Category Archives: Her Closet

Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday

Posted on November 29, 2010 | Leave a comment

Cyber Monday is a rather recent invention, but a brilliant one no less.  It is a shopping holiday on the Monday after Thanksgiving (today), that gives everyone at work (us) a chance to continue the weekend revelry with deep, deep discounts online.

Having worked in online retail for some really terrific online sites, I can tell you the lure of the computer on this Monday is real.  After eating too much, traveling, and all of the other joys of the season people are slow to jump back into Excel spreadsheets, and are happy to find that soon to be favorite cashmere sweater on sale for 40%.

Here are some of my favorite sales around the Internet – the bonus to Cyber Monday, no parking, no lines, no shlepping.  (Today we are both benefiting from my being oversubscribed to online retailers)

Have fun shopping at:

Bluefly: take an extra 10 – 20% off of everything, saving as much 70% off of the original retail price!

Gap/Banana Republic/Old Navy/Athleta: take 15% off your purchases and get free shipping on any order!

PiperLime: Take 20% off of everything at PiperLime – this is the perfect excuse to pick up that otherwise frivelous clutch, or the too wild for everyday yellow pumps.  You love them anyone, you’ll love them that much more at 20% off.

National Jean Company/Shop the Shoebox: This online retailer carries nearly every brand under the sun, and very happily it is all nearly 20% off.  Take advantage of the savings and the free shipping on orders over $75.

If  you’re looking to go luxe, the big names are also playing the Cyber Monday game.
Saks Fifth Avenue: Take up to 40% off the designer collections at Saks Fifth Avenue, and get a jump start on this sale before it starts in stores on December 1.

Donna Karan: The new Donna Karan New York site is beautifully edited and feels like a true reflection of the designers high and low brands (Donna Karan New York, and DKNY).  The exciting news is that the entire site is 20% off.  Seriously, do not wait.

Ralph Lauren: If you read the blog, you know that Ralph is a favorite of mine.  Forever favorite.  If you also love Ralph, you’ll love taking saving an additional 25% off.  Thanks, RL.

Enjoy all of these sales, and many more – and don’t forget to check the gift guides for the perfect present for you or someone you love!

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Posted in Budget, Her Closet, sale, Shopping

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Google, or Why I love the Internet

Posted on November 18, 2010 | Leave a comment

Yesterday was the unveiling of Boutiques.com.  Let me just say, “wow”.  It is the newest product offering from Google and it seems that the potential is huge.  

I am Googler; my email, my pictures, the blog they are through Google.  I am sure somewhere in Palo Alto someone could pull up my Google file if one were to exist and know what I love, what I talk about and now what I want to wear.
In a deliberate collision between nerds and fashion mavens, Google has created a new e-commerce site that significantly improves how fashion is presented and sold online. The site, Boutiques.com, which went live on Wednesday morning, may also change how people shop for clothes.
 
Boutiques.com has so many capabilities and components that even Google engineers have a hard time qualifying it. It is a collection of hundreds of virtual boutiques merchandised — or, in the new parlance, “curated” — by designers, retailers, bloggers, celebrities and regular folks. You can shop in the style of, say, the actresses Carey Mulligan or Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen — among the celebrities who signed up — or you can build your own boutique and amass followers who can comment on your taste…
Visually Similar Suggestions for Your Recommended Products
I worked in online shopping and I love online shopping, which I sometimes cheekily refer to as Windows shopping (yes, I am a PC).   The new Boutiques.com seems to have the potential to overtake my favorite shopping site, ShopStyle.com with it’s in depth Google algorithms that are potentially able to find the perfect cobalt suede pumps.  Now, if I get emails or ads for an Elvis album I’ll know Google goofed.
Find me and follow my style as Google continues to evolve it’s algorithms to get my online wardrobe to match my real life wishful wardrobe.

Happy Shopping – let me know what you find!

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It’s a Man’s World…

Posted on November 12, 2010 | Leave a comment

I have an affinity for menswear for women.  I think a perfectly fitting pair of trousers – and I mean perfectly – is better than a skirt any day.  Blame it on the overflow of denim in my wardrobe or my past life in the world of denim retail, but the dearth of skirts in my wardrobe is not an accident.

The high point of men’s fashion is probably the tuxedo.  Let me tell you about tuxedos… When they are not rented, but rather tailored to perfection, and they are worn with a sense of confidence and swagger they are not “Penguin Suits” instead they are amazing. 

