September 2009 Archives

With New York Fashion Week behind us. Key trends for spring flourished on the runways. It was evident that purple was a color to watch for next spring. The rich palette was present in both men and women's collections. Men's suits at Michael Kors and evening gowns at Marchesa, purple was there. I personally like purple. It has a sensual look to it. So, next spring not only we would see purple bloom in flowerbeds it will be in fashion as well.

GAP is having a fabulous 25% OFF your entire purchase promotion through 9/30. Save on fall apparel for the entire family. There are a lot of stylish women's sweaters priced reasonably. Here are the pros and cons of this promo, there is no purchase total restriction which means the discount is applicable to any item but only regularly priced items are eligible for the discount. I know its a bummer. Oh well, 25% OFF is a saving after all. This is a great promo to build your fall wardrobe. Make sure to use promo code: SAVE25 on checkout. Happy shopping!

One of fashion's most successful and well-known design duo Domineco Dolce and Stefano Gabbana showed in Milan a sexy side of the American West for D&G Spring 2010. Faded denim jeans, ruffled skirts, lace blouses, eyelet minis accessorized with leather fanny packs, studded cowboy boots and denim handbags. The collection is like a breath of fresh air, showing some of the season's key trends. Yeehaw!

If you're looking for a fall handbag that you would want to invest your hard earned dollars on, I suggest this 'Stephanie' Hobo by Diane Von Furstenburg. This bag has it all... glitz, glam and style. Metal chain-links makes the body of the over-sized bag. It also has a detachable leather shoulder strap and a detachable short leather strap. With that, you are getting two handbag styles for the price of one!

We haven't had any Friends&Family sales lately. So, I am happy to let you in on one. The Limited is having a Friends&Family Sale now through 9/27! Take 40% OFF on sale and regular priced items sitewide! Save on chic and stylish apparel and accessories. The Limited has quite a few noteworthy pieces and a fabulous trend report for fall. Simply use code: 478 upon checkout to get the discount. This is an exclusive promotion and not advertise on their site. Happy Shopping!

I was doing my research for 'Smart EcoStyle of the Week', I came across J-41 Shoes. And come to find out that they are manufactured by Chrysler! Yup, the car manufacturer. Their styles have an athletic, recreational look. This 'Fabulous' Mary Jane is eco-fabulous indeed. The soles are made with memory foam that is used for Jeep cars, outsoles are made with partially recycled rubber and suede. This is a great avenue Chrysler decided to take. Perhaps the ailing auto industry should look into footwear as a way to bail themselves out.

Aside from the usual collections from fashion's top designer and brands, I always look forward to discovering up and coming designers during fashion weeks. I instantly became a fan of Mary Katrantzou at first glance of her RTW Spring 2010 shown during London Fashion Week. Wavy, multicolored, digitally printed with abstract forms made the dresses seem like they are coming to life. The styling for the collection is modern and sophisticated. And I'm still totally in awe, the prints were created with computer manipulation of colors, patterns and an ink jets! 

London Fashion Week is in full-swing and it is expected that we would see some the best Spring 2010 collections. Well, not from House of Holland that is. Pardon my french but WTF! How many breasts do you need to show on the runway just to get some buzz. I mean, come on now.

So, the first half of the show were a series of fugly denim and lace garments. The second half right after the inappropriate wedding gown, a collection of shirts with the words: borrowed, blue, old and new. I guess this was supposed to echo the old Victorian bridal saying, something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue'... wow, so original! I'm being sarcastic.

This is London Fashion Week for Buddha's sake! This is when and where legendary collections are born.  And the best thing that House of Holland can come up with is tackiness?! I am livid. Seeing this collection parade on one of fashion's biggest stage when there are so many striving fashion designers out there with the talent and creativity that can rival top designers but are not given the opportunity to show there craft due to lack of funding just angers me. The collection is uninspired and wouldn't have been missed if House of Holland decided not to show for London Fashion Week. Redemption is due on their next collection(s).

