LadyLUX Articles

Geek Chic: Our Top 5 Laptop Bags

2010-03-15T22:04:47Z

When it comes to protecting your technology, it’s always important to be trend savvy. There’s no reason you can’t shield your iBook from the harsh city streets, and simultaneously show off your style! From eco-friendly to high-end designed, these top five LUX laptop bags will protect your goods and set tech trends.

NottyPooch
Made from recyclable materials, the sleek NottyPooch laptop sleeves are eco-friendly and a piece of pop art. Used billboard banners are brushed, waxed and clean before molded into the creative case.

Rebecca Minkoff
This LUX lady knows how to glam up the geeks. Known for her bright laptop “Virginia” sleeves and fun carriers, this ostrich-embossed leather case is an absolute must for any working woman. In a great shade of pale pink, plenty of padding and Minkoff’s signature lining—the $150 price tag is well worth the swipe!

Fab
The Dutch designer has a lot to live up to with a name like Fab. Fortunately, he hits all the right marks with a hot design in leather and a multitude of colors to choose from. Geeksugar points out a little problem though, you may have to hire a european translator to do any online shopping…

Labudde
Similarly to NottyPooch, Labudde uses reclaimed materials to put together her laptop cases. The designer abducted the coffee bean bags in route to her local coffee roastery and voila!... A business was born! All of her bags are made from recycled coffee sacks and are trimmed in colorful piping.

Twelvesouth
Textbook or MacBook? Leave your library neighbors with confused faces next time you pull out your tech gear and attempt to get some work done. The BookBook not only looks cool (the leather pulls look like bookmarks!), but is a sturdy, safe alternative to the normal old bag.

LUX Look: Power Pantsuits

2010-03-15T21:02:09Z

Pantsuits are no longer solely suited to politicians and power players. Now the ladies can rock the lapels with hot new menswear-inspired looks for spring. From Balmain’s rock’n’roll gold pinstripes to Rochas’ black velvet bootleg – the women of the runway are bringing back Wall Street.

Balmain
Length is the key word for his vertically minded line. Pinstripes, wide leg trousers and black boots gave the models an extra boost. Although, this is the matchiest model of the bunch, even the mixed separates showed that structure is a smart component for spring’s wardrobe.

Balenciaga
This isn’t Hillary’s suit. Cropped in metallic shades of silver and gunmetal grey, Balenciaga put a spring in his step for the new suit season. Pastels and muted prints chopped up the modern blazers, perfect fit for the unrestrained artist.

Rochas
Who said suits had to be stiff? Rochas brings their signature fun and femininity to the standard suit. The velvet set, finished with whimsical cuffs and a ruffled blouse, is a soft and luxurious option for a gal that refuses to play by the rules.

LUX Look: Knuckles Out

2010-03-15T17:20:48Z

These blinging rings will protect gals when the streets get scary, and keep you looking fab at the same time. Double duty! Although, many styles features studs and masculine embellishment, LUX likes these more feminine finger pieces that take a note from nature. From soft kitties to fiesty foxes, your claws are bound to turn a few heads.

Gisele Ganne: Black Widow
This LUX buy (pictured above) at around $3,000 is one of Ganne’s masterpieces from the “Morning and Divorce” series. Perhaps, love and loss can be grim but it can also but glam with this great gold adornment. Fashioned with the skull of a bird, the beak juts out over your fingers to become a big fashion statement. Roses, made of gold and enamel, add a romantic touch to the avant garde look.

Trinket Jewelry: Kitty Ring
The Australian designer custom makes each ring to fit the customer, simply place your order and tell her the two sizes and you’re set. Who says knuckle rings have to be so serious? Show your playful side with the kitty ring. The mottled, leathery texture of the silver is another glam factor.

Fleathers: Rabid Fox Ring
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been absolutely crazy about foxes ever since “Fantastic Mr. Fox” hit theatres back in fall. Now, you can live fantastically and you don’t have to revert to old school animation. Totally customizable as well, you can choose whether your furry friends face in or out. Plus, it’s available in rose gold – the new metallic of 2010.

Give Back to Haiti: Yellow Bird Project

2010-03-13T00:31:46Z

On Thursday, LadyLUX wrote about Crafts for a Cause, a non-profit that auctions celeb-crafted goods for relief efforts in Haiti. In our “Give Back to Haiti” series we’re showing another great conscious company, the Yellow Bird Project, that takes advantage of our most talented indie artists by asking them to decorate shirts for a cause, all sales go to Haiti via Partners in Health.

Started back in 2006, The Yellow Bird Project was aimed at raising awareness for charities by harnessing celeb support. Instead of simply raising money, the barter of the artful tees is a great way to showcase the organization and the artist at the same time.

The Yellow Bird Project explains their mission, “Indie rock bands are leaking creativity. Why not harness their magical indie powers to help out those in need?”

