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Urbane GirlUrbane GirlFashion, beauty, lifestyling, art and culture for the woman who is polite, refined, and often elegant in manner. Articles
Designer Spotlight: Rachel Roy Fall '07
2007-02-03 07:22:00 The fabulous Rachel Roy presented her Fall 2007 collection in her midtown New York showroom on Wednesday, January 31. Staying true to her classic style, she introduced modern versions of her favorite essential pieces - the suit, the cocktail dress, the trench "I'm learning what works and what doesn't work, and what's modern," Roy told reporters after the presentation. "I still reference vintage constantly, in terms of the craftsmanship. But my world has gotten bigger, my team has gotten bigger and my collections are getting bigger. So it's just a matter of learning. I'm learning the art of editing and focus. So it's about simplifying, too." Her most recent interpretation of the trench is made from airy organza, with a gold paillette panel inset on the upper back.Fashion & PhilanthropyRachel has designed a t-shirt exclusively for Glamour to help support Children's Hope India, Inc., an organization that provides medical care, drinkable water, education and a consistent food sup... More About: Design , Desi , Spot , Rachel Roy
Designer Spotlight: B. Romanek
2007-01-31 04:39:00 Brigette Roma nek went from creating her very first handbag for friends to having the bag appear on the shelves of Barneys New York , not to mention in the pages of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar, in the space of just a few short months. In an effort to design the perfect Christmas gift for her girlfriends, she created the perfect clutch. The Rockstar, which is a favorite of stylish celebrities, is a wrap around clutch made from crocodile. The inside is lined in suede, and it comes in eleven colors ranging from a light Bone to a dark Midnight. Available at Barneys New York. More About: Design , Desi , Spot , Designer
Designer Spotlight: B. Romanek
2007-01-31 04:39:00 Brigette Romanek went from creating her very first handbag for friends to having the bag appear on the shelves of Barneys New York , not to mention in the pages of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar, in the space of just a few short months. In an effort to design the perfect Christmas gift for her girlfriends, she created the perfect clutch. The Rockstar, which is a favorite of stylish celebrities, is a wrap around clutch made from crocodile. The inside is lined in suede, and it comes in eleven colors ranging from a light Bone to a dark Midnight. Available at Barneys New York. More About: Accessories , Designer , Spotlight
Red Carpet Glamour: SAG Awards
2007-01-30 06:04:00 Reese Witherspoon may have found her winning fashion formula. She revisited her Golden Globe fitted cocktail dress and chic hair combination with a crystal-encrusted Nina Ricci sheath and loose updo. Jennifer Hudson embraces her curves (and looks fab if I do say so myself) in a lovely Michael Kors number. I hope the matronly dresses have been moved to the back of her closet. Nominated for Notes on a Scandal, Cate Blanchett looked stunning in a liquid bronze beaded Armani gown. I loved Joy Bryant's scarlet chiffon Valentino gown and loose curls. Other notables: Eva Longoria's Vera Wang gown and the Vanessa Williams comeback. More About: Awards , Red Carpet , Glamour , Carpet
Red Carpet Glamour: SAG Awards
2007-01-30 06:04:00 Reese Witherspoon may have found her winning fashion formula. She revisited her Golden Globe fitted cocktail dress and chic hair combination with a crystal-encrusted Nina Ricci sheath and loose updo. Jennifer Hudson embraces her curves (and looks fab if I do say so myself) in a lovely Michael Kors number. I hope the matronly dresses have been moved to the back of her closet. Nominated for Notes on a Scandal, Cate Blanchett looked stunning in a liquid bronze beaded Armani gown. I loved Joy Bryant's scarlet chiffon Valentino gown and loose curls. Other notables: Eva Longoria's Vera Wang gown and the Vanessa Williams comeback. More About: Awards , Red Carpet , War , Glam , Award
Miu Miu, Lohan & Photoshop
2007-01-28 04:28:00 Following in the footsteps of Chinese actress Zhao Xun, Lindsay Lohan is now starring as the new face of Miu Miu. Shot in London, Lohan's spread is being used for the Spring 2007 ad campaign.The Miu Miu brand was created in 1993 following Miuccia Prada's specific desire to address to a clientele particularly attentive to the free and easy as well as to the sophisticated new tendencies. With this collection, Miuccia Prada expresses her vision of an alternative style, always characterised by a strong personality; the provocative innovation coexists with the classic, which is re-interpreted and updated. The line includes ready-to-wear, bags, accessories, shoes and glasses for men and women. Miu Miu can be defined as: Urban, young, sophisticated and sensual, an alternative vision.It's amazing what can be done with Photoshop .
