The Laurie B Style Files

Lauriebstyle.com = facelifted, healed and looking fabulous!

2010-06-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

GUESS WHAT FASHION LOVERS? RAISE A GLASS! I'M MOVING SITES! YOU CAN FIND ME, MY BLOG, AND ALL THE FASHION GOODS AT THE NEW AND IMPROVED:

WWW.LAURIEBSTYLE.COM

SEE YOU ALL THERE!!

The Hair Transformation. Part 2: Hairroin Salon

2010-05-28T13:31:00.000-07:00

So I totally planned for having a video of this whole process and after reviewing the footage, I've decided that... Pictures are a better representation. Especially considering there was something significantly wrong with the video sound quality and I sounded like I had a lisp. Hilarious!

In anycase. Something I've always known about myself is that I am extremely impulsive about my hair. On the day that I feel that I need to change it, I absoutely MUST do it that day. It's one of those funny psychological reactions that happen when in life you feel like your stuck about something and you need to change, but you can't change? Guess what can? Your hair. It's true for me. How about for you all?

That actually wasn't the case on this particular hair cut day. Let's cut to a March... Me at the simply stylist event. Remember this? click here. I was oh so fortunate enough to get a free (FREE!) haircut by the amazing Sully who was there with Harrioin Salon. She gave me the best cut I have ever had. And when those bangs started to grow out (before picture...) it was time to go get an amazing cut again! And Sully totally out did herself!

I wanted bangs, I wanted a pop of neon color (inspired my my friend Bekah who died her hair hot pink for Purim... yes... Purim... the Jewish Halloween) and I wanted to be edgy. Ask and ye shall recieve! So what do you guys think of my new do?

Thank you to Janine Jarmon from Hairroin Salon for letting me take some pictures and have a fun morning adventure! I recommend you swing by! Call 323-467-0392 to make an appointment and visit the website at www.hairroinsalon.com

Here are some more pictures from the day! Enjoy! ...and enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!

Sully and me!

Janine Jarmon (From Shear Genius Season 3) and me!

The Hair Transformation. Part 1 - All over dye

2010-05-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hello before and after. I typically dye my hair bright red every six months. It washes out super fast but I still keep doing it. Actually I've been dying my hair every six months since 1998. I guess that is what happens when you leave home for college and true independence takes it's reigns. Well I've never done blue or anything, but I've mastered dying my own hair from a $9.00 box. And that is something to be said for!

What my color? It's the same color I've used for years. L'oreal Feria Color #56 Brilliant Bordeaux

The funny thing is: I've been using this color since they first launched it with Milla Jovovich as the hair color model. (UPDATE: Actually it was number #67 that Milla Covered and I used to wear! I think I lost my color way some years ago after they replaced Milla's face. Shame on them... I guess I know what I'm doing next with my hair...)

Stay tuned! Part two is coming up! The Haircut!

What I wore: BCBG Shopping Event

2010-05-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

Picture taken by Felix from Lookbookla.. but on my camera ;)

Now what ever Felix did to make me look tall... Genius. Look at those looooong legs! This was a last minute outfit throw together that ended turning out to be one of my newest favorite fashion confections! It's the perfect mix of old and new, high and low and all Laurie B. So here is the rundown:

Top to bottom:

Feather earrings: Betsey Johnson 2008

Mesh Necklace: Vintage Whiting&Davis

Gold elongated necklace strand: Intuition for Target

Black pleated bubble hem tank: Daisy Fuentes for Kohls (oh yeah, and I designed that baby back in 2006 and was instores Prefall 2006...if i remember correctly)

Yellow Lace Cardigan: Rodarte for Target
Belt: Vintage NYC Goodwill 2002

Printed Skirt: Banana Republic 2009

Shoes: Betsey Johnson

Ikat clutch: A gift for my birthday in April from my awesome friend Rachel!

I believe this belt I am wearing was one of the first belts I bought when I first moved to NYC back in 2002. I was broke and on a vintage, goodwill kick aways finding the best pieces. What I look for? Longevitiy. I see further fashion vision with items and I keep them for years and years and years.

Love.

aaaand... here is a mini picture adventure from the evening.

Adventures in Vintage

2010-05-18T14:21:00.000-07:00

This is a classic example of what happens when I see things I like... I start stacking them. Headband, belt as necklace, scarf as wrist cuff... it totally doesn't work but I rocked it like it did!

It's that time again! Here's yet another adventure at the Melrose Trading Post. My favorite sunday destination. Each time I go I see something new, different, exciting, and inspiring. Sometimes I'm only in a furniture mood, sometimes a trinkets mood, it all depends.

I've been a flea market shopping since 2000. I love it. I love old things. I love history. I love to be inspired. And if I can share that energy with you, excite you, and inspire you? Then my day is fulfilled!

Enjoy the pictures and inspiration.

Click here to see more vintage adventures!

Laurie Loves: Catherine Malandrino... AGAIN! (...with Video!)

2010-05-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

Yes. Again.

Why? Because after cutting my video of her LA fashion show at her La Cienega Store Maison, I started to write down all the brilliant words coming out of this fashion designers lips. And let me tell you... these are words to remember. So I'd like to share them all with you:

Here are my favorite quotes and musings from

Catherine Malandrino:

"I was thinking about wrapping fabric in a different way that feels very effortless."

"I think every one should own some dress in a crochet."

"I want to go into an experimental nomadic lifestyle where a woman is free to travel the world and express her own personality through clothes and through their travels"

"I love the vest that look like jewelry pieces. They become not just the clothes but they become an accessory."

"It is the idea of making it effortless but beautiful at the same time."

"I like the idea that the woman has to stay elegant, like a queen."

"At this moment I am more inspired of Polynesian beauty like the beautiful and timeless femininity of the Polynesians girls. "

"Every woman needs to have chiffon dresses in her wardrobe."

"I love to give a timeless quality to clothes."

(shot by my flipcam)

Read a more in depth article on www.fashionablymarketing.me.

Click here for more pictures and a mini story from the event.

Oh Karl, Karl, Karl....

2010-05-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

(All pictures courtesy of Style.com)

Oh Karl Lagerfeld. You are so brilliant. But please tell me. Why do you send a 70+ look collection down the runway. You are brilliant, mad, genius, but there are just SOO many ideas and themes that I am not sure where to lay my fashion loyalties. Is it to the soft disco throwback that reminds me so much of Vintage Angelica Houston? Or perhaps the suede, paisley and textured hippy chic. (I happily omitted the pictures...) Or even the bohemian rock goddess.

Here are my favorite looks from his yes... 70+ look collection for Resort 2011.

Laurie Loves: Catherine Malandrino in Los Angeles

2010-05-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

Catherine Malandrino with close friend Kiesha Whitaker

Oh I do! I do! She not only is she beautiful and her collection is always beyond my expectations, Catherine possibly has the most beautiful, whimsical, romantic and mesmerizing voice I have ever heard. Everything she says with her french accent is not only brilliant but she oozes femininity. Which is only appropriate as her love affair with style (as she puts it), gives her the desire design clothing for women. Feminine, sensual, powerful, beautiful.

I was lucky enough for the second year in a row to get a front row seat to watch a Catherine Malandrino runway show, with host Catherine herself here in Los Angeles. A finale to the La Cienega Design Quarter event that took place this past weekend. Here's a bit of a photo adventure of the day!

I've completed my bigger story! Click here for FashionablyMarketing.me and read about the Vintage Lineage talk at the Lee Stanton Gallery and the runway show that commenced after. (oh and there is video too...)

THE VIDEO IS HERE! CLICK HERE

What I wore: The Fashion Frontline Competition Launch Party

2010-05-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

Me with my competitor Kelsi Smith of Dedicated Follower of Fashion

Grrrrr.... just kidding.

So Last thursday the LA fashion scene gathered together to celebrate the launch of the Fashion Frontline. Created by the fabulous Bren of Somuchpretty.com she not only is the backbone to this competition but also threw an amazing party at Seven Grand to celebrate. And what good is a party without a stuffed gift bag! The giftbag featured products from Cargo Cosmetics, Ardell, China Glaze, Booty Parlor, Chinese Laundry, ONE Water, Carolina Pad, Revitalash, Burda, Surgicare, Julie Hewett, Lather, and more! I think my favorite items are the China Glaze Light as Air lavender nail polish which is officially my new favorite color. And the Booty Parlor Kissaholic lip gloss. Aphrodisiac infused... and I can say first hand... yeah that worked....

I will be stoked to see my first pictures go up and I'm even more excited to see what everyone else wears to "work". Which really? Work could be a loose term here. My work = amazing fun time. So I don't really consider my work, "work".

Better stay tuned for the competition. You are going to vote for me right? Okay. Great. Just checking.

But really lets get to the important stuff. More pictures and most importantly... What I wore:

Mint fedora hat: Eugenia Kim for Target

Earrings: forever 21

White satin jacket: Vintage Betsey Johnson

Feather shirt: Joie

Day belt - leather woven: Vintage

Night belt - zebra pony hair: Club Monaco

Harem pants: Yoga Army

Studded handbag: Topshop

Day shoes: Clogs: DKNY

Night shoes: Betsey Johnson

Watch: Michele Diamond Deco

Silver cuff: Silpada

This was earlier in the day at the VivaSwag Offfices. Notice the belt & shoe change from day to evening...

me & Michael Shane of Gorgeous PR & Pop Artist Sonnet

(pic: Kelsi of DFOF)

Me and Kelsi again!

