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Stylish Baby Calls for a Stylish Binkie

In Fashion on July 9, 2009 at 6:34 pm

Droolicious! What is juicier to a baby then their pacifier? Juicy Couture totally gets it! I don’t have kids yet but I love these adorable binkies! Would you pay a little extra for your baby’s pacifier to be juicy and not dry?

Seriously, the absence of a baby’s pacifier can cause a rainy storm of tears and screaming. Any mother (and person within earshot) should agree that cranky baby is the last thing we want and any fashionable mother will agree that an important baby accessory should be stylish.

Available at Neiman Marcus, Juicy Couture pacifiers come in styles for sweet baby girls and handsome baby boys. The binkies in the girl set are so cute and have cute sayings like, “Hello Juicy World” and “Love Love Juicy,” and they’re pink, of course. The set of three Juicy pacifiers come in an adorable pink heart box and retail for around $48.

juicy pacifier

juicy pac girl

The baby boys can also enjoy fashionable Juicy pacifiers that say “Love Metal” and “Bad Boy,” and these are conveniently supplied in blue and orange. This set is also around $48 and comes in a black Juicy Couture box.

juicy pac boy 2

juicy pac boy

So you think these Juicy pacifiers will keep a baby smiling…and stylin’? Are they worth it?

To purchase these lovable Juicy Couture pacifiers, go to www.neimanmarcus.com or www.juicycouture.com

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Style in the Kitchen!

In Fashion on July 8, 2009 at 3:54 am

Working off a tip from a fellow fashionista, I became aware of an adorable company called Couture Caviar.

Lisa Garza is the founder of Couture Caviar. Her love of vintage aprons began as a child and as her collection grew, so did her inspiration to start her own line. Here are some of her aprons:

Carolina

Evelyn

Brooke

The femine touches mixed with the vintage style have got me thinking Desperate Housewife in the kitchen!

The Couture Caviar website is currently undergoing a makeover, but be sure to check back on the site to see more of her work.

Another company that sells you stylish aprons is Aprons By Dee. This company has a larger selection of different styles in a wide variety of patterns and colors. The website introduces the line as “where fun and function come together.”

Here are some examples:

The Dani

The Deanna.

The Teya

This next one is my absolute favorite! It makes me think of old school candy shops!

The Tara.

The website has a few styles on sale right now, and you can browse through all the other styles or purchase at : http://www.apronsbydee.com/

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Events

Fourth of July Events Around the Bay

In Events, Fashion on July 3, 2009 at 3:24 am

Independence Day, commonly known as Fourth of July, is a national holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 declaring independence from Great Britain. Similar to any U.S. American holiday, we have traditions to uphold like fireworks, parades, barbecues, concerts, picnics and other events.

This year my friends and I will be watching fireworks on the beach while enjoying beer and fruity drinks. Below I’ve listed some events going on around the Bay this weekend for Fourth of July. Get out and celebrate your Independence!

Saturday, July 4^th

Hillsborough

Bill Heard Chevrolet Fourth of July Celebration
Plant City Stadium, 1810 East Park Road, Plant City
Gates open at 5 p.m., parking lot opens at 4 p.m. Plan to arrive early, as seating is limited. Admission and kids’ activities are free. Parking is $3. Concession foods will be for sale. There will be stage entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display.

Fourth of July Celebration at Channelside
615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
Activities begin in the courtyard at 2 p.m. and live entertainment starts at 6 p.m. DJ’s will spin tunes before and after the 9 p.m. fireworks show.

Brandon Blast
459 Brandon Town Center

The third annual Brandon Blast 4th of July celebration features entertainment and special sales throughout the mall. Fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m.

Pinellas

Clearwater Celebrates America
Coachman Park, 301 Drew St., Clearwater
Gates open at 4 p.m. Highlight of the evening is Clearwater’s fireworks show. No alcohol, umbrellas, canopies, pets or personal fireworks allowed. Concessions available.

Downtown St. Petersburg Fourth of July Celebration
Straub & Vinoy Parks and The Pier
Clear Channel Radio sponsors live entertainment, family activities beginning at 1 p.m. Family fun and concerts at The Pier. Fireworks above Spa Beach are scheduled to begin at 9 p.m.

Fourth of July and Largo Centennial Celebration
Largo Central Park, Largo

Activities include music by soul band “The Black Honkeys,” concessions and a fantastic fireworks display! Bring your chairs, blankets, and family for the festivities. Event starts at 6 p.m. and ends at 10 p.m.

