Geek Chic: Glam Up Your Gadgets

There comes a point in every woman’s life when she is handed the ultimate gadget or newest piece of technology and she smiles from ear to ear.  Then, in the next moment, she stops and wonders to herself what in the world she can possibly do to make it look chic.  Let’s face it, the gadget in itself may be cool, but the ways of toting it around are limited, at least if you’d like to have some sort of style.  And, while black never goes out of style, that plain black laptop bag just isn’t cutting it for you anymore.  Take a look at some of my chic geek girl gadget finds that will have all of your friends drooling!

Nothing but Love for Spring Fashion

It’s Jennifer from Red Sole Diary, and I am happy to be back here again. Since Valentine’s Day is approaching I thought it only appropriate to write about my current loves and obsessions…for spring. There are so many fun trends for spring that it was hard choosing but I somehow managed!

Brightly Colored Dresses
I am so excited that colors are here for spring. While I do love black and tend to wear a lot of it, I love color. When I saw this Carolina Herrera dress {$1990} it was love at first sight. This dress will get you noticed as soon as you step foot into your party but for all the right reasons. Check out T-bags asymmetrical dress {$275} in the same color. You’ll be sure to create the same buzz for a less bang to your wallet.

Military Inspired
When some of my favorite designers are screaming that military-inspired jackets are the next big thing, I do what any fashion lover does and say “Sir, yes sir…or Ma’am!” Which brings me to my next love…Balmain. I’m obsessed. I would be marching left, right, left to the nearest Balmain boutique to get my hands on their studded military jacket {$6225}. When I say I’m in love I mean, L-O-V-E! If only my wallet would agree. Thankfully the Gap has a military anorak jacket {$79.50} that will easily fit into your current wardrobe. With authentic military details, you will be effortlessly chic this spring.

Bold Prints
Multi-colored, bold prints were all over the S/S 10 runways. These are a must-buy for the spring. Besides being trendsetting, they are great transitional pieces to get one ready for the new spring season. This Miu Miu dress {$265} is two trends in one…bold print and florals. This is a trendsetter piece for sure and perfect for a weekend getaway. Channel Alexander McQueen’s S/S 10 runway look, in Armani Exchange’s graphic snake print {$120} for a lot less. Pair with some flat strappy sandals and you’re all set for brunch with the girls.

Embellished Bags
We’ve been seeing more embellished bags and once again my fashion true love delivered. This Balmain punk suede studded bag {$3925} is so fun and will give you that instant luxe edge to keep everyone on their toes. If you prefer to have more money inside of your handbag, check out Antik Batik’s Lola beaded bag {$190}.

Ruffles
Nothing screams romance more than ruffles, and they were seen everywhere on the S/S 10 runways. From tops, skirts, dresses even shoes, ruffles are big this season. One can easily create an instant feminine look with a bold ruffled top. Oscar de la Renta once again shows us his skills at making women look like ladies with his clothes, especially with this gorgeous ruffled top {$690}. It is the perfect day-to-night item when paired with simple, chic pants. Check out Ellavie Jabot’s ruffle blouse {$41} for the same elegance at a more affordable price.

Shorts
Shorts are the new pants for this spring. When I saw these gold harem lamé shorts from 3.1 Phillip Lim {$350} I was smitten. These are perfect for daytime with a white boyfriend top and strappy flat sandals. Pair with open-toe booties and a fitted black tank, your favorite clutch and you are cocktail party ready. Not ready to embrace harem-style shorts, check out Ann Taylor’s cotton twill walking shorts {$48} for a more classic look.

Camisole
Lingerie was on the minds of many designers when designing their collections for spring. A camisole is a perfect way to embrace this trend. Pair with a fitted blazer and a pair of jeans for a sexy, yet elegant date-night ensemble. I loved how elegant this Carine Gilson silk-satin and lace camisole {$770} looks and it’s the perfect color, as turquoise is a must-have color this season. Check out Vanity Fair’s elegance camisole {$27} for a price-conscious choice without losing the style.

Peep-Toe Booties
Not only are booties still going strong, but we saw a lot of open-toed versions on the runways. Nude is another big trend for spring and when I saw these booties from Maison Martin Margiela {$1045} I knew I needed to figure out how to get them in my closet for spring…still working on it! For an alternative version, check out Biviel’s booties {$139}.