To the woman he dares to wear a tuxedo, I say bravo. 

It’s a surprise.  It is daring, and tough, and sexy.  

Well, well, well… What do we have here?  
Gap Tuxedo Perfect Trouser
Do not be surprised GAP if I am trying these on this weekend. And if they are perfectly fitting, do not be surprised if these become an answer to the question, “What to wear?”

Have a wonderful weekend, make it sparkle.

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It Only Happens Twice a Year

Posted on November 11, 2010 | Leave a comment

That’s right, Nordstrom is having there semi-annual sale, we have talked about this phenomenon before, but time has gone by so quickly I didn’t realize we were back to sale time.  So, really it turns out that my night-time iPhone searches has paid off for both of us. 

Last time I pointed out all of the things I wanted, which looking back may have been selfish… Although, it did made sense because it’s my blog, and I don’t really know what you, as a reader, need at Nordstrom.  This time I will point out the best bets, deals, and a few favorites.  Besides, it’s almost the holidays you can treat yourself early!

Let’s venture into the shoe department: of all of the premium department stores (Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Saks 5th Avenue, Neiman Marcus) I consistently think that Nordstrom has the best shoe department.  (No, they don’t have shoes with red soles, but honestly not many people can afford shoes with red soles.)

The Hunter boots are a great investment and one you’ll appreciate in fall and spring, and something I typically cannot justify paying retail for.  The Puma sneakers I own, and they’re great – seriously, easy wear.  The Via Spiga Boots are so classic that if you can keep them in good shape you can wear them forever, and the Stuart Weitzman style are a good deal on a hot boot, so that’s always hard to turn down.  The Pelle Moda and Charles David are good steals and good pair to pick up because you never know when you’ll need a statement shoe and it’s good to have options on hand.
Now that your feet are fashionably dressed, here are some shopping tips from me to you, with love: 
  • Make an investment in color:
It’s called the Jackie, I featured it for the Madonna: Dress Like an Icon post, and it is awesome.  The satin sheath is going to be a shape that will always be in style; D&G has an impeccable fit for dresses that fall into the category of look at me and the color is gorgeous.  Please, do it for both of us.

  • Save on trends:
This tyle skirt has been on every Kardashian in the country, and it makes sense: it is designed to highlight curves whether they exist or not.  This is not a classic skirt and you will not always love it, and unless your job is to be a Kardashian impersonator you cannot wear it to work.  You will not pay retail for the Sculptors Draped Skirt by Elizabeth & James.
  • Convince yourself to own something sequined; if sequins aren’t too much for the First Lady of the United States it is not too much for you. 
  • Do not pay retail for an evening clutch, if it’s not out of this world the price tag shouldn’t be either. 
  • Do not EVER pay retail for costume jewelry, it’s silly and there is no reason to put an investment is something that even you won’t appreciate in a few years.
  • Do not hesitate.  If you have been eyeing that tweeded Milly Jacket and couldn’t justify before and you still long for it, now is the time; if you think you’d like to finally try out skinny jeans I beg of you, please go for it.  Sales are great to try a trend, a new color or shape, stay true to your personal style and save.
I would love to know what will you try out – on sale?

P.s.Did you know that the Nordstrom Rack is also online?  Score one for savvy shoppers!

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I Just Want to Wear Sweatpants

Posted on November 2, 2010 | Leave a comment

Less than a week ago the temperature was teetering around 75 degrees, I knew, it couldn’t last forever. But this morning as I woke up Mark said to me, “you know its 30 degrees this morning,” and that was enough to consider Caribbean real estate, or at least an extra sweater.

I have lived in DC for seven years, it is hard to believe time goes by so quickly, and every Fall transition it shocks me how cold it suddenly gets.  I go through the same cycle every year; look for boots, look for Uggs (which I have never purchased), look for a hat (and then resign that I don’t really wear hats, although I love them).

This morning when I got dressed all I wanted was to wear my comfortable chunky sweaters and extra soft lounge pants to work, but clearly that wouldn’t do – here are some finds for taking cold weather comfort beyond the couch.


Keep an eye out for ponte legging and pants; these are the extra thick, double knit pants (sometimes referred to as scuba knit) that not only hold you in, but they also keep you warm, and look more refined than a traditional knit stretch legging.

A sweater dress is a seasonal must have.  The tunic cut, and heavier knits are beyond forgiving for an extra slice of pie, and the accessorizing options are endless: scarves, jewelry, belts, all change the look of a basic sweater dress in an instant.

