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.

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!

Copenhagen Fashion Week Trend Alert: Nude Colors

Last week, fashion week hit Copenhagen. Hundreds of designers put forth their best as models hit the runway, awing onlookers and inspiring Scandinavians for Spring/Summer 2011. Americans, being in the most diverse cultural center of the earth, can certainly also draw from the designers from across the ocean. Fashion is, after all, an international language of expression.

Almost every designer had ensembles that were nude colored. The trend seemed to be the biggest among them all. Within the nude variety, there were outfits that channeled Indiana Jones with safari-themed ensembles, and feminine chic pieces.

1.  Safari in Nude.

Ivan Grundahl used a scarf to add flare and two belts to accentuate the model’s feminine shape. These two touches made all the difference, transforming simple to runway-ready.

For Margit Brandt it takes bold jewelry and a standout pair of shoes complete with a matching belt. Although they are the two smallest pieces of the outfit, the green bracelets act as bold accents, proving that one standout piece of jewelry can in fact complete an entire ensemble.

By Malene Birger proves that when you have a lovely beaded jacket over a pale pink cami, less is more. No jewels or belts were necessary here.

BZR nails it by ingeniously layering shorts over a trench.

2.  Super Chic In Nude.

As the name suggests, American Retro brings back America’s good old days with this dress. No jewelry was necessary, for it would have created a distraction from the cut-out detail of the neckline. However, the boyfriend jacket adds edge without neutralizing the femininity of this delightful dress.

Bruuns Bazaar created this absolutely adorable piece, which was perfect as is. Don’t you just love the lace and ruffles?

Jesper Høvring created a dress fit for royalty. Detailed roses cover it from top to bottom, while a long ribbon hugs the right above the waistline to flatter any shape.

I say that this trend is a definite keeper, and for that, I’m already anticipating spring fashion.

Those few looks were merely a small bite out of the hundreds of pieces from many designers, which you can find on Copenhagen Fashion Week’s official website

The Emmys 2010 Best & Worst Dressed

The Emmys have come and gone, and all that we have left are lingering images of glittering gowns – some that were a hit and some that were clearly a miss.  Well, that and that incredible Glee-inspired opening number, but I digress.  We’re here to break down the evening’s best and worst with our own little game of hot or not.  Are you ready?

Claire Danes shimmered in Armani Prive – she was absolutely stunning.  She did confess to one reporter on the red carpet that her dress was “not comfortable” but who cares how it feels when it looks that good.  Verdict? HOT.

Glenn Close was nominated for Best Drama Actress but should also at least be nominated for Best Dressed. Close knocked it out of the park in this steel colored Rubin Singer gown. The dress was incredibly intriguing with diagonal seams and beading, but not at all overdone.  Verdict? HOT.

Lauren Graham hit the red carpet in a Yigal Azrouel dress that looked like it was thrown together last night.  Perhaps the most unflattering look of the night, I take solace in knowing that Graham’s comedic acting skills make up for misguided fashion choice.  Verdict? NOT.

Christina Hendricks shows off her sexy curves in a dainty Zac Posen gown, and perhaps goes a little too far in an attempt to accentuate her “assets”.  In the end, I think the Man Men star looks better in well defined lines and most definitely in a different hue than this lavender, which for me just fails to do much against her creamy skin.  Verdict? NOT.

Sophia Vergara is simply stunning in a pale yellow, strapless Carolina Herrera gown with delicate sweetheart neckline.  Fans of Suave beauty products chose Vergara’s hairstyle for the evening, and I think they did a tremendous job!  Verdict? HOT.

Julie Benz sizzled in this white hot, one-shoulder Pamella Roland gown.  A statement necklace and bracelets glam up the dress, while her straight ponytail polishes the look to perfection.  Verdict? HOT.

Mindy Kaling usually stars in “The Office” but tonight she looked like she was starring in a new reality show called “My Big Fat Goth Prom”.  This dress was overdone, from top to bottom.  This is what we call a “big” mess.  Verdict? NOT.

Eva Longoria rarely has a red carpet faux pas, and tonight was no exception.  Longoria wowed in a Robert Rodriguez gown with a short train.  I loved the rosettes that covered her skirt – something I think we’ll see more of this fall.  Verdict? HOT.

Nina Dobrev was a vision in this cream-colored Zuhair Murad gown.  While other fashionistas in-the-know seem to disagree, I thought this look was a fantastic choice for Dobrev’s first Emmy ceremony.  Verdict? HOT.

Lea Michele nails it in a navy blue Oscar de la Renta gown that includes a ruffled mermaid hemline.  The Glee star was by far one of the evening’s standouts – what a way to start off awards season!  Verdict? HOT.

