Vika G.

Vika in a look from her SS11 collection. The collection is thoughtful, elegant and, as always, resplendent with Vika's stylistic substance.

Beauty

I was flipping through the magazines I picked up the other day and came across this beauty feature in the January 2011 issue of Elle U.K. (Carey Mulligan covers the issue). I was so excited when I laid eyes on Charlotte and and Rosa-Safiah (on the same page, for me a huge coincidence), because I had the lovely opportunity to shoot them during London and Paris fashion weeks. It's nice to see that their personal beauty looks are exactly what they describe in the feature.

physically better, emotionally destroyed

Hey there, I was feeling better today so my husband, the epidemiologist, not the astrologer (ever after referred to as "ENA", and this only refers to his first name not his profession), P.J. (the toddler with the mostest) and I ventured into the center of St. Moritz to pick up some magazines and run other errands (shopping). After a quick stop into Bottega Veneta, I popped into a boutique (I've blocked the name out of my head, you'll see why in a minute), which had tons of Azzedine Alaïa in the window. I've been dying for Vanessa Coyle's killer Alaïa boots and, in the last couple days, have built up an end-of season-panic that they will be sold out before sale season starts. They have been for the most part. But that's the risk you take when you aim to be a responsible shopper.

I was 20 minutes too late, they rung up that last pair in my size as I watched in despair. The lucky lady took home at least three pairs of beauties by the designer. Whimper, whimper. I've sent an e-mail to Corso Como10 inquiring about a black pair that I saw the other day. I'll let you know what happens. AND THANKS FOR ALL YOUR GET WELL WISHES!!! XOXO

Just what the doctor ordered

I'm not feeling well today. I guess I've been indulging too much in the season's feasts. Last night's Bollito Misto alla Piemontese has left me immobile in bed this morning, but, I've been able to find a little joy in my situation. The above snapshot is the view from my pillow. Nice, huh? I love the tone and texture scheme of the shoes that I packed (totally unintentional) for this trip to Madulain. Gosh, how I love YSL Tributes, I rarely ever leave home with out them. And don't get me started on my all-time-favorite Louboutin Pigalle, the ultimate toe-cleavage stiletto. And my beloved Miu Miu leopard skin platforms, my favorite platform for fall 2010. Every time I open my eyes, these babies are there. I think I feel the strength coming back to my achy bones.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Wishing you a merry Christmas filled with happiness and with love. xoxo, Tamu

over the shoulder with a heartfelt laugh

Nothing feels better than a good laugh. Especially when it comes to expressing your style. It means that you are having fun, and it invites everyone in your presence to join in and experience your delight. Case in point, model Camille Row, who laughs heartily as she slings her gorgeous camel coat over her shoulders outside the Moncler Gamme Rouge presentation.

You know I ♥ Jen

Style is very much about the right attitude. Jen Brill's laid back, totally unaffected approach drives me to blush. I always shake my head with admiration when I see her.

THE LONG and short of IT

I'm so impressed with the way Veronica (above) and Columbine (below) layer their top coats over a pair of shorts or a dress. And, I love how they've both rolled their sleeves to perfection.

Maxi love

Great proportion play of a maxi sweater and maxi tote combined with a little fedora, cuffed-cigarette trousers and sleek booties.

hi-lite

A pop of color, by way of this fun yellow turban, emphasizes an already chic look.

Velvet

Fifi Newbery in London, September 2010

Carine

I'm sure you've heard the news. It was probably the most popular twitbit yesterday. I remember scrolling down lines and lines of "Carine to leave Vogue Paris. " I was sitting on a delayed flight when Kenya sent me an email with the news. Where were you when you learned of her departure from the mag she helped reposition to it's current cult status?

My flight was delayed due to a growing snowstorm which required the plane's wings to be deiced. When I received Kenya's message, the view from my window was completely obstructed by the snow fall. It was a surreal kind of atmosphere. Stuck on the plane, not knowing when we would take off, with our vision of the runway cut off. I had a slight case of the butterflies. It wasn't the first time that Carine or news of Carine would induce emotions of excitement in me, and I am positive that it won't be the last; British Vogue reports that she will be moving on to develop personal projects. DYING to learn her next move, as I am sure you are.

From the first time that I saw her in person in Paris and heard her very sweet voice; to the time that I saw her shopping in Marc by Marc on Bleeker street (she picked out the coolest naval captain's hat, and I got an excitement-induced headache from being so close to her); to the time that she told me that I looked chic during the Fall 2010 Couture shows (no words to describe my delight), she has become one of the women that I refer to stylistically. I have always said that I don't have a style icon per se, but recently I have come to realize that if I had to choose someone, I kind of have chosen Carine. GOOD LUCK CARINE!

A strip of color

I was so surprised to see E.A. in a bit of color this past Milan Fashion Week. Her style is always killer.

leather shorts obsessed

I'm sure I've mentioned before how much I love leather shorts. They are among the fashion things that I live in. And I have to say that I am obsessed with other fashionable birds who love them too. Like Zanna who makes two stellar appearances in them during the Milan SS 2011 collections. I'm obsessed!

Military Chic, Natalia

Harper's Bazaar Russia's Natalia Alverdian wowed street style addicts like myself with this amazing military inspired and lace combo in February during the Milan F/W 2010 collections. A combination that subsequently graced the racks of fashion-favorite boutiques like Miu Miu this fall.

The super-chic stylist nailed the look again during the Milan SS2011 collections; this time in a version adapted for the warmer Fall climate. Winter or Fall, she never falls out of line.

Where my tassels rest

Belted break-away

Yasmin Sewell outside the Chloe SS11 runway show.

Drape and Flow

Do you think the title of this post could work in the context of a hip-hop song? Yes? Really? Cause I've been listening to Nicki Minaj for the last 24 hours and my inner lyricist is fighting her way out of selective suppression. But back to the lovely Maria of Vanillascented. How incredible is the draping details of her Veronica B. Vallenes cape and Fifth Avenue Shoe Repair midi-dress? They flow effortless into a striking silhouette.

Ceremony

Denni channels her inner goddess in a striking cape and fierce YSL "Mohawk" pumps. She's official.

ADA, casual chic

Eugenia

I LOVE YOUR LOOK! You give me posh, chic, glamorous, edgy with the right attitude all at the same time. Take it easy, I'm easily excited by style...your blazer slung over your shoulders like that, your cut-offs and your platform booties are a lot to take all at once. Thank god I've already had a second cup of coffee.

Seventies-style sensibility

I love Ondine's style. And when I think about it, I can see some of her style elements in my own wardrobe: wide-leg/flare pants (I'm practically living in them); cozy sweaters and tons of seventies-inspired button-downs. After all, I am a child of the seventies.