Strutters, I'm finally recovering from Thanksgiving!! I did some damage, so I've been busy working it off with some serious kickboxing, which has cut into my blogging time. But alas, I am back. So lately I've been itching for new jewelry to add some sparkle to my life. I've been rotating the same three pieces for some time now and I need some new looks to spruce things up. Of course this called for some serious online research. I came across this nifty little site called JewelMint, a monthly jewelry club with exclusive access to one-of-a-kind jewelry designed by actress Kate Bosworth, and best friend and stylist to the stars, Cher Coulter.
Membership comes with Cher's personal styling service, weekly trend reports and designer jewelry selected with you in mind. Once you join JewelMint, you’ll get a monthly choice of handpicked, one-of-a-kind pieces based on your own style preferences, all at 70% off retail prices. And unlike other memberships, you are only charged when you select a piece you love, so you never receive any unwanted shipments. And it's all for the price of $29.99! Check out the video below for more from Cher herself on how Jewelmint works. Definitely will be making a purchase in the future. Do we love? I do.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Black Friday Madness
Love shoes? Well, Solestruck might be the online spot for you. The online shoe retailer is holding their biggest sale EVER beginning on Friday. And the deals just keep getting better all the way though Cyber Monday.
ENDLESS.COM is also offering sweat deals for the shoe addict. On Thanksgiving weekend, save 30 percent on regularly priced boots, slippers, sneakers, and accessories. On Cyber Monday, on select brands shoppers get $30 off orders of $100; $60 off orders of $200; and $100 off orders of $300.
French Connection is offering 40% off plus free shipping on orders over $125
Code:FCBFFS
Curvacious ladies, heads up! Torrid, the store for fashionable plus-sized girls has a major sale this Friday: 60-88% Off.
80s Purple is offering 25% off code: BLACKFRIDAY
Banana Republic is offering 25% off sitewide thru Sunday.
code:BRTHANKS
Yoox, is offering 30% off.
J.Crew is giving 25% off order of $150 or more Code:TURKEY PlanetBlue, trend-setting boutique site is offering a 20 percent-off code and to shop over 100 of its newly added sale items, marked down 30 percent to 75 percent on Cyber Monday.
Whether you hit up the stores offline or online, I hope that you find some time to enjoy the love, comfort and blessings that good friends and family can bring this time of year. Clothes are fun and all but they can't hug you back. Well, maybe the Snuggie. Laters.
Friday, November 19, 2010
5 Looks to Ease Into Fall
Strutters, I'm beyond excited that Fall has arrived. I love the endless layering possibilities that Fall brings. Give me a cold, nippy Fall day any old time and I will be a happy gal. And precisely because Fall has descended upon us, it's time to start putting together those transitional looks that say, Fall is here but it ain't that cold yet, so I can rock this! At least that's the case if you live out here in the West. I've scoured the web and found five looks for inspiration . Read on.
I enjoyed stumbling unto these five fun looks. To keep your style evolving, it's always best to seek inspiration. Who knows,you might surprise yourself by picking up a few ideas and turning an old outfit into something to smile about again. Strut on!
Strutters, I'm beyond excited that Fall has arrived. I love the endless layering possibilities that Fall brings. Give me a cold, nippy Fall day any old time and I will be a happy gal. And precisely because Fall has descended upon us, it's time to start putting together those transitional looks that say, Fall is here but it ain't that cold yet, so I can rock this! At least that's the case if you live out here in the West. I've scoured the web and found five looks for inspiration . Read on.
