Jessica and Heather, the Fabulous Ladies behind GoFugYourself

The Queens of Cool and the Keepers of the Red Carpet have hit FabCrush– we’re talking about Heather and Jessica of “Go Fug Yourself” fame. We got to steal a few minutes of their time to find out about how things got started, which celebs are totally “fug,” and their own personal fashion triumphs and errors. Mix in the scoop on who’s been looking hot lately and the background on their new book, and you’ve got a great primer on these GFY heroes!

Let us ask about how GFY got so big. How did it start, and how did you get where you are today?

HEATHER: The blog started as an inside joke. We were goofing off at the mall, marveling over terrible movie posters that were pretty appallingly styled, and wondering if we’re just too crotchety and old to understand that the kids these days are actually INTO looking as crazy as possible. So after a really punchy afternoon, we started a blog to preserve the joke, figuring it would just amuse us and maybe our friends. Pals of ours on Television Without Pity threw it some links, and Defamer found it, and then suddenly our hits were going up, up, up. We realized we had an actual popular hobby on our hands, so we tended it more carefully and tried to devote more time to it, tried to add a bit of functionality, started selling ads when we got enough page views, and voila — here we are with about 3.5 million visitors a month.

Which celeb do you think dresses consistently well?

HEATHER: Everyone has off days and on days, frankly. Reese Witherspoon looks reliably cute when she hits the town. Nicole Richie is doing pretty well. I don’t much care for what she wears around town, but then again, what she wears to run errands isn’t really my business — and her red-carpet looks have been really lovely in the last few years.

JESSICA: Yeah, I really like Nicole Richie’s style, generally. I also covet like 99% of what Rachel Bilson has been wearing out lately.

Is there anyone who’s far less fug in ’08?

HEATHER: Katie Holmes has made herself very, very interesting to watch lately. We all knew the big makeover was coming after she and Tom Cruise got married, and it’s been fascinating to watch her transform herself into a fashion plate with the money to buy any label she wants. For the most part I think she’s really effectively amped up her sophistication.

JESSICA: Fergie has also been looking way cuter in the past year or so than ever before.

We must know: what’s your “official” take on Lindsay Lohan’s new leggings line?

HEATHER: Sigh. I think that is my take: “Sigh.”

JESSICA: Poor Lindsay. She once had so much promise.

Can you let FabCrush in on your favorite and least favorite trends of the season?

HEATHER: I’m pretty lousy at following trends, except as they show up on the red carpets. I’ve never been a huge fan of booties. I’m having a debate with myself about shoes with big clunky, chunky ankle cuffs — there’s a leather pair by Calvin Klein that I think might be kind of cute yet still affordable, but I also think that style gives people cankles, so my jury is still out on that one. And oh my GOD, please, people, stop with the high-waisted jeans. It is almost impossible for those to do anything but hurt a girl’s figure.

JESSICA: I am not into the sort of shortie rompers we’re seeing for summer. I feel like a romper is adorable and appropriate when your age is in the single digits only. One trend I’m kind of into right now is the oversized clutch. It’s one of those things that I think most straight men totally don’t get — the last time I took one out, one boy asked me if I had important legal documents in it, and the other asked me why I was carrying my laptop — but I think they’re cute and fun and surprisingly practical. And I think we can all continue to give thanks for the revival of the dress as casual wear — it really makes looking put together so very much easier.

Which trend is the easiest to make super-fug?

HEATHER: The aforementioned high-waisted jeans, because it’s inherent in them. And of course leggings. They do very little that tights or pants couldn’t achieve in a more flattering way.

JESSICA: The high-waisted jean is really hard to wear. A high-waisted skirt is much more flattering if you’re into that trend.

How do you personally dress? Are there any past fashion choices that make you cringe?

HEATHER: I’m pretty basic, really. Jeans, dresses, sexy-tall stilettos… I love boots, but with skirts rather than over jeans. Essentially I want to look cute but I don’t want the clothes to overshadow me, so that probably makes me a little less risky. There’s a lot of stuff I have trouble trying, because I’m more of an hourglass, so big floaty shirts make me look pregnant, skinny jeans make me look like I have thunderthighs, and generally I need to be able to wear a bra with my shirts and dresses. You’d be surprised at how many things that simple fact can eliminate from contention. I don’t like to be hyper-trendy, because when people are trying too hard to be uber-fashionable, I think that’s when they tend to fall into stuff that doesn’t flatter them as much just for the sake of wearing what’s “in.” Which is how I got to one of my big fashion mistakes — there have been plenty of times when I’ve bought stuff and then brought it home and thought, “Wow, that really doesn’t work. What was
I thinking?” But what takes the cake is my sweater-coat from 2001. It looked cute on Felicity, so I bought one, but then never had the guts to wear it in public because it made me look kind of huge and maybe a little homeless. That one went to Goodwill pretty quickly.

JESSICA: I dress kind of retro-preppy. Lots of patterns and colors. Little jackets and shift dresses — I used to call it “classic
quirky,” which I think is still true. I’m sure plenty of people think I look like their nutty old aunt. Lots of jeans and big sunglasses — living in Los Angeles, we’re lucky because it’s so casual. Whenever we go to New York, I think, “I NEED A WHOLE NEW WARDROBE.”

You’ve referenced your “day jobs” on GFY. After the publication of your tres-fab book, is Go Fug Yourself a full-time gig?

