Nominee’s for THE Style-Ista of 2008…

Who gets your vote? TAKE THE POLL!

The woman with perfect style and my absolute favorite as many of you know…Nicole Kidman shares the spotlight with husband Keith Urban, keeping it simple in a little black dress at the Country Music Awards.

Next up…Angelina Jolie, showing her baby bump (well maybe a bit more than a “bump”) during the Cannes Film Festival in an olive green Max Azria Atelier gown. Who looks this freaking good pregnant? It’s almost sinful!

Rose McGowan certainly doesn’t mind wearing a conversation piece and in my opinion, her bravery paid off. Some loved to hate it but she positively rocks this artful D&G design proudly at Cannes.

The Barbadian beauty, Rihanna (and her style team) have mastered a complete makeover which definitely shines through each time she hits the stage or the red carpet. At the American Music Awards she’s looks spectacular from head to toe.

And last but not certainly NOT LEAST…who puts the “P” in Posh on a regular? None other than Mrs. Victoria Beckham. Choosing the best shot in 2008 proved quite difficult because the woman looks good in pretty much anything. But like a true Style-Ista, she sparkled at the CFDA Fashion Awards.

ENTER YOUR VOTE NOW!

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Looking back…

As the year closes, I'm looking forward to a new season of tv shows! One in particular gets my fashion juices flowing the minute I see "the body", Heidi Klum's legs cross the screen.

I’m a SUPER fan of Bravo's Project Runway so let's reminisce about Season 5. These three looks were my favorite final collection showings at Fashion Week . Leanne’s take on the pleated skirt with bustier top (above left), Korto’s emerald evening gown (above right) and Kenly’s retro dressy number (below).

To bring it back to your closet…if you didn’t have at least 5 of these in "style rotation" this year, WHO ARE YOU? Seriously, scarves have made the biggest come back over the past year since the 90’s. Even some of the Rap Industry's finest are wearing them. Remember wearing the short Jackie O style as a headband or around your neck in a single knot with a crisp, white collar shirt? No longer simply a way to keep warm on a brisk day...Now check us out! Who wears it best? Lindsay Lohan, Hillary Duff or Jennifer Aniston? Jenny gets my vote!

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Never out of style

This season, I’m living by Kenneth Jay Lane’s philosophy “Elegance, good taste and luxury never go out of style” and he should know. Kenneth, once a shoe designer for Christian Dior created flashy baubles in his free time that were such an instant success, retail giant Saks Fifth Avenue sold out of its entire 1st shipment in just one day! Now that’s what I call being in “high demand”. This Faux Amethyst Cocktail Ring ($165 @ http://www.neimanmarcus.com/) is at the top of my Holiday wish list...hint hint!

Kenneth's designs are so unique that they’ve gained admiration from many of fashion’s greatest icons. Namely, Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn and even the Duchess of Windsor who some say is buried in the jewelled belt he created for her. Is that not the ultimate honor?

Now, following in those footsteps and dripping in Kenneth Jay Lane’s sparkling designs are Mary Kate Olsen, Brittany Spears, Alicia Keys, Rihana and tons of additional A-list celebs. Join the in-club! Own a Kenneth Jay Lane piece today! Shop http://www.vivre.com/ , http://www.neimanmarcus.com/ and http://www.bluefly.com/ .

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Sales! Sales! Sales!

Here’s my 3-step, “how to” guide on keeping the designer exuberance for much less than the usual high ticket while you’re out shopping this holiday season.

1. Seek out the sales! Including sample sales for those with the ability to spend a little more.
2. Don’t impulse buy…do your research on line and in stores before you make your purchase, especially if you already know the exact item you want for that special someone.
3. Have a positive attitude and remember that Christmas is more about the act of giving than the price tag your gift holds. Think unique, not costly and adding a little extra love will make your gift priceless.




Two of my many favorite gift ideas that will keep you warm this winter are by Juicy Couture. Knit gloves (above) with a medallion chain accent OR for the kid in you…pom pom mittens! (right) Both priced for under $40
ON SALE at Saksfifthavenue.com.

Happy Holidays!

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Oh Turkey Day!

Thanksgiving is a time that reminds of us falling leaves, winter weather and wonderfully structured turtleneck sweaters. Wearing these delectable wovens of joy, warms the body as well as the heart and makes the delightfully charming statement of simple elegance at the family holiday gathering.

Pull out (or run right out and purchase) one of your favorite pull-overs this Holiday Season and fall in love with Cotton, Merino Wool, Cashmere, Cable Knits and Mohair once again. It’s one way to hide that post Thanksgiving dinner tummy (depending on the silhouette) and still look as glamorous as the girls in the Ralph Lauren Fall/Winter campaign.

