Lion'esque Style

A few years ago I was lucky enough to spend New Year’s Eve in Brazil. New Year’s Eve, or what the Brazilians call Reveillon, is an enormous celebration at the height of their summer season. One of the most stunning parts is seeing 3 million people gather on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro all dressed in white. White is traditionally worn as a wish for peace in the new year, but what I recently learned is that you can also have a second wish. This second hope for the new year corresponds with the color of your knickers. Makes sense that the inventors of the thong would have such a “cheeky” tradition. Think about adding this your night and 2011 will be sure to end well. 

Saude! 

Check out our shopping suggestions and the traditional Brazilian color coding below:

Pink = Love 

Fortuna Demi Camisole by CLO Intimo

Florine Bra, Thong, Suspender @ agentprovocateur.com 

Gold = Wisdom & Prosperity 

Fortuna Demi Soft Bra by CLO Intimo

Aida Lace Bodysuit by Sonata Lingerie in Gold @ bellabellaboutique.com 

Red = Passion 

Gemma Ruby Red Heart Silk Corset & Panties @ etsy.com 

Blue = Power 

Anouk Starlight Blue Silk Chiffon Playsuit @ etsy.com 

Green = Health 

Fair Verona Via Cappello Boyshort @ bellabellaboutique.com 

White = Peace 

Chantilly Knickers @ bhldn.com

Happy Under the covers NYE!

Lion’esque Style Watch by @QJM

During this holiday season nothing feels better than giving, except giving even more. And to get into the spirit, I committed to only buying gifts that resulted in donations to worthy causes. It was a wonderful and guilt-free shopping experience that really resulted in the ultimate gifts that keep on giving. 

I started off at the perfect place, the Warby Parker Holiday Spectacle Bazaar. The company provides a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair that they sell. I scooped up some brainy tortoise shell specs for my husband and then spotted a pair of envy-worthy sunglasses for a fashionista friend. The shades are the result of a collaboration between SUNO (one of my favorite fashion brands ever) and Warby Parker. Pure joy. 

The next stop was the RS POP Shop. I was immediately madly, deeply for a Zhao satchel for my sister. The black & white bags are inspired by oxford shoes and made with eco-friendly Italian leather. On top of that designer LiiLii Zhao contributes earning from sales to Greenpeace International. Being green has never been more chic! 

Then on to my new obsession, Treasure & Bond. 100% of their after-cost profit goes to charities benefiting children in NYC. And that made me feel like a kid myself, a kid in a candy store! I was quickly entranced by colorful and creative jewelry by Emmanuel Kasongo and a seductive fur vest by Nicholas K. 

Last on the list might be a surprise to some. I went to Barney’s, where 25% of sales from items in the Gaga Workshop go to the Born This Way Foundation. The black spike moto gloves by a-morir are perfect for the rock star in my life. Who would have thought giving could be this edgy. 

Places to get your give on… 

Warby Parker Holiday Spectacle Bazaar @ 45 Grand Street thru January 8th 

RS POP Shop @ 501 Lexington Ave thru December 31st 

Treasure & Bond @ 350 W. Broadway open 7 days 

Gaga’s Workshop in Barney’s @ 660 Madison Ave

Lion’esque Style Watch by @QJM

A Season of #INSPIREDBUY

THE SHORTEST DAY OF THE YEAR ISN’T SHORT ON FASHION!

Yes December 22, 2011 will be the shortest day of 2011. Not that we weren’t already running out of days in 2011, or days we have before we start the uphill battle with New Years resolutions?!

Because of the Axis, the Earth rotates on (23.5) - the northern and southern hemispheres get varying degrees of sunlight during the different stages of the year. So if you are so lucky to be in the southern hemisphere you will be having your summer solstice right now (Argentina and the such). While the rest of us up north will make like Eskimos and receive little sunlight. Technically, the day is not really shorter, but because the sun will be setting sooner we will receive the least amount of sunlight of the year. So bundle up in-style people!

Be sure to check out these options to keep you warm this season:

Volang Turban This hat was a hit at our Yelp Holiday POP UP this past weekend. 

My favorite was the green, it’s Hollywood glam, it really stands out. 

The N:F:P Sleeve Shrug … Who knew these existed? 

