“It’s an incredible achievement and means that people are paying close attention to the brand [Dior] when it speaks,” said Alex Mendoza of Stylophane, a company that monitors crap figures like this. “They have an incredible brand and they are saying things that are bringing people back.”

Dior’s 12 posts during the month of January racked up around 13,000 likes each. Other luxury brands who are popular with the kids today include Chanel with an average 7,200 likes per post (lpp), social media juggernaut Burberry, which averaged about 6,800 lpp and The Art of Travel by Louis Vuitton, clocking in almost 4,400 lpp.

And for more in-depth info, take a gander at this handy dandy chart of the top 10 brands:

 [WWD]

Good, because they’re going to need a little trial and error. Ever since Roy Halston diluted his brand with licensing in the 70s — which led to his firing from the company in 1984 and subsequent death in 1990 — the Halston line has been under something of a curse. Everyone and their mother has tried to revive it with Harvey Weinstein and SJP being the last foolhardy souls to attempt salvation.

Whereas Weinstein’s background is in film and Parker’s main hoof is in acting, Malka comes with a mass of fashion experience under his belt. For over ten years he served as president of BCBG Max Azria and he was planning on retiring until he got offered the job at Halston. “There were maybe two or three brands that could pull me out of retirement, and this was one,” Malka said. “But it had to be all about the way I run it. No outside interference.”

So Halston is now the Ben Malka show. Hilco, which owns the Halston brand, and a silent investor serve as passive partners while Malka holds the largest share in the company. Malka hired away BCBG’s chief creative officer Marie Mazelis to design for Halston then picked up and moved the headquarters out to L.A., where he shares studio space with Mad Men. The unlikely move to the west coast is an attempt to refocus the Halston Heritage line, which they are using as a platform to relaunch the brand.

“[T]he Heritage line… is contemporary and obviously this is the place for that.” Malka explained. “It’s also a global city and a brand like this belongs here. I think it will be a boon to the Los Angeles fashion community.” Halston Heritage will range in price from $50 to $500, with certain pieces going for as much as $2500. The Halston runway line, however, will be based out of New York where an atelier is currently being constructed and is set to debut for the fall 2013 season. Prices are expected to go as high as $10,000. “I want to create a strong differentiation between the two…Halston [runway] is about innovation in technique and fabric. It’s about exclusivity and luxury. Heritage is about making the brand more accessible using timeless codes like fluidity and tailoring.”

Malka will focus on creating a brick-and-mortar presence with shop-in-shops in stores like Bloomingdale’s and Harrods, and there are plans to open as many as five freestanding stores this year alone. Taking a note from Burberry, social media will also be a key factor in Halston’s revival as well as celebrity partnerships. “Halston was one of the pioneers of marrying fashion and celebrity. I value that enormously. Celebrities are incredible ambassadors and we will be making some thoughtful choices after market.”

For now, it certainly sounds like Halston is in good hands. Malka is running a tight ship that includes a heavily-detailed four-year plan and an employee manual that even dictates the font of email signatures. Only time will tell if he and his crew can do Roy justice, but Malka believes they’re certainly on the right track. ”I think if Halston were here today, he would be very pleased.” And so would Liza. [WWD, sub req'd]

Chief creative officer Christopher Bailey and co. fired off a series of “Thank-yous” after hitting the milestone, which served as yet another technical triumph for the iconic label. In October, Burberry was ranked as the most digitally-competent brand with the highest digital IQ in an index created by NYU’s think tank, L2 Luxury Lab. And while there are other fashion brands with more Facebook friends — Victoria’s Secret has over 16 million and Converse over 21 million — they’re not trying to sell you a $1400 bag anytime soon. [Vogue UK]

Hers curated by: Samantha Lim
His curated by: McArthur Joseph

- The feds seized $76.8 million in counterfeit Burberry, Coach, Fendi, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton and other fashionable items as part of a six week sting appropriately titled “Operation Holiday Hoax.” [WWD]

- Oh, Rihanna. Following a legal flip of the weave by David LaChapelle over copying his photographs for her “S&M” video, the pop tart looks to have turned her pilfering eye on the work of Sølve Sundsbø with her latest clip, “You Da One.” [Fashionista]

- Mark Fisher, who produces the controversial shoes Derek Lam has accused Ivanka Trump of “blatantly” copying from him, “strongly denies Lam’s claims.” Fisher argues that Lam’s design “has been used by numerous manufacturers for many decades” and adds for good measure, ”There is nothing iconic about the appearance of the Lam sandal.” Calling a man’s wedge sandal not iconic? Dem’s fightin’ words. [WWD]

- Oooh-la-la…oh, no. No. French health authorities are recommending that 30,000 women who received potentially defective breast implants from a French company have them removed as a preventative measure. [NYT]

- Brittany Murphy‘s mother is claiming her daughter and son-in-law Simon Monjack were killed by toxic mold found in their Hollywood home. The mold apparently caused the pneumonia that killed both Murphy and Monjack and now Momma Murphy is taking legal action against her lawyers for mishandling her case against the construction company back in January. [TMZ]

Loree Rodkin is the jewelry design rockstar in question. Her creation sits on Lanphear’s ring finger above and below, and blurs the line between medieval and and modern. Rodkin’s designs will be joining the permanent collection at the Smithsonian, not for the fact that they seem from another era, it is because Michelle Obama wore Loree Rodkins to the Inaugural address.

As conversation jumped from jewelry to boutiques, I asked her to let us in on her store crush of the moment:

“I shop in the east village. Anywhere I can go where things aren’t picked through.” [AKA we're never going to find out where she shops unless we see it with our own eyes. She doesn't want us picking through first.] “But it’s hard, I dont really want to shop on the weekends. On a Saturday I’d rather go to a bakery and eat pie, put some whiskey in my coffee.”

This brings us to pondering transformable clothing, that it means even if two people have the same thing, it will look entirely different. It’s not only the accessories you put with it, it’s where you wear it on your body; trying new silhouettes by wearing something not exactly as it’s meant to be worn. Like her interns at Elle.

“I love when interns come to work with sweaters wrapped around their head.”

