New Color For Spring

We have all been looking for way to save money here and there which might include frosting your own tips (nails not hair). But, with spring coming it is time to consider a polish other than Wicked to make your nails pop in the warmer weather. Enter new Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure. While I wouldn't be brushing it on without a base or top coat this new formula makes do it yourself manicures a breeze.

There are a plethora of colors to pick from but, my choices from the line besides the sheer nude-ish shades are Commander in Chic and Pat on the Black. The latter is fine for riding out the rest of the chilly weather but, not very spring appropriate. While, Commander in Chic is all the rave among fashionistas everywhere for spring 2010.

That's my hand below after a few days with two coats of color plus base and top... barely any chipping to speak of even with my keyboard heavy job.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Who Needs a Man When You Have Coffee?

Sale Alert

Creepiest Gift Ever?

While checking email (and being bombarded by Valentine's Day gift ideas) I came across these absolutely ridiculous boxers.



I'm so curious...

poll by twiigs.com

FYI my answer is Hell No! Because, my boyfriend would think I was crazy. And honestly, who takes V-Day this seriously anyway?

20 Best Vintage Clothing Sites

If you are into shopping vintage then take a look at this listing of the 20 best vintage clothing shops here:

20 Best Vintage Clothing Sites

Vintage is a great way to go if you are looking for something specific or want to channel a certain era. Or, maybe just to match what was popular then with what has come back now. Hello new 80's! What I really appreciate about vintage shops (or even the plain old salvation army) is that you can find some awesome items and keep them out of landfills because some fabrics will live longer than you will. Has anyone seen Wall-E?!? But, I digress...

Those are just some of the pro's but, let's not forget the con's before we go vintage crazy! (and by we I mean me) Sometimes the can be overly pricey depending on the site so, try not to rationalize it... yes, I know you are saving the planet and the dress is fabulous but, you need to buy groceries. Also, try not to buy unless you are sure of your size because the return policy is generally no returns. This is one of my biggest problems with shopping online in general. Hi, my name is "10 in one store, 14 in another"! Again, I digress...

The bottom line is that if you can make it work, this is a great option and now you have a plethora of new stores to chose from!

Capsule Collection: Sonia Rykiel pour H&M

H&M is doing well despite recent bad press. Hennes & Mauritz AB (full professional business name) posted a 20.9 percent increase in net profit in the fourth quarter, with a 15 percent increase in sales in December 2009 versus the previous year, and a 13 percent increase in sales in January 2010.

Retail analysts expect that the jump will allow the company to reinvest in expanding its high-fashion offerings, like its recent collaborations with Jimmy Choo and Sonia Rykiel. On that note, if you loved the Sonia Rykiel lingere collection that H&M carried over the holidays then I'm sure you're counting down the days to the launch of her knitwear collection. Febuary 20 for those of you who are not...

I will admit although the lingere was super cute I was not moved to run and purchase it. This collection, however, is totally different! You can check it out at H&M but, definately watch the video! You'll get a great look at the thinking and collaboration that went into the collection. I learned I have been pronouncing her name wrong (embarrassed face). Also, you'll get a peek at the little yellow dress I am lusting over... hopefully it's not too expensive.

Project Runway: The Video Game?!

I'm just as shocked as you are but, it's true. On March 2 you'll be able to turn your living room into a catwalk, when Atari releases this new fierce video game exclusively for Wii. If you spent all last season watching the contestants thinking "I could do so much better than that," here's your chance. The game puts players in their roles, taking on theme challenges and designing the garments, getting their models dolled up with hair, makeup, and accessories, and eventually taking on the role of catwalk queen as they strut down the runway in their own creations (with the help of the Wii balance board, ick!). Tim Gunn, Nina Garcia, Michael Kors, and Heidi Klum are all part of the game as are the top eight contestants from last season (which I did not see boo Bravo). The game also has "an interactive garment studio" and "a feature where the player can take part in high-profile fashion shoots and take on the role of a fashion photographer." If you can't wait you can check out the trailer or pre-order yours now!

Sale Alert

I've been trying to resist the call of this Ann Taylor Loft sale but, I think I'm going to have to check it out after work...

Not Your Average Rain Boots

I remember when I thought rain boots were the coolest...

I think I was still in the single digits of age and I was totally into jumping around in puddles and making a splash. There was a hiatus until later on (as an adult) I will admit I purchased a pair of really snazzy Coach ones but, have not worn them in literally years. What is a girl to do when she's searching for a way to keep her feet dry that does not involve a rubber knee high boot. Enter these totally awesome rain booties! Totally chic... I think they would look fabulous with tights and some skirts or slacks. They are a little pricey so I'm going to be searching for a cheaper alternative but, if this works for you I would totally get them and keep your feet dry in style!

A Tee For Work

I love T-Shirts but, when you work a 9-5 HR gig a flashy t-shirt with an awesome message just doesn't cut it for everyday wear. Enter J Crew's Textured Jersey Ribboned Collier Tee.

This is the perfect work t-shirt because of the intricate beading and sequined design on the front and continued embellishment on the back. I have already purchased it and worn it to work and no one was the wiser. I fooled them all with my really fancied up cotton tee! As a word of advice, it is very thin so you busty girls want a good bra or a thin tank top underneath. Now, with the code EXTRA30 at checkout you will get an additional 30% off an already low sale price. I'm jealous you will have done better than me!

FYI

Coming this spring Spanx will be making swimwear! Exciting, I know. Frankly, I'm surprised they didn't think of it sooner! Their patented shapwear materials and designs are already so popular for wearing under our clothes it only seems natural that it be put to even better use: the dreaded bathing suit–just in time for spring break vacations. Loving the middle one... can't wait to try it on!

