What is Fashion

I started this blog thinking that it would be a good outlet for me. A place where I can talk about fashion freely. This was my first time "blogging."

This blog helped to give me some credibility. I have a love of fashion. I would love to find a career in fashion. So when people ask me if I have done or if I am doing anything in fashion now, I at least can tell them, I have a fashion blog.

Writing this blog has allowed me to search and discover a lot of other fantastic websites and blogs. There are some wonderful sites that talk about the latest trends, where to buy the best deals, and how to wear fashion. One thing that I did notice, (and I probably knew this already), but there is very little out there that discusses fashion related to small towns like West Hartford, (where I live).

A lot of the fashion floating around in cyberspace is geared towards those who may feel comfortable walking to town in their latest hipster outfit. In small towns like West Hartford, most people won't take notice, or they will automatically assume you are not from around here. On many occassions people have asked me if I am either from NYC or I bought my outfit from there.

In West Hartford we suffer from the trickle down effect. I have always found West Hartford to be quite trendy, great town with NYC like restuarants, and some fashion foward boutiques. And the fashion that we have available to us is "watered" down city looks. And how often to we get to really wear these cool outfits, a gala here or there? An occasional ladies night out? Not even. West Hartford is a family town and with family comes comfort. Do we want to be pushing that stroller with 4 inch knee high velour black boots? Running after the kid with a some high end strappy sandal, bending down to pick something off the ground with our very low rise $200 jeans?

So the end question is ...how can one become "fashion" in a small town like West Hartford without everyone telling you to open a boutique, or become a personal shopper?

Shopping in Hartford County

Aside from West Farms Mall, there are some great shops located throughout Hartford County.
Why not support our local shops!

Here are some of my favorites:

Homeward Bound
http://homewardboundstyle.com/
77 isham roadwest hartford, ct 06107860.233.9500

A wonderful and eclectic selection of merchandise includes:comfortable sofas and chairs (including the only fully organic, high-end line available), live edge table designs, India hand-blocked exclusive bedding, romantic chandeliers, Red Flower bath, painted cabinets from India, beaded animals from Africa, stuffed animals from Peru, Sarah Perlis handmade jewelry, ELM Designs from Iceland, Chan Luu fashions and jewelry, distinctive tableware, hand-blown glassware…and so much more.
They also offer custom furniture and complimentary design service

Kimberly Boutique
http://www.shopkimberly.com/
986A Farmington Ave.West Hartford, CT(860) 523-4894

From the perfect pair of jeans to an incredible evening gown, you will find fabulous fashions at Kimberly Boutique. This extraordinarily friendly shop offers a great selection, including contemporary and classic options as well as tasteful takes on new trends

They are offering some great discounts now:

Spend $200 and get $25, spend $300 and get $50, Spend $400 and get $75 and spend $500 and get $100

Niro Boutique

http://www.nirodesigncenter.com/couture.html

NiRO Couture, LLC241 Asylum Street Hartford, CT

860-724-NIRO

NiRo Couture, LLC is a full service retail establishment with a main objective of client satisfaction. Our designs aim to capture the essence of style, function, and personality and celebrate them in a way that a fashion house has never attempted before. NiRo Couture will provide customers with quality materials, innovative designs, and affordable prices. As one of very few establishments in the area, customers are introduced to an environment where clothes are designed and created with them in mind. NiRo will provide specialty services along with its impeccable selection of fashion. Service include: Image Consulting, Beauty Enhancement Services, Closet Therapy, Fashion Styling, and Personal Shopping

BANGLE & CLUTCH

http://www.bangleclutch.com/

40 W Main StAvon,CT 06001 (860) 284-4233

What's Hot ? Accessorize at bangle and clutch with this seasons hottest trends in jewelry and handbags. We offer the greatest selection of one-of-a-kind accessories and clothing that simply can't be found anywhere else. Our experienced sales staff will show you how to create your own unique style. Come in ordinary, and leave extraordinary

