Snow Suits
You’ve already got the latest and greatest outfit for the slopes – but it’s just as important to have the right clothes for cozying up in the lodge or hitting the town. From puffy jackets to sleek sweaters and warm beanies, there’s a wealth of stylish winter wear out there ready to be modeled. — Mia Stefanko
Above: Wool hat by Missoni Sport, Winter white Down Jacket by Flavio Castellani, Straight leg denim by Sass & Bide, Silk tunic with sequins by Barbara Bui, Grey wool turtleneck by Barbara Bui.
All from Melange in La Jolla
Above: Belt by Lost, Denim jeans by Ezekiel, Cult shirt, Skull beanie, Coat by Billabong
All from Beach Bungalow in Del Mar
 

Examining Your Closet
Since you’re already in the mindset of evaluating everything else in your life, why not focus a bit of energy on the one place that often gets put on the backburner — your closet. Reorganizing or installing upgraded shelving can actually create the feeling of a rejuvenated wardrobe. Carefully mapped out sections allow for maximum storage space and less wear and tear on clothes that would normally be crammed into ill-suited compartments, while cedar elements help to keep bugs away and preserve the life of your clothes. Additionally, plastic casings keep collars and buttons from snagging other clothes and keep whatever is on your hands off your crisp white shirts. Shoe racks with rollout drawers allow you to view and store each pair close together without creating a trash-compactor effect.

But even the most organized and carefully planned out closet can still benefit from a few extra tips. Consider arranging shirts first by sleeve length and material, then by color. Organizing by category minimizes the time you have to play hide and seek with that red blouse you know is in there somewhere. Shoes can also be arranged by heel height, open versus closed toed styles, and color. Items that aren’t worn as frequently should be stored higher up, while day-to-day items should be kept at close range. Handbags should really be stored like books on a shelf, rather than on top of each other, to avoid crushing. By reorganizing, you will expand the life of each item with proper care. A well-groomed closet can be a therapeutic element, and is certainly a great way to kick off the New Year. — Jane Shiomi, photo by Vincent Knakal

 

Bella Moda Too
After three years of success on Coast Highway in Encinitas, Bella Moda has opened its second store, Bella Moda Too, in Carlsbad on State Street. The high-end fashion boutique specializes in the wildly popular casual chic style hitting the streets of San Diego. “We have something for everyone, ages 20 to 80,” says owner Heidi Moran. Hot trends this season continue to be very casual clothes with bold and dressy embellishments, gaucho pants, and high-end designer jeans with long tops. The new Carlsbad location also offers an expanded variety of nightclub attire, perfect for San Diegans on the scene. (760/479-9879) — Aimee Cebulski

Tucci Boutique Opening
Tucci Boutique on Cedros recently held a holiday opening event, where some hundred guests were treated to Champagne, hors d’oeuvres, psychic card readings, live guitar music, and of course, private shopping. A special 20 percent discount was given on all purchases that evening, and deals were certainly snatched up on such lines as Chaiken, Hard Tail, Tory by TRB, Hanky Panky, Cosabella, Calypso, and Stitches, as well as Sigerson Morrison, Michael Kors, and Sergio Rossi shoes. Tucci, which means “you” in Italian, prides itself on excellent service and care, and also offers private consultation and shopping parties at the store. (858/259-8589, www.tucciboutique.com) — Mia Stefanko
Fashionable Lunch
Friends of Fashion, an advisory body to Fashion Group International of San Diego (FGI), held its second annual luncheon at Neiman Marcus in Fashion Valley. Membership in the select Friends group has increased in the past year, and myriad events and activities are planned by FGI for the public and Friends in 2006. The always-exciting Style Awards Gala promises to be more enjoyable than ever, as cutting edge and traditional styles are celebrated in inimitable FGI manner. There will be other fashion gatherings throughout the year, and FGI’s fashionista Friends will be in attendance learning, advising, and purchasing. Fashion is fun, and Friends of Fashion certainly knows how to have fun. (619/239-4287, www.fgi.org) — Darlene G. Davies

(Pictured Above): Dianne York-Goldman, Lael Kovtun, Joyce Glazer, Kristi Pieper, Diana Cavagnaro, Sally Thornton, Karen Rowley, Bonnie Wright, Jeanne Lucia, Pat DeMarce, Darlene Davies

 

 
 
 

 

  
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