Me and the gorgeous Bren of Somuchpretty.com!

Numbers

2010-04-23T00:57:00.000-07:00

Numbers... What do they mean anyway right? 30 is just a number.... a seemingly big number... but just a number. Frankly I feel and look (thanks to years of protective moisturizing), forever 21... especially as the bartender at the Village Idiot carded me last night. (sweet.)

In the last ten years of my life as my life has evolved, so has my creative love for fashion. Having lived in Bloomington, Indiana for the early years of my 20s, I was influenced by vintage and DIY apparel. Living in NYC taught me to take my fashion to the next level. Sophistication, class, perfection, and 6 in heels as a life constant. And in my final year of my 20s I have planted my roots in Los Angeles and discovered that my love for vintage and my New York sophisticated perfection have actually merged into the chic, ever stylish and always put together lady you know as.... Laurie B Style.

My soul always told me big things are ahead... and as 30 is the new 20 starting today.... I'd say the journey has just begun.

Onwards and always upwards! Cheers to another 10, nay 70 years of my beautiful, inspiring and fashionable life.

The Fashion Frontline - Let the competition begin!

2010-04-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

Photographer: Katy Abramson♥

The Fashion Frontline
A Semi-Annual Blogger Style Challenge

That's right! And I will be competing in the inaugural challenge! 8 bloggers, 5 looks, 5 weeks, 1 winner. Week 1 is quickly approaching and my amazing friend Katy and I took to the streets to create our first set of photos. The Spring "work look". Above is just a teaser... you'll have to wait to see the whole look when the competition launches in May! It's up to you the fans, followers and fashion lovas to vote on who has the best look. In the mean time, each blogger will be introduced, prior to the start date. So look out for yours truly on www.thefashionfrontline.com.

Make sure to follow @theFashionFront on twitter for all the news and updates!

And of course... Meet my competition!

Kelsi; Dedicated Follower of Fashion

http://dedicated.typepad.com

@stylesmith

♥ DWJ; The Art of Accessories

http://www.theartofaccessories.com

@theAofA

♥ Lindsey; Saucy Glossie

http://www.saucyglossie.com

@SaucyGlossie

♥ Katy Rose; Modly Chic

http://modlychic.blogspot.com/

@katy_rose1

♥ Marlene; StyleSizzle

http://www.stylesizzle.com

@StyleSizzle

♥ Ashley; Cocktail Chic & Vintage Vanity
http://web.me.com/atschudin/Cocktail_Chic/Blog/Blog.html
http://alturl.com/a9ed

@CocktailChic

♥ Bren; So Much Pretty

http://www.somuchpretty.com

@somuchpretty

What She Wore: Macala Wright Lee

2010-04-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

Ask and ye shall receive.... *wink wink*

Meet Macala
The force behind: Fashionably Marketing Me

My marketing strategist, forever friend and fashion colleague

If I could use three words to describer her it would be

1)Dynamic

2)Powerhouse

3)Karmic

What she wore:

Dress: Funktional

Belt: Sonya Rykiel pour H&M

Shawl: Ann Taylor LOFT

Clutch: Hobo

Earrings: Liz Larios

Shoes: In her own words: Overpriced.

What I Wore: The Streamys

2010-04-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

Me and the incredible Macala from Fashionably Marketing Me

What I wore:

Dress: Jean Paul Gaultier for Target

Cardigan: Rodarte for Target

Necklace: Liz Larios

Belt: Club Monaco

Earrings: pearl drops from Costa Rica

Handbag: Hobo

Cuff Bracelet: Silpada

Ring: Daisy Fuentes for Kohls

Shoes.. (this one is the kicker...) JLO (ha!)

But really? They are hot! And the perfect pop of color to my dark outfit

Shira Lazar and me posing backstage

A shot from my cell phone pre-event!

What She Wore - Shira Lazar

2010-04-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

Shira Lazar @ the Streamy Awards April 11, 2010

Dress: Funktional

Layered Necklaces: Liz Larios

Statement Ring: Aldo

Shoes: Thrifted

Find Shira @ www.shiralazar.com

On the Scene with Shira for CBS News

Mannequin

2010-04-12T22:10:00.000-07:00

I mean... who could resist when you are in THE department store from the movie Mannequin.
***It's the Macy's in Philly***

"...And we can build this dream together, standing strong forever, nothing's gonna stop us naaaooww."

Bottom line? Hilarious! I wish I did more!

Inspiration on the east coast!

2010-04-12T21:53:00.000-07:00

I guess you could say that I have an affinity for flowers, graffiti, shapes, street scenes and of course fashion.

New York

Philadephia

Today is a new day.

2010-04-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

To all my followers, friends, fans, and fashion lovers,

Today is a new day. No more will I be writing for Examiner.com. Being the LA Women's Style Examiner, I have met the most incredible people, covered some serious fashion events, and grew to be the person that I am today. As I embark on a new adventure, I leave Examiner behind with a fond memories and fabulous fashion. What I take with me is my love for giving you a more indepth analysis to fashion, a different way of thinking, my rightful title as your Editor in Chic.

Today is a new day. From now one the Laurie B Style Files will be your place for all all my fashion adventures. And for now this is only the tip of the stylish iceberg. You'll just have to stay tuned to see what happens next.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B Style

What I Wore: Simply Stylist

2010-03-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

(My first Wireimage picture!! Cool huh??)

Ruffle tiered skirt: Bebe

Tank: Heritage 1981

Jacket: Rodarte for Targe

Chainlink Necklace: Mia-D

Black necklace with aqua pendent: Target

Shoes: Sonia Rykiel for H&M

Handbag: Club Monaco

Hair: Sully from Harroin Salon

Juice Drink: Vita Coco... Yum!

Wireimage.com

What I Wore: BoxEight

2010-03-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

Me, Neekoh and Ana maria

(picture from Neekoh of Live Love LA)

On the verge of being sick. This was my last night out until the tuesday after. But a fun night hanging out with the girls!

Cowl neck blouse: Aqua

Tux Jacket: Club Monaco

Floral Necklace: Antrhopologie

Earrings: Forever 21

Shorts (not seen): Johnson

Shoes(not seen): Betsey Johnson

Purple Handbag: Betsey Johnson

LA Fashion Week. A contemplation.

2010-03-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

(Front row at Directive's West Runway show)

Since I moved back to Los Angeles, LA Fashion week has consistently been a whirlwind experience. With back to back events for more than just a “week”. Last season it was joked that LA fashion week was actually “La fashion Month”. And appropriately so, as literally I had events 6-7 nights out of the week from October 8th until November 1st. This season was much smaller. Smaller productions are stepping up to the plate to fill the gap of the once single organized fashion week. And we end up with small pockets of events. Each event with potential, redeeming qualities and a vision of the LA fashion week future.   But the biggest question that runs through my head is....Why are these people not banding together to give LA one big fashion week? A possibly unanswerable question. Last season I wrote an article addressing this and that was not well received. But I think months later I still stick to my theory about this City needing one strong New Yorker to give LA the boot camp like treatment the New York fashion industry has and whip it into shape. The minds behind LA Fashion Week, BoxEight, Beverly Hills Fashion week (once called DowntownLA fashion week) and the new: Concept need to get together and band forces. You’d think with us all wanting a strong, proud LA fashion week, that this would be an easy task.   But sadly it is not. With Strong opinions, creative differences and separate business visions. It could be an impossible task. Hence the “one tough New Yorker” theory that I have come up with. Could I be that person? One day. I’m still sifting through the issues and information to figure out how to analyze what we can do to fix this.

I’m brewing up an idea.... An article based idea. One article a week on Examiner.com devoted to interviewing these production companies. Finding out everything from their vision, their wants, their needs and also why we can work together... or can we?   That’s what I want to find out.

It’s just an idea. It’s brewing....

What I Wore - Directive's West First.LA Runway and Sonnet's Gig

2010-03-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

This shot was taken early at Sonnet's as we prepped for her gig that evening.
Than I ran downtown for Directive's West First.LA runway show, then back to West Hollywood to catch my girl rock the house! Standing room only!

Black satin dress: A gift from Modcloth

Knit moto jacket: A gift from AlpineStars

Zebra belt: Club Monaco

Earrings: Forever 21

Peacock Feather: Thrifted Melrose flea market

Apple necklace: Betsey Johnson

Watch: Michele Diamond Deco

Wrist bracelet: Uni magnetic chain

Chunky bangles: Thrifted Melrose flea market

Shoes: Montreal purchase. Don't remember where ;)

And onto the rest of the evening... Sonnet's Gig at Molly Malones!

Click to hear Sonnet!

What I Wore - What Goes Around Comes Around Anniversary event

2010-03-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

WGACA's Seth Weisser and Gerard Maione ...and moi!

Dress: Meghan

Bow belt: taken from a navy jacket of mine

Heart bag: bought in Greece at a flea market

Earrings: forever 21

Apple Necklace: Betsey Johnson

Shoes: Tara Subkoff for Easy Spirit navy platforms.

