Be a part of beauty in Washington, D.C.

Posted on March 9th, 2010 by Monica
under Fashionista, Style tip.
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My Black is Beautiful

Dear Girlfriends -

Did you see the sun this morning?  Wow, isn’t it welcomed and beautiful?  I’m sure we are all looking forward to the official start of Spring (March 20th) but before we get to that day … spring over to the My Black is Beautiful event happening this Friday!

Calling all my fashionsitas, if you can fit this into your busy schedules the My Black is Beautiful LIVE! event is happening on Friday, this Friday March 12th.

Washington, D.C.

Friday March 12, 2010

3pm-9pm

Wardman Park Marriott
Exhibit Hall C
2660 Woodley Road Northwest
Washington, D.C. 20008

Live Entertainment • Mini-Makeovers • Product Samples

Come celebrate your beauty and spirit at a taping of My Black is Beautiful LIVE! for season two of the TV show. Join us for this exclusive experience — all for free!

Hope to see you there …

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Go for Black & Gold Accessories

Posted on March 2nd, 2010 by Monica
under Chic, Fabulous, Fashionista, Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends:

Go for black & gold accessories and no not because my hometown New Orleans Saints won their first Super Bowl ever … go for black and gold because gilded accents keep your fall/winter neutrals from fading into the background of fashion.

Let’s look at some winning combinations of black and gold accessories ….  use these styles as options for your look and shop around for bargains and frugalista finds today and this weekend!

These distressed suede sandals feature antiqued studs. 2 buckled straps at side. 1.5″ leather-covered platform and 4.75″ leather-covered wedge heel.

Ash Lovely Suede Wedge Sandals

Ash Lovely Suede Wedge Sandals

Luxury with a bohemian flair, this suede handbag features black and gold chain and suede fringe at the front and a logo plate at the back. Seam detail at top. Gold hardware. Studs at double handles and magnetic-snap closure at main compartment. Lined interior features zip and 2 patch pockets.

Rich Hippie Tote

Rich Hippie Tote

This 24k gold-plated ring features snake-embossed leather detail at the domed disc. 1.25″ wide.

Stamped Python Ring

Stamped Python Ring

This leather bracelet features gold-plated cone studs. Ring-and-toggle clasp. 1.5″ wide. 7.25″ long.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Cuff

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Cuff

This pebbled leather handbag features an oversized logo medallion at the front flap. Zip pocket under flap. Gold hardware. Detachable resin chain strap.

Bijou Clutch

Bijou Clutch

These electroplated 22k gold earrings feature Swarovski crystals and resin cabochons at the teardrop details. Post closure. 2.75″ long.

Kenneth Lane Black Cabochon Earrings

Kenneth Lane Black Cabochon Earrings

This 4-strand necklace features metallic wooden beads. Contrast grosgrain tie closure. 28″ long.

 

Gold Wood Bead Necklace

Gold Wood Bead Necklace

Girlfriends, remember to go for GOLD … that is black and gold!

 

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Pairing black and white clothing, accessories‏

Posted on January 11th, 2010 by Monica
under Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends,

I discovered that its never to late for wearing white … you just have to pair it with black and contrasting is a BIG part of the story! 

Styiling tips for wearing black and white are here, fashionistas we can start here!  This strapless polka-dot silk jumpsuit features a sweetheart neckline and gathered elastic banding at the top hem and empire waist. On-seam hip pockets.

DVF Marron Jumpsuit

DVF Marron Jumpsuit

Let’s consider some of these options:

This double-breasted stretch-wool tuxedo jacket features a 2-button closure and a satin shawl collar. Welt bust pocket and welt hip pockets. Pointed hem at front and tuxedo tails at back. Satin trim at cuff slit.

Conductor's Jacket by Haute Hippie

Conductor's Jacket by Haute Hippie

Girlfriends, this draped, star-print top features a V neck and racer back. Inverted front pleat.  This necklace features distressed gold-plated, silver-plated, and black discs. Assorted gold-plated beads at lobster-claw clasp.

