What happens when the “Godfather of the modern tattoo” teams up with “the king of jeans”? An original, artistic clothing line is born. In January 2005, Christian Audigler and Ed Hardy joined forces and created one of the hottest brands on the market today. Celebs like Madonna, Britney, and Snoop Dogg were immediately drawn to the edgy artistic collection.
Ed Hardy’s passion for tattoo artistry started when he was just a young boy. When he was 10 years old he would draw cars and eagles on the back of his friend’s arms with an eyeliner pencil. Whether you like it or not, Ed Hardy is an artist. Some shy away from tattoo art because it can seem a bit “biker” meets “punk” with the skulls, hearts and banners announcing “love kills slowly”. However, Ed Hardy’s collection brings an appreciation for tattoo art to the masses - without having to fully commit to a lifelong body tattoo. Now, we can change our tattoo with our mood, wear a different one everyday. These colorful Japanese art-inspired clothes will always look best with dark jeans. Keep it simple by only showcasing one item at a time - don’t overdo it. It’s a sexy, rock and roll chic look - go for it.

items in this observation:

Yes, it’s true… 80’s fashions are making a comeback. When I first heard this insane rumor, I was transported to my bathroom in the house where I grew up. The visual goes something like this: Wham! blasting “Wake me up before you go go, don’t leave me hanging on like a yoyo…” trying desperately to maximize my hair’s height and volume, over a hundred rubber bracelets on my wrist, wearing a florescent pink off the shoulder sweatshirt, and a pair of tight Fiorucci jeans. Ahhh… the memories. The 80’s were all about being big and bold. Big shoulder pads, big hair, bright florescent colors, lots of jewelry, and of course… Madonna. It’s one thing to look back, and remember the time fondly. Quite another to want to revisit it. I’ve been there done that, and probably won’t go back. However, if this is a style you haven’t tried then give it a go. It’s perfectly suited for the younger crowd, my nieces and nephews are on the verge of a huge transformation, currently wearing brightly colored Ray-Bans, for example. I’m not entirely sure I can see the over 25 crowd wearing these fashions. Having said that, there is a way to do it tastefully. Don’t go all the way, pick one or two things to incorporate into your existing style. Like with any fashion flashback, modernize it. Good luck girls, and don’t overdo it!

modern 80’s items in this observation:

It looks as though the headband trend is making a resurgence! No surprise given that it goes perfectly with the of the moment bohemian style. It’s an earthy, yet urban, way to wear your hair. It’s reminiscent of the flower child of the 60’s, but modernized and glamorized. I have a feeling people either totally love these headbands or think they are completely awful. Personally, I am a huge fan. Similar to when the jumpsuit trend presented itself earlier this summer I’m sure some of you are saying, “are you kidding!”, but why not give it a try! The other fun thing about this hippy-like trend is the possible “do it yourself” factor. Head over to Michaels, A.C. Moore, or your local mom and pop fabric store, locate your favorite ribbon, lace, leather or elastic and a few bucks later bring home this stretch of wonderful headband-to-be and stitch it heavily where the ends meet. Even easier - simply knot it and, Viola! You’ve got yourself a headband! Now, the trick is to wear it out and keep it on your forehead all night. Pair this bandeaux trend with some comfy jeans and a peasant top for the ultimate laid back hippy look or you can opt for an Olsen type of feel by donning one of these with a boho chic ensemble or a goddess-like maxi gown. Other celebs that totally rock the bandeaux band - Mischa Barton, Molly Sims, Sienna Miller, and Nicole Richie.

free-spirited headgear in this observation:

Top Row:

Middle Row:

Bottom Row:

Hats have certainly been around for a long time, an accessory not all of us wanted to adorn. They’ve have gone from being a little bit prissy and kind of silly to edgy and of the moment. The quickest way to take an outfit from weak to chic is to pop on a cool hat. The fedora has been seen on celebrities galore, from Justin Timberlake to Kate Moss. We’re even seeing a straw version of the fedora replace the common wide brim hat at the beach. You may not think you can pull off the look, but in the right situation, you’ll look great. For example, the zebra emi hat would look great at a luncheon. You’ll come across as confident, and a girl who’s willing to try new things. The summer fedora can be worn to the beach, or around town doing errands. The Eugenia Kim hat is perfect for walking around the city. The Miss Sixty beanie hat adds dimension and intrigue to anything from jeans and a tee to a full black skirt with heels. It’s a good idea to go try on some hats, and play for a bit before determining which look suits your style. When you find the right one, you’ll know and you will rock the look. Have fun!

