Cheap Chic Mom

Cheap Chic Deals

2009-11-16T01:00:00.000-08:00

Updated by 11/16/09 2:30 PST

Wet Seal take additional 40% off clearance

80% off STILA makeup with gift sets

Ann Taylor & LOFT Friends and Family 30% off Enter FRIENDS at checkout for 30% entire purchase. Good from Nov 17-22, 2009

Summer rolls into Winter: Maxi Dress

2009-11-15T23:39:00.000-08:00

Items in this set:
Forever21 dress, $25
Forever21 cardigan, $18
Forever21 boots, $25
1928 earrings, $28
Forever21 bracelet, $6.80
Total: $102.80

No Jimmy Choo's left? Not fair!

2009-11-15T21:50:00.000-08:00

I was so excited previewing what H&M had in store for us on Sat (Nov 14). I thought finally, a couple of Jimmy Choo of my own! I couldn't go on Sat but I intended to go on Monday. After reading this article: Shoppers resell cut-price Jimmy Choo shoes on eBay for double the price, I might not be able to get my hands on any of the shoes tomorrow :(

Wearing Summer Maxi Dresses in Winter

2009-11-15T20:00:00.000-08:00

I didn't get to wear my maxi dresses (most of them are empire waist) in the Summer more than I'd like to. Now I'd really like to wear them since it's not too cold here in the Bay Area sometimes even though winter's here already.

I think I can wear them by layering them with turtle necks or long sleeves tops but I also can wear them underneath some cardigan sweaters. I haven't updated my cardigans with the draped look since I thought it would only draw attention to my wide hips if I don't wear them with belts. If I'm going to wear them over maxi dresses and if I pick the right ones, I hope they will work together and only compliment the dress. So the hunt continues.

Here are some great candidates for me to choose from:

Danielle Sweater Cardigan
$29.80

Merona® Collection Womens Merino Wool Wrap Cardigan - Purple
$31.99 List: $39.99Save: $8.00 (20%)

Wrap Sweater Cardigan
Was: $39 Sale: $24.00

Don't Miss These Deals!!

2008-06-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

- Express printable coupon $15 off $30
- Free Lip Favorite or Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel With Any Purchase From Bath and Body Works

Specialty Bras on Sale

2008-06-24T03:32:00.000-07:00

I needed to pick up some of specialty bras so I thought Macys.com's Summer Bra Event was a good opportunity to get ones. I looked up the ones I wanted but they were still priced at original prices:

Fashion Forms "U Push" Bra $28.00

Calvin Klein "Perfectly Fit Solutions" 5-Way Bra

$39.00

So I looked up other sites and decided to buy these from JCPenney.com. They even had the one I wanted, exact same with the one sold at Macys.com, at a sale price:

View goodebag's map

Taken in a place with no name (See more photos or videos here )

Fashion Forms® U-Plunge Push-up Bra
Was ~~$28.00~~; Now $16.80

View goodebag's map

Taken in a place with no name (See more photos or videos here )

Ambrielle® Essentials Convertible Racerback
Was ~~$20.00~~; Now $12.00

Photo credit: Macys.com and JCPenney.com

Updated looks and More Summer Sale Finds

2008-06-24T02:45:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting to get some of the grecian look and new look of some tier top/dresses influenced by the origami style. Thanks to my friend, Matisha, I got to add these, all by Forever 21, to my daily wardrobe:

Around the same time (these last three days) I've been spotting these exiting finds (including the dye look and mom shorts) I couldn't miss out, marked down at H&M and at Target's & ROSS' clearance racks (run to your local stores!):

H&M $29.99 NOW $20

GO International $24.99 NOW $6.24

Xhilaration Sabina Ballet Flats at Target $17.99 NOW $4.49

CL Laundry at ROSS $29.00 NOW $12.99

Merona at Target $17.99 NOW $4.48

Merona by Target $19.99 NOW $4.99

Sam & Max at ROSS $44.00 NOW $12.99

Soaked at ROSS $8.99

RXB at ROSS $32.00 NOW $9.99

BCBG at ROSS $48.00 NOW $9.99

And I also managed to stock up 3 lip glosses, a liquid eyeliner, a duo primer and mascara and Halo spray, during Victoria's Secret's semi annual sale:

Clearance deals from Target.com

2008-06-24T02:23:00.000-07:00

Thanks to this posting at Slickdeals.net, I didn't missed out on cheap chic items on clearance!

Here are what I've just purchased and can't wait to get them in the mail:

Merona Black Alia X Band Athleisure

$5.74
List price: ~~$22.99~~
You Save: $17.25 (75%)
---

Converse One Star Side Rib Hoodie Sweater Ebony

$6.74
List price: ~~$26.99~~
You Save: $20.25 (75%)
---

Moss Sup Co Denim Wide Leg Tulip Pkts

$5.74
List price: ~~$22.99~~
You Save: $17.25 (75%)
---

Merona Merlot Heather Gift Giving Hoodie

$7.49
List price: ~~$29.99~~
You Save: $22.50 (75%)
---

Isaac Mizrahi Hot Coffee Stovepipe Pant

$8.74
List price: ~~$34.99~~
You Save: $26.25 (75%)
---

Converse One Star Vintage Khaki Star Print Tunic

$6.24
List price: ~~$24.99~~
You Save: $18.75 (75%)
---

Moss Sup Co Walking Green Short Cargo

$4.24
List price: ~~$16.99~~
You Save: $12.75 (75%)
---

Converse One Star Oyster Bermuda Short

$6.24
List price: ~~$24.99~~
You Save: $18.75 (75%)
---

Xhilaration Crochet Top - Black

$4.99
List price: ~~$19.99~~
You Save: $15.00 (75%)

Photo credit: Target.com

TheFind.com

2008-06-22T01:08:00.000-07:00

I've just found this site: TheFind.com as a result of Google-ing for an origami dress. From the site, not only I've found a cheap chic origami dress, but I've also found tiered dress (origami style) that I also have been looking for.

Tier dress at WetSeal.com $22.50

COMPARE TO:

Luella at Net-A-Porter.com $670

Origami bubble dress at Nordstrom.com Now $31.00 (50% OFF)

COMPARE TO:

Donna Karan at Saks Fifth Avenue $1,198

Outfit of the day

2008-04-02T16:56:00.001-07:00

Here is my outfit of the day and a couple that I recently wore.

Lantern sleeves tshirt: Target
Bubble tank top: Target
Pants: NY&Co
Shoes: Forever 21
Handbag: DSW

Empire waist sateen tunic: JC Penney
Velvet shrug: Nordstrom Rack
Jeans: Kohl's
Wedge shoes: Target
Handbag: Dooney & Bourke at TJ Maxx

Tshirt: Target
Brocade top: Forever 21
Cropped sweater: Target
Jeans: Old Navy
Shoes: Target
Ruffles Handbag: Aldo

Cheap Chic Find

2008-03-23T00:46:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I found these among not so many left during Macys.com's warehouse clearance event (that is still going on right now).

justsweet Cropped Wool Cape
Orig. $138.00
Was $33.99
Now $20.39

Trixxi V-Neck Top with Belt
Orig. $32.00
Was $8.00
Now $4.80

justsweet Sleeveless Ruffled Voile Blouse
Orig. $69.00
Was $17.25
Now $10.35

Fashion Hot Deals

2008-03-22T23:50:00.000-07:00

- Women's shoes 70% off Diego di Lucca at amazon.com
- Women's Abecrombie Clearance Clothes Starting @ $6.90
- La Redoute clearance up to 65% off
- Express In-Store Printable Coupon: 15% off
- Nine West Women's Vasca Mary Jane Shoes - $26.69 shipped (was $88.95) at amazon.com
- Sears Women's Shoes Clearance - 2 Pairs For $14.98 at Sears.com
- Extra 50% off Clearance and a 25% off coupon on top at LIMITED TOO - Jackets as low as $8.xx, Cardigan for $7.12
- $2.99 to $3.99 all Clearance Apparel at K-MART BM incl. jeans, coats, leather
- Target Women's Clearance Sale Use 10% off coupon code BJ6KQJLI
- Club Monaco Clearance $159 pants for $19 B&M
- Kohls B&M Winter Coats 80% off original price
- Crocs $14.94 + SH, limited sizes, free s/h $50 and up
- GbyGuess Men's Sale: Up to 65% off, items from $6*Limited styles/Sizes*
- Macys.com clearance up to 90% off

Credit: Slickdeals.net

Outfit of the day

2008-03-22T23:48:00.000-07:00

My outfit today going to Six Flags...

Lantern sleeves grey top: Forever 21
Beaded sleeveless top: Gadzooks
Cropped pants: Rue 21
Loafers: DSW
Hat: Walmart
Bracelet: JC Penney
Sling handbag: Kohl's

Fashion Hot Deals

2008-03-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

- 26% off all items including sale items + free shipping at Charlotte Russe
- Chico's 25% off coupon valid March18-25 valid from March 18th to 25th coupon code: 6072
- Winter Clearance up to 75% off at Aerosoles
- New 50% off items at Armani Exchange ~ combine with the 15% off code use coupon STUDENT1

Source credit: Slickdeals.net

Outfit of the day

2008-03-17T00:12:00.000-07:00

My family and I went to an air show today and this is what I had on today:

Dress: Mervyn's
Gladiator Sandals: Target
Bubble Trench Coat: H&M
Fringe Handbag: Target
Cowboy Straw Hat: Walmart
Blue Shades: Kohl's

Fashion Hot Deals

2008-03-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

- AMAZON has 80% Disney Couture vintage girl's t-shirts
- BM Sears Children Clearance extra 80% off - YMMV
- 30% off Full-Price Items at ralphlauren.com with coupon: RLSP2008. Tuesday, March 11 through Friday, March 28
- Macys has Private Sale Printable Coupons & More savings for Macys card holders
- 30% off your entire order at Kohls.com when paying with your Kohls charge card (March 13-18,2008). Use code: GRAND30
- 15% off Printable AE Coupon for In-store Use ,15% off your entire order American Eagle coupon code 29118414 or 35084965 , Free Shipping on $50 AE coupon code 78996188
- HSN 15% Coupon Code: 155317

Credit: SlickDeals.net

Outfit of the day

2008-03-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

I went to Chabot Space and Science center in this outfit.

