Fashion Mannerisms

"Reality TV, not drugs, is now the popular way to escape reality."
-Kenneth Cole

How To...

If you are planning on going out and having a few cocktails tomorrow night, I am sure in the back of your mind you are dreading the hang over. I know I am. If you are a tea drinking you may be familiar with Sleepy Time Tea by Celestial Seasonings. It is known for its calming and sleep-inducing blend of chamomile and spearmint. Now, there is a lotion by Jason that will surely help the nausea and aches of a horrible morning after, not to mention repair skin cells after being around all that smoke! It's called Jason Sleepytime Antioxidant-Rich Hand and Body Lotion. It can be found at jasonnatural.com. The best part, it is only $10.

P.S. There are extracts from the actual Sleepy Time Tea blend in the lotion.

The Hottest Accessory

With all these amazing ideas for what to wear tomorrow night, what you carry in your hand or over your shoulder can be regretfully overlooked. The perfect sidekick to your night could be a chain strap bag. This is a very urban style that can really dress up an outfit with out looking cheap or over done. The envelope style is very classic and has to be my favorite. Looks impossibly great with embellishments. Hardware such as studding or over sized tassels balance out its petite size. Cutouts look great as well as glitzy metallic leathers. This bag is the perfect size to carry little essentials, dance, and feel safe to know it won't be snatched easily.

Forties and Fabulous

I truly believe I was re-incarnated from the 1940's. My style, attitude, and manner of speech are so not from this era. I think is say "darling" at least 50 times a day! When the fall 2009 fashion shows had 1940's written all over them, I about keeled over in excitement! Can you picture it? Walking into the MGM studio with Joan Crawford or Bette Davis, being the Girl Friday of your time! Well your MGM is where ever your little heart takes you this New Year's Eve! You are the modern day Bette Davis. The 40's look is truly for more classy affairs. I am talking fur coat belted with high shoulders, gloves, and cropped pants. The coat is just as important as the ensemble itself. Another show stopper is a velvet peacoat with rouched shoulders or a camel coat with exaggerated shoulders.

What to wear underneath these marvelous coats, you ask? Beautiful gowns, my pretty! Open back long gowns are beyond stunning. Velvet floor length gowns are gorgeous and not to mention a little warmer than silk. If you really want to turn heads when you walk into a room, I would wear an off the shoulder dress that is embroidered at the bust down to the leg.

Long gowns too much? Add 1940's accessories to incorporate the tread, such as fur stoles, clutches, head pieces, elbow length gloves, and don't forget the red lips.

Fashion Mannerisms

"I now realize that each new day is a gift that should be appreciated."
-Diane White

Sex and Bust

I smell sex and candy for New Year's. What do you think? Why not bring in the new year with lust? A hot trend for the season is Boudoir Crossing. Think of bra like tops and corsets, lace and silk, spikes and velvet. I see the sweat on your brow, don't be alarmed. I would not dress you like Madonna and her cone bra! Seriously! Let me walk you through this Shewolf...

Try a dress if your timid to this trend. Why not sex it up with a lace dress with peekaboo cutouts and a fur coat? Or try a strapless corset-like suit with studding around the bust. Another amazing look is a corset sweetheart dress in black with knee high boots (like Fellini's Nine). I absolutely love a boudoir corset dress that goes to the knee with a cinched waist. Very classic and sexy. Just like the Hitchcock girls. I have always loved ruffles, and what looks better than a corset ruffle dress.

Don't be afraid to sex it up. It defiantly will build self confidence and self-esteem. Push your boundaries, it will be worth.

Fashion Mannerisms

"Simplicity is liberating."
-Under the Tuscan Sun

Love that Vintage

Ebay has many different bloggers, but one of them finds the best vintage out there. Her name is Jennifer Romolini. I myself have scored some amazing vintage dresses on Ebay for under $30! Here are some Ebay Vintage Store Fronts to check out:

Bleubirdvintage: great pieces at reasonable prices. The store is easy to navigate and is not overloaded with images.

Liebemarlene Vintage: Based out of Atlanta has tons of ultra feminine dresses, blouses, rompers, etc. The store front makes me just want to pour some sweet tea and say, "Yes, ma'am".

Looking for that SoCal style? Check out blogger Emily Schuman of cupcakesandcashmere.com. She takes pictures of her outfits and everything she buys. Then, turns it into a online photo diary. The ex-magazine editor style is pretty inspiring, she is one to defiantly check out.

It's Cold Outside...

With the wind chill, it has been below zero for the past few days. My question to you is, what have you been wearing to keep warm, yet still do "cold" stylishly? Even though our first instinct is to dress like the abominable snowman or an Eskimo, but really, we just look ridiculous. I don't want to hear that you just want to be warm and that you don't care what you look like. Well my friend, you will, especially when you run into your ex who is looking quite well and you look like a tick about to pop! It's no laughing matter. Karma is always using fashion faux pas as its evil revenge. So try these out next when you step out into the Artic wind:

A cashmere cowl neck neck warmer: this will keep you warm and make your coat look extra posh. Your coat will look as it is suppose to have a knit neck attached. The neck warmer is not just like a scarf, it adds an extra layer of warmth to your European look!

