New Color for 2012: Tangerine

Oh Joy, Oh Rapture:  Tangerine is the new color for 2012 according to PANTONE.  

We have it on good authority that the fashion industry was well ahead of this somewhat conservative body of color experts.  Some of us even have friends who have always been committed to this color (you know who you are). Now that we've cleared that up, let's discuss what this color really means to the rest of us who only just arrived.   A few tangerine facts:  Steve Jobs put out a Tangerine computer back in the 1990s.  Where was Pantone then?  Oh, and Hermes, that storied brand that is very French and has been selling this color for decades;  already on board. Have you seen a Hermes bag in this lovely shade of orange fetching upwards of 35,000 dollars in price on special order?  Seems like the color is already a classic, but finally has reached the mainstream.  That's really the story here.  When a color like tangerine, reaches the minds of the regular joe, or you begin to see it at Walmart, then you know its time to move on.  

For the moment, we'll enjoy its debut and be prepared for next year when they announce that the color is LIME GREEN.  We can't wait. 

STYLIST PRIVEE

Latest Patterns in Fashion: We're in!

We love how patterns have appeared in the last two seasons Fall/Winter and now in the Springtime looks for 2012.   Its a refreshing change to add to our already dedicated closet of black, tan, beige, gray.  We're all about property ladies handbags and this one by YSL is perfect for those little black basics done in a computerized houndstooth that brings it right to a sort of digital chic.

Also, the snake trend, sure, we saw it before but in the hands of Tom Ford its practically new and fresh again..so we're sure you'll agree that getting a bit "snakey"is the way to add a fresh up-do to your already back-in-black closet basics. Worn with sheer black tights, matte tights, or even those nude fishnets we're sure you'll be date-ready or business sexy no matter what you need to do.

All available online and in stores or at your favorite
destination like neimanmarcus.com.
or...

www.ysl.com
www.tomford.com

STYLISTE PRIVEE

This just In: Pierre Balmain Casual...

Edgy streetwear in the mini-luxe category makes its debut this collections week.  Shown in the showroom with a few models modeling in a street/cas style, the line appears to be a great mix of rocker, street, luxe all wrapped up in pieces that are going to add to anyone's wardrobe.

We're already BALMAIN fans...so it was just a matter of time for them to put this all together for those of us who are not currently shopping for couture. But, I want something I can wear for a few seasons and not be so much in fashion that I'm either "IN" or "OUT"  as Heidi Klum says.  After all, with this economy who knows?  Some pieces range in price from DKNY levels to a few things at the top like the leather jacket.  Of course, we wish other lines would do this...because its great to mix and match the "high" with the "low"  in our closets. French fashion houses are always in danger of becoming too rich, to fat, and to slow to run with the youth market and this has a perfect ring to it. Also,  for the new emerging markets like CHINA or BRAZIL where the pocketbooks are flush with cash, and the kids love fashion they can afford, wear, and mix around for fun

it makes sense for a very established almost....historic brand to emerge as some thing new, fresh and fun.    Bravo!

STYLIST PRIVEE

Happy Anniversary MAX MARA! 1951-2011

 

While the French Fashion rage on this week, we couldn't help but notice our favorite classic house, MAX MARA was busy celebrating an anniversary. Born in 1951, the house created the classics in days when a women wore a bag, shoes and gloves all to match with her perfectly tailored coat. Did we say that was 1951? Well, now that the ladylike bag has returned, and you can purchase dreamy gloves at Perrin Paris (glovemakers to Chanel, Hermes) I think its fair to say that MAX MARA has taken what was an Italian sportswear name, 

and, made it continually successful and solid, even through the 1960s when London took over and the entire world went MOD. The Fall Max Mara collections continued to please their typical customer, with an array of classic shapes and coats and skirts that were not only classic but affordable.  I know my fashion friends will tell me, that the clothes are dull, and a bit conservative.  Well, I never met a man who didn't want a proper girl in a Max Mara outfit to meet his mother, no? Or, that perfect power meeting where you have to leave the leather mini at home. That's the purpose of Max Mara, keeping a girl on the up and up, if you know what I mean. 

Fabrics, are always a must at an Italian house, and MAX MARA can be trusted to provide solid camels, great wools, and delicious leathers. We're fans of just how easy it is to get dressed with the basics, and then there's that touch of luxe that makes them Italian:  fur cuffs, collars, leather trims, patent leather accessories, delicious shoes, and bags, that are not inspired, but solid.  Sometimes a girl just needs to depend on things that work.   

