How to manage bad press

Over the weekend, the proverbial doo-doo hit the proverbial fan for one of our members. It's been a lousy weekend. The owner of a home sewing pattern company (let's call her Tammy) has accused our friend (let's call her Amy) of using her retail pattern to make her products. From what I know personally and from what can be determined from a cursory comparison of the two items via photos- there's no legitimacy to the claim. Tammy didn't even email, write or call Amy to say that she thought her patterns were infringed upon. She just posted the claim to her website with Amy's logo displayed; news of which has spread via consumer blogs and forums that specialize in this niche product.

Amy has worked tirelessly to become one of the leaders in her niche. She's well known, consumers love her products. The items are discussed endlessly in blogs and forums. As it happens, Tammy also sells ready made products made of her pattern. Her products aren't so successful; her reputation of poor fit and quality are cited as ongoing issues. Worse, she resides in California and she doesn't have a license. Ouch. One would think she would have tidied up that detail before creating a lot of publicity for herself. She thinks she doesn't need a license because she doesn't make "garments" (isn't underwear a garment?). Not that it matters, the state of California takes a dim view of manufacturer's self-serving interpretive semantics. In sum, Tammy's integrity is questionable with her history of only following rules or accepted standard practices that suit her.

Shrinkage? What shrinkage?

The reports of the incredible shrinking handbag have been grossly exaggerated as evidenced by the amazing roving lens of The New york Times' Bill Cunnigham. Once again, he has captured a great selection of New York women and their amazing handbags for his On The Street feature.

The big focus this week was on the ever growing and ever brightening selection of handbags. Doubtlessly, the Louis Vuitton Richard Prince duffel on the left and it's ilk was the most popular look. Other styles included the large L.A.M.B. tote (interesting how similar to the Louis Vuitton it is when they're side by side), and brightly dyed skins. You can view the entire gallery which includes Guccis, Balenciagas, and lots more LV, along with wonderful commentary by Bill Cuningham himself via a fabulous video slide show on the New york Times site.
But, obvious "IT' bags aside, the most amazing big bag in the set is this Yohji Yamamoto worn by a woman who has a truly singular and amazing sense of style (I see her in my neighborhood often, and she will also be familiar to anyone who regularly reads On The Street).

Most closely resembling a coin purse, this ginormous red fabric frame bag is the best tongue in cheek take on the over sized craze. I'm not even sure how you'd go about finding your wallet in there without a flashlight and one of those extended grabbers...of course, with a bag this size, you have room for both!

Tourmaline: The Stone with Mixed Colours

If I get any busier I'm going to have to clone myself! Nevertheless, I decided it was time to update the blog and try to get a few things on the website. Some time ago I bought quite a few tourmaline strands; some of them turned out to be very pretty. Pretty tourmaline can be difficult to find in bead form. How I wish I'd bought strands and strands of it when I was in India! But now I have to try to search and search like everyone else. I saw great tourmaline when I was in India; appropriate, since Sri Lanki gave tourmaline its name and (tur mali in Sinhalese) the Dutch East India Company (headquartered in Madras where I spent most of my time; Sri Lanka is right off the coast) brought tourmalines back to Europe. Nowadays, tourmaline comes from Brazil (deep blue-green paraiba tourmaline is prized), Namibia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Tourmaline is even found in the USA.

What I love about tourmalines is what they are known for - their many colours, even within a single crystal. One old legend has it that in coming up from the earth, the tourmaline somehow passed over an underground rainbow and absorbed its varied colours.
Many people are fond of pink tourmaline, and it has been accepted as an alternate birthstone for the month of October (usual birthstone is the opal). I like to use all the colours of tourmaline together in one piece of jewelry. This works for me because, first, it is rare to get enough perfect tourmaline in one colour for a piece of jewelry, and second, because I like the way the colours blend together. I particularly like clear olive, pink, and yellow tourmaline. And these three shades are wonderful together.The jewelry on this page is representative of the tourmalines I get: the top pair of tourmaline earrings illustrate the different colours of green and pink; the second pair, here in the last picture, show blends of pink although without the green that makes "watermelon" tourmaline - very popular recently. The tourmaline necklace above has colours of tourmalines ranging from black to watermelon to green to pink and all shades in between. Tourmaline jewelry is also very useful in the jewelry wardrobe since it can go with so many different clothes.


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The Shoes of the Pope

Manolo says, after all of the discussion about the Pope Benedict's magnificent red shoes, the Manolo has finally located the close-up photograph of these wonders, the product of the Roman cobbler Adriano Stefanelli.

The Manolo now takes this opportunity to remind you that cobbling is one of the most sanctified of all the manual arts.

Plaid Jumper From TopShop

Plaid, plaid, plaid. I love plaid. Through out my trip in Europe I have picked up no less than four items covered in plaid.