Each shirt is so unique, whether you like hand-drawn trees or modern designs—there is a tee fit for every type.

Priced from $10 to $40 for a tee or sweatshirt, the project is definitely worth a reach into your pocketbook. David Bowie fan? Check out the new design by TV On The Radio’s Tunde Adebimpe for a cool rendering of the 80s rocker.

STOMP for a Cause with Australia Luxe

2010-03-12T23:59:46Z

Australia Luxe dresses the feet of the most stylish celebrities, from Kim Kardashian to Kate Hudson. Founded by Stuart Rush and Nicole Durrand, an ex-Versace model, the industry maven has turned the cozy shoe into a globally known name. These aren’t your average boots! Embellished with fancy fur and hardware, only the fashion forward can pull off this footware.

In partnership with the LA-based marketing firm, The Sheppard, Australia Luxe has created a philanthropic campaign called STOMP. In an effort to use celeb influence for a good cause, STOMP asks big names to pick a charity that hits close to home and STOMP it out on their behalf. It’s a great chance to give a voice to unknown charities and spread awareness. Many celebs are already taking the philanthropic plunge, Cindy Crawford chose Leukemia and Lymphoma and Kylie Bisutti (pictured), a Victoria’s Secret Model, is helping out children.

Andrew Almendras, a Project Coordinator for The Sheppard, explained the mission of STOMP, “We wanted to create a philanthropic platform for Australia Luxe Collective that brought their celebrity supporters and charities together to raise funds and awareness for issues that matter to our communities today.”

On February 14, signed Australia Luxe boots from the Sundance Film Festival raised over $1,000 for the Red Cross Relief Efforts in Haiti. Not only did the winner get a pair covered in over 30 celebrity signatures but they also won the chance to name Australia Luxe’s 2011 collection!

LadyLUX will be following STOMP in their efforts to combine style with social awareness. Stay tuned this spring as we update readers on their celebrity auctions and conscious campaign.

Mad About Barbie

2010-03-12T19:27:13Z

It’s a mad, mad, mad, mad, mad, mad world—and a Barbie one at that.

For those who are fans of both everyone’s favorite doll and everyone’s favorite new dramatic series, there’s a new deal on the table: This July, Mattel will issue four new dolls modeled on “Mad Men”, the show set in the 1960s about the advertising world which has become a runaway hit after only three seasons-and garnered multiple Emmys and Golden Globes in the process. Given the somewhat saucy nature of the show, one might think, “Barbie and Ken would not approve … “ Alas, the dolls are the first licensed line for the premium-price collection put out by Mattel called the Fashion Model Collection, targeted specifically for adults. And the differ additionally since they are fashioned from Silkstone®, a porcelain-like material, as well as being dressed in suitably “Mad” fashions-pearls, pumps, tight skirt suits for Joan, billowing dresses for Betty, and dapper suits for Dan and Roger. Fans will want to move fast: Only 7-10,000 of the dolls will be issued, sold in specialty stores and on the sites amctv.com and barbiecollector.com. As with much in life, timing is everything: The dolls’ debut will be perfectly timed for the debut of the fourth season that month of “Mad Men”, and the timing of the two is also serendipitous for the fact that Barbie made her debut in 1959, and the first episode of the show is set in March, 1960. The collection is being launched along with Lionsgate Films and AMC (Lionsgate is the studio that produces “Mad Men” for the AMC cable channel). Few shows...

What’s Clogging Up The Runway?

2010-03-12T17:50:15Z

Ever since fall, when Celine’s models hit the catwalk, clogs have been the new shoe for Spring. Not to be associated with gardening or rural Europe, the runway took the wooden mule to a whole new level. Whether you want them dressed down in brown suede or hot-to-trot in ankle straps and embellishments, stores everywhere are clogged up. Silent footwear, like ballet flats, are now a thing of the past. Tap your way down 5th avenue with these three fabulous finds.

Joie: “Get on Up”
The great snake-embossed leather is perfect for slinking around the Sunset Strip. Plus, a five inch heel will definitely get you noticed in Hollywood! If you’re not one for the clunky Dutch shoe, this modern reinvention will have you “Get on Up” and try a pair on!

Miss Sixty: “Damian”
Just like the namesake, you’d swear you took these out of your mother’s closet. The hardware and alternating wood shades make this new shoe, a great twist on a vintage classic. Woodstock 2010 anyone?

Steven: “Durann”
The studded, slouchy booties scream 80s with their subversive, unique take on the style. These shoes do not follow the rules. Roadies won’t be seen in duds like these, only real rockers can roll with the five and a half inch heel.

LUX Loves: Trendy Vending

2010-03-12T16:54:41Z

ckone pocket store by sephora
by Nouveau_Jour

Vending machines are usually associated with unhealthy snacks and corporate break-rooms but a whole new trend of LUX vending machines are hitting the streets, from Paris to Los Angeles, giving trendy travelers their necessities at the push of a button.

