Forever 21's New Plus Size Line

Attention all of you fuller-figured fashionistas! You spoke and Forever 21 apparently listened. The store's new plus size line ("Faith 21") will launch tomorrow. Sizes will include junior plus sizes as well as those from XL to 2XL, and the line will feature knit and woven tops, dresses, skirts, leggings and jeans. Faith 21 will continue Forever 21's trendy spin on everything from jersey basics to runway knockoffs. And the best part - everything is priced at under $35!!!!!

Faith 21 will be available in L.A. on May 1 at the Lakewood Center Mall, Montebello Town Center, Los Cerritos Mall, Anaheim Plaza and online at http://www.forever21.com/. Happy Shopping.

Are We Afraid to Embrace Our Femininity?

Each year as the warmer weather begins to move in, I get excited about breaking out in my spring wardrobe - flirty dresses, cute girly tops with jeans and strappy sandals, and bold accessories. However, I realize that not every woman embraces their warm weather gear.

Once spring and summer arrive, many of us are challenged by the fact that we can no longer hide behind our big coats, bulky sweaters, hats, and scarves. This time of the year there's more skin showing and less alternatives to camouflage what we perceive as our "flaws." Some of us literally hate spring fashions primarily for this reason. For those of you who find yourself in this category, I want to ask you a question - is it really about the clothes or are you simply afraid to embrace your femininity?

Women often find it challenging to find the balance between being "strong" and "accomplished" and being feminine. There's a "softness" associated with femininity that experiences in the work place and in our homes have taught us is negative. However, the bottom line is that our "softness" is what makes us women. (And quite frankly it's what our significant others see that attracts them to us.)

There is absolutely nothing wrong with putting on clothes that make you look and feel feminine. Little girls are not challenged by this at all. My youngest godchild is four years old, and her mother still has to fight with her to wear something other than a dress. If you ask her why she likes to wear dresses she will tell you: "Because I'm a girl, and they make me look pretty."

For those of you who are "girly" challenged, I strongly suggest that you make a commitment this summer to change that. Make an appointment to get those nails and toes done, try a new hair style, and put on something that makes you feel like the woman you were meant to be. Who knows - this may just be the "pick me up" you need to attract that certain someone of the opposite sex and have that "spring fling."

Nordstrom Cherry Hill: A "Grand" Opening Gala

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the Nordstrom Cherry Hill Grand Opening Gala. It was a night of amazing proportions – non-stop hors d’oeuvres and desserts, complimentary open bar, an electrifying band, live model mannequins, and four hours (6 – 10 pm) to shop until you drop before the official store opening two days later. My girlfriend and I arrived around 7:30 that evening, and as we pulled up to the curb to leave our car with the valet, we knew we were in store for something pretty spectacular. My heart skipped a beat as we walked through the opened doors while being greeted by a neverending host of store personnel, some ready to extend you your first glass of champagne for the evening) One thing that was evident two minutes after getting there: the Nordstrom brothers know how to throw a party!

As we paused to get a bite to eat and to assess our surroundings, my initial reaction was, “I have never seen so many sales associates per capita in my entire life.” It was clear that this event was not only designed to raise money for a few worthy causes (proceeds from the ticket cost of $100 per person benefited The Links, Incorporated, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Symphony C), but to give all of the guests as much of an opportunity as possible to snatch up the best of the spring and summer collections before the doors were opened to the general public. And that is exactly what my girlfriend and I did! Because I’m the shopper, my girlfriend initially deferred to me: “What are you looking for?" ; "What department do you want to hit first?” But soon enough she was bitten by the shopping bug herself and started wandering off without me. (I dare say I have never seen her have that much fun shopping in my entire life, and I’ve known her for over 20 years!)

I took a quick break from my shopping for a moment to introduce myself to fashion designer, Tracy Reese. (She was absolutely charming and gracious as I expressed my love for her line and how much I have enjoyed attending her runway shows during New York Fashion Week.) And much to my surprise, the sales associate who was assisting me that evening happened not to be just a sales associate but one of the store’s personal stylists. (Ladies, ask for Dyan Demidio. She’s amazing and full of energy!) By the time 10:00 rolled around, we were still shopping! The band stopped playing, and we were . . . still shopping!!! I’m slightly ashamed to say that we literally closed the store that night.

