Sneak peek at the new designs available at Le Black Book.

I heart ALL of these gorgeous designs which are absolutely PERFECT for any occasion from drinks with the girls in the city to summer Christmas parties and New Years Eve festivities... therefore it is almost time for credit card crunching. And this time, we're totally prepared. Visit http://www.leblackbook.com.au/ to indulge in beautiful one off pieces by amazing fashion designers from Amy Kaenhe to Shakuhachi to Karen Walker and many, many more. Le Black Book e-boutique really is the next best thing in Australian Fashion.

xx Lisa

An office favourite: Marc by Marc Jacobs.

The editors in The Iconic Fashion Blog office are all for the latest little Marc by Marc Jacob pieces available on net-a-porter for that fast, affordable fashion fix. Marc by Marc Jacob designs are cute, whimsical, classic and just amazingly fun pieces which can be mixed and matched with absolutely anything to create a fresh chic look. Here are some pieces which the girls have been rocking in the office lately...

xx TIFB

TIFB Fashion Verdict: Two toned.

Nicky Hilton actually looked quite tres chic at the Neil Lane jewelry store opening in L.A last night with her choice being quite unusually two toned although the look was indeed one which was well done. Two toned looks tend to be risky in the sense that people usually try not to opt for a look which is very 'matching' which two toned usually is, especially in Nikki's case where it just screams out "Black and White" like no other. TIFB editors think she did a good job though. It's casual, youthful, flirty and tres chic. What more could you ask of from a Hilton?

xx TIFB

The MET Spring Gala theme 09.

According to Fashionista...

The Metropolitan Spring Gala theme revealed: "The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion" will explore how models have changed fashion, by inspiring the designers (and we're thinking photographers are going to play a big part in this one) who've dressed them, and sometimes designed for them, through seventy looks handpicked from the Costume Institute's collection.

Sounds interesting.

xx TIFB

Make a statement with one off boots.

I used to hate the Miu Miu Python cut out boots (of last season, see above) but the more I stare, the more I actually want. With New York Fashion week 2009 coming up in a few months; I really do need a piece that will make me stand out from the crowd. The boots may look completely eccentric and eclectic but they actuall dress up black outfits perfectly, will look hot with some vintage furs and florals for a Galliano-worthy look. You probably know how the fashion week journalists-thing goes, the ladies all cross our legs in black ensembles and wacked out statement heels...speaking of which, I think I might get the boots.xx Lisa

Your opinion on Factory outlet sales...

You all would know by now that I absolutely love it when international designer fashion pieces are on sale. Not all of the pieces but most of them. Say for example, if I wanted a pair of Balenciaga platform heels which were originall 5 grand and then amazing discounted for 3 grand, I would be there within two seconds literally. You can be sure I'm one of those people who 'reserve' sale items so that other people don't steal them from me!

I was just thinking the other day about factory outlets (which I personally believe are completely different to one-off designer sale pieces). There's a outlet near our office called "DFO"- Designer Factory Outlets where pieces may be over 6 seasons ago, damaged, and just plain ugly and still people are forking out for a designer Lisa Ho dress which is not only a size fourteen but also $500. I mean, why not just save the money and go buy something which fits and is actually not a factory second or a sample but just brand new? I totally understand if people bring their kids over and buy discounted children's designer wear from Ralph Lauren or whatever, but as a person who genuinely has an interest and passion for fashion, my personal response is that Factory outlets are a no-no because the last thing you want to do for a fancy cocktail dinner, is to wear a dress designed by the host....six seasons ago. A bit embarassing. Same goes for sale pieces which are over ten seasons ago and going for a teeny thirty percent of the original price. Like that does not encourage me to go out and buy it. Worst of all, I imagine how many people have worn and tried on (without success) that one piece.

Still to this day, I am super surprised when I go there for a totally one off visit and the carpark to places like these are completely packed to the rafters. Like what is there to buy? Seriously.

