Resort Roundup: Part 2

Resort collections continued:

Valentino

Valentino was all-around elegant. I still can't get over all of the gowns, especially the two featured here. I love the light, airy sleeves of the peach gown, and floaty ruffles of the pale, seafoam-green one make my heart skip beats. They are all absolutely stunning, if I do say so myself.

Versace

Versace had a mix of slightly militant looks and ultra-glam pieces. Those traffic-stopping, punchy hues are incredibly sexy. The almost-neon orange of the skirt and jacket ensemble is surprisingly wearable in such casual shapes. Goddess gowns are pretty much a staple at Versace, and that's why we love it.

Zac Posen

Zac Posen was perhaps my favorite of all. The collection is extremely wearable in every way, and it has some pretty gorgeous dresses. I love all of these here equally, because they all go with different occasions.The first is casual enough for class, yet polished enough for brunch. The second is perfect for nights on the town with its eye-catching sparkle and leg-baring hemline. The third is elegant and formal without being stuffy, and Empire dresses are flattering for everyone. I love anything that works on multiple occasions, and the fourth can be dressed up or down to fit your needs. I would be more than happy if this was all that my wardrobe consisted of. *dreams wistfully*

From Left: Rachel Roy, Tory Burch, Fendi, Douglas Hannant

These were kind of the miscellaneous ones that caught my eye. I really adore the casual appeal of Tory Burch, and that Fendi frock is to die for.

That about does it! You can view all of the collections here.

Now excuse me while I daydream of frolicking about in these marvelous outfits.



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Resort Roundup: Part 1

In keeping with the resort theme of my last post, here is what I loved the most out of all of the collections:

Chanel

Chanel had its usual classy elegance. I really enjoyed these three looks, especially the dress in the middle. It is simple, but the flower appliqués add that extra touch. Chanel is always a favorite, and I wouldn't expect anything less.

Christian Dior

Ahh, good old Christian Dior. We can always count on him to put on a show, and that is exactly what he did with this collection. Perhaps the most visually stimulating of the shows, it was filled with vivid colors and presented a very youthful, fun vibe. There was an abundance of ethnic prints and breezy fabrics that I couldn't help but to drool over a bit. It doesn't hurt that the models hair and make-up looked impeccably glamorous.

Oscar de la Renta

Oh, Oscar, I am in heaven. There were far too many favorites to post, so I had to whittle my list down to these lovelies. I adore how the blue gown resembles foaming ocean waves, and the black lace cocktail dress in nothing short of amazing. With its tropical feel and classic elegance, this collection was well-rounded and cohesive . Bravo!

Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney was very natural and effortless, with gorgeously simple frocks and perfectly proportioned layered looks. I usually don't care for neutral tones, but Stella puts them together in such a way that makes my heart melt. A flower in the hair is all you need to complete this easy look.

More favorites to come in Part 2!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

The Best Resort

I must say that I am seriously considering marriage to the Michael Kors Resort 2009 collection. It is painfully effortless with just the right amount of classy-casual. Tie-dye and lapis prints collide with retro cuts and classic shapes to give birth to something completely new and gorgeous. Here are my favorites of the bunch:
Can't you just imagine donning those fabulous swimsuits at an ultra-sophisticated pool party? I picture myself wearing one of the maxi-dresses or tie-dyed caftans to an evening beach-house soirée-- and sipping a fruity drink to match. I am especially drooling over the one-shouldered, belted turquoise dress. Its shape is polished and refined, while the print lends a carefree allure. In all, Michael Kors Resort 2009 is glamorously breezy and all-around preppy. Click here for the complete collection.



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

One Month Down

Joyeux Anniversaire, The Decadent Life! Today we are officially one month old. Can you believe it? My my, how old we are getting! Okay, okay, all joking aside, I have officially arrived at the one-month mark, and yes, I am just a wee bit excited about it. I have made it through the trial-and-error period (mostly) unscathed, and I feel that a bit of celebration is in order. You know, I never miss out on a chance for cupcakes! I would also like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me through this dorky little time, and I hope to inspire whoever I can through my daily musings. Yay!

So, who's down to bake?



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Obsession

As I sit here eating my midnight PB&J sandwich and typing with sticky, strawberry fingers, I ponder what I can do to give The Decadent Life more structure. I have come to the conclusion that I actually hate structure, and therefore will have as little of it as possible! I have, however, decided to do some sort of weekly feature, or rather, Obsession. An obsession is a persistent preoccupation with an often unreasonable idea or feeling, and let's face it, we all obsess from time to time. Though, I do believe that my obsessions are far from unreasonable. I'm sure you will all agree that there is nothing yummier than a pretty little treat =)
Here is what I am currently going gaga over:
Being the avid Gossip Girl fan that I am, I have developed an unfaltering partiality for embellished headbands. This Pink Linen Flower Tarina Tarantino confection is positively obsession-worthy. It is soft and feminine with a girlish, shabby-chic allure, and is adorned with some of my favorite things: bows, flowers, and Swarovski crystals. The fact that it resembles a little cotton candy puff is just the cherry on top. It is also available in black, but I must say that I prefer the innocent, dainty look of this soft, pink treat. This obsession can be yours for $163. Delicious!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