Speaking of which…you may choose to keep it classy and simple with Ralph Lauren’s Cashmere Cowlneck Sweater (seen above $559.00) or go “dressy-chic” with the Phillip Lim’s Rosebud shoulder turtleneck ($210.00). But if that doesn’t suit your fancy…rugged sophistication is easily achieved with an Italian favorite, Fendi’s Cropped Turtleneck ($555.00) which can be worn as a dress if the opaque tights covering your legs are warm enough!

Happy Turkey Day!

Photos courtesy of ralphlauren.com and eluxury.com







http://www.eluxury.com/estore/browse/product_detail.jsp?id=11992041

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Pounding the Pavement

The second sexist shoe (in my opinion) next to the stiletto is the boot! This season, booties are a super hot commodity so what better designer than Oprah’s favorite, Christian Louboutin (see left-$895) to get your toes all hot and bothered? And…the studs on these babies add a 'bad girl" undertone for those who like to take a walk on the wild side.

Number 3 in the sexy line-up…The peep-toe suede pump. It will forever be a classic and as classic’s go, Prada designers really put their best foot forward with this elegant little number that says, “Watch out Holiday Parties…Here I come!”. (Prada Suede Pump $595)

AND…drum roll please…Bringing up the rear and literally the “boot shaft” as well, Alberto Fermani ($660) shows us that laces aren’t just for sneakers, nor buckles for jackets. This well crafted, equestrian inspired knee boot is one of my most desired, soho chic styles this season!

With so much fab fall footwear, how’s a girl supposed to choose?…I guess only your wallet can decide.

Photos courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman.

All styles available at http://www.bergdorfgoodman.com/

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First Lady of Fashion

My, how the times do change…but some things, like the respect we share for our United States First Ladies remain the same. From fashion to careers before the white house, our past and currently-elected first ladies have shown us all the power of a finely dressed woman.

Looking back over the last three decades…

Beginning with Nancy Davis Reagan (above) in the 80’s who seemed to have the ability to accessorize just enough without overpowering “the look”…maybe a trick she learned in her younger days as an actress, to Hillary Rodham Clinton in the 90’s who definitely did and still does believe in the power of the proverbial “power suit”…especially in whatever color makes her feel happiest. She balanced family, law and public service with such grace and candor that she commands the respect of all women who continually strive to live life to the fullest.

Now we can, with all sincerity and hope, look on as the change of the 21st continues. It started with Laura Welch Bush and now transitioning into First Lady Elect Michelle Robinson Obama, we see her always put together and sophisticated style with the elegance and flare of a woman who is sure of herself in whatever ensemble she wears. A great combination of fashion forward and fashion conscious, Michelle; the career lawyer, wife and mother, follows in the path of the first ladies before her. Epitomizing the ability of a woman’s strength to remain posed when juggling family and career, all the while, standing alongside the man with the most important job in America. Doing it all… wearing everything from J Crew to her favorite Chicago-based designer Maria Pinto.

(see http://www.mariapinto.com/)

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Dem Bones…

I’ve got a bone to pick…literally. Why does everyone only consider scary masks, playful playboy bunnies and oversized princess dresses for Halloween costumes? Let’s all go high fashion this Halloween.

Fashion’s biggest designer names like Maison Martin Margiela (top left) and Alexander McQueen (top right)prove that Halloween doesn’t always equal ghosts and ghouls as they get inspiration from the scariest day of the year. If you’re still pondering what to dress up as for tonight’s party…ponder no more. Nothing says festive like skeleton bones, not to mention the fashion industry totally understands showing a little ribcage. Happy Howling!

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Class is in session

Since we’ve been on the topic of layering…sharpen your # 2 pencils and take notes.

Subject: Blazers

Adding this updated, classic piece to your arsenal is sure to secure your spot at Conde’ Nast Cafeteria’s “popular girls” lunch table. This “school days” blazer by Tommy Hilfiger is a great way to pull off a chic, classy look that can be dressed up or down and is perfect for work and play. Preppy chic is “like” the coolest! So stick with the fashionable clique and don’t be caught dead on campus without one.

Available at Tommy Hilfiger NYC and www.tommy.com ($189.50)

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Gryphon WHO?

If you still haven’t heard about this fabulous designer, hold on to your seats. You’re in for an elegantly classic fashion ride! Sold at Intermix, ShopBop.com, Chicdowntown.com and other fine stores, Gryphon is the answer to any "layering" question on a breezy fall day.

