Linen Lounge

A Quality Debate

2008-10-15T12:00:00.000-04:00

Disclaimer: I wrote this a while back and never published it. Now, the election season is nearing it's climactic end, and the country is in a financial crisis. I figured I'd still post it anyway, after having spent so much time writing it (please forgive my dated references).

The race for the presidency is under way. The future of our lives and the rest of the United States of America all depends on these next few months. As each candidate begins vying for our support, we're exposed to a barrage of advertisements on television, a wealth of interviews on popular news programs, a plethora of signs posted in neighbors' lawns, and quite a few televised debates -- all designed to help us make an educated decision on who to vote for.

But I'm not a political person by any means, and hopefully you haven't stopped reading. This isn't an article about who to vote for. But it's all the talk about these debates that reminds me of a debate I've been a part of one too many times. Cheap vs. Premium clothes/labels.

I am sure there has been a time in each of our lives when we shopped at a 'discount' store (K-mart, anyone?), buying a Mickey Mouse shirt or light-up Power Ranger shoes with velcro straps. Many of us grow and look back at those bargain stores with an expression of utter disgust. It seems, once you've grown out of the K-mart phase, you move onto bigger and better - Old Navy, the Gap, American Eagle, etc. You grow a bit more, and foray into the United Colors of Benetton, J Crew, and Armani Exchange, spending a little more money for a bit more style. Eventually, you find yourself at Neiman Marcus, trying on a pair of $350 Rock and Republic jeans, pushing yourself further into fashion-related-debt.

So here's the question: Should you continue purchasing cheaper, mass produced clothing from mainstream stores and labels, or should you spend much more for stylish, better made clothing from upscale stores and boutiques? Are upscale boutiques simply a status symbol?

Instinctively, I say to save your money and invest in quality high end pieces. Of course, there are rules. Don't splurge on anything particularly trendy. A floral suit from Balenciaga's Spring 2008 collection may be "the look," but in six months, when that suit looks dated, you will have wished you had spent that money on, say, a Burberry trench coat, which will surely last you for several years. Even I will agree that spending high amounts of money on trend items is wasteful. Stick to classic colors, lines, and fabrics, and you will not simply have made a purchase, you will have made an investment. A personal example: I purchased a pair of Rayban aviators three years ago -- a classic in every sense of the word. I still wear them on a regular basis. A little over a year ago, I purchased a pair of Dior sunglasses - white, with a large blue "Dior" splashed across the temples. I rarely ever take these sunglasses out of hiding because they call for too much attention. They may have looked amazing when I first got them, but they were too trendy. And what do you know? I paid much more for the Dior pair than the Raybans.

But back to the question. I do understand why people would be opposed to high end clothing. It seems like a frivolous expensive for a flashy lifestyle. I have met more than enough people in my life who completely oppose spending 'too much' money on clothes, regardless of how amazing the clothes in question may be. I completely understand that a starving college student doesn't always have the freedom to spend $700 on that new pair of Louboutins at Cusp, especially when they can barely afford a tank of gas. But I feel like if you can afford it, why not? In all honesty, I don't always spend much on the clothes that I wear, but people assume that I do simply because of the [classic] high-end pieces that I've saved up for. A pair of skinny Levis, a top from Forever 21, and accessories from H&M that all add up to about $60 dollars can look like they cost an arm and a leg when paired with a Marc Jacobs bag, or a Chanel slingback. Of course, you'll be saving up for a couple months to even consider affording these things, but it'll pay off in the end.

I still shop at "cheap" stores. Target is one of my favorite places to shop for basics, for example. And the last four pairs of jeans I've purchased have all been from Levis! You can't go wrong with those stores!! I know the majority of our readers aren't going to be able to go out to Saks to pick up the latest "it" piece. But I don't think that's any reason to criticize people who can.

I'd love to hear what our readers feel about designer vs. mass produced clothing. What's your stand?

Scent-sational: June 2008

2008-06-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

To be quite honest, as time has passed, my love for designer fragrances has grown exponentially. I place all the blame on a certain friend of mine who will remain nameless. If you haven't yet explored the world of fragrances, I suggest you take a look. I was browsing the selection at my local Nordstrom, and the manager of the fragrance department began asking me questions about my preferences, and paired me up with the perfect fragrances. When I had made my decision, she told me actual history about the perfumer who designed it, the notes within, and even interesting information about the bottle itself. I am just a lightweight, but hopefully as time goes on, my collection of fragrances will grow to match my collection of sunglasses, scarves, etc. It would have been nice to have this post up before Father's day, as they would have made fine gifts, but better late than never.

So, on to the fragrance department. Any lover of fashion can pick out the best fashion houses in the world. Of course Dior, Chanel, and Balenciaga come to mind, but it's Hermès that really puts class and utter luxury in the fashion game today. I'm sure we've all heard of the elusive Birkin and Kelly bags, and many of us would give our right arm to snag one -- but until we can save up a couple thousand dollars and get our names on that waitlist, we'll have to work with what we've got. Hermès fragrances are amazing, and an easy way to had the Hermès lifestyle to your own life, at a fraction of the cost.

Eau d'Orange Verte: This was my first Hermès fragrance purchase. I much prefer citrus fragrances to more woodsy ones -- even in the wintertime! And Eau d'Orange ("orange" should have given it away) is no exception. The citrus notes really shine through in this one. It's quite light, and fades a bit too quickly for my personal tastes, but I've begun layering it with Terre d'Hermès, so it lasts a bit longer. Searching around on Basenotes, I've found that the general consensus is positive for Eau d'Orange Verte. And it's unisex, so you can get one to share with your lover, brother, sister, daddy, mama, etc.

Terre d'Hermès: Two weeks after purchasing Eau d'Orange Verte, I ran back to the mall to purchase another. I was hooked on Hermès, and just couldn't get enough. I'm going to be honest for a second, and say that when I first smelled Terre d'Hermès (on one of those paper test strips), I was completely turned off. But that orange "H" pulled me in! I sprayed a bit on my wrist, and let it sit for a while. While I didn't buy it that day at the store, I spent pretty much the rest of that entire day sniffing my wrist because it smelled so good! Now Smell This describes it as follows: The vegetable and mineral juice, made without animal by-products or musk, sparkles with orange (specifically formulated for Hermès by Albert Vieille) and grapefruit that blends with flint for a mineral note, and combines with pepper, bay rose, geranium, patchouli, benzoin and vetiver around the central note of Atlas cedar to enhance its Earthly tones. My citrus fragrance loving self couldn't get enough of this. There is a definite grapefruit/mango scent that comes through, with a strong prevalence of orange. It came as no surprise to me to find out that the Fragrance Foundation awarded Terre d'Hermès as the best Luxe men's fragrance in 2007. But aside from the delicious scent itself, there is so much history behind this one fragrance. It was designed by famed Hermès perfumer Jean Claude Ellena, and the bottle itself was meant to portray a combination of the elements. Escentual aptly describes Terre d'Hermès as being "for the man who has his feet firmly on the ground, but his head is in the stars." I couldn't agree more!

For more information, visit: 1 2 3 4

A Brief Update

2008-06-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

To the few who have stuck with us,

We are incredibly sorry for the delay in postings! We know we said we'd resume posting once school was over, and school has been over for nearly a month! I think my vacation time, however extended, has finally met it's end. Hopefully, we will resume regular posting very soon. We've had weeks to assess some of the latest styles and trends, and we're ready to fill you in on them!

Thanks for not giving up on us!

- Anthony & AJ

It Never Ends...

2008-04-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

Faithful readers, we're very sorry for the delay in posting. School takes a lot out of us! We'll be back soon enough!

Until then, Style on!

-- Anthony and AJ

ETA: Don't give up on us yet!! Give us two weeks! Up and running! Back to normal!

Celeb-rate: The 2008 Oscars Red Carpet

2008-02-25T12:00:00.002-05:00

I wish I could have come here today and reported on how happy I was to see Marion Cotillard win the Oscar for best actress for her portrayal of Edith Piaf in La Vie en Rose, but alas! After a busy day of moving my sister's furniture back down from Philly, I was too late to catch the red carpet, and simply too tired to watch the ceremony. But I woke up this morning, checked the winners, and was very happy to see that Cotillard did in fact win! Congrats to her, and to all of the other winners last night!

Just now, I finished looking through the red carpet looks last night, and was overall unimpressed! Nothing really caught my eye, but this could all just be bad photography and the fact that the dresses did not photograph well. Maybe once I watch "Fashion Police," (tonight on E!) I'll change my opinions, but as of now, these are my thoughts.

My beloved Marion. After that stunning Nina Ricci dress at the SAG awards, I was expecting so much better. That being said, I thought this dress wasn't necessarily a horrible choice. She still looks amazing, like old Hollywood royalty -- which she is undoubtedly sure to be.

