Lex's Little Black Book

Pricy, Prim and Proper.

2010-03-22T21:31:00.006+02:00

Even though my parents are not from England, my house has often felt like a modern day finishing school. My mother, who pursued ballet in the UK following high school and my dad who studied BBC prime and the Antique Roadshow following work have always given the impression that they are rather royally inclined.

Good manners at the dinner table were reminded through way of the British. My friends still tease me with my Dad's classic line, "Would you eat that way if you were were sitting with the Queen?" Pot pie was also an acceptable Tuesday dinner. Either way, my parent's love affair with the English has been passed on to my sister and I. We often find ourselves "ooo" and "aaaing" over British country prints and attic nick nacks, while my brother in law rolls his eyes in dismay.

I have been raised to belive that British editions of fashion magazines and HELLO magazine are truly top notch, while America lags behind in class and sophistication.

Karen Phillips, a UK blogger, prides herself on her quintessential English nature. She uses her site to show readers design inspiration for emulating the look of a country side. At this point, you may be to patriotic to fully convert to this style, however, do not shy away. Karen's tips can be helpful for just about anyone.

Check out Country Style's Classic British Buy's for Spring

2010-03-22T01:56:00.001+02:00

2010-03-21T22:41:00.003+02:00

Twas the night before iTablet, when all through the publishing house

Not an executive was sleeping, they reached for their mouse

They read many news reports signaling the end,
For St. Jobs had a press conference he would soon attend;

The techies were tweeting 140 characters or less
Dirty visions of touch screens made them a mess

And Bezos in Seattle, and I in the Great North,
Had just settled in for a long eBook war

When out in Silicon Valley arose such a clatter,
Publishers and app co’s wondered what was the matter;

Off to New York I went in a flash,
Just last month I raised $16M in new cash;

Publishers were uniting and considering new prices,
$9.99 eBooks had their pensions in vices,

When what to my wondering eye should appear,
In just 18 hours it will all be so clear;

As CEO I raced to prepare for the iTablet,
Miss this opportunity and from the Board I will have it,

So I whistled and shouted and called them by name:
“Hey developers, marketers, biz dev, get on your game!”

Random House, Harper, Simon & Schuster,
Now’s the time to voice all the power you can muster;

eBooks are here! eBooks for all!
Choose Kobo dear friends, we’re having a ball;

Like a kid Christmas morning I can’t wait for iTablet,
I know for our industry it will be great;

But Apple you must, keep the platform open,
For with iPhone we know the consumer has spoken;

The more apps the more fun, and more units sold,
Lock it down and you’ll leave users out in the cold;

Sleep well technophiles, tomorrow we’ll see.
A “new creation” our friends will envy .

- adapted from Michael Serbin's blog, CEO of KOBO books

A Helpful Reminder?

2010-02-21T18:23:00.002+02:00

It did not take very long for me to realize how special my hometown was. One harsh winter back east and it soon became apparent, that I in fact was a proud Vancouverite. The harshness of the winters and the intensity of the daily grind became daily reminders that I should never of taken my hometown for granted. I would dread my oversized Northface down coat and would avoid any contact with the outside temperatures. These became clear indicators of my deep seeded love for my city by the bay.

But if -30 degree temperature were not enough, thanks to the 2010 Olympic Games, every g-d for sakin celebrity and athlete felt the need to tell me every commercial break, how wonderful Vancouver was.

Clearly, I did not already need the reminder. Was it helpful? On the contrary, it merely made me homesick.

Apparently I gotta be there? Well thanks for clearing that up.

BZZZZZZZZZ

2010-02-16T07:02:00.003+02:00

For those of you who aren't already loyal Gmail users, you may be unaware of a new feature known as Google Buzz. As someone who has never gotten the hang of twitter, this new feature seemed rather redundant and useless to me. However, after I gave it some thought, I realized that I had been twittering all along, just in a highly selective manner. Yes, I will admit it, when people whom I respected posted a link, 9/10 times I would click and see what they were tweeting about. For anyone whom I respected was already a Gmail user, and would be found hanging on my sidebar. So with the inception of Buzz, I find myself checking out what all those respectable Gmail folk are saying. I may not be bzzzzing just yet.. but I am reading.

Geekosystem gives the who what and where on this new bzzzzing feature!