Japanalia

http://japanalia.com/

990 Farmington Avenue,West Hartford, CT 06107 860-523-7722

JAPANALIA ON ONE! 11 Whitney St. Hartford, behind CVSCT 06106860-232-4677

Each design evolves for the fabric with clean, spare lines achieved through minimal cutting. In an abstract way, the garments preserve the tradition of the kimono cut in which four narrow panels of fabric determine the width of the kimono. This refined size concept can work to the advantage of every woman or man

COCO LILY LLC
http://cocolily.com/

Avon, CT

Is a Connecticut based contemporary boutique created in 2007. It began with two moms' passion for bringing together the right mix of upscale clothing, unique gifts and tabletop to make the perfect venue for our store.
We are proud to exclusively carry greenbeads and Emily & Ashley fine jewelry to complete a look for any occasion

Oh La La

51 E Main St Avon, CT 06001-3821 860-674-0798

They offer a great mix of trendy fashion and accessories. Prices are great and the clothes are always changing.

Fab'Rik Teen Consignment Boutique

www.fabrik-kur.com

36 LaSalle RdWest Hartford, CT 06127(860) 232-8336

For those looking for great deals:

Almost everything is 50 to 75% off, and everything is in excellent condition. They offer great designer-prom- dresses, jeans, shoes, bags, shirts, shirts and jackets.

Need SHOES!

So I am on the hunt for some great shoes. I must admit, shoes have never been my thing. Don't get me wrong, I do love them, but I often find myself buying something that seems amazing and then end up not knowing how to wear them, or finding them uncomfortable, etc...

And of course with shoes, you wear them outside, scratch the bottoms, and poof they are yours whether you like it our not.

Well..unless you are like one of my friends who just returned a pair of awesome boots, (retail aprox $200) after one year of owning them, (and wearing them, I personally scrubbed the bottom of the boots for her) to Nordstrom!! She had the receipt still and got her money back. I was definitely impressed!!!! You just never know.

Either way, I have vowed that I will never buy shoes again unless I do my research to ensure that I get the best possible price...should I down the road throw them to the back of the closet and kick myself for ever thinking they were worth $$$$.

So, as of today, I am on the hunt for a great pair of black leather calf high rugged military inspired/riding boots.

I found this great pair on one of my fav sites zappos.com only to find them much much cheaper on sublime.comhttp://www.sublime.com/.

Zappos.com: Steve Madden Buck for $141. 64 with free shipping and handling

Piperlime.com: Also Steve Madden Buck for $114.99 with free shipping and handling

Mind you on Piperlime, they only carried the dark brown, but my gosh, what a price difference!!

And it does not stop there!!

Same shoes, though only in the brown suede but for $105!!!!!!!! found at footnotesonline.com

Can you stand it??

COUPON CODES!!

I certainly have not started my holiday shopping yet...but maybe some of you have!

Please do not forget to visit some of the sites below. They could save you tons of money!

http://www.retailmenot.com/

http://couponcode.com/

http://www.fatwallet.com/

http://www.budgetfashionist.com/

http://www.couponcabin.com/

I personally love couponcode.com because they seem to have the most comprehensive selection. If you can not find your store, go to your favorite search browser and type in something like:

victoria secret coupons or rei coupons

Chances are you will find plenty!!

Happy Shopping!!

Homeward Bounds Events

West Hartford
December highlights at Homeward Bound!!
enjoy
festive food & wine
fabulous raffles
have your gifts wrapped in eco-friendly burlap trimmed with fun,
colorful raffia ribbon.
friends & family weekend
dec. 5 ~ dec. 7
join us for a cocktail party
kick off, 6pm dec. 5
20% off all full-priced
items in the store
special shopping events
local realtors
dec. 2, 3-8 pm
holiday stroll
dec. 4, 5-9pmSanta & Mrs. Claus, carriage rides, food,
performers and more!
Jewish Community Center members & employees
dec. 7, 5-8 pm
friends & neighbors
dec. 11, 6-9 pm
de-stress…sip some
tea, bring your
list…we’ll do
the rest

Great Gift Ideas

Here are some great easy gift ideas:

From http://www.nordstrom.com/ for $48.

