I'm A Hardware Handbag Girl

2.20.2008

After reading Allie from Wardrobe Oxygen's review of Hardware Handbags, I wanted to check one out for myself. I'm always searching for the perfect tote bag that will meet the demands of a work week and be able to function on the weekends. Taking advantage of Hardware's recent winter clearance sale, I ordered a Khaki/Black Shopper (see below).

My bag arrived at work today and I immediately took the items out of my old unfunctional bag and placed them inside my Shopper. The fact that the bag stands upright is a MAJOR plus. I despise when a bag flops to the side and all your items shift around. I'll share my thoughts after I've given the bag a few weeks of use. I'm praying that my search for the perfect bag is over...Wish me luck!!!

Catch The Designers

2.19.2008

For Immediate Release

Contact: Sharon Kraun
Cohn, Overstreet &
Parrish
Tel: 404-961-2242 Email: skraun@co-p.com

Macy’s Unveils New Facet to Diversity Initiative

Online program to highlight designers, activities and community events.

ATLANTA – February 19, 2008 – Macy’s today unveiled an online initiative to add a new dimension to its diversity programs.
http://www.catchthedesigners.com/ is planned as an online community providing a ‘behind the runway’ look at the diverse designers impacting fashion today as well as the influences that impacted them. The website will include video interviews, a designer blog, a forum and an online calendar.

“We want the website to inform as well as become a communication means for those interested in fashion, to enable consumers to learn about everything from trends to what schools are offering programs within the industry,” said Susan Hancock, Macy’s Division Vice President. “catchthedesigners.com helps capture that back stage point of view.”

The website will feature minority designers making an impact on fashion today. The first phase of the website features African American designers including: The Founder of Def Jam Records and new menswear line Russell Simmons Argyle Culture, Russell Simmons, who has created a new symbol of men’s contemporary American culture, celebrating those who reached their goals while staying in style; Sundial Creations founder Richelieu Dennis; Project Runways’ Mychael Knight and more. Sections featuring Asian and Latino designers are under construction, with launch dates targeted for later this year.

“The Macy’s shopper is represented by an ethnically diverse group of individuals. In addition, the web has become a mainstay tool for communication and information. catchthedesigner.com provides Macy’s with an ability to connect with a segment of consumers in a way that is relevant and with information that is of interest to them,” adds Kent Anderson, Macy’s, President, MCOM (Macys.com).

http://www.catchthedesigners.com/ will feature video interviews with designers, updates on trends, and a calendar of fashion events created by Macy’s. Consumers will have the opportunity to interact through a blog and Forum. Russell Simmons leads the blogging beginning Feb. 23rd. The Forum leads off with a trio of leadership from Macy’s: Durand Guion, Men’s Fashion Director; Susan LeGates, Divisional Merchandise Manager for Juniors; and Gail Nutt, Senior Vice President, Diversity and Urban Business Development. Consumers will have the opportunity to ask and get answers about the buying and merchandise selection process at Macy’s.

“catchthedesigners.com is another means by which Macy’s demonstrates its commitment to the multicultural consumer,” says Bill Hawthorne, Macy’s Corporate Vice President, Diversity Strategies & Legal Affairs. “Fashion has been impacted, and continues to be influenced by the diverse culture in which we live and do business. Devoting a website to these fashion leaders, outside Macys.com, helps to illuminate these great stories and speak further to our fashion-interested customer.”

catchthedesigners.com is supported by macys.com. Also sponsoring the website is the Pepsi Bottling Group, Southeast. As a Platinum Sponsor, Pepsi will be promoting the website via regional promotional programs throughout the year. Leading off the promotional programs is a fashion show March 8, 2008 at Macy’s at Stonecrest Mall in Atlanta. Russell Simmons Argyle Culture has also committed to the initiative through sponsorship.



About Macy’sMacy's, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Offering distinctive assortments including exclusive fashion and home brands, Macy’s stores are operated by seven regionally based retail divisions – Macy’s East, Macy's Florida, Macy's Midwest, Macy's North, Macy's Northwest, Macy's South, and Macy's West – and an online store at macys.com.