I haven't yet seen Atonement, but I thought this dress was worth posting. In a world where young girls look more like prostitutes with each passing second, a young girl dressed as Saoirse Ronan was last night is so refreshing. She looked age appropriate, adorable, and aside from the embroidery at the bottom of the dress, I think this was definitely a great pick for her.

Everyone calls George Clooney this generations Cary Grant. I could not agree more. His classic tux, his impeccable coiffure, his gorgeous date -- it all screams old Hollwood. Definitely one of my best picks for best dressed man -- not necessarily modern and edgy, but perfect in every sense of the word. Now, if only my hair could look that good (you'd think it's easy, but trust me, it takes forever!)

Let me just state here how much I loved Juno and Ellen Page. I think she's a gorgeous young woman, and usually her clothes are so fitting for her personality (and most of the time, without forsaking elegance or class). This dress, however, I thought was a disaster. It looked so aging on her. She should have been in something a little closer fitting, without the long string of beads on her neck, or the clutch in her hands. As much as I love her, Ellen gets a no from Anthony.

The Juno clan simply got it wrong last night. Pictured here is Diablo Cody, screenwriter for Juno. I thought the animal-print looked a little out of season and too loud for last nights festivities. The hair is entirely too dark, the lips too red, and the jewelry just didn't stand up to the dress. Finally, one can't overlook the gold flats. If you weren't aware, Stewart Weitzman offered to let her wear a pair of One Million dollar shoes to the Oscars (which he apparently does each year), and for some reason, she was offended and chose not to wear the shoes. She instead went with a Payless gold flat. How utterly disappointing. For any of you who are interested, here are the million dollar shoes.

Finally, one can't forget about the color du jour last night. It seemed as if anyone who was anyone was wearing red! I thought these red dresses (for the most part) were elegant, classy, and timeless! Good job, ladies!

Miley Cyrus. As much as I dislike this girl and her awkward red carpet smile, I will admit she looked gorgeous last night. I tried to think of a cute Hannah Montana reference, but couldn't, for which I am sorry.

This color looks amazing on Heidi Klum, but I thought it was just plain awkward. It doesn't necessarily look BAD, but personally, I wish the collar/neckpiece wasn't there, so it would look a little more classic. Sorry, Heidi, you're out! (I couldn't help myself!)

Lets just be honest. There is a little too much going on with this dress. The off the shoulder peices, the draping, the train. Combine that with the simple hair, makeup, and jewels, Anne Hathaway could have done a better job. Again, I don't necessarily hate this look, but it just looked a little messy and overworked for my tastes. Since Anne Hathaway is wearing it, however, I may let it slide.

I am just going to put it out there. I can't stand Katherine Heigl (so much that I'm not even going to check if I spelled her name right). I don't see why everyone is so infatuated with her, or why they all go on about how sweet and kind she is, when to me, she looks like she would be incredibly rude and mean in real life. Putting that aside, I thought she looked beyond amazing last night, and is probably my choice for best dressed female. Everything, from the dress to the jewels to the hair -- it was perfection. I may just have to give her a chance after seeing her in this dress. (edit: I don't think she is a bad person. She just doesn't have a friendly face to me)

So that's it! I could go on and on, adding photographs of other amazing dresses (Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner) and some not so good dresses (Cameron Diaz, Penelope Cruz), but I think the ones I chose were just enough to wet your palette, readers. Again, I've spared the pregnant women, cuz I understand it is difficult to dress a pregnant woman! That being said, they all looked amazing and glowy! So what do you think? Do you agree with me? What were your favorite looks, and which ones did you hate?

Photo Credits 1 2

Rave: Old Navy Spring Collection 2008

2008-02-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Every year, Old Navy tends to fall into a rut of winter depression. Their winter collections are cute and cozy but above all, they tend to be a bit too matronly. Don't get me wrong - I love a good cable knit sweater but when everything they offer seems to be straight from a grandmother's closet, the spring collections seem even more refreshing when it arrives.

This year's spring collection is especially eye-appealing as it is reminiscent of Missoni collections. Their bold ethnic prints and billowy designs have me extremely anxious for this summer (when it finally comes). For now, I'm going to try out these affordable but ultra-cute new fashions over tights and under cardigans.

Braided-Trim Top: $16.50

Mix-Print Henley Tank: $14.50

Safari Animal Tee: $14.50

Burnout Babydoll: $24.50

Belted Safari Jacket: $29.50

Striped Tab Shorts: $15.00

Mid-Rise Twill Shorts: $15.00

Cut-Out Strapless Dress; $34.50

Beaded Sandals: $19.50

T-Strap Sandals: $15.00

Rope Handle Tote Bag: $7.99

Wooden Handle Clutch: $19.50

Ivory Bangle: $6.65

Hexagonal Bangle: $6.65

Classic Aviator: $9.50

As you can see, your spring wardrobe can be considerably updated with the purchase of these "jungle explorer/safari fanatic" items. Head over to your closest Old Navy and get yourself stocked up before spring is here to stay.

Class, Work, Class, Work...

2008-02-18T12:00:00.000-05:00

Goodness! Classes resumed, and so did our busy schedules!

The Lounge will be taking a week-long break to re-energize! (But check back on Friday for our February Spotlight!)
See you next week!

ETA: This break looks like it'll take a bit longer than we expected! But keep checking back to see when we've updated!

The Linen Lounge Spotlight: Etro

2008-02-15T12:00:00.001-05:00

"The New Tradition"

Established in 1968, Gimmo Etro launched his own textile company. Etro produced the finest fabrics with elaborate designs in bright chic colors. Etro quickly became known for their fabrics, made with the utmost attention to detail and remarkable use of color. In 1981, the paisley collection made a definite impression on the fashion world, and the paisley print became synonymous with the Etro brand. Eventually, the brand had expanded from a simple textile company -- they began making ties, scarves, shawls, luggage, handbags, etc. By the late 80s, Etro had grown considerably. Etro was a full-blown fashion powerhouse, with a successful line of luxury fabrics, accessories, home accents, fragrances, and a booming ready-to-wear line for both men and women. In 1994, Etro saw it's first runway collection, by '98, the brand debuted a collection of eye wear. By the 2000s, Etro had become a fashion front-runner, with several stores throughout the world, and international fame -- with boutiques in Italy, London, Japan, New York, Honk Kong, just to name a few. The Etro brand combines the most articulate craftsmanship with an amazing attention to detail and fabric selection, which even today keeps the brand at the height of fashion.

Etro Enters the New Millenium

During the 1990s, the Etro label was rejuvenated through the eyes of Kean and Veronica Etro (son and daughter of Gimmo Etro). Kean designs the men's collections for the brand, while Veronica leads the womenswear collections. It is through their scrupulous direction that the brand has continued to thrive into the next decade.

Etro Fall 2007 RTW Collection

The Linen Lounge & Our Views on Etro

To be quite honest, we at the Linen Lounge did not realize just how amazing Etro was until fairly recently. While looking for photographs to include in other posts, we happened to check out the Etro collection, only to be amazed by what we saw! Odd color selections that we would never put together not only look amazing on the Etro runway, but look unbelievably classy -- a difficult feat that I'm sure many other designers would love to achieve. The Linen Lounge loves Etro, and can't wait to see what they have planned for future collections (and we'll be the first to bring the best of show to our loyal readers!)!

"If you see something you like, it doesn’t matter whether it’s out of fashion. I’ve bought things when they were out of style and I was very proud to wear them. If you like foie gras, you wouldn’t not eat it because it’s out of fashion."
- Kean Etro

Sources & Photo Credits 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

AJ's Essentials: John Mayer

2008-02-06T12:00:00.001-05:00

It was a cold winter day when I was first introduced to musician John Mayer during a car ride. Since then, most people refer to me as "that John Mayer girl," and quite honestly, I'm perfectly okay with having people think of me on hearing his name. There's just something about the way John strums his guitar while meaningfully crooning his lyrics that made me choose him for our first installment of the Essentials section.

Why do I love him? Well, for starters, there's his amazing guitar abilities that embellish all of his songs. And then, there's his voice - so versatile that it can help you fall asleep with some songs, and keep you up all night on others. Of course, that can't go without mentioning his meaningful lyrics which are sensitive from afar and filled with emotion when you listen carefully. Okay, okay, so I'm a little obsessed - but who wouldn't be? I mean, aside from his music, it doesn't hurt that he has an amazing sense of humor which you can see if you YouTube any of his interviews or his off-the-air TV show, John Mayer Has A TV Show.

Did I mention that he is also the most beautiful specimen I have ever seen? You're probably checking the title of this post right about now and making sure that it is, in fact, Essentials and not OBSESSION. I'd just like to call it devotion.

