7.31.2012

Review: The Dark Knight Rises

I went to see the Dark Knight Rises over the weekend and thought it would be fun to review the film. I have went to see all of Christopher Nolan's Batman films in theaters over the years. When the Dark Knight came out, I like many others was enthralled with Heath Ledger's performance and the masterful way that Nolan put together the story.

I went into the Dark Knight Rises with high expectations and left disappointed. The film was very ambitious, it had a lot of social commentary about wealth, greed, and decadence in modern society. One aspect of this commentary that I thought was particularly powerful was how the Gotham Stock Exchange was robbed which was incredibly easy.

Other ways that the film was ambitious was introducing many new characters with limited backstory and passing references to the past films. I found this to be problematic because Nolan seems to have forgotten that these movies have spanned five years and most people did not re-watch all the films before heading into the theater. Since Nolan introduced so many new characters and had many sub-plots running he failed to give enough screen time to the characters who need it the most. For example, Joesph Levitt Gordon could have had much better character development and more of the film shot from his point of view. The senior police detective who acted as a barrier to the junior cop (Joseph Levitt Gordon) and symbolized the morally responsible by-stander was given too much screen time. Although the story was important, and in the film's context reminded me of the bystanders in Nazi Germany in WWII, it was too much and took time away from character development of more important characters.

Without giving away too many plot details, I want to say that I enjoyed the film's ending the most because it symbolized peace and hope. If you have the chance to see it in theaters please do! I did not have the opportunity to see the film in IMAX, but I have read reviews from others who have and highly recommend it.

On another note, I really liked Anne Hathaway's performance as Catwoman. She was poised, sharp and one of the highlights of the film. I also really loved her costume and the presence she had. I read an interview where Hathaway said something along the lines of that she only ate kale during filming because the latex suit was "unforgiving". I am not a fan of women starving themselves for beauty, but she does look great in the film!


Spirit

A second summer to fall look.


Vineyard Vine Admiral Shirt. This button down comes in two colours: white and marine. I prefer the marine colour, but white would look great with both skirts.



Vineyard Vines Rally Skirt. This navy skirt would match the Admiral top for a chic office look.



Vineyard Vines Ventura Skirt. If you like this skirt, you're in luck it is on sale! This skirt and a button down is a more casual look that I would wear for a day event.

7.30.2012

Freedom

I have started putting together fall looks and this is my first. Let me know what you think below!


Banana Republic Metallic Trimmed Striped Pullover in Brilliant Berry.



Banana Republic Sloan Fit Slim Ankle Pant in Winter Burgundy.



Banana Republic black Textured Coat.



Banana Republic Mya Penny Pump in black.

7.29.2012

Five Shoes


Nine West Panto shoe in gold glitter. 


Kate Spade Licorice heel in African Violet.


See by Chloe T-Strap Flat.


Joan & David Trilogy boot in dark brown leather.


 

Pierre Dumas Maura flat in black.

7.27.2012

Exquisite

I really like the nautical themed clothing lately. I have a few pieces, but am always on the look out for more. I have also realized this past week that the only real summer jackets I have are trench coats. I don't really know why I have so few jackets, maybe I give things away too often or just don't buy enough? Whatever the reason, I have been thinking about getting a new jacket.

Putting together these two issues, I have discovered several maritime themed jackets that I would like to share with you!


J Crew Gondola Striped Jacket 

 

J Crew Legion Jacket

 

J Crew Maritime Stripe Blazer



7.25.2012

Proper

As my job search intensifies for the coming year, I am looking for the perfect suit and dresses for my initial interview and interview week. I am undecided about whether I should wear a skirt or a pant-suit to my interviews.

A while ago, I read an article on Jezebel which discussed interview advice for women in the legal profession. Some of the interview advice was that women should wear skirts rather than pantsuits to interviews because they appear more feminine. In the male dominated legal profession looking feminine boosts women's chances of being hired. Other advice included wearing pumps and spanx. This interview highlighted an issue of sexism and equality in the workplace. But, what was troubling was that the article did not critique this situation but put forth this advice as an aid for women getting hired matter of factly.

I have thought about this advice for a while now. I think that it is deplorable that women are scrutinized by how they are dressed and whether they come across as feminine. But, since this is apparently the status quo, what do I do with this advice? I have decided to keep it in the back of my mind.

To put pictures to words, these are some of the outfits that I intend to wear during interviews.



This is the Italian wool Ludlow suit from J Crew. I like the longer length of the jacket and that it sits below the hip. I also like that it has two contrasting buttons. The matching Italian wool trousers are a nice cut straight through the hip and thigh and a straight leg. This suit will set you back about $600, and may be overkill if you are not secure in the job, but it is very stylish.

This dress is the J Crew Collection Chiffon Beaded Dress. I absolutely adore this dress. If just a picture doesn't make you want to buy this dress, check out the advertisement for it: "Artfully tailored with hundreds of tiny knife pleats and hand-applied antiqued stones, this cocktail-ready confection in airy silk chiffon oozes vintage sophistication."  

