It's My Birthday and I'll Shop If I Want To!

Yes, I know the title is a bit self-absorbed but it is my birthday and that's pretty much the only day I'm allowed to be self-involved. This will be my 29th year on the planet and I'm ready to roll it in in the right way. Of course, with great age comes great sartorial responsibility. I can't quite get away with the same looks I used to when I was a younger lass. It's time to bust out the longer hem lines and find dresses with sleeves. Let's be honest. Things aren't exactly as firm or as perky as they used to be. But seeing as how I'm a personal shopper in real life, I have to make sure I've got several options available. You just never know if you'll be feeling sexy or silly on the big B-day. One thing I do know, I'm going to want to jazz up my look. I can't be seen in just any old thing, which is the perfect excuse to go shopping.

Browsing online, I found some great options at Nordstrom in a rainbow of colors, styles, and prices. There's got to be at least ONE that will work! No birthday suits allowed!

This simple shift has sleeves and is covered in glitter. Winning! Adrianna Papell, $99.97, Nordstrom

This may only have one shoulder but the effect is effortless and subtly sexy. Love the color too. Adrianna Papell, $49.97, Nordstrom

I'm not much for strapless but the cut of this dress is so flattering to my body type- which is a bit larger on the bottom. Hailey by Adrianna Papell, $138, Nordstrom

I love everything about this dress: the color, the midi-length, the Marylin Monroe silhouette, and the Grace Kelly charm it embodies. Donna Morgan, on sale for $59.97, Nordstrom

The color on this attracted me the most. The style is simple but completely available to some serious accessorizing, the thought of which just makes me salivate. Suzi Chin, $148, Nordstrom

This is just a really sexy dress. The sheer panel at the top with the cool cut-out at the sleeve won me over. BB Dakota, $88, Nordstrom

The subtle lines created by the intricate beading on this sassy little number has a very figure-flattering effect. It's vintage inspired but done in a modern way. Pisarro Nights, $158, Nordstrom

There is something about this dress that I just swoon for. It's romantic, elegant, a bit Spanish dancer-esque, and it has a some sexy upper arm coverage. Definitely winning! Pisarro nights, $158, Nordstrom.

Clearly, I've got options. It's just so hard to decide! All I know is come the big day, all eyes better be on me :)

Cheers!

Image(s) courtesy of Nordstrom

Wardrobe Update: August Shopping

Since August is the "last" month of the summer, excluding of course random Bay Area heat waves in October- now would be a great time to update your wardrobe and buy some new things. Long sleeve tops in knits and sweaters, cardigans, and in general layering pieces will help extend the life of your sleeveless items. Just a few layering pieces and you've got a great start to a Fall wardrobe.

Start off by getting yourself a fun coat-alternative option. This duster, which is essentially just a long cardigan,  looks great in the outfit pictured, but would also be a great tag-along to a maxi dress for when the months gradually cool.

Trouve Fringe Duster, Nordstrom, $58 (Anniversary Sale)

Make sure you gather lots of pull-over sweaters in both v-necks and crew-necks. Embellished necklines are very poplar this year. The good news is you have so many options available to how you choose to partake in this trend, one is bound to feel right. Some tops already come in a simple color with a beaded neckline so half the work is done for you! If you want to start from scratch, you can try layering a crew-neck sweater with a collared shirt underneath. If that doesn't sound appealing, try a turtleneck. And if that doesn't suit you, don't use a high-necked under shirt and instead skip it all together. Use a chunky necklace in it's place. See! Tons of options!

Bonus: If your sweater has an interesting print or pattern or texture, it will elevate your look that much more. Marc by Marc Jacobs, Nordstrom, $159.90 (Anniversary Sale)

Kate Spade necklace, Nordstrom, $118.90 (Anniversary Sale)

Easy, breezy dresses you wore all summer don't necessarily need to be packed up when the weather turns crisp. Fall-ify your dresses with a pair of tights, boots, and a jacket.

Stylist Warning: When your dress already has a print, don't over complicate your look by wearing a pair of tights with a texture or print. Keep it simple. Though you can still be playful by picking a color. Jessica Simpson dress, Nordstrom, $84.90 (Anniversary Sale)

Embrace color! Winter months are often dominated by bland neutrals so don't be afraid to kick-start your look with a burst of color. If these are too bright, then of course wear black. Nordstrom tights, Nordstrom, $6.90 (Anniversary Sale)

A classic lace-up bootie will pretty much go with EVERYTHING in your closet for Fall/ Seychelles "Fever Pitch" Booties, Nordstrom, $89.90 (Anniversary Sale)

A denim jacket is great go-to as the seasons transition. It's a neutral in it's own right because it's a classic but the blue adds a nice pop of color to any outfit. KUT from the Kloth denim jacket, Nordstrom, $69.00

The last few items you can start keeping an eye out for are thin undershirts, perfect for building your layers (and thus, warmth!). Scarves are also a great addition for color and fun, not to mention they're very insulating because the plug up any potential draft from a low neckline.