Anyways, don't take my word for it - check out his songs on your own. Picking out my favorite song would be like picking a favorite designer, but right now, I'm really into Another Kind Of Green off of the Try! album. And that's another thing I adore about good ol' John Mayer (as if I needed another reason) - his lyrics can have different meanings for every individual at different points of time. Upon listening to Bigger Than My Body, I would have a different reaction today than I would have had five years ago when I first heard it, and the meaning I derive from it would be different than what you take away from the song. See how cool it is?

Here are some of my favorite songs off of some of his albums in case you need (and you really do NEED) to check him out:

Continuum : Vultures, Don't Trust Myself (With Loving You), Dreaming With A Broken Heart, Belief

Try! (by the John Mayer Trio) : Another Kind Of Green, I Got A Woman, Wait Until Tomorrow
Heavier Things : Clarity, Split Screen Sadness, Only Heart, Home Life

Any Given Thursday: Covered In Rain, 83, City Love

Room For Squares: St. Patrick's Day, Back To You, Neon, Why Georgia, No Such Thing

Trend Watch: "Where's the Flood?"

2008-02-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

In the past 6 or so years that my love for fashion has flourished and grown to great heights, if you asked me what the worst fashion faux-pas was, I'd surely have said "pants that are too short!" I'd have much preferred to let my jeans drag and get a little torn up even if it meant I had to replenish my supply of denim every few months. And even now, I guess I still believe that it's better to have a pant that is too long rather than too short. But in the past few months, my views on pant length have changed greatly. This is due in part (quite a bit, actually!) to the photographs featured on a Linen Lounge favorite, The Sartorialist. As many a fashionista would know, almost everyday, the Sartorialist posts a photograph of someone he saw on the streets of New York, Paris, Milan, London (etc.), wearing a definitive style of their own. The clothes aren't necessarily fashion forward or even current, but the way they are worn, the confidence of the people wearing them, and the artistic elements of the photographs themselves are enough to provoke thought and captivate the viewer. Months ago, when I first began paying attention to the Sartorialist's works, I noticed that the men he photographed typically wore pants shorter than what I am used to. Not just suit pants, but casual pants -- jeans, even!

Anyone who knows anything about men's fashion and tailoring knows that suit pants are supposed to be short. If you haven't gotten the memo, you will understand once you see a man in a suit with pants that are too long. It looks quite awkward. But this recent shortening of pant-length seemed to me simply ridiculous. I don't think I would have even noticed shorter pant lengths on the runways if I hadn't been so detail oriented while viewing the Sartorialists photographs. I find that slowly, my disdain for cropped pants has begun to lift.

I just believe that it needs to be done with care. Shoes are most important when attempting to pull off a cropped pant - they will, after all, be exposed for the world to see. But I think the next most important thing to remember when trying to pull off a cropped pant would be a slim leg opening. A bootleg, a wide leg -- pretty much anything outside of a straight/tapered leg would look ridiculous were it not grazing the ground. Luckily, with the somewhat recent popularity of the skinny/cigarette leg, this look is easily achieved. My jeans all tend to be bootcut, so until I buy a pair of straight jeans, I won't be attempting to pull of a cropped leg, but when I do, the world better watch out!

Shorter trousers are coming fast, and soon they'll be everywhere!

This all being said, I was looking at the Bottega Venetta Fall 08 Men's collection, and it featured long, extremely wide-legged, baggy jeans and trousers, and they looked divine! I guess it's all up to you! After all, fashion is about personal style, not simply about mimicking other people!

Rave: Relaxed Luxury

2008-02-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Just yesterday, as I was flipping through the January issue of Details, I came upon on the "Rules of Style" section. It's one of my favorite features in Details, in which each month, a designer (past issues have featured Donatella Versace, Michael Kors, Thom Browne, etc.) presents his or her - well, rules of style! It's always fun to see how the designers you look up to so much dress, live, buy, and believe. Whether it's Michael Kors' love for Hermes flip flops or how Dries Van Noten isn't the biggest fan of vintage looks, I love reading this feature each month and I often find myself trying to follow their rules (well -- the ones I can afford...).

But back to my story, this month, they interviewed Jean Touitou, designer for A.P.C. Although all of his rules were for the most part, great advice, it was the second one that really stuck with me.

"2. I think it’s very important to look sexy at home. I hate it when people say, “I will take this to the countryside because it’s not fashionable anymore.” I love being well-dressed when nobody’s looking at me."

I couldn't agree more! I feel as though true lovers of fashion, not just the ones who dress well for public acceptance, are the ones who will heed this tip with the most respect. Although clothingwise, I tend to look quite pathetic at home -- old sweatshirts and pajama pants and whatnot -- I try to live the fabulous life whenever I can. It's not odd to see me taking a crystal goblet out of my mother's china cabinet just to drink water or put on cologne simply to go to sleep. It's one of my most firm beliefs that luxury and richness should be a part of your whole life, not just the parts that everyone else sees.

Just because no one is there to see you, it doesn't mean you can't wear designer duds to sleep, drink out of fine glassware, enjoy gourmet chocolates, or treat yourself to a relaxing at-home spa treatment. Style didn't begin at your front door, it began when you woke up.

So here are some of my ideas on how you can make your home-life a little more fabulous (at a variety of price ranges!)

Petit Merlot Wine Glasses by Lenox: $40

Waffle Hoodie by The Gap: $24

Red Roses Bath Oil by Jo Malone: $60

Lace-trim Chemise by Old Navy: $17

Check PJ's by Burberry: $175

Silk Fleece Blanket by Ann Gish: $250

Plummy Cobalto Gown by La Perla: $468

Amedei Porcelana Chocolate Bar
(considered by many to be the rarest and best Chocolate around): $13

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 3

Scent-sational: January 2008

2008-01-30T12:00:00.001-05:00

As lovers of fashion, beauty, and the fabulous life, we want to enrich your life any way possible - clothes, cosmetics, home furnishings, and more! Each month, we will review fragrances in our Scent-sational feature. We will try as we can to include a male and female choice, as well as our personal opinions on the fragrances in question. Our first scent-sation features two fragrances that, while created with a particular consumer in mind, can be almost unisex. Fragrances that your boyfriend or girlfriend can use when in a bind and not feel like they just spent the entire night with you.

Tom Ford Black Orchid ($90-135): On a recent trip to Cusp, I happened to walk by the fragrances and, being an avid lover of Tom Fords creations, decided to give this one a whiff. Was I surprised or what?! I loved it -- spicy but not too spicy for a woman, floral but not too floral for a man. Yes, it's made for a woman, but I don't think that'll stop me from purchasing it when I am in need of a new fragrance. It is described as follows: Sensuous top notes of Black Truffle and Ylang mingled with fresh Bergamot and delectable Black Currant. Dramatic middle notes of dark, tempting Florals and rich Fruit Accords. The heart is deepened with the intoxicating Lotus Wood. Decadent base notes of Patchouli, Incense and Vetiver. Vanilla Tears add a fluid creaminess to warm Balsam and smooth Sandalwood. Although I rarely ever take fragrance descriptions to heart (it can be difficult to smell with your eyes), I can honestly smell many of these elements within this scent. It's a great buy for yourself, a woman who wants something new and sure to be a classic, or for a confident man who simply wants to smell amazing.

Jean Paul Gaultier Fleur du Male ($54-74): Let me just start off by saying how much I love Jean Paul Gaultier fragrances. It isn't just the sensual, body-shaped bottles that captivate me, but how his scents are not by any means typical. Every cologne-wearing man has a bottle of Stetson or some other macho-man spicy fragrance. Jean Paul Gaultier manages to include citrus, fruity, and floral elements into his fragrances, all while not giving up that manly undertone. Imagine my excitement upon walking into Sephora and seeing a new bottle in that oh-so-Gaultier male silhouette. I took one whiff of that little tester sheet, and thought my nose had died and gone to heaven. Needless to say (Fleur should have given it away), Fleur du Male is quite floral, but it's definitely not too floral for a man. It is, in my opinion, the perfect summer fragrance. It is described as follows: Freshness. Poetry. Smiles. 100 percent masculine style. The newest scent from Jean Paul Gaultier blends orange blossom and coumarin for an innocent and sensual scent that is full of contrasts. It's a fragrance that is fresh and smiling; poetic and endearing; sensual and gourmand - 100 percent Gaultier. Many designers and fashionista's describe orange blossom being the most floral scent a man can wear without forsaking his masculinity. I suppose this is true, but don't be fooled, ladies. This one could easily be in your beauty cabinet as well.

Celeb-rate: 2008 SAG Award Red Carpet

2008-01-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the god-awful writers strike that has put all of our favorite shows on hold (Desperate Housewives, anyone?), we were denied our right to judge red carpet dresses at the Golden Globe Awards this past January 13th. And while we don't usually hear as much press for the Screen Actors Guild awards, I suppose the lack of award shows this year made the SAG's a little more significant this year. So the stars donned their best and hit the red carpet, ready to be peeled apart by the fashion police (on E! tonight at 8/9c), and by style mavens such as yourself. Here are some of my favorite (and least favorite) looks of the night!