Spring Collections offered a welcomed relaxed and architectural mode that made much of a girls figure, simple shapes, gorgeous fabrics and clothes that said VIVA DOLCE or VIA ROMA or Vive L'Italia as there is really no substitute for a beautiful Italian fabric that has been cut to to perfection. 

Stylist PRIVEE

LANVIN: Best in Show

Without Much ADO, we'll just say it. Lots of fuss about nothing these days in the Paris shows...so much needs to be re-devised there, with designers who are either IN or OUT. Some fashion houses continue to deliver, but, others, are just out of gas, literally.  Our favorite still remains the house of LANVIN, where chic, simple desires are met with gorgeous fabrics and cut.  Elber Albaz is always fresh, and knowing what a women wants, and when you get dressed you're not creating a look that will be dead by the next season.  That's the best part,  you can continue to invest, mix, match, create your own looks and still be fresh. Most couture designers are all about the Red Carpet, and, we're certainly fans.  But, could we just leave our homes, get into our cars, and not feel like we're overwhelmed with too much?  That's what LANVIN clothes are about, that's ELBER, the man we adore.  

I recently stepped into the LANVIN boutique in MALIBU, brand spanking new and complete with elegant furnishings for your boyfriend to sit down and recover from the prices, though he'll agree you look amazing.  Yes, right there, two minutes from the OCEAN where no one really gets dressed, in anything more than designer jeans, t-shirts and platforms, don't forget the Designer bag.  That's it.  And there we were, surrounded by the most elegant and chic "casual" clothes that could go to dinner in a restaurant next to the ocean, albeit, with a t-shirt added, bare legs and a sandal. That's the genius of Lanvin right now.  I can wear that stiffened 50s skirt with  a t-shirt and sandals, pair of earrings. Done.  I was so inspired with the clothes for Fall, I can't wait to get into spring where the looks are lighter, a bit less formal, and, still in my favorite shades of black, creme, silver and white.  All of the reviews are in, and, might we say, we're in line for the "jawdropingly beautiful" reviews by Pop Sugar.com (*head over there for the complete slide show)

We think you'll agree that few American Sportswear designers, can accomplish this beauty and ease.  Our only thought is that Donna Karan...in her early years achieved as much.

STYLIST PRIVEE

The Power of a Brand: Discount Couture

While're we're fans of most couture displays, aspiring to the luxe experience, we're not opposed to a great fashion bargain..and we've discovered that some "Brand Name" fashion girls, like JLO, and others, have taken to the fashion mass market scene just like TARGET, H&M, and now KOHL's has featured J LO,  an interesting way to bring to the street, her now ultimate chic. We perused the pages and were happy to see that she has done what ISAAC MIZRAHI could not pull off at TARGET: really chic, and, well thought out pieces that you need to fill in your closet in a pinch.  We think its a stellar debut...and worth a look as she rolls out her collections for the season.  Stylist PRIVEE  

Emmy Report: Let the Season Begin!

Let's hear it for the Boys: The Men of Entourage 

Who can Blame me?  After acres of gowns, flashbulbs popping and cleavage everywhere, not to mention the chorus of girls who haven't eaten for a week, it was a total relief when the ENTOURAGE dudes took the stage and showed us how to do menswear.  Sleek, chic, retro, futuristic, they did it all and don't forget the witty repartee.  The Awards season is about the girls...the men do their best to sidestep the ladies while the flashbulbs pop and the "Glam Cam" and "Stilletto 360s"  show off their wares.  Everyone is getting into "AWARDS fever" and fashion plays an important role in making it the second biggest American Pastime...but let's get back to basics: Sheer star power on the Red Carpet and a personal brand, make or break a red carpet appearance.  We'll look at the "do's and Don'ts"  coming up in the next few weeks, but, until then, 

Let's hear it for the Boys...who did a great job of spiffing up for the occasion. 

We're glad they did! 

STYLISTE PRIVEE

When Art and Commerce Meet: Fall 2011 BOTTEGA VENETA

Here is the beauty and the beast, where ads and art, meet and its the new "luxe" in luxury advertising campaigns that have us all in a twist. Where should we begin?