Something Red…
Just because it’s Valentine’s Day I felt I should have something red…so I splurged with my pick, but I love anything Agent Provocateur.

Have a happy heart day!

Black Is In: Beauty and Fashion Deals for Black Friday

Black Friday is so often about the hottest toy or the newest Flat Screen TV…but what about all of the fashionista’s out there? Apart from the fact that most of us probably love our beauty sleep…we also can’t pass up a good deal on a great look! Here are some deals – available both online and in stores – starting tomorrow, Black Friday (don’t you feel like you should say “dun dun dun!” right after that?).  Read on to discover amazing discounts and deals, including free overnight shipping for the rest of your life!

BLACK FRIDAY – NOVEMBER 27, 2009

H&M: On Friday, November 27th, receive 25% off items of your choice from 5AM until 10AM* and enjoy Fashion Finds all day from $5.

Store hours vary; call your nearest H&M for opening hours. Store locator.

*Offer valid Friday, November 27th from store opening until 10AM. Not valid on previous purchases, for H&M gift cards, or in conjunction with any other discounts. These three stores open at 5 am on Black Friday; 5th Ave and 52nd street, Penn Station, Herald Square stores.

Zappos: Zappos is opening the doors to their VIP Club!  From Black Friday through Cyber Monday, your readers can visit Zappos.com and join the VIP Club.  By becoming a member of the  VIP Club, members will receive free, overnight shipping – for the rest of their lives!  This invitation will only last from midnight on November 27th until midnight November 30th.

The link to sign up for the VIP Club will be live starting at 12:01 am on Black Friday morning and will be taken down on midnight November 30th.  From that point on, anything you purchase through vip.zappos.com will arrive at your door the next day fo’ free.  You read that right.  Sign me up.

Crabtree & Evelyn:  Crabtree & Evelyn is having a Black Friday preview sale with 20% off sitewide!   Free shipping on orders of $25 or more, Hand Therapy lotion is 50% off, and you can snatch up Body Lotion for $7.  Great stocking stuffers, teacher gifts, or girlfriend gifts!

Apothica:  Apothica is offering 20%-70% off selected items in their clearance sale. This amazing store offers beauty brands like Herve Leger, The Art of Shaving, and beingTRUE – upscale beauty products marked as low as 70% off. You’ll find anything and everything: cleanser, wrinkle cream, mascara, perfume – you name it!

e.l.f.:  This Black Friday, you can take advantage of special shipping rates at e.l.f – have your order shipped for just $1.98 with no minimum order value.  Shipping is usually $7 and their prices start at $1.  Great stuff for a great deal!!  I love their studio collection brushes and am addicted to the lip liner.  Yes, it is possible to be a lip liner addict.

Sephora:  With any $50 online purchase at Sephora, you’ll get a free metallic flower clutch stocked with eight samples. Just enter CLUTCH4U at checkout.  Valid while supplies last. (PS – need an idea of what to buy?  Try my ultimate favorite T3 hairdryer, or a gift set from one of my favorite skincare lines, Philosophy.)

Macy’s:  Macy’s is having a Thanksgiving Sale with 20%-50% off of thousands of amazing items.  The sale is online Thursday 11/26 through Saturday 11/28, and in-store 5 am – 1 pm on Black Friday, and 8 am – 1 pm on Saturday.

Payless:  Payless is having a sale through December 1st that offers buy one, get another half off, on any item in the store.  Shoes?  Now you’re speaking my language!  Squee! See those shoes to the right, there?  Those are CHRISTIAN SIRIANO.  At Payless.  I’m just sayin’.

DJ Premium:  At DJ Premium you’ll find brands like L.A.M.B, Vivienne Westwood, True Religion, Custo Barcelona, and tons of others.  You can take 20% off of full priced items with the code:  IE20J6, and 25% off of your Black Friday order with 1FUN1U.

Arden B:  Until Noon on Friday, buy one item get another for $5 at Arden B – storewide, but in-store only!  Free shipping on purchases of $15 or more, and mix and match basics are 2 for $14.  You can also get 25% off of selected sweaters online.  Check out the Holiday Lookbook for ways to create an inspired Holiday wardrobe!