Marion Cotillard was by far my favorite look of the night, and it has nothing to do with her amazing performance as Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose. This Nina Ricci dress fit her impeccably, and other stars can only hope to look this elegant to future events and award shows!

Okay. To be quite frank, I don't understand the hype over this Nina Ricci dress. Everyone seemed to be in love with it, but I just can't seem to bring myself to feel the same way. It gives the impression of crushed velvet, and the folds on/below the bust just don't sit well with me. On top of all that, the metallic silver color just screams too loud. Everyone else, however, seems to disagree with me! I just don't get it.

Needless to say, Sandra Oh was my least favorite look of the night. I don't know who designed it, and while I'm sure it may have looked... somewhat okay on the runway model, it tragically did not stay on the runway. I am always a little perplexed by Sandra's choices, and this is no exception.

Terri Hatcher in Badgley Mischka. I don't know how I feel about this dress. Several people have expressed their dislike over this dress and it's floral print, but I think it suits Terri quite well. It looks fun and youthful without making her look like she's trying to live in the past.

I don't quite know what Viggo Mortenson was trying to achieve when he put on this ensemble. It looks so awkward among the hundreds of immaculately dressed stars at the event. Men are best dressed when they stick to traditional suits and tuxedo's. A little color never hurt anyone, but the long blazer with the pinstripes combined with a blue shirt, red vest, metallic red tie, and red scarf, and black shoes just made him look like a mess.

America Ferrera looked gorgeous in this dress. She looks elegant, and chic, and positively stunning. This is definitely one of my favorites of the night. As horrible as she looks on Ugly Betty, America always looks beyond amazing at all these award shows, and I think many people could take a tip from her closet.

Is she or isn't she?! That's the question on everyone's minds. And Angelina's dress last night did not serve to disprove the rumors that she is pregnant. I think the dress looks alright, but of course, if she is not pregnant, she could have done much better. Brad, on the other hand, I thought looked quite bad. I am not a fan of their coordinated outfits -- the black and brown combo. And I hate the fact that his hair and his goatee don't match! Usually he does so well, and this disappointed me. Angelina, however, gets a yes from me!

I thought Eva Longoria looked amazing in this dress last night. It's a little too wedding-gown-like for me, but I think it was pulled off very well, and she looks as beautiful and elegant as she always does.

I think this was a great dress for Amanda Bynes. I do, however, have one issue. Her posture!! In every picture I saw of her, her head looked like it was being pushed foward. If she had stood a little more presentably, I think she would have been towards the top of my list!

These housewives really know how to kick the competitions ass. Marcia Cross looks amazing in this dress, and that teal color is absolutely divine on her. After Marion Cotillard, Marcia may as well be one of my front runners for best dressed of the night!

* The ladies featured in the photograph at the top of this post, and my opinions on their dresses (had they not been addressed already):
Cate Blanchett - I can't argue with a pregnant woman's choice in clothing, so I will let her go for this one.
Debra Messing - Not her best choice. The color washed her out a little bit, and I don't think it fit her perfectly.
Marcia Cross, Ellen Pompeo, Angelina Jolie - See above
Jamie Lynn Sigler - I don't like this combination of colors, or the dress itself.
Marion Cotillard - Best dress of the night!

Photo Credits: 1 2 3

Rave: The Perfect Closet

2008-01-25T12:00:00.000-05:00

Okay, let me just admit it up front - I actually enjoy organizing my closet. No, I'm not one of those people who must have everything in a certain way (Anthony spaces his hangers equidistant from each other-talk about OCD!) - I'm quite the opposite actually. But I do, however, take special interest when it comes to my wardrobe. To be honest, I get lazy and my closet can go weeks at a time without seeing me hang a single item, but this pushes me to have an ultimate cleaning day where I completely re-organize all of it.

First off, I think that a clean closet is important for everyone. It really is the penultimate accessory for any fashionista! Not only does it show your care and value for the clothes you own, but it also makes it a lot easier to find clothes when in a rush. No more turning over your entire bedroom trying to find that purple blouse wrinkled beneath a pair of jeans. While it would be fabulous to have one, you don't need to have a huge walk-in closet to achieve the perfect closet. I've found that color-coding my closet helps me put together outfits, which is definitely an added bonus, and of course, it helps me work with my limited closet space. And i mean, who doesn't like throwing open their closet doors to find a colorful masterpiece where the medium is clothing? Your own personal fashion show, where everything (hopefully) fits, n'est pas?

My Tips to Obtaining the Perfect Closet:
1. Only keep things that you need/will wear. I know this is especially hard, considering most people hate throwing stuff away. But the less junk you have in your closet, the easier it will be to find things, and the more space you'll have for things you will actually wear (as well as more space for the things you haven't yet purchased!).

2. Figure out the best way to organize and utilize your closet space. If you are a huge dress fanatic, make sure you have the room to hang long dresses; if you love shoes, make sure to include plenty of space (including shelving if necessary); if you love sweaters, you may want to invest in a closet organizing system so you can fold your sweaters and still have room for those items that need to be hung. Just like every other aspect of fashion, the Perfect Closet depends mainly on the likes and dislikes - the fit -- of the person who owns it, and only you can decide the optimal way to use your space.

3. Organize your clothes in your closet in a way that will enable you to reach and find your clothes in an efficient major. For me, this is best achieved by color coding my closet. On these days, I follow a ROY G BIV color scheme from left to right. Neutrals, blacks, greys, browns, and whites go before the red section. Within each block of color, I organize the clothing by weight -- thickest item to thinnest. If two items of clothing match in warmth, I put the darker of the two to the left. Jeans and other pants share a shelf under all of the tops, and are folded and tucked away. All the delicates and casual wear are stored in my dresser. And as for shoes -- they're everywhere - my bedroom, the laundry room, my car, and so forth. Any ideas on how to organize these while minimizing space would be highly appreciated.

This isn't the only way to organize your closet. You can go with color temperatures (cool colors vs. warm colors), or clothing type (shirts, pants, t-shirts, jeans, etc.), designer, dressy vs. casual -- the options are limitless.

4) Maintain your newly modified closet. This is the hardest part for me! But if you can keep your closet clean and tidy, your life (as well as your prying mom's eyes) will be a lot happier!

Of course, I'm still waiting for the day when I can have a two-story walk-in with a chandelier, chaise, and huge three way mirror, but for now, my closet is organized in a manner that allows me to enjoy all of my clothes whilst providing a clean, bright environment for all of my new purchases.

Rant: The Bluetooth Blues

2008-01-23T12:00:00.000-05:00

Style and fashion lovers all around the world, there is a serious plague making it's way around the world right now. Hundreds - even thousands - have already caught this gross and unseemly disease, and it is likely to continue wreaking havoc throughout our city streets. Do whatever you can to protect yourself before it's too late. I've seen many a friend infected, and it breaks my heart that they didn't know better.

If you haven't figured it out yet, I think a short story is called for. The time: about a year or two ago. The place: Safeway. I was in line at the Pharmacy, picking up what I'm sure was my inhaler, when the lady behind me started speaking randomly. I was so confused. Why did this complete stranger feel inclined to make conversation with me? Call me cold-hearted, but I wasn't there to make small talk. My one-track mind said 'pick up the medicine and jet.' I turned around to give her a confused look, and to my surprise, she wasn't even looking at me. Oddly enough, however, she continued talking. It was only then that I noticed this plastic tumor-like protrusion at her ear, with a tiny flashing blue light.

Bluetooth-Date! I know one guy who's not getting any.

Bluetooth headsets mark the beginning of the end of mankind. Don't get me wrong, I think they're quite useful. I even have one! I have used it when driving, and I used to use it to talk to my best friend while I unpacked my luggage whenever I went back to my dorm after a weekend at home. But mark my words, I will NEVER be seen in public wearing it.

If you are one of those people who wear their bluetooth headsets in public, please take this into consideration. Do you not realize how crazy you seem standing in the middle of a grocery store or the mall talking to yourself? Do you realize how stupid you look when you aren't talking to someone on that thing, yet keep it attached to your ear? Do you not realize that wearing one in public does not make you look sophisticated or smarter? Every time I see someone wearing these ridiculous things, I fall to my knees in prayer, hoping that God will take away this gross disfigurement.

Yes, it's Dolce & Gabbana. But there is a time and place. Out in public isn't one of them.

Are we really at that place in history where we are too lazy to hold a phone up to our ears for a few minutes? I can understand if cellphones looked like bricks, circa Zach Morris on Saved By the Bell. But phones are getting smaller and smaller with each passing day. If you don't want to hold it up to your ear with your hand, just keep it there with your head and use your hands as you see fit. No wonder the United States is the most obese country in the world! We do everything we can to use absolutely no energy at all. If you wear your bluetooth like one of these idiots I've talked about above, you deserve to be fat and gross looking.

