Archive for February, 2010

J’aime Paris…

Friday, February 26th, 2010

I just had to share this beautiful editorial from March’s Harper’s Bazaar Russia. I figured that it would be a crime if I kept something so beautiful just to myself. With snowy days, here’s a little something to get you through a freezing day. And of course, give you something to look forward to… beautiful spring/summer fashions and warm weather :)

isabeliforhbru81

(more…)

- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

Classic Trench…from WWI to Spring 2010!

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

Spring time would not be spring time without a beautiful trench coat…

For me a  classic trench is one of the most important pieces in the closet. It goes with everything and could be worn during any season. It is an “investment” that is worth making.

The trench coat was first created by Thomas Burberry for the British army officers in World War I. It was designed to keep them warm and dry in the trenches (hence the name), and every element of the coat had  a purpose. The waterproof fabric and removable wool lining made it serviceable in all weather; the epaulettes were originally used to hold gloves or service hats; the D-rings on the belt were made to secure grenades; the huge pockets were meant to hold maps and extra ammo. And through unnecessary today, these utilitarian details are maintained in the modern coat.

I am wearing: Ben Sherman Trench;442 McAdam Leather Purse; Part Two Scarf; Tai Headband (everything available at Liv by Au Lit)

From it’s humble beginnings with the officers to the glitz and glam of fashion royalty, Burberry trend is iconic!. With every season new designs and interpretations of this classic are available on the market…

…and these are my favorite from Spring 2010 runways!

  • Fresh and Fun at Marc by Marc Jacobs.
  • Romantic and Charming at Cynthia Steffe.
  • Daring and Bold at  3.1. Philip Lim.
  • Simple and Casual at Milly.
  • Classic re-invented at Burberry Prorsum.

From casual to evening wear a trench coat will keep you looking mysterious and classic!

IMG_6825

Until the Next Post…. Toodles!!!


Source: style.com; Nina Garcia " Little Black Book of Style" ( available at Liv by Au Lit)
- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

What Happens in Vegas…

Monday, February 22nd, 2010
Last week was our first buying trip in Vegas. Can I just say…wow! We Saw ‘Love,’ an unbelievable Cirque de Soleil show, ate at Delmonico’s, shopped, and most importantly, did the fashion buying for fall ’1o. Here is a sneak peak of some fall trends and what’s to come at LIV…
Riding to the show in style
Riding to the show in style
To the Bellagio, Jeeves!

To the Bellagio, Jeeves!

FALL TREND #1: PADDED OR PUFFY, BIG SHOULDERS ARE A MUST!

FALL TREND #1: PADDED OR PUFFY, BIG SHOULDERS ARE A MUST!

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: PADDED SHOULDERS + THE HEATHER GREY SWEATSHIRT TOP

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: PADDED SHOULDERS + THE HEATHER GREY SWEATSHIRT TOP

FALL TREND #2: SILK SILK SILK

FALL TREND #2: SILK SILK SILK

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: SILK WITH BLING

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: SILK WITH BLING

PRINTED SILK CHIFFON

PRINTED SILK CHIFFON

FALL TREND #3: THE MENS SHIRT...STILL HOT

FALL TREND #3: THE MEN'S SHIRT...STILL HOT!

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: THE DENIM MENS SHIRT (THE DENIM SHIRT IS THE NEW PLAID...LOOK FOR IT TO COME ON STRONG)

TWO TRENDS IN ONE: THE DENIM MEN'S SHIRT (THE DENIM SHIRT IS THE NEW PLAID...LOOK FOR IT TO COME ON STRONG)

FALL TREND #4: REVERSIBLE SKINNY JEANS (ONE SIDE DARK WASH, ONE SIDE BLACK DENIM. SO COOL!)

FALL TREND #4: REVERSIBLE SKINNY JEANS (ONE SIDE DARK WASH, ONE SIDE BLACK DENIM. SO COOL!)

FALL TREND #5: FRINGE

FALL TREND #5: FRINGE

AND WHAT WOULD A TRIP TO VEGAS BE WITHOUT A FAMOUS PERSON SIGHTING?
WHITNEY PORT FROM THE HILLS & THE CITY. WE ARE CONSIDERING HER LINE FOR FALL 10. HAVE YOU SEEN WHITNEY EVE?

WHITNEY PORT FROM THE HILLS & THE CITY. WE ARE CONSIDERING HER LINE FOR FALL '10. HAVE YOU SEEN WHITNEY EVE?

There’s lots more clothing, but I’m going to save some for the fall unveiling in 6 months. It’s a long way away, so in the meantime, why not check out the awesome spring collections at LIV that are arriving every day!
VIVA LAS VEGAS
-xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author and Mommy.

