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Archive for the ‘Trends’ Category

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How to Save on Back to School Shopping

In Events, Fashion, Trends on August 20, 2010 at 7:39 pm

It’s that time of the year again for pencils, books and fresh new gear for the new school year. However, back to school shopping can really take a toll on your budget. So I have came up with some smart savings strategies that have worked for me.

Start by taking inventory of what you already own. As I went through my closet, I couldn’t believe what I discovered. I found clothes I have only worn once, clothes that needed to be thrown out years ago -because they were from high school- and clothes that still had the tags on them. I thought to myself all those times I said I had to go shopping because I have nothing to wear and I had clothes still with the tags on them, ugh! After sorting through your closet and bagging up those tired old clothes from many seasons ago, take a trip to your local consignment shops.

Plato’s Closet, a local consignment shop takes gently worn clothing for exchange of cash. Not only will you receive some extra money for your back to school shopping fund, but they have great low prices on well known brands such as Ed Hardy and Bubblegum, that have been worn either a few times or known at all.

Along with consignment shopping, consider swapping clothes with your friends. Ever find yourself falling in love with your best friend’s leather jacket and repeatedly asking to borrow it? Do a clothes swap, I’m sure she fell in love with something you own as well.

Although if alternative shopping options such as Plato’s closet or fashion exchange with your girlfriends just isn’t for you or not enough to complete your first semester fall collection, then hit the mall. Department stores like Macy’s and JCPenney’s are holding great sales for consumers who missed the no-tax weekend. Although you still have to pay the tax, Macy’s is offering $10 off when you spend $50 and up to $50 off when you spend $200. You are actually saving more with a sale like this then a ‘no-tax’ promotion. Also, Payless BOGO sale (Buy One, Get One ) is 50% off everything in stock.

So the sales are out there fashionistas but they won’t last forever. Most sales end this weekend so don’t miss out on the back to school shopping savings for your new back to school gear!

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Arabian Nights

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on August 9, 2010 at 12:08 pm

As we arrive at the peak of summer, vacations tend to be at a high. The start of summer’s end and the anticipation of fall activities to come, such as, back to school and Fashion Week Tampa Bay 2010, forces us to start wrapping up our summer adventures and turn August into the last resort month. This summer, whether you are lounging at the Rehab Pool Party at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Vegas or staying local and setting sail off the St. Pete Pier on a yacht, join the Arabian Night!

Resort collections for 2010 offer looks that appeal as if they stepped out of the desert. Ankle-grazing dresses in cotton gauze and silk chiffon give a breezy-air feel while strutting on the shore line. This time more is more. Loose fitting dresses that flow in the wind portray a beautiful ambiance that is candy to the eye.

Always remember to accessorize! Bangles and hoop earrings mock an Arabian look.

I came across this Christian Dior harem jumpsuit in black that looked so comfortable. It can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the shoes you choose to wear. Also, an Alice + Olivia jumpsuit that was made of jersey knit with an empire waist. This also can be worn both day or night depending on the shoes.

The color palettes that make up most resort collections this season are soft yet luxurious with gold, black, white and yellow tones. Consider pairing some gold aviators with your resort look.

So, as we start to wrap up the summer, make every night an Arabian one with long flowy harems, hoop earrings and lots of bangles!

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Rent the Runway

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on August 6, 2010 at 3:15 am

As a professional shopaholic, I make it my weekly duty to coast the local malls to engage in the latest fashions offered at retailers such as Neiman Marcus, Saks, and Nordie’s. However, just because I make it a point to slip myself into a Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dress, in these hard economic times I can’t always break the bank for my addictions, so I have found a solution where recycling is brought to the next level, rent the runway!

Renttherunway.com is a website that offers current season’s fashions from over 95 designers for rent. They have dresses that can be worn to any black tie gala, wedding, holiday or a night on the town. Rental prices are 90% off the retail price. Now that’s a bargain!

