Hello Kelli

must have a one-piece ...

2011-03-13T00:12:00.007-05:00

I'm searching for the perfect one-piece bathing suit right now...here's what I've found so far...

{juicy couture beach little lulu}

{anthropologie swept sash maillot}

{anthropologie a tall order one-piece}

{carmen marc valvo retro one-piece}

{coco rave bandeau swimdress}

....splurge option

{diane von furstenberg sashe}

end of the week jumble...

2011-02-26T12:15:00.004-05:00

{ferm LIVING US wallpaper}

so excited that Philip Treacy is rumored to be designing Kate Middleton's wedding hat

definitely going to use these design*sponge city guides next time I travel...unfortunately they don't have one for Palo Alto yet!

Architect Barbie...one of the most hilarious things I've seen in a long time. My favorite part is the mini-mini dream house...it's like a model of a model!

if I owned my own place I would cover some of the walls with lovely ferm LIVING wallpaper...I'm trying to find a piece of furniture that I can use this on...

Target is reissuing 34 pieces from the Go International designer lines...since I'm one of those crazies who shows up on the first day each line is released you can bet that I'm pretty excited about this. The lines are set to release on March 13.

12 hour design charrette to design the new Facebook campus in Menlo Park next weekend!

fashion in film: rear window

2011-02-26T01:34:00.006-05:00

{christie's: grace kelly "mark cross" handbag}

I was opposed to watching any films made before 1980 until a few months ago when I realized that the classics are chock full of stunning fashion and architecture. Not only can I fill in references that I've been missing my whole life, but now I can understand more about the history of fashion by watching these films. So far the fashion has been so amazing that I can barely even pay attention to the storyline...I just want to pause the movie to zoom in different pieces.

Last weekend I watched Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window and am obsessed with everything Grace Kelly wore...even though it was maybe only a total of five outfits (I embarrassingly have to admit that this is my first Grace Kelly movie).

I love the tiny briefcase-inspired handbag (see above) that poufs up with flouncy lingerie when she pops it open, the below-the-knee full skirts that have become completely modern and fashionable again, and the pearl charm bracelet that I would just love to see up close to see what those chunky charms are.

Here's my modern take on Grace Kelly in Rear Window...

Rear Window by hellokel featuring faux pearl bracelets

Theory sleeveless silk top
$200 - barneys.com

Elizabeth and james blazer
$365 - bloomingdales.com

Etro pleated skirt
$580 - saksfifthavenue.com

Stella McCartney faux pearl bracelet
151 GBP - net-a-porter.com

Amazon.com: Grace Kelly, Mid 1950s Collections Photographic Poster...
$30 - amazon.com

Rear Window by hellokel featuring faux pearl bracelets

Theory sleeveless silk top
$200 - barneys.com

Elizabeth and james blazer
$365 - bloomingdales.com

Etro pleated skirt
$580 - saksfifthavenue.com

Stella McCartney faux pearl bracelet
151 GBP - net-a-porter.com

Amazon.com: Grace Kelly, Mid 1950s Collections Photographic Poster...
$30 - amazon.com

Hermes handbag
christies.com

ports 1961 wedges?

2011-02-24T23:06:00.005-05:00

In my hunt for the best pair of spring platforms, I spotted these in a Ports 1961 ad in my recent Elle. I didn't even know Ports 1961 made shoes, but now I am determined to find these...

Here's a shot of what have got to be the same shoes as those in the ad from a spring 2011 runway show...must find them!

Related...

pretty pastels

2011-02-22T22:56:00.007-05:00

{miu miu leather satchel}

Miu Miu has a lovely Easter egg colored palette this spring... I love the pastel shoes and bags...

{miu miu leather platform pump}

{miu miu matelasse linen bag}

{miu miu crytal-embellished matelasse}

{miu miu perforated patent-leather peep-toes}

my favorite spring platforms...

2011-02-18T01:27:00.010-05:00

Last summer I searched everywhere for a simple pair of wide strap platform wedge sandals...you really wouldn't think that it would be that hard to find...there's just so stylish and flattering and comfortable! But I couldn't find what I envisioned anywhere. Very frustrating.

But lucky for me, the platform wide strap sandal is popping up everywhere this season! I was ecstatic to spot the negative space wedges at Anthropologie, but now I'm spotting similarly lovely styles everywhere...

Now I just have to decide which design I like best...so many amazing variations...

{diane von furstenberg opal wedge sandal}

{diane von furstenberg mira wedge}

{stuart weitzman alex espadrille}

{house of harlow veronika wedges}

{vera wang lavendar 'roda' sandal}

{pour la victoire jaclyn espadrilles}

Related articles...

bloggers at fashion week...

2011-02-17T11:06:00.003-05:00

{ryan koopmans from refinery29.com}

The runway images from Fashion Week totally overwhelm me (I'll just flip through the slideshows of my favorite designers when it's all over), so I'm sharing my favorite photo from the week...

combat boots

2011-02-16T23:30:00.003-05:00

I was playing around on Polyvore to come up with an idea for an outfit to wear with my brown combat-inspired boots...it makes pretty images so I think I will try to use it more.

combat boots by hellokel featuring kooba handbags

see by chloe t-shirt dress

2011-02-12T02:17:00.002-05:00

{see by chloe mesh shoulder dress}

love the whole look...

end of the week jumble....

2011-02-11T22:04:00.006-05:00

{rees roberts + partners}

{a dream of place by john murphy at supermarket}

I didn't have time to post about everything that I wanted to this week, so I'm just jumbling everything that I loved and noticed this week into one post...

free shipping + 15% off Thread Social (one of my favorite dress designers)....you can check out their available items on their website

all of the unique and kooky designs at supermarket...how had I never heard of this site before?

rodarte for opening ceremony...the collection is finally out and it's got a vintage romantic vibe with shades of beige and rose...what do you think?

my favorite band Florence and the Machine (Florence is one of my ultimate fashion icons) on Gossip Girl... so ready for her new album to come out !

still waiting for the Pendleton x Hurley collab Girls Cropped Jacket to go on sale (how Portland of me)

obsessed with this house in croatia

forgot to share my new favorite winter pumps...gotta find occasions to wear them before it's open-toe season!

Ok that's all for this week....

collaboration: converse x marimekko

2011-02-08T21:20:00.009-05:00

Since I've always been obsessed with Converse Jack Purcells, I'm excited about the new Converse X Marimekko collaboration. Although reports said the shoes wouldn't be out 'til spring, it looks a couple of the designs are already available on the Converse website...

If you're not already familiar with the Finnish textile manufacturer known for their brightly colored '60s graphic patterns, here are a couple more desirable Marimekkos....

{marimekko x crate & barrel sarni bed linens}

{marimekko sointu tunic}

{marimekko lilli knitwear}

{marimekko unikko dinnerware}

Related articles...

jack purcell sequins

best styling products for a digital perm

2011-02-03T00:14:00.004-05:00

I just got re- digital permed last weekend and it reminded me that I need to share my favorite styling products with the rest of the permed hair world. I've tried tons of different products from drugstore brands to special curly hair salon brands and here are my favorites and how to use them...

(A reminder: I can only vouch for how these work with permed hair since I naturally have stubbornly straight Asian hair and would never have even though I would be in the market for specifically curly-haired products until this life-changing digital perm was invented)

Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream
$31.99 at a local salon

There are so many fancy curly hair products on shelves these days, but the Moroccanoil has given me the best results when air drying. One of the annoying things about the digital perm was that I felt like I always had to blowdry in that special twisty way if I wanted curls. With the Moroccanoil Curl Cream I just apply like leave-in conditioner after towel drying, scrunch scrunch scrunch, and air dry (continuing to scrunch while it is drying). It dries to look like naturally wavy hair, which is a great everyday option when I don't feel like making those perfect bouncy waves. There also seems to be some sort of ingredient in the Moroccanoil that makes my hair dry faster.

The only downside is that, even though it says it is a leave-in conditioner, I do feel like it dries my hair out if I use it a lot. I just got the the Original Moroccanoil Treatment, which is supposed to completely hydrate your hair...so maybe they are supposed to be used together to avoid drying your hair out (either a marketing scheme or the best way to have great hair).

Fiber wax
(like Nigelle Lafusion Contrastmove Wax)

Whether I completely blow dry or just loosely dry a little, the key to keeping my curls from frizzing is to use a fiber wax. Don't ever use the regular greasy wax that men use! The fiber wax will hold the curls together so you can have big clumps of curls (I usually divide my hair into six sections of curls) instead of tons of separate curls that can get frizzy. Make sure to use the wax at the bottom tips of the hair to shape the curls.

I started using the Nigelle Lafusion wax because my hair stylist in Japan recommended it, but I think it's pretty difficult to find in the U.S. I think that Shieseido makes a fiber wax, but you can always just ask your hair stylist to recommend something similar.

From what I've found, the salon products are significantly more expensive, but they do a much better job than the drugstore brands.

This is my report for now, but I'm always continuing to try out new products. And I'm still on the hunt for the best conditioner....let me know if you have any recs!

Related articles...

fair isle blouse on gossip girl

2011-02-02T00:41:00.008-05:00

{d&g blouse}

Speaking of fair isle popping up everywhere...

On this week's Gossip Girl (am I the only adult who still watches this show?) the always fashion forward (though usually inappropriately under-covered) Serena van der Woodsen was wearing this gorgeous sheer D&G blouse with a delicate snowflake fair isle pattern. If you love it, I just found the blouse on sale at D&G online.

If you can rock the Carrie Bradshaw black bra look under this blouse then that's pretty awesome, but there's also a lot of more real-life ensembles that this could fit into with a black cami underneath. Mostly I've seen the fair isle used with thick knits, so I love the contrast of the traditional cozy sweater pattern with the delicate feminine blouse...so very D&G.

Unfortunately the accompanying fur bloomers didn't make it on the show.

Related articles...

fair isle knitting obsession

wedges everywhere...

2011-02-01T22:42:00.005-05:00

{faryl robin 'madison' at nordstrom.com}

I was shocked when my friend sent me these Faryl Robin wedges from Nordstrom that are strikingly similar to the negative space wedges that I posted about yesterday...down to the little red stitches at the ankle and the front strap that wraps around the platform!

