Cash, Check or Charge?

Cash: Sasha Gathered Bow Clutch, $24.95, www.dsw.com

Check: High Fashion Python Print Clutch with Bow, $69, www.endless.com

Charge: Valentino Satin bow clutch, $795, www.net-a-porter.com

I've been eyeing this Valentino satin clutch for a long time now but who, pray tell, has $800 to spend on a clutch? In these hard economic times I realised that it was high time for another "Cash, Check or Charge" post. I Like Her Style's mantra is, "if you can't beat 'em, you don't have to join 'em." So if you can't spend $800 on a clutch, don't. There are two economically friendly alternatives featured above at just $25 and $69... Enjoy!!

Thandie Newton

Thandie Newton at Columbia Pictures Premiere of '2012' at Regal Cinemas LA Live on November 03, 2009 in Los Angeles, California.
Thandie Newton was radiant at the "2012" movie premiere last month wearing a Prabal Gurung dress. When you wear something as elegant as this you don't need much else to make the look complete. Thandie opts for a statement ring and show-stopping red lips. If you need a bag to hold all your essentials, as most of us do, a classic and simple clutch will do. Don't forget vertigo heels and you're good to go!

Steal Thandie's Style

Dress: Mazerine Dress by DVF, $255, www.shopbop.com

Shoes: Carlos by Carlos Santana Privilege, $110, www.piperlime.com

Ring: Sterling Silver Marcasite Mother-of-Pearl Ring, $39.99, www.target.com

Lipstick: Jungle Red, $24, www.narscosmetics.com

Thandie Newton is the epitome of style and eloquence. Stealing her style will never fail you. If you can get away with it, don the bright, jungle red lipstick with the DVF dress. If not, don't fear. This post will help you figure out what shade of red is perfect for you. Where a dress like this for your next birthday soiree or a first date with that special guy. ;)

circa 1964

I love his vintage jacket and skinny tie paired with the plaid shirt. Not sure I'm buying the bright Nikes for evening: a pair of classic oxfords or wing tips would have been a better choice. And his best accessory is his date.

Friends of Betsey

Okay, in truth I don't know if they're friends of Betsey J. or any other Betsey but I think that like Ms. Johnson these 2 are super cool and have amazing energy. When I grow up I want to be just like them!

Things that make you go hmmm...

I know that ever since lasik eye surgery has made glasses unnecessary they have become the fashion accessory...reminds me of how tans became fashionable when associated with the French Riviera as opposed to fieldwork -but I digress!
However I always find the frames sans lenses a tad desperate to conform to a trend (the exception being when worn by Malik so Chic). So I am even less sure what to make of these with the faux cracks... and add to this the pouty rockstar/rapper expression, jaunty scarf, torn t-shirt and single suspender that would be at home in a mosh pit, and -is that a skeleton print on his denim? Still it does grab your attention - and the fact that he's not unattractive doesn't hurt...

Channeling Mary-Kate + Ashley

This girl has that slightly confused fashion and generous eyeliner that has been made fashionable by the Olsen twins...she just needs her bag to be 4x the size to fully complete the look.

girls night out

The high waisted pants, the off-shoulder shirt, the shorter hair...it's all feeling a bit 80s -kind of the new wave variety...not sure how to categorize...what do you think?

Darling Niko

My dear friend Niko belies the ennui of all black with a rakish glint in his eye. Note to Niko: A tete-a-tete at the Rose Bar is on order for next week, don't you think?

Earrings the size of Africa

Okay, not really the size of Africa but certainly in line with the larger earring trend that I predict will grow stronger in 2010. I was informed that all her jewelry was designed by her friend Kaya Jackson and that 10% of all proceeds would go to The Women of Africa Foundation. I'd put the website link on here but when I tried to go to it myself I was told it might be an "attack site" which kind of freaked me out...so if you're interested in finding out where you can buy your own Africa earrings try this email instead: ambiguousjewelryart@yahoo.com... her hair is pretty amazing as well...


CLOSE UP SHOT

shiny happy people

I love people who actually look like they're having fun instead of just standing about posing. These two are effortlessly chic and in full on holiday mode.

Spotlight on Barlow: a new label from the left coast

Photo from the Barlow Spring 2010 LOOKBOOK
If you know me, you know I identify as a New Yorker with a certain sensibility and think L.A. fashion is a bit oxymoronic. Which is why I also love when I'm proved wrong. Designer Raquel Allegra opened me up to LA style last year, and this year I've discovered Barlow a new collection by Molly Girard Coonan. It's tough, sexy and playful all at once. Some of it reminds me of early Daryl K (which is a good thing in my book) and it all feels imminently wearable on either coast...or somewhere in between! I asked Molly about her new collection and her thoughts on LA vs NYC...continue reading in Musings