Kim Kardashian just may have been the evening’s scene stealer.  Her Grecian-inspired Marchesa gown was classy and delicate and was perfectly accessorized with Lorraine Schwartz bracelets.  In my book she competes with Claire Danes for the evening’s best dressed.   Verdict? HOT.

Fall Fashion: Fun, Fresh, and Affordable

One of my biggest goals for this site is to find ways to make stylish clothing and staying on-trend available to every woman – no matter what her budget looks like.  With that, check out the looks below.  Most of the pieces are below $50 and all of them are extremely on-trend.  I think you’ll like what you see.

I love the military coats, the skinny cargo pants, the lace pattern inspirations, the rocker chic bomber jacket, the jeggings and boyfriend jeans – every fall trend is present.  So, where can you find these pieces to update your fall wardrobe?  Kmart.  Yes, you read that correctly.  This fall, Kmart is stepping up to the plate and offering fashionable, on-trend solutions for every woman, even if she is on a budget.  As a matter of fact, Kmart has been quietly reinventing itself on the design side of things for a few years now, and this season’s fall collection is hard and fast proof.

I had the opportunity to see the line in person in New York City a few weeks ago and I was incredibly impressed.  The stitching was impeccable, jackets and coats were fully lined, and there was incredible attention to detail in each piece.   You will not be disappointed in the quality of this line – I’m willing to vouch for it.

So, for the fashionista’s out there – check out Kmart’s Fall line to help update your wardrobe with some affordable pieces.  You can also enter to win one of 8 shopping sprees at Kmart Design – which would be a cool way to check it out without spending a dime!

What do you think of Kmart’s Fall line?  See anything that you love?

Christina Hendricks: The New Face Of London Fog

Christina Hendricks is on a roll. The Mad Men star was recently named the “best looking woman in America” by Esquire magazine, and is quietly taking over magazine covers and newsstands with her fiery hair and womanly curves. Her latest gig has her starring in a fall ad campaign for London Fog, and as usual, she looks incredible. For the first time in 10 years, London Fog seems sexy to me again.

The multi-media marketing campaign will debut in October issues of fashion and lifestyle magazines such as Elle, Cosmopolitan and InStyle, outdoor and online.  When asked about the brand, Hendricks said “London Fog is a classic brand, which I love.  It also ties in to Mad Men, we used London Fog in the show and this was a nice way to tie everything together.  The trench is such an iconic shape for men and women.  It works for anyone – it worked in the 1960s and it works now.”

I personally think that Hendricks looks incredible in these shots, but what do you think of the final images? Do you like the new campaign?

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.

Wisk: Helping Moms Fight Stains For Decades

Darling readers — You are about to embark on a sponsored post. However, the opinions and thoughts expressed here are completely my own.  The great writing writing and remarkable wit bad jokes are also mine. You can find more information by reading my disclosure policy.

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I spend a lot of time here on Chic Shopper Chick talking about fashion, clothing, shopping, and style.  Fashion has been something that has held my interest for a long time, and this blog has naturally progressed in the direction of giving fashion tips, tricks, and suggestions.  However, it recently occurred to me that for all of the time I spend talking about BUYING clothes, I don’t spend a lot of time, if any, talking about the challenges of caring for your clothing after the initial purchase.

Let’s face it, in an ideal world I would be able to just ditch my dirty clothes to buy brand new ones.  Seeing as how I’ve chosen writing as a career path, I’m quite sure that won’t be happening any time soon.  Clothing is an investment, and I count on being able to wear each piece at least ten times, possibly as many as thirty or forty if it’s a staple item.   That means that after the first wear, I have to figure out a way to care for my clothes in such a way that keeps them looking new while lifting stains and odors from the fabric.  A peek into my closet proves that I’ve somewhat mastered the process (though I still have the occasional casualty):

Of course, becoming a mom flipped my perception yet again because my daughter is hard on her clothing.  She loves to play in the mud puddles that appear after a rainstorm, roll around in the grass, and finger paint.  She steals pieces of chocolate from what I thought was my hidden stash, and wipes her chocolate-covered hands  all over her dress.  Sometimes we have upwards of three clothing changes a day, and my washing machine can be heard swishing away at all hours of the day and night.

This month, Wisk is rising to the challenge of parents everywhere when they release a new laundry detergent with their innovative Stain Spectrum™ Technology, which will combat a full range of stains from proteins to oils.  Check out the teaser commercial below (and the sexy new red bottle!):

Of course, Wisk isn’t new to the stain-game – they’ve been helping moms tackle stains since the 1970′s.  While a lot has changed since the 70′s, the day-to-day laundry challenges that we face remains eerily similar.  I’m sure that, back then, there was more than one mom who had a daughter that splashed in every mud puddle she could find, slid into first base, and expressed her love for art by getting more paint on her clothing than on the paper.  Of course, Wisk has come a long way as well – they started out tackling those stubborn collar rings,  and are now ready to help parents tackle even bigger jobs.  For a giggle, check out Wisk’s classic “Ring Around The Collar” commercial:

I haven’t gotten my hands on the new Wisk with Stain Spectrum™ Technology, but I’m hoping to test it out very soon.  I’ll keep you updated on my continuing education, but in the meantime keep your eyes peeled for that bright red bottle – you can’t miss it!

