Night Watch

It's nice to figure out what time it is from something other than your cellphone right? So how about upgrading from nothing to a blinged-out watch from Fossil. With a jewelry clasp closure and what I can only guess to be cut glass since no description is available, at first glance the watch has the appearance of a gaudy crystal bracelet. Available in silver and gold tone, I suggest you get them both and wear them stacked together. Niceness. ($95)

Top Five: Julie Haus

Dresses are my thing, whether brand new, vintage, designer or low-end, all things girlie reside in my closet. Of my two tiny closets, one is devoted solely to the frock and I never have enough. Since most women today tend to lean towards casual apparel like slacks or jeans, the befrocked woman is bound to stand out. An added benefit is the extra attention from men who tend to be a bit more chivalrous to a woman in a dress.
1. Gigi navy silk shirtdress (center), $355
2. Madison pintucked silk print dress (left), $438
3. Princess silk taffeta empire dress (right), $393
4. Madamoiselle crinkle silk chiffon dress, $393
5. Peyton Grecian Keys cotton twill dress, $325

Top Notes

Brilliantly described as "the red lipstick of perfumes" Fracas was created for bold and confident women. Oft chosen as a signature scent, the powerful tuberose aroma leaves a definite impression long after the bearer has made her exit. For those seeking a more subtle application during these hot summer months, I suggest the Fracas Solid Parfum. Slightly less dense than the alcohol-based version and spread across pulse points rather than sprayed, the bouquet of the unguent clings to your aura rather than your surroundings. Presented in a lustrous silver case on a bed of pink satin it makes the perfect gift. ($65)

Bubble Yum

Italian accessories house Francesco Biasia, home of the leather statement bag, has ventured into green land by manufacturing an equisitely fun satchel free of animal byproducts. Constructed of woven pink straw and eco-leather, a material made from 80% cotton and 20% synthetic micro-fibre, the purse manages to satisfy both asthetic pleasures and eco-minded measure. Made in Italy, for the inner vegan fashionista in us all, the purse is a yummy tote you can feel good about. ($318)

Laureate

I have seen goldwork embroidery on ancient textiles and artwork, but cannot recall having seen it interpreted into a stunning piece of jewelry until now. British designer Rheanna Lingham has burst onto the scene with her feather creations and a beguiling piece of wearable art simply called, gold embroidered necklace . Due to lack of description, I'm guessing that it's created from Gold Bullion, which is a very fine hollow tube of 2% gold cut and sewn down like a bead and traditionally used on military uniforms or church vestments. The double laurel design is backed with dark colored felt or velvet cloth with an goldtone metal chain. The absolutely flawless technique, uncommon since the middle ages won't be seen on many a neck this century. Pair with a black cashmere turtleneck or a gorgeous Chanel LBD. ($178)

Buckle Up

You don't know Shei until you've tasted Sista Shei! OK, that's my mock tag-line for the funzo lingerie brand, I mean come on... a halter under-wire buckle bra and matching brief? I must have it! Designed for the youth contingent, the strap is of course meant to be seen but even more convenient to be worn beneath a halter dress.  The tuxedo-styled tailoring represents the best of semi-formal styled lingerie. Get ready to ride on the nylon and spandex highway, so don't expect the set to last more than a few seasons with repeated wear. Still an incredibly worthy purchase methinks. ($80)

Grape-Nuts

Just as I had decided to blog about these hot graffiti paint open toe pumps the behemoth of all shoes appeared on the next screen. Not sure whether to love them or hate them, I was definitely intrigued enough to want to try them on. The sole review on Zappos isn't enough, so I imagine they're like placing your feet into giant hollowed-out grape Now and Later candies. Sure to turn heads, the scented, yes scented Cesare Paciotti Jelly Plateau 30000 (i kid you not) is made for attention seekers, rubber fetishists, foot binders, and the Mariah Carey in us all. ($229)

Final Fantasy

Although we're experiencing yet another heat wave, summer items are all on sale which is why I only spent $2,973 "fantasy shopping" at MINT jodi arnold. My "fantasy" haul included for 5 dresses, 4 tops, 1 skirt and 1 belt, not bad huh? One dress in particular was a must-have in both colors, the Mixed Ikat Halter Dress, it's the very essence of summer-time chic. Usually I shy away from featuring items which have already been called-out in magazines or other blogs, but I'm a sucker for interesting necklines and pockets, this one features both and the print and mix of fabrics is outtasight! ($331)

Tintype

Exquisitely maintained or carefully restored tin panels adorn the ceilings of many a fine establishment in Olde New York. The coveted embellishment can even drive up the price of a rental and more importantly serve as a fire barrier. Popularized in the Victorian Age, they were the American answer to costly European plaster work. Today, you too can fake it with considerably less expensive vinyl wallpaper. Easily adhering to any surface, and paintable as well, the wallpaper adds a touch of class to your bachelorette pad. Me likey. ($25/roll)