Words: Choose Wisely Ann

This election has been a very passionate one from both sides. I read every one's comments, listen to the opinions, especially those that don't agree with mine. I hope to learn something from 'the other side' in an attempt to understand who they are and what they stand for. To say the least it has been an eye opener for me regarding my family and friends as many have revealed their true selves; which beg's the question 'why are we friends again?'  Anyway,  I wanted to mention the recent comments of political pseudo-celebrity Ann Coulter.

In the past I have done my best to quickly channel change when I hear her being "interviewed" or "debating" AKA shouting over the opposing side and sounding like the unreasonable, belligerent drunk we ALL try to avoid when we see them coming our way.  I personally find her demeanor to be abrasive, her tone condescending and her words not wisely selected, not to mention loud. Which all is counterproductive to her arguments and views I feel.

Ann likes to use the words "retard" and "retarded" to describe our President's actions and words which are not in line with her politics or opinions.  What she needs to realize is that such choice of words from someone in a professional position or otherwise actually has the opposite effect than intended. She is holding up the proverbial mirror to herself and her words reflect much more regarding HER level of intellect, her clearly limited vocabulary and her level of compassion much more than it does the presidents actions.

(Thanks to Global Grind for the above 2 tweets)

There are ways to express one's opposition, disdain or passion for a position, theory, thought or comment. There are also ways to  distract from one's creditability, Ann being a great example. You are not doing your position or party any good Ann by your public performance or ignorant comments overall in my opinion. If I were an undecided and if you are what "republican" looks like, I would swiftly get on the Obama program and cast my vote for 4 more years.

I wonder who hurt her so bad in her life and in turn ended up shaping the woman we see today? A woman who is so desperate to be a'celebrity' or public figure that they find it necessary to do so at the expense of others feelings and in a really unprofessional way.

I have a son who has Down Syndrome and I fear for the challenges that lie ahead of him, not from his perceived disability but by people like Ann who find it challenging to choose her words wisely and reflect on what impact they have on others.

Fear not Ann, I have an extra thesaurus if you need one.

Presidential Pink

In my PROfashional opinion last night was a crucial turning point in this election year and for the campaign of the president (who I support 100%). Finally calling out his opponent with the facts and in a manner suiting a president. I also have to say from a Fashion perspective it looked like Michael Kors won last night.  Both of the candidates wives turned it out in the most fabulous shade of PINK. 

Who wore it better?

 My pick is Michelle Obama's Michael Kors Dress/Jacket for several reasons, non of which have to do with my support of the president! The suit is tailored perfectly for her body. The chic shift and jacket combo were a sophisticated choice.  The styling was also better; pairing the dress/jacket with a classic strand of pearls. 

I did not care for the textural fabric, fit or styling of Mrs. Romney's frock. The jacket she had on before the debate was awful too, but an A+ for the color choice and her attempt at styling with this turquoise contrast colour and polish.

I personally ADORE this shade of pink!

Evolution Vintage PINK Picks

 1960's Pink Jacket/Dress Set

1970's Pink Maxi Dress

Mail Bag: Brooch The Subject

For every negative message or tweet I receive 100 positive ones. The haters are out there and I never usually respond to them but this time (for me) I wanted to.

I received a few tweets recently regarding my Evolution Rewind Ring collection. The woman accused me of "destroying vintage jewelry" and ranted on and on until I had to block her. I rarely block people either because I'm always open to a healthy debate or growth through constructive criticism. This person just didn't get it.

It is hard in 140 character or less to define WHY I created my ring line and HOW the pieces are chosen. Thankfully I have a blog.

WHY? The brooch over the years has been an accessory or a piece of jewelry that was widely worn and styled by women of all age ranges and classes. I have read that it is one of the oldest pieces of jewelry, dated back to the Bronze Age when pins were a popular adornment for clothing.

In recent years it has not garnered a lot of attention. From where I sit "modern day" women sparsely style these pieces. Fashion and trends are cyclical in nature; what was old always comes back around in a new form. For some reason, I have yet to see a contemporary spin on Re-Styling the brooch in a modern way with any consistency.

People do wear them, like myself, the odd celeb and fashionista but it is not a style staple, like a cuff or cocktail ring. When discussing the topic with other women the words "matronly" or dowdy" have been thrown around. I personally think they are a chic accessory with styling possibilities only limited by your imagination!

I wanted to bring back the brooch in a contemporary way via unique cocktail rings.

In my travels I found it difficult to find the authentic Vintage cocktail rings that I liked so I thought merging the two elements would be fabulous: Evolution Rewind was born. The rings are also reaching a new demographic of women who may not otherwise brooched the subject.

HOW:  Each brooch is hand selected by myself and all of the REWIND pieces are one of a kind. Some of the brooches have broken pins/backs and otherwise would not be functional. I have rescued these pieces from flea markets, old auntie's drawers as well as amazing Vintage jewelry collectors/dealers. Some are procured and created using amazing pieces from ladies personal collections.