And if this is what 'the future' looks like, I opt to stay in the past, where I won't look like a blithering fool.

Thank you & Goodnight.

Photo Credits 1 2 3

Rave: Louis Vuitton Spring 2008

2008-01-21T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sometime last week, while looking through the Spring 08 collections presented last September, I realized that I had overlooked the collection presented by fashion powerhouse, Louis Vuitton. In my opinion, it was a great show. Filled with color, odd selections of fabrics, and downright confusing combinations, I suppose this show was quite similar to Marc Jacob's own 'backwards' collection -- done in a much more sophisticated fashion. Style.com put it as being "crazed, random, playful, yet grounded," and I couldn't agree more. It really was like young women playing dress up and getting lost in their mother's makeup-kit.

But alas! The clothes weren't what attracted me to the collection. Yes, they were fabulous as Louis Vuitton clothes always tend to be, but it was the bags that stole the show. Marc Jacobs collaborated with controversial artist Richard Prince to design the spring 08 line of Louis Vuitton bags. They were colorful, spray painted and distressed, and several of the bags even incorporated text (what Prince's artwork is often noted for). From what I've read on message boards and The Purse Forum, these bags haven't yet been welcome with open arms. Yet, I must admit, that when I saw the bags for the first time, my mind was reeling! I could not believe how modern they looked without sacrificing the class and quality that Vuitton is known for. I was hooked right away, and hope that this isn't the last we see of a Prince & Louis Vuitton collaboration.

My take on the bags? To be quite honest, I had nearly lost all hope for Louis Vuitton. Yes, LV bags are fabulous and the epitome of quality clothing, but it seems that today, everyone and their mother has a Louis Vuitton bag (and in most cases, fake ones -- but we'll save that topic for later). I had very little hope that the label could regain it's once revered status, and I feel that the Richard Prince collection, while definitely "out there," has done just that. It has reaffirmed why Louis Vuitton is looked upon with such respect in the world of fashion.

But words aren't enough. Check them out for yourself.

Photo Credits: 1 2 3 4

Rave: Figure-Flattering Finery

2008-01-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

As I walked through the mall this past weekend, signs of "SALE" greeted me at every store window. Being the polite shopper that I am, I obliged these signs and visited many stores whose displays boasted major discounts and well-dressed mannequins. Walking through the rows and rows of clothes, I realized a common mistake that many people make - dressing for other people.

It has always been a belief of mine that women do not dress for themselves - they dress for other women. In hoping to outshine their fellow comrades, they put together far more unique outfits. This however leads to one problem - the woman who does not know what flatters their own body shape.

I often see two problems as I walk through aisles of chemises, jackets, miscellaneous tops, and customers looking for something pretty to take home:

1) The most common problem is buying something at a great price that does not flatter your body shape. Often times, we get so caught up in how great of a deal we've found that we do not realize that the "object of our desires" does not highlight our most favorable areas and downplay our flaws. As I held up a camisole from a clearance bin at Express just this past Saturday, I was shocked at the low price but painfully put it down as I realized that the cut was not right for me. Do not, I repeat, do NOT buy inexpensive items based on price alone; fit is just as, if not more important, than price! Do not be fooled!

2) The second mistake is buying something simply for the label. Too many people have been caught in the trap of brand-buying. For example, a friend recently gushed over a designer dress she had just bought. Of course I was very impressed with her purchase - until she put it on. By being so caught up in who made the dress, she had forgotten who would wear the dress. Needless to say, the dress clung to her where it shouldn't have and billowed away where it should have flattered. I quickly persuaded her to return the dress and today, she happily found a much more figure-friendly dress at an affordable price.

So when do you know if something is worth buying? As you've probably already guessed, the flattery-level of the dress is foremost amongst quality and occasion and whatnot. We've found a video clip from the Today Show featuring designer Isaac Mizrahi discussing the best ways to accentuate your body. Also, a guide from TravelSmith can help you figure out what clothing choices to stray towards or away from as you determine the best way to balance your body shape. For example, if you are concerned with a less than perfect stomach, a babydoll top may help you skim over these imperfections. If you are worried about wide hips, an A-line skirt might visually minimize your problem area. However, keep in mind that these suggestions are only guidelines and only you can determine what looks best on you while keeping you comfortable in your skin.

Coco Chanel once said, “The best color in the whole world, is the one that looks good, on you!” At the Linen Lounge, we could not agree more. The best look in the world is the one that shows off your best assets and increases your confidence level infinitely. As you learn how to find better clothes for yourself, it will become easier for you to spot the looks most geared towards your body shape. Do not buy something because it looked good on a co-worker or friend and on the other hand, do not disregard something simply because it is no longer a trend. I will perhaps always wear skinny jeans, even when they go out of style, because they elongate my legs and that is something that no amount of trend-bashing can take away.

Throughout this post are pictures from The Sartorialist showcasing looks that people just like you have put together to flatter their figure, exude their personal style, and highlight their inner confidence.

So good luck, reader! The world of malls, markets, and boutiques awaits your picky eye!

The Linen Lounge Spotlight: Marc Jacobs

2008-01-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

A Modern Visionary in a Traditional World

While still in elementary school, a young man named Marc Jacobs decided he wanted to become a designer. With the help of his sister and grandmother, he gained his first insights into fashion and clothing construction. As he grew in age, so did his love for fashion, and in his mid-teens, he worked in boutiques and even met Perry Ellis. He graduated from the High School for Art and Design in New York, and then eventually studied at Parsons School of Art and Design, where he won the Perry Ellis Gold Thimble Award. Jacobs soon became Vice President of Womenswear at Perry Ellis, but his tenure there was short. His new, modern approach was not favored by the Perry Ellis group, and he was subsequently laid off. Interestingly enough, he won the CDFA Womenswear Designer of the Year award that same year. In 1994, he launched his first collection under his own name, and created a stir when supermodels Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista (who were known for their $10,000 per show price tag) walked for Marc Jacobs absolutely free, in support of this visionary.

From New Designer to Legend in the Making

In 1997, Marc Jacobs was named creative director at Louis Vuitton, and remains so to this day. In 2001, Jacobs launched his diffusion line, Marc by Marc Jacobs, which quickly gained popularity among young people and fashion connoisseurs alike. Vogue also reports that Marc by Marc Jacobs is one of the first diffusion lines that has threatened to overshadow the mainline collection. Jacobs has made Louis Vuitton a modern, rejuvenated brand, restored to it's former glory, all while keeping his own two lines at the head of the fashion world. Lovers of fashion all around the world from Anna Wintour to Winona Ryder (who was caught stealing his clothes from a Saks Fifth Avenue) flock to the boutiques to get Jacobs work.

At the same time, Marc Jacobs does not fit the profile of many past designers. In the mid 2000s, he underwent a major image overhaul, and he does not shy away from the limelight. He is notorious for starting his fashion shows late, and while this may be an issue for several designers, no one will complain, because his designs make up for it. He has been quoted saying that he wants to star in his own reality show, and in early 2007, he was admitted to rehab for treatment of drug and alcohol abuse.

Marc Jacobs Spring 2008

His latest collection (Spring 2008) sparked a bit of confusion and intrigue, as he showed an entire 'backwards' collection. Starting two (some report three) hours after it's scheduled starting time, Jacobs came out onto the runway first and took his bow, then his models all came out in finale formation, and then finally came out individually. In addition to the backwards program of the fashion show, the clothing was quite skewed as well (the backward heel, for example). Don't take our word for it, see for yourself.

Marc by Marc Jacobs RTW Spring 2008

"I'd like to believe that the women who wear my clothes are not dressing for other people, that they're wearing what they like and what suits them. It's not a status thing. "
- Marc Jacobs

Sources & Photo Credits: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Celeb-Rate: Katie "Mother-of-Suri" Holmes

2008-01-14T12:37:00.000-05:00

Katie Holmes is apparently taking style pointers from Victoria "Posh" Beckham these days. The former Dawson's Creek star has been looking much more her age recently with a shorter, cuter new hair-do as well as some age-appropriate stylish clothing. I mean, Holmes has always been pretty cute although she's had her "what-is-she-thinking" days as well, but with the arrival of the fashionable Beckhams in the U.S. this past summer, she started turning into a Posh clone.

At first, I was a little amused at how much Katie Holmes looked just like VPB and then a little annoyed by that same fact. It seemed that Holmes had lost any resemblance of her own personal style and was transitioning into a Posh replica. As time progressed, Holmes learned how to incorporate the two styles so she had the best of both worlds - stylish outfits with that extra dash of pizazz to keep her looking fresh and sweet.

However, one thing that Katie has that Posh does not (besides knowing how to smile and a couch-jumping husband) is adorable Suri Cruise, also known as Katie's cutest accessory. If Tom Cruise was ecstatic over his relationship with Katie Holmes, I can only imagine how proud he must be of Suri.