HEATHER: Aw, thanks for the nice words about the book. We’re so proud that it’s done and out there. The day jobs we referenced, we quit in the summer of 2006 — we both used to do the blog while we worked as reality TV producers, but once we sold the book proposal, it was the kick in the pants we needed to make the blog and its associated assignments our entire professional life. So yeah, at this point, GFY is full-time. And it’s been fantastic — so much fun.

Is book #2 in the works, or are there any other exciting projects you have planned for the future?

HEATHER: I think we’re still recovering from the birth of Book #1. But we’re hoping to get into writing some fiction together, maybe something in the young adult arena, which could suit our soapy sensibilities pretty well. It’s been so fun to work and write together that we’re really hoping to keep that going.

Find their Go Fug Yourself: The Fug Awards book over at Amazon, and then head on over to their website for lots more.

Not everyone can say there’s even one thing they like about their job, but Allison, the creator of RockLove Designs, has combined both of her loves into a very stylish business. Her line of jewelry is highly inspired by her unique taste in music, and beyond that she even partners with musicians to create special collections. Keep reading to see how this twenty something is making it big.

How did you get started in the jewelry industry?

I originally started in the industry designing and production managing for a well known fine jewelry designer in the Diamond District of Manhattan. Though I am very thankful for the experience, I suppose I was jaded right away, learning first hand the kind of quality cuts and complications of overseas mass production. It was a very small company so I had responsibilities in about every facet of the business – it only took a couple of years before I felt very unfulfilled and disgusted by the whole industry. To save my sanity, I took the handmade pledge and began RockLove Jewelry, only working with small independent vendors and producing pieces locally myself to ensure top quality.

You’ve done a great job fusing your two loves together; jewelry and music. Do you think the type of music you’re interested in shapes your design sensibilities? And if so, how?

I have always been interested in darker styles of music – goth, industrial, electronic, gypsy punk – but it’s also been tamed and refined by my lifelong interest in baroque and Victorian classical. Lately I’ve been super into rockabilly and psychobilly, hence the Pin Up Vixen Collection. Normally I even listen to that style of music while working to ensure literal “rock and love” in every piece. Each time I immerse myself in a different genre of music, it inspires a different line of jewelry.

Some of your pieces are collaborations with artists. How do you go about networking with these musicians, and what is it like working with them?

So far I have been immensely lucky, working with some really amazing talented musicians and artists. Some of whom I meet through the grape-vine and others whom fall into my lap out of pure coincidence. Working with them is like working with any ambitious and diligent person – respect and listen to their exciting ideas and then hang out like normal people. Right now Emily Lazar from the band Fugitiv is my new favorite shopping buddy

Tell us a little bit about what it’s like creating jewelry by hand. What kind of materials do you use for your pieces?

Each piece is hand carved and cast in top quality nickel-free sterling silver. I am super allergic to base metals, so I not only want to ensure the highest quality for my customers, but for my own health. I do the majority of the work by hand myself and though I take protective measures, I still end up inhaling a lot of silver particles. Another reminder that safety is top priority. For the Pin Up Vixen Collection I also use all authentic lucite beads from the 1950′s.

What inspires your designs? Do you ever get creativity block, and if you do, how do you overcome it?

The designs are inspired by the music I’m presently listening to and the artists I’m currently working with. I don’t get creativity block as much as temporary burn out – I’m dead set on making by hand rather than contracting the work out locally which sometimes takes its toll.

Tell us a bit about the different collections of jewelry under RockLove What sets each one apart and what type of woman would like each of them?

RockLove is going in a more unisex direction lately – many men wear the Emblem Collection and various custom pieces, plus the Anchor or Helm on longer chain. I personally wear my jewelry in a gender neutral way; a single pendant on short chain or leather cord, so that’s how my designs usually come out. I don’t make anything I wouldn’t happily wear on a daily basis. The Victorian Glam collection has the classical baroque feel with triple chains and filigree, whereas the Pin Up Vixen collection uses 1950′s lucite and rockabilly iconography. The Emblem collection also utilizes nostalgic images, each in a square frame. Pieces are getting much more accessible, transcending the genres of music from which they were inspired… I’ve been pleasantly surprised bye my rapidly growing middle aged fashion forwards clientelle and continue to love my hip younger rockers.

What has been the hardest thing to overcome so far with building your company? What has been your greatest success?

Oh budget, budget. I’m currently uploading a bunch of new stores, so that’s a big financial risk and commitment. My greatest success isn’t one specific instance – it’s every time a happy customer tells me how much they enjoy their RockLove Jewelry. When people tell me that they wore it for their wedding or when they played at the big concert, or used it to ask out their significant other. Or even a letter from Afghanistan from a soldier who bought a Pin Up Angels star for his wife. I save and treasure every message.

How would you recommend a woman work your pieces into her wardrobe?

RockLove is meant to be accessible daily wear for just about any man or woman of any age. Initially for younger edgier audiences, but our demographic is much wider than I originally realized. Some pieces, like the Posy Necklace, are innately fancier, but can be dressed up or down. I wear the Posy or Anchor Necklaces with Industrial Bangles on a daily basis whereas my mother is constantly wearing her Clockwork Earrings. Let the jewelry compliment how you dress and feel that day.

Where do you hope to be five years down the line?

