Tag Archives: collection

I’m Back…..

Hello my lovely stylistas! I’m super sorry I’ve been away for so long. I have been so busy with my new job and I absolutely love it! It is amazing to wardrobe, style, and influence women and men throughout Minneapolis. I have had some very rewarding and emotional sessions with clients and that makes it so worthwhile.
Okay, enough about me. I want to share with you some exciting news. If you’re a fan of Nicole Richie (like me) then you’re going to want to head to Macy’s September 12th. The ever-stylish Ms. Richie is launching her first collection for Macy’s Impulse and it is fabulous. It really embodies Nicole’s bohemian style and has an edge to it as well. This capsule collection consists of 25 pieces that is done in rich jewel tones, lots of faux leather, some awesome zipper pull detailing, and is quite masculine vs. feminine. Here are my favorite pieces-

20120829-142913.jpg

20120829-142938.jpg

20120829-142949.jpg

20120829-142956.jpg
The collection is available at Macy’s for a limited time starting September 12th. Locally, it will only be at the Southdale location, but you can always try on-line too. And if you think you want to view the collection, contact me for a private showing!!

Another item I want to cover is Fashion’s Night Out. This event will be held in fashion cities world-wide on September 6th. This global initiative was originally created in 2009 to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy, and put the fun back into shopping! It has been wildly successful and continues to grow each year. Minneapolis has many glamorous events planned and the festivities run from 4-9pm. The hubs and I will be attending Macy’s red carpet fashion show and will then scoot over to Neiman Marcus to take in their last FNO event here in the Twin Cities.

20120829-143951.jpg
For more information on FNO events in Minneapolis, please visit Downtown MPLS

Even if you can’t make it to the festivities, just get out and shop on September 6th. Brick and mortar stores can use all the support they can get!

I’m going to try really hard to blog more often. I miss it and all of you!!

20120829-144637.jpg

4 Comments

Filed under Fashion

Affordable Minimalism

Remember in the 80′s when Brooke Shields rolled around on the floor saying “No one gets between me and my Calvin’s”? Well, I do. And I know I ran right out and bought a pair of Calvin Klein jeans. As a matter of fact, my sister and I got quite a few pairs from our second cousin Lisa and we’d have our grandma sew the legs so tight we could barely get them over our ankles. Memories…My point is, Calvin Klein knows how to design for a woman and decades later he has masted the art of minimalism. Keeping it simple has never looked so good.
Francisco Costa, a designer behind the Klein brand, has a fantastic limited-edition capsule collection available now at Macy’s. For me, it was love at first sight. I was immediately drawn to the simple, yet chic designs and colors. Costa, a native Brazilian, was inspired by architect Paulo Mendes de Rocha’s imaginative and daring designs, and found them the perfect backdrop for his incredibly chic and minimalistic style. I bring these dresses to all of my clients and amazingly, they look fantastic on almost everyone. Made of viscose, crepe, and jersey, they flow over the body and give a sexy yet subtle silhouette. And with all different sleeve and length options, there is a perfect choice for every body type. Here’s a look at my top three choices.

20120624-183328.jpg
Short-sleeve viscose crepe dress $155

20120624-183417.jpg
Long-sleeve jersey v-neck t-shirt dress $135

20120624-183514.jpg
Sleeveless jersey belted mock-neck dress $119.99

20120624-183702.jpg
The entire Francisco Costa for Calvin Klein is available exclusively at Macy’s

This collection can take you to any event you may have this summer. And at prices under $200, you get top designer fashion for thousands of dollars less than his couture. And in my world, that’s a bargain.

20120624-184136.jpg

2 Comments

Filed under Fashion

Style Inspiration-Snow White and the Huntsman

One cannot watch “Snow White and the Huntsman” without being completely gobsmacked by the costumes. They are truly incredible! Academy Award winning costume designer Colleen Atwood just may win herself another Oscar. Atwood, a favorite of Tim Burton, is the genius behind such movies as “Edward Scissorhands” and “Alice in Wonderland”, but with this new contribution she has cemented her position in costume designing history. Traveling Europe and beyond, she discovered new materials and techniques to create true masterpieces.