The Techno-Dominator

2010-02-15T06:45:00.003+02:00

The brand of Alexander Wang is forever ubiquitous. This is not just because Alexander's looks are being picked up by all the top fashion editors and celebrities. Wang is connecting himself to the public in a way that no other fashion designer has done before him. Coined the techno-dominator by Style.com, fashion week 2010 saw Wang launch a live streaming of his show in the middle of Time Square, proving that fashion is no longer constrained to the runway.

Although Wang is surprisingly modest and has been quoted saying that he only expected small crowds, history shown us that Wang's influence can entice crowds even when he is having a party at a gas station.

Check it out at Style.com

Michael Jackson: Healing the Fashion World?

2009-10-30T03:42:00.003+02:00

Nearly four months since Michael Jackson shocked his fans one last time and sadly passed away, his influence is as strong as ever, rippling through the tides of fashion, music, art and dance across the globe. His unique rhythms and stylistic creations serve as a platform for artists and dancers, while his contagious sounds still blast from stereos in cars, clubs and in department stores. Although Michael Jackson may be most remembered for his profound impact on Pop music, one cannot turn a blind away from the bad boy’s significant influence on Fashion. Fall 2009 is the season of Michael.

With studded jackets, leather skirts, black loafers, sequined dresses and eccentric accessories dominating Montreal’s fashion scene, Michael’s ability to govern are ever so present. Thriller may have debuted in 1983, but it appears as if, just about everyone is doing his moon walk down Rue St. Catherine. Whether battling zombies in a red leather jacket for Thriller or performing in fedoras and metal, Michael's style was insidious, innovative and incredible. To commemorate Michael, the fashion gurus have sent a message to loyal fans- Michael’s influence won’t stop till you get enough.

Swedish Takeover

2009-04-01T20:09:00.007+03:00

Found in the Scandinavian Peninsula of Northern Europe, Sweden has rarely caught the attention of the world's premier fashionistas. However outside their range of vision- Sweden has been quietly creating a fashion enterprise. Swedish designers have emerged from the snow and have recently produced some of today's most wearable, sensible and inventive wardrobes. Appearing in boutiques and department stores from Tel Aviv to Vancouver, these Scandinavian designers have begun their takeover.....

Behold a future contemporary classic- ACNE

Meet the stylish sisters behind MINIMARKET

Shmoozers for the Sake of the Country

2009-03-28T16:03:00.003+03:00

At least Sex Sells!

2009-03-18T21:58:00.003+02:00

Since the dawning of the new financial era, daparment stores have stood library silent. Billionaires have become passe, and the middle market money has been wiped out by the plague of Madoff. Looking to the future, and confronting a reality where free flowing credit is as obsolete as disposable clothing from Bergdorff's, designers were forced to create cutting edge and provocative pieces.

With the economy tanking, designers from Gucci to Pucci showed that, when hedge funds are bankrupt and your credit line is cut off, there is always one thing to rely on: sex.

Introducing metal studs, silver mesh mini skirts and leather leggings/boots - our sex- induced weapon for fighting against the recession.

From the top: From Fashion Week Fall 09
Emilio Pucci, Gucci, Nina Ricci, Yves Saint Laurent

Prancing into Spring

2009-02-18T15:48:00.003+02:00

Delicate, soft, lovely - all words which we associate with the coming of spring. However, with the groundhog emerging to search for its shadow, women are no longer reaching for their sweet spring floral pallets.
Although this girlish tradition has not vanished, as women tend to nurture their femininity, one look at spring's shoes remind women of the tremendous strides they have taken in modern day society, literally. Sharp, clunky, vicious, over-arching and commanding, these hot shoes are shoes made for the future.

Red, Blue and Green?

2009-01-19T09:44:00.008+02:00

Hundreds of thousands of Americans gathered on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in DC yesterday to witness the world's biggest musical acts in celebration of Tuesday's presentational inauguration. Instilling confidence in the American people, Barak Obama gave a brief message filled with hope and optimism.
However, this time it was not just about uniting the red and blue, but Green America too. A million invitations for the inauguration were sent out which pleased even the country's tree huggers. The invitations were printed on a Classic Crest Recycled 100 Natural White grade paper. Made of recyclable fiber, with Alphatetta, Ga. -based Neenah paper, the invitations are said to be made from the globe's leading green papers.
Signaling his dedication to preserving the environment and displaying once again how truly trendy Obama is, it definitely is a new day for America, a green day.

