About That Ivy Style, Preppy Sales & Savings

Hello-Hello, happy Monday!

We begin with a look at Vanity Fair‘s photo piece on the “Hallmarks of Preppy Style“.

Is that poly blend? Three raps over the knuckles with a braided belt! Preppy fashion is all about rules—the standard bearers sniff at synthetics, cleavage, sparkles, and a million other don’ts.

Below, a photo we may have shown previously, Deerfield students in 1961.

Via Vanity Fair

More from the preface to the photo piece:

But those dictates source originally from the “windswept and privileged” attire of 1920s college men, the supposed first to co-opt athletic gear as daywear in an unstudied, thrown-together way.

A 1920s print ad.

Via Vanity Fair

Back to the Vanity Fair writeup:

Preppy, released on October 4 from Rizzoli, lays out the evolution of Ivy style in a sleeker, glossier way than all those prep-devoted Tumblrs you’ve probably seen. Here we trace the touchstones of the look, from Jack Kennedy’s flannels to coltish Ralph Lauren models and the original Lacoste croc.

Photofest via Vanity Fair

As mentioned in the Vanity Fair piece, Preppy: Cultivating Ivy Style comes out next week. We are very excited about this one, as soon you will be able to purchase it from The Preppy Princess. And guess where you will be able to enter a giveaway for the book at some point in the not-too-distant future?

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The Vanity Fair piece mentioned above also includes a look at legendary adman David Ogilvy, inspiration for the hit television show Mad Men. That is the perfect lead-in to our next topic, the cast and crew of the show are back at work.  (It is about time.)  The Daily Mail has a variety of images of the cast getting back to work in this story we wanted to share with Preppy 101. Below we show Roger and Don John Slattery and Jon Hamm.

Splash/Splash/GSI-Barcroft Media

The show returns in January.

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One other quick item of note, Casa Sugar’s Ivy League Americana photo montage.

Casa Sugar

From the story:

It certainly screams prep, but there’s a definite elegance in the look above. Deep rosewood hues and tartan plaid make me smell the East Coast Autumn air. And despite the fact that Thomas Chippendale was a Brit, his iconic, ornate Chippendale design is also a huge influence in this style. His cabinetry was reserved for the upper echelon of society in colonial America.

Click here to see the entire piece.

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There are also a few Sales and Savings opportunities you may find to be of interest. It is that time of year between back-to-school and Christmas when retailers boost sales through other promotional efforts, there are several Friends and Family offerings.

Lands’ End is doing Friends and Family, 25% off everything, just go to the site and you will see the information.

Lands’ End

Brooks Brothers is also offering 25% off in its Friends and Family promotion.

Brooks Brothers

To receive a 25% discount at Brooks Brothers, use promo code 11FRIEND.

Speaking of Brooks Brothers, flash sale site Rue La La is doing a sale on Brooks’ Handbags starting tomorrow at 11am.

Rue La La

There is also a men’s Brooks Brothers sale at Rue La La tomorrow, along with Sebago, makers of good boat shoes and moccasins.

Rue La La

And finally, J. Crew Factory is 30% off through Wednesday night.

J. Crew Factory

This is online only, use promo code SHOPNOW to receive the discount.

That is it for today, goodbye until next time!

Talbots Holiday 2011 and A Few Sales/Savings Opportunities

Hello-Hello, welcome to an absolutely gorgeous day here at the Prepatorium.

It seems like just last week we were engaged in a whineathon of epic proportion desperate for just a taste of spring or summer weather.  Fast forward a few weeks and now many friends find themselves praying for an early fall, it has been that hot or that dry or that wet, or simply that miserable in their corner of the globe. In that spirit we offer an early look at this year’s holiday collection at Talbots.

Women’s Wear Daily attended yesterday’s preview and has the story.

“Inspired by Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball of 1966, Michael Smaldone, Talbots’ chief creative officer, showed a holiday collection on Wednesday that was minimalistic, with a nod to easy Sixties glamour.”

There are some nice, bright jewel tones in the line.

It’s always good to see a splash of color in the middle of winter.

Another angle on the more vibrant colors.

Robert Mitra/WWD

Here are a few of the more casual styles.

Robert Mitra/WWD

It looks like Talbots will continue to grow its workout/athletic/yoga group, an area that remains a very positive story for most retailers. (Full disclosure; your trusty correspondent has a few pieces from this group and they are outstanding.)

Robert Mitra/WWD

There is a wonderful array of pieces in a deep, rich red, perfect for the holidays.

Robert Mitra/WWD

More from the WWD story:

“Smaldone focused on clean shapes, from long column gowns to short A-line dresses, as well as graphic black-and-white elements on looks such as a long houndstooth skirt.”

More in these colors.

