Vacation

Hello, fashionistas! I will be out of town April 23-May 3. But, come back May 3 for London and Amsterdam street style photos. Maybe that ash cloud will trap us....?

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Discount Divas: Online Shopping Hall of Fame

I love online shopping. There is no question about it.

I can click through pages of dresses, shoes, bags, jeans in the time it takes me to lock my door, wait for the elevator and start my car to actually go shopping. I can watch tv, paint my nails, and go through work emails, all while shopping. Sure, you can't try things on, but that is a minor issue. Returns are easy, and I have only had to make 2 or 3 in several years.

Bensoni, $173.75 orig. $695, Chick Downtown

I get so excited when I come home to a UPS sticker on my door. I go straight back down to the lobby to get my package. I often call it a "present" or "prize." Around Christmas I say that Santa has come. Only, I bought it myself. But, that does not diminish my excitement as I rush back to my place, throw down my purse and keys and tear into that box. I throw all the packing materials on the ground as I rush to get to the goods. I then hold it up, admire it, bring it to my closet to mentally pair it with other things and then when my husband gets home, show him proudly what came for me. Of course, I must wear the new item that weekend.

Criminal Jeans, $24 orig. $140, Beyond the Rack

And then the newness is gone. I begin the shopping all over again. It doesn't even seem like real money. The sites have all of your information saved and all you have to do is pick your poison and click. A few days later, a brand new pair of Louboutins or a Nicole Miller dress arrive. But, you say that you saved 50%? Well, my gosh, that is a deal! You simply couldn't have passed that up!

The worst (or, it could be the best!) are the big final sales that many of the sites have. There are several designers, limited quantities and sizes and big discounts. You have to be a quick draw, I mean click, to get what you want. But, don't forget to close out that cart! If you don't, someone might steal it from you. Final sale days are a frenzy of impulse clicking and then reviewing your purchases. I hope you don't have buyer's remorse though- final sales are just that: final.

Cynthia Rowley Navy/Black Reversible Tie Skirt, $89 orig. $250, Rue Lala

In order to be a champion online shopper, you have to sign up for lots of sites, check back often and know when each site starts their sales for the day. I haven't paid full price in years, and yet have never dressed better.

These are my daily sale habits:

Row Nine

The Skinny

Rue Lala

Gilt/Gilt Fuse/Gilt Jetsetter

Haute Look

The Top Secret

Glam List

Billion Dollar Babes

Beyond the Rack

ideeli

Enviius

Gomatta Girls

Great sales all the time:

Chick Downtown

Tobi

the Outnet

Blue Fly

Get your credit card warmed up and shop!

PS: If you know of other great sites, leave a comment!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Chick Downtown, Rue Lala, Beyond the Rack

J'adore Adore Boutique

As a fashionista that loves a serious bargain, I am loving Adore Boutique. Nancy, the owner, is quite stylish herself, serves cosmos Thursday evenings and dishes about her favorite sample sale sites. Walking to Adore is like walking into a friend's closet: designer clothes, cool accessories, lots of bags and shoes and girl talk.

Adore Boutique is a high end consignment boutique where you can find summery Bilingual dresses with the tags still attached, a spring Tahari trench that doesn't look like it has even been tried on, several Fendi bags, Loeffler Randall heels and lots of sparkley accessories. Being located in Cary near Preston Corners attracts affluent consignors with quality goods; lucky for us, Adore Boutique offers us a bargain on these barely worn fashion prizes.

Bilingual Tunic

Since I am in an accessory phase right now, I left with a leather cuff, a three stone cocktail ring, a croc embossed business card compact with mirror, and the most fabulous gold, jeweled snake bracelet. I had to tear myself away before I left with more goodies.

Out of town fashion lovers, don't worry, Adore Boutique is going to begin offering their goods online in the near future. But, if you are in the area, a trip to Adore Boutique will not leave you disappointed.

