Archive for Essentials

Whether she’s riding around in a Greyhound on the Simple Life or guest judging on Project Runway, Nicole Richie has always had a knack for keeping us entertained. When Richie debuted her jewelry line the House of Harlow 1960, I knew that she would once again capture our hearts and make us swoon over her fabulous creative side.

Richie’s line has matured over the years since the debut capturing the fashion world in a whirlwind of excitement! Her new line is notorious for its splash of unique colors, gold accents, and strong black influences. Here are some of the Daily Fashionistas favorites available at Boutique To You:


House of Harlow 1960 Peacock Cuff
:

House of Harlow 1960 Peacock Cuff-PREORDER


This gorgeous gold accent piece can be incorporated into any woman’s wardrobe. Mix it up with a flowing evening gown for a glam look for the red carpet or mix in some bangles for an indie feel.

House of Harlow 14K Gold-Plated Peacock Necklace-PREORDER

You could even match the Peacock Cuff with the 14K Gold-Plated Peacock Necklace. These pieces aren’t available until the end of March, but I already pre-ordered mine!

I’ve been gushing over black and gold accessories for the past season, and now Nicole has given me a reason to continue crushing on these two tones with her Black Leather Garter Bracelet.

House of Harlow 1960 Black Leather Garter Bracelet-PREORDER


This piece can be added to almost any collection flawlessly! Add a spunk to your usual business professional, or a little edge to your girlie wardrobe with this eye-catching bracelet. The detailed work on the bracelet adds a certain flair and originality to the piece.

This winter, the Northeast has experienced a bone-chilling cold like never before, I’ve been looking for every excuse to introduce a dash of color into my wardrobe. Richie’s Gold Plated Abalone Large Starburst Necklace gives me another way to shine – even in the coldest of winters!

House of Harlow 1960 Gold Plated Abalone Large Starburst Necklace-PREORDER

Layering is all the rage this season. Pair the Starburst Necklace with the Gold Abalone Five Station Necklace for a completely different look!

House of Harlow Gold Abalone Five Station Necklace-PREORDER

I can honestly say that no matter what your personal style is this season, Nicole Richie’s House of Harlow 1960 collection will suit your fashion sense! We’ve seen a lot of edgyness and chains on the runway this season. Here’s your chance to incorporate the runway look with an air of femininity and borderline bohemian.

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UsTrendy Store: A Haven for Indie Fashion Lovers and Designers

Sunday, February 28th, 2010

UsTrendyA truly unique fashion community that supports up-and-coming indie fashion designers has emerged into the web-o-sphere known by many as UsTrendy. UsTrendy was really founded as a platform to help indie designers to break into the fashion industry. “I wanted to help the designers pursue their dreams and take them one step closer to realizing their dreams,” exclaimed Sam Sisakhti, the CEO and Founder of UsTrendy.

UsTrendy really started as Sam’s dream – “to democratize fashion and help indie designers and artists share their work with the world.” I had the opportunity to get to know more about Sam during our interview. He is a very genuine individual who really thrives on motivating others to pursue their dreams.

Currently, UsTrendy is home to thousands of designers and hundreds of thousands of indie fashion pieces and artistic works. Despite their size, UsTrendy is known for superior customer service and a huge passion for the UsTrendy cause. The UsTrendy team spends a significant part of each day working with indie designers. “I’m lucky to have such passionate people on my team.”

When I found out that customers had the decision power, I had to learn more! “I want to flatten the system and take the decision power out of select few hands and open up equal opportunity to all designers.” UsTrendy is built upon an open market system, meaning anyone can post their items for sale. Customers are then able to vote for which designs they want to see displayed in the store.

Not only does UsTrendy provide an outlet for many indie fashion designers, UsTrendy provides valuable resources which can be critical to the success to these designers. They have provided everything from funding to production, and even sending designers to major Fashion Weeks to have their own runways!

Recently, UsTrendy held a competition among indie designers on the site to have their very own runway show during London Fashion Week. “It’s an opportunity for young indie designers to be on the runway among the Armani’s of the fashion world,” said Sam.