In addition to a great marketing campaign, this dress is perfect for a cocktail interview. First, it is a great length for a party- it sits just below the knee. Second, the colour is different from the common black, white, or navy. It also isn't a fire engine red or a cobalt blue that would draw everyone's eye. This pale pink with the stone detailing is a lovely match.

To maintain a conservative look, instead of wearing a shrug over my shoulders, I would wear conservative-ish shoes. I would wear open toe pumps with a 2.5- 3 inch heel.


7.24.2012

Exotic

I am a huge fan of wild animals including safari ones. I had the opportunity a few years ago while I was traveling to visit a giraffe sanctuary. Along with having a great time feeding and observing the giraffes, I learned a few new things. For instance, did you know that giraffe saliva is anti-septic? Or, that giraffe bones are hollow? Pretty cool huh.

When I was browsing the J Crew website I saw a lovely bracelet that I would like to share with you. It is an enamel giraffe bracelet. I really like the shape and love the little rhinestones to accent the mane. It is adorable! You can pick it up here.


Gold

A trend I have been seeing recently is clutches with brass knuckle handles. At first I thought this type of look was over the top and a little silly. But, as I see more of them I am coming to like them. This gold and ivory clutch by Alexander McQueen is one I really like.


Like I said, over the top, but lovely. In particular, I like the intricate pattern on the side and the flashy skull and fang top adorning the knuckles. If you are looking for a totally bad ass look this clutch will do it for you. I would pair this purse with a black ensemble including a black leather motorcycle jacket.

7.23.2012

Ella


Following Paris Fashion week, a blogger for the Toronto Star interviewed Christian Louboutin about his new Cinderella shoes. Like most Louboutins, the Cinderella heels are exquisite.






Interview with Christian Louboutin:

Q: There’s also something about wearing Louboutins that puts you in a different kind of place. These shoes really indicate that you’re a woman of style. People see that red sole, and they know “That one’s got Louboutins!” How does it feel to have turned your brand into something so iconic and meaningful in women’s lives?

A: Well, it’s always great when you’re doing something you really love and you can share that with people — share your passion, your enthusiasm. It’s a wonderful thing. I just started making these really beautiful shoes for one store, and then it eventually just started to grow. I never had another goal other than making beautiful shoes for women. So I couldn’t be happier.

To see the rest of the interview on the Toronto Star website go here.

7.22.2012

Style Watch: Emma Watson

I have long been a fan of Emma Watson. As an actress, Emma has taken on such roles are Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series, My Week with Marilyn, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and of course her lead role in the Bling Ring film. To celebrate the lovely fashion and modelling talent of Watson, I have included the following photos:


Emma Watson, Vogue 2009


Emma Watson in a very classic outfit

 

Emma Watson, Marie Claire 2010



Emma Watson, Vanity Fair May 2010



Emma Watson, Remix Magazine 2011

7.21.2012

Casual

For a lazy Saturday during the summer I love casual looks. Check these out:



This Gap striped crew sweater would look nice matched with these Mulberry coloured jeans:


This jeans are a really cute colour and have a zipper detailing at the ankle. These are Gap jeans and you can get them here. I would complete the look with these Tulip Bow Stuart Weitzman flats:




7.19.2012

Dangerous

Alexander McQueen sells many lovely accessories. I really like this ring:


Skull rings  are really popular right now and this one is pretty trendy. I love that on top of grasping his face, there are the little crystals. If you would like to pick up this silver ring, it is on sale here.


Rouge

To keep up with my latest jewelry craze, I have more to post.

First, this blue and red studded bangle by Marc Jacobs. This blue and red nautical theme is really popular right now. If you like this Jacobson Stud Bangle you can pick it up here.


7.18.2012

Dot

Looking for a dress for a semi-formal event? I am. I have a party coming up in the next month and have been thinking about what I should wear. I have heard that the traditional length for evening is knee length but I am considering longer dresses. My first choice is from Banana Republic.


I like the sweetheart bust, the corset waist, and the two-tone polka dots. What do you think about this dress? I'd love to hear your thoughts!!

Bright

I have been thinking about how to accessorize my outfits lately and have been spending a lot of time looking at bracelets and necklaces. I normally look at jewelry in store because I find it difficult to ensure that I will really like the piece if I buy it online. Today, I have been browsing the Harrods department store website and have found several items that I would purchase offline. As such, I thought I would share them with you!

Below is a Moonlight Grapes Pendant by Georg Jensen. I have always liked pendant necklaces, and I like this one because it is grapes. How original! Seriously, I really like this idea. If you want to pick it up, click here.


Another necklace that I really liked was the Pink Pave Diamond Flower Necklace by AS29. It is similar to the J Crew Flower Lattice necklace that I posted last week but it has a singular bloom. It is made of pink gold and pink diamonds! This piece is quite expensive, but if you are interested you can find it here.