Gulfport Fourth of July Celebration
Shore and Beach boulevards as well as Gulfport Beach.
Festivities begin at 10 am and the day includes a sandcastle contest, games, live music, a children’s pageant, a parade and, of course, fireworks beginning at 9 p.m.

Safety Harbor Festival & Fireworks
Safety Harbor Marina and Bayshore Boulevard, Safety Harbor
Event starts at 5 p.m with fireworks at 9 p.m. Concessions, live entertainment, food and a children’s area.

St. Pete Beach Fourth of July Celebration
Gulf Boulevard & 50th Avenue
Features a fabulous fireworks display.

Need something patriotic to wear?

Tampa Bay-based fashion designer Bebe Ziegler, has launched her Patriotic line for Ice It. Her pride for our country and her U.S. Air Force Vietnam Veteran father inspired her patriotic line. Symbolic images like peace signs, the American flag, a bald eagle and the colors red, white and blue can be found in her collection.

A portion of sales from Ziegler’s Patriotic line will benefit the non-profit organization, Wounded Warrior Project, which honors U.S. Service Members who have been wounded or injured. Bebe Ziegler’s Patriotic line will be available through Veteran’s Day in November 2009. Check out the collection below and for more information, check out www.iceitbybebez.com

Patriotic Line Pic

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Michael Jackson: What’s your favorite decade look?

In Fashion, Updates on July 1, 2009 at 11:27 am

The only thing I love more than Michael Jackson’s sick dance moves in classic songs like Thriller was his unique style. From the 70’s fro to the 80’s glove to the 90’s jackets to the 2000’s surgical mask. The King of Pop rocked looks that were always memorable and iconic. Which decade look is your favorite for Michael Jackson? Vote!

Talent certainly runs in the Jackson family! Michael and his brothers made up the 1970s music sensation- The Jackson 5. Even as a child, this cutie stood out to the world as a talented vocalist who could put on an unforgettable performance. I loved watching young Michael performing songs like “I Want You Back” with the Jackson 5 in those platform boots which couldn’t have been easy. I’m lucky enough to walk a few blocks in high heels! Nothing says 1970s like an afro hair-do and bell bottom pants to boogie down at the disco.

mj 1970s

A king was born in the 1980s. That is the King of Pop! Michael Jackson totally embraced the rough and tough rocker look of the 1980s. Mike’s love for rock music made a huge inspiration in his wardrobe but his style still had originality that couldn’t compare to others. His iconic look was created in the 1980s- a military jacket, tight pants and one white glove. It must take an outstanding dancer and sheer talent to pull off those dance moves wearing extremely tight pants in his famous and theatrical music video for Thriller.

mj 1980s

The 1990s stood out to me the most with Michael’s flashy, metallic clothing matched with extreme jewelry and accessories. He really took chances with fashion like wearing outfits with gold underwear over his pants for outerwear. It sounds like that outfit was perfect for his famous clutch grab move. Michael Jackson brought a new flashy style to the pop world in the 1990s inspiring current stars like Britney Spears, John Mayer and Justin Timberlake. No wonder he was crowned as the King of Pop!

mj 1990s

mj 1990s underwear

Something about the new millennium changed Michael’s style from flashy in the 1990s to simple suits in 2000. His music was still alive but things were certainly different with Michael Jackson’s post-surgery appearance. He continued being fashion forward with outfits that were more relaxed and simple like an all black suit.

mj 2000s

mj 2000s 2

Michael Jackson has made an enormous impact not only on the music world but also the fashion world. We will all miss you and “want you back!” R.I.P

Which decade look is your favorite for Michael Jackson?

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BET Awards Style Review

In Events, Fashion on June 30, 2009 at 5:16 pm

Last night BET hosted the 2009 Bet Awards and this meant lots of red carpet style. I searched for some of my favorite looks in the BET Red Carpet Rundown.

The mini dress was every where & here are some of my top picks!

Singer Amerie with her contrasting white and black.

Letoya Lucket’s ultra mini.

Ms. Alicia Keys.

And of course, Beyonce!

Aside from the mini, there was :

Paula Patton. I love her choice to add the pink shoes and blue ring!

Taraji Henson. The back of Taraji’s dress was stunning, but I couldn’t find a pic that showed it off.

Now my Top 3 guy picks:

Actor Lance Gross with his pastel suit jacket.

Comedian Anthony Anderson with his daughter. Although I would’ve never chosen to pair the colors in his suit, I think it works and I like it.

And singer/actor/reality star, Ray J looking quite dapper in more of a timeless style with a 2 button suit.

There were a couple of Don’ts as well, but this was the worst offender!

Niecy Nash… needs a stylist.

