As 2009 comes to an end, and we enter the next decade, it's time to take inventory and make way for a fresh start. Even for those of us that live in the past, we are willing to get rid of some of the old to make way for the new.

The always entertaining and discerning fashion journalist Adam Tschorn of the LA Times Image section has written his hit list of 2009 trends he'd like to say goodbye to. So many of his pet peeves are very related to some of my observations in the vintage marketplace. I took Adam's list and gave it a vintage spin. Here's my list of trends in vintage fashion I would love to see go away, with some overlap on Adam's list of related trends I think will live one more year.

Pop-up stores

These temporary shops were intended to build buzz and exclusivity. I think temporary shopping locations will evolve beyond Target and Gap. Vintage sellers and indie designers will follow retailers' lead. With the economy tanking, storefronts and studio spaces are becoming extremely affordable. It would behoove a property manager or building owner to rent a space out for a limited, short lease to vintage sellers and indie designers. The idea of a vintage pop-up sale is not new. Market Publique recently hosted one in Brooklyn. I think they will grow in popularity amongst vintage sellers and buyers.

Couture

Amen Adam! I don't know if it is lack of education or sneaky marketing. Either way, touting vintage clothing or accessories as couture when they are merely designer pieces, and mid-line level at that, drives me insane. Mostly because these fraudulent pieces are priced at couture prices. If you are in the market for haute couture, ensure that the label is first of all French, has an extremely high level of construction, and to be safe, has the hand written label in the garment.

Curate

I agree with Adam on this one. Curating a collection has gone from merchandising for the ideal customer to cherry picking with no rhyme or reason in the retail world. But I have to disagree that a flea market booth, and I will include a vintage boutique or online store, cannot be curated. Successful vintage sellers must have criteria for inventory. This can include condition, age, wearability, worth, lifestyle. There is most definitely a thought process involved. Without one, you have a mountain of dime-a-dozen frocks that are destined for EBay $9.99 auctions. In fact, with so much competition, it makes sense to curate and find a niche in vintage. For the vintage world, curating is a trend that needs to be exercised more frequently.

Fashion Icon

100% in agreement with Adam. Hepburn, Denevue, Jackie O. - icons. Everyone else - admirable style but time will tell.

Retro

I don't mind retro because it brings the curious and fashion forward to the vintage side. Give me more Mad Men style. Retro in mass media can have an influence on lifestyle as well. I'm seeing a lot more interest in mid-century home décor, a lot more "dressing" for cocktails and dinner. So what if it's a sequined jacket or top-dressed down with skinny jeans. At least the effort is being made. Keep retro.

1990s

About a year ago, I got on this obsessive-compulsive 90210 on SOAP channel kick. Two hours a day, every weekday, of Brenda, Dylan, Kelly, Brandon, Donna, Steve, and David. Apparently so did everyone else under the age of 30. Baby doll floral dresses and short, bandage strapped dresses started hitting EBay like mad. These aren't vintage though. Vintage should be at least 20 years old. In 2010, we are now entering the barely acceptable range for '90s clothes to be considered vintage. I hate to be a purist here, but it's just not vintage. Just call it retro. And let's leave the '90s for the young. Only they can pull it off.

Platforms

Platforms haven't gone out of style since the 1940s. Can we still call this a trend? I say kill Uggs first. Mr. Blahnik is certainly the stiletto rebel lately - declaring he's over the platform and walking away from Sex And The City 2? I'm certain comfort and well-placed fantasy footwear will survive the rebellion.  The platform is not a trend - it's a staple.

Spending guilt/Thinking it over

The recession has really made us fear spending. Even when I can afford something, I second guess myself, or feel wretched for having spent that much. When it comes to vintage, if you spot a treasure and you can still pay your mortgage, jump on it and deal with the guilt later. Even as a professional, I have "slept on" vintage finds and have kicked myself  9 out of 10 times for not having purchased the item because when I finally got the guts to spend, it was gone. Responsible shopping wins every time.

photos: marketpublique.com and enokiworld.com

Edited by Debutante Clothing

I just turned 35. It's a landmark year not just chronologically, but style wise. I am now approaching that next age bracket in the How to Dress for Your Age features in mags. You know the ones. Thank goodness for my blogger pals here at Independent Fashion Bloggers. You'll find some of the best style guides here this week. Guides such as Mischief My Dear's advice on finding the perfect LBD and Fasshonaburu's Spring 2010 trends guide. But beware the urge to dress too sexy. 39th and Broadway tells you why toddlers and stilletos don't mix, and Squareectomy questions the taste level of visible thongs. Enjoy!

Links à la Mode : October 1st

• 39th and Broadway - - Toddlers, Stilettos, Thongs, Oh My!


• Awakened Aesthetic - - features t-shirts by the Samburu Project, which provides drinking water to the Samburu District in Northern Kenya.


• Bobbins And Bombshells - - veiled headband fascinator DIY tutorial


• Debutante Clothing - - vintage paper dresses that are anything but disposable


• Fasshonaburu - - Sure peaked shoulders and sequins and tribal were on the runways... again. But here are five NEW trends to come out of Spring 2010 NY Fashion Week!


• fête à fête - - Vouelle's new Fall-Winter 2009-2010 shoe collection, straight from Paris!


• Friend in Fashion - - A vintage tale: gorgeous lace & bows


• Hong Kong Fashion Geek - - VPL's anatomy-inspired spring collection, and how to replicate the skeletal fascination right now


• Idiosyncratic Style - - Awesome style from the brit drama Skins


• Independent Fashion Bloggers - When should you start charging money for your blogging experience?