Long sleeves top: Heritage
Eyelet shirt: Nordstrom Rack
Skirt: Forever 21
Cowboy boots: Target
Necklace: Target
Handbag: Rampage

Fashion Hot Deals

2008-02-29T21:29:00.000-08:00

- The dress event: up to 30% at Arden B.
- Up to 65% off at SpeedoUSA.com
- Save up to 60% at Urban Outfitters. For 10% off code use: 071281welcome
- Up to 75% off clearance deals @ Spiegel with FREE shipping code: S43
- 25% off Ann Taylor LOFT Maternity code Maternity25
- JCPenney Coupon Thread at SlickDeals.net
- Amazon - Extra 70% off Jewelry
- Charlotte Russe 75% off And Free Ship On Select Items
- Filene's Basement: Famous Designer Gowns from $249 - $699
- Target Clearance up to 75% off
- Dillard's Sale in all departments. Discounted items always shown at the bottom of the list in every category.

MICHAEL Michael Kors Glossy Tote
Orig. $298.00
Now $ 156.45

Speechless Ruffle-Front Charmeuse Top
Orig. $24.00
Now $ 5.60
- Hanna Andersson online secret sale 50-80% off. Click on any items in the older catalog and it'll take you to the discounted items.
- ALDO Boots Sale 50% off + FS or 15% coupon Starting as low as $19.99. Go to www.aldoshoes.com and click on sale and boots. Use code: Can't combine coupons. Shipping is flat $5 use coupons based on your total (15% seems to better)
SIZE46552706 - free shipping, JXLMGQ08 15%off, 37233863 15%off
- Levi's® Instant/Velcro Sneakers - $11.78 + tax shipped or less Regular $59.99
- Altrec.com has the Columbia Women's Bugaboo Jacket for $64.97 before 10% off coupon. Coupons COUPONCABIN10 or FATWALLET10 (expire March 31, 2008) can be applied for $6.50 off, making the final price $58.47 with free shipping. The regular price of this coat is $219.95.
- Salvation Army Stores - 50% off everything on Feb 29, 2008. Find locations here.
- 30% off at Aeropostale Friends & Family event 3/13-3/16 B&M. Print coupon here.
- Green Bay Packer Pro Shop: Clearance Sale.

Source credit: SlickDeals.net

Chic deals from Nordstrom Rack

2008-02-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

DKNY High neck ruffle blouse ~~$79.00~~ NOW $19.97

FANG Woven eyelet lined shirt ~~$38.00~~ NOW $9.97

Casion cropped jacket ~~$88.00~~ NOW $24.97

BCBG Jersey knit dress ~~$160.00~~ NOW $15.99

Live a Little Jacket ~~$58.00~~ NOW $7.99

Chic Layered Dress

2008-02-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

I was browsing Target.com and I saw that Erin Fetherston GO collection happened to be having a clearance going on. I didn't know how long it has been going on, all I had in mind is that I had to get my hands on those layered dress! Especially the black one. I ordered the black tiered dress like in the picture below. Some of the reviews on the site said that this kind of dress is not for any type of body, but most of them said there's nothing can go wrong with this dress. I'm keeping my fingers crossed until mine arrives in the mail!

Erin Fetherston Ebony Chiffon Layered Dress

$11.24

List price: ~~$44.99~~

You Save: $33.75 (75%)

Chic Tops for Spring 2008

2008-02-09T15:54:00.000-08:00

I'll definitely put these into my wish list!
Forever 21
Lena Top $22.80

Striped Woven Blouse $19.80
Lynda Blouse $22.80
Ruffled Blouse $22.00
Jamilah Ruffled Blouse $24.80

Wet Seal
Chiffon Ruffle Top $25.50
Chiffon Tie Neck Top $34.50

London Fashion Week 2008

2008-02-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Check out everything about London Fashion Week 2008 here: http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk/

Chic Shoes Find

2008-02-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

Mervyn's ankle boots ~~$35~~ NOW $16.99

Kohl's criss cross strappy sandals ~~$49.99~~ NOW $14.44

Target ~~$24.99~~ NOW $6.99

Chic find at Mervyn's

2008-02-06T23:10:00.000-08:00

Mervyn's had a buy 1 get 2 Free today (a day only).

I picked up some shirts and pants for DH and DS. These are what I got for myself:

Mervyn's ~~$68~~ NOW $8.89

Mervyn's ~~$48~~ NOW $6.67

Mervyn's ~~$44~~ NOW $4.44

New York Fall 2008 Fashion Week

2008-02-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

Check out the schedules, the designers and they're catwalk collections here

Chic January Loot

2008-01-30T16:15:00.001-08:00

JC Penney ~~$90~~ NOW $22.49

Vera Wang for Kohl's ~~$98~~ NOW $19.60

Forever 21 Shoes ~~$19.99~~ NOW $1.99

Old Navy ~~$40~~ NOW $9.45

Forever 21 ~~$17.80~~ NOW $8.99

JC Penney ~~$40~~ NOW $9.99

JC PENNEY ~~$48~~ NOW $11.99

JC PENNEY ~~$130~~ NOW $14.99

JC PENNEY ~~$36~~ NOW $8.99

JC PENNEY ~~$30~~ NOW $7.49

JC PENNEY ~~$72~~ NOW $14.99

JC PENNEY ~~$36~~ NOW $8.99

It's a Chic World Wide Web Out There

2008-01-30T06:42:00.000-08:00

- Second City Style has style for every Greek Goddess this Spring
and has new info on Chicago Fashion Resource.

Chic Strappy Sandals Are Back In This Spring

2008-01-23T16:49:00.000-08:00

Here is the latest trend on sandals this coming Spring and Summer 2008: criss-cross strap sandals on platforms. The inspirations came from the sandals on the runways of SS 08 and Haute Couture SS 08:

Moschino Spring-Summer 08

Givency Haute Couture Spring-Summer 08

Here are some options that you can find in stores right now:

Shoes.com Kors Egypt Sandals $234.99 NOW $140.99

Banana Republic Strappy Wedges $78.00

Kohl's Tailored Sandals $59.99 NOW $26.97

And more on the dressy side:

Nordstrom Michael Kors Patent Leather Sandal $97.95

Kohl's Zaira Sandals $49.99 NOW $24.97

More Chic Loots

2008-01-22T21:40:00.000-08:00

Old Navy Balloon Sleeve Top ~~$26.50~~ NOW $5.99

Old Navy Colored Jeans Purple ~~$34.50~~ NOW $6.49

Old Navy Tie Sleeve Shirt ~~$24.50~~ NOW $4.99

Old Navy Velvet Empire Dress ~~$39.50~~ NOW $9.49

It's a Chic World Wide Web Out There

2008-01-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

- Style Bubble is jealous of Minnie Mouse new outfits! And so would you
- The Bargain Queen is seeing green this Spring
- Cat Walk Queen is showing us some preview from Primark
- Style Bytes has a recommendation for a fun classic fashion book
- I am Fashion has the photos from the first week of Paris Fashion Week
- This Spring, the bows are going to be BIG!
- Style Dash has suggestions on how to avoid Bottox
- Second City Style spotted the cutest ruffles for Spring

SALE SALE SALE

2008-01-22T00:29:00.000-08:00

- 70% off Select Styles at BananaRepublic.com
- Corningware 6pc Set in French White $23 shipped (Reg $39.99) at Macys.com
- Cuisinart Stainless 14-Piece Cookware Set + hand blender for $120 shipped after rebate (78% off) Reg $540.00
- Laurex Urban Laptop Messenger $20
- Macy's Year-End Inventory Clearance - Save an Extra 40% on Fashion Clearance & additional discount select items 2 days only (scroll down, all in one page)
- Ebags Friends and Family 20% Off Including Sale Items of Handbags
- Wamsutta "Signature" Mattress Pad, King $13.47 plus shipping
- Columbia Thunderscout Jacket for $14.88 (List Price: $39.95) & More
- Last day of Disney semi-annual sale up to 75% off, with an extra 15% off
- Lowes Gas Heaters and accessories 50% off
- Bath and Body Works 90% off on some items in stores
- Bath and Body Works finally 75% off on some items
- TARGET in stores Clearance -- Golf Clubs, Golf Bags, Softball/Baseball Gear -- 75% OFF
- Init PR-TV102 TV Stand for $59.99 (Originally $139.99) @ Best Buy
- 70% off -- $11.99 to $14.99 CONVERSE shoes, graphic prints, limited sizes (8, 10, 11, 12, 13, maybe others), going fast on AMAZON
- Elizabeth Charles warehouse sale 50%-90% off

Cheap Chic Jacket

2008-01-21T20:09:00.000-08:00

I can't wait until Spring. I bought this from Overstock.com and it's scheduled to arrive on Wednesday (1/23). Love the color and the price of course ;)

Overstock Jacket Purple $84 NOW $13.99 (83% OFF)

It's a Chic World Wide Web Out There

2008-01-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

-What kind of clown are you? asked Style Bubble
-Second City Style went to the opening of New Marc Jacobs store in Chicago
-Miss Sixty suggested yellow, blue and metal studs added to your wardrobe
-Springs new colours in the eyes of telegraph.co.uk
-Telegraph.co.uk is reporting from Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture

SALE SALE SALE up to 70% off

2008-01-21T09:54:00.000-08:00

- Pfaltzgraff Naturewood 16-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, Service for 4 $59.99 (60% OFF)
- M N G by Mango up to 70% OFF
- Steve Madden up to 75% OFF select items
- Aldo Shoes sale up to 70% off selected styles
- Bakers up to 70% off
- Payless Shoes in stores clearance up to 70% off select styles
- PRICE DROP - Bombay Company - 90-95% OFF - Final Store Liquidation -- ALL US stores to CLOSE by 1/22
- Taco Bell Coupons (Chicagoland)-4/1/08
- 4 Free Weeks Blockbuster Online - NOT a store code!
- Banana Republic up to 70% off sale + 20% off coupon - $4 tees - $8 polos - $5.60 long sleeve tee - $
- Children's Place Monster Sale Additional 50% Online + 20% coupon
- Seal-A-Meal Minute Marinating Canister $5 (needs Food Sealing device), Mr.Coffee Coffeesaver Set $20
- Auntie Anne's Free Pretzel Day ~ Complimentary Original or Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel ~ 2/2/08 - 10am-4p
- Carter's all fleece pj's $5.99, plus $10 off $50 printable coupon

Chic Wedges

2008-01-20T22:52:00.000-08:00

I'm sure not only the Hilton sisters (in striped Louboutin wedges) but you've seen people wearing wedges every where you go now.