It looks like Faryl Robin had a version of these last year that are actually on sale now at endless.com...

How will I decide which I like better?

Related articles...

must have these wedges

must have these wedges...

2011-02-01T01:22:00.004-05:00

{negative space wedges}

I've only barely started thinking about spring fashion, but I've just decided that these are the first shoes that have me dreaming about springtime...I got an Anthropologie catalogue in the mail today and it was love at first sight...these are the first on my list!

They remind of the Pierre Hardy + Gap wooden wedges that I tried to hunt down last year and couldn't find anywhere...but I think I like these even more...

They're just so darn cute...must must have

fair isle knitting obsession

2011-01-27T23:44:00.007-05:00

{debbie bliss knitting magazine}

warning:
if you've never tried knitting, you must be be forewarned that is highly addictive!! First it starts out as something to do while you watch Gossip Girl and Real Housewives...then it's something useful to do on long plane rides and in waiting rooms...then you find yourself adding more shows to your DVR just so you can have a reason to get back to your knitting. In fact, I would like to tear myself away from the computer to go knit right now. It's crazy.

I've been knitting and crocheting off and on since my Grandma taught me how to make dishrags and pot holders when I was just a teeny little grade schooler. After knitting basic scarves, hats, and mittens for the last ten years, I decided that it was time for me to face my fears and delve into the world of knitting in multiple colors!

Fair isle was everywhere this winter with ultra thick sweater sleeve scarves and head-to-toe ski bunny looks from D&G (literally head-to-toe, including a fair isle thick knit catsuit...definitely not a good look). If you're not sure what fair isle is, just take a look at the images and I'm sure you will get the idea...see more of the D&G runway collection here.

The name comes from the Fair Isle island in northern Scotland where this style originated, so I think there is a technical definition that differentiates it from all "stranded" knitting where two colors are being knit at the same time...but the fashion world definitely uses the term fair isle to refer to those colorful stripey knits with little snowflakes, reindeer, and exes in them.

{rag & bone grayling fair isle hatwrap}

The $255 price tag for a Rag & Bone fair isle scarf and a free video tutorial on KnittingHelp.com inspired me to attempt this challenging two-color knitting style at home...

{ color style }

My first project is this little red bag (sweaters are just way too intimidating...gotta master the technique first) that I found in Color Style by Pam Allen and Ann Budd, which has some modern patterns that looked slightly achievable. The up side is that the technique is complicated enough to make me feel challenged, but the down side is that the technique is complicated enough that I definitely mess up a lot when I try to watch TV simultaneously.

Hopefully fair isle will be in style next winter since it will take me until then to complete anything that I would be willing to wear in public...

I'll let you know how it goes.

thinking about fashion again....

2011-01-27T23:38:00.002-05:00

It's been so long since I've posted that I have heard myself saying "No, I'm not a fashion blogger anymore." But I really don't like the sound of that...fashion blogging is part of my life!

So I think I'll start Hello Kelli up again...if I can find some inspiration, that is...

how to wear skinny cargos

2010-09-19T21:39:00.003-04:00

{barneys.com}

I'm still looking for styling ideas to help me get more use out of my army green skinny cargos ...

Barney's has a style guide on their website called 11 Ways To Cargo that shows dressy and casual styling ideas. I noticed lots of tucked-in button-ups and lace-up flats, but I preferred the looks with contrast like pairing with a lace top and ankle boots or a sequin cardigan and black heels...

Related articles...

work pants for fall

2010-09-19T18:30:00.010-04:00

{crisply pleated trousers}

I am on the hunt for some new work pants for Fall and I love all of these interesting new styles that stray from the boring ole suit pant that re-appears every year (you know the lined wool pants that I'm referring to...). These have interesting details like high-waists, pleats, tapered ankles, paperbag waists, and cropped lengths.

And it seems that they would all look amazing with another favorite Fall trend...ankle boots!

All of these are available at anthropologie.com.

{after five trousers}

{paperbag crops}

{seamed & slouched crops}

found my camel coat!

2010-09-12T15:57:00.007-04:00

{michael michael kors double-breasted overcoat}

Of course Michael Kors would have lots of camel for fall! Why didn't I think of it before? According to Michael's style guide, Fall 2010 is all about cashmere, camel, and fur...

I found my lovely new camel coat at the Michael Kors store...and it's exactly what I've been looking for! It's not super edgy, but it is a classic that I will keep in my closet forever. It's a dark camel (the picture really does not do it justice) in a double-breasted trench style with shiny gold buttons and a thick waist belt. It will be great for day or night and I see myself wearing this everyday...

I think this coat might only be available at Michael Kors stores because I haven't been able to find it anywhere else online...

{j.crew wool cashmere icon trench}

Thanks to Tippy for this gorgeous cashmere camel trench find at J.Crew...definitely another great option...

Related articles...

searching for a camel coat

discount on ugg boots for fall...and knowing when to wear them

2010-09-08T23:42:00.006-04:00

{whooga short grey sheepskin}

Everyone loves to hate ugg boots, but if you have ever lived anywhere with bitterly cold temps then you have to admit that they are the absolute greatest invention ever! They might not look super fashionable, but they are basically like wearing clouds of softness and warmth on your feet.

Whooga offered me a pair of boots to try out and I chose these fabulously cozy short sheepskins in a lovely shade of grey that I have already been snuggling my feet into on these cool Northern Cali nights. If you're a little tired of the "UGG Australia brand" and want to find a more budget-friendly option for warming your winter feet, Whooga let me know that they are a real Australian company who uses real Australian merino fleece for creating authentic ugg style boots in the traditional design. You can read more about the superior ability of their sheepskin on their website...

Even though I'm one of those who have loudly proclaimed myself as an ugg-hater in the past, after living in New York for four years I'm willing to admit right here that yes, I do wear uggs. If you live in a city with a winter season and you don't own a pair of uggs then you are seriously crazy!

The secret to staying fashionable and enjoying the ridiculous comfort of uggs is knowing when to wear them and when not to. Use them in the way that they are intended...to treat your to feet to warmth and comfort!

Tips for wearing your uggs:
Wear them on your commute, but put your beautiful uncomfortable heels on when you get to work. Wear them with your sweats and your fleece hoody for walking the dog, picking up your take-out, hanging around the house, or heading home from a workout.

Whooga is nice enough to offer a special discount of 10% off to all Hello Kelli readers! Use the discount code 325KELL when you make your purchase online...it will be available for the next two weeks.

Thanks Whooga!

dreaming about handbags...

2010-09-08T15:19:00.008-04:00

...proenza schouler PS1 leather satchel ...alexander mcqueen knuckle duster clutch
...chloe marcie bag

{images: net-a-porter.com}

fashion trend vocab... descriptive or annoying?

2010-09-07T23:16:00.004-04:00

What are your favorite trendy fashion terms that are just way overused but somehow you find yourself still using? Do you love them or hate them??

I even annoy myself when I write a post and use these terms that don't always describe exactly what I want to say, but I know that some designer or blogger has already coined the term and it's gone viral and everyone will know what I'm talking about. If you looked any of these words up in the dictionary the actual definition would have nothing to do with the fashion trend they are currently associated with. And if you looked up the original fashion trend, you might find that it has nothing to do with what it has evolved into. The more the word is used, the more the meaning is stretched and the less descriptive it becomes.

Are those jeans "loose fitting, destroyed, worn in, rolled up, roomy in the thighs, skinny at the ankle, cropped, with an oversized waist"? Or are they just "boyfriend"?

I want to call myself out right now and admit that I really hate these words because they're used too much and become less and less descriptive with each use, but I will continue to use them because we've gotta describe trends somehow, right??

annoying fashion trend vocab:

boyfriend
slouchy
skinny
gladiator
military
boot-cut
high-waisted

Boyfriend and slouchy are my big ones...I feel like I use them in every post and read them in every fashion magazine. Will the last couple years be described as boyfriend, slouchy, and skinny??? Maybe I need to be more original...

everything i know about japanese digital perm

2010-08-29T23:40:00.009-04:00

I have gotten so many questions about my digital perm that I've decided to do another post to try to offer interested perm enthusiasts some more info. Please post any more questions you have that I might not have answered and let me know if you have any Japanese salon recommendations in the U.S.!

I don't know why this type of perm isn't being done everywhere, but unfortunately it's not, which means that it's still pretty difficult to find a salon that offers this service...

Q: Can I wear my hair straight after I get a digital perm?

A: Yes, definitely! If you want your hair straight, really all you have to do is brush it. The curls are so loose and bouncy that they can easily be brushed out to straighten them. If you want super straight hair, just use a flat iron and your hair will be straight until you wash it again.

Speaking of brushing, I actually don't own a brush anymore since I only wear my hair in loose curls. I use a good strong conditioner, finger comb it when I first get out of the shower, and then no more brushing because they will pull the curls out...I actually love it!

Q: Where did you get your digital perm done in Japan?

A: I had my first digital perm ever in Harajuku in Tokyo at Anny Hair, although I'm sure that most salons on the same street will have talented stylists who know all about the digital perm. I recommend flipping through their many magazines to pick out an image that shows exactly the level of "curliness" that you want in your hair since the digital perm will be designed specifically for your style. The stylists I worked with at Anny Hair is no longer there, but I still recommend it!

Q: Where can I get a digital perm in the U.S.?

A: In New York, I used to go to Tany at Kiwa Salon (234 W. 27th St, 212.620.3846)

In San Francisco I go to Mr Kudo at Arty Salon (1680 Post St, 2nd Flr, 415.931.4405)

If you don't live near NY or SF you should find a Japanese or Korean hair salon in your area and call to ask them if they do digital perms. If they don't, they might have another similar perm service that works well on Asian hair that could have a similar look...

{Mr. Kudo and his assistant at Arty Salon}

Q: What type of hair does a digital perm work on? Does it only work on Japanese hair?

A: I asked Mr. Kudo at Arty about this and he said that he has tried the digital perm on a caucasian client and wasn't able to get the perm to work. According to Mr. Kudo, the digital perm was invented by performing experiments specifically on Japanese hair and the entire process was designed around this. I am half-Japanese and Mr. Kudo had some difficulty on my first visit because he had to adjust the design of my perm to work on my type of hair. You will notice that analysis of your hair is a very important part of getting the digital perm.

