(Yeezy Season 1-Inspired) Flesh-Toned Fashion Accessories!

(Set created on www.polyvore.com)

I'm a lover of bold tones, including teal and black. But there are times when I want to incorporate something softer into my outfits...something that will add a nice touch of boho-chic sophistication.

And while I wouldn't necessarily describe Kanye's new women's fashion collection - in collabo with Adidas - as a "sophisticated" range of styles (his bodysuits and body hugging styles are risqué and leave little to anyone's imagination), I appreciate some of the flesh-toned "somber" colors he chose as well as the simplicity of his collection. When watching clips of his February 2015 showcase, held on the first day of New York Fashion Week on YouTube (didn't make it to NY this season!), I was really digging it. But I also realized that shades of cream, beige, and browns don't complement most women's bodies from head to toe - especially worn skin-tight.

That's where accessories come in! 

As you can see from the my Yeezy Season 1-inspired Polyvore set, I chose pieces that could work in nicely with nearly any color - especially white and black. As an LA blogger who strives to inspire, this is intended to get you thinking about the flesh-toned pieces you may already have in your closet and jewelry box! And if you feel you're lacking in these colors, nearly every single retail shop you come across -- from Ross and Forever 21 to Bebe and Nordstrom -- you will find some treats. Want something waaaay unique and rare? A flea market is your best bet.

Happy Hunting!

Original Victoria's Secret Model Kimberly Friedmutter Gives 'Narsie' and Nice Style Tips! (Take Notes)

(The lovely, poised Kimberly Friedmutter!)

Kimberly Friedmutter is more than a beauty! She's an internationally-acclaimed life management expert, celebrity hypnotist, goddess of greatest gadgets, and reality television star (TLC's "Sin City Rules"). Also one of the original Victoria's Secret models, Friedmutter is an innovative, trendsetting Las Vegas-based star that coined the hilariously-clever term "Narsie." (Keep reading...you'll get it!) And she's here on Good Girl Gone Shopping, providing both practical and creative tips regarding shopping, style, and home decor. Insight to celebrity and our universal social media addiction included. Enjoy! 

The term you coined – “Narsie” – is so clever! I especially appreciate your philosophy regarding these types of photos (“selfies” that are posted on a public social forum) as healthy. What would you say to those who abhor this social media photo trend? 

I’d say ‘grow up!’ Change is rarely fun, especially if it’s irritating change. The beauty with Narsies is that you don’t have to participate in social media if you’re not feeling social! It’s an easy thing to avoid unless you're ‘in on the trend’...but try looking at the positive side of Narsies! A Narsie-holic is likely to over-share, so try to enjoy them by finding the humor in it.

(Friedmutter: Bombshell of today!)

For those who are still trying to perfect the art of taking a great Narsie (including myself!), what tips would you give? 

It’s a funny thing because normally, you want a photo shot from very low so the body is elongated, lean and tall, but with a Narsie, the best angle is the opposite, the higher the better. However, the real key is LIGHTING! No amount of editing can look as great as starting with good key light (main light source) so do your best to find light and Narsie on!

Thoughts on Kim Kardashian’s new book, “Selfish”…? 

It’s the perfect title, perfect subject, perfectly hilarious! You can’t make this stuff up! It’s perfect for her, her personality, it’s what we love about her and also what makes us uncomfortable, too. Very few women can pull this off but for Kim, it’s pretty much what we would expect, right?

Social media is so prevalent in our lives…Hard to imagine life without it! What social networks do you find most beneficial to you and your work? 

I like Twitter the most because of the give and take. Not only is it easy to post but other twitter accounts are really interesting. I like to look at other people’s Twitter to see how they are doing . . . to check in. You can tell so much from daily posts! I do feel bad for people when they accidentally post private messages or don’t think ahead about repercussions. People just really love to be known and social media reveals a lot -- good and bad.

What do you find most fascinating about celebrity living in the age of social media? 

It used to be that you just monitor what you say. Now it seems most people say what they want and then post really damaging things. Personally, I think social media is great but it’s become the new survival of the fittest. If you carelessly post inappropriate things, chances are it’ll catch up to you.

(Friedmutter: Victoria's Secret blast-from-the-past!)

From being one of the original Victoria’s Secret models, called the ‘Most Famous Hand Model in the World’ by CNN’s correspondent Tony Clark, to an internationally-acclaimed Life Management Expert, Celebrity Hypnotist, Goddess of Greatest Gadgets, Trendsetter, Magazine Contributor, and Reality TV star, you have a unique range of experience and specialties. How do you stay balanced? 

