The Search for the Great White

My quest was so simple. A 4ft white Christmas tree to adorn my office window. White trees are everywhere. How hard could it be? Little did I know that I had been cursed. Everywhere I looked, had conveniently sold out. Sure, they will probably get more in, but I didn't want to wait! I wanted my white tree NOW! I covered most of the common cheap Christmas decor avenues: Target, Kohls, and not one, not two, but THREE Garden Ridge stores all to find that the white tree shelf was bare. The search went on for weeks. Then, on a 1 a.m. run for dog food, the heavens opened up, and there it was. A beautiful pre-lit white wonder for $19.99 at the one and only Wally World. The evil empire conquers once again.

**Above you can see Ophelia enjoying our new beauty

New Art from Chris "Beeks" Beekman

The very talented Chis Beeks has some new ass-kicking work that you must see. Of the google hits Houston's Weekly Chic receives, more people are searching "Chris Beeks art" than any other topic. Obviously, people are starting to take notice. Here are just a few of my favorites.
* Also be sure to check out the Chris Beeks website for much, much more.

Crikey!!

How fun is this slithery reptilious scarf? To me it says, "I'm practical about my warmth, but I still like to party." You can find the Vasquez Gator Scarf, along with a slew of other road kill neck wraps at Hello Lucky online, or off of Studewood Street.

Photo Shoot Sneak Peak

Here are a few of the sample pictures I got from the photographer from the recent shoot. She is still editing the rest, but I should have them soon!

Trend Watch: Let It Snow Houston!

Houstonians only see snow once in a blue moon, but thanks to a reemerging trend, we can see it all year long. That's right, the good old fashioned snow globe is all over the map this season. Supposedly originating in France in the 1800's, they didn't become popular in the U.S. until the 1920's. Ever since then, snow globes have ping ponged between being a luxury item and being in the "touristy souvenir" category. However, this year snow globes are on like Donkey Kong. They are popping up in some of my favorite shops, and adorning the homes of design trackers across the globe.

One Eyed,One Horned, Crocheted People Eater

This little creature put me in my happy place today. Otis the one eyed monster is just one of the many wonderfully kooky creations by Susan at Barking Dog Designs. If you need a one-of-a-kind gift for a little one this holiday season, be sure to visit her Etsy page and support our local artisans!

Baby Shower #2

So, I have been a little slow at posting lately and actually, at everything for that matter. I am not the most timely person as it is, but this pregnancy is really starting to get the best of me. I am feeling a little overwhelmed to say the least. Everyone keeps telling me it's good practice for motherhood, but I don't want to practice! I just want to enjoy the last bit of sanity and independence I have until the baby comes. Anyways, baby showers are one of those things that remind you how fun pregnancy can be. These pictures are from a few weeks ago when my extremely generous friend Laura opened her home to 20-something of my friends! My best friend Lara from San Luis Obispo even came down for the weekend with her son Grant! Thank you to everyone who made that day so special!





What a beautiful dress! I wish it were my size!


Mini Minnetonkas! Need I say more?


Onesie with a hippie screen print of an owl sitting on a tree branch. Love it!


I found this NON-MATERNITY dress at Forever 21 for just $32, red strappy flats - thrifted for $3.95!

The Flu is Coming!!

Well, not really. But it got your attention didn't it? If the flu really is coming to a neighborhood near you, the evil genius that is google will give you a heads up. Google Flu trends tracks the path of the influenza virus across the U.S. based on what people are googling, and where they are googling from. Don't worry, the entire state of Texas is completely in the clear...for now.

If you see the flu creeping toward you, don't panic! Go read this eHow article on How to Prevent a Flu.

Introducing Born as a Raggamuffin...

Above and below are designs from the "Born as a Raggamuffin" line

Welcome to the world of "Born as a Raggamuffin" - an avant-garde eco friendly label for those individuals who do not readily conform to the rules of society and prefer to follow their own path and individual style. Designers Zebi Williams and Wendy Del Orbe, from Jamaica and el barrio de Santo respectively, create all of their pieces out of recycled T-shirts and consider themselves to be an artistic brand for the creative and the creators. Their pieces have attitude, sex appeal and cultural substance. Founded on the principles of social and environmental responsibility, "Born as a Raggamuffin" is leading the way for the more conscious designer. Visit www.bornasaraggamuffin.com to check out videos from their fashion show, read their blog, learn about upcoming events and of course buy their clothes.