PS: All the pictures are images of designer pieces which I have always wanted but could never afford until a proper one-off sale! No factory outlets at all!

xx Lisa

A message from Hermes Australia...

xx TIFB

About advertising with The Iconic Fashion Blog...

The girls at The Iconic Fashion Blog receive way too many emails daily. Emails which come from a variety of sources but still, emails nonetheless. And to just minimise that number of emails (at the moment, we have 1896 pending emails to answer, not just from today though), TIFB thought we'd give the advertisers some words of advice to take with them before they email us. Here is our exclusive new advertising system which will expire on the 31st of December 2008 so we can get advertising for 2009 with a fabulous deal right now! We used to accept cash for advertising however only until the end of this year, we will accept actual products* and merchandise* instead of cash and we will do complimentary video reviews which will be posted up on our website and our Youtube channel so there is extra coverage. It will stay online for 6 months or more depending on the consistency of the videos and products being sent it. If interested, all you have to do is please email us with your website, brand name, products you specialise in etc. and we'll get back to you. If you are interested in a Banner, all we ask for instead are products sent to us monthly according to however many months you are interested in advertising with TIFB. See? Easy.

PS: Another big thing happening next year are Iconic Fashion Blog Giveaways. If you are interested, let us know. This is really exciting!

xx TIFB

* Products must be related to TIFB otherwise paid advertising is the only other option. TIFB will determine what is related and what is not. Fashion, accesory, cosmetics are all related industries.

This Halloween, we are wearing Betsey...

Forget tacky lace and ill-fitting designs this Halloween, Fashion is still fashion and costume is still costume...then why are we a tad confused? Well, because the girls at Iconic FB headquarters are probably just as unorganised as your typical girl next door, we found our favourite place for Halloween clothes/costumes by the queen of fun outrageous party dresses herself, Betsey Johnson! Believe it or not, $300 can get you a cute ensemble which you can pair up with a pair of simple round toed Pedro Garcia heels or vintage eccentric wedges, big teased hair (maybe even a blonde moppy wig), some red lipstick, purple eye shadow and maybe a pair of knee high polka dot socks for a look which screams out Betsey!

We hope you don't think we're joking and honestly, we're not. And that's maybe the best thing about the look. It's so Betsey and really cute. Kudos to us for the idea (and Betsey, of course; for the inspiration)!

xx TIFB

Bagels Anyone?

The quintessential New York snack might look basic, but the taste of a good kosher bagel is unrivalled. Most Manhattanites go for "lightly toasted, with a schmear" (of cream cheese), but as we know, its all about variety. Linseed with sundried tomatoes? Yum. Sourdough with salmon and capers? Yes please! Next time you walk past a vender on the streets of New York check out his bagel selection. You’d be surprised just what combinations you can find.

xo Sinclaire

Victoria Beckham for November Vogue India.

xx TIFB

We're loving...Dana Rebecca Designs.

We're usually not so much a fan of Lo Bosworth and the Hills. Neither Laguna Beach nor Lauren Conrad for that matter however when we checked into our emails just two seconds ago, we came across a lovely email about Dana Rebecca designs (and how Lo Bosworth was wearing that gorgeous pair of rose gold citrine drop earrings, yes Lauren Conrad owns a pair as well...) with a special invite for all you readers to lavish on these fabulous jewels at sample prices courtesy of gilt.com and Dana Rebecca Design jewelry. To be eligible for this exclusive invitation only sale, be sure to sign in at: gilt.com/skirtpr and get shopping! It's only for a really, really limited time so sign up when you can and quickly jump into the Dana Rebecca Designs sale. I just had a peek and the jewelled pieces are heavily reduced and forever gorgeous. The sale ends at midnight so you'd be damned to miss it!

PS: If you do miss, feel free to still indulge in the pieces at danarebeccadesigns.com.

xx TIFB

Buy Chanel heels discounted!