Nautica is having an end-of-summer sale with an extra 20% off final merchandise! Save on men, women and kids apparel discounted up to 65% off the original price. No code needed to get the extra discount. There is not much of a selection for the women but there are a few pieces like blazers, hoodies and dresses that are fabulous priced. And it is not a surprise that there are more sale items for guys since Nautica started as a men's brand. Sale ends 9/27.

When people think of 'Sears', the first thing that comes to mind is appliances or tools and Sears may be the last place fashionistas would shop for stylish and affordable apparel, shoes and accessories. Through the years and with a creative design team on hand, Sears has definitely stepped up their game. Just look at these pieces I found. The London Style Ponte Dress is so chic and the Mad by Design handbag is reminiscent of Valentino's series of floral handbags.

So, when you are doing some 'smart' shopping, check out a Sears store near you or go to Sears.com for online exclusive pieces. A great place to stretch your shopping budget! Save $5 off $50 with code SEARS5OFF50.

Members-only shopping community Ideeli, is having a fabulous sale on Fergie Shoes of up to 65% OFF original prices. I checked out the shoes and there are a lot of sizes left! Most of the styles are chic and stylish. Along with Fergie shoes there are a few pairs of Steve Madden boots on sale. You have to be a member of Ideeli to shop. If you're not a member yet, simply click here. It is free to join! Hurry sale ends in 24 hours! Happy Shopping,

I've been a fan of Isaac Mizrahi for years. In my opinion, he has contributed abundantly to fashion and is one of a few American designers to have global success. His RTW Spring 2010 surely is a far cry from Bravo TV's program 'The Fashion Show (an attempt to retain Project Runway fans), I'm not saying Isaac Mizrahi wasn't fabulous on the show. In fact, he is the only reason why I watched the show. I love his wit and honesty.

The collection is sheer elegance and showcased Mizrahi's understanding of what looks good on women. His eveningwear from the collection is divine. The lace, chiffon, draping and silhouettes are perfection. Isaac Mizrahi's collection is definitely on my top faves for New York Fashion Week!

Old Navy is running a 3-Day promotion, save 20% OFF on purchases of $100 or more! There are already amazing deals shopping at Old Navy and this sale is like gravy. I looked at the new arrivals and was impress on the styles Old Navy has to offer for fall. Key items are their sweaters, removable-hood coats and footwear. I love this faux-leather harness boots they are fashionable and animal-friendly. Make sure to use code:ONSAVESOME on checkout to get the 20% OFF. Sale ends 9/24 and this is an online-only promotion. Happy Shopping!

Master cobbler Christian Louboutin created a serious of studded women's shoes for fall. Louboutin is no stranger to designing provocative shoes. Remember his collaboration with David Lynch a couple of years ago(Louboutin designed a series of uber-sexy, naughty fetish shoes)? Well, don't worry these Louboutin stud shoes have a 'G' rating. I particularly love how the leather and studs are softened by the ostrich lace. These shoes will definitely add some edge to any look this fall. Some might say they are a little kinky... true but they are 'kinky chic'.

I am very impress of all the Spring RTW Collections shown during New York Fashion Week. I love the variety of designs every designer showcased. Fashion eras served as inspiration to some designers. Zac Posen was the 70's while Anna Sui took us back to the Swinging Sixties. Playful print dresses, chic knitwear and adorable vests in purple and bright colors adorned the runway. The collection is youthful, fresh and very stylish. I saw the video of the show, it was exciting to see. Kudos Anna Sui!

Weekend Sales are back! Perhaps some of you have started your holiday shopping. If so, here are some great sales you can shop. Some of the sales are only for the weekend and a couple goes through the 23rd. Happy Shopping!

