Sock it to Me!

I am a sucker for new running gear ~ especially products that enhance my performance while making a fresh statement. One of my favorite places to uncover such finds is at the Big Sur Half Marathon Expo. Various vendors are present, eager to sell their latest and greatest wares to race ready participants. While meandering through the aisles at this event last month, I stumbled upon the Running Skirts' booth. Their colorful and whimsical designs were a feast for my eyes ~ from women's running tops to running skirts to... compression socks?! 

Yes, compression socks. These knee high wonders are now a popular accessory among runners. Why? Their snug fit increases circulation in a wearer's calves, helping legs recover faster from a run. Running Skirts has put their own playful, feminine twist on this functional item, which is evident in the above image. The bright pink sock accented with the bold heart graphic is perfect for the girly girl who is ready to hit the pavement! 

Needless to say, I was compelled to purchase a pair of these for my tootsies. I voted for the black and white stripe design with a pink heart that I wore during the 13.1 mile trek. You can catch a glimpse of them in the photo below...

Running Skirts notes on their website, "increased circulation = happy legs!" As you can see, I was a happy camper when this photo was taken. Happy to have completed the half marathon, to have shared the experience with my family and to have sported my newfound, lighthearted accessory.



Running Skirts ~ Women's Compression Socks:
http://store.runningskirts.com/accessories/compression-socks

Mixed Metal Madness

Are you a golden girl or a silver stylista? If you looked in my jewelry box during my school years, you would have gazed at a sea of silver. Over time, I slowly began introducing a few gold accents into my collection. But, being the Virgo that I am, I was adamant about maintaining order by separating the metals when accessorizing. And then the mixed metals trend happened... Hallelujah! My accessory options were limitless.

Over the past few months, I have been on a hunt for key mixed metal baubles. My first find is featured in the above photo, the DKNY 'Street Smart' Notched Bezel Chronograph. This watch is a life changer. The winning combination of the gun metal with gold accents is a show stopper on its' own, but it also complements just about all of my existing treasures.

I am also excited that Chloe + Isabel currently offers multiple mixed metal options. A few examples are displayed below, including the Set of Six Stackable Rings, Two-Tone Fringe Earrings and Two-Tone Metal Round Stretch Bracelet.

Happy Mixing!

DKNY Watch:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/dkny-street-smart-notched-bezel-chronograph-watch/3304247?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=5341&pprd=0

C + I Stackable Rings:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/R028CL/set-of-6-stackable-rings

C + I Two-Tone Fringe Earrings:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/E041/two-tone-fringe-earring

C + I Two-Tone Bracelet:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/products/B091T/two-tone-metal-round-stretch-bracelet

Polka Dot Explosion

As you know from a previous blog entry, polka dots are one of my favorite patterns. The dot trend is rolling right into the Fall fashions, too. While in New York City last month, I was reminded of its presence and popularity. As I turned the corner on 5th Avenue, a polka dot explosion caught my eye. The facade of the building where the Louis Vuitton store is located was blanketed with this circular design. I broke out in a BIG smile! Then, I mused... how will retailers represent this timeless subject matter in an updated way this season?

Check out the latest find! The Fold-Over Canvas Tote by Old Navy (shown below) with a watercolor-style dot print represents a unique approach to a classic motif. This, along with the multiple convertible options thanks to the removable shoulder strap and fold-over feature, is both a fashionable and functional addition to your wardrobe!

Information about Old Navy's Fold-Over Canvas Tote (available in 3 color ways):

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=7374&vid=1&pid=330073&scid=330073002

"Be Creative. Be Confident. Be You."

Last week while I was in New York City, I stopped by the Chloe + Isabel headquarters in the trendy Tribeca neighborhood. My visit included a meet and greet with the talented head office team who offered a glimpse into the design process. A highlight was my one-on-one chat with our fearless C + I leader, Chantel Waterbury (pictured above, on the right).

