La Florida Chic

ACCESSORIZE YOUR BAD SELF

2009-04-22T00:48:00.004-04:00

Hot weather = less clothes...so that means accessories count that much more. From funky costume jewelry to add-4-inches-instantly wedges, there's something for every style.

Which one suits you???

5 Alternatives to Target, Ikea and Pottery Barn

2009-03-03T09:34:00.005-05:00

Is it me or does it seem like all the cute little tchatcke, specialty and doodad stores where one could pick up anything from novelty slippers to handmade Italian salad bowls are extinct everywhere, except major cities and Palm Beach?

Whether it's the shoddy economy (loads of high-end boutiques all over Florida have closed its doors - even affecting the gilded Worth Avenue) or the long shadows of big-box retailers, the shopping landscape has definitely shifted from a decent salad of romaine, a few tomatoes and artichoke hearts - maybe some Feta, to iceberg and carrot shavings. The carrot shavings are convenient stores.

And then there was the I N T E R N E T. Ah yes, cyber shopping - you don't even need to wash your face. You can cover miles of virtual shopping in a fraction of the time it would take you to actually walk to each store. Plus, there's variety. There are housewives in Minnesota who know a guy who knows a guy in Argentina who has a whole warehouse of bathing suits no one in the U.S. is selling. And for $39 plus $9.95 in shipping you can have a unique Argentinian bikini. Without leaving your townhouse in Ocala.

Inspired by all these virtual shops and new-Millennium entrepreneurship, I made up a list of 5 online retailers that deal in the cute and unique. From party supplies to travel goods, each of these shopping sites are loaded with stuff I've yet to see in the more ubiquitous consumer destinations.

Check 'em out, ya'll!

Brazil LOVES Obama, Safe Sex and Older Women

2009-02-24T09:16:00.010-05:00

Brazil's annual four-day Bacchan festivities, CARNIVAL, is over tonight - the day before ASH Wednesday, when people are supposed to give up stuff they love - drugs, food, children - who knows.

Anyway, the Brazilians created this ubber-party to compensate for the delicious bubblegum they will foresake for the next long period of time. The tomfooolery in Brazil gets pretty wild, here are some highlights:

Brazilian president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, threw condoms to the crowd (both racy and totally practical) in an effort to promote his AIDS awareness campaign:

Carnival Queen, Viviane Castro, body painted President Obama on her mostly un-clothed body (she is wearing sandals). Nice.

Departing from their usual youth-obsessed view of beauty, according to the Associated Press, two Brazilian schools chose women in their 40s as "Samba Queens" to lead high-profile parades during Carnival. You know WE love this!!!!

DRESSES! REALLY the MOST Important (and Interesting) Thing About the Oscars

2009-02-22T21:28:00.004-05:00

The BIG question is: What do women (who have loads of cash and access to any designer/jewelry/hair people on Earth - the ENTIRE friggin' EARTH!!!) choose to wear when everyone's watching?

Check out these ball-gown babes! (Who were your top picks?)

It seems lots of them fancy mermaid tails, chiffon ruffles and belts on ball gowns. This year seemed to be particulalry uninteresting - except for a few. Of the celebs I saw on the red carpet,

These are my top 5 picks:

1. Amy Adams
2. Penelope Cruz
3. Natalie Portman
4. Tilda Swinton
5. Taraji P. Henson

And my least favorite:

1. Sarah Jessica Parker
2. Heidi Klum
3. Miley Cyrus
4. Melissa George
5. Freida Pinto

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Highlights

2009-02-22T02:08:00.003-05:00

New York Fashion Week ended on Friday - closing seven days worth of fairly low-key parties (Prada had a simple cocktail hour, unlike its lavish bashes from years past); celebs making their rounds in support of their fave designers or designers who pay them to advertise (see Eva Mendes at Calvin Klein) and then there was the almost funny battle between the Retro depression-era- and Retro 80s-inspired frocks. Yawn. An interesting juxtaposition...in any event, I'm not sure any of us really want to return to either decade - why can't we just keep the "Green" movement alive or invent some new look that incorporates solar-powered Harem pants???

Here are a few designs that really caught our attention - including Christian Siriano's new line of shoes for Payless! (This IS exciting.)

WATCH & LISTEN: Justin Timberlake at New York Fashion Week

2009-02-22T00:15:00.004-05:00

The William Rast show at New York Fashion Week was full of model-esque clothes, simple with a dash of edge - big shoulders, short skirts, leather and fringe. I loved the cut of the skirts - flattering on both skinny and curvy cuties.

See some of the show and hear what Mr. Timberlake has to say about his line:

Etsy Top 10

2009-02-20T10:32:00.019-05:00

Etsy.com - the website for t-shirt designers, jewelry makers, shoe cobblers and anyone who makes stuff and wants to sell it - is the online version of FLEA-MARKET HEAVEN!

Except on Etsy there are fewer stalls selling crystals and incense and more fashion-forward stuff that just might end up in mass-market chains like Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie.

As of this month, here are my top 10 favorite things on Etsy!!! What I love about Etsy is that you can find awesome cute and clever stuff for your home AND also one-of-a-kind (or at least very limited edition) clothes for women, men and kids. It's the perfect place to pick up affordable (and unique) gifts - plus you're supporting independent craftspeople, artists, etc.

C'est cool, indeed.

Let me know if you find anything else to add to the list - I'd love to start an ongoing Etsy roll call. There's just so much stuff to sift through - a lot of incredibly cool things mixed with a lot of "what-the-eff-were-you-thinking?!" crapola, too.

+++++(I've included the name of the shop - so just go to Etsy.com and search the shop name!)+++++

Shop Name: FEATHERBRAIN What: Simone Feather Headband, $32

Shop Name: RAGTRADER What: Love Letter Necklace, $22

Shop Name: DALIDECALS What: Wall Decal, $30

Shop Name: BOOJIBOO What: Floral Apron with Sweetheart Neckline, $27.80

Shop Name: URBANHEIRLOOMS What: Damask Leather With Antique Skeleton Key, $65

Shop Name: STRAIGHTRAZORSLASHER What: Steamgoth Spats in Vegan Leather, $40

Shop Name: MYLOTUS What: Adelita Light Switch Cover, $7.95

Shop Name: FOLDEDPIGS What: (Set of 4) Skull Dessert Plates, $36

Shop Name: FABLESBYBARRIE What: Estelle Dress, $140

Shop Name: REDRUBYROSE What: Silk-lined Clutch $75

La Florida Chic Chats with Celebrity Trainer/Actor Vincent Maggio

2009-02-18T13:26:00.026-05:00

Hugh Jackman (far left) and Vincent Maggio (far right) with his lovely date at Donna Karan's dinner for Australian Aboriginals.

With 6'2" of tanned and sculpted muscle, personal trainer to the stars and aspiring actor VINCENT MAGGIO cuts a striking figure - even on the streets of Manhattan where hundreds of people compete for attention or just become part of the inevitable and indistinguishable mass of bodies all dressed in NYC black.

Part good looks, part unique style and part je ne sais pas quois - Maggio has a sort of ineffable quality that compels you to root for him. It's no wonder then that the Florida native snagged Calvin Klein as one of his A-list clients.

La Florida Chic chatted with Mr. Maggio about a number of very important things, such as his favorite brand of denim. It's okay, you can thank us later. ;)

Vincent Maggio dressed as the "Naked Cowboy" posing it up with Bethenny Frankel of reality-television fame - she's also super funny (see her on Bravo's Real Housewives of New York City).

La Florida Chic: How did you become interested in health and physical fitness?
Vincent Maggio: Arnold Schwarzenegger was actually my inspiration as a young kid. He represented to me what a man should be like, all the courage and confidence. He had a great attitude and a lot of determination; his charisma really won me over.

LFC: As a personal trainer and aspiring actor, do you find that you need a high level of self-discipline to achieve your goals?
VM: Absolutely. You have to be disciplined. For Halloween, I went as the "Naked Cowboy" and I had to cut back to 1700 calories per day to get the results I wanted, for my height that's not a lot of calories. My goal this year is to stay relatively lean all year-round. My other goal is to indulge my creative pursuits in everything I do - whether it's personal training or working on a book.

LFC: What would be your advice to the average person who wants to look better in a bathing suit this summer?
VM: For someone who really wants to make an aesthetic change, you have to restrict your calories. You can work out until you're blue in the face - you'll get stronger, but it's not going to make an aesthetic difference. Ninety percent of the people who come to me want to lose excess body fat. Beyond 1500-2000 calories a day, the body doesn't need more to function.

LFC: Do you think it's true that there are just "skinny" people who can eat whatever they want and never gain weight?
VM: I think the people who seem genetically blessed just don't indulge in food as much. They're not emotional eaters. Those people are rare. As far as a genetic predisposition to being skinny, I'm not sure about that. The fact is even skinny people can get fat.

LFC: So, let's say you were one of those rare species of humans who just never ever get fat (despite eating fried peanut butter and sausage pancakes all day), what would be your food of choice?
VM: Oh boy, I've got so many. Anything sugary and sweet. Authentic Mexican food and authentic Italian. I love my Nana's lasagna.