(Band, "The Night Shift" was nothing short of FABULOUS!)

(Designer Tracy Reese pictured center with Nordstrom personal stylist, Dyan Demidio (left))

(DJ & Live Mannequins on the 2nd Floor)

Needless to say, I am ecstatic that there is now another Nordstrom in our midst. The King of Prussia location is certainly more convenient for me, but I will be making regular trips to Cherry Hill. Although the store is not as large as the one in King of Prussia (Cherry Hill measures in at 138,000 square feet), it is considered one of Nordstrom’s designer stores (basically more glitz and glam, of which there are about 20 in the country). At Cherry Hill you will notice a much expanded designer handbag department set up boutique style, the selection of designers featured (this store sells David Yurman in their fine jewelry department), and a fabulous new concept for the fitting room in the BP. (junior) department – a mini living room awaits you as you enter, complete with funky furniture and "foo-foo" pillows. All in all, three words sum up my overall assessment of this new addition to the Cherry Hill Mall: Job Well Done!

(BP. Fitting Room - Leather Sofa & Flokati Pillows)

(BP. Fitting Room - Love that flat screen!)

(BP. Fitting Room - amazing high back chair)

Bluefly: It's not Just Last Season's Ultimate Hook-up for the Fashion Obsessed

Attention all you fashionistas who love and swear by bluefly.com! I made an alarming discovery yesterday that I had to share with you. Just Monday I purchased a pair of "slammin" nude patent leather carved wooden wedge platform sandals by Miu Miu. My "main man" Sean General, the buyer for the Women's Couture department at Boyds Philadelphia, had put them aside for me (although we were just meeting for lunch - thanks for always spending my money, Sean) knowing that they would be my best friend for casual wear this summer. I bought them instantly and couldn't wait to get them home to place them amongst all of their other friends in my closet.

Well yesterday I just happened to be on bluefly looking at some of the latest items they've received from some of my favorite designers, including Miu Miu. Much to my surprise my sandals popped up. And for about $130 less than what I paid for them! Of course I quickly looked to see if they had them in my size, which they didn't. (I mean I love Sean and everything, but why give more of my money away than I have to!)

What was shocking to me was that this shoe is from Miu Miu's Spring 2009 collection, as opposed to being an item from last season. I do admit that it's been a while since I've done any competitive pricing on bluefly to see if they do indeed carry current season items at a discount. However, this amazing discovery has made me a true believer in their website again. So, for all you fashionistas who have not shopped on the "fly" before, check them out here. http://bluefly.com/

Oops! There Must be a Typo in My Fashion Magazine: I Can't Find this Item ANYWHERE!

Today I had the honor of doing a segment on the Fox 29 Philadelphia morning show, "Good Day Philadelphia." Michelle Buckman, Fox 29 News Consumer Reporter, asked me to answer a question many fashionistas have asked, particularly at the beginning of a new season: Why can't I find that fabulous piece I saw in the latest issue of my favorite fashion magazine online or in my local store?

My answers were pretty simple. One major reason is because many of the fashion editors are based in New York City and when they do their fashion layouts, they tend to select pieces from stores and boutiques in Manhattan. That's why magazines like Lucky are great because they occasionally have a regional section. Another reason you can chase and chase that cute pair of sandals or gorgeous top and never hit the jackpot is because those pieces you see were actually samples done for runway shows or collection previews. And guess what - they were never placed into production!

So what's a woman to do? I suggest taking the concept shown in the magazine, which basically shows the season's fashion trends. Then head to your laptop or to your local mall and shop for pieces that represent that trend. For example, one of the outfits that Michele Buckman featured was found in the March issue of InStyle magazine. The outfit centered around an adorable embellished short sleeve cardigan from J. Crew. Michelle had no luck finding this sweater online or in any of Jcrew's stores. But I was able to take the basic concept, "short sleeve cardigan," and recreate that entire outfit by finding an animal print short sleeve cardigan, shell, faux python clutch, embellished flat sandals, and dangling earrings. And the best part - the outfit in the magazine cost over $1200; mine was only $250! (Talk about creating the look for less!)