The usual – world domination. Just kidding – but RockLove will be a known and respected handmade brand by then… with a small team of independent jewelers to help me produce, because I will never contract out work or use overseas manufacture!

Do you have a favorite quote about fashion?

I don’t know any enlightened quotes, but can remind you of an important mantra – fashion is an extension of your personality; it should accentuate who you are as an individual, not define you.

Cris Barros’ looks are refined and elegant, but they still retain that little bit of Brazilian spark that makes them covetable. If you were intrigued by Daslu and you want to know more about one of their top “maras nacionais,” this is your chance. Why not embrace a little Brazilian glitz and glamor through a stunning model-slash-stylist-slash-designer? You certainly won’t regret it.

How would you describe Cris Barros styles?

Simplicity is certainly a major part of Cris Barros, but you won’t be looking at overly simple or boring basics. Enjoy a calm canvas juxtaposed with rich details and very carefully constructed items that will last and last… justifying that price tag over and over. ‘Living in the moment’ is what Cris Barros is all about, and each piece is constructed to take you wherever you might be headed.

What’s the latest collection all about?

Cris Barros developed her last collection based on natural beauty, on artistic and beautiful handcrafted pieces, and on a beautiful land in an isolated land. A full runway package of skirt, tops, and dresses in marine, berry, and yellow won’t disappoint the high-profile clients who make Cris Barros looks their outfit mainstays.

What’s new with Cris Barros?

This year marked Barros’ newest jump into the retail world: a cool new shop in Sao Paulo directly across the street from a super-posh location– the Fasano Hotel. While Barros is expanding worldwide, this shop will attract international attention with architect’s Carolina Maluhy amazing touches on the facade. Think simple luxury a la Vivre.

Where can I find Cris Barros’ looks?

You can check out Cris Barros at Daslu in Sao Paulo, but if that’s out of reach, take heart. Cris Barros is also imported into the U.S., Japan, Mexico, Portugal, Greece, and Saudi Arabia.

Visit: CrisBarros.com.br

This Spring, women’s fashion trends are going “modern vintage”, merging classic fabrics and cuts of yesteryear with modern, organic patterns and accents. One of the design labels pushing this trend (and doing it very well) is Canadian-based Chulo Pony. In addition to our fabulous $250 Chulo Pony giveaway here on FabCrush, we sat down with the minds behind Chulo Pony for an engaging, fun interview about their work and inspiration. For those of you who want to know where fashion is going this season, continue reading– you won’t want to miss this label!

How would you describe your line, Chulo Pony.

Chulo Pony is often referred to as modern vintage. We start with a clean esthetic and add mixed fabrics, unusual proportions and unique design details such a bold screen prints overlaid with delicate hand beading and nostalgic cotton dobbys combined with antique laces and vintage zig-zag stitches. We also strive to make the inside of the garment just as beautiful as the outside, trimming lining hems with printed chiffon and adding scalloped lace yokes to the insides of our vests and jackets. Attention to these details lend each garment a hand crafted feel that is not churned out.

What type of woman is the Chulo Pony line for?

Our women likes to make a statement without too much fuss about it. She is a strong individual who has a good sense of self, can multi task in the extreme and likes to drink beer with the boys. Jeans and a tee shirt are easy but instantly chic with a chulo jacket on top. Only she knows that the real detail is inside the jacket and she loves this hidden pleasure.

How long has the Chulo Pony label been on the market and what inspired you to set out on your own?

The line began about 6 years ago when we were doing a lot of graphic design for the Nettwerk bands – Think branding, tour shirts, c.d covers etc. At some point we just decided it would be a lot more fun to design our own line of clothing and a great way to showcase our talented designers. Little did we know what we were getting ourselves into.

What is your best selling piece and what do you think makes it so successful?

Our best selling pieces are our coats and jackets. You know you’ve nailed it when you feel a little down and under the fashion weather, then put on a Chulo coat and instantly feel like you’ve made an effort and look fantastic. Our coats are quite dramatic but also really wearable. People invest in a good coat and they love the little added details we build in to make them special – vintage lace trim on the inside lining, hoods that double as collars and ruched scarves, and linings printed with maps, scrolls and quirky fortunes.

Tell us a little bit about some of your favorite pieces from the current collection. Why do you love about them and why do you think your customers will love them?

Our favorite pieces from Spring 08:

Mabel

A red silk tunic with poppy print that is stunning with denim. It’s really elegant, quite sexy and has that great WOW factor. Women love it when you can just throw something on and look instantly great without a lot of effort.

Edie

A cropped double collar vest made out of a silk, linen and metal. The metal content gives it a rumpled, casual feel which is perfect for traveling. It is the most important layering piece of our collection and looks great over a dress, jeans and a wife beater, men’s dress shirt or with a skirt and flip flops. You can pretty much wear this piece with anything.

Esmeralda

The bird coat is all drama. The bold bird cum branch graphic really makes this basic trench coat in a category all on its own. The hand beading on top of the bird prints bridges the gap between dressy and casual to make this piece really versatile.

Clementine

 

This piece is very sweet and feminine. The grey cotton dobby tunic is offset with cream antique lace straps that continue to run down the length of this long silhouette. This combined with the tiny buttons, hip sash and ruffle yoke create the modern vintage feel we are best known for.

What is the design process like for you? What inspires you and how much are you influenced by current trends?

