Stylish Stocking Stuffers (Under $40!)

Besides the decorating, one of my favorite things about Christmas is the gift giving. I consider to be gift giving a sort of an art form. Gift cards may be an easy solution, but I take pride in selecting the perfect presents for each person on my list. I like it when each receiver can tell I've picked something special for them.

Below, I've compiled what would be the ultimate gifts for the La Petite Fashionista girl (I know a lot of my readers have similar taste) & chic friends. Everything is under $40.00, oh so cute, and stylish too!

Stylish Stocking Stuffers

 These are just a few of my favorite things.. Capri Blue candles, cute snail mail stationary, bright lipstick and cupcake goodness! Don't even get me started on the gift wrapping, I'll save that for another post ;)

Who on your list would you love to see a gift guide for?

xoxo, lauren

Kain Annual Sample Sale 50 to 70% off!

Photo courtesy of Kain
The Kain annual sample sale is this week at the Cooper Building! The Cali brand is most well-known for their super-soft fabrics and effortlessly beautiful tees, tanks, henleys, jersey dresses, sweatshirts, and knits. Score them all at 50 to 70% off!

When:
Thursday, December 1 through Friday, December 2, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where:
Addison + Crescent Showroom,
The Cooper Building
860 South Los Angeles Street (between East 8th and East 9th streets)
Suite 505

December Sample Sales: Raquel Allegra + 7 For All Mankind & MORE!




Of Two Minds
warehouse sale
thursday december 1st
10am - 3pm

friday december 2nd
10am - 3pm

834 s broadway
4th floor
los angeles 90014




CASH PREFERRED

**Will continue to update list...check back for more December sample sale news!**

A Current Affair Returns with Host Rose Apodaca, Artist Rafa Esparza & Music by KCRW DJ Marion Hodges


Saturday, December 3, 6pm-10pm | Sunday, December 4, 11am-5pm
Cooper Design Space, 860 S. Los Angeles St., Downtown LA

The fifth edition of A Current Affair: Pop-up Vintage Marketplace will take place this weekend, Saturday December 3rd through Sunday, December 4th at the Cooper Design Space. Bringing together over 30 premier vintage retailers and private dealers from Los Angeles and beyond, A Current Affair presents a unique opportunity to shop a select assortment of exceptional vintage fashion items ranging from accessible wearable to haute couture. Tickets are $10 at the door, but get it fot $5 at Gilt City now!

Highlights:

Curator, journalist and author Rose Apodaca will host the December edition of A Current Affair and sign copies of her latest book, Fred Hayman—The Extraordinary Difference: The Story of Rodeo Drive, Hollywood Glamour and the Showman Who Sold It All. The former West Coast bureau chief of Women's Wear Daily and a founding editor of The Los Angeles Times "Image" Section, Apodaca will also hand select 10 vintage party looks from throughout the show which will be on exhibit and available for purchase.











Artist Rafa Esparza will exhibit his Gallos Giros Putos Gallones at the December edition of A Current Affair. For the piece, Esparza sculpts roosters using old Nike Cortez sneakers. The birds will be contained to a central exhibit and “perched” throughout the show. This marks the second collaboration between a local artist and A Current Affair, following September’s exhibition of Edith Abeyta’s camp site. A Current Affair is interested in showcasing the works of artists who use found fashion items as a medium.












For the music, KCRW DJ Marion Hodges will provide the beats. Hodges can be heard every other Saturday night/Sunday morning from 3AM to 6AM on 89.9 KCRW, and kcrw.com. Marion has been DJ-ing since the summer of 2007. She co-founded the DJ team Squaregirls, and was a co-creator of the still active indiepop/northern soul dance party, Hungry Beat! The loungier sister of Hungry Beat!, Sophisticated Boom Boom, takes place on the first Saturday of every month at Tony’s Saloon, Downtown Los Angeles. She frequently spins at Wurstkuche (both locations), Grand Star Jazz Club in Chinatown, and various other concert venues around town. At least eighty-five percent of her wardrobe is comprised of vintage items.

