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Helllooo... my new wardrobe from Rebecca Taylor!

2010-03-10T04:02:00Z

Wow.
This all started with a Rebecca Taylor purse that I saw in the WWD Accessories magazine. It was soooooooo cute. A mixture of leather and floral cloth, I couldn't help but fall for it right away. And then, I saw her Spring/Summer 2010 collection. Soooo pretty!!!
I can't help but love pretty things.. I mean, I am a libra, after all. I also happen to be a little bit lazy- so if you show me a dress and a cute blazer, I am SOLD! Simplicity = awesomeness.

I picked a few of my faves, and you can see the whole collection online!

Crystal Renn in the new Victoria's Secret Catalog!!!???!!!!!

2010-03-10T01:01:00Z

Holy crap!

I'm on the road again, and just got off a plane.. but I HAD to post this immediately!
HOT OFF THE PRESSES:

Crystal Renn is going to be in a Victoria's Secret catalog!

The Daily Mail online posted an article about how "shockingly thin" Alessandra Ambrosio is looking on her new Victoria's Secret shoot.
What I couldn't believe was that when I looked at the photo- she's standing next to Crystal Renn!
I know for a FACT that there were no past plans to launch any sort of "plus size" line for Victoria's Secret. They have no interest in the market- in fact, Limited Brands used to own Lane Bryant and they sold it! But... never say never! They can always start small- for instance, with swimwear. Why not offer XL to XXXL? Or size it accordingly?

This, my friends, is an awesome example of the rise of plus models in fashion! We aren't just going to see plus girls in the expected catalogs- but also, the unexpected!

Listen- I don't think that this means we're going to see a bunch of size 22 women prancing around the beach with Gisele- though ladies, you are gorgeous! BUT- this does mean that the general public is recognizing that it can be more attractive to look at a size 8, 10, or 12- even a 14- instead of a 0!!!

Yipee!!

Check out this photo. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL STORY AT THE DAILY MAIL!

Crystal Renn Center!

Miller et Bertaux... my favorite perfume!

2010-03-08T16:44:00Z

With all of my traveling and shopping, I have been exposed to a variety of smells. Whether that may be the person next to me or the candle in a store- trust me, they are all equally memorable. My search for the perfect scent is never ending- it's important that this scent carries your own vibe, and your essence. It's extremely personal to give someone perfume, and should not be taken on lightly!
I came upon the Miller et Betraux family at this teeny little store in Bal Harbour, FL called the 4th Sense- which now operates only online.

Miller et Betraux is this amazing little store in Paris (where I will be going this summer, yay!) and they have a limited line of personal and home fragrances. I chose... land. It's amazing.
I think it's important to find a scent that people won't recognize commercially, but personally. Something that will remind them of... you!
So why not start with a gorgeous, hard to find scent?

Here's my personal bottle, looking so cute among my gorgeous things!!

Click on the photo below to check out the full website!

Blue Spectator Shoes from Wehkamp in the Netherlands.. this reminds me of my friend!

2010-03-07T18:14:00Z

Well, now on to more serious topics like SHOES!

Wehkamp is a Dutch catalog that I worked for a long time ago. They are from the Netherlands, and they are kind of like.. hmmm.. like SPIEGEL! It's a catalog-only company, no stores.

Actually, it was one of my first trips to Spain for work, and I was fortunate enough to have met one of my favorite model colleagues on that trip, as we worked together! She lives in South Africa, her name is Sylvie and she has a new blog! Check it out:

But this entry isn't just about Sylvie- though she rocks- and it's not about that trip with Wehkamp. It actually ended up being a complete disaster for me, as the art director decided she didn't like me and took me out of every shot! Whoo whoo! YES, this does happen! I was so upset at the time, but now? Well, I still got paid to hang in the Canary Islands for a week so life could have been worse.

And now, maybe that I'm older, and wiser, and going to be living in Holland.. well, you never know. I could still make it to the pages of Wehkamp again! hee heee.

Anyhow, I found a pair of shoes I liked in their catalog, so I thought I would put them in here. I love a pair of cute shoes! And, the catalog actually looks nice, so, as a way to say HEY WEHKAMP, I haven't forgotten you! .. here you go: CLick on the pic for the link.

What IS privacy on the Internet, anyway. And can I really say anything about it? Can SUICIDE MACHINE fix it?

2010-03-07T17:43:00Z

I've been missing in action because I have been travling all over the place and just have not had a minute to sit down and update my blog. Between a best friend's birthday, going from Pennsylvania, to New York City, then off to Chicago for work, home to Miami and back to Chicago again... well, life gets a little crazy. Throw in a nice healthy stomach flu and I'm feeling a bit upside down.

One of my biggest moments of the week was a rip-down, crazy fight I had with one of my best friends about, of all things, facebook. While I am a card carrying member of the cult of facebook, I honestly find that every time I look at it, I just get frustrated, or annoyed. This is primarily because it's like a bulletin board for people to post things that they just can't say to each other in a normal atmosphere. Like, for real- my best friends are not emailing each other through facebook, you know what I mean? Pick up the G-D phone if you want to tell me something, or email me at my REAL email address.
Facebook takes all the photos that you upload and they KEEP them. FOREVER. Just like everything else on the Internet. So, as you can imagine, I have a little fear of that which watches us.
Does this make sense to someone that has a blog? Do I even have the right to control my own privacy, when I have been writing about my life for nearly 4 years on the Internet?
Well, I guess the biggest point to me would be CONTROL. I want it. I don't want to release photos in compromising positions- nor would I do that of anyone else.

Our friends in Rotterdam have invented a little program called SUICIDE MACHINE. This program will eliminate you completely from your virtual world! And Facebook is having a FIT.

Check it out:

I don't think I'm totally ready to leave Facebook. Sometimes, I find it entertaining. Mostly? It drives me crazy. But I feel like it's a good way to stay on top of what's going on OUTSIDE of my immediate circle of friends and family, whom I actually have a relationship with- people who I talk to regularly, people who I can actually, physically, feel in my life. There is really no worse feeling that not talking to someone for a long time, and then watching them update facebook daily. Like, um, thanks for your time. But, to stay in touch with people you haven't seen for years? It can be a cute diversion.
So that is what SUICIDE MACHINE is telling you. Get to know your REAL neighbors. Spend time doing creative things, whether that is writing, or walking, or building, or reading.
Or, as they say, be like a real bird and learn to fly by UN-tweeting!

iWood for your iPhone by Dutch design team Miniot!

2010-02-24T16:10:00Z

Okay, I have a serious problem.
I totally love my iPhone, but i hate that it looks like every other iPhone!
I mean seriously- once upon a time, it was chic to have your little white macBook, or whatever. But now? There are only so many ways to personalize your phone without looking like you bought the cover at a kiosk in the mall!!

Enter Miniot, the Dutch design team. (Yes, you will notice that the Dutch have a bit of a monopoly on amazing design- this is due to a fantastic support of the creative fields in Holland!!)

I just can't decide between MAPLE and OAK!

Help.

Check it out at MINIOT.

I ♥ Lanvin and Lanvin ♥ Acne!

2010-02-24T15:38:00Z

Okay, so I know I am on a Lanvin kick this week, but I just can't help it! Everything is so pretty. And, I AM a Libra, and damn it- we are wired for pretty things!