It’s interesting because I spent the first part of my life modeling, a lot of which was lingerie catalog modeling. The goal, at the time was to not look ‘too sexy’ for the garments and catalog; no overt sexy looks or poses, rather more moderate and mainstream. Now, it’s the exact opposite. It wasn’t too long ago, lingerie ads couldn’t air on television, restricted by network ethics departments. I’m so happy to see beautiful lingerie, especially for VS, because the catalogs launched an iconic business for sensual beauty and the freedom to bare it. I love the brand and I LOVE what VS has become. At the same time, I was recognized for my hands of all things! CNN approached me to do a special on my success, interviewing clients and documenting my photo shoots, etc… The network found my success to be a unique human interest story, of course Seinfeld publicly had episodic fun with the notion of ‘hand modeling’. I segued into film, screenwriting, talk radio, then private practice Hypnosis and television. I pretty much follow my interests and they seemingly charted toward more cerebral industries. However, I REALLY love gorgeous lingerie [laughs]!

I absolutely love your OK Magazine summer video called: “Clean Our Your Closet And Create aBeautiful Flower Arrangement At The Same Time.” The common woman often gets frustrated and stressed out when merely considering the idea of cleaning out her closet, but you offer hope! Was there a particular situation or experience that inspired the idea of turning shoes into vases? 

Yes, definitely! I’m a ‘grab whatcha’ got’ kind of girl. I use pillowcases for dining place mats (it’s true!) I use candleholders for glasses, draperies for tablecloths, rugs for blankets and boots for vases! I get a little bored with traditional things and LOVE the unexpected! I entertained the other night and guests loved that I used books as chargers under the dinner plates. I recommend looking around at what you have instead of what you want, you might already have it, in another form or purpose . . . that’s the payoff for cleaning closets; keep an open mind so treasures can reveal themselves.

(A "BoHo-Rock" Friedmutter!)

In speaking of fashion, how would you describe your own personal style? 

It’s fun for fashion to follow your feelings! My most comfy fashion is what I call BoHo-Rock. I love a good blingy cowboy boot with jeans, a white T-shirt and DIAMONDS! Combine b-l-i-n-g with b-a-r-n (either jeans or flannel shirt) and the combo gets a lot of attention. It’s effortless but not ignored; looking like the perfect combination of ‘easy’ but polished.

Scenario: You RSVP’d just a few hours before an important event and don’t have time to buy anything new nor contact a designer to borrow a piece. So you’re stuck with putting everything together in a short period of time on your own. What type of look is the safest to turn to at this point, while still being attention-getting? 

Tops and bottoms of the same color are easiest and fastest to throw on last minute. Let your accessories be your assets! It’s easy to have a neutral, sparkly shoe, bag, bracelet and necklace ‘at the ready’ to look pulled together. My best advice is to merchandise your closet! I do this on any given weekend and it’s MY BEST TIP EVER! Hang your clothing as outfits. Start with your favorite jacket, hanging it next to pants, tops and skirts that go with that jacket. You now have many mix-and-matched outfits. Do this with all of your favorite key pieces. Then separate closet into categories: work, play, travel, beach, winter, dinners, gym, etc . . . (categories to suit your needs) Remember to include a section I call ‘fat’ simply for days you can’t find comfort in tight clothing. Now, when the phone rings with a last-minute travel plan or invite, you can reach for the section and choose your outfit. I think my 'closet trick' is one of the best tips ever! 

"Go where the spirit of clothing leads you!" - Friedmutter)

Best place to travel to for unique as well as affordable fashion? 

Any place away from where you live! We tend to dress for our geography -- it’s a subconscious form of survival to look like those we are in contact with. In order to expose yourself to global fashion, explore boutiques, street markets or malls when you travel for best variety. Obviously, the internet opens your closet sense to the world, however, it’s a lot of fun to allow other women to inspire you to try different styles. When I travel to Costa Rica, I find myself wearing tighter pants with my suits as opposed to Indonesia, where I enjoy looser but less clothing. Go where the spirit of clothing leads you!

Connect with Kimberly Friedmutter by visiting her website and following her on Twitter! 

Photo Credits: All courtesy of Kimberly Friedmutter 

gx by Gwen Stefani Now on Shelves at Nordstrom (Naturally!)

(Photo Credit: gx by Gwen Stefani's Twitter page!)

In March 2014, I reported on the gx by Gwen Stefani collabo with ShoeDazzle! And now...just a year later, mind you...her unique and affordable line of yummy heels are available at Nordstrom! Yessss.

The cute and colorful range of styles are available both online and in the store. In fact, I just got off the phone with a Nordy associate to make sure they are on the shelves. YES, it's confirmed -- the BP shoe department at The Grove in LA received its first shipment this month. You're welcome! 

