Shady Times

I'm now one of them. I'm now one of those non-celebrity people who spend crazy dollars on designer sunglasses. Thanks to the after-Christmas propaganda I've justified paying for a pair of Gucci shades for myself. Designer shades such as these go for no less than $300 - I picked mine up from Saks Fifth Ave for $140. Less than a share of Apple Inc. stock right now. That's not too bad right?! It is if you typically don't pay over $20 for a pair of sunglasses; but I finally own my first pair of designers. Quite surprising since I'm a self-proclaimed fashionista. My girlfriend (MC) aided in my splurge, convincing me how "hot" they look on me. Alright I'll stop pointing fingers now!

How to behave at an office party

My last posting talked about the many office holiday parties bestowed upon me, much to my pleasure indeed. I must comment on the differences in these parties: Stuffy (formal) parties, and carefree/wild (informal) parties. All of our parties are catered and have an open bar, but depending on the invitees the atmosphere can make for a long night or a crazy night! Our most recent holiday party - crazy, very crazy!! Depending on your position on behavioral actions during such events, our most recent party would impress you or offend you. My stance, impressed of course! For me it is very enjoyable to watch people let their guard down, drop the jacket and tie and let loose especially in a corporate setting. This is exactly what happened most recently. Libations were flowing, crushes were revealed, habits were discovered, etc. In other words a very fun and revelatory time. I tend not to stray too far from my 9-5 demeanor, even after 5:00. One of my coworkers was offended and decided to make it a short-lived evening. I, myself wanting my beauty rest made it home at a reasonable hour, but I hear not too many of my coworkers followed suit. I hear the holiday party made a long long night for many people. Makes for an agonizing work day the next day!

Office holiday party time

Wow has the year flown by or what? We have arrived at the time of the year when corporations are hosting their annual holiday party. With me working for such a gigantic firm I have the privilege of being invited to multiple parties; that could be a good or a bad thing. The holiday parties are all planned around the same time, which makes for many conversations, many plates of food, many fake laughs, and many weary days. There is a holiday party for the firm and a holiday party hosted at the departmental level, which can break down into multiple levels with a company the size of mine. Since our parties are during the week and directly after office hours, I have to be cognizant that what I choose to wear to work will convert well for the holiday party. My motto for this week is adorably comfortable. Of course I'll have on hand a small make-up pouch for a quick touchup and refresh. Happy Holidays!

Craziness at Gucci

My boo A.T. alerted me today that Gucci is having a major sale on-line. If you're willing to spare the dollars they command, you'll be happy to learn that they are also offering free shipping through the end of the month. Lucky for me there's nothing I need there, but do we really ever need anything!

www.Gucci.com

Forget roses... I don't want any roses!

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP.... Two consecutive seasons. GO BUCKEYES!!!!!

All tied up

I never considered wearing a tie around my neck in the name of fashion, but today I'm sporting one. Saw the most adorable tie at J.Crew and had to purchase it. Since I have no special someone to give it to, I'll just wear it myself! It is red with little martini glasses with a green olive in it; I mean how cute it that?! I was watching the E channel over the weekend and saw a clip of Gwen Stefani wearing a tie. I thought how brilliant does she look, and got me to thinking that I too could pull that look off. It's kind of a difficult look to model because of the fine line the look gives you between femininity and masculinity. Gwen is obviously very feminine so the look is effortless for her. I'm pretty sure I'm workin' it too!

The Bachelor - a success

My sister and I watched the season finale of The Bachelor Monday and Tuesday and seem to have a different opinion from many other viewers. Basically to sum up the show, the bachelor went home empty handed. At the end of the season when the bachelor is to make a decision between two woman by proposing marriage and offering the final rose to one of them, this bachelor did neither. When it looked like he was going to ask for Deanna's hand, he took a moment then said good-bye... To both women! Brad Womack took a lot of flack while on the Tuesday show for not choosing anyone. This got me to thinking: Why should the bachelor be forced to chose one of the preselected women at all? With a bachelor success story rate of 20% you'd think ABC would want do something different to help these couples stay together. It would give the show more credibility as well.

Their first mistake is having the task of the bachelor finding his wife in only six weeks. I understand the network has a schedule to live by, but six weeks isn't enough time to know their annoying habits let alone if you want to marry the person. The show's second mistake is having group dates. What the heck are you going to learn about a person when she's competing for your time and attention and within a couple of hours. Then you're going to ask him to cut a few chicks after that so-called date? Good luck cutting the right one. Another mistake is having unrealistic or fantasy dates. Before six weeks time are you really going to fly a girl that you might like to Belize? Are you really going to have her choose between three Valentino gowns and drip her neck with diamonds before escorting her to a five-star restaurant? Maybe, but it's yet to happen to me!

I think this latest bachelor may have started a trend. Past bachelors are now thinking, "hey I didn't know we could do that"! But instead they are forced to make a decision and a choice just for the American public to find out that yet another bachelor couple is in splits-ville. Brad was not feeling any of the girls and he finally let them know that. I think the show should last maybe ten weeks. The bachelor should have more one-on-one dates and should be given more time in between dates to make a cut. If the show were structured differently maybe these two final girls would not have been the two final girls.

One last thing; why do the women feel that they have to accept the rose the bachelor offers? This is more pressure the network puts on the cast. The bachelor is usually a great catch on paper, but that does not guarantee chemistry. I could tell bachelorette Bettina was not into Brad at all, but what are you gonna do when he asks you to accept the rose with millions of people, producers, and directors watching? In my opinion although Brad was good-looking, he seemed a bit stiff and boring. Who knows what he's really like, heck it's only been six weeks!

I smell roses!

Congratulations to the BUCKEYES for beating Michigan and claiming the Big Ten championship title outright. The winner of this game is to go and play in the BCS Rose Bowl game. The Buckeyes finished the season 11-1, just shy of being perfect due to dropping a game against Illinois late in the season; A bad time to lose if you're in contention for the BCS championship title game. The season for the Buckeyes has been an over-achieving one. The QB is a junior getting real snaps for the first time on this team, the RB is a young sophomore but played like a senior. The team is a very young team and was expected to play well but not be a factor when talking national championship. That is just a testament to the coach. I cannot express enough about how in love I am with Coach Tressel. He is brilliant! Beyond his impeccable coaching record, he's smart, he's motivating, he's classy, and not to mention he's hot! Yes Coach Tressel steals my heart. Anyway, GO BUCKS!

