The Glam Fashion of Atlanta and Beverly Hills' Housewives

(The Most Fab Women of Atlanta)

(The Lovely Ladies of Beverly Hills)

So I am sitting at my dining room kitchen table with thoughts galore swimming around my brain. I am listening to Robin Thicke radio on Pandora, with a wine glass full of cold water and a single green tea and cranberry teabag (my fave from Trader Joe's). My organizer is sprawled open and jam-packed with post-it notes reminding me that there is always something to work on (such as contacting the fabulous Ebony Robinson of Nina Fleurina, Sorrelle Ellis of How She Wore It, and Marija Maxfield of Stella & Dot). But the technical side of my brain works best earlier in the day. After 9 p.m., I find myself just googling photos of pretty people. And right now, I keep checkin' out photos of some of my favorite Housewives of Bravo. If you have yet to get in on the spectacular nonsense of the Housewives series, you are missing out on several factors. Think: cattiness, hair pulling, family feuds, Botox, lip fillers, deceitful spouses, as well as air kisses, lazy spa days, lots of bling, and some showstopping fashion.

Now when it comes to the fashion -- be it "good" or "bad" (I never like to label) -- I will tell you that it always sparks my interest. The Housewives have become such a staple to my television schedule, that it is never complete if I miss out on an episode. (Thank you for showing re-run after re-run Bravo, because I do watch them over and over and over...) I become so amazed with the drama that my friend Jessica and I make it a point to meet up and recap the shows and analyze characters to their core ("Girl, you bring the chips, I'll bring the cheese!"). I mean, shoot, there should be a reality show just on her and I being avid fans of really bad TV...and proud of it! But that's another story in itself...

OK, I'm getting off topic. (Ahem) Currently, "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" and "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" are on this season -- Bravo keeps the various cities in rotation throughout the year. And I gotta say, the Atlanta and Beverly Hills Housewives really do believe in glam style. (Both casts make me wanna wear my Sunday bests even at the gym!) As featured above, I decided to show you only what the Atlanta and Beverly Hills women are working with, 'cause there are Housewives of Orange County, New Jersey, New York, DC, and Miami (and my eyes are getting sleepy right now, to be honest). And these "Housewives" really do appear this dolled up in episodes, versus just for these promo photos.

So in conclusion, in Andy Cohen's excited voice, I ask: Who is your favorite housewife and why? Elana and Jessica want to know!


Photo Credits: http://www.ew.com/ and http://www.tvguide.com/

Be Grateful for What You DO Have (Including What's in Your Closet)

If we are learning anything from the devastation that has invaded Japan, it is this: We must be grateful for what we DO have. There will always be stressful days that require balancing acts and sacrifices. But at some point, you get through it. Somehow, you find the strength to break down the barriers and overcome certain daily frustrations. And, yes, it helps when you have family and friends who support you, a comfortable living environment, and a healthy lifestyle. Now imagine if all that is taken away from you without you actually appreciating it. I can't help but think about those in Japan who may not have taken the time to seize certain moments, hugged their family, or smiled at their accomplishments.

As unimportant as fashion feels during a world catastrophe, it is still a key communicator in our society. What you wear on your body, you feet, and your head shows your personality and expresses who you are. So I ask you: When was the last time you looked in your closet and felt pride in what you owned? Or, did you stare at your wardrobe with anxiety because you don't have the "in" trend, according to say Lucky Magazine or InStyle? Not only is fashion recyclable (styles nearly always come back around another year or season), but it will most likely always be accessible to you. Now may be a better time to look at what you DO have, acknowledge what you DON'T need...and donate it to a cause that will benefit a person just like you who has nothing left.

Let's all think about this for a second. Life is not to be taken for granted...Be grateful for what you have and stop focusing on what you don't. From a baby's cry and the sound of laughter to having an overflowing wardrobe and the ability to shop for what you love; If you look within, you will realize that beauty and fortune surrounds you. xoxo


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

Spring 2011 L.A.M.B. Fashion Show Favorites!

