Modern Family, Modern Fashion

Style Shout Out to the cast and crew of Modern Family for taking home the SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, and for looking absolutely fabulous in the process.

Sofia Vergara & Sarah Hyland

I don't know exactly what it is about Modern Family but sometimes even the mention of the show's name brings a smile to my face.  I seriously haven't had that happen since Friends and Seinfeld were on the air.  And I had that smile on my face watching the cast accept their much deserved SAG Award.

Ariel Winter

What made the SAG win even sweeter was that every one of the female cast members looked great.  I think you know what I mean.  You watch someone accepting an award of a lifetime, you look at their outfit, and can't help but wonder,  "What were they thinking?"

But it looks like the Modern Family cast was thinking.  Sarah Hyland who plays the older Dunphy daughter, looked fabulous in an orange strapless Max Mara gown, with simple jewelry from Me & Ro and Stuart Weitzman shoes.  Ariel Winter, who plays the younger sister, looked age appropriate in her beautiful white frock cinched with a black belt.

Julie Bowen

Julie Bowen rolled the fashion dice wearing a simple black Catherine Malandrino number, with Brian Atwood shoes and Neil Lane jewelry.  And boy did she come up a winner.  The fashion forward outfit was elegant yet playful and really suited her as she walked the red carpet.  "There's something lovely and classic about a pantsuit," she said, and I couldn't agree more.

Last but not least, Sofia Vergara was stunning in a bright blue Roberto Cavalli dress with Chopard jewels and Stuart Weitzman shoes.  The dress looked like it was designed with her in mind.  What I noticed as I watched the female cast members of Modern Family walk the red carpet was that each one of these girls and women chose outfits that really suited them.

This is what I love about modern fashion today.  There are so many choices, you can always find clothes to suit your personality and these women of Modern Family accomplished just that.

Thanks Modern Family for the Modern Fashion...and the laughs!

Sunday Shorts

Style Shout Out to Sunday.  We keep it short today!

To Jimmy Fallon for still following!  It keeps me on my toes and encourages me to write something entertaining and informative.

To 7 For All Mankind for continuing to make quality jeans that flatter everyone!

To Levis for going green with their denim-making process.

To Bluefly for having a fabulous assortment of Stuart Weitzman shoes online today.

To Fashion Wrap Up for some entertaining videos of the week!

Green Jeans?

Style Shout Out to Levis for going green with their jeans.

Levis 518

Levis! You hear the name, you think of jeans.  I kid you not, my daughter saw an ad for the movie "Tangled" on Disney featuring Mandy Moore and Zachary Levi. "Hey," she said,  "his name is the same as the jeans."

Levis is a company that has woven itself into the fabric of our society - no pun intended. And in an age where designer denim has made its presence known, Levis has still managed to keep it's image current and cool.

I must admit that I live in denim and  am especially thankful for companies like 7 For All Mankind, Paige and  J Brand for bringing denim to dinner. And for companies like AG Jeans, Hudson and Siwy for making flattering and comfy skinny jeans.  When I was younger jeans took quite awhile to break in, and were strictly for casual wear.  I love that as the industry has evolved, you can buy jeans in so many different washes, and that it's fashionable now to wear denim almost anywhere, and I do, my Levis included.

AG Jeans Stilt
Loft Tank & Louboutins

Recently Levis unveiled it's new technique for using less water in their jean making process. Hats off to the marketing department because when you go to their website (http://us.levi.com/home/index.jsp)the first thing you see is the icon showing how much water they have saved since this new process began.  In a time where the environment is a hot button with kids & teens, think about "Disney Friends For Change" and school environmental programs, to adults, think Prius and energy-saving light bulbs,  Levis continues to be an innovator in the denim industry.

So today as I reach for my Levis I say thanks for helping the environment while making great quality "green jeans."

7 Things on Thankful Thursday

Style Shout Out for  7 things to be Thankful for on Thursday.

Gratitude!  Sometimes I feel like we just don't focus enough on the positive and giving thanks for the things we have!  I am always thankful for family and friends and health and happiness!

In addition here are 7 things I am thankful for today and maybe this will inspire you to make your own list.

1.  Thanks to Loehmanns for posting my blog "Tuesday's Treasure" on their Facebook wall and to everyone that read and liked it!  http://www.facebook.com/DiscountDesignerClothing

2.  Thanks to Saks for having an awesome sale.  Who knew you could pick up a pair of J Brand Houlihans for under $150.00!  And don't get me started on the Cole Haan boots!  http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/Entry.jsp?catID=0&PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446358156&bmUID=iT40EDi

3.  Thanks to LNA Clothing for a great sample sale.  And if you're not in Los Angeles you can check out their web site for some super soft tees at super sale prices!
http://www.lnaclothing.com/SALE-at-LNA-Clothing-CID223.aspx

4.  Thanks to Sarah Sellers for following on Twitter.  We are wishing you the best when you get to Hollywood with American Idol.   And thanks to Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson for giving her that golden ticket!   http://www.facebook.com/SarahJSellers

5.  Thanks to online fashion magazine Fashion Wrap Up for being a great read with my morning coffee.  Love love love the videos of the day.  http://www.fashionwrapup.com/2011/january/cover

6.  Thanks to Rachel Roy for designing the classic shift dress that Michelle Obama wore at the State of the Union.   http://www.rachelroy.com/Rachel-Rachel-Roy/110004701,default,sc.html

7.  Thanks to everyone who reads this blog post!

Happy Thursday!

