Clear: The Only To Do List App You'll Ever Need

Full scoop available via Mashable

As you might know, I'm a bit obsessed with keen on organization. A to do list is an absolute must to actually accomplish both daily goals and long term plans. My secret weapon? A fabulous notebook and a blue Papermate pen. However... I find that an app is an indispensable tool that I (now) can't live without. After all, most ideas occur when you're out and about.

Enter Clear from tap tap tap. Not available yet... but one look at this video and you'll agree - iPhone users need this! Look at that sinfully clean interface and the ease of use. It looks like an interactive dream come true.

This is surely on my "must have" list.

The Big Two-Oh

Hard to comprehend that Christian Louboutin has been crafting his masterful creations for two decades. I say this largely because his brand has only been a household name for the better part of this decade. And yet, his creative genius has been focused on fine tuning the craftsmanship of shoes for twenty years. What an anniversary!

If the thought of $1000+ footwear makes you and your financial planner woozy, might I suggest the book that celebrates their design? It's the savvy girl's ticket to fabulously hot footwear while still keeping her Benjamins cool.

If, on the other hand, money is no object... I adore these croc-sequined peep-toe pumps that beguile me with their shmmery luster. By the way, I wear a size 6. ;)

For up to the moment Louboutin news, be sure to follow them on twitter. Always many in-store appearances and festive events happening around the globe.

Just One Haute Click Away

Vogue has this to say:

“Think of it as giving prêt-à- porter the couture treatment."

But all you and I truly care about is this: through ModeWalk you and I can book in-person appointments with Paris designers, gain access to runway show tickets, and access private sales. All without leaving your perch.

Need more reason to sign up for the "members only" site? You and I can each earn a $100 gift card to spend (on any purchase of $200 or more) just by both signing up and delving int the world of Haute Couture.

Per Style.com:

“Drawing on a rich history of craftsmanship traditions, haute couture epitomizes the peak of fashion as an art form,” the group behind the site, Henri Deshays, Beatrice Pang, and Indre Rockefeller, told Style.com via e-mail. “We would like to use the Internet to enable modern clients from around the world to rediscover the genuine workmanship of this magical universe.”

Modewalk is opening up its virtual doors with a carefully selected roster of Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture designers, including Alexis Mabille, On Aura Tout Vu, Alexandre Vauthier, and Christophe Josse, as well as ready-to-wear and accessory items by French designers (Paris is their “launch” city) you might not be familiar with. But they haven’t reduced buying an $80,000 coat to the mere click of a button: “ModeWalk unveils the beautiful creative process and creates an emotional connection between the brands and our users,” they said, offering the “crème de la crème of the Paris shopping experience.”

Happy shopping!

Spring 2012: The Playful Geometry of Milly

Milly's spring 2012 collection is playful, geometric and in-your-face fun. There's no denying that a lineup of looks like this begs for fabulous vacation plans, oversized sunglasses and shoes, shoes, shoes! I'm not completely on board with the colors (navy just isn't a color I enjoy), but I do like the Mondrian-influenced prints, the waist-whittling silhouettes and the flat out modern approach to dressing.

I see belts, slim pants, cropped jackets and pretty sundresses. All with structure we've been sorely missing for several seasons. As usual, runways shows such as these have me considering my leg routine and longing to rub on some self tanner. But mostly, they make me happy that spring will surely come surprise us soon with long sunny days and an invitation to wear color, color and more color.

See the full presentation at Style.com. Shop to your heart's content at NeimanMarcus.com.

Prabal + Sephora = Sleek & Cool

Your favorite Sephora cast member will no longer greet you in a staid black ensemble. Expect to see a flash of red and a much more sleek silhouette as envisioned by hotter than hot designer Prabal Gurung.

Before continuing, I must confess... I've been a huge fan of Prabal's since long before he became so popular. In 2010 he made an appearance here in Dallas at the flagship Neiman Marcus and I jumped at the chance to see his collection. He was already on the popularity upswing at that point, but it was one of those moments when you knew you were standing in the presence of greatness before the whole world fully caught on.

