Indie Spotlight: Caprice Designs

Besides being a shoe addict, I am also a jewelry freak. I love jewelry. One piece of jewelry can take a plain white t-shirt and a pair of jeans to the next level. So I am lovin' these pieces by Caprice Designs. The chunky jewelry always gets my attention because I believe so strongly in statement jewelry. Not to mention that it is all handmade. Gotta love that! The first necklace is my absolute favorite and is a must have. You can see the entire collection here.







Etsy Fashion Find: Stepankalicious

Move over Ashley Paige! Stepankalicious is on the swimwear scene. The red, white, and blue bikini is my favorite. If you've got it, flaunt it. Get yours here.





Etsy Fashion Find: Blue Sea Blue



There isn't anything like a crisp white dress for summer. This is the perfect summer dress. Get it at Blue Sea Blue.

What To Wear To Brunch

Heading out to brunch with the girls? Here's your perfect outfit.

From top to bottom: Swirl Tank @ J. Crew; Drawstring Capri Jeans @ NY & Co; Gold Earrings and Crystal Ring @ Anthropologie; Electric Peacock Handbag @ Lulus.com; Leopard Shell Sandals @ Willow Street.






What To Wear To Party

Here's what you need to look hot going out to party.

From top to bottom: Dress, Karen Walker @ Forward by Revolve; Small Multi-colored reptile print clutch @ Forever 21; Cuff, Montana @ Neiman Marcus; Teardrop Earrings @ Forever 21; Cluny Gladiator Boots, Halston @ Barney's New York.





What To Wear To Work

This week's What To Wear To Work Outfit is for a warm spring day when you don't need to wear that business suit.

From top to bottom: Dress, See by Chloe @ My Wardrobe; White Braided Belt @ The Limited; Silver Necklace @ Express; Dimpled Earrings @ Forever 21; Shoes, Melissa @ 80's Purple; Tote, Yves Saint Laurent @ Saks Fifth Avenue.







Fashion Rave: J. Crew


I love it when I get an email that says that we have stuff on sale. So I headed on over to J. Crew. To my delight, their beautiful pinwheel sweater, that I am totally in love with, is on sale and for a great price. So I try to decide what color. Finally I decide to keep it neutral because it can go with everything and it is so light that I can wear it for a few months. I ordered it online on a Sunday and 'lo and behold, it was at my door by Tuesday when I got home. Needless to say that I was beyond happy. I have ordered from J.Crew before but have never received my order so quickly. Bravo to J. Crew. It's the little things that make me happy.

Buy of the Day: Banana Republic

The Buy of the Day for less than $100 at Banana Republic

Silk Blouse, $19.99, Cigarette Pants, $17.99, Tina Slingbacks, $49.99



What I Want Now: Vivienne Westwood Anglomania



Boy, do I have the perfect shoes to wear with this little number. By Vivienne Westwood from her Anglomania collection at My Wardrobe.

What I Want Now: Bulga


Isn't this bag too fab? I have a bunch of crap that I could put in this bag. It's perfect. Love it. By Bulga available at 80's Purple.

What I Want Now: PLV



I adore these shoes. I especially love this shade of blue. I have bought so many clothes in this color. I don't know why I have taken a liking to royal blue, but I have recently. So I am not surprised that I want these shoes, even though I am lukewarm on the gladiator style. These are by PLV and you can get a pair at Urban Outfitters.

Links à la Mode: The SS09 Wardrobe Transition



The SS09 Wardrobe Transition

Edited by Clutch22

In reviewing submissions for this week’s edition of Links á la Mode, I found comfort in learning I’m not the only one ”nesting” my closet for spring and summer. Thankfully, Agent Lover shows us how to shop for retro swimwear, Super Kawaii Mama shares some of her favorite pick-me-ups that cost almost nothing and Dirty Laundry gives DIY alternatives to Maison Martin Margiela. Additionally, there are a variety of insightful designer interviews and shopping reviews to check out in this week’s roundup. Finally, Retro Chick explains how she used IFB’s Little Birdie service to organize a goodie bag giveaway for her one year blog birthday.



There’s the full version of Links á la Mode here in the forums… there’s a lot of great posts there too.

Links à la Mode : April 23rd


  • 39th & Broadway: Even fashion designers can get scared of a new and forward trend.