Invest in the bones, the Nina Garcia way…

Sunday, February 21st, 2010

The bones of your wardrobe are those essential staples that go with almost anything, never go out of style, and are endearingly chic… These ten staples transcend time, trends, and travel. They can go from day to night, season to season, and they can still be worn five years from now.

- Nina Garcia

A Trench Coat

The best part of the trench coat is that it makes you instantly mysterious. Wear it with big sunglasses if you want to really channel your inner detective, spy, or fugitive.

Ben Sherman Trench (available at Liv by Au Lit)

The Little Black Dress

The little black dress is the dress that is going to let you shine—it is going to flatter you, but it is not going to detract from the rest of you.

Gentel Fawn Dress (available at Liv by Au Lit)

A Classic Men’s Shirt

The classic white shirt is as key to American style as blue jeans. It is chic and simple. Practical and unpretentious.

American Vintage Shirt ( available at Liv by Au Lit)

Cashmere Cardigan or Turtleneck

In all kinds of weather and for any kind of occasion, throwing on cashmere makes you feel instantly luxe.

Left of Houston Cardi ( available at Liv by Au Lit)

Denim

There is something about jeans that gives a girl an aura of instant style.

AG Jeans (available at Liv by Au Lit)

A Man’s Classic Watch

Women’s watches tend to change according to trends, but a classic men’s watch is timeless and looks great on a woman’s wrist.

Jak & Jil photo

Diamonds

You can’t go wrong here.Big girls need big diamonds.

Tiffany&Co Diamonds


Ballet Flats

There are a few moments when you have to give your heels the boot in the name of practicality or shopping strategy.

Christian Louboutin Flats

A Classic High-Heel Pump

The red stille wil get more attention, but the black pump will let the other pieces of your outfit speak, which is sometimes just what you need from a shoe

Christian Louboutin Pumps

A Great Bag

Like a shoe, you should have at least one bag that will go with your anywhere.

Rebecca Minkoff Handbags (available at Liv by Au Lit)

OWN THEM. HAVE THEM, LOVE THEM. THIS IS YOUR FOUNDATION: YOUR LOOK IS BUILT UPON THIS LIST.

More amazing ideas and strategies can be found in Ninca Gacria’s ” Little Black Book of Style” and ” The Style Strategy” (both available at Liv by Au Lit.)

Until the next post… toodles!


- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

So Dainty…

Friday, February 19th, 2010

Nothing says spring and summer like flowers!!!

abbeyleevogueru4

A feminine print adds a delicate touch to an otherwise simple dress, a bold flower adds a touch of character to a cocktail ring, a flower in the hair gives women careless and free attitude.

I would like to share with you my favorite accessory, hair bands and clips…. Tai hair piece are so beautiful and original…they are bound to end up on my vanity :P

I am wearing: Tai triple flower headband, $54

I am wearing: Tai  Barrette jersey hair clip, $39

Wearing a pretty hair  clip makes a dull outfit look cute and simple, meanwhile adding bold headband can make an entire outfit come to life. I wear headbands 24/7 especially during those hot summer days aka frizzy-and-flat-hair. Floral headband adds a girlish touch that is seen all of over the spring 2010 runways. Add a beautiful flower to your nail this spring and summer!

Ladies, have fun this spring and summer with flower-power… :)

Until the next post….toodles!!!

Source: Vogue Russia

- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

Valentine’s…

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

Happy Valentine’s Day!!!

I hope everyone had a love filled weekend.

Beethoven  from  Love Letters of Great Men

Good morning, on July 7

Though still in bed, my thoughts go out to you, my Immortal Beloved, now and then joyfully, then sadly, waiting to learn whether or not fate will hear us – I can live only wholly with you or not at all – Yes, I am resolved to wander so long away from you until I can fly to your arms and say that I am really at home with you, and can send my soul enwrapped in you into the land of spirits – Yes, unhappily it must be so – You will be the more contained since you know my fidelity to you. No one else can ever possess my heart – never – never – Oh God, why must one be parted from one whom one so loves. And yet my life in V is now a wretched life – Your love makes me at once the happiest and the unhappiest of men – At my age I need a steady, quiet life – can that be so in our connection? My angel, I have just been told that the mailcoach goes every day – therefore I must close at once so that you may receive the letter at once – Be calm, only by a calm consideration of our existence can we achieve our purpose to live together – Be calm – love me – today – yesterday – what tearful longings for you – you – you – my life – my all – farewell. Oh continue to love me – never misjudge the most faithful heart of your beloved.

ever thine
ever mine
ever ours

I am wearing: For Love & Liberty Silk Nightgown ($ 344); For Love & Liberty Cardigan ($165); Tai Hairclip ($39).

