Weakley Features

Yesterday, while I was breakfasting on the "continental cuisine" at a Comfort Inn in the Midwest, my better half, Fashion Weakley, was making appearances in much hipper places. A post was featured on Elle magazine's online site (thanks to Julie, Sarah, et al., of Coutorture!) as part of the Coutorture/Elle content exchange program. And that’s not all, Racked, the newest retail rag brought to us by Gawker affiliates (finally, I was wondering when they were going to fill that void in their internet empire) linked us. I advise all of you to create a convenient home for this site in your bookmarks bar. Rest assured you’ll be clocking in time on Racked as much as you currently (and constantly) peruse Fashionista. Nothing like little doses of shopping news to reinvigorate you throughout the workday; not to mention helpful in planning that retail therapy session you’ll need circa 5 o’ clock.

Birthday Parties & Bird Shopping

Saturday the Fashion Weakley duo set out for a completely different kind of shopping. The kind for prepping a birthday party with gifts and party favors aplenty. We eventually rounded up a cake from Two Little Red Hens, a box of chocolates (sorted by dress forms, cameos, shoes, and silhouette designs no less), a block of delectable Goat Gouda cheese, and a bottle of red wine. Of course amidst the gathering of these items there was an undeniable urge to interject all of this practical shopping with a little fashion shopping. And so it was that we waltzed into Park Slope’s notorious Bird to take a gander at their newly arrived spring lines.

It felt good to be back in our own element for a few minutes, er, an hour. Though speaking of minutes, within five we had each already pulled several pieces for the fitting room. Glynnis was trying on the black and gold Tsumori Chisato dress for the second time in the last month, while I was pursuing high waisted jeans yet again. Of course the dress was a success as we knew it would be, however would have to wait until tax returns were directly deposited in the coming eight business days. The Grey Ant indigo blue high waists I had pulled on were unfortunately a no-go, but determined I asked the helpful sales assistant to recommend another pair they possibly had. She pulled the high-rise, straight leg, classic wash Acne’s for me to try, and wham bam thank you mam they were perfect! Exactly what I had in mind, these jeans fit as if they were designed specifically for me with a leg not skinny, nor wide, but perfectly straight, and a waist that cinched in just enough to make my square hips look deceivingly curved. I of course didn’t ask the price until I was sure to get them, and stamped my foot and handed over my credit card while exclaiming, “I’m sick of being practical,” much to the amusement of Ms. G. MacNicol. And practical I was clearly not as I forked over the money I had just days before paid off on my credit card, I entered the dressing room yet again, slipping the Acne jeans that were now mine on, tossing my own skirt in the shopping bag, and walking out the door Three’s Company style waving the girls goodbye.

THE Style Icon of Our Era

Muchas gracias to Fashionologie for posting this video of Kate Moss. I never like to re-post information already out there on my own site, however after much internal debate I decided this was a well-excused exception.



And take a look at that hat. I’m telling you hats are back!

And here is one of my favorite video interviews with her from years ago.


Models, shmodels, but Kate Moss, now that's a different story.

Th re-route of X & Y

To my better half (the boyfriend) a walk about the neighborhood is just that, a walk. But as you by now know, MY walks are a touch more involved. They’re more like grandiose fashion routes winding their way through Williamsburg, curated to encompass cappuccino pit stops and La Villita egg sandwiches while bouncing from one landmark boutique to the next. Sundays are my day to hang out in the hood, stroll in and out of shops (and fitting rooms), and browse at my leisure. This past Sunday however, I set out with my boyfriend in tow, and considering our walk definition differences a recalculated route was imperative!

The afternoon was carefully orchestrated via my intuitive balancing of shopping for me and snacks for him. I maneuvered the ‘burgh like a pro, wisely steering clear of ultra fem Jumelle and Armoire (they’ll have to hold their horses until next week) and conveniently landing in stores carrying both ‘his’ and ‘hers’. Though both Oak and Ylli offer up a wide selection of men’s clothing, it takes more than Acne or John Varvatos for Converse to hold his attention. Interestingly enough, vintage was the way to his heart, and luckily so (or for me, anyway).