  • Agent Dreamer: An interview with Rachel Lanese of Crafttastrophe – designer of beautiful shoes and other wearable art.

  • Agent Lover: Hunting for the perfect retro bathing suit, part two.

  • Breakfast at Saks: A review of independent designer retailer, Moxsie and Itsola dress.

  • Broke & Beautiful: Miss Elle experiences amazing handmade jewelry in a video post!

  • Consume or Consumed: Review and hypothetically shopping at Net-A-Porter's sister sale site: The Outnet

  • Culturistas: Update your wardrobe for Spring using the clothes you already have!

  • Dirty Laundry: How to wear Maison Martin Margiela without breaking the bank via DIY alternatives.

  • Fashion Pulse Daily: Perry Ellis surprises with a fall line-up of classics that with please your Dad and your hottie 20-something boyfriend simultaneously!

  • Felicia Sullivan: eco-friendly fashion on a budget: toggery by kate d’arcy.

  • Haute World: An inside look to the ever famous Louis Vuitton flagship store in Paris.

  • Hello Kelli: New Japanese technology creates a loose wave digital perm.

  • Independent Fashion Bloggers: Starting your own blog? IFB helps find the right blog platform for you.

  • LuciteBox: HBO’s Grey Gardens – beyond the fashionable women.

  • Retro Chick: Celebrating one year blog birthday with a reader goodie bag giveaway.

  • Star Fashion Addict: A roundup of the hottest handbag styles for spring.

  • Style Symmetry: Inspiration Flashback – a look back at Little House on the Prairie.

  • Super Kawaii Mama: Luxe & Less - Pick me up's for next to nothing.

  • The Coveted: Basic Investing, is it better to invest in basics or statement pieces?

  • The Curvy Fashionista: Interview with plus size high fashion designer, Monif C - breaking all plus size stigmas.

  • The Demoiselles: The Littlest Demoiselle discusses ANTM's Short Model Season, and "under height" models of the p



If you’d like to take part in Links a la Mode, please sign up for next week’s roundup in the IFB forums! Remember, only the best 20 links will be published! So submit your best content! The new thread is posted every Thursday along with the official Links à la Mode post.

Capitol Fashionista Outing: A Fab Weekend

What an amazing weekend. I took full advantage of the gorgeous weather. Here's a recap of the weekend:

Thursday

Attended the Labels for Love event at Bloomingdales in Chevy Chase. Labels for Love is a 501 (c)(3) charity that stages fashionable events to raise funds for and bring awareness to women's and children's charities. There were martinis (of course), a DJ, and special discounts on everything and I do mean everything. Even clothes that were already on sale. Loved it! Walked out with a lovely BCBG Max Azria dress that I can't wait to wear and it was for a great cause.

Friday


Headed on over to Constitution Hall with my girl, V to Shecky's DC. Again, martinis were overflowing sponsored by Skyy Infusions. The X-Rated Flirtini was very tasty but the Midori Margarita was deadly. There was pretty much nothing that could fit us. So we didn't buy any clothes but I bought quite a few beautiful pieces of jewelry and V bought two gorgeous handbags. We left and had dinner at Old Ebbitt's Grill. It was marvelous. It was my first time there and I was trying very hard not to curse out the hostess who deliberately overlooked us. But the meal was stupendous.

Saturday
Headed up to Brooklyn for a Wedding Blogger's Conference. I also blog about all things weddings over at The Bridal Wishlist. For a complete update on that event, head on over there for the recap. I had a ball. It was good to meet my fellow wedding bloggers.

Sunday

Brunch with some of my girlfriends. I just realized that I had not seen them since last year. I missed them so it was good to catch up. We had brunch at Busboys and Poets. I had french toast because I love it so much. Isaiah Washington came and sat with a lady near us and was acting brand new. The waitress was trying to talk to him and he acted like he wasn't who he really was. What a jerk! After he left, the woman with him apologized to the waitress. He was the one who should have been apologizing. So we caught up, ate and laughed like fools. It felt good. It was beyond hot but I was loving life. Left my girls and headed over to H&M to see what trouble I could get into. Bought a few things and headed home to watch my beloved Capitals put a hurting on the Rangers. It's on to Game 7 at Verizon Center. Go Caps!