First of all, we love a good photo and a good movie. Here's both. Mystery, beauty, a plot line? Only you can guess and that's what makes the new luxury couture campaign so interesting. A couple, or...not.  Is he her brother? Is she about to tell him that she loves him in that great coat? Perhaps they've just decided to start an affair, even though she's the daughter of an aging Italian despot who'd kill him if he knew...or, perhaps he's just her personal trainer.  Hmmm. Stories about beautiful young people in gorgeous clothes is so, well, "aspirational".  We can't help ourselves. We simply must know the story of this photo that has a sense of mystery, luxury, tension, and, expresses the beauty of art and fashion.

Commerce when combined with art,  is luxury content at its best. We see it as an interesting trend, we fear for the state of art, itself. When artists cross over to the dark side of commerce, who wins and who loses?

STYLIST PRIVEE

Richard Tyler: Missing You!

Hello, call us crazy but we were thinking bout our own LA designer, Richard Tyler the other day, as having now looked at the Fall 2011 Collections...its clear that he was ahead of his time....here's some things form 2001-3.  Ok, isn't that practically the stone age in Fashion-speak? Sure, but these pieces are still good: sexy, wearable, black, (*we can add other accents to them now in jewel tones) and they still pack a punch.  Can Richard be far away? Rumor has it he's still in business in South Pasadena, where his showroom is and he's turning out bridal gowns for his loyal fans.  But, hey, Richard, when are you showing a new collection again?

Bohemian Shoppers want to know...

STYLIST PRIVEE

Dreamy Superbe Chanel Show: Fall /Winter 2011

The Chanel Show is An interesting extension of a beautiful idea:  A walk in the evening through the Place Vendome with the sparkle of lights and lamposts. Black, white, creme, leather, feathers and a bird-like dreamscape made this showing a unique display of Karl's expert hand.  Some of the jackets difficult, the fabrics stiff, but with the right mix of high and low, or just a simple glittering suit; its all in this combination and how its worn. We don't suggest wearing the suits all together, they're too serious and done up.  Break them up, with other luxe separates or you'll be looking like Morticia and the Adam's family...just a bit too goth for a West Coast lifestyle.

STYLIST privee

Jean Paul Gaultier Retrospective at Montreal Museum: Genius Revealed

The Enfant Terrible, always controversial, ready to expand the envelope of fashion from trendy to visionary, Jean Paul Gaultier is always a surprise.  We saw his exhibit in Paris of theatrical costumes that were part of his long love affair with the theater at the Decortive Arts Museum.  His playful and always irreverent exploration of his viewpoint of the female figure  along with witty "tweaks" of storied fashion cliches is legendary. With red carpet moments that have always set Hollywood into a Tilt-n-Twirl the gowns of Jean Paul Gaultier are always fodder for the fashion press. We think with this retrospective, people will see the length, depth, breadth of the work of this unique artist who continues to inspire young fashion designers today.  His perfumes, some of the most successful in the world have a unique client list and continue to inspire even though they are mass market fragrances,  his brand is true in each product he produces.  (shown here below)  We're fans, and, wish this exhibit would arrive here in the states.

"I wanted to create an exhibition on Jean Paul Gaultier more than any other couturier because of his great humanity," explained Nathalie Bondil, Director and Chief Curator of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. "Beyond the technical virtuosity resulting from exceptional expertise in the various skills involved in haute couture, an unbridled imagination and ground-breaking artistic collaborations, he offers an open-minded vision of society, a crazy, sensitive, funny, sassy world in which everyone can assert his or her own identity, a world without discrimination, a unique 'fusion couture.' Beneath Jean Paul Gaultier's wit and irreverence lie a true generosity of spirit and a very powerful message for society. His humanist aesthetic touches me deeply." 

STYLIST PRIVEE

Hugh Hefner is a Trendsetter: The Bedroom Slipper goes Out and About

The Bedroom Slipper for Men is all the rage; we love the way they look with Jeans, so, Guys, we're ok with this if you can sport it like some of the guys we've seen around town...You know who you are!  Keep it casual with jeans, Jacket  and casual elegance. Taking a bit of the Old School and make it new again. 

Editors at Stylist Privee 

Be Your own Star at ESSENSUALS LONDON SALON: Summer News from the Beauty Front

Be a Star and we mean....really!


The staff at Essensuals London Salon is standing by to prepare you for the perfect summer.  With their new "groove on" they're geared up for a spectacular summer season.   Here's a quick rundown of some of the team members and we've only begun to share their talents:


Laini Reeves, Salon Owner.  Her  career began in London, where she eventually became the worldwide creative director of Toni and Guy, providing instruction as well as educational training and appearances at shows and seminars in the US and throughout Europe. Her clients include Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Rosario Dawson, Nelly Furtado, Emily Blunt, and Amy Adams.


