Holiday Glamour by Vera Wang

If you're searching for those last minute holiday gifts for the fashionistas in your life, be sure to check out the Simply Vera Vera Wang Holiday Collection at Kohls. From glitzy multi-strand necklaces to sequined hats to chiffon fingerless gloves, you can't go wrong with the name that has become synonymous with sophistication and style. And the best part -- many of the accessories in the collection are less than $40! Now that makes for a Very Merry Christmas!!

Google Your Way To Being Fashion Fierce

Ever wake up in the morning, spontaneously decide you want to venture out and try to wear something a little different, and panic because you don't know how? That apparently happened to one of my clients last week, and I awakened to a "mayday, mayday" text message she had sent at 6:56 am. Needless to say, I did not get that message or the picture she emailed me giving me a sneak preview of her "look" until she was work. That didn't give us any time to correct that fashion faux pas on the spot, but at least we were able to rectify it a couple of hours later before too many of her co-workers had seen her.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, first pause and acknowledge that this is exactly why our mothers told us in high school to pick out our clothes the night before. (Sorry I had to go there . . . I couldn't resist.) Then, go straight to the internet and do a google search on the trend in question: "How to wear two cardigans?" or "Can I wear a blush-toned dress with a bright platform pump?" You can also search YouTube for possible step-by-step instructions. Regardless of the method you choose, you can feel confident that you walked out the door looking your best.

Farewell My Sweet Lady

It's been well over a month since I've posted a blog entry.  As they say -- sometimes life just gets in the way.  This past Saturday, we escorted my grandmother, the late Claries Toomer Bennett, to her final earthly resting place in Hope Mills, NC.  She was the Matriach of the Bennett family, and her life had a profound effect on every person who came within her reach.  

I would be remiss if I didn't dedicate this entry to her.  The picture above is of my Grandma taken in the late 1940's . . . she was in her 20's.  This picture surfaced over the weekend as people from near and far gathered at her home to celebrate her life.  Over the years, many have asked me where my sense of fashion and style originated.  I immediately respond "from my mother," who is the epitome of class and sophistication.  When I saw this picture only hours before my Grandma's "Homegoing Celebration," I realized it originated with my Grandma.  In addition to teaching my mother the virtues of unconditional love and respect, she clearly passed down the attributes of what it means to look like a Lady!

Grandma, you are missed, but never will you be forgotten.  I end this blog the way I ended my tribute to her on Saturday . . . "Rejoice my sweet lady. Heaven is happy to welcome one of its finest angels back home." 

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Kicks Off Tomorrow at its New Location - Lincoln Center's Damrosch Park

(Photo from stylelist.com)

I have two favorite times of the year -- February and September. Is it because my favorite holidays are Valentine's Day and Labor Day? Absolutely not! It's because those months include two weeks out of the year when every fashionista feels like she's died and gone to heaven: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week! And this year provides a tee bit more excitement because after 18 years at Bryant Park (I must say attending my last show there last season was a little bittersweet), the shows have moved to Lincoln Center. I feel like a kid waking up on Christmas morning -- I know I loved all of the presents under the tree last year, but I'm hoping this year's presents will be even better!

The move to Lincoln Center has brought about many firsts, not the least of which is Fashion GPS, a web-based system rolled out by IMG Fashion (the producer of MBFW) that over 80% of the designers showing at the tents have opted to use. Instead of those often lavish paper invitations being sent in the mail, PR firms emailed invitations which contain a link for you to go online and RSVP with a touch of a button. You are immediately sent an email containing a confirmation number (gone are the days when you wonder whether or not your RSVP by email or voicemail was ever received), and . . . drumroll please . . . a barcode to be scanned at one of 9 kiosks on site! (The barcode can even be scanned right from your PDA!) These kiosks will spit out your seating assignment, and off you go to your show. They will even have computer terminals and printers available if you happen to forget to bring your confirmation email with you. IMG is hoping that this will dramatically cut down those long lines (which look more like a sea of people huddled together) you wait in to check in with a PR person frantically looking through a binder filled with names. (Of course the PR teams will still be on hand to handle the real problems and the computer glitches.)

