Shopping Report: London, Paris and Barcelona



 Hello Strutters. The last couple of weeks I’ve been in London, Paris and Barcelona visiting old architecture, museums and eating all the chocolate croissants I could get my hands on. One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to window shop. In London I just had to pay a visit  to Topshop, the UK’s higher priced H&M featuring cutting-edge designs. I love Topshop and have purchased a few items from their online store. But Oh my I was completely overwhelmed when I walked into the store. Located right on the corner of Oxford Street (one of London’s busiest locations) this vast emporium is not just the largest Topshop in the country - it is a tourist attraction in its own right. There are literally thousands of tops and dresses for sale here and it is quite a scene. It was basically it’s own city: 5 stories of new and vintage clothes, shoes, accessories complete with a hair salon, personal stylists and nail salon. I was so completely overwhelmed that I couldn’t decide on anything to purchase. Not to mention the night before the hubby and I had dinner with one of his London-based coworkers and her boyfriend. Needless to say there was quite a lot of drinking followed by hitting the dance floor at two different clubs where more drinking took place. So my shopping skills were a little affected. But I enjoyed walking through that dizzying and maddening store. Definitely a must-see if you’re ever in London. There is a location in New York that opened last year but I’m not sure how big it is compared to the London store.





Topshop on Oxford street.

My next stop was Paris. For even the most ardent shopaholic, tackling the epicenter of la mode can evoke panic. If you’ve been to Paris before you know how overwhelming shopping can be in this city. The options are endless. But I made a strong effort. I went all over the city window shopping and picked up a lovely sweater in a small boutique in the Marais. But because I could not afford Chanel I had to go in search of the new H&M on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. After being banned in 2007 from opening on the famed street, the newly opened three-storey flagship store, designed by acclaimed French architect Jean Nouvel, contrasts sandstone with industrial ironwork, moving lights and LCD screens. Apparently this H&M is not supposed to look like any other H&M but while I was overwhelmed with Topshop in London, I was underwhelmed with this store despite the fancy address. But it was packed. Where there is an H&M, folks will come; it’s like moths to a flame. Besides the location, the only thing unique about this H&M, is the pristine white bag with H&M 88 Avenue des Champs-Élysées in silver embossed lettering. And I have the bag to prove it. I love a good shopping bag! 

 


Inside the H&M on the Champs-Élysées.



Although I couldn’t afford the higher end brands in Paris I still wanted to look and feel higher end merchandise. I found Maje, Sandro, Comptoir des Cotonniers, and all the wonderfully trendy french chain stores at Le Bon Marché,one of the most famous Parisian department stores. And for those whose clothing allowance is in a whole other stratosphere, there were the likes of Lanvin, Kenzo, Maison Margiela and Marc Jacobs, along with shoes, bags and makeup. Clearly I did not belong in this category. My self esteem was very bruised when I left that place but thank god for the pastry shop across the street. At least there I could afford something!



Inside Le Bon Marché

 My final European stop was Barcelona where I did a lot of window shopping in the most popular commercial districts.  But like London and Paris there were a couple of stores I had to peruse: Zara and Mango, two brands that emerged from Spain. One of the most successful Spanish retail chains in the world – Zara never offers more then 10 items in the same style, which can drive you crazy if they don’t have your size, but will prevent you from looking like someone else when you walk down the street. While the chain offers trendy fashion, there's a level of elegance and sophistication that Zara brings and at better quality than an H&M. They have a fabulous coat collection and I’m dying to nab a couple in the states.There was also a Mango on every corner of the city with great pieces that have not hit the US stores yet.

I didn’t go overboard with the shopping in any of the cities I visited because I was really focused on good food, drinks and an overall cultural experience. And let's not forget that exchange rate!  But every time I travel abroad to major cities I can’t help but notice how as we are becoming more globalized we are all looking the same. Don’t get me wrong; there were slight style differences in the three cities I visited. For instance in London, the style mavens were slightly more edgy, daring and cheeky; in Paris, it was all about mixing the classics with the new for understated elegance. And everyone looked good from tiny tots to little old ladies; in Barcelona, the look was more muted and casual with major practicality. But it just seems that everyone is wearing the same look in the major cities of the world. Tights, boots, over sized sweaters, scarfs, cross over body bag, leather jacket etc. etc. you know the look. And you’ve seen it a hundreds times in your city. But cheers to styles that work across the globe, making it easier for women to have some modicum of style no matter where they live or their budget.



 

Style Maven: Trans-Decade Diva

Strutters, the style maven series continues with a gal who really personifies what it means to have supernova style. Whether she knows this or not, Allison keeps you wondering 'what will she wear today?' One day she saunters in the office donning a long from fitting dress complete with a wide brim suede hat oozing sophistication. The next day you may fnd her in a pair of jeans, t-shirt, hightops and a members only style jacket. Her style is very eclectic but uniquely her own paying hommage to the style mavens from the 70s and 80s with a  major dose of conversation starting accessories. What I love the most about Allison’s personal style is that while it's ever changing, she’s not afraid to mix things up. And her looks always  exude  an |'I'm down for whatever' feel.  And that's what true style is all about; wearing clothes that look like they belong on you and work for you, instead of against you so you can conquer the world without a worry. Strutters, meet Allison. She keeps it funky for ya!

