Trompe-L'Oeil

Trompe-L’Oeil is an old art technique that involves extremely realistic imagery to create an optical illusion and makes objects appear three-dimensional instead of being simply a two-dimensional painting. In the modern world of fashion this trick has been used on many occasions. My latest favorites are the Ballerina Tights from Chanel:


This simple sheer stocking incorporates a matte criss-cross weave that is reminiscent of traditional Spanish lace-up espadrilles.

The following four breathtaking images, taken by legendary fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, showcase the same product in black:





The idea of something that is very flattering and yet easy to wear (ever tried keeping those espadrilles' lacing in place?) is liberating!

Another similar find are these provocative Black Mock Garter Stockings by the British-based House of Holland, available at Seven New York:


Seductive, but comfortable, these tights give enough freedom to move around and not be afraid to lose your nylons.

Go Cassie!

The shape is stunning, but I especially approve of the choice of this camouflage-flavored pattern for making them a little military-ish!

Unconventional Leopard

Walking through the city the other day I came across this cool awning at the recently-relocated Siaani Salon. I applaud the eccentric use of leopard pattern!!!




In this spirit I admire these chic Debut pendant fixtures from Zaneen. Available in Leopard Print Gold and Leopard Print Silver, their diffusers are made out of recycled leather:



My list would not be complete without these sexy Leopard Print Denim Pumps from the Cruise 2010 collection by Dolce&Gabbana. Available at Nordstrom:

Lizard skin is for lizards

Every winter my hard-working hands face the same dilemma: how to avoid looking like a lizard. Experimenting with different products I came across this Raw Shea Butter Hand Cream from Nubian Heritage. Made with organic ingredients its all-natural recipe is rich with Soy Milk, Vitamin E, Frankincense and Myrrh. Heavy enough to fight against brutality of cold winter weather and too much hand-washing, this miracle cream smooths away rough lizard scales leaving hands soft and silky. Available at your local Whole Foods Market for $10.00 per 4 oz.

Rule #1: when in doubt – wear black

When you are invited to a dinner at one of the hottest restaurants in town you start debating whether or not your closet has just the right outfit. You are, after all, trying to compete with two things: the outstanding view about 450 feet above the ground and your not-so-close fiend who was kind enough to invite you and has a body of a goddess, always looking so impeccable. Madly sorting through your wardrobe you decide to go back to Rule #1: when in doubt – wear black. It has been tested many times and it works. A classy choice of color, it slims one down and gives much confidence. To spice it up you add a Full Bouquet Clip in silver. Available at Anthropologie for $18.00. Good Luck!

Colleen Mauer Jewelry

San Francisco based Colleen Mauer creates her masterpieces using texture, color, sounds and tones as her tools for transforming a simple section of material into a unique piece of jewelry. When I saw these gold earrings I immediately fell in love with the unusual take on traditional hoops. They are available for $168.00. Contact Colleen for purchasing or custom design tweaking at info@colleenmauerdesigns.com.


This beautiful stackable ring set consists of 5 bands: three sterling silver and two 14k gold fill (each 12 gauge). The imperfect hammered edges make this an exquisite find. Available at Etsy for $224.00.