So the bad news is that unfortunately I haven't heard of any salons being able to master the digital perm on non-Asian hair...but hopefully there are some experiments in the works...

Q: How do you style loose curls and what products do you use?

A: Every girl with a digital perm probably has mastered her own special technique for getting her curls to look perfect. Here is my daily method that I learned from Tany in New York:

When hair is wet, apply some sort of anti-frizz serum and finger comb through hair. I use Kerastase Oleo-Relax. Like I mentioned before, I don't actually use a brush or comb because I think it pulls out the curls.

Separate the hair into about 5-6 sections and twist using your fingers (in that ditzy schoolgirl kind of way...)

For a naturally curly wavy look, I just apply a curl enhancing gel and let it air dry. I don't really have a favorite curl gel yet (give me recs if you have any!), but right now I'm using Garnier Fructise Curl Shaping Spray Gel and it seems to be doing the trick without being too sticky or stiff. I found a list on Elle.com of the Best Products for Curly Hair, so I will probably try some of those next.

For a loose bouncy curls look (I call it my "Hills hair" because I feel like those girls always have professionally curled bouncy hair at all hours of the day) I blow dry the twisted sections. Start by drying the roots of your hair for just a few minutes and then blow each section dry while constantly twisting the hair around your fingers to keep the curled shape. I also twist the hair and then cup it in my hand (like a squished spring) and blow dry that way for awhile. Try to keep twisting the hair to keep it curled while also separating the sections a little to dry all the hairs in the section.

To finish off the bouncy curls I use Nigelle Contrastmove Wax, but any fiber wax will work. If you haven't used a fiber wax before it's more like clay than regular hair wax and it's not greasy. Rub the wax on your fingers and then use it to shape the curls, especially the ends.

Q: How long does the perm last?

A: I get a perm probably about twice a year, but I think the hair stylists recommend that you come in every 4 months. The perm is fairly pricey ($150-$250) and takes a good chunk of time (3-4 hrs), which is why I stretch it to 5-6 months. Even though the perm starts to straighten a little after awhile, I would say that it never really goes away like the old perms did. The reason I end up going back to get a new perm is more because my hair has grown out than because my hair is straight again. But if you get sick of the wavy hair, you can always just brush it out and it will be straight.

Q: What if I don't want a layered haircut?

A: Then you shouldn't get a digital perm. The stylists who perform the digital perm treatments consider the specific haircut that is paired with the perm as a very important part of the process. If you don't want your hair greatly thinned out and layered, then you probably want to talk to the stylist about getting a different type of perm. I was very nervous about the massive amount of thinning the first time (I am used to having tons of hair and suddenly my ponytail was super skinny!) but it works perfectly with the curls and ensures that you don't get an 80's style frizz puff ball triangle head.

Any more questions?? Let me know...

Related articles...

japanese digital perm

searching for a camel coat...

2010-08-22T23:13:00.006-04:00

I am obsessed with finding a gorgeous camel coat!

The search is officially on! I've already decided that it will be my splurge item for fall 2010 if I find something perfect because I know it's a classic that I can keep forever and ever. Even though camel is a huge trend for fall, I'm somehow having a lot of difficulty finding exactly what I am looking for...

These are what have caught my eye so far...

{nordstrom.com: smythe "cadet" wool blend}

You can't tell in this pic, but it has an adorable peaked tail hem in the back and structured shoulders...but is it too trendy? I want something that I can where in 20 years..

{net-a-porter: dkny wool peacoat}

This is a very classic look and an affordable price, but I might want something a tad more exciting...

{saks fifth avenue: gucci kite cut overcoat}

Wow, how gorgeous!! And how cool would I be if I was considering a Gucci? Well that would be in an alternate universe of course...

pantone fall colors 2010

2010-08-22T15:43:00.008-04:00

What's your favorite fall color?

The Pantone Color Report for Fall 2010 is available for download at the Pantone website:

PANTONE FCR 2010

The color report includes the ten colors that most describe the collections that were debuted at New York Fashion Week in February. As an architect I'm a huge Pantone user, so it's fun to see the fashion world described by this color matching system. The color report gives famous designers an opportunity to display their favorite color pick and describe how they used it.

Since I'm big into the natural earthy tones, I have already been drawn to the Woodbine and Oyster Gray, but I would love to mix some Lipstick Red or Lagoon into my wardrobe!

{image: Pop Deluxe}

Also, how cute are these Pantone coffee mugs that I found online? Pop Deluxe has 29 colors available that you can pick separately or buy in sets of 4 perfectly coordinated colors. They have a fun selection of their basic palette...

Related articles...

fall 2009 colors and pantone love

rachel zoe project: rach v tay

2010-08-21T14:36:00.003-04:00

{image: love, taylor}

If you are not obsessed with every show on the Bravo channel, then you can immediately skip reading this post...this is for my fellow unashamed Bravo reality addicts who religiously watch all episodes of the Rachel Zoe Project no matter how disgusting they may be...

So as someone obviously interested in the business and art of styling, I have to be intrigued by a show about the (probably self-proclaimed) "most famous stylist in the world" Rachel Zoe. As a lover of the Taylor character on the show (I must refer to these "reality stars" as characters) whose addiction to wearing Wayfarers indoors, 24/7 bitchiness, and realistic inability to deal with the annoyingness of Rachel and Brad was a reason to actually sit through the entire hour of the show, it is completely weirding me out that this entire new season is focusing on Taylor bashing....it's really just not classy to use national tv to attempt to blacklist a former employee. Yucky yucky.

So of course I've been searching for the little white-haired stylist online and I found her at Everyday Minerals with her own blog called Love, Taylor. The blog is quite cheesy and happy with outfit posts, styling tips, Everyday Minerals make-up plugs, and zero Rachel Zoe bashing. I think I will follow her on twitter for a little while and see if the real deal is at all interesting...

Ok there's my reality tv fluffiness for the day...

more on skinny cargos

2010-08-21T14:28:00.006-04:00

{image: revolveclothing.com}

Now that I've posted about skinny cargo pants, I've been noticing them in Fall ad campaigns everywhere! Check out this trend guide in Revolve Clothing's online magazine entitled "precious cargo" for styling ideas....

precious cargo by Revolve Clothing

I don't love all of the looks, but I like that they styled the pants in lots of different colors with various tops and shoes and provide links to everything shown. And please disregard the horizontal hippie-inspired headband in all the looks...really not a good look for anyone except maybe Nicole Richie...

related articles...

skinny cargos...i actually love them

skinny cargos...i actually love them

2010-08-19T22:39:00.007-04:00

{image: Nordstrom.com}

Leighton Meester is wearing them on the set of Gossip Girl and all of your favorite jeans designers are carrying them in their Fall collections, but are skinny cargo pants actually cute??

I have to admit that it took me about a year to try this skinny version of what Abercrombie survived on back in the mid '90s. The idea of dressing up cargo pants and pairing them with heels just sounded too ridiculous to me...but now here I am and I find myself actually loving my new pair!

I snagged my own pair of Sanctuary "Peace" Skinny Leg Cargo Pants at the Nordstrom sale in Herb (Army Green), but they still have them available (at full price...sorry I didn't tell you earlier...I just wasn't sure how I felt about them). If you're not willing to drop $250 on some trendy cargos that might go out of style by next year, I would definitely recommend these at only $118. Here's why I am loving them them:

military green is one of my favorite colors for everything...such an under-appreciated neutral
more comfortable than skinny jeans
more flattering than flared baggy cargos
surprisingly do look cute with heeled booties! (although I wear them with flats)
the pockets don't actually add bulk...they actually are flattering because they break up the skinniness (if that makes sense)

My Sanctuary cargos are pictured above and I actually am obsessed with the gray lace-up military boots that are also pictured (another exciting Nordstrom Anniversary Sale find!)...but we'll talk about those another day...if you are interested, they are Charles David "Regiment" Boots, now available at full price.

{j brand "houlihan"}

I like all of the seams and zippers on these...embellishments break up the skinniness! I wouldn't wear them with clogs, though...too much "Fall Trends 101"...well, maybe you can pull it off with the right styling...

{current/elliott slouchy skinny cargo}

These look pretty darn comfy and would have been perfect for summer...

anthropologie: winterize your summer looks

2010-08-11T00:38:00.007-04:00

{summer}

Any ad that shows you how to style a piece is so much more successful than an ad that shows a piece on its own.

I love taking my summer dresses into fall and winter by adding layers, cardies, tights, socks, and boots (or if you live in San Francisco, this might just be taking my summer dresses into summer...seriously does it ever get into bare leg season in that city?). Summery colors and prints are a fun way to brighten up your dismal winter wardrobe, so I try to find ways to layer under and over my sleeveless dresses so I can wear them year-round ...

Anthropologie dropped a cute little email in my inbox that showed ways to style one of their simple cotton summer tank dresses for colder temps. I'm not sure if I'm into the coat layered over coat look (winter), but I love the styling of the different styles of boots!

The ankle socks are one of my favorite looks for Fall...

{spring}

{fall}

{winter}
{Images: anthropologie.com}

bee house teapots

2010-08-09T00:32:00.006-04:00

I am in love with the beautiful colors of these japanese ceramic Bee House teapots...

I indulged myself with a lovely matte rose version that is a happy little plump pot and perfectly sized for the one to two cups of green tea that I like to enjoy every evening. The teapots come in every size and shape imaginable, so it's quite fun to just poke around on the Bee House website...

I discovered my Bee House teapot at Teavana but I've seen these at coffee and tea shops all over. There is just something so cute and satisfying about the shape of these pots...

gap pants are back

2010-08-07T23:51:00.007-04:00

So I took about a ten year hiatus from shopping at The Gap...no offense to this mall staple, but I thought of myself as too "edgy and fashion risky" to shop at this plain jane store where I used to stock up on too-short cotton tees in every color of the rainbow and patterned shift dresses in middle school. I had an idea that The Gap was mostly about mom jeans, ribbed tees, and khaki slacks...but I'm happy to report that I was wrong!

