Where Are Your Contest Entries??

Hey guys!? Where are your contest entries?!? I only have one entry...I was waiting to post it until I had a couple others, but I haven't received any. I know someone wants this fabulous clutch by 2 Fresh Petunias:



Click here to see how - you still have a day or so to get your entry in!

Moving! Yay!

I'm back! Remember when I mentioned awhile back that I was moving?! Well, the time came around last week, and I spent this past weekend moving. It was grueling and tiresome (as is to be expected with moving), but it was definitely worth it! I have so much more space...it's awesome! I'll be sure to share some pictures once I get everything set up, but it may be awhile...this week is going to be organization week...phew! Wish me luck!

Fall 2006 Must-Have: Sweater Dress

Ok, so unless you've been living under a rock for the last couple months, you already know that the sweater dress is a huge must-have for fall 2006. But, I wanted to point out to you guys out there who budget for clothes wisely, make an investment in one great sweater dress that you'll get lots of use out of. This is definitely one item worth splurging on this fall, so I suggest you save up your moolah for a high-quality sweater dress (unless you're just lucky enough to find a high-quality dress on sale).

Here are some of my picks on a 3 price point tier:

1. Deal: Simple Sweatshirt Dress
Gap - $39.50 - now on sale!

Picture from Gap.com

2. Definite Do: Cowl-neck Sweater Dress
Anthropologie - $168

Picture from Anthropologie.com

3. Dream: Alpaca Long Sweater
Neiman Marcus - $395

Picture from NeimanMarcus.com

To get the most mileage out of your new sweater dress, be sure to choose one in a neutral tone. Pair with flats or dressy slouch boots to finish the outfit.

French Pedi - You Likey?

I remember that sometime back in college, I learned of the wonderful world of spa pedicures - especially french pedicures!



They're a pretty big deal in the south, but I'm curious...are french pedicures popular where you're from? Do tell yes or no and (if you don't mind) - what area you're referring to - even if you just vacationed somewhere and happened to notice, it'd be interesting to see! If you don't want to tell your specific area, a general area will work - i.e. Northeast, etc.

Fall 2006 Must-Have - A Simple, Flowy Top

I just discovered this beauty today on Michael Star's web site:


Shine Boatneck Kimono - a steal at $55!

I love to look stylish, but if I can be comfortable too, I'm one happy gal! This loose-fitting top is def a winner in my book! Also, I love finding new photos of how to wear the latest trends, and this is a great example of how to wear a wide belt, which is a super smokin' trend for fall 2006.

To finish an outfit like this, I'd really like to see this top/belt combo paired with skinny jeans tucked into slouchy boots with pointy toes or narrow round toes (to keep the look on the dressy side). Think something along these lines:


Sasha Scrunch Boot by White House Black Market

Yea, this outfit would be hot and reminds me a lot of something Angelina Jolie would wear.

*NOTE: Pictures from Michael Star's web site

Oops! I double posted

Sorry for double-posting my outfit last night...I just caught that. I'd delete it, but someone commented on it and since I loooooovvvvveeeee comments, I'm going to leave it just like it is.

:) D

My Outfit Today - Hot Mod

I usually try to start my work week out on the dressier side and work my way towards a more casual look. For whatever reason, it always seems to me that black can make any outfit more dressy - even items that may not seem all that dressy individually.


Black and White Mod Look

I got the long shorts a couple weeks ago because I thought they'd be a great alternative to jeans for a "going out" outfit and wouldn't be too revealing so I could wear a more sexy top. The white tank is a great staple piece, the ballet flats are uber comfy and cute, and the black top layer is just that - a great layering piece!

White Tank - Gap
Black Top Layer - Ann Taylor Loft
Long Shorts - bebe
Ballet Flats - Nine West
Belt - Vince
Jewelry - Moi - D Celestine Limited

My Outfit Today - Hot Mod

I usually try to start my work week out on the dressier side and work my way towards a more casual look. For whatever reason, it always seems to me that black can make any outfit more dressy - even items that may not seem all that dressy individually.


Black and White Mod Look

I got the long shorts a couple weeks ago because I thought they'd be a great alternative to jeans for a "going out" outfit and wouldn't be too revealing so I could wear a more sexy top. The white tank is a great staple piece, the ballet flats are uber comfy and cute, and the black top layer is just that - a great layering piece!

White Tank - Gap
Black Top Layer - Ann Taylor Loft
Long Shorts - bebe
Ballet Flats - Nine West
Belt - Vince
Jewelry - Moi - D Celestine Limited

My Magazine Debut!

I managed to find an internet connection and wanted to post some exciting news...My first magazine article has been published in super-fab online magazine Fashiontribes.com for the Fancy Flirt section, called "Black is Back! You Know You Miss It..."