Shecky's Girls Night Out Houston

CLICK HERE for 2009 SHECKY's Girls Night Out info!

Few things shake my inner girly girl into a twitter, but this upcoming party makes my soul smile. Pay attention ladies, this is an event that will make you want to pull out those Manolo Blahnik's (you know, the ones you haven't worn since Sex and the City went off the air), and trot on over to the Crystal Ballroom. Oh yeah, and the tickets are totally and completely FREE...so read on.

What the heck is it?
Shecky's Girls Night Out is a five-hour shopping/socializing experience, that includes:

• Unique up-and-coming designer fashions at 75% off
• Open Bar provided by Chambord (hellooo...free booze...you know that means I'll be there)
• Free spa services
• Shecky's swag bags (two deluxe goodie bag tickets for $25, but the contents are worth $100+)
• Much, much more!
  

When is it?
Tuesday Nov. 18 and Wednesday November 19 from 5p.m.–10p.m.
Where is it?
The Crystal Ballroom at the Rice Hotel
909 Texas Ave. (Travis & Main St.)

What is Shecky's?
They are a national media company that hosts these fantastic soirees across the country, for the sole purpose of you having a killer time.
Shecky's rocks my proverbial world. RSVP HERE or email me if you have further questions!

Last weekend I went to the Rose Bowl Flea Market with my friend Amanda. Here are a few of the things that I found.



A non-maternity dress that totally fits me! I love the babydoll style and the buttons.



Amazing black and white tray for my coffee table.



This white patent hat box was my find of the day! It cleaned up so well and I bargained with the seller and got it for only $15!

Vaughan Christopher Gallery Grand Opening!

The art scene in Houston just got even awesome-er...in a priceless sort of way. Tonight is the grand opening of the Vaughan Christopher Gallery on South Shepherd. Even if you know zilch about art, you will definitely recognize some of these big names. Favorites such as Picasso, Warhol, Matisse and Dali are all represented. Check out their info. below for specifics. I will be there with cocktail in hand.

VAUGHAN CHRISTOPHER GALLERY
Friday, November 14, 2008
7-10 pm
1217 SOUTH SHEPHERD HOUSTON, TEXAS 77019
COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Works by Chagall, Dali, Francis, Haring, Hirst, Kaufman, Lichtenstein, Manes, Matisse, Miro, Moore, Murakami, Picasso, Quinn and Warhol are brilliantly showcased in the intimate space. “We have a large quantity of very high quality works,” said Amy King. ” Because our collection is so diverse, I think anyone could find something here that intrigued them, and I find that possibility extremely exciting.” Among the 100 pieces in inventory, we have iconic works such as Warhol’s Marilyn and Lichtenstein’s Bull Profile series to less familiar treasures like Picasso’s Picador et Chevral and Chagall’s Romeo and Juliet.

Take a Leaf Out of Her Style Book: Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais at a recent event earlier this year.

Garcelle Beauvais arrives at the Spring 2009 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week held at Smashbox studios on Sunday October 12th in Culver City, California.

Garcelle Beauvais arrives to the premiere of Lionsgate's My Best Friend's Girl on September 15, 2008 at The Arclight in Hollywood, California.

Garcelle Beauvais at the Vogue and Step Up Women's Network fashion event at Bally on October 28, 2008 in Beverly Hills, California.

Cool temperatures require that we cover up from head-to-toe or at least toe-to-high waist. Take a leaf out of Garcelle Beauvais' style book and invest in some classic wide leg, high-waisted pants. They are still very much "in" this season and give a polished look a laid back elegance. Note how Garcelle keeps things simple with simple accessories and classic make-up. For further inspiration also look to the pioneer of the wide leg pants, Katherine Hepburn.

My Picks!

