami, you have to be cognitive of the weather and still dress warm before you're heading to the next location. I love this look as guys look super cute in sweaters like this, they can pair it with simple straight leg jeans and have a great pair of shoes that can be rocked year around! Top it off by adding a great bag to store your items or your significant other! There are many looks that you can rock but why not start with this. If you're doing a staycation weekend, this is still perfect for brunch or afternoon cocktails.
The plaid shirt is analogous to my love for rocking skinny jeans and leggings at any given chance! With that said, when you have a staple that is without question, your "go to piece" then you have to think about all the ways that you can wear it to keep it fresh. This week and next week we tackle the plaid issue for men. This week, we look at the casual way of wearing it and pairing it with appropriate graphics that definitely highlight you chic vibe of being comfortable. In addition, there are number of shoes that you can wear to complete the look. I have become a fan of Adidas for men so it's nice to see this included within the spread! For those who embrace this look, we'll see you wearing it this holiday season, at brunch, traveling and so much more!
Last week I let you in on a fab look that I am a huge fan of Wall Street! This week with NY Fashion Week kicking off tomorrow, I am sharing a fun look with you that works well when you are heading to the shows as well as to meet up for drinks, dinner and brunch. It's all about effortless dressing but at the same time showing fab style. Just like the whole boyfriend sweater for girls, this look is perfect for guys. It's a mix of collegiate wear from another era with a bit of that Geek Chic that is so amazing. To show that the style is definitely there, I love the idea of pairing it with a large gorgeous bag that is not a crossbody or something that looks anything like a backpack.
This look is fab since it simply requires a great pair of jeans, a collard shirt, a tie and a cardigan. You can pair this with boat shoes, driving shoes or even Italian sneakers - anything that is sleek. To complete the look, you can pair it with fab sunglasses and a watch and you're all set! I'd also suggest pushing back the cardigan sleeves and if you have an interesting sleeve, style it up and you're all set! I can't wait to see how many people wear this at the shows and this is a great look heading into the fall as well.
I love the classic tee and jeans as it can be worn to a number of places and is a signature for my outfits! The other day, I ran into a friend of mine in the fashion district as we're all running around prior to Fashion Week whether we have last minute photoshoots we're styling, checking in with our brands, dropping/picking items up etc. Within a span of 5 mins he caught up with me on his last 6 months of life and we promised that we'd brunch soon. He was wearing a great tee and jeans, simple but it made him look amazing and he jazzed it up with cute shoes and a bag. This look is so easy that the only way you can get it "wrong" is when you have ill fitting tees, jeans that have passed their expiration date, or anything that stops it from having that crisp and simple look etc.
Anytime you opt for this look make sure that the tee (whether a v or a crew neck) plays up the best attributes of your body type. Then find your jeans, I love a straight leg on a guy and there are a number of options. Note that straight legs are not skinny jeans, so if you were concerned that they would be too revealing, no worries! You could totally opt for super cute Italian sneakers but in this in between weather, what about popping in something unexpected? My friend was coming from a photoshoot and heading off to assist in a casting so having a look that was casual and comfortable was essential; however, he still wanted to look fashionable. I'm loving the Tuxedo II Dockside Boat Shoe from Vane by Sebago (fab collection to check out) as it takes a classic shoe and adds a bit of pop by having a patent look that doesn't overwhelm the outfit but steps it up on another level. Of course, if you're running around and bringing things here and there, guys shouldn't be afraid of rocking a bag. This one is perfect and is by Coach (plenty of bags to choose from in various sizes). This look works from running around to grabbing drinks at your favorite spot!
This weekend has been one lazy weekend! It's nice sometimes to not have to do a million things and to enjoy your home or the area around your home. You can get up late, opt to grab something from the store around the corner and whether friends are coming to you or you're simply staying in - it's the perfect weekend for it. I love the fact that you have the perfect excuse to wear your favorite shorts and tee with a few well placed accessories and you're done! With most of my travel completed for the summer and just a few other places to head out, I'm excited to get that much closer to the fall season for sure! But as opposed to planning the future, I'm all about enjoying today's brunch and then heading out for the day - who knows what it will bring?
Now you guys know that there have been a lot of times that I have presented pieces from APART! They sponsor me at a number of events and when I hosted To Be a Star's Walk on Water Runway Show for Forerver 21's Times Square store opening, you know how pleased I was to wear their dress for a show that included Jaimie Hilfiger, Richie Rich from Heatherette and more. Since this Spring, I have enjoyed wearing pieces and getting to know the brand whether it's wearing the line or hosting a fun Hampton Splashion Soiree event at their showroom (there will be a fun holiday event in Dec).
Now that we're heading into the fall, you'll see a number of outfits that will work well for your wardrobe. Today's post serves as a preview of sorts of items that are not available yet but will be soon! In addition, you will have the opportunity to do pre-orders for these items as well and stay tuned for fun collaborations that I will do with this brand! Above are 4 pieces from APART that will be a few of the key items that are not only on trend but look amazing when layered, thrown over leggings, jeans and so much more!
I am a huge fan of faux fur and this is fab to belt, wear with skinny jeans and tall boots without question. All you need are fab sunglasses (very Rachel Zoe) as you run from one place to the next. The cropped leather jacket has not only an edge to it but can be worn with a number of femme items such as slinky dresses (great way to add a little something to your look whether it's heading to an event or just hanging out with your girls)! The leather jacket pictures above is one of my favorites (in the caramel color) as it would be perf for heading to brunch! Finally, a cowl neck sweater. There is nothing like having the softest material next to your skin with a neck that can be styled every which way until Tues! You'll see these items again in a few days and will be able to get them into your wardrobe but until then - think about your look and what you'll be adding into it for this fall! You'll also look fab on whatever runway you call home, work and play as this brand believes in bringing the runway to the everyday.
Dressing for brunch is fun and bringing out your inner girly girl is also a lot of fun as well. When I was at Disney last weekend, I saw that Dooney and Bourke had created fun bags exclusively for Disney. There were a number of totes and they came in various hues. Magically, I received an email the other day talking about the continued collaboration and knew I had to share with all my kittens! The cute collection if handbags focuses on the Disney Princesses and their cameos are all over the bag. As cute as this is, it's not just for children and you can totally rock the look while looking age appropriate.
We all have baby doll dresses or whimsical pieces that are a throwback to our childhood. Eyelet can be very sexy but I love that here it's just cute and so the bag doesn't fight the look. To make sure that you don't look like you're going back to your childhood completely, pair it with this fab gold leaf cuff and these beaded thongs! Now when you're off to brunch you can have that perfect updated girly look that only the magic of Disney can bring.
She's Kimmie is a virtual scrapbook and is the best way for fans of Kimmie to connect with her, see where she's heading next and of course to get fab insider info!
As an Accessories Expert, Kimmie appears on HSN, designs, is quoted/featured in various publications talking about style from an Accessories Forward perspective! To work with Kimmie or to see project portfolio, visit her site here.
Kimmie is the Co-Founder/Creative Director of Shoe Week which launched during NYFW Sept '12 and is styling a number of shows as well as having evening leading up to our second season of shows during NYFW Sept '13.
Co-Founder, Kimmie, connects brands with bloggers in intimate event settings via Style Tweetup.
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