SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Celebrate David Bowie's Birthday Tomorrow With Some Retro Archive 1887 Tees

 

Images from venerated rock-n-roll photographers like Mick Rock, the late Jim Marshall, and Don Hunstein surface on Archive 1887's t-shirts, as do iconic LP covers, poster art and concert ticket stubs, all of which give these pieces the ability to capture the magic surrounding specific moments in music history.  For its debut collection, the brand focused mainly on seven trailblazing artists or musical ensembles: Iggy Pop, Johnny Cash, Miles Davis, Jefferson Airplane, David Bowie, Thelonious Monk, and Sly and the Family Stone. 

Since British rock icon David Bowie turns 64 tomorrow, why not celebrate his born day with a funky tee from Archive 1887? Choices include the "Lightning Bolt" tee (pictured at top), a scoopneck number featuring a lightning bolt shape along the center, itself bearing a black-and-white image of Bowie, decked out in a suit and playing the electric guitar. The lightning motif, of course, references the makeup Bowie donned on the cover of his seminal Aladdin Sane album, probably the most recognizable album art from Bowie's Ziggy Stardust era, not to mention from '70s rock discography as a whole.

Another great alternative: the "Bowie 1973" tee, which captures Bowie in full Ziggy Stardust garb, much like the look he sported during his historic Hollywood Palladium concert with Spiders from Mars in '73. Both the slanted lettering and the yellow and red gradient tint given to the photo work together to evoke the psychedelic feeling associated with Bowie's Ziggy Stardust persona and to celebrate the experimental spirit of the late '60s and early '70s, reminding us of such memorable, colorful works of art as the Endless Summer movie poster.

 

David Bowie "Lightning Bolt" Tee and "Bowie 1973" Tee, $58 each. Available at Archive1887.com

Holiday Gift Guide Part 10 -- For The Girl Staging Gwen Stefani's "Sweet Escape"

From her pink-haired, mid-riff baring days as the lead singer of No Doubt to the early days of her solo career, when she dyed her hair platinum blond and donned low-rise houndstooth print pants, Rasta-colored wristbands and knit caps, and printed hooded sweatshirts, to her current more glamorous look, which involved oversize shades, tons of plaid and chevron prints, bold platform heels and boots, and camo print details, Gwen Stefani has more than earned her spot among the most influential style icons of our day.

In the tenth installment of our holiday gift guide, then, we're giving beaucoup props to the red-lipped rocker by suggesting some gift ideas that would make Stefani herself "wind it up."

 

MAC A Tartan Tale "The 5 Sassy Pink Ladies" Kit, $29.50; and MAC A Tartan Tale "A Lady & Her Tricks" Brush Kit, $49.50. Available at  MACcosmetics.com

Tartan prints have always been a staple in Stefani's wardrobe — whether she was rocking a prep school-worthy cropped jacket on stage during in her Hollaback Girl tour or wearing a red Jean Paul Gaultier coat while out in London with her son Kingston. The packaging of the products in the MAC Cosmetics Holiday 2010 collection, dubbed A Tartan Tale, would have her ready to adopt a Scottish accent. We love the 5 Sassy Pink Lassies Lipglass set, which includes five pink shades of gloss — Fab Fun, a sheer, ultra light pink saturated with microscopic glitter particles; Sassy Lassy, a perky fuchsia; Frozen Dream, a pale pink reminiscent of ballerina pointe shoes; Electro Lush, a sienna-meets-mauve pink with a glaze finish; and The Wee Coquette, a medium pink rose (click here for swatches of all five Lipglass shades)— all packed in a tartan print tin can with a MAC "coat of arms" along the center of the case. Another great choice: the A Lady & Her Trucks Buff & Line Brush collection, which includes the 168SE, 187SE, 209SE, 219SE and 252SE brushes which are designed to blend shadows, line eyes, and buff face and cheeks — all packed in compact bags with mashed-up tartan prints, a detachable shoulder strap, and black leather accents with silver-toned studs. Even if you're not carrying all your brushes, you'll want to take these bags out on the road.

 

UES "Barrow" Studded Slip-On Sneakers in Camo or Washed Black, $145 each. Available at NeimanMarcus.com

Stefani is a sucker for UES kicks -- in fact, she's been spotted in the brand's Chuck Buckle shoes several times during more casual days in London. Between the rows of conical studs along the leather eyelet strips to the punk-flavored uppers (particularly the camo print), these new UES Barrow slip-on kicks would make any Stefani style lover's knees buckle.

Kimberly Baker Eve Necklace, $350. Available at KimberlyBaker.com

Stefani's style is in a constant state of metamorphosis, yet the changes always seem natural, never trite or reactionary. The Ouroboros symbol of a serpent biting its tail, forming a perfect circle, would speak to Stefani's penchant for transformation since it has been interpreted as being indicative of cyclicality and never-ending recreation. In this necklace, however, designer Kimberly Baker takes the motif a step further by manipulating the shape of the serpent biting its tail, opting against the typical simple circle and instead opting for a 2 1/2" strip of slithering curves and coils. The hefty curb chain necklace, meanwhile, adds just the right amount of hip-hop bravado.

 

Craftsmanship Capelet, $118. Available at Anthropologie.com

This plaid coat would look great over a simple ribbed black or gray turtleneck, adding a coquettish effect with cropped, bell-shaped sleeves and flattering the figure with a sash belt.