**Ain't no stopping Gwen -- and I love to be all over it! Check out some of my previous articles featuring this music, fashion, and business mogul's brand launches and collabos: Spark the Fire' with Gwen Stefani and Mastercard! (Pricesless) (2014), OPI + Gwen Stefani: An Insane Blast of New Nail Color! (2014, and Delivering Cuteness to Target: 'Harajuku Mini' in Time for the Holidays! (2011)

Rock Black on the Boardwalk During Hot Summer Evenings!

(Visual created on www.polyvore.com)

I loooove color. I mean, like really. But in my book, black is a universal tone that looks great on everyone and can embody different personalities. Most chic, edgy, sophisticated, mod, über industrial, and sexy looks are often developed with black pieces.

So, with summer inching closer (hurry up!!), I'm looking forward to investing in a few black bikini tops and halter styles that can take me from day to night. In other words, items that I can lay out in and then dress up for a nighttime stroll on the boardwalk with my BF. As you can see with this visual, I included a pair of grunge-y jeans (Rag & Bone Women's Boyfriend Jean - Rebel Wash) to offset the sexiness of the tops and heels. I'm all about comfort and still maintaining a casual toughness to an evening look!

Basically, what I'm pretty much saying is this: I'm so ready to kick off sandy flip-flops as the sun sets before throwing on a pair of jeans and heels to accompany my skin-baring top (yummy earrings already on!).

What about you? Think you'll rock black on the boardwalk during summer evenings? 

Philly-to-Hollywood Beauty Stylist Neicy Small is the Illest!

(Neicy Small/ Photo Credit: www.neicysmall.com)

No stranger to set life and transforming the looks of pop stars, video vixens, models, actors, rappers, and entertainers, Philly-bred beauty stylist Neicy Small has been taking on Hollywood for more than a decade. With a roster of celebrity clients that includes both males and females (think levels like: Jasmine Villegas and Tyrese Gibson), Neicy is known to turn a simple look into a sensational, jaw-dropping hit. Because I love shedding light on industry professionals that I believe could give you that dose of style inspiration you may (so desperately) need, I'm proud to feature this humble and innovative mogul on Good Girl Gone Shopping.

Unfortunately, not everyone recognizes their innate talents and hits the the road to reach their goals. In fact, it's easy for many people to get discouraged and quit before their journey even begins.

But for Neicy, the in-demand beauty stylist who is known to "beat" faces and whip hair with the best of them (arguably, the best in Los Angeles), her itch for styling developed after a significantly memorable moment as a young girl. "I went to a salon to get my hair done...my hair was down to my waist. I was so young! I didn't know the lady would end up cutting all my hair to the point where I couldn't even make a pony [laughs]," recalls Neicy. "I was traumatized and wanted no one to touch my hair, so I went to hair school."

(Jasmine Villegas/ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Neicy Small)

Although it wasn't necessarily her initial dream ("I used to rap and make music, but that didn't work out so hair and makeup it was."), Neicy knew that LA was the place to pursue her career in the beauty industry. And while the pressure that comes with making a name for oneself in Hollywood can feel daunting and discouraging to most, Neicy's strength and faith drove her to eventually leave Philly and head to the west coast.

"I come from a city where there is not much opportunity, and being a mixed child, I grew up in a competitive hood where I always had to prove myself," says Neicy. "Pressure doesn't bust my pipes...it just makes me go harder."

(Ester Dean/ Photo Credit: Courtesy of Neicy Small)

And she is doing just that. Currently, Neicy is prepping for a new, upcoming travel experience that she welcomes with open arms. Scheduled to accompany acclaimed American pop singer/songwriter, rapper, actress, and record producer Ester Dean on "The Pinkprint Tour" in Europe (headlined by Nicki Minaj), Neicy has come quite a long way since getting her long locks, unknowingly axed.

Excited to be on board for this 1-month, overseas tour with Ester (who has contributed to some of Nicki's hottest hits, including "All Things Go" and "Super Bass"), Neicy is also excited about spending time in a spot she's never been. "I'm looking forward to the different culture and places outside of what I see each day," she says. "Everyday people, art, fashion, lifestyle, nature...pretty much anything can inspire me."

(Tyrese Gibson/ Photo Credit: www.neicysmall.com)

As for Neicy's renowned skills in hair, makeup, nails, and male grooming, her "east coast flava" definitely adds a unique touch to her work on the west coast. "I use technique with style and grace when I touch a client's hair or face. I like to call myself a lifestyle hair and makeup artist," she says. 

Famous for providing her clients with "good vibes and laughs," Neicy reveals who she would absolutely love to makeover. "I would love to make over a regular girl maybe from a small town. I've worked with a lot of celebrities, but I would love to give someone a makeover who doesn't know about fashion and style...someone who doesn't even watch TV like that," says Neicy, who has proudly worked with Jasmine Villegas for five years, the American pop and R&B singer featured in Kendrick Lamar's "That's Me Right There."

