I LOVE Anne Klein's AK shoe line. The shoes are great looking, they don't require that you blow off your rent for the next 3 months to purchase them and, if I can extrapolate from my pair of beloved flats, are crazy comfortable!
Over at Manolo's Shoe Blog he has a great post which shows 3 differnt styles of AK's -- any of which a lady of any age can wear with eaze and pride: AK for the Poor Girl
Yeah, he takes kind of a slam at the fact that they are inexpensive -- but I'll overlook that -- he just has never had a chance to wear a pair! ; - )
Friday, December 29, 2006
If you're needin' REAL boots....
Not just somethin' to look good in -- you might want to hop over to the following Squidoo lens:
These Ain't Yer Granny's Galoshes!
And no they are not!
Neos Villager All Season Overshoe
I'd not heard of these NEOS overshoe boots but since I am in desperate need for a pair of boots that can take on real weather (we've been lucky so far here in Chi-town but I've lived here my whole life -- so I know THAT won't last!) I will be looking into them! I don't think I've seen an overshoe boot in many a year! And since I basically wear flats, this would be a perfect winter solution for me!
And a chance to do good at the same time -- baby it doesn't get better than that!
If you buy the boots by linking through the lens 100% of the percentage the lens receives will go to the Grameen Foundation founded by this years Nobel Peace Prize Winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Ph.D.. If you've never heard of Dr. Yunus, he developed the principles of microcredit to provide small business loans to the poor to enable them to work their way to better lives.
Even if you can't quite bring yourself to go the overboot route, you have an opportunity to learn a ton about the foundation and it's work.
Keep your lovely Manolo ballet slippers, or whatever graces your tooties dry - and give someone else a leg up. Like I said - baby it just DOESN'T get better than that!
These Ain't Yer Granny's Galoshes!
And no they are not!
I'd not heard of these NEOS overshoe boots but since I am in desperate need for a pair of boots that can take on real weather (we've been lucky so far here in Chi-town but I've lived here my whole life -- so I know THAT won't last!) I will be looking into them! I don't think I've seen an overshoe boot in many a year! And since I basically wear flats, this would be a perfect winter solution for me!
And a chance to do good at the same time -- baby it doesn't get better than that!
If you buy the boots by linking through the lens 100% of the percentage the lens receives will go to the Grameen Foundation founded by this years Nobel Peace Prize Winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Ph.D.. If you've never heard of Dr. Yunus, he developed the principles of microcredit to provide small business loans to the poor to enable them to work their way to better lives.
Even if you can't quite bring yourself to go the overboot route, you have an opportunity to learn a ton about the foundation and it's work.
Keep your lovely Manolo ballet slippers, or whatever graces your tooties dry - and give someone else a leg up. Like I said - baby it just DOESN'T get better than that!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Speaking of great posts....
There is one just begging to be read over at What Every Woman Needs in Her Wardrobe on the fallacy of looking "Presentable".
Do yourself a favor - surf over and give it a read! Like me, you'll see yourself as you do (because, come on, don't we all have days when we give ourselves the "presentable" pass?).
Now I don't foresee those "presentable" days going away completely - at least not for me! But hopefully Ms. Dilly's post will give a bit more inspiration to weed out as much of the "just presentable" stuff as you can from your closet!
And who knows -- once that stuff comes out, maybe some fabulous stuff will find it's way in! ; - )
Do yourself a favor - surf over and give it a read! Like me, you'll see yourself as you do (because, come on, don't we all have days when we give ourselves the "presentable" pass?).
Now I don't foresee those "presentable" days going away completely - at least not for me! But hopefully Ms. Dilly's post will give a bit more inspiration to weed out as much of the "just presentable" stuff as you can from your closet!
And who knows -- once that stuff comes out, maybe some fabulous stuff will find it's way in! ; - )
An amazing t-shirt graphic....
Is on display over at Urban Socialite in her post Art in the Age.
I know (speaking from experience), that as one ages it gets a bit harder to pull off the pictured T look. But I'm a big fan of T-shirt art (Hey, I'm still a 60's girl at heart and I DON'T apologize for it!). When done right it's wearable art at it's most accessible and affordable.
So slide on over and take a look - if you love interesting graphic design it will be worth it!
I know (speaking from experience), that as one ages it gets a bit harder to pull off the pictured T look. But I'm a big fan of T-shirt art (Hey, I'm still a 60's girl at heart and I DON'T apologize for it!). When done right it's wearable art at it's most accessible and affordable.
So slide on over and take a look - if you love interesting graphic design it will be worth it!
Fashion 101....
Is going on over at Wardrobe 911 with three great posts.
The first illuminates the meaning of all those fashion lines terms. From Couture to Junior, Ms. Teresa gives you the low-down on what you'll see when you check out each line.
The second gives a brief do/don't for you ladies lucky enough to have that hourglass silhouette!
The third talks going gray with grace!
So get on over there and learn something! ; - )
The first illuminates the meaning of all those fashion lines terms. From Couture to Junior, Ms. Teresa gives you the low-down on what you'll see when you check out each line.
The second gives a brief do/don't for you ladies lucky enough to have that hourglass silhouette!
The third talks going gray with grace!
So get on over there and learn something! ; - )
Monday, December 25, 2006
And becase this IS a fashion centered blog....
I just HAVE to post Suzy Snowflake and her "Snow white gown"! ; - )
If you're a Chicagoan of a certain age, Suzy is more than likely an old friend. If you're not from the Midwest, you may never have seen this little video as a child. Either way enjoy a lady who's working togs are too cool!
If you're a Chicagoan of a certain age, Suzy is more than likely an old friend. If you're not from the Midwest, you may never have seen this little video as a child. Either way enjoy a lady who's working togs are too cool!
Holiday Treat!
I love burning logs videos (Yeah, yeah, my sister thinks I'm nuts too..) and this one has one of my all time favorite Christmas songs -- so from me to you, enjoy!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Accessories Tips...
From Michael Kors no less!
Came across this article from the El Paso Times yesterday. It's a last minute holiday gift idea article, but I think Michael's suggestions (especially when it comes to purses -- I TOTALLY agree that a woman needs more than one! ; - ) ) can easily apply as you rethink and revamp your closet.
Check it out!
Give the gift of good fashion
And by the by - Once you're done with everyone else, don't be reluctant to give YOURSELF the gift of good fashion!
Came across this article from the El Paso Times yesterday. It's a last minute holiday gift idea article, but I think Michael's suggestions (especially when it comes to purses -- I TOTALLY agree that a woman needs more than one! ; - ) ) can easily apply as you rethink and revamp your closet.
Check it out!
Give the gift of good fashion
And by the by - Once you're done with everyone else, don't be reluctant to give YOURSELF the gift of good fashion!
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
And now back to the Chrismas Shopping...
Now back to shopping FOR Christmas....(Okay, maybe a little for you too - just remember those sale shopping tips!):
Forth and Towne (The Gap for grownups) is getting out that last minute sale:
Forth and Towne Holiday Sale
Forth and Towne (The Gap for grownups) is getting out that last minute sale:
Okay, can we hold off on the after Christmas sales....
Until AFTER Christmas?
As anyone who has moved can attest, for the longest time you continue to receive the previous occupants junk mail. Thus it is with me also. One of the previous occupants of my present space was a Bloomies customer. I myself am not, but I have been amused over the past few years to receive their Bloomies Christmas catalog. Since along with fashion I'm interested in design, I've enjoyed looking over their luxuriously designed Christmas cats.
Imagine my surprise this year when in the mailbox came, a week and a half BEFORE Christmas - the Bloomies After Christmas sale catalog! My sister made the amused observation that they must already know what they will have left for the sale!
Ah the after Christmas sales...when after overspending on others, we feel more than justified to overspend on ourselves! And if you are longing to somehow change your look, these sales can just be more temptation than you can bear!
Well take a breath - and then take yourself over to Wardrobe 911 for some timely tips on how to shop sales. Ms. Teresa has 3 little tips that may just help you help yourself purchase smart for you wardrobe on Dec 26th!
As anyone who has moved can attest, for the longest time you continue to receive the previous occupants junk mail. Thus it is with me also. One of the previous occupants of my present space was a Bloomies customer. I myself am not, but I have been amused over the past few years to receive their Bloomies Christmas catalog. Since along with fashion I'm interested in design, I've enjoyed looking over their luxuriously designed Christmas cats.