Paris: Perfume
Starting last month, Parisian metro stations feature Sephora vending machines that sell small sizes of CK One for 10 euros. No need to leave the subway feeling smelly, this uni-sex scent is an easy fix to a common commuter problem.

UK: After-party shoes
Every girl’s worst nightmare: After a long night out with the girls, no cabs are available and she has to cardio the way home. The worst part? In her 4 inch Louboutins. British brands, Rollasoles and Afterheels, offer a savvy solution to party-goers. Just insert £5 and out pops ballet flats! Rollasoles doesn’t just give a gal plain old black, but makes these flats totally wearable to the after-party in hues such as gold, silver and pink. Where to put the stilettos? Both names offer a tiny tote to carry your club shoes.

USA: Bathing suits
A classic travel problem, everyone has shown up beachside without a bathing suit. Don’t fret! Quicksilver teamed up with The Standard Hotel to solve the problem. Instead of settling for boring trunks, shop trendy styles poolside. Mojito anyone?

Through the Looking Glass

2010-03-12T16:13:44Z

She could design interiors, or bake cakes, or craft cars for a living. Luckily for us, Meredith German confines her talents to the accessories world-bags, belts, and jewelry, to be precise. For her, it has been a lifetime love affair with design, and she’s wanted to have her own line since she was a mere babe growing up in the lush countryside of West Virginia.

The girl from the south, now New York resident, was raised in that gracious locale near the famed Greenbrier Hotel, one that is famous for its gigantic size, but also for its Dorothy Draper-designed interiors. This over-the-top aesthetic—Draper was known for her flourishes and heady design—helped mold the mindset of German and set her on a course to a design career of her own.

German attended Furman University, as well as a semester in Cortona, Italy where she majored in studio art. Further classes at F.I.T. helped her to hone her craft, as did working in some of Seventh Avenue’s most lauded fashion companies. Now, she and husband Wendell Ross German—obviously the other half of the company name, and its president—run Meredith Wendell, joining both their names and creative forces.

LadyLUX sat down with the designer to talk over all things accessory, and to see how she’s liking designing her own life thus far:

LadyLUX: When did you found the company?

Meredith Wendell: Two years ago. It was something I had always wanted to do, ever since childhood. My grandfather had also passed away and he was someone in my life who always encouraged me to do it.

LL: What made you want to go into accessories...

Give Back to Haiti: Crafts for a Cause

2010-03-11T20:45:43Z

On March 15, Crafts for a Cause will auction off different celebrity contributions, with proceeds going to victims of the natural disaster. Whether you want autographed art from the “Parks and Recreation” set or a t-shirt decorated by Feist, it’s a great opportunity to support the earthquake-stricken country and get a piece of pop culture at the same time.

Binki Shapiro, of the band Little Joy, started the nonprofit to raise funds for the relief efforts in Haiti. So far, he has long list of actors, designers, and musicians contributing to the cause such as Drew Barrymore (pictured), Maroon 5, Daft Punk, Natalie Portman and Rodarte.

“The Office” star, Rainn Wilson, tweeted today in support of Shapiro’s mission, “Binki Shapiro has collected sweet artistes w/rad art, Ts, totes, etc. to raise $ for relief in Haiti.”

Check out the website for cool clips of celebs having fun as they decorate shirts, cameras, and create original artwork – all in the name of helping humanity.

Bidding starts here at 8am: biddingforgood.com/craftsforacause

LUX Look: Think Pink

2010-03-11T00:21:15Z

It was evident on Oscar night that the new hue for Spring is pink! From great glosses by top designers to interesting alternatives to your classic compact…these LUX beauty finds are bound to make the makeup bag just in time for this season’s soirees.

Givenchy: Printed Lips Tinted Look Lip Stainer
A marker for your mouth, indulge your inner-kid and use the felt-tipped pen for a fabulous fuchsia finish.

Temptu: Air Pod Blush
Are you sick of over-priced brushes? The airpod allows your fingers to go free, simple aim and airbrush for a soft, flawless look.

Tarte: Flower Child Cheek Stain
Your summer glow isn’t faux with Tarte’s cheek stain. Loaded with antioxidant rich nutrients and 5 superfruits, it has proven restorative anti-aging properties. Blast back to 60s flower power, but you don’t have to look it!

Illamasqua: Nail Varnish in Collide
A great name for the hot pink shade, there’s bound to be collisions with nails so distracting! A little better than your average polish, the varnish will stay chip-free even after a night at the clubs.