Here are some of the options that you can pick from:

Banana Republic Peep Toe Wedge Shoes $128.00 NOW $39.99

Guess Peep Toe Wedge Shoes $64.99

Guess wedge sandals $69.99

JC Penney patent wedges $60 NOW $24.99

MNG by Mango $109 NOW $53.99

MGN by Mango strap wedge pumps $129 NOW $63.99

Nordstrom Franco Sarto wedges $98.95

Nordstrom wedge sandals $89.95

Old Navy faux suede peep toe wedges $29.50 NOW $12.99

Urban Outfitters fold over canvas wedge shoes $58.00

Payless wedges $22.99 NOW $17.99

Target Xhilaration suede wedges brown $19.99

Target Meronat strap wedges $22.99 NOW $16.09

Urban Outfitters Clyde wedges $145 NOW $59.99

Wet Seal Mary Jane wedges $26.50

As for me, right now I'm drooling over the Old Navy's suede peep toe wedges! ;)

Cheap Chic Finds

2008-01-19T16:13:00.000-08:00

I couldn't find the exact photos so these below are the closest to my loot from these two stores:

Old Navy
Dressy top $2.49

Old Navy
Vest $6.69

Old Navy
Cotton skirt in Black $2.45

These I bought a couple of weeks before we moved to the bay area from Chicago in November:

Forever 21
Black dress $5.99

Forever 21
Brocade tunic in navy blue $4.99

Forever 21
Chiffon fusia tunic $4.99

Cheap Chic Find

2007-10-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

I went to a Heritage 1981 store at Woodfield mall right after a dinner at Todai last weekend. I didn't have much time, only 15 before they closed. I went straight to the SALE section and I found 4 pieces that would work for me. I was pretty happy with what I found.

Here are the photos, not actual pics but the closes ones, that are pretty similar to 4 pieces of clothing that I bought that night:

Athletic Jacket in Olive Regular: $28.00 Sale: $5.99

Knee Length Dress in Brown and Orange Plaid Regular: $25.00 Sale:$7.99
In my wish list, I wanted a dress or top with pockets. I was so happy finding this dress in fall color at marked down price. This dress has plaid pattern and that makes the pockets are not as visible as I wanted it to be but with price that low I really couldn't pass on it.

Woven Shirt in Grey Aqua Regular $24.00 Sale: $4.99

Woven Top in Yellow Red Regular: $24.00 Sale:$5.99

Today I went to Target to pick up a top that is in their weekly deal. Over there I found another top I liked that was marked 30% off.

Mossimo Black Print Tunic Henley Tan Regular: $14.99 Sale:$10.48

Mossimo Elbow Sleeve Turtleneck Regular: $12.00 Sale: $9.99
Offers good October 7–13, 2007

Today's Outfit

2007-10-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Necklace: Forever 21
Tank top: Target
Outer top: Target
Denim: Old Navy
Shoes: Marshall's

Chic SS08 Runway Collections

2007-10-07T00:43:00.000-07:00

These are my favorite picks from the Fashion Weeks. Most of the pret a porter that are attractive to me are the ones that can make essential items from FW (frame bags with slings, ankle boots, calf high soldier boots, romantic looks in general) work in SS. I'm trying to make the most of the cheap but important investments that I've been collecting ;) Oh this reminds me I need to get nude shoes and more patent belts!
I'll be avoiding to pick anything made of chiffon and silk since they tend to be difficult for me to wear, it's just hard to hide my love handles in them. I have two lovely silk tops and I think I've enough. Mini skirts sometimes can still work on top of denim pants but high waists are big no no since I'll be looking pregnant in them. Sequin dress is impossible, I'm sure I'll look hideous in it LOL!

New York
I love this by BCBG Maxazria. This is how I usually wear my tube tops/dresses and I'd love to add knotted belt to the look. Must be fun!

Photo source: http://www.mbfashionweek.com

London
To me this is a great interpretation of a romantic but sporty outfit and Luella did an awesome job with it. It looks good with the cute sling bag and laced boots.

Photo source: http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

This below is by Bora Aksu. I love all of his SS08 collection! Many designers have tried to put reconstructed pieces in their SS08 collection but Aksu is the first one that I thought has done a great job in it. They way he placed the fabrics strategically and how he used belts and other accessories have made the messy dress still look naturally came undone and still have romantic feelings in them. I love his choice of fabrics and the color palettes as well.

Photo source: http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

Love the stripes and the nude footwear in this one by Paul Smith Women

Photo source: http://www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

Paris
Wow! What a pretty warrior/gladiator look this is by Givenchy

Photo source: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2008/spring/

Love the awesome layering in this female pirate outfit by Jean Paul Gaultier.

Photo source: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2008/spring/

These look so sweet and comfy (by Agnes B)

Photo source: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2008/spring/

Milan
It happened that Milan was my favorite runway show this year! Lots of classic yet cool concepts appeared in the collections and with fantastic range of fabrics, patterns and bold colors as well! In general my pick would be the ones with elegant romantic, not too edgy not too classic, with no big floral patterns or the same pattern/solid from head to toe. Prada persuaded me to picked one of their one-pattern head-to-toe ensembles, from their collections. Let see if one day I can really pull the look together. Also everything has to be knee length at least, not to short not to long, my petite figure doesn't give me a lot of options ;)
Here are some of many of my favorites:

Photo source: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/

6267

6267

Alberta Ferretti

Alberta Ferretti

Alessandro Dell'Acqua

Alessandro Dell'Acqua

Alessandro Dell'Acqua

Burberry Prorsum

Burberry Prorsum

Emporio Armani

Moschino

Moschino

Prada

Prada

Roberto Cavalli

Roberto Cavalli

Trussardi

Versace

Photo source: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/

Chic Look: Romantic Secretary

2007-09-03T22:59:00.000-07:00

I have this top and the bolero (in different colors), I've never worn them but I thought I should wear them together this fall. So I thought I'd play a little bit at Polyvore.com, this is the look that I'd go for:

Click the thumbnail to see bigger view and detailed product info

This look is inspired by the latest fall trend: sexy secretary as described by www.net-a-porter.com
The handbag can be replaced by more structured ladylike handbags and the shoes could be interchangeable with the platformed stiletto. The skirt can also be altered with longer and sexy pencil skirt.

Chic Steal

2007-08-12T01:22:00.000-07:00

SKIRT VTE LOLITA $45.00
by Mango

COMPARE TO

Metalic tweed skirt $483
by Erotokritos at Net-A-Porter.com

My other fav picks from mngshop.com:

Chic Pockets

2007-08-12T00:31:00.000-07:00

I haven't got the right time to gather my fall wish list but there is something that I've been wanted to have. I'm craving for tops with pockets. Since I've had enough of high waisted tunics (they also make me look pregnant) so I'd stay away from them. Here are some that I think close to what I wanted to what I have in mind:

Pleated Tunic $19.80
by Forever 21

Wool Tunic $22.80
by Forever 21

Lux Abigail Frock $42.00
by Urban Outfitter

I also will be needing lots of long sleeves tees & turtle necks for Fall and for right now, I'm in need for some more bras mine are missing one by one like usual ;)

Women's Pieced Scoop Neck Tunics $19.50
by Old Navy

Women's Turtleneck Tees $14.50
by Old Navy

Women's Button-Turtleneck Tops $14.50
by Old Navy

Cherokee® 3/4-Sleeve Ultimate Crewneck Tee - Darks $9.99
by Target

Fall Chic Trends

2007-08-12T00:14:00.000-07:00

Net-A-Porter has a guide on essential items that you must have for this fall. Here are the 15 important pieces/looks that will be a trend this coming fall season:

1. Sexy office outfits
2. Urban looks
3. Colors
4. Coats in different shapes, color and looks
5. Minis
6. Medieval touches (metals, hoodies, drapes)
7. Gray
8. Army & Navy (wide collars, shiny buttons, chunky boots)
9. Pants (skinny, wide, cropped)
10. Patent and shines
11. Slimlines
12. Knits (oversize, belted, retro motifs)
13. Graphic prints
14. Classy looks (velvet, satin, silk, even plastics)
15. Retro and vintage looks

2007-05-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

I am Fashion has Celebrity style scraves

Spring - Summer 2007 Trend

2007-05-06T04:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.net-a-porter.com has the looks of the season!

Sleek Sateen

More of Alberta Ferretti SS 07 runway collection:

Romantic Looks:

They also have the best Maxi dresses, cool biker jacket, various looks of ladies jackets (blazer, day to night, trench jacket), white attire for the best look of the season.

http://www.fashion-era.com has Major New Fashion Looks for Spring 2007 Summer 2007

Spring Cheap Chic Outfits

2007-05-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

I didn't have time to add bags and accessories during the photo shoots (I did it before DS woke up in the morning) so here they are just outfits and shoes.
Most of the tops I got were on sale at Nordstrom Rack, Loehmann's, Forever 21 and Wet Seals. These deals made each top and dress was sold only for $10 - $15.

