Clothing Swap Soiree

Dahlings, by now you're probably getting sick of donning cold weather fits. Alas, we have a few months to go before Spring. And that's why there's no better time then now to do some serious closet de-cluttering.  One easy way to de-clutter your closet is through a clothing swap. I host one about twice a year and not only do I get new and interesting pieces from my gal pals, I am also saving money while getting rid of unwanted clothes. LOVE that.  I hosted a clothing swap soiree recently and walked away with a cute cropped jacket, a pink sweater and a red dress. Many of the gals scored big time and left with bags overflowing with goodies. If you're squeamish  about wearing other people's clothes, just make sure you have strict guidelines as to what to bring. I always tell folks to bring gently worn and CLEAN clothes. Often times most pieces have only been worn just a few times, some even still have price tags on them. So go ahead Dahlings, get your gals together with a bottle of wine( or two) and swap away. Here are few highlights from my clothing swap soiree.





She scored the perfect Glam Sun Blockers.



How much do we love this blazer. To die for!!



A look of satisfaction!




One of many dresses scored!



The cool thing about the Swap is that everyone is very supportive and dishes out some serious fashion advice.



The best find of the night was this cute little red romper from Contempo from way back in the day and now considered vintage. The best part was that this little romper was worn by the previous owner for her middle school dance! Gotta love it.



She scored two indentical bags, one in brown the other in black. She walked away with a bag full of beautiful pieces. Oh and the scarf was a score too!



Spring Love: Wide Leg Jeans

Longsleeve Tops by Chloé
Platforms by Joie

This Spring look out for a full revival of the 70s, one of my favorite fashion decades. And nowhere is the love of the 70's more apparent than in the return of the flare and wide leg jean. Here are two of my favorite looks this Spring.

High-Waists: High-waist jeans are perfect for creating a curvy, hourglass figure. The high-waist usually comes up slightly higher than the belly button. The waist of the jeans accentuate and create a tiny waist, which offsets the hips to create gorgeous curves. If you have a tummy, this may not be the look for you unless you plan on wearing a blouse over the jean. Loving this one from the GAP.

Wide-Leg/Trouser Jeans: The wide-leg is this seasons response to the skinny jeans.  The wide cut of the legs create a long, straight line hiding imperfections with the  roomy legs. And the best part is that it creates the appearance of a taller, slimmer you. Wear these with a slim-cut top to balance everything out. If you do wear a roomy top, either tuck it in or wear over the jeans with a  belt it to create a waist for yourself. Here's a pair  from the GAP that looks fab. The trouser jean is perfect to create a polish yet relaxed look for work.


With all this love for the wide leg jean, could this be the downfall of the skinny jean? Should we stop wearing our skinnies? I don't think so, there's room for all silhouettes this Spring when it comes to denim. But the fuller leg jean is leading the way. And I love. This is not a trend by the way ( high waist jean maybe ), fuller leg jeans have and will always be a go to staple for me and should be for gals with hips and curves. I just got a new pair from Old Navy and plan on getting one of the above from the Gap.  After years of spending beaucoup bucks on designer jeans ( up to $200 at one time), I've found these two brands work just fine with my body shape and the prices can't be beat. After a couple of seasons of sporting straight and skinny jeans, the full leg jean is a welcomed change.

The Flatform: A Questionable Shoe Trend

We've had a couple of glorious days of beautiful weather here in the Bay, which is turning my thoughts to Spring. And it doesn't help that the stores are already stocked with Spring merchandise further reminding me that warm weather is right around the corner. I know it's still cold out there but it's never too early to get ready for the encroachment of Spring. This week I'm letting you know the key pieces to look out for this season.  First stop: Shoes!  Upcoming for Spring is the Flatform aka a flat platform, a term, supposedly coined by a Glamour editor. And it's the must-have shoe that's bound to be everywhere.

Apparently the lower arch gives height that is much easier on the foot ( apparently).  While these are very trendy this Spring, I don't think everyone can pull them off.  They usually come with an ankle strap, which shortens the appearance of height that the platform is intended for.  A big no-no for short gals or women with thick legs.