Both mom and daughter have been looking rather excellent and these pictures are further proof:

Style-on Katie! You've been looking rather amazing of late and we know you can keep it up. Please - do it for Suri!

Meanwhile, Posh has intertwined herself with Marc Jacobs latest Spring 2008 campaign, which although quirky, has moved her further along the path of looking utterly and completely like an alien.

Vanity Box: Lip Care

2008-01-11T15:00:00.000-05:00

It's wintertime - granted mid-almost-late winter, but winter nonetheless. These subzero temperatures can wreak havoc on your skin, and it's more important than ever to find the right products to keep your skin soft and supple before the cold destroys the largest organ on your body - your skin. If nothing else, please please please protect your lips. The wind can turn your luscious lips into a mess - and while corn flakes might look nice in a bowl with some milk, that whole flaky/dry thing doesn't translate well on a face. I know when I'm talking to someone, I focus a lot on their lips, and if they have gross lips, I spend the entire conversation wondering in my mind what they could have done better to protect them. Of course, I end up missing the whole point of the conversation and have to throw in empty "uh-huh"'s and head-nods to seem like I'm still listening, but whatever. The point is - lips are important, and if you treat yours horribly, it will show.

Sometime during my freshman year of college, this fascination with lip protection became my latest beauty kick. Of course, by the time I completed high school, I had tried my share of different balms - the million varieties of Chapstick and Blistex, for example. But during my junior year of high school, I found out that the levels of menthol in Chapstick actually dry out your skin until you reapply, eventually making you dependent on the product. I switched to Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm (pictured above) - a cult favorite. And even today, this simple $3 tube of lip balm is one of my favorites. But again, freshman year of college arrived, and with it, a desire for a bigger, better, and more expensive skin care regimen. I've tried out a few different balms, and I hope that my experiences will help you find the right balm/protection program for you.

In need of some lip-lovin, I headed to the Benefit counter at Sephora and purchased Benefit Lipscription - a lip exfoliator and balm duo that should be used one to three times a week to achieve soft, supple, kissable lips. Step one: exfoliate using the jojoba-enriched scrubbing beads to slough off dry skin and expose a fresh layer of dermis. And Step two: Smooth on the silky lip balm. I thought, for $30, this stuff has to be amazing. Well, it was. But I feel I could have achieved the same results with something much cheaper. I still have the lipscription program stashed away in my cabinet, and use it once a week or so to exfoliate. When it runs out though, I'll head to the Body Shoppe, where for $10, I can purchase 'Lip Scuff.' It resembles a tube of lipstick, but instead of a pigment, there is a wealth of exfoliators and scrubbing beads. I'm sure that this stick of "Scuff"will do the same exact thing that the jojoba scrubbers did in the Lipscription (not to mention, at a fraction of the price). I will, however, admit that the lip balm included as part of the lipscription program is among the best I've ever used. It made my lips incredibly soft, and the moisture lasted for hours. So, should you head to Sephora and pick it up? I would say no. If Benefit ever released the balm alone, I would definitely purchase it again, but until then, no.

Soon after I experimented with Lipscription, I headed back to Sephora to get something a little cheaper to keep on myself all the time, so I didn't use up all of the Benefit balm before the exfoliator was used. I found Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm. The lady behind the counter also assured me this was an amazing balm, and that she used it too! The practical shopper in me said no, but the product-whore in me pulled out the cash. Luckily Jack Black (no relation to Nacho Libre) makes this lip balm much more afforable - only $7. Since I purchased it early in 2007, I have been most devoted to this lip balm. It makes my lips feel buttery soft, and the hint of mint adds that extra kick. Being a guy, if I'm not careful, the Intense Therapy Lip Balm will look very glossy, but that's easily taken care of with a kiss or a blot. Should you purchase it? Definitely.

Very recently, I decided it was time to switch it up again. After a considerable amount of online research (reading reviews, ingredients, etc.) I headed back to Sephora (I'm sure you can tell how much I love this store) and picked up a tube of Fresh Sugar Lip Balm. It's a little on the pricey side ($22.50), but does it's job well. It lasts forever, smells divine, and looks very sleek in a bag or on a counter. The scent alone will bring me back to this balm in the future, but the price may make me think harder about doing so. That being said, I think it's a great value for all the protection and moisture it provides my kissers.

If you are fortunate enough to afford it, I also suggest you try La Mer Lip Balm. If you're as big a beauty buff as me, you know that La Mer is the cream of the crop. So you can imagine how good their lip balm would be. I only tried it on once and was satisfied. But at $45, I think that the cheaper balms listed above do a fine job, and I personally won't be purchasing this any time soon. If you want another more affordable option, check out Rosebud Salve - I've only used this once or twice, and was surprised by how much moisture it offered and how great it smelled. It's relatively cheap and can be found at your local Bath and Body Works.

Finally, before you put on that lip balm, make sure your breath is fresh and your teeth are white. I suggest Rembrandt Intense Stain Whitening Toothpaste. I didn't really have any stains at all - let alone intense ones, but I figured this would be the strongest whitener in a toothpaste I could find, and boy, was I right! I used this toothpaste for a week, and I wasn't the only one who noticed my brighter new smile. No messy trays or gels - as the commercials say, but as an added bonus, not even those flimsy strips. For fresh breathe, I suggest Marvis toothpaste. It does what any good toothpaste is supposed to do, and looks amazing on your counter (the original one in the green tube is my favoite! I've tried the mint and jasmine one in the purple tube, and it took forever to get used to the taste). For those who need a little more help in the breath department, check out BreathRx. A specially formulated toothpaste, tongue spray, and mouthwash come with this kit, designed to stop bad breath in it's tracks. The reviews for this program all sound amazing, so I feel pretty confident that it would be a good buy, and at only $7 at CVS, who wouldn't want to?

Trend Watch: Dresses!

2008-01-09T21:41:00.000-05:00

So dresses aren't a trend per se but the dresses displayed on the Spring 2008 RTW runways of late have me extremely anxious for spring to begin. I love all of the different shapes and colors and patterns - from loose, billowy silhouettes to more structured, rigid forms and from neutral tones to bright pops of color - dresses that seem to say both "come hither" and "go away." This spring looks to be especially excellent and I'm fully ready to satisfy my dress cravings.

However, this post is not about my wishes - it's about those beautiful beautiful dresses that glided down the Spring 2008 RTW runways.

Below are some of my favorite looks from the collections:

Alexander McQueen

3.1 Phillip Lim

Christian Lacroix

Etro

Roksanda Ilincic

Diane von Furstenberg

And for those of us who are looking to find more affordable dresses to wear when the sun starts shining longer and brighter, many stores are starting to sell their spring selections!

Delia's: $49.50

Urban Outfitters: $68.00

Macy*s: $22.20

Charlotte Russe: $24.99

Anthropologie: $138.00

When you've obtained some easy-breezy-beautiful dresses for the springtime, make sure you always have a few light cardigans or a fabulous trench coat on hand just in case the weather gets a bit chilly. Surely, this season, (corny line alert) the flowers won't be the only things in full bloom!

The Lounge Look: Zac and Vanessa

2008-01-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

It seems like Vanessa Hudgens and Zac Efron are everywhere these days - High School Musical, Hairspray, naked, etc. But you have to admit that these two always look remarkably well dressed and put together. I saw this photograph and thought it would be a great look to replicate. So here it is: The Zanessa look (at a fraction of the price). Half tucked shirt and Peter Pan bangs optional. [For purchase information, please see "Sources & Photo Credits at the bottom of this entry"]

Vanessa's Outfit:

Gap: $50

American Eagle: $25

Nine West: $69

Sunglass Hut: $130

Urban Outfitters: $68

Zac's Outfit:

Levis: $29

Levis: $58

Adidas: $60

Sunglass Hut: $140

Sources & Photo Credits 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Lounge Talk: Sunglasses

2008-01-03T09:43:00.001-05:00

Dear Linen Lounge,

I have the hardest time picking out sunglasses. I can't seem to find the right kind to go with my face shape and the new aviator/bulky sunglasses look is too bold for me. I can't see when I'm driving, out with my friends or just taking a leisurely stroll. It's a real problem. Can you help me see again?
- Blinded in the Sunlight

P.S. I think you're awesome.

Dear Blinded in the Sunlight,

First off, thank you for your sweet words and for writing to us here at the Linen Lounge.

Now, on to your question - Finding a great pair of shades is crucial during sunny summer months - and equally as important for those days when the reflection off of the snow is slowly burning through your retinas. But what's more important in the hunt for the perfect pair of sunglasses is function. Yes, style is paramount, but if they don't do anything to protect your eyes, they're basically useless -- unless they're 'personality glasses' (which the Linen Lounge is whole-heartedly against). So the first rule of shopping for sunglasses is to always make sure that your sunshades have an appropriate amount of UV protection (100%!).