All About Yves

2010-03-10T23:27:35Z

If you are in the neighborhood tomorrow—and don’t all of us wish we were—the Yves Saint Laurent Retrospective will open its doors at the Petit Palais in the City of Light. Sure to be a landmark event following the death of Yves Saint Laurent last year, the retrospective will be on view until August 29th, sure to attract addicts and fans of all sorts, and perhaps sure to keep usually vacationing Parisiens/nes in town for the last month of the summer, when they are customarily more likely to be on the Riviera. The show boasts “11 salles thematiques a decouvrir”—which translates as “11 thematic rooms to discover”. Personally, this LUXie cannot wait to see some of the best and most loved haute couture in the flesh. Don’t call it vintage: Mr. Saint Laurent would bristle at such a moniker. His clothes were made to last a lifetime.

LUX Loves: Cycle for a Cause

2010-03-10T20:58:40Z

On a trip to Africa, Craig Calfee got inspired to bring his bamboo bike-making across the Atlantic. Stimulating Ghana’s economy, the initiative called Bamboosero, gives Ghanian artisans $150 for every bike they manufacture. The frames are built from locally grown bamboo and then taken back to the shop where Calfee and his team add the necessary hardware to get it on the street. His next goal is to bring Bamboosero to other developing nations that could use the more local business.

Like the bike idea? These two other companies, Baisikeli and Worldbike, give back to impoverished nations with bike-based solutions.

Baisikeli (bicycle in Swahili) takes second-hand bikes from Denmark and donates them to regions in Africa such as Ghana, Sierra Leone and Tanzania. The local handlers in Africa receive the bikes from Copenhagen, are trained on how to repair them and then sell them to distributors in the area. Although they are second-hand, they are remarkably better quality than the domestic products found in Africa and bought at a fraction of the price.

Worldbike has a different mission than Bamboosero or Baisikeli, who focus on redistributing used goods to the poor of Africa. Instead, Worldbike designs brand-new inexpensive bikes that can handle large loads and rough terrain, distributing them all over the world from Cuba to Cambodia. It’s an important perspective since everything from emergency technicians to postal workers use bikes as their main form of transportation in developing nations.

LUX Look: Hot Buns

2010-03-10T02:35:13Z

Since fall, the runway has been filled to the brim with bun-topped models. The sleek up-do has been a convenient compliment to the modern, structured pieces that have overtaken the Spring and Fall 2010 shows from New York to Paris. From Lanvin’s messy, whimsical topper and Prada’s 70’s secretary style to Sonia Rykiel’s avant-garde faux look – the bun is the fashion “do” for 2010.

Lanvin
The Spring RTW show was surprisingly structured, giving the recession-minded a flashback to better times with vintage inspired body suits, cut with crisp pleats in bright polyester. The messy coif propelled the designs into the 21st century, adding modernity and whimsy to the serious styles.

Sonia Rykiel
Sonia’s show was truly entertaining, a childlike innocence and fun for fashion exudes from all her designs. Whether she putting cloth buns on top of her models or pushing them out adorned in feathers, the French fashionista is flirtatious with her style.

Prada
Similarly to Lanvin, Prada was a blast from the past but instead of Art Deco, it channeled the working women of 1960s Manhattan. Feminine touches, like ruffles and lace, peeked out behind refined dresses and coats. However, don’t expect Prada to keep with tradition. There was a definite suggestiveness and humor to the wardrobe, from the pointy-breasted bodices to wide skirted coats, Prada gave lean girls a little more to work with.

The Young and the Restless

2010-03-09T20:42:12Z

When Pedro Lourenço’s fashions hit Paris Fashion Week, the front row would never guess that his avant-garde fashions and modern aesthetic was the product of a 19-year-old boy. Growing up in São Paolo, Lourenço started designing and putting together his own shows at his family home. The son of designers, he was no stranger to flea markets and fabric sales. A glimpse at his futuristic pieces makes one wonder if these youngsters really hold the key to the fashion future. Below are three kid contenders that are shaking up the industry, from the runway stage to the computer screen.

Fashion Designer: LaQuan Smith

Like Lourenço, LaQuan Smith knew at the young age of 13 that he’d rather be hitting the sewing machines than the basketball courts. He was rejected from fashion schools but refused to give up his passion. When he received an internship with BlackBook magazine, he may have taken advantage of the situation… He confessed to the New York Daily News, “It was so evil but I used to check her mail and go to events as [Elizabeth Sulcer].” However, it was Smith showing up as the 6-foot-1 party crasher that got him noticed. Decked in all his own fashions, his nights out were an opportunity to get known by the top of the game. That’s how he met Kelly Mills, a well-connected publicist, that eventually got him dressing the hottest pop stars from Rhianna to Lady Gaga. At age 21, Smith debuted his runway looks on February 14.

Makeup Artists: Blair and Elle Fowler

Transforming the models at Minnie Mortimer for New York Fashion Week, no one would know that...

LUX Loves: Womanity.com

2010-03-09T18:10:42Z

LadyLUX just found a new web favorite – Womanity.