Forget Obama - its Tea Time.

2009-01-17T20:17:00.005+02:00

Its officially power hour. With one of the most anticipated presidential inaugurations just around the corner, all eyes are on Washington. But across the great sea, stands the proud city of London where being fabulous is just as common as having tea at four in the afternoon.
ASOS the online fashion store, is a British delight. Taking influences from London's leading designers- ASOS creates the best and hottest looks for a reasonable price in a economic terrifying time.
Following the catwalks of the ethnic inspired Mathew Williamson, and the vintage lady-like looks of Luella Bartley, ASOS constructs outfits which are just as lovely and breathtaking to their bank burden counterparts.
Forget power hour.. a cup of tea will do.

From the top (first two...from Luellas Spring '09 collection, second two from Matthew Williamson's Spring '09 collection)

Check out Asos' JazzhHouse and Wayfarer trends

Finding your Inner Zen in the Wake of Outer Chaos

2009-01-17T18:56:00.003+02:00

When recession rains, it pours. Every article is laced with recession- the why, the how, and what now?!
As layoffs continue, life plans re-orient, financial backing delays and students avoid the job markets, deciding to further post-graduate education, a pursuit for an inner revival has erupted, resulting in an increase in yoga registration.
In times of economic crisis, people have turned to yoga.. throwing in their sneakers for a yoga mat and some inner peace. In what feels like one of the coldest winters, yoga provides the stressed out and flu-ish with some relaxation time, low impact activity, and 90 minutes without economic turmoil.
From Bikrims hot yoga, to Moksha, to Ashtanga, to power flow, to Vinyasa - yoga is reconnecting our body and soul.
Reuters tells us more about the global trend to downward dog...Numuste.

Snow Birds

2009-01-06T00:20:00.003+02:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Sorry for the short hiatus. Will be back blogging in a couple days..
Until than, stick your eyes on these amazing boots by COS...
The winter does not seem so bad after all.

The New Calvin Klein Model? No the New President.

2008-12-19T12:50:00.007+02:00

For years, American women have looked toward the Atlantic and have been green with envy. While the European political sphere has been dominated with athletic attractive starry-eyed males, Prince Harry, Prince William and the most recent President Sarkozy, the United States has been stuck with the misfortune of middle of the road, average Joes (obviously referring to solely their appearances;). However, with the innaguration of Obama just around the corner, American women can finally experience a sigh of relief. His physique, good looks, charm and most importantly sense of style are that suited of an all American prince. Lust abroad no longer.

Even though President-elect has already chosen to wear a Hart Schaffner Marx tuxedo,WWD magazine still asked Men's designers how they thought Obama should suit up for the big day.

A Girl's Best Friend

2008-12-17T21:44:00.006+02:00

Time and time again I have tried to explain to my dad that shopping (and as a result my massive visa bill) is merely an expression of my creativity.

Aurelie Bidermann, the lovely and fantastic French jewelry artist has mastered her craft and is my needed evidence to my skeptical dad about my artistic innovations.
Combining her experience in the art field, a former employee of Sotheby's New York, with her years studying diamonds, her pieces are utterly spectacular. Precious, different, and unique, Aurelie uses gems from around the world, from the golden city of Jerusalem to the magnificent land of India. Her pieces will convince any doubting male that jewelry is art and art is a form of expression.
A shopping lesson from Aurielie....

Save a Horse Ride a Cowboy

2008-12-15T23:11:00.002+02:00

From the top: Celine Leather Boots, Tory Burch Womens "Jackson" Leather Riding Boots, Theory Wenda Leather Boots, Hunter Lady N Riding Boots

Riding boots are no longer confined to the stables. Perfect with a cute pair of skinnies, why be gloomy on a rainy day?

Despite Recession, Muggles Still Flock to Bookstores...

2008-12-08T23:16:00.006+02:00

Have you found yourself hoping that money is miraculously going to appear in the bank? Dreaming you could take a free flight to any destination for the holidays? Well you are not alone this holiday season, everyone is praying for a little bit of magic.
This might be the reason why despite our financial turmoil, sales of J.K Rowling's new book, The Tales of Beedle the Bard are going well. Although it was only an acute form of what Bruce Ward from Canwest called Beedle-Mania, big turnouts in this day and age display tremendous success.
Check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uU3oZGHHChk

Knocking your Scents Off

2008-12-04T18:07:00.005+02:00

Be it uptown, downtown, midtown, or SoHo, there is something in Manhattan for everyone. Bond No. 9, a fragrance collection launched in 2007, is a homage to the Big Apple. The fragrance line is dedicated to the little island that could and each perfume is an ode to a special New York neighborhood.