Location: 4226 NW Cary Parkway, Cary, NC

Phone: 919-481-3400

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photo from BilingualClothingNYC.com

Alice + Olivia for MAC

MAC's Alice + Olivia collection will be available in stores and online July 8, 2010. The colors are bright and fun, which is perfect for the summer. However, the collection does feature a black pigment with a bit of purple sparkle and a black nail polish that can be used through the fall and winter.

From left to right:

Dazzleglass

Sparklicious- pale pinkish nude, limited edition

I.Want.Candy- neon yellow, limited edition

If It's Pink- bright pink, limited edition

Pigment

If It Sparkles...- white with a bit of pink sparkles, limited edition

Partylicious- turquoise with silver sparkles, limited edition

Later- black with purple shimmer, limited edition

Nail Laquer

So Rich, So Pretty- bright purple frost, limited edition

Morning After- turquoise, limited edition

Military- black matte with silver pearl, limited edition

Available online and stores/counters July 8.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photo from MAC

PONO Goodness

PONO is Hawai'ian for goodness. PONO is also jewelry goodness. For refined, unique, and affordable jewelry, you must check out PONO. The jewelry is made from a variety of materials, including Italian resin, wood, shell, metal and horn. The materials are all unique and beautiful in their own way.

Joan Goodman, the designer, is inspired by nature from her time in Hawaii, as well as vintage and modern designs. All of these elements combined make for modern pieces with a classic feel.

The necklaces range in price from $20 for a heart pendant to $130 for an amazing tusk necklace. The alabaster chocker and masonry necklace embody the tribal trend perfectly. Vibrantly colored resin necklaces will brighten up any outfit. Shop their website for even more necklaces.

Utopian Progression Necklace in Petro, PONO $46

Grab some matching bracelets, or pick out a few outstanding cuffs, $12-58. These resin bracelets, bangles and cuffs and made from resin and you will be amazed by what resin can do. Adding one of these bracelets to your outfit will dress it up instantly. Perfect for everyday wear, vacations or date, you just need to get at least one. Or two.

Lattice Cuff in Capri, PONO $42

A wonderful gift would be PONO earrings, $40-55: they are unique, special and can be worn with anything. The resin earrings match the necklaces and bracelets, while the wood earrings are totally different, in a good way. The paradox earrings in seagrass are right on the military trend this spring.

Paradox Earrings in Seagrass, PONO $55

For something fun, interesting and totally unique, think PONO.

Click here to order online (free shipping on orders $50+)

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from PONO.

Zac Posen for Target

Target continues to differentiate itself from other discount retailers by continuing to offer designer diffusion lines. April 25 will bring us Zac Posen. If paying over $1,000 for a top isn't your thing, your're not alone. Zac Posen's line for Target is sure to be much kinder to our wallets with prices ranging from $14.99-$149.99.

The line is full of young, flirty dresses, plus, shorts, swimwear, tops and cool belts. If you are daring, give colored socks with Mary Janes a go!

Zac Posen for Target, Available April 25

Don't hesitate though; this collection is only available in stores and online from April 25-May 30.

More pics here!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from College Fashion

Fair Trade Meets Fashion: Beleza

You probably know about fair trade coffee. I never thought about other products though; Beleza has. Beleza is a fair trade jewelry and accessory boutique with a wide assortment of beautiful baubles.

Many of Beleza's products come from Brazil, but you can also find items from Madagascar and Uganda. As a fair trade boutique, the sale of the items supports the artisans and gives them a fair wage to live off of and encourages sustainability. Plus, the prices are affordable because Beleza conducts business directly with the artisan, cutting out the middlemen.

The small store is packed with unique earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, small purses, hair accessories, textiles such as blankets and pashimas, and artwork. As I looked at each artisan's section in the store, I found necklace after ring after bracelet that I wanted.

The Zulugrass line is produced by Kenyan women that learned the craft during an especially hard drought. The necklaces are made from Czech crystal beads that shine in a multitude of colors. You can layer multicolored strands, stay monochromatic or even double over the long strands. The bright colors will brighten up any outfit this summer.