Shopbop:  Up to 70% off of items at one of my all-time faves, Shopbop.  This awesome sale includes Tory Burch Flats, William Rast denim, and Pour La Victoire boots, among other huge names.  We’re talking major wow factor over here.

Get The Look: Vampire Diaries

As if I needed one more television show on the CW to be obsessed with – I started watching Vampire Diaries this week when someone told me about the show – and I have been downloading all of the episodes from iTunes.  I’m starting to realize no show on the CW is complete without incredible fashion (à la Gossip Girl and last season’s Privileged) because I’ve been drooling over the clothing on the characters since the very first episode.

What really caught my attention was this fantastic three-quarter length sleeve leather jacket that Elena was sporting in the first episode – and then in the second episode I noticed what I thought was the same jacket in cream.  While I figured it wasn’t the same jacket, I was still inspired to do some research.  Turns out, it’s not the same one, but both are equally drool-worthy.

It seems that Elena’s parents left her some serious money when they died, because she is sporting a KRMA Jade Leather Jacket on the left that has been seen on tons of celebs such as Fergie, Audrina Partridge, Pink, and Mena Suvari.  I can’t help but go gaga for the gathered sleeves – even if the $600 price tag did erase some of those stars in my eyes.  The cream colored jacket on the left (which would match my new Foxcrow handbag quite nicely) is a Candela Leather Bomber Jacket with long sleeves – I was just fooled a bit because Elena (played by Nina Dobrev) wears it with the sleeves pushed up.

Fall Trend Watch: Precious Metals

I actually can’t believe that Halloween is over and that the Holiday Season has officially (in my eyes, anyway) begun.  That means warm sweaters, leggings, and jackets (oh my!).  Naturally, the change in seasons doesn’t just involve the weather, but fashion as well.  So, while you’re dusting off those sweater boxes, start thinking about ways you might be able to spice up your fall wardrobe.  Instead of purchasing new clothes, try updating your look with some new accessories.  A few carefully chosen pieces can breathe new life into that old ensemble!

One of the hottest trends for fall will be more hardware-focused items.  Far from dainty, these pieces are bold, metallic, and above all, they make a statement. Grab a few metal cuff bracelets, or some dazzling bangles.  You can play up a simple top by pairing it with a necklace that is a bit bulkier than your normal comfort level; pieces this season are all about making a statement.  Of course, only choose items that you can wear with confidence, because if you don’t feel amazing wearing it then no one else will notice it!

These definitely aren’t your grandmother’s pearls!  Classic, elegant pieces certainly have their place, but you can strike a balance between classic round pearls and modern metal with this gorgeous Golden Orb Choker. (Anthropologie $118)

I’m lusting after this braided metal necklace that can really help me to “tie” the perfect outfit together.  (Serpentine necklace, $29.99 at Urban Outfitters)

And lastly, don’t think this trend is isolated to jewelry alone.  Have fun with it, but go for something simple like this Deux Lux Chain Flap Clutch ($29.99 at Urban Outfitters) that you’ll be able to use long after the fall trends have faded.

Monday Lust

No, no, no, I’m not lusting after Monday, but I did spend a good portion of my evening on Saturday falling in love with some of these amazing items.  My style is decidedly girly-chic with a dash of rock and roll and Audrey Hepburn mixed in.  No matter what your style is, I think you might find a piece here to lust after as well.  At the very least, it will lessen any case of the Mondays that you might have.  Enjoy!

1.  Net Ballerina Skirt from Lipsy.  $60 2. Leaf Clasp Waist Belt.  $29  3. Alexander McQueen Heart Peep Toe Pumps.  $835 $467.60   4.  Coach Madison ‘Juliane’ Tote.  $95/month  5. John Lewis Bow Leather Gloves.  $57   6.  Phosphorescence Bracelet. $42   7. Dolce & Gabbana dress.  $2,325 8.  Erickson Beamon Medieval Swarovski drop earrings.  $400.   9.  Charles by Charles David Fluster (in plum).  $125  10. MICHAEL Michael Kors ‘Berkley – Large’ Clutch.  $195.

Rocker Chick Chic

Fall looks are bringing back a bit of edgy glam with the Rocker Chic look.  Leather, motorcycle and bomber jackets, and metallic accents all hit the fall runways, and hopefully, your wardrobe.  If you haven’t already tried this look, I’ve put together a quick how-to with some pieces below!