Anyhow, this week is super busy for me as I have three shopping days! Yes, it's trend scout week! This means that we are going to hit almost every damn cute store in MIami to see what we can find! This means South Miami, Coral Gables, the Design District, and.... Bal Harbour. Which is where I was Monday when I bought this notebook. Yay! See, I just don't write about the things I love... sometimes, I must possess them, as well.
I couldn't help it! You should see the pretty packaging!

While I was at the new Lanvin store- which, by the way, is the ONLY store in the United States (and people say Miami isn't chic!), I was able to play for a while as I know both of the sales associates at the store! This happens when you frequent stores as much as I do- trust me.. they had moved over from Marc Jacobs.

As I explored the store, I found a gorgeous DENIM dress! I couldn't believe it.. until I saw the tag- Lanvin ♥ Acne!

Acne is a great denim brand from Sweden- actually, I went to their fashion week party in London in summer of 2008, a rather messy affair on my end that involved white wine and a slippery pair of red mary jane stilettos... but I digress... and Lanvin has formed a collaboration with them! As I love denim in all its shade, I think this is an excellent collaboration! Don't freak when you see how cute everything is, okay?
Well, go ahead and freak.

Here are a few of my favorite looks... and you can also shop for the entire collection when you click on the logo below!

Christian Louboutin Barbie Doll plays house in full body catsuit. Let's enjoy it, shall we???

2010-02-23T02:25:00Z

ooohhh...

I went to Christian Louboutin today!
And it was fun. Though, unfortunately, I don't have the limitless Black Card to buy everything I loved... but, as I am all about enjoying the EXPERIENCE, and the VISION of fashion, rather than simple ownership.. well, it was pretty entertaining!

Just think FUN.

It's so cute we'll forget about the fact that Christian Louboutin said that Barbie's Ankles were TOO FAT!

(Actually, no, I will NEVER forget that, Mr. Louboutin, but you are short and at least Barbie can be cast in another mold... thanks for contributing to making even a freaking DOLL look fat!)

Actually, on that matter, check out the article below from the Telegraph, which tells us a little more about the Barbie story. Poor Barbie! Too top heavy, not enough fat... now she has CANKLES?

Barbie doll: Christian Louboutin to redesign 'fat legs'

Three new Barbie dolls being designed by French shoe designer Christian Louboutin to celebrate the doll's 50th anniversary will have slimmer legs and ankles after he decided they were "too fat".

And yes, yes, YES- there are SO many things wrong with loving this Barbie... but can I please just have that pink sofa???

Dog Whisperer Cesar Milon's awesome pitbull DADDY dies.... it's a sad day for dog lovers

2010-02-23T01:52:00Z

I love dogs. And I adore the show "The Dog Whisperer" as it's all about awesome dogs, dogs that need to be awesome, and what Cesar does with them!
Daddy has been his loyal companion on the show, always the calm presence in the pack... and he died this weekend ... sad.....

Here's a great pic of Cesar, Daddy, and their new pup...

In Memoriam: Daddy the Pit Bull(FULL ARTICLE)

Cesar Millan, all his family and friends, his staff and volunteers, and dog lovers all around the world today will mourn the passing of one of the most loyal, trusting, well-balanced, and influential pit bull ambassadors the world has ever known. Daddy, Cesar’s longtime friend and partner in canine rehabilitation, died peacefully surrounded by family on Friday the 19th of February. He was sixteen years old.

Happy, Happy and a Music Box! The most gorgeous Lanvin keepsakes for the soon-to-be bride!!!

2010-02-22T04:12:00Z

Wow, I just couldn't help but get SO excited when I saw these !! Lanvin is one of my favorite houses... but not really for every day. In celebration of the 120th anniversary, Lanvin has released a few collector's keepsakes... and I am in love!

First, how adorable is this notebook?? I am seriously thinking that I need to order this like, pronto!!

Lanvin at Net-A-Porter!!

Bridal illustrated notebook

$30

Editor's notes

Lanvin's white hard-backed plain A5 notebook with bride and groom and 'Happy' illustration is the chicest way to stay organized for your big day. Keep it for yourself or give it as a fabulous gift for a stylish bride-to-be.
And now, are you ready? Look at this music box! The packaging.. so lovely.

HELLO GORGEOUS!!!

The Bride and Groom Music Box

Opportunist Property Developer to Paint over Bansky Artwork! Boooooo....

2010-02-22T00:24:00Z

Well, I certainly have made no secret of the fact that I think Bansky is pretty rad. I think his installations are awesome, and he has definitely taken London by storm with his "grafitti" art. One of the other great things? He keeps his identity secret. This is nice, in a time when everyone and their mother is trying to jump on the fame game gravy train!!

So the Telegraph has a little article about a property developer who is planning on painting over a Banksy piece. I don't think this is the interesting part of the piece. I DO believe in property ownership, and I think that each person has the right to paint their home as they like it- or paint over what they don't like.

BUT- this developer bought the building as a PIECE OF ART! The only reason it was for sale was because it was a Banksy piece- yet, somehow, it just ended up being a great purchase and it's going to be developed into luxury condos....

Maybe, just maybe, the developer will re-think his idea, and perhaps find a way to keep the art... and still make money? Who knows...

Here's the property:

Businessman to paint over Banksy artwork 'because he doesn't like art'

One of Britain's biggest Banksy artworks in Liverpool is to be painted over by a property developer who admits he doesn't like modern art.
By Andrew Hough
Published: 7:30AM GMT 19 Feb 2010

The mural, a 30-foot tall painting of a rat holding a machine gun, will disappear after the businessman bought the former Liverpool pub it adorns and promised to paint over it.
The Grade 2 listed Georgian property was adorned by artwork from the Bristol-born graffiti giant Banksy, as part of Liverpool's Biennial art festival in 2004.
But after purchasing the artwork at auction on Thursday for £114,000, property developer Billy Palmer, 44, admitted he has no interest in preserving the painting, despite protests from art lovers.
"I'm not a fan of modern art, I can't say I know much about it really," he said after the auction at Liverpool's Marriott Hotel.
"All I was concerned about was getting this great building for a good price, I'm going to turn it into luxury flats.
(read the rest of the article HERE)

Plus Models exercise, too!

2010-02-18T15:30:00Z

With all of the fuss about the plus modeling industry lately, I think that there is some sort of general idea that girls are just laying around the pool crunching on cheetos and drinking pina coladas, while the poor runway and straight size models have to live off of diet coke and lettuce. Well I have certainly been known to enjoy a day poolside, with hotel snacks within my reach, I certainly focus on maintaining, as well!

The Plus modeling industry is just that: an industry. So, you have to stay on top of your game- you need to dedicate yourself to staying a healthy size, look fit and toned, and not puffy or jaundiced or hungover or whatever. ACTUALLY, this is probably a pretty good LIFE policy.
As plus models, we have the luxury of working out to stay fit and healthy. Unfortunately, some of the straight size ("normal" models) girls think that they have to starve themselves.

