The Quest for "it"

Own Your Style

                                Hi!

There comes a time during a young girl’s fashion trajectory when she suddenly evolves into a fashionable, grown woman—one who manages to look effortlessly flawless no matter what.  I recently attended the launch of Hamptons Undercover— a new social networking site for the jet-set crowd— and managed to spot a woman who stood out amidst a sea of designer-clad socialistas. This is New York after all, so events like these tend to bring out Bergdorf's best. But I was searching for someone who managed to convey that Sarah Jessica spirit of effortless chic with a dose of New York fierce.

Spotted. Tracy Stern, entrepreneur, mother, socialite, tea connoisseur and stylista extraordinaire—the epitome of fashion womanhood. Her ensemble combined three key elements of style: a classic silhouette, luxe fabrics and the moxie to break fashion rules.  I approached Ms. Tracy, complimented her on the outfit and politely asked who she was wearing that evening.  She was genuinely accommodating and refreshingly kind, eager to give me the scoop: a grass-green jersey knee-length Miguelina dress, a gold brocade bolero draped over one shoulder, gold strappy Christian Louboutin sandals and gold-rimmed Michael Kors aviators. Her hip—but not hop—accessories, a gold chunky necklace and fabulous clutch, added a touch of sass. She was a chic fusion of Manhattan Monte Carlo and Marlene Dietrich—an undeniable New York fashion scenester whose confidence and class oozed from the top of her blonde blow-out to the soles of her Louboutins.

The lesson here ladies? Take a cue from your personal fashion icons—the Tracy’s, the Sarah Jessica’s, whoever they may be—and remember the common denominator. Own your style and live your fashion life to the fullest. Cheers.

Article by-Danita King

*photo by Nick Hunt/Patrick McMullan

Father Knows Best...

Father’s Day is here, so if you’re a last minute type like me, you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift for that special paternal someone. Somehow, Father’s Day gifts conjure up thoughts of out-of-date ties... a nice pair of cufflinks if he’s lucky. But when it comes to all those young, hip fathers out there, it’s hard to find a dad-appropriate gift that meets the cool quotient.

 

Meet Kale Miles, the über luxe line of casual belts for men— perfect for dads who appreciate style… (think Brad Pitt and David Beckham). The brand known for producing the most expensive belt in the world (an $18,000 belt with an all platinum buckle—uh…yeah) recently introduced its Vintage Collection—a series of luxury, handmade belts made from the metal of 1950s and 60s classic cars.  The collection seamlessly blends the romance and nostalgia of a classic era with a modern design and exclusive, luxurious leathers. The result? A clever gift for the denim-clad dad who knows that accessories make the man.

Article by Danita King

*photos courtesy of Kale Miles

 

The Launch of JB Born Vintage Fashion at N Boutique

                         Hi!

Recently I attended an incredibly chic garden party soiree celebrating the launch of J.B. BORN Vintage Fashion at N. Harlem's premier upscale lifestyle boutique.  Jonathan Bodrick, renowned fashion videographer, and...well, just overall great guy to know, opened J.B.Born, one of Harlem's only high-end and vintage consignment boutiques, in 2007.  In addition to his freestanding store at 52 West 125th Street, Bodrick partnered with N to launch his most exclusive pieces as a shop-in-shop (fashion term for store with a  store).  His well-edited collection includes an array of designer vintage pieces from such venerable labels as Christian LaCroix, Carmen Marc Valvo, and Gucci to name a few.

The Garden Party brought out a well-heeled, diverse crowd of fashion industry elite, socialites and folks about town, including Cheryl Green, Valeisha Butterfield, and über stylist Mykel C. Smith.  Guests noshed on smoked salmon rillettes and teriyaki chicken skewers provided by Zainab Catering, while sipping on cocktails from Nuvo Sparkling Vodka and K'orus Wine.  It was indeed a shopping fest, as attendees scoured over jaw-dropping vintage dresses, handbags and shoes curated by Bodrick.  A percentage of proceeds from the evening's sales went to W.E.E.N., the Women in Entertainment Empowerment Network...always a plus to support a worthy cause.

As a regular party-goer, I've seen it all when it comes to production and staging.  But I must say that this event had a "just right" feel with its clever, garden-themed vignettes and elegant informal fashion presentation, flawlessly executed by the ever-fabulous Glamo and the Glamore Deluxe Company (...and nope, "Glamore" is not a typo).  Props like vintage record players, classic jazz albums, a bird cage and a table set for high tea added to the event's chic theme, while models transitioned throughout the night in various vintage ensembles styled with a fresh, modern twist.  An array of arranged cherry blossoms, rose petals and moss provided by Harlem Flo Floral Atelier added the perfect touch to the evening's soiree ... I left feeling the optimism of a new season in bloom, and more importantly inspired to resurrect some of my best vintage pieces to debut on the streets of New York this spring and summer.

-Article by Danita King

*photos by JB Born

Stepping Out in Style in SLS Boots

Hey all you “Quest for It” readers!

Before I dive right into my write-up, I just wanted to introduce myself.  I’m Danita King, a fashion publicist and, most importantly, the new guest fashion and accessories blogger for “The Quest for It.”  I’m a longtime friend of Tia Walker’s and was elated to come on board.  I’ll be covering the hottest of the hot in fashion, trends and events, so stay tuned for more.

Though spring is in the air and I’m beyond ready to retire all things winter, I couldn’t resist spreading the word about an incredible new line of Italian boots for women – Stivali La Strada, or SLS boots for short.  One of the perks of being a fashion publicist is getting first dibs on designer indie brands that are new to the market.  So, I thought what better gift could I give to readers on “the quest” than to share, share, share!

SLS boots combine three things that are virtually impossible to find in a boot— style, function and affordability.  With prices ranging from $285 - $335, the luxury brand provides women with high-quality, well-crafted boots at an affordable price point.  But shhh…the secret to it all is brand owner Stefano Bonaretti’s direct partnerships with some of the best shoe manufacturers in Italy—the same factories that manufacture some of the top luxury Italian shoe brands.  With SLS, you’re getting the same quality boots at half the price…can we say j’adore SLS…oh wait that’s French!