A super duper short hiatus

What my old place resembled last week

If any of you have been wondering about my lack of posting/commenting/general lack of presence, or *tear* even if you haven't been wondering, here's an explanation! I've been super busy the last couple weeks moving out and into a new place! I still have no Internet connection right now, but I should be back online Monday :)

Blogger about town

Button-down shirt: Banana Republic
Vest: Forever 21
Pearls: gift
Leggings: Zara

I am exhausted. More about that later. This week is a big fashion week if you're in Vancouver, thus my "creative artist" outfit. Although I know that artists don't all dress ultra stylishly, or modern since my own Mr. Artist prefers dressing more like Hugh Hefner, than Karl Lagerfeld.

This week Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy will be hob-nobbing it up with the stylish elite of Vancouver at Vancouver Eco-Fashion Week and the 23rd annual Fiat Mode Fashion Show. The Fiat Mode fashion show is a celebratory fashion show highlighting the creations of Vancouver Community College's new Fashion Arts graduates.

Unfortunately I managed to double-book myself, so attending in my stead is guest writer and fellow blogger Billie-Ann, aka The Spoon, of The Daily Spoon. I'm sure she will provide you insightful and hilarious commentary on all the fashions!




Check out this video for coverage from last year's VCC show care of The Style Spy!

Dear MizzJ: Oxford Bootie Wedding Shoes

Hi there!

I have a question about a recent post of yours about the Elizabeth and James Loni Lace Up Pumps. I've been searching for oxford lace up heels for my wedding in November and I saw your post about the Elizabeth & James shoes. I love them but just not sure that they work with my dress. Can I bother you for your opinion? I don't want to spend over $250 on a shoe that isn't right.

I've attached a photo of my dress - if you agree that it's just not a good match maybe you can point me in the right direction?

Thanks so much!

Noelle

http://www.helloagaingirls.com

Hi Noelle,

Thanks so much for your question! I looove hearing from readers :) Those boots are great eh, but not as much as your dress! It's gorgeous! I totally agree with you and am happy to hear you're going for a more original choice.

Now I love the style of the Elizabeth & James ones, but with your dress I think something simpler on the foot would be better as the crochet pattern of the shoe's material just doesn't look as elegant as the pattern of your dress - it's really more something that would better spice up a regular outfit. For your dress, I'm feeling something more simple, but still a bootie! Here's a bunch of options I found in order of price:

Dollhouse Fancy ankle boot, $42.37

These are at the lowest end of the scale, and you can see why. These super simple shoes feature a platform foot and 4.25 " heel. I like the clean design and trendiness of the peep toe and the flower adds a playful visual detail; however these don't seem quite fancy enough right?

Dolce Vita Misty platform sandal, $146.26

Another trendy option that is simultaneously elegant are these platform Dolce Vita sandals. This silhouette has been everywhere this past summer and is something you could wear with skirts and shorts after the wedding is long over, while still looking perfectly great under your dress. While these are neither oxfords, nor booties, I think this option will satisfy naysayers who want a more traditional pump because your skirt length will make it appear like a plain ol' sandal until BAM! - that upper wraparound strap shows.

Fornarina ankle boots, $165

These classic booties are simple, elegant, but not delicate. Unfortunately these are a light grey, but this is such a typical bootie design, I'm sure that you could find countless other similar options.

Camilla Skovgaard chalk calf saddle flap peep-toe booties, $321

Finally, there are these fantastic booties from Bluefly. This pair is the winner here in my opinion as they are exactly what I think would work for you, however they are a bit pricey!

Thanks for your question Noelle and good luck with your wedding shopping! Do please let me know what you finally go with!

If you have a burning style, or beauty question, I would love to hear from you. Just leave your question in the comments, or send me an email to mizzjblog at gmail dot com.