Chantel and I share an alumni connection through SCU (we are both grads of the Retail Management Institute) and of course, we're both jewelry fanatics. She is an inspiring, down-to-earth, hands-on expert in the jewelry biz. Her passion for the product and the people is contagious. As a seasoned retail pro, she champions her merchandisers as entrepreneurs. The Chloe + Isabel mission statement, "Be Creative. Be Confident. Be You." aligns with her clear vision that dynamic, confident women can grow their personal businesses, bolstered by multiple company resources. It's a "win-win" proposition for all involved, success breeds success as the C + I buzz is growing across the country!

The company is not just about gems and jewels - its focus is also on personal development. Leaving the office, I was energized and proud to be a part of the Chloe + Isabel community. With Chantel at the helm, we have a role model who is steering us in the best direction!

Learn more about Chantel: 

http://www.chloeandisabel.com/about-us/founder/

Visit my personal C + I boutique:

eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com

Track all things stylish by "like-ing" my Facebook page:

www.facebook.com/eileenforchloeandisabel

Old Glory + Union Jack

 

What is the best way to show support for our American Olympians as well as the 2012 host country, Great Britain? By sporting these whimsical Repetto Ballerina Flats, of course! Although the left and right shoe differ in flag patterns, their shared color palette makes a cohesive statement. They will definitely cost you a pretty penny, but doesn't the design concept at least make you smile?

Over the next five days, kick up your heels in patriotic style while watching the Games and those cute young royals in the crowd on the telly.


Learn more about the featured Repetto Ballerina Flats here:
http://www.openingceremony.us/products.asp?menuid=2&designerid=393&productid=65014&key=repetto

Visit InStyle's Gallery for additional Olympic fashion items:
http://news.instyle.com/photo-gallery/?postgallery=121725

Birds of a Feather

My Chloe + Isabel jewelry gig is fun! Not only am I crazy about the product, but sharing it with dynamic women at my trunk shows uplifts me.

One recent C + I highlight is the arrival of the "Birds of a Feather" collection. I have been curious to see this latest C + I installment so I could choose some treasures. Once the styles were unveiled on the website this past week, I was impressed to discover that the feather-theme design has been dramatically expressed across the multiple product categories.

A personal "must have" piece from this summer refresher delivery is pictured above: the Sculpted Feather Hinged Cuff. This bracelet makes a bold statement from afar, while up close the intricate textured details come to life. The gold plated finish also allows for easy mix and match with additional accessories. 

Continue to spruce up your look with novel accessories, my fellow fashionistas... As they say, "birds of a feather flock together"!

Explore C + I "Birds of a Feather" Collection:

http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/shop-our-jewelry/birds-of-a-feather

Look At Those Laces!

I come from a sporty family. My parents, siblings, and I are constantly on the move ~ running, hiking, biking, swimming, golfing ~ you name it. Needless to say, athletic shoes are a staple for us.

Recently, when I was with one of my brothers, I was momentarily distracted. My gaze fell to his white running shoes with their bright blue laces. For someone who is a conservative dresser, this unexpected, bold color statement made me smile... He was stepping out with a touch of pizzazz that perked up his basic accessory.

After seeing this, I researched options for myself. One of the pairs I uncovered are pictured above ~ the Nike Air Safari iD Shoes. Not only was I excited to find a feminine athletic shoe with contrasting laces, but these kicks are customizable. Made to order?! Sign me up.

As you head out the door to your next workout, ladies AND gents, be sure to loosen up - and tighten your vibrant laces!



Information about Nike Air Safari iD Shoes:
http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/product/air-safari-id-shoe/?piid=26679#?pbid=9267990

Daily Candy Article ~ Colorful Summer Accessories (including the featured shoes):
http://www.dailycandy.com/everywhere/flipbook/131008/Summer-Accessories#slide=1

Intro to chloe + isabel

I have exciting news to share! As you know from reading this blog, I am an accessory fanatic. I have taken this interest one step further by becoming a Merchandiser for an up and coming jewelry company called, chloe + isabel.

Who are Chloe & Isabel? Good question. They drive the unique product assortment, which is based on The Friendship Philosophy: Chloe & Isabel are best buds, but they have very different fashion tastes.

Meet Chloe...