Left to right: MIH Jeans Valencia Wide Leg Jeans, $265, www.net-a-porter.com; Saint Grey Wide Trouser by Thomas Burberry, $201.32, www.my-wardrobe.com; Saint Grey Wide Trouser, $158, www.fcusbuymail.com; Zip High Waisted Trousers, $80, www.topshop.com

Left to right: Cuffed Wide Leg Pinstripe Trouser, $28, www.forever21.com; Wide Leg Wool Blend Trouser, $27.80, www.topshop.com; Wide Leg Trouser, $80, www.topshop.com; High Waist Knit Pant, $29.50, www.store.alloy.com

Whether you prefer high-waisted or low-rise, wide leg pants give any look instant sophistication. Whether it's to work or on a hot date, keep your pants w ide. To complete the look wear high round toed heels, a waist belt and statement blouse. French Connection has some great wide leg pants online. Also check these Ryo Stretch Trousers ($138) - tres chic!

Jimmy Ferry Show at Xnihilo Gallery

If you want to see some fantastical art work that is like nothing you've seen before, go see our friend Jimmy Ferry's show in the Xnihilo Gallery at Taft Street Coffee. He's got 15 brand spanking new prints up (including the one above), that will be sure to knock your socks off. They are only up through Turkey Day, so be sure drop in.

Free Snapfish Book...Thanks Oprah!

Thanks to Oprah and her new "Clean Up Your Messy Home" tour, Snapfish will give you a free 8x11 bound photo book. It would typically be $29.99, but thanks to the richest woman on earth, all you have to pay is shipping ($6.99). You have to request your coupon from snapfish.com by this Friday, November 14th, and then you have until Sunday to use that bad boy. Just in time to make a holiday gift for someone special.

Chic Organizing Tip: If you didn't catch Oprah today, the snapfish album was used for a Mom who was drowning in her kids artwork. They scanned their favorite pieces, uploaded them to snapfish and voila! Instant art coffee table book. So start hitting that upload button.

I'm totally digging this new shrug clutch from The Laughing Mouse. It is exactly the same colors that I have in my bedroom, so it would be like carrying around a little piece of home. Plus, I've been looking for a wintry bag to warm up these cool Houston nights. Well, at least the last couple of nights this year have been sort of chilly...kind of...right?

Pregnant Pause

Above: One Shoulder Chifon Corsage Dress, $88, www.asos.com

Left to right: Taffeta Prom Dress, $64; Paisley Print Dress, $48; Pleated Swing Coat, $140; Embellished Strap Babydoll, $72 all available at www.asos.com

Expectant mums shouldn't have to sacrifice style for maternity but it can be a real struggle to find fashion-forward maternity wear. Luckily the UK's leading online fashion store, asos.com, is launching an on-trend capsule maternity collection. Launched this November, the asos.com maternity collection features a selection of frocks taken from the main asos range which cover all the key trends including lace, the prom, the maxi and the one shoulder dress, plus a carefully edited collection of tops, denim, gorgeous winter coats and loungewear. I'm in love with this One Shoulder Chifon Corsage Dress. Almost worth getting pregnant for! Click here to see the rest of their stylish collection.

Vogue Tradition: First Lady to be on the Cover?

I know many of you are still on cloud nine following Tuesday night's election results. It still seems so surreal. Now that we have a new and greatly improved president and first family waiting in the wings, the talks must be underway for Michelle Obama to cover Vogue magazine. Traditionally, the December issue features the new first lady (and in some cases the first kids). According to a spokesperson from the fashion magazine:

"Starting with Eleanor Roosevelt, it's been a long-standing tradition to photograph the new first lady. So needless to say, we are very interested in working with Mrs. Obama. Precisely how is still being discussed."

If Michelle accepts the offer she'll become only the fourth black non-model woman to become a Vogue covergirl. Former first lady and Democratic senator Hillary Rodham Clinton also appeared on the front page of the December 1998 edition. Can't wait to see Michelle strike a pose!

Last night I saw She & Him perform at the House of Blues with my dear friends Rachel and Mary. Just when I thought I couldn't be more in love with Zooey Deschanel, she blew me away with her voice, style and charming personality! I am not one to obsess over stars, but she is just so cute and genuine. She was wearing the most adorable white 60's tent dress with black trim around the neckline and armholes. The white fabric was quilted with a swirling print. Zooey put her had in the pockets in the front of the dress after one of the songs and said, "My dress has pockets," to which everyone cheered. She had on black tights and patent leather 60's shoes with buckles. Her hair was down with a ribbon tied in a bow around the crown of her head. She really made me wish this baby was on her way out, so I could start looking cute again! Her is a clip from last night's show that I found on You Tube.

