Showing posts with label guest blogger. Show all posts
Showing posts with label guest blogger. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Guest Blogger: Lingerie + Art = Love

Last weekend, my coworker and friend Marli Marinelli asked if I wanted to come with her to a lingerie art exhibit. A lingerie art exhibit! How could I turn that down? Oh right, I had a wedding doubleheader that weekend and had to start my travel that Thursday of the exhibit. Luckily, Marli was thrilled to write a post for PLU. Enjoy!


Let’s just get my lingerie confession out of the way now: on a typical day, I reach for Gap Body. Plain cotton, no adornment, no wedgies, no frills. But for the bright and shiny moments of life, I crave lingerie. The kind that looks like art. And in its most elevated form, lingerie should make your body look like art.


And on the topic of lingerie and art, I went to an exhibition last week that captured how just a few wisps of artfully arranged silk, lace, and gossamer can transform the body. My friend and talented photographer Amber Rima collaborated with stylist Britta Uschkamp and actor/playwright Lauren LoGiudice to create an intimate portrait series inspired by Greta Garbo. The photographs explore the “dark and the light of stardom through the lens of Garbo’s story. In this ambiance of glamour, solitude and privacy, they explore how the icon felt in her most intimate settings.”


I loved how the photography looked at once old world and strikingly modern. Austere yet ornate. Rippling with sensuality and ripe with the unspoken. They looked like frames from a story. And what I loved was not just the presentation of lingerie but the presentation otf the portraits, hanging from clothes rails at Prohibit NYC, the wires teasingly decorated with black satin ribbons. It’s the smallest touches that carry the most weight—and isn’t that the very spirit of lingerie?

Greta Dreams at Prohibit NYC, 152 Allen Street, NYC

First and second photos courtesy of Lena Scherer©2012.

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Guest Blog Post: JOURNELLE X STELLA McCARTNEY FNO

So, last month's FNO event at Journelle with Stella McCartney was supposed to be my high point in my fairly short blogging career, but due to my duties as a bridesmaid that weekend I was unable to attend. I realize how overdue this post is and how silly it seems to post a write-up of an even that took place a month ago. However, my dear fellow lingerista Allison Beale generously wrote an amazing review of the event and some key points of the new Stella collection, AND she took some incredible photos. So here y'all are. Enjoy!

I have to be honest, there are few words that get me up and out the door (quickly, mind you) like “Stella McCartney event at Journelle”. That little sentence made braving the high-heeled hordes that typically takeover Soho on Fashion’s Night Out more than worth it.

Well, that sentence and the fact my lingerie partner-in-crime, Esther, asked me to cover the event. I mean, how could I say no?

I’m not sure there’s anyone out there who is a bigger fan of Stella McCartney lingerie. (If there is, please keep it to yourself. I want to win this one.) Aside from being the daughter of rock royalty, the woman is a genius. Her eponymous line is known for ultra-flattering long-line bustiers, come-hither demi bras, high waisted panties, low-slung bikinis and lace, lace, lace! With each piece more exquisite than the next you can’t help but feel it was made with love, and created just. for. you. (Perhaps you remember mine + Esther’s borderline unhealthy obsession with the Irene Gardening bustier summer 2011?)  For FNO, Journelle was debuting McCartney’s new, eco-minded, sliiiiiightly more budget conscious but ever-so-stylish line “Stella” to a small—read VIP—crowd.

The event had all of the makings of a great night. First off, there was an ever-so-slight chill in the air, so naturally I needed my leather jacket. Then, when I walked in to the shop the DJ was spinning Temper Trap's ‘Sweet Disposition’—an epic entrance/exit song). With the stage set, of course the first person I saw upon entering was my favorite shopgirl Carrie. Finally, there was the lingerie…



Stella” may trend as a more basic line but the seductive shapes (balconnet, plunge, molded underwire, strapless + supernatural) and styles of python, lace and interesting tonal textures are anything but. Though the collection is meant for everyday wear (it’s promoted as one of the lightest + most invisible collections on the market), Stella—in its styling—is every bit as luxe, romantic and fashion forward as its sister brand. I should know as between cocktails and lingerie gos' I managed to inspect each piece from the new collection.