But you know what? Miami is the land of the beautiful people, especiailly the beautiful bodies. But these girls and guys are working HARD at their bodies! When I was in some sort of tortuous abdominal class yesterday, I was right next to a totally fit, completely gorgeous woman who was plugging through that class, just as I was. I have to say, that comforted me! I think that's the point of group classes, though... suffering in numbers somehow doesn't seem so bad...

Plus, I like to dress up for the gym! Yesterday, I rocked my LuLu Lemon legwarmers!

Dr. Zhivago Chic .... Now THAT's a party theme!!

2010-02-18T01:38:00Z

This morning I started the day with a nice treat- a phone call from one of my bestest besties! It's his 40th birthday coming up and we are going to head up north- YES, we are braving the cold!! .. and we are going to celebrate his birthday- AND his partner's, who is also turning 40!

SO, since it's cold, and my boys are theatrical... we have a theme!

It will be "Dr. Zhivago Chic'

I can't wait!

Thank goodness I bought that fur hooded coat last year- I think that will be perfect. Though, I must say, I don't know if it really screams "RUSSIAN REVOLUTION" and "star-crossed lovers stuck in Siberia!!."

I think we may do a little shopping tomorrow.

And Dursun is starting to grow his moustache... actually, I think we will make as nice a pair as Omar Sharif and Julie Christie!!

Here's a tribute to Dr. Zhivago from IMDB.

And, if you haven't seen it, um... WHAT???? Jeez. Watch the damn film.

FOLLOW HERE TO FULL LISTING ON IMDB

And look how amazingly GORGEOUS Omar Sharif looks in this coat!!

Zach Motl : BIG ideas, teeny little space!

2010-02-15T17:54:00Z

WOW.

I've lived in a big house before. And, I've lived in a teeny little studio apartment. No matter what, I can take over a space in t-minus 5 seconds. Now, I'm learning how to organize... and how to shift your space around so that you can actually LIVE where you reside. This means that you have a use for everything in your home!
I read this article in the New York Times and I love it because Zach Motl has what the writer calls a "sailor's thriftiness." This is entirely true, especially when you look at his space! Check out the slide show and you can see how his small studio almost appears to be the cabin and galley of a sailboat. EVERYTHING has its space- there is nothing without use.
If only we could all live our lives with this same principal.
I'm trying, I swear!!

On a sidenote- omg, he has a gorgeous BATHTUB in that teeny weeny apartment!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SLIDESHOW

FULL ARTICLE BELOW!

A Roomy 178 Square Feet

Tomas Maier and Harry Benson: A Beautiful Affair!

2010-02-12T00:06:00Z

Well, it's not like I need an excuse to visit Tomas Maier in Miami's Design District. But when this little promo planded in my inbox today, who was I to say no?

Tomas Maier's store often has beautiful exhibits of photographers and artists who represent old glamour- so drop in and visit, for how often do you have the opportunity to actually meet some of these people?

Plus VS. Petite Clothes Shopping. What is average? And why are the PLUS models PETITE?

2010-02-09T15:12:00Z

As I was thinking about what interesting topic I wanted to write about today, I started moving towards the idea of shopping. (Gasp!!). Seriously, though. In all of the hoopla surrounding the "plus woman" today, are we forgetting about the "petite woman?"

I mean, geez- let's not blame the women for being small. Just as I don't want to be penalized for my height, or my curves, I don't think that it's particularly fun for a lot of women who are little! The issue really starts with the designers. I think that the fit sizes are antiquated and need to be changed. At the very least, maybe they should expand the sizes BOTH WAYS!

Jezebel has a great article about the RETAILER differences, and why it's so difficult.. apparently, if you don't fit the narrow regulations, then
you're out of luck!

Plus Vs. Petite: Why Retailers Find It Hard Making Clothes To Fit Most Women

What I also find interesting is that somehow, the "Plus Woman" is supposed to shop online, while picturing herself in what the model is wearing... even though the model is a size 2! Could this industry have any more contradictions?
Maybe Nordstrom's has found the solution? Just combine them all?!

See below. If you are a size 16 and you are shopping, can you relate to this woman?

Let The Right One In: Completely, and totally, creepy in the best possible way!

2010-02-08T21:28:00Z

Whoooooaaaa!

Certain friends of mine and I have a total obsession with cool, creepy movies... and this Swedish film really takes the cake!

This is the story of an alienated little boy, Oskarm who lives in a small town in Sweden. Frequently bullied and caught between his divorced parents, he quickly falls in love with a mysterious newcomer in his apartment complex. The intertwining lives that are affected by this new relationship quickly combust as Oskar finally gains strength and independence, with the help of one very special creature who happens to live off of blood and has super human strength.

But somehow, it's still a beautiful, sad love story.

Enjoy! Find it on iTunes, or DVD! Check out the trailer below...

Sonia Rykeil for H & M : alittle Parisian touch to the Swedish favorite!

2010-02-08T15:10:00Z

oooooh!

The new Sonia Rykiel collaboration with H&M looks adorable!
Though I still am a bit put out that there is no H & M in Miami- I'm sure it has something to do with the "trading roads" that avoid Miami; i.e., the trucks don't want to come all the way south. Therefore, I will chalk it up to good fortune, that I can buy something from H&M and have a low probability of seeing someone else in my outfit!

Meanwhile, I've chosen my two favorite pieces featured below. It was challenging- I really love everything! Seriously, I want to buy the whole collection and then spend the summer in Paris. The photos are from NYLON magazine!

NYLON Magazine's Insider has a great interview with Sonia Rykiel's daughter, designer Nathalie Rykiel.

Click on the photo for the full article.

Maison Martin Margiela... in MIAMI!!!!

2010-02-06T21:41:00Z

Maison Martin Margiela is an innovative label with a mystery man behind it... The designs are beautiful!! When we went to Antwerp for my birthday, we went to an exhibition about the designer and it was so cool!

imagine how happy I was to discover that, after a pop-up store visit during Art Basel, Maison Martin Margiela decided to STAY in MIAMI!!
Yay!

Here's a pic of the pop-up location

The Design District continues to develop, as the Margiela store joins Christian Louboutin, Marni, Tomas Maier and more....

(happy, happy! hope it's here to stay!)

Click on the photo below and check out the Martin Margiela website- and no, it's not an error page- it's just another great design by Margiela:

My friend Sam French and Development Pictures, interviewed from KABUL!

2010-02-06T17:18:00Z

WOW!

My friend, Sam French, is a director and freelance journalist in Kabul, Afghanistan. He has a company, Development Pictures, and is interviewed here on the dangers associated with being a freelance journalist in a war zone. Amazing! Yay, Sam! Click on the link for the full interview...

Shark Attack in Stuart! Kite boarder surrounded by a PACK of sharks.. possibly Great Whites?!! scary...

2010-02-04T23:41:00Z

WOW. This is SO crazy!
I know that there are sharks in the ocean, close to the shore. I've been fishing on the beach at night and caught a bonnet head shark on a loose line- that's a baby hammerhead. BUT- this is freaking crazy. A PACK of Great Whites? The jury is still out on the type of sharks, but theiry is that it was a young Great White seeking warmer waters..

I love watching the kiteboarders on the beach, so I hope that this doesn't scare everyone away....

What is MORE AMAZING is that this amazing lifeguard, Dan Lund, actually swam through the pack of sharks to rescue the victim, Steve Schafer. Unfortunately, it was too late...