The winner was designer Dee Dee. Be sure to visit her video diary of the experience here of her own runway so in London Fashion Week. Since winning the contest, Dee Dee has had national media coverage and the opportunity to network with buyers, major media outlets, and runway models. She really has a Cinderella story that she will remember for the rest of her life thanks to UsTrendy!

Each week, UsTrendy holds a new contest where indie designers submit designs and each one is rated. At the end of the week, the winner walks away with an extra $100 cash and a whole lot of exposure!

UsTrendy was also founded on the principle of giving back to the community. UsAwareness is the non-profit side of UsTrendy. “Much like our customers decide on which designers we feature, our customers submit different causes and vote on the cause that receives our donation.”

A new site is currently in the works for UsTrendy, but you can test some of the new applications coming now – like the Fashion Showdown – where the top rated items compete head-to-head for number one. “We are adding an interactive experience for our users,” explained Sam, “we don’t want you to just rate an item anymore, we want you share the reasons why you like an outfit or what you would wear with a certain piece.”

For all of my up-and-coming fashion designers, models, and artists, I encourage you to join UsTrendy, “Where Today’s Inspiration is Tomorrow’s Trend.” Who knows, you could be their next designer landing a gig at a Major Fashion Week, having your designs funded and produced, or featured in their “Behind the Seams” column!

You have the power to decide your own fashion – why don’t you start now!  Go ahead, comment below on what items you love on UsTrendy on why they are so fabulous!

Must-have items on UsTrendy:

Hottest designers on UsTrendy:

Hottest Indie Accessories on UsTrendy:

Contact Info:

Website: http://www.ustrendy.com/

Store: http://www.store.ustrendy.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/UsTrendy?ref=ts

Twitter: @UsTrendy

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Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to get to know a few very remarkable fashionistas. Many submissions came rolling in for our Top 10 Fashion Websites which made the selection process pretty tough!

Each submission needed to pass the most important question before making it into the second round – will the Daily Fashionistas readers benefit from the discovery of this website? You are the number one priority – I want to provide products, designs, and blogs that would captivate the interest of you!  I am confident you will enjoy these fabulous websites as much as the Daily Fashionistas.

Another fabulous characteristic of our Tremendous Ten worth mentioning is that each one of these amazing websites participate in charitable activities on various local and national levels! These websites deserve a round of applause for appreciating the world around them and caring to give back!

I want to congratulate each member of our top 10. These brave women have had the courage to pursue their dreams and expose their creativity through unique collections, thoughts, and designs!

Without further a due the Daily Fashionistas Top 10 Fashion Websites:

1. Francesca Belluomini Creations (http://www.etsy.com/shop/francescabelluomini )

The world of jewelry changed three years ago with Francesca Belluomini began designing her own collections. It all began with a turquoise rosary which is now available in her Classics collection.

Her story started much like other true fashionistas. “I always found joy in transforming a simple piece like a white tee into something unique with adding a scarf or a pin. When I could not find anything, I would make it,” explained Francesca.

Her fashion sense is a heritage she’s had since coming into this world. As a child, Francesca worked with her great-grandmother’s excess fabrics to create her own fabulous ensembles for her dolls.

She describes her creations as “unpretentious, effortless, and chic.”

If you’re looking for a unique item, check out her Vintage collection. “They are reinterpretations of charms, necklaces, accessories, findings, haberdasheries collected through the years.”

Francesca Belluomini Creations captured our number one spot for many reasons. Her uniqueness and one rule of creation were major decision makers. “I never use metals (gold, silver, findings, clasps, manmade crystals) unless recycle them for the Vintage pieces. So everything has to go through the head or the wrist either slipping it or wrapping it with a ribbon or some sort of fabric.”

*Fashion Alert: Daily Fashionistas and Francesca Belluomini are teaming up very soon for a special giveaway just for the readers of Daily Fashionsitas!

Contact info:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/francescabelluominicreations
Twitter: @fbcreations
Blog: http://francescabelluomini.blogspot.com/

2. Swap Top Shoes (http://www.swaptopshoes.com/ )

Swap Top Shoes can be described in three words. “Genius, travel, and convenience,” Marta Eleniak simply stated.
As a fashionista, it can be a pain to prepare for any vacation. Not only do you have to limit your wardrobe choices, you have to carry all of the beautiful clothes and shoes with you in heavy luggage. “It’s a real pain but not anymore!”