Anival Morales, head colorist and Salon Director is well known for his expertise in Baliage, the European method of hair painting that creates a sun kissed look right into your own color. We love how our hair brightens and looks natural in the sunlight, with his artful use of shades of blonde painted into our own natural hair color. With a variety of techniques available the color team is well versed in hair color expertise to create a London Designer look.


The top floor make-up Salon is presided over by Miss Jacqueline, who can make your eyebrows look amazing with her techniques in precision tweezing. She'll advise on your best look using her specially curated selection of products. Some of Jaqueline's favorite products are the Nars multiple sticks, and Chanel Glossamer lip gloss, and Gel Liners by Bobbie Brown.  She can draw a mean line, we might add.


If you're looking for a fresh look with a little added extra, the Salon also has an expert on extensions which no Hollywood starlet would be without.  Valerie is the Diva of color and extensions designed to create fullness and add length.  We wouldn't be telling the whole story without our cut and blow out experts.  Our blow outs are always well done and last, too and can be performed by anyone on staff. 


All of the stylists assistants of course are trained by the salon in--house training that comes from the famous Tony and Guy Salon tradition of excellence.  For the great London Style that creates a very chic and current point of view, this is your one stop shop.  


Tell them STYLIST PRIVEE sent you! 

To book an appointment online, phone, or stop in and chat:

8126 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Neighborhoods: Mid-City West, West Hollywood

(323) 782-8882

www.essensualslondon.com

Summer Color Report: Its all in the Shade, Baby

Its all about the colors of summer and we're here to give you permission to get your Color On.  We know, you have a black shiny ipad or iphone, and, its like so chic and everything but we're here to remind you that the world is full of beautiful colors and shapes, sizes, prints and  patterns and its perfect for summer.   We promise we won't tell on you.  In fashion circles, where black and beige are the name of the game, we're going to just give you the special permission to go crazy this summer and experiment.  And by the way, that's where the trends are now.  

Yup. Color. You got it made in the shade....

STYLIST PRIVEE

DRESS REHEARSAL'S OVER: ESSENSUALS LONDON Salon is preparing for a Summer Re-Opening

The ESSENSUALS LONDON Salon in Los Angeles, located next to Fred Segal on Melrose has been through an amazing journey these past 12 months: bringing in a host of talented stylists, re-fining the Salon space with its fresh and modern 1960s vibe, throwing a smashing party or two and attracting the notice of young Hollywood.

A grand re-opening this summer will create a new vision and direction for a salon that is just getting started.  So, what's new?   Make-Up and Eyebrows salon is upstairs with a sky view of the Hollywood Hills; priceless (our eyebrows have never looked so good).  The Color staff is at the ready to Paint, Gleam or Frost your hair to enliven your hair color to get it ready for Summer with a smash.  The blow dry and style team is tuning up their flat irons and they're off.  We left with an amazing flaxen locks that would make Goldilocks or Gwyneth green with envy. Watch this space for tips and tricks for the summer to get your glowing hair ready for your own "Red Carpet" life. We know how much time and trouble it takes to find a salon and once you get there, you want to feel special.  The talented team at LONDON ESSENSUALS is ready to make your day more relaxing and you'll look totally FAB when all is said and done.  With a fresh new spin on modern hair with a decided modern London Vibe we' think you'll agree that taking a page out of the book of Jean Shrimpton (pictured at right) and our own fav Miss TWIGGY her perfect haircut (a landmark in the world of London hair styles) you’re all set.  But, its not all about trends, its about what looks right on you.  You'll get to REVIEW, REFRESH AND RENEW with the warm and friendly staf at ESSENSUALS LONDON SALON.  Watch this space for news and updates for the summer kick-off!  We promise we’ll keep you in the loop.

To book an appointment online, phone, or stop in and chat:

8126 Melrose Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Neighborhoods: Mid-City West, West Hollywood

(323) 782-8882

www.essensualslondon.com

Tell Your own Story of LUXURY: The Perrin Paris Bag

Here's the latest in Spring Bags that we're totally hooked on:   Its the Perrin Paris spring Bag, the antidote to the typical Birken,  so overly "copied"  we want to kill ourselves because we cant tell the real from the faux anymore.  Wait,  did we say.... they're a bit well, expected?