Lust of the Week: Michael Kors Fall 2010

Yes, I will admit it. I cut this photo out from the Michael Kors site. Damn you Flash for not letting me easily copy images! I just had to show off this look to you though as it is a look I deeply admire and wish to emulate. Classy, sexy, and sophisticated - 3 words that every high maintenance woman should seek to be. If you can achieve all 3, then you look "of quality." Classic preppy elements like the no-nonsense camel pencil skirt pair gracefully with MK's cashmere bodysuit (oh the luxury of covering one's body in cashmere!) while the sky-high gladiator heels, funky belt, and what looks like some sort of fur covered clutch, spike up the personality factor. Imaginary sugar daddy, buy me this please.

Update: Thanks so much to Michael Kors for sending me a high-res image to use instead! You guys rock.

Get your shop on - this week's hottest online sample sales

Hey all, just a quick post today featuring a massive list of online sample sales on right now that I received via SampleSalesSites.com's mailing list! This awesome newsletter keeps you up to date on all the best online sales. Here's this week's edition:

365Hangers: Shop designer pieces by size – everything at least 70% off retail!

Beauty Story: ATOPALM, T’Fivve and DERMAbaria Skin Care by SkinScientifica

Beyond the Rack: Brunello Cucinelli, Toys for Boys, Beatrice Holloway, Etienne Aigner Sunglasses, Cabrelli & Co., Kensie Denim, Superfit Kids, Mafia

Billion Dollar Babes: Lauren Moffatt, Single

Biva: Apples & Oranges, Vera Wang Perfume, Celine Dion

BULX: Bathroom Remodel

eBay Fashion Vault: BCBGeneration

Editor’s Closet: Valentino Shoes

Eziba: Jewelry: Midnight Metallics, Salvador Stools

Gilt Groupe: Alexander McQueen, Australia Luxe Collective, Blinde Eyewear, Bounkit Jewerly, Fine Jewelry by Sutra, Geren Ford

Gilt Man: Buckler, Calvin Klein Underwear, Jean-Michel Cazabat, The Sharper Image, Yoko Devereaux

Gilt Children: Olive Juice Kids

Gilt Home: Rosanna, Inc.

Gomatta Girls: Calvin Klein, AGB, Max Studio, Enigma

Guiltless Purse: Save up to 70% off on handbags by Furla, Cole Haan, Botkier, Kooba, Alexander McQueen & more!

Hautelook: Stila, Somme Institute, William Rast Women, dav Blowout, William Rast Men, Da Lil Guys by Baby Nay, Erge, Chandra Boutique Rugs, Meredith Wendell, Alterna, InStyler, NuFace, Samantha Wills

ideeli: Knitwit, Yuka, Balance Collection, Circulon, Western Chief, Martha Stewart Rugs, Calvin Klein Belts and Bags, Paper Denim & Cloth

Ivory Trunk: Watch Blowout

JackThreads: Carapace, Flud Missed Opportunities, Brixton

Jetsetter: The Margi – Athens, Greece, The Galaxy Hotel – Crete

Kembrel: C&C California

Luxury Hut: Michael Kors Sunglasses, FRETTE

Mintbox: Sephora Bare Escentuals discount, Paige Denim 20% off in-store, C&C California, Lancome, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bobbi Brown

Modnique: High Street Apparel, Pinko Poly Handbags, Diamond Jewelry, Bosco Giovanni Jewelry, Lancaster Watches

One Kings Lane: Chic Canvas Custom Photos on Canvas, Arteriors Home Lighting & Accessories, Archipelago Candles & Potpourri, Tourance Baby Baby Blankets, Momeni Kids’ Rugs

OohILove: Save up to 90% on Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Christian Louboutin and more!