Read the full article at the Sun Sentinel, and watch a video...

Native Rose wins Launch my Line! Now, which one would I wear.... ???

2010-02-04T03:44:00Z

I've been watching Launch my Line on a semi-regular basis- Bravo is great because they always have marathons, so you can catch up...
Anyhow, they kicked out my initial fave girl, but then by I was totally happy when Kathy, with her line, "Native Rose" won tonight!

Her gorgeous red dress, which she opened the show with, is also available at Rue LaLa, and is my pick of the collection. As a note- the yellow dress that she had in her show, the "Saffron Gown" was the most beautiful, and the African themed gown was also a favorite, but sometimes, collections translate differently to retail!

It was a fun show, and I wish Kathy Rose the best! I can't wait to see her jewelry, now...

Anyhow, here's the dress I love:

Native Rose Red Chiffon Halter Dress

Am I too Old for Forever XXI?

2010-02-03T22:36:00Z

Yes, that is the question. It used to be "am i too BIG for Forever XXI" but then they launched Faith XXI. Which, incidentally, I don't wear, as their selection is still very limited at my local store.
In MIami, when you need a shopping fix, sometimes you need to explore a little bit. We don't have a lot of boutiques- well they are certainly around, there aren't enough of them to keep you 100% satisfied. Often, you need to go to a... (GASP)... MALL!
Occasionally, I like to check out Dolphin Mall, which is this insane mall is South Miami (Doral, to be exact) that has a variety of outlet stores, restaurants, a Forever XXI and even Brazilian stores that have mannequins with big butts. Yes, it's true. And yes, I can post pics..at a later date.

Anyway, I was in the Forever XXI accessory store, when I saw this totally cute sequined clutch! Granted, I do have a weakness for a nice purse, especially one that can be balanced in between your arm and body while holding a cocktail. SO, I took a photo (plus, I like the display:

Nice, right? forever XXI, $22.80

And then, I wandered around a little more, and spotted THIS at the cash wrap!!!

AHHHH!!! Teeny bopper book!!!!!

Scary! This poor guy's face is everywhere, Does he even own the rights to his own photos?

This made me feel a little old... BUT, I still ended up buying a cute blazer from Forever XXI anyway. So, you can't beat me, teeny bopper book!!!!! ahahahahahahha!!!!!

Surfers reading on the Beach gets a whole new meaning in Bondi, thanks to Ikea!

2010-02-02T18:15:00Z

Oooh! I think Ikea has really started to pump up their marketing technique and it is REALLY showing! First, we have these mildly amusing mattress ads on the television- which is nice, since mattress ads are usuall not at all entertaining. And then, they break out the Billy Bookcase in Bondi Beach!

I must say that I'm a little jealous- but maybe they don't think people in Miami Beach read... hmmmmm.. that could be true for many. Does in Touch Magazine count? hee hee

Check out the photo below. Ikea put the bookcases on the beach in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the "Billy" bookcase- and you could swap for a new book, or donate for one, as well. What a groovy idea!!

Read the full article at the Daily Mail

Bondi beach bookshelves offer sunbathers and surfers the ultimate in holiday reading

Surfers take a break from the waves to browse books at one of the 30 red BILLY bookcases that have been placed on Bondi beach to celebrate 30 years of Ikea's famous shelf.

I like to Eat. Therefore, cooking must be FUN!

2010-02-02T03:39:00Z

food is good. It nourishes you, it keeps you from getting too grumpy, and it's fun to cook!
We rarely go out to eat anymore, primarily because I really just want to know what I'm putting in my body- and, when you go to a restaurant, you don't really know exactly what you're going to get.
This isn't to say that I'm never going out to gorgeous meals again- on the contrary, I love to explore cities and have the local food! But, at home in Miami, it's a lot of cooking at home.
So why not make it fun?

This cutting board makes me smile every time I look at it... especially becuase we don' t eat Cows in this house! Yay veggies!
Here's the one that I bought, which you can get at Chef's Resource for $26.00

But, after doing a little more research, I found this amazing HAND CRAFTED cutting board on ETSY! (Etsy, I heart you for existing!).
When my little cow gets worn out, I think I'll buy this one for $12.00:

Cheese Cutting Board Shaped Like A COW by TomRoche

The Fornasetti Hot Air Balloon Umbrella: Perfect for those rainy Miami days!

2010-02-01T15:24:00Z

I was up part of the night because I kept on thinking that my cat was eating food in the bedroom. Weird, right? Unless you've seen my cats, and realize how big and self-righteous they are, and would have absolutely no regard for a) my sleep or b) rules on eating in the bedroom!
When I finally awakened, however, I realized it wasn't the sound of cat food- it was the sound of very large raindrops outside my window!
Today is a grey, VERY rainy day and I am very happy that I wasn't supposed to work today. It's a bit difficult to shoot when there is no sunshine!!

In honor of this rainy day, I found a beautiful umbrella at Barney's. As I spend the other half of my time in Holland, the land of perpetual rain, I suppose it's time to start stocking up on gorgeous ways to forget the blues!

Click on the photo to buy the umbrella online at Barney's!

And a close up of the design:

No Bikes Allowed Blog has a brand-new look!

2010-02-01T03:02:00Z

Well, this has been a great weekend! We love alittle rainy weather here in Miami, especially because it makes it a LOT easier to stay inside and work! I know this might sound ridiculous to those of you stuck in cold weather (sorry!!), but when the weather outside isn't frightful, it is too easy to be distracted.

The No Bikes Allowed website is about to go live, but for a little sneak preview, you should go and check out our newly redesigned blog! Today's photo is of the lovely Tavi Gevinson, the 13 year old style blogger who has taken the fashion world by storm. At 13!!!

Check it out.. and enjoy!

(click on the link to direct you to the blog!)

Design Success, design failures, and a taste of what's coming up!

2010-01-31T15:57:00Z

There's a great article in the New York Times this weekend about design successes and failures. I love wandering around design stores, and much of the reason is that you can find every day, mundane objects turned into something beautiful! Or, you find a book that you didn't know you needed, or a bowl that makes your every day bowls look pathetically boring

In Miami, BASE would be the "go-to" store for gorgeous things... Funny enough, the number one "bomb" in in the possession of one of my friends, so I guess beauty IS in the eye of the beholder!

meanwhile, check out the NY Times (click on the photo for full article and interactive feature!):

Valentine's Day at Tomas Maier!

2010-01-29T17:47:00Z

Thanks to the Design District facebook page for this cute ad from Tomas Maier for Valentine's Day. The store is just absolutely FULL of gorgeous items that you NEED, I promise!!

Click on the photo for a link to Tomas Maier.... you won't be disappointed!! This is one of those stores that I like to go to and KEEP the bag. How can you say no to the perfect letters... the little palm tree? Yes, I, too, can be a complacent victim of visual marketing....

FREE ART: Miami Festival of the Arts!

2010-01-29T17:30:00Z

Although the founders of Art Basel don't want you to know it, there ARE other art fairs in Miami. Artist have lived here for a long time- among the many other people who head south, trying to escape the cold weather! Oh, and no- it's not all Key West-style paintings, with a variety of crustaceans, ocean scenes, and little white houses with bright yellow paint!

