Leopard

This is my staple leopard-print piece. I got it on sale five years ago at Club Monaco. I wear it whenever I want to make a statement. Even though I have worn it consistently since I purchased it, I was psyched last winter when designers sent animal prints down the catwalks. Pat on my shoulder for a good purchase! I was further encouraged after the Burberry Art of the Trench collaboration with The Sartorialist was launched, and the word trench found itself on the tip of every one's tongue. I thought, wow a two-for-one! But this fall when I pulled it from my closet to send it to the cleaners for a seasonal freshening-up, something just wasn't right.

Image courtesy of style.com

I revisited collections like Isabel Marant and decided that it was the silhouette of my coat that wasn't working for me anymore. I didn't want a faux fur trench. I wanted something more of-the-moment. Then I remembered that a friend of mine found a great vintage leopard coat at an estate sale a few years ago. I decided to take the vintage road. I looked around for a cute version, but as of a week before the men's collections here in Milan, I hadn't found anything interesting. I did however, see something cute at the Mango end-of-season sale. But, deterring me after I get an idea in my head can be a daunting enterprise. I remained on my vintage course.

There are ways to knock me off course though. And it often has to do with stylish men or women that inspire me. So, on the last day of the men's shows, Anna, Aurora and Viviana transformed themselves into Anna's angels. Fabulous! I drifted south as soon as I saw them.

Later that day, I described my leopard situation to Tommy of Jak & Jil who aptly encouraged me to go to Mango and get my leopard coat.

Top image: Hat, Zara; coat, Club Monaco; jeans, superfine; thigh-high boots, Prada; necklace, H&M.
Last image: Turban, vintage; tights, Wolford; suede peep-toe wedge sandal, YSL. Turtleneck worn throughout, Zara.

My journey to personal style refinement

When it comes to investment pieces like jewelry and watches, I always choose the safest, cleanest, most elegant look. The earring, bracelet or watch that I can wear everyday and with everything. Or that "good" piece that I reserve only for special occasions. I apply this criteria because I suffer from a bit of undiagnosed, sensory-overload ADD. I don't know if this condition actually exists, and in this case, I refuse to look it up on Wikipedia. I know I have it, and that's that.

What are the symptoms? Well let's see. The more fantastical, colorful, impractical and, usually, the more expensive an item, the more I like it. And, it doesn't help that ever since I have known my husband he has said things like, "if you are going to get that bag, don't get it in black, get it in red or mint green." I guess [it] is an older cousin to the "like a kid in a candy store" syndrome. But the problem is that after about 26 seconds, the object usually looses its luster and I am on to the next thing. I know, this is not a rare condition. That many of you out there probably suffer from it too. But where is the personal value, the sentimentality of a piece if you are constantly spinning from object to object like an out of control tea cup? For me it is often dizzying and highly dissatisfying. So over the years, as a way to refine my acquisitions, I have developed a habit of only purchasing important pieces based on these practical criteria.

But while working on a recent accessories project, I came across this Vacheron Constantin stunner. Named Matsu to tsuru, the Pine Tree and Crane, it is from the "Métiers d'Art- La symbolique des laques" collection, Vacheron Constantin's latest collaboration in their ongoing quest to combine watchmaking and decorative techniques. The decorative technique here is Maki-e, a laquer art that is achieved by delicately sprinkling gold or silver dust over lacquer while it is still wet.

Upon seeing it I thought: "Wow this is really special. I could wear this. No, it doesn't go with everything I own, but it doesn't matter. Gosh it's pretty." The more I looked at it, the more I fell for it. The pine tree and crane motif extremely attractive to me, a personal symbol of All the Pretty Birds? With my purchase criteria stripping away as fast as that out of control tea cup, I realized with striking clarity that this watch (I don't know if I can even dream of affording it) was something that I came to love based on my years of restraint, my exposure to fashion, at all levels, and my personal style growth. If I could purchase it, it wouldn't be because it's "the" status piece. It would be because I just find it really beautiful!