 How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as trans-decade fresh to death.

What is your style inspiration?

My style inspiration are old pics from the 70's in Chicago of my Mother and Aunts, teenagers on the Brooklyn express subways, SoCal chola chicks, wealthy women who think work is attending charity galas, and whatever the fog feels like doing when I wake up in the morning.

What style rules do you live by?

No flip-flops unless I'm at the beach, always a splash of color, and always dress like you might run into your ex. Because one of these days, you will.

What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?

Suede Wedge Booties, Gold Fist Afro Pic and High-Waisted/Wide-Leg Tweed Trouser

What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?

"It's not what you wear, it's how you rock it."

 What stores do you hit up on the regular to get your fashion fix?

Truth be told, I'm not a huge shopper. I don't get that same thrill of the chase that most women do, probably because with a 26' waist and 41' hips I've had more than a couple breakdowns in the fitting room. So I've taken to shopping on-line: Gilt Group and Haute look are great, providing huge discounts on top designers like Marc Jacobs and Nicole Miller.

I know it's Babylon, but Forever 21 and H&M are great for cute trends that you can't resist but know they're not going to be around long and not worth spending a lot of money on. Also for getting a quick cute dress for a date that night! To make up for this I recycle a lot. Clothing Swaps, my boyfriend's closet, and SF solids like Wasteland and Buffalo Exchange are great for 'a ha!' finds; often the clothes and material are better, and since fashion, like history, repeats itself, might as well keep it authentic.

Refreshing huh? Allison proves that there is a lot to giving styles from the past a second chance to achieve that special fly look that is just your own. It takes a lot of creativity to dress this way but there's no mistaking it; the end result is worth it!

Style Maven: Bohemian Lux

Hello Strutters. Look, there are more important things in life than clothes. I know this. But as humans we are moved by visual stimulation. Which is why I think knowing how to dress well is a very powerful skill. Even more powerful is learning how to wear clothes instead of the clothes wearing you! The next style maven in the personal style series is Roseli. Roseli has an uncanny ability to mix eclectic pieces to create a look that is truly her own. Her outfits consists of free-flowing pieces that glow of self-expression. I would say her style is very bohemian: a casual mix of hipster, ethnic, with vintage elements. For Roseli it's all about the layers, earthy colors, and major accessories( scarves, pins, bold earrings, hats, necklaces; you name it). A colleague once said about Roseli's style, that when she gets dress, she clearly has a vision. And when you see the outfits she breezes  into the office with, you can see that there is absolute truth to that observation. What I love about Roseli's personal style is that she has fun with it. Meet Roseli.





How would you describe your style?

I would describe my personal style as vintage, urban-chic with a carefree attitude. I like to mix colors, textures, pieces made by local designers and vintage finds. I enjoy shopping at thrift stores, flea markets and on etsy.com to find unique clothing, shoes and accessories that are handmade, or second hand- and mixing them with contemporary pieces. Everything I wear has touches of the 70's and 80's alongside the modern.

What is your style inspiration?

Right now I'm really inspired by Janelle Monae and the way she mixes both masculine and feminine. She wears menswear that is impeccably tailored and still celebrates her body. I love her accessories: clip-on earrings, neck ties, and oxfords. My biggest style inspiration is the desire to use fashion not only as a creative outlet, but to counteract the dark side associated with the fashion industry. It's important for me to support local designers and mix vintage with new styles. I like that shopping second hand promotes reuse and I appreciate the creativity involved in taking someone else's castoffs and wearing them in a new way- in a way that has your personal signature. I run the online store SUBTEXTSTYLE for ladies who like vintage but don't have the time to dig through the racks at the thrift store.

What style rules do you live by?

I am 5'2, so fit is very important to me. Beyond tailoring, my biggest rule is to have fun. Getting dressed in the morning should be a creative exercise. Clothes should make you feel confident, not self-conscious!

What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?

You'll notice that my three lusts are all shoes! A great pair of shoes completes any outfit.

Clogs. I have been wanting a pair of Swedish Hasbeens for a long time, but sans the ridiculously expensive price tag. Here is another pair that can achieve the same look for a third of the price, and they are vintage. Or for an even cheaper option, raid your mom's closet to see if she still has her clogs from the 70's.

Rainboots. The rainy season is coming, but that's no reason to abandon style. These boots are exclusive to Anthropologie and a collaboration with iconic designer Vivienne Westwood. I adore the oversized bows.

Menswear Oxfords with a Twist. My favorite oxfords are made by Osborn Design (I own two pairs!). Not only do I love the vibrant colors, but Osborn encompasses my desire to support sustainability in construction, as well as supporting fair labor practices. Osborn works with local weavers and cobblers in Guatemala to ensure that the workers' craft is appreciated and fairly compensated for.