Vincent with La Florida Chic writer, Natalie Campisi

LFC: On that note - what are your favorite restaurants, in New York and Florida?
VM:That's tough. Oh man. One each?
LFC:Yup. One each.
VM: Okay, in Florida it's gotta be Prime One Twelve in South Beach. They have fantastic steaks. My favorite restaurant in New York...this is hard. It's a tie between Charles in the West Village and Pastis in the meatpacking district.

LFC: So for a night on the town in New York and Miami - what's a typical outfit you might wear?
VM:It's important to have a great pair of jeans that stand out. I like Energie jeans, boot cut. But I've also gotten great jeans at Banana Republic and Puma. Short-sleeve shirts that show off my body are important, too. In the city, I like wearing cowboy boots. It's too damn hot for boots in Florida. In New York it's about a good coat. In Florida it's more about showing off your body.

LFC: Are you brand conscious or do you just go for what you like?
VM: I don't buy into the whole brand thing. If it looks good, it looks good. I wore a great trench coat the other day I bought at H&M eight years ago and the head of Cole Haan loved it - I got great compliments. That's the perfect example. Someone who's in great shape and is confident is going to look better in a cheap pair of jeans than someone who's out of shape and doesn't feel good about themselves wearing an expensive pair of jeans. I can put a shirt on from Target and look dynamic and turn heads. Tar-zsay is one of my favorite places to shop actually.

LFC: Any other favorite shopping destinations?
VM: I've gotten a lot of clothes in South Beach. Source Paris on Lincoln Road is one of my favorite places down there. I like to dress unique.

LFC: How would you describe your overall style?
VM:I like to stand out, but not like the Ed-Hardy, Rock-and-Roll look. I don't like sequins. Last night, I had on what I call my "Wild Bill Hitchcock" look.
LFC: I'm pretty sure our readers will want you to elaborate on this.
VM: Okay ... basically, it's a trench coat with fur on it, cowboy boots, jeans and a red bandanna tied around my neck. People love that look.
LFC: Really?
VM: Oh yeah...that's in contrast to my Neil Armstrong jacket I wear. It's all silver and puffy, it looks like I just landed on the moon.

LFC: Do people tend to notice you more in New York dressed this way?
VM:No question about it. People are always asking me where I'm from, a lot of people think I'm from L.A. I definitely have more of a Florida, Miami style. I don't have that conservative look New Yorkers have. It's just my personality.

Washington Square Park, NYC

LFC: What about the ladies in Florida vs. New York - is it easier dating one over the other?
VM:I always felt it's easier to meet women in Florida - less competition. There are so many men in New York, it's much harder to get noticed. In Florida, you still gotta be charming, handsome, funny - but I think in places like South Beach it's all about the sex, people go there to show off, the women are more open and receptive. In New York, I think women are more on their guard.

LFC: So, then what's your idea of an attractive woman?
VM:A woman who has passion for something. A woman who's independent but still in touch with her nurturing side.

LFC: Any celebrity crushes?
VM: Eva Mendes! As far as having a lot of sex appeal, Eva Mendes definitely. And Megan Fox.

LFC: If you could work with any actress and actor in a movie...
VM:That's easy, Harrison Ford. Blade Runner is one of my favorite movies of all times. It has everything in it and it's a good love story, too. Jack Nicholson. Robert DeNiro. The leading lady would be Meryl Streep. She's incredible.

LFC: Who would you love to train? Any dream clients?
VM: Oh sure. Harrison Ford.
LFC: You've obviously thought about this.
VM: Harrison Ford is in great shape. Or Hugh Jackman - I've met him personally. He has a great body. He understands the importance of lifting heavy weight.

LFC: What's it like working with someone as successful and famous as Calvin Klein?
VM: When you're around someone like that you're always trying to be the best. He's an icon. He expects the best - he's used to perfection. It shows in all of his work. He's taught me to make sure everything I do is excellent. But he's also so laid back. He's so comfortable with himself. He doesn't judge anyone. I have a lot of respect for him.

LFC: Is there a big difference between your male and female clients?
VM: I think men are more into numbers - women are more interested in how they look and feel in clothes. Men want to know how much they're lifting. Women, for the most part, aren't interested in how strong they are.

LFC: If there was something you could tell people who want to get into better shape, what would it be?
VM:Understand that it's a lifestyle change. Don't eat just to eat. When you make the right food choices you're in control - that alone makes you feel empowered

Check out his appearances as "Officer Pierce" on Guiding Light!

IT'S LOVE: Visionary Women Behind the Clothes

2009-02-13T13:24:00.021-05:00

We all collectively swooned during the first scene of the "Sex and the City" movie - not because we couldn't wait for our neurotic, lovestruck Carrie to be swept away by Mr. Big, where she would gaze into his bushy eyebrows - er, dark brown eyes, for all eternity. NO. Not at all. Our hearts melted a little because of the incredible dress she was wearing: a serene bone-colored, knee-length jersey number with an Amazon-Rainforest sized posie covering her right shoulder, detailed with a bit of gold. The power of a dress is not lost on us.

And how about all of the other movies that are so well-groomed...without the impeccable "costumes," the entire feel is out the window. In "Casino Royale," the debut of the new and rugged 007, Daniel Craig is absolutely dreamy - but it really isn't just the abs and eyes - he also has a damn-fine style...thanks to whom?

Because this is the time of the month to give love, spread love and receive love (even if you have to yank it - from measly compliment to single carnation - from your amour's heart) - La Florida Chic is sending a Valentine to our favorite Hollywood Costume Designers of all time!

These five women have distracted us from key plot points, clever little lines and even sloppy on-screen make-out scenes to contemplate a flattering neckline, a genius color combination and a whimsical touch that can take a dress from pretty to legendary.

So, thank you ladies, from our hearts! And Happy Valentine's Day!!!

LINDY HEMMING

Born in Wales, Lindy Hemming has worked on some of the most high-profile and high-octane American movies. The careful combination of action, amazing visual effects and a bigger-than-life style is what gives these flicks their punch - and Hemming is responsible for 1/3 of this equation.

Here are some of her memorable on-screen designs:

Vesper Lynd and 007, Casino Royale

Lara Croft, Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life

Bruce Wayne, The Dark Knight

LOUISE FROGLEY

Ms. Frogley has worked with some of the most talented (and incredibly attractive) actors in Hollywood today, namely George Clooney. Hailing from the U.K., she has been in the American movie business for a couple decades, lending her talents to such films as Siriana, Traffic, Leatherheads, Good Night and Good Luck and recently Quantum of Solace - the latest in the James Bond franchise.

Here's some of her memorable on-screen work:

Quantum of Solace

Ocean's Thirteen

Leatherheads

EDITH HEAD

The question is not which movies has the incomparable Ms. Head worked on -
it's which ones didn't she? The list seems made up, actually: A Foreign Affair, The Great Gatsby, Blue Hawaii, The Man Who Knew Too Much, Barefoot in the Park and - of course - Breakfast at Tiffany's, among dozens more.

An homage was paid to her in Pixar's "The Incredibles," as the costume designer Edna E. Mode was based on her.

Funny Face

Barefoot in the Park

Love With the Proper Stranger

PATRICIA FIELD

A native New Yorker, Patricia Field has come to define over-the-top glamour that breaks the mold, giving women license to be creative, funky, daring and darling - all at once. It's as if she has a direct line to all of our little-girl fantasies: ballerina skirts, princess shoes, grand tiaras and makes them over into womanly wearables. She is nothing less than a design diva.

Confessions of a Shopaholic

The Devil Wears Prada

Sex and the City

MILENA CANONERO
Milena Canonera

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou

Marie Antoinette

The Godfather III

Ready to Bare All? (Or almost all.)

2009-02-12T10:19:00.008-05:00

I know it's only mid-February and here in Florida the "cold" season is hitting its peak, so we're all cozy in our cute sweaters, stylin' boots, wide-leg pants and spruce coats, but in just 5 eensy weensy little months we will be wearing our underwear in public.

So, La Florida Chic has put together a Top 5 Pre-Summer Boot Camp List, to help all you fine mamas tone, tweak and tighten your bods in time for that ever-dreaded pool party thrown, naturally, by the co-worker who wears a size O. It's time now to hunker down, get in the proper mindset (self-discipline and self-love) and pick out the "goal" bikini you want to wear in July. Remember, 5 months is coming whether you like it or not - so just make up your mind to get in the shape you want. LET'S GO!

Top 5 Pre-Summer Boot Camp List:

1.
Buy, borrow, steal - and READ "Skinny Bitch" by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin.

This is not a diet book - it's a world-changing, life-altering, eye-opening journey of truth as told by two women who talk like truck drivers. And if you happen to agree with them, you will definitely get skinny - and, I believe, snag at least 684,000 good karma points in the process. (I read it in 1.5 days about a month and a half ago, and I still refer to it all the time - it's really that good.)

