Posts Tagged ‘Neiman Marcus’

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Luck be a Lady


2010
09.05

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Posted in Fashion Tips | 10 Comments »

Being a Lady is finally en Vogue again with the Fall/Winter 2010 Collections.  Fashion is revisiting  the demure classic sophistication of earlier decades. Nostalgia fills the air as skirts are longer, gloves are being worn, cardigans are back, and its all about the Hourglass Silhouette. 

(Above: From Louis Vuitton 2010 FW Collection)

Is the same true in intimate apparel? Afterall, our undies are what helps to give us that Hourglass Silhouette!

With the influx of shape-wear on the market is it possible to have a bra and panties with a great fit and comfort while remaining ladylike and sexy?

I took these questions to my favorite intimate-wear designer Elle MacPherson Intimates and here is what they had to say:

Absolutely!  There’s no need to sacrifice femininity and fit when it comes to your undergarments. 

Supermodel turned businesswoman Elle Macpherson created her signature lingerie line to encompass fit, fashion, function and affordability!  

 Elle Macpherson Intimates provides women with everything they want – impeccably designed lingerie made from sensual, luxurious fabrics in the most fashion forward colors that do not compromise fit and comfort.

Our Artistry set is a perfect example.  It features tiny threaded ribbon in the bra and briefs creating a look that is really a piece of art.  Five dainty bows adorn the set to complete the feminine ladylike look.  The stretch lace and careful design offer comfort and support while giving us the ability to take the Artistry up to an E cup in the contour bra!

 

 

 

 

(above: Artistry bra and panty in Jet by Elle MacPherson Intimates)

So ladies IT IS possible to be pretty AND have the proper support!   Goodbye Bridget Jones style undies its time to wear something underneath that makes you feel as sexy as the clothing on top!

How Lucky are you ladies!  Elle MacPherson Intimates wants to help you with your Hourglass Silhoutte!

3 Lucky winners will receive a set of Artistry Bra and Panties in either Blue or Jet. (I will email winners  for their color choice and specific size).

To enter:

If you haven’t already subscribe to this blog (you can subscribe in upper left hand side of sidebar)

AND

Leave a comment on this Post (between Sept.6 and Sept. 11) and telling me how you will be a Lady this season.

(comments can be left by scrolling to bottom of post or comment icon at beginning of post at top right depending on your browser)

Thanks for reading and good luck!

Please Repost on your Facebooks and Twitter!

(last weeks winner is Ann Payne!  Congrats!)

 Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) is an unprecedented global initiative created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy and put the fun back in shopping. In the United States, the program is a collaboration between American Vogue, the Council of Fashion Designers of America, NYC & Company, and the City of New York. On September 10, 2010, Fashion’s Night Out will return to New York City and launch in cities nationwide to put the fun back in shopping, with designer appearances, live windows, celebrity guests, and other special events. Around the world, and led by fifteen international Vogue editions (Australia, Britain, China, France, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Taiwan, and Turkey), each country will celebrate Fashion’s Night Out on one night between Sept 7 and Sept 16, 2010. Fashion’s Night Out will be the subject of a one-hour special on CBS on September 14, 2010. For more information visit www.fashionsnightout.com, powered by QVC, or join us on Facebook and Twitter (www.twitter.com/fnonyc).

Neiman Marcus is celebrating Fashion’s Night Out in Style with Trunk Shows, DJ’s, Hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, a yogurt bar, beauty events, and much much more!

Here is a special invite for my readers to the Las Vegas Event!  Don’t forget to RSVP!

16 comments

Walk in my Shoes: heels, heels, heels


2010
08.22

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Posted in Fashion Tips | 16 Comments »

I have always had a passion for shoes.  Unlike clothing, you can purchase shoes no matter what your mood or how you are feeling about your weight.  They are a little friend that is always happy to see you, sitting on a pretty display in the store calling out to you as you pass by.  Winking, promising, enticing you into taking them home.

Lets face it.  Women love shoes but few know the proper terminology to use when discussing them. They will refer to their shoes as “heels”, “sneakers” , “flats” or “flip-flips”. 

“Heels” is just a general term for any shoe with height.  It’s like calling a woman “Mame” or “Miss” rather than “Christie” or “Beth”.  Come on ladies, lets be a little more intimate with our shoes.   Get to know them and their proper names.

You may be wondering with so many types of shoes where to start!

Let’s start with the basics.

One of the basic parts of a shoe is the heel. 

What is a Heel?

Definition: “The heel is the outer part of the shoe that is placed under the heel of the foot. Shoe heels come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and heights. In fact, even shoes that are referred to as “flats,” will often have a heel, although it’s very low.  Some casual shoes, such as sneakers, do not have a separate “heel,” but instead have an out-sole that runs the length of the shoe.”

Although there are many types and several of them can be combined into one “Über Heel”, lets focus on the most common types of womens heels.

