PSC's Tastemakers

Thursday night I got to see some of my favorite fashionable faces (Fabulously Average, Sunshine Cupcakes, A Bit of Spakrlefarkle, Phoenix is Haute, and RxQnAesthetics) and meet new ones (Adrian Loves Owls) at the Phoenix Style Collective's Tastmakers event at Hanny's in downtown Phoenix.

It was my first time visiting Hanny's and the location was perfectly low key and the intimate atmosphere of the restaurant allowed for everyone to get to know each other better and to chat about all of their favorite style topics.  All of the oddities that Hanny's provides (just take a peek at my little collage) also provide great icebreakers! I mean where else can you walk up stairways that lead to nowhere with someone you don't know?

Me and Joanne via Fabulously Average

 All in all I love this fashionable crowd and I can't wait until the next meet up... and hopefully I'll see you there!


P.S. You ladies will be happy to know I finally ordered my business cards!!! ;)

Spa Day at Spa Avania

On Monday I decided to take advantage of the spa certificate I received at the AZ Spa Girls Summer Spahhh event at Spa Avania at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort at Gainey Ranch (read about it here). It was much welcomed after a weekend full of kids parties (one of which required me crawling on hands and knees inside of a 25-foot jungle gym tree). The spa certificate allowed me to get one of three 60-minute treatments, I chose the 60-minute Avania Massage. 

The spa experience actually started 24 hours before I ever arrived at 7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Road as the spa receptionist left me a very detailed voicemail telling me exactly what I could look forward to the following day, what to bring (swimsuit, gym clothes etc.) and all of the amenities I would have access to for the entirety of the day. 


Now, normally I'm the type of spa goer that checks in 15 minutes before my scheduled treatment (as suggested by such and such's spa website) and leaves right after. I was surprised when the check-in time for Spa Avania was 60 minutes prior to any treatments (with the option to come in as soon as the spa opens and stay until the spa closes). 


This spa hospitality encouraged me to take the next step in my spa experience... go in early and leave late. For some, the idea of laying around and doing nothing for several hours is a bit overwhelming, but Spa Avania has enough amenities to keep you busy and relaxed for your entire visit, no matter how long you decide to stay.

Upon check in (I arrived about an hour early), I was greeted by the friendly receptionists and then escorted down to the women's locker room by a spa attendant who then gave me a tour of all of the spa's amenities. She also gave me a rundown of Spa Avania's philosophy, " A time-focused philosophy grounded in the body’s natural daily rhythms and requirements." That means that the music, treatments, and even the water offerings change three times a day based on the body's natural rhythm (morning, afternoon, and evening). 


While I waited for my treatment, I decided to try out the steam room infused with eucalyptus  and then took a dip in the Celtic mineral pool for 15 minutes to get myself in relaxation mode. When my time came around, I was escorted from the relaxation room to the treatment room by my therapist, Dawn. Before the massage started I was given a choice of music and oils (I chose the vanilla oil). 


The massage was fantastic and I felt beyond refreshed at the end of it. Like I said, usually I leave right after my treatment, but Dawn encouraged me to relax by the pool after first going into the steam room and then dunking in the Cold Plunge a couple of times ( a small pool kept at 60 degrees) noting that "you'll feel like a new person afterward." Well, I heeded her advice, but I could only handle the Cold Plunge once; however, I definitely felt like a new woman. 

I also tried, the outdoor waterfall shower, another dip in the Celtic pool, and then layed out by the pool under an umbrella (caught up on my magazine reading) and had myself a fantastic lunch which included a granola and berry yogurt parfait, caesar salad, rolls, and an iced green tea. 4 1/2 hours later and my spa day ended with a relaxing hot shower in Spa Avania's fantastic 9-headed shower (I've always wanted to try one and so I was super excited... probably too excited). 

I highly recommend that if you happen to be in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area that you choose Spa Avania for your next spa day! By far my best experience so far... I may even want to change the name of this blog to FASHION & SPA ROUTE, because we all know how much I love me a great spa day!  

Designer Spotlight: Jill Aiko Yee

Photo: Hollywood Style Scene

I just love the Internet and blogging community! Why you ask? Because I get to meet fabulous people like Jill Aiko Yee, a Los Angeles based designer who contacted me after coming across the blog. In her email she sent me a few pictures of her most recent designs and I was immediately a fan! Her aesthetic is what you would expect of any West Coast designer--ease, comfort, fun and flowy. Yet, what I think sets Jill apart is her more sophisticated take on these aspects...dare I say there is a hint of East Coast?

Jill was kind of enough to do an interview via email, but we plan to get together in L.A. for some shopping and a visit to her studio next month... So stay tuned for part two. Until then enjoy getting to know more about my new friend Jill Aiko Yee!

