Monday, October 17, 2016

October is time to Think Pink

Each October, I like to feature  a number of products that support 
breast cancer charities. It is a cause near and dear to my own heart.
As many manufacturers have jumped on board with the pink
momentum, sometimes it's difficult to know if your purchase will
truly have an impact. I've found some goodies that actually benefit 
charities that make a difference in breast cancer research and assist
those going through treatment.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation ( BCRF) founded by Evelyn
Lauder of Estee Lauder cosmetics. It's mission is " to prevent and cure 
breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising research." 88%
of funds raised go to research and 5% goes towards awareness. Each year
a wide variety of products come out in pink and benefit BCRF.  It's a
 win-win when you purchase these items.

100% of the retail cost on this Estee Lauder product goes to BCRF.
The Pink Perfection Color Collection is a travel case with best selling
shades of eye shadows, blush and lipstick for $35. 


                                                    A duo of lip pencils, one in a neutral &
                                              the other in true pink from Bobbie Brown
                                           benefit BCRF with $10 from every purchase
                                                                                $50 for the set

                                             
     20% of the $65 price                                 This Breathe tank from Gap will keep you
    of this Tory Burch embossed leather               cool and dry while 15% of the $22.95
i phone case in rose gold will benefit BCRF        price  goes toward BCRF                                              
                                                                 
The Susan G Komen For the Cure Breast Cancer Foundation is another worthy
 charity that has been raising funds for research. Since 1982 it has funded $899 million
 for research. It supports those with the fewest resources who are unable to access care
 to get the care they need. It works in communities providing education and awareness
 about breast cancer.

Pier 1 Imports has a special floral blossom candle that provides 25%
the $15 price to Komen for the Cure.
 PIER 1 CANDLE, $15. This blossom-filled candle from Pier 1 features its exclusive Floral Blossom fragrance and comes in a frosted glass holder with a flocked flower design. Pink ribbon pin is also included. 25% of the purchase price of each candle benefits Komen for the Cure. Available at all Pier 1 Imports stores.
              NEEDHAM LANE SASHA PAJAMAS, $58. Made of soft 100% cotton poplin, Needham Lane pajamas get softer with every washing.  PJs have button-front top with notched collar and side vents at hem for a comforting fit. 15% of proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Available at needhamlane.com.
                                                 These 100% cotton poplin pj's get softer with each
                                                 washing. Needham Lane will donate 15% of each pair
                                                 to Komen for the Cure. $58

$25,000 from the sale of OPI's  Pink of Hearts
                                          will go to Komen

For a load of other products that support breast cancer causes check out-
http://www.marieclaire.com/culture/charity/news/g1012/breast-cancer-awareness-products/?slide=90

http://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/makeup/advice/g1283/breast-cancer-awareness-month-1010/



Friday, September 9, 2016

A Fall trend for everyone

Quickly becoming one of the season's most
popular trends is the bomber jacket. It's practical
for most climates and lifestyles. It's also appropriate
for all ages. Whether solid or floral, quilted silk, 
leather or suede, cotton, corduroy, appliqued or
plain there is a bomber for everyone!
Sanctuary Bomber Jacket

Rag & Bone Nylon Jacket, $595; collection at Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide
jessica alba bomber jacketImage result for bomber jackets for fall 2016Image result for bomber jackets for fall 2016


You can find one at Nordstrom, Neiman, H&M, google them online. It's a perfect
update to your favorite jean jacket or comfy cardigan.

Monday, August 29, 2016

edgy and cool

The MTV Video Music Awards always provide 
a look at trendy, edgy fashion. It's definitely not
the awards show for couture gowns. It's more
about making a "statement and looking cool."
In recent years, its been a "thing" to look a little
naked. While not a look most of us will want to
emulate, you have to admit it has entertainment
value. So in case you missed it, here's a look at 
some of your favorite celebs and what they wore-
Some fashionistas are calling Kim  Kardashian
best dressed at the VMA's. Supposedly she nailed the nearly naked look without
coming off as obscene. She surely looks more natural than usual and it does show
off her voluptuous body. It's definitely a statement, but can't say I really love it.
What about you?

