Ruffle Your Feathers!

Call it a response to rebel against the "Rocker Chic Look" that has been embracing the fashion runways for fall 2009. Chicago women want the added option of looking feminine in their wardrobe on those last days of summer, wearing ruffles, bows and ties. We are never boring and enjoy marching to our own style pace!

Pencil Me In!

Blame it on the success of the hit show"Mad Men," or just the mirroring of the 60's as one of the season's biggest trends, but pencil skirts are back again!  Chicago's most fashionable females are emulating the look in solid colors, prints  & with the additon of slits. Try adding a great pair of stiletto pumps with a simple white shirt for the sassy look of Joan or Betty.  Oh, but please, no cigarettes!  

Guest Blogger: Sara Saltanovitz

As a Fashion Editor, one of my jobs was to organize a team of creative people that, together, made it possible to produce a successful publication. Sara Saltanovitz quickly became one of my favorite hair stylists & makeup artists to work with,helping us to produce countless fashion spreads.  Sara has agreed to, over the next few weeks, share her vision and expertise in the world of hair and makeup with us, as my new Guest Blogger!  

So stay tuned people - Sara really knows her stuff!

Fall's Chicest Makeup Accessory

This fall Old Hollywood makeup is the craze; think Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. This look was seen gracing countless runways, such as Gucci, Christian LaCroix and Yves Saint Laurent.

To achieve this look give your skin a radiant complexion by mixing a dot of either Borghese or Armani brightening with your foundation and or moisturizer and apply all over face and lids.  Your skin will never go out of style with this look of clean and radiant!

As for your eyes this can be a little tricky using liquid liner. So to make it easier use a black liner as a base then go over it with liquid liner on top of it.  Line the top lid of the eyes as close as possible to the lashes.  Then take black liquid liner and go over the pencil eyeliner sweeping it up and outward to the corner of the eye.  This will give you the "cat-eyed" look.  

There are many liquid liners available from matte to shinny finishes so go to the department store and try all different brands on your hand to determine the finish you like and also what applicator feels comfortable to you.

Bold lips painted Red is a must for this fall look.  Now you need to decide what shade of red is right for you.  Fair complexions should wear a true red, medium complexions wear warm shades with a red/+orange base and for dark skin, burgundy 

is best.

Be sure to wear plenty of mascara to create a dramatic effect. My new obsession is Fiberwig (paint on false lashes) available at Sephora. Don't forget to keep your brows full by using a brow powder or wax color to give them extra thickness.

-Sara Saltanovitz 

Men of Style: Billy Dec

Billy Dec's clothing style can be described as vintage mixed with something new but perhaps his best style is his ability to give back to the community. I first met the CLTV TV host, attorney & CEO/Founder Rockit RanchProductions (Rockit Bar & Grill, Sunda, The Underground, all of which earned him US “Operator of the Year), when we both volunteered to be "Principal For The Day" at Lake View High School. One of his pet projects is the Chicago 20016 Olympic Committee Director of Cultural Relations.

His blog on interviewing celebrities with a Chicago connection on the Olympics is really fun. Please check it out:

www.facebook.billydec.com, www.twitter.billydec.com www.aChicagoThing.com

 

 

I sat down with my friend Billy recently to learn more about his style & the city that he loves.

Barbara Glass:  What is your definition of style?

Billy Dec:  The way in which one expresses their character, personality, comfortablility.

 

BG:  What is the one item that you can't live without in your closet? 

BD:  My underwear from Ellen, super comfortable and makes me dance… 

 

BG:  Finish this sentence, "A perfect outfit for me is...."

BD:  Old Jeans, New Kicks, a super soft & worn in vintage tshirt, a comfy hoodie and my Rockit baseball cap

 

BG:  Where is your favorite place to shop in Chicago?

BD:  I’m all about diversity, recycling, supporting locals and trying random things all over the city… so anywhere that speaks to me at whatever time I come across it… for example, in the last month alone I bought some beat up tshirts from the salvation army… a smooth fedora from a cute little boutique owned by a local couple on Clark called p&l… some cool shorts from burton…  and a new handmade suit from Oxxford, which, if you don’t know, is one of the last handmade suit factories in the country, is one of the most respected in the entire world for the last century, and is located right here in Chicago.  (and needs our support to stay strong so buy American, buy Chicago).