While this to me is the biggest and most dramatic change, the new location now includes a significantly larger space, lounge-style seating in the lobby area to wait around between shows (music to my feet!), two interior courtyards, wireless internet access, and a 4th venue (venue names are now from largest to smallest: "The Theatre," "The Stage," "The Studio," and "The Box"). The Theatre can seat almost 1,000 people and can accommodate another 400 standing; The Stage will fit more than 800 fashionistas; The Studio has seats for 390 plus standing room; and The Box -- a smaller room for designer presentations, industry forums and press conferences -- can hold 450 standing. It also appears as though the chairs in the venues have been replaced with stadium style bench seating, no doubt one of the reasons they are able to accommodate more people.

Although I will miss the first day of shows tomorrow (last day of my Bermuda vacation), I hit the ground running before daybreak on Friday morning to make it to NYC in time for my first show at 9:30 am. My day starts off with Tadashi Shoji, followed by Duckie Brown, Georges Chakra, and Ports 1961. Hopefully I will get a quick nap in at some time so I can be ready for all of the Fashion's Night Out festivities!

Lanvin and H&M Collaborate!

This is probably one of the most exciting rumors to be confirmed in a while! Yesterday WWD (THE voice of the fashion industry) tweeted that we might be seeing yet another fabulous collaboration that would potentially knock our socks off, and today they have come back to say it is indeed true. On November 23, Lanvin for H&M will hit approximately 200 stores - hopefully one near you!

Lanvin is the newest designer to join the ranks of guest star designers like Stella McCartney, Karl Lagerfeld, Zac Posen, and Anna Sui who have created limited edition "cheap chic" lines for cost-friendly chains like H&M and Target. What better news could a fashionista receive right before the last official weekend of summer when the reality of needing to spruce up the fall wardrobe really begins to set in?

If you are one of millions of women like myself who simply can't wait to get your hands on a few of these pieces, I strongly suggest you mark the date on your calendar and plot out your course of action. This collection is likely to sell out in nano seconds!

THINK GREEN!

No, I'm not talking about recycling! Green is without a doubt the go-to hue for the fall season. Now, I must admit . . . just 2 years ago you would not have caught me dead in the color. Although I may have loved the piece, if the color was green, the first thing out of my mouth was: "I don't do green!" I think the color routinely reminded me of Emerald City in "The Wizard of Oz," not exactly the place you reflect upon when you think about must have fashion trends.

Fast forward to last fall when I became somewhat obsessed with the color after Gucci did this beyond fab snakeskin bag in forest green. It literally took my breath away. After seeing this magnificent creation, I began embracing that particular shade as a neutral that could be worn with black, navy, brown, or tan. The next thing I knew I was in Soho at one of my favorite shoe boutiques, Keito, purchasing a pair of "too fierce" platform leather and suede booties in the hue. The end result has been a love connection that was well overdue!

From fabulous ponte dresses to Chanel inspired tweed jackets to cashmere cardigans and platform pumps - you will definitely find that must have piece to add to your wardrobe. After all, it can be easy being green.

bebe Launches Petite Line!

We asked and apparently bebe finally listened! This week the brand known for its uber chic styles officially launched its petite line, a much needed remedy for those of us who must get every pair of pants we purchase hemmed!

The petite selections are targeted to women 5'4" and under, and include jackets, pants, and jeans. In the past, bebe has occasionally done a few of their pants in petite lengths, but the selection has been quite limited. By the time you realized the item was sold in petite sizes, they were completely sold out.

The line currently includes 11 pieces, and is available exclusively at bebe.com.

5 Easy Steps to a Fiercely Organized Wardrobe

Ever step into your closet and feel like you have nothing to wear?  It may not be just because you have become bored with your current wardrobe. More likely than not, it's because you can't see everything your current wardrobe has to offer.  Most of us don't go into our kitchen pulling out every drawer and frantically searching for the forks, knives, and spoons.  Why? Because each of the utensils has its place in what you refer to as the "silverware drawer."  Your closet should reflect the same organization! You can't expect to look fashionable on a daily basis if every morning you're searching for that one piece to make your outfit pop and you NEVER find it. If you want to make getting dressed as simple as it should be, follow these guidelines for a well organized wardrobe.

1. Separate your wardrobe by season.  Have an area for your spring/summer clothes and another area for your fall/winter clothes.  (If you're anything like me, you probably have separate closets for each season!)

2.  Within each season, separate your casual, work, and "After 5" clothes.  This will make it easier on those days you oversleep and need to pull together an outfit for work in a nano second.