Which thus led to ruminations on New York being the best city for self expression.

“Back in Virginia they dont think outside the box. That’s why I had to be here.”

And we’re so grateful made it here.

Tomboy Girlfriend

Neil Moodie engineered the “tough pony” for the BCBG Max Azria show here in NY, but it was also seen at Rochas and Calvin Klein. This self-wrapped pony is easy to do yourself.

2011 British Fashion Awards

Emerging Talent Award — Ready-to-Wear – Mary Katrantzou

Emerging Talent Award — Accessories: Tabitha Simmons

Emerging Talent Award — Menswear: Christopher Raeburn

Model: Stella Tennant

Designer Brand: Victoria Beckham

Menswear Designer: Kim Jones

British Style Award: Alexa Chung

Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator: Sam Gainsbury

Red Carpet Award: Stella McCartney

BFC Outstanding Achievement in Fashion: Sir Paul Smith

Accessory Designer: Charlotte Olympia

New Establishment: Christopher Kane

Designer of the Year: Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen

[Link Love: BFA / Vogue UK]

Photos: Fashion Gone Rogue

Cover girl Lucas plays the fair-haired, fair-skinned outsider, finding sophistication in the wilderness with looks from Bottega Veneta, Marni, Tommy Hilfiger, Miu Miu, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Meanwhile Fogarty is immersed in tribal prints and the occasional headwrap from the runways of Burberry, Balenciaga, Pucci, Diane von Furstenberg, Giorgio Armani and Maison Martin Margiela.

Photos: Image Amplified and Fashion Gone Rogue

Photos: Fucking Young! 

Having mastered the art of social media — they’re #1 on Facebook with nearly 9 million “Likes” and #2 on Twitter — Burberry continues to find innovative ways to engage consumers such as a live-streaming Tweetwalk, where looks from London Fashion Week were Tweeted before they hit the runway. They also scored well in e-commerce and mobile commerce thanks to its global site relaunch, landing the over 150-year-old British label the top spot on the L2 index and the official label of “Genius.”

Kate Spade was a newcomer to the index but their blend of smart e-commerce and a strong mobile and social presence skyrocketed the brand to the #2 spot. Storied houses Chanel and Christian Dior, on the other hand, seem to be resting on their luxury laurels earning only “Average” L2 IQs.

Prada and Hermès started running with the bad girls in school, smoking in the bathroom and dating college boys instead of working on their social media and as a result their IQs plummeted from “Gifted” in 2009 to “Challenged” in 2011. And to make matters worse, Prada was cited as the “biggest digital disappointment in luxury.” Yikes, wait til your father hears about this….

But in their defense, Europe might just have a harder learning curve. Ten of the top fifteen brands in the L2 index were American and on average American brands have a higher digital IQ than their Euro counterparts. Finally, somewhere the U.S. excels in something besides obesity and sluttiness.

The top 10 list is as follows:

1. Burberry: Digital births an icon: Proof that digital investments translate to shareholder value.

2. Kate Spade: Top social media score; Index newcomer did not get memo that heritage is necessary to be iconic digitally.

3. Coach: New York native continues to woo the blogosphere and registers top scores for site experience.

3. Gucci: Gucci Connects dots and delivers with shoppable video and recent Tumblr launch

5. Dolce & Gabbana: Global site relaunch threads needle of edgy and effective.

5. Tory Burch: Facebook store leads fashion F-commerce (r)evolution.

7. Ralph Lauren: New York Times iPad app takeover transforms brand into rich media publisher.

8. Hugo Boss: Top mobile scores and interactive YouTube channel venture differentiate the brand online.

9. Louis Vuitton: Embracing the spirit of travel with Amble app; Leads on Foursquare.

10. Michael Kors: Destination: Kors. Evolving brand into an online lifestyle.

[Luxury Lab, Telegraph]

Banana Flame's Webcam Social Shopper

AR is the wave of fashion’s future, adding another layer of interactivity and just plain awesomeness to the shopping experience. Adidas introduced sneakers last year, the Originals Augmented Reality Pack, featuring AR codes on its tongues that when scanned would lead to interactive games online. T-shirts by London’s Cassette Playa have AR codes that reveal horns and other weird shit on its wearer’s heads.

And in April, Burberry had an Augmented Reality fashion show in Beijing with hologrphic models catwalking side-by-side with their real life counterparts.

Fashion mags are also getting into the AR groove, with Dazed & Confused having implemented AR codes in its March 2010 issue that, when scanned with a webcam, made “the pages come alive on your screen, as a fashion film is superimposed on the magazine image,” explains the pub’s editor Rod Stanley.

As the idea of a virtual closet has tantalized me since the sartorial heyday of Cher Horowitz – everything inevitably comes back to Clueless — Augmented Reality offers a viable, though not completely perfected approximation. Though one can get the general idea of what a prospective purchase may look like via Banana Flame, the touch, the feel (of cotton) and the actual fit of the garment isn’t replicable…yet.

For now, Augmented Reality is this cool gimmick used to entice and intrigue — much like the current craze over 3-D — but unlike that gimmick, AR has the potential to completely change the way we shop — and you don’t need those funky glasses, either. [NYT]

Models on Todd Lynn's Spring 2012 runway / Style.com

According to Carole White, founder of Premier Model Management and not the biggest Naomi Campbell fan, ”We’re not just talking about one or two big girls. Jacobs had numerous models holding on options right up until the day of his show meaning they all stayed in New York just in case they got cast.”

White goes on to say, ”Gucci demanded that girls fly to Milan on Saturday to meet Frida to see if she would consider them for her show, which meant Saturday got trashed. Then the girls were expected to fly straight back to London, and if Gucci were interested, fly back to Milan again on Sunday for another round of casting, then for fittings on Monday. Only a tiny fraction of them realistically have a shot at being in that show — we all know it will be full of mega girls. I find it insulting that a designer like Frida thinks London is so insignificant that she would do that.”

For agents and models alike, Gucci and Jacobs are major gets, but that leaves the already packed London schedule of designers feeling like fashion’s bastard step-children. A source at Todd Lynn claims to have “lost 10 out of 19 girls,” with agents calling them in the middle of the night to pull their girls and some models not even showing up for fittings because they’ve flown off to Milan.