FR: You recently started your clothing line, how did you know that creating a clothing line and designing is what you wanted to do? How has the journey/experience been so far?

Jill: Ever since I was young I knew I wanted to have my own company.  My dad did, and so did his dad.  But it wasnt until I graduated Otis College of Art and Design, and worked for Rozae Nichols that I knew I would stick with fashion.  I had an amazing experience there that opened my eyes to all of design, and its possibilities.  The journey so far has been challenging in every aspect, but so satisfactory because of that. 

 FR:You have the Jill Aiko Yee Label as well as ITtERATIONS Workwear can you tell me a little bit about each one and what kind of women you see wearing your designs?

Jill: The two labels together can make up a creative woman's wardrobe from morn to evening.  ITtERATIONS Workwear is all about being comfortable for long hours while still expressing personality and creativity.  My namesake label is for AfterWork - wherever a woman may go, be it dinner, gallery, or theater it's chic, and unrestrictive.  While working with CFDA award nominee Gregory Parkinson, I saw that color, and fabric choice go a long way in defining a collection.  I take that philosophy with to my collections.  The women that wear my designs are creative, positive, and socially conscious.  These women pave their own paths.

Photos: ITtERATIONS

FR: How do you like having your studio in LA's fashion district? Does it help keep you motivated and inspired?

Jill: I've been in the fashion district of downtown for nearly 10 years now, and consider it my second neighborhood.  I love that my studio is in a historic building of the fashion district, surrounded by showrooms, and fabric stores.  There is so much history and glamour in this area, I think people overlook that because many of the storefronts are cluttered.   All of the fabric, and notions stores inspire me... my fave place to go get lost is the cavernous 3 story warehouse of Ragfinders. 

FR: You are currently producing all of your designs yourself, how has that been? Do you enjoy being able to design and create personally for your customer?

Jill: Doing my own production is quite a challenge, but all worth it because it allows me to do what I love.  It's so special for me to be able to work directly with customers in my design space.  I love customizing garments so they fit each individual perfectly, and hearing what they have to say.  Most designers don't have the opportunity to meet the individuals that wear their clothing, let alone being able to share some champagne, and great conversation.  

FR: Why did you decide to take personal shopping appointments instead of selling to stores? Can you purchase your designs online?

Jill: The only places I sell are my own website, and at my shop by appointment studio. I decided to do this because having appointments with customers is the most rewarding part of my job. Its a great experience to help people find what looks good on them, and what expresses their personality.  

FR: Your Ombre silk designs are gorgeous, ombre is obviously a big trend right now, but yours tend toward a more sophisticated palette and style. What was your inspiration?

Jill: Thanks!  Ombre is certainly a trend right now, but is also a classic look that can always be worn.  The inspiration for the ombre group is watercolor painting, and the beauty of transitions.  Transitions are the often over looked experiences and times that are the binder to life's great moments.   We should cherish them.  

Photo: Compliments of Jill Aiko Yee

FR: What has been your favorite or most memorable moment as a designer?

Jill: I love being able to make clothes for my mom.  She's worn everything starting with my school projects, and approaches fashion with a purely experimental attitude, and is never held back by convention.  

FR: What advice would you give to those who are considering becoming designers?

Jill: For those getting into design, I would encourage them to take note that design is all around us in life.  Make your decisions regarding design carefully, hone your eye.  It will guide you, and help establish your own style. Be persistent!

Compliments of Jill Aiko Yee

 A few blogger questions:

1. Favorite designer?

Marni - but the clothes don't fit me! 

2. Favorite stores to shop at?

Creatures of Comfort on Melrose, OK on 3rd st, and Plastica on 3rd st (all in LA, but have stores online), Myrtle in Echo Park. 

3. Favorite blogs to read?

Daily Candy, Tomboy Style, http://cloudcloudny.tumblr.com/, http://twentytwoblog.wordpress.com/

4. Favorite magazines?

National Geographic (love the photographs), Elle, and Summary Magazine (new to LA) 

5. Do you use pinterest?

Yes!  http://pinterest.com/jillaikoyee/ 

6. Favorite Twitter account to follow?

@suchinpak 

Where to find Jill:   jillaikoyee.com , @jillaikoyee , 
Jill on Facebook

Fashion Circle a la Joe Zee

I've been enjoying my first few days of summer vacation (that is until summer classes start in 17 days) watching TV shows, documentaries, and movies on Netflix. Most of them have had some sort of fashion theme... Jane by Design - the whole first season, Love and Other Disasters, and my favorite thus far--All on the Line.  

photo: netflix.com

If you've never seen the show or heard of it, here is a little blurb from the show's website:

Creative Director of ELLE Joe Zee, who The New York Times deems, ‘Fashion’s approachable ambassador,’ will come to the rescue of designers in need of a makeover on their business, design or both in what The Huffington Post called a “must-see” show. 