The Miami Festival of the Arts is this weekend in North Miami, and it's a showcase of tons of local artists. If you live in the South Florida area, this is a fantastic time to go out and support your local artists! They keep the world beautiful.

The 36^th Annual Miami Beach Festival of the Arts

January 30-31 2010, Saturday & Sunday

10am - 6pm

Ocean Terrace (East of Collins Ave between 73rd and 75th Street)

Free Admission!

FREE- so you have no excuse! An even better idea? RIDE YOUR BIKE THERE!!!

See you this weekend!

You can get more information at the City of Miami Beach website, and click on the photo below (poster from last year!)

And now, for the ANTI-style segment of this blog! Oh no! TESCO bans barefoot shopping in your pajamas!

2010-01-29T17:08:00Z

While I love to read about style, and travel, and lifestyle, I must say that I get a definite giggle out of some of the things that make the news.
And, I think this article is hilarious, and must be shared... immediately!!!

Apparently, there is some sort of epidemic at TESCO in England, which is basically like a Target. Women have been spotted doing their daily shopping... in their pajamas, and barefoot! This is because, according to the women, they cannot possibly be bothered to wear , say, a pair of jeans and a t-shirt, rather than fluffy pj's and slippers.

Seriously, people? A) this is news and have we really reached this point in laziness that we can't even be bothered to spruce it up, just a little? I mean, for god sakes, it's just a few kids. You drop them off at school and you have the day. People run entire nations and manage to get dressed, so let's just try and exert a little effort, okay?

If I can pull it together for a 5 AM call time after a 14 hour, international flight, then anyone can do it.

Now, enjoy. I'm going to highlight my very favorite quote!

Cover up! No shopping in PJs or barefoot, Tesco tells shoppers as it becomes first supermarket to unveil a dress code

By Luke Salkeld
Last updated at 8:07 AM on 29th January 2010

Unwelcome: Elaine Carmody was asked to leave a Tesco store in Cardiff because she was wearing pyjamas

It’s probably not the first choice of attire one would choose for a weekly shopping trip down at the local store.

But those who like to get the groceries in their pyjamas should be aware they will be barred at a Tesco superstore, which is the first in Britain to introduce a dress code.

Wandering the aisles in your dressing gown or going barefoot is just not acceptable, according to store policy which is outlined on posters put up at the entrance.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Quote from the woman above:

Mother-of-two Elaine Carmody, 24, was one of the first yesterday to be marched out of Tesco by a security guard for wearing her pyjamas in store.

She said: 'I just don't understand it. I go in other shops in my pyjamas and they don't say anything.

'You used to always be allowed in Tescos. But not now, it is ridiculous and stupid. I've got lovely pairs of pyjamas, with bears and penguins on them. I've worn my best ones today, just so I look tidy.'

Beauty for Real: My new lip gloss! Beautiful Colors, plus plumping AND a night light!

2010-01-28T19:17:00Z

Wow! I' ve been working a shoot the past week and the makeup artist, Leslie, is also the co-founder of an amazing new cosmetics line called "Beauty for Real." Their first product? One close to MY heart, a fabulous new lip gloss! As the only cosmetics I wear are lip gloss and mascara, I am super picky about which ones I use.
Well, this gloss is perfect! It has a light texture, and is not too sticky, and the colors are versatile and pretty. Oh, and not only does it plump (with just a subtle tingle), but the super perk? You have your own light on each tube, as well as a mirror. Sooo.. no more awkward moments when you realize you've only glossed most of your lips.. but not all! So get out on that dance floor and gloss up!

Check out their website and you can buy online!

BEAUTY FOR REAL

D.Light is this pretty, simple color that I chose because I can wear it every day! But don't stop at just one.. turned on is a little darker, with a nice brown undertone.. Or try twilight! Enjoy!

Here is the lip gloss with the light on... what a sweet detail.

And here I am, happy with my gloss!

Thanks, Beauty for Real!

The Sun is SHining in Miami: what are you wearing to the beach?

2010-01-27T15:34:00Z

Living in Miami means the inevitable collection of three things:

sunglasses
serious sunscreen
BIKINIS

!!!

In the land of sunshine, this is pretty much the golden standard of what you need to have. Of course, you could continue with sundresses and sandals, but that pretty much goes without saying.

I thought I might post just a new bikini today until I found these gorgeous Chloe shades. They remind of a pair of Tom Ford sunglasses that I love, as well- sort of an exaggerated cat-eye. But, what I love about this pair? The color! It's such a nice cream and brown.. and it would look soooo cute with a 70's style string bikini.

Check it out at net-a-porter or pop on over to Chloe at Bal Harbour!

Chloé

Tilia acetate sunglasses

$295

Now, the search for the perfect swimsuit?

It's funny how a lot of designers seem to think that women above a size 8 would only want to wear a TANKINI. I love bikinis as well as vintage-cut swimwear. We love to show off our bodies, don't we? I'm certainly not going to hide under an umbrella just because I have a few curves. We want to ACCENTUATE them.

Actually, the string bikini is my favorite because you don't have that awful muffin top, overlap that happens when you try to put on a bikini bottom that is too small... but I digress. I also love a nice vintage- style one piece. Today, i found not one, but TWO swimsuits that would look amazing with these sunglasses.

This way, you don't have to decide between BIKINI and ONE PIECE!

NORMA KAMALI
RUCHED HALTER NECK SWIMSUIT
CAROLINE NOTE: I would not call this a halter, as it is clearly asymmetrical..
Salmon pink ruched halter neck swimsuit. Ruching runs down the centre of the swimsuit on the front and back

Tomas Maier

Polka dot bikini - £230.00

Beige polka dot bikini. The bikini top is strapless with a bow front. A clip fastening sits at the back. The bikini bottoms have a tie detail on either side of the hips. High leg.

Now, go and be gorgeous!!!

Saddle Shoes are back for spring.. but then again, we knew that!

2010-01-27T01:38:00Z

In an endless quest to put something on my feet that isn't the exact same as every else, I have been sporting a cute pair of saddle shoes that I found at a vintage store. In Maine. YES- the very same store where I bought my clogs! I love that they are now coming back, as I think they're cute. I wore them because they remind me of my Catholic school days, with an ironic twist
Anyhow, I had my wingtips, but they were a damn pair of golf shows and no one would take out the spikes for me- so saddle shoes were my next best option!

Check out New York Magazine's article on the return of the saddle shoe! Unfortunately, this may mean I'm going to retire mine for a bit....

Saddle Shoes Shimmy Back Into Style

Clockwise from top left: Bass Enfield Saddle Shoe ($65), Ariadna by Camper ($150), Marais USA lace-up ($48), and Sophie shoe by Vans ($55).Photo: Courtesy of Steven Alan, Camper, Urban Outfitters, and Vans.

The Burger King Whopper Bar is opening is South Beach!!

2010-01-25T21:43:00Z

Oh.
My.
GOD!

Well, I know someone in my household is going to be absolutely THRILLED about this new endeavor by Burger King. Poor Dursun is always the victim of my quirks, which include cleansing, abstaining from meat and alcohol, etc...
Also, the Burger King on Lincoln Road shut down after a rather unfortunate demo during Hurricane Katrina. So this is a treat, for sure!

