Sears Style: Fun, Fashionable, Fabulous

Last week was the much-anticipated BlogHer Conference in San Diego.  As I had mentioned in a previous post, I attended the Cheap Sally Party on Friday night as an ambassador for Sears Style.  We had such a blast all together at the party!  Even better – earlier that day I was able to take two of my girlfriends on a fun shopping trip to a local Sears where we shopped and shopped – almost until we dropped!

Well, at least until we had to switch to flats and not heels.  Ouch.

I will be the first to tell you that I was beyond pleased with the selection at Sears.  I literally had so many items that I wanted to try on that my arms were aching from carrying it all.  We had a mini fashion show in the dressing room – I’m sure the other customers were thoroughly confused – if there had been loud music blaring and lights flashing you would have sworn it was a runway show.

Oh also, not many other customers had a photographer following them around to document their shopping trip.  To make myself feel special, I like to think of it more as paparazzi.  Thanks, Sandy – you were a great paparazzo and a huge help to my ego.

I had no idea there were so many different clothing lines at Sears – Apostrophe, French Connection, Bongo, and now the Kardashian Collection, just to name a few.  I was like a kid in a candy store.

We hit the dressing rooms in a hurry – we had so many different looks to model!  In the span of about 10 minutes I suddenly felt like I was back in college, trying on clothes with my sorority sisters – flipping sizes over the door to share, giggling, and giving delicate, but honest feedback.

You know what I love most about the clothing at Sears?  It’s made for real women.  Like, y’all, I have curves.  We’re all ladies here so I can share – I’m a bit busty, and definitely have a small waist with, you know, HIPS.  Real women do.  Well, real women and Kim Kardashian.

Oh hey, she has a line at Sears, now!  Did you hear?

I love synergy.

One of the biggest compliments that I have been given lately was the one given to us by Jennifer — the Sears rep who was on the shopping trip with us.  She took one look at us in our new clothes and said “You guys look better than the models!”

And you know what?  I agree!  We ran the gamut of body types, but all three of us are built like REAL women and I loved that the clothing just fit us.  It is so nice to try on something for once that is not made for a sample size, but is made for a real woman.  Not only that, but was cut in a way that allowed me to wear a size medium, even with me being a bit busty.  The cuts all allowed for me to have a waist, hips, boobs, (ok, and maybe even a little leftover baby belly – 4 years later) but was still tailored in a classy way to fit the lines of my body.

I have no shame.  I’m in the store hamming it up for photos with a GIANT RED TAG and sensor hanging off of my dress.  Have no fear.  I bought it and wore it to the party later that night.

Ooooh, and check out my pretty shoes from the new Kardashian Collection.  I fell in love with them.  I had to have them.

They cost more than my dress.

They were worth every penny.

Of note, these shoes, like most heels, are not meant for superfluous amounts of standing.  These are “8 blockers”.  Meaning that after about 8 blocks, you’re done.  Plan accordingly.  After about 3 hours of standing in them, I switched to flats, though I did whip them back out for people to take photos of them a few times.  Because, and let’s be honest, those shoes are HOT.

What I don’t have a photo of is my fiance’ suggestively raising his eyebrow at me when he saw these shoes.  Trust me, he totally did.

All in all, partnering with Sears Style has been a match made in heaven.  We had the best time on the shopping trip together and I can’t thank the entire Sears team enough for such a great opportunity!  I hope that we had the opportunity to say hi that night at the party and that we had a chance to talk about the fact that I was dressed in head-to-toe Sears.

Leave me your thoughts – have you checked out Sears Style yet?  What are you waiting for!?

Disclosure:  This post was sponsored by Sears.  All opinions are 100% mine, and always will be.  That’s how I roll.

Summer Staple: The Wedge

Summer is almost upon us (woah – Spring, way to go flying by!) and I’m already embracing the sundress and summer sandals. One particular shoe will keep you looking sassy all summer long, even if you do pair it with something as simple as a cotton sundress. Of course, I’m talking about the ever-fabulous wedge.

This summer, opt for a fun metallic option that will really add a punch to the same simple dress that you usually throw on with flip flops.  Pair these babies with a white cropped pant and even the shortest gal will have legs that appear to go on for days.  Can you see why I sing the praises of the wedge?

I love these wedges from Børn, who uses cork and raffia as a natural foundation to shape some of summer’s most fashionable footwear.  All styles retail for $105, except for the “Crown Claudine” on the bottom right, which retails for $140.  I’m personally coveting the Børn Lote (shown here bottom left in gold) in bronze metallic or the Børn Amore (top left).