Fast forward to today and he - and his fresh modern aesthetic - have taken the fashion world by storm. He has truly become the darling of design, and having examined some of his more elaborate pieces in person, I can assure you that his craftsmanship and attention to detail are a large factor in his success. Add that to his healthy good looks, easy and magnanimous demeanor and his ability to consistently produce imaginative collections and you've described the combo that has taken the fashion world by storm.

Now... on to those updated uniforms for your male or female favorite beauty expert. Here's what BellaSugar has to say:

Designer Prabal Gurung has just previewed the new uniforms he designed for Sephora, and they're a big change from the plain black ensembles you're used to seeing. Now, male "cast members" will have their choice of sleek, black separates with red detailing, and women will be wearing fitted pantsuits with blazers or black trapeze dresses with red accents. The classic palette and sophisticated feel of the new attire is chic, and there's something a little futuristic about the styling, too. All in all, it's a Prabal Gurung collection beauty aficionados are sure to see frequently.

How this will impact the beauty peddler's bottom line is hard to say. But the updated look will surely energize the staff and the overall appearance of the store. That flash of red - like the heel of a Louboutin - adds much needed zing to the full black outfit. Be sure to see the video of these fetching outfits in person.

Wanderlusting: Saint James Paris

If a picture is worth 1000 words, this post has already exceeded your attention span. Perhaps knowing that this gem of a boutique hotel is offering a private sale on bookings will rouse you from your slumber.

With interior style served up by Paris's Bambi Sloan, this hôtel particulier surrounded by a privacy wall and garden will astound even the most well-heeled traveler. It manages to be both quirky and utterly posh at the same time (which is a good thing, as I'm not so keen on quirk but an undying slave to posh).

But back to that private garden. Though enjoyable by day, it is a sight best taken in at night. Imagine fine dining under the stars in Paris's 16th arrondissment. Your surroundings (and company) decidedly genteel. You'll feel transported to the countryside yet all the while be surrounded by some of the city's most prestigious real estate.

Book quickly, however. This 48 room château can be depended upon to draw a crowd. You'll want to ensure there's room for you at the inn, lest ye be locked outside the private walls of this remarkable property. Full details at tablet.com.

FIG Finale Sale: Shop Like a VIP

If there's one thing you should know about my great city, it's that Dallas is a city that loves to shop. There's a nonstop round of society events in the works, celebrity appearances, famous athletes, benevolent billionaires and all-around fabulous people to mix and mingle with nightly. Because of this, fashion is and always will be key to the city's bustling social scene.

Thankfully, there are always fabulous sales and trunk shows helping you look your best and still maintain the required minimum balance in your bank account.

One "not to be missed" event is the FIG (that's Fashion Industry Gallery) Finale sale, which only happens twice each year. Imagine having access to Gucci at 75% off. That's right. Gucci. Serious shoppers will want to opt for the VIP package. For $50 you'll be granted early access to the sale at a private party, complimentary cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, live dj spun tunes and complimentary valet parking. First dibs on luxury loot and a night of festivities, not a bad bargain if you ask me!

Here's the skinny on the sale happening February 9, 10 and 11. Sign up soon while tickets are still available.

Digging Deeper: Isabella Oliver Winter Sale

I could shop the Isabella Oliver Sale racks forever. Seriously, I don't know what those ladies are up to, but their designs are absolutely impeccable. This lovely outfit above? Culled from their clearance section. That's right... the perfect leather jacket, ideal straight-leg jeans and a chunky necklace that'll make you swoon. Pair that with an of-the-moment (yet timeless) striped tee and a luxe leather bag and you're off with style to spare. I could go anywhere in this outfit with the right shoes. In this case, sky high black heels should do the trick.

(Full disclosure... I have this top and I wear it as often as I can... I adore it!)

One reason you shouldn't browse the sale racks for too long? I assure you your size is at sell-out risk. Take it from a girl who frequents this online store. If you see it, snag it immediately lest it be added to the "one that got away" file in your emotional memory.

Shop now or forever hold your peace.