Vintage Spotlight: Catbooks1940s

I love twitter. Thanks to @VintageBulletin, who hunts down the best of the best in vintage (my kinda woman) for The Vintage Bulletin, I came across another fab vintage sites, Catbooks 1940s. The Geoffrey Beene dress is my absolute fav but there were quite a few goodies at their store. You have to go.







Vintage Spotlight: Thrush

If you read my blog regularly, you know that I am love vintage finds. I believe that the craftsmanship of vintage clothes is untouchable. There was so much pride that went into these clothes and you can tell when you wear it that it was made to last. This Vintage Spotlight shines some light on a delightful vintage store on Etsy called Thrush. I loved the first dress so much that I tweeted about it a few weeks ago and was surprised to see this fab dress still available. That dress is only one of many wonderful finds available at this wonderful store. There are a fab selection of vintage purses and shoes, too. Here are my favs. You can find something you like by visiting their store here.

Dresses









Handbags





Etsy Fashion Find: Loose BonBons Lingerie by Des Neiges



I'm lovin' the sexy ruffles and the aqua/chocolate combination. Get it at Des Neiges.

Etsy Fashion Find: Loose Caboose Designs

i love chunky jewelry and I adore these necklaces from Loose Caboose Designs. Want one? Get it here.



Earth Day 2009 - Fashionably Green: Jewelry



What is an outfit without the perfect piece of jewelry? Accessories are key a great look. So here are my choices for the best eco-fashionable jewelry pieces. There were so many to choose from, it was hard to narrow it down. {From top to bottom: Bracelet, Nugaard Designs @ Nimli.com; Necklace, Nugaard Designs @ Nimli.com; Cuff, Nashelle Designs @ Nimli.com; Bracelet, Lucina @ Greenloop.com; Earrings, Lucina @ Greenloop.com; Cuff, Kris Nations Jewelry @ Shopenvi.com; Ring, Kirsten Muenster @ Greenloop.com; Ring, Kezha Hatier @ Nimli.com; Earrings, Kezha Hatier @ Nimli.com; Ring, Jill Italiano @ Nimli.com; Necklace, Jill Italiano @ Nimli.com; Necklace, Malin @ Ecocitizen.com; Ring, Hovey Lee @ Nimli.com; Cuff @ Ecocitizen.com, Earrings, Cizana @ Nimli.com; Bracelet, Betty B @ Nimli.com.
















Earth Day 2009 - Fashionably Green: Shoes



Of course the queen of shoes would hunt down the most fashionable shoes available. I was surprised at the wide array of fab eco-friendly shoes. So here are my picks as the best eco-fashionable shoes: {From top to bottom: Wedges, Beyond Skin @ Shopenvi.com; Twins, Camper @ Endless.com; Tigerlilly, Zoe&Zac @ Payless.com; Space, Olsen Haus @ Nimli.com; Snapdragon, Zoe&Zac @ Payless.com; Pelican, Neuaura @ Nimli.com; Laura, Camper @ Endless.com; Kate, Remix Vintage @ Endless.com; Gloria, Remix Vintage @ Endless.com; Peacock shoe, Form&Fauna @ Embodies.com; Pleated Dove shoe, Form&Fauna @ Embodies.com; Estelle, Cri de Coeur @ Endless.com; Erline, Pedro Garcia @ Plazatoo.com; Aquila,Terra Plana @ Endless.com; Tamtam, Think! @ Endless.com; Sandals, Swedish Hasbeens @ Endless.com; Julia, Think! @ Endless.com; Rose flat, Beyond Skin @ Greenloop.com; Pumps, Beyond Skin @ Greenloop.com; Cork sandal, Marc Jacobs, Plazatoo.com; Alexa, Cri de Coeur @ Nimli.com; Happy, Melissa Shoes @ Greenloop.com; Espadrilles, Andreassous @ Plazatoo.com; Bootie, Terra Plana @ Shopenvi.com.
