A Shift In Sensibilities

Style Shout Out to the First Lady for choosing to wear a simply classic Rachel Roy shift dress to the State of the Union Address.

Michelle Obama in Rachel Roy

Like many other Americans I was watching the State of the Union address last night with my family, and following along on Twitter.  I think whether or not you agree with all of the President’s policies it’s hard to fight the fact that he is an eloquent speaker trying to deliver a message of unity.

What I took away from the President’s speech was the need for us to come together so we can achieve great things.  There was a focus on education and respect for our teachers, which reminded me of how things were when I was a child.   It was just a simpler time where kids played outside on the front lawn, and Mom’s wore big Jackie-O sunglasses on the top of their head like a headband.  There is something about slipping into a Tory Burch tunic that brings me right back.

When I saw Michelle Obama walk into the Chamber last night I had mixed emotions about the dress she was wearing.  And tweets were flying with some loving the dress and some not so much.  But as I watched the speech the more I saw the dress, the more I fell in love with the dress.  There was something so elegant about it’s simple design and the beautiful silvery color.  Accented with simple Lucite bangles, I thought the First Lady’s choice of dress and jewelry was right in line with the words the President spoke. 

Thank you Rachel Roy for designing a true classic, and to the First Lady for making it her dress of choice.

Maybe it’s the time for a shift in sensibilities!

Tuesday's Treasure

Style Shout Out to stores like Nordstrom Rack and Loehmann’s for making shopping an adventurous treasure hunt.

7 Jeans & Splendid Tee

When I graduated from college and got my first marketing job, I was so excited to buy a fantastic wardrobe that would match my new fantastic position.  But like a bubble my fashion dreams were burst when I realized how much I would actually be taking home in each paycheck.  In addition to Bloomingdales, I wanted to shop the other 3 B’s as well – Barneys, Bergdorfs, and Bendels but quickly realized while I could afford to do some shopping at the first, the others sadly would have to wait.

One day I complimented a co-worker on her outfit and as she looked around she quietly whispered, “Loehmann’s!”  Of course Loehmann’s, with their high-end designer clothing at deep-discount prices, why didn’t I think of that – after all there was a college degree hanging on my wall.

Fast forward a few years, and a few moves and we are in Dallas.  Sometimes you just have to go where the road takes you.  I was at work and asked a friend where I could find a Loehmann’s.  She looked at me in all seriousness and said, “PF Changs.” 

Long story short she thought I was asking about a delicious dish called Lo Mein as she had never heard of this retail treat called Loehmann’s. 

Now don't get me wrong, I do a lot of my shopping at the mall in stores like Nordstron, Neiman Marcus, andd Saks but my fashion prayers were eventually answered when a Nordstrom Rack and a Saks Off 5th came to town and I found a Neiman Marcus Last Call.  All of their fabulous merchandise at great prices!

Via Spiga Espadrilles

While I know a lot of people that don’t enjoy shopping in stores like this, I look at my expeditions as a treasure hunt.  Over the past few months at Nordstrom Rack I have found some timeless treasures including Splendid Tees & wraps, Seven Jeans, Ray-Ban sunglasses, and the cutest Via Spiga espadrilles. 

So if you can’t find a Loehmann’s, you are sure to find a Nordstrom Rack, a Neiman Marcus Last Call or a Saks Off 5th.

Happy treasure hunting.

Houlihans - Hype or Hurray?

Style Shout Out to J Brand Jeans and the skinny on these skinny cargos.

When J Brand introduced their Houlihan cargo pants I admit that I did not hop on the bandwagon immediately.  Every time I opened an email from Singer22 or Coolspotters I saw them on stylish trend-setting celebrities like Rachel Bilson and Gwen Stefani.  But I had cargo pants and just didn’t see the need for another pair.

As the months wore on I began to notice that unlike other brands, J Brand Houlihans were actually gaining popularity and were still on the forefront of fashion trends.

With Stuart Weitzman 
Ballet Flats

Last week I got an e-mail from Saks and it was the best kind...BIG SALE.   As I was perusing the sale items I came across J Brand Houlihans.   I thought, “Houlihans on sale.  Was it a mistake or fate?"  But there was no mistake.  Here were these cargo pants that I had been following for a while, in this great vintage olive color.  There were so few sizes left but YES my size was available.

So how can you go against fate?  You can’t, so I ordered these pants not knowing what to expect.  My cargos arrived in three days.  Thank you Saks for such timely standard delivery.  Pulling them out of the box I immediately tried them on and saw for myself what the fuss was all about.  From the moment you put these cargo pants on you realize there is something special about them. 

Houlihans with Cole Haan
Liberty Boots

These cargo pants accentuate the positive and do a great job of playing down the negative.  The skinny leg makes it easy to achieve many different looks.  You can wear these with ballet flats, boots and  I saw a picture of Rachel Bilson on Coolspotters wearing her Houlihans with heels and it really worked in a relaxed chic sort of way. 