Not so here; the PERRIN PARIS bag collection is presented in the forms of clutches, envelopes, totes, wristlets and minis that are made of the best leather in the world.  Chanel and Hermes can't be wrong, because the House of Perrin began in 1893 and was the exclusive glove makers and tannery for these storied brands who demanded the highest quality. This latest collection of bags is the antidote to the typical luxury bag that has us yawning.

So, let's get started:  Beautiful and original frames, made of wood, some in Metal Titanium and feather light to carry.  Like a modern high tech solution, the bags have these little buttons at the top, (see top right) that open the sturdy frames and reveal soft glove leather interiors.  Not fabric, but leather that is so luxurious your iphone will never want to get out of the bag, it will just want to sit quietly in its little pocket and rest, forever.  Well, we'll have to take out our phones sometimes and if we do, we can also take a cue from Martha Stewart who influenced the MARTHA bag. This is an curvy envelope that zips up and fits into your tote like a portable desk, with all the spaces you need for your jet set gear.  Only MARTHA could have thought of this one.  We adore the chic colors like creme, taupe, grey, navy, black, white, and camel....don't think you're getting a hot pink bag here: in the PERRIN world of subtle luxury these bags are investments and not playthings. However, we will mention they make adorable wristlet bags just pefect for a quick club "hop" or a cafe tabletop. They're little "mini-me's" of the larger bags and just as beautiful to look at, only in miniature with zippers, straps and bracelets to hold them on.

Concierge style service makes this a luxury shopping experience without the super-sized prices, too. If you want to preview the collection go ahead and pre-shop at the website.  But, we recommend that you head to the shop so that you can experience these bags in person. Witty, unique and not overly "branded" these bags make the wearer, not the other way around.  So, why not be your own, original?

Lets not forget their Paris store, on the rue des champs, in our favorite neighborhood, a few moments away from the Louvre and center of Paris.

See the locations and collection details at:  www.perrinparis.com

S T Y L I S T E   P R I V E  E

'Confessions of a Bohemian Shopper"  in Paris, LA and New York

SPRING TRENDS REPORT: Accessories to Go, Please.

Our Spring report on the Accessories we saw last fall in Paris, is now arriving and the trends, are in. Bold, Stylish, Colorful and Chic.

With an emphasis on great colors, world themes, glam classics or unique materials,  accessories are all about trends. But what about your own personal expression?  STYLIST PRIVEE has found a company that has edited the top trends and presented them in a unique and accessible way. That's because the company has a nationwide corps of trained stylists, who are busy bringing the goodies right to your neighborhood. The Stella &  Dot company is a direct sales company that showcases accessories at private trunk shows.  They've also put the social media channels to work so you can share the fun with your friends and family, too.  Do you love J-Lo's diamond hoops?  Check.  Ethnically inspired bangles or the Palm Beach look of Grace Kelley? Check. Vintage Hollywood rhinestones? Check. The accessories collections are fashion savvy and reflect the smart thinking that has already made it one of America's fastest growing new companies.  The Wall Street Journal loved the business model but we just love the great stuff.  Finally, there's that great name, Stella and Dot, after the founders grandmothers, whom they honor as the great women they were.  The company is designed for just for busy women and their unique talent of creating community.  It's very 21st Century. 

Let's face it, accessories can be confusing and its hard to know where to start or what you really need to update your look each season.  No worries here, each season will be presented by someone you know and trust.  The quality, prices and return policy are truly stellar.  Let's face it, who hasn't made a few shopping bloopers late at night on a shopping channel? Also, you can host a party in your own home, invite the local stylist and get in on the fun and profits.  Our close up look at the quality and prices made us true believers.  Already featured in major television shows, In Style magazine and on the red carpet these 'out of reach' trends are now accessible for the rest of us.    


Our favorites pictured here are bold, clean, and witty. We promise there is something, for everyone, even your daughters in that in between age can get in on the fun. 

Check out the website for all the low down on this season's looks at:  (www.stelladot.com/sharihuntington) to connect with our new BFF, Shari Huntington. 


STYLIST PRIVEE:  Confessions of a Bohemian Shopper

SPRING PEEPS are in Fashion: We know Trends...

Can it be true?  Are the PEEPS in residence once again?  Then, it must be spring!