All of the furniture and bedding is available in Liv by Au Lit and Au Lit stores.

” I love you more than yesterday, less than tomorrow”

- Edmond Rostand, Les Musardise

Until the Next Post… toodles!!!

- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

Sweet Valentine…

Thursday, February 11th, 2010

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Although some love it and others hate it, you cannot escape a fact that dolling up for the much loved/hated day is probably the best part of it :P

I am wearing: Avoca Anthology Flower Silk Dress, $168

Wearing that perfect outfit will make you feel flirty and fabulous, and who doesn’t love that!? Even if you hate this day, who said that you shouldn’t look a-m-a-z-i-n-g?! Whether you have a date with girlies or your sweetheart, looking absolutely breathtaking is a must. Every woman has her style but looking fabulous should always be a part of it.

For me, this Valentine’s is all about these charming Avoca dresses! I fell in love with them and I just had to purchase the pink one.  I could not resist the delicate fabric and detailed little flowers, it is perfect. Worn with leggings or without, it looks totally adorable.

I am wearing: Avoca Anthology Rose Silk Dress, $150

No matter what you wear, what you do, or where you go…you’re fabulous! Have fun  and enjoy the day!

Until the next post…toodles!!!

Source: Sarah Klassen
- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

LIV Spring Lookbook launches today!

Thursday, February 11th, 2010

LIV Spring Lookbook Cover
Hey everyone! I know it may not look like it outside, but Spring has arrived at LIV! We have a tone of new fashion in store as of today and it’s stunning! Check out our 2010 Spring/Summer Lookbook to get an idea of what to expect this season. As an extra bonus we’re giving up to 20% off new Spring clothing, furniture and linens until February 21st. Happy Shopping!

- xo, Julie

Julie Brown is Assistant Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Designing, buying and visual merchandising with latte in hand.

442 McAdam with a touch of Starbucks…

Sunday, February 7th, 2010

Spring is just around the corner and lots of goodies are coming in…among them is this new collection by a fabulous Canadian designer.

Allow me to introduce you to 442 McAdam… a line of luxury bags created by the talented Sarah Shell.The line  features a beautiful selection of handbags,clutches, travel bags, and unisex messenger bags made of  genuine cowhide leather and brass hardware.  The detailing and design are absolute perfection.

Colors and textures are rich, infusing these bohemian silhouettes with luxury and elegance. The bags are made to withstand wear and weight – durability is guaranteed. The inner portion is complete with organization pockets, magnetic closures, and an attached keychain clasp.

- 442 McAdam

As for the outfit, I was thinking a casual Starbucks run. Comfortable and yet undeniably stylish. I paired a beautiful windbreaker meets uptown zip up bomber (La Fée Maraboutée  Paris  jacket, $207) with a pair of simple black skinnies (Black Orchid Skinny Jeans, $153)  and of course a simple tee.  A Parisian touch never hurts anyone and this jacket definitely does the trick with its understated simplicity and delicate charm! To take a step farther a perfect little rosette headband (Tai Rosette Headband, $ 69) and you’re ready for your coffee break looking and of course feeling fabulous!

Tip:  Always wear a headband when having a bad hair day. Not only will it solve the problem but make you look prim and proper. Your dilemma will be solved and you will look effortless and chic (and itsn’t that the look we are all going for?!)

Look forward to more goodies from 442 McAdam as well as more outfits in the up-and-coming posts….Also, be sure to check back next week!!! After all, it is Valentines Day and  I have few ideas up my sleeve. See you in a bit!

Until the next post…toodles!

- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.

Spring 2010 preview: pattern play

Thursday, February 4th, 2010

This season the more patterns the better! Mix it and match it from head to toe!

       If you’re like me and tend to  play on the safer side of the runway inspiration, it is always a good idea to start with something simple.Why not try  a delicate piece with a bolder color that is not too overwhelming but has enough of the “wow” factor?! Such as this Nümph  Dress in lewis peach (available at Liv by Au Lit, $100). Very feminine but with an edge!

As seen on Spring 2010 runways:

Versace; Alexander McQueen; Etro

When it comes to prints, more is definitely  more this season.  If designers like Dries  Van Noten  and Donatella  Versace  have their way, you’ll be mixing  and matching  from head to toe. And we’re not just talking about traditional flowers, though there were plenty of pretty ones at Etro, Anna Sui, and Tory Burch. Duro Olowu’s  tribal motifs ad Givenchy’s digital designs were engineered for maximum impact.”

- Style.com

Balenciage; Givenchy; Dries Van Noten.

Until the next post…toodles

Source: style.com
- xo, Joanna

Joanna Goodman is Co-Owner and Creative Director of LIV by Au Lit and Au Lit Fine Linens. Joanna is also an accomplished author.