Getting Comfortable with Hanes In New York City

During all the craziness that is BlogHer, Hanes took the time to throw a little party for the Comfort Crew and our friends, which I truly appreciated.  Anytime I can take a break from a hectic conference schedule to have a Comfortini and a foot and hand massage sounds good to me – because anytime I’m hanging out with my friends at Hanes I know it’s all about comfort.  Heck, I even took a break from my heels-only wardrobe and wore flip flops with my summer dress – they don’t call us the Comfort Crew for nothin’!

I was so glad that my guests Shannon from Traveling Mamas, Stefanie from Mommy Musings, and Debba from Girlfriendology could join me at this fun event!  Michael Moloney of ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition was on hand to teach us how to reorganize our sock and underwear drawers (seriously, when is the last time that you did that?  It’s time!) and also to show us just how quickly it could be done.  Celebrity stylist Jenn Falik went back-to-basics and showed us how to create some super-stylish outfits using the awesome new Hanes bras (bandeau?  one shoulder?  both straps?  one bra does it all!) and by layering items like the tanks and tees – great ideas for fall! 

It was so great to relax, hang out with my fellow Comfort Crew members, and sip a Comfortini.  I loved learning about all of the new Hanes products in person (I swear that the ComfortFlex Fit Bandini bra is my new BFF – sorry dad for the TMI) and loved feeling like I’m a continued part of Hanes’ social media efforts.  I have learned so much about the brand over the last 7 months, and I am incredibly proud of everything that the brand stands for (green initiatives, support of Susan G. Komen, committment to it’s customers) both online and off.  If you take a minute to watch the video below, you’ll hear me say that I believe Social Media is really important because it’s how people nowadays communicate and relate – and that Hanes is doing an amazing job.  I mean that 100% – Hanes is a standout in this space.

Thanks so much to Hanes and everyone who played a part in hosting such a wonderful, relaxing event in NYC!  Check out Shannon’s post about the Hanes event on Traveling Mamas – including 10 travel tips for packing for comfort!

Madonna’s Material Girl Line for Macy’s

In case you haven’t heard, Madonna is capitalizing on her material girl ways, joining the long list of singers and actresses who lend their names and fashion smarts to clothing lines. To be completely honest, when I hear that a celebrity has decided to make a fashion line, I roll my eyes. Madonna predictably named her line “Material Girls”, which can be found exclusively at Macy’s, and I must admit that my expectations were, well, minimal. Nevertheless, I looked online, and was pleasantly surprised to find that some of her line’s pieces will contribute to autumn’s attire rather well.

Unfortunately, looking at the pieces online and in-store are two very different things. I’m glad I visited Macy’s before making any impulsive online purchases. A lot of the fabrics were very inexpensive, and I felt like the quality wasn’t as high as it should be. However, among the disappointment there still were some great pieces.

This leather jacket, which is about $80, is my beloved. Doesn’t it just force that melting, I-have-to-have-it feeling into your heart? I definitely hope to buy this piece for this fall. It is both leather and studded. I get giddy with uncontrollable excitement thinking about how great this would look against a neutral-colored minidress, or even with just jeans and a t-shirt. Unfortunately, I didn’t see it at Macy’s, and although that perhaps is a sign that it’s so amazing that it’s sold-out, I’m on the lookout to find this jacket at every Macy’s I come across. Hopefully, it doesn’t disappoint.

The lace on this flannel shirt is another one of my favorites, as it adds a soft touch the “boyfriend” look which plaid entails. It comes in several other colors, and is, in general, a great piece for fall. I also am obsessed with the studded purse. Small crossbody bags have been everywhere lately, and I like Madonna’s studded version.

The striped crop top and studded fleece sweater were also great, and certainly a tribute to the 80’s, where Madonna first made her stamp in the world of pop. Cropped tops and studs are both also very in-style this fall, and these are two cute and casual pieces. They would look especially fashionable with high-wasted shorts over leggings, which is also a major trend.

There are adorable parts of her line, but all-in-all, I’d recommend checking out the clothes in person before you buy – not everything felt high-quality and durable. Fortunately, there are a couple of stellar items that I am actually very impressed with, and will certainly be great for the fall.

