Glam Damn It New York

Men's Accessory Spotlight: The Card Holder

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:59:00 -0400

Every week I will feature one item that deserves the spotlight.

This week's item is: The Card Holder.

The card holder is a major upgrade from the bulky wallet giving you back pains. The card holder will force you to carry things that are pertinent to everyday living, i.e debit card, metro card and ID. Every company is designing one, so you will find one that best suits you.

Rugby Ralph Lauren at just $35 this card holder keeps the money in your pocket in more ways than one.
Jack Spade makes an array of fun, funky or classic card holders. Most under $100
Other brands to look for that have plenty of options are Makr All Goods, Marc Jacobs, Burberry, Louis Vuitton.

Versace for H&M is Coming this November!

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 10:40:00 -0400

Talk about fashion mayhem! After Target released a new line featuring Italian designer Missoni on September 13th, not only did crazed fashionistas clear the racks of their local Targets, but they also managed to crash the Target website all in one day! The goal was to provide fashion savvy individuals with great designer styles at affordable prices. While they did just that, the designers did not expect for the entire collection to sell out that quickly. With markup prices ranging from 25% to 400%, people are now paying big bucks on eBay for the Missoni Target line. This counteracts the plan of creating a designer clothing collection at a discounted price. In this collection for Target, you can tell it’s Missoni from a mile away, with it’s bright zigzag patterns and bold colors. The collection includes over 400 pieces, from boots to bags, knits and flats, to make-up accessories and home and kitchenware items. Now available only on eBay, if you want to spend more than double the retail price that is.

This is becoming a common trend in the fashion world, for designers to collaborate with large retail stores. The designers are then able to hit marketing on a whole new level, as they feed their fashion hungry audience without making them break the bank. When people know that a collection is only temporary, the desire for those items are off the charts. With that being said, you better start planning now for the Versace line for H&M...

Fashion designers go through great lengths to establish their luxury name and credibility, which is why Donatella Versace was quite hesitant when asked to collaborate with H&M back in 2008, for fear of confusing the name she worked so hard to contrive. Now, three years later, times have changed and so has Donatella’s mind.

To be launched on November 17th of this year, make way for a new line of affordable luxury. The collection derives from the iconic designs of Versace’s archives. Some designs mimic legendary pieces like the famous Safety Pin Dress, worn by Elizabeth Hurley back in 1994. In teaming up with Margareta van den Bosch, H&M’s creative adviser, both women worked together in the collaboration process, while staying true to their own name and designs.

This collection is full of bright colors and patterns and sexy body-conscious cuts. The baroque patterns take us back to the designs of the 80s and 90s Versace. From tropical prints to skin tight pants, this line is creating quite the stir. Donatella really kept her market audience in mind when designing this line for both men and women. And although she was limited in terms of certain fabrics and materials, the collection reflects Donatella's brilliant way of making it all work. In a statement, Donatella reveals, “All I know is that the clothes are incredible. I wouldn't let them out of the sample room door if they were not."

As we all wait in anticipation for this collection to drop, you can take a sneak peak at the designs online. If you’re one of the many people who missed out on the Missoni for Target collection, then you bet your behind that you better get to the mall nice and early to snag a piece from this exclusive collection. With all this hype, the shelves are sure to be bone dry at the end of the first day! Plan accordingly people.

Treasure Chest: Miranda Kerr to Rock VS Fantasy Bra

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:40:00 -0400

It’s that time of the year again! The 2011 annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show has been set and the infamous Fantasy Treasure Bra and model have been revealed! This year’s lucky lady to cash in on the coveted spot on the runway, rocking the $2.5 million bra is – drum roll please...Miranda Kerr! Dreams are coming true for the celebrated catwalk queen, who was present (wearing Michael Kors) for the bra’s unveiling at Victoria’s Secret yesterday. “It was such an honor to be wearing the bra. It's something that I've wanted since I started working with Victoria's Secret,” says Kerr in a Daily Front Row interview. Kerr is referring to the photo shoot for the VS Christmas ‘Dreams and Fantasies’ catalog where she already had the chance to ‘try it on for size.’ Check your mailboxes, the print will be arriving tomorrow, October 21^st. All eyes will be on her at the show for sure; this is the first Victoria’s Secret runway appearance for the Angel since the birth of her son, now nine months old. We have no doubts her body will be enviably Fantasy Bra ready!

