Street Style - Stella Shops & Nest Interiors Girls Day Out

Love these girls style.  The hat!!  Excellent. 

How great is the side button construction on this dress?

 Our set up for the event. Before and after's of Mizzie Modifies

Mizzie modifying a blazer.  Joking around with a belt idea from the blazer.  Or could it be a work belt to keep art tools in?  She's always modifying. 

We had a great time at the event.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by!  And a big thank you to Stephanie at Nest for partnering with us and letting us set up in her amazing store.  More events are in the works, so we'll see ya soon!

Nashville Vintage Sales, Local Designer Markets and Happy Hours!

It's going to be a GREAT Saturday in Nashville for vintage and local designer shopping.  I have to admit, I'm pretty excited about it. 

Start your Saturday out right with Fanny's Choice VI presented by Diamond Star Halo Vintage and Fanny's House of Music.  I love Fanny's Choice events.  Libby Callaway of DSHV does a tremendous job gathering Nashville's best vintage dealers in one place.  This installment of Fanny's Choice will host 13 dealers! 13!  Get there early to get the best selection and don't forget to bring cash.  Most vendors only accept cash or checks.

Once you've finished your vintage shopping, you should head down to Urban Outfitters in the Gulch for the Naked Without Us Fashion Market presented by Next Big Nashville.  Here you can shop some of our favorite local designers, check out more Closet Case Vintage and hear live music too!

I posted yesterday about how much I love Therapy System's Better Than Cover concealor.  This weekend's your chance to try it for yourself.  Mizzie will be doing Therapy Systems makeup application at Private Edition on Friday and Saturday from noon-5pm both days.  Book your appointment!

I know how you can make your Monday better.  Join the lovely Goodbuy Girls at Belcourt Taps & Tapas for Happy Hour from 5-8pm!  Click the flyer below.  There may be a coupon in it for you.

Here are a few sales to take note of this weekend...

Save the date!

Have fun and happy shopping!

Cover It Up with Therapy Systems Better Than Cover

We've already established how I fall prey to the impulse purchase.  Well, it happened again, but this time I promise no mimosas were involved.  A few weeks ago, I went to the Cosmetic Market in Green Hills to replace my empty jar of Therapy Systems Oil Free Moisturizer and to see if they had butter London's new Fall nail polish collection (which they did).  I got what I needed, but as soon as the sales associate saw the Therapy Systems Moisturizer in my hand, she asked me if I had tried their Better Than Cover concealor.  I admit I had an inner conversation about how I knew she was going to give me the hard sell on this product, but just because that's her job, it didn't mean I needed to actually purchase the product. 

Reluctantly, I told her I hadn't used it before and she asked if she could try it on me.  "Arrrggghhh....How do I get out of this and not be rude?" is how the conversation was going in my head.  But what the heck, I've run the gamut of concealors, from drugstore Neutrogena to Bobbi Brown, MAC and Benefit and honestly, I've just never found one I totally love.  They either end up creasing or looking like I don't even have any on by lunch time.

As she dabbed the concealor under my eye she explained all of its benefits.  It has a 70% organic formulation with a custom antioxidant infusion of acai, green tea and raspberry leaf and it's sheer coverage is not supposed to cake or crease.  I admit, that even though I had the MAC Studio Finish concealor on that day, I could tell a big difference between the eye with the Better Than Cover on it and the eye with just the MAC product.  In the end, I made the purchase.  At $24, this was an expensive "test", but knowing that I didn't need to use very much product to get complete coverage, I'm hopeful this tube will last me quite awhile.   

It's one month later and I'm still loving this product.  It's evened out my red tones and dark spots much better than my other concealors and best of all it stays put all day.  Slowly but surely, I think I'm becoming a Therapy Systems convert.

Try Better Than Cover for yourself this weekend.  Mizzie is a Therapy Systems makeup artist and she'll be doing makeup applications at Private Edition from 12pm-5pm on Friday and Saturday.

If you've tried any other Therapy Systems products that you love, let me know!

Trends for Less Fall 2010 - Over the Knee Boots

On the Street

In my Dreams 

                      

                               

 Frye Over the knee Boots - $448                 Robert del Carlo Over the Knee Boots - $700

In my Reality 

 Cassetty - $119 at Aldo                        The Devon Convertible Boot - $145 at Victoria Secrets

Locally 

                                  

Dv by Dolce Vita "Bronson" - $172 at Posh                   Frye Celia - $348 at Monkee's  

Vegan

Wanted Laced Over the Knee Boots - $89 

I'm personally excited about the continuation of the Over the Knee Boot trend for Fall/ Winter 2010.  Last year, I scored a wicked pair of flat black over the knee boots that are as comfortable as they are cool. I can't wait to get back to London to wear them.  Are you planning on wearing this trend this season?  If so send me some photos of how you wear them.  I would love to see how you guys are styling them.

