Celebrity Stylist Anya Sarre Talks Fall Fashion

This video features an exclusive segment specifically for you, Good Girl Gone Shopping readers! Anya Sarre, a celebrity stylist and on-air fashion expert for such shows as "Entertainment Tonight" and "The Insider," shows you hot trends and styles for fall. The chief accessories and handbag stylist of ShoeDazzle.com, a website founded by Kim Kardashian (on the idea that EVERY WOMAN should feel good about her outfit), Anya is a red carpet, know-how expert.

So yay! This is your opportunity to soak up the tips and apply them to your future shopping. Fall is right around the corner, and I just know that you want to be on top of what's hot and what may work for your wardrobe. As a personal shopper, I am proud to present fashion tips straight from a celebrity stylist. You are in for a treat!

Sip N' Shop With Your Girlfriends!

Since 2006, Brace Yourself Boutique has presented a way to bring fun and fashion to the Inland Empire. So if you are a cocktail-drinkin' fashionista located in the "I.E." area ('bout an hour east of Los Angeles), then "Sip N' Shop" is right where you wanna be on Friday, September 24th.You can look forward to fabulous fashion, delicious complimentary cocktails, culinary bites, a swank environment and more! Not to mention it is a great place to meet new people, and sip, shop, and socialize in a chic setting.

As a media sponsor for this event, I plan to be there to check all that this soiree has to offer! (And yes, I will give a rundown about it afterwards!) I interviewed the brain behind Sip N' Shop in '08, Myisha Croom-Turner, and I knew from the get-go, this event would be hot! Because I could not make it to an event previously (as life gets in the way sometimes), I am totally excited to make it this year!

What You'll Also Enjoy:

A swag bag to brag about (filled with goodies & products), mini spa treatments, chances to win one of their many raffle prizes, cool tunes, designer deals on apparel, handbags, bath & body and more, and a great atmosphere and vibe.

*All of the above items are included in your ticket price.

For tickets go to: www.SipnShop.info
Guest must be 21 and over to attend.

Click HERE to become a Facebook fan. Be sure to spread the word....See you there!

Email info@sipnshop.info for vendor/sponsorship inquiries

*A portion of the proceeds from each event is donated to an organization of our choice which benefits children.

How to Prepare for Black Friday

A few tips as you wake up at the crack of dawn (or earlier!). Black Friday is just around the corner!


- Eat breakfast so that you can stay energized

- Wear comfy shoes

- Bring all of your coupons and fliers with you

- Have a shopping list to go by

- Leave some money at home -- this day doesn't have to eat up ALL of your funds

- Grab a coffee or a Rock Star to stay pumped up if you start to run out of gas as you walk the mall

- Don't push or cut in front of lines

- Be nice to the associates -- they deserve your respect too!

- Ask for gift boxes so that you can wrap holiday gifts and be done with that early

- Buy a little something for yourself as you shop for others -- nothing wrong with treating yourself to new perfume, accessories, or a good deal on shoes


How else do you prepare for Black Friday?


Photo Credit: http://www.sacramentoscoop.com

My First Pair of Payless Heels!

I love color. I love heels. Put the two together, and I'm pretty much head over heels. So when my friend Stephanie asked if I wanted to go to Payless Shoe Source on our lunch break -- I didn't have to think twice! I have heard that this store has some great deals and amazing trends, but I haven't gone since I was 11 year-old. Whenever I would think of Payless, my mind went way back to when I chose two pairs of Pro-Wings for my back to school wardrobe instead of one pair of L.A. Gears (My youthul budget-conscious psyche, then, told me that getting two for the price of one was genius. Who cared about the brand? See, even then...).