You can slip on both arms and still keep your neck warm. Killing three birds with one shrug ;-)

Happy Holidays!! 

Before you know it, the earth will be on a different axle, it’ll be the longest hottest day of the year and those New Year resolutions will be out the window! 

@4THawkins

Source: http://www.universetoday.com/92009/winter-solstice-the-shortest-day-of-the-year/

Although the weather has been pretty amazing considering how cold we were last year, sorry polar bears :-( , having a White Winter Wonderland during the holidays is always so dreamy. 

Color Watch Wednesdays is dreaming of a White Christmas! 

I’ve included some of my favorite white Lionesque pieces ($20 and up!) that will definitely get you into the spirit. 

The white bangle by Heather Belle who’s line is built on philanthropy, innovative thinking and all made in America with love, is super cute. I have one made out of haircalf and am in love! 

Next is the sexy white python clutch by Cecilia. The celebrity adored Cecilia line is based on simple yet chic accessories that are not over styled, a favorite on the red carpets. 

Our white knitted hat by Volang is each hand knitted and crocheted making each piece unique and special. They are all super warm and made exlusively here in NY. 

The last item in my Winter Wonderland is made by our designer Arza. Arza is rooted in the concept of less is more, so most bags are multifunctional and convertible. I especially love this white diamond bag made out of Italian leather. 

We hope everyone gets everything they dream of and more! You deserve it! Merry Christmukkuh! 

Lion’esque Style Watch by @AlianaGalan

For years Amazon has taken advantages of tax loop holes enjoyed by internet-only retailer for years, but now brick-and-motar shops have a new reason to envy the retail giant.

December 6, Amazon released a new app, Price Check, which allows consumers to snap pictures, scan an item, or say the product name and compare prices at brink-and-mortar stores with prices on Amazon.

Customers are further enticed to purchase the item from Amazon with promotional discounts given for purchases made through the Price Check app.

In addition to winning over customers with competitive pricing Amazon also wins by collecting valuable customer information with every price check.

All is fair in love and business!

@RunwaySavvy

Let’s be honest. There are very few things better than a Sunday evening, candlelit bubble bath and a glass of wine to keep you company on a cold winter night…. 

But how often are the bath protects we use offenders of winter skin, leaving your face and body dry, chapped and lifeless? How often are products that make claims of being natural and organic (while really diluted with water, alcohol and chemicals) giving no nutritive or restorative value to the skin? 

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting Australian Scent, a skin care line that prides itself on being made from all natural and active ingredients. First up! The King David Bath and Body Serum. I put a few drops of this majestic scented serum under the flowing stream of warm water and watched as the oils dispersed themselves throughout the tub. The result of soaking in this serum, which contains anti-aging organic carrot seed, wheat germ and evening primrose, was nothing short of satiny silk smooth skin. I could feel the serum lock in the moisture on my skin, which was left feeling smooth, soft and nourished overnight. If you do not have time for a bath, rest assured, you could use it in the shower, as massage oil or as a perfume.

I finished my Sunday evening beauty regimen with Australian Scent’s Cleansing Stream, which I was pleased to read, is an antioxidant cleanser and toner in one. The smell of this cleanser instantly transports me to standing under a waterfall in an African rainforest. The citrus, ginger, lavender and jojoba scent is so enchanting and refreshing you can’t help but inhale deeply as you massage this soap-less cleanser on your face in a circular motion. You can almost feel your pores open and the impurities and toxins of the skin wash away. The essential oils are anti-bacterial and anti-fungal which help keep skin clear, and lock in the moisture, which keeps your skin hydrated and supple. I am hooked! 

This is the perfect product for (you!) or someone who needs a little rest and relaxation post holidays. Heaven knows we all could benefit from the wonders of Australian Scent as we drift off to the land down under….

Lion’esque Style Watch by @intend2bwell

#INSPIREDBUY

Before the big shows, some designers give a sneak peek of their fall lines. The pre-fall shows are typically much smaller but give major clues about what to expect on the runways to come. One of the trends in almost all of the pre-fall lines was sheer sleeves. So start focusing on those arms in the gym if you want to wear any of the feminine frocks below from Jason Wu, Chanel, Alice by Temperly or Ports 1961 (clockwise from top left). 

