This is the first year I’ve actively observed Dia de los Muertos. I learned how to create sugar skulls, participated in a local ritual and celebration to honor those that have passed, chowed down on some Mexican treats, and spent some personal time reflecting on happy memories of grandparents, friends, and pets. Although there’s no doubt of the sanctity behind the Day of the Dead, it is traditionally deemed a celebratory holiday. And as with most common holidays, I decided the day required some special dress. The calavera is not only an important part of the days’ offerings and decorations, but also the focus of my festive getup. I’ve come across many pieces portraying it – now on my must-have list – but Loungefly’s line of vegan handbags was certainly one of the stand-outs. The Cream Sugar Skull Satchel is the perfect accessory with a traditional meets modern take, crafted out of thread, metal, and PVC. Oh, and despite the name, it’s dairy free.
September 22, 2009
Baby Bag Turned Career-Girl Swag
Hopelessly lost dragging around an ocean of over-stuffed arm candy? Seeking “multi-tote syndrome” salvation? The answer’s easy ’cause Rock N Moms does all the dirty work for you. Chic looking diaper bags are the latest domestic accessories re-purposed as career carry-alls. So now, you can pack it like a pro, and cut down on the fluster your morning commute causes. They’re a far cry from the mostly mundane, usually leather briefcases that leave little room for more than a laptop. I’m a fan in particular of their Jett’s Red Skull Tote. The 12×15x4 plastic-coated fabric bag boasts over 12 compartments and an awesome amount of extras. The pacifier pouch is the perfect place to store a pillbox or compact. And it even has an insulated [water] bottle holder, which saves my steno pads from sogginess and condensation. I’ve managed to make use of every single facet except the changing mat and stroller straps. The stoplight red exterior gives it that power color punch, while the subtle skull design remains edgy without being in your face. It’s not only my portable personal assistant but my purse as well, making it my solo shoulder mate for the day. *Disclaimer: Take charge ‘tude not included.
[$75 at rocknmoms.com]
Rock N Mom
September 13, 2009
Cool In Your Code
You bet I just ripped off the title of one of NYC TV’s hippest shows. But they can keep their clever concept, because I’m talking dress codes – not zips. Along with a few beauty bonus perks, my swanky new gig also came with a prescribed apparel policy: put-together, professional, and predominantly black. While the hue played right in to my usual palette, I was sort of lacking in the adult-age attire. But with a little help from my go-to online gallerias, I was able to assemble a working wardrobe that actually worked for me.
And when I’m feeling extra fierce, I like to jazz up my basics easy-bake style with man-made synthetics from Hollywood Mirror. Every modern maven needs a punchy power tie and trendy belt to secure her smart status.
Now you got it, girl. And I think I’ve got it down too. Just one quick tip for sure success: Don’t take any lip – unless it’s from New York Color (or maybe a critical client – P.S. they all are) – ’cause they know what they’re yappin’ about. N.Y.C.’s Retro Red lipstick sends me off with enough moisture and shine to make it through my dizzying day. And although they put in a lot of lab time in order to pop out these top-notch tubes, they never test their products on animals.
[$41 Liquorbrand cardigan at greasegasandglory.com, $15 cap-sleeved shirt at oldnavy.com, $39.50 low-rise trouser at delias.com, red leopard tie and silver skull belt at hollywoodmirror.com, $0.99 ultra-moist lipwear at newyorkcolor.com]
September 2, 2009
Canvas Couture
Talk about deck shoes done dainty, done up, done dangerously – and just plain done right. Draven’s sassy slip-ons are sure to get your stems some extra stares. Inspired by skateboard culture, they cap off their kicks with some fancy frills and a 100% vegan label.
Play. Work. Party.
[$39 Skull N Roses, $28 Elegance, $39 Lipstick Gun]
August 30, 2009
Land Ho!
It’s almost time to say “Bon Voyage!” to your summer sundresses. But before you board ship, why not have one final fashion fling with these stripy shifts guaranteed to snag you a cute sailor. The Anchor Lush dress boasts a jailhouse vibe with a subtle “Anchors Away!” detail. But don’t be fooled, the Sweet Life Ruffle dress is certainly a more scandalous sight, with it’s piratey appearance. Just when you thought you were at the rope’s end of your wardrobe, Rock Steady style saves the day. But where to showcase these show-stopppers? Well, I must insist on a much more animal-friendly activity than fishing. So, have a rum cocktail or ten. Even if you end up three stripes to the wind by nightfall, these durable poly-rayon duos are set to surive everything between the devil and the deep blue sea, a kickin’ coco daquari, and then some.
[$49 anchor lush dress at steady.bigcartel.com]
[$48 sweet life ruffle dress at steady.bigcartel.com]
August 27, 2009
Quite The Pickle
Yup, that pretty much says it.
Ever heard of Vivienne Pickle? How about Jennifer Artur? She’s the make-up savvy rocker turned fashion entrepreneur who invented the bubbly line of boisterous hair accessories. With a touch of Victorian elegance and new wave New Jersey cheekiness, each piece is handmade. Adorned with cameos, skulls, flowers, beads, baubles, and charms alike, no real feathers, wings, or pretty petals were plucked from any plant or wildlfe for the hair clip’s creation. You can find a great selection at New Hope, PA eco-conscious boutique A Beatiful Life.
So what’s the dilemma? Well, I find myself in quite the pickle when trying to pick just one.
[$46 dress at abeautifullife.com]
August 13, 2009
Go Grease Lightning
Rock Rebel strikes again with their all too easy accessories. The perfect mix of punk and propper, I can’t help but crave one in every color. And at barely $12 bucks a pop, why shouldn’t I? My pick of the minute is the Skull And Bolts Hair Band. Talk about some low maintenance lovin’.
[$11.25 at howcool.com]
August 6, 2009
No Skirting Around The Issue
So, while I’m not exactly thrilled about my 15+ pound weight gain in the last year, I’ve moved past the denial phase – you can only say, “This month I’m going to do it!” so many times before it loses all enthusiasm. It’s time to focus on a more attainable task – replenishing my wardrobe with clothes less likely to cause MP or any other circulatory condition. Aside from denim, which I did immediate damage control on, my skirt section was hit the hardest. Composed mostly of minis or pin-up pencils, I was left with very little wiggle room. On the hunt for something with the same mod rockability and more stretch, I found a colorful skull-clad gem by Lucky 13. Sans skeleton, it would easily make up for my lost essentials. But I’m always one for less sensibility and an extra ounce of audacity, anyway. My one gripe is that, although normally an online-only shopper, packing on a few pounds has made me a bit unsure of my actual size. Free exchange policy, anyone? Please? No?
[$32 at greasegasandglory.com]
