The hikes are rumored to happen anywhere between January 24th to early February and have already been noticed in Europe and Asia.  Markups on the bags, accessories, scarves, jewelry and shoes will be around 9%.  Hermes ceo Patrick Thomas told BusinessWeek that the “reasonable level” is due to “significant” silk, cashmere, and crocodile skin costs increases.  Thankfully, Hermes is one of the most esteemed investment brands, and their bags’ value, in most cases, have incredible return rates if ever sold.  Happy shopping (or in our cases, happy dreaming).

You can filter through thousands of vintage wedding, formal and prom dresses at Artsy Wedding.  Plus their simple filter feature lets you shop by preferences such as silhouette, length, train, or fabric, making it easier to find the dress of your dreams. The vintage wedding dresses creations range from show-stopping glam to simple elegance.  They even have colored gowns for the less traditional bride.  The formal dresses and prom dresses have just as much range and even more detailed filters.

Artsy wedding is determined to give you the most elegant and celebrated designs of vintage wedding dresses, prom dresses and formal dresses in low-priced deals. Their ultimate goal is to present their avid patrons both quality and practicality in one distinct place.

The styles will range from patent leather loafers with pearl tassels ($2,095), to the edgier Rollerboy spiked velvet loafers ($1,295),  to the more traditional white nappa leather Loubi Flats ($2295).  Customers will even be able to personalize their shoes with bespoke embroidery that replicates their tattoos.  Talk about bad-ass luxury.

Keeping your alcohol at arm’s length is a rule that we at FashionIndie take seriously, but not every professional setting agrees.  That’s why these books by Bender Bound are the perfect solution for a more serious workplace accessory.  The book options range from medicine or law all the way to cooking or parenting (we’re avidly awaiting a fashion book series, hint hint).  The Brooklyn based design collective has even customized pilot manuals to follow the FAA 3 oz. regulation size.

This is a great gift that a man of any style or age (well, over 21 that is) can appreciate. Plus, what guy doesn’t want to feel a little bit more like James Bond?

Boticca revolutionizes the way that top independent artists sell, by providing them with a platform to connect directly with a global customer base- people who appreciate meaningful pieces with exceptional design.  Inspired by her own wardrobe, FashionIndie’s very own Samantha Lim shared her favorite Boticca pieces with us, including a frog leather bracelet that is sure to have you green with envy.  Check out her style tips and shopping recommendations here! 

Visit Boticca, the curated online marketplace for unique jewelry and accessories by talented independent designers.

Click through the gallery below for a close up look at each item. 

1. Silk by Bryony printed silk scarf ($475) This stunning scarf is limited edition, 100% silk, and individually printed and signed by the designer.

2. LouLouBelle violet clutch ($460) This Dublin based brand has just launched in the United States and you can be the first to get your hands on it.  The supple leathers come in the stunning neutral colors and the hardware doubles as a handle to slip your hand in!

3. Dita Legends 24k gold sunglasses ($700) These limited edition titanium frame 24k white gold plated sunglasses are stun-ning. The lenses are UV protected and each pair is individually numbered on the inside.  Only 75 pieces exist worldwide, making sure your lady is getting only the best.

4. Aniela UGG boot ($995) Be one of the first to discover the luxury collection by our coziest of boot brands Ugg Australia.  The wrung Italian leather is hand sourced, the shearling is as warm as can be, and the rustic-refined silhouette is super leg lengthening. The perfect winter boot.

5. G-Star Aviator leather vest ($660) Bring out her inner cool-girl with this uber sleek, yet utterly edgy leather vest by G-Star.  Nothing says holiday cheer like a little “tough” love.

6. Madeleine Thompson cashmere dress ($336)  This fine-knit cashmere and silk blend dress is a chic dress that is flexible to so many occasions.  The A-line cut and racerback guarantee a flattering fit, plus the one-size design makes sure you get your girl friend’s size spot on. Exclusive to Net-a-Porter.

The site is simple, clean, and makes customizing your jewelry really easy.  With each click, you can see their combo options between gemstones and chain metals so you know exactly what your custom piece will look like.  We had a lot of fun designing a sterling silver chain paired with their new, super dark London Blue Topaz gemstone.

Also of note, their customer service is amazing — we were notified every step of the way  from its production here in NYC to the moment the necklace arrived at our door (beautifully packaged by the way). Looking exactly as it did online, the piece is perfect for all our upcoming holiday events, a definite keeper for that perfect pop of color.  For more information, visit them at Gemvara.com

Riding boots

From tweed skirt-suits to Barbour jackets the English country scene has enamoured the fashion greats this season. In keeping with this aristocratic trend, leather, knee-high riding boots are an absolute must. Not only are they versatile – they work equally well with a skirt or dress as they do with skinny jeans – they are practical winter shoes insomuch as they keep your feet warm and dry and with a colder than average winter on the horizon these could be just what the doctor and fashion police ordered. Straps and buckles add interest as do contrasting coloured cuffs. Warm browns, deep burgundy reds and jet black are your main colour options. If you can’t be without heels, there are a few versions with mid-height chunky heels.