Sheer sleeves is also a great pre-fall trend that you can start wearing right now. Just grab one of the translucent treats above and don’t forget your coordinating accessories. 

Yellow Peter Pan Collar Tunic @ oasis-stores.com 

Ella Earrings by Daniela Millan @ lionesquestyle.com 

Shelby Stripe Pleat Dress @ usa.frenchconnection.com 

Deco Pendant Necklace by Heather Belle @ lionesquestyle.com

You’ll “clearly” be way ahead of the curve!

Lion’esque Style Watch by @QJM

It’s ten days before Christmas and if your anything like me, you don’t have a single gift yet! I have two leading ladies who I need to make purchases for if I want to step foot into 2012; My Aunt and my sister. 

My aunt, who raised me, is actually my great aunt, so she’s a little older. It’s always hard to figure out what she likes and / or that she doesn’t already have. My older sister on the other hand is only 26, so I can pick her up something trendy and that I’m sure she will get a lot of use out of. To simplify my life, I decided to browse the Lion’esque Style site for some of their brands and this is what I came across.  

Beret Hat by Volang I decided to go with the purple Beret Hat by Volang for my Aunt. She loves purple and this hat is very simple, yet stylish and classic.

It’s made of soft wool and comes and 6 others colors for only $59 each.

For my sister The Cheetah Clutch by Heather Belle I thought this was really cool and trendy and just right for my sister.

This American made bag by Heather Belle has Italian pony hair cheetah print that i’m sure will get a lot of usage, as my sister goes out every weekend! 

My list isn’t complete.. Let me know what you think and feel free to give me any recommendations!!

I still have ample time before the 24th….

~ @4THawkins for @LionesqueStyle

Today on Color Watch Wednesday I’m bringing you the exciting gem colors newly added to our site from one of our favorite jewelry designers, Anuja Tolia. 

Not only is this line beautiful but also flawless, every piece in the Anuja Tolia line is given specific attention to detail. The look is a fusion of her love of Indian atrisanship with a touch of Western flare and every piece is gorgeous.

And because every one of us is a gem, I especially LOVE her motto, “Embellish Your Body, Strengthen Your Soul”.  So from now and into this upcoming year, let’s do just that!

A full set on stackable beauty from the Grecian Bangle Set

Or go with a pops up gemstone colors to accent your outfit with a Multi Stone Bangle

Bring some Paula Abdul-like style into your life with Statement Making Wrap Rings

Keep the statement going with a Cuff Ring with sea goddess water pearls

And a woman can never go wrong with the natural, one of a kind beauty of the Purple Agate Ring & Necklace Collection.

Lion’esque Style Watch by @AlianaGalan

The New York Times recently released, The Collection, a new ipad app for the fashion obsessed and way to target advertising to a more affluent ipad owning fashion audience. 

The app aggregates media coverage from The New York Times, T Magazine and the International Herald Tribune into a kaleidoscope of images and stories fresh off the streets and runways of the globe. Content is divided into News, Runway, Trends, Street, and All and can be shared via email, facebook or twitter.

The app is laid out beautifully and is easy to navigate. 

Download The Collection now for free, because after January 1st readers will need to sign up for a Times subscription to get complete access to the app!

Lion’esque Style Fashion-ology watch by @RunwaySavvy

We invite you to join us December 17th & 18th for an #InspiredBuy gift giving event! 

Who: Featuring some of Lion’esque Style’s favorite brands including Heather Belle Collection, N:F:P Studio, Australian Scent, Volang and Marla Cielo 

When: Dec 17th-18th, 12pm-6pm …daily 

Where: 82 Mercer Street- Soho #NYC

Bonuses: Retail therapy wouldn’t be complete without some treats so be sure to score some complimentary hot cocoa, coffee and cider, non-stop live DJ sets, performances by Roosevelt Dime and Lawrence Trailor, gift-wrapping, photo booths, Illy Iced Coffee, Honest Tea, Pop Chips, Pirate’s Booty, FlyKly Bike demos, Wii Bowling, Yelp schwag and more… 

Super Bonuses: VIP Shoppers will have a chance to be sketched by Fashion Illustrator Jennifer Lilya with their Lion’esque Style purchase!

