Do the Clothes Make the Doll?

Posted on September 19, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Or, does the Doll make the clothes? We will find out soon enough. Why? Because Kerry Washington has teamed up with “Scandal,” Costume Designer, Lyn Paolo and Elliot Staples, Head of Design for The Limited, Inc. to create a line in homage to the beautiful clothes worn by our favorite “fixer,” Olivia Pope. Check out Ms. Washington and the designers talking about the inspiration for the collection.

What to expect? 78 polished Olivia-esque pieces ranging from $49 to $250, including chic capes, coats, and smart pants suits. Here’s a sneak peek at the Scandal collection, to debut in The Limited stores and online next week.

So for you “gladiators in suits,” do the clothes make the Doll; or does the Doll (Kerry Washington) make the clothes? What say you?

Don’t forget to tune into the season premiere of Scandal on Thursday, September 25th!

Images: The Limited & The New York Times

Until Then,

The Pretty Domestic

The Must Haves: The David Yurman 30th Anniversary Limited-Edition Renaissance Bracelet

Posted on April 4, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

must-have \ˈməst-ˌhav\ –n

1. an essential possession: the David Yurman 30th Anniversary Limited-Edition Renaissance Bracelet is a must-have for your fine jewelry collection

–adj

2. essential: a must-have piece of arm candy

David Yurman is synonymous with classic style when it comes to jewelry; but for the 30th Anniversary of his line, he added a unexpected twist to his Classic Cable Bracelet – COLOR! The Limited-Edition Aluminum Renaissance Bracelet is available in Hunter Green, Amber, Gray, Champagne and Rose. Aren’t they gorgeous!

I love the idea of remaining true to the Classic Cable style, but creating an instant signature look by adding color. This is truly arm candy; and the Hunter Green is calling my name!

Happy Anniversary Mr. Yurman!

Until Then,

The Pretty Domestic

The Must-Haves: The Classics

Posted on February 6, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

must-have \ˈməst-ˌhav\ –n

1. an essential possession: the pump, a stylish shift or sheath dress, the perfect bag, a crisp white blouse, tasteful go-to earrings, and a DVF Wrap dress are the must-haves for every Pretty Domestic Doll

–adj

2. essential: a must-have wardrobe

Recently I had a conversation with one of my Dolls, who shared that the most stressful part of her day was deciding what to wear in the morning. I was taken aback, because she is perfectly coiffed head to toe whenever I see her.

I soon realized that a lot of women feel this way. However, with the addition of some must-haves in their closet, and they can start the day with a little less angst and a little more confidence. So here it is, my list of 5 must-haves. Let’s go.

1. The Pump.

The pump is a true fashion classic and is associated with style and glamour. A Doll needs many pairs for many reasons; but the true must-have is a classic black pump in leather (and patent).

Image: Christian Louboutin Pigalle 110

2. The Shift Dress or The Sheath Dress.

A shift is commonly confused with a sheath. Both refer to uncomplicated-looking dresses that end somewhere around the knee. The difference is that a shift tends to be less fitted around the waist and hips.

Images: Net-A-Porter

3. The Bag.

The Celine Trapeze Bag might be so Twenty-Thirteen, but it’s still a great tote. It comes in solids and prints, leather and suede; but more importantly is stylish, yet sturdy.

A great clutch is also a must-have wardrobe staple. I love the soft-clutches being shown on the runways.

4. The Perfect White Blouse.

There is nothing like a perfectly crisp white blouse. In my mind it takes a skirt, suit or pants from 0 – 10 in a matter is seconds. I particularly like a white blouse with a french cuff. If you don’t have cuff links, borrow your hubby’s or S/O’s.

Now, nobody, I mean nobody does a white blouse like Carolina Herrera. I love that it is her signature look. (Every Doll needs a signature look, or signature piece.)