Sao Paolo Tank

Sao Paolo Tank

Elastic Belt Skirt

Elastic Belt Skirt

This silk skirt features a wrap detail and an asymmetrical hem. Contrast elastic banding and pleating at waist.  A timeless style in an on-trend animal print, these zebra-print haircalf booties feature a covered elastic inset at the inner side and vertical suede banding at the back.

Zebra Pipe Cover Pumps

Zebra Pipe Cover Pumps

A street-chic version of a functional style, this oversized, print PVC handbag features a resin logo plate and snap side gussets. Enameled hardware.

LAMB Tote

LAMB Tote

Again don’t be afraid to try this pairing … simply black and white!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Stylish cardigans for layering this fall season

Posted on January 7th, 2010 by Monica
under Fashion shopping, Fashionista, Style, Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends -

Fashionistas we all feel the change in weather during the morning commute; come on and admit it! 

But I have GREAT newsCardigans can be a fun and versatile fashion accessory for the transition of the season.  If comfort is the ultimate luxury, what could be more better than a slip-it over/under-everything, prep-school-inspired knit.

A partially-buttoned sweater combined with equally soft pieces can look effortlessly casual. But don’t overdo the layers. Not only does casual suddenly look forced but you’re likely to start peeling off pieces in most overheated interiors.

As the first signs of fall, search for a lighter fashion piece instead of bringing a heavy coat out of storage, why not throw on a stylish cardigan? The cardigans of today are not like grandma’s sweaters but have a style and flair all their own. Plus, they’re so versatile! Wearing a cardigan can take you from a casual day to an evening out at a restaurant with great panache.

A lightweight wrap cardigan in cotton/cashmere/silk. Long ribbed sleeves. ribbed hem. Wrap front. Ruching at back neck. Layer with camisole or tank top.

Wrap Cardigan

Wrap Cardigan

Sand chunky knit oversized cardigan with sailor collar and 3/4 length sleeves. Cardigan comes with an elasticated bow belt.

Chunky Knit Cardigan

Chunky Knit Cardigan

A ruffled cardigan – nook and cranny, featuring notched crew neckline; front zip, ruffled detail down front and three-quarter sleeves.

Ruffled Cardigan

Ruffled Cardigan

You can really expand the depth and versatility of your wardrobe without spending money by layering items you already have. A cardigan provides the perfect finishing touch for that layered look. Just one cardigan can multiply your fashion options many times. Try belting a long cardigan over a skirt and silk top. Wear a long, loose one over your favorite black dress.

A long cardigan featuring charcoal-inspired color featuring a V-neckline, button front and long sleeves. A cashmere cardigan showing long sleeves with banded cuffs, banded hem, pure cashmere, lining and pure silk.  Or girlfriends, consider a silk bonds with cotton and cashmere over winter’s wrap-around cardigan.
Long Wool Cardigan

Long Wool Cardigan

Cashmere Cardigan

Cashmere Cardigan

Wrap Around Cardigan

Wrap Around Cardigan

Open your closet and start experimenting by adding a cardigan to your usual outfits and see what works for you.

Slick Zip Cardigan

Slick Zip Cardigan

Maxine Sweater

Maxine Sweater

Peace Scarf Cardigan

Peace Scarf Cardigan

A cardigan can add a whole new dimension to your standard office attire.

 
Until the next style adventure,
Monica

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Pregginista: Looking glam while pregnant

Posted on December 29th, 2009 by Monica
under Fashionista.
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Maternal America Red Front Tie Dress

Maternal America Red Front Tie Dress

Dear Girlfriends ~ 

As many of my fashionistas and girlfriends know,  I am expecting a baby boy in April and the hubby and I are very excited.  With the excitement comes my intense efforts to remain stylish while pregnant.  I am currently in my fifth month and haven’t bought a single piece of maternity clothing (except a NY Giants shirt for the MNF game a few weeks ago)!  I am elated.  When I do eventualy gain a few more pounds, I plan to continue this pattern with stylish tunic and leggings OR a dress with opaque patterned tights and wedge boots.

There isn’t a rule that a pregnant women can’t be glam and must look frumpy.  Who told you ladies that?  Its easy to carry a little glam in your maternity clothes by following a few key steps.