 

BG:  What trend would you like to see disappear?

BD:  Guys that wear jeans way to skinny, or way too baggy…

 

BG:   What business advice would you give to someone who wants to walk in your footprints?

BD:  In addition to continually taking classes in everything you can and train your mind to be a sponge… surround yourself with people who have elements of what you want, ask to follow/help them or just watch them when you can.  Learn every minute, work every minute, even if your not paid or not sure it will help you get where you want to be… and keep going… don’t let haters, doubters or any kind of miserable negativity bring you down.  The people that really make it big on their own and are happy dealt with the same and will tell you the same… and will even keep you motivated and going in the best direction possible (which is why you want to work to surround yourself with them by any means necessary).

 

BG:  Tell me something about you that would surprise people.

BD:  I want to be a stay at home dad, keep writing my blog www.aChicagoThing.com between changing diapers and baby naps, and help Chicagoans be really good at fundraising and executing philanthropic efforts with some of the tricks I have learned over the years.  As well as just reach their dreams and have the best lives possible while always continually trying to make this the best city ever to live in!

Exaggerated Shoulders

Balmain Fall 2009

Balmain Fall 2009

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2009

3.1 Phillip Lim Fall 2009

Givenchy Fall 2009

Givenchy Fall 2009

We all know that fashion mirrors the past and such is certainly the case for fall 2009 with the revival of pinched or exaggerated shoulders from the influence of the 80's. No, I'm not talking about Norma Kamali or Claude Montan's football shoulder pads as in "I am women, hear me roar." It's a quiet & elegant approach to an emphasis on shoulders, one of the sexiest parts of a women.  The trend has made its way onto the runway with labels like Givenchy, 3.1 Phillip Lim and, most noticeably, Balmain, who features the look in almost all of their recent designs, leading the pack.  It is for this reason that Cristophe Decarnin, the brilliant designer for Balmain, is my new Designer of the Moment!  

The New Neutral

It wasn't that long ago that I remember my mom & grandmother navigating through fashon stores to find the perfect shoe in the color called bone, beige or white to coordinate with all their matching outfits for spring & summer. Yes, there was a time in fashion history when metallics were worn at night for special occasions only. Fast forward & the new neutrals today are definitely metallics like gold, silver or bronze worn for day. Women are embracing shoes, handbags & even jackets as their finishing polish this summer in Chicago.

Who Wears Short Shorts!?

Shorts are no longer confined to just the daytime!  Chicago women are having fun showing a little skin by turning to shorts for both day and night.  To dress up this look just keep it simple with a cute pair of pumps, or be outrageous & add something funky like boots or hats. It's all about showing off those great legs!

Skinny Jeans = Big Style!

Put down that doughnut. No more extra calories if you want to wear one of the hottest trends in jeans. Yes, we are talking about skinny jeans & they will be around for the fall & winter. We know fashion reflects or repeats the past &, in the 80's, they were called cigarette jeans before most people nixed the habit in restaurant, bars & offices. This time around the jeans are available in a variety of colors & have stretch to help hold the shape. Get on that treadmill immediately!

Women with Style: Julie Darling

Some women are born talented, some are born beautiful and in Julie's case, she was also born with an amazing sense of style that flatters her body & lifestyle.

Julie Darling first made a name for herself in Chicago as a model which she continues to do for the past 20 years. Moving on she was tapped to open the Chicago office of Gen Art as the Director in 2002 for 2.5 years & put GenArt on the map here. Today she is an Event Marketer and Publicist in the Lifestyle and Luxury arena with a philosophy to  expose the right consumers to the right concept. Some of her  Clients include the opening of Piazza Sempione. Another client, Lake Forest Sportscars, are one of the lead sponsors to bringing back the Oak Street Fashion Show with Modern Luxury as their media partner.

Recently I sat down with my friend Julie to unfold some of the answers to defining her style.

Barbara Glass: What is your definition of style?  