Snow boots

Not that the UK really gets enough snow to warrant full-on snow boots, the fashion industry has deemed them necessary this season. Fleece and fur-lined with sturdy rubber soles, hook-up laces and plenty of natural materials make these boots not only on trend, but incredibly comfortable. Think of a cross between walking boots and snowboarding boots, add some class and razzmatazz and you are bang on the money. Some boots are knee high, whilst others are merely ankle boots; you have a huge amount of choice within this trend. Colours are natural once again, but the odd bit of Navajo or Aztec detailing won’t go unnoticed.

Shoe boots

Shoe boots are the perfect compromise between the elegance of a heeled shoe and the practicality of a boot. They cover your feet just enough to keep them feeling toasty, yet they have an attractive shape that flatters your feet and legs. This season they continue to play a key role in the fashion stakes. Look for platforms, mid-thickness heels, which add some serious height, and work with colour: shades of green, red, purple and blue are best.

If you’ve been any type of scenester this year, you know the sounds of DJ Price.  A regular at NYC’s model/actress watering holes the Darby, SL, Avenue, and 1 OAK or LA’s Trousdale, the Beverly, and Greystone Manor, he keeps the girls dancing and the boys feeling hotter than they are.  Maybe it’s because the kid resonates that certain cool factor that comes with the good kind of native New Yorker: humble, unassuming, and knows how to hustle (not in the crack slinging way, but more like the ‘anything is possible so I’m doing it’ kind of way).  We chatted with Price about his new store, what it’s like to be a DJ-designer, and got some recommendations on the best new men’s gear.

What inspired you to become a DJ? 

I was heavily influenced by DJ AM at an early age. They way he would tell a story with his playlists inspired me to push the limits with what I can do with two records.

How do you think music + fashion go hand in hand?

Fashion and music are both influenced by each other. We listen to all types of music, from rock, to house, and hip hop. We try to make clothes for each type of customer. We want everyone to find something from the Reason line to wear.

What are 5 words that describe the Reason guy?

MATURE. SMART. STYLISH. PROFESSIONAL. SUCCESFUL.

Bag lady

They say never to judge a book by its cover, but you can pretty much figure out the character of a woman from her handbag. House of Fraser has a huge range of bags to suit any budget, from designers like DKNY, Furla and Ralph Lauren to high street brands like Warehouse, Oasis and House of Fraser’s very own brand Therapy.

Skin deep

The winter weather wreaks havoc on our skin and as a result we need a little boost in the skincare department. Thankfully, all the major skincare brands put together gift packs at this time of year and you can make the most of these value-packed deals and get your friend a complete winter skincare regime. Clarins’ HydraQuench set or Lancome’s Primordial Skin Recharge set, are perfect winter skin rescues.

Make up and party

Just in time for the New Year celebrations you can indulge your BFF’s passion for beauty with a new make-up set. Urban Decay’s X11 Midnight Emergency Kit and Benefit’s I’m Glam, Therefore I Am gift set are both perfect Christmas gifts that fit in both handbags and beauty cases. These gorgeous sets include all manner of party-ready make-up like Urban Decay’s Lip Junkie lipgloss and Benefit’s BADgal Lash mascara.

Tea and a chinwag

We all love catching up with our best friends over a good brew, and with House of Fraser’s Afternoon Tea gift hamper you can make you next chit-chat extra special. This is the ideal present for domestic goddesses and those that like to entertain. It includes Mrs Bridges leaf tea, clotted cream fudge, stem ginger biscuits, Mrs Bridges Christmas marmalade, and Mrs Bridges Christmas preserve.

[Unless otherwise noted, these sales will take place Monday, November 28, 2011]

For the Wear-and-Returners: Rent The Runway Fresh – their Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment with SPF 15 (a $22.50 value) – free with any purchase! 20% Off any Gift Card Up to $50 Spend $50 – $100, Receive a $15 Gift Card Spend $100- $200, Receive a $25 Gift Card Spend $200, Receive a $50 Gift Card

For the On Point Trenders: isaay.com 20% off from Friday, November 25th – Monday, November 28th by using the coupon code “ISAAY11″ at checkout!

For the Yogi: BeyondYoga.com Savings of up to 90% on luxurious active wear and lifestyle pieces.

For the Super Glam: Madison Boutique Everything, with the exception of jewelry and sale items, will be 30% off.

For the Beauty-full: Villa Borghese 12pm-4pm EST 25% off. The promo code is 25CYBER11 Instant Gratification Insta-Firm Platinum Duo – 2 for $40 – $158 value

For the Indie shopper: Shavonne Deann 20% off from 5am-Midnight

For the Vintage-like Lover: Nissa Jewelry 25% off all sale items – use code THANKS25 at checkout

For the Shoe Obsessed: Solestruck Friday 30% off. Saturday 40% off. Sunday & Monday 50% off all sale goods (there are over 900 styles of them!)

