REVIEWS

Kelsi Smith for “Dedicated Follower of Fashion”

Adolfo Sanchez showed his Spring/Summer collection alongside works of art at the Hold Up Gallery in Little Tokyo. White highly stylized mannequins were adorned with his latest designs ranging from daywear to formal gowns.

It must be said Adolfo Sanchez designs clothes for women, I hate using the term “real women” as lets face it, we’re all “real” women whatever shape or size, so let’s say Adolfo Sanchez designs clothes for what everyone means when they say, “real” women…curves, complete with butt, thighs and boobs.

The cuts are flattering and elegant, and whilst the collective wasn’t completely cohesive (from bleached denim to gold draping) it was wearable and desirable.

I particularly liked the black draped dress, fourth picture down – a great silhouette for day or night, with interesting detailing, and thought the gold dress, second picture down, was incredibly wearable and flattering. I wasn’t so keen on the white gown, clearly the dress was beautifully designed and well executed, it was just severely let down by the choice of fabric.

Read full article at http://www.dedicated-follower.com/dedicated_follower_of_fas/2010/11/adolfo-sanchez-springsummer-2011.html

Warrick Buffett for Pa Pa Raz Zo

Las Vegas designer Adolfo Sanchez is on the verge of opening eyes in the haute couture arena on a massive scale. This lover of fine fashion opened his creativity to the public in 2006 and has not looked back. With music being amongst Adolfo’s inspiration of course he would then fall in line as a respected designer in my book. Experience Adolfo’s designs online at www.AdolfoSanchezDesigns.com

Read full article at http://warrickbuffet.wordpress.com/2009/12/10/haute-couture-maven-adolfo-sanchez-is-making-a-wave-with-his-class-and-style/

Heather for Fashionista New York Girl

Way back in February during NY Fashion Week I went to this event for the Nolcha Fashion Week at the Empire Hotel. First a little background on Nolcha Fashion Week- “Nolcha is an award-winning leading global platform advancing the business of independent fashion designers and retailers via social e-commerce, fashion week events and an educational video portal. (Nolcha Fashion Week.com). ” The event was set up at the Empire Hotel rooftop bar and independent fashion designers had set up in little areas around the room showcasing some of their work. I was fortunate enough to meet a few talented fashion designers there two of them who I wrote about here were the duo from Abreu Rios and another designer Adolfo Sanchez. Sanchez is a Los Angeles designer who created his ready to wear woman’s line back in 2006. He recently debuted his Fall 2011 line during the LA Fashion Week and thanks to Sanchez and his PR team they sent me a copy of the lookbook, which I have been dieing to share with you all! His collection is full of crisp sharp lines and plenty of details. Lots of pleating, leather details, and fur in this collection. One of my favorite looks is the leather detail dress with transparent sleeves and the pleated skirt paired with oversized fur purse. The leather detail to me really stands out paired with the elegant transparent sleeve and the pleated skirt. The sleeves and the skirt add a feminine effect against the edgy leather detail. This dress can be totally biker chicked out with leather military style boots or softened up with a simple pair of pumps or even a pair of vibrant red pumps. I also just love the oversize fur clutch called Magna-Oso, it’s so unique and totally stands out on its own.

This collection is all about edginess and sex appeal with low cut dress, short hem lines, and leather details. These looks could be soften up or taken to their full potential of biker girl chic. His dresses are what every woman needs, a good night out on the town dress. They are sleek and sexy with the perfect eye catching details that will show of your curves and flatter your body.

I can see his work being the go to dress for a night out with the girls or for a hot date. His dresses are fun, flirty, and sexy but have an edginess and a coolness to them. Men will appreciate the short hem lines and the flirty tops but woman will love the details, the cuts, and the way it shapes their body.

Read full article at http://fashionistanygirl.fashionsblogs.com/?p=260

The promise of warmer weather is lingering on the horizon, and with it comes a burning desire to toss out the thick wools and tweeds in my walk-in in favor of lighter, more cheery hues and textures.

For spring 2011, the runways favored patterns and embellishments in lieu of simple the silhouettes and demure shades of last year’s season. While there were some unexpected looks (purple metallics from Louis Vuitton, unusual draping in crisp whites from Alexander Wang), my favorite trends for spring are ultra-wearable.