Imagine my surprise this year when in the mailbox came, a week and a half BEFORE Christmas - the Bloomies After Christmas sale catalog! My sister made the amused observation that they must already know what they will have left for the sale!
Ah the after Christmas sales...when after overspending on others, we feel more than justified to overspend on ourselves! And if you are longing to somehow change your look, these sales can just be more temptation than you can bear!
Well take a breath - and then take yourself over to Wardrobe 911 for some timely tips on how to shop sales. Ms. Teresa has 3 little tips that may just help you help yourself purchase smart for you wardrobe on Dec 26th!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
My Christmas (or Birthday or Mother's Day) Gift Recommendations....
As I promised, here are my recommendations for gifts to the re-budding fashionista in your life. And just so you know - I purchased them all with my own dollars so their not pigs in a poke:
1. How to be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney
If you're already a fan of the Fashionista website you are familar with -- and may well own -- a copy of this book. It is definitely Fashion 101 for those of us who have been out of the mix for some time. The best part about this one for me is the fact that Ms. Finney starts out talking the economics of being a Fashionista. Her recommendation -- get your financial house in order BEFORE you start pricing out those Manolo Blahniks!
The rest of the book is just as common sense wise, covering all manner of fashion issues - dressing the body, reality checking the closet, Beauty and, of course, the best places to find your fabulous new pieces at the best prices! If you can only afford one book for your fashion yearning but challenged loved one -- this is it!
2. Dress Your Best by Clinton Kelly and Stacy London
I credit these two fashion guerrillas with re-kindingly my love of fashion! I catch their show whenever possible and love the fact that rather than take the tack that the person needs to change for the clothes (i.e. lose 10 pounds, get surgery, etc.), they make the point that 1. the clothes should suit the person and 2. You have a right and the ability to look fashionable as you are right now!.
In Dress Your Best, they do in print what they do on their show -- address dressing varying body types. In the book they breaking body types down into categories (Bigger on Top, Bigger on Bottom)for the 3 different heights most folks fall into (Petite, Average Height and Tall) that anyone can easy recognize. They start each section with a brief Do, Don't and Must Have for the body type in question. Then with the help of some, in my book, very brave folks who were willing to pose in a simple black swimsuits (black swim trunks for the guys) to show the body type in question. They then show the same individuals in 3 different outfits (Work, Weekend and Evening). And to show that their no armchair generals, Stacy and Clinton appear as 2 of the body types as well!
The pics are great, the tips are pure Clinton and Stacy - honest and positive. Get it! And when you can - watch the show!
3. Closet Smarts by Emily Neill
In all honesty, I just purchased this one and am just starting to go through it. I find the author's voice to be just a bit, well, angry -- but then the fashion industry does make you want to give them a whack up side the head at least once a month!
And while she is doing something very similar to Stacy and Clinton in Dress your Best using real folks to illustrate different body types, I like the fact that she does befores and afters - so you are able to see how each person was dressing and how to improve upon it. I think that can be particularly helpful when you are sorting through your current clothes and trying to decide if any of it is salvageable!
So there you have it -- my 3 picks! Their all available at Amazon, of course and I'm sure any other major online bookseller. However, if you're in a hurry (and if you're reading this for ideas, you better be!) I made it even easlier for you by setting up an Amazon store. Click the top link and it will take you to the front page which lists all 3 books for purchase.
There! Like I said before -- Don't say I never did nothin' fer ye!
And by the way -- Happy Holidays!
1. How to be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney
If you're already a fan of the Fashionista website you are familar with -- and may well own -- a copy of this book. It is definitely Fashion 101 for those of us who have been out of the mix for some time. The best part about this one for me is the fact that Ms. Finney starts out talking the economics of being a Fashionista. Her recommendation -- get your financial house in order BEFORE you start pricing out those Manolo Blahniks!
The rest of the book is just as common sense wise, covering all manner of fashion issues - dressing the body, reality checking the closet, Beauty and, of course, the best places to find your fabulous new pieces at the best prices! If you can only afford one book for your fashion yearning but challenged loved one -- this is it!
2. Dress Your Best by Clinton Kelly and Stacy London
I credit these two fashion guerrillas with re-kindingly my love of fashion! I catch their show whenever possible and love the fact that rather than take the tack that the person needs to change for the clothes (i.e. lose 10 pounds, get surgery, etc.), they make the point that 1. the clothes should suit the person and 2. You have a right and the ability to look fashionable as you are right now!.
In Dress Your Best, they do in print what they do on their show -- address dressing varying body types. In the book they breaking body types down into categories (Bigger on Top, Bigger on Bottom)for the 3 different heights most folks fall into (Petite, Average Height and Tall) that anyone can easy recognize. They start each section with a brief Do, Don't and Must Have for the body type in question. Then with the help of some, in my book, very brave folks who were willing to pose in a simple black swimsuits (black swim trunks for the guys) to show the body type in question. They then show the same individuals in 3 different outfits (Work, Weekend and Evening). And to show that their no armchair generals, Stacy and Clinton appear as 2 of the body types as well!
The pics are great, the tips are pure Clinton and Stacy - honest and positive. Get it! And when you can - watch the show!
3. Closet Smarts by Emily Neill
In all honesty, I just purchased this one and am just starting to go through it. I find the author's voice to be just a bit, well, angry -- but then the fashion industry does make you want to give them a whack up side the head at least once a month!
And while she is doing something very similar to Stacy and Clinton in Dress your Best using real folks to illustrate different body types, I like the fact that she does befores and afters - so you are able to see how each person was dressing and how to improve upon it. I think that can be particularly helpful when you are sorting through your current clothes and trying to decide if any of it is salvageable!
So there you have it -- my 3 picks! Their all available at Amazon, of course and I'm sure any other major online bookseller. However, if you're in a hurry (and if you're reading this for ideas, you better be!) I made it even easlier for you by setting up an Amazon store. Click the top link and it will take you to the front page which lists all 3 books for purchase.
There! Like I said before -- Don't say I never did nothin' fer ye!
And by the way -- Happy Holidays!
If you're reading this...
Congratulations! You are the person of the year...(But aren't we all in our own minds? ; - ) )
Time's Person of the Year 2006 - YOU
I haven't read the article yet myself -- but I think the choice is an interesting one.
Here's the article:
Time's Person of the Year 2006 - YOU
I haven't read the article yet myself -- but I think the choice is an interesting one.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Whoa! The blog is on the front page of The Budget Fashionista!
Well I sure didn't see THAT comin'!
I finally decided to list the blog to The Budget Fashionista's Project:Blog Community. I'm a HUGE fan of the Fashionista site and many of the blogs I check on a regular basis (Okay, when it comes to The Budget Fashionista and The Sartorialist well that's an every day thing) I found via that list.
But imagine my surprise to see my blog listed as a top site! SNAP!
Guess that means I better start getting some more current posts up! ; - )
I finally decided to list the blog to The Budget Fashionista's Project:Blog Community. I'm a HUGE fan of the Fashionista site and many of the blogs I check on a regular basis (Okay, when it comes to The Budget Fashionista and The Sartorialist well that's an every day thing) I found via that list.
But imagine my surprise to see my blog listed as a top site! SNAP!
Guess that means I better start getting some more current posts up! ; - )
9 Days and counting!
Okay so here it is - 9 days out from Christmas! And if you, like me, find yourself not quite where you thought you'd be shopping wise at this point, it might be time for a few ideas for those fashion centered gifts for those fashionistas on your list!
Over at The Budget Fashionista, the buying diva has a list of great gifts under $25.00:
Best Gifts Under $25
Now if, like me, your favorite fashion fan is also a bookaholic here are some recommendations for books they can cuddle up with by the tree:
Gifts for bookworms with passion for fashion
Speaking of books -- Kick it over to Borders' Perfect Gift site for suggestions for any book lover on your list:
Borders: Find the Perfect Gift
And while we're on the subject of books - I have a couple of suggestions myself. Unfortunately I've got to fly -- Christmas tasks await! But watch this spot -- I'll try to get them posted later today!