Click here for a story about this fav event!

Here's what I wore to the store opening 1 year ago!

What I Wore - FGI-LA Designer and the Muse Event

2010-03-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

(Kinya, moi and Sydne Summer from Thinkthrufashion.com)

Dress: Liberty of London for Target

Belt: Betsey johnson

Earrings: Forever 21

Watch: Michele Deco Diamond

Bracelet: Uni magnetic chain

Stuffed clutch: Hobo

Shoes: NYC Thrifted

Styling: The dress was a maxi lengh but I just bought it that day and with no time to hem... instead I tied a sarong style knot on one side took the excess fabric from the other, including the lining and pined it up so that it draped in the front. Worked out great. But didn't really photo so well.. hmmm..

PS.... For the record....these are not the best pictures of me... Face= cute. Dress fit= isn't lookin' as good as I remembered when I walked out the door...

Click here for a full review of the evening!

(Designer Oliver Tolentino (center), his muse and moi!)

Amy, Kinya, moi, Sydne, Tiffany (click on the names for twitter accounts. You too can follow the fashion fun!!)
(shot by the lovely Kelsi the Dedicated Follower of Fashion)

Love this pic! Me, Sydne, and Tiffany

What I Wore - GenArt Alumni Celebration

2010-03-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

Nikoleta of Livelovela, Kelsi of Dedicated Follow of Fashion, and moi!

(pic: "le-rocker" for Kelsi of Dedicated Follower of Fashion)

A fab evening at the Tropicana in the Roosevelt hotel! All my LAFW 2.0 lovelies were their to join in on the fashion fun!

So what am I wearing? good question!

Dress: Banana Republic

Earrings: Forever 21

Belt: Vintage (I found it in a box of belts!)

Watch: Michele Diamond Deco

Shoes: Scarma by Adria Piaggi

Click here for a full review from the evening!

moi, Lisa from Racked LA, Nicoleta from LiveLoveLA & Friend

Back view ;)

(It's got my name on it. wha-what!)

(All pics by Kelsi the Dedicated Follower of Fashion)

Post-it Notes

2010-03-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

At the E.P.I.C grand opening party this past Saturday one of the main attractions was the wall of Post-it note art on sale for Charity with 100% of the proceeds going to Million Trees LA. This one may have been my favorite. Why? Because it makes me laugh.

Click here to see more pictures and a whole story about the Party!

LAFW 2.0 a fashionable blogger shindig

2010-03-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

Laurie (LaurieBStyle), Sandra D (Debutante Clothing) Kelsi (Dedicated Follower of Fashion)

Last night was LA's first of hopefully many LA Fashion blogger's meet up, greet up and talk fashion up, style get together. Aptly called LA Fashion Week Two point oh! Fabulously planned by Kelsi Smith, (@stylesmith and Dedicated Follower of Fashion) we all met up downtown at the hip Broadway Bar.

It was truly incredible to put faces to so many twitter names I know, chat with and avidly follow. Every girl was wonderful, beautiful, friendly, and on top of their fashion game. Being surrounded but LA's fashion finest, I say.

Click here to see more pictures from the evening!

And here are even more pictures from Sasha @LAinspiration

Here's a couple more of me ;)

Laurie (LaurieBStyle), Ana (Anamu) Kallah (Emerald Scarab)

Laurie (LaurieBStyle), Sandra D (Debutante Clothing) Kelsi (Dedicated Follower of Fashion) ...again ;D

(Oh and if you actually get this far down: I'm wearing an H&M Dress, an Aldo belt I stole..permanently... from my best friend Hani...hehe... , Forever 21 earrings, a Hobo ruffle clutch and Betsey Johnson black platforms.)

Loving: Tamara Mellon

2010-03-12T14:36:00.000-08:00

No joke. This is insanely belated and deserved a mention and shout two days ago. But in anycase. Here we are. It's friday already and I'm playing catch up.

I love Tamara Mellon. Tour de Force behind the ever so famous Jimmy Choo. Actually she's the one responsible for that. Let me tell you, she is stunning in person, incredibly sweet and gracious and decked in the most to-die-for YSL leopard dress and Jimmy Choo heels of course!

Macala from Fashionablymarketing.me and I enjoyed an afternoon at the Grove Nordstrom, shopping for the newly launched Choo 24/7 collection...well sort of. Choo 24/7 is the newest Jimmy Choo collection that features seasonless investment staples that can take a women day to night and season to season. Heels with longevity, love it. The highlight of the day? Snagging a quick word (and picture!) with the Lovely Ms Mellon. When asked about what inspires her, Tamara simply said she wants to empower women.

I'm with her! There is nothing more mood lifting than putting on the most incredible heel and walking down the street with the feeling you can conquer the world.

ps: I'm wearing my new Jean Paul Gaultier for Target Mesh tattoo print tee and Black mini dress. HOT.

Click here to read Macala's post about the story and see more pictures from the event!

Loving: Isabel Marant

2010-03-08T19:59:00.000-08:00

(pics: style.com)

I not only love her Fall 2010 Collection but I am so appreciative of her perpsective on the current speed and state of the fashion industry.

Isabel Marant: "For me, fashion shows are not for the public, they are trade shows for the press. There should be privacy and mystery. There is no excitement about anything anymore as everything is available immediately and all the time — you don’t have to wait for anything. I don’t belong to the generation of spending time on the Internet. I think it’s too fast and too fake. It’s sad because everyone is running after everything, but after what? Everything is too quick. There is no room in your heads for all this information. No one retains anything." [Grazia UK]

I'm so glad to know I'm not the only one who thinks this. Who's with me?!

If I were going to the Oscars... Redo...

2010-03-08T09:41:00.000-08:00

You know me, I'm all for the unusual, the beat to your own drummer and the all out rule breaker. And for those reason.... Nicole Richie is my best dressed of the Acadamy Awards!

Nicole worked an all over beaded Reem Acra dress and it's not your typical Oscar gown. Hallelujah! No fluff, no frills, no pink no ruffles. Instead it's exactly what I predicted to be the strongest of the bunch. And to me, this is the strongest. Sleek, structured and allover metallic. Gorgeous.

(click here for my Examiner article expressing this last week!)

I recant my last post. If I went to the Oscars, I would wear this! Now I just need to be a size 2 to fit in to it. Ha!

(pics: wireimage)

If I were going to the Oscars....

2010-03-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

I would wear this dress from Preen Fall 2010.

Click here to see my Oscar dress and trend predictions!

What we wore

2010-03-02T23:19:00.000-08:00

(photo: Stefanie Keenan)

My friend Katy and I joined the artsy types and took to art walk saturday night. What was supposed to be us just covering the Taylor de Cordoba Gallery opening of Kimberly Brooks "The Stylist Project", turned into a fun adventure with new friends, crafter artwork and a return to the "simpler times".. beer.

Katy and I both crafted art gallery opening outfits. What do you think? Mine is a concoction of black tights, steve madden purple boots, a target tie dye tee, a Joie ruffle blouse, a Yaya denim jacket and my Matthew Williamson for H&M Clutch. Katy on the other hand wore her Rodarte for Target Cardi and matching camisole, (so cute!) and toughened it up with her leather shoulder back, gucci-esque belt, skinny jeans and vintage boots.

Enjoy some of Katy's photography from the evening below. click here to see the rest!

Click here to read my Examiner article on "The Stylist Project"

Meet Tanner Horn

2010-03-02T00:37:00.000-08:00

Meet Tanner Horn. Probably one the most interesting and coolest people I have ever met. With a fashion style that is ripe for inspiring and a surprisingly calm demeanor, you can't not help but be-friend him. He's definitely one of those people who walk down the street and leaving you wondering who they are. We met last summer at a Great Gatsby party downtown. I'm a big fan of his music, his live shows will not leave you disappointed and with exciting things happening on the horizon, Tanner is definitely one to watch.

His band the Sextronauts has a music and art installation at SLOW on Melrose. Definitely one of my favorite vintage stores. You can read a full story on Examiner.com with more details, an Editor-in-Chic flair, and of course one of my famed pictures adventures.

Click here for the full article

Loving: Confection Jewels

2010-03-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

Confection Jewels had the coolest designer and the hippest rings! I'll be doing a full Examiner article for the brand because it just rocked my world. But in the mean time, you can get your very own Confection Jewels at Fred Segal... This pic above is just the teaser. Each ring is a vintage button. Amazing.

New York Fashion Week Goodness. Favorite Accessories

2010-02-19T13:40:00.000-08:00

Silver lace leggings at Paris 68

Retro sunglasses at Jason Wu

Leather floppy hat at Elie Tahari

Elbow muffs at Anna Sui

Suede triple bow platforms at Marchesa

and....

This HOT and stylish man at Michael Kors

New York Fashion Week Goodness. Vera Wang

2010-02-18T00:21:00.000-08:00

Vera Wang via Style.com

If i could have one wish for fall? it would be to own, done and completely ROCK these Vera Wang looks. So my new style direction. I'm feeling some personal styling change in the air...

ps. The whole collection is pretty amazing too. Click here to see!