PLNDR: Mishka, Gourmet

Reebonz: Burberry, Gucci, Fendi, Pop Up Sale

Row Nine: Di Modolo Jewelry, Gevril Watches

Rue La La: Judith Leiber, Charles Jourdan, Stonewall Kitchen, The Perfect Date Dresses - featuring Max & Cleo, ABS, Single, Andrew Marc and BCBGMAXAZRIA, Joseph Abboud – Home

SeenOn: Tucker Paisley

Snappy Tuna: Rosanna

Swirl: Bensimon

The Mini Social: Le Toy Van, Sophie Catalou

Totsy: My-Bands, Wee Squeak, Beibi

UrbanBloke: Christian Audigier Shirts & Undergarments

Zulily: amykathryn, Mulberribush Infant, Mary James, Screaming Beauty, Cal Kids Bedding, Hype, Dogwood

Happy Shopping!

My vision ends with the apple on the tree

Off-the-shoulder top: H&M
Skirt: Aritzia
Knee-socks: Nine West
Shoes: Spring
Bracelets: Aldo?, gift from China

I'm going to apologize right now if I'm a bit MIA over the next week or two. I'm pretty busy at the moment, so I'll need some time to figure things out and get settled, but I'll try my darndest to keep you updated with fresh posts!

This outfit is my first attempt at wearing socks with heels. I felt a lot of trepidation attempting this look, but hey no balls, no glory right? To pull off this look, I'd say try to keep your socks and your shoes to somewhat matching tones. I definitely got a lot of looks with this outfit, but hopefully they were good ones! At least I felt pretty.

Did I mention that I'm really digging Nicki Minaj lately? She's been around for awhile, but this is her first big solo single. Despite that, the budget for this video is crap. Like seriously, I could have worn a geisha costume and thrown a few sheets around a garage to make this video. I can tell that the entire budget went into makeup because damn, her face is flawless! Next time Nicki, give a little to get a decent video director?

Winner Announcement + FMA Fashion Week 2010

This week has been crazy busy for me! What with compiling all your awesome entries to my What's your Fall Frenzy? contest, yoga, fashion shows, and editorial meetings for Schema, this week has flown by. Thank you to everyone for your awesome answers! I enjoyed reading every one. Unfortunately, there can be only one winner, so without further ado, the randomly drawn winner of the $100 Shopbop gift certificate is...

Kristin of Bon Bon Rose

Congratulations Kristin! Please contact me asap to claim your prize.

So as mentioned, this week I attended the FMA Fashion Week. This yearly week-long event is hosted by FMA, which is a local pop culture TV show (FMA = Fashion Music Art). The culture fest included musical performances by many upcoming talents, including local gal Elisse Estrada, art exhibitions, and of course hot fashions. I decided to check out the Kiss & Makeup show and I was not disappointed.

Vancouver came to represent and they did it with force! The fashions were wearable, sexy, and yet everything looked like something you could just throw on and be comfortable enough to eat Denny's in at 3am (or is that just me?). Even better was the makeup done by Becca. Fitting the theme of tribal fashion, the makeup featured flawless, luminous skin (a huge trend for fall) with cornrowed hair and fierce slashes of color across the cheekbones. I now want fried cornrow hair. Check out the photos below. Thanks to my awesome photographer Jason Wong for the great pics!

Lust of the Week: Tarina Tarantino Bubble Pop earrings

via Tarina Tarantino, $165

These cluster drop earrings from cute-punk designer Tarina Tarantino make me wish I wasn't such a wuss and still had pierced ears. Long story short, this high maintenance woman is a total lover of earrings, but utterly afraid of putting metal through her skin. Why can't there be more pretty clip-on options?! These pearly pink and Swarovski crystal earrings are delicately girly without giving you a sugar ache.

All those wasted lives in the wilderness downtown

White tank: RW & Co.
Drapey cardigan thingy: Plenty
Leggings: Zara
Scarf: Gap
Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs
Sandals: unknown

This is my give up outfit when I feel too lazy to come up with something original. I like it though. It's damn comfortable and it has different colours, so I think it works. I'd say it's very me as well, with its layers and slouchy feel. My hair is bugging me lately. Anyone recommend a new do' for me?