Miu Miu, Lohan & Photoshop
2007-01-28 04:28:00 Following in the footsteps of Chinese actress Zhao Xun, Lindsay Lohan is now starring as the new face of Miu Miu. Shot in London, Lohan's spread is being used for the Spring 2007 ad campaign.The Miu Miu brand was created in 1993 following Miuccia Prada's specific desire to address to a clientele particularly attentive to the free and easy as well as to the sophisticated new tendencies. With this collection, Miuccia Prada expresses her vision of an alternative style, always characterised by a strong personality; the provocative innovation coexists with the classic, which is re-interpreted and updated. The line includes ready-to-wear, bags, accessories, shoes and glasses for men and women. Miu Miu can be defined as: Urban, young, sophisticated and sensual, an alternative vision.It's amazing what can be done with Photo shop. More About: Photos , Photoshop , Shop
Lookbook Inspiration
2007-01-27 04:21:00 A relative newcomer to the system of image production, the 'look-book' evolved out of the culture of catalogues produced by fashion companies at the end of the 1980s. Through these lavishly produced pamphlets, brands were able to suggest a more artistic interpretation of their garments than offered by editorial found in contemporary mainstream magazines. The most directional examples of these catalogues were produced by Japanese designers, perhaps most notably Yohji Yamamoto. Today, the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book serves as a wonderful example of a lookbook at its' best. To create a LookBook to help inspire your daily fashion and beauty choices start by gathering magazine images of your favorite looks. I use page protectors for each sheet and store them in a 3 ring binder. For virtual lookbook options visit Style.com and Adore Vintage.. More About: Inspiration
Lookbook Inspiration
2007-01-27 04:21:00 A relative newcomer to the system of image production, the 'look-book' evolved out of the culture of catalogues produced by fashion companies at the end of the 1980s. Through these lavishly produced pamphlets, brands were able to suggest a more artistic interpretation of their garments than offered by editorial found in contemporary mainstream magazines. The most directional examples of these catalogues were produced by Japanese designers, perhaps most notably Yohji Yamamoto. Today, the Neiman Marcus Christmas Book serves as a wonderful example of a lookbook at its' best. To create a Look Book to help inspire your daily fashion and beauty choices start by gathering magazine images of your favorite looks. I use page protectors for each sheet and store them in a 3 ring binder. For virtual lookbook options visit Style.com and Adore Vintage.. More About: Inspiration
The Award Goes To.....
2007-01-16 23:21:00 Reese Witherspoon for wowing us with a yellow silk floral jacquard dress by the new man at Nina Ricci, Olivier Theyskens.Golden Globe Highlights:Salma Hayek's Glossy TressesThe "confusion" caused by Vanessa Williams and her HUGE HAIR. It completely ruined her dress.Penelope Cruz in a black Chanel couture gown designed just for her by Karl Lagerfeld.Beyonce's dramatic red carpet pose...was she kidding?Notable Wins:Helen Mirren, Best Actress, Drama for The QueenForest Whitaker, Best Actor, Drama for The Last King of ScotlandBabel, Best Picture, Drama More About: War , Award , Ward , The A , Goes
The Award Goes To.....