So like a shoeaholic does in a store full of, well, shoes... I loosened up my heels and roamed the aisles of colorful size 9s, with one foot bare. And then I spotted them! A simple, patent-leather fuschia pump was staring right at me. It was love, I tell ya. I yelled over the aisles to my friend Steph, and my other friend Dre: "O.M.G.! I found them. I am so wearing these tomorrow with my skinny jeans for casual Friday!" I have been feaning for a pair of affordable, brightly colored, patent-leather heels, and these are my new staple addition.

And that is how we found one another. I typically stick to Nine West, Betsey Johnson, Chinese Laundry, Carlos Santana, BCBGirls, or Steve Madden....but c'mon. These were less than $25 and pretty adorable. I will just have to test the quality of Payless shoes. I hope we won't have to split ways....

Photo Credit: http://www.payless.com/

How Rihanna Made My Article the Topic of Controversy

As a contributor for Chic Galleria, I do my best to support my articles with photos that best illustrate the focus. Well, in my recent "10 Ways to Add Color Color to Your Wardrobe," I posted this picture of Rihanna wearing a rad pink and black polka dot headband. It is a prime example of how to add color to your style, right?

Well, one reader ("Shauna") decided to comment and insinuate that my story and the picture of Rihanna was supporting domestic violence. Saaay whaaaaat!?!? I understand that frustration can come from seeing a photo that reminds you of a situation, but I was simply showing the fashion statement that this singer was making. I, in no way, condone or support domestic abuse. It is a horrible for any victim involved, and quite honestly, Chris Brown and Rihanna are just ridiculous right now. Seriously.

But I was just writing about fashion, and featuring one of our pop star stylistas!!!

What are your thoughts? Please go on and check out my article, and check out all of the comments. Fortunately, tons of supportive readers understood just why I asked Beth Anderson (the editor-in-chief of Chic Galleria) to post this picture with my article.

And yes, please add your two cents. Comment like crazy after reading that article. I'm sure other Chic Galleria readers would appreciate it! (...and let me know what you think of my responses to it all.)

Photo Credit: http://www.chicgalleria.com/

GUEST BLOG POST: Must-Have Luxe Staple Items That Every Diva Should Own!

If you don't know about Luxe Tips by Latoicha Givens, now you know! What I love about meeting other fashion writers and bloggers, such as Latoicha Givens, is the fact that we all have our say in what is hot, what is needed for our closets, and what is a MUST HAVE. This is because we stay up-to-date with trends, open our eyes to the world around us, have experienced at some point a fashion-gone-wrong situation, and even gain insight directly from the designers themselves. Thus, we present this information to you!

Just as I am happy to help you get down to the nitty-gritty of finding specific pieces during a stress-free shopping trip, I am happy to report Latoicha's complete list of "Must-Have Staple items that every Diva should own:"


Hello!

Fashion trends come and go but every Diva should own certain luxe staple items that will stand the test of time. These items can be worn for any occasion, in any decade, and in any region. So what are these items? I started a list of must have luxe staple items here. However, this list is not complete. So here are my top MUST HAVE staple items every Diva should own:



Staple Pieces - by Luxetips on Polyvore.com


Black Cashmere Cardigan. Eight years ago I had the perfect cashmere and silk blend black cardigan. However, I lost it while traveling. Devastating. This is my favorite item of clothing. It is great with jeans, slacks, paired with a skirt, or over a dress. You will always look classically chic wearing a black cashmere cardigan.

Cashmere Scarf. With a cashmere scarf you can achieve fabulousness and practicality. Wear this scarf at the office, on a plane, or draped over a ball gown.

Quality pair of Black Pumps. Those who know me know that I love Stuart Weitzman pumps. The quality is outstanding! When purchasing pumps make sure you buy the good stuff! You can wear pumps with anything. It is my go-to-shoe when I just can’t figure out what shoe to wear with an item.

Wrap Dress. In my opinion, the wrap dress is the most versatile and comfortable item of clothing a Diva should own. You can wear a wrap dress at the office, out with the girls, or shopping.