Its a collaboration of two totally different minds. I am inspired by textiles firstly, then clean design details. Crystal is inspired by everything else including the kitchen sink. Where she is ornate, romantic and overdressed, I am modern, clean and simple. It takes a lot for us to come together, find the perfect balance and create something that pleases us both.

The creative differences are inherently “chulo pony” – the yin and yang thing, if something gets too pretty then it is “roughed up” during this process. creativity is always challenging but it makes it even more interesting when you work with a contrasting force. chulo pony is full of contrasts: contrasting fabrics, contrasting embellishments, colours and this aesthetic comes from the merging of contrasting styles we both have.

How would you recommend a woman work the current pieces into her already existing wardrobe?

I think a women’s wardrobe needs to be made up of a variety of pieces, you need your staples like a good basic t shirt, tank top, blouse, a good pair of well fitting jeans right for your body type and then some investment pieces. This where Chulo comes in. We do not create outfits. We offer stand alone, investment pieces like our Mabel poppy print top, our Lariisa wrap tie vest which works like a corset and Esmeralda, our a fabulous trench coat with bird print. A versatile handbag, heels and flip flops and she is good to go almost anywhere.

Getting solid distribution seems to be a major hurdle for aspiring designers. Any tips you could give our readers that are developing designs of their own?

Distribution and sales are absolutely the most important pieces of the puzzle. You can have a grade C product with a grade A plan and really succeed. On the other hand, a grade A product with a grade C plan will tank you. Do not underestimate the importance of selling and getting your product to market on time.

What can we expect from Chulo Pony in the future, specifically fall?

Fall is very coat heavy again, we are doing a cropped jacket with an oversized hooded coat in metallic tweed and puffy red plaid. We have also converted this silhouette to a red plaid puffy vest that completely rocks. Back again is pleated cashmere swing coat with elegant bell sleeve. This season it is available in bright red, royal blue, black or cream. We also have some super cozy draped sweaters that everyone is clamoring for. To off set the weight of the coats and sweaters we also have some tiered sleeve tunics in a beautiful navy and charcoal sateen print.

Do you have a favorite quote about fashion?

Chris – I think i remember Tom Ford discussing the speed of fashion and how everything changes so fast that it is no wonder we are all more comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt.

Crystal – No matter where you go there you are! (Buckeroo Banzai in the fifth dimension)

Thanks so much to Chris and Crystal for taking some time to chat with us about their Spring 2008 line from Chulo Pony. Be sure to visit ChuloPony.com today to see their full line of fresh, friendly style. To find Chulo Pony clothing near you, visit the “stores” section of their website. Also, enter for a chance to win a free $250 gift certificate to ChuloPony here on FabCrush, contest ends Sunday at 11:59p.m.!

Gorgeously high heels, an eye for the most beauteous of shoes, and a charming little accent has made The Manolo a celebrated blogger in the world of, as he would say, The Blogs of the Shoe. With plenty of attitude and a charming affection for the “super fantastic girl of the big feet,” Manolo kept his readers around since his blog’s start in 2004 and the subsequent flood of competition. And did we mention that he’s a six-figure blogger? In his own words: “Ayyyy!”

Can The Manolo give us some background on how his first site grew into his impressive blog network?

The Manolo began his humble shoe blog in October of the 2004. There were no other blogs about the shoes on the internets and so the Manolo invented the shoe blog, and it was the immediate success. Thereafter, in January of the 2005, the Manolo started three more blogs. The Manolo for the Brides, and the Manolo for the Men, and the Manolo’s Prada Blog. The first two are still doing very well, although the Prada blog has not been updated in more than two years.

In the spring of 2006 the Manolo started the Manolo’s Food Blog, and the remaining English blogs, Manolo for the Big Girl, Manolo’s Basement of the Bargains, Teeny Manolo, and Ayyyy! were begun in early fall of 2007.

The most exciting recent development is that three months ago, the Manolo launched the Spanish language fashion blog, Manolo Moda. It is doing well, and the Manolo’s Spanish and Latino bloggers are very good.

Who makes up The Manolo’s blogging team today?

The Manolo has ten active blogs and thirteen bloggers. Mr. Henry at the Manolo’s Food Blog. Never teh Bride at the Manolo for the Brides and the Manolo for the Home blogs. Plumcake and Francesa at Manolo for the Big Girl. Raincoaster and Glinda at the Teeny Manolo. Isidore Gallant at the Manolo for the Men, with occasional help from the Materialist. Spirit Fingers at Ayyyy (with help from Plumcake). Patri, Diable, and Diablesse the Manolo’s Spanish-langauge fashion blog, Manolo Moda. And finally, Twistie who runs the Manolo’s Basement of the Bargains, and blogs on the weekends at the Manolo for the Big Girl and the Manolo for the Brides.

All of the Manolo bloggers are very good, funny and knowledgeable, and exceedingly readable.

What were some of the biggest “breaks” for The Manolo?

There have been so many. Although, initially, several very large political and technology bloggers noticed the Manolo and linked in late 2004. In early 2005 several articles and mentions in the traditional media followed, including the mention in Money Magazine, and the short feature article in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Of the course, the most exciting moment of all, was when the Times of London reported that the Maestro Manolo Blahnik was the fan of the humble shoeblogger. He referred to the blog as “hilarious”. Ayyyyy! The Manolo the Shoeblogger swooned with delight at the instant he saw that quote!

Can The Manolo enlighten us about his favorite shoe trends this season?