Adorned on shoes, screened on cozy tees, and popping up on handbags alike, bows are here in a big way for spring 2011. For an easy way to wear the trend, try a comfy bow-embellished flat like the below pair from Coach. Looking for a bit more lift in your footwear? The “Stylish Bow Pump” by Valentino offers a gorgeous pattern leather bow and a leg-lengthening heel.

For a way to incorporate this trend that doesn’t affect your tootsies, try a bow printed tee like this one by See by Chloe. In rich leather, this handbag by 3.1 Philip Lim is an unexpected, unique way to try out the bow look.

Another great trend popping up for spring is stripes. Spotted on everything from dresses and skirts to tees and heels, this spring’s stripes are bold and contrasting. Diane Von Furstenberg’s striped dress below cleverly marries navy, celery, mauve and white, while the strong black and white long dress by Alice and Olivia is contrasted by a bright red belt at the waist. Dior’s navy and white skirt has a modern, nautical feel, and would pair as easily with pumps for work as a comfy pair of espadrilles for weekend style.  

Given the bows and stripes trends are accessible in so many different styles and items, choose one that’s right for your personal style, and come warmer weather, be prepared to step out in a style that’s totally spring and totally you!

February has arrived, and that most romantic day of all is fast approaching. Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate your relationship with your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife. Single? It’s also a great time to gather with fellow single friends and relish in the beauty of true friendship (and a delicious bottle of champagne).

Along with the promise of an abundance of delicious chocolates abound in shapes of cupid’s arrows and hearts alike, Valentine’s Day can be a bit of a stressful time, with the pressure of picking the perfect restaurant to dine at on the big night, and trying to figure out the perfect gift for your special someone.

This year, there’s no need to sweat what to get your sweetie on Valentine’s Day! Simply follow these gift giving tips and check out my top picks for a V-Day gift for your someone special.

How to Pick the Perfect Gift for Your Lady:

Women, being the clever creatures that we are, tend to drop subtle hints or even tell you outright what we’re hoping to receive on February 14^th. If your gal hasn’t dropped any hints (or you’ve just been missing them), follow these tips to snagging the perfect present.

If She’s Adventurous/Athletic:

An adventurous/athletic woman may be a tough-as-nails tiger, but she still wants to feel like a vixen on Valentine’s Day. True, you can go the non-traditional gift route for this daring gal, but beware of getting her something that doesn’t read at least somewhat feminine or your Valentine’s Day gift may sink, not swim. For an adventurous woman, I’d suggest something unique like tango lessons for two at the local dance studio. Your lady’s not much of a dancer, or you’ve got two left feet yourself? Try good tickets for two to your woman’s favorite sports team (read: NOT your favorite, unless you root for the same team), but be sure to treat her to a nice dinner beforehand and a bouquet of her favorite stems to keep the romantic vibe intact.

If She’s Artsy/Comedic:

Your lady’s got a great sense of humor? For a special February 14^th surprise, why not rent a collection of comedies, and arrange for a private “night at the movies” at home? Start with classics like “We’re No Angels” (Humphrey Bogart, etc), and “Bringing Up Baby” (Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn) and work your way up to more modern-day classics such as The National Lampoons series (Christmas Vacation, Vegas Vacation etc.) To lend a romantic vibe to your movie night in, light several candles in your living room/media room, have a bottle (or two) of her favorite wine handy, and be sure to have some classic movie theater snacks on standby (think popcorn, Snocaps, etc).

If She’s Practical/Classic:

For a woman who loves the classics, you can’t go wrong with a traditional Valentine’s Day gift, such as a beautiful new Cartier watch. A luxurious leather handbag simple enough for daily use is also a good option. For a sure-to-please selection, scour your lady’s current collection to figure out which designers and styles she favors (Hobo vs. satchel? Tote vs. clutch?) and follow your fashion instincts from there.

CAN’T GO WRONG PICK FOR YOUR GIRL: None of the above sound right for your femme fatale? The truth is, no matter what our style, all women love to receive something they don’t necessarily need, but rather something they WANT. So, a natural, can’t-go-wrong way to go for your lady in question is a beautiful new piece of jewelry. If that’s your ticket, the Tiny Hearts necklace by Tam Tran is sure to please your leading lady, whatever her personal style. It’s classic enough to wear a variety of ways, but unique enough to showcase your exquisite taste. Bonus: the necklace’s design is rooted in old Victorian tradition. Explain the history behind the necklace to your sweetie, and she’ll be swooning not only over the gorgeous gems adorned on each of the hanging hearts, but also over your amazingly romantic sensibilities. Happy Valentine’s Day!

