Upgrade Your Fall Wardrobe on a ShoeString Budget
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07/29/2008
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| Get this Marc Jacobs Bag without breaking the piggy bank. |
1. Exclusive Reader Discounts - Read between the pages of your favorite fashion magazines. Pretty much most of them have a page dedicated to exclusive discounts on some of your favorite and well-known retailers and brands, including websites. These are additional incentives that magazines take to offer more for their readers. You'll find discounts ranging from 15% to up to 30% off. Shopping- oriented magazines like Lucky, People Stylewatch, and Domino offer some of the coolest steal & deals pages.
2. Bigger Sales on-line - Have you thought about shopping for coats and boots during the dogs days of summer? Unlike retail floors, most shopping websites carry layover sale items from last winter! You'll find a mark down of up to 70% on big names that would otherwise cost you thousands of dollars. Designer coats and boots, unlike ready-to-wear and handbags, have longer shelf life on the style timeline. Some worthy sites to try are net-a-porter.com, e-luxury.com, and shopbop.com.
3. Out with the Old, In with the New - Consignment stores are flourishing in times like this. Why not take some of your items your already bored with from last fall and sell it . This is a great way of getting new-found money to fund that gorgeous sweater you've been eyeing. Consigment stores specializes in everything from vintage to designer. They sell your items for you, and keep a commission of 30-50% of the price the item is sold for. If you have more time on your hands and would rather pocket the commission yourself list your cast-offs on Ebay.
4. Mass Couture - Major retailers from the Gap to Target have invited red hot designers to create limited edition collections for them . You get runway styles without the runway prices. Some lines worth mentioning are the upcoming Anya Hindmarch bag collection and Sigerson Morrison's selection of studded flats and booties both arriving this fall to Target.
5. Resucitate Your Old Favorites - Refurbishing last year's trends are a quick and cheap way to looking “new” for fall. A disposable plastic Bic razor will easily shed the pilling off your worn out cashmere knits, far better than those costly sweater shavers. Skim the surface lightly , using short downward strokes over the pilled areas. Your sweaters will look as good as new. Belts, particularly elastic bands that can be easily purchased and fabricated from trim stores, can instantly move last year's voluminous dresses to this years sleeker, waist defining silhouette. Or how about pinning those old brooches on your grandma's stash of costume pearl necklaces inspired by the oversize, dramatic necklaces popularized by big jewelry labels like Subversive, Tom Binns, and Lee Angel.
6. It's A Loaner - Are you a bag-a-holic but can't afford the average $1600 to don one over your shoulder? Try BagBorroworSteal.com where you can borrow and test drive bags like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Coach, to Bottega Veneta. Membership fees are still a mere pittance to what you would actually pay to purchase one of these babies.
- GENEVIEVE YRAOLA
Worship Fashion's New Priestess
permalink: 34-Worship-Fashion-s-New-PriestessComments (13)
07/29/2008
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| Priestess' Crop Jacket is definitely a Fall desire ($410) |
With fashion heading into a darker tone this fall, Priestess is the perfect match for those who don't want to look like they belong at a Motley Crue concert. The Fall 08 collection has something for everyone, from office-chic jackets to sexy little numbers you can wear until the early hours of the morning. Even the hipsters can appreciate the cartoon printed cotton pieces Cody has become obsessed with.
So what can you expect to see in this conservative yet sultry collection? Lots of ruffles and quirky little details such as the buttons on a high waist pencil skirt. Of course there are the typical Fall black and gray colors. But Priestess takes Fall to a new level with a lemon yellow sweater perfect to brighten up your fall wardrobe on a brisk day. There's some bright purple and red silk blend dresses that are sure to make a statement at your next dinner party. And for the nights that will quickly turn into mornings Cody has created sexy short little dresses in metallic gold and black that is to die for.
Here's some of my top picks from this hot new line:
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| Cartoon Jumpsuit ($450) | Fucia Dress Silk Blend ($590), Snakeskin bag by Greta Cavazzoni ($650) | Priestess Sill Blouse ($350) |
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| Silk Sheen Dress ($300) |
- Meri Kate O' Connor
7 Common Wardrobe Mistakes of the Dating Male
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07/20/2008
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| Umm...no. |
1. Hair Really Does Matter - In fact this could be the make it or break it factor of even scoring a date. Women love great hair, whether its full and wavy, curly, or roman short, it can frame your face in the best way and add to your man “aura”. At least one time in your life go to a real bona fide salon not your local barber to find your best shaped cut. If you have major balding patters go for an all over clean shave. I can't tell you how much better guys look.
P.S. Longish locks won't win you maximum votes. I.e. Jon Bon Jovi 90's vs Jon Bon Jovi now, Aidan Shaw's character from the Sex In the City pre-Carrie breakup vs. Aidan post-Carrie breakup. Need I say more?