Here are a few informative gems about Stella: 
  1. There’s an eco-friendly element to the collection, which is made of French Calais lace + silk with organic cotton gussets and recycled metal hardware. So now you can go green even with your lingerie. 
  2. Stella’s secondary focus is on comfort (let’s assume primary is on style). The bra cups come in 8MM foam making them 25% lighter than your average bra. Hello lightweight lingerie! And all the pieces are incredibly soft. I’m not usually a big fan of comfort in fashion, but I think Ms. McCartney is about to change my mind.
My hands-down favorite is the Stella Plunge bra in nude + black lace that promises to be as comfortable as it is sexy. (Try as I might I cannot get enough lace in my lingerie drawer.) 


And while we’re at it, I’ve never been one to turn down Stella’s signature Leopard print so why start now?


For layering, and yes, I guess for sleeping, the Stella chemise in Python print will be my new go-to item.

It should be mentioned here that the gals at Journelle really know how to throw an event complete with a killer soundtrack (‘Private Eyes’ mixing in with a little Outkast and MJ for good measure) and delicious cocktails. For the truly ambitious there was an Instagram contest with the winner taking home a sick goodie bag of—what else—Stella. Now, I am usually a pretty voracious ‘grammer BUT it just so happens that Journelle is the only place in the city where Verizon goes on strike. At least on my iPhone. Thanksverymuchforthatbytheway. So no [free] Stella for me.

However, I will be back for this little number. It’s the Stella McCartney Cherie Sneezing (yes, sneezing) in fuchsia, available in October. Maybe I’ll Instagram that. (Kidding.)

 Puzzle pins from Stella McCartney's Winter 2012 Campaign

x ab

All photos courtesy of Allison Beale.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Arielle Shapiro of ARI DEIN

ARI DEIN is one of this blog's favorite labels to look at, lust after, and gush about. The pieces are stunning and the tiniest details add so much to each luxe silk creation. Collection creatrice Arielle Shapiro is a member of the latest class of the CFDA Incubator program, and I can't wait to see what's next. I mean, c'mon - the girl sold out on Shopbop in a week!

1. ARI DEIN Classic Boutique Hotel Pajamas 

These are the apple of my lingerie-loving eye this season. I had long dreamt of adding a set like this to the collection, but I knew that they would be expensive. But, Journelle's CEO Claire Chambers convinced me (over a glass of wine) that there was indeed a void in the marketplace for a super-luxe menswear inspired PJ set. With her encouragement I went ahead with the concept and put my signature stamp on it. Since, they've been featured on Gossip Girl, in Elle Magazine, The Wall St. Journal, New York Magazine, and WWD. And thanks to you awesome readers and holiday shoppers, they sold out on Shopbop.com in the first millisecond!

2. Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Cologne

I was sitting in a full day conference at Stern Business school and in the spirit of Elle Woods Dein, I was in fact the only attendee wearing a bright red Donna Karen shift dress in a sea of grey herringbone and black stocking sheers. I sat next to one girl in particular and the longer the seminar went on, the more intoxicated I became by her choice of fragrance. Until finally, the scentstalker that I am, I asked for the name of her perfume. It was, in fact, a Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir that was tickling my nose. Ah-maze. It smells like purple money and fresh-clean happiness.

3. MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA BY L'ATELIER D'EXERCICES Ostrich feather pen

My grandmother taught me to write my name in cursive with a yellow one. She instructed that it was the only pen with which to sign a check. She was correct.

4. iVICTROLA

This exists, so you should buy it. Now you know when I say I'm looping jazz records I'm really making a Nat King Cole station on Pandora and fake Victroling. How 19-21st Century of me!

5. "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde

You can totally cut away the book jacket with an exact-o knife and then cover "Men Are From Mars, Women are From Venus" with it. This way, when you are having afternoon tea at Peacock Alley, the pretty foreign man locking eyes with you from across the lobby won't know you're such a mess until after he's asked you for dinner. And flown you to St. Barths to eat it.