I love these because they keep my wrists warm and allow my fingers the ability to still grab, touch, etc.

Juicy Couture 'Iconic' Long Wool Gloves

I love the band on these. Something a little different.

Oldnavy.com has some great options too!

Women's Patterned Sweater-Knit Scarves Regular Price $16.50

Women's Performance Fleece Gloves Regular Price $5.00

Portolano Women's Cashmere Gloves at overstock.com for $44.99

These look awesome!!

Oh, but wait...these are great too from http://www.bluefly.com/

Kashmere
chocolate cashmere convertible long gloves $55

And I saved the best for last...from www.zappos.com:

UggLogo Patch Mitten w/ Turn CuffSKU #7500328$129.00Free Shipping Both Ways

I love them on my feet...my hands deserve the best too.

A great Holiday Gift, The Puffer Jacket or Vest

Two years ago my mother in law got me this great puffer reversable vest. It is so warm!

There are some great deals out there...

On LLBean.com:

This Goose Down Vest is $49.

Goose Down Jacket for $69

And LLBean has a great promotion going on now:

One (1) $10 promotional gift card will be provided for orders of $50 or more, through December 24, 2008, while supplies last

At Landsend.com they have simiar choices:

Women's Regular Weatherfield™ Diamond Quilted Jacket

This is only $39.99

Women's Regular Goose Down Vest $29.50

Merona® Puffy Vest Grey

$17.99

Merona® Hooded Puffer Jacket - Berry $39.99

HAPPY SHOPPING!!

While in NYC...

While I was in NYC this past week, I bought two great pashmina's for $5 each. Of course I had to bargain and got them for $9 total. One gun metal grey, the other royal blue, (my new fav color).


I am so excited b/c new accessory pieces save me money!!

And then I found this awesome steal. Remember to always check the sale section of any store you visit.



This is from Anthropologie on sale for $39.99!! The picture does not do it justice. The design on the front is gorgeous and the material is thick.
This is a piece that you keep forever. Great over stockings, bare legs, jeans, ...
It is a classic piece. And it was originally priced over $150!! How can you walk away??
Oh wait, maybe I can wear it with my new grey scarf!!

FREE SHIPPING ON ZAPPOS!!

I am a huge fan of Zappos!! I know people who buy like 7 pairs of shoes from zappos, try them on and return what they don't like...and for free!!


FREE SHIPPING BOTH WAYS from Zappos.com -- Shoes, Clothing, Bags, and More! http://www.zappos.com/n/z/ref/81117a1_zeta/kw/zeta.html

I always buy stuff that I do not need!!

I always buy stuff, take them home and then realize that I do not like them...or I don't know what to wear with it, etc...I hear this all the times from my friends.

I truly believe that deep down, we all have a general idea as to what looks good on us and what does not. You know when you feel good. When you look in the mirror and exclaim, "I look good."
Well stop STOP...and think about why you thought you looked so gooooodddd. What about the outfit made you smile?
This is the feeling to bring up when you are shopping. I know that it can be a patience thing. You just want to get in buy and get out. But it only takes a second, maybe a couple of minutes, to stop and think about how you really look in that outfit. Pants too long or short, okay these things can be taken care of. But how does it fit around the middle, how does the shirt make you look?

If there is a brand that you like, you consistently feel good in this brands close, then stick with it. For me, I know that certain brands fit me better. Not on sale at the time? You determine how badly you need it. Scour the internet first to see if you can find it cheaper, (which we all know you typically can). And don't forget, you can always bring a friend!

The Truth About Shopping

This past weekend, the weather was kind of yucky outside and my husband and I were feeling a little restless...LETS GO SHOPPING!!

I have to admit, I love the thrill of looking for a great bargain. And I happen to be a Marshalls lover. For some strange reason I was given this gift of spotting great deals amoungst rungs of clothes strewn around in no particular order. Somehow I am able to spot BCBG tops, Laundry dresses, etc. And of course at a fantastic price.