Also not helping matters is LOVE magazine editor Katie Grand — damn you Katie Grand — who styled for Jacobs and also styled for the London-based designer Giles Deacon. Grand demanded a five-hour call time — which one “fashion insider” calls ”unnecessary, absurd, selfish and wrong,” citing Paris’ strict two-hour limit — thus monopolizing any girls left in town after Burberry.

Amidst fears that London Fashion Week may be squeezed out all together, the British Fashion Council is beginning to feel the heat. The BFC is being accused of mismanaging the show calendar and for not standing up to the organizers behind the  New York and Milan fashion weeks.

Meanwhile, CEO of the BFC, Caroline Rush, insists that something is being done. She’s not particularly clear what that something is, but the Council has “invested time in developing direct relationships with model agencies to better understand their challenges and encourage them to send more internationally-recognised catwalk models to London. This season, the models at designers such as Jonathan Saunders, Erdem, Christopher Kane and Tom Ford have been of a global standard.”

Well, for those handful of shows, good for you. But for everyone else suffering at the model-grabbing claws of New York and Milan: damn you, Caroline Rush. [Telegraph]

“Burberry Body is the next chapter in our history, and a launch we are all so excited about,” Christopher Bailey, Burberry Chief Creative Officer, said. “It’s the Burberry world translated into a scent, embodying every facet of the brand including our music, collections, scent, platforms and communities.”

Check out some of Rosie’s behind-the-scenes shots on page 2.

What is a hurricane? Basically it is a tropical cyclone with crazy intense rain and winds that blow around in a circle.  The winds can blast off roofs hundreds of miles inland, form tornadoes, and cause massive flooding and power outages.

How do most people die? Off the coast, huge domes of water called “storm surges” form from the storm, and the heavy water crashing down destroys everything in its path.  90% of people killed in hurricanes are victims of storm surges.  What does this mean?  CANCEL YOUR TRIP TO THE HAMPTONS OR JERSEY SHORE.

What are your survival kit necessites? The standard “emergency go bag” needs to have at least 3 days worth of supplies.  The checklist includes a battery-powered radio, cash, credit cards, flashlights, candles, matches, extra batteries, first aid kit, blanket, food, water, and clothing.  We are obviously most concerned with the clothing aspect so here are our picks on what you will need.

For the Pretentious Art Snob:  You’ve been there, done that, own everything and everyone so even the most avant garde installations leave you bored. But that doesn’t mean you have anything else to do.

D&G, $295

Keep reading for a variety of watches that will all leave the right impression.

Mario Testino shot Rosie for the scent’s campaign, directed by Burberry chief creative officer, Christopher Bailey who had this to say about his new Body:

“Burberry Body is the most exciting launch that we have ever created and captures the iconic spirit of the brand today in a striking and sensual way.”

As for Huntington-Whiteley, she’s just happy to strip down and thinks that being the first “Burberry Body” is an “amazing compliment.”

Young boys — and some girls — everywhere heave a collective “Thank you.”

Burberry Body comes out September 1. [WWD]

Fresh on the fashion scene, Emma poses for the October 2008 issue of Vogue Italia.

Photo: StyleFrizz

One-of-a-kind totes customized by CFDA designers including Diane Von Furstenberg, Badgley Mischka, Jason Wu, Marchesa, and Botkier may have sold out, but you can still snag the standard tote for a mere $35. Check out the YOU CAN’T FAKE FASHION page in eBay’s Fashion Vault to purchase the bag above and see what you missed.

Photos: Vogue.it

On hand to toast Wintour — who never met a Chanel bouclé tweed she didn’t drape over her frail back — were Karl Lagerfeld, Donatella Versace with bff Riccardo Tisci — fresh off his glorious fall 2011 haute couture collection for Givenchy – Lanvin‘s Alber Elbaz, Anna’s Italian counterpart Franca Sozzani, Mario Testino, LVMH head honcho Bernard Arnault, YSL‘s Stefano Pilati, Burberry‘s Christopher Bailey,  Tommy Hilfiger, professional dandy and Vogue‘s editor-at-large Hamish Bowles and the Rhoda to Anna’s Mary, Grace Coddington.

According to the Kaiser, “We had this very nice cocktail, where Anna made a very funny speech.” I have a hard time believing at least one of those facts. [WWD]

Click through for more picture from Vogue Italia that were apparently taken by a drunk intern with an iPhone.

Singga Enterprises Inc., Carnation Fashion Co. and Altec Productions were accused of manufacturing, importing and illegally selling handbags with the Louis Vuitton and Burberry logos. Singga was ordered to pay $850,000 and Altec $1.2 million to the luxury brands, while Carnation will pay $390,000.

Judge James Russell described this as an “egregious” case of trademark infringement and it couldn’t have come at a worse time, what with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visiting the Land of Canucks. What would Kate think? [WWD]

ACE: Caroline Wozniacki – Stella McCartney

The #1 high power fashion-cum-athletic designer Stella McCartney has fittingly taken the #1 player in the WTA as her own; Caroline Wozniacki is the face of Adidas by Stella McCartney. She’s flashing Stella off and on the court and crushing bitches on the grass court.

SIDESPIN: Serena Williams - Burberry

One half of the dominating twins, this side paneled sidespin hugs every solid muscle curve.

LOVE: Ana Ivanovic – Matthew Williamson

Playfully textured, the slight fringe reminds us of the grass courts on which the tournament takes place. Mini-skirts and fast balls…

WILDCARD: Jelena Jankovic – Vivienne Westwood

This dress is a shirred thing. Will a win be in the bag?

FAULT: Heather Watson – Mulberry

How one makes an superbly trim athlete look frumpy is beyond me, but unfortunately Mulberry has done that for Watson. And the shoes look like ace bandages, not a good look for a competing tennis pro.

FLATLINER: Laura Robson – Temperley

She hits it low and steady. None too exciting, except for the shoulders.

