Chic Shopper Chick

Alice in Wonderland {Spring Inspiration}

Jennifer — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:30:20 +0000

There’s something about the story of Alice in Wonderland that we all seem to relate to and love. The new Tim Burton movie looks amazing. I am very much looking forward to seeing his edgy interpretation on the children’s classic, but more excited to see the costumes. I mean come on…I’m all about the clothes! The promotion photos are so whimsical and the colors are amazing. It’s hard not to create a look inspired by this movie. Below are a few of my “Wonderland” choices. Shall we head down the rabbit hole?

Since becoming a mom I tend to wear a lot more flats than I ever did before. There are so many cute, edgy & fun flats it’s hard not to fall in love. These Lanvin ballerina flats {$580} have just the right amount of pom-pom embellishment to offer a feminine accent. Besides the fact that these are the most comfortable flats you will ever own, I know since I own a few pairs, they are something you could see Alice in, running around Wonderland!

Check out Diesel’s Tye Dye Printed Over-Body handbag {$77} for spring. It’s not too big and not too small…wait that sounds like another children’s classic! The colors are amazing and will be a perfect accent to your spring wardrobe.

ASOS’ Voile Bubble Hem Dress {$59} is perfect for you next wedding or high tea. You will be sure to impress at your next event. This dress is the perfect mix of whimsical and classy at the same time.

Looking for a fun, colorful print dress, then try Diane von Furstenberg’s Beach Tabalah kaftan {$220}. It’s such a versatile dress as you can wear it to the beach as a cover up or pair with strappy heels for dinner with the girls. This dress reminds me of the backdrop of Wonderland…seems like all of the colors are here in the dress.

This nail polish from OPI called Mad as a Hatter {$15} reminds me of sparkly, glitter confetti. Wear to your next tea party and it will be sure to be a “party” to remember. This nail polish is apart of an Alice inspired four-color collection.

Steve Madden’s Toppazz Platform Pumps {$67} are a perfect mix of elegant and sexy. I love the ribbon detail, which manages to be feminine and not too “cute.”

Ruffles come to mind when I think of Alice in Wonderland. J. Crew’s Silk Frances cami {$70} looks as if it should be part of the Wonderland wardrobe. This piece can be worn by itself with boyfriend jeans for a causal every look. Add a pair of black cigarette pants and peep toe shoes for evening and you are cocktail party ready.

Nudes are a big trend for the upcoming spring season. Check out ASOS’ Structured One Shoulder Top {$55} as a must add to your wardrobe this season. The structured shoulder reminds me of the necklines of the Queen’s dresses.

How can we talk about Alice in Wonderland without hearts? I love Moschino Cheap And Chic, Lurex-knit heart dress {$525}. Something about it just makes you want to scream “Off with their heads.”

Even if one isn’t a huge fan of the edgy, ok maybe acid-trip tale this next skirt will put a smile on your face. I love the large dots on this ASOS tailored tulip skirt {$43}, which manages to be fun and not school-girl cute!

This Zimmerman silk-satin skirt {$290} is Alice all grown up! The ruffles, color and the way it moves screams sophistication.

The 2010 Fashion Oscars

Erika — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:19:16 +0000

Did you watch the Oscars last night? You know that I did. It has even come to a point where I jot down notes in a notebook about which looks I love/don’t love so that I can find photos and information on it after. I also write down my initial thoughts and impressions, as they make excellent fodder for a post like this one. So, now that I’ve told you all of my secrets – here is a quick rundown of what I loved in my very own version of the Oscars – Fashion-style.

THE NOMINEES FOR THE 2010 CHIC SHOPPER CHICK FASHION OSCARS ARE:

Queen Latifah and Sandra Bullock, both in Marchesa

I loved both of these looks – Queen Latifah has never looked better in an elegant lavender Marchesa gown with a sparkly twist, and Sandra Bullock was simply glowing in this golden confection of a dress (also by Marchesa). I especially loved Sandra’s pink pouty lips and old Hollywood glamour style hair.