New York Fashion Week goodness! Chris Benz

2010-02-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

Chris Benz Fall 2010 (all pics: style.com)

Remember I was obsessed with Chris Benz Spring 2010 collection? Well Fall 2010 tickles me just the same. The color story is rich, the styling is oh so chic and I love the nude and copper tone platforms!

New York Fashion Week goodness! Bibhu Mohapatra

2010-02-16T09:04:00.000-08:00

Bibhu Mohapatra (all pics: style.com)

Everybody... meet Bibhu Mohapatra. Fresh on the fashion scene with only 3 seasons under the belt, this was his best to date. Apparently the critics were not thrilled with his previous collections being he was fresh of the J.Mendel design floor and was seriously wet behind the ears. But this season? a new story was told, more focused, complete and frankly, I'm dying for his looks! As Bibhu says its Bernardo Bertolucci's Il Confrmista meets Fritz Lang's Metrolpolis.

Here are my favs.

Fashion Week Manifesto!

2010-02-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Altuzarra Fall 2010 (pic: style.com)

I'm not sure about some of you other fashionista's out there but I have become very overwelhmed with the amount of coverage happening for New York Fashion Week. Perhaps, you are not like me, with a full fashion twitter feed, 50 fashion websites and blogs I follow, and even facebook infiltrations. (ps...I liked when facebook was for people, not businesses... but fine, it's evovled.) Bottom line, this postitive chick is feeling SO over it all. I can't believe I'd ever say that. And we are only a half a week down of New York fashion week, but then their's London, Milan and Paris! So instead of following the mass crowds, writing frantically to get news up and articles up about shows that happened literally minutes before. I've decided to take a different approach. I'm brewing up a mini project that I will reveal Monday next week. So we are going to let New York Fashion week and all of it's devout followers have their day and then it'll be mine!

But for now, stay tuned for a NYFW review of the most surprisingly exciting collections.

Ferohhhsh.com Spring Trends collage competition! Challenge #5 neutrals

2010-02-15T00:16:00.000-08:00

Ferohhhsh Spring Challenge #5 by Laurie B Style featuring Burberry jackets

It's week five and the final week in the Ferohhhsh.com Spring trends Collage challenge. I've had the absolute best time making collages and thinking about the trends and how I would accessorize them. It's so fun! You should all try! Go to Polyvore.com, you'll love it. I swear.

So this final week the trend was neutrals and so I took the cue of neutrals plus chic draping, a la Burberry! Their spring jackets are to DIE for. Well this look for me is edgy, and sweet at the same time. A cute date look. Now all I need is a date and the burberry jacket. Done and done.

Click here to see all my fabulous and fashionable collages!

Happy Monday Everyone!

ps! It's your last chance to vote! Click here ;)

New York Fashion Week goodness! Acne Fall 2010

2010-02-12T15:46:00.000-08:00

As I am working out some video concepts and kinks... I'll leave you with this.

Acne Fall 2010... (the very first show/presentation of the season.)

I never thought that Genghis Kahn would be a fashion inspiration. Frankly I'm uninspired. The only thing I do like? Are the new metal ankle bangles. Now that is something to put on our radars. Click here to see the whole collection.

New York Fashion Week Fall 2010. Pre-fashion week thoughts!

2010-02-11T11:22:00.000-08:00

Yeah I know, the video is ghetto! But it's my first time trying it out! So enjoy the next couple videos and I'll keep updating them as I do them!

Oh and if the video below isn't clear... click here to see the article that inspired me to talk about it all! It's one word to describe designer's inspirations for their collections. Fun!

I've been SOOOO Good...

2010-02-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

The Palmer by Ruthie Davis

Spring time is practically here and that "urge" has reared it's ugly head again. I want to shop! This past year, while I have been building my business, I have been one frugal fashionista. For the record? I have bought 2 pairs of shoes in the last year. SWEAR. No joke.

So let's all take a moment and say a prayer, not just for me, but for us all!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Please powers that be, shower us with big business and thrifty finds this Spring season so we can buy all the new pairs of shoes we desire for Spring, Summer Fall and beyond!

Amen.

My feature on Workchic.com!

2010-02-09T11:26:00.000-08:00

What a fun day! Today I'm being featured on Workchic.com!

Click here to read the profile and interview!

Ps. they stretched the picture... and frankly, I look hot AND skinny! Woohoo!

Ferohhhsh.com Spring Trends collage competition! Challenge #4 Missoni Mesh tunic

2010-02-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

Ferrohhhsh Spring Challenge #4 by Laurie B Style featuring Missoni dresses

It's week four in our Ferohhhsh.com spring trends collage challenge! Featured this week was a peek-a-boo mesh and knit tunic by Missoni. A bit similar in silhouette to last weeks tunic.... But in any case, the very neutral color was the perfect starting point to come up with a girly and romantic Valentine's Day themed collage. Nudes, reds, peaches, coppers and flashes of bordeaux and black. Sweet and sexy. Male suiters? Any one of these items are a perfect gift for me....

So vote for my collage if you like it!

Hope everyone has a beautiful start to their week.

It's Derelicte!

2010-02-04T23:05:00.000-08:00

(pic: nymag.com)

Um... did I hear that correctly? $1960??? Mugatu would be proud. Now all we need is a piano key necktie revival...

The Laurie B Style Fan Page is up!

2010-02-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

Two words... FAN ME!

hehe :)

Vintage Shopping Adventures

2010-02-03T11:33:00.000-08:00

I love vintage! Nothing more beautiful and inspiring. So enjoy a day at the Caskey Lee's Vintage Show!

Photos by your's truly!

Ferohhhsh.com Spring Trends collage competition! Challenge #3 Off the shoulder tunic

2010-02-02T09:24:00.000-08:00

Ferohhhsh Challenge #3 by Laurie B Style featuring Ralph Lauren accessories

We are on to week three of Ferohhhsh.com's Spring trends Challenge! Featured this week is the Vivienne Westwood purple, off the shoulder tunic. I see this tunic and I think Bohemian chic! So I styled my collage that way. It's definitely different than the other blogger's vision of this. But this is how I would wear it... if I could afford it... and the knee high boots, and the hat, the bag and fringe vest and turquoise cuff. Oy. The Spring time shopping bug has bitten me, let's see how long I can hold off...

So Vote for me if you like my collage! Click here.

Lady Gaga & The Grammy's 2010 Best Accessory of the Night

2010-02-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

Celine Dion & Lady Gaga Grammy's 2010

Lady Gaga's Tea Cup! Hilarious. This was my favorite find of the whole evening. How ironic since her outfits are so futuristic, orbs, lightning bolts and all, yet she is still classy enough to enjoy a "spot o tea". (Said with a British accent...) In her favorite vintage china.

Lady Gaga's fashion at the grammy's was all futuristic...reminding me of the couture report I just wrote. And interestingly enough, her first "Orb" gown was made just for her, a one of a kind Armani Prìve Haute Couture. So cool. (Go Giorgio for breaking his red carpet formula!) And then you have her crystalized shoes with crystal tights. To die for. Killer. Desirable, Marketable. I expect to see affordable crystal tights soon in the stores... Well she may be strange, but I love her. Lady Gaga's looks are always a trip, a fun surprise, and fashion food for thought. Wildly creative, never understated, and all Lady Gaga.

Care for a spot o tea? (British accent again...)

CLICK HERE FOR GRAMMY'S BEST DRESSED!
CLICK HERE FOR GRAMMY'S WORST DRESSED!

Beverly Hills, What A Thrill!

2010-01-29T17:30:00.000-08:00

Thimister Couture Spring 2010 (pic: style.com)

I feel like Phyllis Nefler would be one proud Troop Beverly Hills, Wilderness Girls fashion mama... if she were around today... if she were even real! But let's face it, Troop Beverly Hills had the best 80s fashion and the chicest of GirlScout uniforms. Apparently that uniform influence has made it over the pond and to Paris, where the Thimister Couture collection walked the runway this past week. Beverly Hill's, what a thrill!

Enjoy!

Laurie B Style.com

2010-01-29T12:48:00.000-08:00

Um.... Why did it take me 2 hours to come up with this.... Sometime's the simplest things are the absolute hardest! This is going to be my new logo that is consistent with my current site, my soon to be updated site, my new business cards and a sponsorship shout-out, red carpet backdrop appearance. Details on that for another day...

Happy Friday everyone!

Smoke signals

2010-01-28T11:35:00.000-08:00

Could Carmen Kass be any cooler! And I'm pretty sure those shades are attached to the hat, plus knowing Hussein Chalayan, they are probably mechanical. Killer.

Funny thing happened on the way to Nic's

2010-01-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

An impromptu bathroom floor photoshoot!

Featuring your's truly and the lovely Sonnet!

Loving: Chris Benz Spring 2010

2010-01-26T10:44:00.000-08:00

(pic: ones2watch.com via: laurenmessiah)

I absolutely died for the color story of this incredibly colored and feathered, Chris Benz jacket. The tones in this shot are so inspiring to me. Many times, I'll see something that is the most interesting mix of colors and it is like candy for my eyes. Then leading me either to recreate it, in my own wardrobe or to create a piece of jewelry mimicking the concept. So in the mean time while my fashion juices are getting to work... here are some of my favorite styles from Chris Benz Spring 2010 Collection.

I am loving his quirky sense of playful fabrication, color, details and of course the wild feather pieces. That's practical to wear to work right?

