The GeeWaWa Femme (a.k.a. THE CLAW) is definitely not for the faint of heart. Equal parts Gene Simmons and Minnie Mouse, it’s a monstrous powerhouse that screams, “I mean business!” when you enter the room. The gnarliest mary jane on the planet, the Femme allows you to look cute while kicking ass.

I had never owned a pair of GeeWaWa shoes but the first thing I noticed when pulling these babies out of the box was the attention to detail and craftsmanship. Super soft leather uppers, leather outsoles and no nasty synthetics lining the inside prove this point — and the box is lined in a cute damask pattern.

I have small feet that are on the narrow side and tiny ankles so I found the fit to be a bit roomy and the ankle strap to be a little loose. If you’re the owner of an average to wide sized foot, these will fit perfectly. Also, the cushion is crazily thick. Stay fierce yet comfortable while prowling the city streets! Did I mention that I am short and these make me super tall? I’ll take any help I can get! Praise the Femme!

When Solestruck.com chose me as the U.S. representation for their new blogger promotion, I was super excited — their headquarters is also right here in Portland and they are hands-down the absolute nicest people. Plus, they have such a good selection of all the hardest to find brands, with even more on the way for Fall.

Since I wasn’t exactly sure what would be needed for the collaboration with Solestruck and GeeWaWa, I made a variety of different sized images with varying lock-ups. I think that I see everything in my mind as an advertisement anyway since that’s what I toil my days away doing for a living. I never have the time to design anything for myself these days so it was fun to do my ‘personal style’ on a project — minimal, stark and graphic. Some of these images are a bit repetitive but I wanted to show the different ad combos I came up with.

My brother shot these photos of me last week in our dining room (a.k.a. ‘The White Room.’). I didn’t have a strict set of guidelines — it was 11 pm and all I could think of was urban goth (and that I really wanted to go to bed). Very….scientific, huh? The sequined ears are of course from Disneyland, the Avant Garde necklace is by Plastique and I picked up the tank top in LA from a tiny boutique on Melrose.

EDIT: Ty of Solestruck just posted an accompanying interview over at their blog:

Ty: Nubby, it seems like the fit between yourself and solestruck is an obvious one….SHOES? Who are your TOP three favorite shoe brands/designers?

NT: Ooh, good question! My all-time number one favorite brand is Dries van Noten. Right now, I am up to 7 pairs and wear them all religiously. Second would have to be Chloe. Their styles are edgy but still super well made. I know that I will still easily be wearing the styles I own in 10 years. Lastly, I would include Jeffrey Campbell. Anyone who thinks up something as wonderous as the Clinics is a god in my book. And, his affordable prices make the shoes more accessible to everyone. I am a big fan of good design for all!

Ty: We love your take on goth/glam dark styling, with a touch of irony and whimsy, in short, what is your look for Fall 2010?

NT: Space Android! I want to look like I stepped off The Mothership. Or, like I am on my way to a goth club in 2050. In short, my look calls for extreme black layers with lots of draping and zippers, a dash of sequins, some Rick Owens and the JC Clinics, of course.

Ty: Which of the following is your least favorite: The term JEGGINGS? TWILIGHT THE MOVIE? or Late night texts from an ex who is still kinda cute?

NT: Oh, Jeggings by far. That term sends shivers up my spine. I don’t understand the Twilight phenomenon but then again, I don’t read fiction or watch movies.

Ty: You hail from Portland Oregon, same as SOLESTRUCK, what is your favorite Portland spot?

NT: Probably the Doug Fir. Of course I’ve been there a million times but during the summer, listening to drunk people’s conversations by the fire pit out back is beyond entertaining. And, instead of the typical gross bar food, you can order garlic mashed potatoes off the happy hour menu. Sold!

Ty: What is your actual Job? Blogger? Graphic designer? Stylista? Journalist? Who is Nubby Twiglet!

NT: I am a full-time graphic designer and blogger. My days are spent at ad agencies around town, knocking out campaigns and my lunch hours and evenings are spent blogging. There aren’t enough hours in a day. I am a total cliché Virgo Workaholic™.

Ty: If you could sum up your love for solestruck.com in five words or less what would they be?

NT: Shoe-a-holic. Fierce. Fashionable. Accessible. Friendly.

Ty: And finally!!! The question we have all been waiting for….who is your current celeb crush?

Well, all-time celeb crush would be Michael Jackson. Those moves and costumes — need I say more?!! But a living crush would have to be Bill Clinton. Power and charisma win me over every time.

A huge thank you to the Solestruck team, GeeWaWashoes and photographer Carey Haider for making this collaboration possible!

One of the most common questions I get asked on a regular basis is which beauty products I use. Though I’m not obsessive with trying out new products, I do keep a regular routine and have quite a few favorites from a handful of brands.

Lip Products

First off, I discovered M•A•C makeup in middle school, back in the mid 90s. I remember getting my first ever lipstick in 7th or 8th grade and using it religiously until it ran out. I’ve always loved the faint vanilla smell and though I’ve gone through color shakeups (purple and later red in high school), I tend to use a few neutrals from M•A•C exclusively on an every day basis.

My days are very busy and there’s not much time for touch-ups; bright colors that can bleed or smear just aren’t practical. I like creamy, warm neutral lipsticks that aren’t too brown and don’t look too overdone with a smokey eye. And, I love gloss. A big Lipglass fan for many years, last December I discovered my new favorite lip gloss — Dazzleglass. It smells great, adds some amazing dimension to lips and lasts for hours. And, the shimmer is unparalleled.

I barely ever use lip liner but when I want a more finished look, I use M•A•C Subculture because it’s a neutral pink tone that blends and avoids the dreaded visibly lined look.

I used to wear red lipstick fairly often and still have L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick in British Red, which is warm and really flattering. Whenever you see me wearing red lipstick in photos, this is it.

Not shown, but worth a mention: Vanilla Birthday Cake Lip Shine by Philosophy. The best smelling clear lip gloss I have ever tried. I am a huge vanilla lover and this totally delivers.

The Face: Eyes, Cheeks, Skin

Let’s start with blush. Too much and you look like a clown. Too little and you may appear….dead. I have really pale skin so I like a bit of warmth but I don’t want to look overdone. For a long time, I used M•A•C Sincere blush, but a few months ago, Margin was recommended and I like it even better. It’s more neutral, has a ton of shimmer and is highly pigmented — just a little goes a long way.

I’ve been using M•A•C eye shadows for about 15 years now. I own probably 20 shades but I have a few long time favorites. For the smokey eye I usually wear, I start with a no-name shimmery neutral shadow as a base. For the crease, I use Scene (deep gray) with Black Tied (a beautiful shimmery black) in the corners and finish it off with a Kohl eyeliner (M•A•C Smolder) or Prestige black liquid liner with a slight wing at the edge. And, when I want even more of an impact, I add a light dusting of Tiara loose eye shadow by Sugarpill onto my lids. It’s like liquid silver and everyone notices it because the pigment is really amazing.

Though, sometimes I just want a bit more impact on my eyes. I love M•A•C Atlantic Blue because it’s so much fun! But, my hands-down favorite for the last two weeks has been Poison Plum pressed eyeshadow by Sugarpill (which, in all honesty, has way more pigment than M•A•C). I went through a major purple eye shadow phase around 10 years ago and it’s back once again. I can’t get enough of it!

Not shown but worth a mention: I have a few limited edition M•A•C Mineralize eye shadows that I use all the time. They are amazingly shimmery and blend super well. Do you remember the Black collection from last year? I picked up Cinderfella (super shimmery black — even better than Black Tied) and Blue Flame (a multifaceted deep blue) that are beautiful.

For eyebrows, I use an angled brush and a tiny dab of M•A•C Mystery eye shadow (a dark brown) to add a dash of impact.

I’m not much of a liquid foundation fan. After applying moisturizer (I’ve been using Lancome lately), I put on concealer (I’ve used Studio Finish Concealer for about five years but recently got a sample of Studio Sculpt which I am liking even more) and then apply Studio Fix, which is a powder and foundation in one. Though it has a powdery finish, it covers nearly everything and makes skin appear silky smooth. Best of all, it can be applied lightly for a more natural look or layered slightly heavier for late nights and photos. Though I like Studio Sculpt, Gala swears by Make Up Forever concealer and I am considering giving it a try next. Have any of you tried it?