2.
Count calories.

It's the only way. I know. It sucks. Just do it. You will be blissfully happy and proud of yourself in 5 months. And your stomach will shrink and your body will be happier because it's not working so hard to digest a bunch of crap. *Get a Calorie Calculator Widget here, on the right-column sidebar ->

3. Measure your food with a deck of cards.

Forget all the other intricate formulas and equations - a piece of meat, carbs and any other non-veggie food portion at each meal should be no bigger than a deck of cards. This is NOT a joke. Of course, if you're a triathlete then you need to eat a lot more - but for the average Sally, this is your portion size. Just deal. (But indulge in as much steamed Broc, Carrots, Asparagus, vitamin-packed veggies as you want.)

4.
Break a sweat at least 5 times a week.

Whether it's helping your friend move from her 4th floor apartment, tearing a rug at the local disco, pole dancing, planting trees or actually pumping iron - let your body cry tears of smelly, great-for-you exercise as much as possible - or at least 5 times per week. Take the stairs. Park far, far, far away from the entrance. Give your dog an extra-long walk. Forgo the car for a bike ride to the store - since you're eating less, your groceries should fit in that little bike basket. :) Learn all the dance moves to "Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" video by Beyonce - for truly hilarious and even bizarre inspiration, search YouTube for Beyonce tributes.

5. L-O-V-E Yourself like nobody's loved you before.

This means lingering over a delicious bed of fresh spinach and tomatoes on your favorite china with great music in the background. Exfoliating in the shower. Brushing your teeth for the dentist-recommended 3 minutes - every tooth and then flossing. Lowering your blood pressure and upping your aura's gorgeous glow by being patient, forgiving, compassionate and non-judgmental. (All this goodness will circle around the planet and come back to you in ABUNDANCE. It will. Just see for yourself.) Reading one intellectually challenging, inspiring or insightful article, chapter, cereal box, etc. every day (yes, this BLOG counts!!! - Or Salon.com, whatev). However you love yourself, make sure it's deep and meaningful - not cheap and tawdry, i.e. getting drunk from a bottle of cheap wine while watching Gossip Girl doesn't count! Just bask in the glory of your wonderful, unique, talented being. And don't give up! Never, ever, ever give up!!!!

*Here's my 5-month goal swimsuit!!!

BEHIND THE SCENES WITH HALSTON: Spring/Summer '09, New York Fashion Week

2009-02-11T16:43:00.004-05:00

This collection is simply juicy!

The colors are anything but "Age of Recession"-hued, instead they popped, screamed and licked their lips. Gorgeous 60's-era pinks, electric blues and vibrant oranges were the colors and one-shouldered numbers in flowing bohemian were the styles - accented with animal prints, a very cool juxtaposition!

Avast Landlubbers! Drunkarilla!!!

2009-02-10T09:28:00.020-05:00

The pirates invaded Tampa this past weekend as about 400,000 people watched from the streets of Bayshore and downtown. The Gasparilla Day Parade - a long-held Tampa tradition - attracts people from all over the country looking for a good time and, of course, beads. Oh yes, the much-coveted beads which send hundreds of otherwise rational men and women into tailspins - prompting them to knock over small children and bear their breasts for a shot at a strand of plastic pearls, all in the name of Jose Gaspar and a helluva fun time!!

La Florida Chic hit the pavement and captured Gasparilla fashion for you!

MODEL du Jour: Jessica Stam

2009-02-09T12:59:00.004-05:00

Spend 3 minutes in the life of a famous face.
You've probably seen cherubic Canadian Jessica Stam in ads for Armani, Lanvin, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu and tons more - if you've even perused a high-fashion magazine. She talks to the cameras about how she was discovered, etc.

SILK. COTTON. LINEN. SPRING!

2009-02-09T08:41:00.028-05:00

This weekend I spent a not-so-leisurely afternoon running through a mall to pick up one item before an early birthday dinner hosted by my folks - alas, I made one fatal mistake: I parked at Neiman Marcus. And their wonderful, playful, light-as-cotton candy spring line is on the shelves, people. (Which meant not getting to my dinner exactly on time.)Not that I have the budget to buy a full-priced Prada dress - off-the-rack and all, but it's lovely just to be among them. I have to say - though there were many gems, including one of my all-time favorite designers, Missoni (see above pic, SP 09 - can they do any wrong...ever?) there was a lot, a lot, of polyester. Ugh. Polyester is not the fabric that comes to mind when I think of "spring" - it seems more sweat-inducing than breezy and cool. Plus, I'm not sure how some of these designers get away with charging $425 for a formless polyester dress - even if your name does rhyme with Cory Lurch. It's polyester - the fabric equivalent to plastic plates. And even though you can find really cute plastic plates, they are still plastic.

Here's an homage to three of my fave Spring materials (and some of the cutest trends for Spring '09) - have fun!!! xo

Giselle in Amoeba Silk Halter Dress, $277, RockandRepublic.com

Ecote Silk Watercolor Skirt, $58, Urban Outfitters

J. Crew Garden & Gladiola Print Silk Cami, $118

Loeffler Randall Romper, $325, Bloomingdale's

3.1 Phillip Lim Cotton Ribbon Dress, $625, Neiman Marcus

Fossil Sasha Cotton Voile Dress, $74

Moa Moa Tie-Dye Cotton Halter Maxi Dress, $39, Dillard's

Old Navy Sheer Cotton Camp Shirt, $24.50

Ann Taylor LOFT Ivory Drape Front Linen Cardigan, $49

Victoria's Secret, Marisa Fit Wide-Leg Belted Linen Trousers, $49.50

Juicy Couture Smocked Linen Top, $158, Sak's

Pamela Tang Knee-Length Linen Dress, $112, www.etsy.com

The NO-FAIL Valentine's Gift Helper (Show This to Your Homme du Jour - and See If He Can Pick Out Your Personality!)

2009-02-04T13:45:00.064-05:00

(*Don't Miss THE NO-FAIL GIFT GUIDE Below!!!)

Valentine's Day gets such a bad rap from the media, pissed-off women (both coupled and single - for different AND similar reasons) and dudes because of the hyped-up expectation the media (ironic, no?) applies to it. And we buy into it.

Women want Hollywood-style romance on Valentine's Day. We want a surprise twist, a mystery wrapped in an enigma shrouded in a tiny blue box with the words "Tiffany & Co." on it. We DO NOT want a stupid Pajamagram (have you heard this commercial - definitely the brainchild of a guy). QUICK TIP ON PJs: If it's not silky and luxurious and from Victoria's Secret or Agent Provocateur or some other designer lingerie shop (no - Target DOES NOT QUALIFY), then we'll just buy our own damn pajamas.

But here's the problem - only 3% of men are going to pull of that wow moment. And 2% of those guys are probably (closeted) gay dudes (who really do love Valentine's Day - and don't break out into nervous sweats just thinking about it) - they have preternatural instincts for fabulosity. So if you're one of those ladies whose name was etched in the sky with smoke from a jumbo jet then you're either super lucky or a beard - or both, depending on your point of view. Most men aren't that creative in the what-women-find-romantic department. It's not a dig, it's just a fact.

Think about it, if women were in the driver's seat for Valentine's Day there would be Christmas-style festivities: big lavish dinners, plastic light-up hearts on the front lawn, electronic cupids that move and sing "That's Amore" when you press a button, greeting cards that have a family picture in the middle of a heart etched on the front. We fully embrace holidays - we turn them into beautiful spectacles that require an entire garage worth of stuff to create. This is just part of our DNA.

That said, there's absolutely nothing wrong with doling out hints, taping cut-out catalog pages of diamond earrings to his steering wheel; dreaming (out loud) of eating at that hip, super expensive new restaurant everyone is going to or talking about the flowers, preferrably delivered at work so everyone else can gawk.

So, since we've established that Valentine's Day is really about the eternal battle of the sexes (the Long War of Mis-Communication) let's just hope for the best and celebrate together - as women - all the great looks and things we may or may not get (or get to wear) on February 14.

But, in case your dude has the best intentions - just really lame ideas (I know that it's the thought that counts and all that - but after 3 years of street-corner roses, you might be hankering for something inspired) - here's a gift guide that may help him choose based on the type of chickie you are.

> FUCK. I'M A TRUCKER CHICK.

Drinking Beer. Playing Pool. Partying. Whether you're a mom or a Mormon, somehow these three things fit prominently into your life.
Secret talent: Jumping balls on the pool table. And everyone loves a pretty lady undercover pool shark.
Romantic Movie: "Urban Cowboy"
Singular Sweet: Holy Awesomeness, Batman! Chocolate Beef Jerky has arrived. I haven't tried this totally wrong, but also somehow very right combination of chocolate and er, jerky? But I really think you should - and then let me know how you liked it. Mocha Java Beef Jerky, $5.95/2-oz bag. www.diva-chocolates.com
Her Bloom: You don't need to find the rarest rose to impress your no-nonsense gal, a dozen beautiful red roses will melt her like butta. Dozen Red Roses, $69.99, www.FTD.com

V-Day Proof Gift:These boots are made for stompin'. Or line dancin'. Or drinkin'. Or any activity that loses the "g" in the adverb. But serious, these are categorically badass. Made by Nicole Blah, $109.95, get these for your lady at www.DSW.com - or just find a store. They're everywhere.

