I wish I had a girl with a name I would call her...
Amber at one of my FAVE blogs, Beauty Blogging Junkie, always uses song lyrics in her posts. I find that to be super-entertaining; and they usually remind me of long-forgotten songs. She may be the only person I know who has a better recall for random facts than I do. She is also a fellow New Yorker, and someone I grew up with, including our 90's-rific Bat-Mitzvahs and all (thanks to Rachel). Finding her blog also gave me the push to start my own blog, instead of just writing down fact-lets on random scraps of paper, ne'er to be seen again. So this post is a shout-out to her (thank you, Amber).
Now, if I was a baller, being that I live in New York City, the food capital of the world (yes, I said it), I would eat out for practically every meal. Not so good for my waistline, but super-delicious for my taste buds. But, I'm not. On the good news front, NYC Restaurant Week has been extended until March 20th! This will make my many inevitable upcoming birthday outings much more palatable (pun intended) for me and my fellow celebrators (I may have totally made that word up).
If you have any sense, you'll check it out for yourself. I'm sure most of you know the drill, but if you don't, check out the prix fixe ($24 lunch/$35 dinner) selections at Open Table. If you don't live in New York, this site caters (again, pun intended) to cities all over the country.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Pin a Rose on Your Nose...
Ahh...80's references by way of Stephanie Tanner... If you haven't noticed, the 80's are back in even fuller force than they have been in seasons past. I am loving the nostalgia of Elizabeth and James' Laura Ashley floral number in a distinctly 80's silhouette. Somehow that combination seems totally fresh right now. Maybe because the economy is mirroring that of the early 80's, a jumpsuit (that's right, one piece, ladies) seems appropriate. Can't find the chutzpah to rock either? Try on some smaller florals for size, like this Hobo International clutch wallet. It's 80's in its color pallette, but the size and shape are current and understated. Plus it comes in at around a cool $110. Toss it in your new LL Bean tote (Gucci, Schmucci), take it on errands, take it to the club. Your look will be fresh as a daisy.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
It Could Have Been Bailey...
This week has been pretty tough. Last Monday my family and I lost our beloved yellow lab, Bailey. He was a member of our family for 12 years. He would have been 12 today. I will miss him more than words can express, and so in that vein, I am dedicating this post to him.
Bailey 44 is a brand that is easy-going and always timeless just like my guy was. They design great tops, tees and dresses with special details that are always up-to-the-minute.
This Grecian inspired dress speaks to that design philosophy. It's right on trend, yet classic. Paired with some minimal gladiators and gypsy earrings, you're set for wherever a spring day takes you.
**Side note: The title of this post comes courtesy of my sister. I had taken her to see 'Nsync in concert during the No Strings Attached era. We came home that night and got into bed. Both of us are capable of talking for hours on end with very few interruptions. On this night in particular, I was the talker. I was remarking about how the boys were suspended in mid-air (as in No Strings Attached) and Michele, who had nodded off during my neverending monologue, insightfully remarked, "It could have been Bailey." To which I responded, "Um, ok." Obviously Bailey had nothing to do with what I had been talking about, but for some reason I let this slip by without so much as a "huh?" Both of these phrases are now catch-phrases/inside jokes for us. Now, I would respond to Michele, "It will always be Bailey."
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Best Things in Life Are Free...
Anyone who works or knows someone who works probably also knows someone who has been laid off or has been laid off themselves. I'm no exception to that rule (luckily, I still have a job). So a fashion blog with tips on what to buy can seem a little gratuitous. I have done a total overhaul in the way I shop and what and when I buy. Getting a great deal or getting something for nothing means more to me today than ever before. In this respect, I started thinking about ideas to help keep our chins up and maintain great style in this rocky economy. I think this especially important if you've lost your job or face monthly lay-offs with bated breath. Below you'll find 10 tips for fashion, beauty, fitness and small treats to help you keep your sanity, all under $10.