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.

Celebration for a Cause – Mamas4Mamas Birthday Tweetup

I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up with the most incredible powder white sand beaches and clear water just hours away from my doorstep in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.  One of my family’s favorite destinations for years, I had the opportunity to visit Orange Beach again this past June with my family.  The experience was an incredible one, but one that left me full of determination to do my part to help this oil spill affected area along the gulf coast.  The reality and the gravity of the situation really sank in as I watched the waves crash onshore from our balcony, and realized that it could be years before tourism was back to normal.

So, to do my part, I’m hitting the road headed to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach next Friday, August 20th (my 28th birthday!) to party it up in style with two friends who will also be celebrating their birthdays on that day – Shannon of TravelingMamas.com (@Cajun_Mama) and Jay of BiteandBooze.com (@biteandbooze) – to raise money for charity.  We’re hosting a tweetup in honor of ourselves – but it’s really just an excuse to raise money for this amazing tourist destination that has been hit hard by the oil spill.

So why am I telling you all of this?

I want you to come with us!  It’s not a party without you there! We have a great, family-oriented weekend planned that will show you the best that the Gulf Coast has to offer, all administered with a hefty dose of Southern Hospitality.  Think of how much fun it would be to pull your family and friends together for the weekend and spend some time on the beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.  The food and shopping there are to die for, and for the record the swimming advisory has been lifted from the beaches in this region – the oil spill is capped and the water has been deemed safe.  Check out the awesome hotel packages that the area has put together just for this weekend – some that include free nights at the Gulf Shores Deals page.  We have planned activities the entire weekend of August 20-22, but feel free to come for one night or 7 nights – the choice is yours.

They say a photo is worth a thousand words – so here are 8,000 “words” from our trip in June to show you what an amazing time you’re in for!

If you can’t stay the weekend, we’d still love to have you attend the tweetup at Live Bait at the Wharf on Friday night.  Tickets are $5 but every cent will go to local charity Share the Beach who’s mission is to protect the endangered mama sea turtles during nesting season along the Alabama beaches (part of which is a national wildlife refuge).  The oil in the water has taken it’s toll on the nesting habits of the sea turtle, and so the money from this event will go towards making sure that they are able to continue to nest and reproduce.  Of course, since the three of us are from Louisiana, an area that is also affected by the spill, a portion of the proceeds will also go towards a Louisiana-based charity that we are in the process of selecting.  The tweetup will be from 5:30 – 8:00 pm on August 20th and we will be giving out lots of door prizes and even a few free vacations – so please come join us for a celebration for a cause!

Even if you can’t join us on the 20th, we would love for you to consider making a donation.  You can still purchase a ticket for $5 or you can opt to donate more.  Remember, every cent of your money will go to two very worthy causes.  There is an option on the ticket purchase page for donations only, and we would really appreciate your support of the area.

For more information you can check out the Mamas4Mamas official page, or tweet at us with the hashtag #Mamas4Mamas.

Hope to see you there!

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.

Project Runway’s Althea Harper Steps It Up

Project Runway’s Season 6 standout Althea Harper has not faded into the silence as some of the show’s previous designers have done but instead has worked steadily – building a business and a following among celebrities, a-listers, and fashionistas alike.  Adding yet another notch to her belt, both Kourtney and Kim Kardashian have taken a liking to the New York based designer – with Kim donning a dress from Harper’s Fall 2010 Collection for the Season 5 promo shoot of “Keeping Up With The Kardashians”.

The sleek lines and mesh cut outs of the dress worn by Kardashian were inspired by both the Futurism movement that originated in Italy during the early 20th century and the female form.  Harper’s designs seamlessly incorporate both draping and tailoring, and have garnered lots of attention in the fashion industry for so beautifully enhancing the female figure.

I had the opportunity to meet Harper during the run of Project Runway’s 6th season, and I immediately found her kind and generous nature to be incredibly refreshing – especially in an industry that is so often overrun with elitism and entitlement.  Harper continues to design in a very distinct style, as the self-designed dress that she was wearing when I met her also incorporated incredible lines and mesh cutouts, much like the one seen on Kim above.

I’m thrilled to see Harper finding so much success and continuing to follow her passion beyond Project Runway and I’m eager to see the debut of her 2011 S/S collection next month.

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.

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