August 2007 archive

MySpace Fashionistas

MySpace unveiled the revamped version of MySpace’s Fashion Channel earlier this week on August 28, 2007.  The sites launch further deepens the relationship between the networking site and the fashion industry.  The Fashion Channel will be similar to the existing Music and Movies channels and will allows users to connect with fashion designers, brand and stylish celebrities.  Besides providing you with a way to connect with your favorite designers, the site will also feature video diaries of celebrities’ closets and fashion lives. 

InStyle magazine has signed on to partner with the Fox owned site.  InStyle will share the most up-to-date fashion news and information in a section entitled “InStyle News.”  WhoWhatWearDaily, one of my favorite daily fashion sites, has also partnered with MySpace Fashion. 

To check out the newest channel, go to www.myspace.com/fashion.  While you are browsing the site, be sure to check out True Jeans’ MySpace page and become our friend to receive special updates on sales and specials. 

What's New for Fall Denim?

 

There are only a few days left of summer and autumn is right around the corner.  According to a WWD.com article published on Thursday, July 19^th, the latest trends that appeared at the Bread and Butter trade show were brighter colors, lightweight fabrics, and moderate embellishments.  Bread and Butter is international tradeshow for selected brands representing contemporary fashion culture of jeans & urbanwear, sports & streetwear.

Colors like green, blue, red and yellow were showcased by many brands at the tradeshow.  Embellishments are appearing in the form of studs, vinyl details and special threading add new detailing to denim.

Call me a traditionalist, but I for one like my jeans frill free.  What do you think of the color and embellishment trends seen at Bread and Butter?

Heidi Klum - The Newest Face of Jordache Jeans

Supermodel and “Project Runway” host, Heidi Klum, is the newest face of

Jordache jeans.  Klum replaces previous Jordache model Elizabeth Hurley.  The mother of three looks incredible in nothing but these Jordache jeans.

 

President of Jordache Enterprises Liz Berlinger said of Klum, “With her success as a supermodel, businesswoman and mother, Heidi embodies the sexy confidence that the Jordache brand is about.”

If only I could look like that in my designer jeans! :) 

Let Designer Denim Jeans Take You to the Head of the Class This Back to School Season

The last few weeks of August can only mean one thing – the back to school season is right around the corner.  For many, shopping for back-to-school apparel is a late summer ritual.  

Anyone who is prepare for back to school shopping should check out this must-read story from CNN reporting on the latest trends in shopping for back-to-school apparel.  

As tweens and teens become increasingly savvy about fashion, they are no longer asking for fashion basics to go back to school with.  Instead, they are asking for luxury products, such as $200  handbags and $100-plus designer jeans. 

So what is the major item in the fashion world this back to school season? Denim, varying from pencil skirts to long shorts to different styles, rises and colors of jeans. My absolute favorite trend for back to school denim has to be the wide leg styles that have hit the scene. The wide leg is a soft comfortable cut that is flattering to so many body types that can stylishly take you from class and extra curricular activities.  

What are your favorite back to school trends this season?

Victoria Beckham: Accomplished Author?!?

 

Victoria Beckham has become quite the style icon and now she will be sharing her fashion tips, tricks and ideas with the world in a new book. HarperCollins announced that the book, entitled “That Extra Half an Inch: Hair, Heels and Everything in Between,” will be released in November.  The book has already been released and climbed to the top of the best sellers list in the UK.

The US release comes on the heels of launch of Victoria's own line of denim, DVB. 

According to HarperCollins the book will offer guidance on everything fashion related, from dressing for special occasions to looking great day to day.  I know I can’t wait to see just how practical Posh’s advice is going to be.

What do you think of Victoria Beckham adding accomplished author to her list occupations?  I can’t wait to hear from you!

 

Suggestions on Spotting Fake Premium Denim Online and Off

There has always been quite a buzz online about how to avoid buying fake designer clothing.  To all you fakey sellers out there— we are catching on and sharing the information!!.  With the overnight success of premium denim it is no wonder that counterfeit problems will come into play. Sites like eBay are great to haggle on prices and feel more control of your purchases, but it’s not always 'what you see is what you get' on sites like these.  I wanted to write this quick post to let all our readers know about a few helpful hints and websites to help you buy online, and sometimes even in stores with confidence.  

eBay has a great list of resources written by members about the signs to look out for when perusing the site. Some of the suggestions are about brands in particular, such as Diesel, Seven for all Mankind, Rock & Republic and True Religion (just to name a few) as well as overall advice about identifying authentic vs. fake denim.  Many pictorial guides are offered, and you know we love photos to show the differences in labels, packaging, washes and styles of jeans and comparisons of the differences to look out for.   To be honest, I wouldn’t have known what to look out for before reading through these pieces since we sell 100% authentic denim on True Jeans.