But rule two is what I am sure you are all here to find out about: Find Fabulous Face Flattering Frames (the 5 F's?...nevermind). I like to consider myself somewhat of a sunglass connoisseur. I've spent countless hours searching for the perfect pair, and lemme tell you, it's no walk in the park. I've tried on what I am sure is hundreds of pairs of sunglasses, ranging from a spinning rack at the grocery store, to the latest Versace shades at Sunglass Hut. I have about 10 pairs that I rely on to provide me maximum protection at maximum style, but finding them wasn't easy at all. It's not like finding a bag or a pair of shoes. You can see a pair of shoes and know they'll look fabulous on you. Sunglasses? Not so much. A pair of Rayban Wayfarers which looks cute on the rack might look way too dramatic on your face. It's about finding the best shapes, colors, and fits - more like choosing a pair of pants. But it CAN be done! When you've found the perfect pair of shades, they'll not only be a style statement, but also play up your best facial assets as well as minimizing your least favorite parts. We did some searching after receiving your question, and we fell upon this website. It is a great guide for finding the best shades for your face shape, complexion, and hairstyle.

If that doesn't help you out, below, we have included some examples of stylish (yet functional!) sunglasses worn correctly, and at a variety of price points.

Aviators are probably my favorite type of sunglasses. I own about 5 pairs of Aviators ranging from $6 ones from H&M to a pair of Marc Jacobs shades that I snagged at a local upscale outlet store. They flatter most face shapes, are undoubtedly stylish, and are likely to remain so forever. I don't think I'll ever get tired of this classic look. I know you say you don't particularly like aviators, but I say you give them another chance. A simple wire-frame with an oversized lens (such as the Raybans pictured below) can provide ample coverage, without restricting your peripheral vision, all while providing unbeatable eye protection.

Brad and Angelina

Ray Ban Aviators (The Original Aviator)
Sunglass Hut: $129.95

Urban Outfitters: $18.00

Rimless sunglasses are a relatively modern style of sunglasses. They're sleek, edgy, and reserved. While they're rarely ever particularly ostentatious, they still look very high fashion. Although I'm not a huge fan, my current favorite pair of sunglasses is a rimless style. Personally, I think it makes a style statement, and really, isn't that what we all want?

Kanye West

Yves Saint Laurent

Neiman Marcus: $290

Urban Outfitters: $10

Plastic shades have made a comeback as of a few years ago, and after Aviators, they are another personal favorite of mine. But watch out! Plastic shades can get very "bug-eyed" if not approached with care (a la Nicole Richie). But the right pair of plastic shades will look fun, youthful, and stylish.

Jennifer Lopez, Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie

Marc by Marc Jacobs
Nordstrom: $105

American Eagle: $20

When you've found out your perfect style and fit, check out the selection on the Nordstrom website, which categorizes their sunglasses by face shape compatibility. Hopefully some of these suggestions will help you choose the pair that's right for you, whether you prefer pricier quality pieces, or more affordable style statements. I'm afraid I can't offer you one solid suggestion regarding your issue (I'm sure by now, you know the importance of shape, size, and fit!). But if I were forced to choose a pair of sunglasses that worked for everyone, it would definitely be those Rayban aviators pictured above. I got a pair about 2 years ago, and while they've taken quite the beating, are still my favorite pair of sunglasses. They look great on most face shapes, and they go with almost every outfit. If you feel like saving up for a pair of designer sunnies, you can't go wrong with the Rayban Aviator.

Hope it helped!
- Anthony

Sources & Photo Credits 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Vanity Box: The Chi by Farouk Systems

2008-01-02T22:25:00.000-05:00

Every true fashionista knows that style is not only about clothes - style is an incorporation of wardrobe, shoes, hair, confidence, energy, etc. The point is, you can have a killer outfit but if your hair looks like a scrambled bird's nest (complete with bits of trash) and you aren't walking a couture runway, you most likely will look like a bum. And while this look can be, er, appropriate for Halloween, it is not an everyday look that we will ever condone.

So, what is the perfect look for your hair? Well, a flattering haircut is most important. Dozens of sites on the Internet outline different hairdo's for various face shapes. Visual-Makeover is a website that we found which highlights looks for each face shape as well as cuts to avoid and celebrities who share the same face shape as you.

Once you've found the perfect coif for you, it is crucial to take excellent care of your hair to create glistening, silky locks. I make sure to deep-condition my hair every now and then to combat the damages caused by heat-styling, changing weather conditions, and the tug and pull of daily life. Aussie Deeeeep 3 Minute Miracle Moisture Treatment is a conditioning treatment that I like to use occasionally to maintain my hair's natural resilience.

We all know that hair styles can coordinate with your outfit - a fancy updo would clash with sweats and a hoodie whereas a messy bun looks out of place at a swanky formal party. You must also consider different hair options when picking out your outfit. It is important to play with the texture of your hair - loose curls, straight hair, and regal waves are options that can add that extra bit of sass to any outfit.

For me, straight hair is a selected favorite. Naturally, I have quite curly hair that can only be quieted with several products. Straight hair provides me with a sleek alternative that is not only extremely versatile, but boosts my confidence immeasurably. The added self-esteem is what prompted me to invest in a Chi flat iron. The Chi, although pricey, showed me the true meaning of what straight hair looks like. Armed with my Chi, I can have glossy locks that automatically seems to make all of my outfits look much better. Not only does the Chi deliver astonishingly straight hair, but the Chi offers the possibility for flips, curls, and other cool waves.

Don't take it from me alone -- our product review is written by guest writer Liz K. :

On behalf of my fellow females who were not blessed with luscious curls or silky straight hair, I write this article as a beacon of hope. I myself fall somewhere along the middle of curly and wavy hair which makes it even more difficult to work with, when products are usually aimed towards specific types of hair. Even with quality hair products that tame my rebellious hair into almost frizz-less submission, nothing beats the ease and manageability of straight hair. For those of us who do not have the budget to afford chemical straightening, or like me, love to have the option of going natural, the best alternative is to invest in a quality flat iron.

With all the teasing, frying, and drying we do, its more plausible for us to look like we just stepped out of a fast food restaurant rather than a top salon. After going through two flat irons that left my hair a hot mess (like burnt toast!), I was introduced to the Chi by Farouk. In order to see just how well the Chi worked, I washed my hair at night and slept on it, waking up to find what looked like Shirley Temple curls after being trampled by a stampede of wild gazelles. Impressively, the Chi fully heated up in less than a minute and was ready to be used. Once I sectioned my hair and brushed it out, the Chi ran through my hair like a track star on steroids. In under a half-hour, this flat iron left my hair soft and smooth to the touch, while also giving my tresses a glossy sheen. Not only was I able to get my hair pin straight, but the thin shape of the Chi has the added benefit of being able to flip and curl for additional bounce and fullness.

The Turbo Flat Iron

Trying to get your hair to look as close to commercial-like as possible is a feat that not only takes a lot of patience, but also heightens the level of damage done to hair. Yet, once again Farouk covers the bases in the well thought out construction of the Chi. The Chi has ceramic-coated plates that not only protect hair from the intense heat, but also locks in moisture. Another wonderful quality that sets the Chi apart from other competitors is the most important fact that the straightness lasts. Compared to a cheaper iron that has you straightening your hair everyday and for a longer period of time, the Chi has damage under control. So take a deep breathe and kick humidity in the butt any day because once you are Chi-ed, the results can last for up to three days.

The Original Flat Iron

Like I said earlier, the Chi is a bit of an investment with prices that range from about ninety to two-hundred dollars for the latest models. However, if a flat iron is a beauty must for you, go for the best and stop wishing you have hair like the girl on TV. Quite frankly, you will look better.

Thanks Liz!

Here are some before and after pictures that will change your mind if you are still indecisive about buying this amazing product. These images are taken from "The World's Most Popular Beauty Store" and online hair-product mogul, Folica.com.

Note: These are not pictures of Linen Lounge writers.

Under Construction

2007-09-19T20:05:00.001-04:00

The Linen Lounge is currently undergoing some much-needed construction.

We hope to return soon, with bigger better and far more fabulous ideas and articles to share with you!

We hope to see you soon!

- AJ & Anthony

Rant: High Waists

2007-08-16T18:30:00.000-04:00

With the arrival of many new names on the fashion scene, comes the arrival of many new trends and designs. One that has been gaining increased popularity are high-waisted bottoms. Around the beginning of this fiscal year, I had no problem with the high waist because they showed up exclusively on skirts. Paired with a slouchy top and pretty pumps, a high-waisted pencil skirt was fierce [snaps fingers]. Designers have included high-waisted skirts in their designs of late, reassuring me that these types of skirts are do-able and thoroughly rock-able.

Kai Milla

Nicole Miller

Diane von Fursteberg

But alas, the high waist was taken to higher (pun intended) limits. High-waisted pants, and even worse, high-waisted jeans were introduced. Sure, some people succeeded in pulling them off but others failed....miserably.