Quality crisp white shirt. I must confess: I am always buying white shirts because once you get a sweat stain they are done. However, I have learned to wear a very thin neutral spandex shirt underneath to avoid ruining the white shirt. I LOVE the look of a crisp white shirt with a pencil skirt or slacks. This is the perfect work attire. I also like to wear my white shirt with jeans and flats when running errands or attending a casual event.

A great pair of Jeans. The price point is irrelevant as long as they look great on you. Jeans should be flattering to your figure and comfortable. I am a fan of Jordache ($80) and Hudson Jeans ($225). They look good on me.

Fabulous roomy handbag. Every Diva should own a high quality, roomy handbag. It does not have to be Louis Vuitton or Chanel. However, make sure time and effort went into the construction of the bag. My fabulous luxe everyday bag is a Ralph Lauren satchel. My hubby purchased it for my first Mother’s Day. The leather is like butta! The stitching is exceptional and the hardware is sturdy. When I carry this bag, men and women alike always want to know where I got it. If you don’t have one, save for it and get one!

And Divas during this current economic recession, purchasing these staple items is so affordable. Luxe items are going for unbelievable prices. So if you are able, stock up on these items now. You will be so happy you did 10 years from now!

Toodles!

(You can also find Latoicha on Twitter...her tweets are great!)

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Latoicha!

"Zara" Gets Thumbs Up...OC Sales Associates, No Comment

Think Urban Outfitters and Forever 21 topped with French Connection and Anthropologie. This is the vibe I get when browsing in the Spanish fashion boutique, Zara, at South Coast Plaza (in Costa Mesa, CA). Yesterday, it was my older sister's birthday. This means that it automotically means a day of shopping. So me and my favorite girls -- my mom, my sis, and my niece -- decided to head to this indoor mall, due to the weather. Preferably, we would have chosen Old Town Pasadena, but the chill and inconsistent rain pours aren't too fun to deal with.

Following the positive and delicious dining at "The Clubhouse" (2nd floor), including my 12 o'clock bloody mary, we headed to Zara. While the customer service, I will admit, is non-existent, the current merchandise is totally worth their B.S. The sales were phenomenal:

- $19.99 for 80s-inspired skinny jeans

- Heels and booties ranging from about $29 -- $59

- a bold color selection of turtlenecks with 3/4 sleeve length for $9.99

- Peacoats started @39 -- $100

And their regular-priced items aren't too shabby either! The kiddies and guys can also enjoy Zara -- great fashion for all. Because the goal of the shopping trip was to treat my sister to her birthday gifts, I chose to hold back and not shop for myself. (The day before I got a cool, polka-dot umbrella and Spring floral dress from H&M. I was good.) So she chose this olive-colored, drapey cardigan with loose ruffle-like material at the opening. Totally my sis's style. Regular-priced...but was OK. She deserved something cute on her special day.

As for the rest of our time spent at South Coast Plaza...

After my niece rode the carousel with my mom (yes, in the mall, there is a carousel) and got a purple Mickey-shaped balloon, we headed to Nordi's -- of course. Sarah then chose the rest of her gift -- a new, Betsey Johnson necklace. Get this: the theme was yellow taxis. I LOVED IT, and admit, the salivation started to kick in.

A nice suprise at the end of our 4-hour shopping trip at South Coast (we hit up a few other stores in between), I eyed a Reality TV "star" shopping at the end of the accessories counter at Nordstrom. It was Lynn from the "Desperate Housewives of Orange County." (She is the newest addition of the show -- the one who annoys Vicki to no end.) I usually don't get starstruck, but because I watch the show religiously, I thought it was very cool. My sister and my mom thought I was ridiculous, because they had no clue as to who she was and as to why I cared so. But I did! Fortunately, I stopped myself from approaching her. Even though the cameras weren't there, and it wouldn't have been a big deal; what do I say?..."Hey Lynn, you are my favorite housewife!" Really...no.