Second City Style also featured a piece from Women’s Wear Daily, or WWD to us avid readers, with a shorter list of ‘what to watch out for’ advice.  One interesting section mentions:

On that note, here are my own suggestions with a little help from eZine @rticles:

- If the price is too low in comparison to store prices, be wary
- Read through an eBay seller’s feedback section, look specifically for reviewers who mention the brand your are looking to purchase
- If there are not enough photos of all the jeans’ labels, or if there are only stock photos of the item, make sure to request pictures of the actual jeans, specifically the labels and back pockets.
-Sure, premium denim comes at a premium price, but there are reasons for this.  In another post on True Life we mentioned that most designer denim is made in the USA, on the tags it should say that the jeans were manufactured in the states.  Japan, China and Thailand are hubs for producing counterfeits of all kinds, so just be careful of that as well.

My final suggestion, and the real motivation for writing this post, is to check out The Honest Forum.  This is an amazing community for premium denim fans!  Sure, the site costs $9.99 for a 25 year membership but let me tell you, it’s definitely worth it.  There is an entire section listing sites that sell fake denim, and mentions of eBay sellers which are known for peddling fakes which I found very useful.  These enthusiasts really know their stuff and are more than willing to help out other community members when something seems a little fishy.  

I hope you find this helpful.  I’d love to hear any other suggestions or counterfeit sites you’ve come across in your online shopping travels.  ‘Cause when you get down to it, there’s power in knowledge and power in numbers!

Ask Julie: I'm short, but have athletic thighs

A Reader Asks Julie:
I am short (5'3) and though my hips are larger than my waist, my thighs are athletic and relatively big. Most jeans that would fit my waist don't get past my thighs, and if they fit my thighs, they're too big around the waist! Or, they tend to make my legs look hippy and even shorter! What's a good fit for someone like me?

Julie Replies:
Hello!

Your curvy figure and athletic thighs, would be most comfortable in a jean that has a good amount of stretch in the fabric.  The rise is important not to be too low, where it can cause gapping, and a dark wash with a slightly thicker fabric will help minimize, instead of accentuate.  If you would like to elongate your legs you cannot go wrong with the trouser cut jean.  Often people with shorter legs have the misconception that they cannot pull off the trouser/wide leg style.  I completely disagree!  If paired with the perfect heel or wedge and a longer top, the trouser will lightly hug the hips and thighs and will endlessly widen to just barely touching the floor, will create the illusion of a long, lean leg.  For some great trouser options I suggest the Kasil Chelsea; which have functional button closures on the sides to accommodate for curves;  and my personal favorite, the Hudson, Deluxe Wide Leg, is a must have of the season, for style and extreme comfort. If it is a simple boot-cut you are looking for; check out the  Goldsign, Desire; or for a good mid-rise option try the WORN Alder and Nikki LoLo.  I hope this helps your jean search!

Best,

Julie

The Next Celebrity Denim Line?!?

Unless you have been living under a rock the past week, you must be well aware of the rumors abuzz lately about whether or not Amy Winehouse has admitted herself into rehab.

Rumors have also been circling about Amy becoming the next celebrity to design her own denim line.  The buzz is that the beehive-wearing, tattooed songstress has been called on to come up with her own line of denim jeans although no offers have been settled as of yet.  Several fashion houses, including Calvin Klien, have been in the running to seal of deal with the British singer.

A source was recently quoted by the Daily Star newspaper as saying, “"Amy is constantly being asked to create her own clothes range and the main area designers are interested in her working on is denims. Skinny fit jeans and denim shorts are the stuff she wears. Amy is of course interested in these offers, but her music comes first.”

In my opinion, not only is her sense of style questionable but from recent new of Amy’s entrance into rehab, she may not actually be capable of designing anything.

Do you think anyone would even be interested in wearing jean inspired and designed by Amy Winehouse?

A Great Site for the Fashion Obsessed

Big time fashionistas out there are probably already familiar with my latest fashion find. For those of you looking for the most up to date fashion hits and misses, WhoWhatWearDaily.com is the place for you.

Founders Katherine Power, a former West Coast editor for Elle, and Hillary Kerr, a veteran of Teen Vogue and Nylon, know all when it comes to the latest fashion news and trends. Each day WhoWhatWearDaily informs its readers what fashionistas celebs are wearing.

You can even sign up for a free email subscription to easily and affordably bring your fashion obsession to your inbox every day!