Trunk Club: Netflix for Menswear

A concept too cool to keep to myself... Trunk Club. For the stud in your life who is too busy to shop for himself. (This is all of them, right?) Imagine sharing the deets on your lifestyle, your needs, your age, your profession and having a team of stylists consider carefully what clothing meets that criteria. That's precisely how this works. Within days this new wardrobe in a box arrives on his doorstep. Inside is an assortment of apparel that's custom fitted to meet his personal style as well as his size.

The best part? He can buy the pieces he wants (or that you want him to keep) and return the rest - no questions asked. Send your man to Trunk Club and they'll do the rest.

{via Daddyswag}

Louboutin Looms Large over LA

You lucky Angelenos have all the fun. An 80 degree New Year's Day. Balmy, breezy climate. All the celeb watching one can tolerate. And of course, the huge mural of a Louboutin stiletto on Sunset.

I love that this massive (10 stories tall?) image of a stunning heel was created in collaboration with street artist Galo Make Canote on the side of an otherwise unsightly building. You LA dwellers certainly know how to welcome a fellow to town. That's right, the massive billboard was created to properly greet Mr. Louboutin to Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills on February 3. And, of course, to drum up press mentions just like this one. I'd say it's working.

Those of you who are going to the event, be sure to give Chris a big squeeze from me, okay?

So Hard to Choos

I own but one singular pair of ballet flats. They are a gorgeous pair of metallic snakeskin Revas, but I (not so) secretly loathe them. They remain in my closet rarely worn. I mean, doesn't the very phrase "dressed up" imply that one should be... elevated? So it's with great surprise that these hot pink ballet flats by (unlikely source) Jimmy Choo appeal to me.

The immediate draw is the noticeable improvement to the sole. I see traction there! In the Tory Burch flats you're afraid of stepping on the tiniest of crumbs for fear you'll feel it through the bottom of the shoe (how princess and the pea of me, right?). But these patent beauties have just enough verve to (maybe, almost, sort of) compensate for the lack of lift.

Between the gold-tipped bow tied at the toe to the dazzling little plaque at the heel, I'm reading "glamour meets all-day-walking comfort" from front to back. And just look at that gold interior? King Midas would be so proud.

Although I won't admit it often, a comfortable pair of flats is exactly what I'll need at High Point this year. Unfortunately I know myself well enough to admit that even if I get these, they'll sit in my bag in the hotel as I trounce around in heels. What can I say, habits like heels are hard to kick.

In the meantime I'll keep staring at these colorful little creations from Jimmy Choo, in all their Skittles-hued glory. Who knows... I might even be bold enough to brave the world in flats. Not likely... but maybe.

Change of A Dress

While you may easily overlook the power potential of a tan dress, I say it is one of those closet essentials that is truly underestimated. You can easily go from meet-the-parents sweet to drop dead diva with just a few quick accessory changes. And if we're confessing here, I must admit to having a closet full of festive prints that can barely be worn more than once. That's the secret power of a solid dress: it out performs any print, since you can transform the way you wear it each and every time.

This lovely sample above? The perfectly polished Sunset Boulevard dress from Shabby Apple. This, dear style lovers, is what happens when khaki meets curves. The fabric has a hint of sheen, a bit of stretch, and is nipped and tucked in all the right places. If you're looking for a versatile piece that will go from day to night and back to day again, this is the number.

My favorite way to wear a piece like this? With sizzle. Lots of it. A bold cuff, towering tall heels and (just to mix it up a bit) a lady-like scarf tied about the neck. Add big sunglasses (is there any other kind?) and voila! You are ready for anything that this fabulous life might throw your way.

So... who, you may be asking is Shabby Apple? They are a "no boys allowed" brand. What do I mean by that? It's all about the dress and the skirt. There are no pants to be found anywhere on their site. Dressing in skirts and dresses is the epitome of femininity if you ask me. There's no mistaking that you see yourself as a woman when you walk into a room in heels and a dress. And certainly not a dress like this. Va-va-voom, baby!