I have reached another stage on my journey to personal style refinement. With this newly acquired knowledge, I will go and search out something that I can afford. Valentine's day is almost here! Sweet dreams. Tamu

An Island Girl

Meet Sarah Grittini of L'Uomo Vogue. I met her this men's fashion week, and I am totally enamored by her style. She is from Isola D'Elba, a beautiful island in the Tuscan Archipelago. Are you noticing a pattern here? Islands and fashionable women? You know, Garance Doré, Sarah, and little old me? (Smile) Hey! I like to think that I am fashionable. Watch it!

Anyway, back to Sarah. She was discovered years ago by Franca Sozzani herself and has been with L'Uomo Vogue ever since. She's an extremely interesting and inspiring person: an avid traveler she just got back from a trip to Brazil; and she has a penchant for vintage Ossie Clark. Cool, right? But it doesn't end there. One of the most endearing things I learned about Sarah is that she is a kind soul. After knowing me for less than 16 minutes, she offered me a ride to the next show.

Stimulating the senses: The Mineral Edition

The grain-like texture of Jeff's coat reminds me of clay. While his acid wash jeans look as though they have been sculpted from marble. The combination is visually engaging as the graininess of the coat fades into the optically-veiny surface of the wash. What do I think about the black and white shirt/vest combo underneath? Charming, as it is the graphic detail that pulls the entire look together.

Style and Beauty

It's in their DNA. Sisters Giorgia and Giulia outside the Men's Gucci show. With distinctively good looks, you can't help but wonder what the rest of the family looks like.

Giorgia (above) adds a personal twist to Italian glamour in a timeless Prada coat, an of-the-moment Silence & Noise romper, Ash booties, Alexander Wang bag, an Emanuele Bicocchi necklace and large-rimmed sunglasses. While Giulia (below), in a vintage theater-worthy skirt, hooded topcoat and Gucci platforms, embraces the "formal meets casual" theme that pervades the men's catwalks this season.

I don't know about you, but I would gladly accept an invitation to dinner at their house. Maybe the key ingredient to their beauty and style is in their mamma's cooking.

Pipe Lines

Sometimes it's the small details that count. These coats are a great example of how a little piping can make a garment stand out.



Here, the sartorial detail accentuates the clean lines of Matthieu's coat.



And here, adds dimension to Giulio's rounded coat.

Happy Weekend!

I hope that you are out and about surrounded by friends and family (and if you are lucky, hotness like this). I had to say it, sorry!

Impeccable

GQ Korea's Fashion Director Jeeyong Kang's killer menswear instinct sets her apart from the crowd. I am a huge fan!

Red Satin ● Breton stripes

I ordered this Acne skirt right before Christmas after seeing a longer, more formal version at the Luisa Beccaria boutique here in Milan. Could red satin be more divine?

When it arrived after Christmas, I began to think about what I could pair it with. Then a trip to American Apparel for some new tights landed me my new favorite Breton-stripe shirt. I have been wearing it every other day! And, at some point during my recent striped marathon, it occurred to me that my new "can't live without" is definitely the mate for my skirt.

Then, three days ago I spotted Katie Grand in a similar theme. So you know that I am convinced right? And If I didn't wear the shirt every other day, the entire look would be packed away in my suitcase awaiting its debut during fashion month.

And here they are together!



Here are the shoes I'm thinking of. From L-R: python cowboy boots by Buttero; suede lace-up boots by ASH; leather lace-up combat boots by Rag & Bone. Which pair do you like? I'd love to know!

Smooth Operator

I've been dreaming of a double-breasted suit (DBS) for a while now. My mother-in-law had a couple custom made last year. Grey cashmere for the cold winter months and white linen for the hot summer months. Devastatingly chic! I always struggle to keep my composure when she wears them.

Just like I had to struggle two days ago when Anna showed up to the Gucci show in this sick Umit Benan DBS. Giving off a total "Smooth Operator" vibe, she expertly contrasts this midnight-blue menswear staple with a white, ruffle button-down; a lovely play on the feminine meets masculine theme that has enjoyed airtime for the past few seasons. Also lovely is the way she accessorizes the look with statement turquoise jewelry.

Note: Umit won L'Uomo Vogue & Pitti Immagine's first menswear edition of 'WHO IS ON NEXT' this past summer.