Created with 142 carats of diamonds and embellished with peals, citrines, and aquamarines, we noticed the luxurious lingerie is right on trend with the oceanic inspirations seen on Spring 2012 runways. Adorned with a dropped tassel at the center with two 8-carat white diamonds and two yellow 14-carat diamonds the bra took 500 hours to complete by hand. With scalloped cups in an aqua hue and strings of draped pearls, the bra is quite mermaid princess reminiscent. Kerr follows models such as Gisele Bundchen, Tyra Banks, Karolina Kurkova, Adriana Lima, and Heidi Klum who have all graced the runway wearing show stopping Fantasy Bra creations in previous years.

Tune in to be turned on when the show airs November 29^th. The Australian beauty in the Fantasy Bra won’t be the only main attraction at the show; look forward to performances by Cee Lo Green, Maroon 5, and Kanye West too!

Alexandra Beth: Jewerly Designer

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:50:00 -0400

We here at Glam Damn It never get bored with great jewelry! The latest designer creating covetable baubles to catch our eye is Alexandra Beth! Her jewelry design is simply astounding. Alexandra Beth started creating her first pieces at the young age of fifteen. However, Alexandra's youth did not stop her. Her first customer, a Bethesda, Maryland based boutique, "purchased 90 pieces for thirteen stores located in four different states." We couldn't be more impressed; or obsessed.

Soon after, Alexandra Beth continued to create her handmade pieces but moved into wire wrapped and stone sourced pieces. The result is a collection that "perfectly melds various metals, soft leathers and skins, studs, delicate chains and a bevy of vivid gemstones. Alexandra's collection reflects an everyday simplicity and bold glamour at an incredible price point, ranging from $38 to $220." Gorgeous and affordable!

Some of our favorite pieces by Alexandra Beth are the simplistic necklaces, like the Small Gemstone Necklace ($45) with a natural charm and gleam that will definitely catch your eye! A pair of Malorie Earrings ($158) in 'Shagreen' are an accessory you cannot pass up this season. They're sexy, yet innocent and sweet! We also fell in love with Alexandra's bracelets! The Zan Bracelet ($112) in leather camel and snakeskin is to die for, as is the Suzy Cuff ($168), featuring printed suede.

Find more of Alexandra Beth's jewelry at www.alexandrabeth.com.

Ode to Jeffrey Campbell

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:10:00 -0400

Think you have an obsession for Jeffrey Campbell shoes? Well so does everyone else! The streets have spoken and JC shoes are the talk of the town. Worn by everyone ranging from pre teen to adults, this sudden outbreak of JC shoes has taken over. JC shoes are known for their outrageous creative designs and extreme comfort. It's no surprise these delights have been featured on tons of sites, blogs and magazines --not to mention Facebook fan pages dedicated to our favorite shoe brand. To own a great shoe is to know the shoe itself. Are you constantly finding yourself purchasing shoes for the brand itself? No sense of comfort, not durable, and after multiple usages they're tossed to the back of your closet? Why not get your money's worth and go with Jeffery Campbell?

Where will your first destination be in the 'Meeker' black suede boots by Jeffrey Capmbell? We love simple suede and classic wedge look. The hidden wooden detail adds a bit of spice, while the triangle detailing just seals the deal!

Although the name of these interesting wedges are 'The Boomerang' don't expect to receive these glamorous wedges back if tossed in the air!

'The Tardy' platform boot was created for the bad ass in us all. Durable for the cold weather yet stylish enough for everyday wear! And the fire hydrant red color just adds to the edge of these killer boots.

At last the classic, popular Jeffrey Campbell 'Lita' boot! Although these boots are measured to have a 5 inch heel these boots are perfect for beginner heel walkers or any woman who loves comfort. Bloggers, photographers and hipsters love these shoes --expect to see Lita all year around.

Tom Ford Beauty Hits the Web

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:20:00 -0400

It has been revealed that Tom Ford, the latest designer to announce plans of branching out into the beauty and makeup micro-sphere, will launch his beauty collection in stores November 1st and will only be sold exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus!

What’s that you say? November 1st is too long a wait? We thought so too.

Well fear not, my make-up loving ladies! The entire Tom Ford Beauty collection is available now for pre-order online!

The devastatingly glamorous collection features eye colors, lipsticks, nail lacquers and more, all in a stunning array of shades that would make even the most-seasoned makeup professional swoon.

The packaging is sleek, ultra-luxurious, and totally femme fatale, keeping true to Ford’s aesthetic. This is the kind of makeup that you definitely do not want to keep hidden away and perhaps even proudly display these on your boudoir! The products even come equipped with tongue-in-cheek names such as, Love Bruise, Ravish, Naked and Carnal Red.