The Manolo is completely smitten with the bold and vibrant colors that have been everywhere this spring. All of the cherry reds, and lavenders, and yellows, and oranges, and green are simply wonderful and so totally happy-making. Likeswise, many of the wilder sculptural heels are marvelous fun, although so few peoples can truly carry off the more extreme versions.

The worst trend, however, are the ridiculous sky-scraper platform heels, 5 or 6 inches tall. They are not flattering, only foolish.

What should every shoe shopper keep in mind when choosing shoes for a special occasion?

That shoes make the outfit. If you wear the cheap or unattractive shoes, you will appear cheap and unattractive, no matter the cost of the gown. And, the converse is also true. Beautiful and elegant shoes make the wearer more beautiful and elegant, and can enliven even the simple black dress.

We like Manolo’s Gallery of The Horrors. If he had to choose one of the worst Shoe Crimes, which one would it be?

The Croc, with out the doubt , the Croc. It represents all that is evil about the modern world; the ugly, cheap plastic object that infantilizes the wearer and abuses the eyes of the beholder. They are peasant clown shoes, for clownish peasants.

Any advice from The Manolo on buying shoes online? Which are his favorite shops?

Zappos is the best of the best when it comes to the on-line shopping. The Manolo is continually surprised by the breadth of their inventory. After that, if one is really intent on the bargains, the Manolo loves Bluefly. But, one must look everyday to find the truly great bargains, as things come and go quickly there.

What surprises does The Manolo have in store for us? Any exciting announcements?

The Manolo has plans on expanding the number of Spanish fashion blogs in his small network.

FabCrush would like to thank The Manolo for contributing his much-coveted thoughts on shoes and blogging! Now it’s up to you to get acquainted with The Manolo’s Shoeblog.

Imagine working in one of the most posh fashion districts in Los Angeles, rubbing elbows with celebrities and being surrounded by only the most fabulous clothing on a daily basis. Welcome to reality for Nancy, the CEO and Founder of ShopRobertson.com. This businesswoman and fashionista knows style, and she’s opened up the exclusive fashions that can be found on Robertson Blvd. to the rest of the world through her online boutique. And for that, we should all be thankful! We go the chance to pick her brain on fashion trends, hot designers to watch for, and so much more.

FC: What initially drew you to the Robertson shopping area? What do you think this area has over Melrose, Rodeo, Studio City and some of the other stylish areas in LA?

N: I managed one of the most popular boutiques on the block for 7 years. I love Robertson Blvd. because it is compact, everything is there! Great food and great shops.

FC: What do you look for when you’re buying for ShopRobertson.com? What draws you to one line over another, and one piece over another?

NC: I love simple with a twist. Easy fitting wearable clothes with easy price points. when buying for the site, I like to choose items that people really don’t have to try on.. not too structured, again easy to fit.

FC: To me, the people who shop on Robertson display quintessential ‘LA chic’ style. How would you describe LA style, and what kind of pieces should someone look for if they want to pull it off?

N: LA style is casual chic.. kind of beach, kind of bohemian, very casual., but I still see alot of jeans, great blouses or tees and flipflops.

FC: What do you think will be the biggest trends going into Spring and Summer, and which do you think will just fade away?

N: How about biggest trends going into fall.. since we just finished buying. Sweaters, sweaters and more sweaters. I have never seen so many fabulous and comfy sweaters, cardigans, wraps and ponchos. We picked up some great sweater lines by Rhys Dwfen, b. Chyll and Shea.

FC: Right now, what is the one must have item from ShopRobertson.com that can work in just about any woman’s closet?

N: Must have item- Nui tube dress. It is super comfy and super sexy. You can dress it up or down and it fits almost every body type. Sizes 0-14.

FC: Any hot up and coming designers we should be watching for?

N: Other favorites/hot and up and coming – I am Mike & Chris’ number one fan!! I have been carrying the line since their first collection of just hoodies in 2005.. The line gets bigger and better every season- expanding from fleece hoodies to silk blouses, dresses, leather jackets and pencil skirts. LOVE! I also love the feminine styles and beautiful silks and fabrics by Geren Ford. Odd Molly is another up and coming designer from Sweden. . again, timeless pieces with a bohemian vibe. Each piece of Odd Molly clothing is hand sewn and made of the highest ethical standards. all fabrics used are organic.

FC: Do you have a favorite quote about fashion?

N: My fashion quote is, “you don’t have to spend a lot to look hot!” So cheesy , but true!

FC: Thanks Nancy!

Be sure not to miss our ShopRobertson giveaway! Nancy is giving three FabCrush readers a $100 gift certificate for free clothing from ShopRobertson.com!

Most of us love just owning fabulous jewelry, but Gorjana, the owner and designer for Gorjana Jewelry, gets to make it for a living. Over the last four years, her unique but wearable pieces have made an impact in the style world, and they can be found at hip boutiques online and across the country. We sat down with her to get an idea of how she comes up with such gorgeous designs, and a lot more.

FabCrush: When did Gorjana first launch? What made you decide to get into the jewelry industry and launch your own business?

Gorjana: Jewelry was actually something I fell into. Growing up, I was always creative and designing things on my own. After college, I worked for Neiman Marcus, in jewelry, and things kind of naturally progressed from there. I felt there was a gap in the market for simple, everyday jewelry, so in 2004 I decided to design my own collection.

FC: What is your brand vision?