Chloe is the pal who is always in search for the season's hottest jewelry trends.

Meet Isabel...

Isabel is the confidant who appreciates high-quality and classic pieces.

I think The Friendship Philosophy is brilliant. It allows women of all ages, with varied styles, to find fashionable, high quality, affordable jewelry at the same place...

...That "same place" is my personal boutique: http://eileencorrigan.chloeandisabel.com/
You can also host a trunk show, where you can receive FREE c + i jewelry if you are the hostess. Please contact me for more details!

This new venture energizes me because it supports what I have stated all along... Accessories can be used as a creative outlet to express individual style in an inexpensive way.

I will leave you with a couple of more examples of what c + i has to offer ~ enjoy!

Yves Saint Laurent - The Retrospective

Earlier this month, I attended an inspiring show at the Denver Art Museum entitled, Yves Saint Laurent - The Retrospective. Viewing 200 haute couture (high fashion) pieces from the well-known designer's prolific 40 year career was a feast for my eyes. The featured photo says it all... Now THAT is a bow! This over-the-top "Paris Rose" back bow satin top with black velvet sheath skirt, exemplifies the dramatic, feminine, and artistic elements YSL incorporated into his fashion creations.

While at the exhibit, I learned that YSL believed that a woman's individual style should be celebrated, which is reflected in his diverse collections. Christoph Heinrich, from the Denver Art Museum, states, "Any woman who has worn a pants suit, a pea coat, or a safari jacket has a connection to Yves Saint Laurent. His vision changed the woman's wardrobe forever."

If you find yourself in the Mile High City anytime before the show ends on July 8th, I highly encourage you to check out YSL's works of art. But, if you can't attend this event, express your individuality by wearing a unique piece of clothing or accessory. YSL would applaud your efforts.



Here is additional information about this show at the Denver Art Museum:
http://ysldenver.com/

The Evolution of the Espadrille

Memorial Day weekend is here ~ the unofficial start to summer. It's time to kick up your heels and land yourself in a pair of espadrilles! I believe that, next to flip flops, this jute rope sole footwear epitomizes THE summer shoe. Fortunately, for all of us shoe fanatics, designers are offering multiple variations of the traditional espadrille this year. 

My latest find in this genre is shown above: Ivanka Trump's "Tally" Sandal. (Yes, the Donald's daughter now has her own shoe collection.) I am a sucker for a cute wedge (gives you the height of a heel, but is more comfortable) -- so when I came across this shoe, wedge + espadrille + accent colors, I was sold. Imagine this: neutral color dress paired with these on your tootsies. You'd be one stylish sistah in that ensemble. 

Consider adding an espadrille to your look as you head to pool parties, beach outings, and BBQs in the months ahead. There is no better or simpler way to be summer chic.

Visit this website to learn more about Ivanka Trump's "Tally" Sandal:
http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/ivanka-trump-tally-sandal/3255914?origin=category&fashionColor=Red+Multi&resultback=0

A Matter of Taste

Accessories, food, and flowers are a few of my favorite things in this world. You can only imagine how excited I was when I opened an email from my aunt to see these incredible images by Fulvio Bonavia from his book, A Matter of Taste. How creative and clever! 

Enjoy perusing through these photographs. I am certain that they will be a feast for your eyes.

To see additional images, visit this website:

http://www.fulviobonavia.com/

A Spring Snood

Every Spring I feel the need to amp up the color factor in my wardrobe. This may be triggered by the abundance of vibrant flowers at every turn - who knows?... But want I do know, is that when I found the pictured "Nola Snood" by Pieces, I was thrilled. What a fashionable way to sport a piece of Spring!

So, you may be wondering, "what in the world is a 'snood'?!" Good question. I discovered that historically, the term was used to describe a close-fitting hood. But in modern times, the term refers to a tubular neck scarf.

The "Nola Snood" is seasonally-appropriate not only because of its' artistic tulip smudge print, but also due to its' lightweight nature. Since Spring is normally a temperate time - not too hot, not too cold - this type of layering is ideal.