LET: Andrea Petkovic – Richard Nicoll

The tennis imagery works in the iridescence, but the fit? The ref is consulting the umpire for a final decision.

BYE: Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova – David Koma

Its tennis themed pleat cuts her off all wrong, and ends up making her look wide. Too much, yet too little.

LOVE LOVE: Maria Sharpova – Alexander McQueen

Stuns, absolutely radiant.

MATCH POINT: Bethanie Mattek-Sands - Alex Noble

Designer to Lady Gaga, Alex Noble created the bodice of this dress out of, you guessed it, tennis balls. Tis possible that only an entity like Mother Monster could pull off such a thing, but don’t get us wrong Bethanie, we admire your balls.

Good little ball boy he is, Nicholas Kirkwood heeled the whole WTA for this night.

Designers gave the gala a big serve, but who won the game point in your book?

Dolce & Gabbana were not the only ones to live stream this morning. Fashion lovers from around the world could watch the show directly on the site, Style.com and various blogs such as 00o00. To add to their technical sophistication Burberry also allowed people to purchase coats & bag online right after the show ended. (Talk about a fast turn around!)

The show started and I was literally baffled and immediately thought Is Burberry going Boho chic?” This is a reasonable thought since the last two season produced sleek and spiked biker jackets. Models continued walking out and I couldn’t shake the feeling that this collection was getting super androgynous.

The coats were phenomenal and I would expect nothing less than from a brand like Burberry. I also appreciated the risk that was taken. the color palette was pretty neutral over all but the prints,which appeared African inspired, seemed like a new departure for Prosum.

To be honest, I believe the hats fell incredibly flat. It’s really unfathomable that men would wear such a thing out and especially when trying to impress. It also appeared that many looks were very familiar to Marc Jacob’s Spring 2010 collection.

All in all, I think was a pretty solid collection but the show  execution needed work. It must be reiterated that no man would be caught dead in those hats but I can see many of the coats and patterned sweaters flying off the racks.

Follow me on Twitter & visit my personal menswear blog for more pictures & Mens Fashion Week coverage: dailyMISTER.com

Right to Bare Arms

Either find some sleeveless numbers or go all Edward Scissorhands on some old jackets.

Summer Layering – Sleeveless by Les Fabian featuring a sleeveless cardigan

Leggings of the Fall

Slip a legging — or jegging or whatever the helll the kids are into these days — under those short-shorts.

Summer Layering – Leggings by Les Fabian featuring fringe shorts

Lighten Up

Try a light jacket, cardie, hoodie or sweater  in a fabric that breathes, like cotton, linen or silk.

Summer Layering – Light by Les Fabian featuring a stripe sweater

Put a Necklace on It

Heap on the accessories to add a layer of sophistication or plain ole whimsy.

Summer Layering – Accessories by Les Fabian featuring a chain necklace

The Long and Short of It

Mix up your proportions and lengths — if summer ain’t about a crop top, what is it about?

Summer Layering – Crop by Les Fabian featuring a studded jacket

2002 – The first OFT was a subtle affair. Clocking in at $730,500, highlights included key lime pie and a J. Lo velour sweatsuit. You gotta start somewhere.

2003 – O then proceeded to crack the million dollar mark, $1,527,750. This is when she started throwing $600 watches and $400 Blackberries at people.

2004 – Shit went down. $4,299,600. We’re talking flat screen TVs ($2,299), spa trips ($850), $11,000 bedding and a $2000 laptop. Suffice to say, there were no J. Lo sweatsuits.

2005 – A little more conservative. $2,211,600. We got a little Ralph Lauren, a little Burberry, an Apple iPod and the big ticket item, a $2400 diamond watch.

2006 – This year’s studio audience must have been PISSED. Facing criticism that she had been basically feeding into American’s capitalist greed, Oprah gave her studio audience camcorders and a $1000 credit card to perform (and record) a good deed. Cost = $390,000.

2007 - So that happened, a lesson was learned by no one and then Oprah dropped $2,364,000 on some hideous footwear ($120), the super awesome Planet Earth DVD box set and a $3800 refrigerator. I wonder if that included shipping and handling?

2008 - Remember the recession? Yeah, me neither, but Oprah did and so she shafted her audience again with an installment of “Thrifty Favorite Things.” An H&M swimsuit ($15), a Norma Kamali suit ($350) and something known as “Fit Flops” ($50) broke the bank at $210,600.

2009 – Oprah didn’t even bother this year. There was no OFT, no one checking under their seats for anything, no one jumping up and down in an embarrassing fit of ecstasy. The end was nigh.

2010 – Lulled into a false sense of security, Oprah struck with what would be her Biggest and Last Favorite Things Ever. A bittersweet moment, no doubt, but one still considerably sweet at a cost of $12,075,000. Diamonds! Cashmere! $700 cruises! $3600 3D televisions! $500 iPads! And the grand daddy of all prizes, a $22,000 Volkswagen Beetle! Crying, jumping, hyperventilating, heart palpitations, etc.  followed.

And that’s all she wrote. To those lucky couple hundred of people who got to bask in the glory of Oprah as she screamed in your face about gifts you could otherwise never afford, I salute you. To the less fortunate souls from  2006, 2008 and 2009, at least you got to bask in the glory of Oprah yelling in your face about something.

That’s more than many of us will ever be able to say. [Jezebel]

1. Christopher Raeburn: Made from recycled military parachute nylon, this parka (which also allows for a warm winter insert) will protect from the elements.

2. Emma Cook: Not your typical poncho, this one has the capacity to enhance your outfit, rather than covering it horrifically, as so many ponchos do. And it will be good to you during a potentially rainy festival season.

3. Peacocks: A cheapie mac from across the pond, where it rains, all the time. Printed leopard. Rawr.

4. Ann Demeulemeester: Drawstrung up in silver, the lapel alone is worth the wear.

5. Jil Sander: As gray as the day is long, yet as olive as my filthy martini, this coat can make a splash.

6. Topshop: Brings me back to a skirt I had during my middle school Spice Girls days – deep blue and plastic. But what I really really really want is zigazig ahh.

