Stylish with Substance

Fifties Flatter Meets Mermaid Fin when Hayden Meets Harnett

Ella M — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 08:36:17 EST

This is possibly the most unique swimsuit I've seen. The Leda Ruffle Bikini by Hayden-Harnett. So retro, inspired by the fifties with its conservative coverage including a wait high waist (enter the flatter for the tummy-flattener) ... and top it off with the hot-now trend of ruffles. I rather like them on the side this way, sort of accentuating a woman's curves where they should be.

And so what if it looks a bit "fishy"? It's for the water, after all! Nevertheless, one other blogger drastically disagrees with my taste for this 2-piece.

I may not think it's the best suit ever designed, but I love it, and sure would wear it. Hey guys, how about red, or what --- dare I suggest green?

There's really only one other thing I'd change: remove the buttons and add a little frill in that center décolatage spot. Just right!

Well, that's my opinion, to each his or her own---what about you?

Challenging Society: Beth Ditto (a "Plus") Naked in Love Magazine

Ella M — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:34:14 EST

In a possible publicity stunt (I have never heard of either Love Magazine nor Beth Ditto before) here appears plus-sized Beth Ditto nude on the cover of Love.

Do you love it or hate it?

Fit & Healthy blog says, "Losing 50 pounds would certainly make her healthier. Would it make her more attractive? You tell me."

But my view is not her rolls (yet with curves more than mine!) - no it's that there are yet others out there pushing the envelope, or trying. And if it's publicity, it's also publicizing even more the cause; the plight of weight. I applaud this.

You?

*Via Fashion Indie*

Didn't DIY: Men's Knit Tie from J. Crew

Ella M — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:54:43 EST

Tipped thin-stripe skinny knit tie

$49.50 at J.Crew

Expertly hand-finished Italian silk knit. 2" at widest point. Contrast color at tie tip and neck piece: red on classic navy, dark purple on black. Made in Italy.

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A knit tie, eh? One would think this is something to be made by one's self or bought from www.etsy.com, but J. Crew really has the only truly-tie-like and more detailed finished items for sale. Hmm. So ... spend on retail, mass-produced, make it one's self (barely a pattern needed!) ... or buy one from a handmade artisan, no matter the look?

In this week of new designs - what's your opinion?

Teen Fabulous; Rockstar Prom Ribbon Cocktail Dress

Ella M — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 03:03:16 EST

So divine I wish I could make this myself. Inspiring it is, not just for fashion, but I want to eat it like ribbon candy.

More Betsey Johnson...

I'm an aspiring musician; not just a designer, creative all-around and I do see rock & roll in this dress. It's more obviously so pretty in pink for prom. But the designer in me sees ribbon, and makes me want to create bags or other beauties. One of my latest obsessions with crafting is ribbon, and it seems to be a huge trend (amongst, still, the ruffles). Would you wear this (if you do or could have a prom at your age)?