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!!
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.
GEOX’s “Dina Stilvali” – these quilted patent boots are warm and cozy with a subtle shiny splash. They only come in whole sizes, they fit small, go down half a size to the next whole size.
Hunter “Regent Savoy” - my favorite boot this year, but I’ll warn you – the shaft is snug (15.5 inch circumference). Snugger than the Hunter original; 16 inch – (if you have a wider calf try the Hunter Huntress for an extra 0.5″, it’s 16.5 inches). The Regent also comes in Montpelier leopard.
< $125 – UGG Shearling Glove: comes in brown, camel and black leather – a cozy classic.
< $200 – A plaid scarf: not too-fashion-forward, but a soft statement that keeps him looking pulled together. This look works for the office and weekends.
< $500 – Alden® for J.Crew suede longwing bluchers: if he doesn’t know what shoes to wear with jeans on casual Friday or nights out, these are them! They also work with dress pants and a suit. They aren’t to be missed in black or dark brown leather either (a shoe in for a more conservative dresser – for the daring, check out the high tops).
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.
< $75 – Iomoi monogrammed canvas makeup bag – nothing adds a personal touch to a gift like someone’s initials! And if you’re tight on time or want a little less bank, Iomoi’s noncustom large and small zigzag canvas totes serve a multitude of purposes.
< $100 -TOMS Beaumont Skull Slip-On – in red or navy – These limited holiday edition TOMS are too good to pass up. And with every purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. One for One.
< $150 – Jo Malone’s perfume – Jo Malone has a fragrance for everyone. Favoring citrus scents, grapefruit is my go-to. The collection (including candles and body lotion) make great hostess gifts.
It’s no secret that m0851 is my favorite brand. So with today’s Cyber Monday festivities, I wanted to spread the love… and share the savings. Because friends don’t let friends pay retail. Use promo code “CYBER MONDAY” to receive 20% off the entire webstore. And if you have a chance to check out the new Bayview Village store in Toronto, please tell Frank and Brian I say hello! For those midtown who have been missing the Saint Thomas Street boutique, the new Yorkville store (38 Avenue Road, just North of Bloor) will finally be open mid-December. For other store locations in New York, Montreal, Paris, Vancouver, Calgary, Antwerp and Taipei see m0851′s website.
Photos: Sarah Jessica Parker: popeater.com & agirlnamedbong.blogspot.com.
If you’re looking for a cozier alternative to denim, try corduroy. I love my J Brand black skinnies, as well as the haze-colored-flared-style SJP is wearing above (in Juicy Couture, sadly no longer available). Her floppy hat is right on trend, I have a similar one by Hat Attack and I covet it’s black and grey sibling. Parker’s gorgeous leopard scarf is YSL, the look can be found more affordably by Tory Burch. Her rolled-up flares, brown ankle boots, purple suede hobo, and white-tank with black bra peaking through all give her that effortlessly chic SJP-style we’ve grown to LOVE.
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.
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…
My love for colo(u)red denim is no secret. I wear my crimson Rag & Bone skinnies weekly and relish in complements. They go with so many different outfits, I consider them my fashion lay-up. And while many people might look at this photo and first notice Rachel’s Burberry studded metallic leather bowling bag (sold out) – I go ga-ga over her burgundy (merlot, magenta, purple, or “wine”) colored cords. Tucked into her Zara ankle booties, Rachel’s look is perfect for fall.
For those looking to start slowly, or keep it office appropriate, stick to basic blank skinny cords – I live in my J Brands! They’re so comfortable and soft they feeling like a cotton legging. So great for travel. They are a 10 with flats, boots or heels. A great one-pair-of-pants packing option. DONE!