So, in getting back to my original point: Zara is hot and worth a drive if you are in the Inland Empire or Los Angeles area, and want to gather a few basic as well as cutting-edge, trendy items. My 31 year-old sister and my 59 year-old mom both found great items (my mom chose one of the turtlenecks), which shows you that all ages and styles can enjoy the store.

Just, on your way out the door, prepare yourself for a little South Coast sales associate snotty-ness.

Photo Credit: http://www.ocstandard.com/

Designer Tracy Porter Talks Color, a Must-Have, and De-Cluttering Computer Space!

I may feel comfortable and confident when styling an outfit. But when it comes to my office space, as well as other areas of my home...Well, I am the first to admit that I can use some helpful tips!

And getting insight directly from Ripon, Wisconsin-based designer Tracy Porter is such a delight. I predict that you will love what she has to say, just as I do; whether you want to re-do your closet, add some color to your wardrobe, and/or de-clutter one of the most important spaces of your home. (You know that room with the computer, piles of mail here and there, and your old coffee mug in it? Yes, that room.)

Enjoy!

As a versatile designer: what do you see more as a challenge for people: finding the right fashion or finding the right home décor?

[Tracy Porter] I think the real challenge for most is finding what “their style” is. By this I mean we are all ever searching to enrich ourselves…become more of who we are, be open to new ideas, new ways to get inspired….in this, people try to figure out what “their” own style is. The process to me …. is identifying what you love….determining does it feel right?..... Does it make you giddy…to put a certain something on or sit in a particular kind of chair. It is all so very personal…and it takes time. Some come to it early….they notice things around them all the time…others find it later. It really doesn’t matter when you find your style…… I think most people want to find it, they want to find a style for their home and their own look….that feels “right." It takes a certain confidence to identify it…and perhaps a bit of perspective mixed with a sure twinge of “who cares”…..this is when you know you are close….because style in your home and on your person is just that…….it is about YOU feeling good, YOU being inspired and YOU surrounding yourself with matters and feels so juicy and true to you!

Updating or re-doing a living room or bedroom is not only a big project, but can be quite costly. Which Tracy Porter exclusive pieces are must-haves no matter the style of a person’s home?

A chandelier is a TRACY PORTER must have…we design extraordinary lighting…luscious and delightful to live with! I also believe our ceramics are enchanting and colorful and will always add a unique twist to your entertaining. I also adore our bedding and furniture….we believe a home should be rich with soul, and when we design pieces for the home or body we follow these same ideals. Inspired, soulful…timeless things that you will covet for a lifetime.

Your videos offer such great tips and information, such as your recent “inspiration” video. Even though I am inspired every time I sit down, I tend to start focusing on the clutter surrounding me. I want to be more organized! What tips could you give me regarding when and how I can quickly keep things in order as I keep up with my busy schedule?

I too believe that being organized can be key to an uncluttered mind. My thoughts on the de-clutterization of one’s world would be to arm yourself with baskets, bins, and other attractive vessels that allow you to march into any space and effectively clean and sort out the “junk,” and then to assess what will stay and how you can continue to enjoy it so it doesn’t take you away from life’s bigger mission….LIVING!! Think about color when redoing a closet…consider….quirky containers when changing up your desk….little pewter creamer and sugar pots are great for pencils and paper clips…etc. Beautiful trays allow a space to feel pulled together while adding a great layer of texture or color.

What are the top three ways that you keep a balance between your family life and work?

I keep my eyes and brain moving forward and onto positive thinking always….I do everything I can to stay focused on the bigger picture in life…..the…..we are healthy, we are happy sort of stuff…the little things and negative people can drag you down…I avoid it and them!!

I love my family and I love my work, and I am clear that I need both. I know that I am a really good mom because I am inspired everyday and I love what I do and how I get to inspire other people…it is incredibly therapeutic. I also know that I am inspired at my work because I give to my family in all sort of ways that make sense for us. We love to have good food, so that is a big part of our world. We love to talk and play games….so we do…we love to read….so we do lots of it. I try not to feel guilty about not going on field trips or not participating in things that I cannot realistically manage. I say NO a lot, because it works for me, my family, and my life…..and it keeps me balanced….as much as one can be!