Layer Cake

New Milan street-style coverage over at Refinery29. Click Layer Cake to check out the stylish looks from Men's Fashion Week F/W10.

The Dagger and the Magnum

Have you ever seen someone open a bottle of champagne with a dagger? It takes great skill, draws applause when executed well, and is perfectly disastrous when botched. It's pretty thrilling. Downright cool.

Meet Dafne. She is the reason why we use words like cool. Her energy: confident and seductive. In fact, you can feel it a block away as she graces the streets of Milan in her line of handmade apparel, 1st act. The bottle of champagne and dagger? Formerly housed in the black case she carries as a handbag.

Giovanna

The stunning Fashion Director in a Dolce & Gabbana brocade and fur jacket outside the duo's FW10/11 men's wear show.

Yeah, Milan Men's Fashion Week is here!

And I'm so excited that I get to see some of my favorite fashion insiders again. It's been too long! Here, the always lovely Caroline Issa, Executive Fashion Director and Publisher of Tank Magazine, in a cropped trench and killer Proenza Schouler platform booties.

Hmm, maybe a cropped trench for the spring? Besos! Tamu

Bell

Upon seeing Hyoeun, the following string of words sailed through my mind: feminine, polished, poised. Then I inhaled as I took in her style. I always inhale deeply when I see something that I like. For me it has the same effect as closing your eyes to remember a certain image. In a way, I think that inhaling allows me to completely take in the moment so that it has a total sensory impact when I mentally play back the scene. Then I assign a theme to the moment and the image. In fact, I often choose a theme or theme song for myself when I get dressed. I personally think this little exercise adds a certain punch to my step. Plus, it's fun.

When I play back Hyoeun's moment, I see a beautiful woman gently swaying back and forth in her Vanessa Bruno bell sleeve coat, familiar and beloved black opaque tights, and sleek Carvela shoes--a brand that I have come to love over the past year. Whatever her personal theme music, I'm sure it's classic smooth.

Velvet detail

I don't know about you, but I feel like velvet was lost in the shuffle of the major fall trends. There are many lovely velvet pieces that come to mind, that killer H&M butterfly-sleeve dress is one, but overall, it was the studs, leather, and lace that reigned supreme. But whenever I see the luxe fabric, I am strongly attracted to its allure. Here on Lynda, more so, as she does it in the subtle detail of her leggings.

P.S. I also love her work boots. She's had them forever, doesn't remember where she got them, and they are perfectly aged and worn.

Do you like stars?

I found this vintage, star motif, cut-out jacket at a church charity sale over the holidays. With the resort collections arriving in stores and an upcoming family vacation, I'm dreaming up fun beach looks.

As a chic cover up in St. Barths.



Spiced up for lunch at Club 55 in St. Tropez.



For lounging poolside in the Tuscan hills.

I am so excited about this piece. I know that it will be a staple in my closet for years to come. Do you like stars? I know I do. Besos, Tamu

From top: Orange swimsuit, Eres; gold leather belt, purchased at the Forte di Marme market; ivory silk camisole, purchased at the San Marco market; wool pantie shorts, Prada; earings styled as buttons, vintage Trifari.

Time for the statement coat

One with long sleeves, no cut-outs or cut-aways. You know, one that takes over when trying to be cute will only get you pneumonia?

O.k., sit down. I have a confession: Sometimes I don't have it in me to wear my short sleeve Opening Ceremony swing coat. I know, gasp! And, I know that the sales associate at Barney's said that motorcycle jackets aren't meant to be zipped up. Or, yes, I almost broke my ankle running down Mercer street to pick up my Napoleon-inspired, cut-away Phillip Lim coat. I know, I know, I could wear my beloved parka. But what if it just isn't a parka day? What if it's a chic day? What if I want to be plain chic and not military or edgy chic?

Well once again in the midst of my frozen-limb inspired wining, I have decided that next winter I will invest in a verrrry warm coat. I say it every year, but by the time September rolls around, I am fully distracted by conceptual outwear. In the meantime, I'll take inspiration from these two chicettes.

