C'est Magnifique!

Take a peek at a great interview with Christina Hendricks in this weekend's L.A. Times Magazine. She also stars in the new Broken Bells video for 'The Ghost Inside,' playing an android instead of an office diva. Different setting same sass - you better believe it.

If I Was A Cartoon

I'd want to be Ms. Boop.

Four-Eyes Are Better Than Two

If you're looking for the perfect pair of glasses then look no further. My friends Jordan and Erik over at Silver Lining Opticians are NYC's most successful glasses gurus. I kid you not. They have the uncanny ability to look at your face and instantly know exactly what will fit. It probably helps that they have an unbelievable collection of both vintage deadstock and contemporary independent brands, but I like to think that their powers are more mystical than that. Even with the onslaught of celebrity visits to their Soho shop, they still have the time and patience to match you with your perfect pair of lenses. Take a peek at Jordan talking shop, and at some of Silver Lining's coveted pieces:

Old New York Returns!

The above image was captured on Hester Street in the late 1800s. The old New York it embodies is full of excitement and unpredictability. So many things were evolving in the city, but there were always a few standards you could count on, like the Hester Street Fair. What started in 1895 in the Lower East Side, became a gathering place for immigrants, and served as a place for fish mongers to sell their catch. Flashforward to April 2010 and the Hester Street Fair has resurfaced, but with a modern twist. Instead of finding basic goods, the fair is now offering everything from food to clothing, and once again aims to create a communal space for local vendors. Tomorrow marks it's grand opening, and you can find the fair every weekend rain or shine. So make your way down to the LES to sink your teeth into one of Luke's Lobster rolls, or Sigmund's original pretzels!

Same As It Ever Was

Although I read about the Uniform Project when it first launched almost a year ago, I haven't been diligent about checking back with Sheena's progress. Now that the project is almost over, it's incredible to see how much money she's raised for the Akanksha foundation. The concept was simple, since May 2009 Sheena's been wearing the same dress as an "exercise in sustainable fashion," and as a tool to raise money for education in India. Read all about it on her site, and watch this adorable video explaining the project:

The Bigger, The Better

Well, well, well. It seems as though my signature look is making it's way into the mainstream. It's not like I was ever re-inventing the hair wheel, but I liked to think that my obsession with big hair was only reflected in rock stars, geriatrics, and retro chicks. Now high fashion is honing in on the fine tooth comb that makes it all possible, unless of course you're one of the lazy ones who opts for a Bump It. For shame! We all know that backcombing, a little root booster, and some Goth Juice does the trick. I refuse to let my hair go flat, but I guess now I have some competition based on this New York Times slideshow. I still think I could beat those broads in a tease off - they're no match for my finely honed skills!

Let The Takeover Begin...

There's an article about me on Nerve.com this week, so who knows what could be next?
Photography by the fabulous Samuel-Christophe Tedjasukmana.

Arsenic And New Lace

1. Lace and Zip Detail Mini Dress by Opening Ceremony, $340; brownsfashion.com, 2. Lace Back Tee by LNA, $93; lnaclothing.com, 3. Tall Lace Stripe Top, $55; topshop.com, 4. Cheap and Chic Shoe by Moschino, $554; zappos.com.

Lace is often thought of as an antiquated fabric that speaks more to each end of the spectrum (read: geriatrics or toddlers in princess attire), than to fashionable young things. But that's all changing with a new spin on lace, and the many possibilities it offers. It's feminine, it's sexy, and it's somewhat unexpected. Garments can be played up with just a hint of lace, or whole swaths of fabric can be swapped out to bare shoulders, backs, and midriffs. I think it's a great staple for spring and summer, and will be especially useful when the New York City humidity really hits. With lace you can taunt and tease without revealing too much. So get ready to show off a little skin ladies!

Editor's note: I do realize that it's both ironic and depressing that Moschino decided to name the little lace number above their "Cheap and Chic Shoe," and yet it's still over $500. Argh.

Fancy Fingerwork

By now you've probably realized the extent of my nail art obsession, and like many young Japanese women, my nails have become an extension of my self expression. Most people slip on seasonal accessories; my accessories are a little more permanent, but reflect of-the-moment accoutrements from plaid to bows. Unfortunately not everyone has a penchant for nail art, and although the practice is extremely popular in Japan, its still far from the norm. The ladies of Japan's synchronized swimming team are quickly learning that according to some Olympic officials, nail art has a time and a place. Yesterday Reuters reported that members of Japan's synchronized swimming and diving disciplines, will be banned from having "dyed hair, elaborately painted nails or pierced ears." The rules were put into effect after officials declared that the athletes looked more like rock stars than swimmers. I understand why divers should have to follow these rules, since I imagine that dangling chains and built-out acrylic kittens on nails would most likely affect their performance and speed in the water... but what's so wrong with a little finger pizazz to compliment some sweet synchronized moves?