Hailee Steinfeld has become a fashion plate and a regular on best-dressed lists since
playing Mattie Ross opposite John Wayne at 13 in True Grit
6 years ago.( She was hired as the face of Miu Miu shortly after that)
 She demonstrates great taste and/or a stylist here at the VMA's
                        ,
Brittany Spears is still a musical presence
 ( going the Las Vegas route like Celine Dion)
and she did preform a big number in the show, in much more scanty attire,
 but looks very appropriate here.
                                            
Adding feathers to the nearly naked trend was Beyonce, who stole the show with
the most award wins. She looks like an elegant birdwoman (I keep thinking about
those feathers flying in her mouth:). Blue Ivy wore a matching tutu- a popular look
for babies and toddlers, my daughters tell me.
                                            in Mischka Aoki and Francesco Scognamiglio

     I love that plus size model Ashley Graham really struts her stuff.
First the Sports Illustrated swimsuit cover and now this nearly naked look
at the VMA's- proof you don't have to be model size to rock the trend!
                                         Nakedest Dress of the Night: Ashley Graham   
I have to include these girls, not musicians, but definitely performers-
the US Girls Olympic Gymnastics Team- Aly Raisman, Madison Kocian,
Laurie Hernandez and Simone Biles all in cocktail dresses by Sherry Hill,
a special occasion designer carried by Georgettes  in Tampa.
                                     

Alicia Keyes is so talented and beautiful, but this dress does nothing to
highlight her assets.Cavalli is usually so cool and unique but this design
is frumpy and overwhelming on her.
                                   in Just Cavalli
I had to share this one- not because it's cool and I like it but because
it is all about making a statement. Jaden Smith, son of Will and Jada
Pinkett Smith,is definitely attention-getting and edgy in this ensemble.
                                                       
Rhianna received the Michael Jackson VideoVanguard award and dressed
for the part in a polished and sophisticated Alexandre Vauthier couture gown.
                                         
                              But changed into
                                                                     this hot number for the after party
                                                                    


A few more imaginative looks from the VMA's-
no commentary necessary
nicki minaj vmas
  nicki minaj vmas      nicki minaj vmas                                 
        Best Red-Carpet Stance: Nicki Minaj in Bao Tranchi                     Best Maximalist Teens: Chloe and Halle   
            in Marc Jacobs

                             and that's entertainment!

Monday, August 15, 2016

Top 5 Trends for Fall


Fall 2016 introduces some cool new trends and
some variations on old themes to make them fresh.
I thought I'd start with 5 trends that are easy to
find and incorporate into your wardrobe to keep 
you looking stylish. Fall features luxe textures and 
rich colors this year.

                                Velvet
Usually making an appearance closer to the Holiday season, velvet is popping up 
everywhere this Fall- in shoes, dresses, vests, pants, tops, coats, etc. It looks luxe in
the new, rich berry and copper hues this season.You can start wearing it long before
December this year. Dress it up going out or down with jeans. History bit- velvet
originated in the Middle East in the 1300's and made it's way to Europe via Venice.
Shopping tip- Anthropologie has a good selection of velvet shoes in many styles.


Image 1 of FRILLED VELVET TOP from ZaraProduct Image, click to zoom
Zara top, Kate Spade loafer
                                                                                       JCrew pant

                      Rich Floral Prints

Both bold and dainty floral patterns against rich, darker backgrounds make
a feminine statement for Fall. You'll find this trend in flowy dresses, skirts and
tops, even shoes and bags. Styling tip- if you are petite or short look for floral
patterns that repeat on a smaller scale so they don't overwhelm you.
           Product Image, click to zoomProduct Image, click to zoom                                                                                                                                                     Neiman Marcus blouse and dress and Coach bag
                                                                                       
                       Shades of Rust
For many years RUST was always a fall color and it is back big this year.
In shades deep to pale, it is flattering on almost everyone.It may bring up
memories of back to school days.
Product Image, click to zoom
    Etcetera Fall Collection's Suede jacket and check pant
    Elizabeth and James bag at Nordstrom            

                 Berry, Wine and Jewel Hues
Cranberry, cherry, beet, burgundy, bordeaux, claret, aubergine,raisin, ruby,
garnet - all play a prominent role in fall fashion. Again, there are complimentary
shades for everyone with so many variations on this theme.  
Seven for All Mankind colored jean & Rag & Bone top
  Diane von Furstenberg Ruffle top and Maggy London dress

                                                  Chokers                                                                                       
Another '90's trend is the resurgence of the choker. You have probably seen celebrities
Chokerswearing chokers on the red carpet and rocking them with their "off duty" outfits,too.
They look great with off slip dresses ( also making a comeback),off the shoulder,
plunging  or deep V necklines, strapless tops and any blouse that exposes a swath of
decollete. Velvet, metal, leather or rhinestone and embellished with charms or simply wrapped
around the neck in one piece of fabric works.

Feliz Wrap Choker women's accessories style necklace fashionSkinny Layer Choker women's fashion style accessories necklaceWomen's Topshop Mesh Choker
Up the ante on a simple black string with some gem appeal.Eddie Borgo collar, $200, shopBAZAAR.com. Image result for choker necklace
Styles shown available at Urban Outfitters, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Nasty Gal

Just scratching the surface with these 5 new trends. More to come.
By simply adding a few of these new looks, you will immediately refresh your fall wardrobe!