7.15.2012

Distinct

Continuing my love affair with Stuart Weitzman....


Normally I prefer large, oversized purses, but this "Tac Clutch"  is a piece I would purchase in a heartbeat. As you can see from the layout of the blog, I really like pale pink and the studs on each end make it really attractive. What is even more delightful is that this bag is currently on sale for $288 (50% off). If this is something you like, I'd jump on the sale!

This is the Wiskerlo Loafer in Blush Aniline. As far as loafers go, this one is pretty nice. It has a nice shape, a bow and a metallic toe. I especially like the detailing at the toe as it makes a very feminine shoe a tad more proper. Stuart Weitzman suggetss pairing these with a cotton short or jeans. I envision these being worn with a skinny dark wash jean and a fairly neutral top. It could also be that feminine twist to a very masculine outfit. I guess it is that time of the year at Stuart Weitzman because these shoes are also on 50% of sale. Currently, you can get them here for $178.

7.14.2012

Candy & Stripes

As I mentioned in a previous blog, Piperlime, is a lovely website. In the course of my browsing, and trying to find killer deals, I have discovered my perfect summer bbq outfit. 

This grey, black and white striped dress is adorable. I like the high neckline because it offsets how much leg you'll be showing. The fitted waist and fuller skirt will make you look quite skinny, and stripes that size are usually flattering.




Instead of plain wedges as shown in the picture, I would opt for something with a bit more pop. I like the New York Cassy loafers by Kate Spade below. The patent pink is a great contrast to the dress. If I am at a bbq, I see myself walking around and doing a lot of standing so I'd prefer to have a manageable  heel. Plus, I love the tassle on these.



7.13.2012

Deep Blue Sea

True to the preppy nature of my blog, the dress I am posting today is a Lilly Pulitzer.


This stunning piece is a Delia Dress and you can find it here. I really like the print on this dress, it is nautical themed but a little bit different. I also really enjoy the colours! The pink and navy is very popular right now! Also, look at those bows at the bottom, how cute is that? Definitely a must have. Because of the eye-catching colour, I would match a dress like this with a strappy sandal in navy or nude.

7.12.2012

Sailboats & Anchors

As with most people, I enjoy nautical themed clothing. The past few seasons you can find just about every brand coming out with a blouse, dress, or skirt with a nautical theme. I do not know what is so attractive about anchors or blue and white stripes, but they are very trendy.

In this spirit, I have found two nautically themed pieces from J Crew that I think you'll appreciate.




This Postage Stamp Anchor Skirt is made of cotton and a little bit shorter than the traditional pencil skirt. If you wore a conservative top you'd be able to wear it to a more conservative office. Regardless, it is great for summer!  If you want to pick it up, you can find it here for $98.

Another J Crew find is this Anchor Themed black and white dress. Now this little number could be worn to an office. Better yet, to a garden party or bbq on a Saturday afternoon. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it is currently on sale on the J Crew website and is a reasonable $119. I haven't tried this dress on myself, but if anyone knows how the sizing fits, I would love to get your thoughts. Since this dress is black and white, I would pair it with a coloured heel. I am thinking maybe a purple, silver, gold or a red; just something fun that will make the whole outfit pop.



7.11.2012

Dazzle

I have long be a fan of J Crew. The clothing is always crisp, functional and you can wear it to work. I don't usually pay much attention to jewelry that stores sell, I like to get my jewelry from designated jewelry stores. I am beginning to re-think this attitude. 


This "Flower Lattice Necklace" from J Crew is wonderful. I like how the bright colours pop against the hand cut glass stones. It is also a heavier necklace, which is definitely in style right now. The necklace comes in two colours, I prefer the one pictured above to the pink necklace. If you`re willing to spend the $228 on it, you can pick it up online here.


Another piece of jewelry that I really like from J Crew is the Classic Pave Link Bracelet. This glass encrusted brass bracelet is really adorable and the colour allows you to wear it with most styles. I like this bracelet better than the similar YSL bracelet that I posted earlier this week because it is less branded. You can pick up the J Crew bracelet here.



7.09.2012

I'm on a boat and it's going fast and...

It is already mid July and that usually means everyone has been on their boat or is on a boat right now!



In the past year there has be a resurgence in the popularity of boating shoe. No doubt fueled by the delightful offerings by Sperry. I personally have yet to find a pair of Sperries in my size, that I truly like.

I always like when a brand expands and grabs a larger market share. Sperry is definitely one of these brands. In the past few years they have exploded and people use them for daily-wear.

Some of my favourites:


This time-tested style has been around since the 1930s. Although a classic, the red, black and white combination is quite nice and the shoe can be worn for multiple uses.




These bright coloured boots would be nice on a rainy day. Having spent a lot of time in England, I can honestly say that bright coloured clothing can really boost your mood after days of endless rain and greyness. Another perk: they'll never get lost!