Ring Around the Rosie

Ah, what can I say: the story of my life.
This past weekend, a friend and I ventured out to the Apparel Show at Dallas Market Center (fifteen stories to be exact!) I had never been before so it was neat to see the different vendors take on style yet to come. I was impressed by a line out of Hawaii (jamsworld.com) that had gorgeous, bright prints on airy silk caftans. There was also a couple out of L.A. (freewayapparel.com) that was on par incorporating blunt, checkered prints on frilly, feminine pieces . But I went nuts for a vendor that had the funnest, biggest baubles. I pulled a couple of heavily beaded, scoop neck collars to show my friend how one could easily jazz up a simple tank top, my anticipation mounting feeling very right about the look. Very bohemian, almost Egyptian, world infused pieces your daughter would wish to inherit. Talk about 'walk hard': I had the toughest time putting it down!
Then the S.A.G awards came on on Sunday. And wuddaya know, the Cleopatra collar is everywhere.
January Jones of the AMC series "Mad Men" was stunning in her Andrew Gn dress with a strong, gold collar.
This is exactly what I was pining for at the show. Ok. Let's just get this out and over with here:
the woman has fair skin and strawberry blonde hair. Do not say 'But I don't wear gold...' because this lady has a lot bigger problems than you! Do it. Wear it. Get the gold and any other variation of the collar.
Keira Sedgwick topped off her black and white vintage Chanel with a comparable Fred Leighton amethyst.

A little useless information this maven wishes to share: Keira is indeed of relation to the infamous Andy Warhol muse Edie Sedgwick, the mid-sixties "it" girl I could go on and on about. Check out this pic of the pair in which Edie sports one earring. A forewarning:
my next post might be in order to convince the one dangle is my next prediction. Granted, she might of lost hers on a substance binge, but I'm just sayin.
Any which way, Anne Hathaway declared she felt amazing in her Azzaro dress, also trimmed with a heavily, bejeweled collar, as did Eva Longoria Parker in a tangerine Jenny Packham. Though the necklines were lovely, I wasn't a huge fan of either as I think Eva's had too many ruffles (yes, I said 'too many' ruffles!)and Anne's just seemed a bit typical. But she was also decked out in over a MILLION dollars worth of jewels, so maybe I can get over it.
But Miz Park-ah did rightly incorporate another big look of the season: tangerine and pink. Laura Linney was lovely in Michael Kors single, shoulder strap, but Cameron Diaz worked it first at the Golden Globes (Chanel). It was a complimenting look for her but major irk for PCD: steam, iron, or press your highly visable look! Especially couture! Hellooo? Anything in there blondie??
But ok, I do looove the third look of this awards season: the single strap and off the boney shoulder look.
Christina Applegate rocked it in an emerald (eek) Emanuel Ungaro while Katie Holmes (er, wait--is it Cruise? Or Kate Cruise? whatev) was my pick of the night in Jil Sander.
Seriously, I've study this piece and it is truly a one of a kind.
Technically, this is deemed a 'cut-out' look with the slit at her waist, but the left shoulder drape suggests shrug so I'm filing this under "Illusion". Notice how the skinny slit allows her so much curve and of course that boney shoulder! It's not that I'm advocating cartilage, rather, merely attempting to reinforce the dramatic appeal of such allusions.

Thanks to all my sistas out there who are continuing to read the story of my life. It's friends like you that prove having a Pretty Cheap Dress isn't just a dream! :)

The Queen of Comedy

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

The Queen of Soul is now the Queen of the Bow. I heard there is a maker that replicates important celebrity fashions and I am ON TOP OF IT ROSE! Where to find on a dime to come...(Swarovski Crystal detail, Mr. Song Millenery, Detroit $179)