This week's song comes care of Canadian maestros, Arcade Fire. The video for We Used to Wait has been gaining buzz online for its interactive nature utilizing Google maps and HTML 5 technology. If you don't have the Chrome browser, the interactive video website won't really work, but here's a Youtube video showing what could happen if you did. The song isn't bad either and features the typical Arcade Fire rushing crescendo of repeating piano measures overlaid with hushed vocals. It puts me in a very hipster mood, which I think goes well with the mood of this outfit too, don't you think?

Current Inspirations: Lady, you got Class

An amalgamation of late summer loves, and new fall musings, this inspiration board reflects the way I felt earlier this summer with my previous board. Looks like I'm still in love with neutral, pale tones and lady-like glamour. Good thing that the fall runways have been as well! How serendipitous!

Key elements featured here:

• Ivory, blush pink and grey
• Scalloped everything
• Lace and floral
• 50s style: full skirts and slim fitting sweaters, full hair, lips and winged eyeliner
  
• wide-legged pants
• defined waistlines
• gold

When shopping for your fall wardrobe this season, be sure to shop safe! Here are some helpful tips that have helped me, care of AVG:

1. Look for the “https” in the URL. The “s” ensures security.
2. A locked padlock icon in the address bar or on the bottom right corner means the site is approved by a trusted third party.
3. A green Internet address bar means you are probably safe from phishing and online fraud, because it requires an ‘extended validation SSL certificate.’
4. Shopping with trusted online sites or brands that have a safe reputation will likely offer more safety.
5. Online security software is a must. You can get it free at for the PC or Mac

But remember, no security solution can replace common sense. When in doubt, don’t make any transactions or give away any personal information.

Shop her closet: Christabelle's Closet

Having a fashion lover as a best friend can be a very handy thing, particularly if that friend is the same dress and shoe size. A best friend's closet can be like shopping at a mall - for free! For those of us without such a fortunate relationship though, there are sites like Christabelle's Closet. Featured on TV and in magazines like Shape, Star, and O Magazine, Christabelle's Closet is one of the best places online to purchase sweet deals on resale designer items.

Owner Christabelle has worked for years in the fashion and beauty industries and now uses her connections in these worlds to bring consumers the cream of the crop in terms of fashion and accessories straight from the closets of the rich and famous. "Regular" people can contribute too and make a little cash from their gently worn items. Christabelle's Closet regularly features pieces from such designers and brands as Anya Hindmarch, Botkier, Dolce & Gabbana, Ferragamo, Clinique, and Lancome.

My only qualms with the site is that from the POV of someone in the software industry, I find the website to look amateurish and hard to navigate. For a service that is so well-known, the site really deserves a slick revamp; however it gets the job done, so I guess that's alright.

As an exclusive offer for Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy readers, Christabelle's Closet is offering 20% off all items for your new fall shopping purchases! Just use the discount code CLASSY20 at checkout - happy shopping!


In other news, one of my favourite Vancouver bloggers, miss Bunnie of The Bunnie Bar is launching her own accesories online store, Love, Bunnie! I'm very excited as her style is always impeccably trendy - she is one lady whose closet I would love to rampage through! In celebration of her store launch, she is hosting a giveaway to win something from her line. Trust me when I say this is a giveaway you don't want to miss!

Lust of the Week: Secret Book 2 watch necklace by Marrianne Handcraft

via Etsy, $45

Seek some hidden treasures... online at Etsy. This bottomless pit of international creativity never fails to disappoint and this week's LOTW is taken by the charming collections made by Korean craft shop, Marrianne Handcrafts.

Consisting of 5 young artists, this little design shop has made a splash online, even being featured on Etsy's front page -a definite coup. Everything in their shop is handmade and all has a distinct vintage flavour characteristic of the line. Each piece, and this watch necklace is a great example, is intricately detailed, complex, and whimsical. This necklace looks like it could have come straight out of a dusty attic, and the rusty brass and red tones are perfect for fall. The little book even opens and is a teeny tiny 24 mm tall. Check out their shop for more goodies!