20120608-091752.jpg
It all starts with an idea…

20120608-091828.jpg
This gown got it’s iridescence from thousands of dung beetle shells which Atwood sourced in Thailand

20120608-091958.jpg
Hundreds of rooster feathers were hand-cut for this elaborate piece

20120608-092049.jpg
Charlize as Queen Ravena

20120608-092120.jpg
Atwood with one of her designs

20120608-092203.jpg

20120608-092221.jpg
The attention to detail is amazing

20120608-092300.jpg
A lot of hand-made chainmail was used

20120608-092413.jpg
Every piece, from the crown to the necklace to the gown, is carefully thought out

20120608-092537.jpg
The Huntsman costume. It was very important that the actor and the stunt person could move in each outfit.

20120608-092641.jpg
The costumes were actually fitted on the stunt person to ensure proper movement

20120608-093327.jpg
Snow White. There was quite a bit of embroidery done on the costumes

20120608-093429.jpg
In action

Atwood has also done a capsule collection for HSN which features a modern take on medieval silhouettes.

20120608-093643.jpg

20120608-093756.jpg
The Atwood by Colleen Atwood “Snow White and the Huntsman” Collection is available at HSN. Prices range from $39.90-$149.90

20120608-093938.jpg
Snow White and the Huntsman is in theaters now

20120608-094022.jpg

1 Comment

Filed under Fashion

Bright Nails For Spring

I’ve only been wearing polish on my nails for about a month and I prefer a very dark polish. I’m not sure why-maybe because it doesn’t draw as much attention. But while shopping for some new polish, I couldn’t help but notice bright is THE way to go for spring. Yellows, greens, magenta and bright pinks, blues…it’s popsicle colors x 1000! I decided to take a risk and bought a bright reddish coral by Essie called “Ole Caliente”.

20120421-152108.jpg
Essie “Ole Caliente” $8.00 available at Target

At first glance, I wasn’t a fan. I’m just so used to blackish red on my nails and this was just so bright.

20120421-152349.jpg

But after a couple of days I got used to it and actually started to really like it. Now, I’m ready to explore more pops of color and cannot wait for the new collaboration between hot designer Thakoon and Nars to appear in stores. Inspired by his spring 2012 collection, these 6 shades are super vibrant and were inspired by the hues of Indian spice markets.

20120421-152820.jpg
Thakoon for Nars nail polish $18 available for pre-order at Nordstrom

I really love the light blue shade, Kutki. It will be so pretty with tan digits. I’ve used Nars polish in the past and it does wear really well. I’m not sure when the launch date is, but I am very sure they will sell out quickly. If there’s one you can’t live without, you’d better pre-order now!

And if $18 is a little too much to spend on polish, try the spring collection from Essie. The colors are very fun, especially the light green.

20120421-153345.jpg
Essie spring polish $8 available at Ulta and most major drugstores.

The good news is that everyone is doing bright shades for spring (check out Loreal’s Colour Riche) so there is definitely one to fit your budget!

20120421-153934.jpg

Leave a Comment

Filed under Beauty

Summer Dreaming

The grass is green, the trees have leaves, and flowers are blooming. I am dreaming of summer and it is just around the corner. I cannot wait for beach time, going to the Farmer’s Market, and spending time on the water. I want sand between my toes and the sun on my face. Here are two outfits I’ve put together that scream summertime. I hope they inspire you to start planning your summer wardorbe.

