Inspired by  the mid-century art movement and Los Angeles inner-city culture, FLuXuS breaks away from  tradition and encourages  the advancement of self-expression through fashion. It was  embodied art in every garment  created since 2007, incorporating  simple but tactile materials such as jersey cotton, tri-blend and the signature hand off the burnout  in avant-garde shapes and cuts.

Sometimes finding the ideal basic to go along with your perfect jeans can be just as tricky of a mission as finding the idea pair. However, if you always want to find  something that will look just as amazing as your favorite denim, FluXuS always offers comfortable basics to stock up on. Be sure to check out their latest Spring 2010 collection at Liv by Au Lit!!!

Lauren Conrad in Fluxus  Racer Back.

Megan Fox in FluxusLong Tab Cardigan.

Rihanna in Fluxus New Crew Neck.

Jessica Alba and Nicole Richie in Fluxus Blas Wrap.

Until the next post…. toodles!

Sources: fluxusbrand.com; Nylon

” I have often said that I wish I had invented blue jeans: the most spectacular, the most practical, the most relaxed and nonchalant. They have expression, modesty, sex appeal, simplicity—all I hope for in my clothes.”

- Yves Saint Laurent

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In the 1850s, Levi Strauss started selling rugged blue jeans to gold miners in San Francisco, who needed pants that were durable and comfortable. In 1837, Jacob Davis, and a tailor from Reno, Nevada, contacted Strauss with the idea to rivet the pockets to make the design stronger; the two men went into business, patented the improved pants, and stepped into history. Today, over a hundred years since Strauss and Davis took out the patent, blue jeans have grown from being just a practical pair of pants to being one of the sexiest and seductive articles of clothing imaginable.  The Little Black Book of Style, Nina Garcia ( available at Liv by Au Lit, $25.99)

For me, jeans are essential. I can’t live without them. However, finding a perfect pair is not an easy task.  It is a mission impossible, but once it is made possible your whole wardrobe comes together. Finding a pair that will make the best of your figure,your behind and your closet is a challenge. But it is a challenge that is worth pursuing. So I’ve decided to share with you a few tips that I picked up from Victoria Beckham (That Extra Half an Inch). I find them to be very helpful and always keep them in mind when shopping for a new pair:

Check the Waistband

♥ The waistband shouldn’t be too thick and heavy because it will dig painfully into your hips.

♥ Look for jeans that are cut higher at the back so not only do they not gape but also they don’t give you builder’s bottom every time you sit down.

Get the Length Right

♥ With heels, the bottom of your jeans should just skim your toes.

♥ If your jeans are long enough for heels, they are going to drag a bit with flats but that really doesn’t matter.

♥ If you can afford it, though, it’s good to have one pair for heels and one for flats, but do not make a mistake of getting your “flats jeans” too short.

No Bagging

♥ No bagging around knees and bottom.

♥ Make sure that the jeans have a bit of stretch to them (but not too much that they bag), are narrow around the leg and give shape to the bottom instead g squashing it down.

Sizing

♥ Whatever your size, it’s important to firstly try your jeans on to make sure they fit, and secondly buy the right size regardless of the number ( you can always cut out the  label at home).

A Style No-No

♥ Stay away from the bleached out faded patches under the bottom and on the front thighs.

♥ Do not display your undies.

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PICK IT UP AT LIV BY AU LIT

♥ AG ( Adriano Goldschmie) Denim  as seen on Zoe Saldana

♥ James Jeans as seen on Blake Lively

♥ Blank Denim as seen on Megan Fox in Transformers 2

♥ Black Orchid Denim as seen on Jessica Alba

♥ DL 1961 as seen on Mena Suvari

Until the  next post… toodles!!!

Sources: An Extra Half an Inch by Victoria Beckham;

 The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia; Jak&Jil; google images

We wanted to give our readers a sneak peak of what to expect at LIV this Spring. We’re introducing a lot of new brands like: Charlotte Ronson, Twenty8Twelve by S. Miller, Wren, Ella Moss, Rachel Pally, Bell, Rebecca Minkoff handbags, James Jeans, MinkPink, La Fee Maraboute, Wendy Mink Jewellery, Three Dot, Clu, James Perse, Left on Houston and Central Park West. A lot is starting to trickle in and it’s looking fabulous! If you haven’t been in the store recently, you should definitely stop by and take a peak!

It’s not only about the clothes… it’s also about the way you wear them! Accidents happen to all of us, but there are so many ways to prevent or make the best of them. This is my solution: Hollywood Fashion products (available at Liv by Au Lit)!!! These products are simple but totally genius. It would be a sin for women not to know about this line! In case you don’t, it is my prilivige to introduce you to it! Say hello to:

With countless products to chose from (and for every possible occasion), I’ve decided to share with you my five mush-haves!

1. Hollywood Fashion Tape

This little tape keeps everything in place. Nice and Neat.

2. Hollywood Sweater Saver

I am a cashmere lover and this baby saves my cashmere from the fiber balls. Keeps it looks new.

3. Hollywood Cover Ups

Better be safe then sorry when it comes to the “nip-showing” situation.