Ferohhhsh.com Spring Trends collage competition! Challenge #2 Metallic leather

2010-01-25T10:45:00.000-08:00

Feroshhh.com Challenge #2 by Laurie B Style featuring Marc by Marc Jacobs accessories

It's week 2 of Ferohhhsh.com's Spring Trends Challenge! I came in Second last week, when we made collages showcasing the Tucker watercolor printed blouse. This week our lead item was a Cushnie Et Ochs metallic leather pencil skirt. I'm going for #1 this week! I looked at all the other collages and while all the other contributors took a nighttime approach to this skirt, I took a more Alexander Wang day time chic approach! So go and vote for me! (Well, only if you like it the best...no pressure...) Click here to vote!

Happy Monday everyone!

Rain Rain go away!

2010-01-22T18:13:00.000-08:00

(pic: chic report)

But if you must stay for the weekend.... Then I'd like to be shaded in cuteness while I galavant through the Los Angeles streets. Grab your rain cuteness here.

Damn Girl! Welcome back Tatyana Ali!

2010-01-21T00:09:00.000-08:00

(Pics: Concreteloop)

Way to come back looking super fly Tatyana!

We missed you! I still watch re-runs of Fresh Prince of Bel Air. I mean, wasn't it just yesterday you were in those floral printed, pleated, front cuffed, denim shorts and blue denim button front shirt, tied in a knot at the bottom? And for the record? I've always loved your song Day Dreamin'. It was my perfect middle school crush song!

Welcome back girl!

ps .... I'm loving the styling of this spread for Miami Magazine.. Loving. Killer.

Fashion's "Unobtainium"... Balmain

2010-01-20T09:59:00.000-08:00

Balmain's $74,000 crocodile skin jacket

Jeeves, go fetch my checkbook please...

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Crystal Starr Knighton's debut album cover. Styled by... ME!

2010-01-19T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's amazing to see something you've worked on come to fruition! Crystal Starr has finally dropped her album (just last week!) and not only does the album rock, so does her album cover! After all the fun styling and fabulous pictures that Crystal and I worked on this past year, Crystal finally narrowed down all of our "Crystalized" looks to be her final album cover shot! And I couldn't be a prouder fashion mama. In this shot she's wearing a vintage jacket and vintage snake necklace. Bottom line? I'm proud of her, I'm proud of my work and I can't wait to get her all styled fabulous for upcoming red carpets!

Not to mention, beyond all this... Crystal's album is AMAZING and you too can now buy it! So check her out at www.myspace.com/crystalstarrknighton. Cheers to her album release and wishing her a successful 2010!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

ps. here are some extra pictures from the shoot!

Ferohhhsh.com Spring Trends collage competition! Challenge #1 Tucker Blouse

2010-01-18T08:12:00.000-08:00

Springtime showers bring fashion flowers by Laurie B Style

Each week for the next 5 weeks Dani of Ferohhhsh.com has given some of us fashion lovers a trend collage challenge. She'll give us one hot trend and we have to style a collage around it! Fun, right? Well, I'm on the case! Today trend challenge one is officially up! The Tucker watercolor print blouse. With pastels and water color prints all over the spring runways, this was the perfect trend to start with! This is my new yorker sophisticate meets LA hip take on the blouse. So Click here and vote for me!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Loving: RM Roland Mouret

2010-01-11T17:32:00.000-08:00

Amber Valetta in RM Roland Mouret

Orange is an extremely tough color to wear. Especially in it's truest color: Crayola crayon orange. And yes, it is possible that everything looks incredible on Amber Valetta, thus negating this theory. But in any case, my fashion radar has increasingly been gravitating toward body hugging, Victoria Bekham-esque style. Not so much for myself but there is something so chic about simplistic structure. Perhaps there has been an overkill of fashion excess in the stylish masses and this return to simplistic chic style is whats looking more exciting right now. Well Roland Mouret is the king of that and my monday status is: I am loving it.

(Oh does that make me a McDonald's Commercial? .. add your own melody of choosing to the words... ba da ba ba baaaa... )

Fashionably yours,

LaurieB

ps. check out some of my favorite looks from the Roland Mouret Spring 2010 collection. (pics: style.com)

Fashion Radar: Antonio Berardi

2010-01-08T13:53:00.000-08:00

Julianne Moore for Harper's Bazaar UK shot by Paola Kudacki (pic: fashiongonerogue.com)

It's funny when something's on your fashion radar you start seeing it in everywhere! So I'm not going to lie, prior to two day's ago I was not familiar with the designer Antonio Berardi. (I know... Bad fashionista!) But in any case, after absolutely LOVING Jessica Alba's brocade dress she wore at the People's Choice Awards, I did my due diligence. I looked up his collections on my favorite fashion resource: Style.com.

Today as I sift through more fashion findings I came across this stunning picture of Julianne Moore in her spread for Harper's Bazaar UK edition. And instantly I thought to myself, "Wow, that kind of looks like an Antonio Berardi..." And sure enough... It is!

Officially on my fashion radar and hopefully, now yours too... Antonio Berardi.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

ps. click here to see Antonio Berardi's full Spring 2010 collection

Loving: Jessica Alba in Antonio Berardi

2010-01-06T22:10:00.000-08:00

Jessica Alba in the portrait studio of the People's Choice Awards 2010 (pic: wireimage.com)

One word. Loving.

The neckline rocks my world, the silver and green brocade are divine and the color against Jessica's tan (maybe too tan??) skin and dark hair are perfection.

I'll be dreaming of brocade tonight...

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

The best laugh all day: America's Next Average Model

2010-01-05T13:19:00.000-08:00

So I'm home sick today. Feeling extremely unfashionable. And instead of being productive I'm sifting through my repertoire of fashion blogs for entertainment. I found this video on ohsococo.blogspot.com. The gorgeous Coco Rocha's Blog. ..aaand it's awesome.

So Enjoy! I hope it brings you laughter like it did for me! And hopefully much needed rest will let me kick back into high gear tomorrow! Until then.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

The Climb with Sonnet and Laurie

2010-01-04T11:08:00.000-08:00

Just a small little ditty of the lovely Sonnet and myself headed toward the actual and theoretical mountain of life that sits before us on our lives journeys. December 31, 2009 we climbed to the top of this mountain...aka...Runyon Canyon... (and if you must know, YES, we took the hard way.) And on January 1, 2010 we continue the life's climb to reach our ultimate goals. This New Year of 2010 I'll make sure I bring you on this journey with me and I am sure with sprinkles of Sonnet mixed throughout. Witness rising stars, spectacular fetes and style as style should be done. Fabulous. Always.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Laurie B Style & Sonnet

A fashion reminder for January 1, 2010

2010-01-01T12:33:00.000-08:00

(Rihanna, New Year's Eve. pic: Concreteloop.com)

I love Rihanna. Her style totally rocks and I'm digging her hair here. But this is probably a really good reminder that horizontal stripes are not flattering. So for 2010, look taller and wear vertical stripes.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Fashion Radar: Shoulder Chains. Part Duex

2009-12-30T09:11:00.000-08:00

Crystal Starr Knighton: Album cover photoshoot

Download her amazing album

Photography: Dylan Maddux

Make-up/hair: Daniel Chinchilla

Styling: Laurie B Style!

Date: May 24th, 2009

What is this I see... Chained Shoulders? Months before it starting hitting the fashion editorials....

Awesome.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

ps... miss part one? click here...

Links a la Mode!

2009-12-29T12:18:00.000-08:00

The Happy Holidays Edition

Edited by Retrochick

Well, I suppose I shall start this weeks Links à la Mode with this:

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

It’s Christmas Eve and I’m sure visions of sugar plums are dancing in everyone’s heads as they trim the tree and sup mulled wine in preparation for tomorrows frivolities. All too soon it’ll all be over and brain power sapped from too many TV Christmas Specials you’ll be wanting some mental sustenance, and that’s where we come in.

Essentially that’s a long winded way of me saying that what follows are some lovely links to keep you busy over the Christmas period.

M.I.S.S and JeweleryWhore have D.IY ideas to keep your mind and body occupied, ID Style and Little Miss Make Up show you how to ramp up the glamour in your make up bag, whilst Daily Diva Dish and The Working Wardrobe will help you plan what to wear for New Years Eve and that dreaded day you return to work.

If you run out of entertainment here then you should always check out the full Links à la Mode thread for more yummy fashion goodness.

I hope you all have a fantastic holiday and that Santa brings you everything you asked for!