Okay, so, if all those e-mails and catalogs that have been clogging your e-mail and real mail box from every retailer you ever so much as looked at hasn't given you enough ideas, you're armed with more! Don't say I never did nothin' fer ye! ; - )
Over at The Budget Fashionista, the buying diva has a list of great gifts under $25.00:
Best Gifts Under $25
Now if, like me, your favorite fashion fan is also a bookaholic here are some recommendations for books they can cuddle up with by the tree:
Gifts for bookworms with passion for fashion
Speaking of books -- Kick it over to Borders' Perfect Gift site for suggestions for any book lover on your list:
Borders: Find the Perfect Gift
And while we're on the subject of books - I have a couple of suggestions myself. Unfortunately I've got to fly -- Christmas tasks await! But watch this spot -- I'll try to get them posted later today!
Okay, so, if all those e-mails and catalogs that have been clogging your e-mail and real mail box from every retailer you ever so much as looked at hasn't given you enough ideas, you're armed with more! Don't say I never did nothin' fer ye! ; - )
Sunday, November 19, 2006
RSS and Email Update Notification Links....
Can now be found to the right - just in case you use RSS or would like to receive an e-mail when I finally get around to posting new content! (I'm new to the whole RSS, e-mail notification thing -- so I hope this works!)
Are you an Apple, a Pear....
Or a Ruler?
Well get yourself over to A Dress A Day for a great post on body shape types and how to dress them to achieve different looks.
I think one of the great obstacles women face as they grow older is the change in their body shapes. All of a sudden the clothes you wore so successfully for so long, no longer work. Coming to terms with that change and learning how to dress that new body is one of the first and perhaps most difficult hurdles to get over - but once you do, I'm thinkin' that the rest of the trip to a look you can live with, and yes maybe love, is a lot easier to develop!
Well get yourself over to A Dress A Day for a great post on body shape types and how to dress them to achieve different looks.
I think one of the great obstacles women face as they grow older is the change in their body shapes. All of a sudden the clothes you wore so successfully for so long, no longer work. Coming to terms with that change and learning how to dress that new body is one of the first and perhaps most difficult hurdles to get over - but once you do, I'm thinkin' that the rest of the trip to a look you can live with, and yes maybe love, is a lot easier to develop!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Friday, October 27, 2006
Shopping Alert!....
Okay. It's Friday and payday (for somebody, I'm sure!). So if there are any dollars left after the bills get paid.....
Kate Spade's got another sale going on (What, is she taking tips from Macy's?):
Kate Spade Sale
Looks like the Liz C. group is firing with both barrels for fall:
Liz Claiborne Fall Sale
Elisabeth Fall Sale
(Now if you have been reading this blog, you'll notice that I posted the 15% off sale in an earlier post. However, as the e-mail I just recieved stated "up to 60% off" -- so I figure it might be worth it to post it again....)
And Forth and Towne is already getting on their holiday groove....
Forth & Towne
Enjoy!
Kate Spade's got another sale going on (What, is she taking tips from Macy's?):
Looks like the Liz C. group is firing with both barrels for fall:
(Now if you have been reading this blog, you'll notice that I posted the 15% off sale in an earlier post. However, as the e-mail I just recieved stated "up to 60% off" -- so I figure it might be worth it to post it again....)
And Forth and Towne is already getting on their holiday groove....
Enjoy!
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Okay...Now this is just wrong.....
Look, I've got a soft spot for Hello Kitty, but really how soft a spot do you have to have to justify this....
Hello Kitty Diamond Pendant
$4,250.00 baby!
And for those of you who have another $5000.00 to blow and feel you need a matching ring....
Hello Kitty Pave Diamond Ring
Honey, where else but at Needless Markup. Enough said.
(But I have to admit -- they are pretty cute! Just not 10 grand worth!)
$4,250.00 baby!
And for those of you who have another $5000.00 to blow and feel you need a matching ring....
Honey, where else but at Needless Markup. Enough said.
(But I have to admit -- they are pretty cute! Just not 10 grand worth!)
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Bargains from The Budget Fashionista....
Keeping on the subject of deals.....
If the Elisabeth sale has just wet your whistle, get thee over to The Budget Fashionista for her October coupons and deals newsletter...
The Budget Fasionista Coupons and Deals Newsletter
And while you're over there, if you haven't signed up for the newsletter, do so! EVERY Fashionista can use a bargain!
If the Elisabeth sale has just wet your whistle, get thee over to The Budget Fashionista for her October coupons and deals newsletter...
The Budget Fasionista Coupons and Deals Newsletter
And while you're over there, if you haven't signed up for the newsletter, do so! EVERY Fashionista can use a bargain!
Speaking of Elisabeth....
There's another sale going on over there! 15% off any regularly priced item.
If you've got a mind to, surf on over! Here's the link....
Elisabeth 15% Off Sale
If you've got a mind to, surf on over! Here's the link....
Elisabeth 15% Off Sale
A tale of 3 Returns - Part 1
As you know if you’ve been reading the blog, I’ve made several clothing purchases over the past month or so - some in the real world and some in the virtual. Of course with varying success. And varying success leads to – yeah you know – returns.
So far I’ve had to deal with three from three different retailers – Sears.com, Lane Bryant and Elisabeth.com. Here’s the first post on how each of them faired as far as dealing with returns:
Sears.com: The online Sears site states that you can return your online purchases to any physical Sears store (that sounds so weird as I type it!).
That’s exactly what I did with a pair of black Covington pants that did not fit correctly (which was weird in and of itself since I already own a gray pair of the same model which fit perfectly! This is the kind of thing that makes women crazy when it comes to shopping – but I digress).
Actually I had to try this return twice, but through no fault of the store – I did not read the instructions for returns as carefully as I should have. Seems that the confirmation e-mail you’re sent is the important document to have with you when making the exchange – not the packing slip – because the RC# for each item is listed in that e-mail. The sales clerk will need that number in order to complete the return. By the way, my sympathies to the Sears sales staff – on both occasions they were aware that online purchases can be returned at the store – but it does not appear that they have been trained on HOW it’s to be done!
Despite that fact, both times the sales staff was very accommodating and took whatever time it took to find out how to do the exchange. Once the how was established, the return went like clockwork – no troubles!
So hat’s off to Sears.com – they are as good as their word! Kudos to their sales staff as well!
Note to Sears: Do your staff a favor and give them some training on this process okay? You can make both their lives and the lives of your customers just a bit easier!
So far I’ve had to deal with three from three different retailers – Sears.com, Lane Bryant and Elisabeth.com. Here’s the first post on how each of them faired as far as dealing with returns:
Sears.com: The online Sears site states that you can return your online purchases to any physical Sears store (that sounds so weird as I type it!).
That’s exactly what I did with a pair of black Covington pants that did not fit correctly (which was weird in and of itself since I already own a gray pair of the same model which fit perfectly! This is the kind of thing that makes women crazy when it comes to shopping – but I digress).
Actually I had to try this return twice, but through no fault of the store – I did not read the instructions for returns as carefully as I should have. Seems that the confirmation e-mail you’re sent is the important document to have with you when making the exchange – not the packing slip – because the RC# for each item is listed in that e-mail. The sales clerk will need that number in order to complete the return. By the way, my sympathies to the Sears sales staff – on both occasions they were aware that online purchases can be returned at the store – but it does not appear that they have been trained on HOW it’s to be done!
Despite that fact, both times the sales staff was very accommodating and took whatever time it took to find out how to do the exchange. Once the how was established, the return went like clockwork – no troubles!
So hat’s off to Sears.com – they are as good as their word! Kudos to their sales staff as well!
Note to Sears: Do your staff a favor and give them some training on this process okay? You can make both their lives and the lives of your customers just a bit easier!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
It's been a crazy few days....
So I've not had a chance to post. Watch this space, through! New posts should be coming up starting later today!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month
A visit to the The Pretty Pear and the ever popular The Budget Fashionista has brought to my attention that it is Breast Cancer Awareness month.
So....
1. Ladies, if you haven't had the girls checked out for this year, get to it! Yes, it's an uncomfortable, boob squeezin' experience - but a potentially life saving one as well. So don't put it off!
2. Make a visit to either of the sites mentioned above for tips on how to contribute to the cause. Both have several entries outlining offers from businesses donating part of your purchase to Breast Cancer research. In addition, the Pear has a link to The Breast Cancer Site where a click on the Fund Free Mammograms link can help provide free mammograms to women in need.
3. For more info click on over to the National Breast Cancer Foundation site. And of course the American Cancer Society website.
So....
1. Ladies, if you haven't had the girls checked out for this year, get to it! Yes, it's an uncomfortable, boob squeezin' experience - but a potentially life saving one as well. So don't put it off!
