I Want Candy...Prada Candy

Prada Candy @ Nordstrom

Style Shout Out to Candy...Prada Candy...

It's funny but for as long as my daughter has been walking she has always found her way to the cosmetics department and perfume counters in our favorite stores.  Maybe it has something to do with the sweet smells and the colorful bottles. Let's face it, the cosmetics area knows how to attract a crowd.  I look at this area of any store as the place where almost everyone can afford a little luxury.  When I had my first job after college I couldn't afford designer clothes but I could afford a Chanel lipstick and compact and Ralph Lauren perfume.

So I guess it's no surprise that my nine year old shares my love of the cosmetics department, even though the only thing in her backpack is a Nivea SPF 15 Lip Balm.  Ever since she saw her first bottle of Gwen Stefani's LAMB perfume at Nordstrom when she was four she has been very in tune with the sights and scents that fill the air.  For Christmas when she was eight she asked for a bottle of Marc Jacobs, Lola.  It may seem like a very grown up gift but she said it was the most beautiful bottle she had ever seen, would look so pretty on her shelf like artwork, and her puppy's name is Lola.  Now how could Santa argue with that?  And, it really was a win-win because I love the fragrance! That bottle is still on the shelf in my daughter's room even though I have used almost every drop of the fragrance and every time I see it, I smile.

Marc Jacobs Lola

I have a feeling my daughter may find a bottle of Prada's new fragrance, Candy, wrapped up in red for Valentine's Day.  As we were walking through Neiman Marcus last week we stopped short as we both noticed the bright orange and hot pink Prada display and she said, "Awesome ...for Valentine's Day I want candy and not the chocolate kind."  Luckily, like Lola, it's a colorful bottle and a sweet scent.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  If you're in the market for something sweet for Valentine's Day try a little Candy by Prada!  And if you're looking for a scent that is as sweet as the bottle then you'll probably like Lola.

It's Easy Being Green With AG Jeans

AG Jeans at Saks

Style Shout Out to AG Jeans for going green.

I've had my first pair of AG Jeans for a while and I have to say they are definitely getting better with age. Besides creating quality denim I love the fact that AG uses Ozone Technology to make their jeans. This cutting-edge technology significantly reduces water consumption, use of chemicals and energy.  So if you are trying to do your part to help the environment then AG is a good choice.  I, personally, have a soft spot for companies that are socially responsible while not compromising quality.

While this company offers many different styles, my favorite style is the Stilt. It's a great jean for someone like me who at 5 feet 4 inches tall usually has to roll up my jeans, which looks cute with flats but is uncomfortable tucked in boots, or I have to have them shortened.  With the Stilt I don't have to do either of those things and that is why I was so excited to find them in some beautiful colors for Spring.  Even though I think the orange and blue are amazing, I am partial to the green ones that I found at Saks.  I am pairing mine with a white LNA tee, and Stuart Weitzman ballet flats in a neutral color.

So if you're looking to put a little Springtime color into your wardrobe go green with AG.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  The Stilt is such a flattering fit and with a 30 inch inseam they will work for almost everyone. This is simply a great versatile pair of jeans that will take you from day to evening with the change of your shoes.  I've found that Saks and Nordstrom usually have a great selection of AG Jeans.  Happy Shopping.

Hunter Boots On A Rainy Day

Hunter Boots @ Nordstrom

Style Shout Out to rainy days and Hunter boots...

Let me start by saying that I love rainy weekend days when I can stay inside and spend time with my family.  I always find those gray days to be a great time to pick up a guitar and write, play board games with my daughter and watch a good movie with my hubby and daughter.  I am not especially fond of rainy days when they are like today and I have to take my daughter to school and go out and run errands and go to the dentist. Well, who am I kidding?  Rain or shine I would still have to go to the dentist today which is really not high on my list of things I love to do.