20120409-132730.jpg
“TRIP TO THE FARMER’S MARKET”
~7 For Mankind Crop Josefina $225 available at Zappos
~Charles By Charles David Trove wedge sandal $59.95 available at DSW
~Farmer’s Market tote $45 available at J. Crew
~Michael by Michael Kors Oversized sunglasses $99 available at Nordstrom
~Sephora Collection Be You lip balm $12
~Sephora Collection Lacquer polish $7
Both available at Sephora
~Smocked Mexicalli top $24.94 available at Old Navy

20120409-133434.jpg
“EVENING STROLL ON THE BEACH”
~Destroyed Boyfit Denim Shortie $36.50
~Dolman Sweater $34.99
~Zig-Zag fedora $15.50
~Sam Edelman for AEO Braided Gladiator sandal $39.50
All available at American Eagle
~Panacea Candy Color Long Stone necklace $50
~Acqua di Parma Arancia di Capri perfume $92
both available at Neiman Marcus
~Essie Go Overboard nail polish $8 available at Ulta

20120409-134538.jpg

2 Comments

Filed under Beauty, Fashion

Nip+Fab Lands Stateside At Target

It’s here, it’s here, it’s finally here! The U.K.’s best selling skincare phenomenon, Nip+Fab, is now stateside at select Target stores. Created by celebrity skin care specialist (and the brains behind the much more expensive line Rodial), this skincare collection targets every issue women face. This clinically tested line of products contains miracle workers that brighten, plump, and smooth skin, and covers problems from cellulite to dark spots to frown lines. I seriously ran to Target yesterday. I started with three products, which I will review once I’ve had some time to use them, but I know I will be going back for more.

20120405-122657.jpg
Frown Fix $9.95
This product is a wrinkle and expression line filler. It comes with a neat brush so you just click and swipe it over all those lines you want filled.

20120405-122830.jpg
Pigmentation Fix $15.95
This reduces age and sun spots, and corrects uneven skin tone. While I’ve been extremely happy with Estee Lauder’s Idealist, this has a much more beautiful price tag (Idealist is $85 a bottle).

20120405-123042.jpg
No Needle Fix $19.99
This claims to be an injection of youth with no needle needed. It fills wrinkles within 30 minutes and after after 28 days deep wrinkles are diminished by almost 16%.

Today is my first day with these three products and I can tell you this much-they are all non-greasy and feel amazing on my skin. I put the Frown Fix on my crows feet and they are much softer looking and my concealer did not settle into them. I could actually feel the No Needle Fix working-my skin immediately felt tighter, but not in a bad way. I just know this is going to be my new favorite line!

20120405-124111.jpg
Maria Hatzistefanis, creator of Nip+Fab
please visit Nip+Fab for more information.

Nip+Fab is available on-line and at select Target stores. Some in the Minneapolis area are Edina, Knollwood, St. Louis Park, Eden Prairie, Bloomington, Chaska, and Mankato. I suggest downloading the Target app. It gives you the product and whether it’s on-line or in-store. I could then choose the store, the product, and it would tell me exactly what aisle to go to (it was a little hard to find).

20120405-124614.jpg

2 Comments

Filed under Beauty

Lovely Finds At Anthropologie

I received the new Anthropologie catalog the other day and all I can say is “Wow”. They have come so far over the last decade. The styles, brands, trends, and overall presentation is fantastic. Yes, the price range is much higher, but the quality and uniqueness makes it all worth it. It was hard for me to narrow down my favorites, but I gave it a shot.

20120401-125809.jpg
INTIMATELY YOURS
So many pretty items to wear to bed. I love slips. They are so comfy and super sexy. The rompers remind of the undergarments women of “ill repute” wore back in the 1880′s. A couple of years ago my husband and I were lounging in a bar In Deadwood, South Dakota. The waitresses were all wearing something similar to these rompers. I wanted one so badly, but our server told us they were made specifically for them. Alas, it was not meant to be. These would be a great alternative.

Top: Scoopback Midi Slip $128 and Cloud-Ruffle Romper $148
Middle: Elbe Chemise $78
Bottom: Blushing Chemise $69.95 and Gillyflower Romper $128

20120401-131722.jpg
BOTTOMS UP
I live in denim. Skinnies, jeggings, flares, wide-leg…I love them all! Anthropologie has a huge selection of silhouettes and brands. I am loving the idea of a wide-leg crop. They would be super fun this summer. Overalls really come and go as far as a trend, but these vintage ones from Levis are right up my alley. I would rock them for the rest of my life!