Shop Arielle's wishlist!
2. Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Cologne, $110 (100ml). Available at jomalone.com.
3. MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA BY L'ATELIER D'EXERCICES Ostrich feather pen, $60. Available at Net-A-Porter.com.
4. iVictrola. Sold out.
5. The Picture of Dorian Gray, $12. Sold out.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Mara Millich of Journelle

I first met Mara almost a year ago during one of my (many) visits to Journelle Union Square. I adored her immediately and always look forward to seeing her when I wander into my favorite lingerie boutique (Journelle, follow along here). I was so excited when she agreed to guest blog her holiday wishlist, and it definitely doesn't disappoint. I mean, Mara's really sweet but she's also kinda badass, and so is her wishlist. Check it out. P.S. Congratulations to Mara, who is now a member of the Journelle buying team! xo

1. Myla Gail Balcony Bra and Pearl G-String
images via journelle

This set is the absolute apex of hotness—the kind of lingerie that dreams and “kept men” are made of. Real (trust me, I checked) pearls attached to the most exquisite black lace from London based Myla. If lingerie were a sport, this set would be your MVP.

2. Chloé Bracelet Ankle Boots

I cannot stop lusting after the British rock star badass-ery of these boots, even after learning that they are from the men's collection. They would be equally adorable with skinny jeans or a skirt and perfectly at home with the hipsters in Williamsburg. 

3. Lelo Flickering Touch Massage Oil
image via lelo

We've had massage oils lubes, liquids and the like before, but nothing compares to this awesome new oil from Lelo. Shake it before you try and you will find that the oil is enhanced with little 24kt gold flakes that make your skin glow. I'm not really a "massage" person but I'll be taking this home simply because of how good it feels (and looks) on my skin. My favorite scent is the Fresh Lily and Musk. The Spicy Clove and Amber has a richer, more decadent, almost spicy scent.

4. Belstaff Roadmaster Jacket
image via j.crew

My mom likes to tell a little story about how 14 year-old Mara put this coat on at Harrods in London, and cried because she couldn't have it. Older, more sophisticated (and employed!) Mara doesn't throw tantrums anymore but still thinks this coat is classic and the perfect mix between being flippant and in fashion. 

5. Wolford Brilliant Tights
image via journelle

My fiancé has gotten to the point where when picking me up from work, he simply plops down in the man chairs, and barely raises an eye to the glorious celebration of womanhood that is Journelle. Last week however, I came downstairs to find him clutching a package of the Wolford Brilliant Tights. Upon approach, he looks up and says "I want you to wear these, but I don't think I could let you out of the house." Enough said.

Shop Mara's wishlist!
1. Myla Gail Balcony Bra, $250. Pearl G-string, $136. Both available at journelle.com.
2. Chloé Bracelet Ankle Boots, €610. Available at nittygrittystore.com.
3. Lelo Flickering Touch Massage Oil, $39.90. Available at journelle.com.
4. Belstaff Roadmaster Jacket, $595. Available at jcrew.com.
5. Wolford Brilliant Tights, $225. Available at journelle.com.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Shayna Kulik of Pattern Pulp

Shayna Kulik is a NYC-based designer and the founder of Pattern Pulp (est. 2006), a trend forecasting and design studio where she works with brands and agencies to help define creative and digital strategies. In 2009 she launched the popular blog PatternPulp.com, a forum dedicated to providing insight into emerging concepts in print and pattern design.

I've been a fan of Pattern Pulp's blog for awhile now, so I was nerdly excited when Allison Beale of George PR introduced us, and nerdly thrilled when Shayna agreed to guest blog her own holiday wishlist! Shayna’s approach to her work is based on making out-of-the-ordinary connections from across many categories and genres. Her love of travel, reading, photography, exploring the Internet and social media, meeting colorful characters in far-flung locales, and immersing herself in the current zeitgeist wherever she goes all contribute greatly to her process—and to her amazing wishlist.


1. Jean-Paul Gaultier for La Perla Feuillage Tulle Set
image via pinterest

I love delicate design that's not too girly. The lace has subtle 2D graphic nuances, it almost looks like white eyelet's cooler older cousin.