Designer Profiles: Raquel Allegra


By N. Jayne Seward, Fashion Editor
California Apparel News
November 25, 2011

Raquel Allegra is perhaps best known for her avant-garde T-shirts made with elaborate shredding techniques and tie-dyed prints. But in just five short years, her collection has matured into a full ready-to-wear line with sophisticated silhouettes made in luxe fabrications.

The Berkeley, Calif.–based Allegra launched her eponymous collection after her T-shirts gained a cult-like following while she worked as a sales associate at Barneys New York in Beverly Hills. The shirts, which were made from recycled tees from the Los Angeles County Jail system, were created with Allegra’s signature shredding technique.

Stretched and tie-dyed, the chic T-shirts and webbed cocoon shapes were an instant hit with celebs and landed in high-end stores, including Maxfield in Los Angeles, Harvey Nichols Hong Kong and Tsum in Russia.

After a runway debut at Boxeight Fashion Week in 2008, followed by Gen Art’s Fresh Faces in Fashion show in 2009, Allegra quickly became a fashion darling on the Los Angeles design scene. During that time she partnered with Tony Graham and his wife, Findings showroom owner Deirdre Roffoni, and the brand evolved into a cut-and-sew collection. Retailers—including high-end specialty boutiques and department stores such as Barneys New York, Lane Crawford and Liberty of London—were quick to pick up the T-shirts, deerskin leggings and one-of-a-kind vintage cashmere pieces.

For Spring 2012, the line has evolved yet again. The recycled vintage jail tees are gone, but the collection retains Allegra’s edgy yet chic design aesthetic with a refined sophistication. The collection includes T-shirts and a complete ready-to-wear line created with the same shredding techniques and original tie-dyed prints in a range of colors and silhouettes. For the first time, the T-shirts and ready-to-wear are made with a cohesive design process in mind.

“I think, now, more than ever, I get to tell a whole story. Before, it’s been in pieces,” Allegra said. “I have more resources to really allow the ideas to grow.”

This season, T-shirts and the wovens were created from Allegra’s favorite prints pulled from her design archives and then photographed and puzzled together by the line’s in-house graphic artist. Allegra plans to employ the same process each season.

“The intention is really to create prints that are directly out of our world, and our language, which again makes the story feel more cohesive and consistent,” she said.

The complete look is casual sophistication with Allegra’s bohemian-chic aesthetic. “When I design a collection, I start from what I’m wearing—what I want to be wearing—everyday. And I just build off of that,” she said.

Blazers are a core piece in Allegra’s own closet. “So I start with [blazers] and layer from there [and create] all the immediate things you want to grab when you are getting dressed in the morning.” T-shirts, blouses and ethereal dresses are a few of the key pieces. Balancing masculine with feminine, the pieces are made to be layered, creating a canvas of rich textures and prints. “I think it’s all really an extension of my personality, how I want to dress, how I want to feel. I think all those different layers and all those different voices and personalities get a place to play in this collection more than ever before,” she said.

The Spring collection was inspired by the character played by actress Sean Young in the ’80s science fiction film “Blade Runner.” The line includes silk dresses, shorts, bodysuits, suits and jumpsuits with a modern-meets-futuristic look. Cashmere sweaters and silk/linen jackets and pants are printed in vibrant tie-dyes, creating an ethnic, sci-fi effect. Casually chic blazers are made to be functional, including one that is reversible and another made in silk chiffon lined with jersey. Blouses and dresses are feminine yet modern, made in fabrics such as a colorful stripe chiffon and a French stretch lace. T-shirts have deconstructed details and come in a range of styles and fabrics, including cotton, micro shadow stripe jersey, and a rayon jersey and twill blend.

Retail prices for T-shirts start at $130 and go up to $400. Wovens are $200 to $1,000, with most falling in the $200 to $600 range. For more information, contact the Findings showroom at (213) 622-0717.

