Haute Hunter Presents...Le Chic Urbain

So, no, I will NOT be cluing you in to the sale hoopla that will commence on "Black Friday" through "Cyber Monday"! As I'm boycotting! All of this is mostly because my body, mind, and wallet are STILL recovered from all the Versace for H&M madness!
I won't bore you with a full-on Versace/H&M 'post-mortem' as I originally planned, however, the one thing I will say is "THANK MZ. PW FOR HOOKIN' A SISTA UP AT THE VIP PRE-PARTY!". I was able to snag the butter-soft leather trench (which recently sold on eBay for $500 MORE than the original cost!), chain mail dresses, shoe booties, and other goodies! Look at me cheesin' with my bounty! :-)

No worries, however, for those of you 'across the pond' who weren't able to snag any of the 'goodies'...as previously reported, a second Versace for H&M collection is rumored to launch ON LINE ONLY (which is why it is not available here in the U.S.- as we don't get to enjoy H&M e-commerce state-side :-( ) in February of 2012. The Spring 2012 collection “features fruit print bikinis, gold strappy sandals and bundles of Versace bling” according to Mirror UK. I'm sure the limited availability will cause another EBay melee but I personally won't be a part of that because I'm quite filled to the brim with Versace/H&M right now. I'm DONE (I hope...;-))!

So, yes, I may be 'over' one H&M collabo but that doesn't mean I'm not looking forward to the next...ESPECIALLY IF IT'S TOM FORD! Yes ladies, my man Tom is rumored to be the next designer collaborating with H&M. As per a recent write-up in Business Week, the international discount retailer is “keen to follow up its Versace collection with a fashion range designed by Tom Ford.” I'll keep you posted as to the veracity of this story!

Speaking of Ford, however, photos of his Spring 2012 collection recently debuted on Vogue.com with limited fanfare. Regardless of the critic's opinions, however, Tom is still my main man who knows how to dress a woman like nobody's business! "Don't NOBODY talk bad about my Tom!" (in my best "In Living Color" Benita Buttrell voice ;-)).

So in case you missed it, last night Lady Gaga made an appearance at Barneys New York for the launch of her 'Gaga's Workshop' concept 'store' which contains approximately 170 products ranging from Gaga-inspired 'disco stick lollipops' to $4,000 shoes. Barneys will be donating 25% from all proceeds from the 'Workshop' to Gaga's 'Born This Way' Foundation. It's a win-win for all! Check out one of the promotional balloons that dotted NYC yesterday in honor of the grand opening:

Also noteworthy in the world of fashion this past week was Joseph Altuzarra's CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund win! Altuzarra won the $300,000 grand prize at the Fund's 8th annual event. One of my favs- jewelry designer Pamela Love- was a runner-up receiving $100,000 (along with Creatures of the Wind's designers Shane Gabier and Chris Peters).

Another big buzz worthy topic this past week has been Tamara Mellon's exit from Jimmy Choo! The co-founder/chief creative officer and the company CEO- Joshua Shulman- both resigned on the heels of Choo's 15th anniversary. Choo's parent company Labelux, who acquired the company last spring, will retain the current creative team to continue to run the design side of the luxury shoe company. Mellon, however, is rumored to kick start her own lifestyle brand as soon as she's done with her post at the end of this month. I find this all very interesting considering the origins of the 'Jimmy Choo' brand in the first instance. Hmmmm....

Speaking of corporate hiccups, designer Christian Siriano's collaborative efforts with Payless is currently under fire! Designer Management Company (DMA), who represents Siriano, is suing the Project Runway alum for commissions due on the Payless deal! DMA is claiming that they never got their $53,000 commission for negotiating his agreement with the discount shoe retailer. A Hot Mess!

In some lighter fashion news, hot girl Rihanna is entering the fashion game by creating a denim and lingerie line with Emporio Armani/Armani Jeans. The collection will made available this month and many pieces will feature Rihanna's logo and/or likeness. Check it out.

In other designer collaborations, the Spring 2012 collection of Vera Wang's "White by Vera Wang" line for David's Bridal is now available. I must tell you that I recently saw a BEAUTIFUL bride- Mz. K.O.- up close and personal in one of Wang's original 'White' designs and it was no less than STUNNING! Check out a few of the new offerings:

Attention to you L.A.-based Le Chic Urbains, Japanese department store Uniqlo and U.K.-based TopShop are rumored to be opening in L.A. in 2012! Although TopShop is planning to hit the west coast in Vegas first, a L.A. opening is planned very soon thereafter. I know Mz. MLH, Mz. FA, and Mz. SI are happy about that news!