Stick to the script

Fashion over eating people, stick to the script. That line is from a Jay-Z song, but I had to tweak it just a bit. This is a no brainer for me. If I want a bag (and I'm always wanting a bag) it's usually so expensive that I need to save up for a little while to be able to purchase it. This conversation came up when I told a friend of mine that I purchased the classic Balenciaga bag (in red hot) and he said to me, "guess you didn't eat while saving for that bag". Yes, the designer prices are getting out of control lately, and the only way to keep up with the Jones? Re-prioritize. Stop all that fast food consumption, stop the cafeteria food munching, stop feasting on take out and start a bag fund. My mother would totally kill me if she heard me talking like this. She'd say there's no reason you should be spending this type of money on a pocket book. And she's absolutely correct. But who needs logic when you're rockin' the hottest latest bag, and you're the envy of all your friends. Hey this plan could help out your weight loss goals as well.

J.Crew

My favorite store this season is J.Crew. Have you gone in there lately? They have the most marvelously exciting stuff for fall and winter. First let me start by saying that I did not realize that J.Crew was such one-stop shopping for the entire family. Not only is there a women's and men's line, but a children's line as well. They also carry outerwear, underwear, pajamas, shoes, and of course accessories that include jewelry, tights, scarves, wallets, you name it! The main thing that got my attention at J.Crew is their display window. They have the most bright, colorful, gorgeous outfits put together for all to see. I was immediately drawn to the window and eventually lured to the inside of the store. I have to say that I want one of everything! Well cut jeans, vibrant corduroys, incredibly soft sweaters in a variety of styles and colors including the ever popular argyle. A great business line that includes tailored suit jackets, slacks and skirts. I could go on and on about how I could be in the store for hours on in. I tried on multiple things and everything is a perfect fit! Better believe J.Crew will play an intricate role in my wardrobe this season. They do tend to run expensive price points, but after all the wear I'll get from the clothes it will be worth it. Plus I've notice great sales creeping in at J.Crew as we head towards the holidays. Give them a look.

7-Eleven!

I'm not talking the convenience store 7-Eleven, but the closing price per share for Google Inc. stock. In May Google hadn't even hit $500 a share, and Friday the stock closed at $711 a share; that's a 40% return in six months! The technology sector has outperformed itself this year, and there are many more stocks that have returned greater than Google Inc., but the figure "700" is what has me flabbergasted. A huge part of that is Google beat its third-quarter earnings per share estimates by almost $0.20. The company continues to grow profits, headcount, and ideas. Monday Google is to announce in more detail plans around its mobile phone operating system, which will give the iPhone some competition. Not to mention Blogger is powered by Google. Some would say this stock price is mostly based on speculation, promise, and potential. This reminds me of how I felt when I purchased a dress over the weekend. It looks very nice from the outside and has the potential to be my winning holiday dress selection, but a tad over-priced.

The Crocodile

Do you like Lacoste? We here in Central Ohio were just granted a Lacoste boutique as an addition to our mall. Known for a crocodile embroidered on the upper left chest of its shirts, Lacoste is a casual yet luxurious brand. Here in town Lacoste opened an 1,800 square feet store that carries mens and womens wear, shoes, and accessories. The French brand is a bit over-priced though in my opinion, but I appreciate that they want to attract a certain clientele. I typically notice younger people sporting around the Lacoste brand, which doesn't 100% deter me from taking part. The Lacoste looks are very cute. Like I mentioned earlier the brand is casual and luxurious, two adjectives that compliment the dress code for my office job. Most people I believe know Lacoste for their polo shirts, which work well for casual Fridays, but they also carry sweaters and button-up shirts great for work.

It's exciting to have another choice to stop in and browse, although most of the time will be to window shop. Lucky for me the holidays are upon us so maybe I can take advantage of the sale prices. Great timing in opening up a new boutique.

The extra long legging

I'm going to a birthday party this weekend and I've already started to plan my outfit. On a recent trip I got the chance to read my Harper's Bazaar September issue (great issue by the way) and ran into the cutest look from the Marni fall 2007 ready-to-wear collection. It wasn't so much the dress that I was focused on, but the extra-long legging that seemed to go for miles and miles but stopped just past the metatarsus of the foot. This accessory worn with a high-heel pump, I couldn't remove my eyes from the page. This is one of those dare-to-be-different looks where you won't notice too many gals able to pull it off. Me? I'm giving it a shot. I'm not getting a consultation or a second opinion, I'm just going to do it. This picture from style.com illustrates the trend very nicely. I love the appearance of this being more than your basic legging but not quite a tight, which is traditionally covered-foot. It's like ordering General Tso's chicken instead of Seseme chicken for dinner. This trend at Marni is General Tso's chicken giving your short dress a little kick!

Bootie find

Well from the feel of it fall is definitely here, which leads me to start thinking a lot more about my fall wardrobe and what needs to be added. There are the basics such as cashmere sweaters, bulky hats, wool pencil skirts. Right now I'm missing a cute pair of booties in my wardrobe. Shouldn't be a problem to add since this look is displayed on all the runways and in all the magazines. Ha but not here. I've been to every store in town and cannot find the perfect pair, which ideally would be the pair from Louis Vuitton (oh sorry I was dreaming again). I need a pair that transform rather easily from day to night. I need them to be conservative enough for my office job, but hot enough for after-hours. I want a pair that aren't uncomfortably sky-high, especially since I'm above average height for females. I'm happy to say that I found a pair of booties that I relish. They're by Steve Madden, patent black with lacing. If there is one complaint I have with them it's that they are only a two inch heel. Very ideal for work, but hardly high enough to be considered sexy. Strange since it is incredibly difficult to find a heel in any shoe under four inches these days. Anyway I'm happy with them and think they'll get a lot of use from me.