Also seen more frequently this time of year, lamé and sequins, with a few animal prints also visible.

Robert Mitra/WWD

There are more jewel tones shown in the holiday accessories.

Robert Mitra/WWD

A few more items.

Robert Mitra/WWD

These are a bit tougher to see, but you can still get an idea of what will be offered.

Robert Mitra/WWD

Many of the styles shown look elegant, although it is obviously difficult to gauge when you can’t feel the fabric, look closely at the cut, the embellishment, etc.  We fervently hope the collection helps the troubled retailer get back on track, we would like to see them around for many years to come.

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We have a very few Sales and Savings Opportunities to offer.

Kate Spade is taking an additional 25% off sale prices, use promo code SALE25 for the discount. (Today is the last day.)

Brooks Brothers is doing its summer Clearance event.

Vineyard Vines is taking an additional 40% off its sale items, use promo code HOT. One caveat, this morning they have experienced numerous outages and downtime for the website. We’re sure it will be remedied as quickly as possible, but patience might be required.

Basically every apparel & accessories retailer we know of is offering significant discounts at its stores (as well factory/outlet stores) and online.

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One last FYI, we are doing a poll at our sister site What Kate Wore, Kate’s wearing of pantyhose/tights/nylons almost all the time is creating quite the conversation. We would love to know what you think, either by vote or comment or both!

With that, we say thank you for popping in to visit, we cherish each and every reader, knowing you have a gazillion choices when it comes to online reading opportunities. We are grateful you decided to spend a little time with us. 🙂

ADDITIONAL PHOTO CREDIT:

• All Talbots photos by Robert Mitra, WWD

William Rast for Target, Lilly Pulitzer Personalized Acrylic Collection

Hello-Hello, happy Friday for those looking forward to a restful, restorative weekend. (Um… is this on tap for anybody? “Hello, earth to Princess, come in Princess, it’s time for a reality check.”)

We begin today with the latest collaborative line offered to be offered by Le Boutique Targét, this one from William Rast, Justin Timberlake’s label.

Courtesy Target via Nitrolicious

The line launches December 19, prices will run $16.99 to $199.99, that latter amount being a hefty price tag for Target clothing items.

We do like the woven silk shirt seen above left ($34.99), but the majority of the collection is perhaps aimed at a younger audience (cough-cough), methinks we’re just too old for the hipper styles embodied by the soon-to-be-released line.  To see the entire lookbook, scoot over here to visit Nitrolicious, she has images and prices for all of the styles.

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Next, something with minimal real-world relevance, at least not here at the Prepatorium, and a chance to play Guess the Designer.

Via FashionLvr.com

We expect most everyone will figure out who it is straight off, as we have previously featured a few of these pieces (albeit in a different setting), and the creator’s signature touches are abundant.

Via FashionLvr.com

Of course you guessed correctly, it is Thom Browne, of Brooks Brothers‘ Black Fleece renown. The exaggerated hemlines, grosgrain accents and menswear-style fabrics are just a few of the designer’s more recognizable trademarks.  As described in crossover magazine Sang Bleu:

“Built on the back of blue blood love of quality and educated nuances of subtle style statements, the house of Browne has single handedly provided the resounding laugh track for a nation on its own fast track to success without digressing from the craftsmanship revered by the conservative class.”

As always with Mr. Browne, there are individual items sure to be perfect for almost any wardrobe. The pieces are impeccably tailored, and when seen individually without the distraction of patterns upon patterns the look is far more manageable and frequently elegant. (Although nothing will change those extreme front-to-back drops on the hemlines.)

To see the full review and all of the styles from next spring’s collection, visit Sang Bleu.

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We have two quick Sales and Savings opportunities, both are of the online limited-time, “members-only” genre, cough-cough. (Do forgive TP’s sarcasm, it is just that the faux aura of exclusivity is irksome.)  The first is Jack Rogers Shoes, Apparel and Accessories at Gilt Groupe. (If in need of an invitation, just click here.) Below we show two of the boot styles being offered, the Hi Nell on the left is $179 and the Greenwich on the right is offered at$149.

We do like the Windsor Flat ($99) and the Beth’s Boatneck Taffeta dress ($139).  We’ve no idea how the still fairly new women’s clothing line has performed for the company, nor actually seen any of the pieces in person. Have any readers tried on or purchased from the new apparel line?

The Gilt Jack Rogers sale ends at noon on December 6, as of this writing the selection remains good.

The second sale referenced is for Brooks Brothers Men’s merchandise, this one at Rue La La. (Click here for a shortcut to an invite.)  This one seems a mixed bag, with silk ties approximately 30-45% off, dress shirts discounted by roughly 41%, and the company’s classic leather belt with engine-turned buckle half-off its original price at $98, a good deal IOHO.