Here is my wish list of more important pieces that I'd like to get for this Spring:
1. Colored Jeans

2. Summer lipstick

3. Puffy Sleeves (in cotton, I've had a couple in different fabrics)

4. Oversize tees
SJP is sporting one around NYC here

5. Biker Jacket
Second City Style has a couple in her post here
I actually have been eying one of Target's. I'll pick it up at the store one of these days, if I don't change my mind :)

6. Missoni inspired dresses (I've got a top, still curious if I can make a dress work for me)

7. 80s accessories

Cheap Chic Tips

2007-04-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

I am Fashion has SS07 Lookalike Bags
Focus on Style has Disney Wedding Gowns
Second City Style has Intermix stores in Chicago and online too
Style Bytes has Colored jeans for Spring

Chic talk

2007-01-16T23:19:00.000-08:00

Cheap and chic name card ( styledash.com)
Master Cleanse diet (styledash.com)
$150,000 for a Hello Kitty (styledash.com)
Slimming back in a snap (styledash.com)
the New York of the Islamic fashion scene: Indonesia (styledash.com)
Channel's latest "IT" bag is a trash bag? (styledash.com)
$68 tights and worth every penny (styledash.com)
Parisians say marriage is out of fashion (styledash.com)
No love for this vest (styledash.com)
Missoni has selebrity fans (styledash.com)

Chic Spring Fashion

2006-12-29T11:36:00.000-08:00

As Seen at http://rosie-demario.com

Chic Sites: According to Seventeen Magazine

2006-12-04T23:02:00.000-08:00

As told by Debbie, a friend of mine. Her source is the latest Seventeen magazine.
swapstyle.com
famousfashionsfound.com
monifc.com for plus sizes
shopsplendora.com

Chic Look: Missoni For Less

2006-11-21T17:39:00.000-08:00

As seen on http://www.catwalkqueen.tv

Get The Missoni Look For Less

Who doesn't want a piece of Missoni in their lives? Especially when the designer-inspired items are actually nicer than their more expensive originals! Forever 21, in the US, have come up trumps with an amazing Missoni-lookalike, on the top right there, it looks quite short and fitted though, so perhaps one best left to the skinny minnies amongst us. Otherwise, layer over a crisp white blouse and some royal blue opaque tights, and anyone of any size could get away with it. It's very flattering on the waistline and bust, and of course the heavy pattern will detract eyes from any sore spots. At just $29.80, it's a far cry from the $1,766 which Missoni is charging for the dress in the top-left.

The scarves are not to be worn with the dresses - I'm sure I don't have to tell our gorgeous readers that - but they're a cheap way to incorporate their infamous patterns into your wardrobes. On the bottom left is a scarf from Missoni's latest collection, for £77, but the more true-to-original-style scarf on the right is only $58 from Anthropologie. I myself am sorely tempted by Forever 21's dress, sob!

Chic Product: Best Beauty Products

2006-11-21T02:16:00.000-08:00

As seen on http://www.styledash.com

Health Magazine picks best beauty products

By Sarah J. Gim on vaseline

Filed under: Coiffure, Cosmetics, Skin Care, Soaps & Salves

We might look to some of the glamour glossies for lists of the best beauty products, but Health magazine has named their choices for Best Beauty Products, that not only do their job of cleaning, moisturizing, covering up, lenthening or plumping, but are also healthy for you. They've tested hundreds of products and came up with these, everything from the drugstore to the department store:

Best Facial Cleanser for normal to dry skin - Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser ($6.99)
Best Eye Cream for all skin types -Prescriptives Intensive Rebuilding Eye Cream ($65)
Best Sunblock for all skin types - Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 55 ($9.49)
Best Makeup - Almay Smart Shade Makeup
Best Body Moisturizer - Vaseline Intensive Care Renewal Age Redefining Body Lotion
Best Shampoo - Garnier Fructis Body & Volume Fortifying Shampoo ($3.79)
Best Mascara - Ramy Triumph! Mascara Revitalizer ($19)
Best Conditioner - Burt's Bees Grapefruit & Sugar Beet Conditioner ($8)
Best Lip Moisturizer - Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Lip Moisture Cream SPF 30 ($27.50)
Best Hair Styling Product - PureOlogy DryShine Styler
Best for Pedicures - OPI Feet By OPI
Best for Manicure - Carol's Daughter Lemon Ginger Mint Manicure in a Jar ($10)

Chic Product: OXY

2006-11-21T02:11:00.000-08:00

As seen on http://www.styledash.com

Cheaper drugstore products work just as well as Proactive

By Brigitte Dale on skin care

Filed under: Drugstore Beauty Queen, Skin Care, Celebrity Style

Sorry Puffy, Jessica Simpson, and Lindsay Lohan... but it turns out you haven't found something miraculous after all. A recent segment on the Today show said that local drugstore products for fighting acne prove to be just as effective as Proactive, just without the celebrity endorsements. And, of course, they cost much less.

I've always remembered Proactive more for its impressive list of celebrity spokespeople than anything else. Somehow in the past few years this acne medication became a hot product to endorse. Brooke Shields, Kelly Clarkson, Elle MacPherson, and Vanessa Williams all claim this product has changed their lives. Now that it's been equated with regular drugstore acne medication on national television, I wonder if this "revolutionary skin care system" will lose some of its star power.

Chic Site:

2006-11-21T02:08:00.000-08:00

As seen on http://www.styledash.com

Share Your Look on a new website

By Sarah J. Gim on shareyourlook

Filed under: On location, Style in the media

As much as I'd like to encourage you, our Styledash readers, to come and check out our own Styledash Flickr pool, there's a new website that deserves a mention.

ShareYourLook is an entire website dedicated to the idea of uploading photos of yourself to "share your style with the world." The site, which is currently in beta, is basically like Flickr, but filled with photos of people in their share-worthy outfits from across the world. Users can browse photos, collect them into Lookbooks, make comments and "meet" other users. ShareYourLook also has a Pricesortter function that I am guessing is meant to attract designers and vendors who want to "share" looks, and sell them, too.

Chic Site: Like.com

2006-11-21T02:05:00.000-08:00

As seen on http://www.styledash.com

Do you like what you saw? Here's where to find it

By Sarah J. Gim on paris hilton

Filed under: Bags and Purses, Accessories, Jewelry, Men, Celebrity Style

With the Holiday shopping season almost in full swing, new shopping-related websites are popping up faster than your can say "Charge it," and I'm not just talking about your basic online store where you click in knowing what you're going to buy and buy. I am talking about the whole new world wide web 2.0 of shopping -- browsing, discovering new things things to buy on the fly, and just sort of "hanging out."

One new site in this genre is Like.com, which helps answer that question we also ask in our heads when looking at photos of celebrities, "Where did she get that?" From their database of celebrity photos, a shopper can zero in on a specific accessory with their cursor, and Like.com's technology will search and show results of products that are similar. For example, drawing a box around a wristwatch in a photo of Paris Hilton brings up hundreds of watches that look similar.

It's a cool concept, and of course, there is room for improvement as the site is still in "alpha." For example, most of the time, I don't care about finding shoes like Jessica Alba is wearing. I want to know the exact shoe, designer, and style. Also, Like.com doesn't do clothing yet, which means I am still on the hunt for that plaid skirt on Victoria Beckham!

Chic Finds

2006-11-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

Knit winter baret from Forever 21 $9.50
Not the same with what Rachel Bilson wearing but similar in style:

Stone necklaces from Forever 21 $5.50 each

Bubble skirt from Marshal for $7 (mine's in black)

Gold ballerina flats for $15 (mine is a bit different from the picture)

Another Grey Skinny Jeans Source

2006-11-11T00:25:00.000-08:00

Frugal Fashionista found one more store that sells grey skinny jeans.

As seen on http://frugal-fashionista.blogspot.com

Reader request - Hilary Duff

Chic Tip: Where to Buy Vintage in Paris

2006-10-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

As seen on SecondCityStyle.com

Must shop vintage stores in Paris:

Free P Star: metro- Hotel de Ville, 8 rue St. Croix de la Bretonnerie
My absolute favorite vintage store in Paris, located in the heart of the trendy Marais. Always busy, but worth the crowds. You can find everything here: dresses, sweaters, jeans, bags, boots. Be sure to check out the downstairs (but be careful not to break your neck on the tiny staircase!) as everything in the basement is 10 euros (about $12). Be prepared to dig as this store has a mass of merchandise. Great bargains, great atmosphere… a must see!

Kiliwatch: metro- Etienne Marcel, 84 rue Tiquetonne
More pricey than the store above, but also a great place for vintage and new merchandise (located in the back of the store). More individualized items can be found such as jewelry, band t-shirts, and leather pumps. Both women’s and men’s apparel sold.

Rag: metro- Hotel de Ville, 85 rue St. Martin
A well-known vintage store in Paris. Popular for an older crowd. The most expensive on the list, but worth the cost. Vintage French designer pieces are here (I had my eye on an Hermes scarf for 85 euros). It is conveniently located near other vintage stores around the Centre Pompidou.

Chic Tops: Tunic Dresses

2006-10-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

Juniors’ Mossimo® Red: Cargo Tunic Top - Gray

Juniors' Xhilaration® Yoryu French Maid Shirtdress - Ebony
$17.99

Juniors' Xhilaration® Yoryu Debutante Shirtdress with Lace Trim - Winter White
$17.99

Lux Solid Ruffle Yoke House Dress

Now $24.99
(Was $58.00)

Floral Jersey Dress
$ 22.80

Satin Floral Tunic
$19.80

Sheer Floral Flutter
$19.80

Crossover Jersey Dress
$24.80

Metallic Striped Tunic
$19.80

Ruched Tunic Top
$24.80

Chic Tiered Dresses: High End versus High Street

2006-10-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

Burberry Prorsum at net-a-porter.com

Tiered lace dress

Pearl knee length lace tiered dress with black satin shoulder straps.
$4,995.00
View full product details

And

BCBG Max Azria 'D Esprit' Trimmed Point Strapless Dress at Nordstrom
$400.00

And

Milly - Silk Gigi dress at Net-A-Porter.com
$455

Versus

JS Boutique Faux Wrap Tier Dress at Nordstrom
$158.00
And

Ruffle Dress at JC Penney
$ 69.99
Slip dress features front bow with detachable jeweled pin. Cascades of ruffles fall from empire waist. Twisted straps. Side-zip closure. Polyester chiffon; lined. Dry clean. Imported. Black. Misses 6-16; 23"

Women's Tiered Dresses $29.50

Only at Oldnavy.com
Simple yet playful styling makes this dress an absolute must-have. Made from soft, flowing jersey, it features a sleeveless, cross-front bodice, cute tie belt and twirl-worthy three-tiered skirt. Hem hits just below the knee. 60% cotton, 40% modal. Machine wash. Imported.