Check this out:

BURGER KING SERVES BEER AT THE WHOPPER BAR!!!

It's also 24 hour and has delivery.
HOLLA!

Check out the full article at the Miami Herald::

Burger King Whopper Bar to open on South Beach

A Burger King Whopper Bar is set to open next month on Washington Avenue, adding to a recent `burger frenzy' in South Beach.

Oh, and P.S., Burger King makes a great veggie burger! Look out, Five Guys!

Yesterday, it was my birthday... and today, I got married in Golden Beach, two doors down from Bruce Weber!

2010-01-25T21:38:00Z

Wow.
Well, no one can say this job isn't fun!
Today was day three of shooting for ... drumroll please.... Women's Viagra!
WOW! What IS that, you say?
Well... basically, it's a drug that you take to give you a sex drive again. Pretty importante, people!

But anyhow, the client is great and the crew is talented and the food is freaking awesome, so I have nothing to complain about. Plus, I was married today! (My life before sexual frustration
We were shooting in a great house in Miami Beach on tcean, a couple of doors down from Bruce Weber.. who was also shooting on the beach. Now that's a fun neighbor.. PLENTY of eye candy!

Oh, and yesterday?
Yes, it was my birthday. And I even got to bring the birthday cake home!

So, here are a few pics of MY weekend and Monday.

Check out these pics:

That's right, it's a birthday cake. And my outfit matched the cake. YUM!
The best part of this pick? I'm at a bus stop in Brickell on a Sunday (waiting for Dursun).
Trust me, not usually something you see downtown on the weekend!

And, here I am getting married to John (who, incidentally, actually DID get married on December 27!)

Who knew it could be so much fun to dress UP?

Urban Remains: industrial and antique hardware in Chicago

2010-01-21T17:18:14Z

One of the great parts of traveling for modeling is the stores and fun places that you can explore. Especially when you are booked to work a whole day and you only have two shots! Yay!
I flew into Chicago to work for Sears and Kmart this week, and was also able to visit la familia and explore the BEAUTIFUL city of Chicago!

Though it is so much fun to live in Miami, with days filled with sunshine and bike rides, the city itself is less than 100 years old. So, it can be a bit of a challenge to find great antique stores.

I found this store in the South Loop area of Chicago, where many studios have opened up. It's a store filled with reclaimed items from old lofts, factories, etc. It was really pretty amazing.

Check out the website at Urban Remains...

located just west of downtown chicago, urban remains deals exclusively in the reclamation and recycling of american antique architectural artifacts found among commercial and industrial buildings or residential structures. our website collection of over 5,000 recovered artifacts dates between the mid-19th century and the late 1960's. we do not deal in new or reproduction building materials.

rare c. 1915 masonic temple theater "day-brite" etched glass electric sign - hammond, indiana

veryrare and exceptionally unique "day-brite" interior electric signremoved from a masonic temple theater built in 1907. only a two ofthese signs, installed around 1915, were found in the building. theetched "silence please" sign with metal molding around glass containsoriginal disc socket for lumiline lamps used above the sign. the wordsare sandblasted into the clear plate glass on the reverse side. thelight is diffused through the top edge of glass, to give a green lettereffect. measures 10 x 7 3/4 x 2 1/2 inches. according to the northwestindiana times, the mammoth cornerstone to the ornately elegantthree-story red brick building on muenich court was laid may 1, 1907,to great fanfare. speaker for the day was none other than charlesfairbanks, vice president under u.s. president theodore roosevelt. in1921, the masonic building association enhanced the building to thetune of $440,000. as of june 2009, the demolition of the building hasbeen initiated.

Inventory number: UR-3298-09

BAR 721- a new place to shake it in South Beach!

2010-01-16T16:23:00Z

TODAY was crazy.

Why are people so nuts at the Delano??

I totally love the hotel- my girlfriend is in town and we were loving the pool allll day./ But there were so many trashy drunk guys everywhere, straddled by divorcees, that it was a bit, ummm... distasteful. But, oh well! That's the fun of Miami- and why I love it so much! Lots and lots of freedom!

Tonight is the "Grand Opening" of a new bar on the beach, formerly laundry bar. We may have to head over for a little boogie!
It's right behind Miss Yip- see you there!

BAR 721

SHOP at THE GOODS for Haiti!

2010-01-16T05:25:00Z

Please donate something to Haiti.

Whether it's a text message, or boxes of clothes, or shopping at THE GOODS, you CAN make a difference.

Check out the store created by the Huffington Post and Causecast

THE GOODS

I Shouldn't Be Alive is pretty damn awesome!

2010-01-16T04:51:00Z

When you are trying to stay fit and healthy, in a town like South Beach, you end up staying inside at night. It's not that I don't LOVE a good party- because I do, but sometimes, you just need to take a break!

Soo..
You watch television!
(And yes, I just finished my book, and I do LOVE to read, as well)

This show I watched is pretty awesome!

First of all, it's on the Animal Planet. (yay!) But now it's been moved to the Discovery Channel.

And it's called

I SHOULDN'T BE ALIVE

I know!
Isn't is ridiculous that I love this show? But you know what? It's pretty freaking awesome!

The episode I saw tonight had a marathon runner woman stuck in a canyon in Utah and her freaking DOG led the rescue party to her!!! Amazing. And the best part of the show?
Umm... it's called "I shouldn't be alive" so you know it will be a HAPPY ENDING!

(yay!)

So, go and check it out and enjoy!

Invasion of the Plus Size Models! We're taking over the world!!!

2010-01-16T04:21:47Z

I LOVE this!

It's really unbelievable that it has taken the media SO long to catch up to the fact that there is a HUGE industry in the plus-size world. Or, models with curves!

But, I am loving every second of this!

There's a great article in the New York Times about Crystal Renn, who has apparently become a bit of a spokeswoman for the industry.

And, yesterday, there was an article in CNN that has quotes from two of my agents, whom I have worked with for years!

Check it out...

Will 2010 be the 'year of plus'?

By Breeanna Hare, CNN

January 14, 2010 7:52 a.m. ESTJanuary 14, 2010 7:52 a.m. ESTJanuary 14, 2010 7:52 a.m. EST

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

"V" magazine is the latest publication to feature plus-size models
While those working in the industry think it's exciting, they're not expecting more work
Plus-size models typically don't get a shot at high-fashion spreads and beauty campaigns
Agents say it will take more than these two spreads to change that

The agency that I've been with the longest is Dorothy Combs- she runs a tight ship, and that is why she runs one of the top plus agencies in the world! Dorothy competes with Ford, Wilhelmina, and Click (and works WITH THEM, too!) for clients- and she does it all with a very small team. Whoo whoo!

Here is her quote from the article:

Dorothy Combs, owner and principal agent of the boutique plus-sizeagency Dorothy Combs Models in Miami, Florida, tries to keep her modelsencouraged despite the challenges.

Although larger models arerarely, if ever, chosen to lead high-end clothing campaigns or workfashion week, "I don't feel that they're restricted that much. It justdepends on the model and what the client is looking for," Combs said.