Stella Dallas, the vintage store on N. 5th and Havemeyer, was a great dual gender stop packed with ample old bags, blazers, and what-not for him to tinker with. It bought me time to plow through racks, snatch up possible summer dresses, and give a once-over to the purses and shoes, before quickly ducking into the dressing room while, back turned, he was slipping into a pair of cowboy boots. Yes! A wildly colored jungle print dress and pastel pink 1950’s lace trimmed party frock were definite possibilities, but I decided to leave them as just that. The day was young; I had to seek out other prospective fish in the sea. So off we went to Oslo’s for the #1 cup of coffee and then on to Bedford.

We paid a visit to the North 6th magazine man. I flipped through the latest issues of Another Magazine and Muse, debating whether or not to spend $35 on my two favorite glossies. After all thirty-five bucks could have me one vintage dress that I could wear all summer long. Deciding to hold off until my reading stack is dwindling to splurge on reinforcements, I settled for two copies of Soma (one for my Mum and one for myself) and a free copy of Paper. I had no clue why it was free, but decided not to argue with the man, and continued out the door and south to the Bagel Store.

Bellies now full we headed back down Bedford to casually pop in Amarcord. And thank goodness we did. Five minutes on the floor and I’d already fallen for a camel wool coat with an enormous fox fur collar and an old English military jacket, only to be swept away by Marco (the owner) who was energetically pulling his favorite pieces from the back. A man with a sharp eye for shape, volume, dimension, and proportion, like myself he views clothing for it's potential, not necessarily face value. It was so much fun to watch someone else at work for a change, pulling together an outfit for me! I was won over with an enormous green German military cargo jacket, similar to the Anoraks all over Dries Van Noten and numerous editorials for spring. Not a piece I would have particularly picked up, but one that with a cinched belt, tights, and heels absolutely worked. Needless to say, I splurged, kissing that $35 (ok, a little more) goodbye, and can’t wait to be working it when this weather finally makes its way out.

*I’m still thinking about that little dress in Stella Dallas. Perhaps I’ll take it too!

Spring has NOT sprung!

The few warm days we’ve had this month were all a farce. Snow mounds may have been melting yesterday, but my stoop was iced over yet again today. Sundresses and trench coats, make your way back to the closet; the wool is busting back out. Ughhh.

All Hail the Elephant

“I wish I were a bird, and I could fly far, far away.” Jenny said it years ago, and as far as fashion reflects evidently we do to. Birds have been a thematic thread running through all aspects of fashion for several seasons now. Featured in fabrics, embroidered on dresses, and cut out of stone or pearls to be displayed as centerpieces for necklaces or dangling from chains on your ears. They are placed on the back pockets of jeans and screen-printed on tees. You name it, they’ve graced it. Evidently we’re obsessed with the fantastical idea of flight, cloaking ourselves in visual representations of these delicate creatures. Hence this little ditty:

Symbolically sporting freedom and escape,
Lightening a look,
Lifting a piece out of its grounded state.

How about that for fashion poetry? In all seriousness, though I adore my notorious bird earrings, of which I own several pairs and have gifted them to all of my dear friends:

I’m ready for a new theme. A bit bored with the bird, I’m hunting for a new animal obsession to introduce into my wardrobe, and for some reason unbeknown to me the majestic elephant keeps coming to mind. I’m bowled over by them lately, continually envisioning their loose skin decorated in bright jewel covered blankets. I picture their regal gait gracefully transporting a King. That alone makes me feel like dressing up fancy- sporting a bronze elephant with garnet eyes about my neck perhaps! BUT as if that were not enough, they also represent a myriad of ideas from wisdom in Asia (famed for their exceptional memory and high intelligence), to peace in Thailand. It appears there’s ample inspiration to be taken from this animal, perhaps it’s time fashion gave them a nod of recognition. Designers, on your mark get set go! Hurry, I’m dying for a fuchsia and royal blue elephant print silk scarf!