You probably recycle paper, but you will be very impressed by what Ugandans in refugee camps have created with recycled paper. They have created interesting, colorful unique jewelry and small handbags all made from recycled paper beads. What is even more impressive is the time that it must take to make each bead and then each piece of jewelry, as no dye or coloring is used. The colors come from the paper and the artisans must match up the colors as they naturally occur.

Paper Beaded Bracelets from Uganda, Beleza

Looking for a statement piece of jewelry? The semi-precious stone jewelry made in Brazil will give you just that. Creative necklaces and chunky cuffs will give you the tribal look that is so popular this spring. Besides having beautiful stones, you will have superior metal work. Wear one this necklace, below, and you will be sure to get second looks.

Semi-Precious Stone Necklace from Brazil, Beleza

The horn and gold grass bracelets are my favorites. The horn cuffs are so interesting and will really make you think about all the uses an animal serves to the people of Madagascar where this jewelry is made. The strands of gold grass in the bangles will momentarily confuse you. Can grass really make these bangles and earrings? Yes, and they are lightweight and amazing.

Horn Cuffs from Madagascar, Beleza

Crocheted steel. Sounds interesting? Well, it is and it is also beautiful. The artisans crochet stainless steel and suture wire into designs and use the same wire to make beaded jewelry. This is jewelry from truly found objects in the wire used. This jewelry is so creative and imaginative that you must own a piece.

Beleza is great for a unique gift that will be remembered for years to come, and, of course, spicing up your own jewelry collection with pieces that are sure to get comments and compliments. Plus, you can feel good about spending your money at a fair trade boutique: fashion and helping all at once!

Email Beleza for more information, or click here for address.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website.

Photos from Beleza

New Wave of Fashion: Fashion Stake

FashionStake.com. Put it in your favorites.

Vivian Weng has created a new way to consume and participate in fashion. Young designers need money to fund their line. They also need consumers to buy their line to continue the funding. This is where Fashion Stake comes in to play.

Fashion Stake showcases talented up-and-coming designers. Find one (or more!) you love? You can help them by investing as little as $50. Your contribution earns you credits that you can use to buy clothing. Also, you will be privy to special offers that include showroom visits, fashion show invites and more. You will also be able to vote on styles that you would like to see make the line.

The designers featured aren't totally newbies. Designers must have produced a collection and have fans- perfect for Althea from Project Runway who will be featured.

Besides the thrill of discovering a new designer, you will be helping them make their art come to life. You could be the next Isabella Blow to the next Alexander McQueen- without the tragic ending.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Just Say No to Tan Lines

Nothing can ruin your summer nights faster than seeing your tan line from your summer days. We make so much effort to eliminate VPL's, which ruin an outfit in an instant, so why not make the same effort for VTL's? Tan lines are just as tacky when you see them peeking out from tank tops and dresses. Luckily, the geniuses at Bikini Bands have solved this problem.

Why not just buy bandeau bikini tops? There are just too many cute, sexy, fun, flirty bikinis that do not have a bandeau top. Also, straps provide support when you are in the waves, walking around the beach or pool, playing volley ball or setting up your chaise lounge area.

To use the Bikini Band, simply slip it over your head and around your chest, tighten, untie bikini top, and start tanning! When you are done, pack your Bikini Band in it's pink pouch and toss it back in your tote.

If you are like me and tend to lose things, buy several because you will not want to be without your Bikini Band this summer. And at $12.99 a piece, buying two will not put a dent into your fashion budget. If you tell six of your Facebook friends about Bikini Bands through their site you will receive 30% off. Be prepared for jealous friends and fellow beach goers to inquire about your fabulous beach accessory.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website.

Photo from Bikini Bands

Jeggings: Yes or No?

We love our skinny jeans and we love our leggins; so, why not combine the two? The result of this matrimony is jeggings: the comfort of leggings with the look of super skinny jeans. Jeggings are perfect for the spring and summer because they are lighter weight than jeans. Plus, they will also instantly update your look. Don't toss your leggings out though, they are still good under short dresses and tunics. Just add jeggings to your wardrobe to add new texture and interest to your current looks.