Lastly, in the name of love and beauty, I was introduced to an 'adult novelty toy' company called 'The Screaming O' that recently manufactured a line of 'adult toys' targeting women and designed as beauty products called "The Studio Collection". The Studio Collection consists of 'lipstick', 'make up brushes', 'mascara', 'eyeshadow', and a 'compact' all designed for a woman's pleasure! Look at the 'lipstick'! Oooh la la!

Now that we've talked about everything that makes us girls happy - shopping/fashion and "the screaming o", I would like to offer you some visuals as to the fashion portion of our conversation.

Check out the 'hi/lo' offerings I discovered in my "Haute Hunting' ventures this past week:

J Crew Floral Skirt @ Net-A-Porter $150

H&M Floral Skirt $39.95

YSL Metallic Tributes $795

B Brian Atwood Metallic Platform @ Shopbop $350

Rihanna Garter Tights $$$$

House Of Holland Garter Tight $34

Forever21 Garter Tight $6.80

Of course I'd like to throw in some random Haute Hunt finds for your viewing pleasure before I depart...

ENJOY!!!

B Brian Atwood Feather Sandal $350 @ Shopbop. $350 for Brian Atwood?!? NO BRAINER! (I LOVE feathers ;-))

Ok, so this is definitely an aspirational piece but this is a work of ART! Dion Lee Silk Dress $1880 @ Shopbop

On the more affordable front, cute dress from Forever21 for only $24.90. Pair with a wide metallic obi belt and some strappy metallic heels and you will look FIERCE!

H&M Does it Again! HOTNESS for $39.95. THE FRINGE IS DRIPPING SEX!

H&M Spring 2012 Kimono Play Suit

TopShop Python Print 'Mullet' dress $76. I hate the terminology they are using for this style right now but this dress is simply chic!

Zara Blush Wedge Thigh-High Boot for $189. You get several styles in one! Totally Hot Color too!

DVF Cover-up $265 @ Shopbop. Ok, maybe it's just me but I'd rock this as a dress ANY DAY!

Zara Leather Fringed Shopper $169. So versatile and cute!

Ok, I know what you're thinking but this Forever21 Crop Feather Vest for $32.80 would be sooo cute if worn correctly. I totally see the potential in this - esp. for the price!

Forever21 Sequin Leggings $19.80. Ok, maybe your legs won't look like Mz. CMP's in these BUT for the price, it's worth the attempt! ;-)

Forever21Wool Blend Cape $37.80. Adorbs and so classic!

Suede Wedges from Rachel Bilson's collection for Shoemint

Now my dears, I hope you liked what i had to offer today. If not, tough cookies because I'm off to prepare for my 'Day Before Thanksgiving Pig Out Purge'! Happy Turkey Day! TTYL!

P.S. - Please excuse the 'hi/lo' comps that are trailing below...having technical difficulties AGAIN! CALGON- TAKE ME AWAY!!!! UGHH

Dion Lee Silk Sheer Panel Dress Net-a-porter.com $1950

Asos Sheer Panel Dress $116.61

ALC 'Ruby' Jacket @ Shopbop $693

Forever21 Contrast Blazer 32.80

Zara Blazer $89.90

Gucci Metallic Leather Skirt $1,650

TopShop Metallic Skirt $140.73

J Lo in Zuhair Murad @ 2011 AMA Awards $$$$

Zara Asymmetrical Lace Dress $99.90

HELLOOO! I promise that my New Year's resolution will be to post more often and not let LIFE interrupt my path! Although I've been M.I.A for a few weeks on the website, I have been trying to get my 'twitter game' "on", so make sure you follow me- as I usually have one or two daily fashion 'updates' that you'd find interesting (and a smattering of personal commentary between fashionable folks that might make you laugh! ;-)).

Now, down to business....fashion and beauty business that is!

Starting off in the world of collaborations (for good reason), is big news with regard to the Versace/H&M partnership:

TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT!?! The OFFICIALLY Versace-helmed launch party/fashion show for the Versace for H&M collection is going on NOW at Pier 57 in New York City hosted by Donatella Versace herself! The REAL treat, besides the fashion of course, is that Prince AND Nicki Minaj are scheduled to perform! Wow!!! I don't know how this one slipped between the cracks for me BUT a few of our tres chic urbains will be in attendance! Mz. SH & Mz. TT, make sure you keep us posted minute by minute!!!!
Just to 'wet your whistle', here are a few of my personal favs from the collection:

In other collabo news, Macy's is NOT letting any grass grown under its feet! Fresh off of the heels of the Giambattista Valli launch (which I liked a 'tad' better than the KL collection- which is now on RIDICULOUS sale), Macy's has tagged one of Michelle Obama favorite designers- DOO.RI- as it's next fashion partner! The collection, which will only be available for 8 weeks (both in-store and on-line) starting February 15, will be priced from $39- $159. I don't know about you all, but I'm utterly speechless at the caliber of guest designers Macy's has been able to attract! It has made me a believer because quite frankly, I was NOT historically a Macy's fan! LOL.