2. Shoe Smart - I've been in many brunches where my girlfriends have told me that they really look at the the shoes their dates wear. Sneakers mean they didn't care enough about the date (unless you're date includes a run through the ghetto), rounded rubber lace-ups can be a bit dorky Birkenstock too granola unless its a picnic on the beach. You get the drift, keep it clean, neat, and polished. Cole Haan or Kenneth Cole has an overall selection of fool-proof styles to choose from and at reasonable prices.
3. Watch It - This is tough, considering the twenty somethings rarely wear watches these days due to cell phones. But any gal will tell you that a watch , as well as the type of wallets you carry , tells us where you are in your life, The obvious Cartiers and Rolexes are always the standards of success, but a great chronograph says your international, digital a bit techy or retro, scuba watch an adventurer. No matter what the price of your watch, it shows that you're responsible enough not to be late for anything.
4. Tees with the Wrong Message - It's one thing to have sex on your mind, but on your shirt? Keep statement tees to a neutral zone, better yet non-existent. If you know your date is a republican, don't wear a "Vote 4 Barrack Obama" tee. Nobody wants to have someone's strong views staring right at them. Save it for marriage..
5. Keep The Right Pants On - This depends on what type of girl you're trying to impress. Obviously if she's a rocker babe, you may not want to show up in your clubhouse khakis and a preppy girl next door may not be amused with your acid spiked jeans. Key thing is to keep your pants on your waistline. The whole drop waist thing is sooo over, so buy a belt already.
6. Clip Nothing - No phone/PDA clips, no pen clips, no tie clips, no Bluetooth headsets. Clips spell G-E-E-K-Y..
7. Perfect Fit - this is the overall package. Like in womens wear, in mens wear everything should fit perfectly. From suits to polos keep everything close to your shoulder line. Nothing is worse than lanky or chubby guys wearing clothes too big or too tight they show layers of love handles. Without the gym, a man really can look better with the right sizes! And keep your colors neutral too - as a universal rule navy and lighter blues are complementary colors on any guys. You may not look like George Clooney, but at least you can dress like one.
- GENEVIEVE YRAOLA
Hot Pick for Fall 08: San & Soni
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07/02/2008
Fresh, talented and married? That’s the story behind the chic design couple Sonali and Inderjeet Singh of San & Soni (named after the nicknames of the couple). San & Soni is the collection that both Inderjeet and Sonali have dreamed of for many years, and so far the reality of that dream has been nothing but stellar. The flirtatious young attitude of this collection has made it an instant hit, selling out in boutiques across the country, and the design duo is only on its 3rd season.So what can we expect from the up and coming duo of San &Soni? Just tons of chic dresses that give off a modernized 1960's pop vibe - perfect for the “LDD” (little date dress) but also great mixtures that provide a very exotic touch. There's cute, flowing blouses in metallic champagnes and shades of grey that can easily be turned from casual to dressy. Careful trimming and detailing really make their upcoming Fall/Winter 08 collection.
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- Meri Kate O' Connor
Get "Sun-Worn"
permalink: 28-Get-Sun-Worn-Comments (1)
06/13/2008
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Get the world-traveler look without having to go too far to get it
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It’s the been-around-the-world-and-back that has such a modern day bohemian vibe. I’ve seen it on fashion stylists and models, including Elle Macpherson who sat next to me at a movie in all of her “messy” chicness. It’s these style swans that fly back and forth from one exotic locale to another dressed like they barely care – but each piece seems to carry a story. A wrinkled linen scarf with an ethnic print, probably a purchase from an excursion to India? A dress who’s color has faded but looks so effortlessly chic - maybe from too many summers on the Vineyard. Or an oversize straw hat with lovingly frayed edges from being shoved in a bag on one too many trips to the markets of Provence, France.
This season, you don’t have to go far to get the sunny globetrotter look. The purple collection at the Gap will have you seeing lavender fields and then some. The ultimate picks; the flirty tanks piped with ruffles made of sunkissed wash pima cottons , printed scarves with just the right breezy weight and length , straw hats made from 100% paper that keep it crushable and super soft, and their lofty canvas beach totes trimmed with raw edges. The best part, these must-have items will total for around $100 leaving enough change for sun block.
- GENEVIEVE YRAOLA
Bring A Little Peace To The World
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06/13/2008
This summer it’s all about spreading the love with a little bit of peace around your neck. This trend isn’t just for the wannabe flower kids anymore; peace is in and there’s no better time to show it. No matter where you go this summer, there’s a “peace” for everyone to enjoy.
While this simple little accent is easily doable, it’s key to keep the peace at a minimum. Too many of these accessories and you’ll look more like you belong at a protest than on a runway.
Here are some cute ways to bring peace to the world:
- MERI KATE O' CONNOR
While this simple little accent is easily doable, it’s key to keep the peace at a minimum. Too many of these accessories and you’ll look more like you belong at a protest than on a runway.
Here are some cute ways to bring peace to the world:
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The Gold Peace Rosary Necklace by Ettika. Madonna would be so proud.