 photo by Craig Arend |
As always for Fall, the layered looks is really the best route to unstoppable style. What I love here is the use of the print dress that you may already have in your closet that you rocked during the warmer months, that is now transformed for a perfect Fall look. It's worn over a long sleeve shirt, accentuated with skinny belt and topped off with the universal leather bomber jacket. I love the black tights, of course ( a must) and the sandals, who some may reserve for the summer. But as you can see, very wearable for Fall. I would wear this to brunch, work or out to dinner with the hubby. Love. |
 Photo: Courtney D'Alesio |
Here's that layering again that I love. A shearling vest over over simple blouse. Leggings and booties keeps the look streamlined. The bucket bag keeps it edgy. |
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I just love Miss Thang! I don't know if that's her name but she is working it! Yes, you can wear sequins in the day time! I love the silhouette of this shirt, very classy mixed with a bit of flashy. She tones the look down by adding a structured pencil skirt. Booties keeps the look young and the fabulously structured bag keeps the lady like vibe. Oh we love. To make this really Fall ready, I would add some tights. And how much do we love the pink earrings, which add a little touch of fun! |
 Photo: Daniel Zuchnik |
Well this is an easy, practical look to pull off. Really, what's not to love? A very easy transitional Fall look for those days when it's chilly but not quite heavy coat necessary. I love the blazer with all my heart and really think every woman should have at least two or three. Yes, really. So this look is really simple but the flat riding boots while practical adds that extra visual interest to keep it from being too practical. There is such a thing. But a perfect little outfit especially on those "i don't have anything to wear days." |
 photo by Mr. Newton |
Okay, there's a blazer and automatically I love this outfit! Very English countryside. I have a love of long skirts this Fall, this one, looks yummy. I love the simplicity of the v-neck sweater and the skinny belt for shape. Although I feel that the fedora is being over used these days, I can't help but love it with this look. I love how perfectly the red sandals finish off the look, giving it that unexpected touch. Adding a pair of ribbed tights and a pair of red booties would make this look that much more Fall ready. I don't like the bag though. I would have gone for a mini-cross body bag or anything else. But that. tired. looking. thing. But I digress, a beautiful cold weather transitional look nonetheless. |
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Strutter of the Week: Artistic Flare
I love nothing more than the proper infusion of texture and patterns in an outfit. And this week's Strutter, does that expertly well. Her style can seem under the radar but take a closer look and you'll notice the cut of the skirt, the texture of the sweater, and the unexpected pop of color that makes her outfits zing. Meet Cindy, she's a colleague who also moonlights as an actress so that means all her clothes have that artistic touch. Read on for some style inspiration!
How would you describe your style?
- My outfits tend to have a simple base but also incorporate color and a slightly quirky design. I love wearing clothes that experiment with the cut and fit of fabric. In addition to working at ITVS, I am a theatre actor, so I like my clothes to reflect my artistic side.
What is your style inspiration?
- I don't know. I've never considered myself a fashion person- I just kinda go with what I think looks and feels good on me. I do have a great appreciation for costume designers and how they can tell stories with clothing. I guess I'd have to say my respect for their work influences what I respond to in clothing design and ways pieces are tailored, how they convey things about the person wearing them.
What style rules do you live by?
-Comfort, first and foremost. I just can't be bothered with wearing something that will remind me that I'm wearing it every second it's on. I also like to combine simple pieces with things that have a bit more color or flair, just to keep it interesting. It's also important for me to wear clothes that make me feel like ME. I enjoy simplicity, but also adding a little something that makes me feel distinctive.
What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?
- simple casual black knee-high boots
- cute hats, scarves and gloves
- wool coat either in dark blue or purple
I could go on for days, but the boots and coats are necessary staples, and the hats, scarves and gloves are an affordable way to spice up my existing wardrobe without breaking the bank.
What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
- Be clear about what styles and cuts look best on your figure and which don't. I saw a really cute jacket on sale once that I almost bought because I loved the design and it was super cheap, but it didn't look quite right on me. My friend convinced me to put it back on the rack and walk away. Looking back, I'm glad I did- pretty on the hanger doesn't mean it's going to be pretty on you.
- If an outfit is going to make you uncomfortable or self-conscious, just skip it and go with something else. Your discomfort will show, and even if it looks nice, you will seem...off. Besides, if you don't feel great in it, what's the point? ;)
What are your favorite shopping haunts?
Anthropologie puts their stuff on sale every Tuesday, and I watch that site like a hawk. A HAWK.
Ambiance
Jeremy's Department Store
Thanks for tip on Anthro. I've snagged a few pieces from their sale rack and it's good to know that Tuesday is the day to look out for!
How would you describe your style?
- My outfits tend to have a simple base but also incorporate color and a slightly quirky design. I love wearing clothes that experiment with the cut and fit of fabric. In addition to working at ITVS, I am a theatre actor, so I like my clothes to reflect my artistic side.
What is your style inspiration?
- I don't know. I've never considered myself a fashion person- I just kinda go with what I think looks and feels good on me. I do have a great appreciation for costume designers and how they can tell stories with clothing. I guess I'd have to say my respect for their work influences what I respond to in clothing design and ways pieces are tailored, how they convey things about the person wearing them.
What style rules do you live by?
-Comfort, first and foremost. I just can't be bothered with wearing something that will remind me that I'm wearing it every second it's on. I also like to combine simple pieces with things that have a bit more color or flair, just to keep it interesting. It's also important for me to wear clothes that make me feel like ME. I enjoy simplicity, but also adding a little something that makes me feel distinctive.