Featured: Shabby Apple Sunset Boulevard Dress, Louis Vuitton Leopard & Monogram Silk Scarf, Tom Ford Miranda Sunglasses, Ippolita Gladiator Bracelet, YSL Serpent Head Tribute Sandals

Pet Beds for Fashion Forward Fido

Frankly, I haven't seen many advancements in the pet bed industry. I've seen better looking pillows and more plush fabrics used for those "domes" we all see... but nothing previously on the market was upscale enough to place next to your high end home furnishings.

I'm happy to say that I now stand corrected. On my desk is a lovely book of sample photography and information on designer Katherine Elizabeth's Pet Design Furniture. She calls it furniture because, quite frankly, it is furniture for your home that happens to accommodate dear Fido. This is no simple plump pillow with a bolster surround that you place on the floor of your laundry room. These are elevated, custom finished pieces made of wood strong enough to support up to 200lbs of puppy love. These oval-shaped creations are crafted of a double wall of bendable wood elevated, mounted on a solid wood base over turned wood legs. Each piece is easily handsome enough to earn a space in your stylish living room. So good looking, in fact, that it'd be a shame to hide it in a back room.

Beds can be built to your specifications. Each one goes through a minimum of a 12 hour construction and finishing process. You'll choose your wood finish, your upholstery and may even opt for additional customization. Pillows and bedding are non-toxic and organic (as we've come to expect) and the unique Kapok filler makes the bed uniquely buoyant. Why does that matter? It offers your precious pet special skeletal support and comfort for muscular conditions as well as allergies. (Kapok fiber is also particularly water and mold resistant, great for those of us obsessed with clean!)

Check out Elizabeth's twitter feed and Facebook page to see some amazing hand-painted options. This is ideal for those of you looking for an even more unique piece (as I believe many clients at this end of the design range will be). There are really remarkable creations.

Designers, there is info here on opening a wholesale account. I can say with certainty that your clients will be happy with quality options like these. Shopping your yourself? You may purchase them directly by getting in touch with KE Pet Designs or visiting one of these lovely stores. A portion of all sales go to The Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), whose mission is to provide care and dignity to homeless pets while finding them loving homes.

This Little StyleSpotter Went To Market

That's right... it's almost time (again) for High Point market. I am astonished that I'm already mapping out accommodations and showroom visits... but such is the nature of the biz.

If you're stumped on how to begin or are a pro seeking insider scoop, I have both to offer. For newbies... check out the High Point Market Authority's site and this starter PDF. For you seasoned pros, don't miss the insider's guide to market I created with Pearson's VP of design for last fall's market. It's a can't miss guide to the best Market has to offer that most visitors never discover.

Either way... see you there!

New Year: New You

I've spent the better part of my work week unsubscribing from nearly every newsletter, store, service and online publication I could locate in my (overflowing) inbox. Over the years you seem to accrue a seemingly endless flow of useless information flowing in. Time to trim the fat and make the gems in my mailbox sparkle like they were born to shine.

One brand I'll never cut from my "keep" list is Isabella Oliver. Yes, I do love their clothes... but I also love that they only send me relevant emails. In short: it's content I want and they never waste my time. Tonight's note was actually an invitation from brand founder Baukjen asking loyal customers for feedback. As she puts it, she'd love to know what we (that includes you) feel Isabella's New Year's Resolutions should be for 2012.

It's a bold move from the head of a successful brand. It takes courage to ask strangers for input on your precious company. And yet, she fearlessly extends the invitation. If you're a fan of the line, drop her a note at NYR2012@IsabellaOliver.com. As a thank you, 20 lucky customers will win a Smythson notebook.

Style. Confidence. Elegant simplicity. These are all things I love about the Isabella Oliver clothing line... and I can see now that these traits flow from founder Baukjen herself.

If you're a fan or customer of the brand, don't be shy about offering her your feedback. After all, these pretty pieces were designed for you... and if there are ways the brand can make you a happier customer I'm sure she'd love to know.

Rachel Zoe's Fresh Step

Seriously, people. This is how a shoe is supposed to look. Dangerous. And brace yourselves for the news I'm about to dispense: Rachel Zoe is offering these (at Neiman Marcus, no less) at prices we can stomach. Tory Burch prices. Not Louboutin pricing. These precious pedicure-worthy shoes are $325, and they are stunning.

