I know I'm at least a few days late but I had to come on here and tell you all how excited I am that asos.com has a US site! I have been on this site for years now and I LOVE all of the things that they have on there but I couldn't get over having to pay almost twice as much when you converted the price to US dollars from Euros. Then, on top of that having to pay for shipping overseas. So in the years that I have been perusing the site, I have only placed an order once. Well that will soon change.
With the US site, the prices are not as extreme.... and the shipping is FREE!!!! With that said, this may really become my favorite online store. I'm so excited about this. I almost yell out at work when I saw the email LOL.
New U.S. Site for Asos.com
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Confessions of a Shopaholic Pt. 2: Debt and Resolution
After my internship was over, I got a job at H&M and with every paycheck I got I was taking advantage of my 25% discount. By that time my debt had gotten so bad that my whole paycheck couldn't cover the past due amounts and late fees on my credit card (and support my shopping habit) so I just shopped. I was stressed so I shopped.
I thought about going home but felt like I would be a failure, that I would be giving up on my dream. After a few more months of this I had worked up debt totaling somewhere around $14,000 and I still wanted to shop. I had no other choice to to go back home.
When I came home I fell into a serious depression. I didn't have a job and I had debt collectors hunting me down. It was a very hard time and I was beating myself up for putting myself there but I couldn't help it.
I didn't realize I had a problem until I came home and so I had to figure out how to pick up the pieces. I joined a debt management program and after some time got a part-time job then moved into a full-time job. I sold a lot of the things that I bought through consignment and Ebay in order to pay down the debt. Now a few years later I have a successful career, I am almost debt free and I went back to school to finish my degree.
I had to figure out how to spend my money by knowing what I need and what I can splurge on and when. I put money to the side to buy expensive things that I want and try to think ahead. I still love to shop and will always be a "recovering shopaholic." I have moments when I want to spend all my money but going through that experience lets me know what I'm capable of. Since I like to spend a lot at a time I wait a few months for my shopping pot to get big before I go shopping. I always allow myself to splurge (on me) on my birthdays and Christmas, and I put money away to shop in vacations and trips. It's not easy to live by these standards but it works for me.
For years I have been embarrassed to tell this story, to let people know that I had a problem with something like shopping to much. I never told people the real story about why I moved back from NYC. But I think that this problem is real for a lot of people. I now believe that I can still be fashionable without spending frivolously. Over the years I have expanded my knowledge on fashion to not only include high fashion but also affordable fashion as well. I hope that other people will understand that fashion is not just what you see in Vogue magazine. Fashion is more about person style. It is what you make it.
Confessions of a Shopaholic: The Shopping Problem
Today I watched Confessions of a Shopaholic. I felt a connection to this movie because it was so similar to the way my life used to be. I felt it may be time to make my own confession in hopes of passing my story forward.
In the summer of 2004 I moved to NYC. For years I dreamed about being a part of the fashion industry so I took a chance on a whim and applied to the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising and got accepted.
I loved living in the city, but the one thing I hadn't anticipated was how tempting the store windows can be and how deep I would fall when it comes to shopping.
LIM in located on 53th and 5th Ave, 2 blocks from H&M, Saks and Versace, and one block form Gucci, Zara, etc. Everyone at my school loved fashion of course and most of the girls there were always shopping or getting stuff from there internships. They knew about brands that I had never heard of living in the DC area. In DC I knew about what hot out there but in NYC I didn't feel like I knew as much. I thought I had to do better at looking the part in order to take advantage of opportunities. So what started as a confidence booster became an obsession.
The first few months in NYC I didn't have a job and was pretty much living off of money saved. Once that ran out I started pulling out the credit cards. I had 5 of them, don't ask why. I shopped everywhere spending $300+ almost every time. I bought things like Louboutins, Manolos, Jimmy Choos, a Chloe bag, Gucci bag, Fendi bag, not to mention a lot of clothes from Bendels, Barneys and Bloomingdale's.
It felt good to shop. I was living by myself in the big city and I was lonely most of the time even though my family lived there. I missed home sometimes. Shopping was my stress reliever.
I eventually got a paid internship at Bloomingdale's and during my lunch hour I would spend the time walking around the store sometimes just looking but mostly shopping.
To be continued.....
Check back to find out how things turned out.
Tahari Has An App
According to WWD.com, Elie Tahari is going to have an app on iPhone. You'll be able to view the collection and even see detailed shots. Seems a lot like Style.com but whateves. Another feature that I think it cool (and Style.com doesn't have) is you can get information on where to buy the items. So look out for that. I still don't have an iPhone (womp) so I can't join in but tell me about it.
The Satorialist Book: August 12th
If your familiar with Scott Schuman and The Satoralist blog, you will be happy to know that his book of photography will be released on August 12th and is available for pre-order on Amazon.com.
I get a lot of inspiration from his blog and the people that he photographs around the world. I've already reserved mine so get on it!!
I Heart Alberta Feretti Resort 2010
There were a lot of peices in the Ferretti collection that I really liked. I could see myself wearing this to work and out afterwards. I could even see myself wearing it out on the weekend. Maybe to brunch or something with friends. Here are a few of the peices that I liked.
