To Knit or Not to Knit..

Living in Los Angeles is living in one of the most popular fashion hotspots in the country. We are surrounded everyday by countless retailers and designers; you might even work for one. Trends, inspiration, and new concepts are developed each day and available for the world to see.

In stores, winter collections are now being shipped to retail locations and put on display. I myself see new inventory and new mannequin displays every day I go into work. With colder weather a few classic changes are to be seen in fashion. Coats, scarves, fur, oversized sweaters and knits are just a few to appear on the cold scene.

Knits are one staple for the fall and winter months because it is so comfortable, versatile, and warm. One major trend I have seen recently is all knit outfits- head to toe. Knits are normally scene as light shirts, sweaters, jackets, or coats however this fall fashion has taken wearing knits to another level.

Knit dresses, coats, cardigans, tops, skirt, and pants are being seen on the runway and in store being paired together. Michael Kors, Calvin Klein and Emilio Pucci’s  2014 Fall Collection features all knit looks being worn. This is definitely something new to be seen this season. The knitted garments are seen making up most of the model’s outfits and being one large continuous look. This trend is seen in neutral and darker colors such as the colors shown below (charcoal grey, black, and chocolate brown).

In stores I have seen this trend a lot less bold and more refined to target the greater public. The brand Skingraft, sold on revolveclothing.com, features all an knit dress that adds a new modern spin to the “sweater” dress. Made of a wool blend, the dress features a knotted design in the front, faux leather straps on the elbows, and a modern high-low style of dress. This is one example how this years trend is giving sweater dresses a much needed face lift and putting them back in the public attention for a must have.

Pacsun’s brand, Some Days Loving Scandel, is an example of how all over knit outfits are showing up in a younger target group. Knitted dresses are not being seen as an older woman’s piece of clothing any more. This mass retailer is selling a loose-fitting colorblock knit dress. This dress has a very young, fun, and flirty feel about it and is popular at the store. It can be paired with leather leggings and booties to complete the fall friendly look.

I for one love this current trend and think it is perfect for the (hopefully) upcoming cold season. Knits, especially in dresses, is a great way to incorporate the knit fabric and texture while still maintaining a modern yet unique look. Plus, knitted garments are extremely comfortable! Huge hit to achieve the California-cool style many Southern Californians emulate.

-Abigail

Food and Other Drugs Part 5.

My Friends and I enjoy eating out but, most importantly we enjoy a great brunch with great mimosa’s or any type of fruity alcohol for Sunday Funday! We discovered a cute little restaurant Tart which is located on Fairfax directly across the street from the Grove and what sparked my interest was its art decor on the outside. Tart is like an Urban Oasis of food and the crowd is very mixed as well. Once you’re inside, it almost gives you a southern hospitality feel and they have a cozy outdoor seating area also perfect for those sunny days in LA. The food is nothing short of delicious and they offer these huge punch bowls of alcoholic beverages you can spilt amongst your friends for a girls or guys day out.

The place even has a cute little pool on the outside patio and offers you 50% off your meal if you jump in fully clothed! Hilarious right! I was able to find a funny pic of some friends jumping into the pool

The only downside about the place is that its always packed on Sundays and its very small to keep the ambiance intimate so, if you’re looking for a new brunch spot in LA get there early because they also do not take reservations!

~Elena

Born in East L.A.

There are certain trends that have been exclusive to Los Angeles, whether it’s culturally or economically exclusive, it’s rare when it actually ventures out of the area of origin; with the exception of Lolita and Punk culture, of course. Los Angeles is famous for creating a certain laid back style that some have looked down on due to the image of being self-absorbed compared to other big cities like New York. A lot of the fashion subcultures that have risen out of Los Angeles have been from the social movements in the past and have transformed into a new variant of that culture, while still upholding the traditional values.

Most recently one of the most recognizable Angelino subculture has been brought to the attention the Japanese people, The Cholo culture of East LA. Cholos are typically seen as a negative attribute of the city, due to their crime activity. Cholos are considered to be the same as pachucos, since they will always look towards Pachucos for certain philosophies, and styles. They’re easily recognizable through their wardrobe: Loose khaki pants that are starched and creased, loose clothing, and wife beaters. While most will typically sport the buzzed hair style or the longer, slicked back hair style reminiscent of the old Pachuco hair styles of the 40’s.

The person who is accredited to bringing the Cholo culture to East LA, according to Fusion Magazine, is Shin Miyata. Miyata traveled from Japan to East Los Angeles and easily became fascinated and immersed into the Chicano movement and Barrio environment. After returning to Japan, he founded Barrio Gold, his music label that eventually serves as the foundation for the Japanese Cholo culture. Miyata has given underground Chicano rap artists the opportunity to play their music in a more mainstream environment and it increases their popularity abroad, whereas they wouldn’t have the same opportunity here in Los Angeles.

However, the Cholo culture is still prominent in East Los Angeles, but it does not hold a very positive image. Fortunately, the people in East Asia see it as a culture that thrives on resisting authority.

– Luisa 

Source: http://fusion.net/story/5371/japanese-cholos-from-east-l-a-to-east-asia/

Food and Other Drugs Part 4.

Is a fairly large Gourmet Market that seats about 255 people, Patisserie (a shop where French pastries are made) and Cafe Located On the corner of 700 Grand Ave in Downtown Los Angeles. You can find all your Italian favorite on the restaurant menu as well. My favorite dishes are the Gorgonzola pizza and Lasagna. They even have an awesome Brunch selection on Sundays. The portions are very small as well, typically like you would find in an authentic Italian restaurant. My favorite part about this restaurant is their bakery and their desert menu. The offer a wide variety of choices such as Macaroons, Gelato, Beignets, Sorbet, Creme Brûlée, and my favorite Tiramisu. The only thing I dislike about this restaurant is that they don’t accept reservations due to the fact that they do have seats that can sit up to 255 people.