Rubber sole wedge booties: This is the fashionable alternative to ax murderer snow boots. The wedge on the boot is not only sleek, but it is sturdy. Keep in mind, the bottom of the soles are rubber, so you will not need to worry about the salt or snow ruining you booties.

Cropped wool peacoat: I live by peacoats! The wool is so warm and comfy. Can you say classic and chic as well!

Isotoner gloves: Do you remember these? My beautiful Grandmother always wore these (hers were camel). These were the warmest gloves I have ever worn. They hold a special place in my heart. I have only been able to find these vintage gloves on ebay in tan and burgundy.

Fashion Mannerisms

"Have you seen what they're wearing?"
-Reese Witherspoon, Legally Blonde 2 (falling asleep during The West Wing)

The Lucky Store Directory

I absolutely love "Lucky" magazine. Now, at their website: luckymag.com, they have a store front! Not to mention, they are the hottest stores around hand picked by the "Lucky" staffers who have traveled the country to find the best of the best. Check it out at luckymag.com/shopping/stores.

A Glam Rock New Years'

I really want to go into 2010 with a bang! And how convenient that one of the hot trends this season is Biker Brigade. This is taking chic to the next level. This trend you do not have to look like an all-out-biker-babe. No, it's adding toughness to the classics. Since its New Year's Eve, who does not love a little sequin? Um, I love it! And you will too! (Trust me, darling.) Yes, sequins, leather, and classic pieces equals GLAM ROCK!

Your color palette for this trend should be white, gray, black, blue, camel, and a deep purple. These, as you can see, are very classic colors, not to mention quite easy to work with. The easiest way to work this trend is by buying a leather jacket or digging yours out of the closet. The modern version of the jacket is zipped and shrunken.

The jacket can be worn over a mini dress with tights and booties. It also looks great over leggings and suede flat boots (slouchy works the best). If you are going to a more low-key affair when the ball drops, they also have these tough jackets made out of sweater material. If you really want to stand out, go with a leather jacket with exaggerated shoulders over cropped pants worn with bow pumps. I would add a sequin tank in there too! I am sure you have seen over-the-knee boots all over the place, and what a better night to wear them! Grab a leather jacket with lots of lapeling, layer chain link and pearl necklaces, slid those boots up and kick it!

I am still loving the skinny jeans and a leather jacket looks amazing paired with them. Look for a jacket that is ombre' and wear some oxford pumps. Can you say downtown? If your looking to draw out that inner sex-kitten, find a leather in a HOT color with many zippers, wear it with a mini skirt, and top it off with a fur stole. Meow!

The key to purchasing an investment leather jacket is buy one that is not too trendy, be able to wear it again (gray, black, camel), and make it trendy with accessories or clothes.

See Ya Tomorrow!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful and splendid Christmas! I look forward to chatting up fashion and style tomorrow! You won't be disappointed!

Merry Christmas to My Realistic Glamorous Fashionistas!

" A Merry Christmas to Everybody! A happy New Year to the All the World!"

-Charles Dickens

Fashion Mannerisms

"Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill... is to have the real spirit of Christmas."
-Calvin Coolidge

Evening Eye

Have you figured out what your make-up look is going to be for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day? Please don't tell me "what you usually do"! That is unacceptable! Be bold, be brave! Life rewards the courageous few! Christmas is such a special time of year. This year, I think your should really take the time to celebrate and enjoy the holiday. It has been a rough year, you owe it to yourself to look amazing.

So, I have six new trends (well maybe not so new) that will be sure to impress! Are you feeling electric? Try the electric lip. Take it to the extreme (make sure the rest of your face is pretty subdued), yet keep it minimal. The electric lip looks best in matte textures, not shine. To make it last, apply a lip stain pen (check out CoverGirl's lip stains), then layer over it with a non-glossy shade of lipstick with your finger to make the softer and not trashy.
I just love glitter. Who doesn't really? What looks really amazing is if you dust a bronze or silver glitter onto the center of the lid before sheering it our with a little moisturizer. This makes it appear more effortless and pixie-like.
A monochromatic face can look very chic with a out-there ensemble. I just don't mean all-over nude, I am on the lines of plum. Go for eggplant mixed with gray or black shadow on the eyes, stain the lip with a berry, and go for a orgasmic blush, like orgasm by Nars.
Let's get a little edgy. You can get really glam rock with this look. Smudge together black and burgundy cream formula shadow. Apply onto lid with fingertip and let them set. Its suppose to look a little "worn in".
Instead of doing the usually black liner, try green. Change up your smokey eye to a beautiful greenish silver. Make sure to do a pale mouth with this look.
Go fresh and clean with a cream blush for the holidays. Blend a strong blush onto the apples of the cheeks and make sure to layer on the mascara!