This dress was on sale for $20. It looks great with a boxy jacket on top, leggings, and black high boots.

Next top, Anthropologie...one of my favorite stores! This is where I tend to spend full price...it is my one shopping vice. I just love the clothes. But I will tell you that I am a large fan of their sale section, (which appears to be growing maybe b/c of the economy). So, head straight back to the sale room and look for some great bargains! They are there.

A quick trip to Banana Republic, (they had a 30% sale for friends and family) was rewarding. I walked away with an amazing dress:

On sale for under $40! It fits like a glove. A great piece that I will hope to fit in forever. This can be worn so many ways...with a jacket, cardigan, scarf, some chunky necklace strands, or some pearls to jazz it up, with flats, high boots, heals, etc!

These are the kind of pieces you need to look for. Pieces that will stand out forever.

Now I know that not everyone gets a high from shopping and finding bargains, so if you need help, just let me know. I would be happy to acompany you!! HAPPY SHOPPING!

Clothes Found For Less...

So a good friend of mine found this great shirt at JCrew priced at $88. The price seemed a little high for a cami, (sleeveless shirt).

Sound I did a little browsing and found it on ebay, NEW for $39.99 with free shipping and handling. Now mind you Ebay has only 3 color available and JCrew has 6, we are talking about a difference of over $40!!

Brand new with tags J.Crew Victoria silk ruffle cami blouse

http://www.ebay.com/

I found this dress by accident and fell in love!!

Tibi El Dorado High Neck Dress For $368. You can also find

it at Saks.com.

Could I find it cheaper elsewhere?

YES!!!!!!

$222.80 at Pronto.com

Don't forget to do a little research before the wallet comes out!!

How to Tie a Scarf...This will SAVE YOU MONEY!!

And Remember, shop your closet before you go out buy something and then feel guilty!! We alllll do it.

Take out all of your scarves, hats, jewelry, (preferably costume), belts, cardigans, stockings, etc.

These pieces are the items that are going to save you money.

I found this great site: http://www.texeresilk.com/cms-scarf_tying_guide.html

that can help you to learn how to tie a scarf. Seriously READ IT!!

Here is a quick sampling:

Neck Wrap
This style works best when filling a bare neckline.

Stock Tie
Fold under a jacket or wear over a plain shirt

The Butterfly

A beautiful way of tying a scarf, accenting the elegant you. Can be sported with any outfit in your wardrobe.

And for those of you who know me...I am all about the Waist Sash!!!!!!!!!!!

For this look, how about some old ribbons? Take a bunch of them and use them as a belt? How about tie them just under your chest to create an Empire waist??

Please let me know your comments!!

Looking For Petite Sizes

Lets Here is for Petites!!!!!!

newyorkandcompany.com has a great section for Petite sizes:

7th Avenue Wide Leg Pant - Black Petite $46.95
Every Pant - B1G1 75% Off - Select Styles

And for yoga pants: Comfort Zone Yoga Pant - Short $24.95!!

Buy One Get One 50% Off

Here is a Great Pair of Jeans, (Battery Park Denim Trouser - Petite ) for $44.95.

Every Pant - B1G1 75% Off

Another Way to Save Money

Do some of you love to shop on Amazon.com ?
Have you heard of Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime is a membership program that gives you and your family "all-you-can-eat" fast shipping for eligible purchases. For an annual membership fee of $79, you will enjoy:
Fast Delivery
Free Two-Day Shipping on more than one million in-stock items sold by Amazon.com.
Upgrades to One-Day (Overnight) Shipping for just $3.99 per item.
Two-Day and One-Day shipping usually apply across business days. Prime also offers special weekend and other shipping options for qualifying merchandise
Free Standard Shipping for eligible items shipped to P.O. boxes in the continental United States (excluding Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories, possessions and protectorates) and APO/FPO addresses with U.S. zip codes.
Simple Shopping
No minimum purchases required.
Members-only 1-Click buttons on product pages.
No need to think about shipping charges when you order.

Okay, so we all hate signing up for another membership...ugh right? But if you truly are an Amazon shopper this is a great opportunity to save money.