Well, to be honest, maybe they have "been back" for a long time and I was just too caught up in department store shopping to give them a chance, but their new ads and capsule shoe collections have me running to the mall asap! Denim-inspired styles and clean pants are in, so the Gap can stick to what they're known for and still be fashionable.

{gap slim crop pants}

I ended up loving their black slim crop pants. I basically live in skinny black pants at work, so finding an affordable pair was quite exciting ($49.50 full price...I think I can trade in 4 pairs for one pair of theorys...) They also had cute boyfriend jeans and some slouchy cotton trousers than can be rolled up for a boyfriend trousers look.

{gap always skinny zipper jeans}

Now I just need to find out where to get those cute peep toes...

dolce vita sale

2010-08-07T14:21:00.007-04:00

{dolce vita noah}

If you have a love for sky-high heels with leather, straps, and studs then you will be as excited as I am about the dolce vita sale that is going on right now. The sale is advertised as having an extra 25% off and free shipping...the only catch is that all sales are final, so you better love what you get!

I am still fairly obsessed with all dolce vita shoes. They all have a similar rock and roll style, but somehow I just find myself wanting more. Someday I will get tired of the over-the-top straps, studs, and leather, but until then I am loving this line.

Unfortunately the dolce vita capsule collection for Target was so disappointing that it's not even worth posting about...the idea was amazing, the execution was not.

Here are a couple cute sale picks (sorry about the tiny pics...)

{dolce vita colette}

{dolce vita spencer}

{dolce vita irene}

{images: shopdolcevita.com}

Related articles...

back for fall

2010-08-05T16:04:00.002-04:00

I have obviously taken a long break from Hello Kelli, as is evident by the lack of posts since June 1. I decided to take the summer off, but now Fall is coming up and I want to get excited about fashion again.

I will report back about my last Norma Kamali for Wal-mart post soon...but I will say that I definitely did not return anything! Definitely a success...

In addition to reporting about fashion, I will also now be including skin care posts! I wrote a daily article for Splendicity.com (before it disappeared) and I would like to continue to share my thoughts and experiences about new skin care products and procedures. I have tons of samples that are sitting in my apartment, so I am thinking about doing a big Giveaway...although I don't want to pay for postage so I'll have to figure out a way around that.

What am I excited about for Fall?? I will do a complete post soon, but right now I'm loving lace-up military boots, cashmere sweatshirts, skinny cargos, fluffy arm warmers, designer collabs everywhere, anything in military green or navy, and oh and I can't think of anything else but there is so much more...

norma kamali for walmart

2010-06-01T12:10:00.004-04:00

I just received a pile of clothes that I spontaneously ordered from the Norma Kamali collection at Walmart after reading reports from other fashion bloggers like Julia at Fashion Pulse Daily that this re-occurring capsule collection is worthy of the designer's name. I ordered every item that looked interesting that they had in my size on Walmart.com (or what I think is my size...sizing at Walmart is something I have yet to experience), which added up to a pleasing grand total of only $118 including the 97 cents shipping and handling per item.

So I will sift through my loot and report back about the fabric quality, sizing, and integrity of design. At first glance I have to say the clothes seem pretty impressive for the $15 - $24 price tags...

meet doozer

2010-05-21T16:19:00.004-04:00

Wow, it's been over a month since my last post. I was planning on taking a little time off to get organized about pursuing other interests in my life (started studying for ARE exams, set up a watercolor studio on my dining room table, and am now on a training schedule for the SF Half Marathon) but I didn't realize I had let so many weeks slip away...

Today I am sharing something completely unrelated to fashion...my puppy Doozer! Named for the miniature green construction workers and architects on my favorite childhood TV show Fraggle Rock, this little fluff ball is the greatest companion in the world.

And now you can vote for her in 7X7's Search for the Cutest Pet in SF!

She is number 106 and you can vote here. Isn't she ridiculous??

So that wasn't related to fashion, but I wanted to share, maybe get some votes, and get started with the blogging again....

eugenia kim and cynthia vincent for target

2010-04-18T15:40:00.008-04:00

{Image: Target}

Designer collaborations featuring Eugenia Kim for hats and Cynthia Vincent for shoes are releasing today at Targets everywhere. Bloggers have been talking about these collections for weeks because of the New York Pop-Up stores and the few Targets who happened to have early releases...but today's the real day when most Targets should start carrying the collections.

Although not a big wearer of hats myself, after writing daily about hats for Splendicity for the last year I developed a love for Eugenia Kim and her stylish designer hats. Hats can easily go either super cheesy or super glamorous so I was excited to discover a go-to hat designer who has reliably classy designs. Eugenia Kim hats are sold at high-end department stores for $300-$400 each, so it's pretty cool that her new Target collection has fedoras and engineer caps for less than $20.
Cynthia Vincent's collection of gladiator wedges, colorful flats, and strappy sandals are also popping up in Targets today. These designer collaborations sometimes sell out super fast and sometimes stay around until the sale racks, so you'll just have to check a Target near you or Target.com to see how these collections fair.

I'm headed to the Atherton Target in a couple hours and I guarantee there won't be a big rush...not too many fashion-obsessed in the Peninsula...

{Images: Target}

designer $1 sale slash network crash

2010-04-14T15:55:00.003-04:00

I am beyond curious about how this Outnet.com $1 sale will fair. The idea is simply mind-boggling...how could an online store that only sells designer clothing sell everything on their site for only $1? So far the only catch is that each person can only buy 1 item. Could this really be the only catch? I feel like I'm on Project Runway waiting for Heidi Klum to come out and tell me that there is "just one more thing"...

It looks like the RSVP list is already closed, so for all of you (including me) who have already signed up, I will see you at the craziness that is the Outnet.com shopping cart where we will all race to purchase whatever we can find within the few seconds when the site has not crashed and there are still items available. Somehow I predict that even if I sign on right away, everything will be gone.

I am so very very curious....

fashion stake: investing in young designers

2010-04-08T02:10:00.004-04:00

{fashion stake}

I am very curious and excited about this new idea because it fits in so well with fashion blogging and the idea about instant connections between designers and the we-want-more-fashion-now public. Fashion Stake isn't open yet, but I'll keep you updated when it is...

New website allows anyone to invest $50 in young labels (NYMag)

"Fashion Stake": Crowd sourcing for the fashion business (HuffPo)

pendleton blankets for all

2010-04-05T22:01:00.006-04:00

It seems that those brightly colored thick wool Pendleton blankets that kept me warm through those cold and rainy seasons while I was growing up in Portland, Oregon will now be popping up in college dorm rooms around the world.

Pendleton for Urban Outfitters brings you Navajo print towels and blankets

{pendleton saddle blanket}

I never would have guessed that the distinctively patterned blankets would be such a hit outside of Oregon, but after the success of the Opening Ceremony collaboration last year Pendleton has now paired with Urban Outfitters to create a lower-priced line of products that includes blankets, wallets, and bath towels. I imagine that the blankets are slightly thinner than the originals, but now that I live in California I like the idea of a summer-weight Pendleton blanket.

I can definitely imagine throwing one of these on my couch for movie watching...

You can find out more about Pendleton Woolen Mills online.

{pendleton glacier national park blanket}

Related articles...

pendleton meets opening ceremony

how to wear a wrap sweater

2010-04-05T01:30:00.007-04:00

A recent episode of Kell on Earth reminded me that I've been wanting to post about versatile wrap sweaters for many months. The DKNY 12 Ways to Wear a Cozy video is beautiful and makes me want 12 different colored cozies, but it didn't actually teach me how to tie a wrap sweater like I was hoping it would...

As shopping budgets continue to decrease, the attraction of versatile clothing has significantly increased. I love clothing that incorporates convertibility into its design, with sleeves that zip off, insides and outsides that can be reversed, pant legs with buttons and loops that allow them to be shortened, and scarves that become belts or hair wraps. Everyday a new convertible clothing item pops up with 1000 ways to wear just one piece...

When I was visiting Portland a few months ago, I found a cute little boutique on NW 23rd St called Sloan Boutique. While picking through the racks of affordably priced printed cotton dresses, fashionable wool jackets, and jersey knit tops, I picked out a long shawl collar open front drapey cotton cardigan that I immediately tried on. I have been very drawn to the long drapey cardies for the last couple years because they are the perfect layer to throw over jeans, leggings, or dresses and the extra-long length of this style was something I didn't already have in my closet...

As soon as I slipped the calf-length cardigan over my shoulders, one of the friendly Sloane saleswomen offered her expertise and began to wrap and tie me in the cardigan in an assortment of different styles. I thought I was fully aware of the versatility of the "drapey cardigan" since it has been a strong wardrobe staple for me for the past two years, but I soon found out that I was missing out on tons of amazing concoctions!

While I am fully aware of the convertibility aspect of some clothing in my wardrobe, I have to admit that this long drapey cardigan has been the first piece that I actually wear frequently in multiple different ways. It's really quite fun to try all of the different variations!
DKNY Cashmere silk long sleeve cozy

So for all of you who don't have the luxury of being skillfully wrapped and tied by a drapey cardigan professional, Sloane Boutique has been kind enough to offer a collection of online how-to-videos that make it easy for everyone to tie, twist, knot, and wrap their drapey sweater in a million different ways. I actually counted 10 variations in just the first demo!

Here they are for you to try:
Sloan sweater wrap demo
Sloan sweater wrap demo part II
Sloan sweater wrap demo part III

I have the extra long variation of the sweater in dark hunter green and my favorite way to wear it is in the cowl neck style with a waist belt over the top. Sloan unfortunately does not have an online store, but you could try visiting their website to contact them if you are interested in ordering the specific wrap from the video (It is much more affordable than the Donna Karan original).

DKNY Cozy jersey wrap cardigan

Donna Karan's classic cozy was the absolute first of the long open drape-front cardigans that we now see everywhere, so if you want the original you can look for one of her gorgeous cashmere or jersey wrap cardigans available at DKNY.com. I hope to have many plush Donna Karan cozies in my own closet someday...pretty AND comfy !!

back from break

2010-03-30T02:01:00.007-04:00

I just returned from a beautiful and relaxing week in Sayulita, Mexico, a tiny fishing village on the Pacific with great surfing, friendly people, beautiful little art galleries, and (of course) delicious food.