Mariska Hargitay in Vera Wang, and Demi Moore in Atelier Versace

Two more nominees that made it solidly onto the “Best Dressed” list? Markiska Hargitay in a sweeping Vera Wang dress, and Demi Moore in a blush-colored tiered Atelier Versace. Both of them were simply stunning.

Rachel McAdams in Elie Saab Couture, and Kate Winslet in Yves Saint Laurent

Rounding up the nominee list we have Rachel McAdams, for her sweeping, delicate Elie Saab Couture dress that just screamed spring. I am especially fond of the sweetheart neckline, and that she chose to leave her collarbone bare. And then, of course, we have Kate Winslet, who played it safe, but still looked stunning in this sleek YSL number that she accessorized with a 2.5 million dollar yellow diamond from Tiffany and Co.

Without further ado, the runner up for the 2010 Chic Shopper Chick Fashion Oscar is…

Cameron Diaz in Oscar de la Renta

…A red-lipped Cameron Diaz in a billowing Oscar de la Renta gown that can only be described as show-stopping. Diaz dropped her usual easy-going beach style in favor of something much more couture, and I, for one, was thrilled to see it.

Well, here we go.

It’s time.

Ladies and … well, ladies. The moment we’ve all been waiting for. The 2010 Fashion Oscar goes to…

Anna Kendrick in Elie Saab

Anna Kendrick who was nominated for her role in “Up In The Air”. She stole the show in this delicate chiffon gown by Elie Saab – I especially loved that the gown was off-the-shoulders and not just strapless. A perfect choice for her petite frame and age – this dress wins my 2010 Fashion Oscar. Nice pick Anna! Call me so that I can get you your award!

What were your favorites?

Swimsuit & Cover-Ups for 2010 Spring/Summer

Jennifer — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 07:43:15 +0000

Nothing says summer more than swimwear. I know I’m not the only one ready for winter to be over. I thought it only appropriate that we talk about swimwear this week to help us know that warm, sunny days are ahead!

When it comes to swimwear I have two ways of thinking…I love solid colored suits that you can accent with accessories or a brightly colored suit that needs nothing else. It all depends on the mood.

Victoria’s Secret Racerback Bikini, $84

The rich plum color and silver hard wear on the bottoms makes it an instant chic swimsuit. This would be a great suit for enjoying poolside with your friends. The great thing about this suit is that it is sold as separates so you can make sure to get a great fit for your body.

Spanx Triangle Top One Piece, $198

We fell in love with Spanx for helping us all achieve a smooth look underneath our clothes. Panty lines are now a thing of the past. So it was just a matter of time before Spanx would design their take on the one-thing women are most anxious about, swimsuits. Debuting this season I’m sure swimsuit shopping will be less stressful for some with the new arrival of Spanx swimsuits.

Trina Turk, Vintage Print Bikini, $158

This vintage print bikini looks like the one wearing it should be lounging on a white sand beach in the Caribbean. I love the bright colors in the suit, which will look amazing next to tan skin. String bottoms are great because they can be adjusted to fit properly so you don’t get the indents in the side of your hips that we all hate!

J. Crew French Sailor Tie Front Bikini, $90

The navy and white strips of this suit is such a classic look. There is something very Coco Chanel at the beach about this suit. This suit is sold as separates so you can be sure to get the best fit for your body. Accent this look with some red accessories to make this simple but classic suit pop.

Carmen Marc Valvo Suit, $132

For those not looking to bare all in a bikini, invest in a tankini. This one is chic and elegant and can be paired with white linen pants to take you straight from the pool to dinner. I love the simple detail of the gold hardware and asymmetrical strap.

Diane Von Furstenberg Ganza Silk-Chiffon Maxi Dress, $360

This dress will add instant sunshine to your wardrobe. This print is based off of Andy Warhol’s daisy print for an extra coolness factor. Pair with flat gladiator sandals for an effortless chic look.