I didn't just pick her because she once stole John Mayer from me...but this picture shows that even Jessica Simpson cannot pull off the high-waisted pant.

Mischa Barton was a bit more bold in her high-waisted denim but she doesn't look much better.

Oh, Lindsay. The high-waisted jean shorts are not working so well for you. Go with Lo(han).

So, if you want to try the high-waist trend, you might be able to find some pieces at your local stores. However, the high-waisted pant is something that I would not personally recommend. If you can pull it off, good for you! I'll stick with the high-waisted skirts for now.

Nordstrom: $42.00

Celeb-Rate: Teri Hatcher

2007-08-16T18:00:00.000-04:00

A few days ago, I had the pleasure of seeing the latest ad campaign by design team Badgley Mischka. The duo recently hired Teri Hatcher (of Desperate Housewives fame) as their latest spokesmodel. But it was after seeing these photographs and dissecting their latest designs that I thought to myself "Teri Hatcher?!" Let's just be brutally honest for a minute - Teri Hatcher is 42 years old. Before Desperate Housewives, every time someone mentioned her, you'd think "has-been," and as far as Desperate Housewives goes, Susan Meyer is easily the most annoying character out of the bunch.

In their Spring 2006 ad campaign, Badgley Mischka employed Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen as their spokesmodels. At the time, they were a polar opposite from the Teri Hatcher we know now. They were barely adults (only 19 years old), and at a peak in their fame. What exactly was the design duo trying to accomplish by hiring a washed-up, middle aged woman? Personally, I think they were trying to make a social statement. While the Olsen twins, with their multi-million dollar empire, might be seen as role models for the younger generation, Teri Hatcher is in many ways, a prime role model for an average middle aged woman. During the height of her fame, she played the romantic interest of Superman, but when Lois and Clarke ended, she dropped out of the radar for several years. For a while, it seemed that Teri Hatcher would never regain the fame she once had, but then she found her big break - Desperate Housewives. This simple primetime dramedy not only returned her to fame, but brought her fame that exceeded anything she had known previously. Any woman who thinks she's already passed her prime needs only to look at Teri Hatcher to realize that you can always rise again.

But Hatcher's former has-been status is not the only thing working against her. She's not exactly the face of blinding youth anymore. In a day and age where runways are riddled with teenagers barely old enough to smoke, and where celebrity blogs pretty much revolve around the lives of a select few party girls and heiresses, it seems impossible that a forty-two year old woman would be chosen to model for one of the hottest labels in fashion. I'm sure that someone so...mature, was not the obvious choice for what was surely a multi-million dollar ad campaign. No, I think that Badgley Mischka was making a statement when they hired Hatcher - that women of any age and any background can be total sexpots. Not only is the label trying to appeal and cater to an older clientèle, but they're trying to prove to the world that 40 really is the new 20, and that regardless of how many Mikimoto pearls they can buy, girls like Paris Hilton will never be as refined and accomplished as women who have several more life experiences under their belts.

What am I trying to get at? To sum it all up, although Teri Hatcher might have once been regarded as another typical has-been, now she is in the prime of her life. She is a perfect example of why the modern fascination with the extravagant, party-going lifestyle doesn't have a thing on the experience, the maturity, and the pure elegance that is a sophisticated grown woman. Personally, I'm sick and tired of turning on E! or logging onto Oh No They Didn't and seeing nothing but coverage over Paris Hilton's post-jail vacations, Lindsay Lohan's week long stints in Rehab, and Britney Spears' slow descent into has-been nothingness. It's women like Teri Hatcher, Angelina Jolie, and Julia Roberts who, regardless of a few more years under their belt, are the ultimate in sophistication and beauty.

Photo Credits: 1 2 3

Trend Watch : Colours of the World

2007-08-15T21:27:00.000-04:00

As many designers recently displayed their Fall 2007 collections on the runway, blandness and monotony were not on the menu. Colours flooded the runway and innovative ideas seemed to take shape as models walked forward.

One of the things that we, at Linen Lounge, loved about the looks this season were the many bursts of colour, the emergence of new shapes, and the overall magnificence and boldness of the designs.

Thus, to sum up the overall aura of the runway this season, we are showcasing several pieces that highlight this seasons colours as well as an in-store piece that you can work into your daily outfit.

Enjoy!

Steely Grey:
Chillingly warm.

Thakoon Panichgul

Diane von FurstenbergUrban Outfitters : $28.00

Citron Yellow:
Funky and fresh.

3.1 Phillip Lim

Benjamin Cho

American Apparel: $38.00

Brilliant Purple:
A bold new color that compliments most skin tones.

Zac Posen

Balenciaga

Charlotte-Russe: $12.99

Forest Green:
Our prediction for the next it-color.

Valentino

Christian Dior

Target : $9.99

The Linen Lounge Spotlight: Coco Chanel

2007-08-15T03:00:00.000-04:00

The Life & Times of Coco Chanel

Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel was not born into a glamorous childhood by any means. She was one of six children born to Albert and Jeanne Chanel, and was orphaned by the age of 12. It was at the orphanage where she learned the trade of a seamstress. At the turn of the 20th century, Chanel worked as a cabaret singer at a French cafe, where she gained the nickname "Coco." After an active social life and a number of affairs, Gabrielle Coco Chanel, along with the help of friend, Arthur "boy" Capel, opened her first shop (1910). Only five years later, in 1915, Chanel's simple shop had grown into a fashion-powerhouse. The same year she opened her first couture house, and began gaining great fame. In 1923, Chanel released No. 5, her signature fragrance (the first ever perfume to bear a designer's name). Although there are several rumors as to how she came up with the name, Chanel actually decided on No. 5 because it was the fifth perfume sample that she tried. Coco Chanel continued taking the fashion world by storm, bringing about several new fashion standards which can still be seen in all their glory on today's runways. After a brief retirement, Chanel returned to her design studio and continued making great strides in fashion until her death in 1971.

In 1983, Karl Lagerfeld was appointed Artistic Director at Chanel and took over the Chanel empire. He took the vision, style, class, and elegance of Chanel and helped usher it into the 21st century, and continues to amaze the world just as Coco Chanel did during her reign.

An Everlasting Contribution to the World of Fashion

Throughout her monumental life, Coco Chanel made countless contributions to the world of fashion. Almost singlehandedly, Chanel revolutionized the future of fashion. While many believe Hubert de Givenchy (who designed the costumes for the film Breakfast at Tiffany's) was the designer in charge of making the "Little Black Dress," a staple in every woman's wardrobe, it was actually Coco Chanel who gave us this wardrobe essential. When she first premiered the little black dress, Vogue began calling it the "New Uniform of the Modern Woman." Around the same time, Chanel also designed the famed Chanel Suit - a knee length skirt and boxy jacket. The Chanel Suit was, and remains to this day, one of the highly revered and respected articles of clothing worn by the most elite, wealthy, high-class women. Chanel then designed the Quilted Bag, a simple accessory that took the fashion world by storm, and is still considered one of the best bags available. While each of these mentioned designs are monumental fashion breakthroughs, they are all overshadowed by Coco Chanel's signature fragrance, Chanel No. 5. Since it's release, Chanel No. 5 has been the ultimate in high-class taste, and the classic run-to fragrance loved and adored by women around the world. In fact, Marilyn Monroe, upon being asked what she wore to bed answered, "Two drops of Chanel No. 5." The fragrance hasn't changed since it's release, and is still one of the best selling perfumes in the world. Though it is not confirmed, it is believed that a bottle of Chanel No. 5 is sold every 30 seconds.

Chanel's Fall 2007 Collection

Karl Lagerfeld

Under the scrupulous direction of Karl Lagerfeld, the Chanel brand has continued to be one of the leading faces of style, and is expected to be so for generations to come. Here is a sample of the amazing work Lagerfeld premiered for Chanel's Fall 2007 Couture and Ready-to-Wear Collections.

The Linen Lounge Salutes Coco Chanel

Once a month, the Linen Lounge will feature a Spotlight review of a designer or brand. We will try to feature legendary designers, current designers, and eventually, we also hope to feature newer unknown designers. For our first Spotlight designer, we had to look through the greats in the fashion industry to find someone who made amazing strides, who put the utmost attention into detail and the highest level of craftsmanship into her work, and remained the epitome of sophistication. Chanel made some of the greatest advances in fashion design, and she really did revolutionize the industry in every sense of the word. Today's modern fashions look very reminiscent of fashion shows from the 40's and 50s, and it is more important than ever to remember the pioneers who made such great contributions. So when we were looking for our first Spotlight designer, Coco Chanel seemed the obvious choice. The Linen Lounge is very proud to honor such an extraordinary visionary.

Coco Chanel

“Elegance is not the prerogative of those who have just escaped from adolescence, but of those who have already taken possession of their future.” - Coco Chanel

Sources & Photo Credits: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8