> CARTOON FANTASY

Whatever, Bitches. I heart Buffy, rock the Docs, go to Anime conventions and will beat your ass for a chance to meet J.K. Rowling. Whatcha gonna do?
Secret talent: You know how to play Dungeons & Dragons. And there's nothing sassier than a cute girl who can hang with the geek squad and still be cool.
Romantic Movie: "Edward Scissorhands"

Singular Sweet: Kabaya Maccha Shokora (Green Tea Chocolates) are very, very tasty little suckers. Made in Japan, you can score a two-ounce bag of these babies for less than $2. Get 'em at www.asianfoodgrocer.com
Her Bloom:Sculptural and interactive, this Gardenia Bonsai Plant is a seriously cool Valentine's Day flora choice. Plus, it will fill a room with an amazing aroma...hmmmmm... Gardenia Bonsai, $44.99, www.1800Flowers.com

V-Day Proof Gift: This is one of the coolest toys I've seen from collectible toy giant Kidrobot. Designed by Hawaiian artist East3, "Mugzy" the spray-paint can toting hoodie is only $50, www.baseworld.com

> A ROSE IS A ROSE

You don't care about labels, you just like what you like. You're quirky and independent and will freely mix new trends with shit you've worn for 10 years - whether or not it's had a chance to be recycled back into current trends.
Secret Talent: You befriend people from all over the world - whether it's Estonia or Jupiter, you speak some kind of mystical, global "buddy" language.
Romantic Movie: "Harold and Maude"

Singular Sweet: Like your paramour, these confections - made by famed German chocolatier Chez Hachez - are eclectic little jewels that each have their own individual (and unforgettable) flavor: lime-coriander, pineapple-ginger, strawberry-pepper and mango-chili. YUM. Get her this assortment for $14.95 at www.avantisavoia.com
Her Bloom: Give her 20/20 vision with this bold bouquet of 20 fiery red tulips and 20 majestic blue irises, Deluxe Hugs and Kisses, $59.98, ProFlowers.com
V-Day Proof Gift: Kai Skylight Candle, $44 - Clean, sultry, exotic and beach-y, this slow-burning candle will definitely fill a room with visions of La Isla Bonita, sans Madonna rolling around on a beach.

> PAMPERED PET

What's the point of spending money on stuff, if you're not gonna buy the best? You can call a fake Gucci from a mall away and you have no sympathy for people who take less than immaculate care of themselves - home mani/pedis don't really count. You consider " big news" anything that's featured in People, Cosmo or Entertainment Weekly.
Secret Talent: You are an expert shopper and know how to navigate the sales, salespeople and mall parking lots. You're definitely the envy of all holiday shoppers.
Romantic Movie: "Overboard"

Singular Sweet: Recchiuti Confections Hand-Rolled Bittersweet Truffles, $69, www.williams-sonoma.com

Her Bloom: Kaliedoscope Orchids are definitely a look-at-me arrangement - the girls at the office will likely turn a little green. ProFlowers.com, $99

V-Day Proof Gift: From Santa Maria Novella, "Mimosa Acqua di Colonia" has the flowery scent of sweet acacia and mimosa - which are both fragrant and rich without being overpowering. Plus, it's not as ubiquitous as Chanel No. 5 - which she'll totally dig. $110, 3.3FL OZ, www.lafcony.com

> THE SCENE GIRL

You stop liking a band once your one friend who shops at Wet Seal starts liking them. Concert tickets at shitty but full-of-character venues are part of your monthly allowance. You follow McSweeneys.net or The Onion and consider David Sedaris required reading. You would like to be a librarian.
Secret Talent: You can make $17 at a thrift store go a loooong way. Think Anthropologie, if their stuff was realistically priced.
Romantic Movie: "Rushmore"
Singular Sweet: Tofutti "Marry Me" bars are an amazing treat that Vegans have known all about for a while. This dairy-free taste of guilt-free heaven (say "Moooo" with me, ya'll) is actually incredibly scrumptious. Get a box for your open-minded sweetie and watch her swoon for your interesting interpretation of Valentine's Day chocolate. www.wholefoodsmarket.com
Her Bloom:Unexpected and precious little buds all lined up in a row, tucked inside a wooden box! She's gonna be stoked! Red Baby Blooms, $89, www.1800Flowers.com

V-Day Proof Gift: This a long, fascinating, slightly tipsy conversation in the middle of the night disguised as a 256-page book about music posters. In a word: JACKPOT. "New Masters of Poster Design" By John Foster, $36.50, www.gigposters.com

> MALL-AMERICAN GIRL

You're straight up and simple. Classically polished. The Gap. Banana Republic. Beyonce. iPOD. You're happy with the normal brands that are accessible anywhere - from the local strip mall to your neighborhood Target - you really don't care for the eccentric, overly expensive or undiscovered.
Secret Talent: You can whip up a super fun backyard barbecue faster than I can say porky beans.
Romantic Movie: "The Notebook"
Singular Sweet: There's nothing more comfy, warm-and-gooey feeling than a moist, succulent brownie. And Vermont Brownie Company is simply the master of brownie baking. Imagine a warm fire, Sinatra, champagne and brownies. If you actually pull this off - please let me know, because I am available on Valentine's - to fly anywhere. Anytime, really. It doesn't actually even have to be on February 14. $21/half dozen, www.vermontbrowniecompany.com - and it comes in a really cute box.

Her Bloom: Roses, tulips, orchids and hydrangeas - this is a whole lotta flower! But your sweetie will appreciate you giving her the whole garden in a vase! Floral Fantasia, $159.95, Teleflora.com

V-Day Proof Gift: When words escape you, say it with a very chic Kate Spade canvas tote bag. Made just for Valentine's Day, this all-purpose tote will get her heart a' pitter-pattering. $195, www.katespade.com

Calvin Klein TOO RACY???

2009-02-04T09:12:00.005-05:00

Since Brooke Shields' Lolita-esque commercial for Calvin Klein jeans in the 80s, the brand has never been the same. In fact, while other products want lots of exposure for their multi-million dollar 30-second productions, Calvin Klein, owned by Phillips-Van Heusen, seems more interested in getting their commercials banned.

What do you think?
Is Calvin Klein's latest foray into the too-sexy-for-t.v. spot (SEE LATEST COMMERCIAL BELOW) really that bad - should it be banned from network stations? Take the poll and let us know! Or just leave a racy comment!!! xo

P.S. The new CK interactive website just launched, I think it's a little too heavy-handed - they may be underestimating the sophistication of their audience. See for yourself: www.ckin2u.com

OSCAR Darlings

2009-02-03T09:38:00.016-05:00

"I'd Like to Thank the Academy ... and Neiman's..."

Ever dreamed of being a leading lady? Better yet - ever dreamed of wearing a leading lady's clothes??? Check out these threads that borrow from this year's Oscar-nominated roles.(Just make sure no one's around when you give your intimate performances for the dog and bathroom mirror.)

BEST ACTRESS: Changeling, Angelina Jolie

Playing grieving mother, Christine Collins, Jolie's wardrobe consists of the fashionable zeitgeist of the late 20s. You can cop her style with these opulent items! Candra Mary Jane Shoes by Sofft, $99.90, Zappos.com; Long Fox-trimmed Coat, $444.99, Bloomingdale's and ADI Designs Soft Felt Bucket Hat, $27.19, Target.

BEST ACTRESS: Doubt, Meryl Streep

Color? She has nun. ;) If you want to be taken seriously, especially by a school full of children and a strange priest, you better not show your sunny side - at least according to Meryl's sober character Sister Aloysius Beauvier. Try her strict palette: Anne Klein Cashmere Sweater, $58.50, Dillard's; Talbot's High Twist Wool Pleated Bodice Sheath, $159.

BEST ACTRESS: The Reader, Kate Winslet

This complicated, morally ambiguous love story makes a Danielle Steel plot seem as wholesome and easy as Leave it to Beaver. The only simple thing in this flick is Kate's straightforward wrap dress, get her look with this blue floral Tocca dress, $139.99 at Bluefly.com.

BEST ACTRESS: Frozen River, Melissa Leo

Melissa Leo plays a down-on-her-luck (and love) mom who has to support her twin sons after her horrible husband takes off with everything. Want her no-nonsense look? Try this LL Bean Tuckerman's Jacket, $189 - it's sporty and will last forever.

BEST ACTRESS: Rachel Getting Married, Anne Hathaway

Steal her seriously somber look with this cashmere Max Mara Wrap Cardigan, $765, Sak's; and a faux gold pendant from Cache, $88

On the Street: The SUPER BOWL Comes to Tampa

2009-02-01T04:05:00.045-05:00

From Maxim parties at the Ritz Theatre in historic Ybor City to Snoop Dog concerts in the new-ish Channelside district - as well as appearances by the "TODAY" Show and the infamous Naked Cowboy - Tampa was shaken up, turned around and totally taken over by Super Bowl mayhem this weekend.