G:To create timeless, beautiful and understated pieces that are an accent to the person wearing them, without being overwhelming.

FC: What kind of woman would be drawn to Gorjana Jewelry?

G: A confident woman, who is comfortable in her own skin, and wants something elegant, but not over the top.

FC: Tell us a bit about the materials you use for your jewelry. What goes in to selecting them?

G: I have a very relaxed way of designing. I mainly work with silver and gold vermeil, and occasionally stones, but usually I just pick shapes and colors that I am drawn to at the time.

FC: We really love the shapes that you use in your designs. What inspires the pieces that you make? And do trends play a role?

G: I try to stay aware of what the current trends in fashion are, and take some of it as influence, while keeping my designs fairly simple. I love pieces that you want ot wear again and again that are not so of-the-moment.

FC: If a woman could only have one piece of jewelry in her wardrobe, what would you recommend she buy and why?

G: A great pair of basic hoops. They are flattering on everyone and brighten up any outfit.

FC: What is your favorite piece from your current line?

G: Right now I have an obsession with the Poppy Wrap. It’s a delicate long necklace that goes with literally everything.

FC: What would you suggest a woman look for and think about when she’s buying jewelry?

G: I would say buying a piece that she feels drawn to, and that is versatile for her lifestyle. It’s important to invest in pieces that can easily transition from outfit to outfit, and that she wont get tired of looking at after a month.

FC: Do you have a favorite quote about fashion?

G: “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” Yves Saint Laurent

FC: What has been your biggest accomplishment with Gorjana so far?

G: I don’t think I would be able to say that there was just one that stands out. It has definitely been more of a daily progression of little accomplishments that when I look back, I am really proud to see how far I have come.

Thanks, Gorjana! Be sure to visit Gorjana.com to check out their full line of Gorjana jewelry, including the newly launched Gorjana online store. Stick around, Crush readers, as Gorjana is sponsoring a FabCrush jewelry giveaway. If you love Gorjana jewelry as much as we do, check back to FabCrush later when we announce the Gorjana giveaway.

Working with designer clothing and working with celebrities are the dreams of many, but Christina Carathanassis gets to do both. She’s the founder of Christabelle’s Closet, a very stylish designer resale online store. Recently the site has been receiving major buzz after teaming up with hot starlets like Hayden Panatierre for clothing auctions to benefit charity. Continue reading for all the juicy details on Christabelle and her fabulous closet!

FabCrush: Tell us a bit about Christabelle’s Closet and how you got started in the fashion industry.

Christina: Christabelle’s Closet is a full service luxury consignment boutique, where you can find designer goodies for up to 80% off retail! It is located online, so people across the nation (and overseas) can shop to their hearts content at ANY hour of the day. Each item is lovingly chosen by one of our fashionista staffers to ensure our items are all top designer, authentic and in impeccable condition and are then placed in our “e-tique” to satiate your shopping hunger.All of our customers receive their purchases more like “gifts” wrapped in pink tissue and a complimentary Christabelle pink sachet (perfect for tucking into YOUR closet). We are extremely customer service oriented at ChristabellesCloset.com – we want every customer – old or new – to feel as though they have one-one one attention and the personal touch as certainly worked. We have an extremely high return shopper rate. It is a given that we offer quality merchandise at super low prices, but if you are looking for even greater bargains, shoppers can visit our “Clearance Closet”, where half of the profit is donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

The majority of items in Christabelle’s Closet are offered on consignment from a confidential list of consignors – ranging from high-level executives, socialites and celebrities to your best friend who lives next door. You never know where the item you have purchased has been…one recent customer was thrilled to know that the dress she purchased was worn on the red carpet at the Emmy Awards!

FC: What made you decide to get into the designer resale business instead of starting a boutique and buying each season?

C: Discount shopping has been a love of mine for as far back as I can remember – I have always been fascinated by thrift boutiques and consignment shops and even told my mother at age 9 that someday I would own one for myself. In true form – I followed through with my adolescent words and opened up Christabelle’s Closet in March of 2004.

Offering designer items for low cost is our main objective and making it possible for people with tight budgets to operate their wardrobe on a whole other level is so rewarding. We get dozens of emails a week from our customers thanking us for the deals we offer and noting they could never afford the wardrobe they purchased at ChristabellesCloset.com anywhere else. It is so nice to help so many people feel good about their fashion choices – I truly believe it adds a sense of confidence to the soul. Fashion seems to bring joy to so many – I want to be sure people everywhere have equal opportunity to look as though they shop in Madison Avenue, even if they live nowhere near NYC.

FC: Can you give any tips on snagging the best pieces from Christabelle’s Closet? And what would you recommend a woman look for when she goes resale or vintage shopping, especially online?

C: YES – if you see it and love it – BUY IT! Generally speaking, there is ONE of each item available (not multiples) and there are thousands of fashionistas’ shopping at the same time you are. Nothing is more frustrating than stalling on a purchase to let it slip to the next lucky lady. We also suggest signing up for our newsletter – it will alert you to ALL of the newly listed merchandise and sales – so you are always a step ahead of others.

FC: What are some of your favorite resale pieces that you’ve come across? And are there any particular brands or certain items you like to stash for your closet?

C: There have been a number of extraordinary items from Hermes, Gucci and Chanel that have come into Christabelle’s Closet – though they were available for only a short amount of time (due to the coveted nature of the items) they were so striking to admire and appreciate. True designer craftsmanship is like artwork. I just adore all of the details and thought that goes into producing luxury items.