Avoid Stripping Down...at least in public: A Guide to Travel Attire

Recently, I had the pleasure of accompanying a dear friend to Scottsdale, Arizona to attend the Fiesta Bowl football game, in which the University of Texas beat, er, played Ohio State. Really, I could be writing a post regarding how difficult it is to locate an adequate amount of Texas Orange garb for three days, but alas, this post is actually about travel attire. And yes, Texas Orange is an official, specific colour of which I do not fully adhere.
I've read articles offering tips on how to "Pack the most Punch" in small, restrictive casing, or how to "Travel Comfortably in Style", but not reminding how to "Avoid Stripping Down Entirely before Airport Security, Fellow Travelers, and Incognito, Airway Traveling Pervs." Furthermore, it was quite disheartening watching elder folks forced to nimbly remove their shoes as I suppose you never know when terrorists will recruit the elderly. And I can't even imagine what anxiety a solo traveling parent must suffer! I mean, I've always enjoyed people watching, especially in airports for regional or international style, but c'mon, no one deserves such 'self-inflicted', offensive humiliation. (Note, I'm sure there's some added charge in your ticket for the 'entertainment'!)
Consider these tips for easier travel:

1. Wear socks. Matching socks.

My first mistake upon said strip tease, was hastily pairing slightly mis-matched socks. Most likely unnoticeable to an equally prodded public, this telling sign of carelessness was my first concern, even aside from silently fretting over my socks getting dirty. Also, no one is excused from sweaty feet. There is nothing worse than being trapped--as either the fragrant vagrant or captive passenger- nothing worse than be stuck with smelly feet.
Unless you are Kate Moss with your own personal security check point, the shoes are coming off.

2. Wear comfortable, no fuss shoes.
There are two approaches one can take when considering travel footwear:

• If you opt to minimize you look to better streamline getting through security, go ahead and throw some energy toward your shoes. BUT, in doing so, consider any time restrictions, gate locations, connecting flights, and anything else that could prevent getting there on time. Rushing to ultimately reschedule because you missed your flight is pretty embarrassing too...


• Rather, cliche as it may be, opt for comfortable, no muss, no fuss shoes such as Liz Claiborne 'Bare Leather' Slip Ons which are available at DSW ($20). I am a hardware girl and love the gold links across the bridge. Or try these Coconuts 'Vinny' Ankle Boots, also available in black.
  That added entertainment? Watching a 6" tall glam-azon reduced to normalcy when peeling off her heels. Personally, I prefer to keep my style secrets underwrap which includes heighth illusion. Listen to me, opt for flats.

3. Textiles over Hardware

Paper beats rock: this will be the only time you will hear me recommend less hardwear. After removing my boots to reveal (slightly) different socks, removal of my rocker belt, loosing my nipped sheath of a shirt dress, and sending my leather jacket (no, I didn't look like Axle Rose) through the 'see it all' box, I was still setting off the alarm. I threw my hands in the air for the three waiting feeder lines to see I had nothing left to lose, when the guard asked "Could it be your arm band bracelet?"...Eyeah, it could be. Clearly, hardwear is my second skin, but rather than holding up the system further exposing your fashion idiosyncrasies, minimize. Or just remember it's there. p.s.-that's a baby carrier slung around Gweni..!

4. Redefine the 'carry-all bag'.

Most carriers allow one carry on, and one carry all--a.k.a., your handbag. I wouldn't typically encourage over-stuffing a decent bag, but hey, sometimes it happens. Personally, I insist on carrying my make-up and jewelry as both are acquired collections that cannot be replaced if lost, and more recently, my laptop has been added to that list. Not only was I able to carry on these items in a sizable hobo bag, but also two 10 oz. containers of snacks, and much to my surprise a ceramic coffee mug! (I had stuck the mug in the bag as not to forget the gift and discovered it at the airport!)
I promise you, no one would have guessed I was packing so much--shoot, I didn't even know! But it is here you can maximize your look for all you are missing.