Trend - Gold Jewelry by McGowan & McClain

I've been on a mini quest for some good quality low price gold jewelry the last few months and the other day while visiting Stephanie at Nest I came across a ring and a necklace she had that fit the bill.  These handmade designers pieces are designed by  McGowan and McClain located in Chattanooga, TN.  They are made of high quality vermeil so I should be able to wear them for years to come and I didn't have to take out a loan to pay for them.  

What do you guys think?  Any other gold jewelry designers you recommend?  I am loving these and am kind of interested in maybe another necklace to layer with this one. 

Shop Like You Give A Damn - A Fashionable Vegan Blog

Our favorite fashion maven, Marcia Masulla, is back and this month she takes on Fall's hottest trends...vegan style.

The Cat’s Meow 

The finest clothing made is a person’s skin, but, of course, society demands 

something more than this. – Mark Twain

Most of you who are reading this were already aware that curves and fur were both predominant on the runways several months ago.  Now these fleshy concoctions have made their way into major retailers and boutiques for the impending Fall and Winter seasons.  You are probably addicted to the current episodes of Mad Men that are filled with lewd acts, and more importantly, the vivacious Joan Holloway too.  Dressing like a lady wasn’t an option back then, but an absolute must, as Joan, Peggy, and many of Don’s flavors of the month expertly showcase. 

Arguably, there isn’t anything better for your curves than a brilliant jewel tone belted dress and a little faux fur to set the tone for the chilly weather.  Kitten heels are also clawing their way out for comeback but this broad isn’t totally buying into the hype.  My gams MUST be showcased in towering heels to get the full va va voom effect!  Trust me, when you’re petite and have an hourglass shape, Sir Mix A Lot will be the only fan of legs that replicate tree trunks!  Admittedly cruelty-free designer Stella McCartney offers up nice options with her nude slingback kitten heels.  The flesh tone faux patent leather will assist in making my legs look as long as possible considering the missing 5 inches of height.  An added bonus: Prada’s knee high socks may add some interest to your legs and keep you warm at the same time.  I would just make sure to avoid wool because it’s not only terrible for the sheep, but your cankles as well!

There are MANY available options that deter away from using animals for their flesh.  Did you also know that we wreck havoc to the eco-system when we use chemicals to treat leathers, furs, and suede products?  Animals on fur farms such as raccoon pups are slammed to the ground, beaten, strangled and anally electrocuted for merchandise that is shipped to retailers in the U.S.  Many of these creatures are still alive and blinking while their skin is being ripped from their bodies for fur trimmed apparel and accessories.  Sorry to be harsh but it’s very much a reality.  Please consider being both compassionate and on trend when you choose Animal Prints in lieu of Animal Skins.  For more information on the cruel fur and leather trade industry, please head to www.furisdead.com and www.peta.org.  You can choose to make an informed decision on where you stand with this very important issue.

The envelope pushing Chanel with the magnificent Karl Lagerfeld at the helm is faking it on the runways with faux-fur.  This tweed coat can kill your savings account at $6,995 but let your jaw drop over these faux fur-licious boots!  Who needs the real thing when you can fake the funk like this? 

So maybe purchasing $2,000 faux-fur boots from Chanel isn’t in your near future.  Here are some of my favorite chic ideas for a cruelty-free + environmentally responsible wardrobe for the upcoming season.  You can thank me later by buying me a cocktail from the Patterson House, a filthy martini ……or two?


What Goes Around Comes Around is one of my favorite sources for vintage.  They also offer up dynamic vintage inspired collections that will make your heart flutter.  The Lucinda capelet adds charm and sass to both dressy and casual attire.  $198

This twist on the classic trench is made anew with charming wooden buttons and a detachable faux fur collar!  What a perfect topper over a vivid frock or some black slim pants….priced at an affordable $120 at www.dakotacollective.com

 
If you’re jealous of Fido and are aching for a little more fur, check out this wildly FABULOUS faux vest also from www.modcloth.com.  Made from 75% MODACRYLIC 25% ACRYLIC you can sleep better at night about your compassionate choices.  Treat yourself to two at just  $80!

 

Year after year, animal print accessories make their way to the front of the class.  Embrace this sophisticated yet tongue in cheek style by spicing things up a little. Accent your wardrobe of black, camel, denim, and red with a hint of your wild side.
The Baez bag has a canvas tiger print lined with faux suede lining and is the perfect bag for your day looks.  Priced at an affordable $135.






 





Perhaps you prefer to let your inner wild child out at night?  Mat & Nat’s Santogold made from neutral vegan leather and 100% recycled faux suede is the answer.  You may prowl the www.mattandnat.com website and with this $198 purchase you score free shipping!

 

Kate Spade seamlessly translates class and sass with her Fall collection of tailored pieces.  Jewel tones will surely get you noticed at work and at the lounge.
The rich tone of Kate Spade’s embellished Gail dress will make any girl want to twirl. You can check out the Kate Spade collection at Monkee’s in the Hill Center or at www.katespade.com for $425.