7. ModCloth: Red and rubber with an inner whale.

8. American Apparel: Down with a cinch, up with a hood.

9. Moncler: The dolman cuts it short for warmer weather drizzle.

10. Burberry: Cropped and caped, shrug it dry.

As umbrellas are quite the temporary fixture – lost or broken almost immediately – pick up a cute printed guy at H&M for cheap.

And I continue to stand by a solid flatform in the rain.  Because weather is no excuse for shlump.  In fact, there is no excuse. Stay classy. Stay dry.

1. Macbook Pro  Laptop $1799.00, apple.com

2. Christian Louboutin Biana 140mm Heels $795, christianlouboutin.com

3. Glam Rock Rose Gold IP Watch $995, glamrock.com

4. Tiffany Hearts Charm & Chain $850, tiffany.com

5. Tracey Reese frock! “Adison” Dress $228, traceyreese.com

6. Beats By Dre Solo Headphones $229, beatsbydre.com

7. Nikon COOLPIX P100 Camera $399.95 shop.nikonusa.com

8.  Hermes Ex Libtis GM Notebook $225 hermes.com

9. A-morir Libertine Sunglasses $280, a-morir.com

10. Completely Bare Gift Card completelybare.com

11. Tuleste Market Bouna Fisherman Booties $375 shopbop.com

12. Burberry Leather-Detail Trench Coat $1195 neimanmarcus.com

13. MAC Cosmetics Gift Card maccosmetics.com

Cara Delevingne, Poppy Delevingne & Lily Donaldson

Burberry Chief Creative Officer Christopher Bailey hosted the party, looking dapper as always.

Christopher Bailey

Ellie Goulding

DJ and model Tom Guinness played an in-store set at the party.

Tom Guinness

British Burberry Acoustic band Life in Film performed in the store as well.

If you haven’t heard Life in Film, you must check out the video below. During Fashion’s Night Out in Milan, they played in the streets and in the Burberry store. So cute!

Charlotte Olympia Tri-Colour Platform Pumps – Mom started that new stripper workout class, and she can’t get enough. Give her some colorful, sexy and tasteful platform heels so she can drop it like it’s hot in high style. $907, harveynichols.com

Jenny Packham French Lace and Silk-Chiffon Robe - Cougars don’t wear sweatpants and t-shirts around the house, they wear lingerie. Something soft and romantic is perfect for lounging solo or entertaining 20-something company. $1,955, net-a-porter.com

Kenneth Jay Lane 22-Karat Gold-Plated Crystal Ring - Every successful single gal needs a right hand ring, something to show the world she doesn’t need a man to buy her fine jewelry. This modern version’s coral and jade hues will be fab in the coming warm weather. $190, net-a-porter.com

Origins Starting Over Eye Cream - Just because mom looks young and hot doesn’t mean she will stay that way forever. Help her preserve that youthful, wrinkle-free face without the use of needles. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving. $41, debenhams.com

Burberry Prorsum Long Biker Leather Jacket - Leather jackets are great for clubbing because they protect you in bar fights and act as armor when falling down stairs drunk. Mom probably won’t be partying quite this hard, but a handsome leather jacket will keep the other inebriated bitches at bay. $4,494, luisaviaroma.com

What would you add to the Cougar Mother’s Day Gift Guide?

Beaded bag: I hope you’ve done your homework because this look requires an undetectable extension charm. Channel the clever and resourceful Hermoine with a purple beaded bag to carry a live-in tent, extra clothing and invisibility cloak around with you at all time. Above: Santi Purple Clutch $248, endless.com

Sword accessories: Don’t fret if Godric Gryffindor’s sword won’t appear to you during the most crucial moments because you can wear something just as badass around your neck at all times. This gold and silver sword encrusted with gorgeous diamonds and rubies is so cool, it’s almost magical. Above: Atelier Minyon Swirl Sword Necklace $1,000, maxandchloe.com

Magic wand (DUH): What better way to dazzle friends than performing a little magic at your next social event. Don’t let that drab, dingy remote control do the work when you can watch any channel you desire with the flick of a wand. A great accessory for the Royal Wedding tomorrow! Above: Kymera Magic Wand $83, thewandcompany.com

Darkly magical ring: If your motive is to hide Horcruxes, then shame on you. But if you’re just looking for a way to handsomely replicate the look of Marvolo Gaunt’s Ring, it can be done without the evil powers of the dark forces. Above: Jayce Wong Gold Angel Pearl Ring $707, kabiri.co.uk

Cloak: Hunting down the Dark Lord‘s evil doings is hard work, especially when you need to be undetectable. Stay warm and camouflaged during nights traveling through the dark, dangerous and chilling woods in high style. Above: Nabil El-Nayal Long Sheer Cloak $1,998, harrods.com

Green hat: Although he resigned as Minister of Magic after discovering he was wrong to deny Voldemort‘s return, Cornelius Fudge knew how to exit in style. His iconic green bowler is elegant English perfection and perfect for stepping out in your wellies and Burberry raincoat during spastic spring showers. Above: Kangol Wool Player Trilby Hat $50, urbanexcess.com

Potion vial: You never know when some extra Polyjuice potion or Veritaserum will come in handy, so carry your precious creations on body everywhere you go. These adorable little vials look good solo or with a few worn together, so don’t be shy about ordering in bulk. Above: Unearthen Vial Necklace $185, bonadrag.com

Are you ready to dress the part for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2? We sure are! What is your favorite magical fashion piece?