3.  Sort your clothes by type.  All of your shirts should be together, skirts, pants, jackets, etc.  I would also encourage you to further break this down into groupings.  For example, if you are organizing your shirts, place your sleeveless tops together, followed by your short-sleeved tops and then your long-sleeved tops.

4.  Color coordinate!  Group your white shirts together, followed by your cream shirts, moving from your light shades to your darker shades, and ending with black.  Repeat this step for each type of clothing.

5.  Organize your shoes so you can see them.  If there's not enough space in your closet to display all of them, keep the shoes you tend to wear most often in plain sight.  You should store the others in either their original boxes or clear plastic boxes.  Place a photograph on the box so you can easily identify the shoes in each box. 

One more thing - and this has nothing to do with how you organize your closet, but I would be remiss if I didn't address it now.  Get rid of the wire hangers . . . all of them!  If you care about the quality of the clothes you buy, then you should care about how well you maintain them.  Wire hangers are meant to transport your clothes from the dry cleaners to your closet.  After they have served this purpose, they should be disposed of properly (or recycled).  They are the quickest and easiest way to cause your clothing to lose its shape (because they can't support the weight of most garments) and to get stains (they rust over time).  Invest in a heavy duty hanger.  I prefer wood, but there are some high quality plastic ones on the market as well.  If space is an issue (wood and plastic hangers do take up quite a bit of space), try Real Simple Slimline Hangers.  Whatever you decide, just throw away the wires!  Your clothes will thank you, and so will I!

A Sneak Peak at Fall 2010

Photo from style.com

Fashion waits for no one ladies! Although we just participated in 4th of July festivities this past weekend, and temperatures are soaring into the 100's in some areas of the northeast this week, fall clothing has already hit the stores. I know - I know: it's hard to think about trying on that gorgeous shearling or fur-trimmed leather when you're sweating bullets. However, if you wait until the first frost hits to begin scooping up those must have items for the season, you will be disappointed. So for you brave souls who will risk your bronzer dripping down your face in the interest of fashion, here's a quick preview of some of the must have items for the fall.

While this is the third fall season that grey and shades of plum have ruled the runway, there's a new kid on the block: navy! Many designers have put their individual spin on the actual shade of blue, so be on the lookout for deep blues with a hint of purple as well as gorgeous shades of sapphire blue. Since nude and blush tones were a big trend for Spring 2010, it seems fitting that the shade has darkened a bit for fall, and camel has emerged. We're seeing this shade in everything from chic platform boots to fabulous cashmere coats and satchel handbags.

By far one of my favorite trends of the season is texture. Tweeds are very strong, and you will see many wardrobe staples blending leather, suede, wool, and nylon. I must say that Versace did it best in this ultra funky coat (pictured above)they sent down the runway at the Nordstrom Fall 2010 Designer Preview Runway Show. And speaking of textures, sweater dressing has made a strong comeback from chunky knit coats to dresses and even boots!

Finally, I am loving all of the booties we're seeing - particularly the lace fronts! Cross-body bags, both mini and full-sized, are a big trend that carried over from the spring, and are joined by structured hand-held doctor bags. As far as accessories are concerned, "more is more," so layer those bangles and necklaces to continue looking "fashion fierce" once the temperature drops. Happy Shopping!

(P.S. You can pick up several of these trends at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this month. But hurry - the presale has already started!)

MAYDAY MAYDAY . . . I've Outgrown My Closet!

I can't begin to tell you the number of times I've heard the following line from clients or potential clients: "I will call you to go shopping for clothes when I lose weight." Now, I totally understand wanting to get to that perfect size so you can rock that fabulous LBD you have now tucked away in the back of your closet. However, should the goal to shed those extra 5, 10 or even 20 pounds mean that you put off looking good until you reach your optimal weight? I think not!

Creating your personal style is a process, and it shouldn't be governed by the almighty scale. It is important that you look and feel good at any age, and at any size. I'm not advocating that you run out and buy an entirely new wardrobe at a size you absolutely loathe, but it will only make you feel worse if you don't have a few pieces in your closet that make you feel fabulous when you wear them. We as women are very emotional, and the constant reminders to lose weight (e.g. the rack of clothes in your closet that are two sizes too small) tend not to push us to the gym, but rather to the head table at a pity party. In my experience, you will only lose the weight when you look in the mirror, embrace how you look today, and think: "Wow! I could look even better if I shed those additional pounds."