Available at Kitson |
Its time to give your regular old hoops a rest and switch it up with these Large Peace Hoops by Kerri Wilder. Available at Shopbop.com
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A scarf in the summer? All in the name of peace! Peace Sign Scarf from Fashionflaires.com
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Growing more popular, these rope bracelets by Rachel Leigh can help bring a cool bohemian look to any outfit. Available at Shopbop.com
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Ohm and Peace necklace by Jennifer Zeuner is chic and subtle.
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Zad Hammered Peace Sign Ring has a vintage feel to it, and is a cute look to add to your ring collection. Available at Lulus.com
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- MERI KATE O' CONNOR
Yellow Dress Fever This Summer
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06/04/2008
Indeed, "Yellow Fever" is running rampant this Summer. No, not the disease, silly! We're talking summer dresses, and we simply can't get enough of them. They make for a great morning brunch or weekend getaway outfit, but nonetheless you still need to pick the right one. Here's a few of our picks that will ensure you'll be looking as vibrant as a sunflower, and not like Big Bird flopping down the street.
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Vera Wang Lavender - (Sleeveless jersey pleated dress) This canary yellow is an elemental must-have for the late Spring / early Summer
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Alice & Olivia - (Double strap maxi dress) Go with this piece that is subtle and simple. An easy pick for the summer.
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3.1 Phillip Lim - (Silk pleated Grecian dress) Go with this dress for a bit more sophisticated / detailed look.
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Milly - (Eyelet embroidered dress) The dress puts out a nice youthful vibe. Picnic perhaps?
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A.P.C. - (Strappy dress with embroidery) Would look great while walking your pet through the park.
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Lorick - (GG Dress) The Lorick yellow silk dupioni dress looks great for a classy event but maintains a casual feel.
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3.1 Phillip Lim - (Siamese Fish Dress) We couldn't resist going with another Phillip Lim dress. Perfect for a summer night dinner
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Ella Moss - (Piper Dress) This V-neck dress is great for the pier or boardwalk
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Shoshanna - (Belted shift dress) Sexy 1950s look that will turn heads in any year
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See By Chloe - (Short sleeve tiger print dress) Ok so we're cheating a bit with this one, but there's no denying how hip this number is!
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- ERIKA FAZIO & MERI KATE O' CONNOR
Do You Have LDD (the Little Date Dress)?
permalink: 24-Do-You-Have-LDD-the-Little-Date-Dress-Comments (2)
06/01/2008
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This BCBG stunner is the perfect dose of LDD
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1. Color - skip the black, guys respond to vibrant delish colors of jewel tones, pastels, and even white against sunkissed skin.
2. Shape - show your figure no matter what your size. Everything starts from your waist when enhancing your feminine curve. Pear shaped? Try kimono cinched belts and a curvy neckline to counterbalance. Too much bust? Try a fitted and full skirted dress to complete the hourglass shape. Plus size? Do tailored dresses with darts that keep your middle area smooth and trim.
3. Keep it subtle - It's always best to go for solid colors for maximum versatility. Prints should be subdued. Loud prints just aren't dating wow. Instead go for ombre prints or even delicate florals that are popular this spring.
With these points in mind, having a case of LDD never felt so good!
- GENEVIEVE YRAOLA
Lorick = Boho Meets Uptown Posh
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05/28/2008
First breaking out on the scene with dresses appearing on everyone's favorite aristocrat tween, Blair Waldorf (Gossip Girl), the Lorick collection has been an eye catcher ever since. Her Spring and Summer 2008 collections caught our attention us with its unique, sophisticated yet youthful look. A mixture of floral prints with preppy, solid color sundresses are too cute to pass off for a rooftop or Hamptons party.
Her upcoming Fall 2008 line continues to impress with emeralds, navies and hints of gold that will help make the crisp autumn nights a little bit brighter. Plus don’t overlook Lorick’s posh jackets that will bring the charm of old England to your neck of the woods.
Call her complex, mature beyond her years, maybe even a bit too smart for her own good, but there’s no denying that a girl in Lorick will look every bit she is worth.
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- Meri Kate O' Connor
Summer Obsession: Whitehorse Couture
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05/28/2008
Say what you want you when you first glance at our new obsession, Whitehorse Couture. While a lot of thoughts come to mind when looking at Whitehorse Couture, none are more evident than "insanely fun!" Looking like it was inspired out of some flower child's midsummer night's dream, the Whitehorse Couture line is our can't miss hit for 2008.Their loose-cut tanks and tees are to just way too cute to pass up, and are totally ideal for bikini cover-ups or for a relaxed starry night. That's also not to say that they have some interesting tops for that Hollywood Glam or Brooklynite party occasion as well.
No hokey, ironic one-liners here - just faded tan and neon colors with cheerful graphics that you can't help but just smile at. (The Smiley-face has never been so...uhh..smiley, as seen by their designs).
That's the kind of allure of we love from Whitehorse; it's just simple ready-to-wear that just screams out fun. "Don't think, just play," is what goes through my mind, and what more could you possibly ask for out of vintage shirt with a big ol' ice cream scoop on it? :)
Find out which stores you can scope them at by checking out WhitehorseCouture.com
- Laurie Blake