I'm Back And So Is The Hat

New York opened it’s arms to welcome me back yesterday afternoon via the Holland Tunnel and bustling Canal Street. Sitting in traffic on my way to the LES I rolled down the window, inviting the aroma of roasted peanuts to waft in, while eaves dropping the multi-language conversations taking place on the corner. My lips parted revealing an ear to ear grin as I watched tourists swarm to barter with the Chinatown vendors and obvious New Yorkers dodge in and out of sidewalk traffic, often taking the ‘high road’ if you will, opting for the street, fiercely paving the way to their next important destination. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Ahhh New York, how I missed thee.

While the coast of California was absolutely beautiful and waking up to warm sunshine everyday was a welcomed break from the well below freezing temperatures here and inches of snow, I missed the grit of this city. In the land of green tea soy latte’s and runs of serenity, I was the cappuccino girl, “Half and Half, please”, cranking out four mile jogs while mentally organizing my plans for the week. More importantly, I was analyzing how to use the dance company tour for my fashion adventures. Somehow on my jog peering out past the wharf at 100’s of sailboats, blue skies, and crystal clear water, finally spilling out on vacant beach (the one pictured), I managed to still have fashion on my mind. Impressive huh?

Specifically, how do I get a fashion editorial now resting in its embryonic state within the confines of my brain accomplished? This was the question I was running over- no pun intended- while stretching in the sand, sun beaming down on me. I began to make a checklist of items and people needed as I struggled to my feet prepping myself for the walk back to the surprisingly hospitable Best Western. On my way up Wave Street, just before rounding the corner to the hotel, I came upon an old Antique store. In my post run daze I strolled in to take a look around. It was enormous, the size of an old warehouse in the Meat Packing district, and chock full of old dishes, records, knick knacks, bureau’s, coat racks, paintings, mirrors, etc. A few old hats caught my eye. While fiddling around, trying them on at different angles and adjusting the brims- they were not exactly what I had in mind- one of the sweet little ladies employed asked me if I was searching for vintage clothing. Why, of course! She directed me up stairs to the back right hand corner where she said with a wink, “There are quite a bit of things gathered there. You look like you might be interested.” And so upstairs I went and weaved my way through the tableaus of stuff to the back. Jackpot.

I had to be back at the hotel in fifteen minutes for a meeting, but would definitely return. I waved thank you to the little lady on my way out the door, assuring her I’d be back, and raced up the hill to the hotel. A hat themed editorial; bringing the abandoned accessory back. Brilliant. Meeting done, shower taken, and clean clothes on I headed back down the hill to my hats.

I spent nearly two hours dressing up in a plethora of hats (ranging in styles from the late 1800’s to the 1960’s), strutting around in vintage patent leather heels (unfortunately a half size too big), wrapping my shoulders up in fur shrugs, forcing my kindergarten sized hands into tiny leather gloves, and grabbing various clutch purses for an overall effect. I had died and gone to heaven. Now the only thing to be done was deciding what to buy. The prices were beyond reasonable $6-35, a steal in comparison to New York prices. Clearly these folks were not hip to what they had their hands on. However, as cheap as they were, I was still working on a budget, not to mention a plane ticket. How in the hell would I get all of this back? I located my little lady once again. First thing first, can I barter? Yes, she said most of the items could be taken to at least 10% off. Good news. Secondly, do they ship? Yes, but generally not for items as small as these, however the UPS is four blocks away and if I didn’t mind walking (come on, I’m a New Yorker!) they could box everything up for me ready to go. Perfect. I narrowed it down to six of the best pieces, ones I could utilize in a photo shoot AND add to my personal wardrobe, paid the clerk as another one boxed up my buys, and out the door to the local UPS store I went. Twenty minutes later I was off to the theater and my hats were bound for New York. Nearly two weeks later I’m back in New York sipping another cup of coffee in my quaint Brooklyn apartment waiting for my hats to catch up with me!