2. Of a Kind Clove Scarf
image via of a kind

Keeping things textured and structured, this scarf from Of a Kind doubles as a bold bow tie!

3. Crumpled City Maps
image via uncommongoods

I travel quite a bit for work and my maps end up either ripped or stuck behind data paywalls. This set of crumpled maps by Emanuele Pizzolorusso is genius. I wish they had one for Shanghai, as I'm headed there in a few weeks.

4. 3.1 Phillip Lim Initials Cropped Tee
image via barneys

Animal patterns are timeless and I have them sprinkled throughout my closet. This set from 3.1 Phillip Lim is casual and I love that the shirt doubles as outerwear.

5. Alexander Wang Dillon Sneakers
image via alexander wang

I'm always on the hunt for stylish sneakers - if they have texture or a bright accent, I'm sold. This pair from Alexander Wang has both!

Shop Shayna's wishlist!
1. Jean-Paul Gaultier for La Perla Feuillage Tulle Set, no longer available. Featured previously on PLU.
2. Of a Kind Clove Scarf, $195. Available at ofakind.com.
3. Crumpled City Maps, $20. Available at uncommongoods.com.
4. 3.1 Phillip Lim Initials Cropped Tee, $175. Available at barneys.com.
5. Alexander Wang Dillon Sneakers, $385. Available at alexanderwang.com.

Follow Shayna on Twitter & check out her blog, PatternPulp.com.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Mimi Nguyen of thre.ad

My friend Mimi Nguyen is one of the most stylish people I know, with an intense energy and passion for life. She's a founding member of the non-profit organization Pencils of Promise, and recently launched a startup with her partners called thre.ad—a super-easy way to share and view street style (currently by invitation only). Read on to see what she wants this year, and the thre.ad team is extending an exclusive invite to thread to Pretty Little Underthings' readers if you leave a comment here!

1. Kiki de Montparnasse Intime Jersey Wrap Teddy

It's the girl-next-door type of sexy. I'm so busy most of the days that I appreciate my down time. This looks like the perfect at home lounge piece. I can feel comfortable to be a sexy couch potato while I run down my DVR list of trashy reality tv.

2. Missoni Home Gomitolo Set of Three Wax Candles

These are super fun and would go well in my apartment that's a mix of POP colors. I think these are simple accents to add in my home that are also functional. 

3. Dannijo Bibi Necklace
image via dannijo.com

I love all of Dannijo's artwork. I find all of their pieces inspiring, empowering, and sensuous. It's like wearing a mirror into my soul.

4. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

Books are one of my favorite gifts to give and receive. Steve Jobs was a fascinating and inspirational man that's lasting impact will be felt for generations to come. I want nothing more than to cozy up at home and read his biography to learn more about this man we heard of but knew little about. I'm hoping I can take away something for my journey as a young entrepreneur. 

5. Braced-lets Pencils of Promise Exclusive Tri-Pack

These are the coolest bracelets out now. A few of my friends noticed them (in other colors) on me and asked where I got them. Well, now I've got another reason to get more! The non-profit organization Pencils of Promise (I'm a founding member) just launched the collaboration with Braced-lets. The profits from this partnership will go to building and sustaining a new school in Nicaragua! 

Shop Mimi's wishlist!
2. Missoni Home Gomitolo Set of Three Wax Candles, $575. Available at Net-A-Porter.com.
3. Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, $17.87. Available at Amazon.com.
4. Dannijo Bibi Necklace, $495. Available at dannijo.com.
5. Braced-lets Pencils of Promise Exclusive Tri-Pack, $12. Available at bracedlets.com.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Christina Remenyi of Fortnight Lingerie

I had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with Christina Remenyi, founder of Toronto label Fortnight Lingerie, via email the past few months and it's been such a thrill to learn more about her collections + brand. I love how her wishlist focuses on fellow Toronto createurs as well as some really smokin' hot lingerie!

1. Tara Bra & Panty Set by Yasmine Eslami


I don’t often wear underwires, but I’d make an exception for this!

2. Lace-appliquéd silk-satin robe by Carine Gilson

The dream robe.