Tightie Tights

A lot of times, when dressing for a party or get-together, we opt out of wearing a dress because of the chilly temperatures outside. One trend that has taken the fashion world by storm is TIGHTS. Bare legs take cover against a frosty windchill in tights with all patterns, colors, and textures. Tights are considered to be a must-have accessory with designs being so bold, it is bound to add flair to any drab outfit. Try by adding printed tights against solids, lace against punchy colors, and texture against minimal texture. Add color to a dark outfit such as purple, blue, or fuchsia. Don't be afraid to venture out of your comfort zone, someone is bound to notice your risk! Kmart has wonderful tights for $6.00! Also check out Marshall's.

How To...

Have you gone shopping for your Christmas look? Or for what your going to wear for New Year's? (Yea, it's time to start thinking about that, December 31st is next week). Tomorrow is perfect to day to go. Did you know that there are right ways to shop? What I mean is, that there is a way to shop to find clothes that fit, be time efficient, and still enjoy the experience. How you do this is about what you do before, during and after shopping. So, let's make a plan:

1) Schedule the shopping appointment with yourself. You cannot put it between errands either ( i.e. groceries, picking up kids, before a meeting, etc.). You will be rushed and not focused. Make this a priority. It is a time you need to take for yourself, that way you will shop smartly and efficiently.

2) Know what you already have. So before you take your expedition, go into your closet, dresser, storage and take inventory of what you have and what you need. Think, what's missing, what needs to be replaced, what is outdated?

3) We all have premature Alzheimer's, so write all this down. This way, you can refer back to the inventory list when the seasons change!

4) Do your homework before shopping. Go online and check out sales, new designers (Hello, Rodarte with Target!), trends and new stores. Then when you go, you will know what trend your looking for, who has it best, and an idea of how much it's going to cost.

5) I know us girls love to take shopping trips with other girls, but this kind of "on a mission" shopping trip needs to be treaded alone.

It does matter what you wear when you go shopping. Make sure to wear make-up that day. You will be looking at yourself all day in the dressing room mirrors. Make-up will help complete the picture. Be sure to wear shoes that you can easily slip on and off, like ballet flats. Wear the right undergarments. Think about what your shopping for: halter, strapless, blouse. Make sure to wear the right bra for the purchase and go for a nude colored one. The best pantie choice is a seamless bikini cut pantie or thong. I would defiantly bring a big roomy bag, one that fits easily over your shoulder. This is so you can easily browse with both hands and you can store your essentials such as heels, a snack, and water.

Make sure to get there before 12 P.M. Remember, getting their early you get staffers at their freshest and best. Also, the store is clean, organized and stocked. Easy for finding what you want.

When you get to the stores, keep an open mind on sizes. No one makes clothes the exact same, so you could be completely different sizes in two different brands. Save time by getting one size up and one size down of the item that you want, and bring all with you to the dressing room. Use the three-sided mirror. This will let you know if you look good from all angles. Ignorance is not bliss when trying on clothes. Don't dilly-dally. If something does not look good or right take it off ASAP! Staring at yourself in the mirror with something on that doesn't work is only going to discourage you and deflate your spirit. Remember, the clothes don't wear you, you wear the clothes. When you shop for shoes, you walk around in them before buying them right? Well do the same thing with clothes! Sit, bend, twist, reach up, spin-test it out. You want to see how comfortable the garment is. If it's not comfortable, you're never going to wear it.

Stripes and Stripes

I am just in love with navy and white striped tops. This happened just yesterday after seeing Rodarte's collection with Target. Now, I am seeing these navy stripes everywhere! I am just amazed at the many ways this top can be styled. I think, when I finally get my hands on one, I am going to wear it underneath a black boyfriend blazer with layers of chunky chain link necklaces. To dress it up, I thought it would go nice with a draped black pencil skirt or a silver lame skirt. Oh, the best part would be the shoes! Caged bootie heels in black. I am excited now, somebody have a party worth going to already!

"The Overnight Socialite"

Bridie Clark has a new book out called the "Overnight Socialite". It is a modern day retelling of My Fair Lady set on the upper east side of New York. You will not be disappointed with the plot. It is loaded with villains and heroines looking for status, love and success. Many reviews have claimed that you cannot help being envious after finishing the book. Not to mention that the author has a new clothing line and have optioned rights for film and television development to the Weisnstein Company.

Fashion Mannerisms

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever."
-John Keats

Died and Gone to Rodarte Heaven

OMG! Have you checked out the Rodarte collection with Go International at Target? If you haven't, do your self a favor and look! I mean so chic and the prices! I think I may have had three small strokes and one heart attack looking online.

I so can see in myself in the Sequin Leopard Dress (to make a wicked girl jealous) and a Crepe Lace Print Dress (husband will drool over). Oh, can't forget the Crepe Lace Slip Dress I cannot live without! If you are still searching for last minute gifts for me, how about a Target gift card or some Rodarte dresses!!! I am a xs!

Make sure to check out the tops. I am in love with the long-sleeve navy striped top. Very Audrey Hepburn in "Sabrina" and Bridget Bardot in her every day sexiness. Also love the mesh lace cardigan.