• Jewelrywhore - - Madeleine Albright is kicking butt with her brooches


• Mishief My Dear - - four versions of the Little Black Dress that should be in every woman's wardrobe


• Oranges and Apples - - A guide to vintage shopping in Berlin


• Squareectomy - - More Exposed Bits: the less flattering side of the fashion world


• Super Kawaii Mama - - Travel Essentials to keep it glam! The secrets to staying fancy in flight.


• The Coveted - - Do Fashion Blogs Glamorize Smoking?


• The Demoiselles - - Elle answers a reader's question about being an in-betweeny - not quite plus size, not quite "regular"


• The Fashion Planner - - shows you how to get the look of Marc by Marc Jacobs.


• The Working Wardrobe - - perfecting the business "ice breaker" by working your accessories (that don't thaw out your assets).


• Where Is That From? - - eco fashion show featuring local Toronto designers and design collectives

Right Sized

Edited by Retro Chick

Hello and welcome to Links á la Mode!

This week I've noticed a few posts on the theme of body size issues, with 39^th & Broadway asking whether the Fashion Industry is to blame for our skinny bitch obsession, The Curvy Fashionista interviewing the brains behind Full Figure Fashion Week and Dramatis Personae introducing us to plus size fashion line B &Lu.

Also in this week's selection you'll find some great DIY ideas, a Competition from The Coveted, tips on keeping to your shopping budget from Work Chic and vintage shopping hints from The Style PA and Culturistas.

There's the full version of Links á la Mode here in the forums... there's a lot of great posts there too.

Links à la Mode : April 30th

• 39th & Broadway - Is the fashion industry responsible for our weight issues?


• A Typical Atypical - When to ignore the fashion houses - the ridiculous, the impractical and the downright foolish!


• Broke & Beautiful - Earth Week! The best of plastic bags are highlighted.


• Capitola Girl Jewelry Blog - Take flight with some fanciful feathered jewelry


• Culturistas - The Culturistas take a trip to the Vintage Expo and give tips on how to shop for vintage


• Debutante Clothing - A private, curator led tour of the Valentina exhibit in NYC


• Dirty Laundry - Who needs Marc Jacobs when you have DIY?


• Dramatis Personae - B&Lu Presents Fun Plus-Sized Fashion...


• Fashion in my eyes - Interview with Sarah Korsiak Cellier, owner of a vintage shop with designer pieces


• FashionMind - Dressing up classy but very bright and not boring.


• Fasshonaburu - A public request for online stores to provide more and better pictures of their merchandise!


• Gladys L - Construction boots or Lotus shoes? The astonishing Chinese quest for female beauty incorporating small feet!


• In Pursuit of Fashion - Bleach for beginners: How to DIY the latest trend, bleached jeans.


• Independent Fashion Bloggers - 6 Do's and Don'ts for Networking Online


• Retro Chick - Ethical Design Spotlight - Heart's Desire Jewellery (+ 20% Discount!)


• Style Symmetry - My Storage System for Belts.


• StyleCovered - How fusing trends and culture can create something unique and chic! Who said covering up had to be boring?


• The Art of Accessories - The Art of Accessories show you how to make your own tinted moisturizer, how thrifty?


• THE COVETED - The Coveted: Two chances to win Pequito Bun Vintage Jewelry!


• The Curvy Fashionista - The brains behind Full Figure Fashion Week- Gwen DeVoe dares to bring Plus Size Fashion to the forefront


• The Style PA - Where to go in Leeds for Vintage fashion and beauty treats.


• Work Chic - Blowing your shopping budget? It may be your shopping habits!

Stiletto Jungle takes a look at the new Madewell for ShopBop capsule collection.

Allie is Wired reports that The Hills is ending for Lauren Conrad after season five.

Bag Bliss has fallen for the Spring 2009 Fendi Peek-A-Boo Bag

Bag Snob - Get an exclusive peek at Nancy Gonzalez Fall 2009 bags!

Beauty Snob - Blast your fat away, and eat it too.

Coquette is loving the new trend in one shoulder fashions.

Debutante Clothing admires vintage couture designer Valentina.

Fashion Pulse Daily recaps some of its favorite collections from New York Fashion Week: Milly, Mackage, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and more.

KRISTOPHER is wanting, wearing, and hating Belgian shoes.

Second City Style broke down all the trends we found during New York Fashion Week Fall '09.

Shopping and Info checks out: Givenchy for Spring 2009.

Check Out Shrimpton Couture's Real Life Vintage Spot from Karla's Closet

StyleBakery.com shares 10 ways to recession-proof your wardrobe.

Stylehive has a bit of a crush on first lady of France Carla Bruni's style, and has found a few ways to get her look!

The Beauty Stop calls out the 2009 Academy Awards hair disasters.

The Fashion Bomb chit chats with Lisa Price of Carol's Daughter about celebrity beauty musts and year round skin care!

The Shoe Goddess channels her inner candy striper with these quirky DSquared2 shoes!

Check out TheMakeupGirl's coverage of the best looks of the 2009 Oscars!

It's time for another Vintage Roadshow roundup - the best vintage talk on the web. Our little vintage blogger group is starting to grow! If you write about vintage clothing or living, come join us.

Debutante Clothing rings in the New Year in 1960s black and white paillettes.

The Vintage Travelermourns the end of Bill Blass.

Glamoursplash begins a series of posts on swimwear through the ages.

Here's Looking Like You, Kid has lots of leopard print for sex kittens.

iKonic does her part for the economy with her new weekly feature Vintage Cheap But Chic.