With innovative designs that will keep you warm throughout the change of seasons, these perfectly styled outerwear pieces will add a touch of class to any outfit. For a black tie affair or simply paired with your favorite pair of jeans, the Drum Major Jacket ($626) adds spice to simplicity. (see top left)

For the classic girl with flair, the Mini Tent Coat -$460 (see top right) should suit your fancy and for the downtown chic who can rock a faux fur without being faux fabulous…The Pretender Vest (above) is for you. Now you KNOW...

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Fall Fashion Guide Finale!

For the month of September we’ve covered Fall Fashions by introducing you to “Country Chic”, showing you how to “Accentuate the Curves” and exploring the best ways to “Keep it Simple” but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t reveal (with my secret x-ray vision) a couple of fashion’s “oddities”. Some call it couture; some call it out-right, strange but for all my "Super She-ros" and comic book enthusiasts…here goes!

Antonio Berardi gives us a new appreciation for the “Caped Crusader” (pictured above), while Fendi (below-white) and Iceberg(below-black) (yes...Iceberg is still shocking us all with beautiful non-denim designs) puts their spin on the always popular Black and White silhouettes (reference “Keep it Simple” Week 3). Not too outlandish but not quite "simple" either, these are outfits I would love to wear almost any day of the week and I'm not just talking costume parties either! Well... maybe a little tweaking here and there would be necessary to alter it just a bit but either way, I believe there's a Super Woman secretly living in us all!

Stay tuned!... There's always more, FABULOUS fashion coming your way each week! Ciao!

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Fall Fashion Guide Week 3

Keep It Simple.

Less is not always more...That statement usually goes for those who have less instead of more but the basic rule for fashion in any season is to remember that sometimes luxury shouldn’t be compromised.

Now, “keeping it simple” is a much better way to describe the art of achieving a classy look. What could be more elegant than the well tailored ensembles styled by design icons Karl Lagerfeld and Narciso Rodriguez?

Dressing head to toe in fashions historically pricipal colors adds a certain je ne sais quoi to your style. Black offers a sleek, confident and timeless Audrey Hepburn look while dressing in all white reads a refined sophistication reminiscent to that of Jackie O. Whose stylistic influence will you summon up this season?

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Fall Fashion Guide Week 2

Accentuate the Curves

The newest fall fashions are bringing back the waistline in a very powerful way. There once was a time, long, long ago in fairy land where women wore corsets to create an hour glass figure. Not quite the most comfortable look, it faded away along with Petticoats. Over the past few years that idea returned by way of a more breathable concept, the wide belt. As much as we loved them and still wear them on occasion, so as not to create the Tyra overkill/overuse syndrome, we now see some of fashion’s hottest designers taking it one step further by creating another of my favorite looks for the fall season…The synched waist!

As always, this look is not for everyone. Sporting muffin tops which literally hang over the “synched area” is not a good idea however, bringing it all together in a flattering, powerful way can boost the self esteem of any woman and give her that “Go-Getter” attitude that even Scarlet O’Hara would admire.

Above photo: Versace

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Fall Fashion Guide Week 1

Be sure to log on to Style Mayvin regularly during the entire month of September! You’ll be invited to vamp up your style by reviewing the best Fall Season picks for fashion trends beginning with this week’s choice: “Farm Country Equestrian”.

There’s a few ways to pull off this look but here’s a suggestion on how to achieve one of my most preferred fall ensembles…

Reach ALLLLLLL the way to the back of your closet and hopefully you’ll find your favorite long, floral print, patchwork skirt by Ralph Lauren you used to wear many seasons ago with your scuffed toe Durango boots. (If not, put that purchase on the top of your fall shopping list!) Now…to update the look, pair the skirt with a solid color jacket accented with a wide belt and adorn your feet with a beautiful new pair of leather riding boots. Although we all still love our comfy Durango’s, the designers for Cole Haan really put their best foot forward with the new boot collection! Then, to complete the look throw on a knit hat and a large “Shopper” bag and head for the door! Not only are you comfortable, but you’re also Country-Chic with a touch of confident-horseback-rider. Think warm and sexy…that’s the way to achieve this fabulous look.

Cole Haan
Leather Boots - $595
http://www.colehaan.com/

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GO INTERNATIONAL!

Pierre Hardy…Heard the name?

This designer’s shoes are truly a work of art and not meant for the subdued footwear consumer. You really have to “step up your game” figuratively, literally AND financially to “step out” in this vibrantly bold heel, fashioned for this year’s Fall/Winter season. Although the look may not fancy ALL fashion aficionados, if they’re worn on the red carpet or to whatever event a confident trendsetter chooses, they’ll unquestionably be the most memorable topic of discussion. This extravagant creation by fashion-favorite Pierre Hardy certainly caught my eye but with no price listed (http://www.pierrehardy.com/) and barneys.com selling their softer, muted nonetheless intriguing collections for upwards of $1000, I can only imagine the price tag for this stunner.