The site is very easy and accommodating. You first enter in the date of your next event, your size and your zip code where you want the dress to be shipped. Then it seems like a never-ending list of over 18,000 dresses. Now, when it comes to ordering a dress via the web, finding the perfect fit can be tricky. Rent the Runway provides you with a second size – at no additional cost –  to ensure the perfect fit. Can’t make up your mind on what to wear? Rent a second look for only $25.00 and have another option for your event.

I came across so many dresses at very affordable prices. A Herve Leger papaya bandage dress retailing at $1,450.00 for rent at $150.00. A Diane Von Furstenberg foil print strapless dress retailing at $398.00 for rent at $50.00. They even had a Matthew Williamson embellished pocket dress retailing at $2,500.00 for rental at $250.00.

It doesn’t stop there, they even offer accessories to style up your dress. Badgley Mischka chandelier bow earrings retailing at $250.00 but for rent at $25.00

If you are clumsy like me and find yourself staying away from colors like white and tan because you fear spilling your glass of red wine on it, have no fear, a $5.00 insurance charge purchased will cover you if you do happen to spill your wine, stick a zipper, or lose a stone on an accessory. Don’t worry about dry cleaning the dress before returning either, they use an eco-friendly, luxury dry cleaner that ensures 100% fresh seal approval.

This business was built so fashionistas can try new brands, new trends, and feel beautiful every night. They bring a new meaning to recycling and renting. You can now rent an apartment, dvds and a dress. When it comes to fashion, the sky is the limit.

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Queen Midas

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on August 5, 2010 at 1:33 am

Despite current economic reports of dread, Fall 2010 will bring fashion dripping in gold.  With shimmering possibilities from shirt to shoe, you may find yourself pondering the title of “Queen Midas”.

While this may seem a familiar choice, I would be completely remiss if I did not mention Christian Louboutin’s gold-studded bootie.  The body of the shoe is covered in round studs and spikes, all in amazingly shiny gold.  As if this were not enough, the heel exudes such brilliance that eye protection may become necessary in looking upon this beautiful shoe.

Speaking of shades, if the eyes must be protected, golden accents will flatter like no other.  The average gold-rimmed sunglasses can be found anywhere from bargain outlet to high-end boutique.  However, you will have a much more shining effect in shades like these from Chinese designer, Zhu Fei.  The very definition of unique, these glasses feature delicate nature inspired cut-outs in brilliant gold.  Whether you can actually see much is another story, but the look itself is utterly amazing.

Shoes and accessories aside, a true necessity for any golden queen involves a beautiful frock complete with gold beading.  This off-the-shoulder number from Herve Leger adds gold and black beading to the famous bandage dress, creating dazzle that is fit for royalty.

This fall, do not be afraid to unleash your inner queen on a drab world.  All of that shine may just do some good for humanity, let alone your wardrobe.

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The Golden Age

In Designers, Trends, Updates on August 4, 2010 at 9:17 am

I have always been a fan of a thick frame and pitch-black shaded sunglasses that protects my eyes from everything under the sun. This summer, I am trading my dull black shades in for some shiny bright gold aviators. Thanks to celebrity trendsetters, I was first introduced to the golden era of eyewear while attending Fashion Week Tampa Bay’s Ultimate Ladie’s Night Out for the Sex and the City2 premiere. Carrie Bradshaw (Sarah Jessica Parker) sported Mykita & Bernhard Willhem’s Franz limited edition gold aviators in one of the opening scenes. It was love at first sight. So, I have been searching for the right pair for me and came across so many pairs that I need your advice!

First pair are Badgley Mischka. These 24-karat gold aviators have been seen on celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Rihanna who wore them in her “So Hard” video. The shape really frames the face nice not giving it too much of a masculine form.

Next, Ray-Ban gold aviators, which are known for their aviator sun-glasses, doesn’t come as a surprise that they would also offer them in gold. The shape of the frame is more squared and can only work well with certain face types such as square and/or round.

I came across an Elizabeth and James limited edition Fairfax sunglasses that had a thick black frame that surrounded the gold lenses. I always seem to fall back into a thick black frame.

