V-Style

Michelle Obama Wears Naeem Khan At State Dinner

Last week's first state dinner at the White House has gathered much attention because of the "party crashing couple," but what drew my interest was the wonderfully appropriate choice of outfit by Michelle Obama. Although I am not always on the same fashion page as the First Lady I love that she sticks to her signature style and I am loving this elegant gown. The gleaming silver-sequined, cream-colored gown she wore last Tuesday night (Nov. 24th) was custom-made by Naeem Khan, an Indian-born U.S. designer. Fitting since the the guests of honor at the dinner were Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur.

The strapless silhouette with the beads forming an abstract floral pattern was stunning all by itself but the complimenting wrap, stack of bangle bracelets on her wrist and dangling earrings finished the look perfectly. 

In an interview with CNN's Larry King, Khan said he wanted to dress Michelle Obama in something "Indian, chic, simple but very glamorous". He went on to say, "For me to be part of this historic occasion, being Indian, it is beyond amazing. It is an incredible moment for me." I have to agree. My congratulations to both Khan and Obama for the stunning look.

Reese Witherspoon in Rodarte

Reese Witherspoon hasn't wowed me a lot in the past with her fashion choices, but the past few years have left me impressed. One outfit in particular I am drooling over is the Rodarte mini dress that she wore to the Monster vs. Aliens premiere this year. "I love the Rodarte Designers. They're such fun girls. They make everything they sell by hand - they take the time to really think how women feel in their clothes. I was feeling a little Barbarella here."

Barbarella aside, for the ladies out there with some smashing legs a mini dress with short sleeves is incredibly sexy without being obvious. The sleeves say I am good girl while the hem says let's party. Add an incredible pattern and/or texture and you are the best dressed at your event.

Fashionable & Functional Wallaroo Hat

I adore the look of hats, but never really wear them, but when Wallaroo wanted me to review their collection I decided its time to start, especially since the majority of the line is UPF 50+. I have always had a thing for the functional and fashionable. I was sent their Bella hat and I have been wearing it every day since, well, except for Thanksgiving.

The 100% angora knit hat with 2" ball-cap brim and gathered trim around the crown adds that funky cool look to my casual wear. Plus the fit is verrrry comfortable and the elastic band inside keeps the hat in place. I am especially in love with it because my recent short hair can be very unruly and a hat is a must on those bad days.

Victoria Beckham's Fav Dress From her Spring Line

The serious faced style maven, Victoria Beckham, ain't such a bad designer. Slim fits, flared skirts, solid colors with a little enhancement, padded cap sleeves and the occasional peplum was the look of this sexy yet classic line of dresses for Spring 2010. I also appreciate the seasonless aspect of the line. Spring or fall, this line will work. Victoria Beckham recently told Instyle Magazine that her favorite piece from her upcoming collection is the black lace dress with a flared skirt and cap sleeves. If worn by yourself it can be quite the pornographic look. "This can be worn over a bra and knickers if you're daring or a nude crepe dress to be more respectable." Either way I am into it

Diane Von Furstenberg Sunglasses Launch 2010

This coming Spring Diane Von Furstenberg launches her sunwear collection full of sunny beauties. I am truly digging the line and I am pleased to say all are under $150. A smart choice. The styles range from elegant, funky, glamorous to retro with a modern take. The two pictured are my favorite.

Sarah Jessica Parker Wears A Fur Coat

I adore a yummy fur and I am sure that PETA members everywhere are gasping at me. I own both real and faux, but I comfort myself with the knowledge that I only buy the real fur recycled. I have never bought a new animal fur, I have only purchased vintage or previously owned authentic fur. I figure that gives me some points, right? right?!

To move on, fur (real or faux) is a fantastic part of fall and winter dressing. Just look at Sarah Jessica Parker in any winter scene of Sex and The City (movie and series). Whereas in the past, fur screamed luxury and elegance, fur is hollering fun glamour today! In the colder areas, throw on that fur coat with your ponte leggings and snow proof riding boots. For the warmer areas feel free put that coat over a tank dress and some heels. Have fun with it! If are cold enough to wear it, wear it. I wear my shin length beige coat with giant detachable fur collar all around San Diego if I am cold. Sure no one else in San Diego is doing it, but isn't that the point? Enjoy your fur this season!

What To Wear To A Holiday Work Party

Not everyone lives in dresses so the idea of having to buy one for a holiday work party can be stressful, boring, fun or all of the above.

When dressing for a work event you need to keep in mind that these people need to take you seriously the next Monday in the office. No deep Vee for them to picture when they see you back in your suit. No ass peaking out of a short hemline for them to imagine when watching you walk away. Keep it sexy without being sexual and fashionable without being deemed ridiculous. 

A safe bet is to wear black, but don't settle for just anything. This draped Alexander Wang dress with the beige lace racer-back is sexy, interesting and still completely appropriate. The ruching and draping ensures this isn't a "tight" dress as well hides any bumps and bits we don't want to show. Still the closeness to the body inspires some respect for the woman's body.

Granted the open vee at the hem could have them drooling so add some opaque tights to the ensemble to make the look more work appropriate. Top it off with some party pumps that will elongate your look and give you the power player look. 

Now, all this black seems a bit dreary so the jewelry needs to have some color and punch. This long gold cuff is fabulous and the blue in the earrings will give you the creativity this dark image needs.

Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie Design Asprey Jewelry Line

I adore snake accessories and apparently so does Brad Pitt and Angeline Jolie. The Brady Bunch couple has designed a line of snake themed jewelry for Asprey that will be available for purchase later this week. Although just in time for Black Friday, don't expect a discount. All net proceeds from sales of this intriguing line will go to Education Partnership for Children of Conflict. Founded by Jolie in 2006, she says the charity is aimed at saving “children who most need a safe place to learn, a place to heal, a place to learn reconciliation, a place to build a better future and a place – to just be children.”

The serpent theme of this collection comes from a non-Asprey ring Angelina wore when she was pregnant with Shiloh. She considers snakes to be a talisman and protector of her family. I don't know about that, but the collection is delicate and exquisite. I am impressed with their charity as well as the designs.

How To Wear A Long Fur Vest

Vest: H&M Long Black Faux Fur Vest

Shoes: Thakoon Mirror mosaic strappy sandals

Bracelets: House of Harlow

The fur vest is a wonderful layering piece for the chillier seasons, but vests can also be confusing. I have so many clients that have no idea what to do with a vest let alone a fur version. So here is a little tip for the cutting edge. Pair it with a top a few inches longer than it or as many inches shorter as you like. For a more flattering look wear light fabrics that sit closer to the body like these CURRENT/ELLIOTT legging jeans.

For a more tame look pair it with a turtle neck, dark wash jeans and some clean cut heels or boots. Top it off with some interesting earrings. You can also wear a quality t-shirt with a lower neck.

Shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Snakeskin-detailed leather pumps

Beyoncé Wears Di Alberta Ferretti Cummerbund Belt

Spotted on Beyoncé and Leanne Rimes, this Di Alberta Ferretti cummerbund style belt is completely and utterly fabulous. Shown both casually and dressy here the cummerbund style belt with embellishments is flattering for the female form, but it's masculine origins brings that stylish juxtaposition fashionistas crave.

Although I have not been able to find where to purchase this incredible item, you can recreate this look with multiple belts or tie a wide scarf around your waist.