 

Jee Vice "Dyslexic" shades in Brown Corduroy Bronze, $285. Available at Shop-Online.JeeVice.com

One of our favorite Jee Vice frames of all time, these Dyslexic shades speak to Gwen Stefani's edgy, in-your-face style, with their slightly curved, rectangular shape and thick fin-shaped arms. The brown and golden bronze colors of the stripes along the frames create the illusion of texture and depth, making them all the more worthy of some Stefani lovin'.

 

nOir Jewelry Bugle Bead Collard, $285. Available at NoirJewelry.com

To accessorize the safari-dipped, military-influenced, street-savvy designs in L.A.M.B.'s Spring/Summer 2011 runway show in NYC, Stefani turned to nOir Jewelry, choosing pieces like this Egyptian-inspired statement necklace, which features three rows of glass bugle beads in contrasting black and gold hues.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 9 -- For The Broken English-Speaking, Marianne Faithfull Style Lover

For the ninth installment of our 2010 Holiday Gift Guide, we're continuing this year's theme of paying homage to the female musicians who revolutionized our worlds with their trademark sound and their unique sense of style. During the past few weeks, we've bowed down to the genius of Erykah Badu, Pat Benatar, Grace Jones, Stevie Nicks, Lily Allen, Billie Holiday, Katie White, and Janelle Monae. Today, we're revisiting the tumultuous, passionate, hurried life of British singer and songwriter Marianne Faithfull, the woman who first emerged as a fresh-faced, folksy pop singer, then stormed the charts with the Mick Jagger- and Keith Richards-penned "As Tears Go By," and eventually gained notoriety as Mick Jagger's girlfriend, the Bonnie to his Clyde.

Aside from penning the Rolling Stones classic "Sister Morphine" and inspiring such Stones songs as "Sympathy For The Devil" and "You Can't Always Get What You Want," Faithfull carved a place of her own in rock history thanks to several moving singles and, of course, the glorious 1979 album Broken English, in which she showcased a deeper, raspier voice, one that reflected years of hard living, alcohol and drug abuse (including a debilitating heroin addiction she eventually overcame), heavy smoking, wild partying, emotional breakdowns, and more.

Perfectly imperfect, Faithfull has always lived life by her own terms, unabashedly expressing her most intimate thoughts and documenting her experiences via writings, recordings, and films. With every drip of sand in the metaphorical hourglass, she has also tweaked her persona style, moving from sweet, long-sleeved paisley print dresses paired with knee-length suede boots to menswear-inspired peacoat and wide-leg trouser ensembles, '70s Boho-rocker fur coats, and biker chic leather pants with multi-strand chains.

Below, a few choice finds for the woman whose fashion faith lies in Marianne Faithfull.

 

 

Adrienne Landau Raccoon Vest, $256. Available at ArcadeBoutique.com

Faithfull has been referred to as "Venus in Furs" after a legendary incident in February 1967 when police barged into Keith Richards' flat during a drug bust and discovered Mick Jagger partying with his girlfriend, who was nude save for a fur rug she had quickly drape around her frame. Between that incident and the frequency with which Faithfull later donned fur vests, coats and capes, the "Venus in Furs" nickname seems to fit like a glove.

Sandro Reelle Printed Crepe Dress, $265. Available at Net-a-porter.com

Before reinventing herself as a more hardcore, biker-ready waif, Faithfull epitomized rocker Bohemian chic, donning long-sleeved floral dresses and paisley print frocks with shirt collars and cuffed sleeves. This dress speaks to that phase of Faithfull's life. Just add a pair of knee-high suede boots and amp up the look's folksy feel.

Kimberly Baker "Fortress of Solitude" Ring, $220. Available at KimberlyBaker.com

Looking at this sculptural ring, you're likely to imagine the spear-like edges of medieval castle gates and the pebbled texture of a fort's stone walls. By creating a honeycomb texture via hexagonal etchings and staggering bar-shaped strips with pointy edges, toying with their lengths while doing so, designer Kimberly Baker has created a jewel so precious you'd want to lock it up in a fortress like your very own Rapunzel.

 

Chocolat Blu Women's Odessa T-Strap Pump, $140. Available at Endless.com

One of Marianne Faithfull's most memorable looks: Boho-flavored frocks paired with white knee-high socks and black T-strap sandals for a slightly naughty schoolgirl feel. This Chocolat Blu pump features a conical heel and three bow motifs along the "T" shape for a extra precious air.

 

 

Gucci Black Wool Embroidered Logo Peacoat, $1076.40. Available at Bluefly.com

Before Lindsay, Paris, Nicole, Mischa, and every young starlet imaginable paraded before a judge for some wild stunt (DUI? Check. Shoplifting? Check. Parole violation? Check.), Faithfull set the bar for courtroom chic. Back in June 1967, she appeared in a London court (where boyfriend Mick Jagger and band mate Keith Richards were being sentenced on a drug possession charge) wearing wide-leg trousers with a buckled belt, a blouse with a ruffled collar and sleeves and a smart hip-length peacoat. The scenario may not have been ideal (hey, court is never fun), but the look was divine.