I have been coveting this 1950s Ingber safety pin bag for almost a year now. I love the quirky safety pin handle. Punk rock meets 5th Ave. While this bag is still chic, the audacious pin gives it a sense of humor. Really, the only thing holding me back is the price. And I think many others feel the same way because it's been sitting there forever! Secretly, I know I'll be devastated if anyone else buys it. So imagine my glee when I saw this safety pin bag by Bodhi. I declared, "It's my safety pin bag!"

Their "Safety Clutch" features a leather and fur body, looks like pony hair, topped by an exaggerated safety pin handle. The Bodhi silhouette is a bit more modern, but I can't help but love its original inspiration more.

Marc Jacobs also featured giant gold tone safety pins as fasteners for wide leather belts at his spring show.

Photo: Greg Kessler

My punk rock friends may gag at the idea of couture safety pins, but there is something so tongue in cheek about accenting chic design with shiny, giant, household objects.

55 Secret Street discovers her SoleMates - discreet high heel protection for everything from cobblestone walks to the mean sidewalks on New York City.

A Few Goody GumDrops has just ordered the ultimate Digital Goody from Vivienne Tam!

Stiletto Jungle names the best jeans for pear-shaped women.

Allie is Wired has the first pictures of Gwen Stefani's new baby, Zuma Nesta Rock Rossdale.

Bag Snob exclusive: Pierre Hardy bags!

Beauty Snob glows with Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer!

Christina Loves... amazing overnight hair treatment, Kronos Phyx.

Coquette gets cozy with the hoodie scarf.

Debutante Clothing is in awe of Resurrection's avant garde fashion at Christie's London.

Fashion Pulse is mesmerized by Alexander McQueen's Spring 2009 Collection.

KRISTOPHER is wanting, wearing, hating Jimmy Choo clutches.

Ladybrille captures fun pictures from Nollywood A-List Actress Stephanie Okereke's Through the Glass Film Premiere!.

Vintage Marc Jacobs (1991) auctioned off, Papierblog is in lust.

In this economy pretty much anything is negotiable. Second City Style offers tips how to bargain for a better deal.

Shopping and Info found out who made Angelina Jolie's dress from the Hollywood Film Festival Gala.

StyleBakery went on a recession-proof shopping spree and found must-haves to wear now and forever

Stylehive brings you a sneak peek of Edun's stylishly sustainable 'Nocturne' collection!

The Beauty Stop says that false eyelashes are easier than you think.

The Fashionable Housewife just got back from a 10 day getaway to beautiful Naples, FL and want to share What Was In Her Suitcase!!!

The Shoe Goddess ponders the practicality of 6-inch heels. How high will you go?

Photo by Alicia Nijdam

Lace, especially in black, is big for Fall 08. This is one of the few trends I can get on board with. Lace never goes out of style, not amongst the truly stylish anyway. Luckily, you can find beautiful vintage lace dresses in every shade.

When you are shopping for vintage lace clothing, be sure to inspect the garment carefully. Inevitably, there may be a snag or two, and usually they aren't noticeable so you can easily find a beautiful dress at bargain prices because of slight damage.

When shopping online, be sure to ask the seller directly if there are any holes or snags. Sometimes we can overlook minor flaws, so if perfection is important to you, ask first!

Here is an example of a vintage lace dress that looks like it just stepped off the runway. You do run a risk of looking too gothic if you go with obvious accessories. Mix it up with some unexpected fun accessories. I tend to err on the side of dark and gothic myself, so if this still looks a little witchy, try different colors such as pinks and whites.

available at the Family Vintage on Ebay
currently $16

I just joined a really impressive group of bloggers at Independent Fashion Bloggers. Jennine of the Coveted is really blazing trails in the independent fashion blogger scene. My love for fashion and fashion history really fits in with this collection of bloggers. Enjoy their sense of style and reading picks of the week...

If you're a fashion blogger, and would like to know more about IFB (Independent Fashion Bloggers), click here.

a sense sublime - Make Do and Mend: Brilliant boot fair fashion finds!

Add Bubbles To Taste. - Nikki gives Beautiful People Purple Eaters their fix.

Clutch 22 - DIY: Bow Headbands (in seconds)

Debutante Clothing - Vintage Vogues Go To Auction

Dress Me Up Dollie - Seeking closed-toe wedges!

Fab Fashion Blog - Skirts Tight Knee Length Almost Pencil Skirts Looks Fall Winter 2008 2009 Trends

Fashion Architect - Athens Fashion Week is coming!

fashion in my eyes - a great editorial containing the twelve most important regal women in history!

Mademoiselle Robot - Let your style age with you.

O.M.O. Writes - Fashion Icon: Dynasty The fashion sense from the 80s soap opera is seen all over Spring runways! Get style tips on how to make the look your own!

Or False Glitter - How far do the opinions of others dictate our fashion choices?

PR COUTURE - Fashion PR Call for Media Kits; Get Featured on PR Couture

respectfully yours - is fashion taking itself too seriously?

Retro Chick - The Boyfriend Blazer: Hot Picks

ShopDiary - ShopDiary gets a piece of Eairth.

Tainted & Sweet... - Old School Fly Girls!!!

THE COVETED - Do you ever wear clothes intended for kids?

The Life and Times of a Problem Child - Rediscovering a forgotten icon of architecture and turning it into a fashion occasion.

The Ongoing Project - Developing your personal style, part 2

Maybe it's the influence of the smoky drama Mad Men, but I am seeing brocades in many fashion magazines. Done just right, a brocade can luxe, but many times you find beautiful patterns and colors on dowdy, unflattering dresses. Unless you are lucky enough to find a beauty like this...

available at Jazzboogie @ Etsy.com
$66.50

Chanel and Anna Sui shamelessly paid homage to the intricate era of Art Noveau and Deco with their RTW accessories for fall. It's kind of refreshing to see another decade being used as reference besides the usual suspects of the '50s and '60s. And let's face it, most designers are influenced by the past. But are these too much of a literal interpretation? What do you think?