Via Jezebel

No Glove, No Love

I'm loving the new Cyndi Lauper & Lady Gaga campaign for MAC because it's not just about glitz and glamour, it's about AIDS awareness. As with all Viva Glam products, every cent raised goes to the MAC AIDS Fund to support the fight against HIV/AIDS. Watch the lovely ladies chat about the campaign on Good Morning America:

A City That Breathes

After baring witness to Jonte's unbelievable performance last night at Santos Party House there is no doubt in my mind that New York City is still the place for up and coming musicians. The talent that surrounds choreographer/musician/artist Jonte' is overflowing - the passion that is seen in his performance is riveting. It's always inspiring to see talented people join forces, and Jonte's crew is a perfect example of that. From the costumes, to the choreography, you can tell that details reign supreme. Just like Gaga, Jonte' is the whole package - and the some. I cannot wait to see what 2010 will bring for this dashing talent. Check out the latest video for his latest single "Ya Who!" which already has Japanese audiences screaming for more:

What Came First?

The fashion editor, or the fashionable mother? I vote for the latter!

A Woman's Scorn...

New York Times mega-fail!

It's All In The Hair

If I am as amazing as Margaret Bold when I'm old, I'll be one lucky lady!

As If!

1. L.A.M.B. 'Biker' Plaid Miniskirt, $175; nordstrom.com, 2. The Heidkrüger Boots, $89; modcloth.com, 3. Cashmere V-neck Cardigan, $168; jcrew.com.

On Christmas day I watched the 1990 holiday classic Home Alone, and what really struck me was the fact that I loved it just as much now as when I saw it then... almost twenty years ago. Ouch. Twenty years is a long time, and it seems that like so many things in life, fashion's cyclicality tends to find inspiration by looking back to the 20 year mark. With that and thoughts of the celebrity deaths that loomed throughout 2009 in mind, I looked to the grungy comfort of Clueless star Brittany Murphy, and her lovable character Tai. As much as flannel has had a comeback in the past five years, I have to admit that I'm still not sick of it. For winter days it's the perfect way to be comfortable, warm and still exude a sense of style. Pair some flannel with a pair of lace up booties and pay tribute to Clueless' "tragically unhip" breakout star.

Not Just Any Hourglass

No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you, and this isn't Photoshopped madness. V Magazine just released a preview of their upcoming issue, and the Terry Richardson photo shoot above features model Jacquelyn Jablonski and 'plus size' model Crystal Renn playing an haute couture version of simon says. An in depth preview of the spread is currently on The Cut, and I have to say it's amazing to see Renn literally use her assets to put her competition to shame. She's fierce from "H to T" as Tyra would say. Meanwhile, other magazines are honing in on the 'plus size' trend through other dubious means, namely sticking a regular size model into some padding and calling it a day. The photo shoot below is from the third issue of German magazine I Love You, and was inspired by... you guessed it: Joan from Mad Men. I love me some Joanie more than anyone, but when you try to reproduce the curves of a woman with some padding the result is less than appealing. I appreciate the effort, but couldn't they have found a real voluptuous woman, and not just a model to fill Joanie's shoes?

Via New York Magazine and Cat Party

Welcome To The Dollhouse

This week seems to be full of great finds that only exist in the minds of artists. First there was the Philco PC, and now these Lady Gaga dolls! But this situation is extremely cryptic... All I know is that this incredibly talented 28 year old guy, that goes by the Flickr name veik11, has been replicating some of Gaga's ensembles and his work is amazing. The attention to detail is shocking, at least to someone who knows nothing about hobbyists who take doll dressing very seriously. There's a whole community of people who make outfits for dolls, along with those who make the dolls themselves. Thank goodness some of them are hip enough to realize that Gaga is an ideal muse. Her outlandish outfits may cause an uproar in the real world, but in Barbie's world she's right at home.

Via Jezebel

Have You Heard?

Pop music is like that famous Mother Goose rhyme - when it's good, it's very very good, but when it's bad it's horrid. The latest pop export has only one album to their name, but oh what an album it is. La Roux's self titled record came out in June, but I only discovered it by reading an enthusiastic post over on Fourfour. As far as pop music goes Elly Jackson and Ben Langmaid are a perfect pair. Jackson's red mane is enough to make any fan of androgynous icons take notice. Their music is an unstoppable combination of electropop and retro synthpop influences. This is the kind of music you listen to when you're getting ready to hit the town; music that makes you feel sassy, powerful and enigmatic. Listening to "Bulletproof" makes me want to cast off any uncertainties about myself, and strut what my mamma gave me... when a song has that kind of effect you know it's a keeper.

The Dark Side

1. Brooklyn Bridge Double Finger Ring, $250; 2. Spike Ball Pyramid Ring, $210; 3. Multi Pyramid Bracelet Set, $150; 4. Diamond Pyramid Earrings, $50. All available at nOirjewelry.

I am completely obsessed with nOir Jewelry. It's been over two months since I started rocking my Stack Pyramid Rings, and yet every time I look down at my hand I still get a thrill. That's when you know you've made a sweet purchase. The best part about nOir (besides their unbelievably edgy, sexy designs) is of course their reasonable prices, because you know I love a good deal. I'm generally accessory crazy and anytime I can find jewelry that's this high quality (most of their pieces are 18K gold plated) without breaking the bank is a victory in my books. But I'm not the only one digging on them. Lady Gaga, Rihanna, and Gwen Stefani are all fans, and you know those ladies have got serious style. But don't be intimidated! Designer and owner Leeora Catalan’s styles aren't just for celebs, they're for any dangerous dame out on the prowl.

Life's But A Walking Shadow

RIP Daul Kim