 





Black Halo has always designed sculptural dresses that are very aware of our womanly curves, but they created a true classic with their Jackie O dress.  This gorgeous below the knee stretch sateen number is available in jewel tone colors, classic black, and a vintage inspired floral print for $375.  A small price to pay for a dress you will wear for years to come.

I happen to love skipping a trip to my tailor because the cropped flare of these J Brand jeans will look smashing with the dreaded kitten heel, animal print cardigan, and crisp white shirt.  The perfect modern ladies who brunch outfit!  Head to www.shopbop.com for the best $159 you’ll spend this season!

How delish are these saucy little cardigan combinations?  Camel + faux fur make a major statement all the while conjuring up some mischief.  The little animal print + floral cotton cardigan are the best of both worlds!  Both are part of the Charlotte Tarantola Holiday collection and will retail for around $120.  For more information head to www.charlottetarantola.com.

Vivienne Westwood teamed up with plastic connoisseur Melissa Shoes to produce some girly kicks that include some of my favorites, The Lady Dragons ($130).  These fun peep toes are made from recycled plastic and will look fabulous with a full skirt, skinny cigarette pants, or your denim!  I chose the vivid red color because Don Draper certainly wouldn’t be able to keep his paws off of me. 




 





UK based Beyond Skin offers up incredibly comfortable and on-trend kitten heel and mid-heel options that will look cute and contemporary with the thick nubby knee-high sock trend Prada strutted down the runways.  You or nobody else will notice that these sturdy and sumptuous shoes are made from the finest faux-leathers! Prices range from $85-$220. Check out www.beyondskin.co.uk.

Snatch up a pair of Rachel by Rachel Roy Skinny Ponte pants that are actually a hybrid of leggings and pants.  These adorable cropped wonders will surely be a staple for work and play.  Your credit card will not sweat at the $89 price tag when you go to www.rachelroy.com.

 

Add this watercolor floral print blouse from Tulle as a topper for the Rachel Roy trousers shown above.  This pattern is inspired by pieces from the busty ladies cascading down the runways for Louis Vuitton.  The ruffles in the front and ¾ sleeve have a throwback 1960’s quality for a sliver of the price at just $53 at www.tulle4us.com.



 

Eco-friendly and Vegan collection Vaute Couture had a smashing NYC Fashion Week debut of their coat collection this year.  How could you not snatch up The Audrey as it grazes your calf and features a unique origami contrast to the already feminine silhouette?   It is also available in Black and this season’s favorite shade, Camel. www.vautecouture.com.


















 Mizzie and I are looking forward to Marcia's monthly posts on how to be fashionably vegan.  Regardless of whether or not you are vegan, there are some really cute and affordable options here.  Thanks Marcia! 

     

Warning: Mimosas Followed by Shopping May Lead to the UAL Impulse Purchase

Impulse purchase is defined as a spur of the moment unplanned decision to buy, made just before a purchase.  Research findings suggest that emotions and feelings play a decisive role in purchasing, triggered by seeing the product or upon exposure to a well crafted promotional message.  (Thank you businessdictionary.com.)  Consider me guilty as charged.  Our September Stella Spotlight Store, UAL, definitely lends itself to the impulse purchase and I have fallen prey too many times to count.  After posting our spotlight blog, I felt I needed to come clean about my most recent UAL impulse purchase.

That Sunday morning started innocently enough.  Brunch with my friend at Jackson's followed by a shopping trip to UAL.  I think this was her first trip to UAL which was exciting since I love taking new people there, and I was looking for a dress for my cousin's wedding.  We left Jackson's early enough that UAL wasn't open yet, so we decided to have a drink at Bricktop's before the shopping extravaganza began.  I tell you all of this, because I know that second mimosa made it that much easier for me to plop down my credit card for this dress... 

Yes, that is a train!

This Ivan Grundahl dress was hanging in the very back of a rack toward the front of the store.  It was the ruching at the side that caught my eye.  It was my size.  I had to try it on.

OF COURSE, it fit perfectly.  Everything about it was perfect.  There was discussion of different ways to wear it, dressing it down by cutting off the train and then some debate on whether I should really buy it.  Who was I kidding...I knew the second I zipped that zipper I was never cutting off that train and this dress was coming home with me.

Here's a look at the back of the dress...

And one more photo of the front.  Since the top doesn't have much structure, there's a million ways to wear it.  See how versatile it is? ;)

I have zero idea where I am going to wear this dress, which I now refer to as "my gown."  This wasn't exactly going to work for my cousin's wedding, but I just couldn't say no.  Are you ready for the price tag?


Designer: Ivan Grundahl 
Regular Price $850
UAL Price $159.99


$160?!  SOLD.  Even though I don't have one bit of buyer's remorse for this purchase, I know the mimosas made me do it.  That's my story and I'm sticking to it.