The Daily Word

I just finished The It Girl: Tempted, last night. It was only average in my opinion, with nothing too interesting taking place. Oh well. They can't all be winners, right? I am, however, desperately looking forward to picking up the just-released Luxe sequel, Rumors. There are few novels that I have enjoyed as much as The Luxe, so Rumors is sure to satisfy. This series is set in the Victorian era at the turn of the 19th century, and I entirely adore period pieces. Review of Rumors to come!


I am also highly anticipating the next MAC collection, Cool Heat. With it's breathtaking array of brilliant blue and minty green eyeshadows, Cool Heat sets my heart a-flutter. Also included are five new luscious Slimshine lipsticks and a new scent. I can't wait for this to hit stores! This collection really captures the essence of summer and epitomizes everything that I love about it. Cool Heat will be available on June 12th. Fun!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

A Few of My Favorite Things

As I read through my blog, I realized, with shock and horror, that I have severely veered from the fashion path. While this is not specifically a fashion blog (I like to think it more a of a lifestyle thing), I do want to maintain a certain fashion-centric air to it all.
So, without further a do, here are some of the stylish confections that make my heart give out a little gasp:

I honestly don't have much to say about the clothes in the Miu Miu Fall/Winter 08 show, but the shoes are an entirely different story. 'Favorite' does not even begin to describe what designer Miuccia Prada is to me. She is inspirational and creates the most amazingly whimsical shoes I have ever seen. Both Prada and Miu Miu's Spring collections contained an abundance of fairytale pumps -- with which I am still utterly obsessed -- and this season is no different. I especially adore the pair on the upper right. I can't get over those shimmering ruby, black, and white sequins and the dainty little strap. And just look at that heel! It is chunky and yet completely elegant and graceful at the same time. Who new such a combination could work in such stunning harmony? I suppose it is no secret that I am a sucker for unique shoes. I just love that little extra something that sets these confections apart from the pack. Though it's true some may find them ugly, I can't get enough. Yum!
I love the look of a feminine, colorful, feather butterfly in the hair. You could pop this little guy into a poufy updo for an ethereal feel, or use it to clip the front pieces of your hair to the side for more of a statement. The point is to make it seem as if the butterfly just happened to land on your head and then decided to stay put. I love them in bright colors for a stand-out look, though you could also find glittery versions in a neutral tone to match your hair. You really can't go wrong with these gorgeous, fairy-like creatures!

Though summer has not even begun, I seem to be highly anticipating the months of fall and winter. Colder weather does allow for more creativity to be put into an ensemble, so I suppose that is what I am looking forward to most. I am dreaming of the days when I can pull on a pair of luxurious tights, stomp around in big, knee-high boots, and don an elegant, holiday-party frock. I crave the decadent plaid that was all over Ralph Lauren, the gorgeous full skirts seen at Etro, and the ladylike dresses paired with gloves from Lanvin. Sigh... I really hate to betray the season in which I was born, but how am I supposed to accessorize in this heat? I miss being bundled up, and tights certainly do not pair well with the summer sun. Autumn will be knocking on my door soon enough, and I can bet I will be missing the sunshine when that first winter chill hits me. Here's to never being satisfied! Ha!

This is about it for now, but I have made a vow to keep the content of this site up to par. As much as I know how you all enjoy my poetry (note the sarcasm!), it isn't what I want this blog to be about. Suggestions and comments are always welcome =)

Sometimes we all need to step back and really figure out what it is that we are doing, and what is it that we want to be doing. Life is ever changing, and that will always be reflected in the work that we do. I recently posted about the super-fun How to Wear... contest, by the amazing Gala Darling of iCiNG. Gala's winning picks --which were posted yesterday-- were met with outrage by many of her readers, and what was supposed to be a fun thing turned into criticism about the iCiNG blog in its entirety. Many complained that the content has changed and lost its integrity, but I really think that change is to always be expected. As humans, we grow and change, and of course that is going to come through in whatever it is that we do. I can sympathize with Gala, for the most part, because I think that it is impossible to please everyone all of the time.

I can only do my best here, and I want to keep a certain goal in mind at all times. I go through dry spells when nothing inspires me, and I suppose that is why fashion hasn't been such a big part here in my recent posts. There has been so much going on in my personal life, and it makes it hard to find inspiration because, honestly, I haven't been looking for it. This makes me sad, because my goal is to help the world find inspiration in everything. Also, I do not want to posts just for the sake of it, because the quality of a blog in general will noticeably decrease with uninspired rants. We need to feel passion for what we do, otherwise, what's the point?