It looks like Spring arrived while I was away! I will be posting about my excitement about spring 2010 fashions soon... I'm already thinking about my next vacation...

gaga and beyonce together at last

2010-03-12T00:52:00.005-05:00

{Image: LadyGaga.com}

Finally the much delayed Gaga and Beyonce video Telephone premiered tonight!

You can watch it at E!Online:

Lady Gaga & Beyonce "Telephone"

I'm excited to hear what the world thinks of this melding of the two hottest ladies in pop culture...there are bound to be many lovers and haters because we know these women do nothing but total extremes. Highlights from the video include seeing Gaga's real costumeless body in a black bikini, smoking cigarette sunglasses, a telephone-shaped hairpiece, and Beyonce releasing her seriously psycho Gaga side.

NY Magazine already has an article about "The Ten Best Things About Lady Gaga and Beyonce's Video."

{Image: LadyGaga.com}

Although I love everything with Gaga and everything Beyonce so the combination is overhwelmingly awesome, I have to admit that I still like the Bad Romance video better. I think it's because of the creepy hand movements, full head-to-toe Alexander McQueen ensemble complete with armadillo shoes, longer choreography segments (I really just want to see more dancing always), and disturbing oversized anime eyes. Perhaps I will do a Ten Best Things About Bad Romance...

I love being one of Gaga's little monsters...

Related Articles...

good night mcqueen

2010-03-11T01:12:00.005-05:00

{Image: Style.com}

A beautiful article about Alexander McQueen's last show by The New Yorker's Judith Thurman:

"Like the ingenious castaway he resembled, McQueen could fashion a masterpiece of couture from the skins of creatures who had died or moulted on his beach; from the the leaves, plumage, reeds, fungus, and fur that he scavenged in his jungle; and from dreams of a lost world. His senses were attuned both to the beauty and the menace around him. A dress, he proved, can be a talisman of sex and death; a paradox of confinement and escape; a hybrid of nature and artifice; or the sheath for the body of a mutant species." (Judith Thurman, The New Yorker, 3/10/10)

You can read the entire short article online at McQueen's Final Show on NewYorker.com.

A slideshow of the 16 final looks:

Fall 2010 Ready-To-Wear Alexander McQueen

Beauty and darkness.

jean paul gaultier for target

2010-03-11T00:20:00.007-05:00

{Jean Paul Gaultier for Target Halter Dress $59.99}

Did anyone else check out the Jean Paul Gaultier for Target collection yet?

I was probably the only person in Menlo Park who was so excited about this capsule collection release that I rushed to the nearest Target in Atherton on opening day. I remember living in New York and rushing to the Flatbush Target only to find that everything had been picked over only hours after the release...not surprisingly Atherton Target did not have any JPG fans knocking down their doors.

{Jean Paul Gaultier Organza Lapel Stretch Crepe Jacket $2,150}

The collection was fully stocked, but also fully disappointing (sad face). I'm never really sure what I'm even expecting when I rush to these releases, but just the idea of hanging an item in my closet that had a Jean Paul Gaultier tag on it got me thoroughly excited.

Although I prefer the designer's high-end funky jackets and wool crepe dresses to the colorful Jean Paul Gaultier Fuzzi line, I was secretly hoping that these Target pieces would be affordably priced reproductions of the mesh tanks and dresses that he produces for Fuzzi every year. Come on...none of us really think that anyone should pay $385 for a Fuzzi mesh tank...it seems like something we should get for $9.99 at Target! But alas, these secret dreams did not become realities.

{Jean Paul Gaultier Fuzzi Ruffle Neck Top $565}

The Jean Paul Gaultier for Target collection had lots of strange slip dresses in colorful polyester polka dot patterns that just didn't look like they would be flattering to any figure (think a tight lingerie top with a flared skirt...strange). The collection did not seem cohesive at all with a mixture of nautical stripes, Ed Hardy-esque prints, and bright wallpaper-inspired florals. There was a fun mustard yellow nylon halter dress, but I just couldn't figure out where I would ever wear it.

After trying on everything in the collection I did come home with my attempt at the Fuzzi piece that I had been searching for...a colorful tattoo print mesh long sleeve tee that I figure I can layer under a long blazer (it's the one worn under the mustard dress in the photo...a combination I would never suggest).

Liberty of London in 4 days...perhaps I will be more pleased this time...I don't want to drive all the way to Atherton for disappointment!

UPDATE: In response to questions about the tattoo print mesh top, it's $26.99 and only available at Target stores.

my oscars best dressed pick

2010-03-10T00:10:00.003-05:00

{Image: Just Jared}

Rachel McAdams...really there are just no other competitors right now. If you have read and seen The Time Traveler's Wife (and cried your eyes out through both) then you will know exactly what I'm talking about.

Rachel's Elie Saab Haute Couture gown was absolutely over-the-top gorgeous!! I love the grayish watercolored pattern of the fabric and the woven fitted bodice. This was easily my Best Dressed pick for Oscars 2010.

I don't even need to do a Best Dressed List because for me this dress just topped them all.

an end and a new beginning

2010-03-09T23:15:00.006-05:00

{no more stalking the internet for new sunglasses trends}

What a strange coincidence....

One week after I submitted my resignation letter to my editor at Splendicity and Blisstree I received a form letter from the CEO of b5media informing me that I had been laid off. I thought it was just a formality related to my resignation, but now I have found that the entire writing staff of Splendicity received the exact same letter. The CEO fired all of the writers, closed Splendicity.com completely, and started a new website with new writers. Wow. Heartless.

Now that I'm no longer obligated to write 2-3 posts daily on specific topics, I find that I have re-gained excitement towards fashion blogging and will be starting to post on Hello Kelli again!

I realize that Hello Kelli floundered a bit after I left New York because I no longer had the access to the fashion forward models prancing in front of my office and the lunch hour trips to Nolita boutiques...but now after living in Northern California for six months I'm adjusting to new ways to fit fashion and shopping into my life. And they are probably much more similar to the way that the rest of the world experiences fashion and shopping!

So Hello Kelli is back because I still have so many thoughts and observations about fashion and shopping that I really must share (not a coincidence that this occurred directly after the Oscars red carpet!). I will continue my focus on affordable shopping mixed with high fashion inspirations and will probably include more "top picks" and personal thoughts than before. Maybe I will even get a fancy camera and include photos....or re-design my home page...or feature guest blog posts from my former Splendicity sisters...endless possibilities!

I'm excited to start sharing my fashion ideas again! Oh yes...and now I Tweet !

taking a break....

2010-02-03T02:17:00.002-05:00

It's been over a year since I started Hello Kelli, but now I am sadly deciding to take a break from my little blog. I have become extremely busy with my new job and I don't have time to translate my thoughts into posts anymore, but I did just open a Twitter account today...so maybe I will have enough time to share my ideas in Tweets! (Although since today is my first day on Twitter, it will take me awhile to get used to it...)

My twitter name is hellokelli.

I am still blogging for Splendicity, which I believe is becoming a really great source for Beauty & Style online. Check my articles out in the Accessories and Skin Care sections....

I'll let you know when I have time to start Hello Kelli again...thanks for reading!

jennifer behr sale sends 100% of profits to haiti

2010-01-23T14:38:00.004-05:00

My favorite hair accessories designer Jennifer Behr is having a fabulous sale to benefit Haiti. From Friday, January 22 to Monday, January 25 she is donating 100% of her profits to Partners in Health. Read my article to find out more:

Jennifer Behr Sale Proceeds Benefit Haiti

Her pieces are all gorgeous, so it's an amazing excuse to buy something that you've had your eye on...

melissa clearance

2010-01-18T14:13:00.007-05:00

It's Melissa clearance time at Epaulet! Adorable and comfortable Melissa styles are on sale from 30%-75% off....quite exciting...

Melissa Ashanti Ankle Bootie Flocked $85 (reg. $120)

I just got these a couple months ago and they are my new favorite winter Melissa's! They look like velvet, but they are still waterproof and cushiony just like the rubber versions. They are definitely the most comfortable pair of ankle booties that I own. They look adorable with ankle-length leggings or footless tights.

Melissa + Vivienne Westwood 3 Straps Elevated $110 (reg. $160)

This is my other recent addition to my Melissa shoe collection...I have them in black, but the eggplant and teal are currently on sale. Again, these are the most comfortable 3.5" heels that I own....cushiony and bouncy at the ball of the foot. And they look just like patent leather so you can pair them with tights and a cocktail dress and wear them for a night out.

Melissa + Vivienne Westwood Lady Dragon $75 (reg. $149)

These are so playful and girly! If only I had a place to wear them...

You can see the rest of the Melissa's on sale at Epaulet's Brooklyn store on Smith St. or in their Melissa Clearance section online.

Related articles...

finally found my grey boots

2010-01-10T14:31:00.004-05:00

Enzo Angiolini Zakari Over the Knee Boot in Dark Grey Suede $119.90 (reg. $189.95)

I had a vision in my head about grey flat boots for the last year, but I didn't want to spend too much money (grey boots seem a little trendy) and I definitely didn't want heels. I found a lot of options, but just never found exactly what I was looking for...

I'm excited to share that I finally found my perfect grey suede flat boots! These are grey, flat, soft, comfortable, pull-on (I don't like zip-up for casual boots), and versatile...oh and totally affordable on sale for $119. I also had over-the-knee boots on my list, so that feature was just an added bonus! If you don't like over-the-knee, the tops can easily be folded over and scrunched to be worn at any height.

Related articles...

super sale at net-a-porter

2010-01-10T14:20:00.006-05:00

Adam Crepe mini dress $198 (reg. $495)

The good thing about spring being just around the corner is that Winter merchandise is SUPER on sale!! Sale sale sale! Gotta love the sales!

My favorite online designer website Net-A-Porter has some extreme discounts right now. I usually just drool over the designer goods that I will never be able to afford, but at 60% off a lot of pieces are much closer to being affordable.