2. Make a visit to either of the sites mentioned above for tips on how to contribute to the cause. Both have several entries outlining offers from businesses donating part of your purchase to Breast Cancer research. In addition, the Pear has a link to The Breast Cancer Site where a click on the Fund Free Mammograms link can help provide free mammograms to women in need.
3. For more info click on over to the National Breast Cancer Foundation site. And of course the American Cancer Society website.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
My newest bag.....
As I said in an earlier post, I unfortunately did not have 200+ bucks to drop on a Kate Spade - even on sale! (It looks like SOMEBODY did through -- when I checked the Kate Spade sale page the next day there was not a one of the bags I liked left!). However, I did have 60 bucks...And I did buy a purse!
Of course there is a story to this purchase (Isn't there always for any purchase?)...
In the past, I was not a big fan of wristlets. If there was a reason, it was probably because I didn't see it as a legitimate purse -- after all what the heck can be carried in that little thing?
My pride, however, was brought low when I purchased a couple of pairs of pants that do not have pockets (through I could have sworn when I ordered them that the description said with pockets!).
Now, I'm not a person for pocketless pants, but I came to love these - and that left me with a quandary - where do I carry my stuff when I make those short trips during the day, far enough to need money and/or keys on me, not far enough to need to carry a purse.
The answer - a wristlet that came with a loved Franklin Covey tote bag I was carrying at the time.
You know the rest -- I fell in love - and hard - with the whole wristlet thing!
I decided that I'd like to get a black one (the wristlet that came with the tote is blue) so I thought I'd splurge a bit and spend around 50 - 60 bucks to buy a Coach.
But then I was in my local Franklin Covey to get a refill for my binder -- and what should I see but a black hobo tote! And, as it is with the Franklin totes, it had a wristlet (Or as Anna Johnson charmingly describes it in her wonderful book, Handbags: The Power of the Purse
"a satellite (or dinghy) bag") that came with the bag.
The cost for the pair? About $60.00 on sale!
Hummm....$60.00 for a leather wristlet - or $60.00 for a leather bag AND a wristlet -
I brought the bag of course!
Here's the new ship of state with the "dinghy":
Franklin Covey Tote and Wristlet
Here's the inside. I'm not usually one for pink, but it does work well with black. And I love the little detail of the dragonfly print, continuing the dragonfly motif from the enamel charm on the purse, in a pale almost mint green.
Now I know that most women don't think Franklin Covey when they go handbag shopping. But over the past few years, they have developed an excellent line of business totes - ostensibly to carry your binder, pda, cell phone, etc. But this is my second one, and I find that they make great, durable and good looking bags in general. And you can often find very nice ones on sale. So if you have a Covey near by, check them out -- you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find!
Of course there is a story to this purchase (Isn't there always for any purchase?)...
In the past, I was not a big fan of wristlets. If there was a reason, it was probably because I didn't see it as a legitimate purse -- after all what the heck can be carried in that little thing?
My pride, however, was brought low when I purchased a couple of pairs of pants that do not have pockets (through I could have sworn when I ordered them that the description said with pockets!).
Now, I'm not a person for pocketless pants, but I came to love these - and that left me with a quandary - where do I carry my stuff when I make those short trips during the day, far enough to need money and/or keys on me, not far enough to need to carry a purse.
The answer - a wristlet that came with a loved Franklin Covey tote bag I was carrying at the time.
You know the rest -- I fell in love - and hard - with the whole wristlet thing!
I decided that I'd like to get a black one (the wristlet that came with the tote is blue) so I thought I'd splurge a bit and spend around 50 - 60 bucks to buy a Coach.
But then I was in my local Franklin Covey to get a refill for my binder -- and what should I see but a black hobo tote! And, as it is with the Franklin totes, it had a wristlet (Or as Anna Johnson charmingly describes it in her wonderful book, Handbags: The Power of the Purse
"a satellite (or dinghy) bag") that came with the bag.The cost for the pair? About $60.00 on sale!
Hummm....$60.00 for a leather wristlet - or $60.00 for a leather bag AND a wristlet -
I brought the bag of course!
Here's the new ship of state with the "dinghy":
Here's the inside. I'm not usually one for pink, but it does work well with black. And I love the little detail of the dragonfly print, continuing the dragonfly motif from the enamel charm on the purse, in a pale almost mint green.
Now I know that most women don't think Franklin Covey when they go handbag shopping. But over the past few years, they have developed an excellent line of business totes - ostensibly to carry your binder, pda, cell phone, etc. But this is my second one, and I find that they make great, durable and good looking bags in general. And you can often find very nice ones on sale. So if you have a Covey near by, check them out -- you might be pleasantly surprised at what you find!
Friday, October 06, 2006
Shopping Alert!.....
When I said the sales just keep on comin' -- I had no idea!
Looks like the Liz Claiborne group is making a full court press this fall...
An extra 25% off sale items on the Elisabeth.com site. Check it out at the following link...
Elisabeth Sale
And yes, this time I could not resist! I've made the following purchases:
Elisabeth Silk Charmeuse Pleated Skirt
Elisabeth Silk Blend Pointelle Shell
Elisabeth Silk Blend Pointelle Cardigan
As I've stated before, I own a couple of pieces from Liz C's plus size lines, but I've never purchased anything from the online Elisabeth site. So I'll let you know how this turns out!
Looks like the Liz Claiborne group is making a full court press this fall...
An extra 25% off sale items on the Elisabeth.com site. Check it out at the following link...
Elisabeth Sale
And yes, this time I could not resist! I've made the following purchases:
As I've stated before, I own a couple of pieces from Liz C's plus size lines, but I've never purchased anything from the online Elisabeth site. So I'll let you know how this turns out!
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Shopping Alert!......
They just keep on comin'.....
Elisabeth Liz Claiborne's Plus Size division, is having a sale on their Fall 2006 collection. Check it out at the following link:
Elisabeth Fall 2006 Sale
Liz has a lovely plus size collection covering both career and causal clothes. I've purchased from the old Village collection (a navy summer jacket and drawstring pants that remain sleek enough for work, wonderfully comfortable and one of my favorite spring - summer outfits.) and I also own an Emma James sweater. The quality is everything you would expect from Liz.
I've not ordered from the web site as yet, so I can't speak to the experience of buying these clothes online. But if the quality is anything like what I've purchased in the store, you'll be pleased.
So if you have a chance, go on over and check them out!
Elisabeth Liz Claiborne's Plus Size division, is having a sale on their Fall 2006 collection. Check it out at the following link:
Elisabeth Fall 2006 Sale
Liz has a lovely plus size collection covering both career and causal clothes. I've purchased from the old Village collection (a navy summer jacket and drawstring pants that remain sleek enough for work, wonderfully comfortable and one of my favorite spring - summer outfits.) and I also own an Emma James sweater. The quality is everything you would expect from Liz.
I've not ordered from the web site as yet, so I can't speak to the experience of buying these clothes online. But if the quality is anything like what I've purchased in the store, you'll be pleased.
So if you have a chance, go on over and check them out!
Monday, October 02, 2006
To: NY Mag Fashion Page - I love ya, but....
What is up with the snub of the Elena Miro runway shows!
For you who don't know, Elena Miro' is an Itatilan fashion house who specializes in clothes for plus size women. Beautiful, ready to wear clothes.
Take a look....From the Fall 2006 collection...
As you can see -- no fear of curves here! All pics credit to FirstView - get yourself over there and check out the whole collection! 'Cause you sure as hell can't do so on the New York Magazine Fashion Show Page -- gee I wonder why!
Fear of curves perhaps?.....
For you who don't know, Elena Miro' is an Itatilan fashion house who specializes in clothes for plus size women. Beautiful, ready to wear clothes.
Take a look....From the Fall 2006 collection...
As you can see -- no fear of curves here! All pics credit to FirstView - get yourself over there and check out the whole collection! 'Cause you sure as hell can't do so on the New York Magazine Fashion Show Page -- gee I wonder why!
Fear of curves perhaps?.....
Shopping Alert!.....
Kate Spade is having a 25% off sale on selected styles....
Kate Spade 25% Sale
My favs from the sale:
Madison Park Eley Small
Madison Park Eley Large
Sigh...Unfortunately I don't have 200+ dollars right now to drop on a purse (I did however, have $60.00 -- but that's an upcoming post!)
Anyway, if you do -- check it out!
My favs from the sale:
Sigh...Unfortunately I don't have 200+ dollars right now to drop on a purse (I did however, have $60.00 -- but that's an upcoming post!)