This garden of delights accessory brightens up any outfit and serves as a reminder that April showers will bring a cascade of even more May flowers.



For more information about this Spring Snood, click here:
http://us.asos.com/Pieces-Nola-Snood/y0t4l/?iid=2007926&cid=4174&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Yellow&mporgp=L1BpZWNlcy9QaWVjZXMtTm9sYS1Tbm9vZC9Qcm9kLw.

An Easter Bonnet

In recognition of Easter, I thought it would only be appropriate to showcase the classic accessory associated with this holiday: a bonnet... or in layman's terms, a hat. An Easter bonnet heralds spring and honors the tradition of wearing new clothes on the day in which renewal, rebirth, and redemption are celebrated.

Fortunately, these days there are a multitude of hats to choose from at various price points. One of my recent finds is pictured above - the "Colorblock Trim Floppy Hat" an understated straw chapeau from Forever 21. This simple design is on-trend due to its' floppy, wide brim silhouette and colorblock element. The cheerful yellow trim color is my top pick, but additional accent colors are also available (hot pink and turquoise). 

Whether you are attending a church service, having brunch with loved ones, and/or hunting for the treasured golden egg, enjoy your Easter Sunday ~ bonnet and all!

Click here for details of F21's "Colorblock Trim Floppy Hat":
http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=acc_hat&ProductID=2000038941&VariantID=

Additional historical information about the Easter bonnet:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Easter_bonnet

L is for ...

Feeling the need to make an indelible statement? Look no further than to your brilliant accessory: a piece of personalized jewelry.

While personalized jewelry has been around a long time, an updated angle on this "charming" genre caught my eye recently. BAUBLEBAR is now offering the "Coloful Initial Pendant" (featured in the above image). Combining the trendy neon pink letter on a gold-plated brass necklace is a modern take on a traditional design. Not only are additional letters available, but there are multiple color options, allowing you to go one step further with the personalization process.

Wearing baubles with initials is a simple way to express a special tidbit about yourself ~ whether it is representing the first letter of your name or that of a loved one. It could even stand for a personal belief or attitude. Whatever it symbolizes, there is meaning behind it because it expresses something unique about you. No better reason for it to be a must-have accessory in your jewelry collection!



Compelled to express yourself? Check out BAUBLEBAR:
http://baublebar.com/index.php/colorful-initial-pendant.html

Spring Time

In case you missed it, we "sprung forward" to Daylight Savings Time a couple of weeks ago. On Tuesday, we officially transitioned from Winter to Spring. Feeling lost amidst these changes? It may be time to invest in a useful, yet stylish, accessory: a watch.

Timex is my favorite watch brand because of their reliability, affordability and aesthetic. Recently, they updated their product assortment by adding novel twists to their classic styles. The Timex Modern Easy Reader Watch, featured in the above image, is a perfect example of the brand's brilliance. The infusion of pink is a seasonally appropriate, cheerful touch to a timeless design.

Take a moment to soak in Spring by enjoying a stroll in the extended daylight hours, listen to the chirping birds and notice the emerging yellow daffodils - all the while wearing a colorful timepiece on your wrist!



Here is additional information about the Timex Modern Easy Reader Watch:
http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/timex-modern-easy-reader-watch-38mm?ID=606870&CategoryID=20532&LinkType=#fn=GENDER%3DFemale%26PRICE%3D50.0|99.99000000000001%26spp%3D1%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D31

A Wee Bit O' Green

Wearing green on St. Patrick's Day is a non-negotiable for me. Always has been, always will be. Not only is it a festive way to pay tribute to my Irish heritage, but it is also a preventive measure from getting pinched. According to legend, sporting a piece of green on March 17th makes you invisible to leprechauns that will pinch you if they see you. 

You may now be wondering, "how can I fashionably keep the leprechauns at bay?" A solution is to add Stella & Dot's "Serenity Stone Drops" (as pictured above) to your St. Paddy's Day look. These Emerald Isle hue earrings uplift an outfit in March and beyond. I don't know about you, but I think this accessory find is jig-worthy.