See if you can find some designer staples on sale that you just HAVE to have: Net-A-Porter Clearance Sale.

Thread Social Cityscape Assymetrical Silk Dress $202 (reg. $505)

new wayfarers for spring

2010-01-10T14:10:00.007-05:00

Thinking about spring sunglasses already? I am!

I have definitely succumbed to the retro Wayfarer trend over the last couple years and these new styles are adorable...the floral patterns remind me of sunglasses I had when I was a little girl, but somehow these are more chic because the pattern is subtly hidden on the inside...how clever!

And how cute are the NYC subway map patterns???

The floral pattern comes in black, blue, and white, and the subway map pattern comes in orange, red, and white online at Nordstrom.com.

hello kelli is back

2010-01-08T15:08:00.004-05:00

I took a long break from Hello Kelli while I traveled to Portland and LA to spend time with family and relax before starting a new job next week.

The new year is a good time to start thinking about re-designing your personal look and your wardrobe, so I will definitely be posting ideas and fashion advice soon...

Happy 2010!

Until then, here are a couple of my articles from Splendicity that you might find interesting...

tavi and rodarte for target

2009-12-10T13:30:00.003-05:00

I love this cute video featuring every fashion blogger's 13 year old idol, Tavi Gevinson of Style Rookie, and the Mulleavy sisters from Rodarte discussing the much-anticipated Rodarte for Target collaboration. Tavi visits the set of the photo shoot for this special Rodarte capsule collection in the beautiful plains of North Dakota to give us a sneak peek of her favorite pieces.

December 20 is not so far away...

Related articles...

thread social on gilt groupe

2009-12-10T02:57:00.004-05:00

Don't miss the lovely Thread Social on sale at Gilt Groupe tomorrow (Thursday, Dec 9)!

I have loved Thread Social since they first branched out from bridalwear a few years ago and I love any opportunity to snag their dresses at more wallet-friendly prices. The good stuff at Gilt has been flying out the virtual door in seconds lately, so go to the sale as soon as it opens!

The Thread Social sale starts on Gilt Groupe at 9am PST. And you can check out what's left of the Marc by Marc Jacobs sale while you're there!

Related articles...

sneak peek: rodarte for target look book

2009-12-03T12:05:00.010-05:00

I just received the complete Look Book for the Rodarte for Target collection that will be released in stores and online on December 20. I love sisterly design duo Kate and Laura Mulleavy, so I was excited when they were chosen to do this affordable capsule collection.

I'm sharing the entire Look Book with you so you can get the feel for the collection. It is described as "edgy-chic" but it has a distinct feminine goth vibe with black lace and tulle layered over a nude underlayer. My favorite look is the nude lace long cardigan over a lacy dress with a skinny gray leopard belt. Lace tights and tiny motorcycle gloves are two of my favorite trends for winter, so these dresses and cardies will be perfect for the season!

Images: Target.com

designer shoes on sale at net-a-porter

2009-12-02T01:14:00.010-05:00

{christian louboutin circus 120 cutout booties}

Would you like to drool over some gorgeous designer shoes?

Designer online retailer Net-A-Porter has marked down most of their Fall shoes to 50% off. Don't get too excited...the Christian Louboutin ankle booties are still almost $800 and most other prices are similar. But for some reason it sounds like a good deal when this pair of beautifulness used to be $1295....right?

Similar to my obsession for my rocker booties this summer, I love all of the innovative ankle and short booties this Fall with foldovers, cutouts, open toes, and straps. Take a little walk through my favorite designer picks from the season that are now the slightest bit more affordable...

{balmain crystal animal print boots}

{bottega veneta cutout leather boots}

{givenchy fanta denim lace-up boots}

{christian louboutin charme 100 ankle boots}

Related articles...

jack purcell sequins

2009-11-29T00:01:00.005-05:00

Converse Jack Purcells have been my favorite weekend sneakers for many many years. I strongly prefer the Jack Purcells to the All-Stars (I hate how flat they are...they make feet look one size bigger), so I'm excited that Converse has started to expand on this alternative classic style.

I just discovered Jack Purcell Sequins! I love wearing heels when I go out at night, but there have definitely been many occasions when I have wanted to find an outfit that allowed me to wear my super comfy and beat-up Jack Purcells. These amazing sequins sneakers would go perfectly with dark skinny jeans, a sexy silk tunic, and a cropped leather jacket. A style tip for using sequins...definitely don't wear more than once piece with sparkle on it!

The Jack Purcell Sequins come in white, athletic navy, black, and silver at Converse.com for $90. Converse is running a special promotion until November 30 that offers 20% off.

I love the optional matching ribbon shoelaces!

Related Articles...

a lways preppy sneakers (Splendicity)

coach supports bloggers & a giveaway

2009-11-28T21:59:00.004-05:00

I am constantly interested in the way that the impact of blogs grows in the fashion world.

A continuous theme throughout my observations about blogging and fashion is studying the way that bloggers have changed the way that the general fashion-loving public has access to high fashion. Fashion bloggers are being recognized as cyber-stylists who make picks and critique designs just like the highest paid editors and fashion industry leaders do.

Coach is featuring a project on their website called Blog-A-Day where they feature a different fashion and style blog each day. Blogs appreciate being recognized by designers and designers are starting to appreciate being recognized by blogs!

Shopaholics Daily, which is run by my blogger friends Aly and Kori, has been selected to be featured in Coach's Blog-A-Day and in conjunction is hosting a Giveaway for a free Coach Audrey bag in purple (valued at $598).

Visit Shopaholics Daily to find out how to enter...

Related posts...

nyc boutique shopping guides

2009-11-25T10:43:00.003-05:00

{image: refinery29.com}

Shopping in New York City can be overwhelming if you are visiting OR if you live there and have no idea how to start sifting through the amazing amounts of retail everywhere.

Everyone knows about the huge discount retailers (H&M, Century 21, Filene's Basement) and famous department stores (Barney's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Henri Bendel's) but my favorites have always been the boutiques. Most NY boutiques are fairly expensive, but it's so fun to fall in love with your favorite one and invest in unique pieces from up-and-coming designers.

Refinery29 has been publishing a series about "The Best NYC Boutiques" that I have to share with you! I've been wanting to do my own version for SoHo and Brooklyn, so maybe this will inspire to me to finally get around to that...although it will be much harder from the West Coast...

NY Shopping Guide Series:

Part I West Village and Tribeca
Part II Greenpoint and Williamsburg
Part III SoHo and NoLiTa (definitely the best!!)
Part IV East Village and LES

dolce vita sale

2009-11-23T01:39:00.009-05:00

{Dolce Vita Joni}

When I find a shoe designer that I love and can afford, I really get stuck on them! (Have you seen my five million Melissa posts?)

Right now I seem to have a shoe crush on Dolce Vita. The best news ever is that Dolce Vita is having a Friends and Family sale online until Tuesday, Nov. 24. Enter the coupon code "friendsfam" at checkout to receive 25% off of your entire order.

That only gives you two days to pick out your favorite rocker booties! If you're not in to the leather and studs that are everywhere this season, you probably should just skip this one...

{Dolce Vita Arie}

{DV Dina Flats}

{Dolce Vita Eve Over-the-Knee Boot}

knits with a little bit of sequins

2009-11-22T21:31:00.010-05:00

{trina turk micah sweater at Revolve Clothing}

Winter sequins is my favorite look for the holidays!

Sequins used to always be associated with formal occasions, but now I love all of the styles that mix dressy with casual. You can choose all-over sequins like a flashy mini, but my favorites are the pieces that just have an accent of shimmer on a shoulder or a hemline of a soft sweater. I like the contrast in textures of the soft knit and the hard metallic sequins.

{MK2K sequin jersey at Revolve Clothing}

A black sweater with silver sequins can be worn with ripped skinny jeans and Jack Purcells for a casual look or with a satin pencil skirt, opaque tights, and platform heels for a dressy look.

And does anyone else love seeing Fo from America's Next Top Model in the Revolve clothing ads?

{silence & noise sequin trim open cardigan at Urban Outfitters}

{silence & noise chiffon sequin top at Urban Outfitters}

{j.crew sequin scarf cardigan}

Related articles...

customer service in an internet world

2009-11-22T20:08:00.002-05:00

{Image: slashgear}

I just read an interesting article about Apple's success in customer service and retail experience. I don't understand why everyone hasn't adopted the customer service business model...shouldn't providing a positive customer experience be a priority for all businesses, whether they be restaurants, pharmacies, boutiques, electronics stores, or any other sort of retail establishment?

Apple is no longer the Nordstrom Tech, they're the New Nordstrom

We live in an internet world, so I do think that Nordstrom needs to update their customer service model to include more web-related interfaces. Not everyone wants to deal with a human face-to-face when they are shopping, but they still want a happy and pleasing experience.

Let's figure out how to do that...

is architecture turning around soon?

2009-11-19T01:44:00.003-05:00

I just read an article in the LA Times that gave me a tiny glimmer of hope that perhaps the world will need architects again sometime soon...

LA Times: Architects get more contracts in October

Related articles...

need advice for picking men's shoes

2009-11-17T20:10:00.007-05:00

{Cole Haan Tucker Venetian Loafer}

Q: I am looking for men's shoes options that are somewhere between Chuck Taylors and dress shoes to wear everyday to a business-casual office. I want to be able to wear them with slacks and a shirt not tucked in. Do you have any ideas?

HK: Yes! I am so excited to receive a men's fashion question!

This situation is very common and I know that lots of men only have athletic shoes or dress shoes in their closet. It's important to have something in-between that you can wear out to dinner or to a semi-casual office setting. You can dress them up with khakis or dress them down with jeans.

I suggest finding a pair of casual brown leather slip-ons or lace-ups with rubber soles. These casual leather shoes are a cross between athletic shoes and business shoes because the leather gives them a dressier look and the supportive structure gives them an athletic feel. These types of shoes are extremely comfortable for everyday use and look much better with wool or cotton pants than sneakers.

Good brands to check out for options are Merrell and Cole Haan, but there are a ton of options out there that are similar. Lots of hiking and athletic shoe brands are making these styles now to offer men more options between suits and jeans.