This is a pair of pants I put in the “work-horse” section of my closet because I know I am going to wear them often and all year long because of their versatility.

So I say, “No hype here - Hurray for Houlihans.”

Sunday Shorts

Style Shout Out – to a day of rest so today we keep it SHORT!

To Jimmy Fallon – thanks for the follow on Twitter.  I am now REALLY cool in my daughter’s eyes as well as my hubby’s but the pressure is on to write some really witty and interesting things about style.

To Isaac Mizrahi for reading my blog post entitled “Out With the Old, In With the Old” – again this has added to my cool factor with my daughter as well as some of my fashionable friends.

To Sarah Sellers for your outstanding American Idol audition that landed you that golden ticket to Hollywood.   You rocked it when you sang at the Septien showcase in Dallas and we’re sure you will rock it on Idol.

To American Idol for focusing on the positive in your first two shows of Season 10, and for giving us the fashion-savvy and talented Jennifer Lopez and the ever-outrageous Steven Tyler who is the living definition of  Rock Star.  If I’m being honest, this makes for good television.

A Piece Of The Rock

Style Shout Out  to Tiffany & Co. for making it surprisingly affordable to get  a piece of the rock.

Tiffany & Co. has been a rock in the jewelry industry since being founded in New York City in 1837.

When you hear the name Tiffany it conjures up images of Audrey Hepburn, the world-renowned Tiffany® Setting engagement rings and of course that little blue box.  And who can forget the scene from "Sleepless in Seattle" when Annie's fiance Walter gives her the engagement ring and says, "...It was my grandmothers.  I had them size it down.  She had really fat fingers."  

When Annie and Walter walk into Tiffany and are looking at china -  "8 is too few, 12 is too many," it reminded me of the first time I walked through the doors of the Tiffany & Co. store in New York.  There is just so much beauty it's hard to know where to look first.  I must admit I still feel that way about Tiffany today!    It's like being a kid in a candy store.

Before my daughter was born my husband gave me a sterling silver charm bracelet for my birthday.  There is something so exciting about opening that signature Tiffany Blue® box because you know that whatever is in that box is going to be special.  

So thank you Tiffany & Co. for continuing to offer beauty and quality to your customers year after year.  And with sterling silver pieces like Elsa Peretti®  stackable band rings, to Tiffany® Setting engagement rings, everyone can own a little piece of the rock.

It's All In The Bag...

Style Shout Out to Gucci...because it’s all in the bag...

Medium Gucci Sukey Bag

Last year for Mother's Day my husband gave me a classic Gucci bag.  It was a medium Sukey and the perfect size to hold all of my everyday essentials and then some.  I had seen the larger version of this bag on Giuliana Rancic and it looked fabulous.

Opening that Neiman Marcus box reminded me of growing up in the New York area where the brand of choice among many fashion savvy women, my Mom included, was Gucci.  While I was in college I dreamt of graduating, getting my first job and making enough money to buy a sporty car and a Gucci bag.

It turns out I could cross the Gucci bag off my list because my parents bought me one for graduation.   Excited, YES!!!  The car, well that's another story.

My Dad always says, “wear a great pair of shoes, carry a great bag, and make a great statement.”  Wise words.  There was something so magical about that Boston bag.  I know it probably sounds silly but carrying that bag while wearing my 501’s and a white tee made an ordinary outfit feel extraordinary.

I think that’s what makes fashion for me so much fun.  Sometimes it’s just about that one great piece that transforms a look, or that one awesome pair of shoes, or that one statement bag. 

DVF Flats & Gap Tee

Talking to a friend recently she said she was off to the mall to buy a handbag for Spring.  She does this at the start of every season.  I suggested a Gucci and she said, “Not everyone can afford a bag like that.”  So I told her that over the course of the last 10 years she has probably spent more on less expensive handbags than I have spent on the bags in my closet.  “I haven’t thrown a bag out in over 15 years,” I said. 

My philosophy is simple.  A designer bag is an investment.  If you buy a classic shape and take care of it you will have that bag for years.   In this instance I truly believe less is more.  I would rather have fewer bags in my closet but have them be great bags.  

Christmas Present

Honestly, I have a Gucci in my closet that my husband gave me for Christmas before my daughter was born.  It still looks great, still gets used.  The other day I was picking her up from school and another Mom said, “Love your outfit.”  Seriously, I was wearing Levis, a white tee, ballet flats, leather jacket...and that Gucci bag.

I thanked her and said, "It's all in the bag!"  And a great pair of shoes doesn't hurt either!

If I'm Being Honest...

Style Shout Out to American Idol as it begins it's 10th Season...If I'm being honest...

It seems like the "Party in the USA"  has begun with Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler joining Randy Jackson at the judges table.

I sat down tonight to write about something totally in fashion but was totally sidetracked by my family watching Idol.  The theme song begins, you hear Ryan Seacrest's voice, and of course, I could have taken my laptop and moved to another room but if Idol's on the TV it draws you in, case closed.  And as I thought about it isn't American Idol "in fashion"...I mean now that they have added Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler to the show you have that cool couture meets rock chic thing going on and that is going to make for quite a bit of fun this season.