The Eye Color Quads in Titanium Smoke or Crushed Amethyst are absolutely stunning for a smoldering smoky eye. Or if you're all about big juicy lips, try out the lip color in Black Orchid or Crimson Noir for a bold dramatic look. With the holiday party season fast approaching, both choices are perfect for creating a stunning and chic look.

Going for a naturally flawless look? Smooth on the Shade & Illuminate compact, which features a highlighting cream that gives a gorgeous glow and a darker shade for sculpting and contouring cheekbones seamlessly.

Finish with a swipe of the Ultra Shine Lip Gloss (the Tawny Pink shade is not only gorgeous, but universally flattering), add a couple coats of the Extreme Mascara and voila! You’ll look as if you’re fresh off the catwalk.

Perhaps a bolder look is your choice du joir?

The Noir Absolute for Eyes is sure to deliver! This deeply pigmented gel can be used all over the eyelid for a seductive wash of glossy black shine, or applied as a liner with an angled brush.

Visit Nemain Marcus or Bergdorf Goodman to view the entire collection and pre-order yours today!

Investment Pieces: Go Ahead and Splurge!

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:58:44 -0400

The economic climate in recent years has broken down the spendthrift. These days even spendthrifts do less spending, and more thrifting. However, some times you just can't find what you need at the price you want. And that's ok, because some pieces are meant to be investments. Investment pieces are signature items of any wardrobe - rightfully termed and categorized as such for the practicality, durability, and timelessness of their nature. You can't put a price tag on quality like that, but when there is it's usually pretty high. Nevertheless, here are some big ticket investment pieces that we think actually are well worth the purchase.

Outerwear: The Peacoat vs The Fur Coat

When it comes to outerwear, a peacoat and fur coat are staple cold weather styles that are essential for any closet. We simply couldn't choose between either, so we decided to bring you both. Below are Zac Posen's Laser Cut Flared Peacoat at $2390 - ideal for traversing the streets of your city, latte in hand; and Martin Grant's Mangolian Lamb Jacket at $2520 - to keep you warm on the colder nights of your social calendar.

Footwear: The Boot vs The Bootie

Since we couldn't choose between either of those gorgeous coats above, we're also bring you the best footwear to pair with each. Boots and booties are must-have investment pieces because they can brave the best of winter's worst. Below are the Tapeet Cap Toe Block Heel Boot at $650 - to go with your tailored peacoat for a cool, clean look; and the Giuseppe Zanotti Open Toe Cutout Wedge at $930 - to go with your fur for a flirty, girl-about-town feel.

Accessory: Large Hobo Handbag vs Small Crossbody Purse

They are very different purses for very different purposes, though both are necessary. Since a lady's life is in her bag during the day, something durable, spacious, and multifunctional is ideal for an investment piece. For this we choose the Burberry Large Leather Hobo at $1595, compliment with gold accents and two straps. While it goes without saying, on nights out the contents of your bag boil down to the bare essentials. What your evening bag lacks in storage, it should make up for in flare. The Christian Louboutin Sweet Charity Studded Crossbody Bag at $1195 has a wow affect that won't wear off.

Jewelry: The Watch vs The Cuff

Jewelry is the easiest way to dress up an outfit with the least amount of fuss. So everyone needs at least one great go-to investment jewelry piece in hand. Watches and cuffs are contemporary favorites for this. Try Gucci's Stainless Steel Pink & Gold PVD at $920 to play up the gold accents in your hobo handbag; or Dannijo's Frances Cuff at $568 for some hard-edged glam to rock with your studded chain crossbody.

Granted, unless you have a black card or a bottomless bank account, regular purchases like these aren't as feasible. But a number of us have been known to splurge on ourselves from time to time for one reason or the next, even if we just felt like we deserved it. What better way to show you that you care than investing in making you look even better than you already do? Happy shopping!

LA Fashion Week Recap

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:50:00 -0400

Los Angeles has always had its own rhythm and style, so naturally it developed its own Fashion Week - now five years old - to showcase just that. LA Fashion Week kicked off the 13th of October, and runs through to the 21st. So far collections have been a mix and mingle of hits and misses, although it made the gems among the roughage shine that much brighter. A lot of looks featured loose breathable fabrics, which we imagine are musts for the warmer west coast climate. The light, sheer, and sometimes flowing details recurrent in various lines added a kiss of charm to otherwise unique collections.

NAMI featured a line up of sheer looks in darker hues. Though one is not inclined to expect that right away on the spring LA runways, sun-kissed socialites and party girls who want to dim the moods of their ensembles for spring nights might find a suitable piece in this collection.

