Something old, something new, something borrowed, something cute!

With the economy in this bottomless slump, it is hard to encourage those that are struggling to spend their coveted dollars on luxury clothing.  However, when it comes to fashion, no matter what the times may bring, one cannot sacrifice their total fashionable dignity.  It is a matter of being shrewd and making wise decisions.  Just because our budgets our tight does not mean we should sacrifice our right to make ourselves feel good.  

Pinch your pennies where you can... don't buy anything you don't need, and reinvent your old stuff.  Pair affordable basics with a couple elegant accent pieces and not only will you have a new low budget outfit, but you will also achieve an original ensemble that is far more likely to be one of a kind.  

Today, our Marketing go-to girl Casey is wearing Lindsay Lohan's zipper leggings, a tunic tank from Target, Christian Louboutin peep toe pumps, and inexpensive mixed metal jewelry.  Lindsey, one of our Sales Representatives, is wearing UNIV jeans (a north county consignment store/boutique known for their original styles), a Velvet blouse, and leather gladiators for under $100.  

It doesn't take a rich girl to look elegant and timeless.  Become a stylist... do whatever helps you visualize your wardrobe options, and mix and match until you find something you think fits well, looks cute, and is comfortable (if possible)!  If it helps you, like it does me, google image your favorite style icon and get some inspiration.  See if you can spot similar items in your own wardrobe and start from there.  

Soon enough, tobiblatt.com will be offering one-to-one styling to help you reach your own style.  We will be able to use web correspondence to answer your questions regarding your wardrobe, looks, and overall style, and use the blog as a means of displaying those services to those seeking fashion advice around the globe.  Fashion is individual and deliberate, but draws on influences across different times and cultures... we can all help each other bring out our personal best through fashion, and that is why we want to be here for you.

Tis the Season

The night comes earlier, the exceedingly warm temperature drops with the sun, football has started, and the kids are back at school... for some, this means fall has arrived.  But on the West Coast, it's the beginning of our Indian Summer.   Until about October, Southern California receives some of the best weather in the hemisphere.  It is a time when summer wear and fall early arrivals are blended to create comfortable versatile looks that will take you from the office to happy hour.  Where cooling down at the end of the day doesn't mean the evenings aren't hot.  A time when people cherish the after work cocktail and any hopes of catching a glimpse of summer warmth after a long day locked up in the office.  Leisure time is encouraged, and for those working it is minimal, but savored. 

For those of us fortunate enough to have this slow, drawn out summer weather, celebrate by making a statement.  Don't just recycle your summer basics and denim cut off's.  Now that the sun is setting earlier and the warm weather cools down quicker, try bringing back into rotation some dark jeans, flowy tops, and leather accent pieces.  You may not be able to sport a sweater or coat quite yet, but the cool night allow us to utilize some extra layers and heavier materials in our choices.  Handbags start to get bigger again too, which is a relief to those who keep their purses full of on-the-go goodies, or those jetting out after work.  After you clear your desk at the office, let your hair back down and play with accessories like hats and headbands.  Put on a cropped jacket or a light blouse and hit the town.  Step out in heels, ankle booties, or funky ballet flats; whatever will keep you on your feet through the night.  All you gotta make sure is your home at a reasonable hour to get some beauty rest before work tomorrow... But have some fun.  After all, tis the season.

New York Pretty

This past weekend was the much anticipated marking of trade show season!! Every fall, we make our rounds to New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas to prepare for Holiday, Resort, and Spring collections from all our fave brands.  Most recently, was ENK's Intermezzo in New York, a compilation of Holiday & Resort wear, Accessories, and a preview of Spring 2010 collections.

We are proud to announce that the following brands will be a part of our 2009 Holiday and Resort wear this fall: Chan Luu, Jane Tran, Robin's Jeans, Velvet, Sky, Blank, La Vie Parisienne, Mystique, and Riller & Fount.  

Most notably were some of the fabulous new brands we picked up along the way.  Meghan, a new addition to Showroom 7, boasts a large collection of one of a kind embellished tops and dresses that you will fall for.  Alexia Admor, a fun new dress line, shares our love for short hem lines and simplistic design.  Maxey will provide yummy holiday loungewear for our ladies.  Parker, a great newborn line, will be sending us a nice batch of rompers, dresses, and silk tops.  As for accessories, we scored a really fun line called Deux Lux of glittery wallets, clutches, and makeup cases.  We also expanded our relationship with Robin's Jeans by picking up their Mens goods.

Lots of revived trends were noted at the show this year.  Rompers, Motorcycle jeans, leather bombers, and snakeskin were huge this year.  Bright prints are also sticking around through the fall.  So get ready!! Because this fall is going to be fun, fresh, and fabulous!!

For photos of the weekend, become a fan of Tobi Blatt on facebook and check out our new photo album!

Next on the tradeshow itinerary: LA Market next week, Magic & Project Las Vegas at the end of the month, and NY Coterie next month.