Sheadded that while "it's great exposure to be in the magazines, itdoesn't pay the bills." Instead, it's a steady diet of catalog shootsthat are truly the models "bread and butter."

YES!
Thanks, Dorothy!

Here I am on her website:

Donate via TEXT to Haiti

2010-01-15T19:34:00Z

Haiti.

I hope that all of you are reading the news and sending good energy and saying prayers for the people in this devastated region. The world is coming together to help them- there are Turkish soldiers who specialize in Earthquakes already searching for survivors, while China and Sri Lanka have joined the United States and France in their efforts.

How do you help? It's simple. Via Text message.

Here are a few suggestions:

-- Text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10 on behalf of the American Red Cross.

-- Text YELE to 501501 to donate $5 on behalf of The Yele Haiti Foundation.

-- Text HAITI to 20222 to donate $10 on behalf of The William J. Clinton Foundation.

You can donate more by visiting the websites. I donated to the YELE foundation, which was founded by Wyclef Jean, a musician and Haiti native, several years ago.

Prepare Yourself for the Spring: Louis Vuitton and Chanel Clogs!

2010-01-12T15:28:00Z

Last summer in Maine, I was super excited to find a pair of vintage Swedish clogs at an antique store.. in fact, I ended up writing an entry about painted clogs that I found on Etsy. Meanwhile, across the world, someone in France was making a pair of clogs for Karl Lagerfeld. hee hee.

I really thought that I would be the only person wearing clogs... at least my painted clogs!

Click here for the article and link to the clogs!

But, for Spring 2010, Louis Vuitton and Chanel have both shown clogs on the runway! I know it's cold right now, but this is the time to shop, if you want to rock this trend- and my recommendation? If you can't imagine paying $1200 for a pair of clogs, then check out Etsy and eBay. And I'll meet you for a yodeling session!

The Chanel collection is absolutely beautiful. I've chosen a few of my favorites-
See the entire collection at Vogue UK

Oh my god I love the flower.

I love this rock and roll look!

Marc Jacobs turned it out at Louis Vuitton, with tassles and colors, as well!

See the full collection at the New York Times

I'm feeling fun today, so I'll link you to a pair that I found with a quick Internet search (since I just managed to clear out EIGHT boxes of clothes from my closet, I am not shopping for a while or I would buy these myself!!

ON EBAY!

Mischa Barton makes the mistake of WEARING TIGHT PANTS!

2010-01-10T21:38:00Z

I could not believe this article. Well, actually, I can believe it. I find the media incredibly unforgiving and the pieces that we read are often so twisted, you never know what to think. Or, more to the point, what the meaning behind a story could possibly be.

Take, for example, this article on Mischa Barton. She has been photographed because she is wearing a tight pair of leather pants. And, apparently, the authors believe that she made a VERY BAD decision to step out of her house dressed like this. I mean, really Mischa- how DARE you show a curve? Squeeze into pants? Obviously, as you are 5'10 and a size 6/8, there is no reason why any of us, the PUBLIC, should be forced to watch you walk across the street wearing clothes that show your figure. RIGHT? Please.

As a curvy size 12, she is ridiculed for having cellulite on her legs.. then she slims down to a "gaunt size 6." She then gains weight and is now photographed for looking bad in a pair of leather pants, but pictured as a "sartorial clothes horse" when she was smaller than the "gaunt 6." So should she just stay inside whilst healthy, or perhaps only wear long, flowing dresses that hide her figure, lest someone be forced to look an actual CURVE on an actress? Does this make any sense, to anyone?

Read the article below

CLICK FOR THE FULL ARTICLE AT THE DAILY MAIL

There was a time when Mischa Barton could throw on any old clothes and the fashion world would follow.

Butspotted out wearing unflattering leather leggings with Conversetrainers and a low-cut white blouse, the actress looked nothing likeher normal stylish self.

The 23-year-old squeezed into the tightwet-look trousers as she popped to Le Pain Quotidien restaurant in LosAngeles on Friday

And here is the photo that they posted of her when she was a "fashion icon"

Clothes horse: Mischa was known for her sartorial style in her days on The OC

Well, what do you think?

What SHOULD we think?

There's all of this hoopla about being healthy, and about the plus modeling industry growing, and people are trying to find a happy medium between so many ideas of beauty.

This article just annoyed me. Anyhow, here I am rocking a pair of pants JUST LIKE MISCHA, and trust me- I"m not a size 6!

80's party in Maine:

Billie Grace Lynn: "Kinetic Sculptor" at the Bernice Steinbaum Gallery!

2010-01-10T16:13:00Z

Last night we went to an opening at the Bernice Steinbaum gallery. This gallery was one of the first galleries to open in the Design District/Wynwood area- in fact, I went there 6 years ago when it was really scary in that neighborhood!

Anyhow, we were wandering around and ended up on the second floor, where I found this amazing sculpture! I happen to think taxidermy is pretty amazing... I don't find it creepy, in fact, I think it's fascinating! So imagine how psyched I was to find this little guy:

There was a sign that read:
"Please feel free to interact gently with the rabbit"

....so, of course, I did!

Then, I did a little research on the artist. Wow! She is amazing, and also an Assistant Professor of Sculptor at University of Miami!

Here is another example of the artist's work:

HORSE
2004

7' H x 6' W x 7' D

Steel, bicycle parts, aluminum, wood, horse tail, found objects.

And another amazing work, Deathbed

2004

8’ L x 7’ W x 12’ H

Cow bones, steel, brass, mattresses, cowhide

Billie Grace Lynn is represented by the Bernice Steinbaum Gallery in MIami.

Go to the artist's website to see many more installations, sculptures, and get more information.

BILLIE GRACE LYNN

Dreaming about a warm day poolside? Bring your Marc Jacobs Halter Bikini and Albertus Swanepoel Hat!

2010-01-09T17:23:00Z

It's no secret that I loooove Marc Jacobs. I also love his swimwear!

As a big fan of vintage swimsuits, I think that this modern variation of the halter bikini is just perfect for this season.... just imagine, lounging poolside with a fruity cocktail (or raw fruit juice, whatever you want!) and surrounded by friends and trashy magazines. Ahhh... relaxation.

... and don't forget your HAT!

Find the Marc Jacobs Bikini at Bloomingdales

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Animal Print Halter Swim Bikini Top and Bottom

MARC BY MARC JACOBS uses a bandeau style to great effect on this bikini top top with halter straps.
Briefs with fish logo details on front and ruffled leg openings.

I know I told you all about the boater hat last summer, but it's here to stay for a while!! I have one, I love it- because no one else is wearing it!

Find your (rather high priced) version at net-a-porter!

Albertus Swanepoel

Wimbledon straw boater at Net-a-Porter

$465

Now, go and dream about the pool!

Plus Size Models on the runway? Say it isn't so! It's true, for Mark Fast!

2010-01-08T19:26:00Z

First of all, I must start this entry out with a little education about the plus size modeling world.

The funny thing about working in this industry is that there is a wide variation of women who are considered "plus" and can actually work as models. On my boards, at Ford, Wilhelmina, Click and Dorothy Combs, as well as at Hughes, Brigitte, and Egos in Europe, the variety of girls is astounding. They range from 5'8" to 6' tall, and a size 6-8 to 16-18. Seriously! So, when you see the title of the article about "plus girls on the runway," one almost doesn't know what to expect!