Pick a Puppy for the Obamas

Pictured above: Gerald & Liberty Ford

Whenever a new family moves into the White House, it seems like a four legged furry friend is never far behind. In fact, we have record of presidential pets as far back as Washington's horses and John Adams' two dogs (who were named Juno and Satan by the way). Ford had Liberty, a gorgeous golden retriever, the Clinton's had Buddy a chocolate lab and Socks the cat, and the Herbert Walker Bush clan had Millie. The presidential pet list is long, including birds, hamsters, silkworms, goats and even bears. That's right, bears.


So we think President Obama has enough to worry about, so let's help him pick a dog! What breed (or mix of breeds) do you think the Obama's should choose and why? Also, what should they name it?


(I may be biased, but I think it's high time a doxie graced the oval office)
Pictured above: Gus G. Hayes

Michelle Obama's Black and Red Fade

Did YOU like Michelle's white one-shoulder gown by Jason Wu? Leave your comment here.

Regardless of your political affiliation, fashion is a universal language. Boy were we excited to see Michelle Obama's daring black and red fade dress by Narciso Rodriguez from his Spring 2009 dress collection. So my question is: Did you love it or hate it? Either way, how exciting that we have a fresh, stylish, and elegantly unobtrusive first lady to look forward to watching. Lemme know what you think!

Black Girls Rock!... Yes We Do!

Regina King, DJ Beverly Bond and Estelle

Kenya Moore and Veronica Webb

Malinda Williams and Vanessa Williams

Iman and Sylvia Rhone

Teyanna Taylor and Erykah Badu

June Ambrose and Sylvia Taylor

Last night, New York played host to VH1 Soul's 3rd annual Black Girls Rock extravaganza! In attendance were honorees singer Estelle, as well as actress Pam Grier, and 70s models Bethanne Hardison and Iman. Other guest included singers Faith Evans, Teyanna Taylor and Erykah Badu; actresses Malinda Williams, Vanessa Williams, Kenya Moore and Regina King; and Veronica Webb, June Ambrose, Susan Taylor and of course DJ Beverly Bond. See the pics above for red carpet shots of all our favorite divas. My personal favorites are Ms. Moore's and Veronica Webb - work it ladies!! If you want to feel like the fabulous sista that you are, click here to buy a "Black Girls Rock" t-shirt.

Say It Loud, Wear It Proud

Top: Star Logo Tunic, $62; Right On, $62; Star Logo Tank, $62; Guitar Muscle Tee, $29 all available at www.blackgirlsrockinc.com/BGR_STORE.html
Bottom: Grace Jones, $62; BGR Logo Tee, $29; Afro Tee, $62; Guitar Tee, $29 all available at www.blackgirlsrockinc.com/BGR_STORE.html

Today is the photo shoot!!! I am so excited!!! I wanted to share some pictures of the
clothes that will be featured in the shoot. The colors are inspired by Elliot Smith's album cover for New Moon.



This dress was the right color, but too plain, so I added some peacock feathers that I picked up from an estate sale last weekend. I had to trim down the feathers a lot and arrange them from largest to smallest, then I glued them on with my favorite glue, Fabric Tac. I also shortened the hem to a flattering length.





I love the general style and color of this dress, but it was a little too "80's" looking, so I eliminated the shoulder pads and twisted the sheer fabric to create skinnier straps and then sewed them in place.





80's metallic tank with 50's floral cotton skirt. I love the proportions! Tons of chains finish off the look.


60's lace fitted dress with bow belt. You can't see it here, but this dress has beautiful button detailing in the back.


I can't decide if I will pair this with the sweater or not, so we'll just have to see once we get it on the model. Paired with a necklace I made from an antique french belt and an extra wide black patent leather belt. I dyed some tights a mustardy yellow to wear with this dress. I can't wait to see how it all looks together. The hemline has been shortened since I took the picture.