Cheap Chic Finds at Target

2006-10-22T20:28:00.000-07:00

Key head pendants layered necklace (diferent with the picture) $ 10.48

Angel wings pendants layered necklace (different with the picture) $9.08

Majestic pendants layered necklace (different with the picture) $ 10.48

Juniors’ Xhilaration® Striped Tunic Tee - Red/White (different from the picture) $ 4.48

Mossimo® Black: Premium Denim Pleat-Back Skirt - Dark Indigo $ 4.98

Mossimo® Black: Premium Denim Pleat-Back Skirt - Gray Wash $ 4.98

Four pairs of Merona textured footed womens tights @ $ 4.99 (the picture shows footless tights) +
Two pairs of Merona trouser socks @ $ 3.99 +
One pair of black leg warmers

Toddler boys Hanes fleece pants in navy, moss green, and light purple (different in colors from the picture) @ $3.33

Toddler boys Cherokee pants in brown (different from the picture) $6.99

Chic Vintage Store

2006-10-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://www.styledash.com/

Finally, a trustworthy place to buy vintage online

By Brigitte Dale on vintage

Filed under: Stores, Vintage wear

I'm addicted to shopping online, but I could never make the switch entirely because that would leave a huge hole in my closet where all the vintage stuff should be. Sure, there's always eBay, but that can be sketchy. The seller may or may not know anything about vintage fashion, and the item could be a fake, in bad condition, or just never arrive at all.

But I just found out about Revival Boutique, an online vintage consignment shop where you can browse vintage designer clothes almost like you're standing right in the store. Anything you purchase there is 100% guaranteed authentic, plus coming from people that know what's what in vintage. Why didn't we think of this years ago? Hopefully more small vintage dealers will follow Revival Boutique's lead and get online.

Chic Dolls

2006-10-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://browneyedgirl4life.blogspot.com

There is a cute website where you can design your own dolls called www.designhergals.com You can customize your doll to look like you and dress however you like. My only wish is that they had more options for skin color and hair (I'm a mixed girl so I always have that problem!) Anyways it's cute and fun, check it out! :)

These are my dolls in two different outfits. I possibly will use these as my avatars as well when I need it:

Chic Tip: Slimming Digital Camera

2006-10-22T12:02:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://fabsugar.com

HP's New Digital Diet

Thu, 10/19/2006 - 4:41pm

If you've ever wish your photos could be touched up like celebrities on magazine covers, you're now in luck. Hewlett Packard has just come out with seven different versions of its Photosmart Digital Slimming Cameras, which include a feature that can make your photo subjects look up to 10 pounds thinner. When the slimming effect is applied, the pixels of the photo are compressed in the center and expanded on the edges, so everything stays in proportion.

You can buy the cameras here, and the various models range in price from $169 to $399.99. (Be sure and apply for your rebate to get the discount). Better yet, the slimming effect is just one of more than 25 cool artistic effects on these cameras. To learn how to put your photo subjects on a digital diet,

The slimming features is basically like having photo editing software at your fingertips, and it's really easy to use. All you do is:

Take a photo.
Go to the menu on the back of the camera, select an image and press OK.
Highlight the design/gallery menu and press OK.
Highlight "apply artist effects."
Adjust the level of the slimming effect using the arrows and press OK. The original image that you took will always be saved just in case you don't like the way it turned out.

What do you guys think of this idea?

Should I Go for Walmart's Cheap Chic Items?

2006-10-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

Walmart is shapping up to compete with Target on the affordable designers clothings but my husband is so not into Walmart and trying to talk me not to go to Walmart to shop.
This is a blog post that he shared with me to read:

As seen on http://www.steve-olson.com

10 Reasons Target is Better than Wal-Mart
October 20th, 2006 by Steve

I feel ill visiting Wal-Mart – Am I alone? Target doesn’t have this effect on me. I feel great in Target stores. 10 reasons why…

Crime
Why did the 911 hijackers buy their box cutters at Wal-Mart? Why do serial killers featured on Court TV buy duct tape and rope at Wal-Mart? Because they feel comfortable there. They’re with their people. Did you know (according to this study) the average Wal-Mart has almost 450% more police calls than the average Target store?

Target Doesn’t Destroy Small Towns
My parents live in the lake country of Northern Minnesota. It’s beautiful; please visit sometime. They live near Park Rapids (pop 3,300) and Wadena (pop 4,200), two quaint small towns about 30 miles apart. Wal-Mart is building a box store in each town. These cities have vibrant downtowns with ice cream confectionaries, candy shops, coffee shops, theaters, dime stores, bookstores, restaurants, and hardware stores. We know what happens when a box store opens on the edge of town, the downtown dies. Economists say that the little shops in town are economic dinosaurs. Maybe the economists are right, but I will still grieve the loss of these special places.

Target doesn’t build stores in towns with populations of 4,200 or 3,300 and it isn’t on their agenda (as far as I know).

Target’s Prices are Competitive
See the Cockeyed.com Comparison

I’ve Never Seen Anyone Wearing a NASCAR Shirt, Purple Sweat Pants, and Pink Fluffy Slippers at Target

Employees (An Anecdote)
Sunday Sep 10^th 10:00 AM
Wal-Mart: I smiled at the people greeter. She didn’t greet me or anyone else. She stood there like a zombie looking straight ahead scowling.

After spending 15 minutes looking for a lunch box, I asked an employee where the lunch boxes were. She led us aimlessly around the store with no idea where they were. Eventually she asked another employee working at the jewelry counter, “Hey ya know where the lunch boxes are?”

She looked up from the phone, chewing her gum, said “Nope”, and returned to her telephone.

We didn’t find a lunch box.

As I left, I saw 25 checkout lanes. Two were open. The lines were 15 deep. After 60 minutes, I walked out empty handed and nauseous.

Sunday Sep 10^th 11:15 AM
Target: The people greeter smiled and asked, “Can I help you?”

“Where are the lunch boxes?” I asked.

She whispered something into a microphone on her chest, paused, and said, “Behind aisle 8 against the back wall.”

Target had ten lanes open and two with no line. In less than ten minutes, I found what I wanted and left with a smile on my face.

I don’t know if Target offers higher pay or better benefits but I can tell that they attract different employees; employees that care. Wal-Mart employees appear indifferent.

Happy Customers
At the Target store near my home, I see energetic customers smiling, visiting, and laughing.

At Wal-Mart I see people moping around with frowns, yelling at their kids, and everyone looks depressed.

Cleanliness
In my experience, the difference in cleanliness between the two chains is dramatic, especially the bathrooms. I brought my son into the bathroom at Wal-Mart and it was so nasty I’ll never bring him there again.

Better Parking Lots
Wal-Mart: One way, narrow, and angled. I’d show you how bad it is but Wal-Mart could sue me if I post a picture of their store. Yet another reason to love ‘em.

Did you know that most Wal-Marts allow people to camp in their parking lots? Is that safe?

Target: Square, two way, parking lots which are safer and easier to navigate.

Positive Atmosphere
Wal-Mart’s atmosphere is cheap and crass.

Target’s atmosphere exudes progress and style.

Go to each store and soak in the whole scene and you’ll know what I mean.

Wider Aisles
Wal-Mart: I’d show you how narrow, crowded, and disorganized their aisles are but…Wal-Mart could sue me if I post a picture of their store.

Target: Wide spacious aisles

I have both a Wal-Mart and a Target five minutes from my house. There is no comparison in the shopping experience.

My first priority in life right now is to maintain a positive mental state. I’ve found it nearly impossible to maintain a positive mental state inside a Wal-Mart store. The place oozes negativity.

When I leave Wal-Mart I feel like I should go home and shower, like I’ve just visited a seedy porn shop or something.

When I leave Target, I feel energetic and I want to return.

Positive thinking tip:
Visit Target frequently and stay out of Wal-Mart.

This is an opinion piece, based on my personal experiences. I don’t work for Target. I don’t even own any Target stock.

Cheap Chic Finds at Old Navy

2006-10-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

Denim Shirt $0.97 (mine is in denim, a little different from the picture)

Vintage Tees $1.97

Cotton Capris $0.97

Tassel Earings $0.97

Ringer Tees $1.97

Denim Vest $0.97

Chic Beauty Tip: Get a New Pallette of Brown Eyeshadows

2006-10-19T20:01:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://iamfashion.blogspot.com

Beauty Trend FW06: Brown Shadows

I am sure most of you have figured this out by now if you've been haunting the make-up counters this season.

Whether it is done so naturally that one can hardly see it (but of course, we still know that it is there), like here in the Chanel and Marc Jacobs runway. .

. . .or not quite so subtly as on the Dolce & Gabanna and Luella runway, brown is THE eye shadow color of the season. As a result, all the make-up brands have been coming out with brown eye shadow palettes.

Most noticeably must've been Bobbi Brown's limited edition Chocolate eye palette containing bone, caramel toffee shimmer wash, frappe, champagne truffle shimmer wash, cacao shimmer wash, stone and chocolate. It was positively delicious. I LOVE this palette, because with so many shades of brown from matte to shimmer, it contains all the shades I am going to need this season. You can also use it wet or dry, so imagine all the possibilties! So far, I've used the lighter shades for a casual look in the daytime and the darker shades to achieve the smokey eye for night. Its truly an awesome palette!

Laura Mercier has also come out with a collection of brown eye shadows in various shades called the Evolution of Colors for the eyes (she has also made one for the lips!). I've tried this palette at the counter and while the texture IS really silky and smooth, I found that there really wasn't much color to be found. And I also dislike the idea of palettes like these where the colors might mix together. But maybe I just tried the wrong range of colors as she has three to choose from.

For those in Asia, Chanel has also come out with a brilliant limited edition eye shadow palette called Gold Rush. I haven't tried it, but I'm positive the color will go on beautifully and look shiny as all Chanel eye shadows do. Unfortuantely, I believe it has already sold out.

Another brand that has offered us a range of brown is Paul & Joe, with it's Chocaholic collection. In the collection, there is this very cool face color powder that can be used on the face for contours AND as eye shadows- great bargain! And don't you just LOVE the packaging of their products? Its soooo pretty!

Chic Beauty Tip: Black Nail Polish is In

2006-10-19T19:57:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://blogdorfgoodman.blogspot.com

Today Black Satin is the new cult favorite. It is an impressive black polish. I thought it was a soot-like black(like ashes) color with a very subtle shimmer.

I thought it was one of the best blacks I had ever seen until I started researching for the blog. There are lovely vampish colors out there such as Milani's Black Magic and Misa's Wishing on a Star.