In straight size (skinny) modeling, the girls MUST be the same- they are meant to be coat hangers for the dresses. Curves are NOT welcomed! The girls are all at least 5'10" and a size 2, maximum. They prefer a size 0. If you can imagine that Claudia Schiffer weighs about 115 lbs and is nearly 6 feet tall- and is considered "curvier" than the others, you can imagine what a designer thinks when they work with plus girls. I'm not knocking the regular models- I jsut think we need some variety!

Which, I think, is the beauty of our industry!

The last time I checked, round hips, breasts, legs, arms were all a sign of health. They are a sign of femininity, and, to a basic fashion, fertility. Why shouldn't designers work with a few curves? I mean, why don't they just hire a bunch a 15 year old boys, put some bags over their heads, and strut THEM down the runway, if that's what they really want!

One important factor on the runway does NOT translate to all the girls- I've walked runway before, but, at 5'9", I'm pushing the short side. They really want girls closer to 6', and a size 8. I am a size 12. American catalogues and websites want a size 14-16. There are several completely different markets within the industry! Confused? Me too.

Well, this post was about an incident in fashion week London last September. Apparently, the stylists WALKED OFF set because they were forced to work with these fatties. Can you imagine? heehee.

I laugh because I now love this designer. Anyone who knows Plus models know that we squeeze ourselves into the tightest clothing possible to SHOW OFF the curves!! No caftans in our group! So... this knitwear is really perfect for the girl with breasts and booty.

Check it out at the Daily Mail:

The Fast and the furious: Stylist at London Fashion Week resigns over designer Mark Fast's decision to use size 14 models

By Kate Loveys

Preparing for his London Fashion Week slot, knitwear designer Mark Fast decided to challenge the obsession with size zero models and use curvier women to showcase his creations.

It was a bold move - and one which nearly led to his entire project unravelling.

When he told his design team that his figure-hugging outfits would be paraded down the runway by size 12 and 14 models, two of his people were apparently so angry they quit.

Fuller-figured: Curvier women were used to model Mr Fast's 'bodycon' dresses. In 2007, a Model Health Inquiry was launched in response to the death of several 'size zero' models. It failed to set out any firm industry guidelines

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

Last note: How gorgeous are these girls??!!

Juice Fast. Cleansing. DETOX. Fun. Watch Angela Stokes break her fast with PRUNES!

2010-01-08T18:46:00Z

Run, run, run.

It's our fifth day of detox and it feels DAMN good! At least that's what I tell myself. It's true, though... strange. I feel fantastic, but that doesn't mean I don't miss some gorgeous things like CHEESE and a nice dirty martini!
Oh well, at least I've had my fill.

So, check out this afternoon snack!

Oh, by the way, we call it "detox" and "cleansing" because it has a much nicer connotation than what it really is. A DIET! eww. Damn!

(BEFORE AND AFTER!)

And, for a special treat, I have posted a link to a you tube for Angela Stokes, or a blog called RAWREFORM.
It's all about living a raw food lifestyle- which means NO cooking.   NO processed foods, etc.
Anyway, this is not what I'm doing, so don't get excited. BUT, it's an interesting lifestyle choice.
And, heehee... she broke her fast WITH DRIED PRUNES!!!!!! aaahhhhhhhh!!

Here is a link to her website- it's much more diet related, but if you really get into the raw lifestyle, you will definitely see changes.   I mean, for goodness sake, no bread, cheese, dairy. You're going to lose it!

RAW REFORM

Who decides what makes a person beautiful? According to Beautiful People.com, 5,000 people can't make the cut!

2010-01-08T02:23:00Z

How do we decide what is and is not beautiful?
This debate is one that has existed since the day Eve took that proverbial apple- the day that one person looked at the other and said, "um, you have a booger in your nose." Because at that point, one person said something to the other that made them feel (un) attractive. While I'm sure there are plenty of people who think we have progressed from neanderthal to a nicely well-developed homo sapien, I have to say that sometimes I think we haven't really evolved at all.

How else could you explain the dating website BeautifulPeople.com?

Apparently, membership in this dating club promises the members that they only need to spend their dating time with other "beautiful" people.

(See below)

I'm not going to provide a link to the website because it's just too ridiculous for words. But the story doesn't end there!

In an amazing twist, which I find entirely entertaining, the members of the website voted on whether or not certain members who had "put on a few pounds" over the holidays could stay. To no surprise, 5,000 MEMBERS were kicked out!
Oh no- too many cookies? Well, guess what? You're too fat to be beautiful!

I wonder if any of the girls that I work with would be allowed on this website? Are we too "fat" to be beautiful, too?

Is there a height requirement, too? Most of my girlfriends who have gone on websites complain that the men aren't tall enough. This can be a problem when you are 5'10" and up, like many of my friends! But, I digress.

Read the full article at the Guardian. Please.

Beautiful People expels 5,000 members after festive weight gain

• Dating website axes singletons 'too fat' for its books
• US tops list of post-Christmas expulsions, followed by UK

Sam Jones

BeautifulPeople.com said its hand had been forced by gluttonous members in the US, UK and Canada who had revealed the scale of their yuletide overindulgence in pictures posted online.

"Vigilant" fellow members, it added, had demanded action. "As a business, we mourn the loss of any member," said the site's founder, Robert Hintze. "But the fact remains that our members demand the high standard of beauty be upheld."

To dispel any lingering doubts about the company's position, he added:"Letting fatties roam the site is a direct threat to our business model and the very concept for which BeautifulPeople.com was founded."

The site's managing director, Greg Hodge, pointed out that the fate of the exiled "chubby members" had been democratically decided. "Their re-applications were reviewed by existing members and only a few hundred were voted back in," he said. "Over 5,000 were rejected."

NEW ADDITION... ha ha ha! They can't possibly be serious..

CURVES AHEAD: V Magazine's tribute to CURVY models!

2010-01-08T00:47:00Z

Wow.

Okay, I'll go ahead and say it. I am totally jealous!!

One of the bummers about living in Miami, rather than New York, is that you really miss out on castings. Yesterday, there was a major lingerie casting the NYC, and I couldn't go to it because I'm working down here! Soooo.. I send my booker polaroids of me in matching lingerie. But, trust me- they would much rather book someone they see in person. I didn't even have a fighting chance for a great editorial story like this, when I'm thousands of miles away!

V Magazine is one of my favorite American fashion magazines. Last month, they had a story with Crystal Renn and a straight size girl, wearing the same clothes. It was nice, but a bit of a yawn, just because she's really all over the place. And I personally don't believe that ONE woman can represent everyone above a size 2. Sorry!

Anyhow, this shoot is fantastic. First, it's Terry Richardson. As he is known for his love of androgynous, young girls, I think it was a big stretch for HIM to shoot bigger girls. Trust me, you have to know how to make those curves look good on camera, and I really love what he did. Second, I admire the fact that they used some models that were not very well known! Take a chance- jeez, who wants to see the same person all the time?

The styling was nice- and the hair and makeup was beautiful!! I picked my favorite shots and you'll see them below.

So, congratulations girls, and V- I'll see you soon!!

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