{Art/Fashion Highlight}: Valentino Retrospective

Looking at couture gowns is both a fascinating (wow, how can a dress so amazingly capture the 1980s), informative (did you know Jackie O. wore a simple Valentino tunic for her second wedding), to sad (oh my to think how many paychecks it would take to actually purchase a gown).

A few girlfriends and I attended the Valentino retrospective and it was nice to have my own fashion fix since I am currently 9000 miles away from NYFW!  I definitely recommend checking out this collection if it comes into your area.

Here are a few highlights of the exhibit:
Valentino red and rosettes (2003)..

...unbelievable workmanship with tulle petals (2009)

...unexpected volume and lacquered lace (2009)

...Julia Roberts' Oscar gown (1992)

...Jackie O's wedding gown (1968)

There are a few more pictures of gowns worn by Audrey Hepburn and some other favorites on Flickr here if you're interested in checking it out!

{High Street Highlight} Ann Taylor Abbey Lace Pumps

After holiday sales are dangerous (for my wallet).  But willpower and savvy shopping can be balanced right?

The lace love continues with these Ann Taylor Abbey lace pumps which I just ordered for myself and my mom (because we're the same size and any shoes I've left in NYC have been claimed by her).  I couldn't resist at $79.99 with an extra discount (last day for 40% off with code save40).


I also went through Mr. Rebates first for another 3% back.   Yep, I am definitely the savvy shopper.

While they don't have the signature, make me weak at the knees bows of these Valentino d'Orsay pumps, I'm happy to put my $800 savings towards another pair of Valentino heels.

What good deals have you gotten lately?

LOTC: Valentino for Gap aka Canvas becomes fancy

Signature Valentino ruffles and bows have always made my inner girl extremely happy.  The signature Valentino price has ensured that I only have one piece of Valentino clothing (a deal of a lifetime Valentino silk jacket). With the launch of Valentino for Gap, I can stock up on my Luxing it on the Cheap (LOTC) Valentino items more easily (well easiest if I was in Europe since this collection is only in England and Italy). 

The collection is available on November 27 and does not disappoint the ruffle loving lady.  I am lusting after the sportswear gone chic pieces in this collection.  Valentino designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli insert feminine tailoring into the most unlikely of materials – cotton canvas.  The results are neutral, fun safari chic looks that can be worn every day.

I especially love the bow skirt (£69.95) and short ruffled jacket (£119.95) – ultimately feminine and timeless. 

The hoodie (£89.95), cargo pants (£99.95), and parka (£149.95) are also definitely unique and fun though maybe a little too funky for me.

 All pictures from here

These items will be available in the Milan flagship (it was already there since Nov. 20), London flagship, Colette Paris, and Dover Street Market in London.

What do you think of this collection?