How to Pick the Perfect Gift For Your Man:

Looking to buy something special for your boyfriend or husband? While men can be a bit harder to buy for than women (as men rarely actually tell you what they want, and when they do, it’s often something overly practical like “new undershirts”. Doesn’t exactly spell ROMANCE), there are plenty of great ideas for the man in your life.

If He’s Adventurous/Athletic:

For Valentine’s Day, I like a gift that’s unexpected for a man who’s a bit of a thrill seeker. Instead of buying him a crew neck sweater that will sit in the bottom of his drawer for the next two seasons, why not go for something fun like an activity you can both do together that will be much more memorable than a wooly topper? I recommend choosing an outdoor adventure he’s never done before (or has done and raved about) such as sky-diving, white water kayaking, or rock climbing. Not much of an adventurous person yourself? It’s important to do an activity TOGETHER since it’s a Valentine’s Day gift, so if your hubby or bf is a bit more of a daredevil than you are, meet him halfway. Plan a special hiking trip for the two of you with a picnic, but plan a route that’s not quite so difficult to traverse.

If He’s Artsy/Comedic:

For a man who’s into the arts, why not buy your man painting lessons for a weekend or tickets for two to a local play? If you live in a major metropolitan area, there are usually an abundance of painting studios that offer painting lessons for beginners and skilled painters alike, and you can usually sign up from anywhere to one session to several month’s worth. For a man who’s into laughs, a date night at your local Improv Comedy Club would be a welcome surprise for your cutie.

If He’s Practical/Classic:

Any grown man who likes a drink every now and again should own a proper flask. To make the gift extra special, have the flask engraved with his initials—there are plenty of stores that offer this as an option when you order the flask, so your shopping is one-stop and no-fuss, just like your man.

CAN’T GO WRONG PICK FOR YOUR MAN: Need a go-to gift for your man, but not sure about the ideas above? For a can’t go wrong Valentine’s Day pick, why not try a shiny new toy? When I think men, I think electronics.  They go together like chocolate and caramel, like peanut butter and jelly, like, well you and your sweetheart! The key to choosing the RIGHT electronic is figuring out what your man would get the most use out of: maybe he’s tech savvy and on-the-go, so an iPad might be perfect. Maybe he’s a TV and film aficionado, so a new sound system for his television might be the way to go. Think about your man’s interests and passions, and you’ll have the right electronic gadget in mind in no time. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Getting hitched soon and looking for that perfect couture gown to wear down the aisle? Drape yourself in a MinnaK silk georgette bridal gown, made-to-order to fit your measurements. Choose from the above 3 styles, specify your measurements in the customization area at checkout, and your gown will arrive at your doorstep within 4-6 weeks. Added bonus – these beauties are 20% off until January 25, 2011. A custom made wedding gown for under $1,850 – wow! Contact us at customerservice@sicaria.com or Minna through the Questions tab for further inquiries.

Sand Dunes and Silk Dresses by Sophia Hyacinthe.

Mia, welcome to Sicaria.com! Thanks for letting us sneak a peek into what serves as inspiration for the timeless yet fresh jewelry you create, as well catching us up on what’s coming up next from Mia Lara!

Q: What was the first piece of jewelry you ever created? Does it reflect the current simple yet luxurious feel of the current Mia Lara collections?

A: When I was twelve years old, I had a great babysitter that I looked up to. She knew how to weave with glass seed beads and taught me how! Although the material composition has changed a lot since my first creation, my love and passion for creation with color as my focal inspiration has remained intact. My current collection has most definitely evolved since my beginnings as a jewelry designer – into a more refined sensibility. It’s taken time to grow as an artist to fully cultivate my design identity.

Q: I love that so many of the Mia Lara pieces are wearable for everyday, but also special enough for a big night on the town, depending on what you pair with them. When you design your collections, do you envision a particular piece to be worn for a specific occasion?

A: While designing, I’m super aware of making my collection functionally adaptable for every woman’s lifestyle. I want my pieces to be something that can be worn casually and dressed up! I believe that this style of design has more staying power and is more useful as an addition to a woman’s wardrobe. I design with the intention of a piece being easily worn on any occasion so that it’s wearer can get the most use out of my art!

Q: If you hadn’t forayed into jewelry design (and we’re sure glad you have!), what career might you see yourself in?