I am still drooling! Check them out and tell me what you think. Is it what your expected? Is this Target's best design collaboration yet? Details, details!

Picture from NY Magazine. Found at nymag.com

How To...

I was wearing my ultimate favorite patent pumps today by Colin Stuart. I was sitting at my desk with my feet up (see how hard I work) and noticed how utterly dirty my blessed pumps were! I could not believe it! These pumps have seen and been through so much with me and I let them get disgusting.

Here's the thing, there are so many myths out there about cleaning patent leather: Vaseline, rubbing alcohol, lotion, a streak free rag... There is one way that I have found that works the best and does not scratch or scuff your patent leather.

Take a ratty old t-shirt and spray and area with Windex (yes, Windex). Take your pump (boot, flat, whatever) and move in light circular motions with the t-shirt against the pumps. The result is a shoe whose leather looks clean and new!

Fashion Mannerisms

"Fashion now isn't about how big your diamonds are, or the logo on your bag- it's about having the freedom to work without a formula"
-Alber Elbaz, LANVIN

Got Mail?

You check the mail today, open bills, toss ads, and check whom the Christmas cards are from. You open a pretty one and out falls a check! My question to you is, what are you going to spend that Christmas cash on? Yourself, I hope!

Starting the new year off with some key pieces would be a great start for 2010. You can spend your money two ways: splurge or be frugal. I would splurge on bras, cashmere, shoes, key staples, and bags. I defiantly would save on tees, trendy pieces, big-baggy items, and fun out-there accessories. Let me explain how and why:

-Bras: I would go to Victoria's Secret and have them measure you. I am sure that you are actually wearing the wrong size bra as we speak. A good fitting bra can make all the difference.

-Cashmere is something that is wearable all season. Good cashmere may be expensive, but it won't lose its shape or be too thin.

-Please, no cheap looking shoes! It does not matter if you spent $700 on a pair. Good for you, they still look cheap. If they look cheap, they are cheap! And your feet will pay for it!

-There are key pieces that every women needs in her closet that will be in style forever. Think the classic trench, the boyfriend blazer, LBD, basic cardigan, boot-cut jeans, white button-up shirt, and a shift dress. If you get these staples with high quality (such as in buttons, lining, patterns, seams, zippers, etc) they will last a life time.

-Bags are worth spending on if they are classic and well made. Avoid trendy bags that have lots of hardware or crazy patterns.

-Designers may make expensive tees, but really? It's a t-shirt! Wal-Mart has ones just as cute and are only ten bucks.

-If your looking for a change with your look and it may not be in style in five years, think it out before you buy. Most likely it will end up at Good Will and you will be out $200.

-If it doesn't fit and you know your not going to take it to a tailor, don't buy it. It will never fit, I don't care what you tell yourself.

-If your looking for fun accessories, go costume. Costume jewelry is cheap and cool. If it gets lost or breaks you are not out a pretty penny.

Use your special Christmas Cash wisely, it will pay off in 2010!

Fashion Mannerisms

"When in doubt, wear red."
-Bill Blass

Getting That Yuletide Glow

With all this talk of holiday attire, you must be thinking, "Okay, what am I going to do with my hair and make-up?" Don't worry! I had it covered the whole time. You have to know what your wearing before you get gorgeous! If you have noticed, which I am sure you have, that this season the Red Lip has been a must-have. So has the metallic smokey eye, luminescent cheeks bones and decolletage, and gray/silver shadow. I love all four looks and rock them often. Sometimes, all four at the same time. Since we are going for festive, glittering, and glamorous looks with our holiday attire, it would be wise to stick with one look (this is not Christmas in Vegas folks). Make sure not to ignore the paws. Go for a red nail polish or a super deep purple, pewter, or iridescent white.

Try the silver look if you are not doing patterns or anything highly embellished. Urban Decay from Sephora or Maybelline have great silver shadows and liners. Sweep the liner on the top lash line. Put the gray shadow in the crease and slightly wing up to brow bone. Make sure to do two coats of mascara.

Getting that yuletide glow is easy to get with a powder highlighter. Use a fan brush across cheek bone and decolletage. An iridescent pink the best choice for the time of year. Ulta has a really nice highlighting powder, but my favorite is by Tarte from Sephora. Beyond amazing, I used it on my wedding day!

Check out the smoky eye to bring out your inner glam rock (n' round the Christmas tree) goddess. This is different from past seasons, you can tone it down or really draw it up. For this festive season I would go with browns, taupes, champagnes, purples, golds, and very delicate pinks. Trace your lash line with brown and follow it over with a darker gold, make sure to take it up to the crease as well. Use a lighter gold or champagne to highlight your brow bone. You can also trade in the brown for purple and the gold for pink or vice versa.

My absolute favorite, as it has been for three seasons: the rockin' red lip. There are so many great red lipsticks out there (Chanel will always have the best red), but Revlon has a whole collection of different reds and are amazingly cheap and last. Apply lipstick on your bottom lip and then blot your lips together. Re-apply if needed.

