Off-Duty Essential: All Black Everything

Some may say it's all in the genes, but when it comes to looking good off-duty, models are simply closet chemists who've mastered a basic formula that takes them from ugly duckling to black swan. 

Ready to take notes?

 Black + Black + Black = Outfit 

(Black lung optional: see model above left)

For both catwalkers and mere mortals, the anti-color scheme is a firmly planted classic. But don't let this funeral-ready palette trick you into thinking that black-on-black needs to be boring. The key is all in the mix. Layer on the texture via fine jerseys, open knit sweaters, and leather or leather-like pieces. And whatever you do, avoid small handbags at all costs. 

1. Flat Top Large Sunglasses by Super

2. Knit Pullover by Ferragamo
3. Black Double Buckle Skirt by Topshop
4. Valerie Faux Suede Plexi Wedges by Stella McCartney
5. Epea Tote by Matt & Nat
6. Kinetic Jersey Tank Top by Helmut

-All "leather" pieces here are animal-friendly-

For more off-duty inspiration, check out the feature on Alexandra Palmer at New York Girl Style.

On my mind for Pre-Fall 2013: Geo-blocking

Givenchy/Jean Paul Gaultier/Givenchy

Being a big fan of color blocking, pattern blocking,and basically all things blocking, I was immediately drawn to these looks at Givenchy and Jean Paul Gaultier. They're bold and busy, but the muted color palette on a black base reigns them in a touch. After a year of plentiful brights, nude tones seem just right. 

Happy New Year!

Versace x H&M dress/vintage Moschino belt/Aldo booties

Happy 2013,everyone!

I rang in the new year on a low key note, despite my very electric dress.

David and I only went out for about an hour or so, but I'm glad we did because I waited through all of last year for the perfect occasion to don this Versace x H&M number. Between the fringe, cutouts, and throwback Gianni print, this dress is fantastically loud. Just the way I like it! This one is so fun to wear... If you don't want to shimmy when in fringe, you might want to check your pulse. ;)

Wishing you a very fruitful and exciting new year! Cheers!

Witchy Chanel

Busy ol' me doesn't even have the time to lint roll properly before breakfast. Whoops!

Product love: Juniper Ridge

 

If you've shopped around Silverlake or Echo Park in Los Angeles, you may have come across Juniper Ridge, an amazing line of all-natural soaps and home fragrance products. I recently bought my boyfriend the Douglas Fir incense and Siskiyou Cedar sachet for his birthday, but it was also kind of like gifting myself because I'm totally reaping the benefits of this one. 

Our house now smells like a cozy, fire-warmed cabin in the Pacific Northwest. And I keep finding my nose attached to my bf's shoulder when he's wearing a shirt that was pulled from the drawer with the sachet in it. The scents are subtle and pure, transporting you away from city life when you close your eyes and take a deep, prolonged breath. For the outdoorsy person in your life, anything from this company would make for the perfect present. You can even pick products based on region (the choices being Northern California, Desert Southwest, and Pacific Southwest) which is quite nice if your special someone has an affinity for a particular destination. 

But just don't take my word for it. Shop Juniper Ridge here and see for yourself.

Or if you're in LA, pick it up at the following boutiques:

• Tavin
• Driftwood
• Dream Collective

photo by me :)

Look I Love: Rihanna in Menswear

Photo: Tim Whitby/Getty Images

Rihanna looks like she's been brushing up on styling tips from the ManRepeller (whose blog I adore) here, meaning that this is one of my favorite looks that she's ever worn. Sure, the oversize Raf Simons jacket kind of minimizes her melon, but there's just something so alluring about a woman with the balls to go full-on in menswear. 

To balance out the masculinity of the jacket and her striped Acne top and trousers, the pop star kept her makeup classic bombshell: black eyeliner, red lips and matching manicure.

Not only does this diva have the confidence to strip down, but she can also cover up (way up) and still ooze sex appeal. Take a bow, lady!

Have a Coke and a Smile

vintage Coca-Cola tee & jewelry/Equipment floral blouse

I've been satisfying my inner tomboy lately by wearing cutoff tees with everything. But hey, the weather permits it and I've been picking up some gigs lately that require a lot of heavy garment bag lifting and dashing around town like a madwoman. 

One of those gigs required a nice little trip to YSL on Rodeo Drive, where a very polite, very well-dressed gentleman asked if I wanted a job, noting that the company was going through a lot of changes due to Hedi. Ummm, I can certainly understand why they call Los Angeles LaLa Land because in what part of real life are you propositioned for a job at a legendary brand like (Yves) Saint Laurent just for showing up? These cutoffs must be working. ;)

Happy Wednesday!

PS, this photo was featured on The New York Times' website this week. Check it out here!