California Dreaming

I'm pining like Bella for Edward in this June gloom, only my craving is for hot SoCal beaches.  Since this girl can only daydream about heading to sunny shores, let's do some virtual shopping and pretend we have no budget.

First, a reversible Missoni bikini to match my limited edition San Pellegrino.  By the way, the disclaimer on net-a-porter.com recommends not getting the bikini wet. Click details if you go there. Where are my high heels?!

Just joking.  I love espadrille wedges for lift without being tacky.  Christian Louboutin makes these incredible shoes with a little bow hitting the middle of your foot.  This woven Fendi bag charmed me with the shoulder strap, plus it works great at the beach and for shopping.

I love a bright print and recently discovered Milly.  There's a Pucci-esque style to this brand, and while I wouldn't say it's inexpensive, it's a fraction of Pucci's price.  I love Milly's cover up and the folded up fabric to the right?  Those aren't pillowcases.  It's a beach blanket with detachable pillow.  Dying!

How about a pair of Damien Hirst chairs to help us relax and watch the sea?  This gorgeous Rachel Zoe cuff is easy to unclasp before sprinting into the sea, or shall I say, wading your ankles in the water.  Don't want to get our bikini wet, do we?

I require an umbrella at the beach.  I can only lay in the sun for about an hour before I get overheated.  Williams Sonoma makes an umbrella in classic canvas and these Alexander McQueen shades have the most subtle and delightful lift in the upper corners.

Stay tuned for my next post.  I'll do all of these looks for less!

By the way, can we start a new trend?  The headband sweatband style is over.  Please wear it the classic way.  Your forehead pores will thank you.

Would You or Wouldn't You?

Before I pose my question, check out the shoes below.

Christian Louboutins normally sell in the range of $1000. These shoes are for sale between $159 & $179 on a website called Louboutin Mall. I was ready to bust out my credit card, but then I did some fact checking.

According to NY Magazine, while some of the photos may be authentic, the shoes you receive are fakes.

Remember when fake Louis Vuitton purses were all over the place? I'm pretty good at spotting them. (The orange leather trim & handles are usually a dead giveaway)

So, here's the question. Would you buy a knockoff that pretends to be the real deal? Is that so different from buying Cavalli and D&G inspired styles from F21 and the like?

Discuss.

Lusting After Louboutins?

Having a moment with my favorite pair of shoes.

Photo by David Oscar Flores

I only wear my prized Christian Louboutins for special occasions & baby them like an overprotective mother. They do not stay out late dancing. They go to dinner and come straight home. When their signature red soles start to wear, I plan to have one of LA's fantastic cobblers resole them.

I own one pair because they are so darn expensive! I have a few pairs of Jimmy Choos, but you can score them for 40% off at their stores. The steepest discount I've ever seen for Louboutins? 20%.

Until now. I made a fantastic little find called http://www.theoutnet.com/. They have Louboutins up to 60% off.

Hold your breath before you dive in. The site also sells Chloe, Halston, DVF, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Jimmy Choos. That's just the beginning.

I'm Soled

I have a single pair of Louboutins and I adore them. They are my pride and joy and I take care of them like a child since they cost an arm and a leg.

I'd buy these Alexander McQueen stilettos next. Pink soles. How could this girly girl resist?

They're only available in the UK... for now.