Simone Camille Bags: As Worn by Nicole Richie and Miley Cyrus

Simone Harouche is the responsible for the metamorphosis of Christina Aguilera from teenage vixen to classy pin up girl, the controversial change in Miley Cyrus’ fashion in these past couple of years, and Nicole Richie’s bohemian chic style. Lately, she’s also been dabbling in a little designing. Her colorful and standout bags have been seen on some of her famous clients.

You also can indulge in the stars’ look, and it will only set you back by $280-$1860, depending on the bag.  Ok, I was kidding when I said only that much. But, you must admit, these purses are one-of-a-kind, colorful, and by the looks of it, easy to hold while taking care of your tots or walking your dog.

To join the all-star club of Simone Camille bag-holders, visit Simone Harouche’s website.

Fall Fashion Trends: Studs and Spikes

The winds of my favorite fashion season are beginning to stir. With layers, scarves, bold colors, extra accessories, fall is always about standing out. One of my favorite trends that has been lingering through summer and is sure to make a statement throughout these next few months of fall and winter is studs.

I believe that the perfect outfit will draw a little bit of inspiration from different genres of fashion. A pinch of classic or vintage, something bold and unique, etc. Studs are certainly influenced by the punk movement, but when worn properly, can compliment any look beautifully.

Here are some of my favorite looks that will certainly be my inspiration for all the shopping I will doing these next few months.

Michael Kors’ Pyramid Studded Set is killer.

I envision that it would look phenomenal with a denim jacket, or a black coat and a colored scarf to add a pop of color.
Marc Jacobs Stardust Stam Python-Embossed Leather Studded Satchel

This is a statement accessory which is obviously to die for! I love this color- alluring, and certainly made to match autumn’s boldness.

Topshop tackles the trend, too.

For a studded bag that will take less of a chunk out of your bank account, this is from London/New York’s famous fashion boutique, Topshop, for only $70.

Betsey Johnson ‘Lu Lu’ Studded Bow Leopard Print Leather Hobo

Betsey Johnson is a genius when it comes to mixing feminine and edgy. All of her clothes embody girlie qualities, but have a dash of funkiness as well.

Louboutin Clou Noeud Spikes – Black

Louboutin has a cornucopia of studded shoes. Loafers, pumps, peep-toed, closed-toed- and each made my mouth water. This particular design is my favorite. It’s edgy, but still sophisticated.

And voila! Maybe some of these can get your creative side going so that you can start the search and for some studded pieces this fall as you begin to trade those sun dresses for sweaters.

Military Inspired Totes by Clava

As I was scrolling through my email yesterday morning, these sexy, military-inspired totes caught my eye.  I stopped, and the sudden movement made boyfriend look over as well.   They must have caught his eye too, because suddenly he said “oh, those are cool.”  Completely unprovoked.

I knew I needed one.

Let’s be clear. I’m a handbag maven, but I’m insanely picky.  I’ve been carrying around nothing more than a wallet for 6 months because I can’t find a purse that I like.  This is serious business for me.  For me to instantaneously fall in love with a bag like this?  This is major.

As if the outside wasn’t enough of a selling point, our friends at Clava were nice enough to send me a photo of the inside of their tote.  Look at all of those fun pockets and compartments!  This would be amazing for all of the traveling that I do.

Military-inspired looks are hot again this fall – so these bags would give you a jump on the trend.  These Clava totes are available online and retail for $160.

Tory Burch Sale! 50% off Tory Burch Flats! Go! Go!

What a great way to celebrate a Friday and a long weekend!

Tory Burch is having a sale and well, I’m so excited that I almost feel like Tory herself has personally invited me to  rifle through her closet and pick out a few things that I like.  You already know I’m crazy about Tory.  I’ve been to her show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, and I wish Audrey’s feet didn’t grow so quickly or I’d have already bought a pair of the kid’s Revas for her!

This is a good sale, y’all.  We’re talking 50% off here.  50% off of my coveted (and no I still don’t have a pair dear readers) Tory Burch Reva.  Everything is on sale.  You can snatch up some gorgeous tunics (which she is oh-so-famous for!), some adorable accessories, and even a skirt or a dress (or two or three!).

Here are a few of my favorite items from the sale:

So what are you waiting for!  Run as fast as your computer will let you to the sale – who knows how much longer you have!  Oh, and if you don’t mind – grab me a pair of the Reva’s while you’re there?  I’m a 9.5. 