2007-01-16 23:21:00 Reese Witherspoon for wowing us with a yellow silk floral jacquard dress by the new man at Nina Ricci, Olivier Theyskens.Golden Globe Highlights:Salma Hayek's Glossy TressesThe "confusion" caused by Vanessa Williams and her HUGE HAIR. It completely ruined her dress.Penelope Cruz in a black Chanel couture gown designed just for her by Karl Lagerfeld.Beyonce's dramatic red carpet pose...was she kidding?Notable Wins:Helen Mirren, Best Actress, Drama for The QueenForest Whitaker, Best Actor, Drama for The Last King of ScotlandBabel, Best Picture, Drama More About: Award
Fashion History: Paul Poiret
2007-01-14 02:29:00 Born in 1879, Paul Poiret was a couturier based in Paris before the First World War, during the Belle Epoque. He was taken on by the fashion designer Jacques Doucet as a draughtsman. When he completed his apprenticeship with the House of Worth in 1904 he opened up his own fashion house, and by 1907 had produced a revolutionary style. Poiret was the first designer to break away from the soft shades of the late Edwardian style and use vibrant primary colours. "It was," he declared, in My Fifty First Years "in the name of Liberty that I proclaimed the fall of the corset and the adoption of the brassiere which, since then, has won the day. Yes, I freed the bust, but I shackled the legs." This , of course, is a reference to his creation of the 'hobble' skirt. He also was famous for designing luxurious oriental and Art Deco gowns. He was the first couturier to launch his own perfume (named Rosine after his eldest daughter) and he also launched the suspender belt, flesh-coloured stocking... More About: History , Fashion , Story
Fashion History: Paul Poiret
2007-01-14 02:29:00 Born in 1879, Paul Poiret was a couturier based in Paris before the First World War, during the Belle Epoque. He was taken on by the fashion designer Jacques Doucet as a draughtsman. When he completed his apprenticeship with the House of Worth in 1904 he opened up his own fashion house, and by 1907 had produced a revolutionary style. Poiret was the first designer to break away from the soft shades of the late Edwardian style and use vibrant primary colours. "It was," he declared, in My Fifty First Years "in the name of Liberty that I proclaimed the fall of the corset and the adoption of the brassiere which, since then, has won the day. Yes, I freed the bust, but I shackled the legs." This , of course, is a reference to his creation of the 'hobble' skirt. He also was famous for designing luxurious oriental and Art Deco gowns. He was the first couturier to launch his own perfume (named Rosine after his eldest daughter) and he also launched the suspender belt, flesh-coloured stocking... More About: History , Fashion
Designer Spotlight: Stacey Lapidus
2007-01-10 05:01:00 Stacey Lapidus, known for her unique style and charm, has spent the last ten years in the fashion and accessories industry, always with an eye towards designing her own signature collection. Her vast knowledge of accessories has given her the distinct ability to forecast trends. Her designs, much like her personality, stand for individual style, versatility, and sophistication.Her jewelry collection, featuring necklace scarves, bracelets and bangles, evolved from Lapidus? appreciation of antique jewelry. She employs the same refined sensibility and attention to detail as she does with her handbags, to create unexpected blends of delicate crystals paired with fabrics such as velvet, silk and chiffon--a celebration of pure modern luxury. Created for women who embrace fashion in a manner that is playful and stylish, while infusing the classic with the unexpected, Lapidus converges antique artistry, refined luxury and contemporary attitude.Urbane Girl's Favorite Item: Silk and Crystal ... More About: Accessories , Designer , Spotlight , Stacey
Designer Spotlight: Stacey Lapidus
2007-01-10 05:01:00 Stacey Lapidus, known for her unique style and charm, has spent the last ten years in the fashion and accessories industry, always with an eye towards designing her own signature collection. Her vast knowledge of accessories has given her the distinct ability to forecast trends. Her designs, much like her personality, stand for individual style, versatility, and sophistication.Her jewelry collection, featuring necklace scarves, bracelets and bangles, evolved from Lapidus’ appreciation of antique jewelry. She employs the same refined sensibility and attention to detail as she does with her handbags, to create unexpected blends of delicate crystals paired with fabrics such as velvet, silk and chiffon--a celebration of pure modern luxury. Created for women who embrace fashion in a manner that is playful and stylish, while infusing the classic with the unexpected, Lapidus converges antique artistry, refined luxury and contemporary attitude.Urbane Girl's Favorite Item: Silk and Crysta... More About: Design , Desi , Spot , Designer , Light
DC Restaurant Week Is Here!
2007-01-05 00:20:00 January 8 will be the first day of the '07 Winter DC Restaurant Week ponsored by the Washington, DC Convention & Tourism Corp. and the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. For more info read my web coverage of the event HERE. UPDATE: Extended DC Restaurant WeekLike past Restaurant Weeks, a few restaurants have extended the deal for another week and some for the entire month. Here's the list and the details about each. Whole Month of January:21P,Colvin Run Tavern,Dino, Oya, Urbana (though March 31st!)Extra Week:ButterField 9,Farrah Olivia,Mie n Yu, Willow (until the Jan 20th)Enjoy! More About: Restaurants
DC Restaurant Week Is Here!