Product Review - iQ Derma Firmaceuticals Firming Body Gel

The Product

Growing up involves gaining independence, wisdom, money and... aging. Yes, aging, and this horrid process gives us as flab, flub, wrinkles, and ugh, cellulite. I don't remember cellulite being such a massive deal even a few years ago, but a few photo-packed magazine issues of insane celeb-ullite later, and everyone is worried about puckers from their breasts, to their ass, and anywhere in-between. There are even creams to prevent dimply elbows! Though I must admit, I am quite proud of my non-alligator 'bows.

To help those ailing from cellulite issues, there is iQ Derma's Firmaceuticals Firming Body Gel. This super gel promises buyers to prevent "orange peel" skin, but does it really stand up to its claims?

The Guts

This product contains a bunch of ingredients I've never heard of, like Pro-sveltyl (anti-cellulite buster), adiporeguline (prevents sugars from turning into fats), lotus flower, and caffeine.

Price & Packaging

For $80, you get a 6.75 fl. oz sized bottle, which is a pretty good size; however, the instructions state that you should apply a quarter sized amount twice daily. I used this product religiously twice daily probably using twice the recommended amount to cover my thighs and butt and it lasted me approximately 3 weeks. The packaging is straightforward in a plain white squeeze tube. I wouldn't really recommend using as much product as I did every time, but I did so in order to get the maximal results in the shortest amount of time.

Effectiveness

For 3 weeks, twice a day, I applied the product. The gel is clear, with a slightly orange tinge. It felt cool upon application, but took forever to absorb. As previously mentioned, I did apply a quite generous amount, but it wasn't anything unreasonable either, so the slow absorption rate might be an issue if you are always in a hurry. That being said, I found this product to be very effective in leaving my legs super soft and smooth.

I also carefully scrutinized my "trouble areas" after the trial was over - was I miraculously cellulite free? No. Well, to be honest I didn't have a lot of cellulite really to begin with, but what I did have was only slightly reduced. However, I'd be willing to give this gel a try for a longer period to see if it gets more effective over time.

Buy or Ditch?

I have to admit that I am entirely on the fence with this one. While it did seem to have a bit of an effect, and it left my legs feeling like silk, it also was quite expensive to use an extra moisturizer just for my thighs.

Final Verdict: B+


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In other news, if you are in the Vancouver area, then check out this new contest I am promoting as part of my work with Schema Magazine! You could win 2 FREE tickets to Filipino American comedian Jo Koy's show this coming Sunday!

When sober girls around me, they be actin like they drunk

White tank: RW & Co
Black tank: from Taiwan
Floral skirt: Aritzia
Locket watch necklace: vintage, Front & Co.
Gladiators: from Taiwan

Here's a question for you: what is the line between flirting and friendly? It's a question that people always ask, with no definitive answer. Your view may also depend on your past experiences. You could be very naturally trusting... until you've been hurt. But what if you've been the one to hurt someone else? Would that also color your view?

Fall Fashion Frenzy Giveaway with Alice + Olivia & Shopbop!

If you're like me, you'll be lamenting the loss of warm summer afternoons and the ability to not wear socks, or a jacket for months. I am totally a summer gal, and the upcoming cold and rainy seasons just depress me. Personally, the only things fall is good for are boots, sexy Halloween costumes, turkey dinners, cozy knits, jeggings, and oh yeah did I mention boots?

Not to sound like a broken record, but for those who aren't in the know, fall 2010 is all about neutrals (camel especially), old-school glamour, minimalism, jewel tones and military touches. That being said, who really cares about trends! The hottest trend is individualism.