{Born Peter Penny Loafer}

A soft-soled penny loafer or driver might also be a good option.

{Merrell Sterling}

These two-tone leather and suede lace-ups have amazing support, but also can also be worn with dressier styles.

subscribe to hello kelli

2009-11-15T20:25:00.005-05:00

I just added a new feature to Hello Kelli!

Now you can sign up for a newsletter that will email you with my new posts when they are published. For those of you who don't like visiting websites all the time to see if they have been updated, this will make it a lot easier for you.

I post new articles only a few times a week, so you definitely won't get a flooded inbox...but if I have something exciting to share with you (like an amazing flash sale that is about to end!) then you will hear about it right away!

To sign up for the Hello Kelli updates, enter your email address to the right in the "Subscribe for Updates" box and press "subscribe." Make sure to add hello.kelli@gmail.com to your Contacts so your newsletter doesn't get sent to your Spam folder!

jimmy choo and h&m launch

2009-11-15T02:50:00.003-05:00

So far all of you ladies (myself included) who weren't able to make it to the Jimmy Choo for H&M launch in 200 stores nationwide today, my friend Julia at Fashion Pulse Daily has a full and complete report to share with you. She addresses the predictable mayhem at the midtown Manhattan store and her tips for creating a more successful collection in the future. Thanks Julia!

Jimmy Choo for H&M - Was it Worth the Wait?

I also heard from a shoe-obsessed friend in Seattle that Jimmy Choo didn't make it to the Pacific Northwest...was anyone else waiting for this day only to find that the collection was unavailable in their area of the world? If only they had H&M online...

Related articles...

dv by dolce vita sale finds

2009-11-05T02:02:00.007-05:00

{dv by dolce vita claire sandal $65.90 reg. $99.95}

I just got the cutest DV by Dolce Vita shoes at the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale!

Black suede open-toe cage booties for only $65.90...what an exciting find! They also come in gray suede, which would look great with black opaque tights. I can't wait to wear them out! They're kind of like a toned-down version of the open-toe platform booties that Carrie Underwood wore on Good Morning America yesterday...

{dv by dolce vita wendall boot $109.90 reg. $169.95}

I tried these on and they are also really cute, but I already have enough black boots. They're super soft leather and pull-on, so they would be perfect with skinny jeans or leggings. I would definitely wear them with denim leggings!

{dv by dolce vita webber cuffed bootie $139.90 reg. $209.95}

nordstrom half-yearly starts today

2009-11-04T12:01:00.005-05:00

I've been a big fan of Nordstrom sales ever since I was a little girl. It's probably part of being from the Pacific Northwest since Nordie's is such an integrated part of the culture up there, but I always mark my calendar for the first day of their famous Anniversary and Half-Yearly sales. Even with all of the shopping in New York, I actually missed Nordstrom when I was living there because they are so consistent and have great customer service (which you definitely won't find in Manhattan.) The sales are the best!

The Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale for women and children starts today at Nordstrom stores and online. Pre-Fall merchandise in all departments (Savvy and t.b.d. are my favorite!) is on sale for about 33%-40% off.

discount skin care website: the skinny

2009-11-04T00:11:00.004-05:00

A new flash sale website for luxury skin care products launches today. It's basically Gilt Groupe for skin care. Here is my invitation to become a member:

The Skinny

Hopefully they get all of my favorite products so I can save some money on my daily skin care routine. Related articles...

lna sale on ideeli

2009-11-03T02:31:00.006-05:00

My absolute favorite t-shirt designer LnA will be featured on flash sale website ideeli on Friday, November 6 at noon (I think that is East coast time...not 100% positive on that).

I usually stock up on LnA basics whenever I can find them in my size on sale. They always have a fairly decent selection on Bluefly.com, but I'm excited to see what kind of prices they have on ideeli...I'm hoping for 40% off??

Everyone has their favorite t-shirt brand, and LnA is definitely mine! My favorites are the deep v short sleeve and long sleeve tees, which I collect in all of the various colors. I just love the super soft thin fabric in simple styles that are great for layering. I discovered LnA two years ago when they came out with their first collection and were fiarly difficult to track down...but now I am happy to see them popping up everywhere!

This year they have added to their collection with fabulous zippered leggings (that I have gushed about before...), riding pants, cozy fleece hoodies, and a t-shirt dress.

Related articles...

velvet for fall

2009-10-30T12:10:00.004-04:00

{wwwdaily trend report: velvet}

The only trend that I picked on my new trends for fall and winter fashion 2009 that I was a little unsure about was velvet. I actually had some readers of my blog say "Velvet!? That is so random! Why would you think that!?"

But what have we here? Who What Wear Daily is reporting that stars and models are wearing soft luxurious velvet! The trick with velvet is not to go overboard...we're not talking about floor-length long-sleeve goth dresses, we're talking about a richly colored textured fabric that can be layered with leather and satin or worn as a separate for a romantic and dressy look. While the rest of the looks this season are slouchy and boyfriend-inspired, velvet looks are fitted,voluminous, and feminine.

My favorite aspect of velvet is the richness of the colors...so pick deep purples, forest greens, and royal blues. I would love a shrunken 3/4 sleeve blazer or rich black leggings in velvet. I will report back when I find some great picks!

Related articles...

new trends for fall and winter fashion 2009

i need a leather jacket

2009-10-29T17:34:00.004-04:00

{Belstaff for J.Crew leather bomber jacket}

I never really thought of myself as the leather jacket type...but I changed my mind...I definitely am! I was never interested in the traditional long heavy straight-cut leather jackets, but I love the new unique styles that fit a younger look.

Leather jackets are everywhere this season and I am loving all of the options: 3/4 sleeves, big collars, asymmetrical zippers, embroidered patterns, zip cuffs, metal grommets, unique colors like gray and red, collarless, open front, everything you can imagine! Leather pieces are such an investment that you really need to try on as many as you can to find the style that fits your wardrobe and your body best.

Right now I have a gray stand-up collar faux leather that is cropped with elbow-length sleeves, but I am thinking that it is getting a little bit impractical as the weather cools down. I need to find a new one...

British motorcycle jacket designer Belstaff has created an exclusive collection with J.Crew this Fall. I have my eye on the short women's leather bomber (pictured above). This is such a great cut for younger women with the waist-length and snug shoulders. Love it.

denim leggings

2009-10-29T02:56:00.005-04:00

I think some people refer to these as "jeggings" (like jeans + leggings)...but I used that term yesterday and was laughed at. So I will just call them denim leggings. Even though "jeggings" still sounds kind of cute...

I have been a little indecisive about my take on denim leggings, but I finally got a pair and I have to admit that I love them. I am so tired of the plain black leggings that I have been accumulating in every variation imaginable, so the denim is a fun new development. I love super skinny denim, so why not just wear denim leggings instead? They serve a similar purpose and they are a million times more comfortable. They go with everything and the best part is that I can wear them with oversized black sweaters and not feel like I'm dressed in black from head to toe.

I have the Hue Denim Leggings in Navy for $28. If you want to find your own, I recommend ankle length and matte finish with a thick fabric.

And remember my number one rule for wearing leggings: always wear a top that covers your backside!

Related articles...

melissa on sale on ideeli

2009-10-27T01:27:00.007-04:00

If you still haven't gotten yourself a pair of Melissa environmentally-friendly and comfortable shoes, check out the flash sale on Ideeli that starts Tuesday, October 7 (tomorrow) at 11am. Usually the shoes sell out really quickly, so I would order them as soon as possible!

Oh I hope they have some of those high-heeled 3-strap platform Mary Janes that I've been eyeing since the summer...

Related articles...

pendleton meets opening ceremony

2009-10-27T00:44:00.009-04:00

{pendleton meets opening ceremony classic flare coat}

Since I'm from Oregon, every winter I've added a thick woolen Pendleton blanket with bright native-american patterns to my bed. My favorite one is neon pink with a geometric pattern in saturated purple, black, yellow, and blue. The heavy blankets are amazingly warm and my family has an entire collection of them.

{pendleton meets opening ceremony full wool mini turquoise}

This Fall Pendleton is celebrating their 100th year with the collaboration Pendleton Meets Opening Ceremony. As someone who grew up with the Pendleton brand, it's exciting to see that they have expanded into the fashion world. I'm happy that they chose international fashion forward boutique Opening Ceremony to design and sell this collection. The coats, pants, shirts, skirts, and even a onesie use the traditional recognizable Pendleton fabric in modern Opening Ceremony style designs. I love the saturated color and the distinct Pacific Northwest vibe in the Pendleton clothing. You can shop the collection online at the Opening Ceremony website.

{pendleton meets opening ceremony pintuck blouse}

For those of you who aren't too excited about the vibrant colors and patterns, Pendleton also has clothing made from their Pacific Northwest looms in many other traditional styles online.

{pendleton meets opening ceremony long sleeved onesie}

Related articles...

jimmy choo and h&m save the date

2009-10-20T13:10:00.003-04:00

{image: nymag.com}

Mark your calendars!

The Jimmy Choo and H&M designer collaboration collection that includes men's and women's clothes, shoes, and accessories will be hitting stores on November 14. I am way behind on my news it seems because it seems that the date was set awhile ago...that's what happens when you leave NY!

Check out a slideshow of the collection from NY Magazine. The collaboration has lots of metal studs, black leather, rhinestones, suede, and zebra print. If you are looking for an outfit to wear for a night out, this is definitely going to be an easy way to put together a complete ensemble from head to toe. My favorite pieces are definitely the shoes, with fun thick embellished ankle-strap sandals. The prices are unfortunately much higher than I am used to at H&M: strappy sandals $129, zebra print clutch for $129, open-toe suede ankle booties $149.

Regardless, I'm sure everything will sell out in the first couple days...so see you at H&M on November 14.

Related articles...

h&m and jimmy choo

alexander mcqueen & puma

2009-10-20T03:01:00.008-04:00

While I'm on the topic of Alexander McQueen as an artist, I just watched a short film for the collection of men's and women's athletic clothing and shoes for Puma...amazing! It was created by movie director Saam Farahmond and is called Ghost. You can watch the video and see the collection online.