- Karl Lagerfeld, contrary to popular belief, will not be involved in the creation of Paper Passion, a fragrance inspired by the smell of books as reflected in a badly-worded statement allegedly from his European PR  person. [Mimi Frou Frou]

- Vidal Sassoon? More like Vidal Sassy.When asked about Kate Middleton‘s hair, the iconic hair-raiser said that it was “kind of neither here nor there” and said of Michelle Obama, “Oh! What wonderful straightening techniques they have today.” Hmm, someone’s sharpened their scissors and they. Are. Out. [Financial Times]

- Sassoon might want to keep comments like that to himself, no matter how innocent, since the British police are not having it for the Royal Wedding. 5,000 cops will be on hand this Friday to ensure that no one ruins this most beautiful, and costly, of days. They are ready to respond “robustly, quickly and firmly,” which is coincidentally how I respond to most “threats” or as I like to refer to them, “come-ons.” [Reuters]

- Balmain officially announced today that Olivier Rousteing (whom Styleite pointed out is a total hottie, thank you) will supercede Christophe Decarnin. [NYT]

- Dov Charney‘s  been busy fellating various financial resources and he’s come up a winner! The professional perv has secured $15.2 million from investors to keep American Apparel from descending into a unique circle of hell reserved for overpriced crotchless pants. [WWD]

Thick brows. Thin frames. Cynthia Rowley $175

Go ahead, wear your sunglasses at night. Converse $59

Glow in the day. Fold in the pocket case. Burberry $250

Remade designer vintage. Yes, please. Paloma Picasso by Retrosun 160 GBP

Mr. Ford has crafted the new shape of aviators: the circle. Tom Ford $290

Yellow lenses make the world a brighter, happier place for you. Persol $360

Yellow frames make the world a brighter, happier place for everyone else. Urban Outfitters $16

Cat’s eye curves best in tortoise shell. Elizabeth and James $155

Earrings flying on the tips of chained arms – genius. House of Harlow $143

Outline jagged angles bright. Karen Walker $180

Antique feeling of traversing a desert in shades. Diane Von Furstenberg $165

Bright gold and dark green fusion swoop gracefully. Dolce and Gabbana $190

Cat’s eye dipped tip. Alexander Wang $325

Octagon. Stop. Clear. Go. Charles Anastase X Linda Farrow $355

Iridescent Cyclops shades have got you covered. Cheap Monday $30

Vintage round looks best ombré. Fill in the lens at SpexClub $58

Aviator shape, jetting in neon. Carrera $150

If you can get these Tiffany sunglasses, you already see the world through rose colored shades. Tiffany & Co coming soon

Frameless frames with Cleopatra bling. Versace coming soon

Started with eyebrows, ending with eyebrows. Off the chain, full circle. Laura Kranitz $54

*I discovered my pair in a thrift store in Ohio, and I found them on Karmaloop today. I felt fabulous in these cat’s eyes and I highly recommend you try them, too.

-  Models Agyness Deyn and David Gandy and designer Henry Holland ran the London Marathon on Sunday. Holland shut it down with a time of 3h 28m — maybe his running gear had something to do with it. Gandy came in with a time of 4h  35m and Aggy in 4h 45m, despite bad knees from a skiing accident and running in 5-inch heels, respectively. [Vogue UK]

- Jason Wu clearly needs to get into the prom dress business. After dressing Karlie Kloss in 2009, the designer outfitted junior super Lindsey Wixon for the prom over the weekend. That certainly beats the tacky one-shouldered hoochiewear teenagers wear nowadays that often lead to 18 years of “Nights to Remember.” [Stylecaster]

- The bride wore Givenchy. Natasha Poly married her fiancé in Saint Tropez with the aid of Riccardo Tisci‘s elegant tailoring, a natural choice for the Givenchy regular. Poly looked gorgeous and her new husband…clearly has a lot of money. What? Love may be blind, but I’m not. [Modelina]

- Sister Act on Broadway means two things: 1.) Me front-row screaming “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and 2.) 7,000 Swarovski crystals running through 23 of the show’s costumes. Patina Miller will don the sparkling habit when she makes her Broadway debut as Deloris Van Cartier, the role originated by EGOT-er and professional grumpygoose, Whoops Goldberg. [Racked]

- Lady Gaga‘s newest single “Judas” leaked on the internet and The Catholic League is already up on the cross about it. The song will be officially released tomorrow, the 19th and the accompanying video will feature Gaga portraying Mary Magdalene. The League had harsh words for the hitmaker, calling her “irrelevant” and “boring.” Meanwhile, pot meet kettle. [Hollywood Life]

1. Wear a jazzy surgical mask. Remember when swine flu was all the rage? Everywhere you looked, someone(s) was wearing a surgical mask. These are ugly and sterile, no pun intended. Spice up your look while protecting your immune system with gemstones, colorful patterns or even a different mouth. Samira Boon created her masks because she was tired of seeing the the dreary white variety everywhere. You can be a tiger, gorilla or zipped-lip by snagging one at the Hara Museum Online Shop. The Etsy shop Cheap Champagne offers ruffles and plaids if you want a girlie feel.

2. Lady gloves keep germs at bay. A lady should never leave her house without gloves, how rude! These dandy little dress gloves keep scum from penetrating your precious dermis. Remove them and voila!, it’s like public transportation never happened. Forzieri White Flowered Lace Gloves, Burberry Studded Leather Gloves and Prada Vernice Gloves are all fabulous options.

3. Keep hand sanitizer with you at ALL TIMES. Don’t even think about re-applying lip gloss without getting subway grime off your fingers first. Have one in your bag for easy grabbing and another on your desk so you can sanitize before touching your keyboard. Hugo Naturals Travel Size French Lavender Organic Hand Sanitizer fits inside any bag and Jurlique Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer cleanses hands while keeping them moisturized.

How do you keep germs at bay on public transportation?

Cheery & bright - clockwise from top left:

UncommonGoods Color Wheel Stick Umbrella $40 – uncommongoods.com

Topshop Auto Walker Umbrella $36 – us.topshop.com

Bombay Duck Sparkles Folding Umbrella $31 – brolliesgalore.co.uk

Unique Vintage AID FOR JAPAN**Red & Orange Gerbera Daisy Umbrella $25 – unique-vintage.com

Bold prints - clockwise from top:

London Undercover English Breakfast Umbrella $75 – farfetch.com

Fulton Union Jack Garden Folding Umbrella $29 – johnlewis.com

Blue Banana Cherry Skulls Print Umbrella $13.65 – bluebanana.com

Barneys New York Dot Folding Umbrella $130 – barneys.com

Clearly chic - clockwise from top left:

Linea Butterfly Border Birdcage Umbrella $33 – houseoffraser.com

Urban Outfitters Clear Bubble Umbrella $18 – urbanoutfitters.com

Totes Bubble Umbrella $22 – macys.com

ModCloth Vintage Unburstable Bubble Umbrella $34.99 – modcloth.com

Clean & classic - clockwise from top left:

London Undercover Classic Tartan Umbrella $85 – frenchtrotters.fr

Louis Vuitton Umbrella $700 – louisvuitton.com

Vista Umbrella For Two $49 – umbrellastand.com

Burberry Checked Umbrella $165 – farfetch.com

@fashionindie: So, first things first, what are you wearing?