My new online shopping favourite for shoes would have to be bluefly.com. It has an amazing array of heels from Balenciaga to Stella McCartney slashed in prices with a minimum of 20% off all products. They just got in some Chanel heels which I am totally loving. Not only are they statement heels, discounted heels, platform heels...they are Chanel. Loves it. Don't mind me. I have some shoe shopping to do. I'll be back later.
xx Lisa

Just window shopping!

I just caught sight of the Temperley London Isaline maxi dress/gown online at Net-a-porter. It's absolutely chic, stylish, unique and expensive. There are Bohemian elements hidden in every bead and you can catch the scent of Grace Kelly in the style. Very nice combination. But to buy or not to buy? That is the question (as it always is).

I'm loving the simplicity and the detailed neckpiece, it just screams out my summer nights on a yacht with gorgeous tanned legs glimmering as we sit and chill out with a cosmopolitan and the chic Temperley London dress accompanied with a pair of strappy gold Jimmy Choo heels...no? With Christmas sales coming in very soon and amazing shoes to buy, shall I save or shall I spend? Only time will tell.

xx Lisa

Literary Events Sydney: Candace Bushnell.

You've all watched the world famous series which brought a new generation of women and a new definition of "Fashion Icon", yes that's right. Candace Bushnell, the writer of Sex and the City, Lipstick Jungle and One Fifth Avenue (our guilt-free read at the moment) will be in Sydney on Friday the 7th of September as she will tell the stories and inspirations for her latest novel; One Fifth Avenue. Check out the Dymocks website if you are interested in a two course meal, coffee and wine as well as the opportunity to hear Bushnell speak about her latest text for $85 (non-members). We'll probably be there too, with bells on.

xx TIFB

Indulge yourself.

I watched "The Woman" the other day starring an amazing cast including Debra Messing, Meg Ryan, Eva Mendes... etc. and it was such a bunch of fun to watch! Sure it wasn't exactly Sex and The City (thank goodness) but it was just as entertaining and had a great mix of fashion, the up's and down's of being a woman, the typical scenario of visiting the beautician and my favourite place ever...the mention of Saks Fifth Avenue. That was really enough to make my look at the person next to me and mutter "this is going to be a great movie".However, I don't really want to give a big film review about it and instead I suggest you get some gorgeous undies to indulge in, a'la Eva Mendes character as"The Woman" so you can look great and feel great as you like without the pressures of looking good for a man. Whether it be with a pair of sexy lace barely there Elle MacPherson intimates or a five pack of Juicy Couture boy shorts, just indulge yourself and feel good! I mean, as they say with L'Oreal Paris...It's because you're worth it. Other woman or not.

xx Lisa

A bit of a tease...

While you are all probably or most likely (depending on you) working during the days, we're planning a tropical trip to Copacobana so we can sip on our Cosmopolitans whilst basking in the glorious sunshine in our Emilio Pucci bikinis and Temperley London Caftans opposite a view to die for...I think we all need a good holiday and with Christmas and the New Year just around the corner, you can say that this 'research' is totally worth it. A productive use of our spare time, nonetheless...as per usual.

xxTIFB

The Iconic Team loves...Cheap heels!

We have found our favourite cheap thrills of the moment: Zu Shoes for fashionable weekend heels at amazing prices which won't blow your budget, and with cocktails starting at a mere $15 each at Cockle Bay Wharf, now you can afford to look hot and order another round of drinks! Sure it isn't Gucci or Dior, but with the prices and styles all under $200, it is just as good for now.

Fashion Director's favourite choice: Zu Crispin platform heel in black: $180.

Editor's Comment: Why buy a fierce Burberry heel when you can get this pair for under half the price? A great heel for flirty night outs and would look amazing paired up with a floaty Stella McCartney sheath dress for that glamorous contrast.

xx TIFB

Gimme, Gimme More.... STREETWEAR!