2007-01-05 00:20:00 January 8 will be the first day of the '07 Winter DC Rest aurant Week ponsored by the Washington, DC Convention & Tourism Corp. and the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. For more info read my web coverage of the event HERE. UPDATE: Extended DC Restaurant WeekLike past Restaurant Weeks, a few restaurants have extended the deal for another week and some for the entire month. Here 's the list and the details about each. Whole Month of January:21P,Colvin Run Tavern,Dino, Oya, Urbana (though March 31st!)Extra Week:ButterField 9,Farrah Olivia,Mie n Yu, Willow (until the Jan 20th)Enjoy! More About: Rant
52 Books, 52 Weeks
2007-01-04 01:09:00 My first project for 2007 was starting a 52 books in 52 weeks program. The first book on my list is The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. This is actually a re-read for me, but I loved the book so much I thought it would be the perfect starter. Each week on Sunday I will post a review of the book I've just completed and the title of my next read. Feel free to suggest titles and authors in the comments section.Even for a bookaholic, finding the time to read can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some suggestions to help you fit reading into your weekly schedule:Tip #1: Make big use of small opportunities.Read while you wait. Whether you are waiting at the doctor’s office or are waiting in line at the post office, reading can make the wait fly by. You'll be surprised at how quickly those minutes spent waiting and reading add up.Tip #2: Always have a book with you.If you always have a book available to you, then you will be more likely to fit reading into free moments througho... More About: Books , Weeks
52 Books, 52 Weeks
2007-01-04 01:09:00 My first project for 2007 was starting a 52 books in 52 weeks program. The first book on my list is The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. This is actually a re-read for me, but I loved the book so much I thought it would be the perfect starter. Each week on Sunday I will post a review of the book I've just completed and the title of my next read. Feel free to suggest titles and authors in the comments section.Even for a bookaholic, finding the time to read can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some suggestions to help you fit reading into your weekly schedule:Tip #1: Make big use of small opportunities.Read while you wait. Whether you are waiting at the doctorÂ’s office or are waiting in line at the post office, reading can make the wait fly by. You'll be surprised at how quickly those minutes spent waiting and reading add up.Tip #2: Always have a book with you.If you always have a book available to you, then you will be more likely to fit reading into free moments through... More About: Books , Book , Week , Weeks
Bobbi Brown - Spring Violet
2006-12-30 09:41:02 "I was inspired by wild flowers that I saw while traveling out west. Violet makeup shades are fresh, pretty and vibrant." - Bobbi Brown The Violet Face Palette has everything you need to update your look for spring. This limited-edition palette includes seven shades designed to flatter a wide range of skin tones: three Eye Shadows, one Blush, and three Lip Glosses.$50 bobbibrowncosmetics.com More About: Spring , Ring
Favorite Things 2006
2006-12-30 09:41:02 The products and purchases I fell in love with during 2006. Bag Lady I have always been and will always be a bag lady. 2006 was a good year for my collection as I added the following:Chloe Edith Bag in Whiskey - Designer Pheobe Philo's homage to the classic kelly bag has all the style and hipness of the Paddington without the extra poundage.Yves Saint Laurent Muse Bag in Black Patent - With it's patent leather exterior, topstitching and glam gold hardware this bag became a staple in my work wardrobe.Louis Vuitton Damier Speedy 30 - My everyday carryall.About Face2006 was the year that I discovered makeup. Yes, this former lipgloss only girl began exploring the world of eyeshadows, mascara and lipstick.Chanel Inimitable Mascara - My lashes have never looked better. Volume, length, curl and separation. Nuff' said.Smashbox Photofinish w/ SPF 15 - SPF 15 and moisturizing Dermaxyl Complex have been added to the fabulous Photo Fini... More About: Things , Thing , Favorite , Favor
In The News: Rachel Roy