In Belfast I wandered into thrift shops and cheap trendy stores and found a plaid dress with a voluminous skirt, a thick plaid fitted button-down and a plaid vintage corset soon to be worn with jeans. I also purchased an overpriced plaid romper from TopShop in London.

To veer away from plaid for the moment, I was not impressed with TopShop. Quality is lacking in 80% of the merchandised but priced retarded high. $300 for a thin hounds tooth coat with buttons hanging off it? I think not.

Also, the Kate Moss section of the shop had very little to offer and the price point averaged 130 pounds ($260). Obscene I tell you. Mostly because it is supposed to be an inexpensive store. The only thing I saw there that was cheap were the seams.

On a positive note, there were a few cute pieces for sure and some of the leather jackets were quite lovely.

Back to plaid, I love it! The only warning I would say is no short girly plaid skirts: too outdated. If you want a plaid skirt, veer towards a high-waist pencil skirt. Chic!

Sarah Mann Jewelry

Jewelry Designer and Metalsmith

Sarah Mann is fascinated by the creative and technical challenges of transforming sterling silver into objects of adornment. She is proud to carry on a family tradition in the crafts, and pleased that this enables her to exercise her talent no matter where she lives. She creates clean straightforward designs that often incorporate kinetics.





'Astral' Sterling Silver Ring

A dreamy band of brushed sterling silver punctuated with otherworldly designs.

$130



Sarah was introduced to metalsmithing at the University of Wisconsin in her hometown of Milwaukee. She furthered her interest under the expert guidance of Heikki Seppa at Washington University in St. Louis, and the craftspeople at Fuji Studio in Florence.





Collapsible Ring

Brushed sterling silver ring with unique design. Movement and flexibility makes for a comfortable fit. Narrow ring has one bar instead of two.

$150



Sarah then lived in New Orleans, where she worked amid its thriving community of metalsmiths and honed her skills in preparation for a transition to New York City. The dynamic nature of the city inspired the strong form and kinetic design of her pieces.





Jester Cuff Links

Sterling silver cuff links with a patina enhanced surface texture.

$105



Sarah Mann has recently returned to her roots in the Midwest and continues her silversmithing there, creating bold yet elegant jewelry with unique surface treatments. The jewelry that she designs and handcrafts skillfully merges geometric and organic elements to create a style that is recognizably her own.



Mann realizes fully the broad potential of sterling silver. She crafts her jewelry with torch and tools - saws, files, pliers, nippers, drills, hammers, dapping blocks, and a rolling mill - then gives it with a range of hues through delicately controlled oxidation. The combined effect of patina on texture is a signature characteristic of all Sarah Mann jewelry.



Sarah introduces a new jewelry collection - earrings, necklaces, pins, bracelets, and rings - about every ten months. She carefully crafts each piece, and presents it as one of a limited edition. "Raw sterling silver cries out to me, begs me to convert it into bold jewelry with subtle finishes. Of course, I must obey."

See full article.





Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Stephen LeBlanc Art Jewelry - 27 May 2008

Contents of this feed are a property of Creative Weblogging Limited and are protected by copyright laws. Violations will be prosecuted. Please email us if you'd like to use this feed for non-commercial activities at feeds - at - creative-weblogging.com.

Aubade Opin Divin Thong

Sometimes in life, awareness can be triggered through a single event. For instance, you might be at a party with a girlfriend who explains the meaning of a word to you. You are enthralled because you've never heard this word before. Suddenly, however, you hear it three more times in the next week. Had you really never heard it before, or did you simply ignore it because it meant nothing to you?

We had a similar experience this week after our interview with Gina Huerta, the inventor of the Naughty Knot. Suddenly, ribbon-like lingerie seemed to be popping up all over the place.

It was probably Confucious or Socrates who said “When life throws you ribbons, make a thong Thursday post about it”.

So, that's what we did.

The Aubade Opin Divin thong looks enough like a “normal thong” from the front. It's actually quite pretty, featuring a semi-sheer floral pattern in stretch lace and scalloped edges. It's cut with a high leg design with a low rise waistband. Turn that baby around, though, and you've got a flirty little surprise. The rear of this thong resembles a violet ribbon that neatly packages your booty for whatever is in store. It provides minimal (as in almost zero) coverage but it's pretty impractical, since the ribbon on the back is likely to leave a conspicuous bump under all but the loosest of clothing.

All impracticalities aside, however, this thong sure is different and fun.

Nicole’s Lessons in Life

Nicole Richie was reportedly removed from Las Vegas' Hard Rock Hotel and Casino early on Sunday morning.