Top: Citizens of Humanity Wide-Leg Crops $286, Levis Vintage Collection Deconstructed Overalls $350, and Pilcro Sailor Slims $118
Bottom: Holding Horses Wide-Leg Trouser $128, AG Ex-Boyfriend Crop $198, and AG Tomboy $245

20120401-132653.jpg
DRESS ME UP
Spring and summer are made for dresses. While I usually prefer the “little black dress”, there are many vibrant shades this season that I am excited to try. What better way than in my choice of dress? Whether it’s a shift, a mini, or pattern, I vow to add more dresses into my wardrobe.

Top: Dynamic Jersey Shift $118, Looking Glass Shift $138, and Agneta Dress $248
Bottom: Sun-Soaked Shift $138, Catalyst Dress $248, and Brimming Borders Mini-Dress $288

20120401-133519.jpg
BLUSHING PEASANTS
Okay, you all know I worship peasant anything and these tops are fabulous. The neutral palette, made up of blushes, beiges, whites, and yellows, are soft and romantic. These lovelies would be my choice for an every day top, but could easily be “styled” up for night.

Top: Josephina Top $39.95 and City Cousin Blouse $68
Middle: Surf and Turf Cover-Up $138
Bottom: Pyracantha Blouse $88 and Early Daffodils Top $88

20120401-134327.jpg
BRIGHTLY TOPPED
Anthro offers so many amazing tops in so many bright colors, you can’t help but wish for warm weather and sunshine. Again, most of these are in the “peasant” family, but this girl loves what she loves. I threw in a marvelous jacket as well. A nice, bold swing coat will absolutely be your statement piece and this one is “the tops”.

Top: Draped Snail Tank $69.95 and Vallota Peasant Blouse $79.95
Middle: Constructed Swing Jacket $198
Bottom: Saxifrage Thicket Top $98 and Framed Sleeve Top $78

All items available at Anthropologie

My selections are really just the tip of the iceberg at Anthropologie this season. Luckily for me (or maybe not so lucky), there are three Anthros within 10 miles of my house. I have a feeling they’re going to be seeing a lot of me over the next few months!

20120401-135847.jpg

3 Comments

Filed under Fashion

Nails On Pointe

I’ve shared my love of ballet with you all before. I think it’s one of the most beautiful art forms and I always dreamed of being a ballerina (don’t most girls?). One of the things I love the most are all the muted colors. The beige, pink, and white of ballet slippers, tutus, and leotards are so timeless and sophisticated. I’m very excited that now I can wear them on my nails. The New York City Ballet by OPI collection debuts this April and this makes me very happy.

20120320-121905.jpg
This collection was inspired by the dancers, choreography, and costumes of the NYC Ballet and features 5 sheer colors and a very sparkly silver. Barre My Soul is a subtle, sheer beige. You Callin’ Me A Lyre is based on the traditional pink of the ballet. Don’t Touch My Tutu is a wispy, milky white. Care To Danse is a beautiful pastel lilac. My Pointe Exactly is a sheer gray and Pirouette My Whistle is a brilliant sparkly silver. They are all classic and can be worn with anything. I always think these subtle shades look amazing with tan fingers and toes!

20120320-122546.jpg
New York City Ballet by OPI Collection $9 each
available in April at professional salons, JCPenney, and Ulta
For more information, please visit OPI and New York City Ballet

Leave a Comment

Filed under Beauty

H&M’s Eco-Conscious Collection Goes For Glamour

I’ve always been a fan of H&M’s eco-conscious collection. This is a line that is made primarily of sustainable materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester, and consists mainly of summer dresses and pretty prints. Now H&M have taken it a step further and have added red-carpet worthy looks to their repertoire. The exclusive Glamour Conscious Collection consists of dressier party looks and have already been seen on some A-List actresses. Here’s a sneak peek at my favorite pieces, both in the glamour and regular line.

