Valentino,“The Last Emperor”

Thanks to ideeli’s fabulous PR Director, a few of us could attend the star studded premiere for the Valentino documentary “The Last Emperor,” at the MoMA Museum last night. Celebs in attendance included: Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, Claire Danes, Padma Lakshmi, Martha Stewart,  Helena Christiansen, Rachel Roy, and Michael Stipe.

The film focuses on the spirited relationship between the very tan Valentino and his long time lover and business partner Giancarlo Giammetti. Mr. Giammetti, who sat right behind us with Anne Hathaway at the premiere,  has been the business mastermind behind Valentino’s fashion empire, valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars for the last 45 years.  The film celebrates their “marriage” of art, commerce, and friendship. It is a touching film that even manages to portray Karl Lagerfeld  in a very endearing light. Valentino, retired from designing for his label after a no-holds-barred party in Rome that is featured in the documentary.

You can catch Valentino making a rare TV appearance on the Martha Stewart talk show, “Martha” on Friday March 21. “The Last Emperor” opens today, March 18th, in limited release around the country.

"Duplicity" New York Premiere

I need to preface my thoughts here. We vowed that the ideeli blog would not walk down the mean snarky celebrity-bashing path.  We all have bad hair/clothing/ personality days.  But Julia, I am wringing my hands here. You are not going to church, you are attending a movie premiere.  Glitz it up sister- you only live once! So get your glam on.  Follow Clive’s lead.

Spring Shades

Thinking of getting a new pair of sunglasses this season?  Think vintage revival – old is new again. Carrera, the Italian brand of racing eyewear, just re-launched their vintage-inspired collection in a huge array of colors. Their aviator-style glasses add a dose of Euro chic, so if you can’t afford to vacation on the Italian Riviera this summer, you can at least look the part. To celebrate their ‘70s revival, Carrera even brought in New York legend Deborah Harry, formerly of Blondie, to sing hits like “Rapture” and “Heart of Glass” at Carrera’s official launch party on Friday, March 13, in New York.  Rather have the “real thing”?  Visit Fabulous Fanny’s. Everyone from Steam Punks to Chic Geeks can find unique sunglasses and frames at a fraction of the cost for something brand new.

Fabulous Fanny’s, 335 E 9th Street, New York City. Shown above vintage Dior.

Hey, did you know ideeli often sells designer shades at up to 80% Off?  Previous sales included: Chloe, Gucci, Michael Kors, and more!

Lauren Conrad & Castle Starr

We recently spotted the lovely Lauren Conrad at Barbie's 50th birthday bash held at Barbie Real Life Malibu Dream House in California.  Miss Conrad was wearing a blouse by Castle Starr that was recently featured on ideeli. Wondering if she purchased it here. Hmmmm

DIY: Plarn

Trying to be a little more eco-minded? Have a penchant for crafts? Enter the wonderful world of "plarn".

Plarn is yarn made from plastic bags just like the ones that are spilling out of your kitchen cabinet from Fairway.  The material can be used to knit or crochet a number of useful products including shoes. Want to make your own darn plarn? Instructional video above. I am hoping someone out there can whip up a pair of yellow patent skimmers and a faux Chanel tote for me in time for Spring.