Yes, I know we all have a small or rather large (depending how obsessed you might be) Chris-Crocker-soft-spot for Britney, BUT, what I’ve also noticed, is that you guys are starving for some iconic street wear updates. Well, rest assure because mama is here to feed you with some exciting news…

One word. HEADBANDS!

No, not that black elastic headband habitually worn on fitness Thursdays. No, not at all, what I’m referring however, are big, bold and exquisitely unique headbands that make a statement every time it wraps around your head.

Voila! Some sexy bling-blings I found…

And so, in the début of my first ever TIFB Do-It-Yourself vlog, I will be showing you just how simple it is to employ a combination of different materials – buyable from your local craft store, to make super sexy runway-inspired headbands, guaranteed to make you pop from the crowd. Stay Tuned.

Amen.

Jack Jack Jackie

If you're in New York...

There's a designer sale coming up!

Label: Dolce and Gabbana


Deal: Up to 70% off cocktail dresses, jackets, pants, shoes and more..

When: Monday, October 27th through Friday, October 31st. Mon 1—6pm; Tue, Wed 9am—6pm; Thu 9am—8pm; Fri 9am—5pm.

Where: Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 W 18th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves, fourth and fifth floors (877-703-4872).

Happy Shopping!

xx TIFB

Emerald City.

As the adage goes, Sydney loves a glitzy party but Melbourne does great bars. The CBD is humming with new pubs of all shapes and sizes, so with a city hotel room and a good map, here's a taxi-free bar hop, up and down its lanes and alleyways and, occasionally, slap bang on a main street.

Best for vintage addicts?
The Parlour

Best for being seen?
Cumulus Inc

Best for architecture fans?
Siglo

Best for glams?
Silk Road

Enjoy!

xo Sinclaire

A not so traditional wedding dress.

I have a few friends getting married or planning to get married next year and I don't know about you but I just love getting all dressed up to go to a friends wedding. It really is quite a lot of fun. I was thinking the other day about wedding dresses and how the styles have sort of come quite a long way.From the traditional princess style dresses making one look like those little statues upon wedding cakes to the free flowing ethereal feel of Vera Wang dresses and bare feet. Talk about making a statement. It's weird to think that once upon a time, brides had such limited options in the styles they could wear on their wedding day. I mean, yes...white is one thing but the same style on another person is another issue. Who can forget the iconography of Jackie Onassis' short lace mini dress (her second wedding) as compared to the lace off the shoulder gown she wore at her first?I guess I just figured that right now, the modern bride is free to wear absolutely anything she wishes. From the sophisticated and tailored Alexander McQueen one piece tuxedo to a white vintage sixties shift dress. The options are limitless and the accessories now plentiful. Just make sure your Christian Louboutin heels match.But if you really want a completely different look altogether, feel free to do whatever you like but just remember that we've already heard the story about the Bride who stripped bare...no?
xx Lisa

The Sartorialist coffee table book.

I have always been a fan of The Sartorialist. Always have been and most likely always will be. From his first stunt on the original website to the time Vogue picked him up and made him a part of 'them', the Sartoralist had always picked out the best looks off the runway from the cool grey cobbled streets of Paris to the small pebbled back streets of Milan; the Sartorialist was there finding the best style possible and documenting it on the internet.


I don't really recall any other street style photographer who could compete with The Satorialist other than Jak and Jil, who are personal favourites of mine. There is always something unique and captivating about the types of photos he took of the woman clad in vintage Givenchy and Valentino to the more fashionable elderly clad in an eccentric mix of John Galliano styled clothing. As a result, rumor has it that the Sartorialist will be launching a new coffee table book published by (rumor has it yet again) Harper Collins. I'm excited to see it but then again, should all the contributions and thanks be aimed solely toward him? What about the fashionable people he has taken photos of? Do they get a say in this? It is the street style photographer vs. the stylish people on the street.And on a final note, I have a question; is it the chicken or the egg which makes the Sartorialist what he is today?
xx Lisa