Amazon should be paying for for all of this free advertising!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Bargain Shopper

For anyone who knows me well, I am a bargain shopper. I believe that in most cases there is little or no need to pay full price. Convenience can be compromised...but who doesn't love to say a few bucks here or there?!
Sometimes it can take just a few seconds, to do a quick analysis to see if a price can be beat. Especially with this crazy economy and the holidays are coming up, It is key to try and save wherever possible.

I am going to try and do my best to seek out the best deals that I can find for you. Yes, most of these will be for buying online, but I will do my best to find deals that will also allow you to go into the malls/boutiques.

Before I rant on any further, before completely pushing online shopping for fashion out of your mind, lets discuss some items that may be easier to purchase on line, (less chance of return, etc).
Don't leave my hanging here...I would appreciate any inputs! And for those of you who do not know how to reply, let me know!! I want to hear from you. :)

Shoes-shoes can be tough for some b/c brands are not consistent in their sizing. But if you buy from say zappos.com, they have free shipping and returns...
* How about slippers? sizing can be relatively easy
* Rain Boots?
* Flip Flops
* Boots like Uggs..a little big a little small...should be okay

Cardigans- Typically easy to size
Most Accessories like Scarves, Hats, Socks, Jewerly, Watches, Belts, Handbags, Wallets...

Casual or Work Pants- My thinking is this, if you see something online that looks similar to something you may already have, and you plan on buying the same brand, chances are they will fit the same. Most Ann Taylor clothes have a similar fit, as do Banana Republic, etc

I will try to think of some others...

Bag Comparison

Two Great Bags...

Found on bluefly.com
Valentino for $1036.00

Found on jcp.com for $27.99

You Do Not Have to Buy to Update!

It is not necessary to buy a new wardrobe...just to revitalize it. I hope that I am not repeating this too much.

I think that it is so important to continually review the inventory, get rid, yes get rid of what is old and tired, (or if you can not stand to get rid of it, put it in a storage bin labeled "old to be revisted in a few years "). It is so important to be able to VIEW what is available. For those of you, myself included not blessed with a walk in closet, it can be hard to see it all!

So organization is key. Try to keep sweaters together, (I use a sweater bag), keep all jeans together, blouses close together, etc. Not enough draw space, one side of the draw is t-shirts, the other is dress shirts. The point is that you need to be able to know what is there.

target.com for $14.99

Managing your accessories is key too. I love the storage bins that have drawers.

I just lay out my accessories in the drawers. It works great!

target.com $69.99 for two. They also carry much smaller versions. But they are a great way to keep things in place. I just roll mine right into my closet.

This is a great one. I found it at the containerstore.com

They have a TON of great ideas!!

I just found this great purse organizer, (I may have to go and buy this!)

target.com for $14.99

Purse Rack - Hanging Handbag Organizer - Set of 2 by Jokari®
$11.99
http://www.organize.com/

There are also great systems for scarves, hats, etc.

Hopefuly once everything is stored "properly," you will be able to dive in and find what you need...

Deals and Dresses

Ann Taylor Loft is having a sale online and in the store

Ann Taylor is also having a sale online and in the store:

Just found this awesome jacket at Target for $39.99, (Xhilaration® French Terry Bubble Jacket - Gray)

Now I know we all like to wear nice "name brand" clothes, but this is a seasonal jacket that you may only wear for one year. It is cute and will "accessory" to any outfit.

Do have a party or an event coming up..prefer to spend little to nothing? How about this?

Isaac Mizrahi for Target® Trapunto Dress - Chesterfield Navy only $34.99!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Too plain for you? (By the way it comes in different colors) Or you want to cover up your arms/shoulders? Pair it up with:

Merona® Giftable Wrap - Grey for $12.99

Pair this outfit up with a fun necklace or earings and maybe some strappy silver sandals.

Of course, you can find an outfit like this anywhere, but for an event where you may only wear the outfit once,...why not buy it at a great price?