20120319-121347.jpg
Michelle Williams on the red carpet wearing one of the looks from the glamour line.

20120319-121422.jpg
Kristen Davis looks amazing in this yellow party dress.

20120319-121458.jpg
Viola Davis is pretty in pink.

20120319-121530.jpg
This skirt is so playful. I love that it has it’s own “cape”.

20120319-121623.jpg
This orange cocktail dress will be amazing for a summer date.

20120319-121707.jpg
My favorite look. I don’t know where I’d wear it, but I think it’s amazing.

20120319-121753.jpg
The long slit is so on trend right now. Channel your inner Angelina Jolie and stun the room.

20120319-121845.jpg
Another look at the slit. This would be great for a wedding. It’s sexy yet innocent.

20120319-122008.jpg
A very cute dress that can take you from day to night.

20120319-122110.jpg
Yellow is a big part of the collection and this shift dress is divine.

20120319-122158.jpg
This purple is so rich and elegant. I could see this for work or play.

20120319-122245.jpg
Great for a formal event or an affordable option for a more sophisticated bridesmaid dress.

Here are some looks from H&M’s regular conscious collection.

20120319-122344.jpg
Sweet and beautiful party dress.

20120319-122433.jpg

20120319-122441.jpg
Two pieces that work perfectly together, yet can be paired with other items from your wardrobe.

20120319-122743.jpg
I adore this top. How cute would it be with shorts and sandals, or paired with jeans and wedges?

20120319-122844.jpg
Another wonderful party dress. You really don’t have to look any farther than H&M for your summer dresses.

20120319-122950.jpg
One of the great prints featured this season.

As you can see, both the regular and the glamour conscious collection have a lot to offer this season. Both debut in stores on April 12th. For more information, please visit H&M

Leave a Comment

Filed under Fashion

Sephora+Pantone Color Of The Year Collection

I have to admit I was very happy with Pantone’s “Color of the Year” selection. “Tangerine Tango” (or Pantone 17-1463) is the perfect shade of reddish orange and is a color that really is flattering on everyone. Pantone is the authority on color and is the standard language for color communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer. In other words, the color trends each season begin with Pantone.

20120314-125218.jpg
Color of the year- Tangerine Tango

I guess it only makes sense that Sephora and Pantone would collaborate on a collection. Sephora+Pantone’s color trend-forecasting is a collection of the season’s top shades in easy-to-wear variations and finishes. The collection is made up of everything from makeup to accessories and the colors are simply fabulous. Here’s a look at my top picks. Everything is very limited edition, available only at Sephora, and I’m sure will sell out quickly.

20120314-125622.jpg
Color of the Year Blush Duo $26
Two complimentary shades in a micro-fine pressed powder. This formula is light, yet creamy to the touch.

20120314-125817.jpg
Color of the Year Chrome Blush in Apricot Brandy $16
This is a luxurious velvety blush that has the best elements of baked, powder, and cream blush formulas. The color goes on like a second skin and the apricot color is wonderful on all skin tones.

20120314-130013.jpg
Color of the Year Creme Lipstick in Tangerine Tango $18
This is an amazing lipstick that smoothes, hydrates, and protects lips. This is the shade to have this year and it is stunning.

20120314-130150.jpg
Color of the Year Lip Gloss Set $20 ($60 value)
Four high-intense colors based on the color of the year. This gloss is hydrating and long-wearing, all while imparting crystal refelctions.

20120314-130331.jpg
Color of the Year Nail Enamel Set $24 ($40 value)
Four tangerine-inspired shades in long-wearing enamel formula. Your tootsies will draw major attention with this varnish!

These tangerine shades scream summer and make me want to break out the flip flops and beach towels. Some items are coming soon and some are available now. Please visit Sephora for more products and information.

Leave a Comment

Filed under Beauty