@marian_kihogo: today I like to call my look ‘car mechanic by way of the 70′s’ I’m in vintage jumpsuit-vintage headwrap-vintage accessories

@fashionindie: You’re speaking my language, lady. I knew I wanted you to be my 1st Tweet-à-Tête interview b/c of your incredible style.

@marian_kihogo: total honour for me, seeing that it’s fashion indie and it’s your first!

here is a pic of what I’m in today

@fashionindie: I’m living for that scarf. Where’d you get it?

@marian_kihogo: the scarf is actually the product of a long story.To cut it short,I bought it off a lovely elderly lady She had it on her bag!

I paid her in bangle. We did a swap on a bus. Hilarious story, told you it was long

@fashionindie: I remember when I first saw you at NYFW. 12 ft tall, stunning, black head2toe, black fur coat, FUCHSIA LIP. #dead

It was like you were the walking embodiment of fierce. What inspires your style?

@marian_kihogo: thank you so much. Over the winter it was all about the faux fur and fuchsia lip. Something so rock’n'roll glam about it

my style has always been directed by the emotive plus a love of the 70′s,sharp tailoring & a need to express a present moment

I’m inspired by everything and nothing; a film, a moment, a woman on the street, a song, a place, inspiration is all around

@fashionindie: I’m all about the 70s. It’s funny you’re werqing a 70s car mechanic look, I was going for 70s college art prof.

@marian_kihogo: I love that ’70s college art prof’ I might have to try that tonight for a clients party

@fashionindie: Feel free, it’s all about a cardigan.

@fashionindie: When I actually spoke to you, I wasn’t at all surprised you were British. The Br. fashion scene’s always been so cutting edge

@marian_kihogo: I think it is because the UK has always been known for experimentation, that certain spirit of fearless willingness to create

the fashion scene here is such a mix. The slick established luxury – eg Burberry to the clever wit – Giles etc

we are fashion’s ‘enfant terrible’ but it has birthed incredible talent

@fashionindie: I agree. In NY it feels like you can always wear anything or try anything, but there’s no sense of rebellion. Are u a rebel?

@marian_kihogo: Im most defo a rebel in a sense.I’ve always lived by the ideal that the mass market is myself.what I want to wear for me goes

but I think that rebel is in every creative,a need to create a new path, to dress to pls self. No real creative can be a clone

@fashionindie: Rebel w/ a cause. Do u have any labels you absolutely can’t live w/o? Or are u more of an eclectic anything goes kind of gal?

@marian_kihogo: wow I’m more of a ‘does it move marian?’ kind of girl

so if it moves me it is a done deal. All I ever bought fashion wise challenged me mentally/emotionally.style is emotive

so designers like. Ana Šekularac, Jean Pierre Braganza, McQueen, Balenciaga, Halston, Prada (maria francesca pepe)@MFPepe

have become faves over time because I resonate with their vision, aesthetic and journey as creatives

@fashionindie: I’m looking over some preview images from the #McQueen #Met retrospective. It’s breathtaking.

@marian_kihogo: there will never be another McQueen; the fearlessness, the vision, the technical ability, the ability to weave a story

@fashionindie: So true. Though I love what Sarah Burton‘s been doing with the house. Are you interested at all in the #RoyalWedding ?

@marian_kihogo: ha I knew a question about the #RoyalWedding was coming! I’m actually interested in the gown. hoping for contemporary

@fashionindie: It’s all I hear about! Americans haven’t been this Anglophilic since the Spice Girls. I think we all love a giant spectacle.

@marian_kihogo: well hold your prada clutches and Dolce corset dresses as something tells me it is going to be huge

@fashionindie: But as a Brit, does it mean anything to you besides the gown? #stillhoping4McQ Is there a patriotic pride attached?

@marian_kihogo: there is patriotic pride attached as I think the Royal family is a beautiful thing. So for me, a new princess is exciting

there is a feeling of being all part of an extended bridal party as it were. Like one big party celebrating with them

@fashionindie: It seems to really bring the country together.

@marian_kihogo: Well put!

@fashionindie: I know here, our 1st Lady has a tremendous influence on fashion. Will it be the same for Kate?

@marian_kihogo: I think Kate will have an influence on fashion. Whether she will have as much effect as Princess Diana remains to be seen

I know a few people who are already tipping her as icon, there are those who went out and bought the Issa engagement dress

@fashionindie:  That dress was cute and all but Di’s a huge legacy 2 live up 2. So tell me about your blog? How’d you get started?

@marian_kihogo: my blog was actually the internet version of a scrapbook I’d compiled over yrs. It had fabric scraps,images, quotes etc

if I found something thought provoking/inspiring, it went into that tattered book. When I moved and lost it, the blog was born

@fashionindie: That’s brilliant! And you’ll never lose it, unless the internet disappears. #knockonwood And how did you get into styling?

@marian_kihogo: I started styling at 14,my friends mother looked a mess for dinner. I cut up her designer dress. She became my 1st client.

@fashionindie: “my friends mother looked a mess for dinner.” I hope you’re as honest with your other clients!

@marian_kihogo: oh honesty(with tact no doubt!:) is an important policy and most people value and respect it.

@fashionindie:  What’s a typical styling gig?

@marian_kihogo: there is no typical styling gig! That’s why I love it.

Everything from pre-styling someone for an alps winter get-a-away for month to a red carpet function.Its fun-hectic-constant

@fashionindie: When dressing a client, do you buy what you think THEY would like or what YOU would want to see them in?