I cannot recall the last time I went out on a Sunday night so I'll just reset the timer to start now. Since tomorrow is a holiday my friends want to go out and take advantage of the fact that we can sleep in on Monday. Such a great feeling knowing that it will be Monday and feel like a Monday but I do not have to get up and go into the office. That fact alone is motivation enough for me to move from my couch and put on some make-up and pumps. In addition, I'm listening to MC Hammer to facilitate in getting me energized to go out since usually at this time I'm getting ready to tune in to Desperate Housewives and doze off afterwards. Anyway off to get ready; I'm sure it'll be fun, I just have to stay awake.

I'm in love with Mary Jane

My latest shoe craze (and purchase) is a pair of four inch patent leather Mary Janes. This shoe is a very old and classic style (not to mention adorable) and comes in a fairly wide variety. Open toe, close toe, pointed toe, round toe, peep toe - as long as the distinctive strap(s) is going across the top of your foot you've got yourself a pair of Mary Janes honey. I'm in the frame of mind lately where I'm daring to be different, having said that the pair I purchased are blue patent! What the heck am I going to wear those with right? I'm wearing them with a purple sweater today - I tell my sister all the time, matching is so overrated! Aren't these so cute.

Louis Vuitton Fall 2007

As a tribute to fall hitting us so soon I'm posting the Louis Vuitton fall show collection, which is so inspirational by Marc Jacobs. The Vuitton bottie is a must-have add to my (in my dreams) wardrobe. There are many gorgeous looks here in which you can take them to gain ideas for updating your fall wardrobe from more currency sensitive designers! Enjoy

Read Read Read and Read

I am officially a subscriber to four fashion magazines: Harper's Bazaar (my fave), Lucky, Vogue, and now Elle. I received an offer in the mail that I couldn't refuse - a one year subscription to Elle magazine for only $8... You read correctly EIGHT dollars! That's like buying two magazines and getting the next ten free! I travel quite a bit and usually end up at the airport's magazine stand (as if the three magazines I brought with me aren't enough). Now with four magazines in my hands there's no way my mind will wander to see what others are out there, kind of like how men treat the woman they're dating! Kidding!! Anyway that's it, no more, four is enough. Ooh is that a letter from Glamour?!

Eyes wide shut

Last night I went to a concert for indie rock band Artic Monkeys. I had no clue who they were but some friends were going, and I just love live shows so I went. It was a really good time, a little too good because now I'm struggling-gah. I didn't get home and to bed until 2AM. Up again for work a few hours later I realize that man I can't do this like I use to. I'm just too old for this (not that we're old Babs!), but I am just too old for this! Before I could stay out late on a weeknight and the next day venture down to Starbucks grab a grande coffee and be fine, but not today; not working. I just have to hope this day goes by quickly.

"Music" TV

I got home from my Florida vacation in time to watch the MTV VMAs last night. Now I wasn't going to post about this awards show because I'm so over it, but the most ironic thing happened towards the end that I just have to mention it because it resulted in my laughing uncontrollably. The Male Artist of the Year award was to be given out and MTV chose three reality television stars from MTV's The Hills to present the award. This year's VMAs was held at Las Vegas' Palm Hotel and Casino where multiple rooms were hosting parties and performances throughout the night. Justin Timberlake performed in one of those rooms where at one point while in that room he stated, "I want to challenge MTV to play more music videos". Justin Timberlake deservedly won the male artist of the year VMA and walked onto the stage to accept his award presented by the three MTV reality TV stars. As the three girls moved over to make way for Justin and Timbaland, Justin went to the microphone and again challenged MTV, "play more bleep music videos, enough with reality TV". Of course the crowd went crazy and the three girls on stage stood there with embarrassed smiles. I was dying at the irony. Justin can forget it though; music is dead on MTV.

New shoe alert

I've got a new shoe on my radar, the Marc Jacobs Oxford pump. This shoe has been showing up all over my fashion magazines in multiple colors, but I'm in love with the black patent. A round toe that laces nearly up to the ankle with a perfect chunky 3 1/2 inch heel, which is amazing in itself considering most designers don't go below 4 inches anymore. To add this shoe with a skirt and tights, or a dress and hose more than makes the outfit; such a gorgeous and powerful look. Nordstroms is selling the shoe for around $700, is that unreasonable? I'll just skip out on next month's mortgage!

NY fashion week here already

Is it that time again? Time to think about next spring and summer as we trail out of this summer? Yep. New York Fashion week starts today and will go for over a week focusing on designer lines for spring/summer 2008. I've added the very hectic schedule for your viewing pleasure from Mercedes Benz Fashion Week's website. I'm excited to see collections from Rosa Cha, Miss Sixty, and as usual my fave BCBG. Obviously I'm not invited to any of the shows so I look forward to checking out the coverage on television, fashion websites and blogs, fashion magazines, etc. It'll be exciting to learn what trends have left us, which ones are still upon us, and of course any new ones that will don us.

Darnit Blake!

Did you happen to catch that nail biting five-setter match with Tommy Haas vs. James Blake yesterday? I have been glued to CBS and USA airing the US Open tennis matches, and this year's tournament has been as good and competitive a year as I can remember. I for one have been rooting emphatically for James Blake, who's yet to win a major, to win the whole tournament this year. He escaped late last week by beating Koubek in his first ever five-set match win. That match lasted nearly FOUR hours and into the night, and with only a day off I knew his match verses Haas would be a challenging one. The first three sets were competitive with Blake taking two of them, but then in the fourth set Blake didn't score one flipping point, not one. I knew then it was over and he was not going to win this match let alone the entire tournament. It looked as if his weariness got the best of him, that he was ready to throw in the towel. But then in the fifth set he gained major momentum. The crowd was electric, I think the entire stadium was cheering for Blake. It came down to a fifth set tie breaker and Haas took it 7-4 where his last point was challenged by Blake and was counted in. Guess I'll root for Roddick to win the tournament now and will look out for Blake as he'll now have time to resume his book tour :-(

Get more info from www.usopen.org

Happy Labor Day to me

...And you. Hope you have a wonderful holiday, I know I will. I'm sporting around my lastest and overdue handbag purchase by Gucci. What can I say, I couldn't resist. I'm happy, but my bank account is not that's for sure.