Watching Idol, just like in other season kick-off shows, there were the good, the bad, the laughs, the tears and then there were those lucky enough to have "IT"!  You know that certain something that says to the world, "I am going places, and you are going to want to follow - no twitter pun intended."  I think it's "IT" that makes a person successful no matter what their industry.  My uncle who worked in the entertainment industry used to say, "You either have "IT" or you don't.  There is no in between."  I agree.  And apparently so does Jennifer Lopez because tonight on Idol when asked what she thought of one of the contestants she replied, "She has IT."

Tyler was as raw and uncensored as one can be on network television but he definitely brings his own sense of style to the party as he always does.  Did you happen to catch him on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon...Absolutely Fabulous!  The best words of wisdom from the much-experienced Tyler tonight on Idol, "Sing like you do when no one is looking."

For me personally I couldn't wait to see what Jennifer Lopez would wear.  And her outfits did not disappoint, especially the first with the black turtleneck and the adorable green print skirt.  It was like the red carpet all over again, yet no British humor since Simon has made his exit and Ricky Gervais was not asked to host this gig. 

So welcome to the Idol party Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.  You have made American Idol totally in fashion, if I'm being honest.

UGG Or UGH?

Style Shout Out to UGG Australia for making boots that keep feet toasty warm,  and look good doing it!

I was first introduced to UGG boots when I was living in Southern California in the early 90's.  All of my surfer friends wore them and talked about how their wasn't a better shoe for keeping your feet warm after surfing.  Their UGG boots knew no season.  Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall...UGGS were always at the beach.

Being from the North East, and never having seen these boots on the pavement of New York City streets,  I turned my nose up a bit at these odd shoes, and never thought I would ever buy a pair.  After all, I may have been living in Southern California at the beach but I wasn't a surfer.  I was an aspiring songwriter and had a real day job.

My Mom always says, "Never say never" and boy was she right.  Fast forward a few years later and UGG boots were making their way from the beaches of Southern California and into the streets of the cities becoming a part of the mainstream.  We were living in Dallas, a city that prides itself on "dressing up" and everywhere I looked I was surrounded by UGGS.  It didn't seem possible that a surfer boot had made it over 2000 miles but it did.

I finally gave in to this sensation that was sweeping the country when we were being transferred to New Jersey.  I knew I would need a comfortable boot to keep my feet warm.  Sitting in the women's shoe department at the Dallas Galleria Nordstrom I waited while the sales associate found a chestnut classic short in my size.  "You're in luck, last pair.  You don't wear them with socks you know," he said pulling the boots out of the box.  "I know," I said, "But thanks."

So boots on, I did the usual walk around and look in the mirror.   They did look cute with my jeans tucked in and boy were they comfortable right out of the box.  We got to New Jersey where just like Dallas the UGG boot made it's presence known.   I had forgotten just how cold the winters were in that part of the country and I am happy to say that my UGG boots got me through that winter and many others in style!

I don't know why there are still so many that say, "UGH" when they see an "UGG" but for me they have become a wardrobe staple.  Even Jimmy Choo sees the part that UGG plays in our world of fashion and has teamed with them to make some pretty amazing boots.

UGG has really expanded their line to include shoes and sandals so you could say that there really is an UGG for all seasons now.

So, thanks for the comfort and style!  I say UGG, not UGH!

Glitz, Glamour, Gowns & Gervais?

Style Shout Out to the Golden Globes and the beginning of Red Carpet Season!

Olivia Wilde
in Marchesa

I don't know what it is but ever since I was a little girl there is something so exciting about the Red Carpet and awards season.  I can't tell you how many hairspray-can Grammy awards I have accepted and how many times I have thanked the academy for recognizing my work.

Sometimes there is more excitement on the Red Carpet than there is during the actual event itself, unless you have a comedic host like Ricky Gervais.

It was interesting following twitter the night of the Golden Globes.  There were so many comments going back and forth...some loved his hosting and some not so much.  I guess for me, living with a Brit for 20 years I have become used to their sense of humor, so personally I had a lot of laughs and a few gasps of surprise.

But, I figure if you hire Ricky Gervais, you get Ricky Gervais.  Kind of like Russell Brand, even though he was in the movie Bedtime Stories, you probably wouldn't hire him to host a TV show for little kids. (No offense to Russell - we think he's brilliant, as the Brits say).   But the Golden Globes is not a kid's show, and the entertainment industry is pretty provocative so I take it with a grain of salt and get back to the important business of fashion.

Olivia Wilde
in Christian Louboutin Shoes

And the Red Carpet did not disappoint...there was color: the greens, the reds, the pinks.  There were strapless, sleeveless, one-shoulder and long sleeve...there was subtle and there was bold...and then there was the always classic but never boring, black.