Visiting a maternity shop can allow you to find styles that are trendy and comfortable. Comfort is very important to the dress of pregnant women. It is wise to find items that aren’t too tight, but look good.

Even if you can’t find a good maternity shop, all is not lost. Most department stores, even budget ones, have maternity departments. If you’re unsure at first, try a few items on before you buy them. This is the best way, to determine, if the clothing size, color, and style suit you. Don’t forget the wealth of the internet.

You’ll love this paisley print with banded neckline and lantern sleeves. Always a bestseller, Maternal America’s front tie dress is flattering and stylish. Cross front with tie makes this easy to wear. Tie can be worn in front below vneck or tied in back.

Everly Grey Sonya Maternity Dress

Everly Grey Sonya Maternity Dress

 

 

C&C Turtleneck Dress

C&C Turtleneck Dress

Girlfriends, certain styles look especially good on pregnant women such as A-line skirts, empire-waist dresses and tops, and pencil skirts paired with swingy shirts. If you are feeling really self-conscious about your changing body accentuate other parts of your body that you feel more comfortable with.

NOM Print Wrap Dress

NOM Print Wrap Dress

Mezzanine Maternity Jeans

Mezzanine Maternity Jeans

Ella Moss styles and fabrics will work well through your pregnancy and are equally as stylish afterward. This stylish colorblock tunic looks great with pants,leggings, or jeans.

Ella Moss Harpo Tunic

Ella Moss Harpo Tunic

So elegant, I love the simplicity (with a twist) of this maternity dress. It has an innate sense of style for day or evening.

The Knot Dress

The Knot Dress

To get people to notice your neck and shoulders choose a shirt with a ballet-cut or bateau neckline, or dress all in one color and add a scarf or some other stunning accessory. Then people will notice you’re accessories and after your pregnancy you won’t feel bad that you spent money on them because you can keep on wearing them. Some accessories could be a brightly colored piece of jewelry, a pair of shoes that match your handbag, a colorful scarf or a button-up sweater.

Pregginistas, many maternity offerings, are online for customers to take advantage of. If nothing else, you will be able to get ideas on style, you like.  A money-saving tip for maternity clothing shopping is to avoid impulse buying. Make a list of a few must-have items that can go with almost everything.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica the Pregginista

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Chunky chokers make a statement even for the holidays!

Posted on December 16th, 2009 by Monica
under Fashion shopping, Fashionista, Style, Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends -

Whether they’re bright and bulky or full and fierce, the chunky choker is poised to be one of the biggest trends to date even for the Christmas and New Year’s holiday parties and soirees you will be attending – hooray!  I adore this easy piece for several simple reasons: it adds some posh pizazz to the wardrobe essentials you already own, looks great with everything from a casual blazer to a killer cocktail dress, and there are cool versions available at every price point. In short, this all-purpose accessory is at the top of our list!

This chain necklace features rhinestone-studded cutout flower details. Textured flower details at assorted cutout pendants.  Just as sensational with a LBD (little black dress) as it is with a tank and jeans, this chain bib necklace features bead details.

Lace Drama Necklace

Lace Drama Necklace

Jen Bib Necklace

Jen Bib Necklace

Sure to garner a second (or third) glance, this multi-strand mixed-chain necklace features rhinestone strand and asymmetrical chain fringe. 

Fashionistas, this wool-cashmere bib necklace features studs, brass chains, distressed leather appliqué, and vintage glass accents. Chiffon trim and contrast grosgrain tie closure.  Or consider this statement choker.  These capsule shaped beads with a pearl-esque finish are linked together in a bib like formation which drapes beautifully from a dainty chain.

Multi Chain Choker

Multi Chain Choker

Rambler Necklace

Rambler Necklace

Pearly Beaded Bin

Pearly Beaded Bin

This gold-plated choker features hammered squares. This herringbone wool-cashmere necklace features brass chain detail. Clustered leather-covered stones, glass beads, brass studs, and distressed beads. Bone beads, African brass beads, and garnet stones at ends. A beautiful combination of Mother of Pearl, quartz, Swarovski crystals and glass beads wired within several arcs of sterling silver necklace finsished off with dangling Mother of Pearl stars.