Click image or here to view Fancy Flirts on Fashiontribes

For those who think this sounds familiar, it should - it's an extension on a post I did in June - click here to view

I'll be back next week with lots of fun posts so be sure to check it out! ...And be sure to check out the other sweet articles on Fashiontribes.com

Be Back Soon! I'm Going on Vacation!

Hey guys!

I am in need of a serious break, and just in time comes my boyfriend's family vacation to WV. No, I'm not going camping (not my thing)...we're staying in a cabin, but don't worry for this fashionista...it's got AC!! :)

I won't have access to the internet at all, so if you post a comment and don't see it published, worry not, I'll publish them all this coming Sunday.

Be sure to check out all the fun links on the sidebar to the right for some other blogger's fashion stories, and go get your entry for the August contest for that super cute clutch by 2 Fresh Petunias! The link to the rules is in the "Featured Designer" section to the right ->

Fashionably Yours,

;) D

Spoon-feed Yourself Some Style!

Los Angeles-based Karin Collins, owner of SpoonFed Art, handcrafts indie designer glass pendants with a touch of sparkle paired with a touch of pop art for her super unique accessories.


One of Karin's lovely pendants

Karin's pendants are actually made out of spoons, but these aren't your everyday, cereal-eating, soup-slurping spoons...these spoons are vibrant, refreshing, and one-of-a-kind.

Check out SpoonFed Art and save 10% for the month of August: http://www.spoonfedart.com/index.html

Super-cute Black and White Outfit

Ahhh...I love a good black and white outfit, and this one is super cute. The strangest thing about this outfit is that her bag is brown-toned. I guess I'm just one of those "matchy-matchy" type people, but I normally hate black and brown worn together in the same outfit. However, for some reason, it works with this outfit.


Nadine Velazquez at the AIDS Healthcare Foundation Hot In Hollywood Party

I guess this is just another fine example of how the simplest outfit can be the best! Oh, and did you check out those awesome ankle-strap pumps?! Love them!

NOTE: Image from Getty Images

Shopaholic Dream - Marc Jacobs Quilted Purse

I wanted to show you guys an example of an entry for the August 2006 contest for the gorgeous clutch by 2 Fresh Petunias. Ok, so I cheated a little and this purse is actually worth more than $1000, but it's not like I can win, and really...who's counting? Happy shopping and get your entries in! Can't wait to see them!

August Contest Details! Win an Indie Clutch!

This month, win this fabulous indie designer clutch handmade by 2 Fresh Petunias:


Asian Beauty Clutch (click image for details)

How, you ask? Simple! Pretend you've just been given $1000 to blow on whatever you want. Pick the one (or more than one) thing you'd buy, take a picture of yourself with said item (or just the item alone) and email it to me! That's it! Have you always dreamed of owning a Louis Vuitton purse? Now's your chance to at least pretend for a day! Only 2 entries/pictures per person, so if you're going to go for more than one thing, just be sure to squeeze it all in one or two photographs!

Click here to see contest rules for details!



Be sure to take advantage of your VIP discount (for SA readers only) and use discount voucher "shopaholic15" to save 15% off your order at 2 Fresh Petunias all month!

Fall 2006 - How to Wear Ankle Boots

With trends like ankle boots that are hard to get right, I like to find pictures of outfits utilizing these trends to see what elements made the ensemble work. Here's an excellent example of how to wear ankle boots with skinny jeans - simply yet funky - I'd def rock this look:


Cassie takes a quick pic backstage at MTV's TRL

*NOTE: Image from Getty Images

Desperate, Yet Sophisticated, Little Black Dress

I looooooooooooooooovvvvvvvvvvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeee the cut of this dress! I see it on lots of celebrities but I have yet to see it in the store. I heard Ann Taylor was going to have one for this fall, and maybe they'll add it to the site later, but I couldn't find it...alas!


Dress worn by "desperate housewife," Felicity Huffman

This is definitely more a "night on the town" style dress than what I'd actually go for. I'd really like to see this cut in a gorgeous suit material (or at least a little less tight) so I could wear it to work or on a sophisticated date!

NOTE: Image from Getty Images taken at the Desperate Housewives Season 2 Dvd Launch

Support Avon's Walk for Breast Cancer

As a support for breast cancer awareness and research, I offered to help my friend in her fundraising efforts for the "Avon Walk for Breat Cancer" that she's participating in in October. Here's her letter:

Dear Friends,

As you may know, I am participating in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Charlotte this October. Over the course of two days I will be walking nearly 40 miles!

Did you know that every three minutes, another woman in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer?

I am eager to get started with my fundraising and I need your support! I have pledged to raise $1800 for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer as part of my participation in the walk.

It is fast and easy to support this great cause - you can make a donation online by simply clicking on the link at the bottom of this message. Whatever you can give will help! I truly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Thank you for your support; you really do make a difference.