We had a few favorites at our house.  Claire Danes looked fresh and fabulous in that gorgeous sherbert-pink Calvin Klein dress.  As did Emma Stone - sleek and age-appropriate!  It still amazes me how Calvin Klein dresses are so simple and yet so amazing.  And, I am so serious, it's like I see one of his gowns on the Red Carpet and I want to buy one immediately, and wear it to?  Exactly, I don't really need a gown for the next PTA meeting, but a girl can dream.

Olivia Wilde was shining in the sparkling yet subtle chocolate Marchesa strapless gown.  My daughter asked if she could have Olivia's dress for prom.  I said we have a few years and we'll see.  Hopefully she will forget about it in the next 7 years.  Anne Hathaway was stunning in the sequined Armani and looked classic as always.  And Eva Longoria carried herself with grace in the simply sexy yet sophisticated Zac Posen.

The make-up looks on the Red Carpet were great and I was so excited when I read that Stila Cosmetics was saying that gloss and matte lipstick are both on trend right now.  This is awesome because it's so important to have choices and since I like both glossy and matte looks this is one less decision I have to make on a daily basis.  Finally I am on trend either way!

Claire Danes
in Calvin Klein

My favorite make up looks of the night were Claire Danes and Olivia Wilde - just really natural.  I know it's glamourous but I am not so much a fan of the red lip, although it totally works for Gwen Stefani.   I think a glowing, natural look (think Jennifer) is a bit more my style.

The jewelry is too awesome to talk about in one or two sentences but I read that stacked bangles were a hit on the Red Carpet and I have to agree.  There is something so great when you slip on a few Ippolita slim bangles and it just transforms your look.

So the Red Carpet season has begun and maybe this is the year I stack my bangles, apply my gloss, get that Calvin Klein gown and slip on my Louboutins...who knows I haven't accepted a Grammy award since I was 8 and this could be the year!!!

Thanks Academy, and Happy Awards Season!

STYLE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS!!!

Style Shout Out to OPI and Dell for collaborating to put style at your fingertips.

Dell Netbook

When my daughter was 7 years old she asked Santa for a netbook.  My hubby and I thought it would be a great gift as she was already working on computers in school and was using ours to play on Disney and NickJr web sites.  The computer rules would stay the same...Mom and Dad approved sites only, the netbook stays in the family room, and no surfing the net.  

So, she and I sat down one evening in front of my laptop to look for netbooks.  We checked out a few computer retail web sites and when we got to Dell my daughter got so excited when she realized she could design her own,  "Mom this is awesome. You can pick an OPI nail polish color for your computer.  So cool! "  And I knew at that moment it didn't matter if there was a netbook out there that was faster, smaller or had more memory, Santa would be bringing my fashion-savvy daughter the netbook with "STYLE"!

For the next hour we sat looking at all the colors available while she debated which one to add to her Christmas list.  She narrowed it down to Pompeii Purple and Teal-The-Cows-Come-Home!  And then left it up to Santa to decide which one would make it underneath the tree. 

Dell Netbook
Teal The Cows Come Home

A few days later my daughter and I were picking up some shampoo from our local beauty store when I heard her exclaim, "Mom, Teal-The-Cows-Come-Home.  Oh I hope Santa brings this color netbook and the nail polish to match."  Looking at all of the OPI nail colors we agreed that while the teal color was awesome for a computer, the pale pink Bubble Bath might be better for her 7 year old nails.  Surprisingly she agreed.

So, on Christmas morning she was over the moon when she pulled the OPI Bubble Bath out of her stocking and opened her last present and saw her Teal-The-Cows-Come-Home netbook.

Now she always has STYLE at her fingertips.

Out With The Old, In With The Old?

Style Shout Out to Isaac Mizrahi for designing a timeless v neck sweater and my daughter for her style savvy!

With 7 For All Mankind Jeans
Christian Louboutin Shoes & JCrew Pearls

We like to start the New Year in our house by cleaning out the closets and getting organized.  We separate things into stuff we are keeping, stuff we are donating, and stuff that is going in the trash.  My husband and I have included our daughter in this process since she was three years old as a way to teach her about helping others, staying organized and not holding on to things you don't use anymore.

My daughter especially enjoys when we get to my closet.  It's funny because while most kids like to play "dress up" she has always had more fun taking my clothes and creating new outfits.  She calls it "shopping my closet" and I call it fascinating.  She's 8 and she just gets style.

My daughter and I were having fun until I  tossed a striped v neck sweater on to the donation pile and I heard,  "NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

I turned to see the horrified look on my daughter's face as she said, "Are you serious Mom? You're giving this away.  It's an Isaac Mizrahi."  So I replied,  "I know but I've had it for a few years.  It's from Target."

My daughter's expression was priceless, "I don't care if it's from Target or from Neimans, an Isaac Mizrahi is an Isaac Mizrahi.  This sweater is not "hanging by a thread."  She was paraphrasing Isaac's catch phrase from The Fashion Show.  My daughter took the sweater and said,  "You always wear it  with a white tee.  Give me a minute."

With Stuart Weitzman ballet flats
JCrew Pearls & AG Jeans

So there I sat watching my 8 year old as if she was working on a jigsaw puzzle,  confidently grabbing pieces that would go together... some skinny AG Jeans,  Stuart Weitzman tall boots, and a chunky multi-strand J Crew pearl necklace.