Instead of declaring "I refuse to buy anything until I lose some weight," take an inventory of your current wardrobe.  If you need a few pieces to look good NOW, buy them. Just resist the urge to splurge. And about that rack of clothes you can't fit . . . HIDE THEM! They will only make you feel worse every time you open those closet doors, and that my friend is a NO NO!

Summer Must Have: Feminine Sun Hat

Sad to say, my internship blogging for Be Fashion Fierce has come to a close.  As my final blog, I'd actually like to talk about something I've had an interest in for a while now, but haven't had the chance to address.  After never wearing a hat in my life (except for playing softball in my younger years), I've been intrigued by the hats that are in stores for Summer 2010.  Since purchasing a large black hat that looks like I'm ready to go to the Kentucky Derby--in a sundress--I've grown to love hats, and I think everyone should have at least one. They are the best accessory to a sundress! Here are a few of the hottest styles . . . wear them to church, to weddings, to the shore, out for a day of shopping with the girls, or whatever occasion you may find.

Can't Get Enough of those Wendy Brandes Gold Snake Earrings?

"The size, style, feel and quality of the original Cleopatra earring kicks asp!" ;-) Well said by Wendy Brandes herself! Since Sex and the City 2 made it's debut last week, the talk of the town has been about Wendy's gold snake-like Cleopatra earrings. If you took a look at last week's blog, you'll notice that I found a look for less for these earrings. Since then, I've had the pleasure of communicating with Wendy Brandes regarding these earrings, and I decided to do a follow up for all of you on how to get the REAL DEAL earrings -- still at an affordable price! These earrings retail for only $450 dollars and are beautifully shaped and made out of sterling silver. Every fashionista must have a statement piece of jewelry, and these earrings are certainly a MUST HAVE for summer.  Make sure you check out Wendy's website at www.wendybrandes.com. You can even check out her blog where she talks about the earrings in the movie and her trip to see the movie with friends -- all of whom sported the Cleopatra earrings!

Wendy Brandes wearing her signature Cleopatra earrings

Sex and the City 2: Get the Look for Less!

Unfortunately, we’re not all lucky enough to have the budget that the stylists for Sex and the City 2 are privileged to have at their disposal.  Whether or not you’re a fan of the hit series or the movies, it’s still easy to get hooked on the outfits worn by these stylish New York divas. Officially in theaters as of yesterday, SATC2 will move every fashionista to check out what the girls are wearing this time around, and bring a little piece of the movie to her own wardrobe. Here are four signature looks from both movies worn by Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda, and where you can get their looks for less!

Carrie in a chic vintage white Halston dress; XOXO V-neck Drape Jersey Dress: $59!!

Miranda: Maggy London Black and White dress IS affordable at only $148! Just throw on a gold belt and you’re good to go!

Samantha: wearing Wendy Brandes Gold Snake Earring - $7,250!

Find similar earrings like this at polyvore.com for $300.

Finally, if you want Charlotte's conservative look in a stunning turquoise-green dress like this, then check out this dress on the right from Max and Cleo for only $95!

The Right Swimsuit for Your Body Type

After wandering through the bathing suit section at Target a few days ago, I started to worry whether or not I had chosen the right swimsuit style to best flatter my body type. Being a pear shape, I’m always very conscious of my legs and hips, and generally have to wear a size larger on the bottom than on top. I decided to go with a bandeau ruched top, to give the illusion of a fuller bust, and a high -- but narrow cut -- bottom, to give the illusion of longer legs. After doing some research on finding the best swimsuit for your body, I discovered these perfect little videos, where each video is designed for each body type as it relates to swimwear. The pear, apple, hourglass, and inverted triangle shapes are all covered. I’ve watched all of these videos, and whoever made them seems to be right on with their style tips! So before you hit the beach this summer, take a few seconds to watch these videos (they take less than 60 seconds), and see if you are suiting up correctly this season. Also keep in mind that color and pattern play a role in where other’s focus on your body, so make sure you listen to the color advice given as well. After watching these videos, I am confident in my swimsuit choice and am ready to hit the sand! For great separates suiting options for your body type, check out www.victoriassecret.com where you can mix and match bottoms and tops in all sizes and colors!