Earth Day 2009 - Fashionably Green: Handbags



So you have to have a great purse to top off your outfit, right? So here are my eco-fashionable picks for best handbags: {From top to bottom: (1) Vy & Elle @ Greenloop.com; (2) Urth Bags @ Nimli.com; (3) Red Flag @ Embodies.com; (4 and 5) Raw Bags @ Nimli.com; (6) Nahui Ollin @ Greenloop.com; (7 and 8) Matt&Nat @ Plazatoo.com; (9) Mad Imports @ Nimli.com; (10) Jack&Marjorie @ Nimli.com; (11) Helen Riegle @ Greenloop.com; (12 and 13) Ecoist @ Ecocitizen.com; (14) Autonomie Project @ Greenloop.com; (15) Ashley Watson @ cocosshoppe.com.


















Here are my choices for the best eco-fashionable dresses: {From top to bottom: (1) Pintuck dress, Stewart+Brown @ Greenloop.com; (2)Valencia Mini @ Loyaleclothing.com; (3) Summer Frock, Skins & Threads, Shopenvi.com; (4) Ruffle dress, Sara Shepherd @ Ecocitizen.com; (5) Deep V dress, Peligrosa @ Embodies.com; (6) White Flower dress, Loomstate @ Ecocitizen.com; (7) Waving dress, Linda Loudermilk @ Ecocitizen.com; (8) Catherine dress @ subletclothing.com; (9) Caftan, Burning Torch @ Cocosshoppe.com; (10) Sundress, beau soleil @ Cocosshoppe.com; (11) School girl dress, Bahar Shapar @ Shopenvi.com; (12) Amirah @ subletclothing.com; (13) Absinthe, Les fees de bengale @ Embodies.com.

















There is a growing need for we citizens to move closer to fashion that is eco-friendly and uses materials that are organic and manufactured in a responsible manner. But there is the belief that eco-fashion is, well, not fashionable. On this Earth Day, let me guide you through some perfect selections that are eco-friendly and very fashionable. Prices vary from store to store, as always. Some eco-friendly online stores include Envi, Greenloop, Sublet Clothing, Eco Citizen, Nimli, Loyale Clothing, Bad Joan and Endless.com. So here's your guide to being Fashionably Green.

Net-a-Porter Launches The Outnet



When you need designer fashions on your pauper budget, head on over to The Outnet. Net-a-Porter has launched their fabulous but slightly kinder of the wallet sister site. With discounts up to 80% percent off, you could really score some fab deals.
Go there now.

Buy of the Day: Urban Outfitters



This is a great purse at a great price. Get it for $19.00 @ Urban Outfitters.

What I Want Now: Soia & Kyo @ Tobi


I would put Soia & Kyo's Maelie Jacket to good use in so many ways. I love this jacket. Again, it has that vintage feel but is totally modern. A must have in your wardrobe. Available at Tobi.

What I Want Now: Black Halo @ Tobi



You know that I love vintage. So I love to find a modern dress with a vintage feel to it. Not to mention the fact that this dress by Black Halo has the most amazing ice blue color. Gotta have it. Available at Tobi.

What I Want Now: Ted Baker



This purse has so much personality. Love the colors. Now that's really red. Available at Ted Baker.

Fashion Promo: Design Cares Fashion Show

I have been checking my schedule to see if there is any way possible for me to get up to NYC in time for this amazing annual event, Design Cares for St. Jude's. I really want to go but it's on a Thursday. Can I get to NY in an hour? Hmmmmmm.

Design Cares runway fashion show will benefit St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. What a great cause. The event happens on April 30, 2009 at The Armory, 26th Street and Lexington Avenue, New York, NY

On April 30 2009, Design Cares will feature a runway show of exclusive evening gowns by the world’s leading designers including:

Adrienne Landau • Alberto Ferretti • Angel Sanchez • B. Michael • Badgley Mischka • Carlos Alberto • Carolina Herrera • Catherine Malandrino • Chado Ralph Rucci • Christian Cota • David Meister • Diane von Furstenberg • Domenico Vacca • Edwing D'Angelo• Gucci • J. Gerard • J. Mendel • John Galliano • JonValdí Couture • Karl Lagerfeld • Luca Luca • Maggie Norris Couture • Marc Jacobs Collection • Matthew Williamson • Michael Kors • Narcisco Rodriguez • Neil Bieff • Nicole Miller • Reem Acra • Valentino • Vera Wang • Versace • Yigal Azrouel • Zuhair Murad and others

Every dress seen on the runway will be auctioned off at the event and online to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers. The event will be held at the Armory at 26 Street and Lexington Avenue from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The theme for this year’s Design Cares benefit fashion event is Kaleidoscope of Dreams. Design Cares 2009 will be the collaborative effort of many designers and with the added support of models, stylists, and celebrities, April 30th will truly be a kaleidoscope of fashion industry professionals coming together to keep the dreams alive for children with cancer.