For the Accessory Scout: endless.com November 27-28 $30 off $100 orders, $60 off $200 orders, and $100 off $300 orders. Now through monday, 33%. Starting November 29th, there will be 12 daily deals through December 12th.

For the Cocktail Dresser: Jay Godfrey $100 for a $200 credit. Sale period for 7 days.

For the Comfortably Worn: Esprit 40% off site-wide

For the Full Ranger: Piperlime 20% off site-wide

For the Super Hot: Dannijo 20% off site-wide except Mr. Dannijo and Fallen Whistles

For the Thong Song: Hanky Panky Boyshorts, panties, camis and tops up to 50% off. Thongs as low as $11.99. Free ground shipping.

For the Bling Bling: Judith Ripka $100 off any silver. $1000 off all gold.

For your Mom: Via Spiga 20% off site-wide

For the Kid Inside: ToyWatch 50% off Cyber Monday-Wednesday

For Drool Worthy Pieces: ssense enter ssensecm for 30% off

For the Daintiest: Ella Moss 30% off with the code GLITTER

For the Cheap Trick: Karmaloop Spend $60 get 30% plus free shipping, spend $100 get additional $10 gift code, spend $150 get additional $20 gift code, spend $250 and get additional $40 gift code. Spend $350 get 40%, free shipping and $60 gift code using coupon code CYBERMON.

For the Dancer: Danskin 40% off any order plus free shipping on orders over $60 using coupon code CYBERMON

For the Jean Purist: Levi’s 25% off now through Monday with the code THANK25

The workshop takes over the entire 5500 sq. ft. men’s floor and turns it into 8 stations: Candy Shop, Toy Shop, Closet (for apparel and accessories), Library (for books, CDs, media, and paper goods), Gallery (for collectibles and specialty items), Jewelry, Boudoir (for candles and cosmetics), and Holiday.  Our favorite pieces included a tiny mp3 player that had Gaga songs pre loaded, a baby sized motorcycle leather jacket, and crazy unique sets of elaborately accessorized press on nails.

November is a serious month: life gets colder, fall turns to winter, and yet the holidays, family and friends warm us up. Here are our top 10 November men’s essentials, all currently available for purchase, so you can get out and about through the holidays and look damn good along the way.

1. Barbour Dockman Cable Sweater There’s a reason dock workers used to live in sweaters like this one that has stood the test of time: they’re rugged, handsome and hold up against rain, wind and sleet. 100% lambswool.

2. Moore & Giles Weekend Duffel, $735. Packing smartly begins with you’re your choice of bag. This version from Moore & Giles is the ideal size, sling it over your shoulder and make your last minute escape. Available in black or brown leather.

3. J.Press Wool Knit Hat, $48. All American style, bold, graphic and colorful. Let your accessories bring your look together during the winter.

4. Gant Toggle Jacket, $698. City prep, sharp and functional. Worn by the boys in Dead Poets Society – the rebellious ones who escape and smoke out in the old cave at night.

5. Fingerless Gloves from Urban Outfitters, $12. Inexpensive but loaded with style. Red is the accent color of the season. Bring your otherwise subtle and dark look to life.

6. Urbanears Plattan Headphones, $60.00. A pair of headphones are mandatory for long trips. You can pick from over a dozen colors, but nothing beats black. Swedish style, booming sound.

7. Yuketen Dress Hunt Boots. Made in America by designer Yuki Matsuda. Inspired by the great outdoors, yet refined and modern in black leather. The 5” height will keep your feet warm well into the New Year. Made by hand – for the field or street.

8. Tom Ford 5718 Eyeglasses. Channel you inner movie start with these beautiful thick frame glasses from Tom Ford, the same style worn by Colin Firth in “A Single Man.” Thick glasses add angles and help define your face – always useful after eating and drinking your way through the holidays.

9. Dark Denim 7 For All Mankind, $189 Dark denim works on any occasion. This version is the right cut: slim straight, “Standard” – Tailored Denim denotes the wash in this case. Trust me, you’ll love these jeans. You can buy them online with confidence.

10. Breuninger Leather Travel Backgammon. £185 Chill by the fire and entertain family and friends with an old school favorite. Also makes a great gift. Leather roll up case with brown and beige wood chips.

For any questions on the items above, or for advice on men’s style, tweet them @Brett Fahlgren 

Spike cuff, $28

Faux leather dress, $95

Raincoats Trajectory jacket, $188

Heeled booties, $70

Cocktail ring, $12

Leather clasp color block satchel, $79

OUTFIT TOTAL: $472.00 

For our Uptown Chic/Downtown Sleek look today we are obsessing over these Reiss sequin trousers.  The perfect complement to both buttery smooth silks as well as rough & textured fabrics, their slim line and subtle sparkle make them a wardrobe essential.

This creepy/cute action figure of Terry Richardson by Uncle York is a quirky little addition to his new book Mom & Dad.  Shop at Colette

Launching on Tuesday in Sephora stores, the kaleidoscope shaped bottle is targeted to 30-something year old women who are “urban, arty, and creative”.