1. Get a bank account that offers reward points. You can rack up points for paying bills and doing your everyday banking. You reap the benefits without the temptation of a credit line. I have a Citibank account and I accumulate a couple thousand points a month. You can redeem them for airline tickets, electronics, cash or gift cards. If things are tight, you can treat yourself without the guilt. I plan on using mine to buy myself a new watch!
2. Check out free classes at yoga studios, pilates studios or gyms. In these tight times these facilities are DESPERATE to get new clients in the door. A lot of studios offer the first class free or hold "demo" classes that are free. One of the priciest gyms in the city emails me incessantly with new offers, and this week's is a free week membership. If you already have a gym membership, freeze it for a couple months and hit up some freebies!
3. For a free night out, look for gallery openings, wine tastings and promotional parties. Meet up with your friends, sip some cocktails and soak in some culture (or just people watch). In New York there are tons of parties every night, but these events are becoming a more and more popular in cities all over the country. I've even been lucky enough to score a couple of gift bags.
4. Hit the make-up counters in the major department stores for samples. In the past I've scored samples of Lancome mascara, Clinique lip gloss and Laura Mercier cleanser. If you have no room in your budget for extras, these little treats are a super pick-me-up.
5. Buy a great, high quality bottle of nail polish in the season's hottest color. You can get one (I like Essie and OPI) for under $10 - far less than even the cheapest mani/pedi. I love looking down and seeing a brightly polished toes and chip-free fingers. If you do at home mani/pedis, you'll be able to keep your nails perfectly maintained without breaking the bank. If you need all of the supplies, you can easily get a professional nail file, buffer, top and base coat and pumice stone for under $25, but think of all the cash and time you'll save not schlepping to the nail place. Plus, salon mani/pedis will start to be the treat they really should be.
6. Treat yourself to a latte and a magazine. Some days you need to escape the rat race and relax with celebrity gossip, Martha or what ever mag whets your whistle. Even better, chill at Barnes and Noble or Borders and read the mags for free while you sip your latte. Better yet, get a subscription to your favorite magazine, and you'll have something to look forward to every month for the cost of a couple of newstand purchases.
7. Clean out your closet, room or apartment. Give old, good condition clothes to charity. Donate the canned soup you got on sale but didn't really care for. Vacuum under the bed and file old bills and statements. Feel a sense of accomplishment. Then go out and reward yourself with fresh flowers. They're proven to make you happy.
8. Hold a movie night. Invite a couple friends and have them each bring something. A couple bring wine, one brings dessert, one brings some antipasti veggies, etc. You provide some prosciutto or salami and some cheese. Drink wine, nosh on antipasti, watch a movie and gossip. Good friends, good food, good flick, what else do you need???
9. Take a look through your newly organized closet. Shake up your everyday outfits by adding tights or a jacket. Try a thin sweater under a suit or short-sleeves over long. Step outside your comfort zone. Add some pizazz with a new piece of jewelry. Check out H&M, Forever 21 or Charlotte Russe for of-the-moment styles for just a couple bucks.
10. Volunteer. It's free and anyone can do it. The sense of pride and the joy of giving back will give you an inner glow that will last for weeks. These are the times when we need to be thankful for all we have and give to those who have less (or nothing at all).
Finally, take care of yourself. I know I've said this before, but it's the best thing you can do for yourself. When you take care of yourself, it shows you have confidence, and that's the first step to truly great style.
1. Get a bank account that offers reward points. You can rack up points for paying bills and doing your everyday banking. You reap the benefits without the temptation of a credit line. I have a Citibank account and I accumulate a couple thousand points a month. You can redeem them for airline tickets, electronics, cash or gift cards. If things are tight, you can treat yourself without the guilt. I plan on using mine to buy myself a new watch!
2. Check out free classes at yoga studios, pilates studios or gyms. In these tight times these facilities are DESPERATE to get new clients in the door. A lot of studios offer the first class free or hold "demo" classes that are free. One of the priciest gyms in the city emails me incessantly with new offers, and this week's is a free week membership. If you already have a gym membership, freeze it for a couple months and hit up some freebies!