Throngs of ladies in their shortest Lycra-Spandex mini-dresses waited on various red carpets outside of dozens of V.I.P. clubs; legions of Steelers fans (and a few Cardinals fans, too) partied from downtown Tampa to St. Petersburg and traffic was insane enough to make L.A.'s rush hour seem like a Sunday drive in the country.

Here are some of my favorite pics from the pre-game mayhem. GO TEAMS!!!!

MAXIM Party

MAXIM Party, Retro Glamourpuss Meets Modern Stylista

MAXIM Party, Love the Yellow Top with Flower Accent and the Trench is Always In Fashion

Al Roker of the "TODAY" Show Does His Bit in Centro Ybor in Tampa, Florida - according to witnesses, Mr. Roker is considerably less jolly off-air.

The NAKED COWBOY and My Hubbie, Gordon, Chillin' in Ybor City. Giddy Up, Boys.

How Can Anyone Go Wrong in Hot Pink Leg Warmers?

Pirate Pride Goes Strong in Tampa

Ybor City, Club Prana
Cute Jacket

Super Bowl Club Dudes

Heading to the MAXIM Party

Super Slick! All Black

Triple Threat: Their clothes fit well, aren't fussy and have a slight twist which make them all interesting. NICE. Love her purple shoes.

MAXIM Party VIP Check-In

Pretty Girls Wear Prints... Love Their Fresh, Playful Looks - Sexy Without Sleazy.

I'm a sucker for an oversized quilted bag - the texture makes it a little more luxe without logos galore or bling-y doodads. The jacket and shoes are sleek and stylin' - she could go from Ybor to Manhattan without a hitch.

Pirates Fan Representing Pittsburgh Cuties

Outside the MAXIM Party Check-In Line

Pre-Game Stogies
Ybor City. Hanging out on 7th Avenue in Front of King Corona

Ritz Theatre, MAXIM Party

Red, Dress, White Jacket & Black Shoes = Great Color Combo
Plus, I love How the White Jacket is Longer Than the Dress' Hemline.

Ritz Theatre, MAXIM Party

Ybor City. 7th Avenue

Arrrr...A Pirate's Party for Me! This Swashbuckling Couple is A Little Early for Gasparilla, but They Look Like They're Having Fun

LEGGY LADIES
Toned and Ready - These Chicas Definitely Did Their Squats to Pull Off These Little Numbers.

VIP Baby
Not really, actually. I think my hubbie got this for free as part of a promo.

Super Bowl Swag

Czar Night Club. Tragically Cute (and Hip)

Love All These Bright Colors! Ready to Party Super-Bowl Style

Coordinating Couple "STEELS" The Show

Overkill?

Cardinals Couple Were Outnumbered On the Streets of Ybor, But They Were Still ADORABLE!

While Most Peeps Had Football and Beer on Their Minds, This Duo Were Heading for a Disco Party at Czar

Back in Black.
Sometimes Dressing Alike Has a Bigger Impact - Like These Two in 80s-inspired Strapless Minis. Hot, Hot, Hot!

This Sweet Couple Definitely Won the Evening's Clean-Cut Award! I Really Dug Their Colorfully Coordinated Preppy Style.

Smartly Dressed Mamas Hiking Down 7th

The Red-Carpet Line for the MAXIM Party

Fab Color!!

I Love How Shimmery Her Silver Dress Is

Hippie Chick Update - Smokin' Tie-Dye Print on This Halter Maxi

Me With a REAL Woman!

HIPSTER DUDE SHOWCASE

2009-02-01T02:00:00.000-05:00

Ripped from the Scenes of a Jim Jarmusch Flick...Perhaps?Creativity rules in the closets and bods of these Florida guys - check out the way they use fashion to advertise their cool-as-cucumber, funky selves.

1.
Metro-But-Masculine Scarf Works With This Emo Take on Hipster Wear

2.
New-Wig Goofin'! (Yeah, he has short dark hair under that shag mop) That Fur Jacket Rocks - Especially With The Smooth Sneaks.

3.
Sayonara, Sister! Pedicab Driver is Casually Chic in Plaid, Hat, Solid Sneaks and A Little Face Scruff

4.
Oliver Twist Meets the 70s Meets Nordstrom - All to the Soundtrack of "Pedro the Lion." I Love the Details: Fur Collar on Leather Jacket, Spiky Bangs, Well-Fitted Sweater.

5.
Stylin' Hipster Boy Eating a Slice

FLORIDA FASHION POLL 2009 The Results Are In, Ladies!!!!

2009-01-30T12:02:00.016-05:00

photo by: JONNYCLASH PHOTOGRAPHY

AT LONG LAST!

After dozens of (hilarious, informed and simply brilliant) responses, the votes have been tallied and we have the official results. I gotta say, I was surprised by a few winners - you guys are not at all predictable, no matter how much the magazines try to spoon-feed us style!
_____________________________________________________________________________________

So, without further ado...the winners are:

1. Flats or Heels?

WINNER: Heels (68% could care less about pain, bring on the glam gams)

2. What's Your Skin Style?

WINNER: No Tan (48%) followed very closely by Natural Tan (44%) - which means only 2% of you go for the liquid tan...what does this mean for the shelves of golden goop on the market these days???

3. The "IT" Hair for 2009

WINNER: Long, long, long, wavy (48%)- sorry hipster honeys, it may take a few more years for girls to catch up to your asymmetrical shag. The runner-up was Straight bangs, updated 70s style (20%).

4. If you could swap closets with one famous person (living or deceased) who would it be?

**WRITE-IN VOTE**

The most popular response was Kate Moss, but here are a few other honorable mentions: Carla Bruni, Pink, Ann Taylor, Dita von Teese, Penelope Cruz, Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon, Madonna, Gwen Stefani, Natalie Portman, Sofia Coppola and (drum roll) ARSENIO HALL!!! Yes, parachute pants ARE back - on the racks, anyway.

5. Played-Out Trend That Needs to Go Now

WINNER: Shapeless Babydoll Dresses/Tops!! (40% of you are SICK of the pregnant look.)
The silver trophy goes to Shameless Highlights (28%) and third place are Ray-Ban Wayfarers (12%) - personally, I think there's plenty of shelf life left on the Ray-Bans.

6. What's Your Plastic Preference?

WINNER: Pass the Plastic!!! With almost half the votes (48%), Florida Fashionistas opt for au natural. But, for those who would knife it, it's an even split between boob job and collagen - (16% each).

7. If you had a magical fashion wand, which trend would you make catch on - because it's soooo friggin' cute?

**WRITE-IN VOTE**

I'm going to ignore the "stilts" response and move on to our most popular: HATS! Yes, the STYLO-O-MANIACS have spoken and they want you to cover up the stripper streaks with hats.

Other FABULOUS responses include: Scarves, 1950s housewife dresses, aprons, colorful tights, neutrals, ruffles, barrettes, pink streaks, overalls, high-waisted pants, animal prints and Indian prints.

8. Favorite nail polish color this season?

WINNER: Seriously Deep Burgundies, Plums and Crimsons (28%) - maybe it's the recent popularity of vampires calling to our inner goth chick?

Fire-engine Red came in second with 20% of the votes, followed by Le French Manicure (16%) and a tie for fourth place: Moody Blues & Purples and Sweet-as-Sugar Light Pinks & Nudes - both snagged 12%.

9. Boots with the Fur?

WINNER: Oh No You Didn't (60%) - HATERS! ;)

10. What do you spend most of your wardrobe allowance on?

WINNER: Surprise, surprise. Bags & Accessories AND Shoes TIED for FIRST!!! (28% each) Shout out to Louis, Jimmy, Christian, Coach, Prada, Valentino and MJ!! Yoo hoo!!

A close second was tops (24%) and in last place was cosmetics - no one voted for that. Sorry Sephora. I still love you.

11. You can take two of your favorite items from your burning closet ... what are they?

**WRITE-IN VOTE**

La la LOVED your answers - some were cute, some were naughty, some were sentimental and some were downright philosophical! I just want to have cocktails with all of you right now!!!

The most popular response was WEDDING DRESS. No one leaves Vera in a burning closet, apparently.

Here are a few other gems: Red cowboy boots, DKNY Soho Jeans (I am CRAZY about DKNY jeans), Trina Turk silk tunic dress (OMG! We need to find this person's closet pronto!!!), "Nothing, change is good" - more power to you, sister!!!, Levis from college, Hermes purse, honeymoon heels, photo albums, vintage Chanel bag, Longines watch, dark green pea coat, rain Wellies and girl toy - watch out!

12. When you meet a woman, what's the first thing you notice (fashion-wise)?

WINNER: HAIR! (52%) Whoa! So, make sure your mane looks good when you hobnob, ladies - because it's definitely being checked out!!!

A distant second is shoes (24%)- some gals go to the top, others focus on the bottom. This is good - because unlike my ass, my feet and hair never gain weight!! Third place is your handbag, so rock your little Louis or no-name head-turner - 16% of you are looking.

13. What fashion crime do Florida girls most commonly commit that gives the rest of us a bad name?

**WRITE-IN VOTE**
Two-words: Muffin Top!!! This was the landslide response. What's so bad about seeing a few pounds of flesh dripping over the sides of squeezed-tight denim??? I don't get it.