Hammered Square Choker

Hammered Square Choker

Herringbone Cashmere Choker

Herringbone Cashmere Choker

Mother of Pearl Choker

Mother of Pearl Choker

 

Sequin Spinning Bib

Sequin Spinning Bib

Girlfriends, these necklaces are so necessary this season that we suggest that you throw on at least one chunky choker-or several-every day. (When you’re wearing a mélange of chains, the more the merrier!) If you feel overwhelmed by the look or don’t know where to start wearing it, just take inspiration from the fall runways on how to combine the right statement strands with the correct clothing.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Wearing bold arm candy for the holidays

Posted on December 15th, 2009 by Monica
under Fashion shopping, Fashionista, Style, Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends ~

Are you crazy about colossal cuffs as much as I am?  I’ve learned to pair a bold piece of arm candy into everyday outfits and especially now during the holidays and all the festivities!  Its simply a matter of adding a piece without overdoing it.  To get an idea of how to show off your bold arm candy properly consider these style options.

An exquisite grey shagreen cuff creates a perfect perch for a jeweled sterling silver bug encrusted with rubies, sapphires, green agates and crystals. Because each piece is handcrafted by an artisan, expect yours to have subtle nuances all its own.

Shagreen Cuff

Shagreen Cuff

Inspired by tropical islands and exotic locales, this statement piece sets the style for your total look. Gold-tone intricate design with brilliant coral-colored stones for an unforgettable braceletGirlfriends, consider this handmade brass cuff as a style option. A high polished metal cuff bracelet featuring a faux leather top with sewn-down faceted studs.

This option offers a wide cuff featuring agate stone front and hammered texture detail.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

 

Stud Metal Cuff

Stud Metal Cuff

Handmade Brass Cuff

Handmade Brass Cuff

Still not sure how to begin? 

Agate Stone Cuff Bracelet

Agate Stone Cuff Bracelet

Amp up your rock-chic kudos with Halston’s studded blue suede cuff. Wear this sensational style with a floor-skimming gown to bring Studio 54 glamour to every look.

Stud Embellished Cuff

Stud Embellished Cuff

Gold Plated Cuff

Gold Plated Cuff

Girlfriends, a collectible cuff that our jewelry designer took ages to perfect–a layered look in gold-plated metal designed to dress up your wrist.

Beaded Cuff Bracelet

Beaded Cuff Bracelet

Maria Cuff

Maria Cuff

A bold piece of arm candy can one day be your favorite accessory! A piece that pops on in a flash and transforms whatever you are wearing into a work of art!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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Frugalista Friday: accessorize with jewelry, belts and scarves

Posted on November 20th, 2009 by Monica
under Fashion shopping, Fashionista, Style, Style tip.
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Dear Girlfriends -

With a smaller budget for a lot of Americans currently in this bad economy, you should consider buying items that do not change depending on your weight such accessories.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Faux Pearl Necklace

Faux Pearl Necklace

We are all experiencing budget control and frugal shopping, for the everday fashionista (including you and I) we should consider adding accessories as a staple item to our basic wardrobe this year.

Ciel Stars Scarf

Ciel Stars Scarf

Shredded Tube Scarf

Shredded Tube Scarf

With a lot of fashionistas on a tighter budget, try to purchase items to accessorize the clothing that you already have, instead of buying new clothes.

Girlfriends, accessories may be scarves which are very popular currently and not very expensive, belts, and jewelry. Unique costume jewelry may be bought for a little investment and can totally bring life back to an old outfit that has been in your closet for a while . And just like shoes, jewelry and accessories always fit no matter what your size is!

Vintage Glam

Vintage Glam

Shilo Necklace

Shilo Necklace

Patent Skinny Belt

Patent Skinny Belt

Girlfriends, this season do not worry about your tighter budget or your increasing weight and spend your money on handbags, shoes and accessories. You bank account and self esteem will be more thankful when you do, rather than having to buy more clothing this year and you will look fabulous too.

I’ll turn you into a frugalista soon enough!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

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