Ask Julie: Jeans For Those With Tummy Trouble

Sally Asks Julie:
I have always had trouble finding jeans. If they fit on top, they don't fit on bottom, vice versa. I HATE to wear baggy jeans, but i have a belly that makes me LOOK like I'm three months pregnant, and at times i have the jeans going where they shouldn't go and have to wear a long shirt to cover, i can't tell you when the last time it was i was able to tuck a shirt in, i tried on 6 pairs of jeans today and none of them fit,is there any jeans out there for me.

Julie's Answer:
Dear Sally,

Yes, there are jeans out there for you. Don't give up just yet!  Your tummy trouble is something that many women experience and it can be difficult to find jeans that help minimize this common problem area.  To best solve the tummy trouble you have experienced in the past, it seems as if you would be most comfortable in a mid-rise jean.  A mid-rise can provide you with just enough coverage to feel secure, without being so high that it creates more bulk where it is un-wanted. 

If you want a form fitting jean all around, I would suggest a jean with at least 2% stretch in it to help hug the right curves, and stretch with you with your busy day to day activities.  A few brands I suggest you check out are Pine IV, JAG, and WORN which are great for style and comfort. 

Also, keep in mind that fit specialists are available for phone consultations as well.  Phone consultations are really a great way to receive an individual shopping experience because fit specialists can speak one-on-one with you to help match up your measurements and personal style preferences with the perfect pair of jeans for you.  Please do not hesitate to call at 877-348-8783! 

I look forward to hearing for you!

Julie

Ask Julie: Help me find the right shoes for my Kasils!!

Doug Asks Julie:
Julie:  I came in for a fitting in May just before I moved to LA - I bought two pair of Kasil jeans.  My question of what kind of shoes do you think go well with these jeans - mine are boot cuts.  My Luchese boots look great with jeans.  My flip-flops and tennis shoes do not.  Also, my formal cap-toe and wing-tip type of dress shoes don't seem appropriate either.  What shoes do you recommend for a 43 year old man going out on the town in jeans in LA?

Julie's Response:
Hi Doug!

My advice to you for your shoe selection would have to be to keep it simple. Simplicity will definitely make it easier for you to transition from day to night.  You can never go wrong with a black or brown shoe; and it seems as if men's fashion shoes are going toward a less chunky, smaller, sleeker sole; like a leather loafer or a trendy sneaker.  Celebrities seen in Kasil Jeans, like Nick Lachey, and Brad Pitt, are usual seen with a t-shirt and a blazer, and a casual dress shoe.  Aldo has a great fall selection, which mixes simplicity with style.  Check out Men Style.com; they have great fashion tips, but also gadgets, travel, and media advice. Also, you might enjoy this great blog called Plopculture.  It's a man living in LA; it's hilarious and honest about style, celebrity and life in LA.

Good Luck!

Julie

Remebering a Fashion Icon

It has been over a month since the passing of fashion mogul and icon Liz Claiborne and it is clear that Claiborne’s legacy and savvy fashion and business sense will live on long into the future.  

Claiborne launched her fashion company in 1976 with her second husband, Art Ortenberg, and two other partners.  Her initial goal was to create career oriented styles to the masses of working women.  Her collection of mix and match separates was an immediate a hit and the company made Fortune magazine's list of the 500 largest companies in the United States within a decade of its founding.  

Bill McComb, the CEO of Liz Claiborne Inc., released a written statement saying:

“In losing Liz Claiborne, we have not only lost the founder of our company, but an inspirational woman who revolutionized the fashion industry 30 years ago…Her commitment to style and design is ever present in our thinking and the way we work. We will remember Liz for her vision, her entrepreneurial spirit and her enduring compassion and generosity.”

Liz Claiborne started her company with only half a million dollars in the 1970s. Today, Liz Claiborne Inc. is almost a $5 billion business that includes fashion accessories and home decor, as well as men's and women's clothing.

It is no doubt that Liz Claiborne has is some way, same or form influenced the way every women dresses for work today.  Claiborne truly made fashion work for women by introducing the idea of having interchangeable basics in your closet and it is my hope that her legacy, drive and love of fashion live on long into the future.

 

Uptown Liz - Where Shopping Gives Back

A recent post on Back in Skinny Jeans introduced me to a great company that I just had to share with our readers.  Uptown Liz was founded by Ramona Russell.  Ramona lost her twenty-eight-year-old sister, Elizabeth Ann ‘Liz’ Overturf, to breast cancer in 2006.  Ramona and Elizabeth dreamed of opening a boutique together, but after Liz’s death Ramona became even more determined to make this dream a reality.  Thus, Uptown Liz was born.  Uptown Liz “was founded to promote products from companies whose proceeds directly give back to charitable organizations… Our mission is to build a bridge between compassionate consumers and concerned companies in order to improve the world around us.”