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One tidbit for your social secretary to consider adding to the calendar, if anywhere near the greater Baltimore area next Saturday (the 11th): Tartan & Tidings.

Sky Blue Events

The soiree runs from 7-11pm at Evergreen House, one stylish locale and perfect for a party.  Cocktails, yummies, live music and more are the backdrop for this fundraiser, click here for more information.

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An update on our Lilly Pulitzer Personalized Collection, we now have most of the pieces online!

PreppyPrincess.com

Above we show the Large Tray, measuring 11″ x 17″;  you can see how easily it holds our Lilly Tumblers and a Lilly Water Bottle. Below is the Small Tray, still good-sized at 11″ x 9″. (We do apologize for the somewhat dark photos.)

PreppyPrincess.com

Also available as of today….

PreppyPrincess.com

The Lilly Acrylic Picture Frame.

PreppyPrincess.com

Above, the back of a frame; below we see the front and back separated, which is how the photos are inserted.

PreppyPrincess.com

There is an outstanding selection of your favorite Lilly patterns, and a great range of personalization styles.

PreppyPrincess.com

One of the nice things about these goodies? Our cutoff date to have any of these items in time for Christmas delivery is 12/6, still allowing a bit of time to consider the options.  We’ll let you know when we have the ice buckets and recipe boxes.

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We leave you with our annual peek at a White House tradition.

Jewel Samad/AFP/Getty

As always, the creation gives new meaning to the phrase “gingerbread house,” all 350 pounds of it. We do think Bo looks mighty cute in this rendering. He is done in condensed milk and marzipan, and this year he is actually larger-than-scale.

Larry Downing/Reuters

As many may already know, the House isn’t really edible; but this year the White House Chef shared his recipe for gingerbread, and it looks like it might be time to break out the cookie cutters here at the Prepatorium.

With that happy thought, we hope everyone enjoys a simply splendid weekend!

 

Preppish Bargains & Giant Hermès Kelly Bag

Hello and happy Friday to all looking forward to the weekend.

Most of today’s post is more of our inane nattering light and easy, with a focus on opportunities to maintain fiscal responsibility while also taking care of some Christmas and/or Hanukkah shopping. But first we look at an upcoming estate sale, something that is inexplicably provoking a touch of melancholy here at The Prepatorium. (Yes, we know, we momentarily went off the rails there, veering dangerously into the TMI Zone. Goofy Princess.)

At any rate, it is tomorrow’s Dominick Dunne Estate auction that prompts the sadness. For some reason, the item we are most saddened to see is part of Lot #94, “Mexican Embossed Leather Box”.

Via Artfact

It isn’t the box itself, but rather, the collection of cufflinks.  They seem so very personal, selling them to the highest bidder in such a public forum feels… odd. (At best.) The Times carried an article about the auction last week.

“…the colorful remnants of his estate have been consigned by his family to Stair Galleries in Hudson, N.Y., which will auction them on Nov. 20.

Visitors to the gallery’s ground floor will enter what Colin Stair, the auction house’s president, called a “mini-re-creation of an era of Dunne’s life” at Clouds, his 1961 colonial-style saltbox in Hadlyme, Conn., which he bought in 1993. He had fled Hollywood more than a decade earlier, his career as a movie producer sunk by alcoholism and financial ruin.”

Of course, the reality is that the auction isn’t what we find troubling, not at all.  The dejection comes from realizing Mr. Dunne is gone.

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Now we shall careen wildly move to the aforementioned Sales & Savings, beginning with Kate Spade.  The Barrow Street Anabel is now $137 (from $275), perfect to carry on this winter’s getaway.  A possibility as a party pump this season, the Karlisle in black is now $224, discounted from its initial selling price of $320.

We are partial to the Gold Coast Kip bag (originally $225 and now $112); the Moon River Pearl Bracelet will perk up any number of styles, it originally sold at $195 and is now $136.

Brooks Brothers is promoting its Thanksgiving Clearance Event.

Brooks Brothers

And Tory Burch is touting the “Divine Sale”. (?)

ToryBurch.com

There are many season-appropriate offerings like the Simone Cardigan (initially selling at $225, now $112.50), available in several colors, and the Nolde Turtleneck (originally $125, now $62.50).

Shoes are also marked down, including the Afrikan Reva flat (originally priced at $235, now $165).

The selection appears fairly broad.

Barneys Not-So- Private Sale is also underway.

Barneys New York

Offerings include a few Pretty in Pink goodies, like the Hooded Puffer Coat (Now $66 from $110) for Babies and Toddlers, or the Cupcake Fleece Jacket (originally $55, now $33), also in Infants and Toddlers.

We also have word about a significant sale at The Gap, tomorrow only (Saturday, 11/20/10).