Face Stockholm Loves Same Sky Gift Set, $185. Available at FaceStockholm.com

This holiday season, Face Stockholm joined forces with Same Sky, an organization that empowers female jewelry artisans in Rwanda (many of whom were raped, infected with HIV, and tortured during the 1994 genocide in their country) by providing them with fair wages (more than 15 times the standard earnings in sub-Saharan Africa) and creating a market through which they can sell their wares. The two companies created four limited-edition sets, each packaged in a velvet pouch with a dainty kiss-lock closure and featuring a hand blown glass-beaded bracelet made by a Same Sky artisan, as well as a nail lacquer, lip color, and face color from FACE Stockholm.

The Face Stockholm x Same Sky holiday sets are available in four distinct color schemes: Caviar (pictured above), which includes a black glass bead bracelet, a FACE Stockholm Lip Gloss in No. 43, a Nail Polish in No. 64, and a Blush-On compact in Hot Pink for a rocker-ready mix of pink and gray (click here for swatches of the blush and lip gloss in this set); Fire Red, which features a Pot Gloss in Unique, a Nail Polish in No. 81, and a Blush-On compact in Basic, all packaged inside a bronzed gold pouch; Nude; and Smokey.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of these gift sets will benefit women in Rwanda.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 8 -- For Katie White Types Who Demand You Know Their Names

In our latest holiday gift guide round-up, we're celebrating the London-rocker-meets-California-easy style of Katie White, the lead singer and guitarist of the pop/dance duo The Ting Tings. With her choppy, bleached blond 'do, platinum eyelids, striped dresses, newsboy hats, graphic T-shirts, star- and heart-print cardigans, patterned leggings, and ankle boots, Katie White has shimmied her way the hearts of music lovers and style hounds since she first skipped around in the "That's Not My Name" video.

Do you know someone with a similarly on-trend, girlish but edgy look? Then check out these gift ideas, inspired by the "Shut Up And Let Me Go" singer.

 

 

Osborn Ashes To Ashes Booties, $165. Available at Shop.OsbornDesign.com

When pairing oversize, Flashdance-esque sweatshirts and graphic tees with leggings and snug pants, White adds a nice kick with eye-catching boots and kicks. These Ikat-inspired, woven cotton, ankle high boots from Osborn Design would not only complete her ensemble but, with their 1/2-inch, rubber-and-leather heel, they'd make it easy to dance around on stage while belting out dance-flavored pop tunes.

Wildfox I Love You Baggy Beach Jumper, $108. Available at WildfoxCouture.com

This oversize, vintage-looking sweatshirt from Wildfox Couture captures the laid-back, beachy California cool that the British singer and guitarist integrates into her looks. The sweatshirt's varsity blue color is reminiscent of the shade of tights White wore in the "That's Not My Name" video, and the letters' 3D shading makes them snap, crackle, and pop. Word to Rice Krispies.

Genie by Eugenia Kim Wallace Wool Newsboy Cap, $130. Available at LordAndTaylor.com

Like a stylish Mad Hatter, White certainly knows how to put a cap on it — the "it" being her blond head, of course. Her hat style of choice: the timeless newsboy cap. This plaid-like, 100% wool number from Eugenia Kim, then, would have her feeling like a rock-loving, Newsies devotee.

 

Burt's Bees Lip Balm Tin Ornament, $10. Available at BurtsBees.com

Whether you dangle it from a Christmas tree branch or tuck it inside a festive stocking, this Burt's Bees Lip Balm Tin Ornament will make mouths happy come Christmas Day. Each tin case is filled with four all-natural lip balms enriched with coconut oil, safflower seed oil, soybean oil and rosemary extract: two Classic Beeswax Lip Balms, a Honey Lip Balm, and a Pomegranate Lip Balm (our fave).

Holiday Gift Guide Part 7 -- For The Billie Holiday-Loving Jazz Phenom

Over the last few weeks, during our gift guide coverage, we've paid tribute to the groundbreaking style of quite a few female musicians — among them Janelle Monae, Pat Benatar, Lily Allen, Erykah Badu, Grace Jones, and Stevie Nicks. Today's inspiration: jazz singer Billie Holiday, whose vulnerable, emotionally-charged vocals tugged at our heartstrings in songs like "Good Morning Heartache," "Lover Man," "Lady Sings the Blues," and the heart-wrenching "Strange Fruit."

Not only did Holiday carve her own path as a performer, but she created her own signature style, adorning her hair with oversize gardenias, applying dark plum lipstick to her pout, and covering her neck with dainty pearls. Below, you'll find some gift ideas for the woman in your life who wishes she could have heard Lady Day singing at the Cotton Club and who looks back at the Harlem Renaissance as the golden era of creativity and style.

 

Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED Philippe Ferrandis Zenn Earrings, $160. Available at Swarovski-Crystallized.com

Lady Day's style was classic and elegant without having any pompous airs, and she knew how to take a simple, long-sleeved dress with an embellished neckline and add a dose of glamour with some luxurious earrings. These hand-crafted earrings, designed by French couture jewelry designer Philippe Ferrandis for Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED, would have prompted Ms. Holiday to croon "I Thought About You" in their honor. Featuring green-colored oval stones adorned with round amethyst purple-colored Swarovski crystals and gardenia-shaped white flowers along their bottom arch, as well as teardrop-shaped, faceted clear crystals dangling beneath them, these clip-on earrings create the feel of a secret, enchanted garden.

