Fasionably Frugal

The reality is that few of us can afford to have a closet full of our favorite designers. In order to make ourselves feel better and justify our "splurge" purchases we have to view our coveted items as a fashion investment. Well, times are changing and designers are making the move to make their creations available to the masses via specialty lines for discount stores.

Many designers now have these speciality lines in stores that the average American shopper is quite familiar with and have already been a customer of for years. Target offers Liz Lange Maternity and Issac Mizrahi as staple contributors alonside a revolving door of guest designers that currently include Jovovich-Hawk. JCPenney has its extremely successful Nicole by Nicole Miller line and Kohls hase introduced the Simply Vera by Vera Wang collection.

Our friends at H&M are not exactly in as many cities as the forementioned stores...yet, but should surely be mentioned since they often feature both artists and designers. Beginning April 10, 2008 they will launch a tribute to Marimekko, so be sure to check it out.

If shoes are your vice then thank goodness Payless has come along in very recent years to help scratch that itch for designer shoes. Lela Rose, Abaete and alice + olivia , all relevant fashion heavyweights with loyal followings have designed budget friendly lines for Payless that are becoming increasing popular.

The collaboration between discount retail stores and designers is a genius idea...what took them so long??!! Now that you know where to go, feel free to have a guilt free shopping spree.

BIG shade for little eyes

Spring is here! The change in season will usher in a gradual increase of sunshine time. Now is your opportunity to think about protecting those cute eyes of yours under a pair of stylish sunglasses.

These days there are so many options to choose from, but of course the over sized frame phenomenon continues. It is easy to fall in love with the over sized frame, because it basically suits every facial shape, and has an aesthetic that fits every style. There certainly is no need to break the bank when searching for that pair of perfect shades. There are options from Spitfire Candy Sunglasses, available at www.tobi.com that offer a fun AND affordable (only $35!!)array of choices. Banana Republic has introduced their conservative line of sunglasses this spring with a moderate price-point to match, ranging from $78-$118. The edgier gal out there with a little more to spend, can opt for a funky take on aviators or serve up a shot of color to shake things up a bit.

Whether your taste is extreme or subdued,there is an over sized pair of sunglasses out there for you. If over sized frames aren't your thing, that is OK too...as long as you find your thing. Shades are a sunny weather staple that punctuate your ensemble in a way that no other accessory can, it's time to get out there and make your statement!

A little Roman inspiration...

If you have been anywhere near a shoe store for the past two spring/summer seasons then you have become reacquainted with the gladiator sandal. In seasons past the selections have been quite literal and lacked the pizzazz that I know you girls were craving for.

Fear not! This year there is a gladiator for every taste. You can choose to be spunky, and might I say quite avant-garde by bravely choosing a variation similar to the ones that Balenciaga had on the runway. For those looking for a pair a little more ready-to-wear and a little less couture, check a few of your choices.







This version is like a sandal-boot, so if you don't mind the restriction, then this statement shoe might be for you.







This indulges in two trends at once...Metallic and Gladiator


This is multi-tonal and will be multi-purpose





Who says you can't be a sexy gladiator?

















If gladiator sandals just don't excite you, that is O.K. too. Every trend is certainly not for everyone and there are plenty of other choices out there. Be sure to get your window shopping started though........summer time will be here before you know it!

You look marvelous

Hello ladies….I must apologize for leaving you hanging for a while, but not to worry I’m back! Lately I have been taking the time to venture out to network and spread the word about my business.

When I am out promoting, the conversation often turns to how much I enjoy working with women and how exciting it is to see their moods and demeanor change when everything begins to come together. Anyone who knows me would tell you that I am always saying “if you look good, you feel good, and your confidence will allow you to go out and take over the world”, and I wholeheartedly believe in that statement.

As women we are notorious for looking after others and putting their needs above our own. I challenge you to find a balance and make sure that you rank as a high priority. It is imperative that when you look in the mirror you are MORE than pleased about the woman staring back at you, and it’s amazing how clothing can be the catalyst for this feeling. Sometimes you have to start from the outside, in.

Ladies it is time reward yourself with yourself, ‘cause nobody does it better!