Opt for quality since you are packing quantity. An excellent travel bag should stand alone and is another tenured piece; consider a neutral colour and classic cut such as this spacious Sabina leather satchel from Urban Outfitters ($298). The taupe color is a seasonless neutral and dual straps enable many looks.
The braided handles on this Lux Tab bag are a nice detail to compliment the plum wine colour (Urban Outfitters, $68).

5. The last thing to consider for traveling in style is the weather. Going from cold to hot and/or everything in between? I went to San Francisco this past July, apparently touring during the cities' winter, a crisp 50/60*'s. (!) Didn't know that when packing for the trip, but fortunately made it work given the cardigans I had packed as cover ups. I really like this shawl collared cardigan or this scarlet-colored boyfriend card ($39), both at Urban Outfitters.
Just enough color, and simple enough to carry, later you can belt it for a more pulled together look.
There are many things to remember when traveling, but the most important is to consider your comfort. Would you like to relax in a soft shawl for the duration of your trip? Not sure the agenda and therefore clothes to pack? Think in layers. Everything you take should be cohesive--but should not be dependent on something else to make it work. (What if you forget a basic or get an accidental stain?!) As long as you work in layers, you will command your comfort. And assuming you know your audience, now you can strip.
Happy Trails!

GG III: Globe to Global Style

And the moment we've all been waiting for...!" Globe to global style. The thing about award shows is, it's just as much of an opportunity for celebs to display a richer, more complex and intricate side of themselves. They are actors playing parts and like to play dress up just as much as we do! But do differ in that they have a team devoted to expressing this image; there is their publicist, their agent, a personal shopper- who may or may not be their stylist, their hair stylist, dear ol' mom...the list goes on for the number of people to take direction (and free gear!) from. As for the general public, we merely aspire to yield such concern.

Accordingly, the best we can do is as best we can do. Check out these awesome deals. Eek.

I really like this romper by Arden B. $78. The colour is comparable to the satin pieces seen at the Globes and wide, boat neck collar allows for plenty of looks. Top off with the menswear inspired blazer and a chunky heel. As weather permits, let the collar fall off your shoulder and only compliment with a short, single charm chain.

Um, hello.
Hello Debra Messing's emerald drop earrings $99 (!!!) Do not be afraid of these beauties. Wear with a lace top and skinny dark jeans, as these gems will draw exceptional attention and will be timeless in your collection.
Many Globe starlets flaunted full-circle dangles such as this one by Van Cleef & Arpels for Eva Mendes.
Check out these close comparison turquoise drop earrings found at HSN.com ($43).
Cruise closer to lake time in this silky, tasteful tunic print (forever 21 $25). A great piece to pair with black tights in early spring chills; later, let go of the belt and let it billow for a relaxed bohemian flair. Such work truly redefines art appreciation!
Start and stay ahead of the line with this double flap clutch with faux snakeskin detailing (forever 21 $9). Don't be afraid to mix up your bags as a simple change can be all that's necessary in tweaking your look.

It's not too often tulle finds it way outside of garments, much less less wedding chapels, but these stacked, full swinging skirts are so fun, wear them while you can. This short version with satin trim overlay is a very reasonable option especially at $18 (! Dillards's.com)

As for that blazer: you have got to have one. No arguments. Pick:

A) The boys' Ivy league cut shown here from Urban Outfitters ($60)
Throw this over any casual look to pull it all together or exchange your heavy winter wool for this lighter fare.

B) The mens' cut with satin lapels. Use your imagination: ignore the uptight secretary look by leaving it unbuttoned and roll up the sleeves for a "Who's got time for jokes?" look (Mangoshop.com, $40).


C) The beauty of blazers is yes, while many have a basic cut, no two are alike be it in length, detail, or color. Even so, many secure discrete charm in a funky, contrasting lining--a subtle detail to a rolled up sleeve. Find your favourite detail in a cool fabric, a popped collar, or just by belting it up for a high waist.
Or, shoot, just steal one: getting the gold can be cut-throat. And they don't call it the 'boyfriend blazer' for nothin' (Victoria's Secret $80).