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Apple 
Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Hourglass

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Pear

Video - Swimsuits for Your Body Shape:  Inverted Triangle

Alex and Ani: Eco-Friendly Jewelry

As the school year comes to a close, graduating seniors at PhilaU who were lucky enough to land jobs will begin the rest of their lives in the workforce.  It sounds dreadful doesn’t it? Well, perhaps not so much for my very close friends who have landed amazing jobs, one of which is with a jewelry company I had never known.  Now that I've seen her rock her personal collection of the company's bangles and necklaces every day, I've become a fan of Alex and Ani.  After hearing about the company and seeing some of the products, I thought I’d introduce it to all of you!  I’m still trying to pick out what I need to have from their jewelry collection; it’s challenging because it's all beautiful!  Alex and Ani is an eco-friendly jewelry company started by designer Carolyn Rafaelian. Products are created using recycled materials made entirely in the United States. They carry everything from bracelets, necklaces and earrings to rings, hair pieces and bridal pieces. If you’re looking for everyday jewelry that’s eco-friendly, check out their website at  www.alexandani.com

Finding the Perfect Fitting Jeans

We all know that most women struggle when shopping for their denim jeans. It seems like there are an infinite amount of styles and brands out there for a variety of prices. So how do you know which ones are right for you? While I can’t see you and tell YOU specifically, there are some great guidelines that all women should follow. Here are a few things to take into consideration when shopping for jeans: fit type, rise, leg fit and wash type.

• Fit Type: Most jeans come sized relaxed, slim, regular, etc. Slim and extra slim are best for those who are tall and thin.

• Rise: Rise is something that really gets to me when shopping for jeans. No one wants a high rise unless you’re specifically looking for a pair of high waisted jeans. TRY ON your jeans to assess the rise before you buy them. Try sitting, crossing your legs and bending over to make sure that you’re comfortable.

• Leg Fit: This is the part that usually gets me the most frustrated when shopping for jeans. These days a lot of women are looking for the skinny leg jean, but some women have larger calves than others. I’ve found what works best for me with a skinny jean is that it MUST have spandex or lycra in it to give it some stretch, otherwise it will not fit over my calves. Also, look at other cuts like boot cut, straight, skinny, wide, flare, etc. Don't forget to keep in mind the shape of your hips and shoulders when choosing a leg fit in order to give your entire body a uniform silhouette.

• Wash Type: Darker washes tend to be more flattering and thinning, and are also easier to dress up if you’re wearing jeans out at night. Whisker washes draw attention to the hips and thighs. Lighter washes can hide a multitude of sins BUT can also make some look heavier, so be careful when trying these on and know what look you’re going for. Also, color washes can tend to add stiffness to the jeans because of the larger amount of dye in them.

Lastly, when you’re shopping for your jeans, don’t be afraid to pull a sales associate aside to assist you. Get opinions in the dressing room so that you don’t walk out wearing a mistake. Also, research your jean companies. Most websites have great sizing tools for denim for all body shapes and sizes; take advantage of that! And finally, it’s not always true that spending more money gets you a better fitting jean. Every body type is different, and brands that you’d never imagine trying just might be the ones to surprise you!

Zac Posen For Target

Designer Zac Posen’s budget line for Target recently hit stores. Posen's line was one of the most highly anticipated launches for Targets GO lines, sold internationally. Target quotes on their website that “The acclaimed Zac Posen collection is composed of day wear, suiting and evening wear, designed for sophisticated, feminine, strong women of a diverse age range.” There’s a great mix of fun prints and silohuettes for every shape ranging from $16.99-$200. If you haven’t had the chance to take a peak at your local Target store, you can view the full collection online at www.target.com. Of course, I’ve fallen head over heels for the snap tape dress that is already out of stock online, so if you see something you love and must have, buy it now before it’s gone! The Target online shop also provides you with looks to put the pieces you purchase together and accessorize them. Check it out and let us know what you think!

Who's Your Favorite Up-and-Coming Designer?

A few months ago working backstage at Fashion Week in New York, a new designer caught my eye that I think you all will love.  Abigail Lorick designer of Lorick, chose an elegant presentation for her line rather than a runway show.  Her pieces were like artwork -- very vintage, romantic, and wearable . . . the kind of clothes that make women feel like their "Sunday’s best" again.  Since seeing her presentation, I’ve been mildly obsessed with her designs.  Lorick attended FIT for design and has recently become successful launching her own line in 2007.  Her clothes have been featured in countless high-fashion magazines and showcased on the hit show "Gossip Girl."  She now sells her clothes internationally, but also close to home at Barneys New York and even in Philadelphia at Pileggi.  Check out some of my favorite looks from her Spring 2010 line.  If you’re interested in finding out more about her and her collections, check out www.loricknewyork.com.  Let me know what you think or let us know your favorite designer on the rise!