Eyewear over the years has become one of the must have accessories along with shoes and belts. Although the trends change from thick sun-glasses to thin, they are now changing colors as well. If you remember last season the silver Ray-Bans were the hottest accessories around. It seems that designers are feeling a bit more luxurious this season with the 18, 22, and 24-karat gold sunglasses, most offered in thick and thin lenses. However, I can’t decide which pair are for me.

Any suggestions fashionistas?

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All About the Shoulder

In Fashion, Trends on July 29, 2010 at 7:46 pm

Summer fashion is all about showing a little skin.  However, we do not all have to flaunt “daisy dukes with bikinis on top” to accomplish this.  With still plenty of time to try some fabulous summer threads, there is a slightly modest, yet still sexy way of showing off your most glowing asset.

The one-shoulder look is certainly not a new idea.  In fact, one could even argue that inspiration was born as early as Marilyn Monroe as she often posed in a seductive manner with her top pulled down on one shoulder.  For Summer 2010, the look has taken on a whole new approach to glamour.

The always fun and youthful brand, Arden B is all over this trend with a romantic top with smocked hem and tiered side ruffle.  The neckline curves beautifully away from one shoulder, providing a perfect amount of sex appeal for this flirty summer top.

Meanwhile, for a more upscale look, the land of Marchesa is always blooming with endless possibilities. This brilliant blue mini dress offers intrigue and beauty with intricately designed texture over tightly wrapped silk.  The sculpted bust reveals a perfect, sexy shape for one exceptional night.

Whether headed to a club or fabulous charity event, there is absolutely a dazzling one shoulder piece that must be worn.  Make the most of your summer and let that shoulder go!

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A Girl’s “New” Best Friend!

In Fashion, Trends, Updates on July 27, 2010 at 1:50 am

It has been agreed upon that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. The luxurious effect a diamond has once brushed across your collar-bone, or coasted down your finger -preferably by a handsome prince-  it sparkles in your eyes to enhance the reason why it is wonderful to be a women, despite pregnancy, cramping, and menstrual mood-swings. However, over time women have befriended more than just a diamond. Shoes, the little black dress and the handbag. I refer to my handbag as my first aid kit. Not because I have everything from a nail file to pens to a phone charger in it, but because without my handbag I feel as if I forgot to put on a vital piece of clothing before leaving the house. A handbag is #3 on my list of things mandatory to wear, after a bra and panties. That’s how much I rely on my handbag and I’ve met alot of women that feel the same way as I do.

This is why when I came across the ultimate diamond house and found out that they added a new friend to the group, I had to share it with all the Fashion Week Tampa Bay friends. Tiffany & Co. has handbags!

I know…same reaction I had- grin from ear to ear and loud shouts like I won the lottery.

The handbag collection is designed by Elsa Peretti, an Italian jewelry designer. She is known for the infamous ‘tear drop’ necklace at Tiffany & Co. She has incorporated timeless Tiffany pieces that are reincarnated as chain handles on evening bags, a crystal-bow brooch is brought back to life as a motif on a clutch and a six-prong engagement ring setting is the basis for a twist-lock clasp…I do!

The enticement of the handbags trimmings doesn’t stop there. The soft color palette, which portrays rich jewel tones like garnet and violet,  also offers neutral tones like black pearl and camel stones that will pair well with many eveningwear pieces.

I don’t recommend sporting this handbag while shopping at the mall with your girlfriends. This handbag is definitely an exclusive item in your closet and should only be taken out on special occasions. However, they offer a few casual handbags such as a backpack and a shopper tote.

Thank you Tiffany’s for catering to every woman’s needs!

To see the full collection, visit www.tiffany.com

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Windows to the Soul: Couture Style!

In Trends on July 22, 2010 at 12:06 pm

If those fabulous baby blues (or browns) truly are the windows to the soul, why would you ever neglect them when making fashion choices?  I was recently reminded of the importance of eye fashion when I noticed a beautiful co-worker sporting bold and unique colors each and every day.  From deep amethyst to seafoam green, this young woman knows exactly how to transform her “windows” into a couture boutique entrance.