This one is a blatant copy, unless it is indeed the same bag used as runway accoutrement.

all bags on left: Chanel, Chanel, Anna Sui
all bags on right: 1930s mesh purse, available at Jewels USA $95
1920s long chain mail purse, available at Bobby Deenes Vintage, $225
antique beaded purse, not available but an exact match, at Dorthea's Closet, $225

55 Secret Street discovers that Al Gore has joined NARS in the beauty business. Sort of...

A Few Goody GumDrops asked Jelly Belly or Yummie Tummie?

Snag a designer swimwear look for way less with Malia Mills for Martin + Osa - Stiletto Jungle.

All About the Pretty loves a legend like L'Oreal

Allie is Wired asks, "Did Kirsten Dunst steal Drew Barrymore's boyfriend?"

Bag Bliss reviews the Yves Saint Laurent Y-Mail Continental Wallet

Check out the punk rock elegance of YSL Muse clutch - Bag Snob.

Catch the sneak peek at organic beauty care from Bamford at Beauty Snob!

A little naughty and a little bit nice, Coquette discovers the subversively embroidered vintage gloves by Doublespeak.

Fashion, evolved is excited about the smart style of Nadia Nour!

Fashiontribes has 5 fab dresses for any occasion this summer.

I'm Not Obsessed shows you how to replicate Marc Jacobs' Ruffle Pump for less.

Kristopher eats the "Unforbidden Fruit" of Miami's South Beach.

Ladybrille interviews Stephanie Okereke Nollywood's it Girl!

Papierblog praises then rails against Project Runway Seaons 5

Quinta Trends discovers feminine and classical touch ofBoga Diseño .

Second City Style has again begun it's memorable quotes series from this season's episodes of Project Runway!

StyleBakery.com has the scoop on this summer's surprise must-have accessory: lightweight scarves.

Stylehive finds Canadian designers that hike up hemlines with must have mini dresses.

Stylenotes' latest fashion-related tech feature explores the world of chic, colorful, electronic items from earphones to cameras that would make any fashionista swoon!

SugarShock Beauty is feeding her skin from the outside in with Keri Glassman's Skin Appetit Balm Stick.

A few days from 63, Helen Mirren still has a bikini body - The Beauty Stop.

The Fashionable Housewife gives us all the juicy details of her shopping spree at The Garden State Plaza Mall in NJ!!

The Shoe Goddess finds fabulous shoes at great prices!

After finally prying away from the images of the Dior couture show, I am torn between my obsession with anything 1920s and peplums of the 50s. Although this dress is not at all New Look as was seen at Dior, it does have the perfect length, crisp peplum that hugged hips on the runway. Granted, the peplums that Galliano created were more like body armor, and I actually loved the contrast of the ultra-feminine silhouette, but for real women, I think this green little gem is spot on.

available at Daisy Fairbanks Vintage
$159

Bag Snob gets ultra luxe with Tod's Dokt Bags!

Beauty Snob gets moisturized with Clinique Superbalm!

The Brows Have It at 55 Secret Street.

Stiletto Jungle- Public Library "Obama Rama" Tee.

Friends: The Movie? Allie is Wired has the scoop!

Coquette - Summer's bohemian embroidery details.

Debutante Clothing checks out Vintage LA style.

Fashion Indie- Fall beauty trends to watch for.

Fashionable fun in the sun- Fashiontribes.

KRiSTOPHER is wanting, wearing, and hating sexy masks.

My Fashion Life goes crazy for the Samsung F-480!

Second City Style-helpful tips to stretch your fashion dollar.

How to rock Duffy's retro-glam style from Stylehive!

The Shoe Goddess has the Jimmy Choos for you!

nitro:licious-alternatives for the "famous" Balenciaga gladiator wedge sandal!

A Few Goody GumDrops Celebrates July 4th with ared patent leather Roger Vivier Handbag!

Calculatus Eliminatusreminds the world that ugly, tacky key chains are slowly killing him. Please stop the violence.

Fashion, Evolved explores the amazing natural beauty resource known as The Organic Beauty Blog!

Ladybrille names actress/model Tomiko Fraser its Woman of the Month!

Quinta Trendstalks to Srta Peel about her sexy underwear collection

Stylenotes shows you how to get the flirty, fun look from the Betsey Johnson spring '08 collection.

SugarShock Beauty loves the versatile rainbow of shades in Pop Beauty's Liner Cake eyeliner palette.

The Beauty Stop shows how to get Selma Blair's fresh-faced look.

The Coveted ...Naughty Bows, Nice Bows

The Fashionable Housewife shows us how to copy Lindsay Lohan's classy, sophisticated look.

V-Style had found the source of the Two-Tone Color Craze.

55 Secret Street offers a few tips on How To Not Look Old (Hint: Start Young!)

A Few Goody GumDrops Visits The Met to seeSuper Heroes:Fantasy and Fashion.

Stiletto Jungle features cheap-chic summer fashion finds.

All About the Pretty has a little glimmer and shimmer for her hair with Redken's Glimmer Shimmer Treatment.

Bag Bliss has fallen for Valentino's version of the YSL Nadja Purse!

Bag Snob discovers the Parisian chic of Gerard Darel!

Beauty Snob travels in style with Ooh La Spa!

Calculatus Eliminatus praises the classic leather duffle bag and condemns Mr. Gucci's failed attempt at luggage fashion.

Cheap JAP shows you how to snag the latest in designer discounts with The Top Five Ways to Score at a Sample Sale.