 

 

 

Colette Malouf Crochet Wire Poppy Headband. For retailer info and pricing, visit ColetteMalouf.com

If there's one style element that we always associate with Billie Holiday, it's the fresh gardenia blossoms she tucked along the side of her head, framing her beautiful face. And while adorning tresses with real gardenias on a daily basis may prove a bit difficult (not to mention costly), you can always interpret the concept and modernize it by turning to this intricate, crochet wire poppy headband designed by hair accessory guru Colette Malouf. The flower's curved petals soften the look, while the blue crystals along the inner layer add a hint of jazzy dazzle.

 

Bluewick Triple Scented Candle in Peony Black Currant, $24.50. Available at Bluewick.com

Jasmine flowers, gardenias, and peony blossoms all exude a similar energy, as both their soft, velvety petals and their feminine, almost powdery scent work in conjunction to set a romantic scene. Considering her love of gardenias, then, we think Billie Holiday would have loved the sumptuous aroma of this Bluewick Peony Black Currant candle. The vegetable-based soy wax candle features pink peony notes and black currants for a juicy, tropical lushness, while softer notes of rose and white jasmine add a coy flirtatiousness and a demure presentation.

 

 

 

 

Majorica Pearl Choker, $210. Available at LastCall.com

When it came to her jewelry choices, Billie Holiday often opted for pearls — sometimes preferring lariat necklaces and other times donning choker style necklaces such as this one from Barcelona-based, century-old brand Majorica. The three-strand choker necklace features man-made pearls measuring 8mm in diameter and an elegant, sterling silver square clasp with a domed pearl in its interior.

 

 

Prada Infusion D'Iris Eau de Toilette, $85 for 3.4 fl. oz. Available at NeimanMarcus.com and BergdorfGoodman.com

Three years after the launch of its divine Infusion d'Iris eau de parfum, Prada has released its sister eau de toilette scent. The new EDT is packaged in a matte, opaque bottle, as opposed to the crystalline glass of the EDP, and features the Prada logo embossed against a white crest instead of the EDP's silver counterpart. The scent itself is also a departure from the EDP — rather than focusing on bringing out the nuances of the Iris Pallida, the eau de toilette seeks to create the notion of a search through the valley that culminates in the discovery of the iris flower. To that end, then, the Infusion d'Iris Eau de Toilette obliterates the orange blossom and mandarin orange of the EDP, replacing them with lily of the valley and violet top notes; but, like the EDP, the EDT also features a linen top note for a crisp, light, joie de vivre effect, as well as Iris Pallida and cedar notes at its heart. A lighter, more powdery version, the Infusion d'Iris EDP would have Holiday crooning "The Nearness of You."

 

 

Deborah Lippmann All That Jazz Trio, $40. Available at LippmannCollection.com

In the spirit of the holidays, celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippmann released this limited-edition holiday trio of glittery nail lacquers, playfully dubbed All That Jazz. The set includes: Razzle Dazzle, a raspberry color with specks of black and magenta glitter; Some Enchanted Evening, a clear polish with shimmering, lavender pink glitter particles of varying diameters; and Lady Sings The Blues, a sapphire blue with glitter particles in a metallic blue topaz and a graphite silver, which was clearly named in honor of Holiday's sorrowful song by that name.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 6 -- For The Girl With Stevie Nicks-Style Crystal Visions

Peasant skirt-wearing, caravan-riding, gold coin-dipped, traveling gypsy. Crystal ball-hoarding, tarot deck-dealing, head scarf-rocking fortune teller. Floral print-loving, caftan-adoring 1970s hippie queen. Lace up boot-stomping, cape-flapping Victorian witch. Ziggy stardust protégé meets mythical dryad. During the height of her career, rock icon Stevie Nicks could channel any of these personas, luring audiences in with her free-spirited Bohemian style and her raspy but bewitchingly sweet vocal style.

As an ode to Nicks and the legions of Gold Dust Women she has inspired with her unique style, we're dedicating our latest gift guide installment to the mystical muse. When you browse through the below options, you'll see your gypsy!

 

 

 

 

Dannijo Cleo Necklace, $795, and Dannijo Lena Cuff, $545. Available at Dannijo.com

Inspired by the mosaic-like coloring of traditional Indian jewelry, these Dannijo pieces feature strands of gold-plated Swarovski crystals in clear, turquoise, pine green, iridescent opal white, pale lavender, amethyst purple, ruby red, and yellow sapphire manipulated to reference the aesthetic norms of the Navajo and Zuni tribes in the Southwest US, as well as the Banjara and Bastar tribes of India.

The Cleo necklace, for one, features contrasting strands of colored Swarovski crystals, curving down and out like upside-down rainbows — and, at their lower ridges, these strands then culminate in cascading leaf-shaped stones, some arranged in diamond-like patterns. The Lena cuff, meanwhile, measures 2" in width and is adorned with Swarovski crystals along its center and draping strands of rhinestones along its sides for an added Boho touch. 

 

LORAC Tie Dye For Lip Gloss Collection, $25. Available at Sephora.com

Sure, tie-dye T-shirts scream Grateful Dead, more so than Stevie Nicks, but the quintessential Flower Child motif manages to capture the Fleetwood Mac singer's '70s hippie-inspired vibe. This affordable LORAC lip gloss set features five moody, lava lamp-ready shades, all enriched with grape seed oil and coconut oil to hydrate and soothe lips, as well as antioxidant-rich açai berry and pomegranate to protect them from environmental hazards.  The five shades in the set are: Flaming Mix, a fiery Maraschino cherry red; Shocking Twist, a bright fuchsia; Berry Blender, a grape jam hue; In The Mix, an apricot-tinged, coppery nude; and Social Mixer, a perky Starburst-esque pink. Rich in pigment and featuring an all-over sheen, as well as scattered glimmer particles, these really are makeup love children Click here to discover the lip gloss colors in the LORAC Tie Dye For set!