In speaking of the "regular girl" or even the girl who is clueless about how to attain a fresh-looking face, what simple makeup tips would my favorite lifestyle hair and makeup artist give? "My simple tips would be to always clean and moisturize your face first, before applying makeup. Use an everyday foundation of your choice. If you have oily skin, use non-oil foundation. If you have dry skin, then use a moisturizing foundation...and little mascara and lip gloss for a clean, everyday look!"

To see more of Neicy's amazing work, please visit her website and follow her on Instagram! 

5 Lessons to Take From the Giuliana Rancic-Zendaya Fiasco!

(L-R: Giuliana Rancic, Zendaya/ Photo Credit: www.accesshollywood.com)

There was a time when I couldn't stand "Fashion Police" on E!. The performance of industry folks sitting around to basically judge a celebrity's style -- following an award show or while dissecting Hollywood trends in segments like "Bitch Stole My Look" -- turned me off for a bit. Because my passion for fashion roots in creativity and in the beauty of diversity, I didn't always feel comfortable laughing at what comedian Joan Rivers said (even if it was hilarious!). It was so very "Mean Girls" to me.

But then I hopped back on the E! train a couple of years ago or so, becoming a regular viewer of the show. I decided to really listen and learn from the intellectual perspectives of the stylists, including topics surrounding the distinct signature styles of designers, why particular cuts don't work well with certain body shapes and sizes, and how this color combo or that type of print can make or break an outfit. From George Kotsiopoulos bringing me to a new level of understanding to the cleverly coined phrases and excitement of the fabulous Brad Goreski (who now sits in Kotsiopoulos' seat), their presence on the show helped to balance out the rest of the nonsense.

E!'s popular correspondent Giuliana Rancic usually added tasteful support (or tasteful opposition) to what some of the other hosts would say. And with her chic flavor and friendly personality, I maintained a certain level of respect for Rancic. I also gained a respect for Kelly Osbourne over the years, as she has proven to the world that she is her own person with her own opinion. The bubbly Brit (and daughter of the "Prince of Darkness") brought an edgy look, as well as a knowledgeable and unbiased commentary about a star's look (whether she was friends with him/her or not!).

(Kelly, you'll be missed! Photo Credit: www.VH1.com)

But now, due to poor judgment and for the sake of "comedy," everything has changed.

Here's what happened: Actress/singer/dancer Zendaya flaunted gorgeous faux dreadlocks at The Oscars. In analyzing her look on "Fashion Police," Rancic said: "I feel like she smells like pachouli oil" while another unidentified voice chimed in with "Or weed!" Zendaya then tweeted about being insulted in regards to the comment, prompting an uproar from the social media world, which included accusations that Rancic's comment was "racist." Rancic made a public apology to Zendaya on E!, and Zendaya acknowledged the apology. Then Osbourne quits the show, after making it clear that she is friends with the star and that she was not happy with how any of it went down. According to US Weekly, Osbourne was against the Zendaya comments during filming and didn't want to go along with it.

My big questions: Why was Rancic the designated host to make the comment? Because she's not a comedian, wouldn't it make more sense if Kathy Griffin (who took Rivers' position) to say that? Did Rancic try to object or was it her idea? 

While a new season of "Fashion Police" is set to begin in a few weeks, I have decided to stop taking part in it. Simply being a viewer, in my mind, is saying being a Mean Girl is acceptable...and it's not. It has not been said yet who will take over Osbourne's position and whether or not Rancic even continues with the show (be it her choice or E!'s). Until then, I'd like to shower this story with some positivity. There are many lessons that we can take from this ordeal. Here are my top 5:

(Loyalty reigns!/ Photo Credit: Huffington Post)

1) Words DO hurt. Celebrities are people too, and yes critics can take things too far even if they didn't have an evil intention.

2) Know your lane. Rancic is not a professional comedian. Period. Stick to interviews, girl! That's what you're great at.

3) Public personalities must be aware that they make a difference (good or bad). Social media may not always feel like your friend when something goes wrong. Just means you need to remember that there is power in the people, as well as power in the tool that allows us to voice our opinions.

4) Glamour is not a cookie-cutter image. Who says that a couture gown cannot be accompanied with natural hair or a statement-making hairstyle? Coming from someone who loves her locs and loves her Bond No. 9 perfume (I hate pachouli oil!), I say eff yes - you can create your own version of glam.

5) Have boundaries. It's been reported that Osbourne has been unhappy on the show since Rivers passed. But whether that is true or not, the time obviously came when Osbourne had to make a decision that was best for her. She knew her boundaries.

Where do you stand now with "Fashion Police"...? Will you continue to watch the show?