What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?
- simple casual black knee-high boots
- cute hats, scarves and gloves
- wool coat either in dark blue or purple
I could go on for days, but the boots and coats are necessary staples, and the hats, scarves and gloves are an affordable way to spice up my existing wardrobe without breaking the bank.
What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
- Be clear about what styles and cuts look best on your figure and which don't. I saw a really cute jacket on sale once that I almost bought because I loved the design and it was super cheap, but it didn't look quite right on me. My friend convinced me to put it back on the rack and walk away. Looking back, I'm glad I did- pretty on the hanger doesn't mean it's going to be pretty on you.
- If an outfit is going to make you uncomfortable or self-conscious, just skip it and go with something else. Your discomfort will show, and even if it looks nice, you will seem...off. Besides, if you don't feel great in it, what's the point? ;)
What are your favorite shopping haunts?
Anthropologie puts their stuff on sale every Tuesday, and I watch that site like a hawk. A HAWK.
Ambiance
Jeremy's Department Store
Thanks for tip on Anthro. I've snagged a few pieces from their sale rack and it's good to know that Tuesday is the day to look out for!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Hot For Fall: Mini-Crossbody Bags
Hello Strutters, I was looking through my pics from my recent trip to Europe and noticed that in most of my pictures I was wearing a miniature cross-body bag. I had limit myself to one big purse for the trip but by the time I got to London, I knew I needed to give that bag a rest. So I purchased a quilted black cross body bag with a silver chain and that was the best buy I made over my three city tour of Europe. I took that bag everywhere! And I remember the feeling of ease that I experienced being able to move around freely because I had less crap to carry. But now I'm back in the states, which means I'm back to my old habit of lugging around a ridiculously huge bag in which I can never find anything! Don't get me wrong; the big bags we love have a place in our lives but I think it's worth making room for something smaller for those days we want to simplify our lives. The mini-bag is a perfect accessory for going out at night to replace your go to clutch or to hold your essentials for a day full of shopping, or for a weekend excursion. After all, who wants to carry a big bag on those occasions? Here's six to love all under $50!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Mad About ModCloth
Hello Strutters! Hope you're enjoying my Style Maven profiles. I'm expanding the profiles from office mates to other women in my life with impeccable personal style. I will feature weekly a "Strutter of the Week" for continued style inspiration. Yes, I'm ditching Style Maven.
On to other news. The ladies in the office are all aflutter about ModCloth.com, an online clothing, accessories, and decor retailer. About three months ago the company moved to the third floor of our building and is now expanding on the 4th floor where our offices are. A few of us have gotten to know the Mod Cloth crew really well. We enlisted to help them do some user testing and each time we got a considerable discount off their merchandise. Love that. Anyway the prices are right, and their mission seems pretty on point. If you love vintage and retro clothes, give Mod Cloth a look over. Here are my five picks to love.
On to other news. The ladies in the office are all aflutter about ModCloth.com, an online clothing, accessories, and decor retailer. About three months ago the company moved to the third floor of our building and is now expanding on the 4th floor where our offices are. A few of us have gotten to know the Mod Cloth crew really well. We enlisted to help them do some user testing and each time we got a considerable discount off their merchandise. Love that. Anyway the prices are right, and their mission seems pretty on point. If you love vintage and retro clothes, give Mod Cloth a look over. Here are my five picks to love.
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| Midnight Foil Skirt $107.99 Love this jazzy skirt, complete with a shiny aluminum-colored panel for a sexy night. |
With its black bib, colorblocked sleeves, decorative silver ribbon button holes, and brassy buttons, this white wonder has enough military-inspired flair to make your entire neighborhood stand at attention when you walk by.
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| Bell Curve Cardigan-$82.99 Charcoal, knit cardigan warm and cozy for the chilly temperatures. |
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Well-Mannered Minx Dress-$189.99 A mix of fun and finesse is evident in this dress' black lace shell, attached to a light tan slip with a sweetheart neckline. A fitted waist and full skirt form a stunning silhouette. Perfect for a delish night out with that special someone. |
Monday, November 8, 2010
Style Maven of the Week: Posh Spice
It doesn't take a long to identify someone who possesses a strong sense of style. I've only hung out with Sherley two times as result of a mutual friend and both times left me convinced that she walks to her own fashion drum beat. I was hosting a Caribbean/African women's potluck at my house when she walked through the door ( fashionably late) dressed impeccably. There was something very polished about her style but it lacked the pretentiousness that often accompanies the word. The last time I saw Sherley ( at yet another potluck), she wore a plaid tunic with a giant bow in the front and I absolutely fell in love with the look. And when I questioned her about her favorite shopping haunts it was clear that she knows a thing or two about scoring major deals! Trends don't motivate her but instead she dresses to suit her mood and most importantly her body shape. Meet Sherley.