Spotlight On Spring/Summer Accessories

There’s a lot going on in the world of accessories for Spring/Summer 2010! I'm excited to share three of my favorites with you, which represent some of the hottest items on the market right now. Accessories are so vital to your wardrobe, and they can literally make or break an outfit. While you're shopping this season, make sure you keep an eye out for each of the items below.

First, turquoise is back and better than ever. Turquoise pieces are great investments to add to your accessories collection because they regain their status every few years when turquoise comes back into style. Whether you buy bangles, rings, or a necklace, you will find that turquoise is available in a variety of price ranges and tones. Authentic turquoise is of course on the pricey side, but there are great faux turquoise pieces out there as well that you can buy for just a few dollars. Here are a few selections that you can find at Nordstrom from $35.00 - $375.00.

Second on my list is an embellished sandal.  Let’s face it . . . we all don’t have pretty feet!  BUT - with a fun pair of sandals that have a beautiful embellished twist, our feet can certainly look their best! You can find some of these great looks below at  www.ninewest.com. Embellished sandals are great to dress up a simple outfit, and they look amazing while remaining comfortable.

Lastly, embrace the idea of carrying a new handbag. Printed clutches and cross body pouches are my personal favorites for the season. If you're anything like me, downsizing purses is a severe problem, and trying to cram everything into a clutch seems like a nightmare. However, if you're willing to make the sacrifice for a day to vamp up jeans and a tee with one of these bags, you're going to be happy you did. Check out some of these bags found at Saks and Nordstrom.

Spring/Summer Trends for the Working Woman

Although shopping for spring and summer clothes to wear outside of work allows you to express more of your fashion sense, it is important to still bring style to the office while maintaining the business, professional dress code. While working in a corporate office, I’ve seen first-hand the lack of fashion that is expressed by women in the office. No matter what your age or where you work, update your work wardrobe with some of spring and summer's 2010 trends for the workplace.

Start off with the most key piece: a basic black pencil skirt that hits you slightly above, or slightly below the knee. This length is what is in style right now and most “appropriate” for the workplace. (Take this into consideration when you purchase dresses as well.) The black pencil skirt is timeless and looks great with almost any blouse, which brings me to number 2 . . . PLEASE update your blouses!!! I cannot tell you how many typical, boring blouses I see every day. Step out of the norm and go for a blouse with ruffles or gathers and pleats. Also, look for neutral colors that go with your basics.

Next, try looking for fun jackets. And I’m not talking about jackets with shoulder pads from the 80's and early 90’s. Some of the hottest trends in jackets right now are the black blazer, either fitted or boyfriend style. You can find a great blazer with cuffs that are turned up and feature a fun print on the inside. Also, anything utility inspired featuring hardware and zippers is big for this season. Pair these jackets up with a great necklace and tee and wear with pants or skirts.

Let's not forget to take inventory of your shoes. Shoes tend to get a little boring as people shoot for comfort instead of style. However, there are a lot of great wedges out there right now and heels that stray away from your typical pointed pump. While style in shoes may not suit your wardrobe every day, mix it up now and then and go for fun colors and styles.

Finally, do not be afraid of patterns and color. Spice up your basics and remember that you can still be office appropriate and sophisticated while incorporating a few trendy pieces. Not only will other’s be impressed with your new style, but you will feel more confident in yourself.

Has Easter Lost It's Luster?

I remember Easter Sunday very fondly as a child. Besides the fact that I received an Easter basket filled with all sorts of goodies, it was the day that I could wear bangs and the most "foo foo" of outfits. Frilly dresses, matching spring coats, lace trimmed socks, and white patent leather shoes were topped off with barrettes, ribbons, hats, purses, and white gloves. (You "Generation Xers" like myself remember a well-dressed "lady" never went any where without her gloves!) My mother made sure I looked like the girliest of girls on that day, and I loved every single minute of it.