Bohemian chic never looked so good with modern tye-dye fashions, says Coquette.

Fashion, Evolved shares some great indie designed pieces Found on Etsy.

In honor of the upcoming Viktor & Rolf exhibition, Fashiontribes salutes a major talent with a mini retrospective.

I'm Not Obsessed shows you how to get Nicole Kidman's Lady Like Style From Her Recent Vogue Shoot.

KRiSTOPHER is wanting, wearing, and hating DvF dresses

Ladybrille says get ready for a star studded Nigeria Entertainment Awards 2008!

My Fashion Life takes a look at this season's key sunglasses.

Papierblog goes to Chicago to view the SAIC Runway fashion show can comes back with photos.

Quinta Trends talks to Mexican designer Paola Hernández about her career and her participation in the Mexico Fashion Week .

Second City Style feels your pain and finds two smashing Sex in the City outfits for a bit less.

StyleBakery likes short shorts - find out their favorites and how to work the trend

Stylehive shows you 10 Bridesmaid Dresses you'll actually want to wear again!

SugarShock Beauty is loving the humble bar soap again, courtesy of Mor's gorgeously crafted Moroccan Mint Soap.

Sxy Fashion Queen has spotted some really heavenly celebrity shoes.

The Coveted wonders if she really needs another vibrator in her purse.

The Shoe Goddess finds the perfect Fendi pump and dress for fall!

V-Style Shows You Wear to Get Carrie's Studded Belt From the Sex And The City Movie.

WE LOVE BEAUTY.com wants you to Beat the Heat with our favorite summertime product picks for poolside beauty!

A Few Goody GumDrops tells us that dad needs a day at the beach in a Vilebrequin Bathing Suit

Stiletto Jungle names the top must-have beauty tools.

Bag Bliss has some Father's Day Gift ideas: Bags worthy for Dad

Bag Snob digs the sexy vibe of Hermes Medor clutch!

Beauty Snob brings the spa to YOU!

Cardigans aren't just for posers and indie fashion carwrecks. Calculatus Eliminatus leads you in the right direction towards cardigan enlightenment.

Coquette says there's nothing hotter than a knit chain necklace by Little Purls.

Fashion Indie looks at Miley Cyrus, Madonna, and David Beckham before they had stylist.

Fashion, Evolved scopes out Elwood, the recently re-launched brand that now features off the hook style for the urban betty.

Fashiontribes tags along on a Annie Liebovitz shoot of Sofia & Francis Ford Coppola for Louis Vuitton.

KRiSTOPHER is wanting, wearing, and hating foldover clutches.

Ladybrille interviews Noella Coursaris, Africa's Humanitarian Modelpreneur.

My Fashion Life indulges in some beauty therapy with Satellite3 Cosmetics!

Papierblog goes mod with their Erin with an "e" foto story.

Quinta trends shows Luciana Regolo shoes's: fallen from heaven. She amazed me!

Second City Style gets the scoop on summer hair care and color tips.

StyleBakery.com gives us the scoop on where to find drastically reduced designer duds online

Stylehive delivers 10 Maxi Dresses With Summer Sex Appeal

Looking for a new swimsuit? Fear not! Stylenotes puts together the season's must-have swimwear & cover-ups.

SugarShock Beauty discovers that Kenzo Amour Indian Holi is as pretty on the inside as it is on the outside.

Sxy Fashion Queen loves boyfriend jeans trend.

The Coveted wonders Prada will bring back the bicycle short?

Chipped nails on purpose? You've got to be kidding me! The Fashionable Housewife dishes on less-than-impeccable polish trend.

The Shoe Goddess dishes about her fave celeb looks from the CFDA Awards.

You know you are a style icon when people will wear black because your husband died. After the death of Prince Albert in 1861, Queen Victoria decreed a 40 year mourning period which resulted in a great demand for fashionable and affordable black jewelry.

These Victorian era earrings are a perfect example of finding beauty in everything -- even in the morbid.

And with the resurrection of the "steam punk" movement, my normally mid century taste has been piqued by the prim and proper Victorians. When Ukrainian Prime Minister, Yulia Tymoshenko, looks so sharp in neo-Victorian, I'm intrigued.

earrings available at Amber's Attic
$375

55 Secret Street remembers the one and only Yves Saint Laurent for his genius and for being the very first major designer to put black models on the runway.

A Few Goody GumDrops is dreaming of glimmering cupcakes. And you will be too once you set your eyes on this Judith Leiber creation!

Stiletto Jungle delivers an ode to the iconic Tory Burch flat.

All About the Pretty loves sunscreen that you can carry in your purse like MD Skincare Sun Packettes.

Louis Vuitton courtroom trademark news on Bag Bliss

Bag Snob discovers the real stars of Sex and the City: The Bags!

Beauty Snob supports World Ocean Day with La Mer!

Cheap JAP discusses the perils of the Under $100 Outfit.

Coquette picks her best dressed favorites from the 2008 CFDA awards.

All aboard, says Fashiontribes. The Botox Boat is about to set sail!

I'm Not Obsessed shows you how to get Reese Witherspoon's look for less.

KRiSTOPHER is wanting, wearing - and hating - ruffles for spring

Ladybrille gives you the 411 on Gwyneth Shoes, the latest African owned designer shoe brand that goes up to size 14!

My Fashion Life swoons over the eye-catching metallic version of the timeless Chanel bag

Papierblog writes an ode to Michelle Obama's sense of style

Quinta Trends explores theAmada & Cruz proposal.

Dying to know more about the designer duds the stars of SATC wore in the movie? Second City Style has the answers.