I will focus on each one this week. photos: Griffie models Chanel's Vamp and Chanel's Black satin, Pulp Fiction photos from Yahoo and Chanel
Black Satin's pic from Bravo.com
Title is from a Death Ray for Davies song/album

Chic Beauty Tip: UD Primer Potion

2006-10-18T00:11:00.000-07:00

As seen on http://beautyaddict.blogspot.com

Release the Crease

One of the questions I'm most frequently asked - in the comments section, over email, by my friends - is how to keep eyeshadow from creasing. It seems that no matter how enthusiastically a company claims that its shadow doesn't crease, it inevitably will, and you'll end up with that telltale cakey, smushed mess on your eyelid.

The answer I always give when asked about this is simple: Urban Decay Primer Potion. I cannot say enough about this stuff - it's phenomenal, and I recommend it to everyone I know. It's a creamy nude eyelid primer that quickly dries to a near-colorless matte finish, creating the perfect canvas for that smokey eye. Spread a little on each eyelid, distribute it evenly, give it a few seconds to dry, and you're good to go.

The Primer Potion really helps eyeshadow "grab" onto your lids; in fact, the grab is so good that my only caveat when using this is to make sure you're careful with your subsequent eyeshadow application. You can still blend, but for the most part, once it's on, it's on!

I've put the Primer Potion to every test imaginable - sweat, humidity, all-nighters. I've even fallen asleep with my eye makeup on and awakened to lids that were, amazingly, still in perfect shape. It works especially well with those pesky cream eyeshadows that always seem to crease, no matter what you do. Primer Potion will put a stop to that!

This little miracle will only set you back $14, and it's a worthy investment if you've ever been plagued by eyeshadow that just doesn't want to behave.

Chic for Cheap: Grey Skinny Jeans

2006-10-11T02:46:00.000-07:00

Lux Stretch Slim Jean Grey Wash at UrbanOutfitters.com
$68.00

Levi's® Skinny Stretch Jeans at Nordstorm.com
Grey-washed jeans have a low-rise profile and a skinny, straight leg.

* Zip fly with button closure.
* Five-pocket style.
* Belt loops.
* Back yoke.
* Approx. inseam: 30 1/2". Approx. rise: front 7 3/4"; back 14".
* Cotton/spandex; machine wash.
* By Levi's®; imported.
* BP.

Was: $68.00
Now: $44.90
33% OFF

Cheap Chic Finds

2006-10-11T01:55:00.000-07:00

Sale $9.99
List price: $12.99

Sale $9.99
List price: $12.99

Sale $9.99
List price: $12.99

Sale $9.99
List price: $12.99

Pretty Woman Vintage Tee - Chocolate
sale $7.99
List price: $9.99
You Save: $2.00 (20%)

Juniors’ Motorcycle Skulls Vintage Tee - Brown
clearance
$6.99
List price: $9.99
You Save: $3.00 (30%)

Isaac Mizrahi Paisley Wrap Lavender Satin Skirt
clearance
$8.74

Moss Top Capsleeves Lace
Clearance
$3.74

MB Crop Skinny True Blue
Clearance
$6.24

Isaac Mizrahi
clearance
$6.24

Dinner outfit

2006-10-07T09:43:00.000-07:00

Turtle Neck Tee: H&M
Sweater: H&M
Belt: Wet Seal
Legging: Can't remember
Handbag: Rampage
Boots: American Eagle

Zara to Enter United States Cautiously

2006-10-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

I accidentally found out that there is a Zara store that has opened in San Francisco. I learnt that when I was stumbling on a review of the store in SF. Here is the linkto the review: review of Zara in SF, CA on Yelp.com. I than tried to see if there is also a store that has opened in Chicago, since Mango has one store opened already. I was disappointed, they apparently only open stores in the coasts and some other parts of the States including LA, TX, FL, NY, but not in the midwest. I was trying to find Zara's press release about their store opening in the US, hoping to see some information about them going to open more stores in the US by the end of this year or something like that. Turned out I didn't find any press releases but I found this article on International Council of Shopping Centers. It has all the information on Zara's strategy in the US:

Zara's Watching
Spanish retailer uses U.S. stores to gather fashion intellingence - but dont expect a big rollout for now

BY ED MCKINLEY

Photo: Ian Ritter

Zara International ranks third in annual sales among the world’s apparel-only retailers, but U.S. landlords with ambitions to lure a unit to their centers shouldn’t hold their breath. La Coruña, Spain-based Zara appears likely to remain a small, quiet player in the United States, at least for now.

Retailing experts say the company’s 11 “affordable chic” stores on these shores serve mainly as listening posts where sales associates carry personal digital assistants to relay information on American fashion trends to the company’s team of 200 designers in Spain. To gather clues on what’s next in American apparel, Zara employees in the United States pay close attention to the look of the clientele; they record the comments and questions they hear from shoppers browsing Zara’s lines. Europeans seek American innovation in much the same way Americans pursue Continental chic, observers say.

“I think it’s a very smart way to gather intelligence,” said Candace Corlett, a principal at WSL Strategic Retail, a New York City-based consulting firm. “A key to their success is taking customer feedback.”

Some of the clues Zara unearths at these U.S. stores may reveal American fashion trends the retailer can incorporate into its worldwide apparel offerings, she says. The company makes most of its merchandise in its own workshops and factories.

Though sleuthing remains the prime directive in America, observers say Zara’s plans call for opening two or three more stores here this fall. Meanwhile, the chain’s serious expansion efforts are likely to play out on its home continent, some say.

“They still have a lot opportunities in northern Europe,” said Lois Huff, senior vice president at Columbus, Ohio-based consulting firm Retail Forward. “They hardly have any presence in Germany, and that’s the biggest market in Europe.”

In America, though, the retailer is making its name by selling European panache at Banana Republic prices. Its customers buy the high-fashion, high-quality apparel in an attentive boutique atmosphere at 600 stores in 47 countries.

Though Zara is primarily a seller of women’s lines, some stores also carry men’s and children’s clothing. The chain is the flagship of an armada of seven retailing firms operated by Spain’s global apparel manufacturer, Inditex. Inditex profits tripled between 1996 and 2000. They rose 31 percent in 2001, when many retailers saw profits collapse, says John Gallaugher, a professor of information systems at Boston College who uses Zara as a case study in his classes. Among stores that sell almost nothing but clothes, only Gap and H&M generate more dollar volume, he says.

Zara officials in the United States didn’t respond to requests for an interview for this article, but information on the retailer’s Web site underscores the importance the company places upon listening to consumers’ thoughts on fashion. The site says Zara sees the design process as driven by the public. Information from the stores, the site says, is passed on to the chain’s creative team.

According to Corlett, that’s exactly what Zara does — it follows fashion, it doesn’t lead it. It also responds quickly to changing public taste, thanks to an efficient organization.

“Zara’s plan is to keep reducing the cost of production and maintain quality and pass the savings along to customers,” she says.

Controlling production, as well as warehousing, distribution and retailing, makes Zara an entirely integrated vertical supply chain, says Huff. The retailer operates large manufacturing facilities in Spain that perform the capital-intensive processes, she says, but also maintains a network of 400 small workshops throughout Spain and Portugal. She calls this workshop approach a variation on the just-in-time supply-chain theme, with lots of flexibility.

“They can use people as needed, and they don’t incur a lot of overhead because of that,” she says. “It’s an unusual system, and it would be hard to duplicate from the ground up in a developed economy, mostly because of the cost of labor,” says Huff. “When they started developing it, Spain was bordering on being a Third World country.”

Zara has something for her, too: Some stores sell children’s as well as men’s apparel.

The setup has made Zara founder Amancio Ortega Gaona a billionaire many times over, according to published reports. He now serves as Inditex chairman and remains the company’s largest stockholder. He started his textile business in 1963 and opened the first Zara store in 1975, according to a recent Inditex annual report.

Even now the company churns out 60 percent of its clothes, and it even makes 40 percent of its own fabric, according to Gallaugher.

When Zara feels the need to outsource, it turns to sources fairly close by in northern Africa and Asia Minor, though quality remains paramount, Corlett says. The company outsources some sewing on a few items, but it makes sure to keep a lot of the elements of production in-house, including sizing, design, tailoring, ironing and creation of tags, says Corlett, who adds that doing this ensures quality.

Such control also allows Zara to bring fashion to market with nearly unprecedented immediacy, Gallaugher says. Some 12,000 fresh items flow into the stores annually by means of shipments that arrive twice a week on the much anticipated “Z-day,” he adds.

“While the Gap may have new clothes come in twice a season, Zara’s cycle time from idea to product and distribution back to the store is about two and a half weeks,” Gallaugher said. “That means their cycle time is 12 times more responsive than the Gap’s.”

Huff suggests there are two ways to describe Zara’s introductions. “You could say they have no seasons at all or many, many seasons,” she said.

Zara sharpens its inventory in ways few other retailers can, says Gallaugher. Because the company knows what’s selling and produces small lots, it has few inventory write-downs and doesn’t need many clearance sales.

Gallaugher compares Zara to Dell Computer, another company that manufactures and retails its wares. But pointing to a possible weakness in the Zara structure, he notes that Zara makes all its own apparel; Dell, on the other hand, uses a hybrid model, manufacturing some of its merchandise while relying on other companies to make the rest. The computer maker sells printers made by Lexmark, for example, and can thus offer a wider selection of products than Zara can under its own model.

The retailing experts who praise Zara’s clothing lines and who marvel at the company’s production prowess also issue plaudits for the atmosphere in the stores.

“One of their strategies is to make the discount experience attractive,” says Corlett. “In the U.S., discount means unattractive.”

Huff says she likes Zara’s presentation of apparel in small collections. “It’s boutique-oriented,” she said. “Southern Europeans, and the Spanish in particular, are used to small boutiques,” she notes. “Zara grew up with that same mentality.”

As Zara expands in Europe, it is experimenting with larger sizes for taller customers in the northern areas, but those bigger garments might still seem small by American standards, Huff says.

“In Europe they’re introducing larger sizes for older customers,” she said. “That translates to 12 to 14. They’re considering those larger sizes.”

That sizing could be something the company may want to pay closer attention to in the United States. “If they want to be successful in the U.S., they have to address size differentiation that is just as different across the U.S. as it is from southern Italy up to the Netherlands, where the tallest people in Europe live,” said Huff. “That’s a real challenge for them.”