Love at first sight

The clarity of this picture is terrible and doesn't do the shoe justice considering it came from my pc monitor, but when I saw this shoe I had to post it. This platform pump popped up on Versace's Spring/Summer 2007 runway and I have to have them! I need them! I don't know how one walks in them and at my height I'd probably look like Rupal in them, but these are so hot I don't even care about the "cons". Okay they're probably $500+ so there's no chance I'll ever own them, but a girl can dream right.

I had to do it

So you know I'm a shoeaholic, and more than that I'm a sucker for a shoe sale. Our Nine West boutique was having a, in the word of Victoria Beckham, MAJOR shoe sale. I mean 50 and 60% off the majority of the store. By the time I heard about the sale and made it to the store mostly everything was gone or picked over. I did run into a pair of gorgeous gray suede platform wedges. Upside: $15, I'm not kidding $15 for a shoe normally sold for $69. Downside: half size too small. Actually since this heel has to be over four inches tall, the shoe is probably a whole size too small. I tried the pair on and immediately got visions of Naomi Campbell falling during her strut on the runway back in the 90s. How the heck am I going to walk in these, and that's only after I managed to get my feet in them! At this price I had to pull the trigger though. These will clearly be a dinner shoe. Happy Birthday Babs!

WHO will be ANTM

Babs has alerted me that Tyra and company just released the competitors for Season 9 America's Next Top Model. Looks like a nice variety and diverse group of prospective models. As usual in my opinion there are only a few girls who I feel I could actually see in designer campaign ads and designer runways shows. But this is only based off a photograph, having said that, my opinion could and most likely will change. I don't know if I'm blind while looking at this photograph, but I don't see a "plus size" model. I mention this because there's usually at least one "heavy" girl trying to compete amongst size two (or smaller) girls.

I cannot believe this show is going into its ninth season. I must admit that I'm growing a tad weary of the show. After eight seasons the ideas and concepts are the same, and the girls almost always look the same. It's lacking innovation and excitement, but my loyal personality won't let me abandon the show. Anyway, the season starts up again September 19th, and I'll be there.

hee hee hee

I just got in from a bachelorette party. I know what you're thinking - it couldn't have been all that fun if I'm coherent enough to write! But no, although we stayed in town, we had a very good time. We first met at the bride-to-be's house where we feasted on hors d'oeuvres, listened to underground sounds, and of course opened up gag gifts. I got her a whip (think Cat Woman) entirely made up of candy. The girls convinced her to take it with us, I'm getting a premonition. Anyway so the seven of us piled into the designated driver bridesmaid's SUV, and off to the bars we go with whip in hand and vale adorned. At the club we attained VIP table service which means you are your own bartender. Yeah, bad news. The DJ gave the bachelorette a shout-out as we danced and drank all night long while utilizing the whip. By utilizing I mean going up to random guys and spanking them. As you can imagine a lot of good sports were in the club. Outside however we encounter a bit of a problem child. The bachelorette took it upon herself to spank a guy manning the grill of a portable vendor. Well a female patron waiting for her gyro sandwich was not at all too thrilled with us and verbally expressed it while physically a little too close. "I don't want to get whipped while I'm getting my sandwich." I instantly reacted, "Um you weren't whipped, he was." What am I 16? Anyway that girl didn't want any piece of us! I am 16! We finally get our car in hopes to fill our stomachs with McDonald's. We pull up to the bride's driveway and all of a sudden the bride jumps out of the car and regurgitates right into the flower bed. Nice timing!

Ouuu Miu Miu

I was flipping through my July issue of Vogue magazine and came across these absolutely loverly Miu Miu pumps! Aren't they gorgeous! Looks to be a 4 inch block heel surrounded in off-white, pink, red, and purple patent round toe. I am officially in love but at $575 ummm not so sure.

Bone Thugs are back

Everyone has been talking about rap group Bone Thugs N Harmony's new CD Strength & Loyalty. I personally like their latest single from the CD Lil Love featuring my girl Mariah Carey. My coworker purchased and played the new CD for me which led to a question, a discussion really - what is Bone Thugs' all time best single? I easily chose 1st of tha Month. Everyone loved that song when it dropped in 1995. The beat was crazy, the way it hit you from the very beginning just after a school bell (which was suppose to be an alarm clock I guess) rang; and the lyrics were comical yet inspiring. The second verse done by Bizzy Bone was the tightest! He was truly the harmonious one in the group, where the heck is he now? Layzie Bone though had a line in his verse, "I'm yawning lightweight bent chugga lugga take a fifth to the dome" that I use to rewind and rewind! Even the music video to 1st of the Month was great. My coworker chose their song Notorious Thugs featuring The Notorious B.I.G. Huh what? Really, out of everything?! Alright that was a good song too and it featured the great Biggie Smalls, "It's Bone and Biggie Biggie", but their all time best? Another coworker chose East 1999 also dropped in 1995. That was a good song I suppose. Tha Crossroads, which went very mainstream and Thug Luv featuring Tupac came up in the discussion as well. Yes both very good songs released in 1995 and 1997 respectively. I'm pretty certain my sister would choose Thuggish Ruggish Bone. I just remember being in her car and the song blaring beyond belief in 1994. Bone Thugs have been around for a while now. What song would you say is their all time best (released or not)?

Helloooo McFly!

At the risk of sounding arrogant and/or mean, why is it that any ole' guy thinks he can approach any female in a bar? I was at a bar over the weekend and I had guys approach me who all had one thing in common - not physically attractive. Not in my opinion anyway. I don't want to sound obsessed with looks and aesthetic attributes but you have to admit that it is a factor, even if it's minute, when meeting people at a bar. I try to be very friendly (which comes naturally!) but friendly and nice can be misconstrued as interest and encouragement. Leading someone on is one of the most selfish things one can do, so I told one particular gentleman after he asked for my phone number, "I don't date short guys". My girlfriend couldn't believe I actually said that to him, but he was being a little too pushy for his own good which called for bluntness!

I can appreciate a good conversation with a random guy, it's the phone number asking thing that gets me. My phone number? I mean what are we really going to do together? You don't want to just talk with me and I don't want to date you, so what is the point? I often hear the saying that you attract people who are similar to you, which leads me to look to the mirror and chant "Candyman Candyman"... Just kidding! - mirror mirror on the wall.... One guy accused me of being shallow. My response - "duh!" BTW, don't you just love that Hyundai 'DUH' commercial? I digress. Well if caring about your physical well being and your potential partner's physical well being is shallow just cart me off now!