As for my personal closet – it is a daily struggle to not buy EVERYTHING for myself. We work with a number of boutiques that sell overstock with us – there is one in particular that stocks all of my personal favorite designers like Nanette Lepore, Milly, Tibi, Mint, Rebecca Taylor, Trina Turk and Catherine Malandrino – it is like Christmas when those items come in. I have had to learn and practice self constraint!

FC: Out of the ones who have done an auction with your site, which celebrities have impressed you the most with their style?

C: Ryan Star (though folks think he wears the same thing all the time!) has such a unique approach to fashion. He mixes hot designer brands in a stylish rock-star way and always tops the most intense jewelry pieces from Kristen Farrell to his ensembles. He is not afraid to take risks and in my opinion – always pulls off a rockin’ sense of himself (not to mention he is possibly one of the kindest, wittiest and most intelligent people I have ever known).

FC: What celebrity closet would you love to raid next?

C: For top high-end designer items, I would love to sneak into Katie Holmes closet. For fun, flirty, going out on the town I think Kate Hudson’s and Lindsay Lohan’s closets would be fun to raid! For edgy designer goodies, I would love to pop into Fergie’s closet. For more of a teen edge, Miley Cyrus and Hayden Panettiere For men’s attire – Patrick Dempsey.

FC: What is the most rewarding and most challenging part of your job?

C: Staring your own business is like having a baby – you have to commit yourself 100% to growing, nurturing and molding it. You have to give all of yourself – your passion, love and support and constantly look for ways to improve and move forward. This is a huge challenge and I can be found more often than not, working into the wee hours of the morning and on vacations. However, touching lives of those you don’t know and being able to support and fund wonderful charitable causes makes everything so worth it. I never realized how much impact my business had on others until the day I received my first thank you email from a woman who had read about me and was so inspired she followed her dream of starting her own business.

The life lesson in that is passion is contagious and you have the power to not only cultivate your own future dreams, but can be the water that helps to blossom someone else’s.

FC: Lastly, do you have a favorite quote about fashion?

C: Ah yes, it comes from Dolly Parton’s character Truvy in Steel Magnolias regarding shoes; “In a good shoe, I wear a size six, but a seven feels so good, I buy a size eight.”

FC: Thanks, Christina!

(Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti flanked by two Vivre.com favorites…)

Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti, founder of the must-stop shop Vivre.com, has been cooking up some great spring finds for us here, and letting us know what’s hot in the world of designer goodies. From how Vivre became a pioneer in “luxury by catalog” to Eva’s spring picks, we’ve got an interview for you that covers both dream pieces and realistic must-haves.

Vivre has been the leader of catalog and online luxury resources. Can you let our readers know about recent changes to the site to make shopping easier?

Vivre.com has recently undergone a tremendous number of changes. Our editorial is fully integrated to the main shopping path, we launched an advanced search with guided navigation and have also re-launched our browsing categories to better handle the depts. of our diverse product selection.

Many of us consider Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti a style icon. Can you tell us how your personal style influences what we find at Vivre?

Style to me is in the way you do everything in life. It is an expression of details that are unexpected, individual and often acquired. I am always trying to mix pieces in an imaginative way. I’d describe my own personal style as tailored and chic, always including a touch of something unique to accent what I’m wearing, whether it be an interesting piece of jewelry, a beautifully designed handbag or a fabulous shoe- it should be a piece that highlights your outfit and expresses your personality. At Vivre, we are always looking for that unexpected, unusual piece that is really more about the state of mind than anything else.

What sets Vivre apart from the pack?

After growing up in Europe and working as an investment banker at Lazard Freres in New York, I was surprised that a country as wealthy as the United States didn’t have as much exposure to the luxury brands and their stories as Europeans did. People really didn’t know about them or have many stores where they could buy them. I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if we could bring these brands into their homes?’ Many years later, this idea has evolved into a catalog, vivre.com, a magazine, and a boutique that not only offers its customers a meticulously edited and unusual collection but the stories behind the best people, places and things. We work incredibly hard to keep Vivre relevant with weekly changes to vivre.com, new stylemakers, interesting products and a fresh look, to keep our customers interested and inspired.

Tell us about a current “top pick” that we should check out. What makes it a must-have?

This spring, I am enamored with Sang-A. When she, a former actress and singer in her native Korea decided that she wanted to create bags, her glamorous, fashion-conscious style was infused into this globally recognized line. With no luxury spared, her exceptionally crafted designs feature exotic skins and hyper-saturated color. Her shiny python clutch in deep jade has a goldtone clasp closure and is framed for relaxed but structured shape. Victorian-style pleating compliments the heavily textured skin and creates movement in this already dramatic accessory.

Any exciting announcements or upcoming developments at Vivre?

There are always lots of exciting things happening at Vivre! After an amazing launch of Vivre Voyager, we are expanding its magazine distribution. Currently, Voyager is found in hotels throughout the US and the Caribbean with expansion plans for global distribution and premier, luxury cruise lines that travel all over the world. We are all thrilled to have the opportunity to go into greater depth of the people, places and things that inspire us.

Thank you to Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti and Alex from FabCrush!