Statements are made to be bold! Imagine the audience I could conquer in Pamela's (pictured above) eye-catching Michael Kors tweed (it would be graphic); or the bold stance I could take in Iris' "you cant lose me in a sea of gray" John Galliano?

Hmm! Great pieces to keep me focused!

Besos! Tamu

Black on Black

Andrea's "black on black" look is stunning as she accessorizes her show stopper H&M cocoon coat with intertwined American Apparel and Cos scarves. I've seen a few guys and girls layering up on scarves lately. I'm definitely a fan! It's a fun way to experiment with texture and volume.

Lala Painted

I was beyond thrilled when Simon from Vietnamthemovie contacted me to do a street style/art collaboration. I had seen his work on favorite blogs like Blue Is In Fashion This Year, and thought it quite admirable that he taught himself to illustrate. Well, he's outdone himself again by learning how to paint over the holidays. Here's his interpretation of one of my favorite portraits from 2009. My turban off to him for a beautiful piece. Please check him out at vietnamthemovie.blogspot.com.

XsuperO,
Tamu

Cold Front # 2

Fun in Layers. Melissa and Daniele pile it on to fend of Milan's recent frigid temperatures. When I asked them what they were wearing, they responded in unison: "we emptied our closets!"

Cold Front

It's been unusually cold in Milan for the past few weeks. To brave the cold, Laura and Oli stay close. They remind me of when my best friend Sofia and I would pass entire winter days walking arm in arm through the streets of Soho and Nolita. Whether it was 25 or 15 degrees, we always had each other's company to keep us warm.

The Old School Lingerie Emporium

It all started yesterday morning when I went to the weekly open air market in St. Marco to pick up some wool underwear. Since I'll be attending New York Fashion Week next month, I am completing a check-list of the things that I will need. Warm undergarments top the list because being cold is a situation that I can not bear. It probably has to do with the fact that I was born on the sandy beaches of Jamaica. Well, thermals as we know them back in the States aren't popular here in Italy. Instead Italians wear t-shirts, leggings, and tights made of wool. And the fact that these undergarments are a type of knit renders them slightly more elegant than our waffled versions. You know those Italians can't let an opportunity for elegance pass them by. Non ci pensare neanche! Hand movement please. Don't even think about it!

After spending 30 minutes digesting style and size options (I hate returning things), my eyes started to peruse the bloomers, corsets, bodysuits, and full coverage bras neighboring the wool thermals. And Ping! A light flashed in my head. These bras and panties are perfect for experimenting with Spring 2010's lingerie inspired looks and transparent pieces! Think Dolce Gabbana bodysuits or transparent looks like this one below.

Fast forward to the afternoon. Continuing my task of preparing for New York's lovely cold weather, I popped into "solo calze e ..." in Brera to pick up my favorite brand of tights. "Good evening, may I have two pairs of the Girardi 100 den in black, and one pair in grey?" As I waited for the shopkeeper to fish my goodies out of their drawers, I thought about the first time I entered the doors of this old school lingerie emporium. It was with my fairy of a friend Celeste. Fairy because she is slight, has the most angelic face, wears ethereal dresses year round, and has an extremely youthful spirit. A kind of female Peter Pan. Funny enough, it was on that very trip that I discovered my beloved hosiery.

I remember thinking that day that the store had a real warm and old world feel to it. Merchandising is basic with bras, panties, and other little intimate things displayed in the window or stored away in boxes or in drawers. But even without the fancy packaging that I adore, everything feels so precious. Like maybe the way it felt when our grandmothers and mothers frequented these stores to purchase their delicate "unmentionables."

At some point I exited my nostalgia to recognize a pair of the bloomers I had seen at the market that morning. It then dawned on me that the stand at the market offered the same merchandise found in this store. Fantastic, I thought. I love markets and everything, but it's also nice to have a store where the selection is more expansive and which is open all week. Love it! I had figured out how I would navigate Spring 2010's skin trend and it was only January 4th.