4. Hollywood Touch Ups

No need for a large lint roller, these petite sheets fit in the tiniest of clutches.

5. Hollywood Oil Blotting Sheets

Shine-free complexion is key.

Knowing that you’re ready for any fashion-emergency is a very comforting thought!

Until the next post…toodles!!!

Source: hollywoodfashiontape.com

INSPIRATION…

” Between the high, gathered waist, slouchy cut, and cropped leg, there’s a lot going on with these super-hot harem-style pants—and at first glance, they definitely seem tricky. But that’s the beauty of them: They’re unique enough that you don’t need anything else to look chic. You’re the girl rocking those cool pants in a roomful of boot-cut denim and overly thought-out accessories! That’s a very cool thing to be. Here’s the best part: They’re actually very flattering. The pegged leg (paired with a high heel—always) makes you seem all coltish and long-limbed. The important thing is to let them be the star of the outfit. ”

- Elle

IMITATION….

I was not quite comfortable with this trend last season, but this time around I have built up enough courage to give it a go! Surprisingly, the pants are much easier to wear than they look…I say give them a try! Step outside your comfort zone… you might be pleasantly surprised.

Until the next post… toodles!

Sources: fashion spot; elle.

“Winter Rut”…I say nonsense! Ladies, cheer up! Winter really isn’t all that bad… and although the majority of our fashion choices are a reflection of our state of mind (such as feeling down), it is actually quite easy to spark that creative note. I promise! Yes, winter is cold. And yes, you can still look fabulous throughout it. All you need is a little inspiration and a positive outlook.

Think of it as a challenge… a possibility to further develop your own personal style. Plus, I think that winter is the time to stand out and not blend it. It is your chance to be fabulous and shine, while everyone else is complaining about how cold it is and how hard it is to wear anything other than Uggs and thermal hoodies. It’s time for us to embrace the beauty of Canadian winters and put our best (and warmest!) foot forward!!!!

Here are some things to look forward to and to be inspired by….WHY NOT BE FABULOUS??? Inspire and Be Inspired!!!!

♥ When Feeling Down Think of Shoes!

♥ Put Your Best Foot Forward

♥ Play Dress-up with Your Man – take him shopping, make it all about him. Spoil your man ( think of the many times, he has spoiled you). It is a very rewarding experience.

♥ Create a Cozy Nook … where you can catch up on your reading, or just relax over a cup of tea while.

( Furniture available at LIV by Au Lit)

♥ Prada Spring 2010

♥  Find  a Perfect Pair of Jeans - the hardest challenge, but with the greatest reward.

( such as this pair of fabulous Black Orchid skinnies, available at Liv by Au Lit)

♥ Have Fun with Accessories

♥ Cozy Up in a Super Warm Sweater Dress

♥ Wear Your Favorite Coat

♥ Burberry Spring 2010

♥ Embrace the Beauty of Winter… it is actually quite beautiful!!!

” FASHION CAN BE BOUGHT. STYLE ONE MUST POSSESS.”

- Edna Woolman Chase

P.S. Always remember that you’re fabulous!!!

Until the next post.. toodles!

Sources: fashion gone rogue; fashion spot; google images; jak&jil; the sartorialist; sea of shoes

With spring just a few months away, there’s a lot to look forward to…including the latest arrivals at LIV!!! We’re excited to announce our newest collection…CLU, haute-couture for the t-shirt.

Founded in 2004 by  Seung Lee and Jin Lee, Clu is inspired by the easy-going and laid-back lifestyle of West coast.The duo have gone beyond creating a simple and understated clothing line…they create haute-couture for the t-shirt. Originating with (and perfecting) the simple t-shirt, the line has evolved into everyday basics with a mix of soft fabrics and innovative cuts. Clu is derived from the french word clou which means nail; a simple and graphic object, which is a concept symbolic of the line itself.

Clu has found its roots in high end boutiques in Los Angeles such as Liza Kline and Fred Segal, making the trendy and chic tee a must-have for celebrities and fashion insiders.

♥ Soft and Silky

♥ Innovation+Sporty Look

♥  Grey+Red+Black=Timeless

♥ Bubble Cuts

♥ Color Block Patterns

♥ Simple and Classic

Indulge in a haute-couture tee

Until the next post…toodles!!!

Sources: luxelabel;mahalo;fabsugar;ssense;fashion spot.

Spring is just around the corner ( well, not literary…of course, as  I do live in Canada) but the runways are  filled with inspiration and wonderful ideas! No matter how strange this might sound, looking through spring shows when I am feeling down  is my “cold-therapy”! I look at the beautiful flow-y dresses, adorable sandals and perfect little shorts…and create a list of all the things I’d like to buy before spring arrives. After all, I do want to be prepared and look my best Silly, but absolutely true! To be quite honest, I do this every season…. in the summer I obsess over fall shows and in the winter over spring, it is a cycle of constant desire for the unattainable…with weather that is, because I firmly believe that style and fashion are very attainable!

My favorite trend for this season is the  LOLITA LOOK!!!! With its innocent but sexually charged appeal it’s hard to resist throwing your hair into two messy ponytails, smearing on some berry lipstick and being a total “doll”.