3. Elastometric Bra by Mark Fast
What an incredible creation!

4. Love Fresh Body Scrub

These scrubs get me through the long dry winter.  It's amazing how pretty and soft you feel after using them.

5. Soak Wash Travel Set
image via soakwash.com

A travel necessity! Perfect for everything delicate.

Shop Christina's wishlist!
1. Yasmine Eslami Tara Bra, €90 and Panty €45. Available at yasmine-eslami.com.
2. Carine Gilson Lace-appliquéd silk-satin robe, $1,450. Available at Net-A-Porter.com.
3. Mark Fast Elastometric Bra, $393. Available at luisaviaroma.com.
4. Love Fresh Body Scrub, $28. Available at lovefresh.com.
5. Soak Wash Gift Set, $20. Available at soakwash.com.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Janet Lee

One of my closest friends, Janet Lee is an account executive at Tribal DDB, a New York-based digital advertising agency. She's also one of the most fashionable people I know, with fabulous hair and an amazing sense of humor. I love this wishlist she put together because it's so... quintessentially her. If you're ever lucky enough to meet her, you'll see what I mean.

1. Roseanna Spider Lace Triangle Bra + Lace Panty

I love the delicate lace texture and amazing color combination of Roseanna’s Spider Lace Triangle Bra and matching bottom. The rust colored trim against the navy blue gives is so appealing, I want to wear it every day.

2. Drovers Dog Custom Motorcycle by Deus Ex Machina
photo via Deus Ex Machina

Although this is a HUGE stretch for me, I've developed a serious crush on motorcycles. There's something liberating, solitaire and nostalgic about riding. My buddy who is a motorcycle enthusiast introduced me to Deus Ex Machina, an Australian brand that customizes all things handsome on two wheels with an engine. Maybe I’ll start off with getting a license first. This is one of my favorite bikes from their custom line.

3. Warby Parker Optical Frames, Fillmore in Tennessee Whiskey
photo via Warby Parker

I’ve been looking for another pair of frames and Warby Parker carries styles that are chic, timeless and most importantly, they provide a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair that they sell. Perfect gift item—go get a pair!

4. Judith Laptop Case by Henrik Vibskov

This case is perfect to tote your laptop around when you’re on-the-go—it’s really versatile... I’d wear it as an oversized clutch anytime, any day.

5. Cube Aeriums by Flora Grubb Gardens

Although I don’t have exactly a green thumb—succulents, cacti and air-plants have always been forgiving since they’re very low maintenance. Not only are they adorable as gifts but these plants can really liven up an interior space. Check out these cube-aeriums.

Shop Janet's wishlist!

Friday, January 14, 2011

Guest Blogger Stories: Zinke Trunk Show at Forty Winks

If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know how much I love Zinke and how much I adore the ladies of Forty Winks. So of course my head nearly exploded when I heard about the Zinke trunk show at Forty Winks! One of my best friends, Deborah Yi, is amazing and trekked through remnants of the Boston blizzard to take a few photos for Pretty Little Underthings. Here's the trunk show through her eyes:

I have to say, as a lingerie virgin, I thought it would be a little bit overwhelming to go to my first ever lingerie trunk show, but I was so enamored by the Zinke pieces. Everything is so delicate but bold at the same time. And the colors! It's kind of funny because most of my wardrobe consists of black/gray/white and neutral tones, but for lingerie and pretty little underthings, I think I really gravitate towards colors. The prices were a bit out of my budget (for now!), but I feel like it should be every girl's goal in life to own and wear a ruffled hammered silk royal purple romper.

I'm definitely going to return to Forty Winks as Valentine's Day approaches. There's something about that little boutique that is just so precious.
love the snow dusting their sign

hello beautiful!

the piece that enamored deborah so

rachel & meredith behind the cash wrap

"I wish you were there with me! I couldn't find anyone to go with me. Lingerie stores are more fun with girlfriends." Truer words...

Thank you Deborah! xoxo

Forty Winks
56 JF Kennedy Street
Cambridge, MA 02138 [map]
617.492.9100
info@shopfortywinks.com
Twitter: @FortyWinksHS

Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 10am-7pm
Sunday: 12pm-6pm

Zinke Intimates
Like Zinke on Facebook
Follow Zinke Intimates on Twitter: @ZinkeIntimates

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Layla L'obatti's Top Five Picks!