Lush Locks

We have the big-show look all figured all, so whatcha ya gonna do with that hair?

One super easy way (thanks to Gossip Girl) is the headband. I love me a headband! Check out the pic above. This is an easy and awesome way to really jazz up your look. Part your hair to the side and add the headband. Watch out Blair Waldorf! Super straight hair is coming into play now and will be so in for spring '10. Give yourself a great blowout with a round brush, then clean up with a straightener. Don't forget the pomade or glossing cream for the flyaways. Camilla Belle rocks the look with grace and ease, and with bangs no less! You could also try the ever sexy waves. Apply some good mousse like Suave or Pantene to wet hair and blow dry. Scrunch as you go. Wrap pieces around finger and pin to your head to make pin-curls. Don't worry if they are not uniform in size or shape, they are suppose to be random. Let the curls set. When you take the pin-curls down, spray with hair spray. Comb fingers through curls to complete the look. A classic bun is always chic. Place hair into a ponytail and loosely pin hair up into a bun. Set with glossing cream.

I think you ladies will look amazing for your holiday parties.

What to Wear on the Days Leading Up to Christmas and on Christmas Day

Christmas just lightens the heart. Why not play an ode to the special holiday and add a little festiveness to your wardrobe leading up to Christmas Day. We have covered holiday parties and Christmas Eve looks, what about your everyday clothes or work wear? I personally am working up until Christmas Day, so I want to add some Christmas cheer to my outfits. I always plan my outfits ahead of time, that way getting ready in the morning is very easy (I am not a morning person). I have two looks for you, Monday and Tuesday of this week (the twenty is third is my office Christmas party, remember?). Monday, follows the Glitz and Glamour trend and Tuesday is Christmas in the Nude!

Glitz and Glamour Monday: I am pairing a simple black boat neck top underneath a maroon chiffon overlay blouse with black Bebe pants over patent pumps. To add a little glitz to the ensemble I thought a rhinestone and pearl collar necklace would be perfect. Remember, you don't want to look your are actually trying to look festive. Usually you just end up looking trashy. If you don't have to work, lucky you, pair a basic red sweater or cardigan with skinny jeans and some flat boots. Put in some diamond or rhinestone studs and viola!

Christmas in the Nude Tuesday: Nude is another big trend right now. How to wear it is by pairing gold with cream and tan. I am wearing a gold cardigan over a cream neck tie blouse with tan trousers. To keep it business appropriate, I am pairing nude square toe pumps with gold buckles. For a little Christmas cheer, I thought my vintage emerald pendant necklace would be ideal. Maybe even my vintage bronze chain link cocktail purse would add a nice touch. The nude look is a lot more difficult to tackle when you do not have to dress up. What you can do, is do the nude trend with another trend. Pair a tan cardigan over a cream blouse with jeans and bright ballet flats, like red ones or gold ones. Add some colored gem earrings and bracelets and there you go!

I know you may be thinking that you just want to lounge around in your flannel snowman pj's, but Christmas comes but once a year, why not dress up a little for it. It makes this time of year more special and memorable. Not to mention, much better looking pictures (hello, can you say face book).

The Big Show: Christmas Day

Usually, on Christmas Day, I wear nice trousers and a festive blouse, or something of the kind. However, when I was watching a DVD from Netflix called "Christmas, Unwrapped", I kept picturing this Christmas Day at my Mom's like it was in an old movie from the 60's. The women in dresses, men in suits, ties and hats, the children have dress clothes on (I am talking Church clothes) and hair combed. Yet, I want the look to have some red in. And I want to look pulled together and effortless. I had my epic moment when I was organizing my closet. Of course! My vintage red print shift dress from my Aunt Christine! How I am going to style it is with black as my neutral. This is how it will look on Christmas Day: the red print shift dress cinched with a black waist belt underneath a black bolero. I am going to make modern with black lace tights and black pumps. Plus, my Grandmother's black bead necklace. It will look special, elegant, and have meaning.

Your Christmas Day look should be special to you. Maybe wear something that was given to you by a family member who is no longer with you. Or wear a favorite dress or blouse. Christmas is a special day and your outfit should be just as special. Just wait till you look at pictures later on and think how special everything was. Especially, your outfit.

Merry Five Days Till Christmas My Realistic Fashionistas!

Fashion Mannerisms

"Beauty to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick."
-Gwyneth Paltrow

Last Minute Gifts Ideas for the Stylish

Okay, you are down to the wire with five days left until Christmas. I know for most of us this year our paycheck happens to land on Christmas Day. Some of us will get paid on the twenty-third and some will not be so lucky. Like me, you may be doing your shopping at night on the twenty-third and probably on Christmas Eve. Gifts may be hard to find last minute, but here are some great stylish gifts that every store is sure to have.

Cashmere socks: you can not go wrong with this. It is like luxury for your feet and for under $10.00! My husband even likes cashmere socks!

Hand painted or glass blown ornaments: Hobby Lobby has wonder German ones. Since it is so close to Christmas, they will be highly marked down.