Uptown Liz works to raise funds for a number of organizations and causes including: The Women’s Cancer Research Foundation, The Livestrong Lance Armstrong Foundation, The Joyful Heart Foundation and Cure Autism Now, just to name a few.  By clicking on the Shopping link you can choose if you would link to shop products by cause or by product.  What a great way to shop and still give back to causes that are close to your own heart!

 It is always great to see originations like this giving back to terrific causes.  Check out the post about White Cane Label to read about another non-profit fashion initiatives are is set to be up in running in the near future. 

Designer Jeans Get Eco Friendly - Pine IV's New Partenership

Many fashion trends that start in Hollywood fizzle so quickly that they are never missed.  Going green is one Hollywood trend that I certainly hope has staying power long into the future. 

One of the latest brands to 'go green' is Pine IV.  Pine IV is one denim company that certainly takes pride in its eco-friendly efforts. Pine IV’s line of denim is made from the finest materials from Japan making them so comfortable you could almost sleep in them.  The company also strives to be environmentally friendly. 

In a recent press release, published on June 24, 2007, the company announced its partnership with AmericanForests.org “to implement a tree planting program in which a single tree will be planted for each of its Pine IV jeans sold in the US.” AmericanForests.org is the oldest and most respected non-profit organization that is dedicated to the funding and oversight of tree planting organization throughout the world.

Simply Blue Apparel, Inc., the parent company of Pine IV, “will donate $1 per Pine IV jean sold at retail in the US, the amount necessary to fund the planting of one tree. SBA has inaugurated its program with a donation to retroactively plant trees for all Pine IV jeans sold in 2007.”

Click here to check out a picture of Jennifer Garner in a pair of eco-friendly Pine IV jeans. 

Little in the Middle at Shecky's Girls Night Out

The entire Little in the Middle crew was recently spotted at the Shecky’s Girls Night Out shopping event in Boston, MA.  Shecky’s Girls Night Out is “the nation’s most INDULGENT shopping event!”  For five hours, you and your girlfriends can be treated to cocktails while shopping for the latest fashions, beauty supplies and accessories all from up and coming designer. 

A typical girls’ night out usually consist of a casual dinner, a round of drinks and maybe some clubbing or a movie. But when a large group of fashionistas get together, a girls’ night out can be taken to a whole new level. At a Shecky’s Girls Night Out, trendsetters partake in a massive sample sale where designer offer special discounts on all their good.  Discounts, drinks and new designers – could there be any better way to shop. 

A Little Something for Designer Jean Lovers!

 
Ever wonder how your designer jeans get their fantastic detailing and fading on them?  Have you ever been curious to learn how to give your favorite pair of jeans a more worn in look?  If these questions have ever crossed your mind then you should check out The Denim Design Lab's Encyclopedia.  This perfect coffee table book is ideal for all you denim enthusiasts out there.  It contains a tremendous amount of useful information including great historical background and simple step-by-step guides to design your own designer jeans.  The detailed instructions allow you to customize your jeans to perfectly match your personality.  Even if you are not crafty at all, this book will provide you with a wealth of knowledge about how jeans are made from start to finish.  

True Jeans is Featured in Upscale Living Magazine

Upscale Living recently included True Jeans in a feature article in their Summer 2007 issue.  The article highlights how  "True Jeans bring the dressing room to your computer room."  With a wide array of designer jeans to choose from, True Jeans is sure to help you find your 'true fit."

Article Preview:

"We have sliced bread. We have gone to the moon. And yet we can't find a pair of jeans that fits right. Until now. Thanks to True Jeans (a new offering from the True Apparel Company of Woburn, Mass.), not only can every man, woman and fashion-conscious child find the perfect pair of jeans, they can do it in the privacy and comfort of their own home.

According to a survey in The Wall Street Journal, more than 70 percent of those who wear clothes had trouble finding jeans that fit in conventional stores. Now, with the new technology being offered by True Jeans, more people can get more satisfaction in less time than ever."

Blogging Project Runway

 

 

New Online Fashion Community

Have you ever worn such a killer outfit that you wish you could share it with the world?  Well, a new online community is making it possible to share your cool style with the online world.  StyleMob, a new community for street fashion enthusiasts, allows you to upload images of your outfits and search and rate other individuals’ outfits.  Style Mob users also have the ability to mob other people's looks! As part of the mob, you vote and choose the day's top-rated street fashion.  Check out Groove Effect for a full review of the site. 

Style Mob is still in super-exclusive, pre-beta mode but is set to go public by the end of this week so make sure you check it this fun and refreshing way to share your awesome style!