He told WWD, “I love to play with words, as I love to play with scents. A fragrance is not made to be explained by words. A mix of scents creates something we can smell but not describe. I can tell you that the base is patchouli fraction orpur, benzoin Laos orpur, tonka bean and musk, and the heart (a perfume must have a heart that should break, in a way, our heart) is heliotrope (one of my favorite scents), violet and freesia. But I don’t want to be too technical about the fragrance. I prefer a sentimental approach.”  Sounds a bit over the top for our tastes, but being major Lagerfeld fans we have to show our support.  Would you buy it?

Since we use our iPhones for cameras more than anything, this case is the perfect translation of what our phone represents! Cheeky, eco, adorbs, we love it.

If you haven’t heard of SSENSE.com by now, my friends you are in for a treat (the stylish kind, not the caloric kind).  SSENSE is a killer online luxury retailer with just one brick-and-mortar shop located on a beautiful cobblestoned street in Old Montreal.  The site has been a major influence in online luxury retail since 2003, with over 10 million visitors monthly  and over 400,000 visitors per day.

The Brighton Blue Crocodile Birkin $59,500

The Wall Street Journal’s Personal Journal reported on Manhattan’s super rich fashionistas aka women in the Saks Fifth Avenue personal shopping program. Saks personal shopper Fay Ricotta leaked the perks of being a client including:  access to brands the store doesn’t even carry like Lanvin, ordering looks directly off the runway, requesting that Chanel lengthen a hemline (oh mon dieu!), and ensuring that there are no double sells on certain outfits.  Each client spends an estimated $150-200k per year on clothes, and Fay alone has 27 clients (simple math brings her commission to a cut of a cool $5.4million).  This chic group of ladies is even exclusive to other members of the super rich: you have to go through an interview process to even be considered as a client.  Needless to say, we’ll continue to report on this while we save up our pennies for that exclusive Lanvin… getting there in about 90 years.

Jimmy Choo’s third NYC outpost opened this morning in the West Village between Zadig + Voltaire and Marc by Marc Jacobs.   Bedecked with chandeliers, mirrored furniture, and overstuffed seating, the designer shoe brand’s founder Tamara Mellon told Women’s Wear Daily that the shop “evokes the feeling of a Forties boudoir“.  The boutique carries the full range of Choos for women, as well as bags, leather goods, sunglasses, and the Choo 24:7 line, giving downtown fashionistas another place to exercise their credit cards.

· Read about the bitter divorce that the previous building owners went through pre-Choo [Curbed NY]

· Quotes from Tamara Mellon [WWD, subscription req'd]

· Future West Village Jimmy Choo Boutique Has a Scandalous Past [Racked NY]

We have scoured the web for the best, cheapest and easiest ways to get your fashion business rolling, and TabJuice is by far one of the top tools out there. If you have your own fashion start-up or have dreams of owning your own online store, at only $19.99 per month, this is a great way to get started. Visit www.TabJuice.com for more information and a free 21-day trial. Remarkable companies like Designer Social and Jedidiah Clothing are already using this innovative way of connecting shopping and social media, so why shouldn’t you?

Don’t forget to visit TabJuice.com for more information and a free 21-day trial!

Congratulations to the winner of this incredible Hugo Naturals Vanilla Sweet Orange Travel Kit Jade Sanceri! Jade is a superwoman who can do it all. Read about the weekend that made her a winner:

I visited family, helped my mom move, put together some flat pack furniture, changed the oil on my car, cleaned my house, deep cleaned my carpets, bathed my cat, taught my son how to shave, went on some long bike rides and went shopping. If I had smelled just a little bit citrus-and-vanilla-y I would’ve been constantly reminded I was a lovely women and pretended I was off somewhere a little more relaxing. Plus, great hair makes everything better, even when you’re lying all grungy under a car.

You can check out Jade’s Tumblr where she posts the most colorful, lovely photos. And don’t miss our next contest, WIN: A Johnnie-O Outfit For Father’s Day.

This Boutique Critique is about the amazing designer vintage store, 1 Of A Find.  Curator and self-professed shopaholic Honey Moon goes on buying trips all over the world seeking out beautiful, unique, impossible-to-get-your-hands-on Hermes, Chanel, Gucci, Lacroix, and Lanvin to satisfy her international clientele.  She used me as a Barbie doll and transported me into worlds I only dream of.  Best part? Her prices are as unique as her collection, so we definitely recommend scooting over to her Brooklyn location asap.  Check out all our amazing finds after the jump.

This gown was to DIE for.  It caught my eye immediately as a dress made for the 1950′s movies I play out in my head. When Anna Wintour extends me a VIP invitation to the Met Gala, I will surely be sporting something like this on the red carpet.