Links à la Mode : December 24th

Alice in Stilettos – Don’t Be Victimized By Fashion
DailyDivaDish – New Year’s Eve Fashion: Make an entrance without breaking the bank. Includes 2 looks + DIY ideas.
Fashion X K8 – Bringing attention to an essay of literary criticism that provides the proper vocabulary with which we can converse about a new fashion paradigm.
Fasshonaburu – An interview with Liu Wen, the first Asian model to strut her stuff on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show catwalk.
Idiosyncratic Style – Wham GLAM Thank You Ma’am – Indulge in a little glamour for the holidays.
Jewelry Whore – HUGE Roundup of DIY Christmas Present Ideas! It’s not too late to make some fabulous jewelry for Christmas presents!
kaKofonie Of si(gh)lenS – You’re only a couple clicks and a few stitches away from owning your own one-of-a-kind designer piece with free patterns from SHOWstudio
La Société de Mode – A scream of an interview with stylist Brett Bailey
Little Miss Makeup – Bold lips: This season’s hottest makeup trend.
M.I.S.S. – Another simple yet attractive necklace by Pandora from Acessory Source in this week’s She’s Crafty.
Previously Owned – To celebrate the [almost there] opening of the ONLINE store Previously Owned BLOG is giving away a Royal Blue hobo!
Retro Chick – Vintage Hair Styling with Flamingo Amy
Style on a String – Harem Pants: Yay or Nay? And some quick tips on how to buy and wear them.
Sugar and spice and all things nice – 10 things I like…. no, LOVE… about FANTASY SHOPPING!!
sweetarchivia – Review of the much anticipated launch of the Rodarte for Target line by the Mulleavy sisters.
THE COVETED – Versace Pre-Fall returns to color
The Demoiselles – Wing Tips: Your First Time…at the Tailor
The Fashion Planner – The Fashion Planner is excited to announce the publication of The Fashion Planner’s Guide!
The Style PA – I review the comfy, Cable Cosy by Isabella Oliver
The Working Wardrobe – Learning the art of layering that is both fashion-forward and office-appropriate

Fashion Radar: Shoulder Chains.

2009-12-29T11:11:00.000-08:00

Rihanna. (pic:fashionising.com)

Ah Rihanna, always a step ahead of the game. Now that I have shoulder details on my fashion radar from before, I'm noticing the next evolution that is just grazing the fashion savvy and working its way towards the everyday fashion vernacular. As we've seen over the last couple seasons... with special thanks to Balmain, Michael Jackson, and now Rihanna, sharp shoulders have made their way back into our closets and are the "new" big idea in fashion. An 80's revival of sorts. Resonating back to the powersuits and shoulder padded jackets of yesteryear. But this time, almost 20 years later, there is something shaper, sophisticated, futuristic and all powerful woman about our new shoulder details. Most wearable being the plain sharp shoulder which has already trickled into into the mass market stores. So after the Studded shoulder evolved out of the shape shoulder, what's the next update? Shoulder chains. Duh.. Just kidding. ( I can't expect you to know that! That's why you're here with me!)

And now that it is on my fashion radar, I've been noticing it in the most fashionable of places. Would you rock the shoulder chain? It's definitely an easier trend to grasp that the spike studs spawned by Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Adam Lambert.

Stay tuned for the follow up! I'm brewing it as I type!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

ps.. check out which stylin, stylist was ahead of this game...

(pic: style.com)

(Pic: becauseimadicted.com)

(Pic: Nitrolicious.com)

(pic: VMagazine.com)

(pic: fashionleaka.com)

(pics: outsapop.com)

Absolut(ely) Loving: Kate Beckinsale

2009-12-28T15:14:00.000-08:00

Kate Beckinsdale for Absolut. (Pic:Trendnista.com)

Great way to start of the beginning of the week... with the mentions of Vodka. Mmmm...delicious, tasty Vodka. Actually it's Kate Beckinsale that is making my fashion taste buds salivate. But on first sight, I never would have noticed her under the platinum blonde wig. Well, Absolut Vodka has a new set of ads starring the absolutely stunning Kate Beckinsale. Each ad personifies the delicious favorites of Absolut cocktails. Here's the Absolut Tonic Twist (Mix 1 part Absolut, 3 parts tonic and garnish with a lime twist). My personal favorite of all the ads, partially because vodka tonics are definitely a drink of choice. But what I love the most about this ad is the usage of color, saturation, graphics and details that takes the idea of Tonic Twist to the next level. Also I adore the bright high contrast of Kate's super dark eyes and hot pink lips, against her very pale skin and matching hair. Bottom line. It's Hot. Wonder of those are American Apparel bandeau and tights...

Fashionably Yours,

Laurie B

Laurie B's Style: Rodarte for Target

2009-12-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

Rodarte for Target hit the stores yesterday and I made sure I made it early to Target to snag some of the pieces I've been drooling over since the collection pictures were released. While all the other bloggers, writers and fashion critics out there said that this collection looked "forever 21-y" at best... I walked in not expected much. And this goes to show... don't be a follower, fashion lovers! Form your own opinions. My expert fashion opinion? (And yes, I am a professional with almost a decade of fashion industry expertise...) While perhaps on the bow shoulder dress fit was a bit unusual, I actually found the overall collection super cute and totally wearable. The denim was hot, the lace cardigans were not only chic looking they felt great on the skin, the silk cami's were like butter, the dresses were adorable and the chunky sweater was so yummy. My purchases included: the tea cup blue dress that fit me like a dream, the mustard and black lace cardigans, the mustard with nude mesh skirt, and the denim jacket. All great pieces and all fab additions to my growing wardrobe and repertoire of my continuing documentation of the Laurie B Style Files.

So why wait to wear, right? On the job last night, while styling the hot chick rock band Vanity Theft for their first LA show at the Viper Room, I rocked some of my new Rodarte for Target goodies. A pretty bangin fashion confection if I do say so myself.... Frankly, I looked hot and I felt hot. And feeling good is the best part. It's the best accessory. All in all it was a fabulous outfit that ended my fabulous week and weekend.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

The evolution of the white bandage body suit

2009-12-15T22:44:00.000-08:00

From Frida to Jean Paul Gautlier to Rihanna to Bordelle's sexy lingerie.

I'm excited to announce that I am working with a new band! The Broken Column. They're badass, good looking, and their music just speaks to the rock n roll soul. So I feel very blessed to help them style themselves as they build their music and artistic empire! In doing some research, I uncovered something that if you've already seen my previous posts, has sparked my fashion interest. The name The Broken Column was inspired by a Frida Kahlo painting... The Broken Column. Is it possible that this painting sparked inspiration in our todays designers causing the fashion evolution of the white bandaged body suit? From Frida Kahlo in the 1940s to Jean Paul Gaultier in 1990s to Rihanna in 2009 and now? Bandaged lingerie can't stay on the shelves. Bordelle has designed the bandage corset dress and it is to die for!

There is something so beautiful about tracing an idea back to a surprising beginning. Wonder if there is something prior to Frida's painting? All good fashion questions to ask and for now... to give me sweet fashion, always inspired dreams.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Laurie B's Style: Sunday Night Chic

2009-12-14T09:50:00.000-08:00

It's blurry I know! But it's my first attempt at a photo timed self portrait! It has occurred to me that in order to catch a glimpse into my fashion madness I need to keep a record of my outstanding outfits. And since I don't have a mini me ...yet...to follow me around and take really cool pictures... I am forced to improvise! And not so bad for a first try!

Last evening I had a fashion predicament. Going to a holiday party that is casual but then going to a birthday party at the Roger room. (side bar: The Roger Room may be my new favorite bar! Reminds me of NYC). So what to wear? How to look holiday festive, but not over done, and also still appropriate for a sunday night bar romp? I started with my new black flat boots and black tights. They were going to dress down anything I wore. And yes, I did tear a bunch out of my closet but end up settling and loving my newest fashion concoction. Black crew neck sweater, Anna Sui for Target Red plaid skirt, Betsey johnson leopard belt, a tux jacket that I've had in my closet since 2005. (It has outlasted the sands of time and I love the snake print lining!) and my chiffon floral necklace from Anthropologie. I did top this off with a new NYC purchase from my trip last week, but that is a surprise...so you'll have to wait and keep checking back in to see what sparkly item is my newest fashion staple....

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

AMAZING: Natalie Portman on the cover of Marie Claire Jan 2010 issue

2009-12-11T19:42:00.000-08:00

pic: marieclaire.com

Great way to bring in the New Year huh? Natalie Portman is rocking my world on the cover Marie Claire's January 2010 issue. She's wearing a Lanvin Dress and David Yurman bangles and frankly, I'm just jealous! Forget the pink jacket! Let's all chip in and spring for this Lanvin Dress? Okay? Done.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

the actual Marie Claire cover...

The Lanvin gorgeousness from Resort 2010

Loving: Oscar de la Renta’s Pre-Fall 2010 Collection

2009-12-11T16:10:00.000-08:00

Pics from Elle News Blog

Somebody has been working overtime! Oscar de la Renta sent down a subtly spanish inspired 49 peice collection down the runway for Pre-Fall 2010 presentations. Like Resort, Pre-Fall is the time in between the big seasons. It’s when the seasons are changing and you end up wearing half Spring, half Fall garb. And as each year we as consumers are craving more and more newness in the stores, the designers have been feeling that fire and have stepped up their Resort and Pre-Fall presentations. Well, Oscar de la Renta has officially raised the bar for the in between seasons to come. Most designers design smaller collections put into lookbooks and with only about 20 pieces each...with the exception of the always lavish Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel of course! And since the last runways were only in September, that's gives a mere 2-3 months to produce a full collection. Pretty incredible! Brava! Oscar de la Renta!

Hanukkah starts tonight... anyone want to chip in and buy me the pink feathered coat? It’s completely practical for Los Angeles weather and in my tall stature of 5’1, I will be the cutest and pinkest Ewok around... What could be better than fashionably swimming in pink fluff? Right?