If you're looking for some new items to revamp your wardrobe, then go no further than the favourite of everyone, Shopbop. Full of the hottest designer duds, Shopbop offers great fashions at somewhat attainable prices. One of my favourite young lines on Shopbop right now is Alice + Olivia. This line features body-conscious, thoroughly modern clothing for the hip, downtown set and is very popular with young Hollywood.

Here are some of the ways that Alice + Olivia can help you prevent those terrible morning clothing dilemmas this fall:

Distressed cargo pants, $220

The new narrow cargo pants give you a military look, without the baggy boy pants feel.

High-waist trousers, $286

At first I was a huge hater of anything harem, and mostly I still think it's a trend that few should try; however I think done correctly they can be stunning. Take these slightly harem-esque high-waisted trousers. They could be dressed up or down and add such an edgy feel to your look with some killer heels.

Drape tee, $98

The perfectly fit draped tee is so hard to find. Trust me, I've been searching forever, but have yet to find an affordable option. If money were no object though, I would definitely splurge on this amazing grey tee. Beautifully basic, this tee would look great with anything, or nothing. Plus it has a great exposed zipper detail in the back!

Pacey button-down shirt, $99

Another closet essential is a good button-down, or two, or three. This pale pale pink stone colored sheer shirt just lays wonderfully on the body, providing just a hint of sex appeal. The cuffed sleeves also emphasize this shirt's casual feel. For fall I am in love with the idea of wearing a softly crinkled button-down with skirts, trousers, and over dresses and leggings.

Nicolette sequin tube dress, $396

Finally, you need something to wear when you go out right? Nothing says festive like a sequin mini-dress. Bedazzle the crap out of anyone around you in this super sexy bronze mini. Also be sure to check out the Alice + Olivia dresses section for more fantastic dresses!

Now, I bet you are just itching to go shopping after seeing all these goodies! Well, you have a couple options. You can shop for Alice + Olivia on sale, go shop the Shopbop designer sale section, OR you can win something from Shopbop for free, from say... here!

Yes, that's right. Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy is offering readers a chance to win a $100 gift card for use on anything at Shopbop! Just imagine the possibilities. Here's how to enter:

• Leave a comment stating what your you are in a fall fashion frenzy about this season
  
• For extra entries: subscribe to my blog (RSS, Google Connect, Bloglovin - just tell me in the comment how!) or subscribe to my Twitter!
  

This contest is open internationally (except for some reason those from Pennsylvania) and will run until midnight PST September 15! Good luck everyone!

Lust of the Week: CC SKYE Leather Chunky Gold Chain Bracelet

via Boutique to You, $240

Gold. Leather. Is there really any need to elaborate? Hawt. Lust.

Weekly Shopping & Goodies

A Few Goody Gumdrops is roaring into Fall with Giuseppe Zanotti's animal print booties!

Bags, Bling & Beauty is smitten with the buttery soft leather of the Linea Pelle Dylan Shoulder Bag.

Being High Maintenance, not Bitchy wants to help you find the best online deals with Smarter.com!

Fashion Cents reminds you that ready to wear is not always READY TO WEAR. Check out the 5 tips on when to alter your clothing.

Fashion Hippo finds the "it" bags for Fall

Raging Rouge posts a huge Beauty Giveaway. Win three MAC eye shadows from the Dare To Wear collection!

Check out RedPoppy's EMMY AWARDS Red Carpet Review!

Shopping and Info loves Sandra Bullock’s gray fedora hat for Fall.

Simply Sample Sales Has The Code For 40% Off Everything at Chick Downtown + Super Hot Picks For Fall!

Style Eyes offers some fun tips on How to get some retro glamour in your life

StyleMaven goes abstract with bold graphic prints Morrison and Vivienne from Matthew Williamson, Sigerson Westwood for fall shopping inspiration.

The Bare Skinny shows you a fashionable convertible.

TheFind will be going skinny and luxe this fall with a pair of Sleek and Skinny Velvet Jeans.

Violet Revolution answers one reader's question: What are the Hottest Fall Accessories?