What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
- No matter how cool the new trend is, don't buy it if it's not flattering. (Had this same dilemma with harem pants)
- Dress for yourself and no one else. Style comes from within, it's not projected from others.

What stores do you hit up on the regular to get your fashion fix?
Vintage:
Thrift town
Pretty Penny
Verunica

These are my favorite sellers on Etsy
Thief and Bandit for chunky braided necklaces
Marañon for colorful embroidered necklaces
James Rowland for leather boots

Where I go for inspiration, but can't afford the pricetags!: Pixie Market and Bona drag.
 

What I love about Roseli's look is that it's a state of mind and it's all about mixing the old with new, trendy with the classics. But best of all it's truly about the fine art of self-expression. Strut on!

Style Maven: Minamilist with an Edge

 As I mentioned in my last post, over the next few days I will be featuring five stylish ladies with supernova personal style who all work with me at ITVS. Our office has a real casual air about it so when someone does step it up style wise it’s highly noticeable and these ladies never disappoint. And I love it! So meet Cheryl. What I appreciate about Cheryl is that she always maintains a very clean minimalist look that also manages to be classy and extremely confident.  She chooses clothes that have very clean uncomplicated lines that are not only comfortable but also harmonious. Cheryl can often be seen wearing a variation of one color-- one of my favorite tricks for creating a sleek, and elongating silhouette. While she favors more muted colors like gray, cream and black, Cheryl makes her outfits pop with edgy attention grabbing shoes. I have a feeling that she might have a slight shoe addiction. The girl rocks some serious ( towering) heels!  High impact bags and classic silver jewelry adds extra polish to all her ensembles.  Here’s a little insight into Cheryl’s personal style.

How would you describe your style?

Simple, easy, not too fussy and with a little flare (color or design).

What or who is your style inspiration?

It really all depends on my mood. Some days Rachel Zoe is an inspiration especially when it comes to pairing separates that I wouldn't think to put together. Other days it can be my mom who has a custom clothing boutique. And every once in a while it can be my inner heavy metal chick.

What style rules do you live by?

I don't buy or wear anything that makes me feel uncomfortable, especially around the waist. There's nothing more I hate than feeling bloated because I convinced myself that I can wear a size too small for myself, which I haven't done in a really long time and don't plan to ever do. I fully believe in being comfortable and confident in your clothes, no matter what your style.

What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?
- a comfy oatmeal colored blanket sweater

- tall (over the knee) black boots with a sensible heel.

- a pair of UGG boots. Don't laugh, I have two big dogs that have to be walked three times a day even tho we have a backyard. That means I'm out in the soon to be freezing cold at the a** crack of dawn and freezing cold evening right before bed. UGG boots are sooooooo warm and cozy that I won't be miserable while walking my dogs.

What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?

Stay true to yourself, wear what you like, and spend your money on quality not quantity. You might be saying "duh", but it works for me. Rarely do I spend money on something "trendy" that I kick myself for because it's useless in a couple of months.

What stores do you hit up on the regular to get your fashion fix?
 Nordstrom Rack, piperlime.com, and once in a great while Ambiance as a special treat.


What's the last word on this approach to style? The minamilist look is an effortless, unfussy, unadorned, and powerfully understated style of dressing that virtually all women of any age, shape, can rock.  

London, Paris and Barcelona In My Future

Okay Dahlings. I’m beyond excited. In six days I will be leaving the country for 15 days for a much needed respite from the daily grind of work/home, home/work, if you know what I mean. Yours truly is heading to London, Paris, and Barcelona. The hubby is going ahead of me to Poland for work and then will head to London where we will meet to start our european escapades. I’m dreaming of shopping in the Marias and eating macaroons at Pierre Hermé and Laduree bakery in Paris, eating tapas and visiting surrealist painter,  Salvador Dali’s hometown once we get to Barcelona, and visitng museums and colorful markets in London (among other sights and sounds). I will be moving around a lot and that means I need to pack light. And that’s where the panic comes in. The hubby has limited me to five outfits and three pairs of ( sensible) shoes. I’m desperately overwhelmed with picking the right pieces for my urban travels which gets complicated because I have to pack more bulky pieces than usual as a result of the weather this time of year . But I also realized that perhaps the less clothes I bring, the more reasons I will have to shop. And after all, H&M did just open a flagship store on the Champs Elysee. Oh La, La, La.

But before I head off I’m working on putting together a few posts featuring five style mavens from my office. The gals I chose all have five unique looks and they all couldn’t be more different from my own style aesthetics but I love watching the looks they sashay into the office with. The posts will feature three of their favorite looks, what inspires their style, and what they are lusting after for the fall season. What I like about these ladies of style is that they have managed to use their clothes as a true form of self expression. They march to their own fashion drumbeat without taking themselves too seriously. I get style inspiration from all of them and ultimately that’s what a true style maven does; they inspire others to dress better. Look for these posts in the coming days. And of course you can expect a full fashion report from my travels. Laters, Dahlings.