Jo Malone Pine & Eucalyptus Living Cologne Eau de Cologne, $95. Available at JoMalone.com

Forget chestnuts roasting — when Jack Frost starts nipping at our noses, the smell we most crave is that of fir and pine trees. This season, then, Jo Malone set out to capture the holiday spirit while also recreating the damp, mossy, muddy feel of a lush forest, one where a woodsy nymph would lurk. The Jo Malone Pine & Eucalyptus Living Cologne features eucalyptus, pine, sweet orange, cypress, cinnamon, lavender, amber and frankincense notes, for an aroma that's simultaneously green and spicy. As a living cologne, the scent is meant to work with your body chemistry, then emanate into the space around you, so that you can bring holiday cheer into any room you enter. 

 

Candela Angelina Empire Gown, $123.26. Available at Bluefly.com

Sparkly maxi length dresses with batwing sleeves were as essential to Nicks' aesthetic as hippie-flavored floral print gowns with flowing silhouettes. This empire waist, 100% silk chiffon Candela gown features lush gold, pink, green, and purple blooms against a midnight black backdrop, with sheer tiered ruffles along the hemline, a smocked back, a triangle top, and adjustable spaghetti straps. Add some granny boots, a sheer shawl, or a knit capelet, and you've got a Wild Heart wonder. 

M. Sturman Triple Cube Tube Cuff, $800. Available at MSturman.com

Even if you could read people's auras, how often would your pupils encounter as resplendent a burst of color as achieved with this M. Sturman bangle style cuff? Featuring five layers of Swarovski Crystallized Elements bicones and 24k gold-plated seed beads in pale lavender pink, celadon green, ultraviolet, aqua blue, and tangerine orange. The faceted planes of these stones capture the light and allow it to bounce off its ridges, making it dance like a vibrating electromagnetic field.

 

Holiday Gift Guide Part 5 -- For The Grace Jones-Loving, Warm Leatherette-Wearing Woman

Almost three decades before Lady Gaga bewitched audiences with her outlandish costumes, New Wave/dance singer Grace Jones set the bar for lovable eccentricity, donning embellished face masks and sculptural, gravity-defying hats and headpieces; bucking traditional gender norms by rocking a masculine, cropped, flat top 'do, along with blazers with squared shoulders; toying with dominatrix motifs through leather bustiers, fishnet tights, come-hitter platform heels, and figure-hugging leotards; wearing wire armor ensembles; and generally advancing the avant-garde agenda.

For the latest installment of our holiday gift guide, then, we are celebrating women with a similarly intrepid spirit and a fearless approach to fashion and beauty. Know someone who is a "slave to the rhythm"? Then read on!

ANGEL by Thierry Mugler Couture Star Collector Eau de Parfum, $115. Available at Neiman Marcus, NeimanMarcus.com and other Thierry Mugler Parfums retailers.

The star-shaped bottle of Thierry Mugler's iconic ANGEL eau de parfum has always seemed fitting for such a showstopping fragrance — after all, this scent pioneered the oriental gourmand category with its clever combination of sweet notes like honey, chocolate, and caramel and earthy notes like patchouli and coumarin. Now, this bottle is enjoying even better VIP treatment thanks to its role as the leading act of the Mugler Show. The faceted blue glass star points have now been outfitted with a bustier-style leather casing, so that only the top ridges of the bottle are revealed, as if they were the naked shoulders of a scene-stealing diva. The top ridge of the leather, meanwhile, is adorned with 28 Crystallized Swarovski Elements stones in a jet black hue for added star power. As if the ground-breaking nature of the aroma weren't enough, the limited-edition Angel Star Collector EDP bottle's edgy leather makeover, would leave any Grace Jones devotee star-struck.

 

Julia Clancey Grace Slinky Dress, $450. Available at Farfetch.com

In February 2009, when Jones strutted down the runway for the Africa Fashion Collective runway show, she donned a low-cut, cleavage-revealing, hooded mini dress. Though that number was designed by Xuly Bet, its overall vibe was similar to that of this sleek number by Julia Clancey. With voluminous, tiered puff sleeves and an exaggerated cowl neck, this 100% polyester dress says out-of-this-world cool.

 

 

Nous Sommes Grace Jones Pendant, 170 EUR. Available at NousSommes.fr

What better way to pay homage to the legendary Ms. Jones than to wear a pendant made in her image around her neck? Dangling from a ball chain necklace, this sculpted, slightly tarnished-looking silver pendant captures the the most iconic aspects of Jones' look: the elongated face, strong brows, almond-shaped eyes, high cheekbones, and cropped cut.

Case-Mate iPhone 4 Barely There Wrap Case in Purple Reptile, $39.99. Available at Case-Mate.com

As an adventurous, risk-taking performer, Jones has typically gravitated toward more outlandish fare so, when selecting an iPhone case, she would probably opt for an exotic number like this Case-Mate Barely There Wrap Case, which features a metallic purple, snakeskin-like pattern.