	Buy More, Save More Sale through Sunday -$25 Off $125 | $75 Off $250 | $125 Off $300. Free Shipping on Orders of $125 or More
	Save an extra 15-20% on your online purchase! EXTRA 20% OFF: most regular, sale and clearance priced clothing, shoes and accessories. Use promo code: WEEKEND. Sale ends 9/20.
	Fall Sale at Banana Republic! Hurry for the best selection. Ends 9/23/09.
	Get 20% off sneakers for the whole family- women, men,&kids.  Plus get free shipping and free returns! Enter SNEAKERS20 at checkout by 9/20/09
	Gap Fall Sale - get up to 40% off. For a limited time only. Shop now for the best selection.
	Get $20 Off On Purchase of $75 or More. Ends 9/21. Buy 1 Get 1 at 50% Off Tops and Bottoms. 30% Off Fall Tunics.
	$20 off all orders over $100. Sale ends 9/21.

Cindy Expect Platform Bootie $89.95, NYLA Sage Zipper Flower Platform Pump $79.95

One of my favorite places to shop for discount shoes DSW is having a fabulous promotion, save $20 OFF on purchases $99 or more. The great thing about this promo is it doesn't matter if you buy a pair or build up your purchase, clearance or regular priced item as long as your purchase totals $99 or more you are eligible for the $20 OFF! So, you can purchase a pair of shoes and a handbag or five pairs of clearance shoes and still get $20 OFF.

The only brand exception for this promo are Sketchers and Shape-Up shoes. Make sure to use code: TWENTY99 on checkout to get the discount. This is only available online and ends 9/21. Happy Shopping!

NYLA 'Perrie' Suede Platform Bootie $89.95, Boutique 9 'Janelle' Ankle Cuff Sandal $79.95

If you're looking for affordable, stylish and trendy fall apparel, I recommend shop EXPRESS' latest arrivals. You can find must fave fall styles for both men and women. Like their Signature Strong Should Jacket (shown above) and other trendy styles. And to jumpstart your fall wardrobe, EXPRESS is having a fabulous promotion. For 5-days only, save $30 OFF purchases of $75 or $15 OFF $30 purchases or more! Make sure to use code: 3049.

On top of this promotion, EXPRESS is running other great deals. Long sleeve shirts, men's polos, leggings, men's sweaters, men's graphic tees are all BOGO 50%. These promos ends 9/23 and the $30 OFF $75 or more purchases ends 9/20. Happy Shopping!

Spring 2010 collections are front and center for New York Fashion week. With all the designers showing this week, I have a few favorites and one of them is Zac Posen. In an interview, Posen said he was 'designing with a late-seventies New York woman in mind'. I love the lattice pattern done on a few looks. The mixture of colors are chic and delicious. Evening gowns from the collection are fresh, colorful yet elegant. I'm sure they would end up on the red carpet. Seeing Zac Posen's Spring RTW 2010 is a breath of fresh air. It created an excitement that I felt when I saw his very first collection years back. 

Whyred Collin Check Shirt $117.00, Marc by Marc Jacobs 'Belleville' Check Shirt $177.00

Plaid and check patterned shirts are a staple in every man's wardrobe. This fall, these patterns are on men's trends list. They can be paired with denim jeans or pants. You can dress 'em up or wear for everyday casual looks. Of course, not all plaid and check shirts are necessarily trendy this fall. Stay away from plaid shirts that looks like Christmas gift wrapping paper or check shirts that resembles picnic table covers. If you're a guy who has one to none of this pattern shirts, like me, it wouldn't hurt to invest in one or two. Which I'm doing this weekend when I go shopping.
Marc by Marc Jacobs Multi-Plaid Shirt $178.00, Superdry Lumberjack Sportshirt $95.00

Being a turtleneck lover, I assure you that there was no bias choosing this week's Smart EcoStyle of the Week. This Organic Turtleneck is understated yet eco-stylish and eco-chic. The silhouette tastefully done. I also like the drop of the sleeves. The versatility of wearing it by itself or a layered look is fab plus. The price is not bad either. And if the model looks familiar, I believe it is Fo from America's Next Top Model Cycle 12.

For a limited time save up to 75% OFF on apparel, shoes and accessories for both men and women at Revolve Clothing. I love shopping at Revolve Clothing, not just because of the thousands of  brands they have to offer, its the variety of styles you can find. From streetwear to formal wear there is something for everyone. Most of the items on sale are from their summer collection that can easily be transitioned to fall looks. Happy Shopping!