The 26-year-old beauty - who has a five-month-old daughter Harlow with fiance Joel Madden - was said to have fought with a fellow reveller while waiting in line for the valet outside the hotel following a night of rowdy partying with Joel and his twin brother Benji.

An onlooker said: "Nicole started fighting with this woman while they were both waiting for the valet to bring round their cars. She ended up being so rowdy that she was escorted off the property by security."

However, Nicole's representative denied the fight, insisting: "Nicole was in Las Vegas but there wasn't an altercation of any kind involving her."

Nicole - who has previously been in rehab for drug addiction - recently revealed her life has never been better since she met Joel and gave birth to Harlow.

She said: "I'm happier than I have ever been but I take nothing for granted.

I have great friends, a great family, a great place to live and a beautiful baby. I've gone through a lot of hardship in my past but I really feel like I've come out on the other end.

"I'd really like to show how much I appreciate the fact that I'm still here, because I almost didn't get that chance."

Rating: 4

Even if Nicole goes really casual, you know she's still rocking it. And she's definitely still so in love with those Balenciaga bags. She can't live home without it. I know I wouldn't too.

[Source]

I'm in London!

Hi ladies,

Just dropping in to say I'm in London on vacation for the next two weeks. I haven't had much access to the internet (too busy making the rounds to my favorite British stores) but I'll be updating early next week. My next stop is Topshop - no visit to London is complete without a trip to the infamous Topshop.

Cheery-o chaps!

Sylvia

Nuovegioie Jewelry

Fashion Jewelry with an Italian Flair

Nuovegioie (or Nuove Gioie) is an Italian fashion company that managed in a little over 15 years of activity to set new standards in silver craftsmanship, changing the aesthetic perception of silver by focusing on the flair of innovative work. The unique style of the Nuovegioie jewelry collection is inspired by the latest fashion trends, sometimes anticipating them, sometimes interpreting them with a personal and versatile design.





Lavender Multi-gemstone Sterling Silver Fashion Ring

Exquisitely cut baubles of lavender sparkle in a twisting branch-like design, expertly paired with a beautiful wide sterling silver band by Nuovegioie. It provides the perfect bling for drinks out with the girls or dinner with your man. Made in Italy.

$292



The lines of this exclusive silver jewelry are feminine, delicate and bold, seductive and unique. The pleasure of a piece that is totally out of the ordinary but perfectly in tune. Nuovegioie jewelry provides an element of pleasure and distinction to wear in any situation. Experience and originality, but especially passion and dedication, are the elements making Nuovegioie one of the most interesting collections in the world of silver jewelry.





Black Square Stone Sterling Silver Fashion Ring

A flash of polished and knotted silver encircling a bold jet black center stone makes this right hand ring the center of attention at your next cocktail party. Made in Italy.

$192



Nuovegioie was brought to life by the will and determination of two young entrepreneurs from Camisano Vicentino in the eighties, and is now a very important company in the silver jewelry industry. Lifestyle Nuovegioie comes from a balanced mix of trends, fashion, flexibility and flair, together with innovative design.





Pink Flower Sterling Silver Fashion Ring

A delicate flower with a pink round natural stone at the center is presented on a sleek and elegant sterling silver setting with a 5 mm band for a sweet and refined detail. Made in Italy.

$169



Collections range from light and informal jewels, to wear with jeans, to important pieces for important situations. The excellent quality to price ratio is the winning factor with Nuovegioie. Its jewels are accessible dreams, not to remain abstract fantasies but to become true as splendid and versatile creations.

See full article.





Related Entries:

Jewelry Career Resources - 08 August 2006

Native American Inlay Jewelry - 14 January 2008

Caroline Ballou Jewelry - 26 May 2008

Contents of this feed are a property of Creative Weblogging Limited and are protected by copyright laws. Violations will be prosecuted. Please email us if you'd like to use this feed for non-commercial activities at feeds - at - creative-weblogging.com.

Blogback Mountain

Dlisted has the greatest description of Pete Wentz, ever: "I didn't know Gymboree carried hoodies in size douche."

My answer to A Cup of Jo's query about haircolor: Blondes totally have more fun, except when everyone thinks you're a dumbass.

If you are a teacher who's feeling stifled by a dress code and/or resorted to wearing floor-length linen dresses embroidered with colorful fish, you need to read this post, stat.

Never have I been more proud of my city.

The second coming of J. Sus, as indicated by the crazy antics of J. Crew.

I've been worrying about the disappearance of Style Bytes for awhile now (when I say "worrying" I mean "googling 'WHERE IS AGATHE??' twice a day for a month), but I assumed everyone else knew what was going on and just forgot to tell me. Turns out, a lot of people are worried/curious, from Fashion Hayley to Style Bubble to Jennine from the Coveted, who could easily secure a forensic investigator job if this fashion blogging thing doesn't work out.