On March 8, Designer Thierry Mugler launched his new website (in partnership with MSN), Womanity.com, as online community for women to communicate and connect.

If Mugler is going for provocative, he definitely hit the mark. The front page is fascinating, with an abstract artistic approach to a newsfeed. Tidbits of information, from twitters on womanhood to articles by MSN, stagger across the screen in neon splendor. At the top, next to the title, sits a color spectrum. “Select your mood”, it says.

The idea behind the mood bar and stories splashed across the screen is to promote an online environment where women can share their undulating feelings and viewpoints. Under the tab “Womanity is”, the site invites readers to connect with other women across the globe through images, video, or words.

Other tabs “Womanity Inspires”, which is a section devoted to news on women from around the globe as well as a storytelling spot for readers. The press release included some possible topics such as an article on “The timeless qualities of Alice in Wonderland”, a portrait of Wangari Maathai, an African Nobel Prize winner and environmental activist and other small stories on “Women who travel alone…” or “Is it always a good idea to follow feminine intuition?”

I clicked on a random quote and found Mugler’s plan for the site, “This is the very idea of Womanity: this complicity, this kind of secret connivance. This is the Womanity bond: it’s what one woman learns from another. It’s the idea of...

Oscar Trends: Heavy Metal

2010-03-08T23:42:14Z

While some actresses chose to stay out of the spotlight on Oscar night, these four beauties sparkled on the red carpet.

Sandra Bullock
The “Blind Side” winner made sure to have her style bases covered when she picked out the magnificent Marchesa dress. From the field to fête, Sandra is always on the frontline of fashion.

Nicole Richie
Known for her boho-chic style, Nicole’s vintage cut Reem Acra dress was the perfect fit for the hot mama. Topped off with steely eye shadow and black nails, Nicole was fierce in her metallic look. Watch out Paris!

Cameron Diaz
Sparkling in a gold Oscar De La Renta gown, it’s clear that Cameron is a star. The voice of Fiona in “Shrek”, this former model shines just as bright as the animated princess.

Kate Winslet
Known for serious roles in “Revolutionary Road” and “The Reader”, Kate piled on the drama with her silver Yves Saint Laurent dress. From the silver screen to the Kodak Theater, Kate always dazzles the crowds.

The Art is in the Makeup

2010-03-08T19:40:14Z

It seems Brits are on the mind of most make-up makers, MAC and Lancome are both commemorating their megawatt brands with an homage to art—whether by Brits or for Brits.

MAC
The lipstick powerhouse, known for getting celeb endorsements at the drop of a hat, has decided to go a different route when designing a new tube for 2010. The legendary Liberty of London print will crown their new spring collection, from glosses and shadows to blushes and bags. According to Vogue, MAC creative director James Gager commented about the line, “Oscar Wilde dandy mixed with a touch of bohemian flair.” Check out stores on March 11 for your taste of freedom.

Lancome
Only available at Debenhams, a UK department store, Americans will miss out on the wildly designed 10th Anniversary Juicy Tubes. Decorated by Japanese artist, Yayoi Kusama, head over to Europe after April 1 and get a new spring in your step from the flower and butterfly-encrusted glosses. Perhaps the flower power will incite a protest over the grave inconvenience Lancome is posing for us Yankees!

Oscar Trends: Making Waves

2010-03-08T18:30:24Z

An Oscar trend was “up in the air”… That is, until the film’s female star, Vera Farmiga, hit the catwalk. From soft frilly layers to structured pleats, the ruffle was the style of the night.

Vera Farmiga
George Clooney’s co-pilot, this star doesn’t need to worry if she misses her flight. Simply extend the pleats of her Marchesa gown and Farmiga would have her own set of wings!

Zoe Saldana
The “Avatar” star was a different shade of blue at the Academy Awards. However, her purple Givenchy Haute Couture dress definitely combined two worlds. A sparkling tight bodice with an unusually vibrant dress, it’s hard to say if it was worth the fashion risk…

Diane Kruger
When she’s not changing Germany’s history on the silver screen, the heroine hits the red carpet looking hot. Her nude-colored frock kept the European starlet fresh the whole night.

Elizabeth Banks
The chick from “Zack and Miri Make a Porno”, Banks cut the comedic routine for a seriously gorgeous Versace dress in a silver blue.

Demi Moore
The legendary starlet knew she had to make waves at the Oscars. In Atelier Versace, Moore was no “ghost” as she glowed in her blush gown.

A Walk in Wonderland: Alice Inspired Fashions

2010-03-08T14:00:31Z

After months of ogling images from Tim Burton’s new film, Alice in Wonderland, the motion picture finally opened on Friday and gave viewers a chance to delight in the lead gal’s fantastical wardrobe. From pale petticoats to crimson wigs, the film has pushed fairy tale frocks to a whole new fashion level. Can Alice’s style translate from the silver screen? These three looks combine old school Alice femininity with Burton’s over-the-top frills and fun.