Check out these great words of warning:

"Plastic ain't fantastic. If you look like you had work done, why bother?"

"If I had to pick one, it's exposing your bra. I'm guilty of it, but I'm pleading temporary insanity."

"Too much at once ... fashion overkill! Editing needed ASAP."

"Short skirts when it's cold."

14. Nina Garcia

WINNER: OVER HER (60%). Enough said.

15. So ahead of the fashion curve, a Ferrari couldn't keep pace

WINNER: Kate Moss, dah-ling. She snagged 36% of the vote. And in second place, Posh Spice Beckham, Esq. (24%).

In last place was Angelina Jolie, with a measly 4% (what, you're not dying for a closet full of taupe sweater sets?)

16. List your 3 must-have beauty essentials, s'il vous plait

**WRITE-IN VOTE**

By far, MASCARA and LIP GLOSS were the most mentioned beauty essentials. Trailed closely by moisturizer, tweezers and hairspray.

A few other interesting picks were fishnet stockings (an essential, really?); classy purse AND classy shoes; SPANX; prescription-strength deodorant; magnifying mirror and nose ring!

17. Which of these descriptions best defines your style?

WINNER: A TIE! Classic, polished, a little preppy AND A bit boho, a bit artsy BOTH received 24% of the votes each. I'm really digging the diversity here!!!

Number 2 was the Luxe Look (20%) and the bronze medal goes to Funky and Fearless (12%). Only 4% of you are Sporty and Outdoorsy...go figure!

18. Truly Delicious On-screen Fashion Moment

WINNER: The divine Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's! She stole 52% of the votes!!! Truly La Florida Chic's fashion Queen.

The runners-up include: Little Miss Prada, Anne Hathaway in her boots & jacket ensemble from The Devil Wears Prada (16%);

A tie for third place: Julia Robers in her red-dress Pretty Woman moment and Olivia Newton-John in her hot-mama black leather number from Grease. Both sirens took 12% of the votes.

Last place was the unforgettable Vivien Leigh as feisty and fiery Scarlett from Gone With the Wind, wearing the red dress at Ashley's birthday party (if you don't know what I'm talking about, PLEASE rent this movie forthwith).

19. Your Idea of a SEXY Outfit for a Dude

WINNER: Worn-in Jeans and a White Tee (40%). Come on, what's sexier than that? Unless you're Christian Bale, and then it would just be the undies, I guess.

And for all you power-hungry pussycats, the classic suit was number 2! Armani would be very happy to know this. While sixteen percent of you voted for the rocker look: leather pants and all! Sadly, no one gets all hot for sports attire (basketball shorts and running shoes). Sorry guys, we really do want you to change when you leave the gym.

*********************AND FINALLY!!!!*********************

20. I feel sexy when

WINNER: I worked out that day! (28%) Proof that Florida girls really do take amazing care of their bodies - living healthily = feeling sexy, not bad!

Hair makes another appearance - so don't feel guilty about your astronomical salon bills, it really does count! Twenty percent of you said you feel sexy when your hair looks good.

Dancing nabbed 3rd place - with 16% of gals feeling hot when they're tearing a rug. DEAD last was shaving - only 4% said a smooth bod turned up their heat.
____________________________________________________________________________________

WOO HOO!!!! Thank you guys soooo much for voting - the response was seriously AMAZING! And didn't we learn so much about each other - or at least confirm what we already knew???

Please keep e-mailing, letting me know what's going on in your city and if you're in the biz (designers, stylists, dieticians, interior decorators - whatev) please holler - I'm launching a series of HOW-TO interviews with experts like you!!! Thanks again everyone!!! MUWAH! xo

FRIEND US! Facebook | La Florida Chic

2009-01-30T09:19:00.001-05:00

Facebook | La Florida Chic

FRIEND US! MySpace.com - La Florida Chic

2009-01-30T09:06:00.001-05:00

MySpace.com - La Florida Chic - 32 - Female - TAMPA, Florida - www.myspace.com/lafloridachic

Florida DECO-rations

2009-01-29T10:12:00.013-05:00

Florida boasts all types of architectural styles - from bungalows and shotgun houses to Mediterranean-inspired McMansions - there's a little bit of everything in the Sunshine State - yes, even Victorian and American Colonial (looks a bit out of place here, don't you think?).
But, in Miami - deco rules. Praise the lord. To me, art deco - the prevailing style of the 1920s and 30s (punctuated by the abundant use of dramatic curves, sunbursts, chevrons, stainless-steel aerodynamics and other "futuristic" motifs) is the perfect transmitter (translator?) of Florida culture, weather, nature and temperament.

Florida nature is curvy and fluid, bright and vivid: the long sinuous palms, rolling ocean waves, colorful flora of hot pinks, deep purples and lush greens, tie-dyed skies that glow orange and pink and gold and violet. Deco reflects Florida's lines brilliantly - both sensuous and strong, there is no better love affair in Florida's architectural history than with deco.

Deco is Florida at its best - never mind all the rundown trailer parks, polluted beaches and fluorescent-sign lined highways (this is where Florida goes wrong, pandering to fast cash and no style)- and I'm not talking about Miami-Vice imitations either. I mean the real thing, the old gorgeous hotels you can still see on Collins Ave. in Miami. The real deco is like like Elizabeth Taylor in a A Place in the Sun or Marlon Brando in A Streetcar Named Desire, Florida style operating at the height of its potential.

After looking at some of mine and your photos of genius Florida deco styles, I got inspired to showcase some dazzling goodies that reflect this Jazz-age panache. Let me know what you think!

Neiman Marcus, Art Deco Gold Mirror, $995

Anthropologie, Art Deco Mary Janes, $79.95

Ballard Designs, Bancroft Light Vanity, $49

Dillard's, Art Deco Jewelry Box, $31.08

Havertys, Art Deco Metal King Bed, $499

Restoration Hardware, Deco Optic Semi-Flushmount Light (Brass & Nickel), $139

Target, Deco-style Serving Table, $109

Redenvelope.com, Art Deco Silver-plated Money Clip, $14.95

Ralph Lauren, Art Deco Glass Decanter, $1950

Netshops.com, Shaw Rugs Modernworks Blue Deco, $619-$1209

Tiffany & Co., Deco Pendant, $17,700

Style Doppelgangers/Famous Twins

2009-01-26T22:22:00.010-05:00

Not only do these Floridians resemble famous folks, but they also share the same sense of style!!!

Aquarius Style Guide! Holler!

2009-01-25T21:09:00.020-05:00

It's your month Aquarius! So screw the status quo (we know you love to) and wear your inner funkiness on your sleeve, literally.

Aquarius people are known for their sharp minds, idealism, rebelliousness, humanitarianism, preternatural quirkiness and attraction to the eccentric and bizarre - not to mention their love of freedom and independence. So in the spirit of this kooky and magnetic sign, here are a few things that truly embody the singular Aquarius soul.

Oilily, silky Electra Blouse

Wowza! This print is so killer - plus the poufy sleeves and slender cut are super flattering and adorable. Your Aquarius gal will definitely love this modern bohemian blouse.

GAP, Double Button Skirt in Cornflower Blue, $58

Retro chic, this is the perfect skirt for the professional Aquarius. It's not stuffy or staid, and it shows enough Water-bearer personality to make wearing office attire un-horrible.

Vosges, Bombalinas - Cashews, Ginger, Wasabi, Sesame Seeds & Dark Chocolate, $9

Your super adventurous Aquarius is going to swoon when she takes a bite of Vosges' unspeakably yummy and uncommon bits of confectionary ecstasy.

Forever XXI, Paisley Zip-Up Hoodie, $19.80

Holy Cuteness, Batman! This hoodie from heaven is perfect for imaginative Aquarius with its colorful-but-muted paisleys galore.

Jonathan Adler, Needlepoint LOVE Pillow, $175

Flashback to the hippie 60s, this needlpoint pillow is perfect for your Age-of-Aquarius love child.

Hale Bob on DSW.com, Touch FloralPrint Reptile, $69.95

Bright floral print gives this classic pump a super-modern and super-memorable twist! I'm getting these!!!

CB2.com, hand-blown Subliminal Cooler, $4.50 each

Witty, stylized glass will go over swimmingly with your brainiac Aquarius. They will certainly appreciate the cleverness and love its conversation-piece potential. Winner.

Melie Bianco on endless.com, Convertible Clutch with raw edges, $70
Sassafrass! Cerebral, stylish AND sexy - you hit the Aquarius clutch jackpot!!! I love the overlapping layers - plus it's big enough to fit more than a tampon, but small enough to take out on the town. And I have a feeling you're going to see a lot of this color in Spring '09.

THAKOON for Target, Shorts, $24.99

Once again, Target treats us with an amazing designer - this season it's avant-garde label THAKOON - and it happens to be perfect for your Aquarius baby. Psychedelic shorts have enough personality for your entire closet - so don't feel too bad if you happen to have a mostly grey, white and black warddrobe.