Julie Darling: Classic and timeless with a bit of a twist. For instance, narrow black pants and fitted sweater with blue/black animal print Lanvin pumps to keep it interesting".

BG: What is the one item that you can't live without in your closet? 

JD:  Like many women it's the perfect oversized handbag. Right now it's one from Cole Haan. Yes, I'm guilty of carrying everything but I'm ready to get on a plane at a moments notice which has happened recently!"

BG:  Finish this sentence: "A perfect outfit for me is..."

JD:  The little black dress, Hermes scarf tied on my handbag, black stiletto pumps" - "Sexy, confident, timeless, and perfect for any occasion.

BG: Where is your favorite place to shop in Chicago?

JD:  Barney's with my favorite fashion expert Cuetrice "Q" Scott". "Hands down he is the quintessential stylist. He understands my personal style and he understands lines in almost an architectural sense.  He knows what will work without me being there to try things on.

BG:  What trend would you like to see disappear?

JD:  Anything that it baggy, unfitted and loose". "A woman should show her shape. 

BG:  Tell me something about you that would surprise people.

JD:  I'm an avid animal lover and have a 120 lb Newfoundland named Lola. If I wasn't a publicist and an event marketer I'd own a doggy day care with all the amenities as well as food, toys, clothing.

 

Thanks again Julie for such a great interview!

We're Begging for Leggings!

For several seasons now, women have tossed out their pantyhose, opting to show a little skin with bare legs.  This summer, however, women of all ages are covering back up turning to trendy leggings to wrap their gams.  Chicago's most stylish women are pairing leggings, in all different lengths, colors and fabrics, with lingerie tops, cardigans and tunics.  The look certainly gives a woman a leg up on the competition!

Book of the Month : "Fashion Now 2"

In honor of Taschen's 25th Anniversary, this fashion book is one of the special editions. Edge magazine says, "Perhaps the most extensive, complete , and well written encyclopedia of who's who in fashion today." It's a must for any fashion student or chic fashionista!

Available at Amazon.com

Guest Blogger: Michael Jacobson

How to Make Your Color Last and Keep Your Hair Healthy in the Summer Sun

Keeping your hair healthy and your color from fading in the summer sun can be a challenge.  Here are a few tips for keeping your hair looking its best. 

First, it is essential that you use color safe hair products – especially shampoo and conditioner.  Most upscale salon brands are color safe.  Most drugstore brands are not.  Spend the money on good products that won’t strip your color and will keep your hair healthy.  After all, if you’re spending money on your color, you should also spend some money to protect it.  Your colorist can recommend what products would be best for you.  As a general rule, stay away from products with a high alcohol content.

Second, consider using a UVA protection spray leave in conditioner during the summer months.  Especially if you’ll be spending extended time in the sun (swimming, boating, playing tennis, etc).  This will go along way in preserving your color.  I recommend Essential Repair Anti Fade conditioner by Pureology used on a daily basis.  In fact, I recommend throwing a bottle in your beach bag and combing it through your hair several times a day when you’re spending the day in the sun.  And, of course, if you really want to protect your hair, consider wearing a hat or scarf when in the sun for an extended time.

Regardless of how careful you are, by summer’s end your hair will undoubtedly need a boost.  Many salons offer protein and keratin treatments that can significantly help restore depleted hair by infusing it with omega 3 fatty acids and other important nutrients to bring back bounce and shine.  The overly cautious may even opt to receive these treatments periodically throughout the summer to keep hair healthy and looking good.  Consult with your Colorist or Stylist for a plan that’s best for you.

-Michael Jacobson, Hairstylist & Partner - Michael & Michael Salon

Long Dresses for Long Summer Days

With hot summer days in full bloom in Chicago, women are turning to the cool long flowing dresses for comfort. Whether you favor colorful solids or print dresses, skip the stilettos for this trend & look to flip flops or gladiator sandals to complete the look.

In-Vested!

Doris in H&M Vest, Chicago, IL

On the street, Chicago, IL

Proenza Schouler Resort 2010

Alexander Wang Resort 2010

Vests are not just a welcome addition to men's three piece suits. Adding a vest as the finishing piece to your look will make you a fashionista this summer & continue until resort 2010 or maybe forever!

