Hello Darlings,

Many people have their own rules and guidelines for shopping. After receiving a wonderful e-mail from a reader, I set out to make a post about my ultimate rule "Quality over Quantity".

My personal style is all about classic pieces. Classics are less likely to go out of style, and the quality is usually better. Quality over Quantity doesn't mean expensive over cheap... Designer labels do not guarantee quality! Finding quality requires closely inspecting the garment, so in the spirit of good shopping, here are my thoughts...

Consider the Material

Choose natural fabrics over polyester or synthetics

Sweaters: I like cashmere because it is light, warm and lasts

For going out tops and dresses my preference is silk

For casual tops and dresses, my preference is 100% cotton

For shoes, always choose leather

 

It should be cut and sewn on the grain

Patterns should line up at the seams' especially at the shoulders, collar and pockets

Hold fabric to light and make sure the weave is tight, even and uniform

The fabric should also hold its shape well.

Grab the fabric at the seams with both hands, and gently pull. If the thread pulls apart, they're not sewn properly

 

Seams and hems of a high-quality garment are always sewn straight

Hems should be nearly invisible

Garments should have at least two inches wide hems to allow for alterations.

 

Check for loose buttons

Button holes in a high-quality garment are often bound with thread for durability

Zippers should move freely up and down without hesitation

 

Trim should be sewn securely. Gently pull on the trim at different places to test.

Trim should complement the garment in color and in style

 

The lining in suits, blazer, and jackets should be dense and opaque

If the lining was properly sewn into the garment, it will not be tight

 

If a garment comes with a belt check it for quality

A cheap cardboard belt is a sure sign of a cheap garment.

 

The best quality shoes are made of leather

Check the tag if you are unsure - many types of leather look "real"

Examine the sole to make sure it is firmly attached to the shoe

Extras should always be attached securely

High-quality shoes sometimes have leather heels, with a layer of rubber or nylon on the heel

Heels are usually plastic covered with leather, and the higher the price, the better the plastic

Inspect the shoe's interior. Leather interiors absorb foot moisture best

Good-quality shoes are fully lined from front to back

  Preferring quality over quantity is my personal belief, but it is something that takes strong will. The one quality item will serve me better than the three that I must replace in just a wear or two. You don't have to spend a fortune to get quality. It takes patience and searching, not compromising on your standards, checking for the details, and understanding what it is that you want.

And remember sales are always great for buying things that were out of your price point before... personally I buy majority of my classic pieces on sale. But do not buy something just because it is on sale, you must love it. Keep in mind that fit matters and right undergarments. As well as, make sure you pay attention to details, especially wrinkles, stains, and holes. THE most important rule, if you don't love it, don't buy it. Buy things that make you feel beautiful and confident. Also Remember that you are going to wear them - so no matter what others think, be yourself and wear what makes you feel wonderful.   Sources: associated content; eHow; fashion spot; Moschino; lolita

Hello Darlings,

Just a random post.... After visiting The Little Fashion Treasure who made a post on Balmain $6849 tank top - Click here to Check it out - I realized how much Balmain is starting to irritate me. Sure the hype about Balmain was appealing for one season, but now it is just getting irritating. The pieces are stunning, but so is the rest of designer clothing...

To me, Balmain is like MK Olsen - first amusing but now simply irritating!!!

Hello Darlings,

Here's my second part on Spring Summer Trends for 2009. This time is all about tops: blouses, shirts, tees, tanks... as were seen on the runways of some of my favorite designers.

     

One Shoulder

The evening wear trend this season. Try this in a relaxed and romantic fit with new colors (ex. nudes). Lanvin explored this trend in variety of silhouettes - incredible collection, definitely one of my favorites. I adore this trend and have been wearing it for a while... It is sexy in subtle way. Try it.

Ruffles

Ruffles can be a big no no when overdone. If done in a tasteful manner they are charming and feminine. I am definitely going for this trend...only because I've always loved ruffles, especially when paired with masculine pieces.

Hello Darlings,

I love this simple Maggie Ward dress with a tint of sparkle. It is comfortable and goes with anything. Tonight I wore it with my Mackage leather jacket. Never thought a leather jacket would work for me but it gave character to my outfit - and made me feel like a " bad ass".

Tonight's soiree was a dinner party at a restaurant followed by Romeo and Juliet Ballet. If you live in Toronto, the performance is incredible. Visual and emotionally charged - you won't be able to take your eyes off the stage. I am still overwhelmed how wonderful it was :)

As for my outfit, well I went for simple...with a touch of sparkle :)

I wore my Ruthie Davis "screen" heels with Swarovski crystals. These shoes make me feel like a princess and to match the patent leather of the shoe, I wore patent leather Coach wristlet. I really love how the Swarovski crystals on the heels complement the sparkle of the dress and the patents leather adds a bit a little something to the entire outfit.

Sources: national geographic; lolita.