November 2009 will have forever changed the world of women’s footwear. With the creation of Swap Top Shoes, you have an unlimited amount of shoes at your fingertips with just the simple used of interchangeable tops!

Fashion has been a part of Marta’s existence since she was a young teen. “My bedroom wall was full of collages of magazine cuttings of catwalk looks.”

Marta was so inspired by fashion icon Ines De La Fressange that she legally changed her middle name to Ines at age 18. “In the 80s she was not only ‘Model of the Year’ but the first model to sign an exclusive contract, with Chanel no less.”

Currently, the Anastasias are the hottest item, and with their five-inch-gladiator heel and the zebra-cowhide-gladiator top, we are not surprised!

*As a Daily Fashionista exclusive, check back soon for a 10% discount on all shoelery!

Contact Info:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bournemouth-UK/Swap-Top-Shoes/140416807340
Twitter: @SwapTopShoes

3. Repeat Possessions (http://www.repeatpossessions.com/ )

It all started with some Harajuku Handbags, and Andrea Bridges began an incredible journey to creating RepeatPossessions.com. Andrea’s always had a love for clothes, but like many fashionistas, the challenge was finding fashionable clothes with the right fit. “I have found it now with the !iT Jeans that are built for different woman’s bodies along with the Niki Biki that has a perfect fit, always!”

“The Niki Biki Apparel is all one-size-fits-all and makes you look and feel good. It’s a staple everyone should have in their wardrobe. “

While getting to know Andrea, she has an extraordinary ability to make you feel like her number one! Her customer service is just impeccable! She always wants her customers to look amazing. “Now, when a mom comes to me and finds my items make her ‘come alive’ …that’s the best.”

Traditionally clothing stores are geared towards only a certain age – not Repeat Possessions! “It’s amazing how these fashionable items can cross over to generation to generation.”

Recently, Andrea participated in the Grammy Gifting Suite with host Ryan Seacrest and KIIS. “The celebs are loving my products and will be photographed in them shortly….I am getting great responses from them all!”

The Repeat Possessions’ Niki Biki line offers over 75 colors of camisoles, but remember Niki Biki carries more than just camis! At the moment, Andrea’s favorite item is the Niki Biki 2 Button Cardigan.

*Special Daily Fashionistas Promotions: Free SHIPPING within the US with no minimum order. Use the promo code “dfashionista” at check out.

Contact info:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Mission-Viejo-CA/Repeat-Possessions/178051085173?ref=ts 
Twitter: @ RepeatPo

4. Taigan (http://www.taigan.com/ )

 

Taigan members and shops are truly incredible. Each shop included on Taigan is hand selected from all over the world. “We like to think that we seek and bring back the very best for our shoppers/members.” In fact, the Taigan team is so selective; they added a shop before it was named the number one barber shop in America by GQ!

There are few words that capture the essence of Taigan. Cureated, intelligent, and stylish are just a few that begin to describe the one-of-a-kind experience.

Shopping online for clothing and accessories can be difficult at times. You never really know exactly the way an item will fit or look with another item. With the addition of video, Taigan has enhanced the shopping experience. It’s now possible to preview how two (or more) items will wear together!

Now, what exactly is a Taigan? I will let the Taigan team explain.

“A Taigan is one of rarest sight hound breeds in the world, hunting by sight and speed in the remote mountainous regions of central Asia. Considered a national treasure in Kyrgyzstan and celebrated in legends for more than 1000 years, the breed is never sold- only given as a gift to friends and family. Very discerning and able to understand what kind of game is preferred by its owner, the Taigan is intelligent, swift, tireless, and tenacious in pursuing its master’s desires. “

Taigan offers a unique outlet for shoppers. “Taigan shoppers are a distinct breed who wants to access the remarkable, they do not seek to find more of the same, and they want special and one-of-a-kind finds.” Each shop carried either one of a kind items or a limited supply of each item. “They want to deliver their signature collection and customer service to a highly selective audience.”