Zara doesn’t advertise in Europe, and it entered the United States without a splashy ad campaign, observers say. The first U.S. Zara opened in 1989 in New York City, on 59th Street and Lexington Avenue, across the street from Bloomingdale’s flagship. Others followed in the fertile retail grounds of the Flatiron District, south of midtown; on Lower Broadway; and on 34th Street.

The retailer exercised extreme caution, making a slow entrance into the United States, says Faith Hope Consolo, vice chairman of Garrick-Aug Worldwide, a New York City brokerage firm that handles retail real estate here and abroad.

“They are always in 100 percent locations, as we say in real estate,” said Consolo. “They do not compromise location for rent.”

The other U.S. locations are the Aventura and Dadeland malls, both in Miami; the Mall at Millenia, Orlando, Fla.; Roosevelt Field Mall, Garden City, N.Y.; Willowbrook Mall, Wayne, N.J.; a streetfront location in the Georgetown section of Washington, D.C.; and the Plaza Las Americas, San Juan, Puerto Rico. (At press time a Zara unit was scheduled to open in the Fashion Show mall, Las Vegas.)

Though Zara has entered the United States cautiously, other European apparel retailers have followed more noisily. H&M came in with ads that featured movie stars and celebrity models, and its store count now approaches 60. Mexx, which has its headquarters in the Netherlands, opened stores recently in Manhattan (see story) and in White Plains, N.Y., with more on the way, Consolo says.

She says she doesn’t expect the invasion to end there, however. “You’re going to see some other names in fashion coming out of other countries in Europe, including Spain — one by the end of the year, and by next year another two or three.”

Viktor & Rolf for H&M

2006-10-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

We've seen their designs on the catwalk and now they're sold at H&M stores. Their men's, women's and accesories lines are available in stores starting Sept 14, 2006 as stated in a recent H&M's press release.

Here is what FashionUnited.co.uk said about the designers' fashion show in Paris:

Smart sexy

Fashion season is on its last lap with a final round of shows in Paris this week. The predictable, overtly sexy looks of the Milan catwalk were exchanged for the thinking woman's brand of sex appeal in the City of Lights . Dutch design duo Viktor & Rolf chose not merely to show their collection, but to entertain weary fashionista's with a song and dance – literally. After being entertained by a ballroom dancers' spin around the catwalk and a song or two from Rufus Wainright, models made their way across the floor with stars in their eyes. Or, rather, on their lapels, décolleté's and hemlines. Deconstructed tailored men's shirts and slim cigarette pants alternated with shirt dresses and tulle skirts in a monochromatic palette of predominantly black, white and nude. The designers played with the concept of fabric fluidity by including a great deal of silk fringing throughout the collection. The female tuxedo was taken to new heights with a sheer nude and black bodice and skinny black pants adorned with stars and crystal appliqué. The practicality of it all is questionable, though decidedly Viktor & Rolf in execution.

On Wednesday, Nicholas Ghesquière took us to a galaxy far, far away with his futuristic take on spring summer 2007 for Balenciaga. Models wore goggle glasses and sported leggings embroidered with pieces of copper, slim trousers, spacey reinforced shoulders, patent and leather mesh dresses, latex dresses and floaty tunics paired with deconstructed vests. Ghesquière has completely abandoned the round shapes of the previous season. “I wanted to let go of round shapes,” he told the New York Times. “Round doesn't exist anymore.” The silhouette is now longer, elongated, almost compressed, with shoulders pointed and shooting upwards like a pair of Dr Spock ears. The sleeves were separated from the shoulders, thereby merely accentuating them. The designer was clearly inspired by futuristic films. It was about a whole different type of warrior chic, as demonstrated by a series of copper mesh dresses and latex leggings. Come next season, hip youngsters will no doubt be swathing themselves in leather, latex and chrome.

4 October 2006

Playdate Outfit

2006-10-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

Blouse: Urban Outfitters
Necklace: Forever 21
Handbag: Target
Legging: Can't remember
Boots: American Eagle

Chic for Cheap: Soft Tone Blouses

2006-10-06T00:40:00.000-07:00

Net-a-Porter.com has listed must have tops to complement your wardrobe for this fall season: Cream of the Tops

These are the much cheaper versions that I could find online:

Walmart - $14.84

Walmart - $24.94

Walmart - $18.94

Forever21 -$22.80

Forever21 - $17.80

Forever21 - $22.80

Urban Outfitters Lux Printed Bib Front Babydoll $58.00

Sheer Ruffle Trim Blouse Regularly $72.00 Now $54.99

Chic for Cheap: Patterned A Line Skirt with Volume

2006-10-05T23:47:00.001-07:00

This A-line skirt by Day Birger et Mikkelsen must look good on you but if $285.00 is way over your budget, you might try to find similar skirts in your favorite stores. Below are some skirts I found at online stores:

Forever 21 - $22.80

Rampage - $49.00

Wet Seal - $23.50

Target - $19.99

Chic for Cheap: Trims in Skirts

2006-10-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

A Little Trim Goes a Long Way

By Forever 21 - $19.80

By GoJane - $23.99

Donate for Dress for Success

2006-10-05T00:49:00.000-07:00

Glamour.com is recommending Dress for Success for your favorite charity:

It is about your attitude.

If you walk like a million bucks, you'll look like a million bucks—simple as that. Get rid of any items in your closet that undermine your confidence; if just seeing something on a hanger reminds you that you don't have the hips or the social life for it, then give it to your favorite charity (a good one: Dress for Success) and move on.

Healing Garden's Anti-Cellulite Mousse

2006-10-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

A product recommended by Anne Metz at StyleDash.com:
Healing Garden's Anti-Cellulite Mousse is quite possibly the weirdest product I have ever used. To be honest, I have no idea how the crackling mousse found its way onto the shelves to begin with, but it did. It smells bad; it's hard to get out of the can; it feels like you are putting liquid nitrogen on your skin. But all of the unpleasantness seems worth it because the product is actually quite effective.

ASK A GAY MAN : Fashion Edition #3

2006-10-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

This is an entertaining video on fashion tips that I found over at Catwalk Queen blog.
Check it out! This gay is bitching about wearing the overalls, about basketball tshirts, the thinking that black goes with everything, including a tip of how to offend someone you dont like who's wearing the same designer handbag at the same time with you, but most imporantly I got to know about the expression "muffin top" from this video. So check out yourself and see what you think about it... :)

Top 10 Designer Shopping Websites

2006-10-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

I visit Net-a-Porter.com's fashion magazine often for inspirations and fashion tips. I like this article below because it listed down other designer shopping websites that mostly packed with fashion articles that break down the current and future trends. These articles are very helpful for everybody who wants to be fashion forward but don't have time to look at every fashion boutiques, shows and magazines.

Top 10 designer shopping websites: by Katie Dailey, an article featured at Handbag.com.

1. www.net-a-porter.com
The Rolls Royce of online shops, Net-a-porter is a sterling example of how e-shopping really should be done. The site is slick, the buyers savvy, the tips invaluable and the product totally brilliant. The site is particularly adept at making daunting catwalk trends wearable through its comprehensive style guides. Designers sold range from Chloe and Marni and to Westwood and McQueen
2. www.shopbop.com
This is an American site, meaning that alongside familiar designers like Marc Jacobs, L.A.M.B and Diane Von Furstenburg, there are a wealth of US favourites which are probably new to your wardrobe. Look out for silky shirts from Graham & Spencer and draped jersey dresses from Marie Marie, both are unavailable here. Consider purchases carefully as there is a charge for international returns
3. www.cocoribbon.com
Yummy mummies and Notting hillbillies breath a sigh of relief, your favourite whimsical fashion from Collette Dinnigan to Sass & Bide and Damaris is now available online from this irresistible new website. Great for forgotten birthdays; they have a gorgeous gift-wrapping service, and can even do emergency same day deliveries, depending on your locale
4.www.matchesfashion.com
Matches boutiques are fashion palaces tucked away in London's wealthiest enclaves. Their new website is stocked full of designer goodies like Fendi bag's and Chloe dresses. But there's more to this site than meets the wallet: fab trend reports' designer look books, and useful fashion tips, all in one beautifully laid out, easy to use package. Free next day delivery in the UK
5.www.mywardrobe.com
If you have a little money to burn, then this is a great place to do it. Specialising in niche labels like Cacharel, Tocca and La Petite Salope rather than widely available ones, with a tasteful capsule collection from each. Style is generally pretty and feminine, but with a sharp eye on the catwalks. For bargain hunters, there are plenty of good finds in the sale section, plus a dangerously tempting range of shoes
6.www.no-one.co.uk
The retail site of an edgy boutique in London's cool East End, it sells cutting edge designers like Mine and Bi La Li at reasonable prices - mixed with vintage finds and cult labels like PPQ and Karen Walker, plus hard to find magazines, gifts and more. Ideal if you're outside London or the UK looking for a taste of Hoxton. UK Delivery free (orders over £150), international delivery available
7.www.ebay.com
Whatever you are looking to buy there is someone out there trying to sell it, and chances are they will do so on ebay. Our top tip for buying: if you're looking for a designer like Balenciaga or Issey Miyake try searching for variations on their names- often mis-spelt designer labels go for a song as no-one else has come across the entry
8.www.shopkitson.com
If you've seen one of the countless pap shots of Nicole, Lindsay and Mischa toting gigantic shoppers from Kitson in LA and wondered just what this mystical place could be, then it's time to check out the site of the Hollywood it girl's favourite shop. Kitson is a lifestyle store but it still has patent shoes by Marc, skinnies by J Brand and much more, plus the added bonus of paparazzi free shopping!
9.www.colette.fr
The virtual home of Colette, the trendy lifestyle emporium in Paris which is the first stop for any fashionista visiting the city. Colette's taste is impeccable, and the e-store provides a sample of the sensory joys of the store, with its noises, movement and stylish layout. Product is mostly gifts, toys and accessories like skeleton keyrings by McQueen and airbrush's for applying make up. Ooh la la!
10.www.marni.com
Recently launched under the watchful eye of designer boutique yoox.com, Marni's site is a virtual wardrobe, with handpicked garments and shoes from the Italian collection coveted by fashion editors around the globe. Key pieces will sell out fast so subscribe to the mailing list to make sure you are the first to know when the latest shipment is in

Patent Shoes

2006-10-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

As seen in Shoewawa.com, Handbag.com has put together a list of must have ten patent shoes:
10 Patent Shoes
1. Wooden platform patent shoes
2. T-bar wedge
3. Round toe shoes
4. Platforms with ankle strap
5. Black patent Mary-Jane's
6. Red patent Mary-Jane's
7. Black round toe patent heel with stitching detail
8. Red patent peep toe shoe
9. Patent assymetric court shoe
10.Metallic leather peep toe shoes

Chic for Cheap:Target Shoe Sale

2006-10-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

From the SlickDeals.net forum:
Get free shipping when you buy 2 or more pairs of Women's Shoes. Also apply Extra 10% off Coupon TCWLBTDC at checkout.