For two St. Jude patients who aspire to be fashion designers, Design Cares is a dream come true. These two young girls were asked to design their dream evening gown. Two notable designers will recreate their visions for the runway and auction, including Christian Siriano, winner of Project Runway, season 4. Lisa Nargi, the winning model of Christian’s Project Runway season, will model one of the gowns on the runway. Tian Justman, a former St. Jude patient, is living her dream and is currently working as fashion designer. She will recreate the second design.

Tickets

Individual ticket- $200
Individual ticket plus t-shirt - $225
Individual VIP ticket - $500
Individual VIP ticket plus t-shirt- $525
VIP tables - $5,000
Front row VIP table - $10,000
Purchase tickets or sponsor this event

All guests will enjoy:

* cocktails
* restaurant tastings
* a couture fashion show
* a valuable gift bag
* dance floor and DJ
* meeting some of the St. Jude patients
* bidding on luxurious auction items
* the opportunity to give back

VIP Tables for eight include:

* special seating for the fashion show
* premium gift bag
* access to premier VIP gifting suite



One of the trends for this summer is wearing a burst of color somewhere on your body. No need to go overboard. Just a big pop of color in one of your fashion choices will do. Here are some options for all of your fashion needs. {From top to bottom: Dsquared2 @ Zappos.com; Leather Clutch, Banana Republic; Lizza pumps, Jessica Simpson @ Zappos.com; Silk Mini, J.Crew; Multicolored Ring, Kate Spade @ Nordstrom; Ribbon Dress, Twelve by Twelve for Forever 21; Aaliyah gladiator sandals, Pour la Victoire @ Endless.com; Origami Blouse, Twelve by Twelve for Forever 21; Glory stiletto, Miss Me @ Endless.com; Necklace, Malene Birger @ Net-a-Porter.com; Hobo bag, Marc Jacobs @ Net-a-Porter.com; Shoes, Dress, Ted Baker; Berry Pink Jeans, The Gap; Trench Coat, BB Dakota @ Lulus.com; Dress, Alice + Olivia @ Chickdowntown.com















My Favorite One-Piece Swimsuit: Spiegel.com



This swimsuit is very feminine and sexy. Get it at Spiegel.com.

My Favorite Two-Piece Swimsuit: Betsey Johnson



This is the swimsuit to have. It's by Betsey Johnson and you can get it at Nordstrom.

It is getting to be that time of year. When the search for the perfect swimsuit begins because summer will be here before you know it. Or you may just be planning that perfect getaway to your favorite tropical destination. So here are my picks for the best one piece swimsuits.

Victoria's Secret (from top to bottom: Carmen Marc Valvo; Karla Colletto; Victoria's Secret; Mara Hoffman)






Spiegel.com




Nordstrom.com, Rod Beattie; Juicy Couture




Azaleas NYC (from top to bottom: Melissa Odabash; L*Space)




Beach Bliss (from top to bottom: Juicy Couture; Jantzen)




Ashley Paige


For those of you that have that body and know how to flaunt it, here are my picks for the perfect two-piece swimsuits.

Spiegel.com






Azaleas NYC (from top to bottom: Haverhill; Vix)




Victoria's Secret (from top to bottom: Victoria's Secret; Ank; Coco Rave; Sugar Free)






Ashley Paige




Beach Bliss (from top to bottom: Vix; Trina Turk; Juicy Couture)





Nordstrom (from top to bottom: Trina Turk; Betsey Johnson)


What To Wear To Work

Here's your summertime outfit to wear to work. From top to bottom: Khaki Dress, The Limited; Pearl Earrings, Mastoloni @ Nordstrom; Necklace, ;Ring, Ariella @ Nordstrom; Tote Bag, Jimmy Choo @ Nordstrom; Shoes, Manolo Blahnik @ Barneys.