Though, like many of you, I’ve tried a number of mascaras including Maybelline Great Lash, I really do like M•A•C Zoom Black mascara because it builds up remarkably fast. And, it’s much less expensive than many of the other department store brands. It might be a bit heavy for some people, but I like a very mod, defined eye so it works for me.

Skincare

Up until I was 28, I did very little to my skin and it stayed almost perfectly clear. Then, something changed about six months ago. Breakouts became more frequent and my skin became slightly more oily. And, my skin is very fair and sensitive, so I wasn’t sure where to turn. I finally decided to go back to my teenage skin routine — the simple, affordable and effective 3 Step Skincare system by Clinique. Though, it’s not quite three steps for me because I prefer to use a different moisturizer by Lancome.

When I’m too tired to wash my face, I reach for Comodynes Makeup Remover for Sensitive Skin wipes, which I first discovered at Trader Joe’s on a whim. If you have sensitive skin like I do, these are amazing. I’ve tried a few other brands and nothing ever works as well as these.

I am sure I’m probably leaving a few things out, but feel free to ask me any questions in the comments!

Readers: What are some of your favorite beauty products? What can you not live without? Do you have any recommendations for new products I should try?

*Header image by M•A•C

I’ve been wearing Jeffrey Campbell shoes for years now – the have the freshest, on-trend styles at a fraction of designer shoe prices and the quality is awesome. Now, here’s your chance to win a pair of Jeffrey Campbell Splendid Studded Suede Platform Sandals courtesy of Intermix and Jeffrey Campbell.

To win, all you have to do is to leave a comment telling me what your all-time favorite pair of Jeffrey Campbells are and why. If you have a photo of you can link to of yourself wearing them, even better! (though not necessary). Make sure that your email address is entered (in the info part of the comment – it will remain private) and don’t forget to mention your shoe size. Good luck! A winner will be announced a week from today on Monday, June 14th.

To get started, I’ll go first. My favorite pair of JC shoes are the Clinics. When I zip them on and walk down the street, people literally start yelling and honking their horns…even when it’s 8 a.m. and I’m on my way to the coffee shop. Plus, the reflective side panels double as a mirror when you’re in a pinch!

Key:

0. Finsk Wedges
1. Criss-Cross Dress (sold out)
2. Gee Wa Wa Fatale
3. 10 Key Calculator
4. Noguchi Prismatic Table
5. Leica D-Lux Digital Camera
6. Jeffrey Campbell Clinic
7. Forever 21 F5965 Sunglasses
8. Waiting Line Mug Set
9. Quail Florette Bomber in Black

I haven’t been buying many new clothes lately but when I spotted the Quail Florette Bomber in the latest Urban Outfitters catalog, I had to have it. In the spring and summer, I tend to trade in a lot of my black layers for grays and whites and this coat is the perfect weight for Portland’s intermittent drizzly and overcast weather this time of year. Since I got it last week, I’ve worn it every day – I love avant garde clothing, but also want it to be easy to throw on and go, which this is.

Up until now, I knew nothing about Q U A I L – but Urban Outfitters says that it was “founded in 2008 by Los Angeles-native Michelle Williams” and “is devoted to classic silhouettes and playful textures.”

Why the Title Float?

When I was wearing this jacket the other day around two guys, they both decided that it reminded them of a “float in a parade.” I totally get the resemblance!

What I Wore

Florette Bomber, Quail
Gray and white tanks, F21
Shredded gray jeans, F21
Avant Garde necklace, Plastique (etsy)
Heels, Dries van Noten
Watch, Nixon P Series

When I moved into my house last summer, I wanted a fresh and airy palette for my office. My already white furniture was met with white curtains and white walls. Now, I’m craving some more visual interest and depth. My brother helped me rearrange part of my office a few nights ago and I am on a search for the perfect rug and office chair. In the meantime, I’ve made a few small changes.

Ceramic Hand

To organize some of my jewelry, I picked up this Ceramic Hand Jewelry Stand at Urban Outfitters. It reminds me of the vintage molds I’ve seen floating around shops like Fish’s Eddy in New York.

Red Cross Cabinet

I’ve actually had this cabinet since 2002 – I spotted it at Lancelotti Housewares in New York and had it shipped home. After shifting around some office furniture, I was able to clear the perfect space to re-hang it. The black chair is a Panton reproduction that we were temporarily using for our kitchen table.

Damask Velvet Curtains

Until recently, I had thin white IKEA curtains hanging in my office. While they were breezy and let lots of natural light in, too much daylight when you’re tying to design is a huge distraction (it tempts you to go outside and skip out on work!) These curtains from Urban Outfitters are much more dramatic and though some light is able to leak through the mesh, it is quite minimal and has already helped my focus immensely. My brother hates them and has dubbed them my “goth curtains.” So be it!

As I pull more of my office together over the next few weeks, I’ll show you the full outcome.

I just discovered the American Apparel Sheer Luxe Shapes Nude / Black Punctuation Pantyhose and they are like a total dream come true! These are super lightweight and allow your natural skin tone to show through. Since I’m not big on the bare legs look, I will surely be sporting these all spring and summer under shorts and dresses. From far away, they make your legs look like someone went Sharpie crazy…which isn’t a bad thing, is it?!

All of The Typofiles can be viewed here.

My new favorite piece of jewelry is this multi-chain cross by Forever 21. It’s a total urbanized version of what my childhood idol, Mr. T would wear and maybe that’s why I love it so much!

Yellow and I normally don’t get along. I don’t think I’ve owned anything yellow until a week ago when these shoes showed up. When I want to wear something bright and cheery, I stick to white. But, I am all about embracing change. When I first spotted these heels, I had the typical reaction that I normally have with anything Margiela-related. At first I thought they were weird, then intriguingly architectural…and finally totally unique and amazing! When you’re scrolling through Yoox and there’s one pair left in your size for a total steal, it’s meant to be. I plan on wearing these with everything (as long as it is head-to-toe black).

It must be Watch Week around here. On Monday, I was waxing poetic about Swatch and today, it’s Nixon!

Last month, I was standing around at Nemo when I looked down at one of the producer’s arms (Hi, Megan!) and noticed this watch. Quite dramatically, I reached for it and demanded to know where she got it. I was immediately drawn to the solid white exterior and frankly, the shape (which to me resembles a Swatch on steroids). The Time Teller P comes in a whopping 19 colors. I’ve been wearing the Nixon Chalet in black for the last two years and figured this stark white watch would be perfect for Spring. So far, so good.

Readers: Do you wear a watch? If so, what kind?

A few months ago, I was contacted by POP Magazine and asked to participate in a special contest. Swatch, the iconic brand of watches that originally launched in 1983 (and have gone on to become the most successful wristwatch of all time) is going back to its roots by launching a series of monochromatic plastic watches called Colour Codes.

I immediately agreed to take part on POP’s behalf because I’ve been a huge Swatch fan since middle school (I think I still have the neon splashed version my mom bought me in the 7th grade around here somewhere). When Swatch came out with the Typically Square model featuring the Swiss flag, I wore it for three years straight.

But, back to the brief. We were asked to create images of Swatch watches that focused on color co-ordination with clothes and surroundings and were given complete creative freedom.

For the advertisement design, my brother and I each decided that since we each had drastically different styles, it would be fun to each take a shot at one. For mine (above), I went with a clean and classic Swiss-inspired poster feel since Swatch is Swiss-based and the Colour Codes collection is meant to go back to their roots.

In contrast, my brother referenced 80′s Swatch ads with his design which tend to be very bold with contrasting themes and multi-angled designs. In the end, our submissions were tied amongst the POP art directors so they made a hybrid of the two which can be seen below. This is the version that went to print:

Thanks to POP for inviting me to participate as well as Swatch for providing the watches and brief. I’d also like to thank my brother for art directing, styling and taking all of the photos. Oh…..and to our beloved bear rug for so kindly assisting!

The POP issue featuring our ads should be arriving at newsstands worldwide right about now. You can view all of the Swatch Colour Codes entries on the Swatch website. Please vote for us under POP!

Currently, I’m loving: 1. Nixon Time Teller P Watch, 2. Rick Owens Wings Vest, 3. White Headphones, 4. the gray version of my Camilla Skovgaard Lug Sole Boots, 5. YSL Y-Mail Clutch , 6. Paloma Picasso for Tiffany Double Modern Heart Ring, 7. Jeffrey Campbell Clinic Wedges and 8. Panasonic Lunix Mini SLR.