These so called flatforms also remove the sexy foot arch, which, while being unhealthy at times,definitely adds sex appeal. The flatform has no arch and no way to bend your foot while walking, and no way for your toe to grip the ground. But I'm certain someone will make these look good.   In the meantime, remind anyone much of this? The hubby calls them another version of the Sketchers Shape-up platform. And he says they are definitely NOT sexy. But buyer beware: these shoes are questionable. I must investigate further. Or not.

Golden Globes Fashion Review

Dahlings, The Globes were on last night. I hope you were watching. And if you didn’t, well you didn’t miss much. Rcky Gervais was a scathing host and the fashion was bit ho-hum.  Here's who made my best and worst dressed list.
The Worst
Heidi Klum
I mean really, Heidi...this flowly mess does not belong on the red carpet. This is something you wear to a pool party and just plain lazy in my opinion. And the bangles did not help improve the situation. This a clear example and reminder that money can’t buy you style. Heidi, you are OUT!

 Megan Fox
Again, a beautiful woman who just went the wrong direction. The hair is too high and the dress-- what a bore. Why do you need a strap there of all places? Of course the color is completely drab. And the slit. I’m so over it. Too many ladies were rocking the slit as if it was just invented. It’s not that titillating anymore when everyone does it.

Christina Aguilara
Oh Xtina, what is going on with you? Not that you’ve ever had any style to begin with but this travesty is BEYOND and it’s ill-fitting. You’re no longer on the the set of Burlesque. You need to fire your stylist ASAP.
 

Michelle Williams
Usually, I love her red carpet looks but this time, Michelle was a real disappointment. Hippy, dippy flower child look is so played out and is just inappropriate for the red carpet.

I don’t like to be mean so let’s talk about my FAVS.

Anne Hathaway
Loved Anne’s Armani Privé gown fully embellished with paillettes and Swarovski crystals. Loved the bold shoulders and metallic gold clutch. The long sleeves were unexpected and the length was perfect. And to keep everything from being too serious, the back was low and open achieving the perfect habit between edgy and GLAM. And might I add that this dress reminded me of the my NYE dress, which also had long sleeves, enhanced shoulders and backless.

Angelina Jolie
Angie was smashing in this long-sleeved Atelier Versace beaded gown and matching Salvatore Ferragamo green satin peep-toe pumps. Green was the color of the night, and of course Angie was right there leading the pack. I know some folks thought this look didn’t push the envelope, but that’s not her thing. Her style is always classy , minimal with a hint of femininity. And when you’re that gorgeous you really don’t need to go over the top.

Scarlett Johansson
This was a great dress. I hate to admit it because it’s on Scar Jo, who I really don’t care for. But it’s classic glitz and glam and very romantic. I love the deep v-neck because every woman looks better in a v- neck and the billowy sleeves are working for me too. It is a bit conservative and safe but it is a perfect look on her.

Moving on to people that could have done more.These are the gals that I felt could have taken more of a chance with their look but chose to play it safe.

Nicole Kidman
Wow, what a bore. That cream Prada one-shoulder gown did nothing for her..the color was all wrong, the silhouette has been seen and done to death and her hair, flat. It’s like she was running errands and realized the awards were on that night and pulled a dress from her closet. Usually a stunner on the red carpet, Nicole really wasn’t on her game.

Halle Berry
Gosh I hate to pick on Halle but haven’t you done this look before Ms. Berry? Her make-up was gorgeous, her body,  flawless( hate her), and her hair perfection. But this corseted black number with fly away hem felt too much like 1999. Get with the progam Halle, take it up a notch. I did like the identical diamond cuffs though.

Eva Longoria
She looked fine. But considering she’s going through a much publicized split from her man, she should have chosen a more colorful and upbeat dress. This dark, long gown coupled with the pale make-up just made her look so sad. So sad. I guess she's mourning the lost of her releationship.