If you want to see the more, take a look at Style.com
Wardrobe for Seasons
These days I find myself only making purchases that can last from season to season. I wouldn't say that it has to do with the economy because honestly, I haven't really been affected by it much. My job is still in tact along with my salary and benefits, but I can say it has taught me to pay more attention to how much I spend and to look for deals. I find that my money goes a lot farther these days.
Buying things that you can use over a long period of time is a great move. Don't live on the trends. Instead, create your own style that doesn't have to be seasonal. Wear what you like:)
I Heart Proenza Schouler Resort 2010
I could so see myself wearing this collection. I think it's gorgeoooouuuusss Omg. I enamored with the shoes.
Isabel Toledo's Exhibition at The Museum at F.I.T.
Garments from Isabel Toledo are being shown at the Museum at F.I.T in NYC. The collections takes you into the life of Isabel and her husband Ruben who is an illustrator. I haven't seen it in person, only on Style.com but I would love to. These are photos of her studio and apartment.
I feel they tell so much about her and you can see it in her aesthetic. It reminds me of Cavalli. Not in aesthetic but in the way that his designs tell so much about him. It expresses his luxurious life and reflects in his home decor. Their designs are almost a glimpse into their minds. It's just beautiful.
The exhibit will be at The Museum at F.I.T. from June 17th to September 26,2009. If you would like more information go to F.I.T.'s website. If it is anything like the other exhibits that have been shown at The Museum, it is something to look into.
iPhone or Sidekick
I've been going through this debate with myself as to wether or not I should convert to an iPhone. It would be so good for my lifestyle and keeping things in order not to mention all the apps!
Right now I have a Sidekick LX and I've been considering upgrading to the new one that was just released. I don't like to just read what's on the site and get things. I need to talk with someone who has the phone who can tell me what they like and show me the features but I don't know
anyone that has the new sidekick.
I'm up in the air about it. Switching to an iPhone would mean switching providers and I don't think I want to go to At&t. I like T-mobile.
So what do you think? Would u switch? Who would you choose?
Favorite Model: Arlenis Sosa
I love this girl!!! I just love all of her editorials. I think she is the perfect model. She has a nice shape, I don't think she's to skinny. I've never seen her in person and sometimes the cameras lie, especially now with Photoshop. But it's just nice to see an ethnic model who doesn't have european features and is still considered beautiful. Most black models with ethic features are dark skinned which is fine but not many brown or light skinned models look ethnic. They're very few and far between.
I hope I don't get a lot of crap for that. I know people are tired of hearing about not enough black models in fashion and I'm not preaching. I just would like to see ethnic models that look more like me. She looks like a real everyday person. I just hope to she stays in the game for a while.
Arlenis was everywhere in the Fall 2009 runway shows in case you didn't catch them. Ruffian, DVF, Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta, Tommy Hilfiger, Derek Lam, Narcisco Rodriguez, the list goes on. Follow the title link and check out some of her photos on Style.com.
Source: Style.com
Taking Last Season into Spring Part 1
As always there are a lot of new trends that come out every season but who can afford to change up their wardrobe that often? That is my jealously speaking to those who can. But if you can't can't afford to buy trend after trend every season or would like to get the best use out of what they have hear are some tips for you.
It is not my recommendation to buy a lot of trends because it can be a waste of money for those who don't have a lot of disposable cash. Trends change so quickly that you would constantly have to get a whole new one. I personally think it best to have essential classics in your wardrobe because the styles never get old. But if you want to be trendy this season here are a few things that you can take from your Fall 2008 wardrobe to your Spring 2009 one.
1. Nude colors
This is actually a classy that has become a hot trend. Neutrals or nudes are always good to have in your wardrobe in classic styles. Here are a few ideas.
2. Acid wash jeans
This started out in only a few collections last season but for Spring 09 it has become hugh and judging from the Fall 2009 collections it's here to stay.
3. Harem Pants
A lots of people are unsure about this trend but I think it is all about how you put your look together.
So if any of you ladies out there have these pieces or or anything close don't put them on ebay just yet. They still may have more wear left in them.
Sources: Shopbop.com, Asos.com, Forever21.com, SSense.com
Us Smart Girls Love Fashion Too!
Check out this article by Rachel Rosenblit for Elle Magazine. This is for all the people out there who thing that fashion is an industry only for the vain and brainless. Inteligent women can be fashionista's too! :-p
Fashionista Uncovered: Amber Rose
I love a funky style. I love people who have the courage to try different things and make unique things look hot! It never fails to intrigue people and get attention. Sometimes for being flashy but often times for being different. Rules are meant to be broken and trends do last forever. I thinks that's why I've been so intrigued by this Amber Rose character, and obviously other people are too. I mean she's everywhere right now.
And yet we don't know much about her other than she's been in a few music videos. I'm sure there's a stylist somewhere up in there but she must be fearless in order to attempt some of the things she wears. Not to mention the haircut. And the shades game....crazy!
