Fashion critic Mr. Blackwell dies
Mr. Blackwell died Sunday at age 65.
Mr. Blackwell, the fashion critic who became well-known for his annual list of worst-dressed celebrities, has died. He was 86.
He died Sunday of complications from an intestinal infection.
His last list, issued earlier this year in January, took aim at Mary-Kate Olsen, who he said resembled ”a tattered toothpick — trapped in a hurricane,” and Victoria Beckham for her “skinny-mini monstrosities.” While it was those who, in his opiniion, failed to dress fashionably that got the most attention, he also singled out men and women he thought had great style.
He began the annual list 48 years ago because he said he was sick of the ugly clothes that were being presented in the fashion industry and as a dress designer he wanted to express his opinion. He said he never expected it to be this big.
For more, read the Associated Press story.
Eco-friendly clothes on the runway
Four eco-friendly clothing designers showed their lines after a little video ran about who they are and how much they care about the environment at L.A. Fashion Week at Smashbox Studios. Check out the Los Angeles Times blog.
A closer look at Andrew Christian underwear and sportswear
Sportswear and underwear designer Andrew Christian
I’m not sure what I expected when I went to interview Andrew Christian, who designs men’s sportswear and underwear for guys and gals. What I found was a smart businessman who started designing when he was still in high school, is one of the most articulate designers I’ve interviewed, is self-assured and knows what his customers want. I wrote about Andrew in today’s Life section, but we didn’t have space for pictures. Here are some pieces from his collections.
Men’s multi-stripe boxer.
Women’s lifeguard bra and brief.
Women’s Wonderwear butt-lifting underwear.
Men’s baby thermal T-shirt.
Check out these Mossimo super lightweight T-shirts
If you’re looking for super lightweight T-shirts to layer under jackets or sweaters, search no more.
I found a style I like, and I think you will too, at Target. And at a great price.
Mossimo Black long sleeve tissue T-shirts are lightweight and slightly fitted. I bought the scoop neck, but there’s also a crew neck style as well. Plus they come in several different colors.
All for just $9.99. Such a deal!
Softlips new “green” balm and perfect lip contest
Softlips is going green with the addition of new Softlips PURE, a 100 percent natural USDA certified organic lip conditioner.
The sheer lip balm is available in two flavors – Pomegranate and Honeydew. Softlips PURE is free of synthetic chemicals and ingredients, using only all-natural emollients and conditioners, including organic oils, beeswax, shea butter and vitamin E, according to press info.
Cost is $3. What’s more, the balm is packaged in recyclable containers.
If you think you’ve got perfect lips, go to www.softlips.com to enter the third annual Softlips “Picture Perfect Lips” lip model search, which ends Dec. 31.
Do you know green?
Many of us are trying to go green, at least part of the time, but I admit that sometimes I get confused.
Well, here’s help. Cotton Incorporated launched “Do You Know Green?” interactive quiz at www.thefabricofourlives.com/cotton-green-quiz/ and www.mysteryfabric.com to help consumers recognize that some widely accepted “green” truths should in fact be reconsidered.
Despite the green movement, many men and women are uncertain about how to best benefit the environment. What’s more, many of the assumptions we have about green practices are in fact incorrect and might even prove detrimental.
Test your own green knowledge.
First lady hopefuls get advice that all women can use
Everyone is weighing in on political style. Who’s wearing what. Who does it best. Who did it best.
“When it comes to women in politics, Jacqueline Kennedy is really the only fashion icon that had the ability to transcend politics,” said Jose Solis, creative director for Bill Blass New York, a direct sale clothing company.
“She remains an inspiration to every designer today with a look that was unique, individual and timeless.”
While Solis feels that “many women in politics play it safe and are afraid to take a calculated risk,” Michelle Obama and Cindy McCain both have great style, he said. Both their looks are polished. Obama has a modern sense of style while McCain dresses in more tailored and classic items, which is a signature of one of the designers she appears to wear frequently – Oscar de la Renta.
Solis offers these tips for first lady and vice president hopefuls, but this information is good for all women, whether you’re in politics, business or just want to look your best.
* Mix colors and textures. Women in politics are often dressed head to toe in one color, which can tend to look “very mother of the bride”. Mixing colors and pieces that are made of different textured fabrics distinguishes a woman and provides a fashion identity.
*Wear modern silhouettes. Polished and modern cut suits and dresses such as those with cropped, boxy jackets with ¾ sleeves, wide leg trousers and fit and flair dresses and skirts in prints instead of solids command a presence that’s your own, but is still appropriate and respectful of their position.
* Create a look that commands respect. Don’t be afraid to take a risk. A woman doesn’t need to wear pinstripes or hide behind a big hairstyle to stand out in a field dominated by men. Paired with the right woman, a skirt suit in a modern cut and in a beautiful color can deliver the ultimate political punch.
Tell us, is the Yummie Tummie really yummy?
People are talking about Yummie Tummie, the shapewear that’s meant to be seen. It’s on Oprah’s hit list, so do I need to say more?
Anyway, if you’ve tried it, let us know. I love Spanx, but I’m always willing to try something new. The modern shapewear is guaranteed to visibly slim, shape and smooth you all day long, according to the press release I just got this morning.
The secret is a panel around your core that slims and smooths.
Yummie Tummie tanks come in 10 colors and cost $62. For more information, go online to www.yummietummie.com. I know I’ve seen them in Oklahoma City stores, but I can’t remember which ones. Tell us which stores, if you know.
Michael Stars launching accessories line
If you love Michael Stars T-shirts, you may be interested to know that he’s launching an accessories division in the spring.
Look for handbags, scarves, hats, shoes and an optical line. The collection will retail from $28 for a viscose jersey scarf to $85 for a Grecian leather sandal, according to Women’s Wear Daily. The eyewear will retail for $75 to $125.
Now we just have to wait. It may be a long winter.
What are you wearing on this cool day?
I’m not ready for cold weather. I’m really not even ready for cool weather. But it’s predicted to be here today and Wednesday.
So, what are you reaching for first? A grandpa-style sweater? Maybe a menswear vest? A new jacket in rich purple?
I have some new pieces — three sweaters, a gold jacket, mauve/purplish pumps, brown suede boots — that I haven’t worn yet because they just didn’t fit the weather. Now they do. Sadly, part of my day involves taking care of some personal business so I’ll probably wait at least one more day before I slip into the new stuff.
But what about you? What have you been waiting to wear?
