Local Hemlines

Bay Area designer Nazy Wadia has launched the jewelry line Dame, and her pieces are surely to have all eyes on you when you make your haute entrance. The unique body jewelry can alter the ordinary tank or dress to not only an eye catching ensemble, but a conversation piece as well. Wadia also designs exquisite pieces to adorn the hair. (Sphinx shown above retails for $135) http://www.damesf.com/

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: Dame

Super Smoky

The smoky eye is a look that is going to be around for a while. The heavier black liner combined with the smoky shadows, as seen on J-Lo, add high drama to any evening. This look can be achieved by applying silver, gray & bronze shadows, and using a creamy pencil such as Bad gal from Benefit, working from inner corner to outward corner. Then, for a sexy finish glide the pencil along the inner rim of your bottom lid.

-The Style Maven

Source: Instyle

Lady Madden

Haute of the press-footwear designer Steve Madden will not only invade your shoe rack; he's going to adorn your hanger as well. Madden will be launching a women's apparel line debuting in Spring of 2010. Over the year's I've detached myself from Steve Madden, mostly because of the heel height and comfort level. Stay tuned for my review...*Miz B.

Photo Credit: http://www.stevenmadden.com/

On The Good Foot

That's what the soul king James Brown would say. Fellas hop to it with these casual kicks from Urban Outfitters. Loving the durable sand suede boat by London YMC; pair up with some light wash jeans for contrast. Let's not forget about Vans; sport them in black with a little plaid detailing on the side. Ultra cool and casual.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/

Heads Up

Okay, I know we're a bit spoiled out here in the bay area, but it's getting cold gosh darn it! Me no likey. Here are some caps that will keep your head haute during the chilly whilly, and you know they have to be stylish. Loving the earflap caps and any kind of cap that will hide those bad hair days ladies! I found these at one of my favorite online catalog stores: http://www.shopbop.com/

*Miz B

Photo Credit: shopbop

Pearly Whites

Many products are introduced to consumers promising many miracles, but delivering few results. Clinique's Brighter Smile Collection boasts of making your smile at least one shade brighter. I have not tried this product so I can't confirm or deny this to be true, but even if your smile does not shine any brighter the lipstick comes in 12 brilliant shades of nudes, pinks, and berries; sure to be a great addition to any make-up collection. Worth checking out, let H&HS know if it delivers on its promises. www.clinique.com

-The Style Maven

Mini Hemlines

Add Stella McCartney and the Gap to the list of designers, and affordable retailer collabos. McCartney's kids collection (from newbies to 12 year olds) hits stores on November 2. I am loving the teeny-weeny versions of skinny jeans, cable-knit cardigan dresses, and the military jackets are absolutely adorable. At price ranges from $14 up to $128, your little ones can be quite fashion forward. www.gap.com

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: The Cut

The Ford Is Coming

Hey haute peeps, happy Friday! It's *Miz B and I just read that once designer for Gucci-Tom Ford is going to launch his womenswear sometime in 2010. I am super excited, he's one of my favorite designers. Since leaving the House Of Gucci; Ford has made our eyes ultra haute with his eyewear line. Believe me, I will keep you posted on the where abouts of TF. Stay tuned...

*Miz B

Photo Credit: the cut

GOOD HAIR

Chris Rock's "Good Hair" starts today. This buzzworthy film has been the center of much controversy, from the lawsuits, to some accusing Rock of insulting the Black woman by letting others in on our "little secrets"; they are laughing at us rather than with us. I personally cant wait to see this documentary, I mean this is the Chris Rock that we love so much, the comic that attacks issues that affect the African American community with spot on humor and witty intelligence. For many women, not just women of color, their hair is their crown and glory, and Rock is exposing the great measures women take to maintain their glorious locks. As an African American woman that has worn my hair natural, relaxed, faded (so short I went to the barber), and weaved down my back, I can say with confidence that my hair does not define me. I use hair color, length, etc. just as I do any other beauty accessory, simply as an enhancement. With those enhancements, I have a few of my own personal hair horror stories. There were those times I sat in the stylist's chair refusing to inform her that the relaxer had my head on fire because I wanted my hair to reach its maximum silkiness; hey what's a few chemical burns. Or, perhaps there were those occasions that my hair was braided so tightly that I had to take Tylenol for pain relief. Then there was the time my stylist tried to "streak" the front of my hair, and it turned green. I could go on and on, so ladies we need to lighten up, we must admit some of the pain we endure for the sake of beauty can be humorous, and down right ridiculous. So, Rock being a man married to a lovely African American woman, with two beautiful Black little girls, I don't think it is his intent to insult the Black woman.