"See, just throw on your short leather jacket and so cute," she said.   And it was totally cute and totally current.  "This is like something Bobbie Thomas would show Moms to wear on the Today Show.  Am I right?" she asked.  And trying on the outfit I realized she was right.  Then she said, "It would look totally good with your  7 Jeans, ballet flats or  heels and your military jacket for a different look."  Who could argue with that?

So, this year our get organized day wasn't so much about "out with the old, in with the new"...as much as it was about "out with the old, in with the old!"  Quite a few items still ended up in the donation pile  but I haven't been so quick to fill up those empty hangers.  I am letting my fashion-savvy daughter use her style sense to create some new looks from pieces I've had for a while.  I feel like I'm doing my part to help the environment by recycling my closet.

Thanks to my daughter for a fun day and some fun new looks, and to Isaac Mizrahi for that great v neck sweater that caused me to re-think "out with the old"!

Beauty Insider To Go

Style Shout Out to Sephora for making shopping for beauty products fun and easy.

If you haven't checked out the new IPhone App "Sephora to Go" it's worth looking into, as is their Beauty Insider program.

The IPhone App puts the power of browsing and shopping for beauty products right in the palm of your hand.  For a busy Mom this does make the 40 minutes waiting in the afternoon carpool line a little easier to bear.

Even their Beauty Insider program is easy.  And my experiences with Sephora, like those with Gilt,  have always been positive.  Becoming a beauty insider costs nothing but the pay-off is great with benefits like access to promotions and accumulating points for beauty-related gifts and a birthday gift.  Seriously, who doesn't like a present on their birthday?

When I told my 8 year old daughter about the recent IPhone app and case promo she asked when I was going to get my Sephora IPhone case.  My initial response was that I already had one.  She looked at me in all seriousness and said, "Mom, you don't have one from Sephora,  It's so stylish and it's okay to have more than one.  You have more than one scarf, you can have more than one IPhone case.  It's fun and free."

As I opened "Sephora to Go" to look for a birthday present for my sister,  I thanked my fashion-savvy future Beauty Insider for her words of wisdom!   Or should I call her my fashion-savvy future "Beauty Insider to Go!!!"

Bright Lights, Big Color

Style Shout Out to the Loft...or as my daughter calls it...the store with the bright lights and big color!!!

A few days before Christmas my daughter and I went shopping to pick up a gift for my sister.  As we were walking around the mall I pointed to one of my favorite stores and she said, "No Mommy I don't like that store so much."  I asked her if it was because they didn't carry clothes for kids and she smiled and replied, "That's not it.  It's just too dark and the clothes don't look good in that kind of light.  Let's go to the Loft.  It's so bright and colorful!" 


As we entered the Loft I looked at the store through my daughter's eyes and fully understood where she was coming from.  The store was bright and uncluttered and there was a great assortment of clothes, from the neutrals that I like to the bright colors that she likes. 


As we walked around the store it took her just a few minutes to find what she described as "the perfect gift".  I asked what made it perfect and she replied, "Well it's in style with the ruffles in the front.  And it's a tank which is good for LA because you can layer it.  The color is perfect for her.  And I just love it and so will she, that's what makes it perfect."   


And for me it was the perfect day as we headed home with our Christmas shopping finished.  My daughter was so excited about the gift she had selected.  On Christmas Day there was a look of satisfaction on her face as she watched her Aunt open her present and declare, "It's the perfect gift...seriously!"  And as my sister took the top out of the box she said, "I love the Loft - it's so bright."  To which my daughter responded, "I know...Bright Lights, Big Color.  I wish they sold kids clothes."

I Am Always Going To Be Me

Style Shout Out to all of the fashionistas who follow their hearts - my fashion-savvy 8 year old included!!!  Because of you, I am always going to be me!!!

Like so many 8 year old girls, my daughter watches Disney and sees the clothes the Disney stars like Selena Gomez, Emily Osment and Miley Cyrus are wearing.  The challenge as a Mom is carefully navigating the fashion waters with her to make sure that while her style comes through, she is able to make choices that are age-appropriate.

While shopping for an outfit for her to wear in her first showcase,  we walked into one of her favorite stores.  She was like a mini Bobbie Thomas or Rachel Zoe pulling clothes from the racks to create some fabulous outfit.  The sales associate asked if we needed any help and her question was met with the polite reply,  "No thank you, I know exactly what I'm looking for."  Of course she knew...she has always known!

Watching my daughter pick up a plaid scarf, the sales associate said, "Oh, we don't put that scarf with that henley.  My daughter's response, "That's okay if you don't, I do."  And pointing to a color in the scarf she said, "See this color?  It so totally works with the color of the tank that's under the henley.  It's about the layering and the pop of color!"

And she was right, it did so totally work.  And it was about the layering and the pop of color.  The sales associate showed us some glittery sequined tops and vests.  To which my daughter responded, "Thanks but too bling-y."  When the girl told her that everyone was wearing stuff with bling my daughter replied, "But I'm not everyone, I'm me."

It amazes me that at such a young age my daughter has a style confidence that a lot of adults don't possess.  She follows her heart and has fun with fashion and that makes me smile!