GG Part II: Predictions

Eeek. Sorry, I am eeeking a little bit. Predictions are my favourite thing to do. As previously stated: the biggest heartbreak in fashion is the fact it's all been done before but it's the reinvention that keeps it alive. Hence, predictions.

The Globes did indeed do just that, so let's look at how and what one should be on the look out for Spring '09.
A brief recap on the GG favourites because they were not the only matrons who held the eve:

Globe fav Eva Longoria Parker hinted to a waterworld on land in her deep, red orange, scallop bust, mermaid gown. Ever peer deep into the ocean or night sky believing you see more to the blue or black than meets the eye? Be on the look out for deeper shades, be it solids or in an artistic print. Right now, I am a huge fan of simple A-line, short sleeve, silk tops often found in rare, solid shades. They can truly be a stand out alone.

• I love (love, love, love--eek) the rich jade leaf earrings Amy Adams wore (see Globe Favourites). Adam and Eve...the Garden of Eden... green goddess. Go green- it's here to stay.

...You're gonna think I'm nuts, but I think the hipster exaggeration on Eva Mendes' dress is a nod to...the fanny pack. OK, maybe not the fanny pack, but Marc Jacobs did include several in his Resort/Spring runway show.
So no, you don't need to swallow your pride and get one; rather, be on the look out for fluffy accents, layered folds and other such embellishments on waist-nipped tops or belted skirts. Also, look for 'saddle bag' purses with such frills that will accent, cover up and potentially make your look.

Thanks to all the celebs who opt for designers current or ready to wear collections over haute couture (custom made one of a kind). Ms. Gyllenhaal's spotted print was a full length version of a shorter dress from Lanvin and it's this kind of exposure that not only keeps Hollywood in touch with their public, but the public in touch with progressive style. Thanks Mags--you just made my job a little bit easier.

As for the other leading ladies of the evening:

Laura Dern was a winner for Best Supporting Actress in a Mini Series, but unfortunately the press had no pictures of her dress. Quite unfortunate as it was a black, sheathy number with a full tier black skirt comparable to these shown here.

I've seen a few of these from different makers and am in the process of re-working an out-dated dress into a similar skirt--I'll keep you posted! The tiers are an elegant detail that will work day to night, and because of the stack, will work also with both flats and heals.

• Susan Sarandon was also in attendance sporting a luxe menswear tuxedo jacket, soft, face framing curls, and a long crystal glass necklace, creating a similar look shown below.
  
Adding a clean line blazer is a simple way to create a sharp and put together look. I plan on pairing mine with light, faded blue jean shorts, and gladiator sandals going into warmer days of spring.

I'll break down the many ways one can incorporate these looks in the coming post 'GG Part III: Globe to Global'. But remember, you too can predict a reinvention. It's just a matter of doing it first. Best!

Part I: Golden Globe Favourites

I want to preface this post with a bit of information regarding Pretty Cheap Dress. First, I thoroughly enjoy researching, discovering and sharing new and insightful information according to this forum. This involves constant web research, online memberships which include endless junk emails, a vast magazine library (of which I recycle when we part ways), conflicting Tivo schedules, travel (by foot or otherwise) and pretty much any other mode of communication in which I can pull the best of the best. The torment of a maven is staying on your side by not coming across as a 'know-it-all', and at the same rate, not be misleading or incorrect in attempting to assist. I suppose the reason I am saying all this is because my intent was to create pretty entities to connect one across the fashion board. But the truth is, it's a big ass board and Rome wasn't mapped by a memo.

Thanks to Kaitlin for reminding me the Golden Globes were on Sunday. I usually only catch the Oscars and Grammys, but the experts are right: the Globes are completely indicative of what's to come.

This post will be broken down into three parts: Part I: Golden Globe Favourites, Part II: Predictions, and Part III: Globe to Global Style.