www.fandango.com

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: Google

Realistic Hemlines

About a month ago I brought to you an entry on the draping trend. Now, you can acquire a gorgeous dress with detailed draping designed by one the most talented, sought after designers in the game, Tracy Reese. The "Corsage" dress by Reese is available at HSN for $89.90. It is wonderful to see some of our most beloved designers creating designs at price points for the everyday woman. www.hsn.com

-The Style Maven

Retro-A-Go-Go

For all those haute chicks that live for vintage and retro clothing, you want to be in Alameda on Sunday October 25th at the Elks Lodge. This is where the Vintage and Retro festival is taking place. The festival features music, food, no host bar, and dance demonstrations. Hours are from 11AM-6Pm, and admission is $5. This is a fashion show, sale, and celebration of a lifestyle. http://www.vintageclothingstylefestival.com/

-The Style Maven

Celebrity Hemlines

The wait is ova...according to Rihanna. I came across this pic for Rihanna's new single Russian Roulette, and my mouth is open. Good girl has really gone bad! Now don't get me wrong, I'm a light weight fan of Rihanna, however, her style has always had a dark undertone. As a stylist I know what it takes to be edgy, but bondage is entirely something else! I'd rather see edgy mixed with couture not bondage Rih Rih. Can we all say "ouch"..I mean feels good.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: http://www.ybf.com/

Not Just Grunge

This fall designers have given flannel an upgrade by adding touches of elegance that make this life-long staple a nice business alternative. I'm a firm believer in combining style and practicality; a flannel shirt worn with a thick virgin wool suit is the perfect way to combat the harsh fall/winter weather. (Shirt above from www.jcrew.com retails for $69.50)

Hemlines Hint: Textured ties are the way to go with a flannel shirt. Something like a knit or nubby wool, no smooth silk neck wear.

-The Style Maven

Seduce Me

Gents, this is the one! If you want ladies flocking behind you exclaiming "what is that you're wearing?" look no further. La Nuit De L'Homme by Yves Saint Laurent is a seducing scent taking you on an aromatic journey filled with notes of bergamont, cedar, and cardamon. This scent is strong and masculine, but not offensive. I have not smelled a men's cologne this alluring in quite some time, a definite winner. www.sephora.com

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: Google

Faux Real?

Faux fur is all the rage for fall, like this vest by BB Dakota. Throw a vest such as this on with jeans and thigh high boots for a look that is not only chic, but weather appropriate on a chilly fall evening. The beautiful thing about faux fur is that the trend is pocketbook friendly, and PETA friendly too. Vest retails for $60 and can be found at www.fredflare.com

-The Style Maven

Pilar of Style

Famed essayist Gore Vidal can be labeled many things, but be sure to add man of style to the list. "Gore Vidal: Snapshots in History's Glare" is a visual memoir; serving as a reminder of the esteemed place Gore held in not only literature, film, politics, but the style world as well. The images in the book are intimate and poignant, unlike the paparazzi-style photos of today. www.amazon.com

-The Style Maven

Think Pink

Estee Lauder is another company participating in the struggle against Breast Cancer. As I mentioned previously October is Breast Cancer awareness month and many companies have produced products to keep us aware and focused on the fight for a cure. Philanthropist Evelyn Lauder hand-picked the shades in this lip collection. The liner, gloss, and lipstick are tucked in a pink case retailing for $22.00 and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Breast Cancer Research Fund. http://www.esteelauder.com/

-The Style Maven

Haute Curves

I am pleased to know that one of my favorite trendy stores; Forever 21 has a plus size line called Faith 21 available online, and at select stores. I'm loving the satin pleated skirt and elegant cardigan sweater. Ultra simplistic and fab!