Cooper Design Space
860 S. Los Angeles Street
Suite 608
Los Angeles, CA 90014

Have Yourself a Colorful Christmas

This is the first year I've been able to decorate my own place and give my home its own holiday flair. For me, this means the less traditional route, more color, glitz, DIY, and even a retro Christmas feel. I've been scouring pinterest for the perfect inspiration images to guide me in my shopping for decor. 


I went with a faux green tree with colorful lights and sparkly & colorful ornaments from World Market, Target, and even the Dollar Store! I've been busy diy-ing signs, creating wreaths, and creating a festive table. The images below, with white trees, and very bright and bold Christmas decor are right up my alley. 


Below, I have some of my favorite picks to give your Christmas decor a dose of color and sparkle!

A Colorful Christmas

What does your holiday decor look like?

xoxo, lauren

Rocking the Ragg Wool

This lookbook from up-and-comers Cardigan is right up my alley. My move to Wisconsin has given me a new appreciation for the outdoors and made me love the look juxtaposing a rugged sportsman style w/ my dressed up girly girl looks. Take the look below, fairisle sweater & sequined shorts? I think yes!







One of the looks I've become especially keen to is the mix of a hiking inspired lace-up boot with a thick pair of socks (ragg wool are my favorite). Again a mix that's practical, cozy ,and chic.

Try this Trend: Lace up Boots & Socks

What's your favorite type of socks to heat up a winter outfit?

xoxo, lauren


December Sample Sales: Raquel Allegra & Of Two Minds

Raquel Allegra

Of Two Minds


warehouse sale
thursday december 1st
10am - 3pm

friday december 2nd
10am - 3pm

834 s broadway
4th floor
los angeles 90014

213-624-5200

cash preferred

Buy Made in America at Unique LA Craft Show

Reposted from the California Market Center Blog via Los Angeles Times Daily Dish
By Caitlin Keller, Los Angeles Times
November 22, 2011


A couple of Sundays ago, I stopped by the Patchwork Indie Arts & Crafts Festival in Culver City and left with bags full of Christmas gifts for friends and family, like letterpress stationery, confections from C Salt Gourmet and T-shirts from Hips and Hair -- all made in L.A. I had no intention of starting my holiday shopping just yet, but with December just around the corner, now I'm on a roll.

Next up is Unique LA, one of the biggest independent design shows in the country. The craft show will be held at the California Market Center and will feature more than 325 artists selling jewelry, gourmet edibles, clothing, art, toys and stationery. The two-day event allows those from SoCal to shop local, support L.A.'s economy and check off names on their Christmas lists.

Stock up on jams, chocolates, spices, bacon and more from Unique LA participants, including food vendors Hepp's Salt Barrel, Coldwater Canyon Provisions, Lemon Bird handmade jams, Morning Glory Confections, the Rice Creamery and Matchbox Kitchen, to name a few.

110 E. 9th Street, L.A., stateofunique.com.

Cozy Essentials When You're Home for the Holidays

Whether you will be en route, by air or land, to travel home for the Thanksgiving and/or Christmas holidays or simply plan on lounging around your home this winter season, we have got a couple curl-up-by-the-fire outfit inspirations to help you stay comfortable and stylish. Thanks to Community Service Showroom in the Cooper Design Space, we picked out pieces that are on-trend such as the maxi dress, over-sized knit sweaters and pops of color in prints and neons. And take heed of our styling tips! Experiment with layers this season by wearing your slouchy poncho over your maxi dress or pairing a cropped sweater over a midi dress. Finish the look with leather boots or a wedge for a cool, unexpected touch.

Look #1




 Look #2


Want these pieces? Get it here:
C.Z. Falconer  - http://www.czfalconer.com/
Love Sam - http://www.revolveclothing.com/
Rory Beca - http://www.rorybeca.com/
Blu Life - http://www.shopplanetblue.com/
Thursday/Friday - http://www.thufri.com/



Credit:
Editor & Photographer: Annie Chang
Stylist: Bettina Bati
Wardrobe: Community Service Showroom

What Would Lemon Wear?