Jets by Jessika Allen, Tiered Jersey Jumpsuit, $215

This might be my favorite cover-up this season. I am in love with the color and overall look of this jumpsuit. It can easily be changed from casual to elegant evening-wear by adding some strappy metallic sandals, a great clutch and some fun gold jewelry. This will have to be one that finds it’s way into my summer wardrobe this year.

Warm sunny days are just around the corner! Happy swimsuit shopping.

Geek Chic: Glam Up Your Gadgets

Erika — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 17:41:36 +0000

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!

I’m loving these hip laptop bags from j’tote – especially the Melania bag – which is incredibly swoon-worthy. Seriously, when have you ever seen a laptop bag with this much class? It is made with the softest organic leather, and the design is simply gorgeous.

Toss aside the boring white ear buds that came with your iPhone, pick up a pair of these sparkly chicBuds and show off your style. I own the black pair, which is embellished with pink Swarovski crystals, and I get asked about them almost everywhere I go. I love the retractable cord so they don’t get tangled up in the jungle that is my purse!

London-based Violet May has released their delicate but fantastic Blackberry purses, made of sting-ray patterned leather with snakeskin print trim. Not only can you carry your Blackberry in style, but you can even choose from one of 3 taglines to be embossed in gold in the inside. My personal favorite is “Never Knowingly Underdressed”.

While it’s not quite an accessory – I love the style of the Vivienne Tam HP Mini. Called a “digital clutch” it actually made its debut on the runways during fashion week, and was such a hit that she chose to re-partner with HP to do the same again this year! It is covered with Red Peonies for a style that is completely China chic, has a 10” display and weighs in at under 3 lbs! You don’t even need a laptop bag for something this small!

I always think of Carrie’s phone in Sex and the City when I see any chic gadgets – remember how she had her phone all blinged-out? I was in college at the time, and I actually hand glued crystals all over my phone, in a pattern and colors that I loved. Before long, I saw the same style popping up all over campus. The moral of the story? Gadgets can be trendy.

How do you achieve geek chic?

Spring 2010 Trends that will Last through Fall

Jennifer — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 07:00:50 +0000

In some places people are still trying to utilize their spring wardrobe but winter is making it a challenge. The clothes seen at New York Fashion Week for Fall 2010 this past week seemed more appropriate for the weather most of the country seems to be experiencing than the spring trends that are waiting to be worn. Not to fret, spring will soon be upon us.

The great thing is that you will get extra milage out of some of the upcoming spring trends, as we saw them repeating themselves on the Fall 2010 runways. Not only good for your favorite trends but fabulous for your wallet!

Bold Prints

This spring, bold prints will be a big trend and we will continue to see them for Fall 2010. Choose a print that you love since you know you can transfer it into your fall wardrobe as well. Not feeling like you can pull off a bold print? Then choose one item of clothing, such as a skirt and pair with all black to tone-down the print.

Belts

Belts will continue to be a popular accessory one can play with for the upcoming fall season. On the spring runways we saw belts over brightly colored cardigans and at the waists of dresses. We will continue to see these usages for fall, as well belts layered over outerwear. I personally love this look, as it’s a chic way to show your figure while keeping warm this fall.

Shorts

This spring, shorts are the new pants. For spring it seems the shorter, the better. If you are past your prime of short, shorts invest in a longer tailored pair. These will be perfect for fall, as we saw them paired with tights on 3.1 Phillip Lim’s runway.

Ruffles

Romance is what first comes to mind when one thinks of ruffles. They will be a big trend for spring, as we saw them in many different forms. We continue to see them for fall in darker hues than the nudes and pastel colors we saw for spring. If you invest in a springtime nude version of this trend, pair with dark tights or blazers to transition them into fall.

Grade the Look: Audrina Patridge in Rock and Republic

Erika — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 07:48:03 +0000

Spotted: Audrina Patridge and boyfriend Ryan Cabrera.

Where: The grand opening of The Delphine Eatery and Bar in Hollywood, California on February 11, 2010.