The sales associate heard my daughter happily singing softly and said, "Good luck at your showcase. You could be the next Hannah Montana."  She thanked her for the compliment, smiled and replied, "I am not going to be the next anyone, I am always going to be me."

As a Mom, those words were music to my ears!!!

GILT-Y AS CHARGED!!!

"You didn't even read the email?" my sister asked.  "GILT-Y as charged," I responded...

Style Shout Out to Gilt Groupe for changing what I initially think of when I hear the word guilt, and for bringing fabulous merchandise at fabulous prices to the consumer.

GUILT...being an Italian-Irish Catholic from New York this is something I know about...but I am trying really hard to break the guilt chain.  I didn't know exactly how I could change the meaning of a word but then one day I got an email from my sister to "join GILT"!!!

 Even though I haven't lived in New York for quite some time my Big Apple skepticism saw the word "join" and I moved the email from my inbox to my "to do" list where it just sat as a "to don't".

Fast forward and my sister is visiting from LA.  My daughter was so excited to see her aunt...Christmas baking, Christmas decorating, Christmas shopping!  Now my sister has very LA meets NY style and of course I noticed her very hip Chan Lu bracelet (love love love) and Seven Jeans with a cool detail on the pocket (so cute)...

"I got them from Gilt, and you wouldn't believe what I paid," she answered when I asked about her outfit.   Well, I honestly couldn't believe what she paid.  It was less than the price of the jeans I was wearing and I am the sister that prides herself on finding great fashion deals.  How could I have let this GILT-Y pleasure pass me by.

My sister said I sent you the email and I was bit embarrassed to admit that I hadn't even opened it when I saw the word "join"...She was so surprised saying, "I sent it to you because you always find the best deals.  I was returning the favor and you didn't even read it."  I responded, "GILT-Y as charged.  I didn't read it."

Long story short I have since opened that e-mail, and joined GILT.  It doesn't cost anything to join but can cost you a lot of extra money by not joining.  Now don't get me wrong, I still totally enjoy shopping with my daughter at stores like Neimans where Laura and Gigi are always so helpful and you can be hands on with the merchandise.  But in today's economy who doesn't feel good saving a buck every now and again.

So thanks GILT for having an awesome assortment of high-end designer delights at non high-end designer prices.  For me you have forever changed the definition of the word guilt, and for that I can't thank you enough.  I recently sent my friends an invitation to join GILT and when one of them said,  "You sent me an email to join something, ugh."  I said, "GILT-Y as charged!"

Shoes or Art - That Is The Question

Style Shout Out to Christian Louboutin for creating shoes my fashion-savvy 8 year old describes as "a work of art" for your feet.  But I digress...

Christian Louboutin Mater Claude

Last October my husband and I took our daughter to the mall to look for an outfit to wear for her first showcase at her music school.  She had a good idea of what she was looking for and wanted Daddy's opinion as well as mine.  Since my husband is not so much the avid shopper he was excited that we had a shopping strategy that would guarantee success within 3 hours...lunch included!

We entered the mall through BarneysNY and as we passed through women's shoes my daughter stopped in front of the Christian Louboutins with their gleaming red soles and exclaimed, "Look at all of those shoes...it's like a wall of art!  I've never seen anything like it."  And as we gazed at the wall, each pair of Louboutins in a separate cubby with a small overhead light to illuminate them I realized she was right. It was a wall of art...Really beautiful, wearable art.

One of the sales associates overheard the remark saying that she had never heard the wall described as art, and my daughter said that she had never seen shoes all the way up a wall before.  Then the girl asked, "What kind of Louboutins are in Mommy's closet?" To which my daughter replied, "None. But I've seen them at Neimans and in InStyle Magazine and I hope Santa will bring Mom a pair."

So it was a good shopping day.  We made it out of the mall in 3 hours (lunch included),  my daughter found an awesome and age appropriate showcase outfit at crewcuts, and Santa must have heard her because this year for Christmas there was a beautiful pair of Louboutins under the tree.

I asked my husband if he could build me an illuminated cubby.  He said after 20 years it's good that I still keep him laughing. Of course I was joking.  My Louboutins have a special place in my closet next to my Converse.  Shoes are meant to be worn not displayed even if they are works of art and I want my daughter to have that understanding too.

So, thanks Christian Louboutin for designing beautiful shoes and to Santa for listening to my fashion-savvy 8 year old (and to Gigi and Laura at Neiman Marcus) for my own pair of art!!!

Marc Jacobs International Say What?

A very big Style Shout Out to Marc Jacobs International for honesty.

Lola by Marc Jacobs

If you have a daughter between the ages of 6 and 12 then you can probably tell by the title of today's entry that for the past few years my daughter and I have spent numerous hours watching "Hannah Montana" on Disney where the phrase "Say What?" comes up in almost every episode.  So funny how a catch phrase from a kid's show makes its way into adult conversation but somehow this one does.  And yes I said it, "we" watch Hannah Montana.  I figure if my daughter and I watch "kids" shows together we have some fun with some teachable moments...oh but that's a topic for another Style Shout Out.