Fabulous things have always held the interest of the Taigan team, “from fashion to art to travel and beyond, we truly value that which is unique and special.”

Make sure to start your 14 day free trial membership today!

*Special Daily Fashionistas Promotions: A $30 credit off the 1st Taigan purchase made by any of your readers that become an annual member. They simply need to enter the code: DailyFashionista0210 into the Delivery Notes box during the order process. (Purchase must be valued over $30.)

Contact info:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TaiganFinds  
Twitter: @taiganfinds

5. The Vedic Image Group (http://www.vedicimage.com/)

As a fashionista, it can be difficult to stay current with styles, trends, and looks. It can be even more difficult to decide which of these trends will complement your particular style. Vedic Image can help you reach the climax of your fashionista career.

“We provide fashion styling, personal shopping, and image consulting services for models, modeling agencies, PR, photographers, designers, as well as individual professionals. Our services are designed to assist in creating a look in which can enhance your image,” explained Najaam Lee Mcbean, the Chief Fashion Stylist.

Her fashion inspiration comes from everything. “Nature, arts, music, life is an inspiration.” The late Alexander McQueen was one of her favorite designers, as well as Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs and Vivienne Westwood.

“Chunky, Moroccan silver bangles” are Najaam’s current must-have accessory. An interest in fashion was developed as a little girl. Her mother had the most unique pieces in her jewelry box.

Services at Vedic Image can only be described with three words, “innovating, striking, and dynamic.”

A great clients is someone who is “serious and willing to work on developing their look/ image with us.”

*Special Daily Fashionistas Promotions: For the month of February, we are offering 30% Off the Personal Shopper package: includes styling and shopping with client for 3 different looks. Use the promo code: VI STYLE

Contact info:
Office: 866 565 7541
E-mail: info@vedicimage.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000559482144
Twitter: @vedicimage

6. The Counter Corps (http://www.thecountercorps.com/

Carolyn’s vision is clear. She has a focus on “the individual, art, and humanity.” As a self-taught designer, she began creating custom pieces 14 years ago for various fashion shows, art exhibitions, commissioned work, and her own wear as A La Mode A La Mort. In late November 2009, theCOUNTERcorps was launched.

In the beginning, her inspiration was “an anti-corset caricature from the late 1800′s.” Now, Carolyn is inspired by “fashion-mavens” who express their individuality and reach new levels with their fashion risks.

Her fashion interest developed in search of a new pair of pants back in the third grade. “My mom sewed and had a lot of excess fabric. I went to her sewing room, selected the fabric I wanted, put it on the floor, lay my body on top of it and traced my legs. I made a top and bottom layer and stapled them together, thinking if I folded them inside out to hide the staples, I’d have a new pair of pants. When my craft project was complete, I tried to put them on; they didn’t fit further than my calves.”

After looking at her newest collection, Carolyn has discovered many ways to incorporate unique and one-of-a-kind accessories into everyday life! 

It’s tough to choose one favorite out of the new collection. “But if I had to pick one, a favorite piece for CeeCee (Women’s) is the garter pouch. It’s so Laura Croft/James Bond girl and there’s something ever so sexy about it peaking out from the bottom of a dress or skirt,” said Carolyn.

As for the CeeC (Men’s) collection, a top choice is the harness suspenders. “The sex appeal for every man I’ve seen put them on is turned up 1000 degrees.“

On February 28, Carolyn is hosting “Mimosa Sunday’s” to release her newest creations and offer fabulous deals. If you would like an invitation, make sure to sign up for her mailing list!

theCountercorps is “just the start of something much bigger in [her] dreams and heart!” Her mission is touching and inspirational:

challenge convention
cure commonality
cultivate conversation
connect community
curate consumption

*Special Daily Fashionistas Promotions: For the full month of February, enjoy free shipping! Check back soon for the Promo Code or e-mail Carolyn at info@theCOUNTERcorps.com!

Contact info:
Phone: 646.338.ARTS (2787)
E-mail: info@theCOUNTERcorps.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/theCOUNTERcorpscom/185722651339?ref=ts
Twitter: @theCOUNTERcorps

7. Style Mom (http://www.stylemom.com/ )

Whether you’re interest lies in runway, vintage, or just plain high fashion, STYLEMOM has everything at your fingertips with a fashionable and humorous twist. Many fashion websites cater to the “young and hip” crowd, but that’s far from the case with this glamorous website.