Images: TallSkinnyRich & The Post_Gazette

5. The Earrings.

There are some days, and evenings, that call for a more ornate earring; but for everyday, a Doll needs a go to pair that fit every outfit, for any occasion. The go-to designer, David Yurman. His classic cable hoops never fail. They are simply a classic.

I know I said that these were my five must-haves, but the ultimate go-to frock for those mornings when you can’t decide what to wear is the Diane Von Furstenberg Wrap-Dress. This looks great on women of all shapes and sizes.

Peep these pictures of DVF from 1974 in her original wrap! PS ~ She’s doing iPad and iPhone cases and covers now!

Images: SheFinds

There you have it, my six must-haves. Leave me a message with the go-to staples in your wardrobe.

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap

Posted on January 13, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Ok Dolls, here are my winners and winners from last night’s Golden Globes Awards. I’m not doing losers. If you don’t have anything nice to say … you know the rest. Let me start by saying, the men looked good! They gave some of the Dolls a run for their red bottoms. Just saying’. More about the gentlemen later. Let’s go.

MANI CAM MANIA

I love that the “mani cam” was back. I think it’s whimsical and gives you a further look into the personalities of the celebs. My favorites …

Julia Louis-Dreyfus rocked short nude nails, with yellow Fred Leighton jewelry. I loved that the mani didn’t take away from the jewelry, which was gorgeous.

Image: E! Online

Zoe Saldana was my mani cam fav. The deep wine to black polish and 10 carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring, clutching the Bottega Veneta Pink Leather Embellished Pointillisme Knot Clutch was haute!

Inages: E! Online and ShopYourTV.com

WHO ARE YOU WEARING?

Sofia Vergara. I like this Doll; not as much as my hubby; but I’m a fan. She’s always over the top put together in a Jessica Rabbit kind of way. And, last night she didn’t disappoint.

The black strapless Zac Posen and Lorraine Schwartz statement piece worked. I even liked the lightened hair, with a deep side-part. (Deep side parts seemed to be a trend last night.)

Image: E! Online.

Julie Roberts. I may be the only one that was feeling her look; but I’m ok with that. Here’s the thing, I love a white blouse with an up~do. More than that, I love a collar. Heck my wedding dress even had a collar, so her white Carolina Herrera~inspired blouse under the Dolce & Gabbana strapless, crystal belted dress, with just a small sweep of a train was to die for! Again, not for everybody, but me, yep.

Image: E Online.

Cate Blanchett. Cate looked absolutely timeless in this Armani lace dress, adorned with Chopard Jewelry. The piece-de-resistance ~ the deep “V” in the back of the dress. (Still searching for a pic.) Killer!

Image: Huffington Post

Julianna Margulies was the gorgeous in her Andrew Gn bell-shaped dress with a capped sleeve. Again, loved the deep side part and low bun ~ beautiful with her raven colored hair. It worked really well. I particularly liked the black and gold embellishment on the shoulders and bottom.

Image: Pop Sugar

Kerry Washington and her baby bump were stunning! “The Fixer” was flawless in grey Balenciaga! Gorgeous, glowing and glam!

Image: Arts National Post

Margot Robbie was on point, head to toe. She rocked the white Gucci jeweled embellished dress; and knows how to wear a high-slit. The vintage Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry was also beautiful! Again, the deep side part and low bun. Fab!

AND THE WINNER IS!

Hands down without exception the winner is …

LUPITA NYONG’O! Sick, sick, sick! She killed it in the red strapless Ralph Lauren gown, with the attached cape. Makeup, flawless! Skin, beautiful! Hair, stunning! This picture does her no justice! Watch out fashion world, there is a new Doll in town!

Image: Pop Sugar

THE FELLAS, THE FELLAS

Simply put, the men were dapper. Let’s go.

Jonah Hill is sexy to me! There, I said it! He looked great in his tux!

Image: posh24.com

Leonardo DiCaprio is beyond handsome. I’m loving the goatee and the Gatsby~inspired hair.