I personally feel that Re-Styling these pieces is RESPECTING fashion's past and Vintage jewelry. A modern nod to the craftsmen and designers of days gone by. The pieces are too beautiful to sit in a thrift store or a drawer. The metals, stones and designs should be worn and given a new life. 

I still style brooches as they were intended (turbans, hats, lapel, bags, scarves, etc) but I have also made them Eco-Chic and Re-Styled them on the fingers of Fab fashionistas all over the world.

Bring the brooch back and Re-Style them in these ways: 

HAIR

A Large Modern Scarf

At the waist for evening (or day)

Double Duty: Oscar de la Renta brooches the band & sweater!

DIY Brooch belt - using a large brooch and vintage printed scarf. Adds a new look to the plain dotted dress. See more HERE

The lapel X 2

The Brooch Bouquet

 On a hat or beret

 Worn at the neckline for Day or Night

 Multiple Brooch Details at neckline of a dress or blazer.

Turban

Trim out a neckline on a solid color

An Evolution Vintage Brooch on a clutch!
(Thanks the Creative CjBlue for this)

Even the men can get in on this. A Fabulous brooch adds an extra something to a
traditional necktie.

How do YOU brooch the subject and style this accessory?

The First Lady Looks FORWARD

I was blown away by Michelle Obama's speech last night. For the first time I was a VERY proud American resident. With such effortless class and ease the First Lady delivered an amazing speech in support of her husbands re-election. The speech had such a genuine air about it. I read somewhere that she took the last month writing the speech herself (no 3rd party speech writers required). I loved the reinforcement that our choice is really not a political choice but a human choice. Never once slamming, degrading or talking negatively about the Republicans; total CLASS. She highlighted the President's desire for equality for all regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, income or education level. The choice in November is CLEAR to me; to move FORWARD. It makes me SAD that many people are so hung up on "What has not happened" rather than what the President has accomplished. People need to take a REALISTIC look at the political situation Mr. Obama walked into after 8 years of the Bush administration as well as the fact that REAL CHANGE takes TIME! By adjusting expectations and standing together we can all realize opportunities that are truly afforded to all in America if we are willing to work for it and offer our.

Tracy Reese Dress and J. Crew Pumps

I agree with Russell Simmons statement: Never stop giving back! First Lady Michelle Obama shared so many powerful messages last night, but the 1 that really stayed with me was when she said of President Obama, “He believes that when you’ve…walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you. No, you reach back, and you give other folks the same chances that helped you succeed.” To me, that’s the basic choice we face this Fall. Are we going to be a country where the priority is “get yourself paid and everyone else can fend for themselves?” Or a country where it’s ok to, “Get paid, but always give back too.” To me, it’s an easy choice. Listen, I’m as rich as a lot of these big Republicans, but I WANT to pay more taxes if that means better schools, health care, transportation and welfare, for everyone else. Because I know that the second you stop looking to help and give back in life, whatever success you’ve experienced will become worthless. I really hope The First Lady’s message came through loud and clear to ALL Americans last night, because if we don’t collectively embrace the concept of giving back, then we’ll be lost as a country.

Are you registered to VOTE?

(Image: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Esquire.com)

Did you miss the speech?? WATCH:

KORS: 30 & Fabulous

Happy Anniversary Michael Kors ~ 2011 marks the 30th year in the fashion business for this famous designer who has re-defined American Sportswear. His designs are timeless, classic and chic! He sold his first collection to Bergdorf Goodman at the age of 19 and has never looked back.









He designed for the French house Celine from 1997-2004 as well as continuing to design for his own label. He was the first ever women's ready-to-wear designer and creative director for Celine. I sincerely respect designers who can design under more than one 'umbrella' bringing their own design aesthetic but staying true to the labels history and catering to their customer. This creative multi-tasking is a very rare quality few designers can pull off well.


MK with Stylist Rachel Zoe: Harpers Bazaar.


His philosophy: "Make people feel confident and comfortable; help women look beautiful."

He is the recipient of the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) life time achievement award and at the age of 50 made him the youngest designer EVER to receive that honor.

MK has a large clientele of celebrities but he designs for real women. His clothes are fabulous and functional. My MK purchase for Fall/Winter; a black MK belted trench coat, which I LOVE:


First Lady Michelle Obama wearing Kors in her White House official portraits.


I loved his "Twisted Country Club Dressing" of the 1990's with all the 'supermodels' of the decade on hand at all of his shows.







MK signed on to Project Runway in 2004. Project Runway is "must see TV" at my house and I truly love MK for sharing his wisdom and honesty. Some of his no nonsense critiques are hilarious! and I always look forward to hearing his perspective on the designers.

His signature style: Black Blazer, Black T-shirt, and black trouser or jeans topped with black aviator's (MK of course). Chic & Sleek!


“I think fashion is traditionally about society, worshipping youth,” he says. “But I think the best combination is youth and experience. So right now is a wonderful moment for me. I still feel curious. I still feel excited about what’s next.”














I'm excited to see what is next for you too Michael, CHEERS to 30 more years!!! The sky's the limit.


SHOP: www.michaelkors.com