Investments in High-End Watches Offer Hope to Luxury Market

It’s no secret that the luxury industry is hurting; however, people should look beyond a luxury piece of jewelry as a fashion statement only. Even being an owner of online diamond boutique, Whiteflash.com, is difficult because people view jewelry as fashion only. Jewelry can also be viewed as an “investment”, especially luxury timepieces. Luxury timepieces are viewed as something to keep in the family. From personal experiences, I know men usually pass down their watch to their son, and then he passes it on to his son, and so on. Try not only view timepieces as fashion item, but as investment piece that may stay with you and your family for a while.

Francois Thiébaud, president of the Swiss Exhibitors Committee and president of Tissot watch worldwide, said one good thing coming out of the financial crisis is “the return to traditional values” in watch making and selling, by both consumers and watchmakers. “There’s less extravagance, less emphasis on price and more on craftsmanship,” he said in an interview in JCK Online.

In addition, brands spend a lot of time investing their in labor and finding the right materials to make their watches desirable to consumers and retailers. The best raw materials are used and some of the most durable metals are fined tune to ensure the piece’s durability from generation to generation. Also – it takes time to find that one “unique” factor to make watches stand out in the luxury market. However, few achieve this uniqueness. Here are some great pieces that I have come across:

Perrelet’s Tourbillon watch (above) is a true example of fine watch-making. A masterpiece as an exceptional article. Remaining true to the aesthetic lines that characterize the brand, the Tourbillon presented by Perrelet pushes back technical limitations to their extremes, translating the mastery and creativity of the brand into reality.

One watch on the market that I have noticed, and definitely admired is Christian Tse’s digital watch covered in shimmering diamonds. While the white diamond watch with the white stingray strap is stunning and elegant, I find myself drawn to the python print watch, covered in natural color diamonds. The shades of champagne colored natural color diamonds are a refreshing visual on the python print watch. In addition, the champagne diamond encrusted watch is so unique, yet still very versatile. With the digital time glowing through a blanket of diamonds, this watch is definitely one of the ultimate luxuries I have come across!

Not quite a luxury timepiece, but I am a woman and this story is about investing in jewelry. Plus it just caught my eye. It’s a bracelet designed and created by Yael Sonia and made of 18K yellow karat gold. I wanted to show this off as it would compliment any outfit and look great next to a small wrist watch. And I would definitely pass this down to my daughter. It’s that beautiful.

So whether you’re a fashionista trying to be more budget conscious, a watch connoisseur or just a luxury fan, spend your money wisely. Don’t only buy something because its an “it” item, but think about your purchase. Inspect the quality and the timeless appeal. You’re spending big bucks on an accessory, make sure it something that you want to keep “in the family.”

Source: Perrelet’s Official Web Site/Christian Tse associated with Natural Colored Diamond Association/Yael Sonia

Rebecca Minkoff Knocked Up Baby Bag

As usual, Rebecca Minkoff delivers a cheeky name for her latest creation - The Knocked Up Baby Bag.

If you’re thinking pregnancy or being a mom are requirements to carrying this bag, think again. The bag has the same stylish flair as the original Morning After Bag and Morning After Mini, with even more special details. This oversized pebbled leather bag has the traditional large front zipper pocket along with two large patch pocket on the sides. A waterproof lined interior features zipper pocket and 5 - count ‘em! - 5 patch pockets along with a 17″ x 29″ changing pad. And a detachable shoulder strap lets you clutch your bag (and baby) with ease.

It’s a stylish bag, whether or not you’re knocked up…

$650, Shopbop

Cop Fergie’s Style for Less - the Divine Rights of Denim Zipper Skinny Jeans

It’s true - they’re back. No, not the Black Eyed Peas, rather, acid-washed jeans.

The denim craze of the 80’s that we swore we’d never speak of again, let alone wear, has returned with a vengeance. But surprisingly, the new crop of acid-washed jeans isn’t so bad. Sure Fergie can pull it off - she’s a rock star - they can take risks; it’s part of the job. But so can you. You might not want some quite as funky as Fergie’s Dolce & Gabbana pair, but you can still cop this throwback rocker style.