Wearing: Patridge wore a Rock and Republic “Leland” fitted denim dress in Transmission Blue for the event. She paired the dress with a rocker-chic leather jacket, but softened the look with a pair of Yves Saint Laurent Tribtoo Platform Slingbacks.

Grade: A.

How would you grade Audrina’s look? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Pamella Roland Fall 2010 Collection – Chic. European. Classy.

Erika — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 16:46:34 +0000

I’m not ashamed to admit it. I fell in love last season when I was at the tents. There was a designer who had barely made it onto my radar, but for some reason I attended her show. And I fell in love.

Pamella Roland.

If you’re my friend on facebook or you follow me on twitter, this is a song that you know the lyrics to already. But I don’t care. Since it’s my favorite song, I’m singing it anyway. Roland quite literally took the industry by storm when she released her first collection at age 42 – instantly winning over critics and gaining a huge celebrity following. Her red carpet looks are to. die. for. Yes my friends, when I die please make sure I’m wearing Pamella Roland.

Her fall 2010 collection was inspired by Venetian Glamour, and I was inspired as well. Inspired to go out and buy it all. True story. Ah, the fashion writer’s dilemma. The collection was extensive, from chunky, colorful knits, regal purple gowns that were dripping with sophistication, and fresh takes on the wool shift dress. The evening gowns, always a favorite of mine (I blame the Princess complex), were nothing short of stunning. Roland sent a final piece down the runway – a bridal gown – which was simply a perfect, airy confection that seemed to float down the runway.

I threw a few photos that I took from my seat during the show into the graphic above, but if you really want a good feel for the show, check out the video below courtesy of IMG. Some of the best 3:40 of your day, I promise.

Swoon with me in the comments, please.

4 Dresses That I Need. Now.

Erika — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 12:31:46 +0000

I have this website that I love, and because I love it, I try my darnedest to stay away from it. My wallet appreciates it. However, I was just browsing and I thought “hmmm, maybe I should throw up a quick post about these dresses that I love” because I have a dress-obsession. I love my denim, but give me a skirt or a dress, and I am like a kid in a candy store. I live in dresses!

So sometimes I surf the internet for hours, or scour the stores, and can’t find something that catches my fancy. Since I’ve discovered ModCloth, things have changed. By the way, I have absolutely no relationship with ModCloth (though I wish I did) apart from the fact that they have made lots of money off of me. I just like it.

Anyway. I have my own dress code and wear what I want when I want to. Usually I’m what most people would consider “overdressed”. I don’t really care. Here are 4 dresses that I would wear for no special occasion. All from ModCloth.

The first one makes me wish I was teaching again, the second one makes me dream of spring with footless leggings, gladiator sandals, and a long necklace, the third one reminds me of my Sorority days, and the last one makes me want to to be in a boat with the love of my life on a Venice Canal. This is why I buy clothing. Every single piece I buy tells me a story – one that I know or want to know. Inspiration to dress – I truly think everyone should have it.

What inspires you?

The Clean Start Challenge and My New BFF Crystal

Erika — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 06:03:01 +0000

If you read my site or the Beauty and Style Section of Lifetime Moms on a regular basis, you might know a few things about me – like my unfailing love for the Tory Burch Reva and David Yurman jewelry. You know these things because it’s what I usually write about here on this site, and because it’s my job. So, it’s pretty cool that I’m able to be involved with something a little different, starting today, as a mentor and cheerleader for my new friend Crystal who is participating in the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge.

Crystal is one of four finalists aiming to make a “clean start” in her life. She is a striking young woman and a new mom who wants to learn how to cook and finally be able to get out of those mommy jeans! It seems that Crystal was fortunate enough to marry a man who cooks for her – and all I can say is that if I ever meet her in person I will be giving her all sorts of high-fives! She is also a former teacher and a Louisiana transplant – we have all sorts of things in common! She will be posting weekly progress videos on MyLifetime.com so that you can follow along, but she’s also trying to win your votes! The winner of the SC Johnson Clean Start Challenge will receive $10,000!