Short, sexy and sweet – Marchesa gives you the dress your mother would never let you wear to prom. The furry frock is the perfect fit for Alice. She may not be ready to tackle marriage but she’s definitely prepared for a fantastic adventure.

Modern-day Alice might need some camouflage once she jumps through the rabbit hole. No problem. Westwood to the rescue! Ditch the camo for floral and she can attempt to blend in as she explores Wonderland.

A stroll through the English countryside, Dior took a trip out of the city with the equestrian themed show. Like a child in her father’s clothes, waifs in chiffon dresses were covered up in leather hacking jackets and topped with top hats. I don’t know about you, but I’m mad for these hatters.

Nyla Noor: Creativity That’s All In the Family—and In the Bag

2010-03-05T23:19:26Z

Most women I know are obsessed with handbags.

My mother is obsessed with handbags. My sister is obsessed with handbags. My next door neighbor—not a fashion person at all—is obsessed with handbags.

OK, I am obsessed with handbags.

I love them, in all their myriad sizes, shapes, colors, and formulations. I like them oversized, and minaudiere, those with handles or those with long straps, in black, white, metallic, and suede, canvas and wool—I even have a bright Kelly green shoulder bag with gold hardware and a bright orange rectangular tote. I have knock offs and the real thing, sacs, satchels, quilted backpacks from way back, and proper vintage lady bags that are old but new again. Clutches, carryalls, Baguettes, bucket bags, hobos, totes, I’ve hardly met a bag I don’t like. If I had more room in my closet, many more would line my shelves. But I am, sadly, at maximum capacity. Perhaps I can build more shelves …………….

Because I will need to fit at least one more in there—one by Nyla Noor. Sisters Romaana and Saifra Zia founded the new handbag line last year after they both left their very successful careers in investment banking. The design duo was lucky enough to have grown up in the business: Their parents ran a leather goods store in the garment district for years after moving to the United States from Pakistan (their father was a textile engineer). With a background in design and retail that prepared them so well, both felt fully equipped to make a go of their new endeavor. Upon meeting the Zia sisters, one can fully see that they embody...

The Oscars 82nd Annual Academy Awards

2010-03-05T11:34:38Z

Be sure to mark your calendars LUXies because this Sunday is the Oscars!

Dually hosted, this event is definitely going to be a must-see with Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin at the helm. We all know there will be plenty of laughter in the mix!

One of the coolest features of this year’s event has been the increased ‘pre-show’ coverage incorporating social media platforms, behind-the-scenes ‘webisodes’ and much, much more!

They’ve even incorporated a game called ‘Play Along’ where you can actually try to predict the Oscar winners in real-time and track your results against your friends. Definitely a LUX-ified feature to keep you entertained and will definitely ensure a bit of healthy competition.

Even better is that Avatar is on the ballot for nine categories including Best Picture! Our fingers are crossed on this one, though the odds look great that it’ll take something home.

Another revolutionary feature we wrote about last summer, Food Inc. also made the list for best Documentary Film.

Oh yeah, be sure to visit oscar.go.com to check out all of the wonderful opportunities to stay in touch and allow your vote to count for both the Designer Challenge and the Behind the Dress competitions!

As you can see LUXies, with the red carpet styles, entertaining hosts and a star cast this year’s event will most likely be one of the best yet! So be sure to tune in and let us know which part was your FAV!

LUX Bedding: London Luxury Partners with Elizabeth Arden

2010-03-05T11:28:29Z

So LUXies, spring is on the horizon and isn’t it time for your room to get a fresh makeover?

A new collection by London Luxury called the ‘Elizabeth Arden home collection’ is about to be released this weekend. Just in time, right? This premium line is the exclusive partnership of both these strong brands coming together to create LUX-designs that every bed will yearn for.

“London Luxury is a known market leader in the luxury home textiles market,” said Elizabeth Park, EVP Global Marketing, General Manager Elizabeth Arden US. “Their expertise will serve as a perfect complement to our brand’s heritage, as we expand beyond the beauty aisle. We are thrilled to partner with London Luxury and look forward to a long and successful partnership.”

Expect this collection to play on the strengths of the beauty brand Elizabeth Arden, especially in the new spa-inspired products and London Luxury’s experience in creating the ideal home accessories. It truly is a match made in design heaven!

“The Elizabeth Arden bedding, bath and spa collection will deliver spa-inspired luxurious products that leverage the equities for which the brand is best known, and will be designed for the style-conscious woman who appreciates the unique combination of quality and value. We are excited to partner with Elizabeth Arden on this journey.”—said Marc Jason, CEO of London Luxury

The exclusive line will be released during the New York Home Fashions Market from March 8-12. Until then, there will be private showings of the collection by contacting London Luxury directly. If you’d like to get a taste of what to expect, visit LondonLux.com and explore.