Thanks,
Jessica

Click here to visit my personal page.
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR?px=2377908&pg=personal&fr_id=1200&et=KjW
mJumyDlcb8LB5eZXGcQ..&s_tafId=56846

Click here to view the team page for LKN's Angels.
If the text above does not appear as a clickable link, you can visit the web address:
http://info.avonfoundation.org/site/TR?team_id=19740&pg=team&fr_id=1200&et=-UUHr0se50IE-16up1W-vw..&s_tafId=56846

Every little bit helps, so even if you could only donate $5, I know she'd really appreciate it!

Fall 2006 Must Have - Opaque Tights

I saw it on the ready-to-wear runways first, and now I see it in every fashion magazine...if you're looking for something simple and affordable to make your wardrobe fall 2006 ready, just go out and get a couple pairs of opaque tights. If you want to play it safe, just go with black but if you're wanting to play with the look, try dark brown or dark gray opaque tights. If you really want to try something new, get some tights with lacy or patterned details with lots of texture.

As seen on the runways...



Carolina Herrera


Derek Lam


Salvatore Ferragamo

*NOTE: Pictures from Style.com

NASCAR Style

So, my company rocks! For our quarterly meeting, they took us to Lowes Motor Speedway! I admit, I wasn't that excited about it at first...I mean, I've never seen a NASCAR race, never been to Lowes Motor Speedway before...I only know the names of 3 drivers, and only because they're so famous! However, driving into the speedway on Friday, I was in awe of how large it was in person and cool it was to be able to drive in when hardly anyone else was there.


Here's me in the "pit" area


Check it out - the car matches my Lilly Pulitzer outfit!

It was uncomfortably hot out on the track, but it was well worth it! Plus, our company was well-prepared with an assortment of refreshments...I told you they were awesome! Best quarterly meeting yet!

One of the best parts of the trip was my prize. See the picture frame sitting on that "half-wall" in the first photo? Care to guess what's inside? Well, it just happens to be a $100 bill I won! Ok, time to go shopping!!

1 Trend 3 Ways - Leopard Print Shoes

As promised, I took some pictures of my leopard print shoes tonight. Instead of just posting the shoes, I thought I'd have fun with this post...so, I bring you...

1 Trend 3 Ways - Leopard Print Shoes

Leopard print (and almost any other animal print) is sexy all by itself. Thus, if you want to pull off this look without looking slutty, be sure to balance the sexiness of the print with something classy in your ensemble.

1. LBD - Date Appropriate

Make leopard print shoes sophisticated by pairing them with a classic (and not-too-revealing) LBD
Little Black Dress by Ann Taylor Loft

2. All-black with a kick - Night Appropriate

The sexiness of the print, along with the short shorts are balanced with a 3/4 sleeve-length sweater. I added some fun to the outfit with a wide, red, patent leather belt, though I'm probably more likely to sport this look sans belt.
Shorts by Urban Outfitters
Top by Banana Republic
Belt by bebe

3. Something funky - Work Appropriate

I wanted to do an outfit that I wouldn't normally wear. I know that sounds crazy because I obviously own all these clothes, but I just bought this top and wanted to play! The slim cut of the skirt goes well with the fullness of the top. An embellished black belt finishes the outfit.
Black Pencil Skirt and Top by Banana Republic
Belt by Gap

Shoes by Vaneli

Fall 2006 Shoes - My Favorite Trends

Ok, so we all know that I'm not a professional, but I do know what I like, and that's all that really counts, right? Right! That being said, here are my fave shoe trends for fall 2006:

1. Ankle Boot
A daring style for even the most fashionable fashionista...

Gucci high heel bootie - image from Neiman Marcus

2. Animal Print
I've always loved animal prints, so this is a must-have for me (good thing I already own a pair of animal print peep-toes...I'll have to share the pic of mine some day)

Claudia Ciuti 'Cece' Pump - image from Nordstrom

3. Slouchy Boots
Almost anyone can pull this look off - pair with a lovely wrap-dress or tuck your cutest skinny jeans into these bad boys - this was my one and only purchase at the Nordstrom anniversary sale!

Via Spiga 'Forde' Slouch Boot - image from Nordstrom

4. Something with bows
How dainty...how ladylike?! How could you not like bows...I mean big, huge, annoyingly-large ones aren't that great, but these are adorable:

Nine West offlane pumps - image from Nine West

5. Two in one - something patent and something peep-toe!
Try anything patent to add a flashy touch to your ensemble. Try anything peep toe to go with just about anything - if you haven't noticed a theme here yet, I love peep toes!

Aldo Theolinda Slingbacks - image from Aldo

For more on how to wear these styles, check back for my future posts on how I wear the latest trends. Happy Shopping!