{women's nylon bomber}

{SS griffin print}

{quilted pants}

Related articles...

alexander mcqueen is an artist

2009-10-18T15:45:00.005-04:00

If you have ever doubted that fashion is an art form, please take a moment to watch the most recent Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2010 Fashion Show online.

McQueen's shows are always masterpieces that combine many different elements to convey his concept for his collection. He uses video, music, the runway, makeup, hair, shoes, models, and accessories in a unique and creative way to support the ideas behind his pieces.

McQueen's most recent runway show at NY Fashion Week was streamed live on the internet in an attempt to break some of the barriers between the exclusivity of being "inside the tents" and the general fashion-loving population. I am always supporting ideas that give more interested individuals access to high fashion. It seems to me that the idea of fashion as a respected form of artistic expression has been overpowered by the idea of fashion as just wearable clothes and over-consumption. Fashion is not just about women who are addicted to spending tons of money to stuff their overflowing closets with more merchandise. Fashion is about personal and creative expression. I am always striving to spread more awareness about the importance of fashion as an art form.

True fashion designers are artists who use their creativity to develop concepts and abstract ideas that don't relate directly to the clothes that we wear on our bodies everyday. Designers and retailers are inspired by these collections and runway displays to eventually create pieces that can be worn by the general public. It may seem a long stretch between the drama and high fashion of an Alexander McQueen runway show and a simple outfit that you purchase at a mainstream retailer, but it is all part of the world of fashion.

And I love it!

Related posts...

daniblack on gilt fuse

2009-10-16T21:39:00.004-04:00

Gilt Groupe's lower priced spin-off Gilt Fuse has been around for maybe a month or two now, but so far I haven't been too super excited about their offerings. But today was different!

Gilt Fuse is featuring a sale on Daniblack shoes! Daniblack is one of my new favorite shoe designers from husband and wife team Danny and Barbara Schwartz. I am always eyeing all of their soft color suedes in flats and round-toed pumps.

Visit Gilt Fuse today to see the selection available until 10/19 at 9am. Price start at $79...so affordable!

Related articles...

hot ankle booties at topshop

2009-10-14T13:53:00.007-04:00

{Boutique POW Studded Sandal at Topshop}

If I still lived in NY I would definitely be at Topshop right now trying on all of their awesome ankle booties. Of course these don't look like the most comfortable shoes in the world, but killer heels are such a great way to add some excitement to your Fall blacks and greys. Sometimes I spend forever trying to concoct an outfit that makes me feel dressed up enough to go out...these will definitely fast forward your outfit to evening-ready!

I love the velvety colors and the over-embellishment with over-the-top studs, zippers, straps, lacing, and platforms! I do appreciate when a designer pushes their concept as far as possible...no skimping here...

{Boutique PLOSIVE Platform at Topshop}

{Boutique PUNK Corset Sandal at Topshop}

{Boutique PENDULUM Boot at Topshop}

style & fashion advice on hello kelli

2009-10-14T03:23:00.004-04:00

I love giving style & fashion advice!

I have a ridiculous amount of knowledge (some may call it useless...I call it fabulous!) logged away in my brain about styling, clothes, and accessories that I love to share. I am always getting questions from friends and family about what to wear to certain events, where to get certain pieces, how to style certain items they just bought, and anything else related to fashion.

I want to invite my readers to ask me questions so I can start writing more posts about general style & fashion inquiries that could be useful to lots of people. You can post questions on my new Facebook page or email me directly at hello.kelli@gmail.com.

I hope to here from you soon!

frank lloyd wright and the ayn rand cottage

2009-10-12T02:16:00.004-04:00

{Image: LA Times}

For all of the other architects out there...how many times have you been asked, "Have you read The Fountainhead??" I have heard it many many times. So eventually I actually did read it.

After reading The Fountainhead I always wondered if Ayn Rand had an actual interest in architecture, or if she just used architecture as a mode for expressing her objectivist theories. I felt that she could have substituted a lot of other professions in for architecture and still been able to create a character that demonstrated her ideas about objectivism. A recent article in the LA Times gave me my answer...

When Frank Lloyd Wright designed a cottage for Ayn Rand

Related articles...

hello kelli on facebook

2009-10-12T00:46:00.003-04:00

I just started a Facebook account for Hello Kelli so you can see when I put up new posts and I can link to other sites and events that I'm interested in.

Become a Fan of Hello Kelli on Facebook!

grey suede boots

2009-10-11T15:01:00.005-04:00

I need a pair of grey suede boots for Fall! I love that they bring lightness to an outfit with lots of cold weather black and the grey fits with the softness of the suede material. The grey suede is a great pairing with all of the opaque and shiny black that is popular with the rocker look.

Here are some options from daniblack:

{daniblack Kimble boot in Grey Suede}

{daniblack Indie Boot in Grey Suede}

{daniblack Emmy Pumps in Black Leather/Grey Suede}

These aren't boots, but they show the way that black, grey suede, and metal work so well together. I just love these little spectator pumps!

Related articles:

nau eco-friendly & fashionable outerwear

2009-10-11T13:06:00.006-04:00

{nau down stole}

I wanted to mention one of my new favorite hometown designers: the eco-friendly performance designer Nau. I've been hearing about them for a few years since they are based in Portland, but now I am excited to find that they are successfully expanding to offer their designs in other areas of the country as well. Nau outerwear for men and women is now being sold at Epaulet in Brooklyn!

{nau chrysalis dress}

Nau is a small company that values sustainability, beauty, and performance. The trend towards incorporating sustainable practices and eco-friendly products into designs is such a great one. I am supportive of all companies who take that extra step to put a high value on environmentalism. The Nau website is full of interesting information about the environmentally-conscious decisions that are made for every step of production for each product.

{nau urbane jacket}

Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, I understand that you really just need to have some functional high performance outwear in your closet. Cashmere coats look great, but it's a lot more practical to have some pieces that keep you warm and dry. I love that designers are creating beautiful pieces that function as well as your ski coat, but still look unique and fashionable. Yes, my closet is full of North Face coats, but I'm tired of my same old black Gortex.

{nau shroud of purrin hoody}

Fashionable high performance clothing fits directly with my concept of great design being applied to all areas of our lives. A ski coat doesn't need to look like a ski coat...it should look like a beautiful coat that finds its place in your wardrobe with the rest of your fashionable clothing. Nau has an entire collection of performance wear for men and women that includes baselayers to handbags to dresses, but I am most intrigued by their outerwear.

Related articles...

giveaways on splendicity

2009-10-02T01:58:00.005-04:00

I am currently hosting two Giveaways on Splendicity that I wanted to share with you...follow the links to the articles on Splendicity to find out more about the prizes.

Giveaway: Skin Products with Vitamin C - Five winners will receive either 3 Steps to Beautiful Skin Sample Set or Advanced Eye Area Therapy from fabulous skin care brand Perricone MD. You can enter by leaving a comment on the post on Splendicity saying which prize you would like to win.

Giveaway: Bambako Designer Headband - One winner will receive one of Abigail Ricarte's unique headband designs from her Bambako line. To enter this contest, also leave a comment on the post on Splendicity saying which headband you would like to win.

lna zipper leggings

2009-10-01T14:13:00.004-04:00

{LnA Zipper Leggings}

I have been addicted to LnA t-shirts since I first discovered them about a year ago. The deep V-necks are the perfect fabric and fit and I buy them everytime I see them on sale! They might seem a little expensive for tees, but you can usually find them on Bluefly.com for a seriously discounted price...

{LnA cotton jersey deep v t-shirt on Bluefly.com}

My LnA pick for this fall are the adorable zipper leggings. The full-length zipper leggings are the perfect 2009 update to the leggings that we have been seeing for the last few years. Simple black capri leggings are out (although you will catch me in them on the weekends!) and full-length in unique fabrics and styles are in. I would pick a dark color and pair it with a slouchy sweater and ankle booties.

My friend Julia over at Fashion Pulse Daily is currently hosting a Giveaway for a pair of LnA zipper leggings! So if you love them as much as I do, you might as well enter to try to snag yourself a free pair...

Related articles...

lots of blogging

2009-10-01T12:49:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the extreme break in posts lately...I have been super busy blogging for other sites!

Here are some of my articles from Splendicity to substitute for Hello Kelli posts this week:

I will be back to personal fashion soon. Let's be excited that Fall is here and we can finally start unpacking our boots and sweaters!

a lucky girl in gaultier

2009-09-21T03:17:00.006-04:00

{Jean Paul Gaultier Fall 2009/Winter 2010}

When I started Hello Kelli I was committed to only posting about items that were less than $100 because my entire concept for blogging was to take ideas from the red carpet to the general public. I wanted to share fashion ideas that many of us could actually afford so we could feel that great design was accessible to everyone. I wanted to find primarily discounted merchandise and pieces from affordable retailers with price points that were within the financial reach of young females adjusting to life after college.

{Jean Paul Gaultier dress and Jimmy Choo pumps}

Recently I have taken a greater interest in studying designers and runway shows and I would like to start sharing more images and ideas from these experiences. The fabulous designers who exhibit collections during various Fashion Weeks are meant to be seen by everyone...but not meant to be owned by everyone. I want to share their ideas because I believe that these designers have the creativity and the knowledge to innovate in the fashion industry. These ideas are meant to inspire!

Critics put down the fashion industry because of the wealth and opulence, but there is beautiful art to be appreciated within this realm. Fashion is about art and expression and sometimes you have to see what the best are doing to figure out where you fit in. Use the ideas that are out there and make them your own.

{Jean Paul Gaultier Buckle Dress $925}

This all started because I had the opportunity to try on a gorgeous Jean Paul Gaultier dress that was on the runway for Fall 2009. The piece was stunning. The color was the deepest royal blue and the dress was thick and heavy and hugged the body perfectly. It had rounded padding around the pockets at the hips to create a unique and feminine silhouette in a way that I had never seen before and could never have even imagined. No picture could really do it justice.

Superstar designers are inspiring. These are the geniuses who create pieces of wearable art. This is who young and retail designers look to when they are creating new designs for the next season. I'm going to take advantage of the opportunities that I have to experience designer pieces in reality and understand how prices play a part in the world of fashion.

I will share with you my journey...