Anyway, if you do -- check it out!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Shopping Alert!.....
Forth & Towne (The Gap's "grownups" store) is having a 50% off sale on new fall pieces.
Check them out at the following link:
Forth & Towne: New Season, New Elegance
I've not had a chance to check out their stores here in the ChiTown area (but I signed up for their e-mail list - go figure!) -- I'll have to plan a field trip! But the pieces on the website do look lovely. Even better - their sizes range from 2 - 20! Go Gap! (But come on guys -- get an online store going on on this site, okay?)
A few samples:
From their Allegory collection - A great work outfit:
Ruffle shirt and skirt
From their Prize collection - This one would move easily from work to evening:
Silk Blouse and Trouser
From their Vocabulary collection - a simply lovely silk dress:
Silk Dress
As you can see, the Gap is really kickin' it up a notch with the Forth and Towne stores! And the prices don't make you feel like you're choosing between a dress and your rent!
So if you've got a F & T near you, check 'em out -- and let me know if you find something you love!
Check them out at the following link:
Forth & Towne: New Season, New Elegance
I've not had a chance to check out their stores here in the ChiTown area (but I signed up for their e-mail list - go figure!) -- I'll have to plan a field trip! But the pieces on the website do look lovely. Even better - their sizes range from 2 - 20! Go Gap! (But come on guys -- get an online store going on on this site, okay?)
A few samples:
From their Allegory collection - A great work outfit:
From their Prize collection - This one would move easily from work to evening:
From their Vocabulary collection - a simply lovely silk dress:
As you can see, the Gap is really kickin' it up a notch with the Forth and Towne stores! And the prices don't make you feel like you're choosing between a dress and your rent!
So if you've got a F & T near you, check 'em out -- and let me know if you find something you love!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Okay - We buy their stuff but they feel free to dish us? What the f*ck is up with that???
Seems that the Budget Fashionista got trashed by the LCYRA rep at NYC Fashion week Denim Lounge. For all the dirty details go to the following:
Spring Fashion Week Day 8: LYCRA to Plus Size Women: Don't Wear Our Products?
Her comments on this tale of the sorry behavior of this company's rept brings to the fore the basic conflict between the people who produce "fashion" and the majority of the folks who buy it.
Her observations on the back door way designers treat the general public are quite right. Designers tout their "collections" and fawn over the celebs and well-heeled clients in public -- but the bread and butter of their operations are the nom de plume clothes they knock out in anonymous sweat shops all over the world and sell in JC Penney's, Macy's, Walmart, Target, etc.
Meanwhile they turn their collective noses up at the sight of the "unsightly" common folk (e.g. Karl Lagerfeld, who obviously has NO sense of irony - or how ridiculous he sounds taking about other people's girth - as if we've all forgotten how HE used to waddle through the world) -- who's money they're happy to take while pretending they don't. (Case in point: I love the AK Anne Klein clothes line -- but if you go to Anne Klein's site you'll see no mention of it. What's up with that?)
Kudos to the Budget Fashionista for not taking such treatment lying down and at the same time remaining a class act. To bad LCYRA can't say the same for the people they pay to represent them!
Spring Fashion Week Day 8: LYCRA to Plus Size Women: Don't Wear Our Products?
Her comments on this tale of the sorry behavior of this company's rept brings to the fore the basic conflict between the people who produce "fashion" and the majority of the folks who buy it.
Her observations on the back door way designers treat the general public are quite right. Designers tout their "collections" and fawn over the celebs and well-heeled clients in public -- but the bread and butter of their operations are the nom de plume clothes they knock out in anonymous sweat shops all over the world and sell in JC Penney's, Macy's, Walmart, Target, etc.
Meanwhile they turn their collective noses up at the sight of the "unsightly" common folk (e.g. Karl Lagerfeld, who obviously has NO sense of irony - or how ridiculous he sounds taking about other people's girth - as if we've all forgotten how HE used to waddle through the world) -- who's money they're happy to take while pretending they don't. (Case in point: I love the AK Anne Klein clothes line -- but if you go to Anne Klein's site you'll see no mention of it. What's up with that?)
Kudos to the Budget Fashionista for not taking such treatment lying down and at the same time remaining a class act. To bad LCYRA can't say the same for the people they pay to represent them!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
The Budget Fashionista Reviews Isaac Mizahi's Latest at Target
Get yourself on over to the The Budget Fashionista for her take on Isaac Mizahi's latest offerings at Target.
Stuff I love....
If you get a chance, try out the Olay Moisturinse in Shower Body Lotion. I tried it on a whim and I'm glad I did! It works like a charm and is particularly great if you're in a rush in the morning and want to be ready to roll right out of the shower!
The catch (and there's always a catch, right?) is that it's sometimes hard to find -- for awhile I thought they'd decided to discontinue it. But I'm happy to say it appears that is not the case -- so feel free to love it! I'm most successful finding it at Target.
you can find more info at the following link:
Olay Moisturinse In Shower Body Lotion
Give it a go -- I don't think you'll be disappointed!
When is thin too thin?…When it IS damn it!
I’d thought that I would do a long post on the whole too thin vs. normal model thing that I’ve been reading about as of late. However, since the whole controversy has been going on for at least a week, it just seemed like old news.
I figured I could sum the whole thing up as follows:
1. Spain is right -- the models walking down the runway right now are little more than walking skeletons – THAT should be apparent to any but the blind. So much so, that after looking at pictures of the fall and now spring collections, my eyes began to hurt – that’s how painful all those boney knees were lookin’. And it does become a distraction at some point – you’re looking harder at the model and wondering what the hell is up with how she’s looking than you are at the clothes!
2. Fashion is one of the only places that misrepresentation of your wares is acceptable – because it is just plain misrepresentation to display clothes for women on little girls who are not only bone skinny, but mostly 13 – 18 year olds as if they will look that good on your customer – 30 – 60 year olds who are the ONLY ones who have the money to buy these things!
As for the designers complaining that it will interfere with their “creative vision” if they have to pick models with a more “normal” (I’m thinking normal for most women 5‘ 3” these days is more like 130 – 40 lbs rather than 125 lbs – but I guess you have to start somewhere…) models – well that’s just an admission on their part that they can’t really create clothes that look good on women as they actually exist in the world.
3. Women are as much to blame for this sorry state of affairs as any designer is. We not only tolerate this nonsense – we encourage it by oohing and ahhing over these collections and, where the dollars are there, buying the clothes. Why? – Because very few women can face how they really look. We WANT to believe that these clothes will make us look like those “willowy” young things on the catwalk – when a simple, unvarnished look in the mirror would dispel that fancy in a hurry! But how many of us (myself included) can really bring ourselves to do that? Instead we usually end up doing one of two things:
a. Putting ourselves in clothes which make us look absolutely ridiculous or
b. Giving up and allowing ourselves to look like something the cat dragged in.
What we should do, in my humble opinion, is dress ourselves honestly – in other words, take an honest look at ourselves, find ways to dress ourselves that take advantage of our good points (and every woman alive has some good point she can play to!) and minimizes the things that, frankly, we wish we didn’t have to deal with. And we should reward those purveyors of clothing that display their clothing honestly – on various sized models and mannequins that really allow you an idea of what these outfits will look like on real women. (Yeah, yeah it will be a shock all the way around – but get over it!)
We’d all live – and dress - a lot saner for it.
(And yes, this still ended up being rather longer than I intended!)
I figured I could sum the whole thing up as follows:
1. Spain is right -- the models walking down the runway right now are little more than walking skeletons – THAT should be apparent to any but the blind. So much so, that after looking at pictures of the fall and now spring collections, my eyes began to hurt – that’s how painful all those boney knees were lookin’. And it does become a distraction at some point – you’re looking harder at the model and wondering what the hell is up with how she’s looking than you are at the clothes!
2. Fashion is one of the only places that misrepresentation of your wares is acceptable – because it is just plain misrepresentation to display clothes for women on little girls who are not only bone skinny, but mostly 13 – 18 year olds as if they will look that good on your customer – 30 – 60 year olds who are the ONLY ones who have the money to buy these things!
As for the designers complaining that it will interfere with their “creative vision” if they have to pick models with a more “normal” (I’m thinking normal for most women 5‘ 3” these days is more like 130 – 40 lbs rather than 125 lbs – but I guess you have to start somewhere…) models – well that’s just an admission on their part that they can’t really create clothes that look good on women as they actually exist in the world.