Free People.com, Fairisle Sweater Dress, $89.95

If you know an Aquarius well, then you probably know that what they consider "a little black dress" is vastly different from the rest of the world. In fact, this Free People dress is probably what your happily unconventional Aquarius deems a "staple" wardrobe piece. It's fresh take on a little above-the-knee number will tease a smile from anyone's face - it's that sweet.

Upcoming Excitement!

2009-01-24T13:12:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone!

Just wanted to interrupt all the awesome fashion for a sec to let you know what's coming in the next couple days....

La Florida Chic just interviewed Calvin Klein's personal trainer, Vincent Maggio. The Tampa native, NY transplant, gave us some killer advice for diet, exercise and looking fab. So excited to share it with you.

The results for the Florida Fashion Poll 2009 are almost ready! The response was amazing. If you haven't voted yet - there's still time...
http://FreeOnlineSurveys.com/rendersurvey.asp?sid=bcltbqfdqi8z5tx535909

Have a super weekend!

xo

You Don't Have to Wear a Flag

2009-01-22T23:27:00.020-05:00

Chicas and chicos from Miami to Jacksonville sport the "it" colors this month in fashionable interpretations of our flag's symbolic colors. It's a veritable parade of patriotic duds in denim, jersey, satin and more.
Which would you wear???

If Amy Winehouse ate a sammich, laid off the pipe and washed her face.

Suntan Lotion. Check. White Tank. Got it. Big COACH purse.Yuppers.

Wassup bitches???

So Florida...cotton tank dress, sunglasses as headband, humid-ified hair (I love hair when it's a little frizzy) and sexy sandals.

Time for another cruise...

Love the orange beads! So cute.

Great hair! (If only the wind would ever-so-gently blow through mine like that...)
Photo Credit: Joey Daoud, http://www.flickr.com/photos/airogos

Sweet, timeless dress. Comfy, cool boho sandals. Lovely, long chestnut locks. Wouldn't You Be Pissed Off Too?

Ooooh....I just love how shiny this dress is - it catches the light nicely, don't you think?

Love his look: super cool, laid back. Plus, his snug tee-shirt shows off his guns - rawr.
Love her look: RAD hair!!! I usually have an aversion to scary spiky hair, but her spikes are slightly longer and softer than the usual pointy Lisa-Simpson do. So cool - I may need to get this hair soon. Her vivid blue top shows off her shoulders. And lastly, loves her long black-ish nails! Hotties.

So American-Girl-from-a-CW-t.v.-show, Ralph Lauren would be proud.

Feisty blonde is a fashion dream wearing red on red - this twin-color combo outside of the sweater set is such an easy way to look tres chic. AMOUR. He's a little cutie, too - but she's the showstopper here.

Floridians Winter Work-It

2009-01-22T10:22:00.011-05:00

Vote Here Peeps!!!

2009-01-21T17:26:00.002-05:00
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Take a few secs to participate in the Florida Fashion Poll 2009! It just wouldn't be the same without you!!!

Tee Party

2009-01-21T09:56:00.012-05:00

Among the hundreds of reasons Florida rocks is the fact that buying awesome, slighlty expensive tee shirts in the middle of January is not at all unreasonable. They will not be hidden under layers of LLBean Microfiber, NASA-tested polyurethane "outdoor" gear - they will be flaunted on balmy nights at outdoor cafes; during bright days at dog parks and amusement parks (yeah, so what, we really do like amusement parks - it's not urban legend); in our convertibles - with the tops down, in January!!!

But, as much as I'm a fan of tee-shirts, I am OVER the message shirt. Who cares what your ass said to what's-her-nuts at the zoo or whatever the oh-too-clever joke is on your shirt. A: Chances are you didn't write this witty line and B. Do you really want people reading your chest/belly? (Think about it.)

Here are a few tees I found that are easily wearable for the next few seasons, low-brow conversation pieces that don't have the boxy cut of 3rd-grade gym shirts. (So half of the shirts I liked actually do have words on them - but not arranged cleverly, they're either titles or just for art's sake.) Viva la tee!

I'm not sure if that's Yoko on this tee, but I totally adore this design by Literature Noir. The colors are so bright and eye-catching, the cut is boobalicious, yet casual and - even though it's a little pricey - this could be THE tee. You know the one everyone asks you about, you wear when you want to look like you tried but don't feel like trying, your boyfriend secretly puts on when you're not around.
www.shopkitson.com, $68

What's sexier than a dude wearing this "Great Gatsby" tee?
A girl wearing it!!! But for real, I must own this! Besides the fact that this is a classic book about fashion as much as it is about unrequited love, loss and stupid women, this original cover design by Francis Cugat is brilliant.
Urban Outfitters, $28

Definitely deal of the week! This saucy $8 tee from American Apparel harkens back to that ubiquitous slanted style font treatment from the 70s. The cut is great - awesome for petite ladies who don't want to look like a 10-year old boy in a huge tee. I'll admit, I even like it all tucked in with the skinny belt.
American Apparel, $8

Fashion muse to many hardcore/rock bands, Sacer Clothing started in Gainesville! Why does this shirt seem particularly un-ironic to me? I love it!
Praying Hands tee, Sacerclothing.com, $20

Shepard Fairey set the pace for art-meets-message political iconography - and it looks like the guys at 57thirtythree are following suit. SWEET DESIGN!!!
www.57thirtythree.etsy.com, $25

Funny, cheeky design. Love the purple and black against the white.
Plus - it's on SALE now! (It's also made from organic cotton, so maybe it'll make you look wiser, too.)
Edun Organic, Nordstrom, $23.99

Holy Grail of tee-shirts.
The Olsen twin's label, Elizabeth & James, reinventing the tee.
(And it looks mighty comfy.)
Shopbop.com, $90

Jason Wu Hit the Fashion Lottery

2009-01-20T21:34:00.005-05:00

Sexy Mama!
Michelle's floor-length, one-shouldered, stunner of a ball gown designed by 26-year old fresh meat Jason Wu (congrats!) definitely took some of the attention off Barack tonight. She looked like a self-possessed woman who works out, is proud of her toned arms, has her own sense of style and wanted to look smokin' hot (but elegant) while the world watched, snapped and gossiped. And she pulled it off!

Here's to a striking couple - both inside and out.
Rock on Mr. & Mrs. President!!!!

*I'm sure every department store will have a $300 knock-off in a few weeks - can't wait to see those.

She Wore Yellow

2009-01-20T08:51:00.006-05:00

Michelle Obama has captured the imagination and engaged the sleuthing skills of fashion editors all over the world. The single question keeping many clotheshorses up at night: what will she wear today and - even more importantly - tonight?

One thing is for sure, beyond the fit of the dress, the cut or particular designer, she surely considered the symbolism of the color, too. After all, what would grey say to the world? (Yes, the situation is bleak.)

For the swearing in of Barack Obama as the 44Th President, Michelle wore yellow! Like a ray of sunshine over her husband, Michelle is as glowing and warm as any spouse could hope to be in a similarly serious, monumental and soon-to-be legendary position. (No pressure.)

Apart from the fact that yellow is my favorite color (okay, I'm a little biased) - it's a fantastic choice for such a celebratory day! It's jubilant, warm, joyful, festive and bright - but not so saccharine as pink or distracting as orange (two colors I also adore). And it's also a color that lots of modern parents consider unisex. (A nod to bipartisanship, perhaps?)

In Japan, yellow represents courage.
In the U.S. it's often associated with welcoming home friends and family from war.

Yellow is also the color of cowardice - but, I'm sure we all agree that this isn't the case with Michelle. She's definitely a fashion risk-taker, within the bounds of political sensibilities (I don't think any of us want to see her in bedazzled Ed Hardy wear).

However you feel about this color, Michelle looked absolutely regal, radiant and ready in her layered, beaded, knee-length dress with matching coat and (chiffon?) scarf designed by Cuban-born, American designer Isabel Toledo. And Obama? He looked very handsome, too!

Now, the burning question, what will she wear for the Inaugural Ball?

PAST FIRST LADIES' COLOR CHOICES

Hillary Clinton: Violet beaded gown with a blue-velvet silk overskirt
Laura Bush: Red Chantilly lace gown with a scooped neckline
Mamie Eisenhower: Pink silk gown dotted with thousands of pink rhinestones
Jacqueline Kennedy: Off-white sleeveless gown of silk chiffon with a beaded over blouse and floor-sweeping cape
Barbara Bush: Royal-blue gown with velvet bodice, square neck and diagonal dropped waist
Nancy Reagan: White one-shoulder lace satin sheath with crystal and bugle beads
Lady Bird Johnson: Yellow-rose-of-Texas colored A-line gown
Pat Nixon: Gold and silver gown made of mimosa silk satin, adorned with Austrian crystals

FFP 2009 ... C'est Magnifique!

2009-01-19T22:49:00.000-05:00

Good From Behind

2009-01-19T20:51:00.016-05:00
One of the most common fashion blunders women and men alike commit?
Not checking the rear view.

We all know how catastrophic this oversight can be - major, ugly pantyline exposure, unflattering derriere fittage or - the worst - a gross (or funny - depending on who you are) stain. Sat in melted chocolate? Baby's milk spilled? Water pipe explosion? Whatev. It's still pretty embarassing.