Readers: What’s on your current must-have list?

I first found out about A.F. Vandevorst back in 2000 when I bought a book featuring Belgian fashion designers. I was immediately captivated by his constant use of red cross imagery as a signature throughout his fashion line. When I came across these silver beauties on the sale rack at Halo, I knew they had to come home with me. And, any shoe box emblazoned with F E T I S H completely seals the deal.

Regarding the back story of how A.F. Vandevorst got its start, Interview Magazine says:

A.F. Vandevorst is really among the last of the Mohicans when it comes to independent European design. An Vandevorst and Filip Arickx were on their first day as fashion students at Antwerp’s Royal Academy when they met in 1987, fell in love, and eventually became husband and wife. 10 years later they opened their own company and have been showing seasonally in Paris ever since. Their style is sleek but somehow countrified, with lots of silk, fur and vintage lingerie bits. The shoes under the Fetish label are particularly great; An Vandevorst cut her creative teeth early on as shoe and accessories designer for fellow Antwerpian Dries Van Noten.

I’ll never tire of the architectural details or medical references ingrained into the A.F. Vandevorst aesthetic.

Wow, what a week! I finally got to see Cool as Ice again which is truly my favorite movie ever. One of my 2010 resolutions was to watch more movies because I’ve barely seen any in my lifetime and I’m trying to make up for lost time. Though Cool as Ice was the highlight, I also saw The Germs biographical film What We Do Is Secret and Mary Poppins back-to-back. Not bad at all.

Trips to Stumptown, design collaborations, grilled cheese sandwiches, deep discussions about Def Leppard, soldering, Smirnoff Ice, photo booths, homemade enchiladas, emails from all of my best friends in New York in one day and inspirational meetings rounded out the mix. 2010 is turning out to be the best, most fulfilling year ever. Onwards and upwards!

White Noise. The white room at Wolfgang Manor needs a few finishing touches….but it’s almost there. Almost.

It’s Not What You Think. On Tuesday, I went out to breakfast with two of my longtime friends, Brent and Katie. I was trying to explain to Brent why I was wearing a promise ring (because let’s face it, at 28 I am not making any promises of the sort!) and realized that with the way I was showing it off, the restaurant patrons might think he’d given it to me. At that point, we played it up for the cameras. Thanks to Brent for always being a good sport!

POP. Words cannot describe how excited I was when a package of watches showed up for a collaboration between POP magazine and Swatch. My brother shot some amazing photos and I can’t wait to show you the results!

Fashion Notebook Returns. For the last 10+ years, I’ve kept an oversized sketchbook and filled the pages with fashion-related images that are mostly arranged by color. Over the last few weeks I’ve finished a few new pages and will be posting them sporadically. You can see all of the past Fashion Notebook scans here.

Fight! On Wednesday, I had lunch with one of my long time mentors, Dave Allen of Portland Agency Fight. He’s always been a big fan of social media and really supported my blogging vision in the early days. He also used to be in a post-punk band that you might recognize which only adds to his coolness.

Stumptown. Though I don’t enjoy strong coffee, I love the downtown location of Stumptown Coffee. It has that perfect Portland-esque feel and the people watching is beyond good.

Ring Finger. When Jewelry Art Designs offered to send me a piece of jewelry of my choice, I couldn’t resist. I am a total minimalist at heart but am trying to step it up in the new year. Usually though, I can never find anything that’s simple enough to not be clunky when I am spending 10+ hours a day on the computer. Rings tend to get in the way of my work and become more of an annoyance than a fashion statement. Luckily, I was able to find this cute yet very low profile ring engraved with LOVE and haven’t taken it off since. Maybe, just maybe this is my turning point towards wearing more jewelry in general. Plus, it’s a great reminder to always spread the love, love, love.

Until Next Week,

I am one of those people with fairly straight hair, but sometimes, fairly straight just won’t cut it. There are times where I want my hair to look perfectly sleek and in those moments, I reach for my flat iron.

Unfortunately, while I was vacationing in Florida back in November, my flat iron died quite suddenly. It’s not something that I would call an absolute necessity so I put off purchasing a new one when I returned home. But, the universe has an odd way of coming through when we are in need.

After being home for about a week, my phone rang one morning and since it wasn’t a number that I recognized, I almost didn’t answer. But, I am so glad I did. Turns out that it was one of my long-time advertisers, Misikko. The owner had just checked out my blog and noticed that I had really long hair. He wondered if I would be interested in trying out one of their professional flat irons and I immediately obliged.

I was super excited at the prospect because I had already tried out one of the Misikko flat irons over the summer while staying with Gala in New York. I already knew that they were compact, of nice quality and worked well so I was glad to finally have one of my own.

Misikko sent me the Hana model, which is 1 inch, black and works super fast. It literally takes a minute or less to heat up and is the best straightening iron I’ve tried to date, due in part to the high quality ceramic plates. One of the best features on this model are the 8 foot long cord (!!) and the accompanying heat proof silicone mat. The mat is nice, especially if you set your iron on a counter or floor to heat up. The heat on the iron is adjustable from 140 – 450° F and I usually keep it pretty high since I have fairly healthy hair.

Though I don’t use an iron every day, it’s a great tool to have around when you want that extra polished edge. I am by no means a flat iron expert, but I’ve tried quite a few and I prefer the compact size, looks and power of the Hana over other models I’ve tried. Thanks, Misikko!

All photos by Carey Haider.

I’d like to thank Forever 21 for advertising on my blog this month. As I was scanning their site today, I pulled together a few of my current favorite items that I thought I’d share with you: circle accented mesh necklace, abstract art dress, sequin suspender skirt, metallic trim military jacket, lacquered pyramid bangle, belted petal skirt, disco sequin front top, side bow headband, mickey glitter tee, crackle metallic boot and love sculpture ring. Happy shopping!

I have a special announcement to make….ModCloth just named a dress after me! What an epic way to end 2009! Of the dress, ModCloth says:

Named after one of our favorite fashion blogs, this little black dress will help you market yourself as a master of entrepreneurial style. Crisp, curving seams contour the bust and the subtly zipped back, giving this sleeveless number innovative detailing and a form-flattering shape, while the dazzling black sequins that adorn both the shoulders and the bow add sartorial splendour that even the late, great Michael Jackson would approve of. A full, black satiny lining and a ruched, patent-tipped belt keep you feeling free and footloose as you glide into a gallery, sway into a swanky soiree, or shop for shoes. Wear this dress with statement-making striped stockings, towering stiletto heels, ruby red lipstick, and white nail polish for a look that will brand you as a pioneer of edgy, yet elegant, fashion.

I have also been named a Blogger of the Moment and the accompanying interview is here.

To showcase the Nubby Twiglet dress, my brother and I collaborated on a photo shoot yesterday.

Perhaps funniest of all, I took a quick trip to Seattle earlier this week and Miss Mary Bee decided to give me a full sleeve of temporary tattoos (mostly consisting of flowers and skulls). No tattoos to straight thuggin’ in 15 minutes flat? You bet! When I arrived home, the Nubby Twiglet dress was waiting for me in its sleeveless glory and I had no time for serious scrubbing action. My favorite tattoo of all? ‘Fresh Diva.’

But now, back to your regularly scheduled programming…

When you’re chosen as a Blogger of the Moment, ModCloth asks you to pick twenty items that showcase your style. Here are my top picks:

Thanks so much to the ModCloth team for your continuous support!

When I was in Scottsdale a few weeks back, I stopped by Barneys and tried on these Proenza Schouler heels..and then promptly waved goodbye. But, I woke up the very next day haunted by them. When a pair of shoes is the first thing on your mind when you wake up, you know that it’s meant to be. I’ve had the craziest year ever and it made complete sense to reward myself for making it through…with a crazy pair of shoes.

In case you’re wondering, they’re not very walkable. But that’s okay; I’ll set them aside for when I have a sit-down interview with Oprah. These will officially be my ‘sit-down interview shoes’ from now on. And, until that day comes, I’m going to track down a clear display case because these shoes are art.

Do you need a burst of color to liven up your life? I know I sure did. For the last few years, I’ve been using Moleskine yearly planners to keep my life in order. Though, one issue I noticed this year is that it was way too easy to not get tasks completed and to carry them over to the next month. When I discovered the Moleskine Colour a Month Daily Diary set, I knew I had a solution! Each month has its own numbered mini planner and encourages you to complete the tasks instead of having to write them down in the next notebook. Okay, maybe it just encourages me, but you get the point. A rainbow of colors wrapped up in a practical package; what’s not to love?