3. Women are as much to blame for this sorry state of affairs as any designer is. We not only tolerate this nonsense – we encourage it by oohing and ahhing over these collections and, where the dollars are there, buying the clothes. Why? – Because very few women can face how they really look. We WANT to believe that these clothes will make us look like those “willowy” young things on the catwalk – when a simple, unvarnished look in the mirror would dispel that fancy in a hurry! But how many of us (myself included) can really bring ourselves to do that? Instead we usually end up doing one of two things:
a. Putting ourselves in clothes which make us look absolutely ridiculous or
b. Giving up and allowing ourselves to look like something the cat dragged in.
What we should do, in my humble opinion, is dress ourselves honestly – in other words, take an honest look at ourselves, find ways to dress ourselves that take advantage of our good points (and every woman alive has some good point she can play to!) and minimizes the things that, frankly, we wish we didn’t have to deal with. And we should reward those purveyors of clothing that display their clothing honestly – on various sized models and mannequins that really allow you an idea of what these outfits will look like on real women. (Yeah, yeah it will be a shock all the way around – but get over it!)
We’d all live – and dress - a lot saner for it.
(And yes, this still ended up being rather longer than I intended!)
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Went in for a pendant - Came out with an outfit..What the..????
I had a bout of fashion ADD yesterday. I went into - ugh - Macy's (Or as I'm calling it - MarsMacy's because no, I have NOT gotten over the fact that Marshall Field's is no more! But that rant is for another day!) to see if I could find a silver pendant necklace to go with the gray suit I wore today. I'm very jewelry light, you see, and I'm thinking I should start to address that.
Well I did see some pieces I liked -- but oh the sticker shock! I had my sister on the phone and as I marveled at $25 bucks for a piece of, well let's face it costume jewelry, I had to admit that it had been quite some time (Okay, years) since I've brought a piece of jewelry -- and prices just might have gone up a bit!
I decided to give it some thought and rode up to take a look at the coats (both my sister and I are in desperate need of new walking coats - well, she is in need, I'm the desperate one!). We'd actually seen coats we liked at the MarshMacy in the mall near our house but not in our size. That was still the case -- looks like we have to hit the State Street store!
So since I was there, I decided to see what might have changed in the Women's section. So I took the trip up to the 7th Floor (where we are banished so the diva's won't have to see us shopping I guess!)
I was walking through when I saw it -- AK Anne Klein for Women! I'd seen this line at the mall MarshMacy -- but only for petites! I was SOOOOOO pissed....the clothes were exactly what I like - simple, soft tailored pieces.
And now here they were -- in MY size!
I was to say the least, ecstatic!
I needed a straight forward black skirt that would work for work and after work -- and there it was! Perfect fabric, pencil shape -- and yes it looked like it would fit. Along with the skirt I picked up a red, short sleeved shell with nice detail at the collar and sleeves.
I was on lunch so I brought them without trying them on -- you know the story.
When I got home I put them on....
They fit like a charm.
No length problems.
No waist problems.
Just easy, elegant fit.
I think I'm in love.
And yes, I spent a bit more than I normally do for a skirt. But sometimes it's true -- you get what you pay for.
As for the necklace -- well, maybe I can revisit that today!
Well I did see some pieces I liked -- but oh the sticker shock! I had my sister on the phone and as I marveled at $25 bucks for a piece of, well let's face it costume jewelry, I had to admit that it had been quite some time (Okay, years) since I've brought a piece of jewelry -- and prices just might have gone up a bit!
I decided to give it some thought and rode up to take a look at the coats (both my sister and I are in desperate need of new walking coats - well, she is in need, I'm the desperate one!). We'd actually seen coats we liked at the MarshMacy in the mall near our house but not in our size. That was still the case -- looks like we have to hit the State Street store!
So since I was there, I decided to see what might have changed in the Women's section. So I took the trip up to the 7th Floor (where we are banished so the diva's won't have to see us shopping I guess!)
I was walking through when I saw it -- AK Anne Klein for Women! I'd seen this line at the mall MarshMacy -- but only for petites! I was SOOOOOO pissed....the clothes were exactly what I like - simple, soft tailored pieces.
And now here they were -- in MY size!
I was to say the least, ecstatic!
I needed a straight forward black skirt that would work for work and after work -- and there it was! Perfect fabric, pencil shape -- and yes it looked like it would fit. Along with the skirt I picked up a red, short sleeved shell with nice detail at the collar and sleeves.
I was on lunch so I brought them without trying them on -- you know the story.
When I got home I put them on....
They fit like a charm.
No length problems.
No waist problems.
Just easy, elegant fit.
I think I'm in love.
And yes, I spent a bit more than I normally do for a skirt. But sometimes it's true -- you get what you pay for.
As for the necklace -- well, maybe I can revisit that today!
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
What I'm Wearing Today....
Gray jacket and flat front pants, with a white blouse - All Covington separates from Sears (I know, not a particularly great pic -- I'll have to practice!)
This is one of my favorite outfits! It looks great on me, fits perfectly and is crazy comfortable!
It's one of my "go to" outfits - perfect for those days when you've got meetings up the wazu and need to both look good and feel good! And a great example of being able to put together a good outfit (I know it would never turn heads on the Bryant Park catwalk - but who cares!) for a lot less than a small fortune - I'm pretty sure the whole outfit cost less than $100! (And an added bonus - the whole outfit is machine wash/tumble dry baby!)
Whoos! Look at the time! Gotta get this puppy on and get to work!
So NY Fashion Week is over.....
And I am, frankly, overwhelmed!
As I've said before, it's been a long time since I paid any attention to "fashion". So to try to catch-up in a couple of weeks has proved to be exhilarating, exhausting, baffling and, ultimately, impossible!
I've tried to read all the fall fashion mags I thought worth reading (and believe it or not, I DID get through them!), surf the web to find all the fashion related sites, blogs and designer sites I could and to try to view all the collections from this latest Spring fashion week!
Needless to say, I found myself on overload!
So I'm just going to have to slow the train down.
I still intend to ultimately view all the collections I can. And in that vein, I want to give a big thank you shout out to New York Magazine for their fabulous Fashion page online! They have pics of all the collections shown in NY during fashion week which gave this Chi-town gal a chance I never would have had to see the collections for myself and draw my own opinions! Did I join their mailing list? You beat your sweet bippy baby!
If you haven't checked them out, click the following link and get over there!
New York Fashion Page
Meanwhile, I'm going to take a breath and figure out where to go from here on my fashion quest!
As I've said before, it's been a long time since I paid any attention to "fashion". So to try to catch-up in a couple of weeks has proved to be exhilarating, exhausting, baffling and, ultimately, impossible!
I've tried to read all the fall fashion mags I thought worth reading (and believe it or not, I DID get through them!), surf the web to find all the fashion related sites, blogs and designer sites I could and to try to view all the collections from this latest Spring fashion week!
Needless to say, I found myself on overload!
So I'm just going to have to slow the train down.
I still intend to ultimately view all the collections I can. And in that vein, I want to give a big thank you shout out to New York Magazine for their fabulous Fashion page online! They have pics of all the collections shown in NY during fashion week which gave this Chi-town gal a chance I never would have had to see the collections for myself and draw my own opinions! Did I join their mailing list? You beat your sweet bippy baby!
If you haven't checked them out, click the following link and get over there!
New York Fashion Page
Meanwhile, I'm going to take a breath and figure out where to go from here on my fashion quest!
Friday, September 01, 2006
Now THAT'S what I'm talkin' about!......
Here's a woman I can smoke the peace pipe with!
***************
...Budget fashionista
PensacolaNewsJournal.com - 8 hours ago
All you need are a few bucks and a lot of sense, said Kathryn Finney, the first-time author of a new book called "How to Be a Budget Fashionista: The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less" ($12.95, Ballantine).
***************
Really good article with tons of good tips for dressing well without breaking the bank.
Here's the book - which by the way, got rave reviews on Amazon:
As for me -- I got a 30% off coupon last time I was at Borders (Where I really should have a bookshelf with my name on it!) so that's where I'm headed today to see if I can score a copy! It will be fun to compare it to the What Not to Wear book I already have.
***************
...Budget fashionista
PensacolaNewsJournal.com - 8 hours ago
All you need are a few bucks and a lot of sense, said Kathryn Finney, the first-time author of a new book called "How to Be a Budget Fashionista: The Ultimate Guide to Looking Fabulous for Less" ($12.95, Ballantine).