 Yes, the impossibly bright colors of PEEPS have taken the POP culture by storm with the latest contest winner's released for this season by the Washington Post.  But, no matter if you love to eat them, Tweet about them, or just plain geek them, the PEEP brings smiles and laughter to even the most serious.  Yes, even Janet Reno is on the Peeps FACEBOOK page. I mean, seriously?  Wow, do you think she really eats them?

OK, so what does this have to do with STYLE?

We admit its a stretch, but the colors, are truly mind boggling, bringing to mind the delightful fashions of the 1980s club years, in Satin, no less. Or, those  Patent leather sky high pumps by Dior or Jimmy Choo come to mind.  Love that.  Or, perhaps you're contemplating a Peeps colored pair of Topsiders or swim togs for the season or (wait for it) the candy colored IZOD t-shirt to stun your friends at the country club.  EIther way, whether you just like to eat 'em or get inspired by them, we think their job is to make us happy. We sometimes like to eat them, but, then, we pause and realize we've just eaten something REALLY blue.  But, thats OK.  

In a world filled with well serious issues, we'd just as soon have our peeps, and, eat them too.

STYLIST PRIVEE

Spring Accessories Special: Hold the Pearls, Add the Chandeliers

The transition from Winter to Spring, is always evident in the accessories we wear, and, STYLIST PRIVEE is preparing for the New Spring Season with a series on Accessories designers.

STYLIST PRIVEE PREVIEW

• Jewelry Trends for the New Season
• Handbags from Paris
• Accessories Designers from Paris
• Bringing Style to Sustainability
• The Jewelry company that's taking on Avon

PHOTOS by STYLIST PRIVEE - New York Shop Window

Essensuals London Hair Salon: Get a bit Mod for Spring

Imagine if you will, a salon that is decorated like an urban loft with retro 1960s touches of natural wood, glass and white leather with a dash of  stainless steel.  A chic mid-century modern sensibility makes the space spare yet comfortable.  When you walk in the receptionists are actually friendly, offering you a glass of lemon water or green tea while you sink into the luxurious leather banquette to await your appointment.  But, that's just the beginning.

The staff has been trained by the Toni and Guy team that started in London and is a worldwide powerhouse in hair design.  The stylists at ESSENSUALS LONDON are  led by  Jason Townsend, Salon Director.  Anival  Morales, Hair Colorist,  Kristin Kirkland and the rest of the crew are well versed in their chosen specialties making the entire experience relaxing and effortless.

The salon has been open for just under a year,  but already 'young Hollywood' is knocking on their doors.  We get it:  they're  looking for a sense of chic, top quality services and that blessed thing called "relaxation" while they are getting glam.

The haircut we received wasn't a shock when it was done.   It was a perfect re-tweak of an old cut that we had liked, once upon a time. The blow-outs are fast and efficient drawing from an array of top products that are time tested.    Our blonde highlights were hand painted and came out like butter from the very painterly technique called "Baliage" which takes a true artist to pull off.

We confess we're feeling very Red Carpet, right about now, and we know you will too.

ESSENSUALS LONDON HAIR SALON  is next to FRED SEGAL near Crescent Heights and Melrose.  www.essensualslondon.com      Ask for:   Jason,  Salon Director  

Fashion Icon and Beyond: Elizabeth Taylor

Its not everyday that one personality, one actress, seems to have broken all the rules, and gone her own way, like Elizabeth Taylor.  Her life was a reflection of an era, a century, in which women who were beautiful, wilful, talented and extraordinary, had to fight their way to freedom.  Elizabeth had many lives, many incarnations.  But, in watching her on CLEOPATRA, it was clear that this film and it two stars, were unique on the planet at that moment in time.  Her portrayal of Cleopatra was more than just a women with a plan. No one, could hold a candle to Liz. She and Burton literally, played out their relationship on the screen like two great comets, they collided in a fiery and passionate  explosion.  Elizabeth had over 65 costumes changes,
designed by our favorite film designer of that period, Irene Sharaff, who was a master at it.  For the first time, the portrayal of a strong women, a historical character was aligned with the emerging roles of women in the 1960s.  We see her as an icon in a different way from Audrey or Grace, both of whom were more delicate in their approach.  Liz was elegant, warm and had an earthy sense of humor that belied her earth shattering beauty.  When dressed in her jewels she could play the part as well as anyone and so Fashion Icon doesn't really describe how she influenced a generation of women.  In the final speech in Cleopatra,  nearing her death, tells her servants to dress her in gold, so that she can be seen from far away, by Antony, who will recognize her as she enters the kingdom of the afterlife.  Indeed, she is there, now, dressed in that extraordinary gold gown that astonished the world and keeps her in our memory, forever.