Nordstrom is having there half yearly sale!!!
Check out this dress:

As U Wish Bow Dress (Juniors)Was: $68.00 Now: $33.90

50% OFF

Lets not forget about http://www.overstock.com/ They have a great selection of clothes!

Eliza J Women's Button Bell-sleeve Dress
Today's Price:
Catalog #:
$79.99

ReOrganizing Your Clothes...Which Colors Go Well Together

While I was helping one of my friends clean out her closet, she kept on saying, "I would have never thought that those two colors could go together..."
Color can be very confusing for people. How to match similar hues, how to put together patterns, etc.
Hopefully the below information will help you to rework some of your tired outfits. It is not always necessary to go out and buy a new outfit!

I found this great article about color matching. Below are excerpts that I found helpful:

Blue conveys importance and confidence without being somber or sinister, hence the blue power suit of the corporate world and the blue uniforms of police officers. Long considered a corporate color, blue, especially darker blue, is associated with intelligence, stability, unity, and conservatism.
Using Blue: A deep royal blue or azure conveys richness and perhaps even a touch of superiority. Navy blue is almost black and is a bit warmer than lighter blues. Combine a light and dark blue to convey trust and truthfulness — banker's colors. Although blue is a year-round color, pastel blues, especially along with pinks and pale yellows suggest Springtime while deep blue is a colder weather color. Create a conservative but sophisticated look with subtle contrast by combining light and dark shades of blue.

Using Blue with Other Colors: Mix the color of blue with green for a natural, watery palette. Add gray for understated elegance.
Sky blue and robin's egg blue, especially when combined with neutral light brown, tans, or beige are environmentally friendly color combinations.
Throw in a dash of blue to cool down a hot red or orange scheme. Grab attention with the contrast of blue and yellow.Dark blue with white is fresh, crisp, and nautical. Red, white, and blue is a patriotic color trio for many countries, including the United States.
Use dark blue with metallic silver accents for an elegantly rich appearance.

Green is life. Abundant in nature, green signifies growth, renewal, health, and environment.
Green with blue produces echoes of nature - water and forest and can denote new beginnings and growth. Green with brown, tan, or beige says organic or recycled and can be a good color combination for packaging of those type of products. Tri-color combinations of green with yellow and black or white are sporty, outdoorsy colors. Purple with green can be high contrast, lively. Lime green with orange and yellow is a fresh and fruity palette.

Red is power, hence the red power tie for business people and the red carpet for celebrities and VIPs
A little bit of red goes a long way. Small doses can often be more effective than large amounts of this strong color. Multiple shades of red and even pink or orange can combine for a cheerful palette. Cool blues provide contrast and tone down the heat of red. Light pinks and yellows are harmonizing colors that can work well with red if not too close in value such as dark red with a pale or golden yellow. Be careful using purple. It can be an elegant combination but too much could be overpowering.Add a dash of red to a soft but sophisticated pink and gray combo.

Considered the negation of color, black is conservative, goes well with almost any color except the very dark.
Be careful using black with very dark colors. It can work, but if the colors are too similiar they blend together. Black works well with bright, jewel-toned shades of red, blue, and green. Black is the ultimate dark color and makes lighter colors such as yellow really pop out. Photographs often look brighter against a black background. Black and gray is a conservative combo as is medium or light blue and black.

Brown is a natural, down-to-earth neutral color.
Shades of brown coupled with green are an especially earthy pair, often used to convey the concept of recycling or earth-friendly products. Very dark brown can replace black, adding a slightly warmer tone to some palettes. Brighten brown with a mellow yellow or rusty orange. Go smart but conservative with a mix of brown and deep purple, green, gray, or orange-red.

For more help with colors, just let me know!!
Don't forget the power of layering and the positive affect it can have on an outfit. A tan shirt with a splash of green underneath. A cream colored shirt with a layer of turquoise.

THANK YOU

Thank you to everyone who responded to my email fashion questionaire. I got such an overwhelming response!!
A brief overview:
*funny enough it was 50/50 on either love to shop or hate to shop
*for those who dislike it, it was b/c of difficulty finding sizes, (petite), chaos, time, money
* Most of the ladies like the same boutiques, (Gap, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor). So this could be b/c 95% of the people that I polled live in CT, my friends/family are similar?