Readers: Do you use a daily planner to keep your life organized? If so, what kind?

I was taking a peak at ModCloth this weekend and they have so much good stuff right now! As you can probably tell by my favorite picks, I am on a HUGE uniform-inspired kick. I can’t quite decide whether I want to be a waitress, join the military or fly the friendly skies!

Items: Pan Am ID Holder, Coca Cafe Top, A Stud-y in Chic Blazer, Sergeant of Style Jacket, Von Iva Boots, Commodore Skirt, Commander in Chic Vest, The Regina Dress, En Vogue Jacket, Styled To a T Skirt and The Poirot Necklace.

Readers: What are your favorites?

Type addicts rejoice! This weekend, I was browsing the House Industries website and came across these beautiful hand-printed posters. They were way too good to ignore so I ordered a handful in varying sizes for my office. Which are your favorites?

Do you have a reliable arsenal of wardrobe basics that you depend upon, day after day? I know that I do. I started thinking of the tried and true pieces that are necessities in my wardrobe and compiled a list. Some have been in my possession for as little as two weeks and some as long as nine years but they are all equally important. The watch, the jacket, the bag, the shoes and belts that all play a part in my overall look are listed below. It’s never too late to build your own collection of style essentials!

Studded Belts. A few weeks ago, I bought two super skinny belts with mini rows of studs at Forever 21 and have been wearing them nonstop ever since. Besides the one shown, I have a solid black studded version as well. To me, they add a dash of hard-edged glamour to any outfit and work equally well with dresses and pants.

A Great Wallet.

For four years, I carried around a cheap vinyl wallet that I had bought at a mall somewhere in California. Finally in February, I was sitting in Hawaii on vacation and realized that every time I opened that old wallet, it reminded me of my past. It was time to never look back. So, I walked into the YSL boutique and bought this black beauty on the spot. Think of how many times you open your wallet in a day; isn’t it worth it to have one that you love? As a side note, that really is Yves Saint Laurent’s handwriting on the front! How cool is that?!

Non-Black Shoes. Of course we need black shoes in our lives, but a more neutral option should be close by as well. I dislike brown so I usually settle for grays for neutals. These Dries Van Noten wedges from Fall 2007 are my absolute favorites. Besides being nearly indestructible, they’re pretty comfortable as well (thanks in part to a hidden platform).

An Oversized Bag. Admit it; sometimes you really do need to lug around everything but the kitchen sink. There are some days when I need to pack a lunch, a book, camera, sweater and god knows what else. This bag saves me from having to carry around a tote. All-in-one and worth every penny! I bought this back in April and have used it nearly every day since.

Everyday Black Shoes With a Twist. We all need black shoes but that doesn’t mean that they need to be boring! My Camilla Skovgaard ankle boots work well with skinny black pants and leggings, add some major height and the treads are perfect for rainy Portland winters. The extreme wedges do take some getting used to but by my third day of wearing them, it was like second nature. Invest in good shoes! Always!

A Reliable, Basic Watch. I absolutely swear by the Nixon Chalet. It’s solid, simple, tough and sleek all at once. And, it goes with everything.

A Shockingly Bright Burst of Color. We should all make room for the occasional ridiculously over the top accessory to liven things up. I love wearing these Dries Van Noten heels with an all black ensemble for an unexpected burst of color.

Basic Black Jacket. This Halogen zipper jacket is like my security blanket. My mom bought it for me during my first semester of college back in 2000 and it’s made it through major moves, travels and career changes without getting lost. The sleeves and bottom half (not shown) zip off. I’ve owned dozens of other coats since but nothing has quite captured my heart in the same way.

Readers: What are your style essentials?

These wedge ankle booties truly are my dream shoes come to life. And even better, they remind me of something a female version of Marilyn Manson would wear. Black, lug soled, wedged to the extreme and fairly comfortable considering the height, I doubt that I will be taking these off any time soon.

Readers: What are your current favorite shoes?

Last month, I headed over to the Lower East Side for the last ever Ruff Club which was mobbed by the coolest kids in town. At around 2 am, the sea of kids (mostly swathed in layers of black avant garde clothing) parted when a mysterious pink truck complete with hearts and unicorns on its side pulled up.

What was this vision of pink and why was it there? I walked up and peeked inside to see an assortment of toys, candy from around the world and a mind blowing selection of gourmet ice creams. Heaven on wheels.

Now her dream is a successful business venture with Heartschallenger visiting events and parties worldwide. And, New Yorkers with a sweet tooth, you’re now in luck because Heartschallenger trucks can be found daily in Soho and Nolita! To keep up on the current locations and events, follow Heartschallenger on Twitter.

Over the years, I’ve made ten separate trips to New York but I’m embarrassed to say that until this most recent stay, I had never set foot inside of a Dean & DeLuca store. I’d heard people constantly praising the New York locations as if they were a sacred place where one would make a religious pilgrimage in search of treats. Truth be told, I’m not a foodie so I kept on wondering what the big deal was. Why were these stores so different from typical supermarkets?

Two weeks ago, I was walking through Soho with Gala and we decided to stop into the flagship location that started it all back in 1977. Once we entered, I immediately understood what the hype was all about.

Upon entering, the first thing I noticed about Dean and DeLuca was the overwhelming variety and impeccable service. The employees all wore perfectly pressed white uniforms with little name tags. This couldn’t be America!

Dean and DeLuca reminded me of a quaint neighborhood shop but slightly bigger and much, much better. Just the bakery alone could give you heart palpitations. Cookies, cakes, tarts, and confections beyond description lined the perfect little glass cases. My senses were overloaded so I settled on some small heart-shaped cookies.

Even though the store is quite compact compared to the typical American supermarket, they somehow showcase more items than one could ever hope to encounter in one place, perfectly arranged like a museum for food.

The produce section was also a sight to behold. Perfectly stacked rows of fruits and vegetables glistened under the lights.

And, as if the arrangements of fruits and vegetables weren’t enough, a small selection of flowers were also available.

If I were a rich and famous chef, I’m pretty certain that I would do all of my shopping here.

Meats, cheeses and jugs of old fashioned milk also made an appearance. The mass chain grocery stores dotting the U.S. need to take note of the atmosphere, ambience and old school charm that this place evokes.

Exotic varieties of fresh baked bread were proudly showcased.

Gourmet chocolates including gold-flecked edible buddhas, colorful animals and small squares infused with otherworldly flavors all competed for attention. How could you choose just one?

Silver canisters of spices with minimal packaging were perfectly aligned on trays. Magical potions? Perhaps.

It should be noted that Dean & DeLuca is pricey. This isn’t a place that you frequent if you’re purchasing a month’s worth or groceries (Trader Joe’s is much more appropriate).

Instead, Dean & DeLuca is about the visual experience. It is a place that is ripe with new discoveries and culinary delights that cannot be found anywhere else. Dean & DeLuca will make your tastebuds sing and your wallet hurt. But isn’t that how the best things in life usually are?

2XL, Skullcandy’s secondary line of headphones has been out on the market for a few months now. With their trendy, youth-centric graphics and wallet friendly prices (averaging from $10.00 to $40.00), they’re bound to be a huge hit.

For a big chunk of last year, I worked closely with the Nemo HQ team on the development of the 2XL line of headphones, packaging, stickers, catalog and trade show booth.

2XL was the first job that I’ve worked on of this size and it was interesting seeing how product development unfolds from researching and creating graphics to applying them to 3-D mockups, then to mechanicals and finally receiving prototypes from the factory over a period of many months.

The line features 14 color ways with five separate styles for each:

Brickyard: DJ-style headphone with over-ear design, comfort headband suspension and full dynamic acoustic range.

Grid: Headphone featuring super comfort on-ear design, headband suspension and dynamic acoustic range.

Groove: Adjustable headphone with active grip hanger ear buds.

Ratio: Ear buds with soft silicone wrap and dynamic acoustic range.

Spoke: In-ear bud featuring noise isolating, in-ear acoustics and changeable gels for comfort fit.

I prefer larger, DJ style headphones so my personal favorite is the Brickyard model.