We’ve talked about things that you know about me, but what you likely don’t know is that this challenge, and Crystal’s ideas about a clean start especially, are near and dear to my heart. After I had my daughter, Audrey Grace, I really struggled to lose the baby weight. The first bit came off fast, but I lost the last 25 pounds through a whole heck of a lot of determination and hard work. This New Orleans native LOVES to eat! So, Crystal’s desire to feel confident in her hot mom-ness (because she is already beautiful, but it’s all about confidence, right?) is one that I can truly relate to. I’ll be chatting with Crystal throughout the next three months, sharing motivation, tips for cooking healthy meals, and tricks on how she can achieve her goal. I hope that she can lean on me for ideas and support – and of course if you have any ideas or suggestions for her, you can always leave them here in the comments!

So you, my friends? I’ve just signed you up for Team Crystal! Welcome on board! Don’t worry, to sweeten the pot, there will be 3 opportunities for you to vote for Crystal (or your favorite finalist, but c’mon, we already know who we’re voting for, right?) and be entered to win $1,000 and a SCJ gift basket that is filled with some very cool products.

So, as they say at the races: on your marks, get set…Go Crystal!

Recreating Jade Frampton’s Chic Look {2010 Fall Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week}

Jennifer — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 07:00:54 +0000

I have been devouring the pictures and videos coming straight from the New York Fashion Week tents this past week. As I’m sure with the rest of you, I can’t wait to hear all about Erika’s Fashion Week adventures.

Some of you may not know, but I love to people watch. Sit me down on a bench and I could be content for hours just watching people walk by! I get inspired seeing how people translate looks to make them their own. People watching during Fashion Week with all the uber-stylish people is even that much more inspirational.

I loved the look ELLE’s Market Editor, Jade Frampton, pulled together. Not only did she address the outside elements of winter cold and snow, but managed to look effortlessly chic in multiple layers. Her look is easy to recreate.

Begin the look with ASOS’ pleat detail tulip skirt {$45} and a GAP long sleeved white t-shirt {$16.50}. Layer a T by Alexander Wang striped tank dress on top {$110}. Add Banana Republic’s black classic belt {$49.50} at the waist for definition. Step into a pair of black flat boots like these Tori boots from Ciao Bella {$99}. For the final layer add a classic trench coat. Try ASOS’ Gap Linda Trench {$139}. Add a scarf at the neck to complete the look and stay warm! Have some fun and play with printed scarves to add your own flair to this classic look.

Have a styling question you need answered? Comment or tweet me your question and I will feature it on my next “Questions for a Stylist” column. Have a fabulous week!

Fashion For Haiti

Erika — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:36:43 +0000

Hello fashion darlings. I’m sorry I’ve been MIA but I’m so thankful that you’ve had our resident stylist Jennifer to keep you company. Isn’t she doing an amazing job??? (Check out her article all about Spring Fashion!) I have been on a whirlwind traveling tour lately, I’m not sure I’ve slept in my own bed but 1 night in the past 2.5 weeks. Currently I’m in NYC covering Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week for Lifetime – a fashionista’s haven!

More on my coverage of this week in a bit, as well as my amazing trip to Disney with the Hanes Comfort Crew – but for now I wanted to quickly share something that caught my eye yesterday – all about what designers and the fashion industry are doing to provide help to Haiti. This video explains it all:

I love that the designers are all wearing their t-shirt in their own unique way in the video. The cool part is that you can buy one of these very fashionable t-shirts AND do something great at the same time. The t-shirt will be on sale at Zappos beginning February 16th for only $25, with $16 of every purchase donated to the Haiti Relief Fund!

Designers and celebs are also doing their part – Kenneth Cole has donated a Westside Holiday billboard promoting the shirt and Beyonce is the official face of the Fashion for Haiti initiative. What will you do?

Nothing but Love for Spring Fashion

Jennifer — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:01:43 +0000

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!