I mean what can you say? I think we have a fashionista in the making. And although I am one of the BIGGEST fans of Rihanna's style, I was kind of getting tired of her getting out the fashion coverage over the past two years.
The New Harlem Renaissance
Last night was the premiere of the new show Harlem Heights on BET. I was skeptical about this show when I heard it advertised because over the years I had lost faith in BET. This television network used to be very inspiration for black people and used to portray the black community in a great light. But things have really changed with shows like Hell Date (wtf!!), Baldwin Hills (embarrassment) and American Gangster (sorry lovers... not a fan) black people have really become a stereotype on a network that should be representing us.
With that said (sorry to ramble), when I watched the premiere of Harlem Heights I was very impressed with the fact that these were young educated black people trying to make their mark and do positive things. I know it was said in the promos that that's what this show would be about, but unfortunately... I thought it was a setup.
The positive side of Harlem is rarely shown these days so it was great to see it. We see the drugs, the violence and project housing which is a reality but not just in Harlem but every. Harlem is not the mecca of destruction that we're led to believe.
Of course there is drama on the show but what would a reality show be without it? I hope as the season goes on I don't have to eat my words....
One of my favorite characters so far is Brooke. I love her whole style and swag. True fashionista, and her makeup is always impeccable. Another character who's style I like is Briana. Her look for the Election Night party was very cute. The lace gloves pulled it all together. Her look for brunch with the girls was also hot!
Harlem has some very cool boutiques too. The N Boutique which was feature on the show located at 114 W. 116th St. has some really great pieces. So if your every in the Harlem area visiting this story in a must for something different.
Check out this show on Monday's at 10pm and tell me what you think.
What to Expect From Style Addiction
Hey Guys,
I know it's been a while since I've posted and your very disappointed in me but believe me it will be worth it. I have been hard at work (such as the dress that I'm working on for my big 25!), not to mention classes started 2 weeks ago and they are already kickin' my ass.
Stay tuned! I have a lot to talk about. Just a few thinks to look out for.
I will be introducing a series called My Closet where I will be talking about styling and giving people information on things that every stylist should have to take on jobs and how to build a collection (i.e. closet) for work.
I also will be introducing a makeup/beauty series where I will be giving makeup tips. Since I also do makeup and that seems to be taking off it would only make sense to share that information and experience with everyone. If I can I will include YouTube videos to show some makeup look tutorials and I might include some hair tips also.
These ideas came from conversations I've had with friends. Some suggested that I do "what are you wearing?" posts where I put picture of what I am wearing that day on my blog. I think that would be a good idea as I can show you how to get the look.
Lastly, I have been considering creating a few garments for Spring 2010. This is still up in the air as I don't really know how much time I am going to have to do this. It would be called The Collection Series or something of the sort and I will take you through the process of creating my first full collection. It wouldn't be big; maybe about 10 pieces but I think it would be a great learning experience for everyone. It will take you through the sketch to the pattern to fabric to the end product (pictures included).
So with that said expect great things. Also, if you have any suggestions for the ideas above or any new ideas that you think I should try email me and let me know. I welcome the input.
xoxo
Zara Shoe Obession: Please Help!!!
I saw these navy blue, satin, strappy, platform heels at the Zara store by Metro Center last night and they didn't have my size. I thought it was no big deal until I went home and thought of all the outfits in my closet those shoes would go perfect with. Now I'm obsessed!!! I'm going to the Zara in Montgomery Mall tonight in hopes that they have my size. If not then I will have to go to the one in Georgetown. This is a problem. I don't think I'm going to be content without them :(
Mariel Haenn: Stylist
If there is any stylist I would dream of working for and assisting it would be Mariel Haenn. I have been keeping track of her work for a long time now and she is hands down the best out there right now.
Everyone knows her from her work styling Rihanna but she's worked and still works with a lot of celebrities such as Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Ciara, the Simmons Girls (Angela & Vanessa), Megan Good, and others.
Here's some of the looks she created for celebrities we know.
Everyone knows her from her work styling Rihanna but she's worked and still works with a lot of celebrities such as Jada Pinkett Smith, Will Smith, Ciara, the Simmons Girls (Angela & Vanessa), Megan Good, and others.
Here's some of the looks she created for celebrities we know.
And of course Rihanna.
For more pictures of her work click here
Camera for Me: Nixon D60
I am seriously obsessed. Even since I have become interested this camera, I have been seeing it everywhere.
I have to have it. I want to have a professional camera that will lessen my need for editing. I know editing is important no matter what camera you use. But I still think it's good to have a really good camera for different functions. I have a Kodak camera that I got last summer and it works very well for quick shots around town with friends, but the Nikon has a great features for taking fashion shots and I could really use that.
The only drawback is that a tripod doesn't come with it so I will have to buy it separately.
The original price is $695.00. I know!! But the price has dropped to about $500.00 which is a pretty decent drop. But since we're talkin about my broke ass...I needs better. I could buy it now but I think I will wait a little while longer to see if I can get a better deal. With my luck they'll come out with a newer one, and with a tripod. Woot!
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