But I have to admit that errands on rainy days, and even a trip to the dentist, have become a bit easier and more bearable since I discovered Hunter boots. Besides keeping feet totally dry these boots are surprisingly comfortable.  So if you are in the market for a quality rain boot then check out Hunter today. Nordstrom has an amazing selection of their boots for the entire family.  My nine year old thinks the magenta boots are a fun color and I think they brighten up a rainy day.

So now I am off to pull on my Hunter boots and head out to face the rainy day! And despite the rain I have to say I am smiling. Thanks Hunter!


My Style Shout Out Tip:  There are rain boots out there that cost less than Hunter but like a classic Burberry trench coat, Hunter makes classic and stylish wardrobe staples that will last.  An investment in quality is never a bad investment.

One More Giant Step

Via Giants.com

Style Shout Out to being blue...Big Blue!

Congratulations to the New York Giants on a fabulous season. Being born in New York and growing up in New Jersey when it comes to football, for me, it'a all about the Giants.  I have some great childhood memories of being at the Meadowlands in the freezing cold, Giants hat on my head, hot chocolate in my hand cheering on our favorite team with my family.

Sunday the Giants beat the San Francisco 49-er's on the road to win another NFC Championship.  My family and I spent most of the game on the edge of our seats but I never had any doubt that Eli Manning would lead his team to victory. The game showcased this team's ability to win on the road in the tough situations.  I have always liked Manning as a quarterback and have found him to be calm, cool and collected especially when the pressure is on and Sunday's game was no exception.

So now Eli Manning has one more game to win with his team to bring another championship to the Giants' organization.  And I think it is so amazing that he'll be playing in his older brother's stadium.

Thanks Giants for a great season of football.  See you at the Super Bowl.

NAMM - Spotlight On Music

Style Shout Out to NAMM...

It's no secret that I am a big fan of music and music education. I know first-hand that music builds confidence in children because thanks to my parents I was one of those fortunate kids who had a guitar and lessons at the age of ten.  And thanks to his parents, my hubby grew up in a house full of musicians.

As parents, my hubby and I believe that one of the greatest gifts we can give our daughter is the gift of confidence.  For us, creating a positive environment is key and music is a major part of our everyday.

Being musicians ourselves, I guess it was no big surprise for us when our daughter started sitting behind our drum kit when she was a toddler, started strumming a guitar soon after that, and started asking for piano lessons when she was in kindergarten. We waited to start piano lessons until the summer before second grade because we wanted to make sure she was ready.

Taylor

As I was reading about the NAMM show that starts this week out in Southern California it reminded me of the article I wrote last year about their "Pledge to Play" initiative and how much NAMM does to promote music education.

Music education is so important and while I can't speak for everyone I can say that I see how music has inspired my nine year old.  And whether it's a coffee house or the House of Blues restaurant or giving a report at school, I see a confident young lady who has the ability to express herself. Music has sparked her creativity and love of writing.  It's so nice to see her pick up her guitar and iPad to write a song or learn a new cover like Colbie Caillat's Brighter Than The Sun rather than picking up her iPad to play a game.

So thanks NAMM for continuing to shine the spotlight on the importance of music! 

My Style Shout Out Tip:  Give yourself or someone you love the gift of music. My daughter and hubby gave me a beautiful Taylor acoustic guitar for Christmas. Picking it up I felt like I was ten again. 

Couture & Comedy

Jessica Alba
via Just Jared

Style Shout Out to the Golden Globes.

Reese Witherspoon
via Just Jared

It's hard to believe that it's been a year since I started writing this blog.  It truly feels like yesterday that I wrote about the Golden Globes and here it is that time again.  Sunday night's show was once again hosted by Ricky Gervais and I found him, as always, to be a little edgy and very entertaining.

In addition to Gervais hosting, a highlight of the night was George Clooney, not only winning, but walking onto the stage with Brad Pitt's cane. And of course any where Jimmy Fallon goes, comedy follows and I thought Adam Levine and Fallon presenting were hilarious with those moves like Jagger.