*Miz B

Photo Credit: http://www.forever21.com/

Not Your Average Burger

Step one, choose your patty; American Kobe or perhaps Wild Buffalo. Step two, the mixing and matching of over 50 gourmet toppings like grilled lobster, seared foie, or black truffles. Step three, mosey over to the make-your-own shake bar with tempting toppings such as Twinkies, Oreos, and for the 21 & over, even rum. "Where is this?" you ask, it's Burger Bar opening Friday October 16, 2009 on the 6th floor of Macy's Union Square in SF. There are preset items available as well for the less adventurous. http://www.burgerbarlv.com/

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: Google

Excuse Me?

Here we go again. French Vogue is known to be controversial with their approach to art and style, but this is unacceptable. They hired a white dutch model and put her in black face! I have so many words, so little time. This is supposed to be the supermodel issue as well, and we all know we have black supermodels in the game. What an insult. Your thoughts??

*Miz B

Photo Credit: the cut

Fall Footwear

French footwear designer, Pierre Hardy is once again collaborating with the Gap. These chic platform ankle boots make their retail debut on October 19. These suede cuties will look oh so haute with tights and a sweater dress. The Style Maven here to keep you fly for fall! www.gap.com

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: NY Mag

Adidas Got Wings

Conceptual designer Jeremy Scott has put a new spin on the eighties favorite sneaks; yeah the ones we wore with fat laces. My Adidas! The cross trainers are bedazzled, and the high tops have wings; so get ready to fly in Spring 2010. Scott has been a guest designer for Adidas since 2003.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: the cut

Chocolate Bliss

This Saturday October 17,2009 Charles Chocolates in Emeryville will not only be having their annual open house they will also be celebrating their 5th Anniversary. There will be free tours at 2pm, 3pm, and 4pm with free samples to be handed out during the tours. Food will also be available for purchase starting at 5pm provided by Kung Fu Tacos. This event is for all; kids and the kid at heart. Rich indulgence kicks off at 1pm. http://www.charleschocolates.com/events.php

-The Style Maven

Photo Credit: Google

The Balm!

The Eos Spere all natural lip balms are 95% organic and petroleum free. The nifty moisturizers are packed with vitamin E, soothing Shea butter, and jojoba oil; all to keep your smackers kissably smooth. These lip remedies come in luscious flavors like sweet mint & honeysuckle honeydew, and retail for $23.99 for a pack of 8. www.amazon.com

-The Style Maven

Beauty for a Cure

In honor of breast cancer awareness month Clinique is turning their best selling skin-saver into a life-saver. Throughout the month of October $10 from the $35 purchase price will benefit the Breast Cancer Research fund. The limited edition moisturizing lotion has a lovely charm atop the bottle, and it's a great product for a great cause. www.clinique.com

-The Style Maven

Wine on the Water

To round out this weeks haute spot entries, I give to you The Treasure Island Wine Fest. Experience the splendor of Treasure Island while sipping on wine from Lodi, tickling your palette with appetizers, dancing to live music, or perhaps taking in a wine seminar. This event is on Sunday October 11 from 1Pm-5PM and the cost is between $55-$65. The Island is truly one of the Bay Area's treasures. http://tiwinefest.com/

-The Style Maven

Crustacean Sensation

Here is one for the seafood lovers. Spengers fish Grotto is holding its 9th annual Crabby Chefs Seafood festival. There will be dozens of booths selling crab, crab cakes, clam chowder, and other seafood specialties, along with beer, wine, and soft drinks. The Crabby event kicks off at 11AM and ends at 4Pm on Sunday October 11 in Berkeley. After you have gorged on seafood, you can take a stroll over to the Fourth Street Shops (within walking distance) for a retail fix. http://www.pauldingandco.com/calendar/event.php?808

-The Style Maven

Oaktoberfest

As I mentioned before festival season is wrapping up, so take advantage of the upcoming festivities while soaking up some rays. I'm here to deliver info on this weekends events so you can prepare for a fun-filled Saturday, Sunday, or why not both days. In the Dimond District of Oakland on Saturday October 10, 2009 from 11AM-PM the Oaktoberfest will be taking place. This festival continues a tradition that began in the early 1900's when Beer Gardens and German vacation resorts lined the boulevard. Oaktoberfest will bring music, dance, food, and world-class beer to the streets of Dimond. http://oaktoberfest.org/