2XL has smartly made a PDF version of their entire catalog downloadable from their website. Below are a few examples of what the line looks like:

The full product line can be seen on these pages:

If you’re a fan of Skullcandy but on a budget, 2XL is a viable option. These are fantastic for everyday use and you don’t have to stress about breaking or losing them because of the low price point. For a complete catalog, a list of dealers and more, please visit the 2XL website.

Last week, Gala and I met up with Susan, the founder of the hugely successful indie fashion retailer ModCloth. She also brought along two of the buyers from her team and we spent the muggy summer evening in the East Village learning more about their buying processes, how ModCloth got started, what the trade shows are like (hours upon hours of walking up and down a maze of never ending aisles!) and how to deal with getting recognized in the street. Though, it should be noted that at points talking became quite difficult when the bar’s piano player began rocking out and singing at the top of his lungs (which amused the other patrons to the point that they began to join in)!

ModCloth is very hands-on and I think that this is partly why they’ve been so successful. Besides keeping a blog, they allow customers to rate each item and write reviews. With this approach, it’s easy to see why customers feel a personal connection to ModCloth and its offerings.

ModCloth recently sent me a very cute blouse known as the Walk The Line Top. I picked it out specifically because I liked the interchangeable bow ties (there are both a black and a striped version included). My friend Bianca shot me in Soho yesterday wearing it:

I felt like I was wearing a fancy version of a restaurant uniform as I walked through the cobblestone streets. Enjoy your weekend! It’s supposed to be super rainy here so I’ll be hiding indoors.

I’ve always felt that Fall was the best season for fashion; the colors shift to darker tones, the layers become more plentiful and the boots grow taller. For the last few years, the styles haven’t really appealed to me but judging from features in fashion magazines and on blogs over the last few months, the looks are shifting back into my favor.

My style direction this Fall will be influenced by Michael Jackson with baroque elements and hints of the future. My look will revolve around overdone accessories paired with sleek and molded futuristic silhouettes.

Key: Willow zip-detailed jacket, Forever 21 felted sequin plate necklace, Kova & T wet look leggings, Sam Edelman Zoe booties, Novella Royale Mister bag, Forever 21 rhinestone pyramid elastic bracelet, Modcloth The Draper equestrian hat, Modcloth Batallion Jacket in beige, Alexander McQueen knuckle duster clutch, Christian Louboutin Fred glitter lace-up shoes, Acne Atacoma wedges and Preen Mixed Mono dress.

What are your must-have items for Fall?

One of my readers sent me a link to these silver type-covered Comme des Garçons wallets and I just had to share. Good quality wallets are worth the investment; think about how many times a day you use yours and have to look at it!

Luisaviaroma.com is the equivalent of a perfectly archived museum for fashion where everything is beautiful and resembles a work of art. And, it’s available for purchase…if your credit card limit is high enough. It’s all quite unattainable (for me, anyway) but it never hurts to take a look around…and then swiftly save all of the images to your desktop.

01 Alain Quilici faceted wedge pointy toe low boots, 02 Gianni Barbato western style suede sequin low boots, 03 Puma | Sergio Rossi napa pump sneakers, 04 Charlotte Olympia striped suede and patent Greta pumps, 05 Giuseppe Zanotti scaled zip low boots, 06 Charlotte Olympia striped wedge Genie pumps, 07 Jil Sander crepe platform low boots, 08 Alexander Wang Hanne triple buckle boots, 09 Christian Louboutin strappy napa low boots.

Item Links: 1. PYT Skirt, 2. Daily Crossword Glasses, 3. Prep School Dress, 4. Ariel Skirt, 5. Piano Man Umbrella, 6. Cultural Trust Dress, 7. Dahlia Headband, 8. Easy Rider Vest, 9. Smokestack Shorts, 10. The Modern Wayfarers.

If you’d like to see my picks from last month, check them out here. Thanks again to ModCloth for continuing to support independent bloggers!

As I’ve been doing a major office cleaning, I discovered that I have a small crate of Bodoni shirts in both black and white left. And, the less I have to move, the better! So, this week I will be running a special with all Bodoni shirts marked down from $22.00 to $16.00. SHOP HERE!

A few weeks ago, I was contacted by Amy, a stylist at Oscar + Fitch, a hip & fashionable eyeglasses boutique in Edinburgh, Scotland. She wanted to know if I would like to try a pair of their glasses and I excitedly agreed.

Though I have perfect vision, I enjoy wearing non-prescription glasses for some added style. After discussing options with Amy, I came to the conclusion that I didn’t want the frames I chose to be too normal in style; I wanted something a bit funkier so that it didn’t look like I was wearing reading glasses around town!

This girl knows what she’s doing. After viewing a few of my photos, she recommended a style (mod 2087) that turned out to fit my face perfectly upon arrival. I’ve always liked the geek chic frames, but on my small features, they sometimes look like big old safety glasses!

The style I chose comes in multiple colors, but I stuck with a very basic scheme which is black on the front and tortoise shell on the sides (you can see close-ups of them here and here). It goes without saying that the craftsmanship is amazing. After having so many pairs of cheap chain store glasses, I immediately could tell the difference in the quality of the frames, the smoothness of the heavy duty hinges and overall fit.

Sometimes when a company offers you a trial of their products, the results are less than extraordinary (over the years, there have been a lot of items that I’ve refused to review based on lackluster quality and service). In this case, I can 100% back not only the quality, style and selection of Oscar + Fitch, but also their impeccable customer service. Amy and I did all of our correspondence through email with frame numbers flying back and forth and I got exactly what I’d hoped for. I almost forgot to mention…not only did I get the glasses that I’d originally requested but also another unexpected surprise; a custom pair of super mod sunglasses which I will be sharing with you soon!

Oh and dear readers, conveniently enough, Oscar + Fitch is running a special this month over at eye heart glasses so that you can get your very own O+F frames at a reduced price!

P.S. The 40s-era blouse that I’m wearing in the above photos was a gift from online vintage mecca and client Monster Vintage. I love it so much!

Key: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.

I was recently checking out the amazing selection of shoes on the Browns Fashion website and thought I’d share a few of my current favorites.

Other sites with really great shoe selections include Shopbop, Yoox, Halo Shoes, Net-a-Porter, eLuxury and Gimme Shoes.

Are there any shoes that you’re currently lusting after? Show me!

Key: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

I am definitely feeling more optimistic than ever now that I’m walking around with the equivalent of psychedelic rainbows on my feet. When the Dries Van Noten Fall 2008 RTW collection came out, I was immediately drawn to the bright, slightly futuristic marbled patterns on some of the clothing. I saw some of the pieces in person twice, but they were woefully out of reach. And, the shoes didn’t appeal to me because they’d lost the chunkiness of seasons past.

Fast forward to last week when I was perusing the selection at Halo and realized that they had some pumps from that collection marked down to less than half price in my odd size (36.5) which is extremely hard to find. I slipped them on, took a few steps and they actually stayed on my feet. A miracle. And, the curvy pin-up girl shape suddenly made sense, balancing out the blindingly bright pattern.

When I originally saw the Fall 2008 collection, it had a strange familiarity. Back in 2006, I had made an art piece called Psychedelia with a similar bright mix of colors that later influenced the work I did for Virgin Records.

And, that’s partially why I make no differentiation between fashion, graphic design and fine art. They are all triggered in some manner by one another with influences that constantly circle back around. One inspiration leads to another and they form a path like little stepping stones to an even bigger vision. But, enough of the philosophical meanderings. All I know is that from now on, each one of my brightly colored steps will be filled with rainbows and smiles!

P.S. Jane of Sea of Shoes wears the marbled dress from the same collection here and you can get a much better idea of how intense the pattern really is!

If you’re a regular reader, you’ve probably noticed that I don’t make the most practical choices when it comes to footwear. Though I do own a few pair of flats, I was sorely lacking a pair of lace-up sneakers. Turning down certain invites because I didn’t have the appropriate footwear (playing basketball in Dries wedges seemed way too dangerous!) was getting old, so I had Lee take me by the Nike Outlet last week. Lo and behold, I found the most ridiculous shoes in the entire store. Don’t they resemble space-age marshmallows?

P.S. The style is called the ‘Women’s High Vandal Premium.’