Pick up a soft, knit blazer.  It’s warmer than a regular blazer and will serve double duty for weekend wear.

Looking for new boots?  Try out some of the shoe brands that specialize in comfort footwear, Aerosoles, Merrell, Uggs, and many more.  They have finally wised up and put out shoes that are almost as chic as they are comfortable.

It takes a bit more thought to get dressed in the fall and winter and still look pulled together and feel comfortable, but you have to admit your office isn’t going to let you wear a Snuggie anytime soon!

Happy Fashionable Fall!

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Couples in Costume

Posted on October 27, 2010 | 5 comments

Halloween is just four days away!  Oh you didn’t get a costume yet?  Maybe you forgot that Halloween is always on October 31, maybe you got busy, maybe you just couldn’t decide what you wanted to be this year.

It is too late to order something online, and all that is left in the stores is a witch’s hat and a sexy nurse’s outfit – boring!  If you and your love are dressing up this year for Halloween here are five easy to execute on a budget ideas.  The couple that dresses together stays together!
All of these costume ideas are built off of items that you probably already own, and every piece is less than $30.00, and able to be worn again – score!

Since it is “Wedding Wednesday” we had to start with a Vegas Bride and Groom.  This costume just screams wedded bliss on the fly, and this time what happens in Vegas comes home with you.
 What couple is more recognizable than Brad and Angelina?  You and your beau can pull from your own wardrobe, lots of gray and black, but these accessories put it own the top.  If you’re baby-free don’t forget the Brangelina babydoll.
Maybe you and your beau are complete opposites, but together you’re the perfect match.  Just like Danny and Sandy.  Layer on the black, add some Grease, and get dancing!

Are you ready to go back in time?  All the way back to Bedrock?  This costume is a bit more DIY; take the togas you made in college and grab your Sharpie marker to make up the perfect Fred and Wilma.

Or, go for glamour as the ultimate glamour girl with her ultimate boy toy: Barbie and Ken.  Load on the color and the 80’s makeup to become the Queen and King of Pink.
Aeropostale, Merona, Sean John, Forever 21

Happy Halloween!

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Inspiration via France

Posted on October 25, 2010 | Leave a comment

A few weeks ago The Sartorialist featured what he called the “Shoe of the Season”; the Valentino Studded Kitten Heel.  He wasn’t kidding.  

Photo via The Sartorialist
They are ladylike with an edge.  The studded detail elevates the feminine kitten heel and pointed toe without going over board.  I love the idea of wearing them with trousers for day, and then when the day turns to night, it’s surprise.

Not surprisingly this pair is a little out of reach, but there is a lot of more affordable options that is inspired by the Valentinos.  If you set out in search of a similar style you’ll want to focus in on the more feminine shaped shoes with a slim heel and delicate straps.  The look is more lady with an edge, than biker chick or rock and roll roadie.


Happy Shopping, make this fall fabulous!

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Madonna, The Mother of Reinvention, an Ico

Posted on October 21, 2010 | Leave a comment

Madonna has never been my icon, but there is absolutely no denying that the Mother of Pop Music is also the Mother of Reinvention.  In the span of her career no other artist has transformed their look so seamlessly, and stayed so true to their personal style.  Who would A Virgin could become a Geisha and then a Disco Cowgirl.  That is Madonna.

There is a ton of inspiration to be found in Madonna, and not just for Halloween.  Certain signature staples like a structured corset black dress, sequins, and fishnet stockings have always been Madonna. 
In the 80’s Madonna rocks leggings, layered jewelry, virginal white and then bold neons, oversized hair accessories and lace.  Watch out for the lace, it becomes a signature.

 
In the Mid 90’s Madonna identifies with another platinum icon, Marilyn and then she finds Tom Ford.  It is almost safe to assume that in the 1990’s Madonna saves Gucci from financial peril.  Nearly fully covered in a shirt and pants, she still oozes Madonna.  She also begins to infuse a vintage aesthetic to her wardrobe as she films and later promotes Evita.
 
Madonna in Gucci in 1995

Madonna discovers Kabballah and Yoga.  Brittney and Christina want to also be like a Virgin and thus Madonna goes back in time and back to the gym to look the youngest and be the most fit.  Her wardrobe in the early 2000s is inspired by disco glamour (color, sequin), and fitness (track suits, leggings, leotards).

