stylist inspiration : rachel zoe

i don't have cable so couldn't watch the rachel zoe project until last night.
thank gosh hulu.com exists. watched the episode TWICE.

first can we all admit that the Harper's Bazaar cover was exceedingly incredible? that was a real giraffe?!?!?  i had no idea before i watched the episode. i love love LOVE the concept & process of styling even more now....  and the mcqueen dress and shoes topped it off so perfectly. the perfectly captured expression in the second image. and those platform stilettos in that last photo are so fairytale-worthy and beautiful. completely and perfectly iconic, just as brad & rachel mentioned.

so now that i'm even MORE enamored with rachel zoe (and styling!), i've been reading up on some interviews and looking at some past spreads. found some amazing excerpts from her book Style A to Zoe at http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/21253791 that really exemplifies how knowledgeable she is. definitely a good read (it's a little long). some inspiring excerpts:

"Style can be empowering when you understand your own limits and strengths and know how to exploit them favorably. It is not limited to the rich and famous. We’re all looking for style cues in the way we live. An adjustment here or there or something new (even if it’s really vintage) in your life provides a sense of renewal."

"If I’m dressed in clothes that allow me to navigate my wild world without a thought of feeling uneasy or constrained — or downright unpresentable — I feel like me. Comfort nurtures confidence. With my marvelous clients, I strive for clothes, accessories, and jewelry that let them feel their most comfortable. Glamour should be effortless. Or at least look it. High style is also very much about ambience."