While I have attended Los Angeles Fashion Week on several occasions, I have yet been able to make it to New York Fashion Week -- a place where I am told the fun REALLY starts. And every time I miss it, I pretty much bum out on this one major thing: missing out on Gwen's L.A.M.B. show at Bryant Park. I adore many other designers that showed, including Charlotte Ronson, Custo Barcelona, Tracey Reese, Betsey Johnson, Vera Wang, Nanette Lepore, and Isaac Mizrahi; however, L.AM.B. is, in my book, like no other. Her consistent combination of edgy, hipster street style meets whimsical boho-yet-classic couture was what made this ready-to-wear collection memorable for me. The rasta factor didn't make it on catwalk this season, but I am fine with that. Too much of a good thing can actually kill it.

So this blog post is basically an homage to Gwen, showing off some of her best designs from this past Spring 2011 show. (For now, I can at least enjoy clear images on style.com.)



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

Even Bloggers Get Stumped

So there are tons of things that I currently want to write about tonight on Good Girl Gone Shopping: the best summer fashion, celebrity trends, shopping for the right heels at an affordable cost, and the retail outlets with excellent customer service. I even thought about giving tidbits of information about my first book (Yes, I'm in the process of writing one.) But narrowing down what is blogworthy at the moment is a challenge, because there is sooooo much under the sun to cover.

So instead of just skipping out on writing tonight, I just thought I'd share where my mind is. It's everywhere! But most importantly, it's on y'all. I truly appreciate you for regularly visiting and hanging out! Keep it coming as I soon will sort out what comes next.

Until then, I will check out some of my favorite fashion blogs, communicate with contacts on Facebook and Twitter, and then make some time for "The Real Housewives of New York City."

I'm just stumped folks. It happens!


Photo Credits: http://kakonged.files.wordpress.com

Top 5 Reasons Why I Blog

I have been blogging since February '07. And I must say that creating this blog, which was originally titled "Diary of a Personal Shopper," has been life-changing. I have met some of the most fabulous fashion, health, and beauty bloggers, while building solid friendships in the process. So as I sit back now, three years later, I can't help but think about why I enjoy blogging.

Here are the top 5 reasons why I blog:

1. I love to share what I know. With experience as a personal shopper, both on my own and for a major retail establishment, I enjoy providing information, tips, quizzes, contests, and interviews regarding all that I deem important in fashion.

2. You -- my readers! I love receiving comments and getting your feedback on my posts. It shows that you care and that you share my passions.

3. It takes away a dull day. Ever have those days when nothing seems right? When I sit at my computer and stare at my blank page, I become giddy with the idea that I can fill it up with my words. My words. Before, I know it, joy has filled the room and no matter what, I feel pride knowing that I decided to make it a productive day.

4. It helps to define who I am. Those who regularly visit my blog have gotten to know me. You have learned that I whole-heartedly believe in shopping on a budget, adore Gwen Stefani, and try to find balance in my life as a workaholic. My blog is a place where I can be upfront and honest. This is my diary (hence, the original idea behind "Diary of a Personal Shopper").

5. It's fun! When a reader wins a contest, I think I am more excited than they are! I love making a person's day. In between showing my styling skills using Polyvore and giving tips about shopping sales during the holidays, I like to shake things up a bit and throw in entertaining blog posts, such as "Who is Your Favorite Housewife?" Once blogging stops becoming fun, you may as well just stop doing it. This passion of mine brings me great rewards -- mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.

So...why do YOU blog?


Photo Credit: http://www.zazzle.co.uk

Shiela Hizon: My Favorite Los Angeles and Inland Empire Photographer!

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Shiela Hizon, an insanely talented editorial photographer. I know her skills firsthand, as she has taken shots of me more than once. It has always been fascinating to work with Shiela, because she always got me, meaning she always understood my vision. And she, of course, had an insightful way of directing me. So here are a few of pics of me that she shot -- photographs that continue to amaze me to this day.