 

Tarte Cosmetics The Royal Collection Limited-Edition Holiday Palette, $43. Available at TarteCosmetics.com

To pull off a dramatic look, like the one Jones donned on the cover of her Portfolio album, you can count on the twelve shades featured in Tarte's The Royal Collection — particularly the twilight blue and blackened forest green in the palette's last row (check out swatches of the fourth row shades here), the shimmering burgundy shade in the first row (check out swatches here), and the muddy brown with copper and golden glimmer in the third row (check out swatches here). These paraben- and preservative-free, vegan-friendly shadows are gentle on the eyes, but deliver quite a dose of pigment. A pull-out drawer, meanwhile, reveals a 0.37 fl. oz. bottle of Tarte's Clean Slate primer, a miniature tube of multiplEYE lash enhancing primer, a portable tube of the Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara, and a punchy pink gloss.

 

Holiday Gift Guide Part 4 -- For The Citizen Of Erykah Badu's "New Amerykah"

Whether donning a giant head wrap, ripping her Afro wig off while performing for Dave Chappelle's Block Party, or rocking a bald head with a hand-painted, black tattoo-like design that extends all the way down her back, Erykah Badu has always valued her artistry above capitalist norms, refusing to abide by the exploitative blueprint the music industry imposes on female performers and bucking tradition without making this nonconformism a gimmick of its own. Over the years, Badu has undergone many a style transformation — from her days wearing Maxi dressed with tribal prints to her current penchant for snug tees, oversize ankh rings, and nerd chic glasses — but she's always walked her own path, finding different ways to express her earthy, Bohemian, soulful spirit.

In part four of our Holiday Gift Guide, then, we're paying homage to Miss Badu, with a round-up of holiday gifts that will appeal to those women whose ciphers keep movin' like rollin' stones. Ready for some style Baduizm? Read on!

 

Peace Images 033010 Ring, $38. Available at PeaceImages.Etsy.com

Camille Peace, the San Diego-born designer behind Afrocentric jewelry line Peace Images, designed this solid pewter ankh ring in honor of Erykah Badu's New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh — in fact, the ring's "033010" name is a reference to the album's scheduled release date: March 30th 2010. Featuring an adjustable sterling silver band and measuring 2.75" in length, the 03310 ring resembles the intricately etched ankh-shaped ring Badu herself has been sporting in recent months.

Junkprints Worldly Pillow Set, $85. Available at Store.Junkprints.com

When Brooklyn-based graphic designer, illustrator, and Junkprints founder Chanel Kennebrew researched interior decor, she found that many designers veer towards extremes, either favoring a regal Versailles-in-the-Marie-Antoinette-era aesthetic; creating Moroccan-inspired oases with textured walls, stained-glass, lantern-shaped hanging lamps, and side tables with hand-painted, kaleidoscope-like motifs; opting for a contemporary style by relying on furniture with clean lines and sticking to a black and white color palette; or favoring shabby chic furnishings for a country inn feel. But what if you want to add some ethnic flavor to your home? Besides hanging up carved wooden African masks and draping sofas with kente cloth, how can a woman create a room that says black pride in a chic and clever way, without resorting to clichéd interpretations of Afrocentrism? Well, Kennebrew is vying to find the answer, and this three-pillow set is the first part of the equation. All three square-shaped pillows feature a profile view of a black woman along their center, as well as the trademark Junkprints collage motif, and a yellow pom-pon trim along their periphery.

 

Jeff Koons Kiehl's Limited Edition Creme de Corps Soy Milk Whipped Body Butter, $35. Available at Kiehls.com

Badu's relationship with Kiehl's runs deep. Back in April 2009, she designed a label as part of the brand's Superbly Restorative Argan Body Lotion Limited Edition Label Art Series, a project that also involved actor Adrian Grenier, pro surfer Kelly Slater and a group art students at Parsons The New School. As an art lover and a Kiehl's fan, then, Badu would appreciate the new Jeff Koons Limited Edition Creme de Corps collection, which features multiple body creams bearing labels with the floral motifs found in Koo's 1995-98 oil on canvas painting "Tulips." In addition to the best-selling Creme de Corps (available in three sizes), the collection also marks the introduction of the Creme de Corps Soy Milk & Honey Whipped Body Butter, a richer moisturizer that smells like a melted Bit-O-Honey. Though the consistency is akin to that of freshly churned butter, the whipped body butter is absorbed by the skin with relative ease, leaving no balmy build-up and making skin feel all the softer. Plus 100% of the proceeds from the sale of this item will benefit the Koons Family Institute , which Helps the International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children locate kids who have been abducted and shepherd them safely back into their parents' custody.

Katherine Kwei Kate Boston Bag in Brass, $535. Available at KatherineKwei.com

The brassy amber and dark brown colors of this embossed croc and calfskin satchel conjure up the same earthy feeling elicited by the cover art on Badu's 1997 debut album, Baduizm. As with all of Katherine Kwei's pieces, the Kate Boston features the designer's trademark Chinese eternity knots — in this case, on the two belted leather straps running along the front of the bag.