Vintage red bow evening dress- $250
Neiman Marcus rhinestone snake shoes- $135
Gold Heart Christian LaCroix earrings- $125
Little Black velvet purse with rhinestone clasp- $65

Oh-la-Lanvin!  This split front evening skirt with matching metallic sandals took my breath away.  I channeled Carrie Bradshaw and paired it with a Levi’s jean jacket and a fun net hat (something so Kate Middleton right now) to mix it up.

Lanvin gold brocade skirt- $850
Black velvet and net hat- $55
1950′s pink silk slip- $65
1960′s gold platform sandals- $68

The perfect summer maxi — the sheer chiffon made it cool in the heat while making a major fashion statement with its bold prints.  Paired with Dior booties, a Gucci bag, and a summer straw hat, I was loving this luxe warm weather look.

Sheer floral chiffon dress- $138
1950′s pink silk slip- $65
vintage coral necklace- $48
wooden beaded necklace- $25
1970s Pottery leaf & corded necklace $55
1970s Gucci “hobo” bag- $345
Chunky Amber Bracelet- $75
Wide brimmed straw hat- $55

You can’t do Brooklyn vintage without channeling a little inner hipster.  These Dior shoes (with the angelic sweet bows), vintage Levi’s and amazing seuqin blouse kept the look casual but party ready.  A python bag and flat brimmed hat made me look MUCH cooler than I am.

Silk and Sequin blouse- $85
Stetson hat fedora- $125
Vintage Levi’s 501s- $85
Dior Python and leather shoes- $65
Beige python and leather bag- $135

What screams glamour like a metallic jumpsuit?  Nothing.  What screams glamour-queen? Pairing it with these futuristic shades, a geometric statement necklace, and lace up leather booties. Retro chic and ultra fierce.

1980′s silver colored jumpsuit- $115
Etienne black and gold belt- $35
Maud Frizon brown leather booties- $138
Liz Claiborne 2 tone glasses- $45
Monet black and gold necklace- $65

The Mod Squad would have adopted me in a heartbeat in this Montaldo Op Art dress.  I fell in love with the digital print, it was so eye catching and well, trippy.  Bubbled sleeves and a high neck are hard to pull off without looking like Julie Andrews, but this psychedelic wonderland of a dress with slim cuts made it utterly chic.  I fell in love with the leather wedges and actually scooped them up for myself (sorry shoppers!).

Montaldo’s Op Art Dress- $115
Andrew Gellar white leather clutch with gold trim- $85
Chunky multi-colored beaded necklace- $65
Clegerie leather platform sandals- $88

I never thought I could pull off a Blair Waldorf headband until I found this gem of a velvet headband.  So sweet and a little schoolgirl, it matched perfectly with this lace dress from the 60′s. The chunky heeled shoes kept the look 100% vintage, and the hand painted wooden purse kept a touch of fantasy in the mix.

1960′s burgundy lace dress- $98
burgundy satin headband- $35
1960s hand painted wooden lock purse- $135
Chaos of London stacked black velvet shoes- $85

If you have any questions about the store and more vintage finds, tweet me @iamsamlim

“The bombshell mantra is about feeling confident and boosting your self esteem.  This year, Victoria’s Secret made a suit that adds two cup sizes, giving you instant sexiness. The suit makes you look gorgeous and feel sexy on the beach– its is instant confidence!  Being a bombshell is about being yourself and embracing your looks and what makes you feel sexy.  When you are yourself, you are a total bombshell.”

Adriana Lima’s Bombshell Favorites…

Bronzer: VS Beach Sexy Sun Dust Bronze Shimmer Brush

Beverage: coffee!  With milk and 2 Splendas

Dessert:  Difficult questions, I love all desserts!

Nail color: midnight black

Makeup: smoky eye or red lip

Music: anything Brazilian

Designer: Dolce and Gabbana

NYC Eatery: Betrossian (?) Cafe

Complexion: drink lots of coconut water

Bombshell look: Embrace yourself, love who you are

Winter to Summer: I work out outside and sweat more in summer, it helps detoxify and clear skin

Favorite Workout routine: jump rope

Around NYC workout: Aerospace is the place!

Favorite products for staying young: smile!

Always ahead of the curve in what’s creative, Prada has launched its latest artistic venture.  

Showcasing their new Minimal-Baroque frames in eight stunningly chic (and cunningly clever) images, the exhibition launched with a chic cocktail party at Prada’s uptown Manhattan location. We noshed on fancy finger foods while checking out the quirky specs, among other Prada goodies.

The deluxe rococo designs were created for the runways of Milan and Beijing, and have been translated into a more wearable, sleeker design for shoppers in time for summer.

And as far as the images go, they were selected together with Vogue Talents, the annual supplement of Vogue Italia.  They will be presented together in Prada stores in Milan, Hong Kong, London, Paris, Istanbul, Madrid, and New York from May 17.

We loved how creative the artists were with the frames and cannot wait to channel our inner Prada woman with these bold pieces!

Barbie has gone bad-ass and is labeling herself with this “Good Girl Gone Blonde” necklace.