To coincide with Andy Warhol's 80th birthday, Bond No. 9, has introduced the third Andy Warhol fragrance called Lexington Avenue. Recalling the artist's origins, when he lived in an apartment on Lexington Ave and illustrated the imaginative shoes, this eau de parfume commemorates Andy's pre-Pop years.
Thanks to Bond No. 9, you are just one spray away from the city that never sleeps.

Indulging from Home

2008-12-04T17:35:00.003+02:00

Even though holiday spending predictions look bleak for many retailers, some industries are actually benefiting from consumer sorrows. Recent surveys indicate that consumers are cutting back on their dining out, forcing many to face their dreaded kitchens at home. This has actually shown a recent increase in cook book sales, as men and women alike are needing some guidance at home. So this winter, instead of having to confront mom's awful tuna casserole, invest in one of these fun and easy cook books!

Martha Stewarts Cooking School: Lessons And Recipes For The Home Cook

Betty Crocker Soups & Stews: 100 Recipes for the Way You Really Cook

The I Dont Know How to Cook Book: 300 Great Recipes You Can?t Mess Up!

www.chapters.ca

I Love me some Boyfriend Blazers....or any Blazer. A Boyfriend would be Great too!

2008-12-02T21:37:00.004+02:00

(Left to Right: Longer Slim Jacket, Organic; Glazed Jersy Jacket, Marc by Marc Jacobs; Rolled Cuff Blazer, Alice + Olivia)
Thanks to the likes of Balanciaga, and Kate Moss, who was spotted wearing a version of a blazer she designed for Top Shop all over London in 2007, the blazer's popularity skyrocketed.
However, designers have quickly realized that the positive responses by consumers over the "man inspired" jacket implied a new attitude . In today's modern world femininity goes hand in hand with power and the modern woman wants to feel like she can wear whatever, whenever.
Thanks to these Spring 2009 collections, you no longer need a boyfriend.

(Hearts and Creds to KATE SCHIPPER!)

A Bag a Day Keeps the Doctor Away?

2008-11-30T09:20:00.008+02:00

You don't have a purse that corresponds to every day of the week?

Well, BagSnob.com, founded by Tina Craig and Kelly Cook, is an exclusive WEB editorial that is committed to providing web users with a daily tote. There is something here for every girl in every mood.

2008-11-29T23:32:00.007+02:00

Being frugal and staying fabulous have been the words of the season as consumers have tried to cope with the new economic realities facing today's world. However, this past week tragedy has struck India, which should provide every shopper on a tight holiday budget with some perspective.
Our thoughts and prayers for the many who are suffering.
CNN.com covers a story on what the blogosphere is saying about the Mumbai attacks.

Introducing my Friend Bill

2008-11-29T11:13:00.006+02:00

Every week, I look forward to seeing Bill and hearing about his marvelous findings. His eloquent language coupled with his scrumptious sightings make for a delightful 3 minutes.

For those of you who don't know Bill- let me introduce him.
Bill Cunningham, my most beloved internet personality, is one of New York Times' fashion photographers, who each week, brings the internet community with a charming 3 minute narration of the most fabulous looks found in the streets of New York. For nearly 50 years, Bill has captured the very essence of the city's wonderful characters.

One clip with Bill and you will be craving more....

http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2008/11/29/fashion/20081130-street-feature/index.html

"I just loved to see wonderfully dressed women, and I still do. That's all there is to it."

Raising Awareness

2008-11-28T16:37:00.000+02:00

For 25 years, Kenneth Cole has brought New York fashion sensibility to his customers while simultaneously playing a leading role in the fight against various social issues.
His new book AWARENESS, is comprised of eighty-six compelling essays from ninety contributors, including Bon Jovi and Lance Armstrong, who tell their stories and provide readers with a step by step approach to getting involved.