A: I’ve already tried out the worlds of fashion and finance, but have yet to explore the field I studied while at Columbia University- Sociology and Anthropology. I could see myself exploring the world of academia and research within these fields. But, I’m super excited to be following this dream, and I’m planning on sticking with it!

Q: Describe your personal style. Do you have a favorite style icon that inspires you?

A: I’d say my personal style would have to be romantic and feminine. I tend not to follow trends, but instead seek out simple pieces that really accent my aesthetic taste. I love vintage and tend to wear bright colors. I usually veer away from patterns, so that I can accessorize with lots of fun jewelry! I’ve always thought Audrey Hepburn was the epitome of a style icon. Her taste was impeccable-simple and tasteful.

Q: I love the versatility of all of your pieces, but I’m particularly fond of your rings, particularly the Ava Ring (which I featured in a past blog!). If you had to pick just one favorite, what is the one Mia Lara piece that every woman should own, and why?

A: I’m really into the Ava Ring too! It’s so fun and daring, yet simple and classic. If I had to choose another piece, I’d go with the Addison Earrings. The different stone options give each woman the perfect option to customize according to her usual color schemes and they are such a great pair that can be worn with jeans and a tee or easily dressed up! I also have the stones cut in a way that makes the earrings super light for their size!

Q: While we’re still in the dead of winter, fashionistas the world over are turning their attention to spring and what’s coming next. What can Sicaria.com shoppers expect to see from Mia Lara’s next collection?

A: I’m planning on heading to India in February to source stones and design my next collection! I’m so excited to start the creation phase, and can’t wait to debut my new designs this Spring!

Mia, thanks so much for hanging with Sicaria.com and letting us sneak a peek into what drives your inspiration for creating such exquisite, wearable pieces!

Sicaria Shoppers, make 2011 your most stylish year yet! Treat yourself to a gem from the Mia Liara collection this week and receive 15% off any Mia Lara purchase!

Mia Lara is our Designer of the Week! Stay tuned for our exclusive interview with the designer to come soon!

We’re offering you a chance to win a $500 gift card to Sicaria for signing up to receive exclusive emails and promotions to our site! What more? Each time you forward the email to a friend, you simultaneously show them you love them and increase your chances of winning. How’s that? Because for each forward, we’ll enter you into the drawing again!

What fabulous finds can you buy for $500 on Sicaria? You can purchase these 4 items and still have $100 left over to shop our wide range of unique pieces by our 30+ luxury emerging designers.

Adolfo Sanchez Charcoal Dress $120

Lucienne Faria White Swarovski Crystal Ring $122

Faso Pear-fect Short Earrings $130

Kristen Perry Angelica Headband $24

Doesn’t sound so hard, does it? Stop thinking and start winning! Sign-up here.

That time of year has arrived…the dreaded weeks when you’re more likely to win the Mega Millions than score an elliptical at the gym at your usual post-work time. That’s right…the New Year has officially arrived, and as we usher in 2011, many of us focus on setting our sights on how to make ourselves and our lives better throughout the New Year.

New Year’s Resolutions apparently date all the way back to ancient Rome, when the New Year wasn’t even celebrated at this time of year, but in March when spring arrived! I’m all for warmer weather and for celebrating springtime, but as for New Year’s Resolutions, I’m admittedly still on the fence. Each year that I ponder making a resolution, I can never quite decide on one, and when I rarely have, my lack of willpower wins the war with the candy jar just a few weeks into the New Year, leaving my belly a smidge larger and rendering a minor blow to my self esteem.

Past personal experience in mind, and given that I feel New Year’s Resolutions should be about making yourself a better, more fun, happier, more-pleasant-to-be-around you, this year I’ve decided to make some resolutions I KNOW I’ll keep. Why the sudden self confidence in sticking to something for a whopping 52 weeks? Forget nixing caffeinated beverages (don’t worry Coke Zero, you’re not going anywhere!) or dropping those impossible to lose last 3-5 pounds—this year, my New Year’s Resolutions are nothing but Fashion Forward, and I’m looking forward to a more daring, stylish me in 2011! Given my indecisive nature and that more (new handbags and shoes!) is more, I’ve decided to make not only one, but a magical FIVE New Year’s Resolutions to keep all year round (check in with me in a few months to hear how I’m doing!).