Her website is “influential, chic, and always fun to read” according to one of her twitter followers. It’s obvious that Nichelle Pace, the editor and founder of STYLEMOM, has always had a unique fashion sense. “Make sure to sign up for her newsletter,” said another follower. “It’s always giving me new style tips that I can incorporate into my wardrobe!”

STYLEMOM has even been recognized in the style and fashion industry by CBS News where Nichelle was featured in a story on using social media to save money while shopping.

If you’re a mom (or soon to be mom) looking for fashion inspiration, STYLEMOM is our top choice!

Contact Info:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/STYLEMOM
Twitter @STYLEMOM

8. Anique Michelle (http://www.aniquemichelle.com/ )

AniqueMichelle.com is proof that you don’t have to spend a small fortune to be a fashionista. Every fabulous piece online is priced under $60! Her collection is “stylish, unique, and affordable,” according to founder Anique Michelle.

Her concept began with “an amazing two-tone long necklace with fringe details in silver and gunmetal.” This piece is so unique that she has received compliments every wear!

After being a “fashion fanatic” her entire life, Anique was ready to take the leap into her own retail outlet in May 2009. “I strongly believe that looking great doesn’t have to cost a fortune.”

As a girl from southern California, Anique is “influenced by the casual, comfortable way of life.” “Colors, textures, patterns and interesting details in clothing and accessories” are what draws her attention.

She strongly considers what else she has in her closet before purchasing a new item. “I love, love, love versatility in an item. For me an item should be able to be worn casually or dressed up and be easily incorporated into my wardrobe.”

This is evident in her stylish collection at AniqueMichelle.com. Many pieces are made to be incorporated into entire ensembles.

Even though all of her items are incredible, the Lady Bird Necklace, the Limeade Necklace, and the Iconic are this season’s must-have items.

Anique’s own inspiration is influenced by some of today’s most prestigious fashionistas, including one of our own personal favorites, Kelley Wearstler. Her other inspiring women include some of yesterday and today’s glamorous fashionistas like Kate Moss, Rachel Zoe, Ellen Barkin, and Cameron Diaz.

Not only is Anique an amazing fashionistas, but she has a big heart. In March, 50% of her profits will be donated to the Red Cross. “I am truly heartbroken for Haiti and I think that it is very important that the world continues to help the country rebuild. It is going to be a very long process for Haiti to recover and I hope that people don’t forget the great tragedy they experienced.”

Special Daily Fashionistas Promotions: Save 20% off of your entire order with the code “dailyfashionistas” during check out. (Code valid until Saturday 2/20)

Contact info:
E-mail: Aniquemichelle@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1734342495&ref=profile
Twitter: @aniquemichelle

9. Once Upon A Belt (http://www.onceuponabelt.com/ )

According to founder, Marta Eleniak, it’s all about “style, confidence, and transformation” when you’re experiencing OnceUponABelt.com.

Fashionistas have a big investment in their wardrobe. One of the goals of Once Upon a Belt is to steer girls away from choosing cheap belts. “We want them to begin appreciating nice leather.” In fact, Once Upon a Belt was founded because “all I could find was cheap rubbish that looked like cheap rubbish or belts with so much bling they’d attract magpies.”

Make sure you check out the Tartan belts worn with a mac. While you’re at it, make sure you see the “transformation” of Marta while she models the belts! Her personality definitely shines through!

At the moment, the Obis are amazing! “You can wear them in so many different ways and they can save a shapeless dress you were going to throw out.”

The gorgeous suede obi belts available on Once Upon a Belt were handmade in the UK. “There’s something about the richness in colors of suede that you don’t get in leather. They look and feel like fabulous quality.”

Once Upon A Belt is in the middle of a Belt Shopping Spree. Be sure to check out their website for one of the largest collections of amazing belts available!