Do you wear wedges?  What is your favorite summer shoe?  Share with us in the comments!

Spring Trends: This Season’s Hottest Shoes

So way back in September, I fell in love. It was unexpected, sudden, and just swept me off my feet. The object of my affection? Tory Burch’s Spring 2011 line. It absolutely embodies the feeling of the season. The color, the 70s silhouettes, the shoes…oh, the shoes.

So, looking to find some of Spring’s hottest shoes?  Look no further – here are my top shoes trends inspired by this collection: metallic, rich browns, neutral, wedges and low-cut boot styles.

Red Hot Valentine’s Day Picks

Tis the season for the color of passion.  In celebration of Valentine’s Day, here are a few red-hot picks that are high on our list.  Disclaimer:  All items will make any man swoon, use in moderation.

1. Long Tall Sally’s Cap Sleeve Ponte Dress – $105

2. eyebobs’ “bamboozled” frames – $75

3. Spring Street’s “Gem Dandy” leather and crystal bracelet – $20

4. Clava’s “Wellie” market tote – $26

5. Børn’s “Cornflower” sandal – $95

6. Long Tall Sally’s leather belt – $25

7. Long Tall Sally’s satin pumps – $32

8. Harlequin by Panache’s “Polka” lingerie set – $82 for bra, $26 for brief

Tory Burch Private Sale

A Tory Burch Private Sale?  Heck, just a Tory Burch sale in general?  You know I’m in!

Tory Burch is having a private sale.  Don’t worry, I’m inviting you.  You have to hurry though, because this sale ends tonight (10/25/10) at 11:59 pm EST – so that means you don’t even have a full 24 hours to fill your cart with items like:

You know you want to.  Go, shop!   You can thank me later!

xoxo,

E

Christian Siriano Spring 2011: Runway Rundown

Christian Siriano rose to fame on Project Runway, but nowadays that’s quite easy to forget because it seems the designer has made his own name.  In his 5th season showcasing in the tents at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the ruffle-loving designer made quite a splash with buyers, fans, and celebs alike.

The show started with lots of white, accessorized with Siriano’s own line of shoes from Payless.  The looks were strong, very conscious of the female form, and quite often very romantic (I love the tulip hemline in the middle look, above.)  The collection was inspired by Africa, India, and China which was evident in the towering wooden cutout heels (and one rather suspicious brocade suit in a safari print).

I wasn’t feeling the leather looks, though the dress above isn’t as painful as I suppose it could be.  The shorts on the right however are definitely a miss.  The prints that Siriano paired with these looks however, was exquisite.

Siriano really shines when it comes to his breathtaking and unwaveringly feminine gowns.  I can only imagine that when the gown on the left hit the runway, there was lots of all-around sighing and about a bazillion flashbulbs going off.  I love that he paired a metallic faux-croc skin print with a soft, billowy cascade of ruffles.  If I were a Disney Princess, that’s the dress I’d request.  Also of mention, the fabulous print mentioned above fashioned into a full-on gown.  Hello, awards season!

Of course, I couldn’t leave out a photo of the showpiece in all of it’s overwhelming ruffled glory.  Way too much in my book, and destined to never be worn beyond the runway, but certainly dramatic and oddly satisfying.

So what do you think?  Siriano – over the top or can’t live without?  For me, I think it’s a little of both.

Transition Your Wardrobe From Summer to Fall: 5 Key Pieces

Fall is here! Or so they tell us….but for many of us, as much as we want the weather to match all the cute Fall clothes, sometimes it just doesn’t. So what’s a stylish girl to do? Turn to transition pieces. These items are buy now/wear now, but also go into the cooler temps seamlessly. Need some ideas?  Don’t worry, I’ve got ya covered!

SCARVES.

Wear now: Throw this scarf on over a basic tank or easy v-neck tee in neutrals like grey or white paired back to easy summer shorts. Gladiators or flip flops work if they are still weather-relevant but if you’re really yearning for Fall, oxfords can finish up this outfit well.

Wear later: A cozy black tee worn back to jeans is a great canvas for this scarf. Tie it on, and add a coat or blazer in a cheery color like red to make it really pop! And of course, boot it up: over-the-knee, riding, heeled, or booties…a wardrobe of fab boots is always on trend.

TUNICS.

