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!

Get Inspired By The 2010 Academy Awards Red Carpet Glam

Whether you were able to tune into the 2010 Academy Awards or if you missed it, here’s a quick recap of some of the night’s hottest looks. As I highlight three of my favorite trends, see which looks inspire you to pull from the red carpet straight to your closet.

The first trend I noticed a lot of on the red carpet was shades of nude.

Right now most of us are in that transitional stage of buying a new wardrobe: out with the dark, in with the bright and bold colors to complement the warmer weather. As you’re making your way through the stores preparing your spring wardrobe this year, give the pastel palette a try, with blushing pinks and ivory nudes. It’s a sophisticated, chic way to glam up your wardrobe.

The second trend I loved is the texture found on some of these gowns. From these looks, you can get a sense of ways to add texture to your own wardrobes. Cascading ruffles, pin tucks and pleatings are just some of the things to spot on jackets and tops. These small details on a great jacket can spice up your ordinary basic tee and jeans when you are out on the town. 

Lastly, don’t be afraid of the metallics, sequins and beading! While sometimes beading can get too heavy and dramatic, look for pieces with small amounts of these details as accents. Accessories like handbags and shoes are a great way to fit them into your wardrobe without looking like a dancing queen in sparkling gems. So as you make your way out into stores to shop for spring, keep some of these trends in mind. You may not be out buying gowns like this, but you can easily pull inspiration from some of these looks to glam up your style.

A Special Welcome to My Intern, Lauren

Happy Monday to all of my blog followers! I want to introduce you to the newest member of my team, Lauren Baker. Lauren is a senior Fashion Industry Management major at Philadelphia University. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her internship, and I am ecstatic to have her on board. Lauren will officially be taking over most of the blogging on this site (although I may pop in every now and then), and she has a lot of great ideas to keep your fashion juices flowing. Please join me in welcoming Lauren!