 

Trop Troop Anorak, $198. Available at Anthropologie.com

Army rugged and Brooklyn cool converge in this hooded anorak, which features numerous cargo pockets with snap button and zip closures, a cinched waist, rolled-up sleeves, and a drawstring along the bottom hem

EP Blaster III Retro Sunglasses, $10. Available at 80sPurple.com

Lisa Loeb and Tina Fey aren't the only ones who make nerdy glasses look cool. Thick, Clark Kent-inspired black frames have been incorporated into Badu's style arsenal with as much zest as her ever-expanding collection of wigs. This particular pair boasts trapezoid-shaped lenses and a retro flat top rim.

Korres Never Enough Holiday Body Care Collection, $35. Available at KorresUSA.com

Though Lay's potato chips once used the "One is never enough" slogan for its ad campaigns, plenty of people resisted the urge to keep dipping into their foil bags. Korres shower gels and body butters, however, are a temptation most of us can't withstand. Once you've tried one of Korres' botanical-based shower gels, experienced first-hand how soft and smooth your skin feels after being infused with vitamins C and E, aloe, zinc, and antioxidant enzymes, you'll want to keep experimenting with new scents — from the powdery, elegant Japanese Rose to the creamy, almost milky Guava. This holiday kit includes five 1.69 oz. shower gels and five corresponding 1.69 oz. body butters in some of Korres' best-selling scents: Guava, Fig, Jasmine, Japanese Rose, and Basil Lemon. Plus, nature lovers like Badu devotees would appreciate the eco- and vegan-friendly aspects of this limited-edition set.

 

Dolce Vita Joelle Boot, $236.25. Available at Endless.com

Remember Destiny's Child "Soldier" anthem? Well, Erykah Badu isn't worried about whether a man's status is 'hood, he carries big things, has low-cut caesars with deep waves, or rides free on the freeway. She's a one-woman army, a soldier in her own revolution, one that doesn't involve bloodshed but, rather, an evolving state of mind. To suit up for battle, any Badu-like babe could use these Dolce Vita Joelle boots, which feature antiqued brass hardware, a 4" wooden heel, distressed leather uppers, rugged brown laces, and a double strap along the shaft for a real combat-ready flair.

 

 

 

Urbanears Plattan Headphones, $60. Available at UrbanOutfitters.com

When listening to the latest album from her boys in The Roots, hip hop soul lovers like Badu can reach for these to these headphones, which come in a rainbow of colors and feature comfy ear cushions and a nicely padded headband.

 

Linea Pelle Sliced Leather Bracelet, $40. Available at LPcollection.com

Chunky rings and leather cuffs are key when emulating a modern Badu look. These days, the singer is known to rock a dark brown cuff that practically covers her entire forearm. Stack two of these Linea Pelle sliced leather cuffs atop each other, and you'll get a similar look, but the slashed strips will yield a more laid-back effect.

Holiday Gift Guide Part 3 -- For The Girl Who Wants To "Smile" Like Lily Allen

For the third installment of this year's gift guide, which is inspired by female music icons (as you know from last week's ode to Pat Benatar and the previous tribute to Janelle Monae's equestrian-meets-funk style), we're focusing on British pop star Lily Allen. Since making her debut in 2006 with the kiss-off break-up song "Smile," which features Allen's sugary vocals over a calypso-laced, melodic track but boasts deceivingly mischievous lyrics about sweet revenge, the daughter of musician Keith Allen and film producer Alison Owen has emerged as a vintage-loving style icon. Like her songs, her wardrobe choices mix naughty and nice, at first appearing very traditional but then showing hints of defiance upon closer inspection. Traditionally girlish pieces like floral print frocks and preppy chic headbands are paired with street-savvy, hip-hop flavored accessories like oversize doorknocker earrings, layered gold necklaces, and high-top sneakers for a cheeky and coquettish end result.

Below, you'll find some great holiday gift ideas for the woman in your life who reveres Allen's signature style.

 

 

Rachel Comey Stinger Dress, $201.50. Available at LaGarconne.com

A-line dresses are a vital part of Allen's fashion repertoire — and, given her petite upper body, bustier styles are particularly flattering. This Rachel Comey cotton-and-silk dress features buttons all along the front placket, a playful circle skirt, an underwire bustier bodice, and adjustable spaghetti straps. And, since Allenistas like feminine things with a bit of a twist, they'll appreciate the hidden pockets at the side seams of the skirt, which are perfect for stashing lip balm, keys, or any other knick-knacks.

 

Links of London Mini Blue Metallic Heart Charm, $60. Available at LinksofLondon.com

Aside from doorknocker earrings and oversize hoops, Allen enjoys layering gold necklaces adorned with a variety of pendants. As a woman of contradictions, Allen is likely to pair naughty and nice motifs, complementing gun-shaped pendants with prim, sweet charms such as this metallic, baby blue, bubble-shaped heart number from Links of London.

Philosophy "Christmas Morning" Holiday Set, $20. Available at Philosophy.com

A glazed donut is about as universal a treat as they come. The Philosophy Barely Glazed holiday set features an 8 fl. oz. Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath and an 8 fl. oz. Body Lotion, both featuring a vanilla-tinged, milky, sugary and slightly buttery scent that has just the right amount of sweetness. And, in typical Philosophy fashion, the bottles feature a recipe for making delicious glazed donuts at home. Yum!

 

 

Alex and Ani "I Heart Rock N Roll" Hoops, $68. Available at Endless.com.