My girlfriend says I'll be worried if and when the guys stop approaching me, and for me to take it as a compliment. I do not agree, I'd much rather have no one approach me! I am happy to talk with anyone and I am flattered when I get approached, I mean I'm not all that. Not since 0 became the new 2!

You go Jada!

Dang Jada! Doesn't she look amazing. This is Jada Pinkett Smith at the Beckham welcoming bash in L.A. wearing a black mini strapless dress with some adorable black booties. I am so in love with this look, and on her little athletic body... Wow simply perfection.

Open your gifts

'Tis the season for weddings, bridal showers, and bachelorette parties. Well bachelorette parties can be fun, especially if you go to a fun location, i.e. Las Vegas, but with fun people! This weekend I have a bridal shower to attend. Yippie. Should consist of finger sandwiches, forced conversations, and games like 'don't say the word "bride"', or wedding word puzzles - gag me now! Now I'm off to go and purchase a gift for the bride to be, which will be an experience all by itself. At least she doesn't want lingerie, although that would have been easier to pick out. Now I'm forced to think, would she like this would she like that. I'll just throw in the gift receipt and hope it doesn't go longer than two hours! In all seriousness this could be fun. The host is a great party planner and has a beautiful home, so if nothing else I get to eye an appealing decor and prepare to be entertained. My girl Victoria Beckham says it best, "there's only one way to go here, and it's get more drunk". I kid I kid!

I won and it means nothing!

What do I get myself into? This past weekend my friend and his roommates threw a party at their apartment in Harlem and invited me. I gladly accepted and took a flight out to NYC. Filled with anticipation, as I've heard how their past parties went down, my girlfriend and I walked through the door to see Tyra Banks, Nigel Barker, Eva Pigford, Yoanna House, Naima Mora, Caridee English! Okay the party's theme was "Harlem's Next Top Model" with pictures of the cast and the models from the actual show posted all over the apartment. They also had the season's past shows playing on DVD for further inspiration. Pretty early into our arrival one of the roommates stop us to ask for our participation in being in the running to become "Harlem's Next Top Model". What! No way, I'm not putting myself out there like that! What's involved?!? Didn't take much arm twisting to get me to agree to having my very own photo shoot and, get this, a runway walk-off... Sold!

So participating in the challenge was me, my Naomi Campbell hot friend, and some pretty good-looking boys, who you guessed it, like boys but that's neither here nor there; let's get to the festivities. So the first task was to "smile with your eyes". Huh? Next - pose with an exotic animal, and by exotic they meant plastic spider. Third and most fun was the runway walk-off challenge. Since I watch every televised fashion show there is to watch, I killed that challenge... no brainer. All this done by interrupting the party, stopping the music and clicking on the lights for all to view... can you say embarrassing!

Later after all participants completed the tasks, three judges went to deliberate and not soon thereafter returned a verdict of ME - The Girl! I win I win. I was later brought back to reality when an "audience member" approached me saying, "Congratulations, it means nothing". BAM below the belt, but so true. No spread in Elle magazine, no $250,000 modeling contract. It was fun though while it lasted.

Styleyes

Ever wonder what happened to those "Queer Eye For The Straight Guy" boys? I was such a huge fan of that show. It was innovative, creative, fun and had some major eyecandy i.e. Kyan Douglas and Jai Rodriquez. Well I recently stumbled upon a show called "Styleyes" where Jai is the host. The show is a televised magazine about Miami, which includes Miami, South Beach and Miami Beach. Anyone who knows me knows that I am practically a Miami resident and just adore that city. This show focuses on Miami's fun side (what other side is there?) going behind the scenes of Jai and friends enjoying Miami's nightlife, recommending to viewers where to eat, lounge, dance, etc. Jai shares tips on how to get into a nightclub, and if you know Miami you know that information could come in handy.

Miami nightlife is not the only topic Styleyes covers. Jai covers the cultural aspect of Miami as well. He goes into the neighborhoods and talks with the locals. He interviews prominent figures in the community such as Emilio Estefan. He shares trends and tips on Miami style and Miami shopping. And who can forget about the Miami beaches - he covers that too. Rodriquez is knowledgable, interesting, sincere, and endearing. I love his personality, and they couldn't have found a better host for this show. Styleyes airs on SiTv Thursday nights at 11:00pm... watch it tonight!

My homage to V Beck

I'm watchin V Beck tonight

Gotta pay homage to my girl Vikki Beckham. Her reality show special is airing today showing her and her hubby along with their three kids moving from London to LA. Word is that David Beckham didn't want too much air time, but that won't deter me from watching the fashionista and obsessing over her bags, shoes, outfits, everything.

Breaking Back

Tennis star James Blake released his autobiography today, Breaking Back: How I Lost Everything and Won Back My Life. In the book he discusses his life on and off the tennis courts; how he's had to overcome tremendous obstacles like his father passing away to breaking his neck while playing tennis. From what I've heard, the book seems to be a very inspiring story. If nothing else I can stare at the cover of his smokin' hot picture. But in all seriousness, Blake seems like a nice, genuine, and humble guy. I'd be happy to support him with this project.

How much is too much to pay for a bathing suit? I was looking through my July issue of Lucky Magazine and came across the style bathing suit I've been searching desperately for. You would think a simple bandeau style wouldn't be difficult to find, but I've been having major troubles... No strap, or the strap on the top doesn't tie from the spot I prefer i.e. from the center, etc. Now here it is in Lucky mag! This one by Lisa Curran is the exact style I've been wanting to add to my collection and comes in some really cute colors, but costs $140! For two pieces of material are you crazy?! But I just adore the style and the cut of this bikini. I did find something kind of similar at Old Navy, but the fit was less than desirable. I haven't tried on the Lisa Curran piece, but perhaps that's the difference and justifies the large variance in price points. Ready or not for her prices, the collection is very cute and sold on her website or shopbop.

More than meets the eye

I'm being the biggest kid right now. I saw the new Transformers movie yesterday and I have to give it an assessment of COMPLETELY AWESOME! The movie was great. Okay there were times where I was looking for Will Smith because it looked a little too "Independence Day" for its own good, but you'll definitely appreciate the film if you grew up in the '80s. This youtube video shows really cool clips from the movie to the Transformers theme song done by Mute Math.