My weekly TV show nights are one of my favorite guilty pleasures. Every week my girlfriends and I get together to watch Gossip Girl & Hart of Dixie on Monday nights and Tuesdays we watch Sons of Anarchy with our guy friends. I knew I'd love Hart of Dixie from the first episode. I was a huge O.C. fan, so naturally I adore Rachel Bilson, combine that with small town Alabama & a dash of Southern charm and.. voila!


I've been enthralled with one of the character, Lemon Breeland's style. She is a southern belle to the core. Her style is timeless, feminine, and always polished. Above are a few of my favorite of her outfits.

What Would Lemon Wear?

Lemon's signature style consists of  a-line dresses, colorful cardigans, coordinating flats, silky printed blouses & a signature flower in her perfectly coiffed blonde hair. 

What are your weekly tv watching guilty pleasures?

xoxo, lauren

Chilly Weather Chic

As tempting as it is to throw on leggings and a cozy sweater when it gets cold, I know I've got a LONG Wisconsin winter ahead of me. I'd like to use these stylish ladies as my inspiration when I'm trying to find the perfect balance of cozy, layered, and chic every day!
sweater layered over a maxi dress
pretty peacoats
duck boots & thick socks via daybook blog
 topknot & huge scarf
 white tights, lace  & shearling
 oversized scarf
 long coat &  desert boots
layers and plaid via atlantic-pacific

Which is your favorite winter look?

xoxo, lauren

Give Thanks!

There's so much I'm thankful right now- supportive family, a smooth transition to living in a new place, friends new and old, and doing a job I've always dreamed of doing. This will be my first Thanksgiving away from home. It'll be so surreal not being with my own family, but I can't wait for a day off work to stuff my face, relax, & learning how to play euchre!


As y'all know, I love any excuse to entertain! I like the idea of a festive fall tablescape- acorn napkin holders, pumpkin centerpieces, & of course my mama's German stuffing  recipe; my Thanksgiving favorite.

What is your favorite Thanksgiving dish?

xoxo, lauren

3 Menswear-Inspired Holiday Party Looks


Suit it up this holiday season with one of this year's hottest trends: masculine-inspired pieces. This tailored silhouette was seen all over the runways during fashion week fall 2011; Dolce & Gabbana sent a parade of men's suiting-inspired looks done in silks and brocades and so did Stella McCartney. Style stars have also embraced this trend from Diane Kruger to Rachel Bilson. But with the rest of us who don't have a celebrity-sized bank account, the LA Fashion District has got you covered. Here are 3 stand-out outfits at an affordable price.

Where to shop:

1031 S. Los Angeles Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015

Look #1:
1. Tuxedo blazer, $50.92
2. Shiny harem pants, $45
3. Ring, $10
4. Chanel-inspired necklace (coming soon), $45
5. Studded necklace, $25
6. Chunky necklace, $25
8. Fur scarf, $45

Look #2:
1. Leopard jumpsuit, $45
2. Studded denim jacket, $63 (20% off!)
3. Fanny pack, $38
4. Rings, $10 each
5. Boyfriend rubber watch, $28
6. Chanel-inspired necklace (coming soon), $45
7. Studded necklace, $25

Look #3:
1. Blouse, $20-40
2. Scalloped shorts, $38
3. Vintage watch, $35
4. Chunky bracelets, $25 each
5. Rings, $10 each
6. Rosary necklace, $68



Credit:
Editor & Photographer: Annie Chang
Stylist: Bettina Bati
Wardrobe: 62nd Street Boutique
& a BIG thanks to Arell Hughes!

Nuts for Needlepoint

When I was reading the latest issue of design mag fave, Lonny Mag, the article on Jonathan Adler was love at first sight. I love how he is able to take timeless and preppy styles and give them a twist; like these needlepoint pillows, stitche with kitschy zodiac signs.


Needlepoint has been trending in the home decor and accessories world. Whether you're looking for something uber preppy, like Smathers and Branson  needlepoint coasters or super trendy like a Trina Turk eyeglasses case, there is something for every taste.