2006-12-19 21:32:02 Urbane Girl, Rachel Roy is featured in current issue of the NY Times Style Magazine as part of ?The Originals? story with Stephanie Seymour, Ronnie and Vidal Sassoon, Kelis, Sean Lennon, Emily and Zooey Deschanel, Louloe de la Falaise, Michael Govan and Katherine Ross, and Zoe Cassavetes. Her iconic inspiration? ?I love how Hitchcock dressed his women?, she said. ?He always did them classic, but at the same time they were sexy?. Below is another picture of Rachel in the November issue of Vogue. More About: News , In the News , The N , The News
Table Top Glamour: Cocktails
2006-12-18 03:29:02 In a lusciously illustrated volume, Amy Sacco, the ultimate cocktail cognoscente, restores the spirit of this very sexy drink, sharing favorite recipes from her exclusive nightclubs including Lot 61 and Bungalow 8.The restaurant and bar owner credited with converting New York City?s Chelsea into the go-to party destination also reminisces on the most important ?cocktail? moments of the past decade, and offers tips on how to serve them with flair. Assouline, the educator on style, punctuates the book with the latest in bar and stemware?the perfect holiday gift.Amy Sacco is the owner of Lot 61, Bungalow 8 and most recently the restaurant Bette.$18.95 @ Assouline More About: Glam , Cocktail , Tabl , Table , Amour
Golden Child
2006-12-18 03:29:02 Beautiful wild child, Zoe Kravitz graces the cover of a recent issue of the French magazine Jalouse. The 18-year-old is the daughter of Lenny Kravitz and Lisa Bonet. The January 2007 issue features Zoe and fellow "Gold en Kids" Margherita Missoni, Camilla Al Fayed, Eugenia Niarchos, Peaches Geldof and Lydia Hearst. More About: Child , Golden
The Battle of the Dress
2006-12-18 03:29:02 First up Beyonce wore this gown in November of 2005, when she attended a performance at Cipriani’s. Kimora Lee Simmons, wore the same gown in May 2006 at The Costume Institute Benefit Gala. Which diva does the dress more justice? More About: Dress , Battle , The D
Clean In Style
2006-12-18 03:29:02 Karim Rashid has designed the ideal tool for stylish consumers who like to keep things tidy!Functional or beautiful? You want both. The perfect balance of sleek and smart. You're punctual. You're thorough. You're dapper. Your home is a temple of organization, and you're always looking for the latest solutions to employ in your system. Putting a Charcoal KONE on display will speak volumes about your savvy - in an understated manner, of course.This cordless handheld vacuum hides a powerful 7.2 volt motor, easy-to-empty bagless dirt cup, and charging base. The top of the KONE is the handle of the hidden vacuum; simply twist it to remove the vacuum from the charging base. The KONE stands 18" high and weighs less than 2 pounds. Comes In 5 Other Fun Color Options - White Illuminated, Champagne, Charcoal, Light Pink, and Plum$39.99 - $49.99 at Dirtdevil.com More About: Style , Lean , Clean , In Style
I Love Tamia
2006-12-18 03:29:02 Since her last album, More, Tamia is trying to do it all-being supportive of her husband Grant Hill and his career, mother of four year-old Myla Grace (Myla means merciful taken from the Bible 'mercy and grace'), and working with charities like Prevent Child Abuse America (http://www.preventchildabuse.org/); Habitat For Humanity (http://www.habitat.org/); Multiple Sclerosis (MS) awareness in Canada (http://www.mssociety.ca/); and, an African American art collection currently touring the US. More About: Love
Wrap Up
2006-12-18 03:29:02 The Barila Beatrice dress provides an updated look to the classic wrap dress. $160 @ Teenypig More About: Wrap
So Goes The Nation
2006-12-17 09:27:04 According to Anna Wintour, one can tell the mood of the country by reading the pages of Vogue. I agree. See her interviewed by Barbara Walters below. More About: The N , Nation , Goes , The Nation
Mimosas, Beauty Trends & Freebies
More articles from this author:2006-12-16 21:27:01 Last Saturday I had the pleasure of attending the Nordstrom Holiday Allure Cosmetics Trend Show 2006. I am not a morning person, but the perk of mimosas made arriving at 8am on a Saturday bearable. Covering three holiday beauty trends: Shimmering Beau ty , Alluring Beauty and Dramatic Beauty, each line presented their it items for the season. Oh yes, there were also fabulous giveaways. I scored a smashbox eyeliner duo, Bobbi Brown rouge pot and a few samples. My picks from the show are: Smashbox Photo Finish w/ SPF 15Bobbi Brown Shimer Brick KitChanel Inimitable MascaraMD Skincare Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel More About: Freebies , Trends , Free 1, 2, 3 |