But no awards show is complete without talking about the red carpet and my two favorite looks of the night were Reese Witherspoon in a fabulous Zac Posen with jewels by Fred Leighton and Christian Louboutin shoes.  And my other favorite was Jessica Alba in Gucci with Giuseppe Zanotti shoes and Bulgari jewels. Both dresses were simple in design yet so elegant and the colors suited each of them so perfectly.

I hope you all enjoyed the Golden Globes and happy awards season.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  This is a perfect time of year to add a bit of red to your wardrobe. Whether it's a belt, sweater or handbag red adds a great pop of color to any outfit!

Fashion & Football

Jessica Alba in Gucci
@ The Golden Globes
via Just Jared

Style Shout Out to a few of my favorite things.

It's not often that you find sports and style together in the same article but as much as I love fashion I have always loved sports just as much.  And while I do enjoy the occasional game of tennis and round of golf, my love of sports is more about watching than playing.

Growing up in a sports-loving family Sundays in the fall were all about the Giants, and baseball season was all about the Yankees.  Even though I don't live in New York or New Jersey anymore for me and my family it's still about the Giants and the Yankees.  Although I must admit that my hubby has been known to root for the Cowboys because he says it has something to do with supporting your local team.  While I support the Stars and the Mavericks, the last time I rooted for the Cowboys was when Troy Aikman was their quarterback and the games had no impact on the Giants.

But yesterday was all about the Giants as my favorite team beat the Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers to advance in the play-offs.  I think Aaron Rodgers is a great quarterback but the Giants and Eli Manning didn't just come to play, they came to win.  Eli may be Peyton's younger brother off the field, but on the field he has proven to be every bit as competent as his older brother.

And as if the Giants winning wasn't enough to make the day great, the Golden Globes was on last night and Ricky Gervais was back to host.  For me this award show kicks off red carpet season.  I love the dresses, the jewelry, and the Golden Globes just wouldn't be the Golden Globes without Ricky Gervais and his unique brand of humor.

I hope all of you had a great Sunday too.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  For me watching sports is a fun way to spend some time with my family.  My daughter and I usually end up playing some board games while we are watching so there is always a lot of laughter.  So this week find something fun to do with your family...the Giants could always use a few more fans on their quest for the Super Bowl.

J Brand - Great Service, Great Style

Gwen Stefani via Coolspotters
in J Brand 901's

Style Shout Out to J Brand for customer service that is as outstanding as the quality of their merchandise.

Recently I ordered a pair of jeans from J Brand.  I normally buy their jeans at stores like Nordstrom, Neimans, BarneysNY or Saks so this was my first experience dealing directly with the company and I was so impressed with their customer service.

Let me start by saying that I did have a question about an item that was sold out in my size and that I received an email back from the company within hours of my inquiry. I must admit that this caught me off guard a little bit as there are so many companies that seem to have lost their ability to offer great customer service.  And for me, customer service is as important as the quality because I want to feel good about where I make my purchases.  Like Nordstrom, J Brand has figured out that if you keep your customers happy, they will continue to shop with you. Creating brand loyalty is very smart marketing.

J Brand's web site is easy to navigate and placing my order was simple.  Everything about this shopping experience was positive and since I ordered the 901's and had never tried them on before I was so happy when they arrived today and fit perfectly.

The other perfect thing was the way J Brand packages their jeans.  When I opened the box that FedEx left on my doorstep there was a mini garment type bag with my new jeans nicely tucked inside.  My receipt was also tucked into a receipt holder with the J Brand name on it, and there was a great marketing piece with information about the company.  As a person who had a career in marketing before my daughter was born I really appreciate when a company goes the extra mile with presentation.

Thanks J Brand for the great quality, the great customer service and the great experience.  I'll be wearing my new 901's tomorrow with my Stuart Weitzman boots and Joie top.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  If you're looking for a legging jean check out the 901 by J Brand.  I got the Hewson wash which is a versatile black that looks great with boots and also with flats.  These jeans fit like a glove and are very comfy!