***************
Really good article with tons of good tips for dressing well without breaking the bank.
Here's the book - which by the way, got rave reviews on Amazon:
As for me -- I got a 30% off coupon last time I was at Borders (Where I really should have a bookshelf with my name on it!) so that's where I'm headed today to see if I can score a copy! It will be fun to compare it to the What Not to Wear book I already have.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
So, even with a ton of money.....
You still have a hard time finding something to wear once you hit 50!
_______________________________________________________
--------------------
A woman spurned
--------------------
The loyal St. John customer was turned off by its sexy new look and ad campaign. So now the label is trying to make amends.
________________________________________________________
I wonder when the fashion industry is going to get the hint -- while those young people they are salivating over so often look like the way to go (And actually, I do understand their point -- any business has to look to the future), it's the baby boomer ladies that have the cash! (Didn't they ever see "Fried Green Tomatoes"?)
And while, true enough, there is no way in this life I'd be able to drop St. John's type money, the point remains the same across the income spectrum.
Get wise designers! Go after the young -- but don't forget where the bread and butter is right now and for a good while into the future.
Chew gum and walk at the same time, guys -- you can do it! ;-)
(On a totally different note -- what's up with this "a 6 is really a 10" bullsh*t? I guess money may not buy happiness -- but it apparently purchases a whole LOT of denial! : - / )
_______________________________________________________
--------------------
A woman spurned
--------------------
The loyal St. John customer was turned off by its sexy new look and ad campaign. So now the label is trying to make amends.
________________________________________________________
I wonder when the fashion industry is going to get the hint -- while those young people they are salivating over so often look like the way to go (And actually, I do understand their point -- any business has to look to the future), it's the baby boomer ladies that have the cash! (Didn't they ever see "Fried Green Tomatoes"?)
And while, true enough, there is no way in this life I'd be able to drop St. John's type money, the point remains the same across the income spectrum.
Get wise designers! Go after the young -- but don't forget where the bread and butter is right now and for a good while into the future.
Chew gum and walk at the same time, guys -- you can do it! ;-)
(On a totally different note -- what's up with this "a 6 is really a 10" bullsh*t? I guess money may not buy happiness -- but it apparently purchases a whole LOT of denial! : - / )
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Halloween early this year?.......
I think the operative word in the title of the below article is haunt! : - p
As I've been browsing the fall fashions, I wondered where the hell those damn bubble skirts were coming from! Now I know -- my past! ARRRRRHHHHH!!!!!!
Check out the article...
Eighties fashion comes back to haunt us
Stuff.co.nz - Aug 25, 2006
The '80s revival featuring puffball skirts, ruching and jumpsuits has stepped off the catwalks and onto the streets, writes Lara Zamiatin. When Alex Zabotto-Bentley talks 1980s fashion, the designer of the ...
As I've been browsing the fall fashions, I wondered where the hell those damn bubble skirts were coming from! Now I know -- my past! ARRRRRHHHHH!!!!!!
Check out the article...
Eighties fashion comes back to haunt us
Stuff.co.nz - Aug 25, 2006
The '80s revival featuring puffball skirts, ruching and jumpsuits has stepped off the catwalks and onto the streets, writes Lara Zamiatin. When Alex Zabotto-Bentley talks 1980s fashion, the designer of the ...
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Kohl's to offer new Vera Wang line for the rest of us (?????)
Well this should be interesting…
It appears that Vera Wang is going to try to eat Isaac Mizrahi's lunch when it comes to designing for the every day woman. She's signed up to do a clothing line for Kohl.
Check out the details at the following link (I didn't need to register to read it):
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-vera2506aug25,0,454073.story?coll=orl-business-headlines
It's interesting seeing high fashion designers attempting to push their lines out to the general public (Because, let's face it, ready to wear might be a bargain for the couture shopper -- but it might as be one and the same for women like me!).
It appears that Vera Wang is going to try to eat Isaac Mizrahi's lunch when it comes to designing for the every day woman. She's signed up to do a clothing line for Kohl.
Check out the details at the following link (I didn't need to register to read it):
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-vera2506aug25,0,454073.story?coll=orl-business-headlines
It's interesting seeing high fashion designers attempting to push their lines out to the general public (Because, let's face it, ready to wear might be a bargain for the couture shopper -- but it might as be one and the same for women like me!).
What, is he a mind reader?......
The little fashion geek knows my secret!!!
And probably yours too!
His post is actually about the state of fashion design in India -- but his reflections on why we bother with fashion at all can apply anywhere to anyone of us who loves fashion in spite of our good sense and better judgement.
So check it out at the following link:
www.ibnlive.com/blogs/hindolsengupta/104/19754/fashion-what.html
And probably yours too!
His post is actually about the state of fashion design in India -- but his reflections on why we bother with fashion at all can apply anywhere to anyone of us who loves fashion in spite of our good sense and better judgement.
So check it out at the following link:
www.ibnlive.com/blogs/hindolsengupta/104/19754/fashion-what.html
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Now a view from the other side of the mountain.....
Get yourself over to FashBlog.com and check out the post Fashion Perils of the Short and Small. (You'll have to scroll down the page a bit to get to it.)
Much as I am presently bitchin' about the issues of being a size 18W (Well actually I'm a size 18W and a 14 Reg -- but THAT's a whole 'nother post!), there was a day when I was in this young lady's shoes - size not height - and I know what it's like to wonder if it is possible not to look like a stick in a handkerchief in anything you wear.
It's a great post so if you can check it out! Makes one wonder doesn't it if it is reasonably possible to be fashionable at all - 50 plus or not!
Much as I am presently bitchin' about the issues of being a size 18W (Well actually I'm a size 18W and a 14 Reg -- but THAT's a whole 'nother post!), there was a day when I was in this young lady's shoes - size not height - and I know what it's like to wonder if it is possible not to look like a stick in a handkerchief in anything you wear.
It's a great post so if you can check it out! Makes one wonder doesn't it if it is reasonably possible to be fashionable at all - 50 plus or not!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
I couldn't have said it better myself......
As I was trying to prepare to pay bills (Oh well, there's always tonight), I couldn't resist a bit more web clothes site surfing. While doing so I came across the following blog entry regarding the Jones of New York line:
My Aim Is True - Jones of New York Review
The girl does not lie. I'll write more about Jones at a later date, but let me just say that anytime I've been lucky enough to grab something from this line (usually on sale) I've been delighted by my purchase. And yes -- they are one of the few clothing lines that not only acknowledges that size 2 is NOT the benchmark for all women, but also make the same beautifully classic styles for the plus among us as they do for the minus among us. They get a whole hearted (and grateful) thumbs up from me!
My Aim Is True - Jones of New York Review
The girl does not lie. I'll write more about Jones at a later date, but let me just say that anytime I've been lucky enough to grab something from this line (usually on sale) I've been delighted by my purchase. And yes -- they are one of the few clothing lines that not only acknowledges that size 2 is NOT the benchmark for all women, but also make the same beautifully classic styles for the plus among us as they do for the minus among us. They get a whole hearted (and grateful) thumbs up from me!
Monday, August 21, 2006
Touring the fashion world....
And what a trip it was!
As I've said before, it's been a long time since I paid any real attention to the whole idea of fashion. So, along with intending to purchase as many of the fall fashion issues mags that I can stomach this fall, I decided to go on a tour of the web to check out what's being sold and/or presented by general retailers right through to the toniest of designers. I figured that way I'd get quite a range of current offerings.
So I spent yesterday afternoon surfing the web to various sites. I looked at everything from the mall staples (Fashion Bug, Lane Bryant, Forever 21, etc), what I would consider mid tier retailers (Talbots, Ann Taylor, Mark Shale, etc) and the stratospheric likes of the couture designers (Donna Karan, Richard Tyler, Vera Wang, etc).
Yowserr!
Needless to say, even this morning my head is still spinning!
As I've said before, it's been a long time since I paid any real attention to the whole idea of fashion. So, along with intending to purchase as many of the fall fashion issues mags that I can stomach this fall, I decided to go on a tour of the web to check out what's being sold and/or presented by general retailers right through to the toniest of designers. I figured that way I'd get quite a range of current offerings.