paperbag princess

Grapes of Wrath

I have officially arrived in Steinbeck country. The highway from San Francisco to Monterrey Bay is literally lined by dusty fields, picturesque grapes of wrath. The drive was simply breathtaking. After settling in to my hotel room, shimmying out of my sweats and sneakers and into my Superfine skinnies and black flats, I was prepared to take a walk around town. On my way out however, I took a slight detour. Complimentary glasses of red wine and plates of cheese and crackers were being offered up in the common room. Not a girl to pass up free vino I couldn't resist a pit stop. Recharged, I walked the couple blocks down to the shore and caught the sunset. The sky was a myriad of hot color and the water glittered as the light reflected the rays. I strolled along Cannery Row, now a street lined by little tourist shops and quirky boutiques, inhaled the fresh salty air, and noted a few shops to visit later in the week. Finally it was off to a sushi dinner with the company, and back to my room to read and relax before bed. These last few words struck a chord in me, before drifting off to sleep:

"I manifest my right to self-expression through the way I dress, so for me it's not something superficial. It's an interpretation of how I see life. Every time I get dressed, it's like putting on a costume. It's dressing up everyday for the theater of life."
-Nori Starck

a certain slant of light

Jetsetting

Off to the other grand coast of this country. The posts in the coming weeks will be inspired by adventures traveling. Take care of New York for me. California here I come!

Top Shopping

I posted back in September (ironically just after the SS07 Fashion Week culminated) about my day of shopping in Armoire.This charming upscale boutique located in South Williamsburg had me by the heartstrings from my first visit. Now, six months later with numerous visits under my belt, I have not only a Karen Zambos trench coat and several lovely dresses, but also the refreshing brain to pick belonging of owner, Melissa Ray.
After several lengthy conversations I have begun to think perhaps the warmth of the boutique is due not only to the bright array of clothing, heavily weighing in on the feminine side, but the sincere, down to earth energy she brings to the shop. She is on a perpetual mission to discover new designers and bring quality clothing to her Brooklyn based customers. Soaring into spring after curating her first complete set of seasons, she is now embarking upon her second year in business. Her youthful enthusiasm is taking us up, up, and away.

With the boxes rolling in daily, she is giddy like a kid at Christmas about the latest arrivals. With due reason, the new merchandise is awesome! The first shipment of Twinkle by Wenlan’s latest line is now on the racks featuring the swirl stripe and confetti specked mini dress, and grey tulip skirt with an exposed buttoned seam down the back and across the bottom. A description doesn't do it justice; the skirt is a statement on its own! There’s also an array of reasonably priced summer frocks by Mimo, delicately pleated dresses by Foley, and a subtly detailed empire dress by my personal favorite, Vena Cava. New additions yet to arrive are shoes by Tashkent and pieces by the newly discovered Samantha Pleet among many others, so overwhelmed I neglected to write them all down. BUT if you’re not prepared to make the leap into Spring, play it safe with the 70% off sale on Fall merchandise. Yeah, 70% off. I’m not kidding.

That said, Armoire is a comfortable boutique to make yourself at home- toss your bag and coat to the side and grab a glass of wine or mimosa on Sunday. Feel at ease to take your time, pressure free, to peruse the racks and casually chat. Rarely do you enter a shop in this city offering up the prestigious level of merchandise without the pretension. Ladies, this is it. In my previous post I predicted Armoire would become a staple; it has indeed. (Refinery 29, I would heavily consider this shop becoming the newest addition.)

I could go on and on, but I recommend you check it out for yourself, www.armoirebklyn.com. Or better yet stop by the store. Be brave, venture beyond Bedford, there is life out there, I swear.

344 Grand Street
(at Havemeyer St.)