The Huffington Post is not exaggerating, this is a must-see. Joe Zee doesn't just bring his 20+ years of expertise, but he brings his heart. A "fashion person" who really cares about the well-being & success of others is not always easy to come by in such a competitive industry--making Joe Zee and his fabulous show all the more special. 

photo: sundancechannel.com

This post is not just about the entertainment value that All on the Line has no doubt provided, but a particular episode "Gemma Kahng: I Want a Woman to Look a Little Mad Max and a Little Princess." The storyline revolves around the idea the Gemma needs to take a look at who she surrounds herself with and that her support circle may need some changing. Over and over again Joe Zee made the point that the people you surround yourself with are just as important as the business, the design process, and the product itself. 

My favorite fashion star Ronnie....admittedly I was so bored last week I didn't even watch the entire episode. 

I have been blessed to always have amazing supportive and creative people and mentors around me, but that sometimes takes knowing who to share your passions and ideas with (discretion is a must >> a lesson from mom), distancing myself from not so supportive others ....and also being willing to take constructive criticism and learn (= listen & practice)  from my mentors.

And so, just a reminder to never stop putting yourself out there and making new friends and relationships, but rather tread lightly and keep your passions close... and always be willing to learn!

#ABC12 AKA Arizona Blogger Conference

On Saturday night I made my very first visit to The Saguaro hotel in Scottsdale. Let me just say that this place is amazing--the bright colored walls, the amazing cucumber water in the lobby (I'm a genuine hotel water connoisseur), the super nice and cute bartender who broke a $20 for Angela and I (errr should have taken a pic, so unlike me), and of course the cool atmosphere and contemporary furnishings.

This visit was set up by the Phoenix Style Collective for the 1st Arizona Blogger Conference (#ABC12). 

Photo: Brenda Eden

The evening started with a picture in front of the Madewell backdrop (after receiving an adorable denim polka dot Madewell tote). My blogger friend Angela was kind of enough to take a picture with moi. 

The Phoenix Style Collective team made sure that there was never a dull moment: friendship bracelet making (I gave up after row 1), a yummy spread of....spread and pickled beets, tomatoes, cauliflower and more, latte art via the Coffee Chop, and stylish vendors. 

As the evening continued bloggers got a special lesson from Agency Arizona model Aqua... as usual she worked it! And I have a few more poses to add to my repertoire.

Aqua

Finally we got to hear from some local business owners, entrepreneurs, and expert bloggers. They shared tips on how to better blog content, pictures, creating a niche, and staying true to yourself:

Sarah Rhodes, Arrow & Apple
Katie Leavitt, Running on Happiness
Chelsea Brown, Tea Talk
Georgeanne Bryant, Owner of Frances Vintage and Smeeks
Margaree Bigler, Local First AZ


It was a wonderful night and I can't wait for the next event so I can meet everyone I didn't get to this time around!

Amazing Phoenix Style Collective Team! Photo: Brenda Eden

Event: FGI AZ Trend Report

Last night I joined 80+ fashionistas at the the FGI Arizona Trend Report event at Saks Fifth Avenue at Biltmore Fashion Park. 

The evening started with delicious refreshments in the Saks Shoe department (it's kind of like heaven). As the ladies enjoyed their glasses of S. Pellegrino and hors d'oeuvres there was plenty of fashion talk happening with faces from just about every Arizona fashionable locale attending in support of the event, which helped raise money for the Fresh Start Women's Foundation:

Phoenix Fashion Week, Neiman Marcus, Phoenix Art Museum's Costume Institute, The Art Institute of Phoenix, just to name a few.

Attendees showed off their most fashion forward outfits... one of the season's hottest trends, bright pants was a favorite and of course you can never go wrong with animal print!

The cosmetic department was another hot destination.

A highlight of the evening was the opporutnity to hear Susan Berman, CEO of Fresh Start, share the mission of the foundation, which is dedicated to empowering women to transform their lives through engagement and education.

THE FASHION

The young and the stylish, that's what I like to call the students from the The Art Institute of Phoenix.

Among our favorites ( you all looked great!) was Esmirna (pictured above) who looked fab in sheer polka dots and beige pleats. Not to mention the chic Betseyville chain purse. 

The evening concluded with a brief talk from Silvia Bours, a Mexican born designer, who recently showed at Phoenix Fashion Week in October 2011. Her theatrical yet feminine masterpieces have garnered a loyal following and her most recent success includes having several of her designs featured and sold on zappos.com. 

Even with such great success, the 25-year-old designer is incredibly humble and approachable, encouraging others who are interested in the fashion industry to work hard to achieve their dreams. 

With Marie Antoinette-esque hair and fans in hand the models looked amazing in Bours' French inspired dresses. 