Over the years I have noticed that people just don't dress their children the way they used to for Easter. Now don't get me wrong -- I don't buy into the commercialization that now dominates the day nor do I dismiss the real reason why we Christians celebrate Easter at all. However, I couldn't help but be reminded in church once again this year that we have become such a casual society that the next generation has no concept of the respect we demonstrated by dressing in our "Sunday best" when we entered a sanctuary, particularly on Easter Sunday. Going to church didn't mean looking like you were about to hit the playground, the movies, or the dance club, for that matter. (I can't begin to tell you the number of young ladies I saw yesterday with jeans that appeared to be painted on their bodies to match their tattoos.) Although I strongly denounce the idea that those who desire to attend church should be denied access because they can't afford to "dress the part," I am completely appalled by those who choose to spend their money to dress themselves and their children in attire completely inappropriate for the occasion.

I remember the days when church clothes were just that . . . "Church Clothes." They were the children's equivalent of adult work clothes:  you wore them for that purpose and immediately took them off when you arrived home. (God forbid you tried to keep them on and not change into your "play clothes"!) This was how parents initially began to teach their children, at an elementary stage, what it meant to dress appropriately for the many things they did. Ever wonder today why young adults today can't grasp the concept of proper work attire?

Although I don't think we will ever return to the days I remember so fondly that taught us to have pride in our appearance even as youngsters, I commend those parents who continue to pass down the teachings of our generation to their little ones. Thank you Najah, Samantha, and Tolori for showing your little girls what it means to dress in honor of something special. I enjoyed seeing their pictures on Facebook yesterday. Above all, thank you Mommy for teaching me to have pride in myself and my physical appearance, and to respect the fact that there is a time and a place for everything.

Buyers Beware! Major Retailers Caught Re-Selling Lingerie

In most retail stores, it is a given that underwear is not returnable, right? Wrong! It seems like every major retailer selling lingerie gives their customers a clear warning at check out that the items are non-returnable, and consumers just agree knowing that, of course, that rule makes sense: no one wants to buy used underwear. Unfortunately, a few major retail establishments are facing headlines that they have been caught on tape accepting underwear returns, some of which were clearly worn. The horror to this is that they retag the merchandise and place it back on the floor to purchase again, without even hesitating! What’s even more disgusting is that the reasoning from retailers caught in the act was that it comes down to money for them: they don’t want to lose money so they retag and re-shelf them.

So what retailers were caught in the act? You might be surprised to know that some of the most popular stores like Victoria’s Secret, Gap, Macy’s, Bloomingdales and Nordstrom were among those caught reselling used underwear. This issue made it’s debut on the Today Show where people went undercover to return and watch their used underwear be placed back on the sales floor. Watch the video link for more details and rest easy that retailers like J.Crew, Saks Fifth Avenue and Express did accept returns, but did NOT put them back on the sales floor. So choose retailers wisely and always look over garments before purchasing.

Check out the video clip here:

Payless Strikes Deal with Isabel Toledo

Retailer Payless, who recently launched a shoe line with project runway winner Christian Siriano, is now striking up a deal with designer Isabel Toledo, who gained press for creating the dress Michelle Obama wore on Inauguration day. Toledo has been in the industry for over 25 years and designs iconic one of a kind pieces worn by the most elite all across the globe.

This fall, you will see Toledo’s collection of shoes and handbags debut at Payless, which will feature around five styles. While there are no final sketches to reveal yet for the line, Payless has noted that materials for the shoes and handbags include patent, nylon and mesh and will be priced under $40. Big retailers are branching out to bring you designer goods at affordable prices, and most have been successful in their ventures. Look for this line of Toledo’s shoes to hit stores in September!

The Classic Trench Coat, a MUST Have for Spring 2010:

As we enter into the Spring season, be sure to welcome the cool rainy days ahead with a classic trench coat, one of the must have pieces of the season! Trench coats are a great staple to add to your wardrobe because they come in such a wide variety of colors, shapes and prices to fit your style and your budget. Style icons like Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O were notorious for making the trench look so chic and elegant, while ultimately serving the purpose of keeping dry in the damp weather. Today, trench coats have become timeless pieces and if you take the time to go out and look for the one that is right for you, I promise you won’t be disappointed with the investment. Dress it up or dress it down, and you will look great whether you are on your way to work or throwing it over jeans to run to the store or grab a bite to eat.

Here are a few trench coats that I love, and where you can find them in a variety of prices and styles.

DVF $465 at Neiman Marcus

Kenneth Cole $199.98

The Limited $76.80 (sale)

Burberry $595

Tulle $44 (sale)

There’s a trench to suit everyone’s personal style so don’t miss out on Spring’s number one must have item!