I think part of it is that people like to stay within their comfort zones. Also b/c there are few boutiques around and most people tend to stick to the basics. I have also found that a lot of people around the Hartford area are very budget conscious. Maybe it is the New England influence. When they want to spend money, they are going to travel to either Boston or NYC. Makes sense, b/c to be honest, I tend to do the same!

Is it True?

So, as I sit in front of my computer and day dream about fashion...I wonder if others do the same in this wonderful state of Connecticut...or more specifically small town of West Hartford. Am I the only one who thinks of about putting together different outfits, rummaging through local boutiques to see what new clothes have come in...browsing the internet for new and exciting fashion sites??

I don't even necessarily need to buy, though I do prefer to...I just enjoy the thrill of looking. Finding deals, new ideas, etc.

And for those who know me well...I LOVE to bargain shop. If I see it online, in a magazine, etc, I will try my best to find something similar for less. And guess what, you typically can.

So I realize that most people do not enjoy shopping never mind spending time looking for a "better" deal. It comes down to what is your time worth? But for me...I enjoy the hunt. It is exciting for me.

So I may be writing to myself...or maybe someone is actually reading this! But throw me a test and see if I can find you something. I need to focus on someone other than myself.

And before I forget, I am stuck on Target!! And this coming from someone who as a kid would not dare walk into KMart for fear of being seen my a friend.

I took my mother in law into Target while we were in FL and she couldn't believe how nice the clothes are!! (And she is quite a fashionable lady!!).

Here are some comparisons for you:

and believe me...I have nothing against DSW, (I am a fan)

Target riding boot $36.99

DSW riding boot for $69.95

DSW Buckle Boot $89.95 or buy what appears to be the exact same boot at Target, (different brand) for $29.99!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Women's Xhilaration® Kya Boots - Brown

Target Buckle Boot $36.99

DSW for $64.95

And of course...I can find much higher prices at some other websites if you prefer...

But come on...we all know that styles go in and out. So why not buy a 'trendy' pair of boots for less, wear them one maybe two years and then move on. I like this much better than dropping $100 plus on a pair that I may wear only one season!

Fashion QUICK Questionaire

www.jetsfpassion.com Questionnaire

Hello! Can you Please take 10 minutes to answer the below questions.I appreciate your help and honesty!

1. Do you enjoy shopping for clothes? Yes or No
If you answered, Yes, please jump to Question 4.

2. If you answered no, please provide a brief reason why:


3. If you answered no, what would make your shopping experiences more enjoyable?


4. Do you prefer shopping in a mall, boutique, or online and Why?(rank in order of most favorite to least favorite, 1 being the most favorite and 3 being the least)
Mall:
Boutique:
Online:

5. What are five of your favorite stores:
1
2
3
4
5

6. How far would you drive to shop at a store? (i.e. 15 min, 1 hour, etc. )

7. Connecticut is not known as a fashion center, but there are plenty of shops to choose from. What would be the one (or two) thing(s) that you would do to promote a greater fashion presence in Connecticut?


THANK YOU!!!!

Love Shopping Hate Shopping

So, I have always loved to shop.
I do prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping, (crowds, time, etc). And then there is online shopping. Online shopping can be great. Convenient, quick, sometimes cheaper, and of course plentiful. And what I mean by plentiful is that there is a lot out there, (which can be confusing and/or overwhelming for some).

So,...if you hate shopping and you are one of those who knows they need to do it, but they want it to take up no time at all, LETS JUST GET IT DONE WITH LITTLE OR NO PAIN!!
For those of you like myself...I will get to US later. :)

Here are some tips for those who hate to shop:

For the Mall, try to make a list before you go. What do you need? Try to get an idea as to what stores will carry the things that you need. So for example, if you need shoes, try a Macy's or Nordstrom. They usually have a large selection opposed to going to more of a boutique store like Nine West or Aldo's. DSW would be ever better as they typically have the largest selection.