Women with Style: Thea Robinson

In addition to being the Area Manager at Burberry & recently being honored with the Burberry Icon Award as the top store manager in the Americas, Thea Robinson has an impressive educational & retail background . She studied Fashion Design & Marketing in London, received her MBA in International Business and took business & fashion classes at the well respected St. Martin. While studying in London she claims she did every job imaginable including working for Louis Vuitton to working backstage during London Fashion Week for designer stars like Alexander McQueen & Antonio Beradi. She states, "My experiences were the best education and are my greatest awards." Thea's style is indeed a reflection of her rich background, dressing in a classic Burberry look with an edge, preferring dresses & skirt suits. She is definitely one of Chicago's style leaders.

I sat down recenlty with my friend Thea to reveal some of the secrets to her success.  

Barbara Glass:  What is your definition of style?

Thea Robinson: I love acronyms. STYLE is:

Staying

True to

Yourself while

Living on the

Edge of Fashion

BG:  What is the one item that you can't live without in your closet? 

TR:  A very large handbag.  My bags seem to get bigger, but the designs and fabrications keep evolving, it is amazing.  They are practical and they contain everything we need.

BG: Finish this sentence, a perfect outfit for me is...?

TR:  A beautifully designed dress, outfitted with a fabulous (Burberry) coat, accessorized with the perfect handbag and stunning shoes.

 

BG:  Where is your favorite place to shop in Chicago other than Burberry?

TR:  Lately, it is the Broadway Antiques Market.  Recently, I was shopping for furniture and found my fate in a gorgeous blond mink fur capelet in immaculate condition, for less than a fraction of the current retail prices.   The assortment and quality of goods there are impressive, and the staff is helpful and friendly.

BG:  What trend would you like to see disappear?

TR:  The dreadful wearing the pants belted below the bum.  It is horrible and needs to die FAST! 

BG:  Tell me something about you that would surprise people.

TR:  My experience in the world of fashion and retail is extremely diverse and has been very entertaining.  I once worked in a children's showroom in the Atlanta Apparel Mart.  The owners asked if I wanted to join them at a concert their sons were playing in.  Little did I know,  they were the parents of Chris and Rich Robinson, The Black Crowes.

Thanks again to Thea Robinson for being such a great friend and supporter for all these years!  

A Touch of Hair Glamour

Celebrities like Paris Hilton, Debra Messing & Vanessa Hudgens are looking to add accessories to their locks like headbands & 70's looking head scarves. Chic Chicago females are following in their footsteps with some of the summer's great accents.  And what Chicago Bears fan can ever forget the courage & individuality of super bowl winning quarterback Jim McMahon when he exhibited & flaunted those amazing fashionable headbands supporting a dear cause of his agent & wife, Steve & Shelly Zucker, like Juvenille Diabetes. Always a winner with Chicago fans like me.

Guest Blogger: Michael Jacobson

Perfect Hair for Weddings & Parties

When doing your hair for special events and parties, remember that your hair is just another accessory – like your belt and shoes – it should go with the outfit.  Nothing too formal for a more casual outfit or occasion and vice versa.  For instance, a traditional, more elaborate upstyle (like a traditional french twist) rarely looks right with a summery garden party dress and sandals.  In contrast, something entirely different may be called for when wearing a Vera Wang gown.  You always want your hair to complement your outfit, not compete with it.  For in salon do’s – always let your stylist know what the event is and what you are wearing so that he can give you just the right look for you.  For more formal occasions like weddings, I recommend having your hair done in the salon, if possible.   For more casual events, and if you’re doing it yourself, keep it simple.  Pulling your hair back into a low, soft and loose bun (chignon) may be a good choice.  For straight, longer hair, a small braid in the front bang area pinned back with simple bobby pin or festive hairpin can also be a good look (think Jennifer Aniston).  Browse through fashion magazines (and even celebrity rags!) for ideas you like and can easily imitate at home.  Just remember, it’s about the whole look – and your hair is your most important accessory!

-Michael Jacobson, hairstylist - Michael & Michael Salon