Character flannel or plush pj pants: my brothers and husband love getting these for gifts. Its comfy and cool! Who does not love to lounge around and look cool doing it?

A Jeweled key chain or brooch: Kohl's has great gift sets for both, at $10.00, and probably will be on-sale till Christmas.

Mittens and Hats: Target had such adorable mittens. Ones that you could flap down and they are fingerless! Great colors too, like green, camel, blue, and purple. That also had such amazing hats. Even if your not sure if they are a "hat" person, they will need something to keep warm, right? Well that's where you come in!

Ray-Ban Inspired Sunglasses: These sunglasses are so HOT right now. Think Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Target has them by Xhilaration for $12.00. All different colors and patterns. Cannot go wrong with basic black or tortoise shell.

Graphic Screen Tees: Great for a teen on your list, girl or boy. Wal-Mart has very stylish tees for $10.00 or less. Target does as well.

Still stumped? Send me an email and I will see how I can help. realisticglamour@gmail.com

Shopping Tips...

If you are hitting the stores today to do some last minute shopping, get up and out now! The best time to shop is before 12 P.M. This is because you get staffers when they are just starting their day. They will be happy to help, not rude, fast, efficient, and get you on your way. Not to mention, the store will be in order so you will be able to find that perfect gift! Many of stores received shipments last night, so their stock will be replenished from yesterday (since today their is five days until Christmas).

How To...

Washing clothes can be so tricky these days! You wash a favorite sweater and it comes out looking like it was made for Barbie and not you. Or maybe you accidentally washed it with something it was not suppose to wash with (thanks for the post, by the way). Well my fashion darlings, welcome to Sweater Dress Washing 101!

After explaining how important it was to take care of suede (my love, the gray boots), a post on "Sweater Dress Perfect for a Snow Day" made me think how important it is to take care of sweaters and especially the ever stylish sweater dress. Think about it, us Chicagoans wear winter clothes the majority of the year, pack 'em up for a few months and it starts all over again. It's only the smart thing to do to make sure your sweater dress lasts.

Sweater dresses, whether the fibers are man-made or natural, require special care:

1) Always, always fold your sweaters and sweater dresses! Hangers stretch the fibers. Which then will result in a larger sweater dress than the last time you wore it (sorry you did not lose a few pounds!) and it actually will be misshapen. Not flattering!

2) Remove pills (those pesky little balls that form on sweater dresses and sweaters)regularly to keep sweater dresses looking amazing and not over-worn. If your wondering how pilling is caused, I am there with you. It is caused by rubbing when you're wearing the sweater dress (or sweater). You will usually find them around the elbows, under the armpits, or on sleeves (but in reality, can occur anywhere on sweater dress!). It will be a great idea to buy a hand-held depiller or electric sweater shaver made for depilling. I have seen them at craft store like Michael's, Hobby Lobby, Joann Fabrics, etc. Or if you are bored and not venturing out to get a depiller, pick them off by hand.

3) Remove bodily stuff like hair, dandruff, and lint often. Find a baby or toddler's hair brush (the one with super-soft bristles) and give the sweater dress a nice brushing.

4) Make sure to repair the sweater dress as soon as possible (like if a button falls off or if a small hole emerges). If not, this may make the sweater dress unwearable.

5) Make sure to give the amazing sweater dress (or sweater) a break. I know how much you want to wear it but, the sweater dress will eventually lose its shape or sweat stains will occur (EW!).

6) WASH SWEATER DRESS BY HAND!!! Unless the instructions advise otherwise, always hand wash a sweater dress. Even if the tag says that machine washing is okay, I would still hand wash. You know how evil washing machines are! Wool sweaters and sweater dresses should ALWAYS be washed by hand! You can run lukewarm water and use a gentle soap solution. Swish soap around and around until it looks like a bubble bath (this is being done in the sink or bathtub dears). Or you can use soap flakes. Whichever is fine. If you can, turn the sweater dress inside out to wash. Use cold water to rinse, that way colors will not bleed. Do not wring the sweater dress, squeeze it. Wringing the dress will make it lose its shape. Let the rest of water drip out or roll off in a white towel. Be super careful of any embellishments on the sweater dress (or sweater, cardigan, etc.).

7) Dry-Clean Sparingly. The chemicals used in the process can weaken the fabric. Even if the sweater dress states "Dry Clean Only", you usually can gently hand wash the sweater dress. Avoid fabric softener which speed up the aging of any garment!

8) If sweater dress is cashmere be very, very gentle. Use Woolite, please. Do not wring out, and lye flat to dry on an absorbent towel.

9) Store sweater dresses carefully when not in season. Do not use mothballs, those suckers stink and are really bad for you! Use cedar balls instead. They are natural and work much better. Put little satchels in between every few layers (you can make your own by using mixed herbals or bay leaves).


10) Make sure to wash sweater dresses before storing. Bugs feed off of human stuff (Ick!).

11) Please store sweater dresses dry. I don't care if you think a little damp is okay, because it's not! You just invited mildew and mold to start growing on your favorite sweater dress. FYI: that smell will never go away, not matter how much perfume, body spray, or Febreze you may use!