How would you describe your style?
Classy, Sassy - Elegance with a little spice.
What is your style inspiration?
My inspirations come from the sun, plants and flowers. I love waking up in the morning and letting my mood dictate my style. Because of my design/artistic background fashion is another blank canvas that allows me to express my creativity. I admire Michelle Obama she is the epitome of classy/sassy.
What style rules do you live by?
I love being a woman. I embrace my femininity and celebrate being a girly-girl by wearing dresses the majority of the time – even on cold, rainy days. That is what tights are for!
I rarely spend over $25 on my clothing. I never buy brand names or Haute Couture items unless they are from discount retailers or second hand stores. I like having the best of both worlds – quality and quantity. When I lived in Los Angeles, I found a pair of authentic strappy Gucci heals for $34. The exact pair was selling for $442 at Bloomingdale's. I am not into trendy fashion fads. I prefer classic pieces and funky unique ‘one of a kind’ items. I love dreaming about what interesting lives my clothes and vintage purses had before I adopted them. I wear colors and clothes that are flattering on me. Therefore I do not and (never will) own a pair of skinny jeans. I try every thing on and never buy clothes online.
What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?-I love my cowboy boots. They are classic, versatile, and comfortable with a decent heel.
-I am still searching for a simple black cardigan to wear with jeans or more importantly, with a “go get ‘em” little black dress.
-I am seeking the perfect warm winter coat that can be worn with sweats or “make my husband drool” dress.
-I am dreaming of durable leggings long in length, which also cover my rear. I have yet to find the magic pair.
What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
Comfort, comfort, comfort!
Clothing size does not matter buy what fits!Invest in good pair of shoes, no compromises!
Accessories are your friends.
What stores do you hit up on the regular to get your fashion fix?
I am currently obsessed with Crossroads. BCBG outlet in Vacaville and Jeremy’s in Oakland or San Francisco and All Things Vintage.
Friday, November 5, 2010
H& M/Lanvin Collabo Coming to a Store Near You
Strutters, the inter webs has been going gaga for the new collab between Lavin and H&M. Luxury fashion house Lanvin is synonymous with luxurious, elegant, and beautifully crafted gowns and dresses that make every girl drool with desire--- at least for those who can afford it. So for the rest of us Lanvin is about to release it’s first collection for H &M on the 23rd November, to hit 200 stores nationwide. Right in time for the holiday season, the collection features a number of party frocks in a variety of eye-catching colors, including buttercup yellow, midnight blue and cerise pink. I'm not terribly moved by these dresses, since many are one shoulder, and I'm just about OVER that look. And a big thumbs down on the jewelry, which looks plasticy and cheapo. But I do love a couple of the coats and the long gloves I've seen. Amy Odell of New York Magazine has a review of her top picks, here. And Vogue UK features the entire collection here.
Here's more quirky video featuring the clothes in all their glory.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Style Maven of the Week: Preppy Chic With a Touch of Whimsicality
A couple of months back I had the opportunity to attend the wedding of colleague who is also a good friend. A successful wedding should always have the stamp of the bride's personal style. And the wedding did just that. It was simple elegance with a twist and that's exactly the way I would summarize Chi's day to day style, this week's style maven. With Chi it's definitely about the classics: blazers, a-line skirts and dresses, black capris, straight leg jeans and the classic cardigan. But she brings a whimsical touch to these pairings by mixing unexpected patterns, adding an evening shoe to a daytime look, and amplifying her look with dainty but interesting pieces of jewelry. What I like the most about Chi is that she never looks like she's trying too hard. Her clothes evoke a quiet confidence that conjure up the days of the uber-chic Audrey Hepburn, a time when the silhouette and details of clothes where of utmost importance but the woman took center stage. Meet Chi. Read about her personal style and check out her three favorite looks below.
How would you describe your style?
I enjoy contrasting styles, like grandma and grandpa sweaters or school boy jackets with frilly girly details and high heels. I like to have fun with my outfits and look for offbeat details (cool buttons, interesting stitching), and love vintage jewelry and other accessories.
What is your style inspiration?
