Shoe Diva

I’m Guilty. I watched Kathy Lee & Hoda this week. Do they seriously drink every day? Or maybe it was just “Wine Wednesday” or “Thirsty Thursday” or “Feel Good Friday…” I guess there is really an excuse to drink daily!

Anyways, K & H were interviewing the K-dash sisters so they had their wine of the day display on this…

(source)

A high heel bottle holder! Wouldn’t this make an adorable hostess gift for a fashionista in your life?

I’d pair it with my fav Lolita shoes wine glass.

Another idea for your shoe-obsessed friend? Maybe some Andy Warhol shoes prints or note cards!

And, the coolest part about these little gifts?! They are all under $30!

Read More

Wrapped in Plastic, It’s Fantastic

Lately I’ve been drooling over the trend of using Lucite chairs when entertaining.

Thanks to one of my fav blogs, Ramshackle Glam, for pointing out that these chairs are sold at Target! But still come at a pretty price (under $250).

Right, done wrong it could look cheap. But done right? These “ghost chairs” can look ah-mazing.

I also found full acrylic tables at Muniz Plastics. Check them out here.

(source)

(source)

(source)

(source)

Read More

Right To NOT Bare Arms

It’s a bit late to recap by best dressed at the Golden Globes (I’m talking about you January Jones, Anne Hathaway and Mila Kunis – I’m not talking about you J. Love Hewitt), so today I wanted to cover a hot trend from the awards that took me a few days to warm up to – long-sleeved dresses.

I think this look is a fresh, functional look for winter parties. The sleeves also hides you’re arms after eating a few too many cookies over the holidays.

Here are some of my favorite looks (some are on sale as retailers get ready for spring/summer!)

ASOS Dress

Cushnie Et Ochs (very pricey, but very cute)

Rag & Bone from Saks

Blue Dress from Top Shop

Aidan Mattox from Bloomies

Proenza Schouler from Zoe

Read More

Party in the U.S.A.

As most of you don’t know, I’m on a little U.S. tour this month and I’m currently blogging from my last location – Los Angeles.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel to America’s biggest metropolitans this month, so I wanted to share with you some of my favorite (mostly obvious) places to visit in each city.

(source)

New York: The home of Reader Amy & very soon to be Reader Nugget!

• Times Square: Yeah, yeah, I know what you are thinking. This is going to be a JV review of NYC. I still suggest you pass through Times Square to see the lights and billboards, but why I REALLY suggest you go through is for the Garment District for the inexpensive jewelry and crafting supplies (think beads, pins, fabrics, embellishments). For Project Runway fans, stopping by Mood and spotting Atlas is a must!

• SoHo: I swear, I spent three nights in the SoHo Grand and I just felt chic-er after leaving. This part of town just reeks coolness. You’ll find some great shopping here – normal mall stores with a mix of a few transport shops that are sure to leave you finding something unique.

• Shake Shack: There are a few locations of this scrumptious gem. Fries and a milkshake are a must with your burger.

• Central Park: Again, another cheesy stop, but it’s good to say that you’ve been. Ride a horse-drawn carriage to get the full experience. When you are done, FAO Schwartz, The Plaza Hotel and Barney’s are close by!

• Random Tips: If you fly into Newark, be prepared to pay about $80 for a cab into the city. Be prepared for your Starbucks barristas to be mean. If you’re an early riser, head to a morning show at 6:00 a.m. and stand there for about 2 hours to watch the live broadcast on the stations respective plaza.

(source)

Chicago: Oh sweet home Chicago.

• Eat: Chicago has become a big foodie destination. My favorite places to eat (all $ ranges): Graham Elliott, De Cero, La Madia, Hub 51, Potbelly’s, Table 52, Flat Top Grill, Carmine’s, Rockit, Hannah’s Bretzel (during the work week!) and Weiner Circle (get a chocolate shake).

• Shop: Stop by the Macy’s on State Street and pick up some Frango mints. There’s some good shopping in the area as well (Nordstrom Rack shoes are ah-mazing). Then, walk up a block to Michigan Ave. (stop at the bean) and continue the shopping. You may also see the famous bucket boys on the street!

• Secret View: At the end of Michigan Ave, there’s the Hancock Tower. Take the elevators up 95 floor for the Signature Lounge (specify lounge). Drink a quick $12 cocktail and enjoy the views (especially in the bathroom) and then leave happy knowing that you got to see the sights while having a cocktail and without paying the $20 for the guided tour!

• Summer: During warm weather months, visit the Oak Street Beach, then head to the Cedar Motel. It looks like a haunted hostel, but it’s really a fun outside bar that’s great for people watching.

• Winter: Prepare for airport delays and always pack boots for winter visits. I was obviously drunk or stupid (or both) when I packed and didn’t prepare for the six inches of snow that fell on the Windy City during my stay.

• Read: Pick up a RedEye newspaper. It’s free and has local events, restaurant specials, etc. Also, CS Magazine, Where Mag, Front Desk and Today’s Chicago Women are all free too – just look for the magazine stands.