Always a stunner, Eva Longoria Parker looked flawless in a form fitting Reem Acra gown. It was cited as red, but on screen had a deeper reflection leaning more toward red-orange. I've not seen that color before. Consider first glance the scallop bust line, drawing the eye to the tight bodice, then let's the captive loose in the mermaid train. Clearly inspirational from head to toe.

I think I screamed when I saw Amy Adams Lorraine Schwartz
diamond encrusted leaf earrings. Adam and Eve anyone? Eve-ning beauty with her gorgeous red hair...? Agh, love-ly. Just lovely.

Eva more, Eva adore, Miss Eva Mendes was full of it in her white volume Dior. Such a standout with the exaggerated hipster accent, accompanied by a circumference, turquoise necklace.

Kate Winslet took home two globes for Best Supporting and Leading Actress, and won many more looks in her black Yves St. Laurent column dress. I love the clean lines and angles in the bodice yet the delicate flow in the length.
Maggie Gyllenhaal was the cat's meow in Lanvin's spotted, single shoulder vamp. Hopefully this blue and black progressive print will be the first step in moving the greater public away from similar orange versions. Look at that layered shoulder...!
While there were many other winning looks be it outstanding dress or jewelry, I have to say Kate Beckinsale in J. Mendel was ideal in both. Ok, maybe I am a little biased to this look, but first, the facts (naturally). Not only does your host wish to arm you with the freshest looks, I also like to design them. This is a garment I created in late November:

Look familiar? Incidentally, I was on a serious prowl for a polished garnet or a heavy jade chandelier earring at the start of the holiday season. I had the look in my mind but none could quite capture my eye--er, wallet. Leave it KB in Fred Leighton jewels.
But, there is hope. First, Fred Leighton. Then Forever 21. :)

To Oh, oh 8, with love

True to form, Pretty Cheap Dress is late. But I want you to think back for a moment to a time you were waiting on someone. Every passing minute feels like molasses--as if seconds turned tangible and is now slowly, drizzling through your body. I know that's how you were feeling waiting for this post, but recall what happened when they finally showed up: you were just happy they made it ok.
Hark! I present you a more than 'ok' list of my favourite nine* songs of 2008.
First, this was very difficult for me--as CSS would say "Music is my boyfriend." Like that sweet tasting honey, your favourite song can seep through your skin, rock your veins, and invigorate you into motion. How you dress represents how you feel. And how you feel starts from the inside. Do not be late: get these tunes in you now. Or, at least, be fashionably sooner than later.
*Listed in no particular order. And I gave up wracking my brain to settle on just 10, so I stopped at nine.








1. "Paper Planes", M.I.A.
Sure, the title suggests 'paper' as the material for transport, but musically, this song is the passport to anywhere. Culturally infused, this Sri Lankan born, London schooled, UK export captures universal style by creating her own. It looks like New York is the backdrop for the video, but really it could be any major city. From the hyper-active, dizzying geometric patterns to her two-tone hair, M.I.A makes it clear she is 'too cool to be a Rocca Wear model' ("Bird Flu", Kala) by backing up her sound with her funky style, and encouraging you to do the same. Any and everywhere.

2. "Flashin' Lights", Kanye West
Released early in the 08, Kanye West 'killed it' with "Flashin' Lights". If you have any affinity for CSI and the like, this video is a must see.
One will never question what a love lorn woman in heels will do; I'm just sayin', she spared him the heel. How do you know you're smokin' hot? When you hear this beat with each shift of your hips.

3. "American Boy" Estelle featuring Kanye West
Kanye West develops a temporary Brit accent by proxy, but you have to give it to him: the man can call a hit no matter the dialect. Every girl has small requests ("Take me on a trip, I'd like to go someday/ Take me to New York, I'd love to see L.A..." ) and British beauty Estelle just makes it sound prettier. Caution, aside from developing a foreign accent, "American Boy" may make you flaunt that party dress on tables and specify your tour guide. So I've heard.