A Man Of Style: Tyson Beckford

2.18.2008

Going forward, A Man Of Style will always be an interview that I conduct. I’m currently waiting for a certain up and coming actor’s schedule to free up but I thought I’d share the following from USA Weekend.

USA Weekend asks Tyson Beckford for the five items a fashionable man must have.

1. A tailored suit. You can purchase an off-the-rack suit, Beckford says, and take it to a good tailor.

2. A nice set of dress shirts. “Don’t be afraid of pink. Women love my pink dress shirts.”

3. Black leather loafers. They will dress up a suit and can be worn with jeans and a blazer.

4. A black or navy blue velvet blazer.

5. A good dress coat. Camel, navy blue, or black are ideal colors and make sure the coat is long enough to cover your sports coat.

I agree with Tyson’s list. These are items that can be found in a variety of price points and are great staples for a man who is building his wardrobe.





photo courtesy of Bravo

A Life Of Style’s New Feature: A Man Of Style

When I see a man who has style, I admit that I let my eyes linger a little, taking him all in, admiring his outfit and shoes, noticing how clean his nails are, and how good he smells. I appreciate an attractive man who is poised, groomed, and well dressed.

I have dated my share of very cute Non-Fashion Boys and it always drove me crazy. My ex, also known as SeƱor Sneaker Pimp, boasted a collection of seventy pairs of gym shoes and Tims, but he didn’t own a suit! I hated his sportswear anytime, anyplace wardrobe.

Men have a reputation for their lack of fashion savvy and most of them have earned it quite honestly. Would it kill some of these guys to pick up an issue of GQ or Men’s Vogue? Or here’s a great suggestion, when your girlfriend buys you clothes…WEAR THEM.

In an effort to put a spotlight on the men who get it right, A Man Of Style is here. Stay Tuned!!!



These are a few images taken from Sean John's show at Fashion Week.
I love these looks!!!














If You're A Fly Gal Then Get Your Nails Done...In Blue

2.16.2008

I love that line from Missy Elliott's song, Work It, "If you're a fly gal then get your nails done, get a pedicure, get your hair did."

The latest in nail colors are pretty, sparkly, and blue. These are a lovely contrast to the black and dark plum shades that everyone was wearing not too long ago. I hope that I can track down Chanel Blue Satin. It's flying out the stores and I refuse to bid for it on Ebay.

Do you think you'll get your nails done in blue?

Chanel Blue Satin












OPI Yoga-Ta-Get This














Essie Blue Aruba

No Blacks On The Cats...What's up with that?

2.12.2008

Check out this very interesting article on the lack of diversity during Fashion Week:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/08/AR2008020803106.html
Your thoughts? I'll share my thoughts laster today...I'm in the middle of a major project at work.
picture courtesy of Getty Images

The Dickey Revamped

2.06.2008

Who remembers those dickey's from the 1970's and 80's? My mom had a cream turtleneck dickey but she never wore it. I remember using it as a bib for my dolls. In case you need visuals:


(This one looks so much like the one my mom had.)








Not exactly what you call stylish, huh? Well it has been quite a few years since I've seen a dickey or caught someone wearing one. Twelve By Twelve, Forever 21's luxe cheap-chic spin off has revamped the dickey and provided matching cuffs:

Click the picture to enlarge
Worn underneath the right tops this is a very chic look. I have to admit I'm not 100% loving the cuffs.

Twelve By Twelve Pleated Collar/Cuff Set
picture courtesy of Twelve By Twelve






























Is Your Shoe Collection Boring?

My good friend sent me an urgent text message yesterday, "Just realized all my shoes r blk or brwn...not good. HELP. ME."

She has crossed over into that dangerous territory that leads to owning a boring shoe collection. If she's not careful, she'll be shoe shopping with her grandmother. White Mountain anyone??? LOL!

Shoes are a great way to add a little flair to your outfits. Yesterday, I wore charcoal gray slacks, a white button down shirt, cropped black cardigan, and a pair of paiseley print flats. The paisely print was a mix of emerald green, yellow, and purple. I like a creative shoe and my rule is to always get at least one off color, slightly funky pair of shoes for every neutral pair I purchase.