Au revoir

A couple of my friends are leaving New York City this month for good to live in Luxembourg. It's such a gutsy move to leave your home for unfamiliar and foreign territory, but also very exciting. Luxembourg resides around 500,000 people of which French is known as the official and dominate language. While it seems as though most people took Spanish in high school, my friends took French, so that should come in handy. Realistically, probably not. High school French is so much different from the real thing. But luckily English is widely spoken there. It will be mighty expensive to live there, especially since the Dollar sucks against the Euro, something they'll need to get use to. Luxembourg also happens to be ranked no. 1 in the world regarding alcohal comsumption per capita dethroning Ireland. They got a kick out of that statistic. This is such a cool thing they're doing and I have to say best wishes to my friends.

Runway to the streets

I'm on elle.com viewing some runway shows and come across a look I've been seeing a lot of: Sandals with socks. I love this look on the models and am dying to try it myself, but would it work in the real world? It's a completely different world on those runways, and not many people could even pull off those designs deemed "ready-to-wear". By definition ready-to-wear indicates that you can walk right off the runway and onto the streets in that piece. The below is from Marc by Marc Jacobs' spring 2007 ready-to-wear collection showing the girls with an open toe sandal accompanied with an ankle sock. I purchased some ankle socks last fall with every intention to sport this look, but every time I choose the perfect outfit to wear my foot accessory with guess what... I chicken out. This look kind of defeats the purpose of what each item is meant for. You know, socks are meant to warm the foot while a sandal lets the foot breathe. Having said that, I'm just not sure people will get it, but I do adore the look and will eventually muster up the courage to wear it. Since when do I care what people think! Right?

Paris up, no down, no up

Since I'm in investment banking I receive tons of publications and e-mails about the financial markets. I just had to laugh when a pretty credible financial website e-mailed me a link to the Paris Hilton Stock Index. It's a composite portfolio that picks stocks based on anything Paris Hilton. Is she not everywhere or what? Even (insert stereotype) old gray-haired executives are concerned with her. Below is a blog site and website regarding this index. It's really quite hilarious; especially as they track the index upon jail visits and release dates. The trend shows that the index is fairly volitale as she is in jail.


http://stockerblog.blogspot.com/2007/06/paris-hilton-stock-index.html


http://stockpickr.com/port/Stockerblog-com-Paris-Hilton-Stock-Portfolio/

MJ

Okay I'm being real touristy but I just heart Marc Jacobs and I about jumped out of my skin when I saw his plaque on Fashion Boulevard located on 41st and 7th. It's just a little homage to fashion designers a la Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you can deal with the Time Square crowds go and walk all over Marc and many others.

Party over here

So how cool is this.... I stayed through the weekend after my business trip to New York was over and did some shopping as any shopaholic would. Anyway, ventured over to Macy's and didn't want to spend too much so landed in the junior department there. I'm in New York often enough, but for some reason never visit Macy's. In the junior department I'm greeted with P.Diddy's hit "Last Night" blaring through the store. There's a DJ spinning in the store - pretty cool right! He's spinning hit after hit after hit - Lil Mama, Lloyd, Fergie etc. They accomplished their task with me, because I was entertained and it put me in even better spirits to shop, which means money to them. More shops should do that.

BITTEN, pushed and shoved

I am in New York City this week for work so of course I have to pay a visit to Steve & Barry's who sell Sarah Jessica Parker's new clothing line 'Bitten' exclusively. Steve & Barry's is in the Manhattan Mall and upon walking through I'm beaming from the anticipation. The anticipation is immediately dissipated by discouragement.... The checkout line is wrapped around the store, TWICE! But I'm in NY, I'm already at the store I must go in, so I do. Nothing in SJP's collection is over $20. She's said as much in press releases and interviews, but there's something about seeing the modest price tag in person. The collection is pretty casual with tees, polo-ish shirts, and jeans, lots and lots of jeans. She also has espadrilles, cute dresses, and button-up shirts ideal for my office job. The only thing though, the stuffs been picked over. It was pretty difficult to find a size other than large and extra-large. The shoes were everywhere; out of boxes, scattered all about on the floor. These women were relentless. The aisle ways aren't that wide, but these woman were behaving as if they would get to meet SJP if they found the treasure. The staff had to be please about that.

So once I made my selections, I braved the extremely long and outrageous checkout line. It was so amusing to see the faces of the people who walked into the store go from all smiles to complete shock at the checkout line. "We're not actually gonna stand in this line are we?" I can actually say the line was fairly efficient. Because of the prices people had loads of stuff at checkout, but my wait wasn't long at all relatively speaking.

Tied?!

Last Friday the 34th Daytime Emmy awards were presented in Los Angeles. I often reference soap operas so it's pretty obvious that I'm a huge fan. Having said that I was so excited for the awards, I know lame right! But there's just something about seeing the characters out of character; how does the actor look, what is the actor wearing, who is the actor sitting by - you know typical intriguing questions. Anyway my favorite soap is The Young & the Restless, so needless to say I was rooting heavily for the show and any cast member nominated for an award. When it came down to announcing the best soap opera of the year (Outstanding Drama Series), Rachael Ray shocked us by saying, "there's two, it's a tie!" What the?! A tie, are you kidding me? The committee couldn't reach a decision? Anyway, The Young & the Restless was a co-winner in this category. Whatever! They win outright in my book.

Other notables:

Outstanding Lead Actor
Christian LeBlanc, Y&R

Outstanding Younger Actor
Bryton McClure, Y&R

Outstanding Achievement in Live & Direct To Tape Sound Mixing
Y&R

ShopBop sale

One of my favorite online shops is having a major sale. Do numbers like 30, 50, and 70 mean anything to you? Well these are the percentages that are being taken off the normal price of designers like Juicy Couture, L.A.M.B, Seven jeans, and my favorite Rachel Pally at shopbop.com. If you're not familiar with this online store, shopbop carries women's clothing, shoes, and accessories by a wide array of designers. Now is the time to pick up those skinny jeans you've been penny pinching for or those ballerina slippers you've been eyeballing. These markdowns are great, but to top things off shipping is absolutely free. No not next day shipping, lets not get greedy! So take the money you gained from the stock market's rally the past couple of days and check out the site.