1. Stiletto: Named after the Stiletto Dagger, it is an ultra-thin, ultra-high heel which became popular in the 1950’s.   Usually 4″-6″ in height and tapered sharply, like the spring-loaded knife for which it is named. Generally considered the ’sexiest’ of heels. 

(above: Stiletto Heel with platform front Christian Louboutin Relika Patent Mary Jane Pump Neiman Marcus)

2. Pencil Heel: similar to a stiletto,   but whereas a stiletto tapers smoothly from top to bottom a pencil heel is straight all the way down and even thinner that a stiletto. (these are very difficult to walk in)

(above: Pencil heel Christian Louboutin “Big Lips Pump” Neiman Marcus)

3. Wedge.  A wedge is based on the same shape as a triangular door-stop. The heel extends from the back of the shoe to right under the foot, running in a wedge shape from back to front. Wedges come in different heights.  Traditional wedges are flat at the ball of the foot, but there are also platform wedges.

(above: Wedge Heel Jimmy Choo Patent Leather wedge Nordstrom)

4. Kitten:  low heel from about 1.5 to 2 inches high, set in from the back of the shoe.  These are more of a cute heel than a sexy one and they are super comfy.

(above: Kitten Heel Romantic Soles“Keira” kitten heel Zappos.com)

5. Platform.  These heels are preferred not only for the stylish look but also for the fact that they are immensely comfortable. A platform heel helps you keep a proper balance on the shoe, so there is absolutely no stress on either front or back body part.  Platform shoes are thick soles that sit under the front part of the foot and are combined with wedges, chunky heels or stilettos. They are known as platform wedges, when they are combined with a wedge heel.  The most current designer trend pairs a stiletto and a platform with the platform hidden on the front of the shoe between the out-sole and the fabric of the shoe.

(above: Hidden Platform Stiletto Dolce & GabbanaLeopard print peep toe 4 1/2″ stiletto with 1″ hidden platform Neiman Marcus)

6. Cuban Heel.  Also known as Latin Heel.  A broad heel of moderate height with a slightly tapered back and straight front.  Often used in dance shoes and mens boots)

(above: Stacked Cuban Heel Delman Jocelyn heel Zappos.com)

7. Stacked heel.  A substantial heel, made from thin slices of wood sandwiched together. Can be squared off or tapered, as on cowboy boots.  Usually brown or beige, stacked heels are designed to give the illusion of thin layers of wood that have been stacked up to create a flat, wedge or high heel.

(above: Stacked Heel Marc by Marc Jacobs Zappos.com)

8. Louis heel. Also known as a French Heel.  A heel with graceful curves on the sides and back. (can be of any height) Originally designed for King Louis XIV, of France.

(above: Louis/French Heel DSQUARED2 Vixen heel Zappos.com)

Not all shoes are created comfortable!  Loving the look of your shoes is one thing, being comfortable in them is another!  There are several products out there that can help your feet feel as great as they look in those hot heels!

Here are few of my favorites I use as a Stylist to help Models with comfort in the sometimes crazy shoes they have to wear!

No more slipping!

“Get a grip! HeartStoppers red, heart-shaped no-slip shoe pads stick to the outer sole of shoes for a sturdy step- every time. Avoid the nightmare plunge on slick floors in front of crowds of gasping onlookers. HeartStoppers shoe pads are made of PVC to provide traction on slippery surfaces. They work brilliantly on all slick floors – even wet surfaces and black ice!”  I LOVE LOVE LOVE These!  A Definite Must-have!   http://www.summersoles.com/

Smelly sweaty feet be gone!

“Fragrant Footings- Step Into True Luxury!  Bring fine essential oils to your feet – straight from the garden. Each time friction takes place, our step-to-release technology transfers to your feet microscopic bursts of the finest dry, natural aromas. So your feet get an awesome kick of fragrance – not the room! Dermatologist tested. Hypoallergenic.”   Available in full or ball of foot sizes.

“Regardless of whether you are looking for extra cushioning in your heels or to reduce discomfort due to perspiration, my fragrant Footings insole line is posh enough to complement your most prized Jimmy Choos or Ferragamos”                        —Summer Soles Founder and CEO Shannon McLinden http://www.summersoles.com/

 

FRICTION BLOCK™ Stick

LOVE this product!  Solves all those rubbing issues that irritate the skin and give you blisters!
BAND-AID® Friction Block™ Stick has a lubricating formula that glides on smoothly to instantly reduce rubbing on skin. It forms an invisible barrier, making it ideal for open shoes, and provides an easy, non-messy application.

Alright Ladies! This week Summer Soles and Band-Aid have teamed up with me to give your feet some must need TLC.

1 Lucky winner will receive a set of Summer Soles “Heartstoppers”, Summer Soles Fragrant Footings (1 full and 1 ball of foot set), and a Band-Aid Friction Block stick!