Hope this helps keep your sweater dresses looking new for many seasons to come!
Happy Washing!

P.S. Check out the "How To" washing video.
http://video.about.com/fashion/How-to-Hand-Wash-a-Sweater.htm

Breaking News!

Rodarte hits Target Sunday!
Get your designer fix with Target's newest designer collaboration with "Go International". If you never heard of Rodarte, not be put off. Two sisters are behind the glam goth label. They have been awarded many awards, including the Womenswear Designer of the Year (2009). Their collection at Target starts at $9.99. Will both be available online and in stores. My bet is, check out online first. You know how the online store has more product than the actual store does!

Here's a few items to check out:
Sequin shift dress $$45
A cob web inspired knit cardigan $29
leopard print jacket $79

I'll race you to Target! I am getting my hands on some Rodarte!
A warning: I don't play fair!

Fashion Mannerisms

I am timeless, not a trend.

Sweater Dress Perfect for a Snow Day

I walked out to my car this morning at 6:00 a.m. to find that the earth was blanketed in snow. Come on! Yes, I wished for a "White Christmas", but still...At least I looked fabulous dusting my car off!

As planned, I wore my new purple sweater dress (with the cowl neck) by "Go International" and my gray slouch flat boots. I decided (when I discovered my favorite black tights had a hole in them) on patterned tights and dark gray dangle earrings. To brighten things up, I paired my Snow Look with a bright silver cuff.

The earrings and cuff were a steal. Both were $2.00 at Charlotte Russe! The boots are by Steve Madden and I got them ridiculously reduced at $52.00 (originally $129.00). They were worth the cost because they are an investment piece. I will be able to wear the boots season after season. Not to mention, the gray is a neutral and the style is classic. The two together equal a cozy seat in many fashion trends to come.

When buying investment pieces such as suede, make sure to take care of them. That way you get your moneys worth. Nothing is more irritating when your favorite boots are ruined by the salt during the winter season. Do yourself a favor and buy some suede protector and a suede brush. This will elongate the life of the suede product. Believe me, it will be a cold day in hell when I let those wonderful gray boots get ruined.

Let me hop down from my soap box and get on with sweater dresses...
The sweater dress is a comfortable and chic way to look fabulous over the holidays. There is not a limit on what fabric, but cotton and wool look very pulled together, whether knit or ribbed. If you want to draw attention to your waist and chest, cinch the dress with a waist belt. Want to elongate your torso, layer long necklaces over a mini-sweater dress (make sure to wear with knee-high boots then). Looking for mile-long legs, dress up the sweater dress with some pumps. Match the tights to the color of the pumps, that's what makes your legs appear longer!

The sweater dress is so worth looking into for your BIG-CHRISTMAS-EXTRAVAGANZA look next week. You will be comfortable, stylish, and able to chase a toddler around in it.
Enjoy the snow!

Fashion Mannerisms

"We must overcome the notion that we must be regular. It robs you of your chance to be extraordinary."
-Stage and film actress Uta Hagen

Cheap Chic Jewelry

Charlotte Russe is part of the hierarchy of ridiculously low priced, but still gorgeous jewelry. Usually if you go to the store their earrings and bracelets are "two for $4.00".

http://www.charlotterusse.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3456443&cp=3456443&f=PAD%2FCategory%2Fbracelets&fbc=1&fbn=Category%7Cbracelets

http://www.charlotterusse.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3456443&cp=3456443&f=PAD%2FCategory%2Fbracelets&fbc=1&fbn=Category%7Cbracelets

http://www.charlotterusse.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=3456443&cp=3456443&f=PAD%2FCategory%2Fearrings&fbc=1&fbn=Category%7Cearrings

My beloved dangle earrings are from Misses Charlotte Russe. Worth the click and shoot!

Another amazing store that has incredible accessories is Forever 21 (not to mention clothes!!) They do a great job of mixing textures and metals to create that glam rock look. Check them out. Make sure your have an hour to kill first.

http://www.forever21.com/category.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=acc_jewelry&Page=1

The earrings above are from Forever 21 are a mere $5.80.
The necklace is also from Forever 21 and is $6.80.

Gilded Extras

No outfit is ever complete without a little bling. Jewelry is like the cake-topper to a great ensemble. What better time of year to add gilt extras to update your look for the Christmas Season.

I am big fan of costume jewelry. The funny thing is, they seem to last forever and become close friends. Some of my most prized pieces are costume jewelry. The season's most stylish pieces are probably already in your jewelry box. Brilliant baubles look astounding when mixed. Think of pairing strands of pearls, pendants, and rhinestones all together to modernize your holiday wear. Loads of molten gold necklaces would really dress-up a blouse or black dress. Colored gem earrings and cuffs are very NOW as well.