Overall the Golden Globes were a bit disappointing. The clothes were very serious then years past, people didn’t push the envelope as in years past. But the gals did really play with accessories. Standouts were statement makings cuffs and bangles and lots of dangly earrings, all very popular for spring. Well, let’s hope the Oscars are more awe-inspiring.

5 Tips on How to Score Great Deals

It's that time of year Dahlings, when online and offline retailer are offering huge discounts  to make room for spring arrivals. And I've been loving it. I got my NYE party dress from Mango which was marked down to $79.99 from $169.00.  In Cache--a store I've never been into before ( I thought it was for more mature ladies but turns out they've got some cute formal dresses)-- I purchased this dress, which was marked down to $139 with an additional 50  percent off. At Zara I picked a cute skirt I've been eyeing for under $40  and two pairs of shoes. All three items totaling $100. Clearly I need to stay locked in my house. But sales are a huge way to make your money go a long way. Here are some tips to help you maximize your spending.

1.Make Friends With Sales Staff. A great salesperson is a serious shopper's best friend. Not only will sales people tell you about upcoming sales, some -- especially at boutiques -- may even hold merchandise a day or two to give you time to take advantage of the sale.

2. Shop Off Season.  Hit the sale racks for short sleeves in November, December-January, winter items, wool sweaters in April, bathing suits in September. What you give up in selection, you make up for in spectacular savings (75-90% off isn't uncommon).

3.End-of-Season Gives Best Selection. As demonstrated above you'll save big -- 40% and up is common -- and get to shop from choice pieces if you shop immediately after the season. The day after Christmas xmas is a huge time to save on every thing you didn't get from Santa.

4. Be Careful What You Buy. Invest in Classics. Avoid trendy items which will always be enticing when they are on sale, but remember that even the cutest trends have a short life cycle. If you want to get more than a few months' wear out of your purchase, stick with the classics. End-of-season sales can offer great buys on pieces you'll wear for years, from cashmere sweaters to wool blazers to leather pumps.
5. Sign up for Sale Alerts Online and Offline. Major department stores sometimes offer a sign up for their sale alert newsletters. In some large cities, you can sign up for specialized newsletters. Try googling "sale alert newsletter" your city's name. There are also some great online outlets that let you know when your favorite brands are on sale. I personally love Shop it to Me.  Sample sales are also a great way to get notified of sales from your favorite designers. Here's a list of notable sample sales. In addition to email alerts you can also sign up for texts alerting you to sales from your favorite online store.

Other helpful tips when shopping sales is to make sure you know the holes you need to fill in your closet to avoid buying an item just because it's on sale; it's also good to start your shopping as early in the day as possible to get the best choices; step out of your comfort zone and visit the stores that are normally out of your price range to get better quality of items on sale; and never buy anything that you can't pair with at least two other items in your closet. Happy bargain hunting.

What I'm Lovin': A Few Things That Make Me Happy

Dahlings, my new year's resolution is not to make any resolutions. Self improvement is a daily struggle and shouldn't be relegated to the first day of the year and trickle into the first few months. I am always seeking to be the best that I can be. And while I continue to work on my inner self, it doesn't hurt to work on the outside. That's sometimes easier anyway. To that end, I'm always on the hunt for new products that not only enhance my appearance but that also make me feel good. Here's four products that I'm lovin' lately.

1. M.A.C Cream Colour base.
I really love blush. I just can't live without it. A little bit does wonders to enliven the face. I think even if you're not  into make-up a sweep of blush can help put some life in your face on those days when you face is dragging. My new favorite is the cream colour  base blush from M.A.C. I apply it with a brush and  love the sheen it gives my skin. You can also use this as a lip stain and eye shadow. It  gives a healthy glow to the skin. A word of warning though, I think this blush works best if you have normal to dry skin. If you have oily skin  stick to a powder, which won't slide off your face.

2. Face Primer.
 Face primer is a great way to smooth out your skin before you apply make-up. You don't need to use this everyday but when you do you will see a major difference in your skin. Primer not only keeps make-up on your face but it provides a great base for application of foundation or powder helping it glide onto your face effortlessly.  I like to use this for special events or when I have a work event and I know I won't have time to blot and do touch-ups.  Love this, again from M.A.C. It goes on light,and has an iridescent or pearlescent color that gives off a light sheen.