Anyway, those of you who follow Marc Jacobs International on Twitter probably saw the recent tweets regarding some of their aviator sunglasses.  As a Mom who spends a lot of time discussing the importance of honesty with my daughter it's so refreshing to see a large company being so candid.

Lola by Marc Jacobs

In today's economy where tough decisions sometimes need to be made on where to spend your hard-earned dollar it's nice to know that Marc Jacobs International stands behind their products and stands with their customers.

Oh, and thanks Marc Jacobs for creating Lola perfume.  Santa left a bottle under the tree for my daughter.  Along with Barbie and Hannah Montana items,  Lola was at the top of her list this year because her puppy's name is Lola, and because as she said, "The bottle is so beautiful it's like art and will be the centerpiece of my room." My fashion-savvy 8 year old daughter "Say What"?

You Just Look Good!!! Thanks AG!!!

Stilt 13 Year Destroyed

Style Shout Out to AG Jeans!!!  A Great Jean for all ages!!!

While the number of denim designers is ever-growing, I have to say that AG has found a way to create jeans that are universally flattering and truly fit the lifestyle of this "Mom-On-The-Go"...

In my closet, I have The Stilt, the Tomboy crop, and the Ex-Boyfriend shorts and while they offer different looks, the flattering fit remains the same.  Every time I wear this brand my hubby of almost 20 years compliments me on how I look,,,yes I said it...almost 20 years and still genuine compliments.

Also, while volunteering at school recently a Mom asked what jeans I was wearing.  It was The Stilt 13-year destroyed.  She said she wasn't sure she could pull off the look but after seeing my outfit she was going shopping.

For a brief moment I walked in the shoes (preferably Louboutins) of Rachel Zoe, Bobbie Thomas, and Stacy London and it was awesome to help someone discover a new fashion trend that was out of their comfort zone.  Not only did I log 3 volunteer hours at school that day, I also made a fashion contribution.

NewYear's Eve Outfit

But one of the best compliments I have gotten while wearing my AG's came from my 8 year old fashion-savvy daughter who was the inspiration for this blog.  After carefully choosing my New Year's Eve outfit, which included my favorite Stilts, my daughter gave me a big hug and said that she was, "thankful for a Mom that doesn't wear Mom jeans."  If you're a Mom you know that when your kids give you the fashion seal of approval it means something.  Let's face it, all kids want their Moms to look good but, again in my daughter's words, "age appropriate", and AG has managed to do just that by creating jeans that flatter so many different women.

I asked my daughter what she liked about the jeans and she said, "They're skinny but not too skinny...they're low but not too low for a Mom...you just look good.  You know age appropriate. (It's amazing how children remember your words when it suits them - but that's a topic for another day).

And there it is in a nutshell, "You just look good."  And honestly that is how I feel when I wear these jeans.  If I never got a single compliment I would wear these jeans anyway because they make me feel so good when I wear them.

So thanks AG Jeans for making denim that is so universally flattering!!!

Where Our Style "Fashionation" Began

Gwen Stefani - InStyle 2010

Today's STYLE SHOUT OUT goes to GWEN STEFANI of L.A.M.B. and No Doubt...

My renewed love affair with fashion began because of my daughter.   From the time she was 3 she took a real interest in her wardrobe and had a strong sense of style.  The funny thing is that while lots of children like to pick out their own outfits, the things she chose always, and still do, work really well together.  And I am not just saying that because I am her Mom. There are pictures to prove it.

Anyway, when she was 4 years old we were shopping at Nordstrom.  In the women's shoe department they were selling Gwen Stefani CD's and her newest video was playing.  As we walked through accessories we noticed the L.A.M.B. handbags by Gwen Stefani.  And while I was purchasing a Chanel Lipgloss my daughter was noticing the bottle of L.A.M.B. perfume being prominently displayed with a picture of Gwen Stefani.  At that moment my daughter looked at me and the make-up artist who was assisting with my purchase and she blurted out with extreme confidence, "Wow I am so going to do that when I get big?"  The make-up artist asked her, "What are you going to do?" And my 4 year old responded, "Be a triple threat like Gwen Stefani...she does music, fashion and perfume...AWESOME!!!"

When we got home that day she began sketching and soon after started asking for piano lessons.

Fast forward 4 years and she still has the pencil in her hand (when she's not doing homework, playing with friends, or practicing keyboard).  You see after playing basketball, tennis and trying a few other activities we realized that our daughter was serious about piano lessons.  We knew she was even more serious when she came home after her third lesson and played "Let It Be" by the Beatles with a big smile on her face.

I don't know if fashion and music will be her career one day but the journey getting there with her is so much fun.  The Style Shout Out blog was born out of our style journey.

My daughter says that to be in fashion you have to have FASHIONATION.  Her definition of her word is "To be fascinated with FASHION while having a great IMAGINATION."

We hope in 2011 you will check in regularly to keep up with our STYLE SHOUT OUTS! And, thanks to Gwen Stefani for the inspiration!!!

Welcome 2011

Style Shout Out...All things style, all the time!  2011 looks to be an exciting year for fashion so stay tuned!

Happy 2011!

Welcome to Style Shout Out...