Ready For Summer?

With summertime comes soaring temperatures, endless pool parties and get-togethers. Sometimes it can be challenging to look pulled together while taking into consideration the sweltering heat.  After all, the traditional beach flip-flop, shorts and a tee just won’t do for the average Stylista.  Natasha shows us how to keep it simple while looking like effort was made…

You can’t go wrong with a fitted little black dress paired with a stacked heel sandal.  Depending upon where you are in Southern California, temperatures inevitably dip at night, so bring along your favourite, worn denim jacket.  A top bun keeps the look clean and fresh while the mirrored aviators add sass.

I like it!

Not Your Dad’s Suit

Suiting up has changed drastically.  No more the conservative investment banker suit of the past.  Now it’s all about a choice of colours, as well as silhouettes.  I happen to find a sleek, clean, silhouette with just the right detail appealing.Èlan is wearing a Top Shop suit, Zara shirt & shoes from his collection.  In addition, he has opted for an edgier haircut to bring more dimension to his overall look.   

Well done Èlan!

DJ Adam Excess

Whether Adam Casey (better known as Adam Excess) is gearing up to DJ a gig in some part of the world, or just hanging out prowling for catchy beats to add to his endless library of music, his style is always on point.A backwards baseball cap, destroyed tee, loose cropped cotton pants, sneakers, arm candy and an exquisite tattoo make for a pulled together, yet relaxed look. http://www.soundcloud.com/adam-excess

Summertime Sun Calls For A Fabulous Summer Hat

The beaming summertime sun is on the way, and every year I say I’m going to find the perfect hat.  One which will guard and protect me from those rays, unfortunately responsible for sudden outbreaks of hyper-pigmentation all over my face, if I’m not covered with my 50+ sunscreen.  For those unfamiliar, hyper-pigmentation is a harmless condition, which causes dark patches or freckles on the skin.  Anyway, as I hat hunt each season, either they’re so large I envision passersby dodging me on crowded city sidewalks ( even though there aren’t many of these in Southern California), or they’re far too small to serve as anything more than a fashion statement.  I’m happy to announce (drum roll please), Gladys Tamez has made my quest super easy.

This style is perfect!  My face is completely covered, and there is nothing obnoxious about the size.  Gladys Tamez is a millinery genius, so thrilled with this beauty!  Treat yourself to a visit to her beautiful studio for your very own treasure.

P.S. Not so sure about this retro filter I used…seems a little odd with the scratched face effect, then again, it’s not about me…focus Donyale, it’s about the fabulous hat!  So be it, a wise person once said, a few imperfections add a bit of je ne sais quoi, lol…seems like a fair trade off to me.  We could all use a smidgeon of je ne sais quoi…

The Tuxedo Jacket…And, Yes, The Boyfriend Jean

When I become acquainted with something I like, I am quite the loyalist, whether an amazing person, face serum, body creme, clothing item, etc.  For now, my latest obsession?  Boyfriend jeans!  It’s difficult to resist a great pair…they’re super comfortable, can be dressed up or down and have a certain sex appeal. Several months ago I shared a casual look, so now for a dressier take.

1.)  This Ines de La Fressange tuxedo jacket goes with so many pieces, it’s 3/4 length adds balance to the vintage boyfriend jeans cropped when slightly rolled up

2.)  The white tee is unfinished with a beautiful drape, and super sheer, a sample from a designer friend

3.)  As far as jewelry, I’ve worn these pieces consistently for nearly a year, may be time for change;)…this vintage rose gold bangle makes a statement, and layered necklaces have been my preferred look for the last several years…

4.)  The black stone at the top is a natural black garnet gem stone, I have an affinity toward raw gems, there’s something so fascinating about the fact they grow from the earth in such a beautiful state…polished gems have their place, however, overall I’m inevitably drawn to the raw…so exquisite

5.)  Next, is a very special staple piece to me…a rose gold K Kane initial necklace with a small diamond for just the right touch

6.)  Finally, a surprise Christmas gift, which placed a huge smile on my face when received (I’d been eyeing it for months), this K/LLR necklace with such precise detail

7.)  To finish this look, I decided on this 2 1/2 inch Miss L-Fire, art deco inspired pump, this brand is a favourite of mine simply because of it’s uniqueness and timelessness…perfect for fall/winter, although a strappy sandal with height would be best for summer

In the next few days, I’ll post pics to Instagram of how this look wears…

Last, but not least, and given this is my first post since the start of 2015, Happy New Year to you all!  May your heart’s desires manifest, blessings chase you down and laughter be like medicine to your soul… Let’s make 2015 the best year yet!!!

xo

Native Union Pop Bluetooth Retro Handset

Most everyone who knows me, knows I’m “old school” in many ways… movie night for me could very well include an Audrey Hepburn, Bette Davis or Alfred Hitchhock classic (thanx Mother).  Or maybe an evening with Sly & The Family Stone, Queen or Earth, Wind & Fire emitting from the vintage turntable (thanx Dad).  Suffice it to add, when I learned about the Native Union Pop Bluetooth I could hardly wait to get my hands on one.