• EL: Regardless if you are flying into Midway (my fav) or O’Hare, take the train (aka The El) into the city. It’s sometimes quicker than a cab and only $2.25.

(source)

Los Angeles: My temporary home - in the home of Reader Dana! While I’m still learning the ropes to the City of Stars, this list includes some things I still need to do…

• Hollywood Blvd: Gotta see the star’s names on the sidewalk. Then, swing by Hollywood & Hilands, where if you are lucky, you will see the Hollywood sign and a lot of crazy/creepy impersonators.

• The Grove: Head to this popular shopping destination in the morning and watch Mario Lopez tape Extra (you’ll chuckle when he messes up and needs to do a few takes).

• Studio Tours: Yep. Go and see the sets. I also recommend checking show’s websites for seats – I mean who would pass up an opp to dance on Ellen!

• Beaches: Reader Dana was giving me the update today – rent bikes and ride the pacific coast through Marina del Ray, Venice, Santa Monica and Malibu (I think I forgot one).

• Eat: Yeah, people in LA eat (although they don’t look like they do). On my list? Original Sprinkles, In & Out Burger, Joan’s on Third and maybe some Babycakes.

• Tip: LA is famous for its celebrities, big houses, fashionable people…and TRAFFIC! I suggest the amazing airport shuttle which was $16 from LAX to Hollywood. While chain hotels are plentiful, I also recommend checking out some of the boutique places to stay.

Read More

It’s Like Raaa-i-aannnn on your Wedding Day

In the words of Alanis Morrissette…

It's like rain on your wedding day
It's a free ride when you've already paid

It's the good advice that you just didn't take

Who would've thought... it figures

Anyone getting married out there, I wanted to give you some advice. Plan like it’s going to rain. That’s my good advice – take it or leave it.

Everyone always frets if rain is forecasted on their wedding day. Back when I was a bride, I decided to flip that fear on its head and embrace the chance of showers with a preparedness plan - I had some cute umbrellas on back up (didn’t end up needed them).

Since I love photography, I’ve recently seen some super fun, rain laced, wedding pictures that I wanted to share with you. And remember, if it rains on your wedding day, don’t add to the water with tears – have fun with it!!

(source)

(source)

(source)

(source)

And I LOVE this one!!

(source)


(p.s. – if I borrowed your image and you want me to take it down, just email me!)

Read More

Fashion Friday: Isn’t She Lucky

In its December issue, Lucky magazine celebrated its 10th anniversary. While I'm a little late on this post, the mag recapped the last decarde of fashion and I thought they highlighted some good styles and trends that have emerged this past decade.

• Uggs: In the winter of 2003, celebs were spotted wearing Uggs around Hollywood. Then, the trend took off. While some critics think that Uggs are a fashion don’t, I fully support the sheepskin boots for making the trek to work in the winter and those chilly tailgates. (Editor’s Note: I just gave a pair of my Uggs a bath. Buy that Ugg care kit if you live in a snowy area – it’s a must).

o Runner up in the most popular footwear of the decade: Crocs. I’d say Hunter Wellington boots should be in 3rd. Louboutins in 4th.

• Juicy Couture Tracksuits: I feel like Jessica Simpson (via “The Newlyweds”) and Paris Hilton led the way for this trend. Thank you for making sweat suits in a non-nylon fabric to eliminate the swhish shoosh noise.

• Super Low Jeans: Thank the lord that low-rise trend is fading out. This also brought on the buzz term of “muffin top.”

o Speaking of buzzwords, “Wardrobe Malfunction” became popular in 2004 after the Super Bowl. We all know why.

• Red String Bracelets: Madonna and trainwreck celebs popularized the red Kabbalah bracelets. Who can also not forget the yellow Livestrong bracelets and the recent silly bandz.

• Celebrity Fragrances: Another one that Britt Britt paved the way for. When will this one end?

• BoHo Chic: Think MK Olson, Nicole Richie and Kate Hudson.

• TV Style: Ugly Betty encouraged mixing prints, Gossip Girl showed gorgeous headbands, Mad Men clinched waistlines and fluffed out skirts and Sex and the City? Well, I don’t even have to mention what that show did for fashion.

• First Lady Style: Mrs. O has J.Crew sales hitting new highs. She campaigns for the “right to bare arms” with her sleeveless styles and we all applaud her embellished flats.

• Jumpsuits: Dana – would you like to handle this one? No, you will never live that photo down.

• Bump It: First it was the infomercial. Next, came Snookie. In 2010, “bump watch” was no longer looking for knocked up celebs – it was seeing how high girls hair poofs could get.

• GaGa: She paved the way for “no pants Saturday” or any day of the week for that matter.

I can't wait to see what's in store for the next decade!!!

(Source: Lucky Magazine - December 2010)

Read More

Snowmageton

I know, I know. You’re sick of the snow news. I’m sick of it too. I get it. I don’t understand the fuss. We’ve always known that snow is fluffy white stuff that fall each winter. Why do we need to go into a state of panic each time it comes down. We don’t freak out when the sun comes out in the winter!