Free People Boyfriend Coat $168.00, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Dress $249.00

Ashlee Simpson shopping Piperlime's new women's apparel collection sneak preview in NYC.

Piperlime, the ultimate shopping destination for shoe lovers launched their women's apparel collection online this week! An assortment of the hottest fashion trends handpicked by stylists from established and most coveted brands like Marc by Marc Jacobs, Vince, Theory and more! You've probably seen celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe's shoe picks. Make sure to check out her apparel picks as well.   A sneak preview of the collection was held in New York City. 'Melrose Place' star Ashlee Simpson and actress Jamie Lynn Sigler attended the event and shop of course! What I really like about this addition to Piperlime's already extensive footwear and handbag selection is that the new women's apparel collection is not just there for the sake of offering women's apparel. Majority of the price points are well-below the luxury mark.

I was in awe when I saw Balenciaga's Fall RTW Collection. The collection is romantic, elegant, luxurious and very chic. Along with the fierce footwear Nicolas Ghesquière designed for Balenciaga,  draped skirts are key pieces in the collection. The skillful draping of silk to create the silhouettes is impeccable and precise.

There are a variety of draped skirts available for fall. From minimalist to avant garde. The key to making a draped skirt for you is the fit. Ideally, high-waist and above-the-knee length. Try not to overdo the draping, you might end up like you're wearing drapery.


Opt for plain black, gray, simple pattern fabrics paired with tall boots for day. Soft pastels, bold prints goes fabulously with ankle boots, booties worn with tights for night.

Brian Reyes Draped Skirt $625.00, INC Draped Skirt $49.99, Rachel Pally Skirt $165.00

I love sparkly, shiny things but this Sophie Hulme sequin poncho is just to much. You like a humongous shiny eggplant. I mean, does anyone crave or need that much attention that he/she would rather look ridiculous? Might as well wear a sign around your neck or over your head that says 'look at me... please'. And another thing I can't believe besides the aesthetically unpleasant design of this poncho is the price... $880.00!!! Simply ridiculous.

One of the best online boutique to shop for designer apparel, shoes and accessories, Shopbop is having a fabulous 'Seriously Sale'. Serious markdowns of up to 70% on our favorite designer brands like Alice+Olivia, L.A.M.B., DVF and more.

I shopped the sale and there is not much of a selection on size availability. But it is still worth shopping. It is like a fashion scavenger hunt. Consider yourself blessed by the fashion deities if you find a pair of shoes or dress on your size because the savings are serious!

Statement worthy necklaces are a must-have every season. For fall, floral inspired jewelry is key. Like this Marni Glitter Flower Necklace. Some might say its gaudy but I think it is quite chic. Pair this necklace with a simple top or a black dress and it will make your look pop. If the necklace is a bit much for your liking, go with the bracelet. Having a ribbon as the necklace makes it unique and edgy.

One of my favorite brand of casual clothing, Martin + Osa is having a fabulous Labor Day sale. Save 20% OFF on orders of $100 or more plus free shipping! There are no exceptions to this sale. Clearance items or new arrivals as long as you spend $100 worth of merchandise you will get 20% OFF. I am loving the new sweaters and tops Martin + Osa has to offer. Make sure you use code: 87888515 on checkout. This sale is not advertised on  their site. Goes to show it pays and saves you more to be a The Smart Stylist reader! Happy Shopping!

I am loving this simple yet eco-chic look. The Organic John Patrick Scoop Neck Tunic worn with a skinny belt and denim jeans is understated elegance. Made with 100% organic cotton this tunic is versatile that you can create countless looks with. The price is not that bad considering it is a long-sleeved knit. It comes in black also, but I like the white better. It looks so comfy doesn't it?

For me, Labor Day is the beginning of the year's shopping season. This year, I noticed that there are more sales and promotions compared to last year. Perhaps, a way for retailers to stimulate consumers. There may not be huge discounts but hey, with the state of our economy at the moment every penny saved matters.