Wear now: This one’s easy.  Show off those legs before that golden tan fades! Throw on a tunic (keep in mind it needs to be long enough to be pulled off as a dress/mini-dress) with your favorite pair of flat sandals for day. At night, you can shake things up by wearing a heeled sandal or wedge. The key here is a rich color palette that says Fall, but in a fabric that still says “it’s 80 degrees out!”.

Wear later: Leggings, uber-skinny pants, and skinny jeans all work under a tunic to bring it into Fall. This look can work not only back to that wardrobe of boots, but you can keep it simple with easy flats in a coordinating color.

THE LEGGING JEAN.

So if you’re a fan of the “jegging”, go ahead and wear ‘em.  But I personally am IN LOVE with the legging jean (“lean”?) from Gap. They are super skinny, made with lots of stretch and have functioning zipper/button closure. They offer a feeling of more coverage than their predecessors we all became familiar with this Spring.

Wear now: Another easy one-back to your favorite tees and tanks, and even under lightweight sweaters. We all still love a good open cardi, so don’t feel like you have to smother under a chunky knit. Menswear inspired shirts look great for a cool, casual look and you can always wear a sexy silk blouse with heels and skinnies.

Wear later: With…everything! Under the long, oversized oh-so-cozy knits that are hitting the racks; in a classic prepster way with a button down layered under a cashmere v-neck (and pearl earrings, of course!); or go for chic and simple layers like a fitted tee under a boyfriend blazer-accessorize with a fun scarf or pile on some fun necklaces.

JUMPERS.

Wear now: Pull on a simply tailored jumper and go. Wear it with pumps for work, booties for a night out, or boots to make it casual. Accessories are your opportunity to make this look truly “yours”-a statement necklace can instantly make this bold, edgy, or fun; a belt can draw attention to a feminine shape (only belt softer fabrics, ie not leather Vince one pictured); and a cardi makes it appropriate for work.

Wear later: It’s all about layers. A crisp poplin works under a jumper for a classic pulled-together look. A thin turtleneck provides both function and fashion-this is also a great way to bring a little attitude to your look, by choosing one in a fun color. Cardis and blazers of course, look chic over a jumper-just make sure the fabrics work well back to each other.

If you’re feeling creative, find a sweater that hits just below the natural waist and fake a sweater-and-skirt look. Textured tights always work back to a Fall dress and make it a little bit funky. Boots are a must, but if you want to go a little dressier add a fun lace-up bootie.

CLOGS.

Wear now: If you’re sick of your galdiators or perhaps have worn them out, update your look with an open toe clog! These look great with shorts, dresses, skirts, and your skinnies. To convey the Fall look best, I would suggest them with skinny crops that hit just at the ankle. You’ll show off the cute buckle on the side and get just a few more uses out of those pants before you flip your closet. Leggings are also an easy basis for a cute pair of clogs. Oversized men’s shirt, black leggings, fun clogs-boom! Fall fashionista.

Wear later: This look may not be for everyone, but I LOVE socks or tights with clogs. The key is to keep the hosiery in a Fall weight and color. Charcoal, navy or black socks (to-the-knee is cute, but regular work too) are best while opaque or thicker, textured (think cable-knit) tights are just right. This look can be pulled off best with skirts, but we are seeing a huge trend of shorts for Fall this year so go ahead, be brave and try it!

Fall Fashion Trends: Military Inspired

A Ten- HUT! Sound the trumpets- military is back!  Fashion does indeed repeat itself.  During my past couple of trips to the mall, I could not help but notice that from wall-to-wall, the army was sweeping into fall fashion. I was at first, slightly disconcerted; the thing that comes to mind when I think of army is camouflage, which certainly is not my thing. Fortunately, I came to find that army and camouflage are not one in the same!

Almost every major retail store is joining the trend, selling plenty of military-inspired pieces that are suitable for all ages and styles.

Mackage ‘Diana’ Military Inspired Wool Blend Coat

Mackage certainly puts a posh spin on the standard idea of “military”. This classy wool jacket has a standout collar, and flared cuffs. Whether worn over jeans or a suit, it is sure to make a statement, and is ideal for those chilly days ahead.

Military Strapless Dress**Love

This casual dress is the epitome of the trend- super simple but still marvelously stylish. All that would be needed to complete the look is some layers of Bengal bracelets and ankle boots.

A Ten-Hut Military Jacket

And the essential staple piece of fall is undoubtedly the jacket, or in this case, the military jacket. Always known for selling trendy items at affordable prices, Forever 21 also caught on to the trend. This jacket is under $30

Michael Kors “Joplin” Buckled Military Boots

Combat boots are as military as it gets. To wear boots like this is a bold statement sure to turn heads and show off that “tough-girl” image.