Shrimpton Couture says Bye Bye Biba (Again)

Get bejeweled with StyleBakery.com's ultimate summer jewelry guide.

Stylehive Inside Fashion: Behind the Scenes of Greenbaum Clothing's Look Book Shoot!

Stumped on what to get dad for Father's Day? We've got some incredible gift suggestions that dad will surely love at Stylenotes.

SugarShock Beauty has become quite enamored with the strange little pink blob known as the beautyblender makeup sponge.

Sxy Fashion Queen takes you to the dVb Celebrity Team get together!

The Coveted tutorial for craft-dummies DIY Fringe Tank (easier than you think!)

In case you die-hard Carrie fans haven't gotten enough of SATC yet, The Fashionable Housewife found awesome knock-offs of the Dior Extreme Gladiator!!

The Shoe Goddess gets an exclusive interview with Bridget Assil, owner of the trendy, Beverly Hills shoe boutique, Madison.

nitro:licious gives you the first scoop on the upcoming collection of Old Navy's "The Stunning Summer" Collection debuting in July, ON has really stepped their game up!

When I was writing for Fashiontribes and Lesley explained why I was a perfect fit for the Downtown Doll tribe, she told me to think vintage meets downtown chic - think Carrie Bradshaw. And boy does this peg my style, maybe not in such a literal Carrie way, but in the sense of mixing vintage and modern fashion with unique details.

In honor of the much anticipated release of the Sex and the City movie, which I'm sure will cause swarms of women to flock to the local cinema leaving every known man at home, I present to you my ode to Carrie Bradshaw - vintage style!

The vintage dress featured int he mix up is a combination of the bubble peplum dress and the bold graphic florals Carrie wears. Search for 1950s floral dress to score the look. I also included a cute little travel novelty bag. Novelty bags are extremely hard to find, and forget the deal. If you find a vintage novelty bag as cute as the Eiffel Tower bag by Timmy Woods, nab it!

I was so thrilled when I saw models walking down the runway dripping with chunky, bold plastic accessories at shows like Yves Saint Laurent and Phillip Lim. I anticipate that chunky plastic jewelery will be as big a hit in 2008 as it was in the '20s and '30s.

Chunky, clunky and beautiful plastic necklaces and bangles are the accessories of choice for Art Deco lovers. We can thank Leo H. Baekeland for creating the wonder plastic that was used in everything from radios to billiard balls. After the Depression (or "Economic Slow Down") women who wanted to cheer up an outfit wore inexpensive, but beautiful Bakelite jewelry. And the pretty little plastic baubles caught on - even rich ladies wanted an arm full of colorful bangles.

Bakelite jewelry seems to only go up in price and you can still find it at thrift stores, which goes to show how resilient the plastic is. I just found a butterscotch swirled bangle with an embedded serpentine metal ring. Score!

The vintage find for this week is a gorgeous set of butterscotch and caramel Bakelite necklace and earrings. The tortoiseshell like hearts really take this necklace the realm of fashion versus collectible. And at only $200 for the set, it's a steal!

available at JewelDiva.com

Some may argue that fashion is not art. But when your skirt looks like an abstract painting depicting dainty ballerinas and graceful dancers, how can one think otherwise?

The 1950s brought about some of the most beautiful abstract prints of flowers, dancers and a number of other figures that make girls' hearts go zing. This full skirt vintage dress by Lilli Ann, available at Poshgirlvintage.com, could fit right in with the watercolor florals and illustrated prints found on the runways of New York and Milan this spring. Wear an original!

It seems like everyone is dying to create the Sexy Secretary look by reproducing Working Girl and Tootsie looks. Was that really sexy though? Literal is rarely stylish.

Sex appeal is achieved when you add a bit of toughness to a bit of demure. These vintage pearls in beige and silver give a little bit of edge to a corporate look that lets everyone know you're the boss in the boardroom, and you're the boss in the bedroom too.

available at eBay

The Spring runway shows indicate dressing will be alive with color and bursting with florals. I can't imagine a better bag to go with both trends than this pink crocodile clutch. Even the skins are getting a dose of happy this season.

available on eBay

I love all of the vintage inspired booties, shoe boots and mary janes I am seeing on the runways. I love a decorative vamp but appreciate a wearable shoe that looks stylish.

i think these white leather 60s mary janes have to look of a fashion forward shoe witht he comfort of a low chunky heel. Pair these with a pair of bright tights and you'll look like you just stepped out of an edgy magazine.

available at eBay.com

Last spring, I was dying to create some sort of rosette headband or cloche type hat. I was very influenced by a vintage cap I bought and wore to a bridal tea.

In an unfortunate accident, I completely shredded the original, intact netted veil ( I know). But it dawned on me that it would make a cute headband that I could actually wear during the day without feeling costumey. Because realistically the only place I would feel I could get away with a hat is to an event that calls for creative styling.

Christian Lacroix Couture A/W 2008
images from style.com

So of course, I started seeing rosettes crop up everywhere, pardon the pun. And the trend doesn’t really seem to be dying down.

So I will definitely revisit the crafting project, but in the meantime, I am head over heels in love with these cute flower and feather pins/hair clips I found at a very cheap little boutique. The kind that sells really bad knock offs and probably lead based jewelry. But isn’t it cute?

And to fulfill the craving for rosette accessories, I bought this great hat on eBay.

I've decided to add a new regular post on how to mix low end and high end fashion successfully without looking like a bag lady or a knock off artist.

In my first installment, I found three great pairs of patent leather shoes in vintage, high end and cheap price ranges. Of course you could go middle ground with like a BCBG shoe, but I loved these three so much, I had to share them.