Los Angeles FASHION WEEK: Its Raining Men

The Los Angeles Fashion Week end at the Gower Studios was a wonderful mix of brands, fashion and artists from LA's urban landscape.

The men's fashion was our favorite, and, we adored the companies "Z-BRAND" and "CIVIL SOCIETY" which paraded down the runway just the type of men we adore:  stylish, masculine, utilitarian but with a dash of luxury in the fabrics and cuts.

We saw period inspired clothes that were mixed up with great shirts, t-shirts and pulls.  Also, the sheer number of pants styles was mind boggling making the "weekend guy" quite happy.  They were finished off with work boots  making them very appealing to the man who likes both style and comfort.

This "new man" for the season it effortlessly put together without much fuss and bother.  He  knows how to mix the fabrics, shapes and colors.   So,  with a few purchases, this look was easily achieved.  Clearly, the mind behind the clothes had thought of everything which was evident in the studied casualness of the outfits.

I am looking forward to more from these men's lines, which really put the sportswear vibe back into the California fashion scene which has been a bit anemic of late.  The women's lines, though entertaining to the eye,  were not that original nor surprising.


STYLIST PRIVEE  Confessions of a BOHEMIAN shopper.



CIVIL SOCIETY look below. Don't look now, but, your boyfriend just became Brad Pitt.

DEL RIO SANDALS - THE LUXURY SANDAL THAT IS ECO FRIENDLY

Its not every day we can talk about luxury in the same breath as  eco-friendly . This is the exception to the rule, as this sandal is not only designed  with hand-made quality and  luxury materials its also planet friendly.  The Del Rio London Sandal, is, in fact, an interesting mixture of chic, luxe and ECO sensitive attributes that make it perfect for now.

Linda Del Rio, the designer, has thought of everything.  Its a luxury brand  because the sandal, itself, goes back centuries to ancient Spain.  The artisans make each sandal  by hand. The materials are re-cycled leathers, and, get this:  the soles are made of re-cycled rubber tires.  Yup. you heard it right, tires.  How does this all hang together?
At STYLIST PRIVEE we are always on the look-out for a shoe that is not only chic but comfortable. It comes with the  job, as we're on our feet for hours and hours.  Imagine our delight when we discovered a sandal that not only had a comfort factor, but, was such a simple concept done in a LUXE style that we were thrilled.  These sandals are not available in the US quite yet, so if you want to see them in person, you'll have a wait a bit.  We're happy to play our part for the good of the planet, our feet, and, in the name of  STYLE, so, we're spreading the news about the DEL RIO LONDON SANDAL right here, right now.   You'll thank us later.

STYLIST PRIVEE

Galliano: The end of a Mad Genius

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Officially,  STYLIST PRIVEE will no longer report on John Galliano,  formerly at Christian Dior, due to his regretful and offensive commentary that has recently been reported in the media.

Therefore, we will not be reporting on the recent collections due to be released this week.


STYLIST PRIVEE

Los Angeles or Paris Collections: The Trends Start Here

Let's Party, like its 1799.

To be clear, the Paris collections arriving in two weeks will be spectacular, surprising and groundbreaking. Well, maybe.

Great fashion comes from many places, but, in the end, Paris leads the way with London and New York,  following.

Let's re-think Los Angeles.


First of all, what is it we do best here?   Well, we do swimwear, surf, skate, and other sportswear that New Yorkers can only dream of here in LA LA land.   And, there's Hollywood, of course.

I would like to propose that Los Angeles get its groove back by showing only resort, swim, skate, surf and all the clothes that made us great as a market.  Evening wear, because of Awards seasons, is also a key item we can do very well here.

I don't want to forget the denim market, it stands in for the dark pin stripe suits of Wall Street.  Power meetings,  happen in denim here so its part of our "beach and casual" lifestyle vibe that will always depend on a great pair of jeans worn effortlessly.

We can't do it all. Let's keep it simple and do what we do best, and, focus on an industry revival.

Let's be, what Los Angeles is known for. Nationwide Trends. Worldwide Entertainment. Thinking outside the Paris box.


Just a thought.


STYLISTE  PRIVEE



















French Art Of The 18th Century (French Edition)