The Divine Rights of Denim Zipper Skinny Jeansare the subtly cool, contemporary take on the acid-washed jean. With a skinny fit, these classic five pocket babies are flattering and slimming while incorporating a subtle acid wash on black denim, along with a rear zip on each leg for even more vintage fun. Pair with a blazer and boyfriend tee for a casually chic look, or dress up with a black top and stilettos.

$68, Charlotte Russe

Look Like a Princess (Not Prince) in the Catherine Malandrino Ruffle Neck Top

Ruffled blouses can easily go the way of The Artist Formerly Known As Prince. While it may work for the Purple one, trust us when we say that look is not for the every day woman. So to avoid the Victorian-meets-disco/80’s pop era look, ruffles in balance and moderation are key.

The Catherine Malandrino Ruffle neck top provides the balance. A cement gray tone is the perfect backdrop forthree tiers of ruffles. A symmetric scoop front neckline sexily shows off one shoulder while the peek-a-boo crochet pattern just below the bust slims and tapers your waist.

Thankfully, this is one ruffled top that makes you look more like a Princess; less like Prince.

$255, NET-A-PORTER.COM

Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil - Cleanse your face…with oil?

I recently received a sample of Shu Uemura’s Premium Cleansing Beauty Oil. Prior to that, I was unaware of the usage of oil as a cleanser. I can’t lie, the thought doesn’t sound right to me. I think I’m more worried about washing away the oil than adding more onto my face.

It took me a few weeks to get up the nerve to use this cleansing oil. I was unsure how to even use it, so I took a look at Shu Uemura’s website and read about the history of this product. It was nice to learn that mineral oil, the basis of this cleanser, has healing and soothing properties, as well as being great for sensitive skin.

Oil is a great deep cleanser, capable of breaking down sebum, impurities, as well as hard-to-remove makeup. And skin’s natural lipids are preserved when cleansing with oil. At this point, I couldn’t see a negative, so I gave the cleansing oil a try. My face felt squeaky clean, while at the same time moisturized and balanced. I think if your skin is on the normal to dry side this cleanser would be perfect for you.

Don’t be afraid to clean your face with an oil-based cleanser. Give it a try. I think you’ll be as pleasantly surprised as I was. You can purchase Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil from Sephora, directly from the Shu Uemura website or at most major department stores that sell the brand.

Win It! Domino Magazine’s Book of Decorating

Another mag bites the dust. But even though Domino will no longer publish its glossy, you can still get your stylish decorating fix on with their book, Domino: The Book of Decorating: A Room-by-Room Guide to Creating a Home That Makes You Happy. Domino editor-in-chief Deborah Needleman says The Book of Decorating was devised to “demystify and democratize decorating.” This 271 page book is like Lucky Magazine but strictly for home fashion and decor. It is filled with vibrant full-color photos, guides and shopping strategies to styling your personal space, from the bedrooms, to bathrooms, living, dining rooms and even entryways. Live in an apartment? There are even expert tips and tight-space solutions to enhance your smaller space. The book concludes with “The Big Black Book” - a “where to buy” guide of items by category and price. Click here to read more about the book.

Want to win? We’ve got two to give away, courtesy of Simon & Schuster! All you have to do is subscribe to What’s Haute Magazine. That’s it - you’ll be automatically entered to win. Contest ends at 11:59 pm on April 15, 2009. Winner will be announced shortly after. In the meantime, visit DominoMag.com for even more decorating tips and tricks!

Don’t worry, we won’t spam you. We hate junk mail too.

Weekly Shopping and Goodies

What’s Haute Magazine shows you how to get in “shape” without even breaking a sweat. The secret? Spanx!

Handbag du Jour chats with Be & D on the re-launch of the iconic Garbo studded bag, Kate Moss and what’s next for the brand!

A Few Goody Gumdrops knows Spring is in the air and it’s time to put a little Pucci in your day!