3. Burt's Bee's Target Spot Treatment. I rarely get pimples so when I do, it's drama!!  I'm loving this from the Burt's Bee's line.  It's a natural acne spot treatment that really works. I put it on at night and in the morning my pimple has either disappeared or reduced considerable.


4. Voluspa Candles. I know. Candles?? Yes, honey. Candles make me happy. Good candles. For year's I've been in love with this brand.  From the moment you illuminate one you will notice why these candles are made from the purest high grade ingredients. The fragrance comes through perfectly, lingering in the air even after the candle has been extinguished.I love the Baltic Amber from the Japonica collection. To die for. I burn one when I get home from work to soothe away a long day and they are perfect for when I have company. I even have travel sizes that I take with me when I'm on the road. You find these at various retailers but I often pop in the nearest  Anthroplogie to get mine. The hubby likes them so much he will go pick them up on his own. Now you know that's a damn good candle if your man can't live without one.

Stay tuned Dahlings. You know there's bound to be more things I'm Lovin' right around the corner.

Strutter of the Week: Hot Mama

 Strutters, several of my friends have had children in the last three years. And I'm always amazed at how  life with baby has not erased their love of clothes or sense of style. Gone are the days when being a new mom meant you got a pair of mom jeans upon leaving the hospital. Non, non.  The new moms I know are tackling motherhood in style. One friend in particular has two boys under the age of three but manages to look put together every time I see her. Her look consists of easy classic pieces for an active mom and professional. Once in awhile she will add a few trendy items to her look. But her clothes are functional, stylish, and smart. Meet Simone, momma extraordinaire.

How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as sporty chic. I love to get dolled up every once in awhile, but as a mom I have to be versatile so tennys or ballet flats, trouser jeans, and simple t-shirts are some of my go to items when I'm with the kids.
   
How has your style change since you've become a mom?

I have tried to not let being a mom define my style. I think that being a new mother is one of the greatest and most challenging responsibilities of our lives, BUT, we don't have to let go of who we are just because our priorities have shifted. I may not be able to shop as much as I used to, but I can still find ways to express who I am through the clothes that I wear and that's important to me.

What are three key pieces every young mom should have in their closet?
The three most key pieces for me are:
Comfortable ballet flats or wedge heels: I wore one pair of flats throughout my second pregnancy. They were comfortable and I could pull them off at work or when I was running errands on the weekends. 
A lightweight scarf: for nursing in unexpected places :)
Lots of burb cloths: for quick clean ups these are a must if you don't want remnants of baby dribble (that may not wash out) all over your shirts!

What do you know for sure about style?
I know for sure that style is a matter of your own definition. We can look to media outlets to tell us what to wear, or we can figure out what looks good on us and stick with it. I have found a style that works for me and though I may venture out of that box every now and then, I try not to waste money following trends or getting too sidetracked that I lose my sense of self in an outfit. 

What are your favorite places to shop for good deals?
I love, love, love Nordstrom Rack. I'm able to find the quality that I want at the price that I can afford. For shoes, I like checking out the styles at Piperlime.com. When I have time second hand stores like Crossroads or Buffalo Exchange are great. I also hit up the Goodwill near my job every few months, especially for kids clothes. When kids are young, there's almost no point in buying new because they grow out of clothes so quickly that there's hardly time to soil anything. Second hand is a must for us!

Who inspires your style?
 A few of my style inspirations include Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez, Kerry Washington, Zoe Saldana and lately I've been loving the looks Kerry Mulligan pulls together.

Okay Strutters, you all know how hard it can be  dressing yourself in the morning. So having to dress yourself and the babies can be doubly challenging.  But taking a little time to feel good about you is important when you're a mom. I imagine a  happy mom makes a happy baby. Cheers to all the mommas striving for the perfect balance of self love and selflessness.