It is amazing how such a simple revelation can lead to such deep pondering, not to mention such a monstrously long post! I don't, however, find that to be a bad thing. It is necessary for us to step back from time to time and look at the big picture. If you are feeling overwhelmed with life, talk about it! It's never good to keep stress bottled up inside, and I promise there will always be someone willing to listen. If you feel alone, need advice, or just want to vent, I'm always here. Don't forget it!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

Burlesque

I have recently become infatuated with Burlesque. What is burlesque, you ask? Well, in case you have been living under a rock, burlesque is a theatrical genre developed in the 1840's which was largely comedic, satirical, and included striptease. The striptease part is what I have become hopelessly enamored with. It is much more "tease" than actual "strip", and I absolutely love the whole cabaret feel of this type of performance.


Burlesque seems to be a ragingly popular thing these days. Who hasn't heard of the lovely Dita von Teese, who has been crowned the Queen of Burlesque? I absolutely adore her retro style and the work that she does. And hello? The Pussycat Dolls? Duh! Let's not forget about the Gossip Girl episode --Victor/Victrola-- in which Blair gets up on stage and does a little striptease. Très sexy! I have been listening nonstop to the song that was playing during Blair's performance, Stripper by The Soho Dolls. It's basically amazing. Take a listen, I guarantee that it will inspire you to get up and strut your stuff!

I am contemplating taking a burlesque class. There actually seems to be an abundance of them around my area, so I figure, why not? Burlesque is far more classy than those pole dancing classes, though I will admit to have once been interested in those as well (Shh, don't tell!). This could be such a fun way to really get in touch with your body, feel hot, and get in shape at the same time. What more could you ask for? For more on the world of burlesque, check out the Burlesque Baby blog. Very interesting!

I might just give burlesque a try!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

More Poetry

I have been on a complete poetry high. I just can't get enough! I have filled two notebooks to the brim with lyrics and poetry since my band has formed, and I love going back and rereading it all. I still get inspired, make little changes, and sometimes I take a few songs and cram them into one awesome, super-song! I have been on a bit of an Alice in Wonderland kick as of recently, so the first few lines caught my eye for obvious reasons. Amusingly enough, I was first inspired when petting the bunny in my yard. This just came to me:

We fell into the rabbits hole
And out through a looking glass.
This wonderland is dust and sand,
The hour's come to pass.
We've waged our war and now we're torn apart.
I'm coming clean, but I can't seem to start.

My delicate love, you're frail as a child.
Youthful darling, you're eyes are shining wild.
You're the farthest thing from tender and mild.
You fall asleep wide open.
You know I want to come in.
So give me the key and maybe we'll be alright.

Slipping under your dark spell,
Your voodoo tastes so sweet.
The dizzy rush of your velvet touch.
I linger in defeat.
We've waged our war and now we're torn apart.
I'm falling faster, I don't know how to stop.

My delicate love, you're frail as a child.
Youthful darling, you're eyes are shining wild.
You're the farthest thing from tender and mild.
You fall asleep wide open.
You know I want to come in.
So give me the key and maybe we'll be alright.

This is designed to be somewhat of a back-and-forth dialogue between a girl and a boy. I have come up with part of a melody for this, but I am still working out some kinks.

Ahh, I just love this wonderful form of expression! It gives me a certain feeling like nothing else can. Words are insanely beautiful, and I love having the ability to string them together in ways that describe what I'm feeling. Sometimes I actually don't even know what I am trying to say, and that's okay. As long as I get it out there, right? I encourage you all to write, write, write! It always helps me decipher my emotions. You might be surprised at what you find!



confections&kisses,
Stephanie

The News

I simply can't get enough of my precious chick lit. Last night, with tears rolling down my cheeks, I finished Stephenie Meyer's The Host. I don't think I have ever been as emotionally involved with a book as I have been with this one. It was beautifully written and constructed, and I know this story will stay with me for years to come. I was deeply touched and moved, and I couldn't have asked for more from a novel.

I also finished up the new Pretty Little Liars book, Unbelieveable, which was a considerably lighter read than The Host. It was, nevertheless, enjoyable. I picked up the new It Girl novel, Tempted, today, and I am about halfway through. It is pretty delicious so far. Gotta love that chick lit!

On a somber note, the legendary, indescribable Yves Saint Laurent has passed away today at the age of 71. He was one of the most talented, influential, and simply extraordinary designers of this century, and I know we will all mourn his loss. Saint Laurent changed the rules of fashion, creating pantsuits for women and believing that "fashion was not only supposed to make women beautiful, but to reassure them, to give them confidence, to allow them to come to terms with themselves." My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends, and to all in the fashion industry. You have deeply touched our lives, M. Saint Laurent, and you will be dearly missed.



confection&kisses,
Stephanie