Inage: E! Online

IDRIS ELBA! THAT IS ALL!

Image: Daily Mail UK

There you have it. The Pretty Domestic Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap. Leave me a comment on your favs!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

And the Winner Is …

Posted on December 18, 2013 by 1prettydomestic

Good Evening Dolls! I know it’s late, but last there are so many last minute Christmas details to attend to, I just couldn’t get to you before now.

As promised, today was the last day of the Pretty Domestic Stella & Dot Holiday Give-Away; and one special Doll is our winner ~

Mrs. Croxton!

Congratulations Mrs. Croxton! Enjoy your Serenity Stone Cuff and Stone Drops Earrings.

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Stella & Dot Holiday Give~Away!!!

Posted on December 8, 2013 by 1prettydomestic

I’m so excited today, because I am partnering with Stella & Dot Stylist, Kristin Biggs, to bring to you a 2013 Pretty Domestic Holiday Give~Away!

I met Kristin in Lilly Pulitzer, who was working the swankiest Stella & Dot in-store pop-up shop. So swanky in fact, that I left sans Lilly, but with a couple of jewelry pieces from the line; which really does have some of the most fabulously flirty baubles, and statement pieces.

Now it’s your turn to enjoy Stella & Dot as much as I. So, just in time for the holidays, I am offering one lucky Doll the chance to win this Serenity Stone Cuff and Stone Drops Earrings in gold or silver (your choice)!

Peep the entry “deets” below.

To Enter:

“Like” Kristin’s Stella & Dot FaceBook Page;
“Like” the Pretty Domestic FaceBook Page;
Follow Pretty Domestic on Twitter; and
Leave a comment below, sharing how you would wear the Stella & Dot Serenity Stone Cuff and Stone Drops Earrings!

For bonus points, subscribe to receive your weekly dose of Pretty Domestic via email!

The lucky Doll will be chosen at random on Friday, December 13th!

PS ~ You’ll also receive your gift in the cutest packaging!

Bon Chance!

~ The Pretty Domestic and Stella & Dot

Have Products, Will Share

Posted on November 25, 2013 by 1prettydomestic

If you have been following the news, you know that Lululemon has recently taken a PR hit, actually two in the last several months. First, see-through yoga pants, then a company spokesman says that the yoga pants are not for all body types. And I paraphrase, especially those whose thighs rub together. WHAT?!

Now, I know that there are a lot of runners, gym goers, Tango dancers (you know who you are) and yoga practicing Dolls on Pretty Domestic, who think that their “gear” is as important as their workout routine. Well never fear, there is an alternative to Lululemon ~ Athleta. Not to say we won’t ever spend our money with them again, but our feelings are hurt right now.

I happened upon Athleta one afternoon, and have to say was thoroughly impressed. The workout attire is functional and fly. (Yep, I said fly. I’m ol’ school.) The running/yoga pants can easily transition to a casual trip to the mall or the movies. I particularly like the Fusion Pant, with the flared bottom and back pocket. They also carry two of my favorite clothing items, sweaters and sweater dresses with thumb holes. So cute! (Note: The pictures do these no justice.)

Athleta also carries all of the accoutrements for your workout experience ~ everything from Sparkly Soul Sparkly Wide Headbands, to Smartwool Reversible Training Headbands, to UGG Classic Ear Warmers with Speaker Technology.

Finally, check out the Chi Blog for interesting healthy lifestyle articles.

Like I said, we may decide to give “Lulu” a try again in the future, but right now it’s good to know that a Doll has options.

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

And the Oscar Goes to …

Posted on February 26, 2013 by 1prettydomestic

Hi Dolls! And the Oscar buzz continues. Not so much about who won, but for who wore what? Although, how about that sweet redemption for Ben Affleck!

Anywho, here is my Oscar Red Carpet Quick Post.

Guliana Rancic’s New Hair Cut. Love it much more than extensions. I also like the warmer color. It is much more becoming, and she looks younger.