And if you want to be REALLY original and kick ass, Julie Wanda posted these amazing beauties at Barflies.net:

Saks is having an online preview for the Milly Trunk Show and I wanted to share some pretty little frocks with you. I love the 60s influence. These vintage inspired dresses look modern and chic with opaque black tights. Are you doing this again for Fall 07? Personally, I think it's good to go for another round of this trend. What do you think?

Abaete for Payless by Laura Poretzky has officially launched at Payless.com. Payless wants you to envision Spring time. Paris. 1971. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed. The collection is a bit anti climactic for me. What do you think?

Abaete for Payless by Laura Poretzky has officially launched at Payless.com. Payless wants you to envision Spring time. Paris. 1971. Frankly, I'm a little disappointed. The collection is a bit anti climactic for me. What do you think?

Only a part time vintage fashionista? If I had to invest in just a few choice pieces of vintage to supplement my already fabulous wardrobe of LAMB, Marc Jacobs and Chloe, it would have to be the following:

1. 60's Mod Tent or Trapeze dresses
They were all over the runway for Spring and Fall. And with the release of Factory Girl, mod is going to be strong for the entire year. Choose wool pieces for fall and wear with leggings or tights and cotton blends for Spring.

Cocoa Chiffon Trapeze dress with Roses available at TastyVintage.com
Gold Brocade Tent Dress courtesy of Shrimpton Couture

2. Bold Colors-Yellow and Blue
International runway trends show both blue and yellow being hot colors this Spring. I see navy and cobalt blue continuing into next fall.

Blue and Black Notch Collar Dress available at DebutanteClothing.com
Yellow and Brown Trim dress available at Unique Vintage

3. Clear Lucite or Crystal Chunky Necklaces
Oscar de La Renta showed mounds of icy necklaces for Spring. I find these necklaces infrequently so when you see it in vintage, snatch it up. Before I do. Keep the color clear or very transparent.

cubed lucite necklace available at mschon.com

4. Vintage It Bag
Chanel? Gucci? Judith Leiber? Bakelite? It's all good. Have at least one that people will gawk.

5. Anything Gold!
Vintage handbag, gold lame dress, chunky gold jewelry, gold embroidered sweater-you name it. On the Fall 07 runway, everyone was showing gold. Whether or no you care about the catwalks, gold no longer has the stigma it once had, as being your mom's jewelry. Just be sure it is a muted, brassy gold rather than a high yellow gold.

6. Snake Skin
Snake skin bags and shoes are glamorous and rocking at the same time. VintageSkins.com has the best collection on the web, by far.

Only a part time vintage fashionista? If I had to invest in just a few choice pieces of vintage to supplement my already fabulous wardrobe of LAMB, Marc Jacobs and Chloe, it would have to be the following:

1. 60's Mod Tent or Trapeze dresses
They were all over the runway for Spring and Fall. And with the release of Factory Girl, mod is going to be strong for the entire year. Choose wool pieces for fall and wear with leggings or tights and cotton blends for Spring.

Cocoa Chiffon Trapeze dress with Roses available at TastyVintage.com
Gold Brocade Tent Dress courtesy of Shrimpton Couture

2. Bold Colors-Yellow and Blue
International runway trends show both blue and yellow being hot colors this Spring. I see navy and cobalt blue continuing into next fall.

Blue and Black Notch Collar Dress available at DebutanteClothing.com
Yellow and Brown Trim dress available at Unique Vintage

3. Clear Lucite or Crystal Chunky Necklaces
Oscar de La Renta showed mounds of icy necklaces for Spring. I find these necklaces infrequently so when you see it in vintage, snatch it up. Before I do. Keep the color clear or very transparent.

cubed lucite necklace available at mschon.com

4. Vintage It Bag
Chanel? Gucci? Judith Leiber? Bakelite? It's all good. Have at least one that people will gawk.

5. Anything Gold!
Vintage handbag, gold lame dress, chunky gold jewelry, gold embroidered sweater-you name it. On the Fall 07 runway, everyone was showing gold. Whether or no you care about the catwalks, gold no longer has the stigma it once had, as being your mom's jewelry. Just be sure it is a muted, brassy gold rather than a high yellow gold.

6. Snake Skin
Snake skin bags and shoes are glamorous and rocking at the same time. VintageSkins.com has the best collection on the web, by far.

The middle of the 20th century was a time for innovation in design and industry. And in the fashion world, it was a time of glamour and cocktails. It was completely proper to wear a gittery frock o a neighbor's house for cocktails, records on the Hi-Fi and mingling.

Cocktail dresses in the flashiest of metallics or sprinkled with bling are all the rage again. Add a modern touch like opaque leggings, booties, or a casual belt to keep from looking costume-y.

It's not too late to order some fabulous dress such as these babies. But hurry! Time is running out.

White Lilli Diamond Sequin Dress available at Debutante Clothing.com
Velvet and Taffeta Ruched Bubble Skirt Dress available at Shrimpton Couture

Emma Domb Cocktail Dress available at Vintage Grace.com
Beaded Rose Puff Skirt Dress available at Posh Girl Vintage

Already have the perfect LBD but need a little something to give it some glitz? Opt for vintage accessories like a rhinestone brooch, clear lucite necklace or rhinestone drop earrings.

The middle of the 20th century was a time for innovation in design and industry. And in the fashion world, it was a time of glamour and cocktails. It was completely proper to wear a gittery frock o a neighbor's house for cocktails, records on the Hi-Fi and mingling.

Cocktail dresses in the flashiest of metallics or sprinkled with bling are all the rage again. Add a modern touch like opaque leggings, booties, or a casual belt to keep from looking costume-y.

It's not too late to order some fabulous dress such as these babies. But hurry! Time is running out.