Alexander McQueen Military Lace-Up Faithful Bootie

For those a little hesitant to strut in combat boots, there is a softer alternative. The late and legendary genius Alexander McQueen knew just how to intertwine lady and soldier. These peep-toed stilettos are absolutely to-die-for. Who wouldn’t feel like a supermodel in these six-inch-high sensations?

There you have it- military-inspired looks that are completely absent of camouflage. All of those pieces are only a sliver of what’s out there, so there is no excuse not to leap enthusiastically onto the bandwagon, especially after seeing that exquisite pair of Alexander McQueens.

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.

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. 

Online Sample Sales: BCBGeneration, Mikael Aghal, lola, Betseyville

Awesome sales today at ideeli – an invitation-only shopping community – here’s your personal invitation to ideeli!  Check out some of my favorites!  (I bought the flats and the cardigan!)

BCBGeneration Darnell Flat – $69 now $36

Mikael Aghal drape crew neck dress – $308 now $99

lola tie front long cardigan – $118 now $49

Betseyville by Betsey Johnson Sweetheart Weekender – $138 now $65

Update Your Winter Wardrobe (AKA – Look Christy, You’re Internet Famous!)

I have awesome friends.  I’m not sure why, but they keep coming back for more.  They put up with my fickle phone skills and know-it-all personality for reasons I have yet to determine.  Of course, this makes them all the more awesome.  When my longtime friend Christy told me at brunch the other day that she was going shopping to update her wardrobe for the cool winter season, my ears perked up.  Ok, it was more like OMG CAN YOU PLEASE TAKE PICTURES FOR ME SO THAT I CAN WRITE ABOUT THAT?!  Because honestly, who doesn’t want to update their wardrobe for each season?  I know I do.  Also on the honest front?  Who is really prepared to drop thousands of dollars to do it each time?  Right.

Christy (who is a Junior Mass Comm major at Louisiana State University) updated her current look with just a few additional pieces that she found at Forever 21 and Target.  She did the entire thing for under $300.  Check out her new looks.

Black long sleeve shirt with ruffles–Forever 21–$19.80
Red skirt with Black belt–Forever 21–$10.50

Tights–Target–$5.00
I think Christy hit it out of the park with this look.  She paired the shirt, skirt, and tights with a pair of Chinese Laundry Black Boots that she already owned.  The boots cost her $110 when they were new, but she has now worn them two winter seasons in a row.  That, my friends, is called an investment.

My friend the little lumberjack.  Isn’t she adorable?  In all seriousness, plaid is back.  I’m not sure how I feel about it, but it’s back, it’s a fact, so Christy is keeping it real and fashionable with this look.

Flannel shirt–Forever 21–$19.80
Blue Skinny Jeans–Urban Outfitters–$35 on sale
Tan Boots–Charlotte Russe–$41

Rawr! Again, Christy is rocking the skirt with tights and her Chinese Laundry boots, but this is a totally different look (great for nights when she has a lot of partying studying to do!).

Plain black long sleeve shirt–Target–$9.00
Zebra skirt–Target–$16.99
Tights–Target–$5.00
Headband–Target–$9.99
Bangles–Forever 21–$4.99 for a 3-pk

This is one of my favorite looks on Christy – love the green sweater with her complexion, and I love that she went with brown boots instead of black.

Green and Grey sweater–Forever 21–$13.50
Grey Cami underneath–Target–$8.99
Blue Skinny Jeans–same as above from Urban Outfitters
Tan Boots–same as above from Charlotte Russe

Her last look is all about the coat, which I think is great since so many people will see your coat long before they see anything underneath it.  She let her coat do the talking, and paired it with all-black underneath.  My only suggestion for this outfit would be to consider cinching the waistline with a skinny belt to pull it all together.  Since the coat isn’t uber-fitted, it would help to give her more shape.  She paired this coat with the same black long sleeve shirt from Target, and Chinese Laundry Boots.

A-line Black and White Coat–Forever 21–$44.50

Black skinny jeans/feel like tights–Forever 21–$24.80

* * *

There ya have it – some really inexpensive ways to put together a few new looks, with a huge thank you to my friend Christy, who never ceases to provide me with entertainment (and friendship, I might add).

Want to be featured on Chic Shopper Chick?  Send me some pictures of your favorite looks and I will do my best to post them!

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.

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