Hello! I’m feelin’ a little Sergeant Pepper crossed with 80s-era Michael Jackson today. Like many of you, I found the Spring 2009 Balmain RTW collection to be totally stunning, but with some of the key pieces checking in at over $11,000.00, the reality of ever owning an authentic piece became laughable. Thank god for Target. After spotting a Balmain / 3.1 Phillip Lim inspired vest on Jazzi, I knew that I had to have one. I stopped into a random Target location this morning and found a single vest shoved to the back of a Go International display and could hardly believe my eyes. And for only $34.99, the quality is amazing!

Vest, Target Go International
Tank, Forever 21
Shorts, Forever 21
Watch, Nixon
Knee highs, Nordstrom
Bag, Miu Miu
Boots, Chloé

What’s in your bag? What you carry inside of your bag says a lot about you; it really is an extension of your personality. Even though it’s a bit voyeuristic, I love seeing what other people have hidden away in their bags. The color combinations, items and level of organization can speak volumes.

Every six months or so, it feels right to do one of these posts again (previous editions can be found here, here and here). Recently, I started using the Miu Miu Goddess bag from 2007 to carry my laptop. It’s been working out amazingly well having everything that I need in one place (I was previously lugging around both a tote and purse).

Contents include: Apple MacBook (not shown), Moleskine limited edition planner, YSL Y-Mail wallet, H&M coin purse, Samsung Blackjack, MAC Lipglass in Entice, MAC lipstick in Honeylove, MAC Pro Lash mascara and Studio Fix, Clinique Superbalm, Marc Jacobs heart mirror, Lolita business card case, Stabilo felt-tip pen, Mouth With Pill stickers and various keys.

What kind of bag are you using and what are your must-have essentials?

The signature Galliano Gazette print pops up in nearly all of his collections, but the newer versions are much more wearable (and affordable). You can find the iconic print on tons of other amazing items at Styledrops.

1. knit top, Sandra Backlund 2. strap heels, Acne 3. crystal-embellished jacket, Balmain 4. polished pyramid bracelet, Forever 21 5. Multi-strap sandals, Chloé 6. elastic interlock belt, Forever 21 7. grand bow headband, Forever 21.

Rain coat, Xhiliration
Cardigan, Halogen
Jeans, Levi’s
Scarf, Apt. 9
Wedges, Dries Van Noten
Purse, Miu Miu

These Jeffrey Campbell peep toe booties have that Ann D. vibe that I’ve been looking for but beyond that, I love the huge flaps. They’re like mini wings for your feet! Even though these are seriously fierce, they’re more comfortable than you’d think. The laces are actually elastic and though they take awhile to get perfectly adjusted, once they’re in place, you’re off and running! Since I’m not really a sandals person during the summer months, these will work just fine.

I’ve always considered CPW when making purchases, whether the item is a Miu Miu bag or a Forever 21 blouse. In a way, it doesn’t matter whether you’ve spent $20.00 or $2,000.00 on an item, as long as you adore it and get your use out of it. As an example, I’ll share a few of my favorite purchases:

I’ve had the red Helvetica Moleskine for a few months now, but the second I found out that they came in black as well, I ordered some more!

These limited edition Moleskines were produced by the Helvetica Project especially for an exhibit at LaForet in Harajuku where a temporary Helvetica Shop selling products related to the typeface was set up. Don’t worry, you can purchase your very own from Moleskine Asia!

Amazing decor truly makes a house a home. Here are some of my favorite recent finds:

1. bono mug (similar styles here), 2. purple supernova suspension lamp, 3. black unicorn bottle stopper, 4. horse lamp, 5. max 365 perpetual calendar, 6. white panton chair, 7. molded polymer lips sofa, 8. white componibili, 9. fornasetti pillow (similar styles here).

What are some of your favorite houseware finds?

I wrote about this notebook back in 2007 but with the sudden popularity of the Helvetica Moleskine, I thought that some of you who missed this the first time around may be interested. The ruled notebook is available through Veer and features quotes from Gary Hustwit’s Helvetica documentary throughout.

So, what about you? Do you love Helvetica? Hate it?

Kiss Me Deadly posters are now available for purchase in my online shop. The oversized screen prints measure 20 x 26 inches and are printed on 130 lb. cover. They are signed & numbered and limited to an edition of 25. Posters are $28.00 and will be rolled and mailed in a tube.

Click here to purchase a poster. If you have any questions, please email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com.

Originally designed by Massimo Vignelli in 1966, the Stendig now resides in the Design Collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

The calendar is set up in the ‘Eurpoean Style’ with Monday being the first day of the week and it rotates back and forth between black and white pages for each month. Not for the faint of heart, the Stendig measures an astounding three feet by four feet!

I had one of these beauties back in 2007 and the best part is, once you’re done with a month, you can use the sheets for wrapping paper, collage, craft projects and so much more!

Retailers that sell the calendar include Stendig, Unica Home, The Art Store and See Jane Work.

A more subtle option than the black on white version below, the thin lines have a graphic pop without being overbearing. A great everyday shirt for typophiles.

Women’s Sizing

Small: 15.5 inches across chest (flat) x 22.5 inches in length
Medium: 16.5 inches across chest (flat) x 23.5 inches in length
Large: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 24 inches in length

Men’s Sizing

Small: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 26.5 inches in length
Medium: 19 inches across chest (flat) x 27.5 inches in length
Large: 21 inches across chest (flat) x 28.5 inches in length

A much bolder option for those that aren’t afraid to announce to the world that Bodoni is their homeboy! This super stark & graphic version is loud and proud.

Women’s Sizing

Small: 15.5 inches across chest (flat) x 22.5 inches in length
Medium: 16.5 inches across chest (flat) x 23.5 inches in length
Large: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 24 inches in length

The shirts are $22.00 and available in my online store. For reference, I am wearing a women’s small and Todd is wearing a men’s small. Shirts run true to size. If you have any questions, please email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com.

Thanks to Todd for modeling and Kari @ Studio Nemo for the photography!

Mouth With Pill totes are now available for purchase in my online shop. They are heavyweight cotton canvas and feature the three color water-based screen print on BOTH sides!

The totes are $17.00 and if you have any questions, please email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com.

*For size reference, here are some pictures of me holding the tote.

Bodoni posters are now available for purchase in my online shop. The posters measure 16 x 18 inches and feature black ink on heavyweight white paper stock. They are signed & numbered and limited to 20 prints. Posters are $20.00 and will be rolled and mailed in a tube.

Click here to start shopping! If you have any questions, please email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com.

Note: If you are waiting for the Bodoni shirts, they will be available within the next week.

Back by popular demand, the Mouth With Pill shirts are once again available for both men and women! The shirts are 100% ringspun cotton and printed with environmentally friendly water-based ink.

Women’s Sizing

Small: 15.5 inches across chest (flat) x 22.5 inches in length
Medium: 16.5 inches across chest (flat) x 23.5 inches in length
Large: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 24 inches in length

Men’s Sizing

Small: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 26.5 inches in length
Medium: 19 inches across chest (flat) x 27.5 inches in length
Large: 21 inches across chest (flat) x 28.5 inches in length

The shirts are $22.00 and available in my online store! For reference, I am wearing a women’s small and Todd is wearing a men’s small.

An extra special thanks to Todd for being my male model and Kari @ Studio Nemo for the photography!

I was cleaning out my office this weekend and came across this 1966 issue of American Vogue. It’s in tatters and crumbles a bit more every time I flip through it, but it is truly amazing. Luckily, in the digital age, it’s easier than ever to view past magazine covers and issues!

1. Cover Browser is my favorite source for vintage magazine covers because it has the most specific categories to choose from and the Vogue Gallery is organized by issue numbers.

2. Old Magazine Checklists and Cover Galleries includes links to sites that have either a gallery of cover images or checklists of magazine contents. This is the definitive source for tons of magazine-related links.

3. Magazine Art has compiled thousands of vintage magazine covers and advertising images from the golden age of American illustration and is neatly organized into specific categories.

4. In the Condé Nast Store, you can purchase exhibition quality prints of classic covers from Vogue, Vanity Fair, Glamour, Mademoiselle, Gourmet and more. Some date as far back as the 1890′s!

5. The Pulp Gallery features a collection of thousands of pulp and pinup images. The gallery primarily focuses on covers from the 1920′s through the 1950′s.

Happy browsing (and reading)!

Fornasetti is by far one of my favorite designers of plates and furnishings. Sculptor and painter Piero Fornasetti lived mostly in Milan and created an astonishing 11,000 items during his lifetime.