Cake in my mouth--good. Cake on my wall--good. And calorie free.

Square Old Soul has a round up of supremely chic white t-shirt and jeans combinations--she also wants you to send in yours!

Just discovered this blog. Love it.

And finally, when a lardy chav buying several sausage rolls declares you an eyesore, that's when you know you've made it. Congrats, Queeny!

The Root of All Evil - Hannah Montana or Crocs?

Lewis Black and his gang won't need to debate on this issue, because the two crusaders of the dark side have teamed up to make this shoe:

Croc Mary Janes (in purple here) with Hannah's name on the foot strap and her likeness on the heel strap. Complete with holes, this is the brainless child of Satan and his young mistress.

Of course, how bad the Crocs' guilt goes lies within the question: are Crocs okay on Kids? But that Miley Cyrus is certainly dastardly in her world domination (and demon-ination). It's she I stand less!

What about you?

Source

CONTEST! Seventeen Syllables for PRADA

Is there any way to improve a Monday morning? Hmm...let's see...donut binge, not really...brisk walk, too much work... Oh! How about a chance to win a brand new Prada wallet?


That's right, it's finally contest time again here at Daddy Likey. All you have to do for your chance to win this gorgeous (and expensive) accessory is write me a High Fashion Haiku about your favorite--or least favorite--designer or brand.

Do you believe Michael Kors is God's true son? Would you sell your little brother for a Chanel purse? Do you think Stella McCartney needs to GET OVER HERSELF (or is it just me?) Well, cram your emotions into haiku form and you'll be on your way to owning a piece of Prada!

Lots of space for a famous poet to store her stacks of cash. What's that you say? Poets don't have any cash? Hogwash!

Remember, a haiku is a three line poem, with five syllables in the first line, seven in the second line, and five in the last. Check out the High Fashion Haiku archives for inspiration/guidance, and here's a few fresh examples to get you started:

O Marc, you could turn
a trashbag into couture!
I think you did once.

Sequins and feathers
and neon silk--so crazy
it must be McQueen!

Karl Lagerfeld,
You scare the shit out of me.
Please take off the gloves.

Leave your entries in the comments section, and in a week from today my distinguished panel of judges and I will declare a winner. Be creative (you always are), have fun with it, and good luck!

You know you want it. Enter!

p.s. If you happen to have a blog of your own, and would care to publicize this lil' contest-o-mine, I'd be mighty grateful and will make you a cookie. Thank you.

UPDATE: The Prada contest has ended, but I'm leaving the comments open just in case you feel moved to write a high fashion haiku--I always appreciate a good haiku. For a list of winners, click here, and check back for upcoming contests! Thanks for reading!

Elle's Edge

Loving fashion and loving Vogue don't necessarily go hand in hand. It's silly to think that fashion-lovers have to automatically be programmed to love Vogue or even think that it is THE fashion bible when the fashion magazine landscape is so vast, varied and far more rich and complex. However, I must say that I've been prisoner to buying British Vogue every month since.... 2002(?)... not because I think it's the best, not even because I think it's even in the top ten... just because. This irks me seeing as I'm not really practising what I preach and it irks my boyfriend because I guff and huff when I read it and he says 'Why buy it then?'

In recent months, it has dawned on me that British Vogue has gotten particularly dull and actually, its rival Elle has been packing quite a punch. I am only speaking British versions here so it may not be applicable to your country though I hear US Elle is also getting quite awesome in recent months too. It's an unspoken thing that the V is supposed to be better than the E but figures don't lie as I believe E sells more copies than V. Oh well, I'm with the masses because in one supposedly-flimsy August issue of Elle, things caught the eye more, juiced up the inspiration and got me looking forward to next season. It's a simple selfish matter of things being more to my taste and just being a bit 'edgier'...

Gareth Pugh's A/W08 shoes courtesy of Nicholas Kirkwood - The term 'price on request' sounds a little scary but I'm still gonna give Mr Kirkwood a call... // Christopher Kane wool and metal gloves/armwarmers - I didn't notice these in the show as the pailettes diverted my attention...

Basia Zarzycka lace mask - Black lace on the face as opposed to the black lace dresses which we will be inundated with...me like...

Then some offbeat legwear such as these silk and elastic trousers by Osman Yousefzada. Didn't even realise he did legging-like garments...

...and these Clare Tough loopy zip-embellished wool leggings. Never got to see Clare Tough's AW08 collection so I'm going to be harrassing the PR now on Monday.

It's not a 'Oh, Elle's the best' gush but just a nod from me that yes, Elle has been changing and the direction seems to be good. I also loved this 'Shaping the Future' editorial shot by Nagi Sakai and styled by Sasa Thomann. A useful shape/texture guide to next season, all of which I'm loving.