3. For a free night out, look for gallery openings, wine tastings and promotional parties. Meet up with your friends, sip some cocktails and soak in some culture (or just people watch). In New York there are tons of parties every night, but these events are becoming a more and more popular in cities all over the country. I've even been lucky enough to score a couple of gift bags.
4. Hit the make-up counters in the major department stores for samples. In the past I've scored samples of Lancome mascara, Clinique lip gloss and Laura Mercier cleanser. If you have no room in your budget for extras, these little treats are a super pick-me-up.
5. Buy a great, high quality bottle of nail polish in the season's hottest color. You can get one (I like Essie and OPI) for under $10 - far less than even the cheapest mani/pedi. I love looking down and seeing a brightly polished toes and chip-free fingers. If you do at home mani/pedis, you'll be able to keep your nails perfectly maintained without breaking the bank. If you need all of the supplies, you can easily get a professional nail file, buffer, top and base coat and pumice stone for under $25, but think of all the cash and time you'll save not schlepping to the nail place. Plus, salon mani/pedis will start to be the treat they really should be.
6. Treat yourself to a latte and a magazine. Some days you need to escape the rat race and relax with celebrity gossip, Martha or what ever mag whets your whistle. Even better, chill at Barnes and Noble or Borders and read the mags for free while you sip your latte. Better yet, get a subscription to your favorite magazine, and you'll have something to look forward to every month for the cost of a couple of newstand purchases.
7. Clean out your closet, room or apartment. Give old, good condition clothes to charity. Donate the canned soup you got on sale but didn't really care for. Vacuum under the bed and file old bills and statements. Feel a sense of accomplishment. Then go out and reward yourself with fresh flowers. They're proven to make you happy.
8. Hold a movie night. Invite a couple friends and have them each bring something. A couple bring wine, one brings dessert, one brings some antipasti veggies, etc. You provide some prosciutto or salami and some cheese. Drink wine, nosh on antipasti, watch a movie and gossip. Good friends, good food, good flick, what else do you need???
9. Take a look through your newly organized closet. Shake up your everyday outfits by adding tights or a jacket. Try a thin sweater under a suit or short-sleeves over long. Step outside your comfort zone. Add some pizazz with a new piece of jewelry. Check out H&M, Forever 21 or Charlotte Russe for of-the-moment styles for just a couple bucks.
10. Volunteer. It's free and anyone can do it. The sense of pride and the joy of giving back will give you an inner glow that will last for weeks. These are the times when we need to be thankful for all we have and give to those who have less (or nothing at all).
Finally, take care of yourself. I know I've said this before, but it's the best thing you can do for yourself. When you take care of yourself, it shows you have confidence, and that's the first step to truly great style.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
It was the Worst of Times, It Was the Best of Accessories...
The older I get, and the longer I live in a fashionable city like New York, the more I realize that a complete look really comes down to the finishing touches. Now don't get me wrong, I love, LOVE designer clothes, but they are NOT in my budget every season (ok, at the end of season, on final mark-down, maybe). Designer accessories have disappeared from my budget as well, as I find a credit card balance is becoming less and less sexy. But just because your accessories don't cost a mint, doesn't mean they can't be fashionable, fabulous and statement making.
When it comes to accessorizing remember the Holy Trinity...
Shoes
Bag
Watch
These three accessories speak volumes about you, and therefore require the most investment, and here are my rules for making the most of those investments.
1. Buy the best you can afford. That doesn't mean dropping cash mindlessly, it means buying the BEST quality leather, construction or movement for the money. Quality shows.
2. Don't be afraid to shop sale or discount for these items. If they're classic styles, no one is going to call you out on having the Tory Burch flats in LAST season's color (if they do, you need to find new friends).
3. Don't feel like you have to stick to neutrals when it comes to bags and shoes. They are the cherry on the sundae. The cherry wouldn't be as exciting in a neutral.
4. When it comes to a watch, shop around. Buy a classic style that fits your wrist and lifestyle. Do some research. Avoid fake diamonds, overly shiny metals or faux ceramics. When not executed properly, these details scream cheap.