Aside from that, other offenders included everyone who chose to wear t- shirts, hats, and jeans without any attempt whatsoever at looking like you were attending an awards show! Why not take the opportunity to look fabulous?!!

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Health

Yoga for the body & mind

In Fashion on June 26, 2009 at 5:48 pm

I’m in quite a dilemma! It’s too hot outside to go running and I really want to have a fit body to show off at the beach. I don’t feel like sweating especially in Florida’s hot summer weather of 93 degrees on average. I know you are probably thinking “what about getting a gym membership?” Good news! There’s actually a way to save money and get fit in the comfort of your own home.

Yoga is fantastic for the body and mind! Practicing yoga again has made my body more flexible and strong. It’s a great way to be relaxed allowing you to reach your inner peace and radiant health. Yoga is a perfect way to end a stressful day at work.

The Yoga Poses below can help an individual attain a high level of self-awareness, balance, and strength. Try the yoga poses below and let me know how successful the yoga poses were for you!

Begin with Corpse Pose (Savasana) The Corpse Yoga Pose is considered a classic relaxation technique. Rotate your legs in and out, and then let them fall gently out to the sides. Let your arms fall alongside your body and rotate the spine by turning your head from side to side to center it. After holding the pose for about 3-5 minutes, bend your knees and push yourself in a sitting position.

Double Leg Raises
A Double Leg Raise is raising both legs while lying face up on the floor. Make sure that the full length of your back is resting on the floor, and your shoulders and neck are relaxed so you fill the stretch.

Plough Pose (Halasana)

The Plough Pose benefits the thyroid gland and abdomen, eases tension in the shoulders and back, and reduces stress. Lie on your back with your arms lying above your head. Lift your hips off the floor and bring your legs up, over and beyond your head. Then lift your back and move your legs further beyond your head. Move your arms to the back to help support your body.

Crane Pose (Bakasana)
Develop your sense of balance, coordination and concentration and strengthen your arms, hands, shoulders, and abdominal muscles by doing a Crane Pose. Place your feet on the ground then lift your feet off the ground and keep your balance with your hands.

For more poses or videos on the yoga poses, go to this website: http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/yogapractice/yogabasicsession.asp

Look stylish while doing your yoga poses!

Semi Annual Sale 2/$40 Yoga pants at Victoria’s Secret

mat

Yoga Mat for only $13.98

http://www.yoga.com/store/subcategory.asp?Category_ID=295

bag

Unique Yoga Bag to hold your mat

http://www.barefootyoga.com/Page.bok?file=yogamatbags.html

Yoga can easily be done with just a yoga mat and some empty space. You might be surprised to learn that your body can actually do things you did not think possible. “The seven primary types of movements that your body can make through Yoga exercise are flexion, extension, hyperextension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction” according to ABC-of-Yoga. That means a stronger, more relaxed, more flexible and balanced body…that’s beach-ready!

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Rainy Day Clues, Not Blues

In Fashion on June 24, 2009 at 2:26 am

Summertime is officially here and in Florida that means there will be many days of rain on the way. In order to look on the bright side of not-so-sunny days, I kept an eye out for some cute picks for rainy day weather.

I love the bubble shaped umbrella from Urban Outfitters, and there’s a couple of colors you can choose from:

Get yours here.

I found this website that is solely dedicated to umbrellas, and they have a couple of cute options as well. However, their prices are a bit steeper than Urban’s but you do get a lot more selection.

Aside from umbrellas, footwear comes to mind, which only brings rain boots/Wellies! Some people don’t love them but I sure do, their funky patterns and colors can brighten a gloomy day.

Land’s End has some cute options:

So does J. Crew:

Target has even more options and at more budget friendly prices.

However, its these rainy day newcomers that have really caught my eye!

I’ve never been a fan of the original Croc styles, but these are adorable and such a great alternative for those of you who don’t love Wellies!

My favorite rainy day item is my trench from Old Navy which I got on a killer sale for $12. It looks a lot like this Silence and Noise one over at Urban Outfitters.

Nothing tops this Cool, Casual by Slow and Steady trench though, also available at Urban Outfitters! I have to have this!

Forever 21 also has a fresh take on the trench, with a short yellow style and a great price. For $24.50 you can add this to your rainy day wardrobe.

What’s your rainy day must have? And are you adding any of these?

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You look a hot MESH!

In Fashion on June 22, 2009 at 12:57 am

Remember this guy?

Yea, remember how mesh was just so not happening? Well, American Apparel has been forging the way for the mesh comeback.