Couture In The CityShows us how to steal Camilla Belle’s style.

Fashion Fille interviewed Beka of reLYME.com! She interviewed Fashion Fille as well…check it out!

Princess Dominique Dishes Fashion hosts the new My Twinkle Toe Shoes Giveaway! Got Facebook or Twitter? Then You Can Enter!

Quinta Trends shows the NSBP new collection. The fall is coming in South America…

Shopping and Info wants to buy Katherine Heigl’s Be & D ruffle bag!

Spork Fashion has teamed with ChickDowntown.com to give away a silk spring dress by Rebecca Taylor!

Style Eyes is fed up with frugal living so she cheers herself up with some small treats in her post The Lipstick Effect

The Bare Skinny shows you how to give em’ the cold shoulder this spring.

Make sure to take The Budget Fashionista’s fabulousAnnual Shopping Survey for 2009, and help us beat last year’s record of over 3,000 responses!

The Well-Heeled Society finds happiness in the color of sunshine.

diva in a carry on understands that your clothes are an investment, so protect them and your body from odor!

Fergie Debuts a New Look and New Shoe Collection

Singer Fergie debuted a new look along with her new shoe collection at NORDSTROM At The Grove yesterday in Los Angeles. Her new look? Not sure we love it. She dyed her hair dark brown and the center part features an orange dye that we’re not sure is permanent or temporary. She still looked haute in a blue shirtdress, gold cuff bracelet, black leather obi belt and a pair of her own sandals. The shoe collection definitely has some promise. Although the styles are nothing new, the shoes are very California-chic with styles including gladiators, strappy wedge-heel sandals, thongs and chunky wood platforms.

Click the thumbnails to check out the entire collection below.

Sardella/WireImage

Have a Tree Planted in Your Honor

Lucky Magazine and Almay Cosmetics would like to plant a tree in your honor! Almay pure blends^TM is a new line of natural, eco-friendly cosmetics. Sign up at Luckylookout.com/almay and Lucky will plant a tree in your honor! Sign up now to get a chance to win a reusable Lucky tote!

Get in Shape Without Losing Weight!

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or diet? Me too. Has your resolve worn off already? Ditto. So you won’t be receiving any judgment from me. But with warm weather on the way and cute Spring/Summer fashions already in stores, it’s time to get our butts in shape. Sort of.

Although we probably shouldn’t be rewarded for cheating on our diets, Spanx shapewear allows us to do just that. Since 2000, Spanx has been a favorite for celebrities (and regular women) all over. Tyra Banks proudly boasts her love of Spanx. Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson accidentally flashed her Spanx on the Academy Awards red carpet. So now that the Hollywood secret is out, who needs to spend tons of money and time on a trainer, gym and workout equipment when you can just buy Spanx?

I visited the Spanx suite during New York Fashion Week and got to see all the new shapewear options they had in store. Shapewear of the past looked like something even your granny might be embarrassed to wear, but Spanx’s options are so chic no one will even know it’s secretly sucking in those problem areas.

You probably already know about the Spanx tummy, thigh and leg shapers but for spring 2009 there’s a wide array of other under-slimming options like bodysuits, slip suits, panties, body shorts and even patterned and reversible tights! And did you know they do bras too? I got to try the Bra-lellujah racerback front-closure bra and it is THE MOST comfortable bra I’ve ever worn, hands down. Spanx also has new body slimming apparel including camis, tank tops, skirts, pants – you name it!

And I even got a sneak peek at what’s in store for Fall 2009 – Spanx’s new high-end collection called ‘Haute Contour’. It blends the practicality of Spanx with the details of luxury lingerie. The collection includes sumptuous underthings like lacy thongs, sheer mesh panties, couture contouring camis, sculpted bustiers, and shapely fishnets. Sexy and slimming? I’ll take them all please!

And I got a hint that Spanx may be entering new markets. Keep an eye out for some shape-flattering swimwear options coming soon!

Click here to shop Spanx at Saks Fifth Avenue

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