5. Don't buy something you can't afford or isn't "you". You won't wear it or if you do, you'll feel guilty and remorseful. And let's be honest, we all get enough guilt from [insert name of mother, boss, boyfriend].
6. Keep a "Holy Grail" list. These are the items you would buy if money was no object. These items say a lot about you. They reveal your true style. When you're out shopping for a new bag or pair of shoes, referring to your "holy grail" list will help you stay true to your style. Maybe you can't have these items today, or ever even have all of them, but they should remind you that you deserve beautiful things and should inspire you to work towards improving yourself, and rewarding yourself for your achievements (within reason). Obvious members of my list, Christian Louboutin pumps, Cartier Roadster Watch and Chanel bag.
Finally, remember that clothes and accessories are meant to highlight the person wearing them, not the other way around (except on a runway, and let's not even go there). So, taking the best care of yourself in these tough times is really the best accessory. Eat fresh food, do yoga or go for a run, laugh with friends, open a savings account. You'll feel better so you can look your best.
When it comes to accessorizing remember the Holy Trinity...
Shoes
Bag
Watch
These three accessories speak volumes about you, and therefore require the most investment, and here are my rules for making the most of those investments.
1. Buy the best you can afford. That doesn't mean dropping cash mindlessly, it means buying the BEST quality leather, construction or movement for the money. Quality shows.
2. Don't be afraid to shop sale or discount for these items. If they're classic styles, no one is going to call you out on having the Tory Burch flats in LAST season's color (if they do, you need to find new friends).
3. Don't feel like you have to stick to neutrals when it comes to bags and shoes. They are the cherry on the sundae. The cherry wouldn't be as exciting in a neutral.
4. When it comes to a watch, shop around. Buy a classic style that fits your wrist and lifestyle. Do some research. Avoid fake diamonds, overly shiny metals or faux ceramics. When not executed properly, these details scream cheap.
5. Don't buy something you can't afford or isn't "you". You won't wear it or if you do, you'll feel guilty and remorseful. And let's be honest, we all get enough guilt from [insert name of mother, boss, boyfriend].
6. Keep a "Holy Grail" list. These are the items you would buy if money was no object. These items say a lot about you. They reveal your true style. When you're out shopping for a new bag or pair of shoes, referring to your "holy grail" list will help you stay true to your style. Maybe you can't have these items today, or ever even have all of them, but they should remind you that you deserve beautiful things and should inspire you to work towards improving yourself, and rewarding yourself for your achievements (within reason). Obvious members of my list, Christian Louboutin pumps, Cartier Roadster Watch and Chanel bag.
Finally, remember that clothes and accessories are meant to highlight the person wearing them, not the other way around (except on a runway, and let's not even go there). So, taking the best care of yourself in these tough times is really the best accessory. Eat fresh food, do yoga or go for a run, laugh with friends, open a savings account. You'll feel better so you can look your best.
If it's good enough for Rachel Zoe...
So how excited was I when I logged onto my new favorite shoe-shopping website, Piperlime.com, and I find that the Via Spiga high-heeled sandals I recommended were a top pick by none other than uber-stylist Rachel Zoe? Well, let's just say VERY!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Show Me Some... Love Quotes
At around $88, this amazing scarf is a little pricey. But HONESTLY, it's worth every penny. There are tons of imitators out there, and blame my US Weekly obsession, but I HAD to have the same scarf LiLo, Jessica Alba and Hillary Duff were rockin'. So last summer I picked one in an amazing cherry/watermelon shade, and I wore it everywhere. I wrapped it around my neck with a mini-trench. I let it hang long with a tank and jeans. I used it as a wrap in my over-ACed office. The compliments I received were endless. That linen beauty was light-weight, yet insulating. The scarf trend isn't going anywhere, and I don't know about you, but I love feeling celeb-fab, especially for less than a C-Note. If you're a girl that only sports black, navy or brown, pick one up in teal or chartreuse for a pop of color. If you only leave the house in ROY G BIV, pick one up in taupe or ivory. You won't be sorry. You'll wear it from now 'till, well, when I pick Good Housekeeping over US Weekly.
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