I am a long-time fan, however of Tar'get and the designer collaborations they've produced (Alexander McQueen.....#enoughsaid). I'm not sure if you were able to snag one of the Albertus Swanepoel for Target hats, but I'll tell you, $19.99 for a genuine wool/damn near exact replica of his hats that sell at Barneys NY for $275-$385 is a NO BRAINER! I LOVE the three I purchased! In addition to the amazing hat purchases, I'm geared up to visit my local Target this coming Sunday, November 13th for the launch of Gwen Stefani’s children's Harajuku Mini line for Target! Check it out a few of these cute-as-a-button designs:

In other kids-wear news, Victoria Beckham is rumored to be starting her own childrens line- no doubt inspired by her new little princess Harper- who is already decked out to the 9s! I will keep you posted!

While we're on the subject of 'Posh Spice', Beckham's exclusive line for Net-a-Porter recently launched. Click here to see the collection:

http://www.net-a-porter.com/Shop/Designers/Victoria_Beckham/Clothing

In an interesting fashion collaboration 'twist', fashion designer Jason Wu is partnering with faucet brand Brizo with his "Odin" bathroom faucet. Wu's faucet design features "SmartTouchPlus" technology which allows for 'hands free' operation. Mz. NC, I'm quite sure that that you will be the first to install this faucet into one of your fabu bathrooms! Here's a photo.... I must say, it lends to a VERY lush lavatory!

Looking at Wu's brushed black steel design brings me back to H&M and the upcoming Trish Summerville/H&M collection. Famed Hollywood costume designer Summerville, who is currently being praised for her designs for the feature film The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, was inspired to create the 30-piece women's collection by the film's dark character Lisbeth Salander.

The collection will enjoy an exclusive launch at Colette in Paris on November 28th but will be available in H&M stores/on-line (ex-U.S.) on December 14th. Mz. LB, you know that you will definitely have to personally check out the Colette launch while you are in Paris and report back to us IMMEDIATELY! Make sure you pick up one of the leather 'brooding but sexy' pieces for me! :-)

In other 'sad but true' news, Liz Claiborne, owners of Juicy Couture and Kate Spade, has been sold to JcPenny for a little over a quarter of a billion dollars! Also, Filene's Basement is officially closing its doors right after the holidays. Filene's owner Syms Corp. recently filed for bankruptcy and plans to liquidate Filene's through the end of January. I must say, Filene's was my very first introduction to designer bargins so I am feeling the loss.

In the world of fashion BUSINESS, let's just say that the Christian Louboutin v. YSL fight has gotten a bit more interesting.... Apparently, CL's quest to protect his 'red bottoms' by appealing the court's decision deeming CL's patented red sole trademark unprotectable has inspired Tiffany & Co. to issue an "amicus curiae" brief in suport of CL's appeal due to the fact that Tiffany considers its 'robin's egg blue' to be equally as protectable as CL's 'red bottoms'. I, quite frankly, feel that 'Tiffany blue' could withstand the heat any day. Not knocking CL- as you know, I'm QUITE found of Mr. Louboutin and have invested more money than I care to mention on his shoes-but from a legal and business standpoint, Tiffany & Co's "Icon" status might hold a bit more weight....

In happier fashion news, Chanel/Fendi designer Karl Lagerfeld is on a role with yet another fashion line to add to his arsenal! The "Karl Collection" will feature "rock & roll" inspired pieces ranging from $95 to $450 and will launch exclusively on Net-a-Porter.com on January 25 and will be available on KarlLagerfeld.com a month later. Clearly, Karl is trying to attract a younger/hipper/middle-class customer base. I say BRAVO KL!

Oh, and don't think that since Karl Lagerfeld celebrated 78 years on this earth this year, he intends on slowing down! In addition to the new fashion line as discussed above, KL has collaborated with Sephora on a line of beauty products that have been exclusively released this past weekend in Singapore and European Sephora outposts!

Meanwhile, the Burberry brand is refusing to be left out of the beauty business while all of the other fashion labels/couture designers rack up the 'dough' (e.g. Tom Ford's recent VIP launch of his beauty line at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC resulted in $52,000 in sales in that ONE NIGHT!). Although Burberry debuted an exclusive cosmetic line at select Nordstrom departments stores last summer, they now have an official beauty counter at Sak's Fifth Avenue's flagship in NYC! It's definitely worth checking out!