Madonna in 2005
Today, at 52 years old, she is Mother Madonna.  She is still a rock star, but she has added to her resume fashion designer with daughter Lola, humanitarian, and she continues to be a filmmaker.  Her wardrobe today is a sophisticated representation of the past three decades.  She still favors body conscious fits, sexy details, ultra feminine pieces but it has a more practical presentation to keep up with her travels and life.

Madonna and Lourdes
“The history of women in popular music can, pretty much, be divided into before and after Madonna.”  – Susan Sarandon


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The Most Important Dress to Date

Posted on October 20, 2010 | 1 comment

When I reviewed Spring 2011 Fashion Week I touched on how the fashion cycle is a full season ahead; in the world of bridal it is a full year ahead.  Brides are instructed to always have selected their wedding dress no less than six months prior to getting married.  I bought my dress on June 6, 2009 – my wedding date was January 23, 2010 and you wouldn’t believe the shock from the store attendants.

Anyway, as we are fully into Fall 2010 it is time to look towards Fall 2011.  This week was Bridal Market in New York, and through the power of the Internet it’s like we are all able to attend.

Here are my favorites, so far:

Seriously, I love this dress.  I love the structure, the cut outs, the keyhole at the bust.  I would love it even more Red Carpet in a metallic, or a black.  I’ll take it in my size; thanks Angel!
Angel Sanchez
I love this dress.  It reminds me a glamorous swimsuit with an even more glamorous sarong wrapped just so elegantly at the hip.  I like the metallic sheen and the delicate tied bow at the hip.
Priscilla of Boston
The following bridal gowns are for the following brides:

This reminds me of the punk rock princess.  The dress is all princess, and the styling has just enough edge to keep it fun.  I hope she is secretly wearing a pair of Converse under all of that.
Jewel by Priscilla of Boston
This is the dress I pick for the White (as in Snow White) Wedding.  I can’t ID for sure the fabric of the skirt but it reminds me of fresh, powdery snow.  The simplicity of the bodice is a perfect balance to the drama of the skirt.
Angel Sanchez

This is so classic bride.  I love simple shape.  P.S. what you don’t see is the intricate cut outs across the back.

Angel Sanchez
I love this shape for bride who wants to walk on the edge.  She wants to play with fashion, she wants an awesome pair of shoes, and want to show of her legs all night long.  It also doesn’t hurt that it reminds me of the skirt Carrie wears when she bumps into Aidan in Morocco, err, Dubai.

Wtoo
For the dreamy bride, this dress is a dream come true.  The layers are whimsical and ethereal.  She looks like she is floating in style.
Monique Lhuillier
For the bride with aspirations to float down the aisle like Marion Cotillard, a la her John Paul Gaultier 2008 gown.  Love the scales down the skirt.
Rivini
No matter the style, it is great to see bridal taking a cue from high fashion.  On her wedding day a bride is any thing: a movie star, a model, a princess, and luckily she’ll have no trouble dressing the part.

What style do you favor most?

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Valentine’s Day in October

Posted on October 18, 2010 | Leave a comment

I love flowers; the way they brighten up a room, they way they smell, what they symbolize.  But, flowers die.  Ouch, so that was a rough point.  But just because they do doesn’t mean we can’t find inspiration in flowers everyday.

Today’s fashion proves that roses are red, and black, and beige.

There are high fashion options from Valentino and Milly what is not to love about this?

Valentino “Petale-Mini” Leather Tote via Nordstrom
Rose Toe Platform Suede Pump via Bergdorf Goodman
Milly Rose Skirt Dress via Bergdorf Goodman
Okay, head in the clouds and empty wallets, where else can we find rose inspiration?

English Rose Robe via Anthropologie
Torn by Ronny Kobo Lila Rose Print Dress via National Jean Company
daniblack Jasmin Rose Sandal via Endless
How about taking the roses home?

Diptyque Roses Candle via Saks Fifth Avenue
Flowering Twig Pencil via Anthropologie
Deconstructed Rose Pillow via West Elm
Come on you didn’t think we wouldn’t have a rose inspired baking tool? 
Nordick Rose Bundt Pan via Cooking.com
 Or go for the original, the real thing:
Sharing the Love Rose Bouquet via FTD

Wishing you a house full of roses, whether you get them as a gift, or buy them for yourself.  They are a happy, and delightful treat for anyday, Valentine’s or otherwise!

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Posted in Accessories, Decor, Fashion Inspiration, Her Closet, Her Home, Shopping

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