Always the fashionista, her collection of charms that include stilettos, blow dryers, curling irons, lipsticks, and booties.

Pieces range from $30-$375 and will be available in all places Noir retails worldwide.  For any questions, tweet at me @iamsamlim

FOR THE HIP MOM: Baby Phat Scoop Neck Belted Tunic, $49, babyphat.com.  A style that suits every body type, this tunic is flattering and trendy with gold studded details.

FOR THE DO IT ALL MOM:  a Keurig Platinum Brewing system, $179.95.  Because most of us cannot function before coffee, this system makes the process even simpler than it was before.

FOR THE STYLISH MOM: A membership to ShoeDazzle.com. Because if Kim Kardashian endorses it, you know its a quality product.

FOR THE MOM ON-THE-GO: Skechers Shape-Ups SRT or S2 Lite, $100. skechers.com.  Another Kardashian endorsed product, multitasking moms can get their workouts in while running errands.

FOR THE TASTEFUL MOM:  a yummy fruit and chocolate bouquet from Edible Arrangements.  Every mom loves a bouquet, so why not get one they can eat too.

FOR THE MODERN MOM: a ceramic photo frame by Jonathan Adler, $58.  If you order off the website and email them a picture, they will print and frame the photo, wrap it up and send it off to mom for you.

FOR THE BOMBSHELL MOM: Conair InfinitiPro Spin Air Brush, $69.99, conair.com.  This awesome tool will volumizes, shines, curls, and gives you the perfect blown-out look without going to the salon.

FOR THE ARTSY MOM: A gift certificate to the online gallery Zatista.com.  One of a kind, affordable artwork is framed and sold on this site, assuring your mom gets something truly unique.

FOR THE CHIC MOM: a limited edition Brenda Novak Silk Scarf, $120,brendanovackforthecure.org.  This beautiful silk scarf was designed in collaboration with Hayden-Harnett.  A portion of the proceeds goes to Novak’s cause, diabetes research — a disease that effects her own child.

FOR THE ULTIMATE HOSTESS: Perrier-Jouët Fleur de Champagne Rose 2002, $300.perrier-jouet.com.  Nothing screams elegance like a bottle of the classic pink champagne.  Guests will feel uber-chic and your hostess mom will be glad she can share her gift with loved ones.

Thanks so much to Robert and his team at the Luxe Laboratory for helping us keep our moms stylish and chic!

Look 1:  Trompe L’ace

The Lace Fringed Dress, $125

This piece is so versatile because it becomes what is beneath it. The low swinging fringe makes the dress substantial.

The Nude Bra Top, $65

The top underneath is made of lace – pile the two laces atop one another and they become opaque. The bra hits the bottom of the ribcage, which equals more skin coverage from the lace.

The High Nude Shorts, $125

These thick silky shorts hug the body close and make a great layer unto itself. The length just happened to cut at the exact proportion necessary for this visual effect.

The Lace Cutout Kimono Jacket, $225

Found in varying lengths throughout the store, this particular piece comes to a sheer end at the bottom of the dress fringe. The silk swims to complement the shape beneath, and it has the capacity to fit a multitude of situations. However you decide to style it, it can work inside the house or out, day or night.

The Vintage Man’s House Slipper, $95

Now, these probably were not made with the intention of being indoor slippers, but they do remind me of what my grandfather used to wear, though his were not as pointy. The woven leather has been worn, and wear with ease. This look, however, could certainly do with a spicier pair of shoes.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

If you’re courting Court, go now and get 15% off when you mention FashionIndie.

LOOK FIVE: Disco Diva Off Hours

The Foxy Bellbottoms: Court, $117

This look started with the house-made jeans. Except for my super wide-legs, I’ve been rocking skinnies for the better part of a decade. Only now am I remembering the joy of a good flare, and it’s bringing me back to a day after Studio 54 brunch. Though these are built differently than the bells of our past, they seem to expand with less resistance.

The Burnout Shirt: Mink Pink, $60

Cropped to just below the waist and pre-worn-in, this tee wants you to just hang out in it. It’s no muss, just a well proportioned texturized t-shirt.

The Chill Out Tunic: Seneca Rising, $118 (originally $165)

Designer Andi Ballard’s aesthetic stems from her personal collection of thrift store finds and older bro’s hand-me-downs, all of which equal a soft layerable compilation of visceral favorites. Made from a blend of Tencel and Rayon, the hand feels well worn like a washed silk. It looks real relaxed here, but let down the sleeves and button it up for a suave effect.

The Striped Wedges: 80/20, $118

Multicolored stripes of varying widths on a canvas and cork wedge seem born to live beneath bellbottoms. The bit that peeks out the hem shouts Sun, Sun, Sun like Jakki in a disco fever.

The Leather Hair Corset: Court, $48

You’ve been seeing this hair tie by store owner Nicole Tondre all week. The way it brings my hair off to the side gives me those Native American vibes, like I could weave a tribal tapestry on a hand loom. Well, maybe if I make that tapestry a reality, and the traditional leather tie will keep my hair out of my face while weaving. AKA I’m going back and buying this. Now.