Here is a list of must-shop sale events this holiday weekend. Shopping note: Some of the promotions listed are exclusive to The Smart Stylist readers. Just make sure to click the banners are use the right discount codes to get the extra savings. Happy shopping! 

	$15 OFF your $60 purchase or more with code: 3020. BOGO 50% jeans. Sale ends 9/7.
	Extra 30% OFF clearance items with code:THIRTY. Sale ends 9/8.
	Additional 25% off Sale Merchandise (does not include last chance items).Expires 9/7.
	30% OFF new season merchandise use code: JY27F4TP. Sale ends 9/8.
	Save up to 70% OFF and $20 OFF all orders $75 or more!
	Get 30% off Fall Essentials + Free Shipping on $150. Enter BRSHIP at checkout. Offer ends 9/7.
	Up to 70% OFF all summer footwear and $15 OFF orders $100 or more use code: SEPTSAVINGS.
	Take an additional 25% off of sale and full-price merchandise use code: INSIDE25. Ends 9/7.
	Sale products are up to 50% off!! Sale ends 9/7.
	20% Off All full-priced men's and women's jeans use code: AFFJNS20. Sale ends: 9/6.
	Savings up to 70% OFF on apparel, electronics, appliances and more!
	20% Off $150 or More. No Coupon Needed. Sale ends 9/7.
	Savings sitewide and extra 25% OFF clearance items! Sale ends 9/7.

Miss Dior Cherie 1.7 oz $72.00, Michael Kors 'Very Hollywood' 1.7 oz $65.00, Juicy Couture 'Couture Couture' 1.7 oz $85.00, Jo Malone Vanilla&Anise 3.4 0z $100.00, D&G 'L Imperatrice' 3.4 oz $65.00

After testing 20 women's fragrance, 9 fragrances stood out and made the list of my top picks for fall. I had some criteria that put all the fragrances to the test luxurious, wearable, sensual,  feminine and opulent. If I have to pick my faves, they are Marc Jacobs 'Lola', Michael Kors 'Very Hollywood' and D&G 'L Imperatrice', all three tickled my olfactory nerve and just can't stop smelling them. I have to commend Jessica Simpson's 'Fancy Love', it scored very well beating out some luxury designer fragrances. As always, whatever season it is, wear lighter scents during the day and bolder at night.

Nordstrom is running a shoe clearance sale event starting today through September 20. Save 33% OFF or more on footwear from top designers and brands like L.A.M.B., Moschino and Jessica Simpson. It is quite apparent that Nordstrom is clearing up their shoe racks to make room for fall styles. I expected flip-flops and summer sandals but I was surprise to see that there is a large inventory of shoes that are suitable for the coming season. This is a great sale to shop if you are planning on adding on to your shoe collection. Happy shopping!

Don't cover those shoulders just yet ladies. This fall, one-shoulder and one-sleeve dresses are quite the trend. Chic, sexy yet elegant perfect for day or evening soirees. Here are some styling tips on one-shoulder and one-sleeve dresses:

• Material/Fabric - opt for stretch cotton, jersey or any comfortable fabrics for day and go with silks, fabrics with sheen for evening.
• Style - everyday wear should be casual save the ruffles, appliques, bows for evenings or special occasions. If you want to dress it up for day, simply accessorize with chic, tasteful, statement worthy jewelry. Clutches or any small-sized handbags are fabulous with this type of dresses.
  
• Shoes - knee-high boots and over the knee boots are great for day while ankle boots, pumps paired with tights or leggings works best for your evening looks.
  

So, how much should you spend on a dress that only has one-shoulder or one sleeve? Believe it or not while I was shopping around they cost more than dresses with sleeves. I say look at this trend as sort of 'investment' garments. A dress or two for special engagements, party dresses if I may. I think a dress under $200 is ideal any dress priced more than that is surely a splurge.

Shopping note: I came across become.com while online-shopping for this post. Become.com is a comparison-shopping site that made it easy for me to research this fabulous dresses. Do check it out!