Though heart-shaped doorknockers, oversize hoops, and triangle-shaped bamboo earrings tend to be Allen's preference, we think she'd swoon over these Alex and Ani "I Heart Rock N Roll" hoops, which measure 1.5" in diameter and feature small Russian silver beads threaded through the thin golden hoops, as well as icicle-like rhombus shapes and large Russian gold spikes dangling from the hoops' center.  These spiked charms add a bit of edge to the earrings without giving them so tough a vibe as to take them into Siouxsie Sioux territory.

 

Tocca Crema Mani Viaggio (Hand Cream Trio), $18. Available at Tocca.com

The three hand lotions in this set all feature coconut oil, shea butter, avocado oil, and jojoba seed oil to moisturize, soften, and smooth hands. The lotion isn't greasy or balmy, but is absorbed rather quickly, making it ideal for on-the-go use. And, since girls love variety, this set features three scents: Stella, Tocca's juicy Blood Orange fragrance; Cleopatra, a zesty grapefruit and cucumber scent; and Florence, which has a romantic English Rose aroma.

Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer, $159. Available at Ray-Ban.com

Whether she's performing at an outdoor summer festival or a prestigious fashion show (like she did at the Chanel Spring/Summer 2010 show), sashaying down the streets of London, or making her way through an airport or hotel, chances are you'll find Lily Allen donning a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers. The multi-colored button print of this Wayfarer frames has a festive, carnival-ready feel that will perk up any ensemble.

 

Holiday Gift Guide Part II -- For The Pat Benatar-Loving Rocker

As you know from last week's Janelle Monae-inspired gift round-up, we're rolling out this year's Holiday Gift Guide in installments, each themed after a trendsetting female musician.This week, we're traveling back to the '80s and offering an array of gift ideas for women who adore the tough-but-sometimes-tender, strong-but-sexy, rebellious-but-relatable aesthetic of rock icon Pat Benatar.

From animal prints to chunky mixed chain necklaces, smoky eye shadow palettes, volumizing hair styling products, fitted jean jackets, studded belts and sneakers, and moody, layering-ready tanks and blouses, these finds will leave all rebel rockers feeling like they're ready to hit 'em with their best shots.

 

Make Up For Ever Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes, $36. Available at Sephora.com

Cutting-edge cosmetics brand Make Up For Ever practically designed its holiday collection for those running with the "shadows of the night." The Rock For Ever Aqua Eyes set includes five mini eyeliners, all packaged in a travel-friendly, snap-on, matte black tin case decorated with gold, silver and gunmetal studs in pyramid, domed, and nail head shapes. The shades in the kit are: Aqua Eyes #0L, a matte black color like the one Benatar wore on her lower lids in the "We Belong" video; Aqua Eyes #8L, a light silver shade;  Aqua Eyes #9L, a molten gold color; Aqua Eyes #10L, an earthy copper; and Aqua Eyes #21L, a dark, amost asphalt-like gray that would be ideal for recreating Benatar's dark, glossy-eyed looks or the winged look of her "You Better Run" video. Check out these swatches of the colors in the kit.

 

Dolce & Gabbana Leopard Print Bustier Dress, $1702.41. Available at MyTheresa.com

Few female rock stars can resist the seductive purr of an exotic leopard print, and Benatar was among the first to turn that purr into a roar with her distinctive, feminine but tough style. This Dolce & Gabbana bustier dress takes that style to cocktail party territory with its exquisite draping.

Jean Paul Gaultier Medieval Chic Long Necklace Made With Swarovski Elements, $480. Available at
Swarovski-Crystallized.com

Way before Rihanna was singing about runnin' this town with Jay-Z and Kanye, Benatar was preparing her troops for battle with her "Invincible" cut, beckoning them to stand up and face the enemy with the courage of their convictions. This long necklace features rungs of interlinked metal loops that recall the hauberk shirts of chain mail armour worn in Medieval times, as well as round Swarovski crystals along the upper sides of the piece.

 

213 Industry Top, $120. Available at DiamondsAndPearl.com

Benatar always struck the right balance between hellion and honey, sweetheart and sinner, rocking leather, lace and animal prints, but styling them to accentuate her feminine assets and pairing them with softer pieces for the perfect mix of sugar and spice. This top strikes the desired balance — its stark black color instantly reads rock-n-roll, but the shimmering paillettes in punchy fuchsia, turquoise, gold, and silver add a coquettish touch.

 

Reiss Carlotta Leopard Print Metal Heel, £139. Available at ReissOnline.com

When you walk on the wild side, you're bound to encounter some savage felines, so it makes perfect sense that danger junkies like rock stars would flock to these safari-esque motifs. Whether it was a skin-tight, purple-and-black Spandex jumpsuit with tiger stripes or a leopard print top with cut-outs along the shoulders, Benatar couldn't resist a fun animal print. Fans of her style, then, will love these leopard print heels, which feature a metal strip along the bottom half of the spiked heel for even more of a rockstar edge.

Rachel Rachel Roy Two-Finger Snake Ring, $48. Available at RachelRoy.com

In ancient Celtic cultures, the snake was considered a symbol of rebirth and transmutation due to how it could shed its skin to expose a sleeker, newer one. Any rocker with a romantic heart knows about destruction and renewal, about the glory of love, the depth of heartache, and the battle to recoil from amorous disappointment. This two-finger snake ring, then, is perfect for the woman who is constantly reinventing herself and her image.