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

See a Pre-Fall 2010 review of all the collections by your's truely...click here!

Fashion mention by Mom: Sam Edelman "Dawson" studded flats

2009-12-09T17:40:00.000-08:00

Sam Edelman "Dawson Studded flats at Bloomingdales

My mom knows me SO well. I'll admit there was definitely a time where she said "black" and I yelled "white". She said "scoop neck" and I yelled "Vneck". And of course she said "medium length skirt" and I screamed "short". But as I have really come into my fashion own, my mom and I are now on the same fashion page with my style. Or at least she accepts what I prefer and understands my creative process for it all. And with, that she's always looking out for me. The shoes above were today's fashion mention by mom. Thanks Mom!

Lo and behold, I just had written an article for Examiner.com about Turquoise being the "it" color for the Year 2010 and she was right on the mark. White, "LA year round", T-strappy, gladiator style Sam Edelman Sandals with Gunmetal beads and turquoise stone accents. Cool. Buy those now? Wear them during the LA Spring time: January and Feb. Take that New Yorkers...

Time to get Spring shopping already! Resort is already in the stores!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

NYC: forever keeping a piece of my heart

2009-12-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

Mott street with the Empire State Building in the cloudy distance

I love Fall in New York City. The winter brisk air, the damp cobblestone streets, the last of the colored leaves, the farmers market, and the ever constant hustle and bustle of the sidewalks. I just love it. Having lived there for 7 years, New York truly holds a piece of my heart. And after this trip, I've realized that I need to start working on this bicoastal life....

This trip in particular I took as a real vacation. And while I was in the fashion capital I made a point to shut down my fashion senses and just enjoy my surroundings, my city romping and of course my best friends. Yes, I did some shopping. I couldn't help it. But Instead of taking pictures of the fashion. I took pictures of the nooks and crannies that make this city so beautiful in my eyes.

I hope you enjoy my Fall New York City photo montage. I'll have to get some pictures from my friends because I do not have one picture of me. I didn't take one shameless self portrait! Which is surprising because, if you know me... that's my thing...

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Cheers!

New York City: where anything is possible.

2009-11-30T12:58:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I am leaving for a fabulous whirl wind trip to New York City to see my New York family. (read: my bestest bestie friends!! Inside jokes will ensue and impromptu singing sessions of Hedwig and the Angry Inch are imminent.)

Last time I was in New York back in May 09 the most amazing, "never has happened to me before"experience commenced. A friend and I arrived for dinner in the EXACT same outfit! Both Jenn and I were wearing a Banana Republic printed, high waisted skirt, a white top, elongated necklace and a black cardigan (not seen in picture). Hilarious!! I love that this happened. So I wonder on the eve of my next trip? Could this happen again? Possibly. But probably not. Just a fashionably fabulous, completely random occurrence and wonderful memory to share with you all.

Today I pack. Tomorrow I fly. Tomorrow night I martini it up in the west village. No driving means: I'll have that second dirty martini please... Working on some fabulous New York outfits to brave the cold weather in. Stay tuned for my first of, I'm sure many, New York based Laurie B Style Files.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Fashion Radar: Studs. Tracing the trend back to Christian Louboutin for Rodarte Fall 2008 Collection

2009-11-25T10:35:00.000-08:00

Alicia Keys looking edgy and dangerous thanks to the studs (pic: Concreteloop.com)

This 80s revival meets metal rock thorn stud trend is currently about to hit the tipping point. About 2 years ago Rodarte's Fall 2008 runway collection debuted the most killer of shoes: The thorny, strappy, platform. Designed in collaboration with Christian Louboutin, this was the day the trend was revealed to the masses. And it took almost two years for it's trending cycle to expand, elaborate and hit the influencers of today. ie: Lauren Conrad, Rihanna, Adam Lambert and now Alicia Keys. What does this mean? It means that the tipping point is upon us and will we will now be seeing this trend hit the masses. Shoes will be the most wearable and mark my words... you will now be seeing them everywhere. But I imagine we'll be seeing the studded shoulders on jackets. You know Zara is totally on top of this right now... Regardless. Sign me up! I think it's cool and you've got to be one tough cookie to rock this look with the right confidence and a whole lot of feminine glam...

Please turn your fashion radars on. And while you're observing this fashion idea.. I'm working on the next one to bring to you!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Christian Louboutin for Rodarte Fall 2008 Runway

Presented in February 08 (pic: Style.com)

Lauren Conrad in Aldo pump studded by stylist Britt Bardo

(pic: wireimage)

Louise Golden for Topshop. AW 2009 collection (pic: Refinery29.com)

Adam Lambert, For Your Entertainment music video

Adam Lambert portrait at the AMAs (pic: wireimage.com)

Rihanna portrait at the AMAs (pic: wireimage.com)

Rihanna at the R-Rated Album Release party (pic: wireimage.com)

The Fifth Element: a fashion re-emergence at the AMA's 2009

2009-11-22T22:40:00.000-08:00

Plavalaguna meets Lady Gaga

Lilu (Milla Jovovich) meets Rihanna

At the American Music Awards we all witnessed the vision of future fashion come true. Jean Paul Gaultier's costumes from the Fifth Element have made their way to the AMAs!

Remember the 1997 Bruce Willis movie The Fifth Element? A story about a future society, the end of the world and the kick ass woman (aka: Milla Jovovich) who holds the key to saving it? Well.. tonight I almost died and went to fashion heaven when I saw Lady Gaga and Rihanna perform. Lady Gaga is seriously channeling Plavalaguna and Rihanna has taken the Lilu bandage jumper to a whole new level!

Since the costumery for The Fifth Element was envisioned and designed by the incredible Jean Paul Gautlier, we end up with an interesting fashion analyzation. Did JPG predict the future of fashion... or did he influence it? Actually both are correct in my eyes. He did envision the future and he interpreted it into costumes that are futuristic, other worldly and all innovative. But by giving us that vision 12 years ago he most definitely influenced our thinking today. And now we see the prediction meet the influence and come to life. Jean Paul Gaultier's vision of the future has officially emerged off the sci-fi screen of the past and into the streets of the today. Amazing. I love fashion.

Well, I know what I am wearing for Halloween next year! Time to stalk up on white bandages.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Click here to see my AMA red carpet fashion review

Impromptu Photoshoot: Witches by Gabby Applegate

2009-11-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

Who knew that a meeting with David of Dietch PR to review his collections as well as an interview, with his up and coming client, designer Gabby Applegate of Witches, would turn into an impromptu photoshoot around the office and roof? You can't beat playing dress up, and with Witches girly goth meets victorian chic, getting in the photoshoot mood was undoubtably easy, and really lets face it, I'm always up for a photoshoot.

Each peice was more fun than the next. The upside down crosses, the crop tops, the lace cape, I wore like a blouse, the straight jacket chic, the sexy lace up back blouse, it even had squared shoulders which is a subtly chic way to sport the strong shoulder trend. I especially love the half lace half spandex leggings, so much I forgot to take them off and almost walked out the door in them! Oops. Well, I'm not gonna lie, the two sided legging idea is growing on me... Remember our faux fur look from last week?

Want your own Witches pieces? Get in line, ladies. This highly anticipated collection is launching Spring 2010!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Want a more indepth preview of the witches collection? Click here and see sneak peak photos and get insider info!

Who wore it Better? Laurie B Style or Nicky Hilton..

2009-11-18T22:45:00.000-08:00

(nicky hilton pic: wireimage.com)

There's a funny story about this. Well, I think it's funny. In entering into the Beverly Wilshire Hotel to attend the Lupus LA "Hollywood Lunch Bag Ladies Luncheon" I am noise burried in my blackberry, about to send out one of my many entertaining tweets. I finally pick my head up, and all I see in front of me is my same dress! Anna Sui for Target, thank you very much! And instantaneously I say "Nice dress!"And then I look up... And it was Nicky Hilton! Ha! She smiled, laughed and we both kept walking our separate ways. A fab brush with Los Angeles royalty, if I may say so myself. (What? I may have grown up in LA but that doesn't mean I still can get excited for the occasional celeb!)

So who wore it better? Nicky Hilton obviously! But I look pretty cute too! Let's compare. Mind you she is twice my height and half my size. She's paired her Anna Sui for Target dress with black opaque tights and, I'm going to assume, Brian Atwood black patent leather pumps. Me? I went bare legged and I tested out wearing black dress socks with my black open toed platforms. Too bad you cant see them. I thought it looked cute. I went simple on the bangles situation, which is rare. Just my beautiful Michele Watch with a Croc leather wrist band. But the best part of my outfit are my oversized jeweled earrings! They are beyond chic, the perfect match for the dress and my skin tone and where I got them is a secret...

Hey Nicky! ...if you ever, by chance read this, nice brushing shoulders with ya and since I didn't get a chance to tell you then... Fab outfit choice!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Rihanna + LA's Funktional = Red Hot, Red Carpet Style

2009-11-18T09:52:00.000-08:00

Rihanna has always rocked our fashion worlds. In my newly famous words, her style, her clothes and her look is "bangin"! Each time she hit's the carpet, we see reinvention, innovation and just the haute-est of high fashion. And really every time she graces the paparazzi cameras with her high style, her we just dream of having a wardrobe like hers. Well that idea is not so far fetched, as I have recently uncovered that Rihanna, just two nights ago walked the Nokia X6 London launch party red carpet in an under $100 dress! Pretty amazing right? The dress by Funktional, is a Los Angeles based brand. (Go LA!) And the best part about this discovery is that the dress goes on sale today for $85 at StyleQ.com.