Nuts for Needlepoint

Needlepoint is certainly not just for Christmas stockings anymore! Which of these quirky needlepoint styles do you like best?

xoxo, lauren

UNDREST Sample Sale at the Primrose Design Building


Undrest. will be holding a sample sale this Saturday, November 19th, in the Primrose Design Building with undies, swimwear, and loungewear galore. Subsequent sales will be held on December 2nd and 9th.

Primrose Design Building
833 South Spring Street
Los Angeles, CA 90014
9 AM to 4 PM

Try this Trend: Bright Tights

One of the looks I've noticed trending lately are colorful tights. These hues brighten up a LBD  & the perfect excuse for me to keep wearing my favorite dresses and skirts into the winter. They add such an unexpected pop of color, and can actually be quite wearable.

TightsPlease let me try out one of my favorite tight colors, a pretty pink opaque tight to pair with an Urban Outfitter's woven dress from summer.
Denim Jacket: I heart Ronson
Heels: DSW

Lucky Mag has a great how-to on rocking the colorful tights trend:

Would you wear colorful tights, & What shade?

xoxo, lauren

Bike Lanes Coming Soon to Spring Street

Bicyclists at October's CicLAvia event in the LA Fashion District

We are excited to report that our district will be receiving bike lanes on Spring Street! This project is in accordance with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT)'s installation of Downtown's first bike lane, which will be marked in green. The lane will run down Spring Street from Cesar Chavez to 9th Street.
As of today, the project is underway; preliminary lines have been marked for the future lane, which will run between curbside parking and a buffer to separate cyclists from traffic.

Additionally, last week, the LA Fashion District BID staff met with Council District 9 and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) last week to discuss the bike lane plans. We are happy to report that LADOT listened to our recommendation to maintain street parking spaces. Also, bike lane construction will be postponed until after the holiday shopping season.

Style | Gallery Boutique Propels Retail Transformation on LA Street

For decades, Los Angeles Street in the LA Fashion District has been the destination for menswear, selling tuxedos, dress shoes and other accessories. But in recent years, this street is transforming into a hip, retail hot spot featuring edgy and independent designers for the fashionable. Some notable boutiques that have been pioneers in setting up a brick and mortar are the Cooper Store, a boutique that sells past designer merchandise pulled from showrooms at the Cooper Design Space and MartinMartin, an avant-garde women’s and men’s luxury clothing collection that has been featured in British Vogue, The New York and Los Angeles Times. And in August this year, this burgeoning street welcomed its newest store:
Owned and operated by Los Angeles native Julie Kim, Style | Gallery is an upscale, modern store featuring women’s designer labels at 30-60% off retail price. “The collections I carry are hip and not too trendy and have a cult following,” says Kim. “I wouldn’t sell anything I personally wouldn’t wear.” A fashion veteran who has been in the wholesale business for 18 years and whose mother also owns a store on Los Angeles Street for the past 30, Kim has carefully curated her boutique to offer her customers high-end clothing at an affordable price.
“There’s something for everyone,” says Kim. Through her relationships with these designers, Kim brings wearable, edgy and innovative labels such as Funktional, Clu, Maj, 213. Plus, Kim also has a growing stock of discounted, vintage luxury brands like Gucci and Prada purses.
Additionally, Style | Gallery hosts a trunk show and cocktail event every month on the Art Walk Thursday nights. At the soiree, Kim hangs art pieces on the walls, hosts a happy hour and features a brand on sale for 40-60% off.
Shoppers can also find handbags and jewelry at a comfortable $20-$40 range and an amazing sale rack of quality apparel at $15. Style | Gallery is still growing and will start to bring in more brand names. Word on Los Angeles Street is that a denim brand will be brought in…so stay tuned!
More photos of Style | Gallery:

 

The $15 sale rack
Vintage Prada and Gucci handbags



Style | Gallery
725 S. Los Angeles Street
Los Angeles, CA 90014
facebook.com/stylegalleryLA
twitter.com/shpstylegallery