stylish hats in this observation (clockwise):

Let’s play a little bit with color this summer. Bold colors have been everywhere all spring long, it’s no surprise it’s a trend that translates right into summer. A watch is great place to show some color and you don’t have to spend a lot of money either. Tons of companies have a bold colored watch in their collections. You can go ultra-feminine with a more delicate watch, or a sport watch in a big bold beautiful color. We love to see a brightly colored sports watch, because it’s a masculine watch in a feminine color. It becomes a more unexpected and intriguing piece. Grab a blue watch that’s the color of the summer sky. Or a yellow one that is as brilliant as the sun. There’s even candy colored pink, and tangerine orange. The colors are refreshing and completely cool for the summer. I’m considering the Gino Franco with the yellow band and the pink face. It’s like a combination of lemonade and pink grapefruit juice - love it!

watches in this observation:
1st Row:

2nd Row:

3rd Row:

Four years ago, my sunday night with the girls came screeching to a halt. What was I going to do now? It was like I had been brutally frozen out of the cool click, and all I was left with was a group of mobsters. My Sunday night went from Barney’s to the Bada-Bing, and while I liked my mobsters they didn’t compare to my girls. Finally, the girls are back! I can’t wait to see what they’ve been up to and, more importantly, what they’re wearing. I think every girl who watched the show loved to see how the outfits were put together. It wasn’t always the most wearable clothing, but it was edgy and had a fresh way of presenting self-expression. So, you’re going to the movie with a group of friends. What on earth are you going to wear? Go for a top in a luscious fabric that feels good against your skin, paired with some super skinny jeans. Skinny jeans will help showcase your shoes. When it comes to the shoes… go for it! It’s all about the shoes tonight! We’ve selected a pair of Dior shoes that Carrie is wearing in the movie (only in a pewter), but there are a million copies out there. The bottom line is, make a statement with your shoes and bag on this particular night. The orange bag we’ve selected is another piece from Carrie’s movie wardrobe. It’s very accessible, and will last well beyond your night at the movies. I hope the movie transports you to a fabulous moment in New York City, and you leave with a smile on your face. Have fun, and a lot of laughs. Oh yeah… and look fabulous!

fabulous items in this observation:

1. Bold color - meant to be mixed with all kinds of colors, and can be worn with everything.

Carnaby Carryall @ J.Crew
Cashmere two-button cardigan tee @ J.Crew

2. Skinny belt - cinching your waist is an easy way to update.

Leatherock skinny double-wrap belt @ Nordstrom
Cynthia Rowley patent leather belt @ Nordstrom

3. Patent leather - shine on! It can be black, neutral, or bold.

Kooba ‘Jacinda’ patent bag @ Plaza Too
apt. 9 chain flip-flops @ Kohls

4. Dip-dye - An updated version of Tie-Dye. It’s done in soft colors this season, which looks good on all.

Secrets of Charm daria shirt @ Shopbop
Adam Lippes degrade halter wrap top @ Shopadam

5. Wide leg denim - a great way to update. It’s clean, classic, and fresh.

J Brand cass jean @ Shopbop
Goldsign ‘Treo’ high-waisted wide leg stretch jeans @ Nordstrom

6. Metallic - should be worn like a neutral, and goes with everything.

Zoey metallic clutch @ Plaza Too
Adam Lippes linen trench @ Shopadam
Liv metallic ballet flats @ J.Crew

7. Full skirt - easy to wear with a fitted top or tee.

Plenty by Tracy Reese printed skirt @ Nordstrom
Ruffle skirt @ Gap

8. Bracelets - lots and lots of bracelets. Bangles are fun for this season.

Asos chunky wood bangle w/ metal detail @ Asos
Elsa Peretti bangle @ Tiffany

9. Tribal prints - young, fun, urban, and edgy.

zebra smocked top @ Active Endeavors
tribal print sundress @ Topshop

The BOLD colors of spring are a welcome change from the usual palette of springs past. It’s all about bright blues, eye popping pinks, lush grass greens, and lemony yellows. All you need to determine is how bold you want to be. You can go all over bold, or add a simple splash of color. For a subtle look, pair a brightly colored top with a pair of white jeans. For the daring, go for a dress in a lively hue. Pull it all together with a fun clutch.