His plate designs are probably the most famous part of the Fornasetti empire. Nearly all of them have an eerily similar appearance. The face featured on most of the designs belonged to an opera singer named Lina Cavalieri. Fornasetti reportedly found her face in a 19th century magazine and used variations of it on over 350 plate designs!

You can find out more about Fornasetti on the official website and purchase items on Moss Online, Unica Home and Couture Lab.

Behold the most perfect Moleskine in existence! Most of you know about my infatuation with Moleskines and Helvetica. When I found out that the two had been merged into one piece of perfection, I immediately wanted one! Fellow reader Lauryn just answered my wishes and sent one over! Amazing.

These limited edition Moleskines were produced by the Helvetica Project especially for an exhibit at LaForet in Harajuku where a temporary “Helvetica Shop” selling products related to the font was set up.

It goes without saying that I will not be using this. It’s my version of the bible and is way to sacred to be written in by a mere mortal! I’m serious.

There are twelve remaining pieces from my last two art series (Black & White Graphic Insight and Modern Baroque) now for sale in the shop! All feature collage on wood except for the small red crosses, which are collage on ceramic. Each piece is coated in epoxy resin and produced in a single edition. All are signed and labeled on the back. Shipping is included in the price within the U.S. If you’re overseas, please email me for a quote before purchasing. If you need more detailed photos or have any questions, please email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com. Otherwise, consume away!

With the recent economic downturn, attaining luxury items suddenly seems more accessible than ever. Year after year, prices have steeply increased, with no ceiling in sight. Yet, with fears of deflation now echoing in the U.S. and the prices of consumer staples like cars and houses bottoming out, it only seemed like a matter of time before luxury goods also took a hit.

According to The NY Times, high-end Fifth Avenue department stores including Bergdorf Goodman are now luring in shoppers with enticingly deep discounts. Designer handbags that were once sheilded in glass cases are now lined up tables with prices slashed upwards of 40%. The sales on luxury goods are now so frequent that The New Yorker’s Patricia Marx just remarked that “Sixty percent off is the new black.”

Established luxury retailer Saks has chosen to dig even deeper than its competitors, slashing the prices of much of its fall fashion up to 70 percent during Thanksgiving weekend. Customers were so shocked that they assumed that many of the price tags were misprints.

A just released report (via MasterCard Advisors) lists the sale of luxury goods as being nearly 25% off this year when compared with last. The era of seemingly bottomless luxury consumption appears to be drying up fast. After years of astronomical growth, the International Herald Tribune claims that overall demand is expected to drop by 3 to 7 percent next year.

With such deep discounts on luxury goods, consumers are now more in control than ever. But, they’re also left wondering what the massive mark-ups were in the past. And, now that they’ve witnessed these bargain basement prices, will they be willing to pay full price ever again?

I’m wondering how the current events will redefine ‘luxury.’ If once sought-after luxury labels become accessible to everyone, then they may become nothing more than a high-end version of Target. ‘Design for All’ could end up taking on a whole new meaning. Faith Popcorn recently told WWD that consumers are moving from conspicuous consumption to conscious consumption. They’re paying more attention to what they’re buying (and what they’re paying). If luxury can’t hold its value (and therefore, its prestige and exclusivity) any longer, then what what will take its place?

In the future, what will be considered ‘the new luxury?’

1. Rick Owens jacket, 2. Comme Des Garcons zip wallet, 3. ball chair, 4. Stella McCartney patent ankle boots, 5. Fornasetti plates, 6. Ungaro branch heels, 7. Twelve by Twelve matte sequin leggings, 8. YSL Y-Mail clutch, 9. Philippe Starck stump stool.

What’s on your list this year?

Everyone has used sticky notes, but they are rarely as stylish (or as practical) as the Graph Cube Post-It. The stack features 1,000 sheets that are printed with a 13 x 13 grid square. Perfect for doodling, writing in a straight line or just making your desk surface more stylish! I bought mine this weekend and have been admiring its beauty ever since…

Your turn:
1. What kind of bag do you carry?
2. What’s your dream bag?
3. What’s your most prized posession inside that you cannot live without?

I’ve desperately needed a new watch for the last year or so. The two I wear regularly have been dying a slow, slow death. The red cross model that I paid $12.99 for at Target three years ago has a splitting band and my trusty Swatch Typically Square from 2002 also needs a new band.

I’d been casually searching for a replacement, but I had some specific needs. The watch needed to be squared off, not at all sporty, to have a non-rubbery band and to be adjustable.

After sifting through the watch selections of Chanel, Philippe Starck for Fossil, Nooka and coming up empty handed while trying to find information on the much heralded launch by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy, I went back to my original plan.

The Nixon Chalet had been on my mind since I saw this bamboo model last year, but I decided black was a lot more practical and versatile.

In the reviews I read, many people relayed that the watch is chunky for a woman’s style, which is what I really like most about it. At the same time, the sleek, streamlined stylings of the watch face and band balance the weightiness out. The band has an enamel inlay and links can be added or removed.

I’m very happy with the sturdiness of the Chalet. I am probably not Nixon’s target customer, but this watch has totally won me over!

Do you wear a watch?
What’s your favorite brand or style of watch?

In early September, I bought an eccentric pair of Chloé green patent wedges as a gift to myself for my 27th birthday. Though they were amazingly perfect looks-wise, there was one major setback: they didn’t stay on my feet! I have narrow heels and the fact that these had a solid platform that didn’t flex and no laces or straps of any kind meant defeat.

The Chloé Fall 2007 wedges come in TONS of colors

Then, salvation arrived: Lee came up with the idea to add rivets and laces to the shoes. I’m not one for keeping items seen on the runway as-is and totally pristine, so I packed them in my suitcase and headed off to New York for vacation.

Once in New York, I hauled the Chloés over to Alex Shoe Repair (the best shoe repair guys I have EVER seen) in the East Village and in less than 15 minutes, I had a one-of-a-kind shoe that stayed on my foot! Thank god it all worked out because now I’m the proud owner of futuristic elfy wedges with a heel tap that resembles a goat hoof (by now, you’ve probably realized that I like really weird shoes).

So, thank you to Lee, Alex Shoe Repair and Chloé for not making me cry on my birthday!

Do you have any stories of shoe salvation? Please tell!

Red Lipstick Shirts: $20.00

The shirts are super soft 100% cotton in a fitted women’s cut and are available in sizes small, medium and large. Measurements are as follows:

Women’s Sizing

Small: 15.5 inches across chest (flat) x 22.5 inches in length
Medium: 16.5 inches across chest (flat) x 23.5 inches in length
Large: 17.5 inches across chest (flat) x 24 inches in length

Red Lipstick Posters: $20.00

I made the pink and white Kiss & Tell version awhile back, but I’m a red lipstick girl at heart and wanted a plain art print free of text. The posters are measure 13 x 19 inches and are a 2-color screen print on heavyweight white paper stock. They are a signed & numbered limited run of 20 total. The color in person is a very deep, vibrant red.

Click here to start shopping! As always, U.S. orders receive free shipping and overseas orders are a $5.00 flat rate (please add in a separate transaction). If you have any questions, email me at nubby @ nubbytwiglet.com!

The Marimekko clothing line designed by Samu-Jussi Koski features many prints from the archives but he keeps the collection current with modern, comfortable silhouettes. To me, Marimekko strikes the perfect balance between being fun and timeless.

Top: Prada, Marni, Viktor & Rolf. Bottom: YSL, Marni, Alexander McQueen.

The new crop of shoes that many designers paraded down the runways for the Fall 2008 RTW collections were outrageously high, super sculptural or a combination of both. While I love the wackiness (I’d throw on those Pradas to go to the grocery store, even) I’m wondering how walkable they really are! I’m loving the future; it’s about time it arrived!

What do you think of the new crop of designer shoes? Super fun or truly, truly outrageous?

Last week I finally tracked down an incredibly hard to find pair of gray patent wedges from the Dries Van Noten Fall 2007 RTW collection. There’s no denying that they’re strange looking and it took me months of contemplation before I finally decided that they were a go.

Now, I feel silly for waiting so long! Always trust the power of Dries. These shoes are shockingly comfortable because there’s a hidden one inch platform built into the front. Also, Dries has a way of using only the softest leather to line the shoes so you never feel any seams and they wear forever since the seams are triple-stitched.