I see some great shoes that are worth picking up. Get the dark tones for fall and metallic for Spring/Summer 2007:

Chic for Cheap: Jacket with Trims

2006-10-02T00:02:00.000-07:00

These trim decorated jackets and trech coat are definitely have the word vintage and retro all over them. They'll go perfectly with your latest retro wardrobe.

Children's Place Codes

2006-10-01T21:09:00.000-07:00

From internet deals forum at MyCoupons.com:
20% off code: Code FMPR76
$10 off $30 purchase. NMS96

Sunday Outing Outfit

2006-10-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

Camisole: Old Navy
Sweater: Target
Necklace: Forever 21
Handbag: Kate Spade
Belt: Wet Seal
Skirt: TJ Maxx
Shoes: Marshalls

America, Get ready for Mango Invasion!

2006-10-01T04:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, Mango as in Spain based hip and trendy fashion chain store, Mango. They plan to open 15 stores in the US nationwide by the end of the year. Here is more details as written by FashionUnited.co.uk:

Mango looks to America

Mango, the Spanish retailer, is hot on the heels of Zara and is expanding in the US market, with a view to being as strong in the market as the group is in Europe. The company has been carefully scouting the U.S. market for suitable locations, creating anticipation over several seasons about when the privately owned, $1.4 billion Barcelona fashion chain would follow in the footsteps of Hennes & Mauritz and Zara.

"It's difficult to find the best locations in the best malls," said José Gómez, Mango's vice president of business development, during an interview with key members of the Mango team. "In Europe , we are relatively high-street based, but America is a mall culture, though we are planning street locations, as well. "By the end of the year, we will have 15 stores opened in the U.S. , in major metropolitan areas. We are a very strong brand in Europe . We are working toward that goal in the U.S.."

The stores in the U.S. are called MNG By Mango because of trademark regulations; the MNG label appears on the clothes worldwide. Mango's U.S. stores will be 4,000 to 8,000 square feet, though in other countries, they are as large as 20,000 square feet, like the flagship on Oxford Street in London. Asked how many stores are envisioned for the States, he replied, "The market will tell us." He said there was no perceived cap, though there have been previous reports quoting Mango officials predicting around 250 units in a decade, assuming real estate that meets Mango's high standards becomes available.

Mango, founded in 1984, operates almost 1,000 stores worldwide and has been opening 100 stores annually for the past few years. The biggest market is Spain , where there are 240 Mango stores and its major competitor is Zara, which is owned by Inditex. Mango is not widely known among U.S. consumers, but to build awareness, the retailer's image catalogue, with 25 pages, will be distributed in a 10-mile radius from the new stores. Top models or celebrities have appeared in the catalogues and ads, such as Milla Jovovich, who is in the current campaign, and Claudia Schiffer, Elizabeth Jagger and Naomi Campbell. Worldwide, the company mails 20 million catalogues translated into 25 languages.

www.mango.com
14 September 2006

Vintage Bow Brooches

2006-10-01T03:56:00.000-07:00

Some of the must have retro ladylike accessories are bow brooches. Check out these ones, they have the vintage feel and look very ellegant.

Faux Layering Or Not?

2006-10-01T02:50:00.000-07:00

When you're choosing how your little boy(s) gonna wear his tees this fall, which one do you choose, faux layering or not? I say not.
My reasons are these:
- I'm trying to buy outfits that last a little longer that one season so I tend to buy larger sizes. The faux layering tees are hard to wear in summer (even in late spring)
- it's always easy for me to layer the tees on top of long sleeves tees and get the skater look that way instead
- the actual layering will keep your boy(s) warmer than the faux layering

If you prefer faux layering because the practicality of it, I don't blame you either. Fashion should be fun and easy on you. Stick with your preferences and I'm sure your boys will appreciate whatever your choice for them would be.

Black Horn Pendants and Golden Chains

2006-10-01T02:06:00.000-07:00

If you're in the market for this must have accessories, this is the cheapest that I could fined online but it doesn't give you as much impact as the designers' ones. You might have better luck looking around in offline stores.

Italian Healing Horn Pendant necklace Free Golden chain
Price: $12.55 + S/H: $2.15

Compared to:

Orly Baruch Multicharm Necklace - $183.90 (org. $275.00)
Individually cast and handmade charms hang from a 14-karat gold-filled chain.

* Toggle closure.
* Horn drop: 1 1/2".
* Chain length: 33 1/2".
* 14k gold-filled metal/ cameo/ horn/ tiger's-eye.
* By Orly Baruch; made in the USA.
* Fashion Jewelry.

Onyx horn pendant by Julie Sandlau - $255.00
Black onyx horn pendant with amethyst stone detail and small gold bead necklace. Julie Sandlau necklace has a small gold horn pendant attached to necklace by a gold casing with three pear shaped amethyst stones, a hook fastening at back of neck and a small oval trinket with a leaf logo embossed.

Green Strass Horn Pendant by Roberto Cavalli - $415.00

Polished gold metal, black enamel, green strass crystals
Horn pendant; 2.5" long
Revolving clasp
Twisted gold metal chain; total length is 27"
Made in Italy

Running Errands outfit

2006-10-01T01:09:00.000-07:00

Top: Target
Camisole: Old Navy
Belt: Wet Seal
Handbag: Forever 21
Jeans: Target
Boots: American Eagle

Ladylike Accessories

2006-10-01T00:37:00.000-07:00

Today's trend is all about ladylike look and accessories. Make sure not to forget to grab one of those brooches and pins because they'll be a good compliment to pearl and gold chain (with pendant) necklaces in the fall and will be the must have accessories in spring and summer 2007. They can be used as adornments for your tops, they can even give different look for the same clothing article. They can we worn on the front left/right side or on the toppest button of your mini/cropped twill jackets, dresses or tops.

From Milan's Spring/Summer 2007 Fashion Week:

Moschino

Blumarine

Playdate Outfit

2006-10-01T00:34:00.000-07:00

Tee: Geoffrey Beene
Top: Forever 21
Necklace: Forever 21
Handbag: Rampage
Jeans: Target
Boots: American Eagle

Designers Aiming for the Greater Market

2006-09-30T23:52:00.000-07:00

I'm excited that more designers reaching out to greater market through the stores I'm familar with. This has happened last seasons, this fall is no different. First of all, Behnaz Sarafpour's designs for Target will be out on November 1st. Then Roland Mouret's will be available at GAP stores on November 7th. While waiting check out George ME's collection for Walmart. With all of this anticipation, I'm sure it's gonna be a beautiful fall season for me.

Links to collections preview:
Behnaz Sarafpour
Roland Mouret
George ME

Pattern Breaker

2006-09-30T23:33:00.000-07:00

When you feel that the stripe/pattern top you are wearing is suddenly too much for you, do not throw the top yet. Your boredom of patterns might be temporary. While you are deciding what to do with the pattern top, you can still wear it by adding some solids to the outfit to break the patterns. One or some of these solid clothing article might work for you:
- Vest tunics
- Sash
- Belt
- Cropped sweater/jacket
- Bolero
- Shrug
- Vest

The last one worked well for me in this outfit:

Top: The Limited
Vest: Old Navy
Leggings: Forever 21
Boots: DSW (by American Eagle)

Shopping Outfits

2006-09-30T23:03:00.000-07:00

These skirts had been hard to wear. I got them in 2002 and this was the first time I ever wore them. I took advantage of this season's busy stripes and patterns. The trend has made it easier for me to wear solid skirts.

Tee: Wet Seal
Camisole: Old Navy
Necklace: Forever 21
Handbag: Target
Skirt: Express
Boots: American Eagle

Top: TJ Maxx
Belt: Wet Seal
Handbag: Forever 21
Skirt:Express
Boots: American Eagle

How to Wear Bubble Skirts

2006-09-30T21:51:00.000-07:00

Early this month The Wall Street Journal has an article on the bubble skirts in their paper edition. The article said that we like it or not the bubble skirts have made their come back and it created a problem. The problem is that not everybody can wear the skirt. At that time when I was reading the article, I didn't realize the magnitude of the problem until I saw Nicky Hilton picture wearing Just Cavalli on Milan Fashion Show runway. She looks like a giantess wearing a short bubbly ruffle dress! And I'm sure she is not that big in real life.

I'm sure you can sport the style and pull it off without feelling that you weight 20 lbs heavier. Here are some tips that works for me (I'm petite and have big hips n thighs, if these work for me it'll definitely work for you):
- wear (footless) leggings underneath the skirt
- wear a longger skirt underneath (today's all about layering anyway!*-*)
- avoid mini skirts
- get 1 or 2 size bigger that you usually wear
- as much as you can, in the fall/winter/Spring, wear it with a pair of tall boots that will elongate your legs
- avoid wearing it with ankle boots and flats

Kohl's charge card coupons for October 4-9 2006

2006-09-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

Here is an item I thought would be a steal using the 30% off deal (code: GRAND30):

apt. 9™ Washed-Linen Military Jacket $10.00 (originally: $44.00)
After discount it would be a only a little over $7!

Retro Tees

2006-09-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

I rejoiced when retro tees were once more became a trend. My husband is a geeky type and has never got along with a new trend. He never heartfully liked the polos that I picked up for him. With the reappearance of the retro tees, guys wear more screen/graphic tees rather than polo shirts. Now we have win win situations, my husband got to wear his tees and I am happy that he's wearing all the tees that he bought him. My regular sources for trendy retro/screen/graphics tees are H&M, Target and Urban Outfitters.