must-haves
a guide to everything fabulous, fashionable and functional for your closet, wish-list, and… gift-list!
CJ by Cookie Johnson
If you haven’t heard of CJ by Cookie Johnson, these pants will change the lines of your legs. The wife of Magic Johnson, designer “Cookie” has quickly become a fashion force in denim – offering the best fitting, premium denim fit for women with real bodies. The styles don’t stop at just denim – there are cords, twill, and cotton pants that flatter women with shape. Whether you’re pear shaped, bottom heavy – whatever curves you have, CJ’s will hug, snug and FLATTER. And unlike some other mature and flattering denim lines, CJ’s have successfully incorporated current denim trends into their collection. From colored denim, to animal print, waxed-coated, boyfriend, skinny cargo, twill and more.. including classic styles like white, boot-cut, straight-leg, and black. Oprah’s a fan and swears they’re as comfortable as yoga pants or sweats (I wear them every time I fly). The not-so-secret weapons are stretch and a silk waistband. The vanity sizing (24=4 25=4-6, 26=6, 27=6-8, 28=8-10, 29=8-10, 30=10, 31=10-12, 32=12), plus size availability (34=14, 36=16, 38=18) and real models are added bonuses. Thanks to Cookie for bringing some magic to denim… Enjoy!!
fashionable functional winter boots
… for every woman!
This is my first winter on the East Coast in three years, I’m thankful that it’s been mild enough that I’ve been able to get away with my J.Crew Sperry Shearwater boots, original navy Hunters (with cream fleece socks), my Stuart Weitman leopard rain boots and my black Gucci (with leopard fleece socks) rain boots. But a big snow storm will hit… so topping my “to-buy” list is a pair of winter boots. Above are my finalists, I’ll likely end up getting a furry-shearling pair, and a classic black go-to. I’d also love a white pair like the Pajar‘s or Sorels to throw into the rotation. Wish-list!☺
Sorel “Tofino” (Canada) – these are all over the magazines and style segments as the “it” boots of the season. Red is fresh and unexpected, but this style is also great in brown, grey, and black. They fit small, in the US they come in half sizes – in Canada go down half a size to the next whole size.
Sperry “Plover” – these work in rain or snow, keeping you warm and dry. I love the tie and fur!
Hunter “Adley” – these come in black, dark olive and brown. I can’t get enough shearling. Hunters only come in half sizes and they fit big, if you’re a half size go down to the next whole size.
GIFT GUIDE… for him
“If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart.”
< $25 – Fur Trapper Hat: help him stay snow-shoveling-ready (and warm!) with a fur trapper hat.
< $50 – Roots Ipad II Sleeve – this iPad case offers padding and a bright kelly green interior.
< $75 – UGG slippers – these slip on scuff slippers are a pillow for his (and your!) feet.
< $100 – HUDSON’S BAY COMPANY COLLECTION flask with blanket sleeve: thanks to Mad Men, flasks have made a comeback. The Bay’s signature print flask is a great conversation piece.
< $125 – UGG Shearling Glove: comes in brown, camel and black leather – a cozy classic. read more…
GIFT GUIDE – for her…
It’s that time of year… here’s my GIFT GUIDE for all the amazing women in your life. Give well!
“The manner of giving is worth more than the gift.” ~Pierre Corneille, Le Menteur
< $25 – Glamour Travel Bags – need a Secret Santa Gift or stocking stuffer? These colourful totes are great for travel – keeping your lingerie, laundry and shoes organized.
< $50 - GAP Sequin Tote – you can never have too many totes. This sequin bag in polyester is great for gym clothes, a laptop, and other essentials. read more…
must-have: angora fedora
Gearing up for an East Coast winter, I welcomed two Hat Attack purchases from Dealuxe this week. The charcoal Angora Fedora (#1) and the chocolate brown Vicky Floppy hat. I’ve always loved hats, they’re a go-to accessory where fashion meets function… keeping your hair protected, head warm, and your outfit oh-so chic in one of the quickest ways possible. Depending on the color(s) of your jacket(s), I suggest the grey for blondes, and the taupe for brunettes (#2) – angora rabbit fur makes a great neutral that works with countless styles of coats, jackets and blazers. For the daring, the Beaver finished fem fedora with self band (#3) takes this statement style to another level. And the Aspen Hat in green (with teal), white (with yellow), and black (with grey) shouldn’t be missed.
THINK PINK must-haves
PINK is everywhere this month. With proceeds from so many PINK products going towards Breast Cancer Awareness, it’s a great excuse to treat yourself, or buy some gifts (the holidays will be here before we know it!). And for those who are over showing their pink, many products are offered in white, black, patterned-neutral and more subtle but still supportive hues. So THINK PINK.
fall flat black boot
If you’re looking for a new fall boot, consider a flat black leather to (or above) the knee style. My closest girlfriend and client, and I just got her the J.CREW Booker Boots in black (NB: the brown that looks great online, but it’s a bit orange in person). Without any hardware, they are totally chic and can be worn day and night. With two young kids, function is key. But for heel-die-hards, petite gals and fall 2011 ’70s trend lovers the Booker boots also come with a “mid-heel“. I haven’t bought myself a new pair yet, but I’m currently coveting Loeffler Randall’s Riley flat zip boot. I love an exposed gold zipper up the back. It pops against black, the perfect classic touch. Another client of mine wanted more value than splurge, she’s excitingly sporting ZARA’s Boot With Zipped Cap-Toe.
Wherever your life takes you, these boots were made for walking…