To Enter:

Leave a comment on this post (between Aug. 23-Aug. 28) telling me what style of heel you’ll be rockin’ or what style you’d like to see the ladies rockin’ this Fall/Winter.

(comments can be left by scrolling to bottom of post or comment icon at beginning of post at top right depending on your browser)

(last weeks winners: Michael McPhee=White Collar Bag and  Eric Pena= John Varvatos Tie!  Congrats!)

Good luck!  Keep reading and repost on your facebook and twitter!

711 comments

Burn Notice: Steal the Style


2010
08.01

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Posted in Fashion Tips | 711 Comments »

Sadly, my Summer Blog Posts will soon be at an end..it will shortly be time to move onto Fall/Winter topics but I cannot leave summer without a Post on Style inspired by one of my favorite television shows USA’s “Burn Notice”. 

To me Burn Notice is Summer!  So grab a Mojito and lets get dressed!

For those of you not familiar with this sizzling hot Miami based series here is a short run-down: Jeffrey Donovan stars as agent Michael Westen a “burned” spy who returns to Miami where he uses his special ops training to help those in need, and track down the men who wrongly burned him with the help of his trigger happy ex-girlfriend Fiona (Gabrielle Anwar) and hilarious sidekick  Sam (Bruce Campbell).

With an affinity for yogurt, Michael Westen’s style is classic easy Miami sophistication.  Who wouldn’t want to dress like this guy! He’s as cool as it gets! Linen and light weight suits, great shades and crisp dress shirts.

Here’s what you need to Steal the Style:

Fiona “may look like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine but she’s a force to be reckoned with”. She is Michael’s on again, off again, and then on again girlfriend.  “Fiona is definitely a shoot first and asks questions later kind of gal. Her fearless nature is both enticing and dangerous, as she is capable of making things go “boom” very quickly.”

 Her style includes  slinky one shoulder dresses, fitted jeans, easy tanks and of course the famous hip bag! 

I have been searching for this bag FOREVER and finally found the PERFECT one at Happy Cow! Happy Cow’s line is  AMAZING!  “Completely Environment-Friendly: The entire range of bags & accessories are handcrafted from recycled leather. We purchase off-cuts of leather from high-end furniture manufacturers, anything that is too small to make furniture out of is sold to us. Effectively meaning we are using brand new, high-quality leather that would otherwise be thrown away. This means less pressure on the environment and no unnecessary suffering. “ Happy Cow is my new obsession!  The waist and hip bags look super-cool and are one of my favorite things to wear on set!  Hands free!  I LOVE HAPPY COW!  http://www.happycow.com.au/

Here’s what you need to Steal the Style:

Sam is Michael’s hilarious and dependable sidekick.  An ex Navy Seal who loves Mojitos and rich divorcees.  His style is Classic Tropical Resort.  One stop at Tommy Bahama and you’ve got it!

Here’s what you need to Steal the Style:

Ok Gentlemen.  This is the Giveaway you have been waiting for! 

The cool cats at Tommy Bahama and the yogurt eating spys at  Burn Notice have partnered with me for the Best Giveaway of the Summer! 

1 Lucky Winner will receive,  from Tommy Bahama, a set of drink of the month glasses and a Tommy Bahama Camp shirt!   http://www.tommybahama.com/  (everything you need to be as cool as Sam Axe!)

A second lucky winner will receive a set of sizzling hot Burn Notice DVD’s (season 1, 2 and 3)!

To Enter:

 Leave a comment on this Post (between Aug.2 and Aug. 7) telling me your favorite Burn Notice episode or line.      

(Comments can be left at Bottom of post or by clicking icon at top right at beginning of post, depending on your browser)

contest rules and info: The Tommy Bahama winner will send in their top three choices from the web site (style, color and size) of Camp Shirt.  Collector’s Series shirts (MLB or other Collector’s Edition shirts) are not included.  The shirt is not to exceed $150 retail.   http://www.tommybahama.com/

(last weeks winner is: Trisha Thompson!  Congrats!!)

19 comments

Atelier Cologne: Fresh Scents inspired by Treasured Moments


2010
07.18

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Posted in Some of my Favorite Things | 19 Comments »

There is nothing more magical than the perfect scent.  The right scent can take us on a sensory journey through cherished memories.  Ever smell the scent of a fresh baked pie and you are immediately transported back to being a child in your Grandmother’s kitchen?  Or the smell of Coconut instantly brings on thoughts of a Romantic Caribbean Vacation?  A scent is a powerful thing.

This is the idea behind Sylvie Ganter and Christophe Cervasel’s (formerly of Hermes and Fresh) new line Atelier Cologne.  “The master perfumers of Atelier Cologne blend unexpected and rare extracts with signature fresh citruses to create Colognes Absolues, concentrated formulas with distinctive long-lasting silage. 