SOLD!

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

(photo supplied by: Metro PR)

Website Obsessions

2009-11-16T23:33:00.000-08:00

In searching for some new fashion inspiration I came across my new latest website obsession. I want to be a Roitfeld.com. It's a website dedicated to the Roitfeld family. French fashion royalty really. Carine Roitfeld is the Editor in Chief of FrenchVogue. She's held this spot since 2001 one and there have been long rumors of her giving the illustrious Anna Wintour a run for her fashion money. With two children both stateside, her daughter Julia Restoin Roitfeld, a Parsons School of Design in New York City graduate and her son Vladimir Restoin Roitfelt a USC grad.

All in all a very chic family. But thanks to one obsessed fan, we get to see constant pictures and inspiration based on the Roitfeld royal family. The picture above is daughter Julia shot for an editorial campaign in for Vogue China. I'm not going to lie, all i can read is FENDI (no suprise) and isn't that all we really need to know? It's very medieval warrior chic. Sign me up for those gauntlet cuffs. Trè chic.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

ps. Trying a new format. You likey?

I knew I loved this picture...

2009-11-15T22:55:00.000-08:00

Okay so when first saw this picture last week I knew there was just something about it that made me 1) jealous of Dakota 2) dying to wear leopard and 3) wondering, who makes this dress??

Well the mystery has been solved. As my Teen Vogue arrived at my doorstep on Friday, I immediately flipped to the Dakota spread that I loved so much and discovered the best news I think I've ever read! This dress is... RODARTE FOR TARGET! Which means that it will be in Target this December!

The interesting thing, is that with all the Rodarte for Target pictures surfacing on the web this leopard dress has seemed to elude all the photographers, bloggers and fashion obsessed. But not me...

I wish I knew more about this dress. It looks like a printed sweater dress with some type of fleck of metallic. And it can be styled in so many ways. Of course I love the glam necklace paired with the dress as Dakota wears. But think about the versatility. You could wear it plain, you could wear it with tights, with boots, with socks and open toe heels, with a high waisted skirt on top, with a belt or even with an elongated cardigan and a belt. But you could really go all out if you did it all together. Black elongated cardigan, a box weave leather belt, burgundy colored tights and black open toed fringe heels. hmmm... So many options to play with.

Well regardless of not knowing much about this dress. I do know one thing. I will be at Target first thing in the morning to buy it and put it into its proper home. My closet.

Fashionably yours,
Laurie B

Lace leggings... the Megan Fox test drive

2009-11-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

I'm a lady of my word, right? So I decided to take the Megan Fox lace leggings with a heather grey sweater look out for a test drive this past weekend. Results? Pretty cool actually! Lots of turned heads, inquisitive eyes, and even tons of compliments! Both men and women alike, dig this look! And men especially! Mostly because they love the lace tights, but can I blame them? They look pretty hot.

But I had to do this the Laurie B Style way. So I paired my last years Express black lace tights with my Alice and Olivia peep toe rock booties. Then up top, I'm wearing a 4 year old Sweeties white tank dress, topped with my new BCBG short sleeve sweater and a Betsey Johnson leopard embossed belt. For Jewelry, I'm wearing vintage bangles from the Melrose flea market, a to-die-for Michele Watch and my earrings are from H&M, like 3 years ago. Gotta love those items that outlast the sands of time!

I am all about mixing the old with the new and the inexpensive with the expensive. This is how you create a well balanced, creative and effortlessly chic look. But always put your own twist on an inspiration. Because, while I took my inspiration from Megan Fox, this new look is all me!

Fashionably yours,
Laurie B

The POSHGLAM Covergirl

2009-11-10T09:17:00.000-08:00

When I first moved back to Los Angeles from New York I started up two writing gigs. One of Examiner.com as the LA Women's Style Examiner and a second for the fashion website POSHGLAM.com. Well back in June, I think, POSHGLAM threw an LA Launch party at the Club Ecco in Hollywood. Not POSHGLAM's fault at all, but the party was lost in the sea of random club dancers and bachelorette parties. And funnily enough, a friend of mine kept getting hit on by women and now vehemently refuses to wear boyfriend jeans ever again. (and made a lovely comment about that on my my old "boyfriend Jeans" Examiner article.) She may have been upset, but I still think it's hilarious! But back to the party. So I'm closing up my tab and running for the hills because this was really not my scene and I finally find the POSHGLAM camera guy and I said, "Hey! Grab my picture!" and the rest is history! And months later I re-appear front and center for POSHGLAM's New York Dinner party. I'm definitely doing the red carpet over the shoulder look. And I really love my outfit that night. It was a Betsey Johnson white satin jacket I have had since 2004 and the top is actually the Matthew Williamson for H&M scarf I acquired in a shopping mayhem this past May. And I think I paired that with shorts....I think. Either way I'm sure I was rocking some bangin' shoes!

Well thanks POSHGLAM for making me your cover girl...even though I don't write for you anymore. Should I be getting paid for that? Just kidding...

Fashionably yours,
Laurie B

While we are on the topic of tights....

2009-11-06T12:06:00.000-08:00

Here's a great way to add to your twitter following? You think if I wear these around, I can finally hit 1000 followers? I'm so so close. (follow me! *wink wink*)

Honestly, I kind of like them and in researching the designer who makes them I came across some other printed tights that are for sure an interesting Resort and Spring 2010 update to the patterned tights of Fall '09.

Check out the Post store on Etsy.com. My personal favorite is the peacock feather tights.

Oy. My tights and leggings drawer is growing fast! Time to start organizing.

Fashionably yours,
Laurie B

Lace leggings... as pants...

2009-11-05T19:21:00.000-08:00

So if you know anything about me, you'd know that I have an issue with people wearing leggings as pants. Especially when you can see through them. And yes, I still feel the same way....

But, recently with the emergence of the patterned tights and leggings trend happening, I have been expanding my usage of leggings and tights to add to my fall wardrobe. The two pairs of lace tights I own, I purchased last Winter in New York and I only opened them up and tried them out this season. But now I am pairing them with some of my most stylish ensembles! And it has proven to be a great way to update my look and keep my legs warm when it drops to a freezing 65 degrees in Los Angeles. HA!

When I came across this picture of Megan Fox, I wasn't sure what to think. I mean, she is totally wearing her patterned tights as pants! Strangely enough, I absolutely LOVE this look. The idea of the dressy lace tights, black buckle boots, contrasting with an oversized grandpa cardigan and simple tank is extremely unexpected. But because she rocks it with confidence, which makes me believe in the style. Another something to test drive in my wardrobe. I'm going to try this out and see what reactions I get... perhaps it's an appropriate poll for a video... hmmm... the fashion wheels are turning. In the mean time, test drive it in your wardrobe and send me pictures! How would you style your lace tights?

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

Faux Fur Fabulous

2009-10-28T17:24:00.000-07:00

In scouring the internet for my latest project I came across this fantastic look, that I may have to recreate for myself. Copying is the highest form a flattery right? Then please be flattered mysterious girl from stockholm street style. What I love, is that this look is super accessible, while still being uber-chic. A definite, get looks worthy, style to sport. And lucky for us Los Angeles lovers, no extra jacket required! Take that New York!

Ready for this? The faux fur vest is from H&M and the leggings are from American Apparel. Easy right? Then all you need is a black long sleeve shirt, strands of pearls, bangles, and some cute booties. Done and done. What is truly cool about this look is that it proves a point that I always try to make with my clients is that you can look expensive without actually wearing expensive. Or you can mix inexpensive with expensive (ie Chanel handbag and designer sunglasses) and still create a look that makes people stop in their tracks and start to ask questions.

I'm brewing some fashion ideas and I better get to H & M right away. This faux vest is crazy cool and I need to take it for a fashion test drive.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B

PS. Yes, those are two colored leggings. I'm thinking I may need to take this idea out for a test drive too. What do you think?

Welcome to the Laurie B Style Files!

2009-10-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

A very stylish promise.

With this new blog o' mine, I promise to bring you all things stylish. From fashion commentary, to upcoming trends, to anything and everything that inspires me. Could be fashion, could be art, could be photography. All things that make my fashion juices stir. Anything and everything is subject to my fashion ranting. Plus, I will embark on a new fashion journey of filming what I do, so I hope you join in, love, and learn from my style files!

Here's a treat for joining me on this first day of the Laurie B Style Files. I present to you a silly outtakes video from my Hollywood Style Awards Red Carpet adventures. I'll admit it, I laugh every time I watch it.

And, of course, the ACTUAL recap video:

You can check out all my individual celebrity interviews and upcoming fashion adventures on my youtube channel. www.youtube.com/lauriebstyle Subscribe, enjoy, learn, and share the fashion love!

Los Angeles beware... I am on a fashion adventure and today marks day one of the Laurie B Style Files.

Fashionably yours,

Laurie B