MAC has announced that beginning on November 14th, their three-piece collaboration with Miss Piggy - YES, I SAID MISS PIGGY- will be unveiled. The line includes MAC's take on Miss Piggy's fake eyelashes, her frosted pink eyeshadow, and signature kohl-heavy eyes via a jet black liquid eyeliner. Looks like Miss Piggy's Harper Bazaar feature created some real fashion opportunities for her- I am NOT mad at that pig (excuse my 'french' :-))!

In 'nail news' Nicki Minaj has joined forces with OPI to create a 6-piece nail polish collection slated to be released early next year. Each shade is inspired by/named after songs from her first album (i.e. "Dit It On Em", "Pink Friday" and "Super Bass Shatter"). Do it Nicki!

And lastly, actress Paula Patton was recently announced the new face of CoverGirl's 'Queen Collection'. Congrats Paula!

Now, let's get down to real 'bizness'! I always love this part of my post where I get to share 'hi/lo' comps AND my 'Haute Hunt' picks with you!
First, I want to offer you some extraordinaire 'comps' and then I'll finish up with some fashion 'steals' and 'aspiration pieces'. Here we go!!!!!

Asos Felt Hat $26

Gucci Rabbit Fur Hat $495

Asos $26.19

Rachel By Rachel Roy $129

H&M Lace Pencil Skirt $59.99

Elie Tahari Lace Skirt $398

By Marlene Birger Snake Print Dress @ Shopbop $375

H&M Snake Print Dress $14.99

ALC Leopard Print Pant $396 @ Barneys

Giambattista Valli For Macy's Leopard Print Pant $99

Aubin&Wills blouse $220 @ Net-a-porter

Forever 21 blouse $17.80

Asos bathing suit $57

Sunseeker bathing suit $128 @ shopbop.com

Halston Heritage Hot Pant $325

Forever21 Hot Pant $22

Asos Chiffon Jump Suit $116

Lanvin Gown $$$$$

DVF dress approx $500

Asos as worn by FLOTUS $70

Now that you see that even Shelly-O is into the 'hi/lo' comp game (albeit, her situation may be more of a 'knock-off' scenerio vs. legitimate comparison ;-)), let me show you some findings from my "Haute Hunting" throughout the past few weeks! Don't you love the randomness of the placement/price points?!?!??!! ;-)

Charlotte Olympia Calf Hair Leopard Pumps $905 WORTH EVERY PENNY!

Forever 21 Kimono Top $19.80. Pair this with some 'rich' wide-legged trousers and you have a winner!

Rachel Pally Aurora Dress $246 @ Shopbop. A solid investment and very versatile but sexy dress!

Issa Open Back Dress $775 @ Shopbop. OK- you HAVE TO see this dress from the back! HAUTE!!!!

Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Plated Earrings $95 @ Net-a-porter. A no-brainer. They look like an exquisite museum piece!

Nicholas Kirkwood Shoe Booties $1,385. I'd save up for these two-toned booties!

Forever 21 Glitter Flats $16.80. Adorbs!

Forever 21 Leopard Print Tam. $9.80. A WONDERFUL Fall addition to any wardrobe and an AMAZING price! Look at the texture....que rico!

Pamela Love Mountain Cuff $938 @ Moda Operandi. I'd feel like "Wonder Woman" in this!

Dolce Vita Bijoux Pike Pump $189. Check out the luscious red patent leather and row of spikes down the middle- S.E.X.!

Christian Louboutin Duvette Metallic & Patent Pumps $675 @ Net-a-porter. Great investment- these are gorgeous!

Forever21 Beaded Clutch $28.80. This is an amazing accessory for a brilliant price! The colors/pattern POPS!!!

Soo Ihn Kim Jinx Cuff $58 @ Shopbop. BEAUTIFUL & SHOW-STOPPING CUFF AT A STEAL!

TopShop Wool Coat $400. This is such an elegant coat, length, and color. So classic!

Topshop Chain Scarf $30. What a FUNKY piece for such a small price! This would rev up any look!

TopShop Mesh Flame Bootie $150. SHOW-STOPPERS. PERIOD!

TopShop Snakeskin Platform Peep toe Pumps $200. Very 'couture' if worn with the right outfit and attitude. DO THE DARN THING!

Asos Black Lace Midi Dress $120. So classically sexy!

Asos Feather Bustier Dress $450. While I may have to wait for this to go on sale, I just love the 'sweet sexiness' of this dress (AND I have a 'thing' for feathers to boot ;-)).

Forever21 Damask Skinny Jean $29.80. So rich and funky!

Forever21 Cropped Shag Jacket $29.80. Take a close look at the size of the looping and blush tone; this jacket worn correctly could give you a luxurious yet fun vibe!