“This Saturday only save 40% off the entire store, including sale merchandise. All existing Gap, BR or Old Navy cardmembers will receive 45% off when they use their Gap, BR or Old Navy Credit Card. Or if you apply and are approved for a GapCard you can receive 40% + 15% off!”

That would include styles like these for the tiny preps at your palace.

Note this is in-store only, not online, at least not as of now. We thank our Twitter friend ap for the tip.

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In honor of the delightful Summer is a Verb we share a glance at an amazing Kelly Bag from Hermès. (We credit her for playing a significant role in helping the company achieve record-breaking profits this year. Heh, heh, heh.)

Via Fashion Tribes

The massive ‘handbag’ is actually part of an interactive exhibit the legendary firm has undertaken with Selfridges, a UK retailer we have enjoyed visiting now and again.  From the Selfridges news release:

“Bringing new meaning the term ‘oversized handbag’, The Kellydoscope is a giant version of the iconic Hermès Kelly bag – named after movie star and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly.

Made exclusively from the label’s leather and toile fabrics, The Kellydoscope features a side door through which you step, to find out what its like inside a handbag.”

Via Selfridges

We would be happy with the reversible Double Sens. After all, reversible = practical, oui?

Hermès

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We leave you with an unusual Pretty in Pink, something we have dubbed “When Snails Attack”.

Via Miami New Times

45 of these massive monsters can now be seen allover Miami Beach. Formally, the snails are part of an international art project; here is more from the official website:

“Strategically placed throughout the city, this engaging public art series is designed to inspire a community-wide conversation about the importance of recycling and its environmental impact, while leaving a potent artistic trace on the Miami Beach community.”

Previously they were spotted in Milan.

Photo via Anabolic/Flickr

The snails will be ‘on the beach’ until January 3.

Belle Isle Blog

On that whimsical note, may everyone enjoy weekends filled with love and laughter!

And The Winner Is… “Gossip Girls Haunt the Hamptons”

Hello-Hello, welcome to an insanely busy day here at the Prepatorium!  (There is a positive side to the mayhem, you have a mercifully brief post with far less insipid nattering on insightful commentary from these quarters!)

We said we would share the Top Ten posts here on the blog when we reached our millionth blog view. Here they are:

ThePreppyPrincess.wordpress.com

That number one post, Gossip Girls Hit the Hamptons, dates all the way back to June of 2008 and featured the cast shooting on location.

JustJared.Buzznet.com

We used the photo full size of Ed Westwick to make a point, here is a bit of the original post:

“We have never, ever, actually known a human being who would get off the train attired like this. You are in a suit, or you are in khakis and a blazer, or you are wearing jeans and a button down, you know the routine. Three argyles all at once and spectators and the shorts…? No. Not even close.”

The three argyle items are the sweater, socks and tie.  The post also included actor Chace Crawford in a swarm (gaggle? herd?) of teenage girls.

JustJared.Buzznet.com

The rest of the cast is also seen in that particular post. Season four is confirmed, the next location shoot for the cast and crew is Paris.

The rest of the list seems to make sense… Olympic Uniforms from Polo Ralph Lauren, Sperry & J. Crew, various perceptions and interpretations of the preppy aesthetic.  Hhhmmm. (But Gossip Girl in the Hamptons as the most popular post…? Yikes.)

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Before leaving you, we have some Sales and Savings we simply must share, it is that time of year as we approach a holiday weekend. Here we go:

• 40% off entire purchase at Brooks Brothers factory stores tomorrow (Thursday, 5/27/10) through the 31st
• Kate Spade offers an additional 25% off all Sale merchandise now through June 1st and free ground shipping on all orders
• Elaine Turner is offering 33% off through Memorial Day; use promo code MEMORIAL33
• Nordstrom’s Half-Yearly Sale for women and children is underway now
• Gucci is allowing customers to reserve items online from their sale that starts June 1; click here for details
• J. Crew’s Summer Sale is underway, we cannot offer any insight on markdowns
• Lacoste is promoting up to 70% off at their outlet stores
• The sale at Saks offers up to 60% off original prices (apparently one should disregard the graphic they show promoting “30-40% off”)
• This one is just in from our friend at the oh-so-chic Beladora Jewelry: use discount code BHB to receive 10% off your purchase at Beladora, or 5% off your purchase of the fab vintage jewels offered at Beladora 2. (The divine image below is from Beladora 2.)

We know there are more that have come into the electronic in-bin, but we are so behind schedule we can’t list them all, please accept our apology.

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We leave you with these Pretty in Pink pillows from Thred, part of their Tropical Preppy collection.

Holli at Thred is more than talented, we adore her creative pillows.

With that, may everyone stay cool, stay safe and stay happy!