I also stay pretty balanced because my partner and husband are the same guy. John and I have been married for 17 years, went into business and family knowing it was a team deal for us….and it really is. This brings me calm everyday knowing that we communicate the way we do, and care that the other person is feeling balanced and happy.

I love your idea of draping necklaces over statues and using a big silver bowl for other bracelets. What would you recommend for keeping scarves accessible as well as attractively featured among your accessories?

I would incorporate them into your jewelry statement if possible…find a marvelous statue and loosely tie them around it, or a spectacular basket or stunning bowl that they can be casually tossed into…you want to have them within reach and still be able to enjoy their beauty. Even a simple row of eye screws or something similar like a basic hook, that you could thread them through in a straight row would be a gorgeous way to display them.

You can find more tips and ideas on the Tracy Porter Blog as well. In doing so, you can enjoy some Tracy TV!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tracy Porter, FEATURING Tracy Porter

GIVEAWAY! Win a Shubi Bag to Protect Your Shoes!

In my efforts to reach out to all of you as your go-to personal shopper and wardrobe consultant, I offer you my first giveaway of 2009!

Anna of Shoe Smitten is graciously offerinng you, a Good Girl Gone Shopping reader, the chance to win a Shubi Bag. (Remember my interview with this shoe crazed-fashion blogger and business owner in October?) Here is a little info about this item, directly from Anna's Shoe Smitten Boutique:

The Shubi company was started by two sisters who are polar opposites yet together form the perfect pair, with both bringing forth very different talents and skills and each maintaining a unique style of their own. Soomean is an art director for an advertising agency in NYC, while Jihwon is a pharmacist in the San Francisco Bay Area. Despite living on opposite coasts and working in very different professions, they are bound by a love for stylish shoes, the latest fashion trends, and for making things happen creatively.

These two creative sisters came up with the idea after a frustrating and fruitless search for a way to tote their shoes around town with style and class. Living in Manhattan, Soomean always carried an extra pair of shoes for commuting to and from work. She, like many city girls, would tote her shoes in flimsy, beat up, plastic, grocery bags because she could not find suitable shoes bags to tuck them in. Soomean complained to her sister about not being able to find cute shoe bags, and Jihwon mentioned that she had the same problem during her travel.

So, the two crafty sisters decided to create a bag that would give their lovely shoes the care and rest they deserve when they are not pounding the pavement -- and the Shubi was born. The Shubi company came to life with a desire to bring fashionable shoe bags to the mainstream.

(Don't you just love learning the behind-the-scenes details of businesses and designers?)

To ENTER the Shubi Bag giveaway, just comment on this post, and tell me which shoe you are the most excited about this season and why. I will choose the winner based on her passion for fashion! The winner will receive a Shubi Bag directly from Anna, with love. Contest ends Sunday, January 11th at noon.

For other fun shoe gifts, visit Anna's Shoe Smitten Boutique! Then follow her on Twitter, and let her know Elana sends her gratitude.

Photo Credits: http://www.shoesmitten.com/cart

Confessions of a Shopaholic: Rebecca Bloomwood Goes Big Screen!

Happy New Year my frugal fashionistas!

If you have yet to get on board with Sophie Kinsella's fabulous chick lit series, starting with book one called "Confessions of a Shopaholic," then yes, you ARE missing something in your life. The movie hits theaters the day before Valentine's Day this year (February 13th), and my sister and I already have a date to watch our favorite character, Rebecca Bloomwood, do what she does best. Let's just say "frugal" is not in her vocabulary.

READ MORE about why (me) the Good Girl Gone Shopping loves this character so, by visiting Chic Galleria!

Photo Credit: http://www.sophiekinsella.com