*As a Daily Fashionista exclusive, check back soon for a 10% discount on all belts!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bournemouth-United-Kingdom/Onceuponabeltcom/74463066337
Twitter: @onceuponabelt

10. FunnyPeopleCo (http://www.etsy.com/shop/funnypeopleco )

Sophie, the creator of the Diary of a Young Designer, is an inspiration to all aspiring fashionistas and designers. Even at a young age, Sophie has been able to create a name for herself and her accessories in the fashion world.

Although it was hard to pick just three words to describe her blog and creations, we chose creative, opinionated, and glamorous. If you spend just a few minutes reading her blog, you’ll see how true her passion for fashion really is!

Be sure to check out her shop for the latest in accessories. Her handmade creations are definitely worth a look! Our current favorite is the Alice in Chains headband inspired by Gossip Girl. Be on the lookout for a Daily Fashionistas giveaway featuring one of Sophie’s creations very soon!

Contact Info:
E-mail:diaryofayoungdesigner@yahoo.com
Twitter: @dydesigner
Blog: http://diaryofayoungdesigner.blogspot.com/

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As fashionistas we all love to read Elle, Glamour, Marie Claire, La Figaro Madame (si vous parlez français).  We have to be careful not to forget where fashion and style are born – everyday fashionistas who are ahead of the trends.  While you may have never seen these lovely fashionstas on the runway, each one has fabulous style!  Make sure to check out the new trendsetters in action!  Come on fashionistas, it’s time to start following the Daily Fashionistas Must-Follow 50 Fav Fashionistas! 

1. @SwapTopShoes

2. @TaiganFinds

3. @RepeatPo

4. @MuMuSilva

5. @karenreneekeith

6. @DYDesigner

7. @Fashionalism

8. @aniquemichelle

9. @LBDresses

10. @plumprettysugar

11. @4PrettyPrincess

12. @Clothesmaker

13. @Lauriebstyle

14. @SavvyLindz

15. @vogueandcoffee

16. @forfashionssake

17. @onceuponabelt

18. @theCOUNTERcorps

19. @DailyDoseStyle

20. @ Fashiontribes

21. @NewsInFashion

22. @TheStyleGlossy

23. @VanguardFashion

24. @LeadingLadyLa

25. @StyleInfluence

26. @theclotheswhore

27. @OneSpot_Fashion

28. @thisisglamorous

29. @bethellie

30. @jlamore

31. @DressMakerInBox

32. @iwritefashion

33. @missbeautyblast

34. @oobichoobi

35. @FashMagOnline

36. @MelsBellsCloche

37. @LindaVon_

38. @fashion_world

39. @BrioletteJewels

40. @Fashion_Critic_

41. @fashion_junkie2

42. @FashionSuite

43. @fashionluvr

44. @QueenB86

45. @BlackStyleCandy

46. @EverydayInVogue

47. @HautTotes

48. @EllaNista

49. @mS3riKa

50. @shoeaholic16

Keep on styling, and you could make the cut next time!

Until next time,

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Is it Fashion Week in NYC yet?

Saturday, February 6th, 2010
Everyone knows every girl loves February, and no…it’s not because of Valentine’s Day!  It’s because of Fashion Week! 

The Mercedes-Benz NYC Fashion Show starts at 9 am Thursday February 11 with designer Mackage

Mackage has been worn by celebs like Pete Wentz, Michelle Trachtenberg, Britney Spears, and Lindsey Lohan.  

As the sun begins to set, we get a little more risqué with the latest in luxurious beach wear and fabulous lingerie by La Perla.


Don’t miss Naomi Campbell’s Fashion For Relief™-Haiti NYC, 2010 on Friday, February 12.  Tickets go on sale on Monday, February 8 at 10am on Ticketmaster.  For complete details or to donate…visit https://my.care.org/site/Donation2?df_id=6660&6660.donation=form1.


One of my current favorites Isaac Mizrahi will grace the runway at noon on Thursday, February 18…I’m not sure if I’ll last another 12 days!

Fashion week concludes at 8 pm on Thursday, February 18 with Tommy Hilfiger. I absolutely loved the Spring 2010 collection, and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for the Fall collection!

Visit http://mbfashionweek.com for a complete NYC Fashion Show schedule.

Until next time,

Photo credits: Mackage, La Perla, and Tommy Hilfiger.

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