Many women tend to think a bit too conservatively with regard to eye make-up, fearing that bright colors may give the essence of a clown.  Au contrair!  Nothing is sexier than a bright plum or shocking aqua to draw attention to those peepers.

While some runway looks may be a bit over-the-top, they can be used for inspiration. You may not wish to look as cartoon-like as this Dior model, but that does not mean you should shy away from bright pink shadow.  Why not try some false lashes to enhance things a little?  The key is determining the difference between bold and ridiculous and dancing right on the edge.

For this peacock inspired look, the timid may use a more subtle false lash.  If you dare, go ahead and rock the spotted one!  Just keep the colorful shadow to the eye area only, and you will have a look of perfection appropriate for everyday use.

This look is absolutely perfect.  Resembling an exotic princess, the model wears metallic jewel tones on her eyes.  The look is vibrant and stunning, yet realistic.  With glowing skin and sparkling pink lips, a beauty choice such as this will surely bring out the princess within.

Whether your style is ultra feminine or a bit more edgy, make sure you don’t allow those big sparkling eyes to leave the house undressed.

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Showing the Inside Out: The Graphic Cuff

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 20, 2010 at 3:47 pm

Over the years, jeans have become a bit more complex. We used to have very few options when it came to jean styles-boot cut or loose fit. However, through inspiration from music and celebrities, the turn of the millenium has brought us more jean styles we could possibly even ask for. I actually find it challenging to shop for jeans now-a-days. Especially when shopping at Gap. Their options are endless…stretch, jeggings, bootcut, skinny, curvy, long and lean.

The newest edition to the jean library at Gap has you taking what’s on the inside and showing it out; the graphic cuff jeans. You would cuff the bottom of your jeans to reveal a whimsical bird graphic. This means, you will be drawing  attention to your ankles so I recommend not only pairing your new graphic cuff jeans with fabulous shoes but always remembering to accessorize so consider some trendy ankle bracelets. The graphic cuff jeans can be dressed up or dressed down.

So, on your next shopping adventure, be sure to visit a Gap near you and explore the galore of jean styles, especially the graphic cuff jeans!

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Material Girl

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 14, 2010 at 5:47 am

I remember as a little girl, cutting the finger tips off of my gloves, taking my mothers mini cross-body handbag and tying a knot at the end because it was way too long for me. Also, I recall dressing in layers and looking as if I threw everything in my closet on -this was during the 80’s. However, as history repeats itself, so does fashion history.  The 80’s style is back and being transmitted through a true 80’s stylista herself, Madonna.

Her new fashion line, Material Girl portrays some of the singers most memorable looks such as lace tops, tulle skirts, like a virgin-bustier tops that trickle back from the “Express Yourself” video.  Looking for a “Papa Don’t Preach” look? There’s a leather jacket, denim jeans and striped top.  However, the collection is not just a trip down memory lane for Madonna’s greatest fashion hits, it’s actually a reflection of a modern-day ‘Material Girl’, Lourdes Leon, Madonna’s daughter which is working closely together with her mother on the development of the junior line.

The line will be sold in 200 Macy’s throughout the United States. Material Girl will launch August 3rd and then will reveal the face for the collection in which Madonna hand-picked herself to resemble a true modern-day ‘Material Girl’. Although they are keeping lips sealed on who the celebrity teen face for the collection will be, you can visit www.materialgirlcollection.com to get a preview of the collection. The photos only reveal from the neck down but it’s clear that the ‘Material Girl’ has blonde hair…umm maybe Taylor Swift or Ashley Tisdale?

The Material Girl collection includes apparel such as, denim motorcycle jackets, tulle miniskirts, boyfriend blazers, lots of lace and crop tops. Footwear, handbags, hair accessories and jewelry. Oh, and there is a bodysuit within the collection-now that’s an opinion-maker.

“A material girl is a girl that is interested in fashion and interested in music and interested in fun. She has a sense of humor and is an adventurous human being.” Madonna, WWD.