So I spent yesterday afternoon surfing the web to various sites. I looked at everything from the mall staples (Fashion Bug, Lane Bryant, Forever 21, etc), what I would consider mid tier retailers (Talbots, Ann Taylor, Mark Shale, etc) and the stratospheric likes of the couture designers (Donna Karan, Richard Tyler, Vera Wang, etc).
Yowserr!
Needless to say, even this morning my head is still spinning!
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Fall Fashion Extravaganza!......(If you're thin that is)
Is what's going on right now, of course, in all the "fashion" magazines.
And for the first time in a long time I'm taking a look at them. I figure that if I'm going to explore the possibility of being fashionable after 50, I'd best catch up on what is fashionable these days!
I have to say that, looking through the magazine racks made me want to bale on the whole idea! A more disturbing parade of bone thin, painfully young women has never been seen -- or so I thought to myself as I flipped through the current mags. Just looking at them it was pretty obvious where they stand on the proposition of fashionableness after 50 -- give it up baby!
Now, before I rant on, I have to say that Vogue, bless it's heart, made a weak stab at acknowledging that women actually do age and, as they do, actually have to continue to wear clothes (In fact, speaking with myself in mind, it probably should be required by federal law!). Vogue does this every once in a while, coming up with an age issue at least once a year.
The catch, of course, is that while Vogue can gag down the notion that people do grow older, they can't quite choke down the rarely escapable fact that it means the body changes too. The "older" women they feature never, ever, has an extra ounce of middle age and beyond fat on them. Somehow they've managed to travel into their 50s, 60s - oh hell in the current issue their 90s, without bring one extra pound with them.
Righttttt......
As I browsed through the magazine, I thought of my circle of friends and acquaintances that are around my age. I can't think of too many that still have the bodies they had in their 20s, 30s or - oh hell again -- in their 40s.
Yet Vogue never seems to be able to find a single over 40 woman who has been able to drag their age related pounds gracefully and fashionably forward into late middle age.
Now I understand that Vogue is a high fashion magazine and, watching myself jelly rollin' dumpyly down the street each day in those oh so unforgiving windows (And riddle me this -- why are there so many of those damn things?) I have to pass everyday, I can't imagine featuring me in the age issue would be the dream of their advertising group. However, if one is going to insist upon having an age issue, at least be honest about it -- or just give it up and don't do it at all!
Anyway, even with all my bitchin' and complaining I did buy a copy. After looking at everything else that was available, I had to at least give them props for trying!
In the end, I've ended up with 3 mags that I could live with - Bust (which I've mentioned before), Vogue (which I just discussed) and O (Which I haven't looked through yet). Actually, listing them I don't think it's a half bad selection - kind of all across the spectrum.
As for the rest of them -- well the message was pretty clear -- give it up old, fat girl!
But you think I'm goin' out like that? HELL NO!
And for the first time in a long time I'm taking a look at them. I figure that if I'm going to explore the possibility of being fashionable after 50, I'd best catch up on what is fashionable these days!
I have to say that, looking through the magazine racks made me want to bale on the whole idea! A more disturbing parade of bone thin, painfully young women has never been seen -- or so I thought to myself as I flipped through the current mags. Just looking at them it was pretty obvious where they stand on the proposition of fashionableness after 50 -- give it up baby!
Now, before I rant on, I have to say that Vogue, bless it's heart, made a weak stab at acknowledging that women actually do age and, as they do, actually have to continue to wear clothes (In fact, speaking with myself in mind, it probably should be required by federal law!). Vogue does this every once in a while, coming up with an age issue at least once a year.
The catch, of course, is that while Vogue can gag down the notion that people do grow older, they can't quite choke down the rarely escapable fact that it means the body changes too. The "older" women they feature never, ever, has an extra ounce of middle age and beyond fat on them. Somehow they've managed to travel into their 50s, 60s - oh hell in the current issue their 90s, without bring one extra pound with them.
Righttttt......
As I browsed through the magazine, I thought of my circle of friends and acquaintances that are around my age. I can't think of too many that still have the bodies they had in their 20s, 30s or - oh hell again -- in their 40s.
Yet Vogue never seems to be able to find a single over 40 woman who has been able to drag their age related pounds gracefully and fashionably forward into late middle age.
Now I understand that Vogue is a high fashion magazine and, watching myself jelly rollin' dumpyly down the street each day in those oh so unforgiving windows (And riddle me this -- why are there so many of those damn things?) I have to pass everyday, I can't imagine featuring me in the age issue would be the dream of their advertising group. However, if one is going to insist upon having an age issue, at least be honest about it -- or just give it up and don't do it at all!
Anyway, even with all my bitchin' and complaining I did buy a copy. After looking at everything else that was available, I had to at least give them props for trying!
In the end, I've ended up with 3 mags that I could live with - Bust (which I've mentioned before), Vogue (which I just discussed) and O (Which I haven't looked through yet). Actually, listing them I don't think it's a half bad selection - kind of all across the spectrum.
As for the rest of them -- well the message was pretty clear -- give it up old, fat girl!
But you think I'm goin' out like that? HELL NO!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
I guess there really is something to synchronicity Part 2....
You'll find out that I am a diehard magazine reader (what better friend as you spend SO much more time in the can as you grow older!).
So as I was doing my usual trowel through the magazine aisle at my favorite Borders, I was delighted to come across the latest issue of BUST.
I'm not quite sure how to describe the mag to you so I'll let their masthead speak for them "For Women With Something To Get Of Their Chest". Check out their website to see what I mean - www.bust.com
The current issue - Fall Fashion! I love it!
I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but thinking of all the fall fashion issues of "women's" magazines that will come tumbling on to the stands in the next few weeks (and remembering the day when I used to tremble with anticipation to hold the brick weight fall issue of Seventeen with all the latest and greatest teen styles for a new school year) I can't wait to see what take the irrelevant BUST has on the upcoming fashion season.
So as I was doing my usual trowel through the magazine aisle at my favorite Borders, I was delighted to come across the latest issue of BUST.
I'm not quite sure how to describe the mag to you so I'll let their masthead speak for them "For Women With Something To Get Of Their Chest". Check out their website to see what I mean - www.bust.com
The current issue - Fall Fashion! I love it!
I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but thinking of all the fall fashion issues of "women's" magazines that will come tumbling on to the stands in the next few weeks (and remembering the day when I used to tremble with anticipation to hold the brick weight fall issue of Seventeen with all the latest and greatest teen styles for a new school year) I can't wait to see what take the irrelevant BUST has on the upcoming fashion season.
I guess there really is something to synchronicity Part 1....
Just as I was thinking of starting this blog I :
1. Came across an article about the BlogHer (http://blogher.org/) blog directory site
2. On their Fashion and Shopping section (Two things that don't necessary go together once you're post 50) came across the following :
http://blogher.org/node/6893
Containing several blog posts on the how the fashion business does - and does not - approach Bloomer women as we head (sometimes kicking and screaming, sometimes not) into our later years.
I was epecially delighted to read the post from the Lakeside Lair blog on trying to buy a dress for a wedding. Read it yourself and if you don't do so shaking your head yes, you're not an over 50 woman:
http://www.lakesidelair.com/2006/06/of-certain-age.html
Interesting reads all round. So check them out.
1. Came across an article about the BlogHer (http://blogher.org/) blog directory site
2. On their Fashion and Shopping section (Two things that don't necessary go together once you're post 50) came across the following :
http://blogher.org/node/6893
Containing several blog posts on the how the fashion business does - and does not - approach Bloomer women as we head (sometimes kicking and screaming, sometimes not) into our later years.
I was epecially delighted to read the post from the Lakeside Lair blog on trying to buy a dress for a wedding. Read it yourself and if you don't do so shaking your head yes, you're not an over 50 woman:
http://www.lakesidelair.com/2006/06/of-certain-age.html
Interesting reads all round. So check them out.
When it comes to clothes....
Is it possible to be fashionable post 50?
Especially considering the following:
1. The body has changed.
2. The dollars are tight. (So no, going to some couture house and having it made for you is NOT an option!)
3. You're old (so the "when you're young you can wear a gunny sack and look good" factor is over!).
That's the playing field people. And the one I'm going to explore here in this blog.
So is it possible?
Especially considering the following:
1. The body has changed.
2. The dollars are tight. (So no, going to some couture house and having it made for you is NOT an option!)
3. You're old (so the "when you're young you can wear a gunny sack and look good" factor is over!).
That's the playing field people. And the one I'm going to explore here in this blog.
So is it possible?
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