Archive for January, 2009

For those who have been following Clutch22 the past few months, these new leggings from American Apparel might look a little familiar. They are strikingly similar to a pair of DIY slashed leggings I posted last November (click here to view post). While I’m not claiming AA tried to cramp my style, it’s not a complete coincidence. Among other style bloggers, I was inspired by Fashion Toast, who was inspired by a photo The Sartoliast featured from Balmain’s Fall 08 pre-show. Ultimately, this is a testament to how the fashion blogosphere has helped influence ”cutting-edge” trends.

The difference between my version and American Apparel’s? They are charging $32 while the DIY pair only costs $12 (via Target) and less than five minutes with a pair of scissors. Though I’m huge fan of AA, the $20 saved could be used toward a new tee.

Here are a few ways I’ve styled them:

Layering a pair of textured or colored tights underneath adds character to an outfit.

Fashion-spiring Spring 2009 Couture collections from Chanel and Christian Dior strutted down Paris runways this week. Not much to say, but can someone help me pick my jaw up off the floor?

Chanel Couture Spring 2009 - Whimsical whites; sharp edges with an elegant touch!

Christian Dior Couture Spring 2009 - look at the amazing shapes; Victorian inspired art!

Photo Credits: Women’s Wear Daily

Wow, it sounds like Target’s designer relationships keep getting better and better. I found out this morning from Grechen’s Closet that the Hayden Harnett for Target collection is now available in stores and online! If you’re looking for a new bag, but don’t want to break the bank, this is the perfect solution!

I’m also stoked for Alexander McQueen’s Target collection (thanks Vyque), which will be available March 1 - April 11. Here’s a sneak peak to tide you over until then:

There have also been rumors that Betsey Johnson is designing a Target line for next fall. Cross your fingers and Target, keep ‘um coming!

Photo Credits: Fashionrising.com

Last weekend was pretty eventful - Portland friends came to Seattle to visit, first time playing Rock Band (I am horrible), and my boyfriend and I bought a Wii because I thought having a Wii Fit might inspire me to finally start working out again (it antagonizes you and makes you feel guilty!).

Friday night was fairly relaxed since we were all exhausted from a long week. My favorite part was showing up to Linds’ house only to find we looked like we got dressed from the same closet. Needless to say, I’m not the only one obsessed with the dark skinnies from F21 and buckled boots.

Saturday night was particularly memorable and began with my girlfriends and I meeting up for Sushi before a night on the town. It’s always hard to find “going out” attire for winter, especially when it’s SO cold like it was in Seattle this weekend. As an alternative to sleeveless dressy tops, I took an 80’s esque sweatshirt from American Apparel and dressed it up with jewelry, a studded belt, pumps and dramatic eye make-up. Maybe this wouldn’t work in other cities, but pretty much anything goes in Seattle.

After dinner, we stopped by Lava Lounge where we experienced Blueberry Lemondrop shots (mmmmm)…

….then a little Rock Band and coozies…

Finally, we capped the night off at Rob Roy (formerly Viceroy) where I made Linds pose with the bouncer who had a Euro vibe to his style. It’s fun taking pics of other people’s style, so I think I might start doing this more often to give you a peak at Seattle street style (though Pike/Pine already does a stellar job at this).

I’ve never been much of a greeny (appreciate people who are), but I can’t get enough out of my new favorite top by SPUN…and guess what? It happens to be eco-friendly and organic so you can feel even better about wearing it. In other words, no cotton farmers will become ill from poisons/pesticides, nor will any foul chemicals end up on your skin.  Some of you might recall seeing it in my holiday giveaway.

I’ve gotten to know the designer, Sara Seumae, over the past couple of months and fully intend on pressuring her into creating this top in every color (fair warning Sara)!

I’m not one to repeat the same look over and over, but pairing this top with my favorite dark skinny jeans and black boots has become my new no-fail look. It’s the kind of shirt that you can wear once a week without being too obvious. On sale for $30 at Fashion Ethic, it’s easy to justify given the amount of wears you’ll get out of it. Plus, you can get 20% off with code Grechen20 (brings it down to $24)!

My friends love it too…one of them even calls to tell me “I’m going to choose SPUN today.” To check out the rest of the collections, visit www.choosespun.com.

**Special thanks to Sara for all of the support and laughs!