(Rebecca Taylor Smocked Dress, $297.00)

Shop to the stars, Diane Merrick gives you a look that’s a fave to celebs like Kristin Cavalleri, Jessica Simpson, and Hayden Panettiere. We had a chance to catch up with Diane and find out more about the L.A. shop, her plans for the future, and, of course, some top picks for you!

Please tell us more about how Diane Merrick became so representative of West Coast style.

Being a Los Angelino by default, I take pride in eating, breathing, and sleeping all things L.A. Keeping current with Fashion, Television, Internet and street wear inspires me to create my own look, and in doing so has inspired me to create specialty tee shirts, leggings, cashmere sweaters, shawls, and jewelry all within my private label.

How do you choose your unique pieces in the shop?

I have a great team and we are constantly discussing all the options. Being that my store targets women from age 21 to 70 years old, there is a little more to consider than whats the trendiest piece this week. A lot of my inspiration comes from my travels, where many of the pieces of jewelry in my private label, Diane Merrick Exclusives, come from.

(Ya-Ya Infinite Scarf, $146.00)

Who is a “Diane Merrick” girl?

A Diane Merrick Girl is a savy, edgy fashionista…. and her mom.

What are some top picks? What’s a must-buy?

My Private label line is a driving force in my success. My tees, cashmere and shawls are always on top of the list. I pride myself on being ahead of the fashion curve for each season, but there is nothing better than a pair of good jeans, a cute top, and the newest sandles to look great for summer.

Tell us about some of your star clientèle. Do you have any celebrities who love your shop?

Being in business for 37 years has allowed me to bring a lot of celebrities into my store that just keep coming back. Julia Roberts, Renee Zellweger, and Nicole Richie are regulars, just to name a few.

Anything new and exciting coming to Diane Merrick that FabCrush readers must know about?

I actually am starting to re-invigorate my homewares section slowly. I’m an avid Buddha Collector, and search endlessly to find the most beautiful and unique items for the home and pay special attention to price them reasonably. I’m in the business to make people look and feel good, and I feel like we’ve done a pretty good job so far!

Much thanks to Diane Merrick and Tom Vest at LaunchPad PR.

Celebrity Look: Cindy Crawford

March 13th, 2008by kimberly · 1 Comment

Supermodel Cindy Crawford looked casual and cute at a fashion event earlier in the week. She was wearing this well accessorized and modern take on a 70’s bohemian look, and we have to say that she pulled it off flawlessly! This is a look that anyone can wear; read on and we’ll show you exactly how.

Star things out with a cute and flowy peasant style top. There are two key design elements that this top needs to have to pull of the look: it needs to be baggy enough around the waist and it should have some sort of embroidery on it. Luckily, we found both elements in two tops at two different price points. The Free People ‘Spanish Course’ Embroidered Peasant Top ($78) fits cute and loose, and can be snuggly tucked in. Alternatively, the pricier Joie Harmonize Embroidered Top ($160) is even more similar to the original and with it’s cinched dropped waist, it won’t need to be tucked into your jeans.

Now you’ll need a pair of blue jeans. Simple enough, right? A pair in dark blue, flared, low rise and with whiskering will come the closest to the original look and compliment your figure too. We found just the right pair in the J Brand Lightweight Lovestory Jean ($179); they’ll hug your curves perfectly!

The belt is an important component in this look an we highly recommend including it! The True Religion Staple Belt ($143) comes daringly close to the belt Cindy wore. The shade of brown is a perfect match for either top and the three rows of holes give it an added texture.

One more accessory! A strand or two of wooden beads is a good mix for the earthy, but still trendy, vibe of the outfit. The Wendy Mink Wood Beaded Double Strand Necklace ($134) even has a few contrasting beads thrown in, just like in the inspiration piece.

Lastly, put on a pair of strappy brown sandals that compliment the rest of the look. We think the Lumani Celeste Sandals ($117) will make a good match; they even have those cute little grommets on the leather strap, which is a small but nice added detail, especially when they’re peaking out from the hem of your jeans.

Get The Look:

• Free People ‘Spanish Course’ Embroidered Peasant Top – $78
• Joie Harmonize Embroidered Top – $160
• True Religion Staple Belt – $143
• J Brand Lightweight Lovestory Jean - $179
• Lumani Celeste Sandals – $117
• Wendy Mink Wood Beaded Double Strand Necklace - $134
• Total $651 or $733!
  

  Castaner Leather Flat Espadrille

  March 13th, 2008by meieli · No Comments

  

  These Castaner Leather Flat Espadrilles are fun, springy, and light. They may have a handmade look, and do you know why? It’s because they are! These ones come from famous espadrille workshop Castaner, and they have a longer life expectancy than you might expect. The slip ons are very high quality and are great for a jet set lifestyle: you can pack them in your carry on quite easily.

  Buy: $295.00

  Daily Deal Crush: Belted Dresses

  March 13th, 2008by kimberly · No Comments

  

  (Milly Tunnel Belted Sheath Dress $347; Bebe Soft Pique Pencil Dress $139)

  Two crisp, cotton belted dresses, both done in the always great color combination of black and white. The more expensive Milly Tunnel Belted Sheath Dress with it’s stylish cowl neck can be worn for a variety occasions, including the office. The form fitted Soft Pique Pencil Dress from Bebe, on the other hand, is perfect for a romantic getaway with it’s contrast piping and ruffled details at the hem. Whichever you choose, you’ll surely feel sophisticated and look put together.