This should give you an idea…The only store listed for purchase of this shoe is the Pierre Hardy store located in Paris at:
156, galerie de Valois
Jardins du Palis Royal – 75001 Paris
Boutique@pierrehardy.com
T/F 33 (0) 1 42 60 59 75

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Star Studded Denim

Always in support of another guilty little fashion pleasure, this week’s item particularly peeked my interest as I have been a denim junkie for years! To further confirm my self-indulgent jean addiction, my BFF recently crowned me with the title “Denim Connoisseur” based on my love in the early years of wearing classic Levi’s, DKNY, Earl Jeans and D&G to my more recent obsessions with Rich and Skinny, SEE by Chloe’, Earnest Sewn and Degaine (regularly worn by Jennifer Anniston).

But today, I am totally in awe of the Roberto Cavalli Swarovski Crystal Jean ($1275). They are simple, yet elegant, beautiful and unique all rolled together into one sexy ball of cotton and twill…and after just one look at the inseam length on these babies, I AM HOOKED! Loving his designs for years and breaking out my very colorful Cavalli jeans whenever the mood strikes me and of course, absolutely loving my “look” that day, I’ve learned that “sometimes the luxury of fashion shouldn’t be compromised”. In this case, that's IF you can afford the $1200+ price tag. (Insider Tip: These jeans are currently on sale for $765 through one of my fav fashion sites http://www.net-a-porter.com/ …Get ‘em while they last!)

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Studs and Leather

Never really a die hard accessories girl, I’ve always left it up to my favorite Events Director friend to bring the “accessories bag” (stuffed to the max and chocked full of goodies) to all the “Girlfriends’ Weekend” trips BUT… this Tory Burch necklace SO has my name on it. The intricately styled, faux-bib design will add a youthful, fresh look to nearly any ensemble while the textured leather and metal hardware screams “I’m rough but still OH SO SEXY”.

Many times (and I’m sure my friend had to notice) the infamous “accessories bag” has gone home a little “lighter” than it arrived…Can you say, “beg, borrow or steal”? This one (if you already own it) is sure to get swiped so watch your back all you girlfriends! J

Or…here’s an idea! All “the girls” could make the purchase collectively and create a sisterhood of the traveling necklace!

Tory Burch – Jarrett Necklace $495
www.toryburch.com

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New Beginnings...

So, today was supposed to be the big day. 8/8/08…it’s only going to come once and it will be gone before you know it. Like every other day, 8/8/08 will last for only 24 hours and as a matter of fact by the time many of you read this it will have already come and gone but this is a historic day. Not just because of the symbolism of the meanings related to the number 8, nor the peace one should feel when turning this number upon its side to see the symbol of infinity, giving us all a sense of understanding that the possibilities for our lives are infinite, but more so for me, it is a testament to yet another “failure to launch”.

No, I’m not referring to the movie starring Sarah Jessica Parker and the super sexy Matthew McConaughey, however the message in that movie does play a part. That message: Despite everything, be honest, live your life in a manner in which makes YOU happy and by all means LOVE as hard as you can; may very well be a few of the most important accomplishments we can ever make in our lives. This day, 8/8/08 should have been MY launch of a new entity that would bring fashion, trends and respected advice accessible to everyone all over the world. Unlike the historically glamorous periodicals and documents related to the fashion industry…this was to be the day of “A New Beginning In Fashion”. Which brings me to a question…What happens to a dream deferred?

For those who don’t know, Style Mayvin is not just a new blog among the many that already exist, she’s a real person. Maybe somewhat of an “alter ego” of a much more “always fabulous” person and often a little materialist but hey…that’s ok, it’s allowed because the Style Mayvin strives to live her life in a way that makes HER happy...everyday. Some days it’s a lot easier than others but that’s what life is all about. Just so there’s a clear understanding—Style Mayvin doesn’t only focus on fashion albeit the primary focal point, the real “always fabulous” person with whom she shares her body deals with struggles, pain and sorrow as well as well as happiness, peace and joy (at times) just like everyone else. Keep that in mind as you continue to read today and in the future. The person behind the words is always there whether seen or unseen.

In an effort to inspire you to be GREAT and a leader in whatever genre’ you choose, Style Mayvin hopes to bring a ray of "fashion-light" to your day, your week or your month…depending on how often the spirit moves. So, to answer the question…"What happens to a dream deferred?” Nothing. Dreams are never deferred. If you aren’t ready, they are simply passed on to the next person who isn’t afraid to do what it takes to achieve them. Instead of failing to launch the thing you love and possibly live for, don't just forget about it because you can still get it done…simply launch something different but just as great.

Introducing….Style Mayvin

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