I get inspiration from flipping through all sorts of fashion magazines ranging from Vogue to Lucky to Glamour and from watching old movies featuring style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Jean Seberg (i'm also drooling over what the ladies wear on Mad Men!). I've always loved looking through my mom's photo albums and admiring the feminine, mod style that she and her girlfriends wore so effortlessly back in Vietnam. There's one photo I particularly adore where she's in capris and a simple white oxford shirt--she's riding her bike with glam black sunglasses on, long hair blowing in the wind, a huge smile on her face--it's a wonderful, carefree moment. I get my color inspiration from my oldest sister--she's an incredible artist and we used to design paper doll clothes together when I was little; I always loved the unusual color combos she'd come up with. Also love looking at blogs like the Sartorialist and the Selby.
What style rules do you live by?
If I have to ask my husband "is this too much?" before I leave the house, I usually know the answer is "yes" before he has a chance to utter the word. But, there have also been times where he has said "yes" and in my head I'm thinking "but I don't care if these colors are weird together! i like it! i'm going to wear it anyway!" So ... my rule is to go with your gut and go with what you love all that matters is that what you are wearing makes you feel good. And if you make a mistake, oh well. It's something to look back and laugh at, and it's a place we've all been. No one is immune from the fashion "don't."
What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?
Can i list more than three? There are so many on my lust list!
A navy peacoat with gold buttons
A (faux) fur-lined cap
Long leather gloves so my arms don't freeze when i wear my 3/4 sleeve jackets - classic black or maybe a rich, forest green
Cognac-colored leather oxfords
Some nice silk or cotton menswear ties, patterned and solid
What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
Be yourself. Don't try too hard.
How would you describe your style?
I enjoy contrasting styles, like grandma and grandpa sweaters or school boy jackets with frilly girly details and high heels. I like to have fun with my outfits and look for offbeat details (cool buttons, interesting stitching), and love vintage jewelry and other accessories.
What is your style inspiration?
I get inspiration from flipping through all sorts of fashion magazines ranging from Vogue to Lucky to Glamour and from watching old movies featuring style icons like Audrey Hepburn, Jean Seberg (i'm also drooling over what the ladies wear on Mad Men!). I've always loved looking through my mom's photo albums and admiring the feminine, mod style that she and her girlfriends wore so effortlessly back in Vietnam. There's one photo I particularly adore where she's in capris and a simple white oxford shirt--she's riding her bike with glam black sunglasses on, long hair blowing in the wind, a huge smile on her face--it's a wonderful, carefree moment. I get my color inspiration from my oldest sister--she's an incredible artist and we used to design paper doll clothes together when I was little; I always loved the unusual color combos she'd come up with. Also love looking at blogs like the Sartorialist and the Selby.
What style rules do you live by?
If I have to ask my husband "is this too much?" before I leave the house, I usually know the answer is "yes" before he has a chance to utter the word. But, there have also been times where he has said "yes" and in my head I'm thinking "but I don't care if these colors are weird together! i like it! i'm going to wear it anyway!" So ... my rule is to go with your gut and go with what you love all that matters is that what you are wearing makes you feel good. And if you make a mistake, oh well. It's something to look back and laugh at, and it's a place we've all been. No one is immune from the fashion "don't."
What are three pieces you are lusting after for your fall wardrobe?
Can i list more than three? There are so many on my lust list!
A navy peacoat with gold buttons
A (faux) fur-lined cap
Long leather gloves so my arms don't freeze when i wear my 3/4 sleeve jackets - classic black or maybe a rich, forest green
Cognac-colored leather oxfords
Some nice silk or cotton menswear ties, patterned and solid
What is the best style and fashion advice you’ve been given?
Be yourself. Don't try too hard.
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My wedding gown. seriously! it was so much fun to have something tailor-made, just for me. while my dress was not custom designed, i was able to work with a seamstress to alter the style so it really suited me--creating a hi-lo hem, letting a little tulle peek out for a playful touch, shortening the waist so it fit my petite frame (and not the frame of someone four sizes bigger than me--but that's a separate rant about bogus wedding gown size practices). and i had so much fun picking out accessories like the coral pink fabric flower, sparkly vintage-inspired jewelry and violet sequin-bow shoes. i would love to wear my dress again--any other ladies out there interested in helping me plan a wedding gown ball? |
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| i have a thing for polka dots, and ruffles, and this dress gives me both and brings in my love of grandma sweaters. |
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| i like balancing out bright colors like the green in this shirt with neutrals like the tan jacket; i also like mixing girly details like the lace with more masculine details like the corduroy, and dressing up an otherwise casual look with fancy shoes. Hope you're inspired Strutters! This Gal is going places.... |
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