-The Style Maven

Black Party Hemlines

As promised, the 2009 First Friday Black PartyPics are haute off the press! I snapped a few mystery haute hemlines of the evening. I had a great time, however, the dj could of brought it a little tighter. The venue was ultra fab, love, love, love SF Yoshi's. *Miz B was rockin' J.Crew Slacks with a Forever 21 sequined tank top with Calvin Klein shoes (not shown). Also pictured, comedian Shea Suga and Hair Stylist Chris Plummer, let me not forget the talented Samantha. Stay tuned for more behind the scenes coming in October.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: Miz B

Haute Cover

Grab the November issue of Teen Vogue; featuring cover models Chanel Iman and Jourdan Dunn. The two discuss the pressures of being black models in the fashion industry, and how they are in competition with each other despite being good friends. Ultra Fab.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: the cut

Union Design Festival

We Californians are fortunate enough to have lovely weather throughout the month of October, so make the most of these warm days and attend the last few festivals of the year. Sunday October 11 from 11am-6pm in San Francisco, check out the Union Design Festival. This free outdoor festival celebrates 130 fashion and accessory designers; featuring women & menswear, bags, jewelry, and lifestyle products. For more information visit http://www.uniondesignsf.com/

-The Style Maven

Peace, Love & Hemlines

Rachel Roy is quickly becoming one of my favorite designers. I am especially enamored with her current accessory line. These precious earrings have the elegance of a standard Rachel Roy design with a splash of playfulness. Everyone needs some peace (Peace drop $34) and love (Love hoop $40) in their lives. www.macys.com

-The Style Maven

Haute Bargain

For reasons unknown to me I'm a bit apprehensive when it comes to celebrity fashion lines. Perhaps it's because many Hollywood types seize opportunities to enter the industry based on their fame, but lack a true passion for the craft. There are a few that have proven me wrong and have been on my radar; one being Jessica Simpson. Not only are her designs haute, they are also affordable. The Jonas boot above retails for $149.00 and can be found at http://www.jessicasimpsoncollection.com/

-The Style Maven

Black October

It's going down tonight at Yoshi's San Francisco for the annual First Friday's all Black Party. This is definitely where the sexy people socialize; if you haven't pre-purchased tickets....your out of luck. No worries! I will be there live to cover this haute event. I will have a blog posting with pics of the hautest black attire, so stay tuned. Have a haute weekend and keep it sexy.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: style.com/balmain fall 2009

Hemlines Hint: Shopping for Vintage Jewelry

Educate: "Vintage" is a broad term, so shop around to get a sense of what you like and the range of prices.

Timing: Get to flea markets, estate sales, etc. first thing in the morning, right when the doors open. You'll see huddles formed around the best booths. Those dealers will be the first to sell out.

Making Deals: Dealers have two prices; one for retail, one for the trade. So don't ask too many questions. If you see a piece you want, say in a business tone, "What's the dealers' price? I'll pay cash." Cash will get you a nice discount, and it's unlikely you'll be asked to prove you're in the industry.

Vintage costume jewelry can add character to any ensemble. A broach can spice up that fall cardigan or winter coat. Layer several vintage, short necklaces varying in style for an unexpected pop with a tee or tank; add your favorite jeans and boots for a haute night out. The possibilities are endless, and the flair is nice on the budget.

-The Style Maven

Source: Mackenzie Brown/SFGate

Photo Credit: Google

Weak In The Knees

Attention ladies, you remember your first kiss that got you weak in the knees? When I saw these boots I got the same reaction! When your knees do get weak after that kiss please let them be adorned with Studded Candela Pirate Boots $429 or Dolce Vita $300. These flat over the knee boots will return the favor for your boy toy and get him weak. Ultra Hauteness. Available at http://www.shopbop.com. Celebrity Hemline: Mary J. Blige would possibly rock these.

*Miz B

Photo Credit: shopbop.com

Festival for All

This festival truly is "The Spice of Life", contributing something for everyone. On Sunday October 4, 2009, in the "Gourmet Ghetto" area of Berkeley you will encounter food and fun. Nibble on gourmet specialty items, view cooking demonstrations on the culinary stage, evaluate wines from over 10 wineries at the "Wine Tasting on Vine", two step to live music, and for the kiddies a "Create-With-Nature Zone". Festivities kick off at 10am and for more info visit: http://www.gourmetghetto.org/

-The Style Maven