I was browsing through a fellow bloggers website when I was horrified to read about her purchase of mesh leggings from American Apparel. I decided to check out American Apparels’ website and when I searched mesh, not one, but two pages of items showed up!

I mean is that material comfortable for you? I know that perhaps I have been skeptical at first of certain trends, like leggings which I now love. But mesh? Is it just me or do you not have this image seared in your mind too?

Although I must say, Nini over at Nini’s style does rock the mesh to the fullest. So, maybe I shouldn’t write it off completely just yet?

Aside from Nini, another point for mesh is in the shoe dept. I am loving mesh in shoes! I fell in love with these Jeffrey Campbell darlings!

And these Stella McCartney creations that Mary Kate has been spotted wearing!

Will you be sporting mesh this season?

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Fashion

Your Perfect Bathing Suit Match

In Fashion on June 17, 2009 at 4:05 am

Bathing suit season is upon us, and our suits can be sexy, conservative, daring or charming…just like us! I thought it would be interesting to match bathing suits to personalities. People always say your own personal style can say a lot about who you are.

Read the description below the bathing suits to see if it matches your style!

Classy Lady

Wearing the simplest bikini in a solid white or black color is enough to embrace your smoky hot body. It matches your classy and flirty flair, while giving a fashionable, classic look. Of course you could add more flavor to your bathing suit look by adding gold or silver jewelry.

Fun, Tropical Island Girl

Imagine your perfect beach day…enjoying a margarita and a beautiful sunset. Life is good and you are certainly living it to the fullest! Having a bathing suit that fits your fun island style with palm trees, exotic birds or a tropical floral print is perfect for this summer! Wear a stylish straw hat and beaded jewelry to complete your look.

Original Bombshell

Do Coco Chanel and Marilyn Moore inspire your style? You have a passion for vintage fashion that you have to show off even at the beach! A polka dot bathing suit matches your love for classic chic fashion, old romantic films, and the 1950s. Be extra girly by wearing a bathing suit with large pink, red or yellow polka dots. Finish your chic bathing suit look with a mock crococdile hat and amorous ring.

Rock-n-Roll Style

Rock and roll isn’t just music; it’s about rocking your own personal style. Living each day to its fullest is important to you whether you’re enjoying a concert or at the beach with friends listening to Bob Marley. Wear a stars or wild animal print bikini to match your fun and sociable personality! A stylish pair of sunglasses would be great for your rock and roll style.

Surfer Chick

Adventure is your middle name! While some people like to relax at the beach, you’re the girl that’s surfing the waves or throwing a ball around. Any multicolor or striped bikini would be perfect for showing off your hot body and exciting life. Wear a stylish big beach bag from ROXY to hold your belongings while you carry your surf board.

All of these bathing suits can be found at www.victoriassecret.com

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Fashion History

The World’s First Fashion Week

In Fashion on June 15, 2009 at 1:23 pm

A Special Thanks to Eleanor Lambert! http://www.daily.chictoday.com

I’m sure most of you are like me and getting really anxious to see what designers will showcase for Fashion Week. Since it’s only June and we’re forced to count down the days, I’ve been spending my time reading what the insiders have to say about what we should expect for fall. While reading Marie Claire magazine, I started thinking about how much fashion has expanded and changed throughout the decades. How and who organized the world’s first Fashion Week?

The world’s first Fashion Week was organized in New York City in 1943. At the time the event was called “Press Week” by American fashion public relations expert, Eleanor Lambert.

Why did Eleanor Lambert decide to organize a week long of fashion shows? The event was created to attract attention away from French fashion during World War II, when fashion industry insiders were unable to travel to Paris to see fashion shows. According to Finding Dulcinea, “She wanted to capitalize upon the possibility for New York fashion to leverage its standing on the global stage. Prior to World War II, French fashion was considered the sartorial standard to which all designers aspired.”

While France was busy at war, Lambert worked on having American designers show their collections to influential fashion editors and writers at a series of shows held at Manhattan’s Plaza and Pierre Hotels. High-profile reporters from publications like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar fell in love with the clean lines and structure presented by the U.S.-based look. Those designers began to receive respect and popularity that was once only accorded to the European designers.

Could this be? Did Press Week put American fashion on the global stage alongside Paris and Milan? Yes, Press Week was a huge success! Fashion Weeks continued in New York City with American designers showcasing their collections on the runway in the big white tents at Bryant Park. No surprise but the name of the event changed from “Press Week” to Fashion Week and now there are fashion weeks all over the world. Now I’m extremely excited for Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2009 to make its fashionable mark in the fashion world!

The 1940s style during the world’s first fashion show:

How do you think fashion has changed from the 1940s to modern day fashion?