From the category archives:

Fashion

Wardrobe Malfunction…

by ThallenBLiving on September 8, 2009

We all have them… that one article of clothing that you can’t seem to let go of, even when it’s on its last leg! Don’t worry, I’m not going to persuade you to get rid of it. Why? Because I’m guilty of the same fashion crime myself!!!

For me, it’s flip-flops! It’s so hard for me to find the perfect pair of flip-flops and I usually only have one perfect pair at a time.  Back in college, I mourned the death of  a pair of flip-flops I’d had since middle school… that’s right MIDDLE SCHOOL. I’ll never forget, I was on Spring Break, walking along South Beach, when out of nowhere a guy steps on my foot… and in all the commotion the strap on my sandal broke. **Brace yourselves for what’s about to come next** I rushed to the nearest store, and instead of buying a new pair of shoes, I purchased a hairband and tied it around my foot!!! Gee, I sure loved those shoes!!!

Today, a similar wardrobe malfunction occurred.  I walked to the subway and as soon as I sat down, my sandal broke (I can’t believe these only lasted 4 years!).  Immediately panic set in, because in addition to being a fashion/etiquette/home decor-fanatic… I’m also a germaphobe!!! I had only two options: #1. To walk through the streets of NYC barefoot or #2. To perform emergency surgery on my shoe. I chose #2!  Here’s what you’ll need in case this ever happens to you!!! And trust me, it could happen to anyone!!!

Carry these essentials in your purse or wallet:

  • Bobby Pins
  • Safety Pin
  • Rubberband

This time, I only had bobby pins, so I was in serious trouble.  My shoe broke apart where is goes between my toes.  So I had a short piece sticking up from the shoe and the V which goes across my foot.   I used the bobby pins to hold the broken straps together. I used 5 pins and secured them across each other (it looked like a spoke on a bicycle wheel).  I made sure each pin was interlocked in another.

If you have a safety pin, it should be easy to pierce the leather or plastic. Make sure it’s tight, so your feet don’t slide.

If you have a rubberband,  loop it around the V and then tightly secure the short broken piece with what’s left of the rubberband loop. Or, just wrap the rubberband around your shoe with your foot inside. (Hey, it’s not cute, but desperate times call for desperate measures!!!)

All of these are quick-fixes and will probably only get you a few NY blocks.  But by then you’re sure to pass a Pharmacy, a Shoe Store, or a nice police-officer who’s willing to help, just kidding ;-)

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Black is BACK!

by ThallenBLiving on August 31, 2009

For the past few fashion seasons, EVERYTHING has been the NEW black! But, for the Fall, many of the top designers have shown us that BLACK IS BACK! And, in my opinion black never really left.

Trends come and go, but true FASHION lasts forever.

Example #1: The Little Black Dress (LBD)

We all have one, and it has served us well for so many occasions.  Cocktail parties, Girls’ Night Out, Office Christmas Party, The Theatre/ Opera… You name the event and your LBD is ready to go!

Example #2: The Black Pump

So many times we’ve picked out an outfit at the last moment and can’t find a shoe to match. Where do we turn? That’s right, the black pump stands the test of time (pun intended!).  A good black pump is well worth the investment, so go ahead… splurge!

Example 3: Black Matte Nail Polish

Black doesn’t have to be boring! To show you just how trendy black can be… Check this out! BLACK MATTE NAIL POLISH!!! It’s not your typical finish; in fact, it looks a lot like rubber!  Kim Kardashian is one of the latest champions for this HAUTE NEW LOOK.  Here’s a photo of her manicure and commentary on Hollywood’s latest obsession!

Kim Kardashian Nails

“This is that OPI nail polish I was telling you about! I love it! It looks like rubber! I had to add a twist so I did a clear coat on the tips to look like French tip nails, but in black! My mom didn’t know about matte polish and when I showed her she said “never use this polish… it’s very dull and doesn’t look shiny at all!” I told her that was the whole point! She has no idea! Haha.” –Kim Kardashian

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Skip Skip to the Louboutins, My Darling!!!

by ThallenBLiving on April 5, 2009

All this talk about luxury goods makes me NEED NEED NEED to talk about those fabulous red-bottoms!

Christian Louboutin, is a Parisian designer, who has taken the shoe game by storm. Known by their spectacular red soles, Louboutin shoes have hit red carpets all across the globe. Not only that, but the quality of Louboutin rivals some of the best designers of the past century including Chanel, Gucci, and Manolo Blahnik.

These shoes are the epitome of class, but I must warn you to proceed with CAUTION!!! The red bottoms speak for themselves and are best paired with an understated outfit. Wearing a busy outfit or over-bearing accessories will only take away from the distinction.

So without further adieu, I present to you… CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN SPRING 2009 COLLECTION!!!! (courtesy of shoebunny.com)

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April Showers Bring May Flowers!

by ThallenBLiving on April 2, 2009

Anyone can be stylish on a sunny day… but it takes a REAL FASHIONISTA to look good in the rain…

I’ve pulled together a few stylish pieces that will make you pray for monsoons!!! Enjoy :-)

These pink and green plaid boots are uber-trendy and have just enough flair to spice up any dull rainy day. You can find them at www.piperlime.com for a little over $60

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Burberry Trench Coat

What could be more classic than a black trench coat?!! This stylish jacket will never go out of style. And, I prefer the black to the khaki because on rainy days it won’t look wet even if you get splashed a little! You can find this Burberry Trench at www.shop.nordstrom.com


OM02-NY

This umbrella, by Pierotucci, will come straight from Europe and has all the charm fit for the Queen! It’s made from nylon, but has an exquisite leather handle. You’ll be sure to get double-takes when sporting this European sensation! This umbrella retails for € 64,00 = $85.00 Colors are beige, red, or blue and can be purchased at www.pierotucci.com

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Don’t Forget the "Business" in "Business Casual"

by ThallenBLiving on April 1, 2009

Don’t you just cringe when you get an invitation which reads “Dress: Business Casual.” How much business? How much casual?!!! Trust me, you’re not the only one. I’ve been to many events and witnessed seasoned professionals make awful fashion faux paux!

I think the best way to learn is through example, so I’ve prepared a few below:

photo courtesy of: WorldofStock.com

This gentleman is a Business Casual DO! He’s wearing a tailored jacket and slacks, but keeps it casual with collarless shirt. If the event is warmer than expected, he can take off the jacket and still look appropriate. This look is the epitome of “snappy casual!”

photo courtesy of: people.com

Here, we have a prime example of what not to wear! Business casual is not an excuse for you to look like you just rolled out of bed… It’s just the opposite. This is your chance to show how put-together you can be on any occasion. So don’t forget to go the extra mile with tailored, well-fitting clothing. Also, business casual attire should not include trendy accessories… leave the over-sized sunglasses in the car!

photo courtesy of: elanimagemanagement.com

This is a classic example of business casual attire for ladies. Notice the length of the skirt ladies… it’s knee-length which says “I’m casual, but I’m a business woman you should take seriously!” The colors are warm and muted, and she even manages to dress it up with a trendy belt and draped collar.

photo courtesy of: designshrine.net

HAHA! Very funny!!!

Overall, the lesson here is to play it safe. If you go too casual people will think you just don’t care… But, if you’re too uptight people will think you’re a prude who tries to hard. So remember this recipe– 1/2 Business, 1/2 Casual, with a pinch of style ;-)

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