Follow Us on FACEBOOK & TWITTER for updates!

I love my denim shirt but the look was starting to get tired, so I was very excited when I saw an easy way to update my favorite button down. Keep yourself looking sharp by buttoning all the way up and then accenting the collar with a brooch, small square scarf or statement necklace. This is the most versatile and financially flexible trend. Your accessories will set the tone, from rock ‘n roll to ethereal, while you can use almost anything you have, including spare ribbon or shoe clips. It’s a fantastically fast & fabulous way to give your collared shirts the business.

Topaz Octopus Brooch by Fantasyard @ sears.com 

Bling Clips by Cecelia @ lionesquestyle.com 

Gilt Lotus Necklace @ bhldn.com 

Ribbon in Beach Glass @ bhldn.com 

Silk Square Scarf @ llbean.com 

Brown Snake Print Necklace by Daniela Zagnolli @ lionesquestyle.com

Lion’esque Style Watch by @QJM

Now that Christmas time is here yet again, I’m sure you ladies are wondering what’s the perfect gift to get your husbands, brothers, uncles or just male ‘companion.’

My sister actually just came out and text me yesterday, “I’m at the mall, what do you want for Christmas?” 

Here are few simple, yet cheap and equally amazing gifts the male in your life should enjoy!

Cologne (YSL)

Cologne is fairly cheap and if you get them a nice bottle for around $50-$70, and it will probably last him a while. Unless he uses the spray around the room and walk into the mist technique. The L’Homme by YSL is my personal favorite this season. 

Ties (Johnnie O)

You can’t go wrong here. Either a nice fancy one, or a plain solid tie that can be mixed in is always critical. Check this tie from Johnnie O!

A Scarf (by JensenMartin)

Guys never buy scarves, but we need them. I can’t recall ever going scarf shopping, but luckily the women in my life have kept me ‘wooled’ out when it gets treacherous out there! They will love this 100% wool tie from Jensen Martin.

Nice Underwear (Burberry)

We need these. Most guys will wear that last pair of underwear out until there are literally three holes to put his two legs into.

Ladies… Help us out this winter!

Lion’esque Holiday Style Watch by @4THawkins

#INSPIREDBUY Daniela Millan’s hair accessories take you from Bohemian chic to classic elegance!

Shop her now on Lion’esque Style

The Holidays force us to do many things…be merry, spend money, and with a pure heart, be excited for what’s to come. And in that spirit I want you all to Be Green With Plenty! 

Because green is symbolic for life, money, and innocence, it is only fitting that it is the focus of today’s Color Watch Wednesday! 

Emmanuelle Makeup Bag by Heather Belle

Oversize clutch by ARZA

Let’s not focus on what we have, wish we had, and “need”, but how we can make someone smile. It truly is the thought that counts. I have added some amazing pieces from our designers that will definitely put a smile on any loved one. 

Lion’esque Color Watch by @AlianaGalan

We recently discovered Reqoop, a new shopping app that rewards you for sharing your shopping experience by snapping photos. To bring you the inside scoop we meet up with Co-Founder Theresa Sim. 

Lion’esque Style: Is it fair to say that Reqoop captures the visual excitement and gossip/buzz that surrounds the shopping experience by incentivizing the consumer through rewards to share the experience. And that in turn Reqoop is able to provide specific, real-time geographical and demographic marketing research to boutiques of any size? 

Sim: We think there is a lot of value in understanding what people find intriguing (by way of a snap) while they’re shopping in stores. Right now our focus is in building a user base, but we’re working towards a time when what’s being snapped using Reqoop is tremendously valuable to not just physical retailers, but brands, designers, trend forecasters, and so on. 

Lion’esque Style: What determines the Style Rank (SR) of an item? 

Sim: The style rank is an algorithm that incorporates things like comments, “love it”, “it’s a dud” and whether something was selected as an “editor’s pick” 

Lion’esque Style: What future enhancements are planned for the app/site? 

Sim: We’ll be introducing a user leaderboard soon, and we’re thinking of ways to better showcase and editorialize around our user’s finds. We also want to highlight our users more, and showcase their expertise, whether it’s vintage stores, bags, or dapper menswear. 