Credit: Zap 2 It

The Mani Cam. The mani cam is just a cute little red carpet feature. My Sunday night fav, Miss Pope. I’m sorry, Kerry Washington. Love the bauble!

Credit: E. Online

Miss Q. ~ Quvenzhane Wallis. Need I say more. What a fabulous little Doll in training. Loved the up-~do with the pearl headband. She was just too cute with the Sammy Puppy Bag. That will be all of the rage with the younger set.

Credit: Us Weekly

Jessica Chastain a la Veronica Lake. I have to admit that I wasn’t a fan of her dress, although it received raves. But, her hair was everything. The red lip was also a compliment to the red hair.

Credit: Just Jared

Zoe S. Up to this point in the show, Zoe Saldana was my pick for best dressed. From the Alexis Mabille Couture dress, Neil Lane jewelry, Roger Vivier shoes, to the Salvatore Ferragamo clutch, she was so hollywood! Absolutely stunning!

Credit: Pop Sugar

And Then Charlize Theron Graced the Red Carpet. I died! Not everyone can don this pixie blonde style. It was the perfect accessory to her Dior Couture two piece number and Harry Winston jewels. Love the slight hint of beading on the peplum and the perfect length train. My hands down favorite of the evening. (And she dances beautifully!)

Credit: Tom and Lorenzo

The Runner-Ups …

Melissa McCarthy. I thought the vintage ’60 style hair was fab, as well as the draping of her gray dress. Some bashed her. I thought she looked lovely.

Credit: Huffington Post

Halle Berry. I didn’t like how the dress presented on the red carpet (a little to Vegas for my taste), but was sold when she blessed the stage. She represented the Bond Girl franchise extremely well.

Credit: Tom and Lorenzo

And not to overlook the men, I thought Chris Tucker looked super handsome in his navy blue tuxedo.

Credit: Yahoo Movies

Well Dolls, that’s my Oscars Red Carpet Quick Post. Who were your favorites?

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

21 Days & Counting ..

Posted on December 4, 2012 by 1prettydomestic

Ok Dolls, this fab gift was brought to my attention by my wonderful Step-Mother! It’s the Harper Connect Bag by Diane Von Furstenberg. What make this bag so “haute” you ask? Well, not only is it stylish, it’s practical because the back side holds an iPad! Sounds too bulky and utilitarian to be fly; but trust me its super cute.

I’m not normally a fan of shoulder bags, and have traditionally been a tote or top handle girl, but I would definitely carry this bag. I think it’s the perfect gift for the tech savvy Mom.

Until tomorrow, happy shopping,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Day 22 & Counting …

Posted on December 3, 2012 by 1prettydomestic

If you are like me, invariably someone in your family will give you gloves for Christmas. I have enough practical gloves to keep my hands warm until the end of days. What I don’t have enough of are fashion gloves. You know, those that add that extra umph to your outfit, but don’t serve as hand warmers.

Here are some tres chic glove gift options.

These gold Intrecciato Leather Gloves from Bottega Veneta are to die for! They only have limited sizes remaining; but if you are lucky, you can get the size of your intended gift recipient on Net-a-Porter.

These studded leather gloves by Burberry at Nordstrom are also super hot.

And finally, long black leather gloves, a la Ms. Hepburn (Audrey, that is), are a perfect gift.

Until tomorrow, happy shopping,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

The Pretty Domestic | Life with Elle

A Lifestyle Blog Musing On All Things Luxe, Lifestyle + Beauty

Category Archives: Fashion

Do the Clothes Make the Doll?

The Must Haves: The David Yurman 30th Anniversary Limited-Edition Renaissance Bracelet

The Must-Haves: The Classics

Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap

And the Winner Is …

Stella & Dot Holiday Give~Away!!!

Have Products, Will Share

And the Oscar Goes to …

21 Days & Counting ..

Day 22 & Counting …