Romeo & Juliet Couture Jeggings, Blue Fly $59

For a variety of jeggings, shop for them at Blue Fly.

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Blue Fly

Matte Nails

Forget your super shiny top coat to finish off your manicure. Matte nails are in and Essie has what you need.

Besides coating your entire nail with the matte top coat, you can just do the tip in matte, or vice versa. If you have a steady hand, you can also do your half moon. Essie has a guide that shows you the looks; but, you can always be creative and do your own thing.

Fans of Essie's Matte About You ($10) say that it works best with dark nail colors, like black, maroon, dark purple, navy, brown and other similar colors. Don't be afraid to try it on light colors to add interest to your spring nails.

Unfortunately, nail polish and top coats do chip and Matte About You is no exception. After several days you may notice the matte-ness chipping off. No worries though, simply reapply Matte About You.

Most of us are too busy to sit still long enough to let our nail polish completely dry. Good thing that Matte About You works over fast drying top coats.

Essie is offering free shipping on orders of $75+ (freeship75), so be sure to check out their spring collection of 6 new colors, their new wedding collection, limited edition sets and all of their regular colors (nail polish $8, sets $14+). Plus, Essie has tools and accessories ($10+), treatments (like ridge filler and protein base coat, $8-10 ), solutions (like sun-e to protect from UVA and UVB, $15). Essie also has lotions and hand care items so your hands look perfect to show off your manicure.

Matte nails are an inexpensive trend, Essie is easy to buy online and is carried in most beauty stores. So, no excuses!

For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Essie

Handpicked Style

s an accessory lover, the first time I went to Handpicked resulted in an hour checking out every earring, bracelet, bag and necklace. I went in just to see what Handpicked had. I ended up buying a compact with a mirror and foldable brush, mosaic bangle, several beaded bangles in multiple colors, sterling silver bar earrings and a very cool acrylic bubble ring, plus a free pair of small pink stud earrings.

Monogrammable Acrylic Ring, $14

If you are looking for an eye-catching clutch perfect for summer, you must see Handpicked's selection. There are a few clutches with a sea theme, think Maine clambake, available in the store only. Any of these colorful clutches will add the burst of color you need this summer. Think a white sun dress, seersucker shorts or a bright jumpsuit to wear when carrying one of these clutches.

Colorful Sea Theme Clutches, $38

To order accessories from Handpicked, visit their site. Be sure to look at the Monogram Boutique for great gift ideas or just something fun for yourself. For locations in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, visit their store locator.

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For wardrobe & image consulting visit TheStylista Website

Photos from Handpicked

Fashionable Birkenstocks?

Fashionable Birkenstocks? Yes, fashionable Birkenstocks. As crazy as it sounds, it is true thanks to Stella McCartney. Stella has two new sandals; the wedge is Stella McCartney for Birkenstock and the heels are simply inspired by Birkenstock. Whichever pair you choose, you can be sure you will not be wearing the traditional sandal favored by hippies. But, since it is Birkenstock the comfort level is sure to be great.

Stella McCartney for Birkenstock Cork Wedge Sandal, Intermix $495

These sandals take very casual shoes to the next level. Either shoe can be worn with shorts, maxi dresses or sundresses during the day running around town or for a casual night out. The wedges are great for the fashion conscious vacationer that will be walking the streets of Rome or strolling through a Greek resort. Pack the five-inch heels for night and meet your honey on the Lido Deck.

Stella McCartney Cork and Faux Leather Sandals, Net-a-Porter $625

Stella has several other pairs of cork sandals and wedges, but they do not bear the same strong resemblance to the Birkenstock as the above heels. Also available are raffia wedges and heels to complete your summer shoe wardrobe.

To see more of Stella's shoes and to order, visit Intermix and Net-a-Porter.

Photos from Intermix and Net-a-Porter