White Lilli Diamond Sequin Dress available at Debutante Clothing.com
Velvet and Taffeta Ruched Bubble Skirt Dress available at Shrimpton Couture

Emma Domb Cocktail Dress available at Vintage Grace.com
Beaded Rose Puff Skirt Dress available at Posh Girl Vintage

Already have the perfect LBD but need a little something to give it some glitz? Opt for vintage accessories like a rhinestone brooch, clear lucite necklace or rhinestone drop earrings.

The only designer that does Boho right is Anna Sui. I don't especially like Boho stuff, but somehow, she can add some edge and get away with it without looking like a crazy bag lady. No offense Ashley and Kate.

My favorite dress is this stiped, rose border print one that is very influenced by 50s full skirt dresses and the official colors of punk rock, red, white and black. And of course the stripes.

Anna Sui's version:

Debutante Clothing's sold archives:

The only designer that does Boho right is Anna Sui. I don't especially like Boho stuff, but somehow, she can add some edge and get away with it without looking like a crazy bag lady. No offense Ashley and Kate.

My favorite dress is this stiped, rose border print one that is very influenced by 50s full skirt dresses and the official colors of punk rock, red, white and black. And of course the stripes.

Anna Sui's version:

Debutante Clothing's sold archives:

Is it just us, or Eva rockin a re-fashioned vintage nightgown? It's lovely!

Is it just us, or Eva rockin a re-fashioned vintage nightgown? It's lovely!

One of my favorite handbag designers is Lulu Guinness. She is the Queen of quirk. You could be wearing torn jeans and a dirty sweatshirt from your hamper, but make it look like a cat walk outfit with Lulu Guinness bag on your arm.

And of course I love her because of the obvious influence from vintage themed handbags and purses. She pays homage to the infamous Floridian designers of fun and funky motif bags such as this Midas of Miaimi Pirate theme purse. Look at how wonderfully colorful and cheeky this beauty is. I love it!

available at Michelle's Vintage Jewelry

One of my favorite handbag designers is Lulu Guinness. She is the Queen of quirk. You could be wearing torn jeans and a dirty sweatshirt from your hamper, but make it look like a cat walk outfit with Lulu Guinness bag on your arm.

And of course I love her because of the obvious influence from vintage themed handbags and purses. She pays homage to the infamous Floridian designers of fun and funky motif bags such as this Midas of Miaimi Pirate theme purse. Look at how wonderfully colorful and cheeky this beauty is. I love it!

available at Michelle's Vintage Jewelry

When I heard that Nine West, the epitome of American affordable footwear, was collaborating with Vivienne Westwood, the Duchess of Punk Rock fashion, I was stunned. I never would've imagined the union. Obviously the collaboration trend of high end designers and discount or affordable ready to wear retailers such as H&M and Target is catching on furiously. But to be fair, Nine West has really come a long way in the last five years.

The Vivienne Westwood for Nine West collection is on pre-order right now at www.ninewest.com. The collection includes shoes, handbags and belts. My favorite shoes are the Auntie plaid lace up oxfords. They would look great with anything: skirts, pants, capris. Love em.

When I heard that Nine West, the epitome of American affordable footwear, was collaborating with Vivienne Westwood, the Duchess of Punk Rock fashion, I was stunned. I never would've imagined the union. Obviously the collaboration trend of high end designers and discount or affordable ready to wear retailers such as H&M and Target is catching on furiously. But to be fair, Nine West has really come a long way in the last five years.

The Vivienne Westwood for Nine West collection is on pre-order right now at www.ninewest.com. The collection includes shoes, handbags and belts. My favorite shoes are the Auntie plaid lace up oxfords. They would look great with anything: skirts, pants, capris. Love em.

It was 106*F today in my city. I really wish I could go out in a bra and panties, or at least a bathing suit. My favorite vintage piece for summer is the playsuit. Granted, I have to make sure I have lost the winter weight to pull it off.

The poll of the day at Catwalk Queen is Yay or Nay on the playsuit. The Nays have it. Now the playsuit in question isn't my favorite, but maybe vintage lovers can convince the cat walkers that vintage is where it's at. I think new designers should've gone further back in time, past the 80's, and into an era where the female body was celebrated.

available at Paisleybabylon.com

available on eBay

Both of these are Yays in my book.

It was 106*F today in my city. I really wish I could go out in a bra and panties, or at least a bathing suit. My favorite vintage piece for summer is the playsuit. Granted, I have to make sure I have lost the winter weight to pull it off.

The poll of the day at Catwalk Queen is Yay or Nay on the playsuit. The Nays have it. Now the playsuit in question isn't my favorite, but maybe vintage lovers can convince the cat walkers that vintage is where it's at. I think new designers should've gone further back in time, past the 80's, and into an era where the female body was celebrated.

available at Paisleybabylon.com

available on eBay

Both of these are Yays in my book.

Vintage Oscar de la Renta Ruffle Blouse

According to Glam.com, ruffles are the hot trend for Spring. I've always loved ruffles, especially when they are done tastefully.

Vintage Oscar de la Renta Ruffle Blouse

According to Glam.com, ruffles are the hot trend for Spring. I've always loved ruffles, especially when they are done tastefully.

Marc Jacobs proves that sometimes retro is just as gorgeous as vintage. Few designers impress me with their vintage-y lines, but Marc can take vintage inspiration to a new level. The colors on this pump are fabulous and the structure, well just look at that profile!

Marc Jacobs proves that sometimes retro is just as gorgeous as vintage. Few designers impress me with their vintage-y lines, but Marc can take vintage inspiration to a new level. The colors on this pump are fabulous and the structure, well just look at that profile!