Hope you find these tips helpful and inspiring enough to get you out to the stores, shopping!

Image(s) courtesy of www.nordstrom.com

Summertime! Cute and Cool Looks for the Plus and Petites

I don't know about you but I couldn't be happier summertime has finally arrived! The air feels warmer, the breeze not as chilly, and the streets much more crowded with foot-traffic and some great eye candy outfits. It's the perfect time to bust out with some shorter hemlines and some sleeveless tops. There's nothing like the freedom a dress or a skirt brings from skinny jeans. True liberation and style lies in that which is comfortable, so says I.

However, I have a great many clients who are either plus or petite size and who struggle not only to find something to wear but also something that suits the season. This post is for all those ladies here today. There are incredibly cute things to wear right now! I know when I'm out shopping, I'm never 100% satisfied with what's available in stores but I'm very skilled at updating a closet that probably has some basics in it. Here, are some quick tips and options to liven up your wardrobe for summer. First up, Petites.

If you want to embrace the neon trend, you can either do it in an accessory or in a piece of clothing. This dress by Maggy London is a perfect hybrid. It's got the balance of a casual dress but it's also great for an office. The only thing "loud" about it is the color. The all-over print keeps the eye moving so it never settles in one place and the V-neck brings the attention back up to the face. All A+'s in my book.

Maggy London, Nordstrom, $98

Sometimes the best thing you can do for your closet is to incorporate a few more fun and fresh tops. That means color and/or print. Colors are mood manipulators so why not wear what makes you happy!? I love the silhouette of this top. It's perfect when you're feeling bloated. Make sure to avoid looking big all over by balancing the top out with a skinnier bottom. A pencil skirt would work as an alternative to skinny jeans.

Citron top, Nordstrom, $92 (it's machine washable silk!)

If you don't know what chambray is but have heard it before, don't worry. It's not a fancy fabric. Think of it as a very light weight denim. It's sort of like going from a muslin to a canvas. The name is your clue to what weight it is, light or heavy. In this case, chambray is a great jean but "not jean" option for summer. It's best done as a skirt.

Nic + Zoe skirt, Nordstrom, on sale for $71.90

Because we live in the bay area, it's never really safe to leave home with out a jacket or sweater of some kind. Just because it's warm outside, doesn't mean you're safe from the wind. A great summer  option to wear when the chill comes back is a knit blazer. 

Caslon blazer, Nordstrom,  $59

 For Plus-

A versatile dress in a pop of color will always look good and always feel good. The relaxed silhouette of this dress marks it as being easily dressed up or down. A good staple for any woman to have.

Kelsey dress, IGIGI, $118

Many people think they can't wear yellow. They're wrong! It just has to be your shade of yellow. Most people have it as an undertone in their skin anyway so if you kind a yellow that compliments your undertones, it'll make you look radiant. Trust me.

Double collar, sleeveless top, ASOS.com, on sale for $24.86

Since most plus-size clients I have dislike their legs, I figured pants might be the way to go here. Instead of turning to your typical jeans or work pants, try a cropped pant in a bright blue. The blue is familiar but not "safe" by any means because of the vibrancy of the color. They'll nicely compliment the bright yellow in the top above.

Cropped pants, Avenue.com, on sale for $32.99

To finish off any pants and top combo, you need a cute jacket. I love the color and cut of this motorcycle-inspired one. And if you paired it with the pants and yellow top, you'd have a stunning look from head to toe.

Faux leather jacket, ASOS.com, on sale for $54.68

One thing that doesn't discriminate based on size is shoes. Shoes (almost) always fit. So to really finalize these looks, I picked one heel and one flat sandal that all women, regardless of size, could drool over.

Whistles "Noemi" sandal, ASOS.com, $207.13

One of my favorite style of sandal for any gal is a gladiator sandal. The numerous straps helps shape the foot into a flattering appearance. Most sandals are a little too naked for my taste but these have a bit more "shoe" to them so they'll feel like they cover more of your foot.