I understand a lot of my readership has been experiencing unseasonable weather along the east coast, so I wanted to share some tips of things to keep at home when Snowmageton strikes.

· Bread and Milk: Yep, the staple. Everyone runs out and buys bread and milk when they hear of snow coming. I suggest picking up some PB&J and Eggs to make more interesting meals.

· While we are talking food, a snow storm means that the only work out you are going to get it walking between the bathroom, couch and bed, so just face the fact that you are going to be lazy and stock up on comfort food. I’m talking the processed foods - mac & cheese, frozen pizza, spaghetti and maybe some meatloaf! Or anything in a crockpot would probably be delicious!! Oh and hot coco – obvi!

· Games, Games, Games: Reader Brian knows that I love a good board game and that I have ample stock in my apartment. I suggest making sure that you have some games to keep you occupied when cabin fever hits.

· An obvious Shot of Brandi recommendation is WINE. Buy a case so you don’t run out. Oh and another “duh” – make sure you have a wine opener (that’s for my male readers – especially those from NJ).

· It always happens. When you are snowed in, there is nothing on TV. I suggest keeping a good stock of DVD’s on hand. Maybe even a season of a show that you can get hooked on. I used to love a good OC marathon day!

· Stationary: Bare with me on this one. I’m a true lover and believer in a hand-written note. Use a snow day as an opportunity to send your friends some “just because” cards.

· Toilet Paper: Enough said.

Oh and after you’ve binged on processed foods, I recommend shoveling. According to the Providence Journal, “A person weighing 105 pounds may burn about 70 calories in 15 minutes of vigorous shoveling, while a 250-pound person will burn twice as many.”

Read More

Meow..Hisss...Purrr...Hoot Hoot...

Do you ever see a trend and think “I will NEVER wear that?” Then all the sudden you are shopping and see the said trend and think “Well…maybe I’ll try that on…” Then you buy it and suddenly you are sucked in to the trend.

This was me with animal hats. I thought all of those celebrities looked a bit silly in the animal hats, but on a recent trip to NY stuck in an awkward work situation, I found myself handing over cash to a vendor in Times Square. And…ta da…I have a black cat hat! Meow.

If you aren’t familiar with this trend, more and more celebrities are wearing comical animal hats. It feels like something they sell in Hot Topic, but let’s just roll with it.

Here’s some celebs rockin the look so that you can visualize what I am babbling about:

Katy Perry, Vanessa Hudgens & Paris Hilton
Get the look…

Urban Outfitters, Amazon.com (gotta love the Owl look!) and Amazon.com

My hat? This black Nepal Animal Hat. It looks like Paris and I have similar tastes. Thanks Times Square!

Read More

Teeny Martini's and Low Cal Cocktail

(source)

I always say – resolutions, smelizuations. I hate making silly goals at the start of the new year. But we all know that I can be rather a-typical.

Stats tell me that the number one resolution is to lose weight. Health experts tell me that in order to do this its best to cut out alcohol. My inner voices say – how the heck can you do that?!

For those future AA members like myself, I wanted to share with you some low-cal drink options & tips that are perfect for those of you looking to shed a few pounds in the New Year.

• My fav low-cal beverage of choice, a glass of champagne is under 100 calories – clocking in at 90!

When researching this story, I came across a good article on WebMD, (uh, huh. That’s right), about the amount of calories in drinks. Here’s some good facts:

• Most glasses of wine have between 120 – 150 calories. A wine spritzer has around 100 calories.

• WebMd also advises drinkers to beware of mixers. Thank god vegetable juice has under 100 calories (love my bloody’s) vs. 150 calories found in most OJ’s. Soda can also be a big calorie adder.

• Some drinks at the 200 calorie level? Cosmopolitan, Mulled Wine, Vodka & tonic and Gin & tonic

Drinks to watch out for? According to the awesome list on WebMD...

• Hot Chocolate with peppermint schnapps – 380 calories

• Long Island Iced Tea: 780 calories (Good lord, no wonder I gained weight in college. I used to drink a ton of these on $1 22oz mixed drink night at Levels)

• White Russian – 425 calories

• Pina Colada – 378 calories

• Chocolate Martini – 438 calories

• Margarita – 280 calories

Read More

Jump Around - An Open Letter to Mike Hedge

Dear Mike,

Let me first start off by saying that I am not a fame whore. Yeah, there was that time when I was nine that I wanted to be a talk show host, but after my stint on college radio I realized that I’m just not cut out for live broadcasts (and all the autograph seekers).

However, when I came across your book concept, I realized – I need to be part of this.

Jumping Book.

The jumping book needs me. Not only was I voted best jumper of my eighth grade cheerleading squad, but…

I take jump pictures at weddings.

And at my own wedding.

At the bean in Chicago.

Family Functions

Tailgates with lots of layers of clothes (okay, this is more of a fail)

Family Vacation
Mike – we’ve gotta talk. Call me.

Read More