YUMMMMyyy

~Elena

Food and other drugs part 3.

THE REEF is home to the formerly LA Mart and is historic landmark in Los Angeles that has serviced the furniture, design, gift, and home industry for 55 years. Today THE REEF brings together three distinct yet symbiotic, communities: LA Mart, Maker City LA, and Magic Box to support all types of creators. THE REEF is a place dedicated for the culturally diverse, artisanal designers and creators unique to Los Angeles. This past weekend on November 15th, 2014, I had the pleasure of participating in a sip and shop and Fashion show held inside Magic Box. The sip and shop offered over 250 participating brands and designers who had booths up selling and promoting their lines and or products in one room and in the next room they help fashion shows for RTW and High Fashion. The space they offered was great and each Vendor utilized the space very well. It was an interesting experience to say the least because I’ve never been to a fashion show that incorporated Vendors selling their merchandise as well.

My dress from the fashion show

~Elena

Food and Other Drugs Part 2.

Toast is located on West 3rd street in Los Angeles and is and perfection combination of trendy Los Angeles eatery and laid back spot for brunch. My reason for loving this restaurant is because it reminds me of downtown Oakland and gives you that small neighborhood vibe. They offer super fresh ingredients as well for your entree choices and also offer yummy bakery treats inside along side a neighboring bakery called Sweet e’s which I love as well.

Toast has been featured on TV shows and movies such as “Today,” “Rachel Zoe,” “Rachel Ray,” “Entourage,” “The Hills,” and the movie “No Strings Attached.” Toast is the perfect destination for a perfect sunny day in LA because they even offer cozy outdoor seating.

My favorite Meal at toast and their fruit is also so fresh!!! YUMmmm

~Elena

Food and Other Drugs Part 1.

I grew up in Northern California but, to be a little bit more specific the Bay Area. I grew up around a lot of art and culture in they Bay and coming to La I really struggled with trying to find a piece of home because the lifestyle is so different. The Bay area is especially known for its lifestyle and diverse population. Some places no matter where you travel or move throughout life just feel like home because the atmosphere and that’s what the bay is for me. Everyone is so welcoming and down to earth up north and among some of the nicest individuals you can come across. During the time that I’ve lived here in La I haven’t managed to run into extremely nice people just because and not much people are down to earth and focus on fame instead of who they treat others. Although I haven’t managed to run into a crowd like back home, I’ve managed to find a few places that I enjoy going to quite often that remind me of certain places I used to go and places I used to eat as well.

Streets like this I miss about Bay

~Elena

Forgotten Finds

With the holiday season quickly approaching with each passing day, looking for great deals is becoming a lot of peoples focus. Lucky for you I have a great solution for all your shopping needs!

Los Angeles is home to countless fashion retailers and warehouses. Multiple times a year companies will host warehouse sales putting out massive amounts of discounted merchandise. For fashion savvy students shopping on a budget this is the perfect choice to grow your closet and get presents for all of your girlfriends.

As I mentioned before, I work for BCBGMAXAZRIA and this week they are having a public warehouse sale in Vernon at their corporate office (about 10 minutes from downtown L.A in the Leonis warehouse.). BCBGMAXZRIA apparel normally ranges from anywhere around $80-$1,000 not including Runway pieces. At this week’s warehouse sale, tops go for $5-$10, dresses for $10-100, shoes for $10-$20, and faux fur jackets for $10. Talk about amazing.

Many of my coworkers have gone to the sale and are really pleased with the amazing finds they found. The great prices for all of the merchandise make perfect cheap gifts that any girl is sure to love. I am personally going to the sale this Friday! (Open from 12-4pm). Beware lines can get extremely long so be sure to arrive early to avoid the shopping traffic.

-Abigail

shop until you drop

As the holidays quickly approach, many people are beginning to do Christmas shopping for themselves and loved ones. The obvious go-to event many people shop is Black Friday. Many of us have the courage and dedication to stand in hour long lines and shop in the wee hours of the morning. However if you want to skip all of that madness I have a better idea..

Many stores this year are beginning their Black Friday sales the day before and even multiple days before. Some stores are even allowing you to shop before the sale and put the items you want on hold but still giving you Black Friday deals. This is a great alternative to still get the amazing pieces you have beendreaming about for weeks.

For example, BCBGMAXAZRIA is beginning their killer deals on the Wednesday before Black Friday. As an employee at BCBGMAXAZRIA, I have noticed that not many shoppers are aware of this change and will end up missing out on this great chance.

If you are in need of any dresses for holiday parties or even New Years Eve dresses, Windsor is beginning their Black Friday deals on Thanksgiving Day. Who wants to go shopping on Thanksgiving? I know. However if you want some good deals without all the crazed shoppers this can be a good option.

Another great option is shopping the online deals. Many stores offer the same in-store deals on their website. So if you would like to skip actually going to the mall then you can shop online! Go to your favorite stores beforehand and try on the items you want to buy and find the correct size. Then you can go online when the Black Friday deals begin and buy online. You save money while avoiding the people-packed stores.

Shopping the early Black Friday sales is a way to avoid all of the madness and gain a few extra hours of sleep that day. So if this is something you are interested in I recommend doing a little internet research on your favorite stores. See what deals they will be having and even call up the stores and ask when their sales will be beginning.

-Abigail