Need a great pair of jeans? Now this is a tough one. For those who want one of those "trendy" options and you are in the mall, chances are you will have to go to a large dept store which tends to carry a number of fashionable brands, (ie. seven, true religion). Other stores like the Gap or Express will have less to choose from but may have more traditional styles.

If you have a little bit of time, try searching for the product on the web. You could for example type in, "white button down shirts" or "sweaters." Now you will have a list of stores that carry some options. Write them down and figure out which mall as the appropriate store.
And who knows, maybe you will end up buying it on the web. So what if you have to return it?? If you go to the mall you have to spend money on gas right? And lets factor in your time which I am sure is worth something. And what happens if you need a little snack while you are perusing through the mall? How about being able to get up and going to your fridge? Worth something eh?

Tips for those who prefer boutique shopping, (one stop shopping, less crowds, etc).
You can always follow my idea of first searching for the product on the web, (highlighted in green).
I prefer boutique shopping to mall shopping. Parking is typically easier, less crowds, and I can be more focused on what I want. In, out, done. And with boutiques, you can ask the sales clerk to help you find exactly what you are looking for. And typically if they do not have it, they will get it for you. I found a great pair of shoes recently and they did not have my size. No worries, they ordered it for me! Now that is service. Some places will even mail it to your home with no extra charge.

With Boutiques, you can drop in on your way home for work, whatever. Keep a list somewhere, (in your PDA, wallet, etc) of which stores you prefer. This way, when you need something you can grab and go. :)

INTERNET SHOPPING...

So for many, this can just be way to overwhelming.
Tip 1: type in what you are looking for, try to be as specific as possible.
Tip 2: Keep a running list of stores that you prefer. Try organizing them in your favorites center. If you are not sure how to do this, go to: http://websearch.about.com/od/internetresearch/a/favorites.htm
Now you can organize by fashion item, (favorite sweater stores, shoe stores, etc).
Tip 3: Don't forget to look up coupons. So for example if you are buying from Victoria's Secret, type in "Victoria's Secret Coupons." Most online stores offer some kind of deal for purchasing on line. GO CRAZY!!

Now I know that the whole size thing can be an issue. Most people need to try on before they buy. First find out what the return policy is, (www.zappos.com) has free returns. If you are unsure give them a call. Maybe they will offer it up for free.
And maybe if you definitely need to try on anything before you buy and you do not want to deal with the hassle of returning, try just buying items that you should not have to return. Accessories like scarves, jewlery, belts, hats, etc. Typically sweaters, cardigans, button downs, etc are okay as well.

And remember, I am here for you. I am one of those who loves to shop...I can help!
HAPPY SHOPPING!!!!

Stuck on Accessories

I am stuck on Accessories. I can just hear some of my friends...ugh, I just don't know what jewerly to wear...it is too girly, ...annoying ...the necklace gets tangled, earings just too femine, bracelets clanging on the table.

So maybe it is about finding the right accessories, (back to my scarf discussion...).

Pearl...Pearls can be an easy fashionable accessory. And of course they do not have to be real! Please remember that you don't have to go nuts and do the pearl earnings, pearl necklace and pearl bracelet all at once. (later we will discuss the importance of placement).

These I found online at http://www.kohls.com/ for only $10.80!!!!

Here are some fun pieces...

Again Kohls for $12.00

Forever 21 is a fantastic place to find inexpensive fun accessories. It takes two seconds!! Just go in, fish around, hey so you maybe waste a little and buy some pieces that you wear only once, but we are talking $4-$5 for costume jewelry!

This bangle is only $4.80.

Another piece for $3.80

Earings...okay, for those of you with kids. Take your earings off before you see them. How about keep a small satchel in your purse. When you see your kids, quickly slip off whatever pieces you have on, (that you are worried will get tugged and pulled), walllaaa.

$2.80 at Forever 21

Now these are HOT!! and only $3.80

ohhh I love a bargain, 3 for $3.80!