Live.Love.LUX.

A Day at the Derby to Help Save Retired Thoroughbreds

2010-03-05T11:24:05Z

Joining forces to help retired thoroughbreds, Maggie Mae Designs® and Old Friends have partnered for a 6-month charity auction that combines the strengths of fashion with making a difference.

Their auction started back in November and will continue up until Derby Day on May 1. Each month they feature a one-of-a kind couture hat designed exclusively for this purpose and auctioned only for the first 10 days of the month. The designs have each been inspired by a particular horse they strive to save. You can view the entire portfolio here. So this month they’re featuring the ‘Academy Award’ Hat shown above and the chance to own it will expire on the 10th of this month!

Talk about creative marketing. We love how they utilized the Derby as the inspiration to save these once ‘first place’ horses, as well as offer people the chance to own the ideal hat for the 136th Kentucky Derby event. The typical attire for opening day is very traditional and requires a hat that’s both posh and cultured! As you can see, these designs offer the best of both worlds.

We just love seeing when organizations come together to support a common goal and embody the LadyLUX principle of ‘good for the sake of good.’

So whether you’re planning to attend the official Derby or your own local affair, this just might be something you’d like to bid on. To learn more, visit their official eBay site for details.

So LUXies, what do you think of this way of giving back? Do you enjoy horse races and if so, do you believe this is an important cause to support? What is your favorite opening day memory?

LUX LIT: Switch, How to Change Things When Things are Hard

2010-03-04T11:29:25Z

LUX Lit Alert! As society and life continues to transform and evolve, some wonder if it always has to be so hard. A new book called Switch: How to Change Things When Things are Hard aims to share some powerful insights on creating change in our lives as well as in the world through a lens of HOPE.

What we love most about this book is that the authors Chip and Dan Heath share a new ‘approach’ to change versus the typical what’s wrong and how to fix it standard mode of operandi. So instead of understanding the problem and discussing ways to solve it, the book suggests we ask different questions altogether. Basically, it suggests we shift our attention to what’s working in the situation and ask how you can create more of ‘that.’

Interesting concept, wouldn’t you agree? To not focus on the part you want to fix, but to draw your attention to that which is working. This approach supports the phrase ‘you get what you focus on’ and therefore, if you choose to see what’s working then you can actually bring a completely new outlook to the situation. Definitely a much more LUX-worthy way of seeing change if I do say so myself!

“In tough times, we’ll see problems everywhere, and “analysis paralysis” will often kick in. That’s why, to make progress on a change, we need to provide crystal-clear direction—show people where to go, how to act, what destination to pursue. And that’s why bright spots are so essential: They provide the road map.” —Excerpt from the book, via fastcompany.com

The book also talks about the different ways we receive information...

Green-Tech: World’s Largest Solar Powered Boat

2010-03-04T11:25:51Z

Eco-technology has us swooning over the recently revealed solar powered boat. And, we’re in eco-LUX love over this aqua-craft’s clean lines and the dream that conceptualized it.

Affectionately called the ‘Planet Solar Project,’ this boat was conceived from an idea that was birthed about six years ago and is now scheduled to become a reality. This solar-powered watercraft aims to be the first of its kind to take an around the world voyage using only green technologies. The core of this boat’s design is to inspire and expand the possibilities technology has to offer for solving major global challenges.

The PlanetSolar project, an extraordinary technological and human challenge, is also an expression of the world-view of Raphaël Domjan and of the team he has built around him: “our planet deserves a better, brighter and less polluted future. Future technologies must be keenly investigated and solutions must be found. The project will help to motivate engineers and scientists to develop innovative technologies, inspire people around the world, and show that the impossible can become possible.” –planetsolar.org

Set to sail in 2011, there’s much work to be done before then. Though the design is impeccable and infuses futuristic modern appeal, it must be thoroughly tested before such an adventurous and successful journey can begin.

“Today, the boat is the most used means of transport of goods. It represents single-handedly almost 1,4 billions of tons of carbon dioxide (in 2008), that is 6% of the total carbon dioxide emissions and twice more than the air...

Handmade Jewelry Designed by Nan Fusco

2010-03-04T11:25:40Z

Oh how we love our accessories, especially ones that complement several looks and can be paired with the new spring fashion trends!

Well, you must check out this FAB designer out of Laguna Beach, Nan Fusco, who most definitely has an eye for detail and still makes every piece by hand! The level of craftsmanship is definitely LUX and we love how her pieces make a statement.

So whether you like to incorporate precious stones or crystals into your accessories, or you’re looking for more contemporary designs, you must check out her new collection. We adore the timelessness and flirty appeal of every piece.