Happy Birthday Kate

Via Coolspotters

Style Shout Out to Kate Middleton on her 30th birthday.

This week one of the most watched woman in the world turned thirty and in honor of her big day here are two of my favorite looks.

The first is one of the casual outfits that she wore on her visit to Canada last summer. I am a big fan of J Brand Jeans for their quality and simplicity and paired with a blouse and flats this is just such a classic look.

If you're looking for a nice skinny jean with a mid rise then check out the 811 by J Brand.  They have managed to create a pair of jeans that is flattering on most women and comes in a great range of fabric and colors.  These jeans are so versatile and can transition from a day time look to an evening look with the quick change of your shoes.

Via Coolspotters

The second look I love is the simple blue Zara dress that the Princess paired with a fabulous yet basic pair of LK Bennett espadrilles and fitted jacket last spring.  Again this is a very classic look and this dress, like the J Brand Jeans, is a versatile piece that can be paired with flats, wedges and heels.  I recently wore mine with a little black jacket and Stuart Weitzman boots.  I've also worn the dress with my LK Bennett Sledge pumps and a little cardigan which gave me an entirely different look.

So happy birthday to a princess who does everything with style and grace and thanks for bringing classic back.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  As you start shopping for Spring, invest in versatile and timeless pieces that will become staples in your wardrobe.

Sunday Shorts - Giant Steps

Style Shout Out to Sunday and keeping it short.

It's not often that sports makes it's way into a blog about style but I grew up in a family that loved sports and am happy to say that my hubby and daughter are big sports fans too. As much as I enjoy watching Isaac Mizrahi on Project Runway All Stars I am equally happy watching the NY Giants and the NY Yankees play.  And, I rarely pass up the chance to go to see the Dallas Stars on the ice with my family.

So for me Sundays in the Fall are all about football and Sundays in the Winter are all about football play-offs.  Even though I don't live in the New York area any more, football is still all about the New York Giants.  So this afternoon I'll be sitting on the couch with my family, popcorn bowl filled, and Smartwater in hand ready to root for my team.

Happy Sunday and Go Giants!

Good Morning Mizrahi

Isaac Mizrahi w/ Lara Spencer on GMA

Style Shout Out to new trends in the NewYear.

I must admit that this week I am finding it hard to get back into the swing of things. December is filled with birthday celebrations, Christmas and New Year's Eve and while I love the renewal that comes with the New Year I am also a little sad when my daughter goes back to school.  We just have so much fun and I truly enjoy every minute.  Winter Break for us was spent celebrating her birthday, Christmas shopping, golfing, playing board games and working on music.

This week after I dropped her at school for her first day back I came home, poured a cup of coffee and sat down to watch Good Morning America.  Isaac Mizrahi was featured in a segment with Lara Spencer talking about current trends.  First of all let me say that I am a huge Mizrahi fan and always have been.  Simply put, he designs clothes that look fabulous and make you feel fabulous.

Cameron Diaz in Chanel Flats & AGJeans
via Coolspotters

I was quite happy to see bold colors and flats and kitten heels on his trend list.  Heels are awesome and while I love my LK Bennett pumps and my Louboutins,  lately it seems that I reach for my flats first.  Flats are just so classic and so versatile.

And speaking of shoes, for Christmas some beautiful beige and black Chanel ballet flats and a pair of purple suede Stuart Weitzman kitten heels found their way under our tree.  The kitten heels fall into both trend categories as far as heel height and color and the flats, well what can I say they are just a beautiful, quality pair of shoes.  As my hubby was watching GMA with me he smiled because he did actually pick out the shoes. Two trends with two pair of shoes...it seems that Santa is both very observant and very thoughtful.


My Style Shout Out Tip:  The New Year is a great time to try something new...so whether it's flats, kitten heels or color, have some fun with fashion.  And for some fashion inspiration tune in to Project Runway All Stars on Lifetime with Isaac Mizrahi. Happy 2012!