Start with this adorable racerback Sphinx dress from ModCloth:

I took this dress and glammed it up with a black leather (or faux leather if you prefer) motorcycle jacket, some black tights, a pair of Nine West ankle boots, and some subtle silver jewelry for a look that is not only Rocker Chic, but just plain hot.  You will be stopping cars and motorcycles alike in this outfit, and I guarantee that you will have no trouble getting a cab!

Have you tried any rocker chic looks for fall?  If you have a picture, email it to me and I will post it here!

Global Bazaar – My International Wish List

So I’m sure it comes as no surprise that I like to shop. On the internet, even. Imagine that.  I inevitably happen upon some amazingly awesome product that I am ready to add to my cart and buy right then and there.  But then, it happens.  I realize I’m on some international site, and they don’t ship to the US.

Groan.

So, seeing as how I can’t actually buy these products, I thought I would do a post to share two of the items that happened to catch my eye today.  Please, feel free to drool over them with me – maybe that will make me feel a little bit better.  So, without further ado, here are some things that I love that I JUST CAN’T HAVE.

I’m in love with this adorable makeup bag that says, “jamais sans mon blush!” – or for those of you who are the non-francophilic types (yes, I just made up francophilic.  It’s a word now.) – “never without my blush!”.  This adorable little treasure is from Petite Mendigote – I swear, I could purchase almost the entire collection.

A Bento is a Japanese lunch to-go.  A Bento box — well, it’s the box that your Bento comes in.  I feel like we already know of this concept … don’t we have those things called “lunchboxes”?  Right.  Anyway, these are two Bento boxes – and all I can think is that if I had an office to go to and bring my lunch, well, I’d want to bring my lunch in these babies.  How chic are they!?  From Mon Bento – sadly – they are keeping them all to themselves.  Forget international shipping.  Drool.  (This is where I take a moment and remind myself that I don’t, in fact, work in an office.  Therefore, I would have absolutely no use for these.  But oh, how I want them!)

I’m sure this is only part 1 of this list, I’ll be sure to share more awesome finds with you as I, well, find them.

First Look: The Fashion Of SATC 2

Sex and the City fans and fashionistas the world over are buzzing over the first look at Sarah Jessica Parker on the set of SATC 2.  Patricia Fields is up to her old tricks, and I’ve gotta say, she’s really rockin’ it. SJP stepped out onto the streets of Manhattan looking stunning in a 3/4 length sleeve white Halston Heritage dress.  It was glammed up with gold mirrored aviators, a gold  Chanel clutch (drool), and the most incredible Christian Louboutin “Pigalle” pumps.

I have to say that while I always admire what Patricia Fields has done with Carrie’s many “looks”, sometimes they are far too complicated or far-fetched for me.  I think this look is simply stunning, and would wear it in a heartbeat.  (That is, assuming I could even dream of affording $3,000 shoes to begin with.)

Check out the clip below, via popsugar.tv.  Warning:  watching this will absolutely make you want to “squee”. 

Hollywood Intuition

Celebrities and smart Hollywood types know that Intuition is the place to shop to find the most up to date trends and styles.  Jaye Hersh, the founder and owner of this little gem, has released a collaboration with Target called Hollywood Intuition so that you can steal designer style for much, much less.  I was there recently and snatched up this awesome Purple Tote which I have since discovered works perfectly as an airplane carry-on or large purse.  It fits my MacBook and power cord with ease, with plenty of room left in the other pockets for a sweater, pair of flats, and my ID/wallet/phone.  It comes in green, black, and purple, but I think purple is one of the hottest colors you can buy, so go grab it while you can! (PS – it’s a total steal at only $29.99!)

Some Affordable “Choos”

Label snobs unite!  For those of us who have always dreamed of owning a pair of “Choos” but couldn’t stomach the high price-tag – our day has finally come!  Jimmy Choo has partnered with H&M to launch a line of shoes, bags, and accessories for both men and women on November 14th.  The collaboration of the famous British accessories brand with H&M has also inspired a women’s clothing line that will be specifically designed to compliment the accessories.  That’s how I like to shop — find the best shoes and accessories first, then create an outfit around them!

