Charles & Marie

True fashionistas (ugh how we hate that word) always mix things up. There’s never a dull item in their wardrobes, which means they typically shop at indie stores nestled off the beaten path. Of course, every now and then a mega retailer offers something fun and fearless. In this case, it’s Bloomingdales where we found this Jocelyn Celeste Flutter Jacket with bow. Wear this to cocktail hour just for kicks. Just be sure to don a smirk and plead the fifth when people ask where you bought it.

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We loved Marchesa before the clothing line went mainstream (we have a thing for gowns that are all at once fantastical and attainable). This full-length silk chiffon gown is coveted for its bold coral hue, swirl embroidered bodice and crossover straps. Upon closer inspection, note the scalloped trim and zip fastening the sexy back. Lucky Marie has plenty of excuses to wear it this weekend. Better start thinking of a few of your own.

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Sexy is as sexy does. And as sexy wears. Vintage-inspired Notte by Marchesa, named for the eccentric ’20s society icon Marchesa Luis Casati, is adored be celebrities and social swans with good reason. We’re loving this darling fuchsia frock with black lace overlay, camisole neckline and beaded spaghetti straps. Sport this on the town when you want all eyes on you. Not that you need any help in the magnetic charms department.

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Sex up your wardrobe with staples from newly launched Whistle & Flute. The sharp designs and colors (blackest blacks, warm redwoods and cool whites) mix the masculine with the feminine without looking androgynous. This we love. Imagine the 1960s London gangster look with a touch of Anita Pallenberg, symbol of femininity. The fall/winter collection is nature-inspired with a “finely honed” city edge that begs you to leave the urban sidewalks and take to the hills (they’re so alive) for a change. Don’t just sit there, get moving.

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When Marie is expecting a visit from the one and only Mr. Sandman, she breaks out posh Pomme sleepwear. The cute collection is ultra soft, warm and flattering on every woman. Consider it a marriage of fashion and function (finally gals get to look beautiful and feel shiver-free). Oh, and did we mention how divine the fabrics feel on skin?

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The holidays are approaching. Fast. Don’t just sit there like a big (albeit beautiful) bump on a log. Start preparing your wardrobe accordingly. Where to begin? Seek out Cari Borja. The talented clothing designer satiates a craving for festive couture and has recently opened an eponymous atelier on Berkeley’s Fourth Street. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind separates, dresses and jackets, itty bitty fashions for babies and toddlers, plus accessories and ready-to-wear clothing by a handful of other designers.

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There’s nothing you’d rather do than get a good night’s sleep. And there’s certainly nothing better than looking fabulous while you drool all over your satin pillow case (that’s why we introduced you to BedHead’s fashionable nighttime collections months ago). Now there’s a BedHead boutique in L.A. It’s a wonderland for fine pajamas that boast exquisite tailoring and details. Add to your slumber party the shop’s lambswool- and fur-line slippers, overnight bags by Renee Claire, and deliciously scented Votivo candles.

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Dolls! It’s a madcap cocktail party world, which is why we’re letting you know that famed San Francisco couturier Colleen Quen has moved her atelier to Heron Street. The new digs are home to her imaginative, color-saturated collections, all of them made from liquid-like fabrics and pretty much on par with the kind of fab designs you’ll find in Paris (although these are far more affordable). Quen customizes frocks using old world haute couture techniques to ensure a perfect fit, which is why we continue to bring you updates on her designs.

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We adore fashions of the orient, mostly because they remind us of our adventurous travels. Dublin’s The Heritage Boutique stocks exclusive modern-classic couture by two top Indian designers: celebrity favorite Ritu Beri and JJ Valaya of The House of Valaya. This shop is a must for those looking to swathe themselves in smoldering color (this includes clothing or tapestries). Sexy shapes and textiles in rich hues of copper and amethyst abound. Hooray for Bollywood.

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MORE…

Ah yes, another product of Parsons School of Design. Leigh Bantivoglio does sexed up underpinnings inspired by the unabashed sensuality of Parisian culture. We’re loving these looks from her coquette collection. They make us want to frolic outdoors in our skivvies, but we’ll settle for the privacy of our living rooms…for now.

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