One of our FAVs from the classic collection is the centerpiece in the picture above, which was crafted with 6 strands of handmade oval and circle link chains with South Sea Baroque Pearls and Column of Orange Fancy Sapphires all set in 22k gold necklace. We also fell in love with these Tanzanite, Peach Sapphire, Yellow Tourmaline, Apatite, Pearl and Pink Sapphire 3-inch 18k earrings that are to die for. Finally, the natural Jade, Apatite, Peridot, Green Amethyst Keishi Rice Pearl and yellow Tourmaline bracelet in 18k gold.

From her new collection we love the sterling Greek Maltese Cross with Keishi Pearls and Chain earrings for only $160 and the Amethyst Rocks with Vintage Silver, Gold and Gunmetal Chains for $495.

As you can see, she offers a variety of designs and looks to choose from. So, whether you’re looking for necklaces, earrings or bracelets be sure to check out Nan Fusco and come back and share with us which pieces you fancy.

So LUXies, do any of these designs meet your LUX standard?

Fashion is Shifting: Vogue Italia Announces New Dedicated ‘Curvy’ Section

2010-03-03T11:31:32Z

Talk about a fashion transformation, Vogue Italia has just launched a new focus to their website that’s aimed at the sexy curves of the average woman called ‘Vogue Curvy.’

Expect this new area to focus on inspiring women of many body styles, but especially what most in the fashion industry would call ‘plus-size’ models. It’s an effort to help re-define beauty and broaden the scope of our fashion-perfect lens.

According to a note from Vogue Italia editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani, the new Curvy site is “a channel where you may find out that a size 16 makes you happier than a size 0, and where having curves equals to being sexy and self-confident,” she wrote. Successful models and actresses who have embraced their curves and become style-icons tell you how to look stylish despite your size, without renouncing the latest trends.”

In interviews with some of the hottest plus-size models, we gain an insider perspective that’s very much needed to break the traditional stereotypes of this industry. They’ve even incorporated three of the most popular bloggers to help feed content to this new area and if this topic interests you, they’re still taking applications!

Now this isn’t the first time Vogue Italia has created such a specialized focus. In July 2008, they launched Vogue Black featuring various black models and it has been quite successful.

For more information, visit Vogue Curvy and experience it for yourself!

What do you think of having a dedicated site to celebrate the curves and sex appeal of women? Does this new site peak your interest to visit and explore?

Green Living: Rooftop Farms the New Trend?

2010-03-03T11:26:53Z

Buildings from city to city around the globe are incorporating green approaches into urban living, which even includes using the roof!

That’s right, one of the largest trends has been to utilize the extra square footage of the buildings and turn them into community farms. Allowing for easy access to organic produce right in your own neighborhood and helping the environment. What could be a better LUX-combination?

One of the major contributors to this growing movement of rooftop farms includes restaurants. One of the most popular eateries who has taken this concept and fully actualized it to sustain the restaurants production is called Uncommon Ground. They‘ve literally transformed their 2500 sq. foot roof to incorporate fresh, organic produce into every meal!

“We just used the peppers from the garden and stuffed them with chorizo. When things from the farm are ready, we’ll incorporate it however we can. I come up once a day to see what’s ripe and ready. We work a lot with local farmers and it’s one thing to go to the farmers markets and get produce knowing it was picked a day or two before. But to be able to come up here and immediately put it into use is mind-boggling.” –said Uncommon Ground Executive Chef Brian Millman.

Another neat example of this new eco-approach is in Toronto at the LUX location of the Fairmont Royal York. Here they’ve focused their efforts on creating a 4,000 sq. ft rooftop garden of herbs and vegetables that incorporates the freshness factor into every bite!

With rooftops farms becoming more and more popular some...

New Social Site Blippy Built on Financial Transparency

2010-03-03T11:21:49Z

So LUXies, can you imagine sharing every purchase you made with the world? Well, this is exactly the concept behind the new Blippy site.

Backed by one of the co-founders of Twitter, Evan Williams, this site aims to bring complete transparency to the way we shop and spend our money. Some immediate perks include finding great deals via other people’s purchases and helping nonprofits gain additional exposure with your donations being publically displayed!

There’s also the accountability factor. When you know that your purchase would automatically be displayed for all to see, would that influence your decision to buy? This question definitely brings to light the secrecy of shopping and why is it that we tend to not be so open with our money as we are about other things?

To join you simply register your account with a credit card and password for protection. It doesn’t store the information, but links to the credit card system and automatically downloads the most updated purchases in real time. So this could be anywhere from a cup-of-joe at Starbucks all the way to those new to die-for heels at Bloomingdales! There’s no limit to the transaction tell all, unless you decide to set your own limitations on who can see what.

“There is a hump people need to get over, including me, before you feel comfortable sharing this information,” Ashvin Kumar says, Co-Founder & CEO of Blippy.

Even the founders have admitted their own challenges in bringing such openness to our checkbooks, though they hope that we can become just as free with this part of our life as...