Nine West, Nordstrom, on sale for $38.90

Hopefully as the days continue to get warmer, you continue to find inspiration in the season and dare to be cute and cool, regardless of what size you are. There's never been a more appropriate season for women than summer. After all, we get to wear dresses and skirts! Enjoy it!

Image(s) courtesy of asos.com, nordstrom.com, avenue.com, igigi.com

San Francisco Sale Info for July 2012

 July Fine Jewelry Birthday Card Sunday, July 1st- Tuesday, July 31st

Looking for the perfect gift? We have you covered! Clients will receive a $100 Splurge Card when spending $500 or more in Fine Jewelry or Fine Watches using your Bloomingdales card!

Designer Ready to Wear Power Point Offer Thursday, July 12th- Sunday, July 15th

Ladies, this is the time to shop until you drop! For every $1,000 spent in full price Designer and The New View Designer Collections, you will receive 50,000 Power Points! Our Designer collections are calling your name this month!

July FOD Thursday, July 12th- Sunday, July 15th

Clients will receive 15% off of almost any purchase in our Center Core, Ready to Wear, Men’s or Young World departments when using their Bloomingdales card!

A Better Offer: Soft Goods Clearance Sale Thursday, July 26th- Sunday, July 29th

We know you have been waiting for it, and it is finally here! Come in to Bloomingdales to receive 40%-50% off of almost all permanently reduced items in Women’s Men’s and Kid’s fashions, Handbags, Fashion Accessories and Intimates! Total savings during this time can range from 50%-75%.

Polo Olympics Power Points Event Thursday, July 12th- Saturday, July 28th

Now that SF Pride has ended, we are focusing on a new kind of celebration, the Olympics! Take pride and shop our Olympics line here at Bloomingdales! Clients will receive triple points on Men’s and Women’s Polo Olympics merchandise!

July Last Chance Clearance Sale Thursday, July 26th- Sunday, July 29th

Be sure to make your appointment for all of your last minute summer items! The Last Chance Clearance Sale is the perfect time to include any last minute items to your wardrobe.

 

You can shop this sale online any time, or make an appointment to shop it in-store on the 11th.

 Barney's in San Francisco is currently on sale at up to 60% off Spring Summer; definitely a great time to stop in!

Summer stock-up sale, presell starts July 8 - save up to 20% off regular and sale merchandise with Friends and Family exclusions!

One Day Sale is coming on Saturday, July 14 with a preview day on Friday, July 13.
You can use your Star Rewards towards purchases. (Unfortunately we can't presell for Summer stock-up sale during the One Day Sale).

It's time for the big Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!!!!!!!!!!!!  This sale is not to be missed.  While everyone is is putting their Spring/Summer clothes on sale, Nordstrom gets you ready for the cool weather early by putting their FALL clothing on sale before everyone else's hit the shelves.

ANNIVERSARY SALE STARTS JULY 20!
Next season's styles are making their debut, and they'll be on sale for a limited time. Shop early for the best selection.
Prices go up August 6.

BE FASHIONABLY EARLY

Shop the Anniversary Sale for nine full days before everyone else with Early Access! Just join the Nordstrom cardholder family and become a Fashion Rewards® member

ONLINE SALES:

If you're a fan of The Limited and a plus sized woman, then you need to know about Eloquii.  Check them out now while you take advantage of their current offer: "enjoy 50% off 3 or more items" when you use code SAVENOW.  That includes already markdown items.

 

Be a Pretty Pedal Pusher

Do you remember what is was like to ride your bike for the first time? Even with training wheels on, you felt free, alive, and suddenly completely in control of your own world. The idea of riding off into the sunset in search of greater adventures was suddenly as appealing as seeing if you could stand up with your feet on the pedals. Back then, we were kids who rode a bike for the sheer enjoyment of pretending it was a pony, or a car. What you wore mattered only if you were cruising next to a cute boy...or girl.

 
But what happens when you grow up? The training wheels come off and instead of a valiant steed braving a dark forest, the steed becomes your car...and only mode of transportation. What you put on suddenly counts but in a different way. Functionality. Now, you have to plan ahead and figure out what to wear because your adventures as a commuter are real and happening beyond the comfort of your driveway.

Who says you can't ride in a professional outfit?! (this gal has a fantastic bike blog!)