Court | 178 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012, (212) 925-1022

Got yourself a Court order? Mention FashionIndie and receive 15% off!!

Look Two: Maximizing Singlet

The Cutout Maxi Dress: Stylestalker, $178

This head-to-toe stunner comes from the land down under by the self-confessed, style obsessed twosome Sue-Ann San and Rachel Zeilic. From the front, the side cutouts jut in the most universally flattering part of the torso – the ribs. The strips that line the decolletage add more effect to the skin peekaboo. The front is a trip, but the back of the dress finishes the puzzle, lines connected by exposed zipper. The python print is subdued in icy white and black.

The Side-Laced Wedge: Madison Harding, $185 (originally $265)

Repeat shoes? Guilty as charged. But, get mileage out of your suede boots while you still can, and rock them with a maxi. Come summer, you’ll want something strappier.

Can’t make it to Soho? It’s okay, shop online! www.courtshop.com

178 Mulberry Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 925-1022

Guilty of lusting after that jacket? Mention FashionIndie and get 15% off everything on the Court room floor.

Look One: Shredded ‘n’ Leather

The Long  Tube Skirt: Mary Meyer, $94

California native cum NY transplant Mary Meyer fuses her talent for art into clothing that makes sense. Most notable for her geo-graphics and dyeing, she also has some revolutionary ideas about garment making. The construction of the skirt is what inspires me: she’s purposefully left the knit hemline unfinished so that the wearer may cut it to the desired length, no tailor required. The ground grazing-option takes effect when you place the waistline at any height. Named the AJM Skirt for Andrew J. Mukamal of Kell On Earth assistantship, Meyer was inspired by his grunge gone goth glam; long soft layers that counterpose plaid and leather.

The Shredded Top: Evil Twin, $89

“A physical copy of one’s self whom has altered morality” is the definition of this Australian brand’s namesake. I gather that this Evil Twin‘s twin shirt would not have holes, nor spaced fringe, nor a marble tie dye, all of which sneakily camouflage my exposed skin. With the skirt up high resting just below the bosom, I only have need for a bust long top. This holy top was born to move and shake, so if scandal isn’t your thing, throw a hot bandeau underneath as a bra, and let the hue show through. Lest you end up locked up for indecent exposure.

The Leather Jacket: Kill City, $458

With a slouch squared collar and super long sleeve lining, the relaxed rocker jacket is the ideal weight for Spring’s transition. Based in LA, Kill City is forged in that flexible weather to the sound of the rockin’ punk wail of Iggy Pop.

The Side-Laced Wedge: Madison Harding, $185 (originally $265)

Created intently for the downtown pavement pounder, these suede wedge booties ground the outfit’s transitional effect. Hilary Rosenman of Madison Ave., N.Y. and Barri Budin of Harding Dr., N.J. hauled their fashion knowledge to the East Village and began making astutely designed Madison Harding shoes.

The Hair Corset: Court, $48

Their very own hair corset comes from the Native American tradition of hair tying. They lace up like the top of a riding boot and encapsulate the pony tail. More details on this piece in the coming looks.

If you have to go to Court, this is for sure the one to go to.

178 Mulberry Street
New York, NY 10012
(212) 925-1022

Want the looks now? Shop in store @DebutNYC and mention FashionIndie – get 10%off!

LOOK FOUR: Terrestrial Nautica

The Dress: Timo Weiland, $438

On the wall, this particular Timo Weiland dress was buttoned up to the tippy top and those long pieces were tied in a knot in front. If you’ve noticed yet, I don’t like just wearing a dress; there must be another layer in order to make it truly interesting to me. I knew I had to work this spotty pocketed piecey frock from the collection “A Warf on the Baltic” into my look, but how, I pondered, what could actually enhance this already amazing slightly Saurat experiment without fighting it…?

The Bikini Top: Lisa Marie Fernandez, $360

Because of the distinctly organized layout of Début, I was able at a glance from the middle of the store to spot the very piece that would bring the dress to multi-layer perfection. The answer was hanging on the front-most display in the form of a bikini top. As this is by Lisa Marie Fernandez, I know it will look entirely acceptable, if not futuristically fantastic, to wear swimwear as real clothes. I zipped myself into the maleable, even more wetsuit inspired cropped halter and closed it to the collar with the large plastic zipper and velcro strap.

The Bracelets: Brook & Lyn, $110

I had been lusting after this jewelry since the moment I walked in. Made from slates of agate that designer Mimi Jung found happenstance on her journey through Hong Kong, her line Brook & Lyn features these slabs of crystalized rock. Encased within either black or white woven rope, they form the collection entitled “Surrounded by Day and Night”. I selected two of the bracelets, in both teal-to-sea-foam and aqua blue to complement the frenzy of colors that this outfit creates.

Can you dig this neoprene top + chiffon dress combination? I’d love your thoughts.