Shiela serves the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas. She can be contacted directly through her website, Hizon Photography. Please check out her interview on ClosetMouse.com.

Say cheese!

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

"I'm Just a Girl...What's My Destiny?"

I can't get "Just a Girl" by No Doubt out of my head, specifically the line that includes "What's My Destiny?"

Even as migraines develop, my anxiety increases, and my keyboards become ruined due to my klutzy spills of water, I am fulfilling my lifelong goals of being a writer, editor, and a figure in the fashion community.

Some of the highlights/accomplishments of my week (Friday --> Friday):

1) Dotscelebritytv.com: Brought on to a new celebrity website developed by the founder of E!, who yes, I have been directly communicating with (his assistant Drew is also extremely friendly). Articles coming soon with its launch.

2) AliveMagazineOnline.com: Corresponded with the head of Alive Magazine, which is an entrepeneurial publication for women of color. I was offered a fashion editor position. Accepted!

3) Developed an ad for an intern and communicated with the career center at my alma mater, CSUF. (How did it get to the point that this eager journalism grad now needs a writer on HER team at Plastic Surgery Studios?)

4) Hit Sunset last Friday for the Li Cari show and the following Thursday, for the grand opening of "P" -- a quaint boutique that features chic, urban-ish attire.

5) Wrote a new "Talking Chic" column for Agenda Magazine: "My Winter Wardrobe."

6) Southern California Life: Prepared for my second appearance as a fashion consultant for this local television show (NewsNetCa.com), in which I am taping tomorrow afternoon.

7) Carla Reiter: Created and sent interview questions to this innovative jewelry designer. This will be featured on ClosetMouse.com.

To my delight, opportunities are coming my way -- people are seeking ME out. It's a wonderful feeling, I must say, as I consider my destiny and who I am (and who I am becoming).

But nothing has been handed to me. You're reading the blog of a girl who took a bus her first two years to college, lived at home until she was 24, and eventually fulfilled two non-paying internships driving a car that broke down every week and had a cracked windshield (imagine how it felt to drive in the parking lot of Epic Records like that!).

My college years made me grow up and understand the importance and essential part of becoming successful: paying your dues. And I am still paying my due to this day: the key to networking and growing as an editorial and fashion professional.

I will keep you updated as to how these projects pan out, as I always do. This is my life. I wouldn't have it any other way.

* Fortunately, I found time to still have a heart to heart with my mom, have a sushi dinner with Steve, phone and text chats with my friends, and my me time in bubbly baths.

Ashley's Take on Teen Fashion Versatility

This, here, everyone is my 13 year-old niece, Ashley Gummerson. Off the bat, you can tell that her San Diego teen fashion sense rocks and she is up on the latest trends. After learning that my brother recently bought her a Betsey Johnson dress and that she is in love with Forever 21, well you have to agree: this is DEFINITELY my niece.

Our passion for fashion runs deep, so I excitedly asked her to come on board with me and be the voice of the teen market. And similar to my go-getter personality, "Ash" wastes no time jumping at the opportunity ("OMG Auntie Elana, I would love to!!!). The same day I asked her to become involved, she sent me these two pics of her styling abilities. Um, hello, right? Yes, she's 13 and you better watch out fashion world.

Featured is a yellow Forever 21 dress. See how she played with two different vibes, while utilizing accessories and different shoes to give each a unique personality? In pic #1, the leather bomber jacket toughtens up the dress with the tennies giving it a 1950s "Grease" feel, while the scarf and red flats give the dress a fun spring appeal. THAT is what versatility about.

So if you have any questions that you would like a teen fashionista to answer, please e-mail me at elana@talkingchic.com or DM me on Twitter, and I will make sure Ashley gets the question. All samples and press packages that you would like her to receive, feel free to pitch to me!