But, I do know that there are those "desperate" situations where you feel as though you cannot go on without having that one "it" item of the season. Yours truly has been there, trust me. In those cases, I suggest you get on the phone, call the store listed, describe the item (along with the name of the magazine and page number), and if they have it in stock, ask them to send it to you. Some stores like bebe make it easier for you to scout all of their stores. They have a customer service number that you can call, and they will do a nationwide search for you and give you the phone number of the store that has it in stock.

Whether you decide to recreate the look or take on a new part-time job to find the actual piece shown in your favorite magazine, just have fun with the new season's trends. And don't forget to watch those dollars - looking chic doesn't mean your purse has to look empty!

Recessionista Chic: How to Minimize the Cost of Maximizing Your Wardrobe

Unless you have somehow managed to sleep through the past couple of years, this will not come as a surprise: we are indeed in a recession. Amidst talks of cutbacks, layoffs, expense reductions, budget cuts, and of course, store closings, fashion conscious women are scurrying to discover how they can continue to look good without breaking the bank. The fashion industry has even coined a term to describe these women: "recessionistas."

If you have been wondering how you can continue to look like you have just stepped out of the pages of Vogue without dipping into your depleting savings accounts, the following tips will help you cost-consciously spring into the upcoming season.


1. Shop Your Closet
Each of us has that one article of clothing that has been tucked away just waiting for the perfect piece to accompany it. Truth is, that perfect piece is likely already in your closet, along with many other items you have ignored. Before you make another move to the next sale, go straight to your closet and make some new winning combinations. Bought that lace cami because it was on the sale rack and you knew it might one day come in handy? Throw it on under a cute cropped jacket and pull on your favorite jeans. If you're not the most fashion savvy individual, here is where hiring a wardrobe stylist can really come in handy. A good stylist can put outfits together you have never even thought of, and leave you with photos so there's no guessing involved the next time you get dressed. If you're really on a budget, invite one of your fashionable friends to come over and lend you a hand.

2. Swap with Friends
Women these days are finding new and creative ways to spruce up their wardrobe and make new friends to boot. Why not host a party at your home and instead of it being a potluck dinner, make it a potluck shopping experience. Tell everyone to bring one article of clothing or an accessory in excellent condition that they no longer use, pile them up for selection, and may the best woman win! If there's anything left over that doesn't seem to work in anyone's closet, don't take it back home. Donate it to "Dress for Success," a wondeful organization dedicated to empowering women and giving them a second chance.

3. Accessorize to the Max
If you want to buy something new this season, start with accessories. A new scarf, purse, or piece of jewelry can add a pop of color and make that cute summer dress and strappy sandals look like an entirely new ensemble. And keep in mind: accessories don't have to break the bank. Stores like Forever 21 (no, you don't have to be 21 to shop there) have the best accessories and they're cheap! (I'm talking $3 - $5 for earrings and enameled bangles, and $8 - $10 for scarves.)

4. Switch it Up a Bit
So we all have that pair of slacks that we bought to where with that top, those shoes, and that purse, right? Stop right there. Do not pass go and do not collect $200 bucks unless you pick a different shirt out of your closet the next time around. Those black slacks with the white pinstripe can be worn with more colors than just white. Why not try pink, light blue, or grey? And if you're really feeling adventurous - knock their socks off with lime green. Watch how many compliments you get and how quickly you begin to believe that's a new pair of slacks!

5. Embrace the Blue Light Special
I may be showing my age a bit here, but do you remember the days of the K-Mart blue light special? (For those of you young-uns, yes, there was actually a swirling blue light highlighting the featured buy of the day.) Fast forward to the new age of mass market retailers like Target and Kohls. You can find some serious bargains here (even some "a la" designer labels like Vera Wang and Isaac Mizrahi). A few months ago I spotted an amazing gold and cream tweed boucle wool coat with 3/4 lengths sleeves on a clearance rack at Target for $15! Sure, it's not going to be the quality of Cinzia Rocca piece, but who the heck cares for $15??????? Stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls are also known for stocking designer duds at discount prices. So when it comes to minimizing the impact on your pocket, never, I mean never, underestimate the power of that blue light!