Spring 2010 Trends: Must Haves Under $100

Jennifer — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:05:52 +0000

Hello my fashion darlings!! I am so excited to be the new girl here and to talk with you weekly about my favorite topics, fashion and style. Check back each Wednesday for a new fashion related article. I would love any input about what you would like to see each week. I plan to do a monthly fashion Q & A, where your fashion and styling questions are answered along with other styling articles. Please email me your comments and questions. Feel free to stop by and visit me during the week at my site, Red Sole Diary…I love visitors.

Q: What is the must have article of clothing (not shoes) for spring under $100?

A: There were a lot of trends that came down the Spring 2010 runways. Below are just a few to incorporate into your closet this spring.

Various versions of the jumpsuit were seen walking down the spring runways, from the relaxed glamour at Lanvin to loose and flowy at Roberto Cavalli. Be sure to check out ASOS’ ruffled, one-shoulder jumpsuit ($34) to create a new spin on evening-wear. You’ll be stylishly chic at your next cocktail party. For a more casual look, try Victoria’s Secret floral printed silk jumpsuit ($88) as floral prints are a must this season. Add a great pair of gold flat sandals and you are pool-party ready.

While we saw a lot of wide-legged pants on the spring runways, skinny-legged pants are still hot. Denim leggings are the cool girl’s jean of choice this season. Pair Ann Taylor’s denim leggings in dark wash ($88) with a white “boyfriend” t-shirt and your fitted blazer from last season to be the most stylish mom running errands. To mimic Balmain’s military-inspired spring runway looks, pair Blank black denim stretch jeans ($78) with an Aqua military jacket ($88). It will truly be the look for less.

Shorts are the new pants this season. From quilted leather shorts seen in Alexander Wang’s show to the gold lamé harem shorts on Phillip Lim’s runway there is something for everyone. Add a pair of Victoria’s Secret belted linen shorts ($34.50) to your wardrobe this season. Pair with a lingerie inspired camisole, which is another hot trend for spring, and finally complete the look with last season’s boyfriend blazer.

Q: What is a must have accessory under $50?

A: Bold statement necklaces continue to be popular for the upcoming spring season. We saw everything from a full bib necklace at Vera Wang to bold pendants at Bottega Veneta. Color was everywhere on the spring runways so have fun with your accessories. Add Anthropologie’s double torsade necklace ($28) for a fresh look this season. If you are looking for a bit more edge, check out Express’ bib necklace in a bold citrine color ($39.50).

See you next week!

Game Time! Game On!

Erika — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:49:04 +0000

My daughter turns 3 on Tuesday. Oh, how it pains me to say that. When we were deciding on a date for her birthday party, we decided on Sunday January 31st. Why? Well, because February 7th, the week after her birthday, had a slight conflict. We didn’t dare place it during that weekend – just in case.

Our little football team – the boys in Black in Gold – are going to be taking on Peyton Manning and the Colts on February 7th. Maybe you’ve heard?

It took 21 years before the New Orleans Saints had a winning season. Both of my grandparents attended the very first Saints game on September 17th, 1967. My family raised me to be a longtime, die-hard Saints fan. There have been moments over the years where the relationship went more in the direction of hate than love – but as it always is with things you are loyal to – I can talk bad about my own football team, though no one else is allowed to.

This year, we made it. Finally. Who cares if we win or not, the Saints are GOING TO MIAMI.

I’m throwing a party. Duh.

WalMart came to me, as one of the Eleven Moms, with the opportunity to share about their Game Time deals – you can join me and throw an awesome Game Day party of your own. For $44 you can get:

One package of Oscar Mayer Meat Hot Dogs (8 ct.)
One package of Johnsonville® Bratwursts (6 ct.)
Two packages of Great Value™ Hot Dog Buns
Two bags of T.G.I. Friday’s™ Frozen Appetizers
One Hormel™ Supreme Party Tray
12” Chocolate Chunk Cookie
Two boxes of Nabisco Wheat Thins or Triscuit Crackers (8 to 10 oz. box)

For more information, check out WalMart’s Game Time site. Oh, and WHO DAT?!?!?!?!?!

* Disclosure: Walmart provided me with two $50 Walmart gift cards for my participation in this program.

