Early Father's Day Love

Ran's Personal Fav -- Monogram Hexagone
Fall/Winter 2009 just got a litttttttleeeee bit fresher thanks to those over at Louis Vuitton! The bags and accessories created for this upcoming season are to die for, but get this they are for men ! Soo in honor of Father's Day tomorrow, I am saluting our flyy guy and the upgrade that will be coming within the next couple of months. Depending on the size and style of the bags, they will be retailing between $700-$5100. According to Paul Helbers, Louis Vuitton's Studio Director, everything was inspired by "the traveling wardrobe of an African king". Now fellas, single, wifed up, on the dating scene or got a hubbie on deck - whatever your current situation is - your sure to attract more attention carrying one of these.

Wardrobe Essential !!

Be on the lookout this summer for black mini skirts on the rise ! Two of my top fashion favs are already ahead of the pack. Lauren Conrad and Rihanna (of course) have done it right. Dress it up or dress it down, a black mini skirt is a year-round essential to a wardrobe. Pair a blouse with it for a chic look, or a simple tank top if you're running errands. Either way -- purchase now !
American Apparel -->

Interlock Mini Skirt $25

Change the GAME

Clockwise (L-R): Arlenis Sosa, Sessilee Lopez, Chanel Iman, Jourdan Dunn

Jourdan

Sessilee

Chanel

Arlenis

So in 2009, we have elected President Barack Obama - first black president, whom we all know and love and are the majority of the country is extremely greatful for -- andddd all that GREAT stuff! But for the past couple of years in the fashion world, there have been many discussions about the nonexistant black faces in the industry and on the runways. As an avid reader of fashion magazines, I know that we do not dominate the campaign ads or the editorial pages, but this new flock of faces seem to be changing what may have been a lost cause. Steven Miesel's 100 page spread in the July 2008 Vogue Italia could have been the leader for this new wave in fashion. These 4 front runners are everywhere right now and in my opinion, 4 is an okay start - but I'm hoping to see many more in the near future. MYSELF iNCLUDED !!! It's time for a change, not only for America - but for Fashion as well.

Fashion's New "IT" Girl - Randi C. (mark my words.)

Masterpiece Theatre

For those who don't know, Lady Gaga is my favoriteeeeeee!!!!!

I have an eclectic taste when it comes to music,

my top 3: Jay-Z, Kanye, and Lady Gaga.

She is going to be around for a long time. Her music is

rockinnnn & her style can't be matched.

Notice the Thierry Mugler in the video (the designer behind Beyonce's concert outfits and that famous glove from

the Single Ladies video) but everywhere she's spotted Lady Gaga is the sh*t !

Can't stress it enough. Enjoy her mini-movie everyone !!

Rebel With a Cause

Fresh from Italy. 4 3/4 in. heel, Alexander McQueen's "Pelle Leather Sandal" is the newest and may I add flyest sandal I've seen in a while.  Made for the bad, or wannabe bad girl, this is a MUST!  If your account can afford a blow like this - the sandal retails for $1,159 - go copppp !!! It includes immaculate details - a leather sole and lining; not to mention, the scull zipper (they can be worn zipped up or down!).  I mean, need I say more ?  Rihanna already has her pair and Lala Vasquez is out rockin her's too. I'm not going to ask who rocked it better like the other blogs because as we all know, I'm riding with my girl Rih. hands down....

Live Breathe & EAT - FASHiON !

Well, now instead of just wearing labels - we can eat them, too !  These delectable cupcakes were inspired by Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Betsey Johnson, Agent Provocateur and Christian Louboutin.  Shot by Swedish photographer, Therese Aldgard and styled by Lisa Edsalv.  These treats are not the first label inspired candies, though.  Massimo Gammacurta created a few label lollis a couple of months ago, converting Yves Saint Laurent, Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton logos into tasty candies-- ready to be licked with a platinum tongue.  And of course, they became the perfect runway accessory for spring shows.  Lets just hope these accessories are a lot more affordable than what we're used to from high-end designers!

Masterpiece Theatre

for your viewing pleasure. =)

Neutral Territory

Ran's Top Neutrals, Hot Off The Runway!

Lanvin

Luella

Chloe

3.1 Phillip Lim

3.1 Phillip Lim

This summer's predicted to be a scorcher so in order to stay cool and look refreshed this season, lets keep a neutral palette.  Living on the east coast -- we know we need to beat the heat, as well as the humidity.  One of this season's biggest trends are natural shades.  You can layer khakis over tans, mix it up with a little beige and eggshell white, and throw in a little light pink or yellow for a complete cool look.  And of course, being a fan of brights, you can most definitely pair neutrals with any hot pink, lime green or turquoise.  Food for thought: Stay away from darks !!  You're trying to ditch the heat & they will only draw the sun in your direction!

Classic pieces that ALWAYS work:  shorts, blouses, mini skirts, and cardigans (for summer nights).

Trendy pieces to experiment with: harem pants and military vests.  However you do it, own the look!

Leighton Meester - Chloe & Christian Louboutin's Dillian Pump

ps; Keep accessories minimal. No need to be weighed down with gaudy cuffs and huge bangles.  Try ultra feminine gold or silver jewelry, go for smaller pieces with this look.

Knowledge is Power

and ironically, this goes out to me.

***Couture Fact #37: I am an avid smoker. Someday i plan on stopping. The video is poppin nonetheless.***