J'adore Nadal

Do you like this look? This is the look Rafael Nadal has been wearing on the tennis courts for some time now. The Spaniard just won the French Open tennis tournament on Sunday beating Roger Federer in four sets while sporting a sleeveless muscle shirt and capris pants. I for one think his shirt is ultra sexy, especially since he has the arms to pull it off. The capris however I'm not so sure about. I'm pretty sure that this look on a man is more acceptable in Europe, although I'm not certain anyone else on the tour is rocking the capris look. Nadal is super cute, but what do you think of his attire?
Score update:
Nadal 40 Capris love

The world is flat (kind of)

The latest shoe craze is surprisingly not a 5 inch high platform. Lately as I shop through the many sources I adore for shoes, I've come across a really cute look. A closed (or peep) toe wedged heel between 1 and 2 inches tall in a covered foot or slingback. Many shoe makers, from high-end all the way down, are participating in this design style. They look super comfortable and usually comfort is synonymous with non-sexy, but in my opinion the look can make an outfit pop. My girl friend says they are all over her college campus.

Look at these, they are absolutely so hot in the pointed toe. I of course picked up a pair (being the shopaholic I am) in a round-toe and wear them to the office, but they're a great transition for after five o'clock too. These are all taken from Zappos, but this look is everywhere. Jessica Simpson, for example, has a nice variety in her line (not pictured above) that are very cute. Since I'm already taller than the average female, I am pleased that the latest shoe trend is taking it down a notch so to speak.

Theme of the weekend

This week sucked major bleep (for lack of a lady-like term) at work. So this weekend I'm letting loose! For those who know me know I'm pretty conservative, so my "letting loose" is probably equivalent to someone else's normal night out on the town. The weather is going to be just right to rock my Balenciaga bag against all the skin I'll be exposing. Rihanna has a song, "Don't Stop the Music", on her new CD that is going to have to be my theme this weekend.... Well the part where she talks about dancing your stress away and partying all night. A boy would be icing!

It's getting late
I'm making my way all the time
My favorite place
I gotta get my body moving
Shake the stress away
I wasn't looking for nobody when you looked my way
Possible candidate, yeah
Who knew
That you'd be here, be here looking like you do
You make and staying over here, impossible
Baby, I'm a say your aura is incredible
If you don't have to go, don't
Do you know when to start it?
I just came here to party
But now we're rockin' on the dance floor, actin' naughty
Your hands around my waist
Just let the music play
We're hand in hand just to dress and now we're face to face

Lyrics from www.azlyrics.com

Daddy Yankee yo!

My man, my boo, my bo, my honey (however you want to label it) released his new CD today titled El Cartel: The Big Boss. Daddy Yankee is top rated in his field of Reggaeton, a genre becoming more and more popular. This album is a mix of rap, song, and reggae, with sweet melodies, horns and ill beats. It's majority Spanish speaking, but don't let that deter you. If you can appreciate good music you'll love it just the same. This CD is fun and will make you want to move, whether from your seat or while in your seat. With 21 energetic tracks including A Lo Clasico, Mensaje De Estado, and Impacto (released single) you're sure to endure nonstop entertainment.

Ocean (not the movie)

I soooo want this mobile phone by Helio called Ocean. It's a slider phone where one part is for conversing and another for the typewriter keyboard. And it's so tiny, which is good for when I carry a small bag or clutch. I first noticed it all over my fashion magazines, but apparently I'm behind - its been available on the market for a month now. Slashgear does a great write-up on it. Babs and I talk about ending our ties with Verizon, this might be the push I need. Isn't it cool!

beep beep!

I'm getting a moped! Isn't this one super cute in a butter color! Okay let me slow down... I want a moped. Gas prices are out of control and these babies get around 80 miles per gallon, if not more. Gas prices in my area have come down, but by very little. There are a few downfalls however. Mopeds only get up to around 55 miles per hour, not very fast so no highway driving. Where I live I'll be on this thing maybe a good 6 months out of the year, not that long. Mopeds and scooters start anywhere from $700 to $3,000 from what I've seen, not so cheap. But if you do the math I think I'll make out in the long run. It doesn't sound like gas prices are coming down in the foreseeable future, so have to think of ways to be fuel efficient. What better alternative to public transporation, and a lot more fun.

Holiday shoppin'

Did you take advantage of any Memorial Day weekend sales? I was very good this weekend, meaning I didn't break the bank and justify it by saying, "but it was on sale"! Anyone who knows me knows that I am a shopaholic, but this past weekend I wasn't feeling it. Don't get me wrong, I did venture out to a mall or two but the sales weren't anything to write home about. Having said that, I only ended up with one thing - This long sleeved tee. I had to pick this up.... It's so girly with the rhinestones so I'll look extra cute when I tailgate this fall with the boys. So what did you purchase? Did you get a good deal?

Happy Memorial weekend

I am so looking forward to the this weekend. One because Monday is a holiday for us and I don't have to go into work (yea!) and two, a lot of people use this weekend to have pool parties, picnics, or cookouts. The weather is going to be relatively good this weekend around the country, so I will use this long weekend to catch up on my favorite blog sites and my magazine subscriptions (which just happens to be piling up) while sun-bathing at the pool. This is also a great weekend to go shopping. A lot of boutiques, department stores, and shops love to lure us in by "marking down" the prices on a lot of their products and calling it a Memorial Day sale. I for one don't need a reason to shop, but I just love a good deal. So get out and eat, shop, and tan not necessarily in that order. Have a get Memorial Day weekend!