The collection will only be featured in 250 of H&M’s stores worldwide, but chances are that you’ll be able to snag some Choo swag at an H&M near you.  Can’t wait until the fall to see this much-anticipated collection?  I’ve got a sneak peek for you below!

Rain Couture

If in the past I’ve failed to mention it, it’s time I spilled the beans.  I’m obsessed.  Yes, I have a very, very, very unhealthy obsession.  Be it night or day, I dream constanly about the day that I can wrap my hands around my very own Chanel bag.  It’s my own personal obsession, my own personal goal.  To save up enough money to one day buy my sweet, sweet Chanel bag…wow.  My friend and fellow fashionista Audrey and I were discussing how she fulfilled her designer dreams on her 30th birthday with her very own Louis Vuitton bag.  I’m 26 now — I’m thinking maybe, just maybe, I can put some money aside starting now and make that my goal as well. 

Of course, I’d go to great lengths to protect that bag.  You don’t invest that kind of money in something and not treat it well!  So what about rainy days?  I live in Louisiana and in the summer it rains here, quite literally, almost every day.  It was then that I stumbled upon Rain Couture and it was the “ah ha!” moment I had been waiting for.  Now you no longer have to choose between your designer bag and your expensive blowout when you find yourself stuck in a sudden summer sprinkle! These awesome bags come in two sizes, and even allow you to stay fashionable while protecting your fashion investment.  It seems they are very popular — when I clicked the link to buy at the online store, it said they are completely sold out due to high demand – even with a fairly high price tag!  So what do you think?  Would you use a bag from Rain Couture?  Let me know in the comments – I’m curious to hear your thoughts!

My Top 5 Mother’s Day Picks

Every day is truly Mother’s Day right?  Each day I spend as a mommy is more rewarding than the last, and I’m sure that moms feel the same way across the board.  However, it seems there is this day coming up this weekend…something about Moms, a day, kids, and um…oh yeah!  PRESENTS!  Ha hah!  No matter what you think, presents are typically a part of a Mother’s Day Celebration.  Since I’m not hiding the fact that I kinda like presents, I give you my top 5 Mother’s Day Picks!

#5)  A LITTLE PAMPERING — I love to be pampered and I (clearly) have a penchant for beauty products.  If you want to give mom a little of the pampering treatment without sending her to an expensive salon or spa, try some of these at home options!  All of these can be purchased for a very reasonable price, and are sure to make mom swoon!  I love the Sephora Manicure Set, the Clairins Self-Tanning Kit, and the Tropical Jasmine Body product collection!

#4) ORGANIZATION — This January I got my very first momAgenda and I LOVE it.  I can’t even fully express the love that I feel for it, actually.  I was always one of those chicks who would buy day planners and organizers but they never quite seemed to “fit” me.  The momAgenda is perfect, and really fits my needs as a busy mom.  I truly use mine everyday, and it has seperate spaces to keep myself, my daughter, and the rest of my family organized.

#3) A DIGITAL SLR — I am a picture nut, freak, etc.  I took over 10,000 pictures in the first month of Little AG’s life alone.  I have had many point and shoots, and I am finally ready (desperate?) to upgrade to a digital SLR.  I asked around to some of my photography-saavy friends, and they recommended that I get the Nikon D40 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera ($415) or the Canon Digital Rebel Digital SLR Camera ($699.95) to start out with.  If you have a preference or have tried one of these, please let me know!

#2)  ALL THAT GLITTERS — Give mom a piece of jewelry, seriously, you know we like the stuff!  Generally, something that sparkles or is shiny will make us beam with happiness.  Ever thought about giving mom something in that “Little Blue Box“?

#1)  NINTENDO DS — I’m in love with this new Nintendo DS Lite Bundle, which was aptly released in Green for spring, just in time for Mother’s Day!  It comes with the most adorable carrying case and a copy of Personal Trainer: Cooking. And yes, I totally need a personal cooking coach.  Remember, I never claimed to be domestic.  The DS is great to slip in your purse and play if you’re sitting at a doctor’s office, standing in line at the store, etc. and would be a welcome distraction for any busy mom because it’s so easy just to spend a few minutes playing!  My #1 pick for a Mother’s Day Gift!

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