Girlfriend Getaway with Holiday Inn

Erika — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 22:13:58 +0000

Have you ever stayed at a Holiday Inn? As a frequent traveler, I have had the opportunity to stay at quite a few of them. They are typically reasonably priced and they are really in almost every location you could ever want to stay at. Of course, when I’m booking my own hotel, my qualifiers are typically clean, safe, and comfy. If it’s pretty, well, then, it’s an added bonus, but generally it’s not my priority.

Holiday Inn has stayed well within my clean, safe, and comfy realm for some time now. I’ve stayed at at least 15 different Holiday Inns in my lifetime, so it’s a name and brand that I trust. In the past year, Holiday Inn has been doing a major brand relaunch, and they reached out to me to see if I was interested in doing a girlfriend getaway “state-cation”. Of course I did! Some time with my girlfriends in my hometown of New Orleans that would qualify as “work”? That, my friends, is what we call a no brainer!

I arrived at the Holiday Inn and immediately noticed that the logo looked completely different. As part of the relaunch, I learned that hotels sporting this spiffy new logo had successfully completed the re-branding process. When I walked into the lobby I was greeted by soft music and a friendly staff member. He walked behind the desk after introducing himself as the manager and I told him I was there to check in. When I mentioned my name, he immediately pulled out an envelope with my name on it and said “Yes, Ms. Lehmann – we’ve been waiting for you!” (Really? Lil’ ole me?)

We were given a room on the 17th floor and when we walked in I turned around and looked at my friend in disbelief. I mean, I know I was there to check out the “rebranding” but um, this was INCREDIBLY nice. Very modern, great colors, upholstered headboard with tons of pillows (heck, I could pick the “type” of pillow I wanted – soft, firm, etc.) and even the artwork on the wall was nice – black and white photographs – not your typical “hotel room” artwork, you know? Très, très cool, et très, très chic!

The first thing I did, because I’m a big kid, was throw my body onto the bed. My friend T just rolled her eyes at me because well, she was not surprised. Then I hopped up and threw open the curtains of the room and, well, hello New Orleans! We had a spectacular view of the city. We were staying on the westbank at the Holiday Inn in Gretna, so we had a view of the Crescent City Connection and the Mississippi River – with the city of New Orleans behind it.

Not too shabby, right?

Naturally, because Murphy’s Law pretty much exists for me, the power went out shortly after we arrived, leaving us in the dark for about an hour. Granted, we live in Southern Louisiana. We have wind, rain, and power that is mostly above ground. Power goes out on a fairly regular basis ’round these parts, so we just giggled about our luck and relaxed in the room until it came back on.

The manager called the room and apologized for the inconvenience, which I thought was really sweet, but naturally no one can help the power going out! The weather started to get rainy and yucky, so after a quick dinner, we curled up in the bed and watched a movie – my favorite – Love Actually. Ok, we fell asleep halfway through it. We are both workin’ mamas! What can I say?!

Don’t laugh, but the best part about a girlfriend getaway? SLEEPING IN!

The next day we did a little work on our computers (yay for WiFi!), and grabbed lunch in the hotel’s restaurant, the Round House Bar & Grill. After I was stuffed with sweet potato fries and a yummy wrap, we decided to make the uber-short 10 minute trip across the bridge into the city to have a little fun. We walked, shopped, checked out the river and had beignets. (Yes, even locals love beignets and chicory coffee!) We had dinner at one of my favorite restaurants Lüke, and then walked over to have drinks at my favorite cocktail spot – loa.

Holiday Inn Round House Bar and Grill

Overall Holiday Inn provided us with an awesome chance to have a fun girlfriend getaway in my home state. So often I forget to be a tourist in my own city, so this was a great opportunity for me to do a little something different (and to SLEEP IN!).

Disclosure: Holiday Inn provided us with a 2-night stay, as well as meal vouchers for the hotel restaurant and gift cards to cover our gas. However, the opinions I expressed are all mine. You know, because that’s how I roll. Feel free to hold me to it.