Dressing your boy

Guess I've been kind of oblivious, but women's jeans aren't the only ones reporting a $100+ price tag. My boy Nate came to me wanting my expert fashion advice on some jeans he was contemplating purchasing. To my surprise they were designer jeans, but he is one of my male friends who is into that. Anyway he was looking at a pair of William Rast, True Religion, and Rock & Republic. Of course after he gave me the rundown I let him know to expect to pay a hefty price, but I wasn't prepared for this.... The William Rast pair he was interested in would run him a whopping $230! True Religion is selling a pair for $280 (not the pair he showed me). The Rock & Republic pair wouldn't be far off. I was shell-shocked. I asked him, "are you sure you want to spend this kind of money on jeans?!" Guess that's what I was for, to talk some sense into him! In all seriousness, I liked all of the styles he chose. They each had a little something different about them whether it was the wash, or the cut, or the pocket style. The jeans look pretty darn sexy on these male models, but I convinced my boy to wait a while and sleep on it before he went on a spending binge.

The Limited no more?

Last week Leslie Wexner, founder of Limited Brands, sold majority stake in Express Fashions to a firm in California. The reason: Wexner wants to focus on intimate apparel and beauty & personal care products i.e. Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works. He's been selling off apparel branches for years now starting with Lane Bryant then Lerner New York. Rumor has it that the Limited stores are next. Living in Ohio, where Wexner started his chain, the Limited brand has been very influential in my style. Express in particular. Express is a great place for me to purchase daytime wear and night life fashions. I can say that Express is one of the first brands that began selling pants and jeans in different lengths, recognizing that not every woman is 5'5" tall. I will admit though that I have not been fond of Express' rising price points. I can recall a couple of years ago my sister and I ventured there for holiday shopping and found sweaters being sold there for $200! We were shocked and had to look at the name on the building to make sure we were in the right place. This is Express right!? Not sure if they were trying to keep up with the Versaces of the world, but I had to take a small break from that place.

The break was a small one and their prices are still higher than expected, but the clothing and accessories are still really cute. I always receive compliments when wearing an Express piece. News stories report that distribution centers and headquarters will remain in Ohio, so consumers may not notice or feel the change in ownership. I'll keep my eye on this story.

Got my nails did

I went to the nail salon a few days ago for a little pampering. I usually take care of my nails myself, but thought it was time to have a professional touch them. I visited the local nail salon who take walk-ins and signed up for a basic manicure, and was pumped! As she started the manicure process a thought came to me. I remembered watching a TV program where an aesthetician informed people not to have your cuticles cut. That cutting your cuticles makes them grow back faster and thicker. Eww, who wants that right?! But as my manicurist was tending to my nails the cuticle trimmer came out, and I said nothing. I figured what the hay, I'm sure this isn't THAT damaging to my nails. So I happily accepted the manicure, chose a pretty nail enamel, paid her and went on my way. Much later I went to wash my hands in hot water (as I tend to do) and my hands, no my cuticle area was stinging! Then, dun dun dun, I saw BLOOD! Okay I'm being dramatic, but I know the next time I will have her keep her cuticle trimming tool in the drawer and simply have them pushed back. But if that's your thing don't let my story discourage you.

Slow music week

This Tuesday (as with every Tuesday) musicians drop their CDs for the world to purchase. There are a couple CDs which I am anticipating will be very good, partly from the band's history and partly from the released single.

1) Linkin Park - Minutes to Midnight
2) Tank - Sex, Love & Pain

I'm a pretty big Linkin Park fan, I have all of their CDs. Well the Collision Course CD featuring Jay-Z is my boy Hen's, but it's in my possession for now! Their new single What I've Done starts with a riff resembling the musical theme to horror flick 'Halloween', which immediately caught my attention since I'm a huge fan of that movie series. "Well trick or treat?!" Okay sorry for that, couldn't resist. Tank I'm not really a fan or a non-fan of, but I just love his new single Please Don't Go. I'm into sappy love songs so this one is right up my alley. This single has a great track, good lyrics, a really good voice. Other than those two, I'm not looking forward to any other releases this week.

Sunglasses Hunt

Now that we're well into spring and headed very quickly into summer I have been obsessed with finding the perfect pair of shades. I found a pair by JLo that I love for my South Beach trip, but for some reason I'm not satisfied - I want more! I think the main place this is coming from is while in Miami, of course everyone had on some designer trendy pair of shades, I spotted a pair on a random woman just passing by as I was basking in the sun. On this woman these sunglasses were so cute. Since she was passing by I couldn't see the designer (usually located on the side) but they looked so hot. A dark lens with the frame a gold metal - it just looked so luxurious. But I'm not into spending a ton of cash on sunglasses. Surprisingly, since I am a label whore, I plain just don't think it's worth it. Most sunglasses, if not all, being sold today are UVA/UVB protected so you end up paying for nothing more than the name on the frame, and in some cases the case that come with the pair.

These are Fendi and are super cute, but I cannot justify paying the $300 price tag. Yeah I'll just keep looking.

Survey says... clear skies

Just got back from vacationing in Miami, Florida. South Beach to be exact, and it was everything I thought it would be! My sisters and I try to make this trip annually, and although it's only April, it was a very welcomed vacation. I have been longing to leave the roller coaster weather of the Midwest for a stable hot and sunny destination. The city that never sleeps was just that - there was so much going on I was somewhat disappointed with all the distraction. Nevertheless, we made it a relaxing and serene trip. Once we got over all the bumming around on the beach, we managed to take advantage of the fabulous shopping. Of course had to stop by Intermix and I have to mention the hottest bag ever! Okay I'm a little gitty right now, but the boutique carried a Versace bag that was unbelievable! I could not take my eyes off it. My sister who is not a shopper at all had to agree, and that's saying something. Anyhow, I was relatively good, only came home with a few extra things (Versace bag not included). Had to save some of my funds for the nightlife, which can be unbelievably expensive if you don't have a connection. I'm feeling well rested and looking very dark as I return back to reality and count down to my next vacation!

Love a good sale

Went on a bit of a shopping spree last weekend at Mexx. They are having the best sale to rid their winter items. With April feeling like February I had no problem picking up and purchasing sweaters, scarves, and wool. I like Mexx because their style is great for day and night. Very conservative clothing (which is ideal for my job), but at the same time very fashionable (which is ideal for my psyche)! I walked out of there paying probably half of what I should have paid, and for such cute stuff. Like any shopaholic I wanted to walk out of there with much more, but not surprisingly a lot of the items in the more popular sizes were gone. Below are a few of the items I purchased. The scarf below was only $5, so I had to pick up more than one!

Can you hair me now

I will miss Sanjaya's many looks!

(Images from Google)