Check tomorrow for my last look at Début. Teaser: Parachute Nylon.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

Own a before-they-were-famous designer piece for 10% off! When you shop at Début, just mention FashionIndie.

LOOK THREE: Abstract Python Warrior

The Shoulder Piece: Fannie Schiavoni, $825

This look began with my love of the chain mail shoulder piece. The metal mesh moves like water in my hand and makes me feel invincible when strapped around my body. Its creator Fannie Schiavoni hand makes each piece in her studion in London, and keeps the color of her materials muted so that she can focus purely on the shape and clean lines. She has named this collection “Lucy in the Sky”, evoking a psychedelic yet other worldly feeling.

The (non) Body Suit: Calla Paris, Leggings, $174, Tank, $98

My first instinct to match the brilliance of the shoulder scene-stealer was an abstract printed dress by Calla Paris. Calla Haynes is a Canadian-born, Paris based designer with a five-year training history with Olivier Theyskens and a serious knack for tight prints. Début had the pattern in a fierce little itty bitty dress (which I spotted first). That mini thing, which being one of the only pieces left over from Fall 2010, did not come in my size, and thus did not even contain half of one of my boob. But I needed an outfit to form the foundation of that glorious shoulder piece. So it occurred to me to try the olive printed stirrup tights with the matching tank. Alone and together I was in love. The leggings have a nearly 3-inch sturdy black elastic waistband that hugs and sucks in as the tank tucks in to form a bodysuit.

The Skirt: Whit, $225

A bodysuit is so right for so many reasons. However, it didn’t feel 100% right at the moment; there had to be another layer, if not to cover more stunning items in Début, then to cover some of my winter weight… With that came this military green scoop pocket skirt by Whit, a line launched by Phoenix native Whitney Pozgay. With a studio Brooklyn and experience with Kate Spade, Three Asfour and Steven Alan, she has created a line founded in imagery as diverse as Keith Haring and ice pops.

How do you feel about the bodysuit? Would you wear this look?

Come back tomorrow for Look 4.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

Want it? Mention FashionIndie when you shop at Début and get 10% off anything in the store!

LOOK TWO: Early Afternoon Romp

The Romper: Timo Weiland, $350

It started with the Timo Weiland romper. Playful stripy black and white brocade touched with lace pile at the shoulders makes for a delicate daytime look. Timo and his design partner Alan Eckstein mused over Scandinavian actress Bibi Andersson for this collection. The result: feminine joviality.

The Belt: Meredith Wendell, $225

It looked somewhat incomplete without a belt. Luckily, Début is stocked with Meredith Wendell accessories. Self-defined as “uptown awkward”, there was nary an awkward sliver of leather in sight. Just this Italian-made baby soft mustard suede belt. The hue brings out the golden yellow button on the romper ever so slightly.

The Shoes: Esquivel, $540

These white patent cutout Esquivel saddles more than suffice for such a summer outing outfit. George Esquivel is enormously passionate about the craft and thus custom handmakes many of his shoes at his studio in California. Super smooth and uniquely built, these shoes felt made with love. I recommend you watch the video “Sound of Shoemaking” and enjoy a hot slice of cobbler.

Wondering how to get that braided headband look I’ve got going on? I whipped my hair into it in an instructional video here.

Stay tuned: Round 3 coming at you tomorrow.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

Like what you see? Shop at Début and mention FashionIndie to get 10% off!

LOOK ONE: Swim Slung Salsa

The Skirt: Heikki Salonen, $585

Look closely. This is not just a dress. In fact, it’s no dress at all, unless you were to pull that skirt up above the bosom and belt it, á la yesteryear’s silhouette. This swingy, deep pocketed, ruffled and raw chiffon hemmed skirt is by Finish-born, London-shown designer Heikki Salonen. Though the skirt looked familiarly pleasing at the waist, I’ve slung it fresh at my very low hip, stretching the length to ankle height.

The Top: Lisa Marie Fernandez, $385

The top is also, in fact, no top at all. It is a bathing suit by Lisa Marie Fernandez. Made of neoprene. The shape recalls forties swimwear while the material calls more for a surf instructor and/or scuba gear. Wear it to swim, wear it to dinner. If you were Gaga, you’d wear it alone to both.

The Necklace: Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer, $325

The black and white speckled neon rope tied necklace topped the texture twist. This innovative jewelry from Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer is made of entirely hand woven climbing ropes; the knotting techniques are stemmed from those used in artist Orly Genger’s sculptures. The jewelry is a collaborative effort of the two.

Check back tomorrow for another fresh look, and more information about Début.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

So for all of you Gossip Girl lovers out there who saw Jenny Humphrey make an appearance on last night’s episode aka The Pretty Reckless’ lead singer TAYLOR MOMSEN you must have noticed her rocking Donna Karan’s Black Micro Tulle Net Small Net Pantyhose!!

I know longest name ever but as a very serious tights collector these are wicked! Everyone knows Donna Karan pantyhose are an essential to complete any fall layered look!