Our Favorite New Beauty and Fashion Lines for Summer

Greetings from the fabulous though rainy NYC! Two weeks ago, I attended Lara Spencer’s Product-n-Press Summertime Baby in Chelsea and had such a blast previewing new products that included everything from makeup, accessories, and clothing to petwear and a new line of espresso and iced coffee drinks. After totally agonizing over my favorites, I’ve come up with three that are essential to any Chic Shopper Chick—sexy (and slimming!) makeup, a vintage-inspired fashion line full of sophisticated and tailored looks for both day and night, and bold, edgy accessories.

Purple Labs NYC

One of the first tables I visited featured Karen Robinovitz’s Purple Lab NYC makeup line. Purple Lab bills itself as “a fresh, fun innovative brand all about double-duty beauty, a mix of science forward technology and a dose of chic glam into your,” and, let me tell you, their products do not disappoint! I was able to grab a sample of their featured “Huge Lips, Skinny Lips” lipgloss–a lip plumper that comes in a variety of fun and flirty shades that’s infused with orange peel extract (a natural metabolism enhancer) and hoodia (an all-natural plant extract that acts as an appetite-suppressant). And it’s paraben-free! The lip gloss goes on so smoothly and stays on, giving your lips that sexy, tingling sensation of a lip plumper and fantastic color. Plus, who can say no to a makeup that gives you an extra bit of support in getting ready for bikini season? Other fantastic products include “Cheek Implants,” a long-lasting cream blush that’s full of active ingredients that plumps up cheeks and “Lashionista Modelista,” a mascara with a hint of diamond dust. Purple Lab NYC products can be bought online or in-store at Kitson and Scoop.

Yeojin Bae

Yeojin Bae, an extremely talented fashion designer from Melbourne, Australia, was on hand to showcase several gorgeous summer pieces from her self-titled label. Sold in Barneys New York as well as other upscale stores and boutiques world-wide, her line combines detailed tailoring with feminine hues, producing chic daywear and seriously lust-worthy evening wear. The dress that caught my eye—and one that would totally turn every head on 5^th Avenue—was her Maggie Petal cocktail dress in Mint, which Bae expertly pairs with a skinny cantaloupe-colored belt in her summer 2010 lookbook. The color is refreshing, the flower detail is flawless, and the look overall is so unique a summer-y. Perfect for wedding season! For a more casual look that showcases Bae’s vintage inspiration, I absolutely loved her Ruby hand-beaded wrap dress in Sky Blue–also a part of her Summer 2010 collection.

Adha Zelma Jewelry

Created by two long-time best friends, Sheanan Bond and Cherise TrahanMiller, Adha Zelma jewelry is a handcrafted jewelry line that draws its inspiration from natural elements and possesses a distinctly spiritual aesthetic. These embellished tear-drop earrings and cascading necklaces adorned with one-of-a-kind beads, feathers, and stones can dress up any day outfit or add some spice to a simple LBD. A favorite of mine on display were the Sly earrings from the Rock & Bone collection. Described on their website as “4 strands of 24k gold-plated Czech beads accented with duck and goose feathers, bugle beads, onyx, abalone, citrine, howlite, goat teeth, and red chalcedony,” I would pair these earrings with a simple racerback tank, a pair of distressed jean shorts, and some studded gladiator sandals for a rocker-chic day look and a slinky black dress for an elegant but edgy going-out outfit. Adha Zelma jewelry can be bought online on their website or at ShopFlick, as well as in store at several boutiques in Brooklyn, NY.

Stylish Summer Outfits

I was on vacation with my family this past week, and before we left for dinner one night, my two sisters looked so stylish that I ran inside to grab my camera so that I could share it with you.  Both of them pulled off a perfect summer look that was unique and individual to each of them. 

Dawn chose a high-waisted black skirt paired with a blousy striped tank and a fun octopus necklace.

Danielle chose skinny jeans, a smart grey tank, and a bright blue cardigan and a playful scarf in colorful beach tones.

Both of them looked uber chic, but I loved that they had chosen two completely different looks.

What’s your ideal summer look?  Have you created an outfit that you are especially proud of? Send it to us and you just might see yourself gracing the pages of Chic Shopper Chick!

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.

Next Page »