(Oh, and did I mention how big of a fan she is of the Jonas brothers?? But that's a whole other story...)

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Ashley

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!

Send me a Tweet! This is one Twitter Addict Who Wants to Chat With Ya!

When I am not browsing Google images of my favorite celebrity fashion picks, checking myspace bulletins and approving comments, proofing news articles and marketing pages for my full-time gig at PlasticSurgery.com (and Beauty Chat), rating cool looks and uploading pics on Lucky Style Spotter, brainstorming and developing a topic revolved around 'Good Girl Gone Shopping' for Chic Galleria, putting together my "100 Bucks or Less Column" (and apologizing for missing my deadlines!) for Fashion Chicago Magazine, communicating about events with my editor at Agenda Magazine, and (phew!) of course, not blogging here with y'all...I'm on Twitter!

Feel free to send me a tweet. I talk about it all on there -- and then some.

Michelle Obama Models a Narciso Rodriguez Dress on Election Night

Barack Obama is the new president elect. My family, friends, and I were text messaging each other throughout his acceptance speech, because we are beyond elated. I believe we are all pleasantly shocked and excited to have hope again.

Then his family joined him on stage, and my mouth dropped to the floor.

Yes she did (create a distraction).

Sitting on the couch together proudly watching a moment of history, I turned to Steve and we both gave each other a look that said, "What is she wearing?" (OK, well I might have shouted that out myself...)

Wearing a Narciso Rodriguez Spring 2009 design, Michelle Obama and her daughters joined her husband on stage as the multi-ethnic crowd continued to cheer. But with such an eccentric and bold contrast of black and red; the dress stole my attention away from the gravity and words of Barack Obama. So much to the effect that thoughts were racing through my mind, such as:

- OMG, did a stylist actually choose this for her on election night?

- Did the designer himself give the dress to her as a gift and ASK that she wear it on election night?

- This must be her celebration dress or her "It's going to be OK" dress if Obama lost

- Is she inadvertantly telling America that there's a new fashionable First Lady in 'da house'?

- I just know the media, bloggers everywhere, and E! News is going to be all over this dress!

- I would have worn something more subdued because I don't want to take away attention from my husband's win...

- Who am I kidding, she does look pretty fabulous!

- There's a time and place for every style, and election night wasn't the time to focus on fashion...OMG, what I really saying?

- She and her famly all blend nicely -- the red and black theme.

But overall, I summed it up in my mind as this: Michelle Obama's style that evening told me that just as politics is risky, so is fashion. While many people enjoy blandness, sameness, and lack of substance; shaking the boat once in awhile creates change. And whether people boo or cheer for a certain style or a belief -- change is necessary to make a difference.

...But just maybe, if I were her stylist that evening, I would have asked her to "change" that look and save it for a concert!

Do YOU think the Narciso Rodriguez dress was the right choice for election night?

Photo Credits: http://www.nydailynews.com/

Gavin Stefani, Er...Gavin Rossdale...Makes a Comeback

(Their Early Rocker Days) --------------------> (Hollywood Glam)

For years, as Gwen Stefani jumped leaps and bounds with No Doubt and on her own as a solo artist and fashion designer, Gavin Rossdale seemed to just be, well, there. But for those who were big-time fans of his late 90s band Bush, and not just fans of his abs, know that he isn't just arm candy to Gwen. So when I would hear the media or gossip mags refer to him as "Gavin Stefani" (I actually think I read that in Courtney Love's autobiography about 10 years ago, with her calling him that,...but don't quote me on that.), I thought, well that's not fair. Just because his wife has pushed herself into the category off mega-superstar and into the flashes of the paparazzi, doesn't mean that Gavin has not continued to be creative with music or pursue his passion. Maybe it just wasn't as public or pop as Gwen's reputation has become.