There's Hope...!
Here are some examples of Florida chicas who obviously avoided the backside blunder and looked great from behind, too!

Fall '08/Winter '09: FUNKY FUNKY FLORIDA

2009-01-19T01:48:00.003-05:00

Give Floridians a little breeze, a reason to wear a couple extra layers and some plastic snowmen and look what we come up with - amazing funky fashion that is the perfect blend of our kooky DNA: laid-back beaches, barbecues, pool parties, plastic lawn sets, Margaritas, swamps and the almighty flip flop.

Here are a few recently memorable outfits that are loud, proud and soooo beautifully Florida.

What's Black & White & Red All Over? Yup. The 2009 Spring Collections!

2009-01-19T01:03:00.014-05:00

Dolce & Gabbana

The economy is in the dumps, Republicans might be annoyed and - sadly - Americans are still obese, but that's no reason to make the clothes suffer. In fact, the 2009 Spring Collections are showing all their best colors and prints: golds, reds, greens, pinks, purples, florals, plaids and 20th Century Russian-inspired abstract patterns (merci, Chanel). Learning their lesson from the Drab Depression of the 20s, modern-day designers know that the way we feel is often mirrored by the way we look and vice versa. So buh-bye grey potato sack, purposely pilled fabrics and heavy shoes.

Taking a cute from Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Dries Van Noten, Marc Jacobs and the AMAZING Rodarte (among others), my prescription for unemployment blues, real estate anemia, credit measles and any other (temporary) state of material being is to fill your wardrobe with juicy colors, louder-than-Rachael Ray prints, 3D flourishes and comfy silhouettes that both flatter and comfort.

We will get through these less-than-festive times and we will do it looking lovely! Check out a few of my favorites...

Muwah.

Lanvin

Dries Van Noten

Christian Dior

Rodarte

Chanel

Marc Jacobs

Koi Suwannagate

Louis Vuitton

Simple Sexy. Stark Sexy. Smart Sexy.

2008-09-28T14:19:00.011-04:00
Florida girls love to show skin. We go ga-ga over low-cut tops and halter tops and short dresses and Brazilian bikinis and camis and short shorts with platforms and plunging backless dresses that require specially-made bras. We wouldn't be caught dead in a button-up cotton shirt at night, in public. We probably would never wear sweater vests, unless our belly buttons were showing and we definitely are not interested in your plaid jumper, Ms. Connecticut, thank you very much - unless Mr. McQueen is designing it.

Bebe is practically the official state chain retailer. Even in the dead of winter (54 degrees) girls will forgo warmth in favor of hotness.

And Florida guys are not excluded from check-me-out flashiness. If the girls are all about short n' stretchy synthetics, then the dudes are equally addicted to painfully blinged-out (and overplayed) Ed Hardy-esque wear, too-tight shirts, 70s era chest exposure and slicked and spiked hair.

Not that showing off a hot bod is a bad thing - but there is something to be said for restrained sexiness. Funky sexiness without cleavage or a brand splattered across your chest. Interesting sexiness that hints at some mystery; some dark, exciting past; stories that will make people talk. The kind of sexiness that Prince was singing about in "Kiss."

Check out these on-the-street fashion finds and let me know if you feel me...or if it just leaves you cold.

September 2008, Tampa, Hyde Park:

Get her cute and quirky look:

Florida dude on van:

How to swipe his style:

Super Cute Scenester Lass With Awesome Hair & Legs in Ybor City:

Try This Elegantly Hip Style:

Structured, confident Florida bombshell:

Create your own suited and booted (and not-completely-stoic) look:

Who Let Fashion Loose???

2008-09-25T16:02:00.000-04:00

Less is more. But more is fantastic.

This everything-goes, screw-the-rules era of fashion-ness is more than my free-wheeling Aquarius heart can take. And Florida is a friggin’ hotbed of fashion anarchy.

I absolutely adore all the piling on of the accessories, mismatched and mottled prints, Anthropologie-esque girliness mixed with sex-kitten sass, the gypsy-queen-meets-tennis-coach look, the homemade knits and scarves and bangles and costume jewelry and fringe and no-apologies tattoos and patent belts and knee-high socks and fedoras and vests and fingerless gloves and whatever the eff you want to wear! Except for white patent shoes. Please. Stop. No. Okay – only if you absolutely must.

I really, really love it.

And – I must say – even though the much-ballyhooed series Mad Men is informing some of the fashion this season, it’s going to be an uphill battle to turn back our creative little no-rules sensibilities and inspire people to spend hours contemplating a total look. The perfect ring. A sweet, uncomplicated silhouette. Smart bobs and pressed button-downs. We’ll have to see how much real estate those late-50s fashion cats can claim from the messy and mixed-up world of today’s delightfully scizho style. Until then, let’s enjoy the show from the Sunshine State.

Resorting to What We Do Best. Lounge, babies, lounge.

2008-09-24T13:04:00.001-04:00

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“There is more color in Los Angeles, more resort in Florida, but Milan is a fast-paced city.”

– Michael Kors, on opening a store in Milan.

When I think of fashion categories, I think: summer, mid-summer, not-as-summer and freezing (because anything below 72 degrees is freezing in Florida).

And maybe I’ll break it down to office wear. Maybe. But not really – mostly because there’s no dress code at my office and I’m only inspired about three or four times per month to put more effort than necessary into my workdrobe. Jeans are my lovely crutch.

I’ll tell you what I definitely don’t think of when I think of my wardrobe: Resort Wear.

Who even refers to resorts as resorts? Is this for the Sandals crowd?

And – for the record – resort wear kind of resembles Malibu Barbie meets regular clothes.

The one thing that Resort Wear can offer Floridian fashionplates is its name. This is the stuff we wear all the friggin’ time. Sandals with conch shells. Flowy, strapless dresses. Bright t-shirts. Corals and florals and minis and tight, stretchy things.

With RESORT WEAR, we have something to call it – something people in NY can understand, something our friends will make fun of us for, something we can curl up with at night when we consider what will best show off our Florida tan, perfectly streaked tresses and newly bleached grill. Our “resort wear” outfit.

I already feel more fashionable as I contemplate tomorrow's outfit: open-toed wedges, tank top and J. Lo sunhat, i.e. my mid-September “resort wear.”

Who is the Ultimate Florida Fashionista?

2008-09-22T23:04:00.000-04:00

Every Florida native is intimately familiar with the somewhat warranted Florida fashion cliche: tanned, peroxided, frosted-lipstick wearing, wrinkled beach (dumb) babes and their guys, who are - of course - pasty, flabby, tacky, Hawaiian-shirted dudes who drive ugly convertibles.

Sure, spend any amount of time on the West Coast (Clearwater Beach = Linda Hogan-lookalikes aplenty) and you will definitely see your fair share of Lycra, leopard print and pleather, but I assure you, this is a small sampling of the wide range of gaudiness and (yes) truly inspired fashion senisibilities Florida has to offer. Florida actually has a pretty cool style if you can get past the flip-flop formal wear and near-obsession with fake double-d cups.

Floridians - like their northern counterparts in NYC - are not afraid to get funky, look silly or be dramatic. After all, Tampa is the Goth Capital of the continental U.S.

And unlike SoCal, we're more than just our bronzed and buffed abs. We're pretty freakin' freaky. We have all kinds of cultures informing our style - so don't be surprised if you see a Pink Polo (popped collar and all) paired with shorts that bear the Dominican flag. Or if you spy a sluccer mom (slutty soccer mom - low-cut tank top paired with Old Navy jeans); a notsosexual (wannabe metrosexual who thinks Prada shades and Crocs are designer); Bumionairre (bum exterior, but owns "Hooters" restaurants, motels and a tractor rental company so is worth billions).

We're like fashion centaurs. We Floridians don't really care if our top halves and bottom halves match - as long as we look hot and manage to stay cool. We are essentially living in a big swamp, so we figure the rest of the world should be impressed that we have clothes on at all.

So all this leads to the question du jour: Who is the ultimate Florida fashionista?

Is it the Tampa goth/punk/dirt rocker? The Miami model/Latin lover/bronzed beauty? The Palm Beach debutante? The Gaineseville hippie/hipster? The Key West beach bum/sandal slut? The St. Augustine surfer/surferette?

Stay tuned...we're going to hit the streets to find an answer!

La Florida Chic

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**** FLORIDA FASHION POLL 2009 **** The Results Are In, Ladies!!!!

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Vote Here Peeps!!!

Tee Party

Jason Wu Hit the Fashion Lottery

She Wore Yellow

FFP 2009 ... C'est Magnifique!

Good From Behind

Fall '08/Winter '09: FUNKY FUNKY FLORIDA

What's Black & White & Red All Over? Yup. The 2009 Spring Collections!

Simple Sexy. Stark Sexy. Smart Sexy.

Who Let Fashion Loose???

Resorting to What We Do Best. Lounge, babies, lounge.

Who is the Ultimate Florida Fashionista?

FLORIDA FASHION POLL 2009 The Results Are In, Ladies!!!!