Resolution #1: Be Fashionably On Time, All the Time: I have to admit that punctuality is not a strong point of mine.  I’m typically 5-15 minutes late for anything and everything related to my personal life (read: not work-related, or I’d probably have been fired from my current gig long ago). I’m not quite sure what drives my tardiness, but I’m making a conscious effort to be more punctual in 2011. To help ensure I’m fashionably on-time for all coffee dates and pilates classes this year, I’m looking to score a new, classic timepiece.   While I’m still on the lookout for the perfect watch, my piece of choice will be gold or silver-toned and in an exaggerated size—I love the oversized face of a man’s watch, and the below option by Lacoste would be great for capturing a timeless look while also adding a bit of unexpected interest to an everyday look.

Resolution #2: So Long, Mom Purse! Friends tease me for the large bag that I often take out with me for a night on the town. A Kate Spade bag in black nylon and patent leather, it’s super-chic, but the oversized shape tends to channel “Mom at the grocery store” a bit more than I’d like. Folks sometimes ask what all I’ve got inside, and the answer: who really knows! What’s great about large purses can also be their downfall: with so much room to store things, you can never seem to find anything when you need it, or even remember what you stashed in there in the first place!  So, for 2011, I’m downsizing to a chic clutch for my nights out and about. I love the rich look of snakeskin, and with multiple shades throughout, it lends itself nicely to a wide array of outfit choices, including everything from white or black to bright fuchsia or deep jade. A great option is the Venice Evening Clutch by Fossati. Made out of authentic gold python, the quality is amazing, and the textures of the clutch lend a bit of edgy chic to any nighttime ensemble. Mom no more!

#3: I Resolve to Step Lightly… and Comfortably While I am Northwest DC’s #1 supporter of all things high-heeled, I MUST give my poor tootsies a bit of a break in 2011. After trudging through airports and schussing my way around the US in 4” pumps in 2010 for the sake of fashion, I have resolved to try to find some more comfortable footwear options in the new year. Given my petite stature, I’ll likely never swear off heels, so I’ll plan to stash a mostly painless pair of work appropriate pumps (like these adorable Violet Air Pumps by Cole Haan—with paisley detailing and Nike Air technology padding in the insole to ensure your feet stay comfy while giving you a 3.5” boost!) in my suitcase for 9-5 and dinner meetings. When off-duty, I’ll plan to nestle my toes in more feet-friendly flats (like these zip-front ballet flats by JCrew) for weekend errands and after-work drinks with the girls.

Resolution #4: I WILL (eventually) try a new shade of nail polish! So long, Chick Flick Cherry. We’re creatures of habit, it’s true, but I’ve GOT to snap myself out of my mani hue rut! All summer long, my manicurist Julie neatly applied coral Essie nail polish to my then sun-kissed fingertips.  “Same color again, Sam?” “You know it!” Come fall, I pledged my allegiance to OPI’s Chick Flick Cherry and Just A Little Rosti At This—both deep hues in the bluish-red family. It’s great to have a favorite, but I think I’ve actually just become boring! I’m in need of some hands-on change, and soon. Perhaps at my next trip to the salon, I’ll try a barely there pink or an on-trend metallic pewter, a la Chanel Spring 2011.  Julie will be shocked.

Resolution #5: Don’t Forget to Treat Yourself a Little (Or A Lot!) I’m a bit of a shopaholic, and I sometimes feel guilty about buying things for myself instead of stashing away my money (for retirement, grad school, Marchesa wedding dress—groom, TBD.) Here’s the deal: life is short, and instead of feeling guilty for treating myself to a new cashmere cardi that I’ll get lots of use out of, I’m resolving to mindfully treat myself to a few of life’s luxuries every now and again. Whether an outrageously priced but totally worth it facial at the Georgetown spa, a large helping of frozen yogurt in the dead of winter,  or a new pair of Citizens just because they fit perfectly, it’s OK to reward yourself.  And with a birthday fast approaching, I’m on the lookout for a perfect gift to myself—not something that I need, but something I WANT. There are a few things that have caught my eye, and #1 on my “happy birthday, me” wish list is the Fiddler Crab Ring, by jewelers Manya and Roumen. Available on Sicaria.com, this ring is beautiful and beyond interesting. Not only is it a great statement piece, but I think it’d also make for a great everyday bauble as well. And it’d be the perfect way to help show off a fresh new manicure hue!

Made a New Year’s Resolution for 2011, fashion related or otherwise? Share your hopes, dreams, and goals with us and let us know what you hope the New Year has in store for you!

We stopped by at Cynthia Rybakoff’s trunk show at Madison Square Park in New York City. She was nice enough to give us a detailed tour of her collection!