What To Wear Out To Party

When you want a glam look for hanging out with your girls. From top to bottom: Dress, The Limited; Earrings, Forever 21; Sandals, Minnah by Steve Madden; Clutch, Cole Haan, Bluefly.com




What To Wear To Brunch

A bright and cheerful outfit for brunch. From top to bottom: Dress, Karen Millen; Earrings, Forever 21; Bracelet; Anthropologie; Handbag, Kathy van Zeeland @ Macy's; Shoes, Diane von Furstenberg @ Bloomingdales.





What I Want Now: Steve Madden Shoes


Of course, there are shoes! It is taking every thing that I have in my being not to buy these shoes because I just bought a fab pair of camel-colored sandals. I love how it is a mix of patent leather and suede. Sigh. These can be yours, Fellecia @ Steve Madden.

What I Want Now: Maid of the Mist @ Modcloth



I love the color of this sweater. It looks so soft and dainty made by Maid of the Mist and available at Modcloth.com.

What I Want Now: Lambertson Truex



This could totally be your "IT" bag. Loving it. The Janey bag by Lambertson Truex.

Buy of The Day: Kmart

I think Kmart is trying to compete with Target. I actually bought a really cute blouse at Kmart recently that I saw in Lucky magazine. It is so adorable and I can't wait to wear it. So I got their mailer today and here are some of their amazing budget-friendly summer dress options. My personal favorite is the Kimono-style dress by Attention.

{From top to bottom: Floral Print by Route 66, $24.99; Giraffe Print by Jaclyn Smith, $34.99; Blue Sheath by Jaclyn Smith, $34.99; Kimono Style by Attention, $20.99; Deep-V Floral Pring by Attention, $27.99; Ikat Print by Attention, $20.99.}





Fashion Rave: Forever 21


Big props to Forever 21 for coming up with Faith 21. Faith 21 is an expansion of sizes available for their hip and fun line of clothing starting May 1. It again shows that some in the fashion industry are understanding that not everyone is a size 0 (I am not knocking size zeros - you are what you are). But the fact that cool clothes will now be available for a larger range of sizes, makes me very happy. Forever 21 falls in line with The Gap, Old Navy, Alloy, Aeropostale, Wet Seal, and several others. Young women, of varying sizes, can be fashionable and feel included in with their peers. I believe that it is incredibly important for the world of women that we all feel like fashion is attainable. Not just for some but for all. So hats off to Forever 21 for stepping up their game.

Fashion Rant: Luxury and Eco-Fashion in the Same Sentence

I was sitting in my favorite local restaurant going through my monthly pile of fashion magazines when I started reading an article about a designer that left her very lovely job with a well-known designer to start a line of eco-fashionable "luxury" scarves. I could not get passed the word "luxury." What does that mean? How can it be both? I had a problem with creating eco-fashion that is responsible and environmentally conscious but having the nerve to make it exclusive by labelling it "luxury." How absurb. Does that mean that eco-fashion is only available to a certain sector of our population where money is no object? Wouldn't the average working woman want to be wear eco-friendly fashions without breaking the bank? I was so riled up that I had to skip to the next page. This idea of exclusivity annoys me so much. I am determined to teach women that you can be fashionable at any price point. You don't believe me, then check out the blog, Fashion Under $100. Each day, she chooses a celebrity look and then replicates that look for under $100. EVERY DAY she does this. It is so amazing to me. It is one of my favorite blogs. So the next time you read something that refers to eco-friendly clothing as luxury. Write the editor and tell her (or him) to get a life!

Etsy Fashion Find: Sandmaiden

You know that I love lingerie. So I definitely fell in love with these beautiful pieces at Sandmaiden. So sexy and dainty - exactly how lingerie should be. I also love the color choices. Get yours here.




Etsy Fashion Find: JP Sunique Boutique


I know that this is vintage but it looks so modern. Love it. Get it at JP Sunique Boutique.

Etsy Fashion Find: Arny Design


You can not get anymore stylish and eco-friendly than this beautiful purse which is made from recycled grocery bags. Get it at Arny Design.

Etsy Fashion Find: The Pudding Store Vintage




I am such a sucker for vintage evening wear. This 80s gold lame cocktail dress has a great cocktail print and a sexy deep plunging neckline. Get it at: The Pudding Store Vintage.