Kenneth discusses his new book on ABC NEWS.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=10747645

R.I.P

2008-11-28T10:07:00.000+02:00

We had been warned that the death of print was looming, and despite our recognition of the faltering issues in the industry, recent events sent a shock through the system. An ode to the men and women behind the gloss....
NYmag's Mike Vilensky presents us with the death toll.

Not Exactly Bubbie's Style

2008-11-26T08:15:00.000+02:00

Its about that time again, when everyone is listening (by choice or not) to the same 30 songs, when nutmeg and cinnamon are added to every Starbucks drink, and when every store and designer is coming up with a new way to jazz up the seasons most typical items. Art repels all borders, and this year we are seeing an outburst of eccentric and innovative Chanukias to brighten every holiday windowsill.
Who said that Channuka was just about greecy jelly donuts and rainbow-coloured Channuka candles?
I am pretty sure the Maccabees wouldn't recognize these stylish Channuka Helpers.

Top left: www.baltinester.biz
Top right: www.moma.com
centre: Bandhu Scott Dunham www.thisnext.com
bottom: www.unicahome.com

From the Grass Roots...

2008-11-25T21:15:00.000+02:00

These days the internet provides us with everything from our news, to our groceries, to our clothes and now even our inspiration for our homes. Thats right, why bother leaving your desk when you can look at some of today's best photography online. The good ol' world wide web give us all the opportunity to know more about the new up and comings than the people who are up and coming. This people is equality.
http://www.apartmenttherapy.com gives web users a real glance into some of the most innovative and fun interiors in the Western Hemisphere. With the help of photographer Todd Selby, who's images of funky and vivacious spaces have been featured by even the NY Times, redoing our home could not be any more simple.

The Golden Years

2008-11-25T11:12:00.000+02:00

Vintage inspired outfits are everywhere this holiday season. Young designers are reminiscing about the golden years, when overflowing bank accounts were not the only thing glistening.
Dorothy Lee, Mooka Kiney and Loeffler Randall, three independent designers are introducing generation O to the power of nostalgia. Politicians may be looking to the future, but these three ladies sure know how to kick it, old school.

Rebbeca Willa Davis' review of California's Dorothy Lee is worth a read...
http://www.nylonmag.com/?section=article&parid=2280
http://www.dorothy-lee.com/
Loefler Randall delicate pieces should be on every girl's holiday wish list.

IF fm radio's retro hour is not good enough, check out the clothes by Mookie Kinney, two talented New Yorkers.

Can we CHANGE this too?

2008-11-24T09:01:00.000+02:00

The Obamas are moving to Capital hill and everyone is not only expecting but demanding change. Not only is Obama planning on revamping the U S of A's economic, war and health policies... additionally Mr. President-elect and the Mrs. are hoping to spice up the White House.
Renovation, redecoration and liberation, this new president wants more than Bush out!

Juliet Lapidos from Slate.com tells readers about Michelle and Barak's hopes for the house on 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
check it out: http://www.slate.com/id/2205184/

2008-11-24T00:01:00.000+02:00

With American Thanksgiving just around the corner, and consumer spending at rock bottom, men and women alike are wondering how to cut back on holiday gifts extravaganzas. In the trash can with the ponchos of the 90s so too is our overconsumption and utter frivolousness. Stephen William from Nytimes shows us the ultimate gift idea. This gift can brighten our bleakest economic days while providing our significant others with a truly practical gift.

Dell’s new Studio Art House computers http://gadgetwise.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/11/20/the-art-of-the-laptop/?ref=personaltechspecial
are the answer to our holiday woe.

And if the laptop does not fit this year's tight holiday budget, Blackberry's new and trendy pouches for the BlackBerry Pearl http://store.everythingberry.com/golla-calla-pouch/4A25A3617.htm will manage the holiday's sprucing..

Say Goodbye to Stacy London and Clinton Kelly

2008-11-23T22:44:00.000+02:00

Although T.V ratings and magazine sales have fallen to their all time lows, girls are still managing to get their needed style advice. Girls Gone Styled, an exclusively YouTube only show have managed to tap into Stacy London's and Clinton Kelly's fan base. Online episodes clue girls in on new up and coming designers, and hot trends of the season and the life and times of real people in the fashion world. This online show is the new project runway...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cO_mS-M9GXk

The first episode features the talented Rebecca Minkoff and her delicious handbags. Check out her holiday collection at rebeccaminkoff.com