Youthful… sweet…innocent… but provocative!

♥ Tiny Shorts à la Marc by Marc Jacobs et Prada

♥ Girl-y Dresses à la Luella et Christopher Kane

♥ Fabulous Trench Coat with a cute scarf  à la Louis Vuitton

♥ Hair Bows à la  Marc by Marc Jacobs et Luella

♥ Candy Colored Make Up à la Marc by Marc Jacobs, Luella et Prada

♥ Sassy Ponytails à la Prada

♥ Flirty Braids à la Miu Miu et Alexander Wang

♥ Theatrical details à la Anna Sui(mask), Yves Saint Laurent (hair cap) et Chanel (glasses).

♥ Kiddie  Jewelry à la  Anna Sui (cat necklace), Marc by Marc Jacobs ( colorful beads) et Yves Saint Laurent ( strawberry earnings).

♥ Kitten Heels  à la Luella

♥ Flats à la Anna Sui

♥ Mary Jane’s and Platforms à la Miu Miu

♥ Polka-dots  à la Luella

♥ Candy and Pastel  Colors à la Louis Vuitton, Miu Miu et Luella

♥ Bows and Flowers à la Luella et Anna Sui

♥ Cutesy Graphics ( flowers,birds and kitten) à la Miu Miu.

I find this look to be very refreshing, cheerful and young. Just fabulous and definitely something to look forward to this spring….

Until the next post…toodles!

Sources: style.com; jak&jil.

If you didn’t know already, it’s our Semi-Annual White Sale this month! You’ll find incredible discounts at all our three locations, Au Lit Fine Linens, Au Lit Outlet and LIV by Au Lit until January 31st. It’s the perfect time to take advantage and do some serious saving. We’re offering up to 50% off storewide on everything from end-of-season bedding lines, pillows, duvets, furniture, clothing and accessories. Our expert sales associates will help you find whatever you may be looking for this month. Enjoy!

BOOKS…some will cringe at the thought, but most are delighted by their beauty and charm.

“Reading is one of  life’s greatest  pleasures, affording  us the opportunity  to immerse ourselves in different places, events and lives…As referring sources they satisfy our curiosity, answer questions, and offer the perfect recipe.”

LOVING BOOKS

A book can take you on an emotional roller-coaster ride, to a different universe, inside Coco Chanel’s studio, teach you the latest in Italian cuisine, or break down the basics of a perfect outfit.  There is a book for everyone… and that, I am convinced of! Personally, I love all kinds of books… but my absolute favorite are classic novels, the ones that withstood the test of time, the ones that are a part of  history. However, I am always reading something on art or architecture…at times for joy, but mostly for university. And of course, on the other side of  the spectrum are my other favorites: fashion and lifestyle books!!! Easy to read…easy to enjoy…and always offer something new to learn!

Here are some of my favorites lifestyle and fashion books…to add a touch of fabulous to your life.

♥ The Little Black Book of Style by Nina Garcia ( available at Liv for $25.99)

♥  The Style Strategy by Nina Garcia ( available at Liv for $27.99)

♥ That Extra Half and Inch by Victoria Beckham

♥ The Lucky  Shopping Manual by  Kim France and  Andrea Linett ( available at Liv for $33)

♥ The Lucky Guide to  Mastering Any Style by  Kim France and  Andrea Linett ( available at Liv for $33)

♥ The Gospel According to Coco Chanel by  Karen Karbo

♥  Secrets of  Gorgeous by Esther Blum (available at Liv for $16.95)

♥ Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste and Style by Tim Gunn

♥  Style by Kate Spade ( available at Liv for $30)

♥ The Sartorialist by  Scott Schuman  ( available at Liv for $31)

♥ Vintage Shopping by  Melody Fortier ( available at Liv for $24.95)

LIVING WITH BOOKS

If you’re a book lover and a collector ( like me) this book will make your day… Living with Books by Alan Powers ( available at Liv for $25.95)! The book is fantastic, filled with many ways to incorporate books into your home décor. I honesty freaked out when I saw it… I’ve always love to display my books as they add that perfect touch of personality to any space; but this book just takes it to a whole new level.

♥   In  a home library, form meets function. Shelves with grid of multi-sized compartments  are appealing architectural elements that are also  hardworking. Take advantage of horizontal  surfaces such as tables, to display  striking  covers and binding.

♥ To enhance a stunning contemporary living room, a collection of beautiful volumes is neatly tucked into a sleek paneled wall unit. Here, their bright colors add vibrant note without disturbing  the overall harmony  of the setting.

♥ Don’t forget to make good use of odd spaces, from stairs and landings to hallways. Try mixing  books with other objects, such as collectibles and pottery,  to create character, charm  and interest.

♥ A  wrought iron stand in the kitchen is a lovely and  effective  solution for storing cookbooks alongside bottles, plants and other knick and knacks. Under the  counter space is another great option.

All  that I can say now… is have fun!

Until the next post…toodles!!!

Souces: fashion gone rogue; fashion spot; sarah klassen; this is glamorous.