What To Wear To Work: Net-a-Porter.com


Looking for something to wear to work? Net-a-Porter would love to help you? They have created several boutiques on their web site with style advice for a woman's varying needs. One of their boutiques is their Work Wear Boutique. Here are some of their perfect options for developing a fab work wardrobe, put together by yours truly.

For the Corporate Woman







For the Creative Professional






For the Professional Woman on the Go





Fashion Rave: Aussie Bazaar



Refinery 29 reported yesterday that Australian Bazaar features plus-sized model Crystal Renn in uber sexy poses. Is this progress or what? It is about time that we start to be a little realistic about what a real woman looks like. She is curvaceous, eats regularly, and jiggles a little when she walks. The spread was shot by Luis Sanchis and styled by Wayne Gross. So my hats off to Australian Bazaar for pushing the fashion envelope and moving the world towards a real true beauty that is inclusive to all women.
{image via Refinery 29}

Fashion Rant: Oscar de la Renta on Michelle Obama

I was reading on Vogue UK that Oscar de la Renta was blasting Michelle Obama because she was wearing some European designers while she was travelling overseas. You have got to be kidding me, right? Can he just sit down and shut up!!?? First of all, Michelle Obama has put quite a few AMERICAN designers on the map like Jason Wu, Isabel Toledo, Maria Pinto and J.Crew needs to give her some stock for all that she has done to help them stay out of financial trouble during these difficult times. What is he talking about? Is he really upset because she hasn't worn one of his gowns? Why would she? Don't get me wrong, Oscar is the man. But everybody and her momma wears de la Renta to every bloody red carpet event in the country. There is nothing special about that. What First Lady Michelle Obama seems to be doing is wearing something unique and memorable. I will admit that she had a few misses but very few. So First Lady, continue to do you no matter what. Oscar, you need to take a chill pill.

What I Want Now: Nine West


The color of these sandals is amazing. I love this shade of green. It goes with so many summer shades like khaki, yellow, white, or army green khaki. It can totally be dressed up or dressed down. Love a versatile shoe. It's Nine West available at Endless.com.

What I Want Now: Aridza Bross


I have been searching for an amazing white handbag and this bag has my name written all over it. Aridza Bross at Goldyn.

What I Want Now: Christian Louboutin


Okay. I have been trying not to blog about shoes. It has been very hard not to talk my about my love affair with shoes. But when I saw this today, I could not stop drooling. Me want. Me want very, very badly. Hmmmmm. Where can I get $745.00 from?

Buy of the Day: Newport News



How adorable is this cotton poplin shirtdress by Newport News? Love the ruffles. The price is even better. Get it for $39.00.

Buy of the Day: CC Skye



These fab wood bangles by CC Skye are available at Couture Candy for $53.00 plus 20% off that price using coupon code 20DAY. Great deal.

Blogging With One Hand

I had such a big boo boo happen yesterday. I spilled extremely hot soup that I had just heated up in the microwave all over my right hand. It was everywhere. All over my desk, my papers, my monitor, the carpet in my office. What a mess. Some folks in my office heard my yelp and came in to save me. But it hurt like hell. It is still hurting like hell. After a trip to the nurse, I managed to numb it for awhile with an ice pack. But I have been trying to type with both hands without shreiking. So I am trying to pull some posts together. Not as much as usual. Thanks for your patience.

My girl, V




The CF




Okay. So the CF headed out last night with my girl, V to take in the Robin Thicke and Jennifer Hudson show at Constitution Hall. As usual, we were looking fab and of course, I had on fab shoes! To the credit of my DC sisters, there were very few fashion disasters to report. But there were two outrageous outfits of the night. One chick took booty shorts to a new level! It was warm but not that warm and it wasn't that type of party. She was ready for the pole. The other one was head-to-toe in turquoise looking a hot mess. Ladies, please invest in a full length mirror. It will save you from walking out the door looking crazy.