That's why I'm so excited every time I hear his new solo from Wanderlust on the radio. It's a great song by a fabulous 40-year old rocker, who seems to also be an amazing father, and supportive husband who did not hide from the camera out of jealousy; rather time and again, he made his entrance with his chin up. And in my book, that's all a tough-ass girl like Gwen could ask for.

Photo Credits: Not mine, found in Google Images...

NEW Trendy Handbag Giveaway in Time for Spring!

I love pinks, reds, and purples - some of the most obvious, stereotypical shades of femininity. But with the surge of the primary color trend, I can't get enough of royal blue (hence, my blue sude shoes I can't stop talking about!). Various shades of turquoise sprouting up all over are also getting me extremely excited about Spring and Summer.

So, guess what? ShopManhattanite.com is doing something really cool for y'all. This adorable online couture-driven shop is offering Diary of a Personal Shopper readers 20% off of their purchase (just type in "GoodGirl") at checkout through all of March.

In addition, I am giving away one Trina Duffle Bag in Terry Green! Its gorgeous blue, white, and green floral print is soooo perfect for warm weather fashion. And if you love, love, love the purse; there are matching pieces to create a whole collection!

So are you into the primary color trend? By answering this question, I will enter you in a random drawing held this Friday, March 7th.

Here are some of Manhattanite's ultra-feminine featured blouses-slash-dresses in atypical "girly" colors (and remember, you get 20% off! Plus, free shipping over 150 bucks):

Amanda Uprichard Flutter Sleeve Dress
$198.00

Yumi Kim Audrey Blouse
$140.00

Betsey Johnson Washed Habotai Dress

$325.00

Betsey Johnson Paisley Halter Top
$195.00

Good luck, and happy shopping. Manhattanite has such cute, modern sketches. Promise you'll have a great time hangin' out while browsing!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of http://www.shopmanhattanite.com/

Chelsea Handler has a Handle on Her Style

She might be a bit risque...a bit gossipy...and a bit much for you to handle sometimes. But when it comes to her fashion sense as a television talk show host - I think she is right on the money. As a comedian, I think Chelsea Handler could go so many ways with her style for nighttime TV on E! Entertainment.

But she keeps it simple, classic, sexy, and professional. I love her guest panel of comedians and her one-on-ones with Reality TV celebs such as tattoo maven Kat Von D or Holly of "The Girls Next Door," and her pushy, genius interview skills.

Most of all though: I love her sassy style. Does anyone else tune into her show just to catch what she's wearing? (I used to do that with Jillian Barberie Reynolds in the morning on "Good Day LA." But I found listening to music at 6 a.m. more peaceful then her rants and raves....)

Chelsea is a comedian full of style -- love her!

Check out some of her clips on E! Online if you dare (I don't necessarily agree with the topics or opinions discussed. That's my disclaimer): http://www.eonline.com/on/shows/chelsea/. All of the clips show her cute style...

Photo Credits: http://www.hicelebs.com/

http://www.starpulse.com/

My "Happy Holidays" Outfit for 50 Bucks!

I'm a Bebe lover, but a Forever 21 fanatic. This is because I don't like to fork over the majority of my income to pieces that I may want to donate or sell in a few years. My holiday outfit posted here, minus my heels, were an exclusive Forever 21 pick of mine. Round about cost: $50. Should I have purchased my outfit from Bebe, I would have been lucky to have scored a beautiful blouse and maybe a pair of earrings for that price.





So as the holiday season remains a playing ground for sales galore, remember to pick up a few classic pieces for yourself. You know, the stuff that you may even be able to pass down to your kids. That said, check out my thoughts on buying for yourself while buying for others, as featured in Agenda Magazine. (I don't think that there is anything wrong with treating yourself to a gift while shopping for your friends and family.)

But if you beg to stick to strictly the "trendy" look, like I did here, all I can say is: Be smart!

FYI: My boyfriend is a jokester....and could the stains on my carpet be any more grotesque!? Yikes!