The collection depicts five moments, five characters:

1.  Orange Sanguine, “a zesty and energizing burst of crushed ripe fruit, plays off sweet blood orange juice against bitter orange peel and sensual notes of geranium”.

2. Grand Neroli, ” elegant orange blossom flower around layers of clean herbal notes, warm musks and addictive brushstrokes of vanilla”. 

3. Bois Blonds ,”entwines unique and precious woods and incense with sensual orange flower and vetiver”.

4. Trefle Pur, ” violet leaves in green woods,freshly cut grass and dewy earth”. 

5. Oolang Infini, “captures blue tea and bergamot in the warmth of smoke and leather”.

“Each scent captures treasured emotions and powerful memories.”  The classic looking bottles have enchanting short stories on the back that describe the moment in time that the particular scent captures.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sylvie and Christophe at their Neiman Marcus event where the charming French duo discussed with me their line, inspiration and the type of person who would wear each scent.

Q: What inspired you to create this line?

S: It is actually an idea that has been in our heads for a very long time.  Christophe and I have always worked in perfumes but we actually don’t wear perfumes, which may sound a little bit unusual.  We have only worn, for our entire lives, Cologne.  Cologne here may mean different things, it may mean a fragrance for men or a light concentration scent, but the true meaning of Cologne is a Citrusy smelling scent.  We like Citrus because its fresh, easy and energizing but usually they don’t last.  So we wanted to create  a line of  concentrated unisex colognes that would last.

C: We like to refer to scent pioneers.  Cologne was first created over 300 years ago  by an Italian perfumer established in Cologne, Germany.   He blended fresh citrus oils which reminded him of his homeland and offered a revolutionary alternative to the heavy perfume scents of the time. 

C: We found some interesting colognes with famous fragrance  brands but too many were lacking personality.  We have talked to many people who have told us  want they want is a fresh fragrance with personality that lasts, no one wants a fragrance that doesn’t last.  So the magic formula would be to create a fragrance or line of fragrances that are light, fresh, with personality and that last.  This is what we have tried to do with our line.

S: Each scent should bring a olfactory memory of a nice moment

Q: What kind of person wears each scent?

S: Orange Sanguine is an energetic, lively, playful, person with a happy spirit.

C: Trefle Pur is the one I wear, it is probably in appearance a gentlemen.   A nice, easy going, Irish guy but inside he’s a bit crazy.

S: Not as classic as he shows.

S: Bois Blonds I would say is probably the most sensual.  Its not a fragrance that you wear so much for the outside or for others to smell.  It is something that is close to you and others only get to smell when they come close.  Very much the scent of the skin.  An adventurer.  Confidence.

C: Oolang Infini is the artist, writer, crazy scent.  Tobacco, blue tea, something smokey and  mysterious.

C: Grand Neroli is probably the most romantic

S: It’s Feminine, classic, pretty.

C: Its easy to jump into our world because we really tried to have each scent with a very different atmosphere.

Q: There is a growing trend in scents to use a higher ratio of synthetic essences than pure/natural essences.  What is your opinion on this?

S: It’s like everything.  You need both.  A balance.  We can’t say only naturals are good or only synthetics are good.  Without synthetics there is alot we couldn’t achieve.  Its true for us that is was very important to have as many naturals as possible.  High quality naturals.  We scouted the world for the best vanilla, the best neroli, the best citruses and orange trees but we also need synthetics like everyone else.  Our proportion of naturals is really really high but building today a repertoire of fragrances just with naturals restricts you alot.  There is alot you cannot do from a creative standpoint and a lasting effect standpoint without them.  So we don’t want to say synthetics are bad, but for us Naturals were very very important.

Christophe is right.  It is easy to jump into their world.  The amazing stories on the backs of the bottles are a perfect prelude to the scent you are about to smell.  The vivid descriptions combined with the scents transport you to a magical and mysterious place.  More than just an amazing smelling and long lasting cologne  Atelier  warms the heart.

 I am definatley an Orange Sanguine girl.  I wore the scent all day and it lasted!  In a nice soft comforting way, not a overpowering “I’m wearing perfume” kind of way! I think I have found my new signature scent! 

All 5 of the Atelier Scents can be purchased exclusively at Neiman Marcus. (Neiman Marcus at Fashion Show Mall 702.731.3636)  Stop in today and pick your scent “personality”.

Scentual Giveaway!  Sylvie and Christophe have partnered with me to give away a full size bottle of their Atelier Orange Sanguine Cologne.

To Enter:

1. Scroll back to the top of this post and click on the comment icon.

2. Leave a comment (between July 19 and July 25) Telling me which Atelier Scent matches your personality and why.

(Last weeks winner is Karen G.!  Congrats and thanks for reading!)

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