Liquified Bouquets

Are prints my "new thing"?

I have to admit, I'm loving all of the printed designs - from butterfly heels to picturesque floral scene dresses and skirts, lush prints are what I am embracing this Spring.

I was entranced with this amazing jacket from Cynthia Rowley when it showed last fall.  It's called the "Liquified Bouquet" and it's dreamy....

When it came up on her store yesterday, I knew it was the type of investment piece that is so unique and special, you'll wear it forever.  A classic shape with a beautiful "twist". 

I could wear this with a sweeping skirt or printed pants (I have a pair of gold pants in mind) or even jeans.  No matter how you pair it, it's going to be amazing.

I can't wait!

Two Sides of the Coin

I need some opinions here.  I have my company holiday party tomorrow (Saturday) night and I'm trying to decide what to wear.  This is a pretty low-key event - just a cocktail party at a local, nice restaurant with our small group plus spouses.  But since I feel like I never get out of the house, part of me wants to go a bit crazy... at least by North Carolina standards. 

To put it in perspective, I wore fake eyelashes last year and caused quite a stir.  So yeah...

Anyways, I've narrowed it down to two options.  One a bit "crazier" and the other an outfit I picked up today that I really like which also happens to be a bit more elegant.  So here are the choices -

Option 1 - Short dress with added crinoline, cardigan and uber-high heels.

The black and white petticoats I bought a long time ago.  The dress is from Forever 21 about a year ago and the cardigan is Twelve by Twelve also from about a year ago.

I hate going sleeveless so I would add the cardigan no matter what, but the fact that it's chilly means it's going to be necessary.

I love these fabric rosettes and the rhinestone buttons. Gives is just the right amount of shine.

Now, if it wasn't winter I'd be totally wearing my Alexander McQueen rose heels.  They are just too smashing.  But, even though bare legs and these peep-toes look great with the short, short skirt, I think I would look ridiculous as it is 20 degrees out.

So I was thinking of these sheer black tights with the thigh bow detail from Cynthia Rowley (bought from Gilt Group - really loving the tights they get on there).

And pairing them up with my Manolo Blahnik Campari black patent mary janes.

So that's my wacky options. 

Option 2 is a bit more subtle. 

I walked by a New York and Company store today and, which I never do, decided to pop in.  They merchandised well because my eye was caught by this paillette skirt right off the bat. Not surprisingly of course.  I love the muted olive-y green sheen and had to have it.  I wanted to keep it low key but glam so I found a heathered bronze v-neck sweater and, just in case, a taupe cami for layering. It seems a bit loose here but the look is more relaxed and slouchy, contrasting with the fitted gleaming skirt.  I probably wear just a simple necklace and maybe my watch.

To keep the neutral elegance going, I was thinking of my Le Silla Stardust heels. 

They have a beautiful, almost retro shape, handcrafted heel details and a subtle metallic gleam as well.



Of course, the second option would be more comfortable but I kinda want to wear the more silly dress.

What do you think???

Whim, Whimsy, Whimsical

So, in the wake of the sad announcement that Isaac Mizrahi will be leaving them at the end of the year, Target is bringing back an old favorite.

According to WWD -

The designer is said to be returning to the mass chain this year with a new, limited edition brand called Whim by Cynthia Rowley. According to sources, Whim will not be part of the Go International line, and there will be no apparel. Instead, it will focus on novelty items such as outdoor games and inflatable pools, all given Rowley's irreverent touch. The collection is expected to hit Target stores at the end of April. Rowley is no stranger to Target, where she once had the Swell collection, which was quietly phased out more than two years ago.



What the heck? What is the point of having a cute whimsical designer when all you are going to get are (admittedly) cute lamps and inflatable pools. I want cute clothes and shoes and accessories, darn it!



So, while I really happy that Ms. Rowley will be making an encore appearance, I'd rather they sign on someone to fill the Mizrahi vacuum. Who would my choice be, given I'm sure that Galliano isn't going to step up to the plate?

I nominate Kate Spade.

And I'm not talking the more formal Kate of today but the witty Kate of about 7 years ago. I have three pairs of the cutest Kate Spade mules from that time and I guard them like a dragon hoards gold. I miss that Kate. Now she's all formal and not as crazy colored preppy.




Come back, Kate and bring it to Target for us!

More links!
The Fashion Spot discusses

Cynthia Rowley Bio on Target.com