If you're finding yourself in a shoe rut like my dear friend, put yourself on a restriction. Do not purchase another pair of black, brown, or navy shoes until you have at least two pairs of creative shoes in your collection. Here are three pair I found online to motivate you:

Left to right:
Martinez Valero 'Jaxy' Flat, GUESS? 'Lovely' , Sam Edelman 'Carmen',

The green pair in the middle would look great with a grey sweater dress I have. I always pair it with dark rinse bootcut jeans. Hmmm...may have to order these.

Happy Shoe Shopping! Let me know what funky styles you find.






















pictures courtesy of www.Nordstrom.com

WWD Fashion Career Expo

2.04.2008


WWD Fashion Career Expo is the premier opportunity to interview with hiring decision-makers of marquee companies in fashion, retail and beauty, with the exclusive support of Women's Wear Daily, the most authoritative publication in the industry.

WWD Fashion Career Expo Friday, February 8th, 10am - 3pm
Gotham Hall1356 Broadway between 36th & 37th Street
New York, NY 10018
Pre-Register

All candidates must meet one of the following sets of requirements for entry:
• 4 yr degree plus 2 yrs fashion industry experience
• 2 yr degree plus 4 yrs fashion industry experience
• 5 yrs fashion industry experience*Field retail and internships do not qualify as industry experience

Only $10 Admission. Invite Your Friends.

Participating companies include:(new companies added daily!):
• Gromwell - Presenting Sponsor
• Carters - Platinum Sponsor
• Maidenform Inc. - Platinum Sponsor
• Movado Group, Inc. - Platinum Sponsor
• Swarovski North America Limited - Platinum Sponsor
• Things Remembered - Platinum Sponsor
• Home Shopping Network - Silver Sponsor
• Alfred Dunner
• BCBG Max Azria Group
• Berek
• Carole Hochman Design Group
• Converse, Inc. / NIKE
• DFS North America
• Eileen Fisher
• FAB / Starpoint
• Forman Mills
• H&M
• ILORI
• J. Crew
• Jimlar Corporation
• Jones Apparel Group, Inc./Nine West/NY & Co/Anne Klein
• Jurlique
• Lester's
• Levi Strauss & Co.
• Li & Fung USA
• Liz Claiborne
• Luxottica Group
• Macy's Home Store
• Macy's East
• Paul Stuart
• Perry Ellis International
• Plaza Too• Polo Ralph Lauren
• QVC, Inc.• Reebok
• Saks Fifth Avenue / Saks Inc.
• Shanghai Tang
• The Children's Place
• The Limited
• The Max Leather Group / Cipriani Accessories
• The Moret Group / Jacques Moret
• Tiffany & Co.
• Tommy Hilfiger, USA
• Tourneau Inc.
• Under Armour
• Urban Outfitters, Inc.
• Vans Footwear & Apparel
• Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. ...& more!

Pre-Register And Submit Your Resume Now:
Give companies the opportunity to view your qualifications, even if you are unable to attend the actual event. Only $10 admission. Bring many resumes and tell your friends about this special one-day-only hiring event.

Hundreds of open positions available:
Apparel, Footwear & Jewelry Designers
Home Furnishings Designers
Textile SpecialistsPatternmakers
Product Development
CAD Designers
Merchandisers
Retail Planners and ExecutivesBuyers and Assistant Buyers
Executive and Showroom Salespeople
Retail Store Management
Visual Merchandisers
Sourcing and Production ManagersArt Directors ... & more!
Virtual Exhibitors include: Savannah College of Art & Design, Vera Bradley, Limited Brands / Victoria Secret


EMPLOYERS: Two Booths Still Available! Call Melissa Yoblon-Gentile at 212-655-4505 ext. 262

See you at the event!
Nicole Boyer,Director of Events & Marketing

More Fashion Week Fab!!!

Jeffrey Kalinsky does Fashion Week his way:



Fashion Week - Fall 2008, February 1st - February 8th

New York is the place to be and for those of us not fortunate to be in on all the action, here's the schedule: Schedule courtesy of http://mbfashionweek.com/newyork/



I'll post my favorite looks all this week!

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