I myself am partial to the Alyssa Double Platform Peep-toe Pump myself (swoon!). After all, a girl my height needs heels just so that her pants don't hit the ground.

So let's take it all in, shall we? Successful stylist career, loving husband, gorgeous baby, editor-approved fashion line, glam accessories and now shoes I can't live without? Thank you, Rachel. Thank you for doing it all and reminding us that we can too. Including those shoes.

Net-a-Bargain

Well, "bargain" isn't exactly accurate. But if you're a fan of net-a-porter you've surely been trolling the sale section of the site this week. Personally I'm always stalking the YSL and Jimmy Choo items. Throw in some undeniably gorgeous Lanvin boots and you've hit the motherlode.

What did my wandering eyes discover today? A sexy serpentine inspired YSL cuff - seriously gorgeous wrist candy. A pair of spicy YSL platform pumps that are sure to rev up even a basic black outfit (try rocking these with cream for added va-va-voom). And the pièce de résistance? These pitch perfect Lanvin ankle boots. As a very selective shoe buyer, these are as perfectly shaped as they come. Sleek stiletto heel, 1" concealed platform for added life and - oh yeah, that desirable back zipper. These runway ready boots are stunning... and on sale.

If you're in the market for luxe on the (sort of) low, don't wait long to add these picks to your online shopping bag. You know as well as I do that your size always sells out first. Happy shopping!

Form & Function

You can purchase all the pretty furnishings you want... but until you outfit a home with curious objects and personal belongings it still reads "showroom" not "yo' room." I tend to gravitate towards objects that are as interesting to look at as they are functional. Stacking boxes for storage. Trays for display. Bowls for a variety of purposes. Vases for their form and their intended purpose.

These pretty objects seen here add dimension and texture to a room while encouraging visitors to inquire about their origins. Duck's egg blue lacquer boxes, decorative shagreen bowls and a pierced stoneware vase (that I'd have sworn was coral) are just a few of the fantastic creations spied at Lille.

Harrods After-Holiday Sale Starts Early

Fire up your browsers Christmas Eve for the Harrods post holiday sale. That's right... they're starting early. Isn't that a lovely gift?

Words With Friends... The Old School Edition

It's fascinating to me that in a texting, BBM'ing world we also relish and celebrate the beauty of stationery. I do think it's possible, though, that we love the artistry, nostalgia and idea of beautiful papergoods and handwritten notes more than we relish the actual use of them. We love to fawn over letterpress on Etsy and the newest designer collabs at establish stationers... but the number of handwritten notes I receive (and send, frankly) clearly absolutely decreased. In the meantime, my inbox runneth over.

Does that stop me (or any of us) from coverting limited edition creations like Oscar de la Renta's new Mrs. John L Strong produced line of stationery? Not a chance. Will it dampen my desire for Vreeland's (that being Alexander Vreeland... grandson to undisputed fashion icon Diana Vreeland) Special Edition Card Set available exclusively at Barney's. Never.

Just two days ago, in fact, I placed my order for custom Crane's note cards and personalized envelopes. I do this each year, always with a slight twist on my normal design. It's an expression of self and always a personal journey to create something that reflects my mood or current style. Somehow the pretty box with custom papers bearing my name actually prompts me to write little notes. It's the letter writing equivalent of having a TotalGym in your bedroom. You invested in it, and to not use it is a waste of time and money.

And now, with even more glamorous sets like Oscar's on the scene I may find myself placing an additional order. The de la Renta paper goods assortment features glamorous sets of individually hand-pressed pieces printed on luxury weight creamy paper. Choose from note cards, invitations, and place cards - each featuring beautifully embossed gilded bows and the designer's emblem on the inside of the envelopes. How positively irresistible is that? For the ladylike among us, these glamorous little notes are the perfect way of inviting friends for a fete or simply saying thank you.

(Editor's tip: since these aren't personalized, they make an ideal last minute holiday gift for that stylish friend, sister or loved one.)

Shop for yours at Oscar de la Renta.