On to the concert. First of all, I was beyond annoyed that Robin Thicke came on first because he was the only reason why I got dressed. Did the CF score front row seats? Yes, I did. So you know that we were in heaven. We had an up close and way personal view. What a view. Wow! He is beyond sexy. He had on a pair of black jeans that kept sliding down. You know I had camera ready for that Kodak moment, right? LOL! He was worth every penny. The band was amazing, too. He and Jennifer Hudson shared the same band. It was brilliant because it totally made the setup go much more quickly than normal. He sang everything but my favorite song :-( which is "2 the Sky." I love that song. But still was a 10 out of 10 for me.




After a brief intermission, Jennifer Hudson came out. Trust that she will be somebody's momma in about six months 'cause girlfriend has got to be preggars. She did the mommy belly rub. If you haven't had kids, then you may not know what that is. But for my mommies out there, you know what it is. It's that rub you do over your belly for no reason but to remind yourself that you have someone amazing growing in there. So I am sold. She just needs to fess up. I have to admit that I was not really there to see her. She definitely has an amazing voice but I need you to have a few albums under your belt before I will spend my hard earned pennies. She was looking fab - definitely CF-approved. She had on a black shimmery tiered shift dress with black leather leggings and a pair of gorgeous wedge heels that tied up the front. She looked good. She put on a good show but she got a standing ovation when she performed "I Am Changing" and "I Am Telling You." I had to get up and give her props for those two songs. She blew the roof off of DAR.

All in all, it was a good concert and as always, I had a blast with my girl, V. Thanks, V. Sorry the pics are not better. My blackberry camera sucks. We couldn't bring in real cameras or so that is what it said on the ticket. Plenty of folks had cameras because they didn't even check. So I promise to have better pics of my next outing.

What To Wear On Vacation: Outfit No. 5

Outfit No. 5 (Handbag, Givenchy@Barney's; Top, BananaRepublic.com; Shorts, Alloy.com; Shoes, Manolo Blahnik@Barney's)





What To Wear On Vacation: Outfit No. 4

Outfit No. 4 (Top, Venus de Milo@Lulu's; Skirt, VeronicaM.com; Sandals, OldNavy.com; Handbag, Furla@Bluefly.com)





What To Wear On Vacation: Outfit No. 3

Outfit No. 3 (Clutch, R&Y Augousti@Barney's; Dress, Straight Talk@Lulu's; Sandals, Fend@Saks Fifth Avenue)




What To Wear On Vacation: Outfit No. 2

Outfit No. 2 (Clutch, Jalda@Bluefly.com; Dress, Castaway@Lulu's; Sandals, Dolce Vita@Lord & Taylor's)




What To Wear On Vacation: Outfit No. 1

Still undecided about where I could spend a few quiet days in solitude. But I thought I could ease my mind by styling a few vacation outfits.

Outfit No. 1 (Top, Forever 21; White Jeans, OldNavy.com; Sandals, Sam Edelman@Shop Rapunzels.com; Handbag, Furla@Bluefly.com)





Who Loves Short Shorts: Dallin Chase @ Ivy Blue



I wish that I could wear these short shorts. Trying my best to be age-appropriate (Thank you Stacy and Clinton) but I love these. Get 'em at Ivy Blue.

Where to Go On Vacation: Washington, DC


Or, I could stay right here and pretend to be a rich heiress and stay at the way fab, five star Mandarin Oriental Hotel and let them spoil me rotten.


{image via Concierge.com}

Where to Go On Vacation: Las Vegas, Nevada



I am not into gambling but the Las Vegas faithful assure me that there is so much more to do there than gambling. From the looks of The Bathhouse at the Hotel at Mandalay Bay, they may be telling me the truth. Awwwwwwwww. I see relaxation in my future.

{images via Concierge.com}

Where to Go On Vacation: La Fortuna de San Carlos, Costa Rica


How about Costa Rica? Muy hermoso! I could get so lost in there and enjoy every minute even though I can't swim a lick! This is the Tabacón Grand Thermal Spa Resort. Wow.

[images via Concierge.com}

Where to Go On Vacation: Jackson Hole, Wyoming


I am in desperate need of a vacation. I am planning to take a few days off during the Easter holiday. Where should I go? Doesn't the Chill Spa at Hotel Terra in Jackson Hole, Wyoming look like a plan?

{images via Concierge.com}

April Fool's Day?


Could someone please explain April Fool's Day to me. Seems like a waste of a perfectly good first day of April. Maybe I am just a little grouchy.