The evening concluded with the Trend Report film, which covered all of the hottest trends straight from the runways: emerald, the new three piece suit, jewels, capes and more!

Thank you to Tracy Rasinski, Regional Director and the FGI AZ team for putting together a great event!

For more information about FGI Arizona or to become a member please visit their website: http://arizona.fgi.org/

Don't forget to stop by Saks Fifth Avenue Biltmore for the best fashion has to offer!

Also visit  Heroine Chic for more coverage on this great event!

AZ Blogger Conference... Join me!

The lovely people of the Phoenix Style Collective (and I mean lovely)

have invited you to join them and ME at the 2012 Arizona Bloggers Conference 

Here are the Deets: 

Saturday April 28, 2012 from 5pm to 10pm

AT: The way rad Saguaro hotel in Scottsdale

Not only will there be exquisitely dressed bloggers there (oh what to wear!?!?!?) 

BUT friendship bracelet making (embrace your inner awesome child), a Madewell styling station (and your inner Rachel Zoe) PLUS goody bags..... 

So please please please click this here link and join me and all of the fab AZ bloggers:

Click here... and see you there!! :)

Or this picture for their website....

Blogger Style

Once again I have fallen off the blogging wagon, but those of you who are students will understand when I say, "It is the last month of the semester."

Now that I have your sympathy, lets talk style--blogger style. At one of the most recent fashion events where I met up with my fellow Phoenix Fashion Bloggers, after gushing about how cute we all looked, we started talking about what we all look like when we don't see each other... You know like now, when I'm in my old PJs laying in my bed (and the hair oh the hair) or later when I'm alternating between writing and washing the clothes. 

As if that weren't enough real talk for you, let's get really real, we all say (okay more like Tim Gunn says) that PJs are a no-no, getting ready is a must, track suits are so Jenny From The Block, but when you spend most of your time in front of the computer (in your own home) then I don't expect you (me) to wear sky-high heels, a pleated maxi skirt, and your favorite Vince blouse. 

If you are not already, it is time to get comfortable, grab some cereal and your laptop, hop into to bed and check out my  blogger/student/writer wardrobe wish list!

At Karen Kane $90

Don't get me wrong being comfy does not mean that we can't look ah-mazing. I mean you never know when the the door bell will ring and the UPS man is standing at  the door... With this Karen Kane Lace Back Striped Dolman you won't have to pretend you aren't home anymore. I love the comfort the silhouette offers while the lace back takes your look from comfy to casual chic. 

At Vince Camuto $49-$120

A pair of ankle-length black leggings should be a staple in everyone's closet and these Vince Camuto classic leggings are great with a tunic, oversized sweater, or even that Karen Kane Dolman!

Bling Yoga Tank $32.50

Campus Crop Pant $44.50

If you're going to go the route of sweat pants and a tank then there is no better way to do it than with PINK!

littlemissmatched $13

If you're at home with no intention of seeing the light of day, tucked away in your cozy office with all of your favorite electronics... then do yourself a favor and get a pair of adorable, fun, and crazy knee high socks... because you can!

Neiman Marcus $158

Some of you may not be convinced by my stay-at-home wardrobe suggestions... in which case I say, fine, then if you must, do a maxi dress--a Splendid max dress. You'll be comfortable, and only a pair of sandals away from walking out the door.

Mesa Blues - Karen Kane Spring Show

 

Last Saturday I had the chance to attend a Karen Kane fashion show at Dillard's at Scottsdale Fashion Square. Though the show itself was exciting (more on this later) what made this an extra special occasion was the beautiful lady waving at the crowd-- yep Miss Karen Kane herself! Even better she didn't just show up, but the designer, known for her California Coast aesthetic, even shopped with her customers (aka fans) and obliged the over excited bloggers (we are fans too). 

Guests and bloggers were the lucky recipients of the very first preview of Karen Kane's newest Spring Collection, "Mesa Blues."

 From the first look to hit the runway, this Aqua tie-dyed print, open shoulder blouse & super hot Riviera ruffle skirt, there was not doubt that the rest of the show was going to be fun, fresh, and of course all about Spring on the California Coast. 

This open knit sweater made me want to hop in my car and drive west until I saw waves (of course only after I had seen the rest of the show). 

A beautiful blue tie-blouse perfect for a breezy spring day and I'm loving the white denim too.

The striped dress and the very similar outfit below were my two favorite looks of the show. Not only because I have a huge love for stripes, but also because these aren't just any stripes, the way the black and white alternates give it an almost ombre effect. 

Karen Kane and I :)

She's wearing the Scarf top from her Mesa Blues Collection.

To purchase pieces from Karen Kane's Spring 2012 Collection visit: www.karenkane.com 

P.S. Mesa Blues is available starting today! Lucky you...

Thank you again Karen, Lonnie, Michael and the Dillard's team for a fantastic show and a great day!