Bohemian Society put a seemingly more authentic and edgy play on LA's boho style. The collection proudly boasted modest elements of purposeful deconstruction that kept the looks innately rough but wholly finished. We imagine the girl who was meant to wear these garments is not easily understood, but we don't think she cares to be.

Alternative Apparel will cloth the LA beach bum, whenever she feels like wearing clothes anyway. The collection was comprised mainly of basics in light, moveable, knits that we found -once we got past all the unnecessary accessorizing - were perfect for throwing on over your bikini on your way boogie boarding, or a day of idly sauntering down the boardwalk.

Sachika, which mainly featured floor-length evening wear in brights, is a prime example of those hits and misses we mentioned earlier, in the same collection. The two dresses on the left audibly whisper a certain potential to seduce one's affection, though the language needs to be refined a bit; while the dresses on the right crudely command involuntary attention to their own poorer constructions and design aesthetics. We're not sure what happened, but at least it didn't happen to all the pieces.

Elle Honors Women of Hollywood

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:29:47 -0400

Monday night’s Elle Magazine tribute to the Woman of Hollywood event honored an amazing group of our most beloved starlets—but, of course, our eyes were glued to the amazing fashion on display. The event (sponsored by Calvin Klein, L’Oreal Paris, and David Yurman and hosted by Joel McHale) honored the careers of actresses Viola Davis, Barbra Streisand, Naomi Watts, Jennifer Aniston, Evan Rachel Wood, Freida Pinto, Michelle Pfeiffer and Elizabeth Olsen, and DreamWorks chief executive officer Stacey Snider.

According to coverage by WWD, the event was awe-inspiring for young actresses: “She’s one of the reasons I wanted to become an actor,” said Olsen of Pfeiffer; lighthearted in spirit. Reese Witherspoon introduced Jennifer Aniston; “You just want to get your nails done with her, and you want to make out with her at the same time, at least I do,” she said. “And that’s what we do sometimes on Saturdays;” and inspirational: “As I was walking the red carpet, someone asked me, ‘What sets you apart from everybody in the room?’ I said, ‘Well, I’m black.’ Just being real,” said Viola Davis, before adding, “You don’t always love what you do, but what keeps me in the business is hope, and that’s the hope that women of color are also part of the narrative.”

The love and support shared at the 18^th annual event was true validation that these bona fide powerhouses are worthy of their status as role models to young women everywhere. You can read more about the event here, but we can’t resist showing off these startlets’ looks any longer.

Fall Trend Report: Aztec Print

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 10:53:03 -0400

This season, fashion trendsetters have been inspired by prints and patterns of the Native American culture. In turn, creating a hard to miss fashion craze this season. From chunky turquoise cocktail rings to brushed metal statement necklaces, soft leather accessories and Aztec-print fabrics - this trend is literally everywhere.

While Missoni has long been all about the tribal inspired prints, it first appeared as a bonafide trend last Spring, when it was spotted on runways such as Whitney Eve and Anna Sui. Very shortly thereafter came the summer music festival circuit, where in-the-know, music-loving fashionistas were photographed wearing the print all across the world. From there, the trend really took off. Often referred to as "Navajo", "tribal", or "Native American", this fun print comes in a variety of patterns and colors. Whether it's a simple black and white design or an attention-grabbing, multi-colored geometric pattern, the wide appeal of this trend is that its variety makes it easy to find a style that works for you. Because of its roots in Western and Native American culture, it is often paired with earthy tones and natural fabrics or textures, such as suede and the aforementioned brushed metal or leather.

You can get your fix for Aztec print clothing everywhere from Forever 21 and H&M, to Nordstrom's and Net-A-Porter. With something so of-the-moment it is usually best to buy cheap, quick and somewhat disposable. You probably won't exactly be thrilled to have spent a ton of dough on something you most likely will not find yourself wearing six months from now.

The key to rocking a trend without instantly dating your entire look is to take it in small doses. Wearing any trend from head to toe can make an entire ensemble of cute separates look like overkill. Avoid the temptation to wear your moccasin boots and hair feather with your Aztec print cardigan. Or worse yet, Aztec-print leggings with an Aztec-print sweater and your moccasin boots and your hair feather. (Talk about pattern overdose!) When selecting your pieces, less is more with this print. An oversized statement necklace made of natural stones over your LBD looks fabulously chic! Or, our personal favorite, an Aztec-print manicure! This shows that while you are aware of these trends, you're not a slave to them. Below are a few subtle ways to wear Fall's hottest print.