Things For Spring

Everyone is talking about the trends for spring and the uncommonly warm weather has definatly had me thinking about it as well.

A lighter colored scarf is definately on my list because I love them. I saw this while I was in the mall today and I liked this scarf. Love the ombre, love the color, love love love it.

I know I don't need anymore shoes but, when I saw these all I could think was what an amazing punch they would add to my spring/summer ensembles. Don't you agree? If you do you can pre-order them here... and then I will be jealous.

I will definately be on the look out for more because by the time the real warm weather hits these things will all be on sale...

For Your Friend Who Has Everything...

Just in time for random Christmas gift giving Christian Louboutin has collaborated with Barbie to create this limited edition 'Cat Burglar' doll. In a black catsuit and Differa sandals, she is the perfect gift for fashion lovers. She comes with a collection of 4 red-soled Louboutins, each with their own shoe box and bag. What a great way to get little girls started on their shoe obsession early... or surprise a friend who loves the red sole.

Several pieces from the Rodarte for Target collection will be available at Target To-Go Holiday Pop-Up, a limited-time-only walk-up holiday shopping event, before it hits stores nationwide on December 20th, from Friday, December 11 through Sunday, December 13, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, at Gansevoort and Washington Streets, at the High Line entrance in New York City. Pop-ups will also launch in San Fran and DC. You can get some pieces from the collection including:

• Sequin ribcage dress, $49.99
  
• Black halter dress, $39.99
  
• Coral slip dress, $39.99
  
• Bow belts, $12.99

In addition to scooping up pieces from the Rodarte collection before the line's official launch, shoppers can dash up and dash off with the hottest mix of 50 holiday gifts at everyday low prices, wrapped and ready To-Go.

Stay Fabulously Warm

As the first major chill begins to set in I can't help but thinking of ways to keep myself toasty. Sure, I can bundle up in a goose down parka and wait out the winter but, I feel there has to be a better way. Enter a new collection of fleece-lined products called Plush, a collection that includes leggings, tights, knee-high, thigh highs, all with a thin fleece lining (the packaging is made of partially recycled paper, btw.) Looking at them, you can’t tell they are any thicker than regular hosiery, yet the difference is immediately felt once you venture outside. Although they are a little thicker in the foot area, you can still manage to easily slip on any heels, and be off! Priced from $22-$70, the items at Plush can easily be worth the invest, and I have a feeling you won’t be able to wash the items fast enough for the amount you’ll be wearing them! So long, paper-thin leggings!

Keep Going International

Zac Posen will be the next limited edition designer of Target's Go International series. His Go International collection will be available at most Target stores nationwide and online from April 25 through May 30. Expect prices to range from approximately $14.99 to $149.99 (yeah things are getting a bit pricey now aren't they?) In the meantime, don't forget to check out Rodarte for Target, which launches on December 20th! Hopefully they will be pulling out all the stops!

Splurge vs. Budget Fringe Necklace

With the overwhelming amount of metallic accessories this fall there are alot of choices out there. But, why spend a ton of money on something that is overwhelmingly trendy and bound to be out of style as quickly as it came. Here are choices for you... which one if more expensive?
The left one is the $34.50 Ann Taylor Loft version while the right one is the marked down $9.99 Urban Outiftters version. The best part about our budget choice is that it's are having free shipping right now with the code FREEBIRD. While you're at it you can pick up one of my favs from Fab Collabs on super sale!

Do It Yourself

Maybe you are the make everything yourself type, or perhaps you prefer to pick it up at the store... either way, you don't need to be Martha Stewart to use this recipe! Stray away from the chemical additives in normal lipgloss and make your own. This beautiful shade will take you through the end of fall and carry you through winter in style!

Beet Lip Gloss
10 minutes; makes 1/2 ounce

What You Need:
(local and organic whenever possible)

• 1 beet (light-colored red beets yield a red shade; darker ones get you a merlot color)
• 3 drops olive oil
• 2 Tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 capsule of vitamin E oil
• Repurposed lip gloss container or pillbox

Directions:

1. Remove beet from stem, wash, and chop into 1-inch pieces.

2. Place chopped beet in microwave-safe container and heat on high for 1 minute until it releases juice.

3. Pour beet juice and the rest of the ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly (add sugar by the teaspoon until it reaches your desired thickness).

4. Empty the finished blend into a small jar, preferably a repurposed lip gloss container. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 hours to thicken, then apply as you like. It'll keep for 6-8 months.

If You're Going To Do It

Then do it right!!! Black Friday shopping can be a majorly amazing way to save some money and knock alot of people off your shopping list. On the other hand... it can be a total headache! My recommendation to avoid the stress that comes along with venturing out on Black Friday is to only go if you have a plan. Check out the some deals from your everyday favorite stores and be out of there by brunch.

Get Some Culture

We should all go see the Design for a Living World exhibit at the Cooper-Hewitt. I'm planning my weekend around it right now. It shows how 10 top designers put their pins and needles on sustainable materials and made beautiful things. Check out Kate Spade's woven totes with FSC-certified hardwood handles and jipijapa, a fun-to-say fiber made from palm leaves; Isaac Mizrahi's salmon-leather shoes, made with re-purposed materials and fewer toxic chems than regular leather; and Ted Muehling's veg-ivory jewelry, like bangles and earrings, carved from ivory-nut palm tree seeds.

Design for a Living World at Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum,
2 E. 91st St. (212-849-8400). Tickets, $10/adult.