I got to meet Layla L'obatti, founder and designer of Between the Sheets Lingerie and Specimens of Seduction last month when she generously offered to sponsor a BTS giveaway here on Pretty Little Underthings (the first!). She & her boyfriend Josh are both so sweet so I asked Layla what her wishlist picks were (Josh, hint hint).

Here are my personal holiday picks:


1. The Lake and Stars Business Model Bralette
If there is any one thing I'd love to wear to enhance my own pieces (from Between the Sheets Collection) I'd want a signature Lake and Stars bralette, and this Business Model silhouette from this season would be perfect paired with our Playdate Babydoll in black! 

2. Eucalan Lingerie Wash


I am wishing for a little kick in the underpants, so I would love some Eucalan wash in my stockings—I love their eucalyptus, grapefruit, and lavender scents.

3. Lascivious Ana Bodysuit
I have lusted for this piece since I very first saw it, from one designer to a very haute brand—I love Lascivious's Ana Bodysuit, the color, the lace, the cut, the fit... it's just drop dead gorgeous glam.

4. Carine Gilson Frou-Frou Silk-Chiffon Kimono


Another lingerie designer crush, I want to sell to Net-A-Porter a la Carine Gilson, and I want to wear this stunning chiffon kimono with lace applique! When I "make it" this will be my gift to myself.

5. Bottega Louie Macarons
After our recent trip to LA we visited the most amazing gem that I wish I had brought back more of! Bottega Louie has the most amazing macarons I've tasted (they happen to have also been my first at the recommendation of both Alison at Faire Frou Frou and another good friend in LA!) and I am dying to taste their salted caramel and all the deliciousness that we brought home and finished shortly after. So santa baby, slip a little something sweet under the tree, for me, I've been an awful good girl!!

Shop Layla's Wishlist!
The Lake and Stars Business Model Bralette, $150. Available at SilkyBottom.com.
Eucalan Lingerie Wash, $11. Available at Eucalan.com.
Carine Gilson Frou Frou Silk-Chiffon Kimono, $1,345. Available at Net-a-Porter.com.
Macarons, available at Bottega Louie Los Angeles.

Monday, December 13, 2010

Guest Blogger Wishlist: Allison Beale's Top Five Picks!

I met Allison, the creator & founder of george PR, back in September during Fashion's Night Out and it's been a total love-fest over Twitter ever since. A North Carolina transplant residing in downtown Manhattan, his lady has got a style and music taste that will blow you away. You need to read her wishlist. And follow her on Twitter

On my list this holiday season, in case I’m on anybody’s!

1. YSL Mail Y Wallet

This chic little number touches on my love for travel – and fashion. I love it’s clean lines, whimsical exterior and the fact it forces me to carry my change elsewhere (like my Grandmother did).

2. Zinke Dear Eleanora Chemise in black
I’m a huge fan of Zinke and this chemise is classic but still sexy. And, I wouldn’t mind finding it under the tree.

3. 3.1 Phillip Lim Bralet + Panty Set
These flirty florals remind me of oil pastels my Grandmother used to paint for me. It’s the epitome of carefree living.

4. Chantelle Chantilly Demi Bra + Shorty Boyshort
No one – no one – does lingerie quite like the French. (And I’m a Francophone.) I’m also smitten with black lace and this set c’est parfait!

5. Block Lamp (Harri Koskinen, 1996)
This lamp had me at the red cord. It’s such a brilliant design piece and would be perfect on an end table. MoMA, $130.

Shop Allison's wish list!
YSL Mail Y Wallet, $475. Available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Zinke Dear Elenora Chemise, $158. Available at Forty Winks.
3.1 Phillip Lim Bralet, $115. Panty, $115. Available at Barneys.
Chantelle Chantilly Demi Bra, $105. Shorty Boyshort, $56. Available at Journelle.com.
Block Lamp, $135. Available at MoMAstore.org.

Follow Allison and george PR on Twitter: @abeale10 and @George_PR.