Lion’esque Style: What else should we know? 

Sim: In the spirit of the holidays this month we have a new campaign called “snap for good” to benefit a great organization called Goods for Good. For each qoop that’s shared in December, we’re donating $1 to Goods for Good. 

Lion’esque Style: What did you snap/qoop today? 

Sim: I was at one of my favorite stores in DUMBO called Modern Anthology. It’s mostly a men’s store, but they have an amazing selection of just … well, cool stuff.  I snapped a few pics of taxidermy items for an upcoming article on Reqoop all about unusual gifts. (http://www.reqoop.com/boutiques/733-modern-anthology) 

ReQoop with us - Snap Your Way to Style! Follow them: @reqoop

Lion’esque Style Tech Watch by @RunwaySavvy

The week couldn’t have a better start than an array of obsession worth handbags to covet from some of our favorite designers!

First I’ll start with the Chloe clutch from the Heather Belle collection!

Complement your inner and outer radiance with Chloe! This is a classic shape in HB original 2 tone geometric half octagon design. From elegant to bold every color combination is pretty and polished - large enough to hold all your essentials and small enough to fashionably carry.

ALSO today we launch the latest in Corrente’s handbag arsenal of arm candy.

Charlotte is roomy, easy and slouchy… ladies this is the Birkin of our generation!

The Eva iPad case proves that tech can be sleek and chic. And, she’s fully lined in high-density foam and is shock-resistant.

Compact but surprisingly spacious, the Kiki wallet has credit card slots and a button-closure change pocket.

Join our obsession and shop the collections!

@LionesqueStyle #InspiredBuy

What if you took the most chunky long knit coat and mixed it with a cabin sweater? You would get the best Navajo maxi cardigan ever and possibly something you will want to wear everyday until spring. 

When wearing a statement maxi cardigan or sweater coat it is best to keep the under layer silhouette slim so you don’t add bulk, as well as simple so the outfit doesn’t become too busy. Use jewelry and accessories to add texture. Interesting accessories also come in handy if you end up removing the sweater, although it seems like the kind of thing you would never want to take off until bikini season.

Patterned Wool Cardigan by Adam @ revolveclothing.com 

Luxury Jones Boot @ freepeople.com 

Numark Wayfarer Sunglasses @ ocshades.com 

Magnetic Cuff with Stone by Anuja Tolia @ lionesquestyle.com 

Arrowhead Necklace by Jessica Matrasko @ shopplanetblue.com 

Touchstone Necklace by AK Vintage Jewelry @ shopblueplanet.com

Lion’esque Style Watch by @QJM

Kelly aka Uptown Luxuries

For the Cool Intellectual 

1. Cosmetic Pouch in Wine and Gold by ARZA
2. Convertible Clutch w/ Chain - Matte Navy Python by Cecelia
3. Tombstone Carry All by Heather Belle
4. I’m Rich w/ Style Tank by KMB
5. Metal Chain Stud Scarf by Sabina Les

Quiana aka Versatile Romantic

For the Sleek Sophisticate 

1. Adjustable Coin Purse by ARZA
2. Crown Fingerless Gloves by Deluxe Nature
3. Nugget Wrap Necklace by KT Collection
4. Sleeve Shrug & Leg Warmers by N:F:P
5. Envelope Journal Clutch by Marla Cielo

Melissa aka Lion’esque’s IT Girl

For the Fashion Forward Guru

1. Aquamarine 4 Stone Texture Bangle by Anuja Tolia
2. Intensive Wrinkle Therapy Face by Australian Scent
3. Fortuna Demi Camisole & Boy Shorts by CLO Intimo
4. La Garconne Satchel by Corrente
5. Funxu Ring by Daniela Millan
6. Brown Snake Print Necklace by Daniela Zagnolli
7. Cortina Women’s Tailored Jacket by Jensen Martin

Aliana aka Urban Chic

For the Jet-Setting Stand Out Woman

1. Travel/Trial pack by Australian Scent
2. Velvet Bow belt by Nona E Rose
3. I’m Rich T-Shirt by KMB
4. Turban by Volang
5. Vintage Cut Large Satchel by Daniela Millan