A few months ago, I asked friend and bike commuter Kelsey (not the girl pictured above) to give me her opinion on what contemporary bicyclists need their clothing to do and if those needs were being met from the fashion industry. The interview* came right around the same time 7X7 magazine published on article about Levi's announcing the release of a new line of clothing aimed at assisting the very specific market of urban commuters. The one draw back: it's for men only. Though they completely isolated the ladies, Levi's slight improvements to their pieces were something you can easily incorporate into your wardrobe. Go for tops/tunics that run long in the back to make sure you're doing your part to "just say no to crack", and comfy pants that won't pinch as you ride slightly bent forward.
*Kelsey wrote back a gloriously detailed and funny account of what women want. To read her responses, scroll to the jump.

Essentially, Kelsey revealed that ladies riding bikes need something "that is easy to wear, to clean, to pack, and keeps somewhat dry". The biggest hassle wasn't getting dirty (as I had assumed) but sweating. Since you can't really stop yourself from sweating, though I'm sure we've all tried, you can seek out items in fabrics that breath. And if those are few and far between, become a layering a queen. As a stylist, I'd like to tackle this from a style perspective. Active bike rider clothing isn't something I find to have the best aesthetics. So, I put together an outfit based on my method when it comes to layering: start with the bottoms and go from there.


My favorite things about these jeans is they have a 9" rise! (Most denim in general come as low-rise, typically have a 7"- 7 1/2" rise). These are great for flats OR tucking into boots.

Blue Essence, $98

This top is great because it's simple without being boring but it's also part linen so you get excellent wicking qualities from the fabric. Not to mention, it's tunic length which keeps the potential crack exposure down to a minimum. Remember that unless you're like me and constantly freezing in your office, any jacket you're wearing will eventually come off so make sure the top you have on underneath can stand on it's own and create an outfit.

Caslon, $46

This cape cardigan is not only right on trend this winter season but also super easy to style by layering over just about any top.
Stylist tip: try using long sleeve shirts with a print or interesting detail because you'll still see it peaking out from the cape sleeve.

Caslon, $39.90

Quite possibly my favorite shoe brand, Born revamped their "Liddy" flat to have a more tapered and pointed toe, a silhouette flattering on every body type. You can't find flats more comfortable, and durable, than these. They come with extra cushioning on the inside and great arch support, perfect for tromping around the city when you're done biking.

Born, $44.90

And when the whether gets colder and rainier, opt for some boots. They'll keep you warm and dry all the live long day. I just bought these cuties and LOVE them. They have a slight wedge for some added height and a rubber sole, which increases the life of the shoe in general.

BP, $119.95

To take this outfit from day to night, pack a clutch and a statement necklace and you're golden, no change of clothes required.

Hopefully my tips have helped illustrate that you don't necessarily need to buy cycling specific clothing. You can easily look great on a bike with an outfit styled around the idea of ease, comfort, and length. Expect to get dirty and sweaty, that's just a natural occurrence when you're a bike commuter, but at least this way you know you have some options.

Coffee Cup Inspiration

I sometimes find inspiration in the strangest places. In fashion, a designer must often go outside their own mind to find something that strikes them. Something that plucks the right heart strings. Because if you just create strictly from your own head, you run the risk of becoming totally self-involved; no longer in touch with the real world. Even as a stylist- someone who designs "looks"- I must do the same. We both know that fashion is cyclical and if you're not careful, you can become complacent.

I recently came across an ad for Sharpie in my Teen Vogue (still not sure why that was in my mailbox) that I found to be extremely inspirational, and according to this New York Times article, that was the intended message.

peek-a-Boey

Artist Cheeming Boey took unassuming, blank coffee cups and turned them into little objects of art. Some have very elborate images while others are cute and quaint. His skill level clearly runs the gamut but what struck me most was the tagline Sharpie uses now to market themselves. Followed by the question "What are you gonna start?", the ad encourages you to "uncap what's inside". I like that idea, tapping into yourself because you never really know what you're capable of.

click the picture to see how much one of these little vessels will cost ya.

Coming at this from a sartorial perspective, I decided to urge you all to give prints a chance. I really like the black and white contrast in Boey's work and luckily, printed bottoms seem to be the easiest and most flattering way to incorporate my inspiration into your own wardrobe.

Take on two trends- wide leg and print. Winter Kate, Nordstrom, $285

The affordable option, and still in a flattering silhouette. Forever 21, $22.80

And if I haven't convinced you to "uncap what's inside", then at the very least try some color! DvF, Bloomingdales, $298

Have some fun with your clothes and break out of your fashion doldrums. You never know when something will tickle your fancy so why not surprise yourself and enjoy it.

Image(s) courtesy of google image search, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Forever 21