@marian_kihogo: that’s a great question. It is always about what they like, what image they want to have the public see.

with clients we work to suit an image they want to create-develop-maintain.I offer tips/ideas but they must be happy

so it is a very symbiotic relationship. They provide the desired dream image and style icons, I bring the fuel with ideas

@fashionindie: Okay, for my final question. Music and fashion always go hand in hand for me. What are you listening to these days?

@marian_kihogo: love your last question! Rihanna‘s Loud album is fantastic, Notorious Big(brilliant), Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix

I am a huge music fan both new and old. Music and fashion go hand in hand.Thanks for the tweet-interview. Glam kisses, Marian

Credit: Stylescoop.co.za

1. Invest in a good raincoat. There is nothing worse than arriving somewhere feeling cold, damp and gloomy. A good raincoat will keep you dry and never go out of style. Plus, they last for years if you take good care of them.

Clockwise from top left:
- Emma Cook duffle raincoat $400 – net-a-porter.com

- Diane von Furstenberg Zigzag cotton-blend raincoat $282 – theoutnet.com

- Jil Sander raincoat with tie waist $705 – brownsfashion.com

- Smythe Asymmetric hooded raincoat $385 – brownsfashion.com

- Rag & Bone Bleecker trench $595 – lagarconne.com

- Vivienne Westwood raincoat $1,065 – viviennewestwood.co.uk

- H&M white raincoat – hm.com

2. Don’t forget your rain boots. Even if you change into different shoes, waterproof wellies are a must for any walking commute. But these styles are so cute, you might not want to make the switch.

Clockwise from top:
- Sperry Top-Sider Sadie rain boot $79.95 – endless.com

- Fessura rain boot $119.95 – endless.com

- Cole Haan Air Melanie knee-high rain boot $128 – endless.com

- Calvin Klein Ava rain boot $119 – calvinklein.com

- Burberry haymarket splash rain boot $225 – zappos.com

- Roxy drizzle rain boots $54 – roxy.com

- Pour la Victoire studded ‘Ted’ rubber rain boots $162.99 – bluefly.com

- Polo Ralph Lauren Rossalyn II Rain Boots $64.99 – finishline.com

- Target leopard fade rain boots $22.49 – target.com

- Loeffler Randall LR rain bootie $165 – zappos.com

3. Ditch your boring, black umbrella. Would it be out of line to say these umbrellas may make you wish for rain? Maybe that’s going too far, but these designs are both adorable and made to last. Trash that bodega umbrella if you haven’t already and buy something you’ll enjoy opening.

Clockwise from top left:
- Marc by Marc Jacobs jumbled birds umbrella $48 – zappos.com

- Lulu Guinness birdcage umbrella $52 – luluguinness.com

- ModCloth raindrops on railways umbrella $30 – modcloth.com

- Kate Spade umbrella $55 – katespade.com

- Tiffany butterfly umbrella $46 – umbrellaheaven.com

4. De-frizz your hair. Humidity will leave your locks in shambles no matter what the temperature may be. These products will work with your hair on those down-pour days to keep it looking smooth, light and frizz-free.

From left:
- Tigi Bed Head Some Like It Hot heat and humidity resistant serum $20 – yesstyle.com

- Frederic Fekkai Marine Summer Hair Zero-Humidity Frizz Control $20 – yesstyle.com

- John Frieda Frizz-Ease original hair serum $7.64 – ulta.com

- ghd Obedience Cream for Frizz-Free Styling $18 – neimanmarcus.com

- Redken Fresh Curls Curl Boost Anti-Frizz Scrunching Spray Gel $38 – yesstyle.com

- Living Proof Wave Shaping, Curl Defining No Frizz Styling Spray $95 – sephora.com

5. Throw a hat on that frizz. Forgot to de-frizz? No problem! These spring hats are so fresh, they’re much more than bad hair day remedies. From classic straw to flower appliques, there is something for everyone here.

Clockwise from top:
- ASOS PREMIUM flower detail hat $44.83 – asos.com

- Albertus Swanepoel Pierre fedora $415 – barneys.com

- Topshop traditional boater $40 – topshop.com

- Missoni Zigzag crochet-knit sunhat $495 – net-a-porter.com

- Marc Jacobs Chapeau hat $442 – colette.fr

- Christian Dior 1950s vintage floral hat $450 – 1stdibs.com

- Zara two-tone wide brim hat with bow $29.90 – zara.com

6. Don’t let mean Mother Nature steal your sunshine. It might be damp and dreary, but you can brighten your day with a bold piece or two. Just looking at these colors will put you on a sandy beach.

From top to bottom, starting from the left column:
-D&G quilted crossbody bag $515 – zappos.com

- Zara fashion city bag with flap $149 – zara.com

- Adidas concord round sleek night shoes $70 – adidas.com

- Moschino ruched linen-blend skirt $860 – net-a-porter.com

- Acne high-rise skinny jeans $275 – net-a-porter.com

- Miss Selfridge belted drape bubble dress $65 – missselfridge.com

- Versace Polka-dot cotton-blend micro shorts $595 – net-a-porter.com

- ASOS MARKY Patent Leather Traditional Brogues $62.76 – asos.com

- Lanvin one-shoulder top $1,260 – barneys.com

- Jil Sander stretch-cotton slim-leg pants $595 – net-a-porter.com

- ASOS leather saddle bag $53.79 – asos.com

- H&M bow flats – hm.com

- ModCloth Perfect Photo Op Flat in Wingtip $102.99 – modcloth.com

LINK LOVE: Fashion Gone Rogue

LINK LOVE: Fashion Copious

Anja Rubik and Sasha Knezevic

Shot by Patrick Demarchelier and styled by Tabitha Simmons, Vogue recycled this very theme from an editorial nearly 2 years ago, also shot by Demarchelier.

It was cloying then and it’s cloying now, unless you’re into that sort of thing; you know, love, companionship, not dying alone, blah-blah-blah. Where’s my cocktail? V-Day’s approaching and I need a buffer from reality.

As for the clothes, besides Bonnie in Burberry, I’m literally in a coma from boredom. Pull the plug.

Link Love: MDC

LINK LOVE: Style.com