So, how to make your "must have" holiday look more festive and pulled together? By adding strategic pieces. If you are wearing something with a collar, like a blazer, sweater, cardigan, blouse...etc, what looks the best is a collar or portrait necklace. Think of the length of your grandmother's or great-grandmother's pearls. If you have a lot going on around the neck-line (like my Vera Wang Blouse) best to go with dangle earrings with bracelets or bangles. Brooches are another amazing way to pull together an outfit. The brooch is usually the piece you last think of (it is usually that epic moment after driving yourself crazing because you cannot figure out what is missing with your look!). Brooches can be placed on the lapels of blazers or jackets, near the shoulder and breast-bone of a cardigan or sweater, or for the more daring: jeans (by the useless tiny pockets), in your up-do, a bunch going down your sweater...so many different ways! Be creative! It's bound to pay off.

For the office Christmas Party, I am wearing that Target silver/black sack dress, remember? I am pulling the look together with a black and white feather brooch placed in center of bust (see pic above), dark silver crystal earrings, and a black and white pearl bracelet (the brilliant bauble look). Speed up to the Christmas Eve work look, I am wearing a simple strand of pearls since I do not want to compete with the gold brocade blazer (see pic above). For the Christmas Eve party, I am going to wear dangle crystal earrings since the Vera Wang top has a jeweled neckline (see pic above).

Also, wearing festive colored jewelry such as red or green (emerald or ruby, fake is still fun!) will look amazing. (Check out the vintage emerald pendent from my mother-in-law). Happy Accessorizing!

Fashion Mannerisms

"Talk, also known as Gossip, is cheap, and cheap is very chic these days."
-Vogue "Norwich Notes"

My Looks for Holiday Wear

I am sure you were wondering what the outfits looked like that I was describing for my Holiday Festivities. Here they are my loves! Enjoy and let me know what you think. The first image is the Vera Wang top that I am wearing Christmas Eve Night to a family party. The second, is the Brocade blazer with the black neck-tie blouse that I am wearing to work (both are from Old Navy). The third and final, is the glorious Target sack dress that has given me many good times. I will be wearing this to my office Christmas Party on the 23rd.

Also, another great look that is SUPER hot this season is the sweater dress with the exaggerated collar. I found an amazing purple sweater dress with an enormous cowl neck from Target by their "Go International" line. It was on clearance for $20. I am wearing it tomorrow (pics to come for sure!!!) with black tights and dark gray suede slouchy flat boots. Probably I will jazz it up with gray jewel earrings.

Add a sweater dress to one of your look options for next week. The colors do not have to be red or green. Purple still looks entirely festive as well as black or gray. You can make it look fabulously festive with your accessories. Crystals, sequins, gold, silver...my favorite is to layer lots of long silver necklaces over a cowl or turtleneck. Draws the line of the body down, that way you do not look like a stuffed Christmas turkey in a dress!

The Race to Christmas!

I am sure you're rushing about town to try and finish up last minute Christmas shopping, wrapping presents till wee hours of the night, and frantically baking cookies (like my dear friend Heather is as we speak). In the midst of this Christmas Chaos, have you stopped to A)look in a mirror (you might be resembling the Grinch)or B) thought of what your are going to wear for the Holiday Festivities ahead? I am positive neither, but never fear my dears, I am here to help! My advice is, sit down, relax, and have a cup of coffee (add some gingerbread creamer for holiday spirit)! Think about the past Holiday parties... Horrible Christmas sweaters, worn-out jeans, possibly flannel pajamas!

This year, your are going to look beyond fabulous (and not with a blinking reindeer sweater). I am sure this is the last thing on your mind, "I don't have time to plan my outfits". Well believe me, you will thank me after the party. Think Glitz and Glamour. Shop your closet. What do you have that is silver, gold, or any metallic, sequins, be-jeweled? For my office Christmas Party, I am wearing a silver/black sack dress (I wore twice already to Vegas and to a naughty party)with a silver waist belt, black tights, patent black pumps, and a bow head band. This dress I got during the summer at Target in the clearance section for $9.00. Don't let the hanger fool! Try everything on before the evening of (couple days ahead at least), this means you too Mother!

So if you are standing in the closet bemused, check out Target's clearance. If you have a little extra change, check out Target's adorable little cocktail dresses, cardigans, and blouses. They all are very glitz and glamorous, and not to mention super easy to style.

You can never fail with dark trousers. For example, on Christmas Eve, I have to work (I am a nutritionist by day) and have a family Christmas gathering at night. I am wearing the same dark gray trousers to both, that way it is easy to transition from one event to the other, all I have to do is change the top and accessories. I am wearing a gold brocade blazer with a black neck-tie blouse to work. To the "R" Christmas party, I am wearing a Vera Wang (from Kohl's, clearance $12.00) pewter damask top. It is cinched at the waist and is jeweled around the neck line. To complete the look I am wearing crystal earrings and patent oxford booties.

If you are still stumped, go with a dark wash jeans, ballet flats, and a sequined or jeweled cardigan. It will not fail you. Take my advice, by taking the time to plan your holiday wear, you won't be late (because your are not frantically trying everything on in your closet and declaring you have nothing to wear),you be confident,comfortable,and composed and bound to have a great time.