This is my second pair of shoes from the Fall 2007 collection (a third is on the way!) and one of my favorite details is the sturdy tread that was featured in this line.

As you can guess, these shoes are not for the faint of heart. They will get you stopped in the grocery store by elderly women and talked up at parties. Some reviewers have called these shoes homely and orthopedic, but I have to disagree. They are like sculpture for the feet and I’m all for wearing my art!

Another girl who wears the Dries wedges totally effortlessly is Jane of Sea of Shoes. I never knew that mustard patent could look so cool!

What do you think of the Dries wedges? Edgy and fun or clunky and ugly?

This weekend while in Halo, I tried on the Dodie wedge by Corso Como and it was love at first site! I know that the height of 3.5 inches might suggest otherwise, but these are shockingly comfortable and stable! If you’re outside of Portland, the Dodie can be found on the Zappos website.

Corso Como has styles that reflect those of the top designers yet are a fraction of the price and are hand-assembled in eco-friendly factories in Brazil. The comfort of the shoes (even the sky-high ones) can be attributed to the extra layer of cushion consisting of foam and gel inserts underneath the liner and a flexible leather sole.

As you’ve probably noticed from the top photo compared with mine, the shoes can be tied in the front or back!

The Background on Blacktooth
Six years ago, when my brother Carey (nickname: Smokey) was still in high school, he decided to start a clothing label called Blacktooth for his senior project. The line started out with a handful of t-shirts that were covered in designs that had been hand collaged (back then, he didn’t have a computer)! He’d sell them to our friends for $10.00 each and then reinvest the money towards a new design.

Since then, Blacktooth Clothing has grown by leaps and bounds with a minimum of two full collections being released each year. Besides being sold directly through its namesake website, Blacktooth has been picked up by boutiques worldwide including The Wasteland in L.A., North Trooper in Toronto, and Hidden Labels in the U.K.  

Keep On Keepin’ On, 2008

I may be a bit biased, but my bro is the full package. Besides designing t-shirts, he’s full of ridiculously witty advice.

On the topic of Summer essentials, his recommendations are:
1. Don’t cut your jeans off cause when winter rolls around, you’re gonna freeze. Instead, roll them up.

2. Buy black pants ’cause when they rip, you can Sharpie your skin and no one will know.

3. Ride your bike. It saves money, doesn’t support the oil industry, and you need the exercise anyways from all the burgers you’re gonna be consuming.

Advice on Haters
With success at an early age (24), haters are bound to come out of the cracks. But, my brother is much feistier than I am and takes it all in stride. On the topic of the haters he encounters, he says:

Success causes more problems. I remember one time I did a shirt with a diamond on it way back in the day and this dude was trying to fight me in a parking lot saying I ripped him off ’cause the diamond is his logo and he’s been drawing it since middle school. Well, point and case be, right down the street was a diamond on a jewelry store sign that had been there at least 20 years before he was born. That is the type of stuff I run into. I wish haters would just quit talking and start creating.

Let’s Dance, 2008

Dream Big, Work Hard
Blacktooth Clothing was started by my brother with a few hundred dollars he earned from selling bootleg concert videos. He was 18 year old living in the suburbs of Portland, Oregon with a vision of creating t-shirts his friends and I would want to wear. He works hard, but has fun doing it. Every time I visit him, he’s on his laptop designing and submitting designs. That dedication paid off earlier this year when Urban Outfitters picked up three of his designs for nationwide distribution.

Our design sensibilities are very different, but I admire his dedication to consistently putting out the crafitiest, funniest shirts around.

The Miu Miu brand began in 1992 and the collection is titled after fashion designer Miuccia Prada’s nickname. I fist discovered Miu Miu in the late 90s when I began reading fashion magazines. The whimsical, rounded logo was immediately appealing and the prim schoolgirl / lolita looks that sometimes bordered on looking like uniforms were right in line with my aesthetic. 

Late last year, I purchased my first Miu Miu purse and fell in love with the beautiful craftsmanship and simple styling. I was hooked! Finally, a few weeks ago I got a Vitello Lux model (also known as the ‘bow bag’) because it is massive (about 13 inches across), classic in style and expands with ease (the flap flips upward). It’s perfect for everyday use and as a carry-on for traveling. Additionally, the combination of both handles and a shoulder strap add to the versatility. 

It goes without saying that Kris Atomic’s photo of the Vitello Lux is way better! On a funnier note, Lee thinks that when the flap is up, my purse looks like a monster with gold teeth: 

Lipstick, Fragrace and Hair Dye, Oh My!

1. Red Lipstick: The question I get asked most is what red lipstick I use and how I get it to stay put. I rotate between two reds; MAC Red and L’oreal Colour Riche in British Red.

Before applying lipstick, I start with a coat of Clinique Superbalm Lip Treatment. I tend to have very dry skin and this immediately evens out my lips. Allergy tested and fragrance free, it clears up even the worst chapped lips and makes lipstick go on perfectly smooth. Next, I apply lipstick straight from the tube and use a generic red lip pencil to lightly even out my lip line. If I’m feeling fancy, I add some MAC Lipglass in Russian Red to the top (see above).

2. Hair Dye: Years ago, I was a die-hard bright colored hair person. I did stints of black hair with Barbie pink roots, bright red hair with black tips and a six month run of blue hair. Special Effects dye was my best friend throughout those years!

While it was always an adventure, I finally gave up my unnatural hair color addiction in 2002. I was staining everything in sight an intense blue including phone earpieces, shirt collars, the bath tub and my pillows. By the time I stayed with a friend in New York for a week and accidentally stained all of his yellow towels with blue dye (he was subletting and had to replace them) I was done. I still miss it sometimes though because it’s pretty amazing how much of a transformation a new hair color can make.

Three years ago, I found a basic black dye that works exceptionally well and costs about $3.00 at Target. It’s Color Silk by Revlon and I love it! I dye my hair every three months or so and I like the way this dye fades over time into a softer, more natural black.

3. Fragrance: I’m not big on fragrance but there’s one that I use fairly regularly. It’s MAC Creations MV1 and is fusion of bergamot, lilies, white jasmine, vanilla, milk cream musk and sandalwood.

Though intense when first applied, it softens up fast and smells clean and inviting. One spray lingers all day. I tend to like fragrances that have strong vanilla overtones. Any recommendations?!

Honorable Mentions

1. Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara is the best drugstore mascara I’ve ever used. I was going to buy something fancy, but in a pinch I picked up a tube of this at Walgreen’s and I’m hooked. No clumping or flaking, really! You can keep building, layer after layer with ease. Scroll down to read the rave reviews!

2. Burt’s Bees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Creme smells like the filling of almond croissants and immediately soaks into the most chapped skin. This 100% natural mixture of sweet almond oil, aloe and vitamin E will get you hooked immediately based on the smell alone!

What beauty products do you swear by?

Share your secrets with us so we can become converts, too!

1. Green Marni heels, 2. Heart-shaped rubber bands, 3. YSL Y-MAIL patent coinpurse, 4. YSL Biarritz sandal, 5. Nixon Chalet watch in bamboo, 6. Orla Kiely windowpane jacquard cardigan, 7. any Fornasetti plates, 8. Tatty Devine moustache necklace, 9. Live Love Life journal set, 10. Forever21 F5701 sunglasses, 11. limited-edition Rich in Craft handbag, 12. Studio 65 lips sofa.

What’s making your heart pitter-patter this Spring?

P.S. Due to some very tight deadlines, I will not be blogging for the next few days. Thanks for understanding.

On Monday, I became the proud owner of these boots. I’ve already owned a pair of Fluevogs for a few years (my mod white boots) but I’ve been searching for some basic tall black boots with a relatively flat, walkable sole for quite some time.

One night, I noticed these in the sale section of the Fluevog site and since I had such good luck with the brand in the past, I decided to give them a go.

It should be noted that Fluevog has some of the best customer service. The site said that orders can take up to two weeks, but I received a phone call the next day letting me know that my boots were in stock and they arrived two days later!

The boots are made in Portugal and of amazing quality; the leather is super thick and shiny, the insides are fully lined in another sheet of leather, and the rubber soles are super comfortable. It’s love.

Finally, finally I found these sleek and simple slightly cowboy style boots by Destroy from Spain and it’s true love. Not only were they affordable (under $200.00), they’re fully lined in leather, have a wee little buckle along the back and are super comfortable.