I know, I know. I can probably find these pieces at Yamamay, the Italian version of Victoria's Secret. And if I were thoughtful enough, I could have scored some gorgeous undies from the Sonia Rykiel for H&M collection. Or why not something more luxurious at Agent Provocateur or Kiki de Montparnasse? But the truth of the matter is that I have developed a strong attraction to the tradition behind these garments. When I see older Italian women enter a store like "solo calze" and ask for a specific model that they have been wearing for the last 15-20 years, I am sucked into the tradition. These undergarments were designed for the rigours of a life more elegant and formal than ours. Surely they can help me pull off even the most revealing of Spring 2010's offerings.

Besos, Tamu

In the Spirit of Sequins

Kate Dimmock, Fashion Director Town and Country

Sequins are the kind of thing that you either love, hate, or make excuses for like: "Look at this sequin belt by Prada. I usually don't like sequins, but these sequins are really elegant." I know plenty of people who can't stand them, swear they're over-the-top, and are convinced that only fashion victims would be caught dead in them. I would love to hear their current thoughts considering how these beads have stormed our runways and streets for the past few seasons.

For me, it's about how well they are done. One of my favorite sequin pieces is a flapper-inspired mini-skirt that I got on sale at Jill Stuart back in 2005. And I can't tell you how much I obsessed over the the Proenza Schouler T-shirt from the fall 2008 collection. No way I was finding one on sale, so I opted for the Gryphon version which has been a personal style staple . Then there are the sequin leggings that I stumbled upon last year at Express in an effort to satisfy my lust for the Les Chiffoniers sparklers. So glad that I got them, they were perfect for my best friend's slutty-chic themed bachelorette party. Ha Ha! Just kidding, I wear them relatively often. I even wore them on recent trip to the floral market.

Well, whatever your preference, you may not to want to leave the house wearing all your glitter. You might be mistaken for a Liberace impersonator and be forced into a sidewalk performance. But if that's your thing: "Hello Dolly"!

Besos! Tamu

The Trench

I know, it's only January 3rd and freezing outside, but I am already starting a checklist of Spring wardrobe staples. A stylish trench is definitely an item that will make its way into my closet. Inspired by Burberry's lovely collaboration with The Sartorialist, I have been thinking of what style suits me. Will I go vintage or something new? I'm not sure, but after looking at these images that I shot of Taylor during MFW, I have some definite style points in mind. Taylor's version is perfect for styling purposes. The full skirt, belted and gathered at the waist, allows for effortless layering. I love how her powder blue, ruffle skirt pokes out. Hi there! Plus, it looks amazing from behind. Feminine, or edgy as Taylor demonstrates in her YSL platform boots, it offers fabulous options for looking chic.
Another chic element that I'll be on the look out for is shoulder/sleeve proportion. The shoulders on Taylor's are boxy and and the sleeves are abundant in fabric. I am convinced that this mix is the key to her perfect pushed-up sleeve look. I don't know about you, but I hate having to adjust the sleeves on my jackets. If I could just eliminate the need for readjustments, I could concentrate on my favorite springtime pastimes like mint gelato or sidewalk aperitivos (I love dining outside in the spring!). I'll let you know what I come up with, and feel free to send over suggestions!

Besos!
Tamu

Happy New Year

Kirstin, Vicky (Grazia UK), Tatel, me, Gèraldine, Joris

I am so excited! A new year, a clean slate. The opportunity to expand my blog beyond its current boundaries.

A special word sailed onto my radar in 2009: dynamic. At first, I heard it here and there, but by the end of the year it was a word that came up in numerous situations. But how did this word affect me, how did it affect All the Pretty Birds? After great reflection about my objectives for the blog, about the meaning of your comments, and the encouragement from and developments of fellow bloggers, I realized that the time has come for me to transition APB into a richer, more dynamic work on fashion. I want to underline how I have been deeply inspired by you my readers and by my fellow bloggers. You all are a group of extremely savvy individuals, and I have benefited from your ambition, genius, and DIY approach to publishing your blogs.

I have already began to roll out new categories such as "A Stylish Bird," and "I need and will die a fashion death if I don't," while street style will absolutely remain my focus. Also, look out for a category that I have presently dubbed "First Impression," where I will try my hand at reviewing the runway shows. Let me know what you think, good or bad. Constructive criticism is invaluable!

I wish you a smile for the New Year!
Tamu