Aside from the retro look reminiscent of days when life was oh so good, this handy little gadget eliminates up to 96% of radiation compared to direct use of a mobile phone, the audio is crystal clear and you are free to navigate your device while chatting away.  The handset was designed by David Turpin, and inspired by the classic 1950’s Bakelite phone, it has a great feel with a soft, rubberized texture .  Also, no annoying cord attachments with Bluetooth technology, although there is an older plug-in version.  I must admit, I was a bit amused by the mere thought of rocking this accessory in the beginning, however, I use it consistently…

while catching up on the latest with those I love.

Grab one for yourself or get a head start on your Christmas stocking stuffers, visit Native Union or Ron Robinson at Fred Segal

Photography: Sheena Brown

Stylista Muse

Although it felt like a mild heatwave today here in Southern California, you’d never be the wiser by the looks of this lovely young actress and transplant from London, Natalie Gellar.  Her look is streamlined, modern and feminine.  She is wearing a light cotton tank top with a Zara skirt, a roomy Louis Vuitton tote and Topshop shoes.  The simplicity of this ensemble is the reason I was drawn to it.  There is definitely a place for the ‘over the top’ and eccentric, nevertheless, incorporating great basics like these, adds balance.  Natalie completes her look with a pop of red nail polish…keep on the lookout for this rising star.

Classic Specs, Serving Up Panache, With Stylish Frames

Remember the old cliche? “Guys don’t make passes at girls who wear glasses,” or how frames meant acquiring the unwanted moniker of ‘nerd’ or ‘geek’?  Clearly, this is no longer the case, apparently it is cool to be a nerd these days, hence the new hip label, ‘Geek Chic.’  Glasses have become quite the fashion accessory, and there are sites sprouting up by the day, offering them at the most reasonable prices ever imagined.  Although, I’ve ordered from many of these sites, my personal favourite is Classic Specs with a showroom based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The website is easy to maneuver through, the frames are durable (handmade using premium acetate and reinforced hinges) and the customer service is excellent.  Many wonder “How can frames be ordered online?  I’d have to try them on to know whether I like them.”  Classic Specs factored this in and makes it super simple, upload a photo and use the virtual try-on feature to see how your frame choice(s) will look, this has been fool-proof for me, as the frames look very similar in person.  Next, when you fall in love with the ideal frame, fax your prescription over or request to have someone from the Classic Specs team call your optometrist for it.

The frames are $89 for everything, which includes polycarbonate prescription lenses (high index lenses are an additional $20 per pair), anti-reflective and anti-scratch coatings and free shipping both ways in the event they don’t work out as planned.  They also cover any adjustments your new frames may require, and if there is a charge, they will gladly reimburse you.  If this isn’t enough, each frame comes with a one year warranty from defects, and if they are accidentally broken, just send them back and receive a fresh pair for $25.

I’m on my second pair, added to the many overpriced styles I acquired long before discovering Classic Specs, and eagerly awaiting new styles so I can continue to build my collection.  Another amazing perk is they gladly replace the lenses in your old frames, with each new pair ordered from them, for a mere $47.  I jumped on this, and so happy I did, a couple pairs of my old frames are like new again.

Lastly, but certainly not least, 6% of the proceeds for every frame purchased from Classic Specs is donated to New Eyes For The Needy, a brilliant program which assists children, the working poor and the elderly within the United States.  This is surely my favourite part of all, with clear vision, children are able to effectively learn in school, adults are able to embark on employment opportunities and the elderly are able to coexist safely.  Please check out the New Eyes For The Needy site, there is so much great information you may want to pass on to someone in need.

When I first discovered Classic Specs a little less than one year ago in a Vogue article, this all seemed way too good to be true, now I know better, I just wished I’d discovered them sooner.

To browse the many different frames styles, visit Classic Specs on the web or in person, at 85 North 3rd Street Suite 112 Brooklyn, New York 11249

Photos Courtesy of Classic Specs

Celebrity Stylist, June Ambrose

June Ambrose is without doubt on my top five list of favourite stylists.  She’s been at it for 20 years, and her career continues to excel.  With a knack for styling and re-branding a never ending roster full of celebrities, VH-1 has taken notice, and now we are able to catch a behind the scenes glimpse at how she does it on ‘Styled By June’ every Monday at 9:30 pm eastern time.  Surely it isn’t easy with a husband, two beautiful children, a New York based fashion consulting business (Mode Squad), and a turban line with an array of offerings from $125 to $150.  Nevertheless, she is somehow able to thrive in each area, clearly this lovely lady has the Midas touch.

I remember working with June Ambrose many years ago on a Hype Williams music video production.  At the time she was not yet established, and we didn’t have the opportunity to talk beyond a brief introduction and a few pleasantries.  However, as I observed her work from afar, it was clear to me she had her own unique aesthetic which translated beautifully… I also recall salivating over a plethora of amazing wardrobe pieces.  It is inspiring to see how her career has transcended to such great heights.

Here is a look at the incredible June Ambrose, for more, tune into ‘Styled By June’ on VH-1:

Stylista Muse

I’ve always loved the look of mixing patterns, I don’t do it enough… on the fashion to do list it goes!  Adeline Michele does it very well here.

Photo: Heidi Jewell/Under the Guise