4. "I'm Amazed", My Morning Jacket
The slowly controlled drum opening and delicate guitar rift introduce a sweet song that simply infuses appreciation for the things that are 'amazing.' Although the lyrics clearly state the bands dissonance with foreign affairs, the harmonious chorus line "I'm amazed..." makes me want to throw up my hands and rejoice for all the good things in life. Erykah Badu dropped in at a MMJ show and wowed the band for a performance of 'Tyrone'. One of the best shows of my life.

TIE

"Lovers in Japan", Coldplay
I was fortunate to see my beloved band in San Jose, CA this past summer visiting one of my best friends. The newly released "Prospekt" was our soundtrack as we toured San Francisco on bike and hopped around vineyards from Napa to Sonoma. While "Lovers in Japan" sets the locale in a much further eastern splendor, the melody lifts you in a hopeful, weightless air---we should call it 'The Chris Martin Affect'.

5. "Time to Pretend", MGMT
First, MGMT was the band of the summer. I was soo stoked to see them at the Austin City Limits Festival, but must admit I had no idea what I was getting into. This is how many people were at the six-plus stages festival:

And that is how many people wanted to see MGMT. Fortunately, I squeezed my way through a gillion people (the biggest no. you can have) to get relatively close. Really what I saw was the most bazaar fashion expedition I could ever hope to see in a gathering of a gillion people. No picture could captivate each and every persons individual and fearless style. Lots of hot insert-any-colour-here spandex, even more skin, Ray Bans (et. al) on everyone, suede sweatbands and any other neo-native headdress, and tons of Jesus shoes. Or none at all. One might of thought the kids all came from a yard sale but the thing is, a lot of times, much is spent in obtaining that certain look. MGMT sings "I'm feeling rough, I'm feeling raw I'm in the prime of my life...We're fated to pretend" and so do all their fans.


6. "Sex on Fire", Kings of Leon

The entitled chorus line makes it kind of difficult to publicly karaoke this song, but make no mistake, you totally want to wail it. (That's what she said.) These southern rock, Nashville natives have been around for a while, but 08 was their break-out year with "Sex on Fire". The tune ruminates discovery and the crescendo chorus beautifully captures the importance of...collaboration.

7. "Move", CSS
Ask any musician if being described as 'that band with that song' is bothersome, they might say "It's not if you're Apple!" "Music is My Hot Hot Sex" was featured on a coveted ipod commercial, furthering this Brazilian bands exposure. I also caught their performance at ACL and was absolutely shocked by the energy of this group. Check out there video for "Move"-- it's truly a must see, and take a moment to read their bio. Quite an interesting story.

'CSS' is short for 'Cansei de Ser Sexy', which is Portuguese for 'I'm tired of being sexy'. I concur.

8. "Put a Ring on It", Beyonce

Leave it to B to squeeze one more hit into a year. Seriously, this woman is nuts. Phenomenal. My brother was confused by this song: "I don't get it: didn't she get 'secretly' married and now she has this song 'Put a Ring on it?'" Good question, but really, do you think that a woman, men and women equally dream of has only one beloved suitor?

*B is also credited for the addition of 'bootylicious' in the English dictionary.

9. "Electric Feel", MGMT

Writing this post was difficult as music is such a huge influencer for me in many ways. I just love it all! But 'Electric Feel' was the first song I heard from MGMT and has been my main go-to since. Each listen takes me to the middle of the dance floor of studio 54, in a floor-length, white gauzy jumpsuit, silver marcasite encrusted platforms which float me near and far, my neck and hand bedazzled in chunky layers of the same jewel. "She got the power in her hands, To shock you like you won't believe..Ooh girl/Shock me like an electric eel/Baby girl/Turn me on with your electric feel."
And forgive me, but it just might be my ode to 2009.