Whether at a pub or a parade, enjoy a fun-filled, pinch-free holiday! 

I will leave you with one of my favorite Irish blessings...

"May the road rise to meet you.

May the wind always be at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

And rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand."

The link to the featured Stella & Dot's earrings:

http://shop.stelladot.com/style/b2c_en_us/featured-shops/sp12-collections/amalfi-collection/e168gr.html?s=lindsayoehmen

Nail It

We all have done it. Gazing at the numerous nail polish colors at the drug store or nail salon, we try to determine the best hue for our hands and/or tootsies. Our choice may be based on our current mood, an upcoming event or a popular beauty trend. No matter what the deciding factor is, this process can take some time, especially nowadays with the recent explosion of polish options - various colors, techniques (i.e. gel), glitters, patterns... What is an indecisive girl to do? 

Fortunately, there are easy-to-use, affordable nail products at our fingertips. When I stopped into Rite Aid yesterday, I perused the cosmetic aisle and came across Sally Hansen's extensive product assortment, which included their Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips and Color Quick Fast Dry Nail Color Pen. Instead of feeling pressured to invest in the "perfect" shade, I breathed a sigh of relief as I picked up a few polishes to dazzle up my nails over the next month, thanks to Sally's user-friendly applications and reasonable price points.

Nail polish. A tried and true beauty accessory. A creative vehicle to add a pop of color to our look. A light-hearted way to express our personality.

Now let's get out there and nail it.

Do any of the Sally Hansen nail designs in the above photo peak your interest? Wanting to view additional colors? Click on the following links for more information:  

http://www.sallyhansen.com/products/nails/nail-color/salon-effects-real-nail-polish-strips

http://www.sallyhansen.com/products/nails/nail-color/color-quick™-fast-dry-nail-color-pen

March Madness

March: a month of madness. Thanks in part to college hoops and St. Patrick's Day. This year Nike is honoring these events in an ingenious way. The leading athletic retailer released one of their latest and greatest products, the Nike SB Dunk High "Guinness" Shoe for men. The color inspiration is captured in the featured photo -- black with tan accents... makes me thirsty ;)

Celebrate throughout this month by wearing these shoes, rooting for your favorite basketball team and/or sipping the well-known Irish dry stout. Cheers to March Madness!

Additional images of these new Nike kicks:

http://www.kicksonfire.com/2012/02/23/nike-sb-dunk-high-guinness-new-images/

Leap Frog

My mama. She is a clever one. She suggested a frog theme blog entry on this Leap Year Day. I love it! Since I am a sucker for cute animal icons and graphics, finding a must-have frog accessory was a fun assignment. 

After doing a little research, I came across these frog stud earrings on Etsy (by Kaze Jewellery, $16). Not only are they adorable and affordable, but also trend-right due to their mint green color. 

This is a lighthearted example on how accessories can bring a touch of whimsy to your wardrobe!

Leap over to this link to check out the frog stud earrings:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/92345802/frog-studded-brass-earring

"The Pedal Pusher"

   

I don't know about you, but as gas prices continue to skyrocket, I am beginning to consider alternate modes of transportation that don't require a visit to the pump. Riding my bike has crossed my mind, but I have been stumped on how to travel on two wheels with my necessities (i.e. wallet, keys, phone and other random goodies) without resorting to a bulky backpack or a fancy fanny pack. Leave it to lululemon to solve my accessory dilemma with one of their latest products: "The Pedal Pusher."

As pictured above, they have created a functional, cross body tote that attaches to your bike's handlebars. lulu describes this new bag as a "removable basket for your bike." Brilliant.

Happy Pedaling!


"The Pedal Pusher" is just a click away!
http://shop.lululemon.com/products/clothes-accessories/ride-on/The-Pedal-Pusher?cc=4360&skuId=3443487&catId=ride-on

Bright Baubles

Feeling glum now that the weekend is over? Needing a remedy to cure the Monday blues? Wear bright baubles! We are experiencing an 80s flashback with the plethora of neon pieces in the marketplace lately. When I walked into Target last week, I should have been wearing sunglasses in order to comfortably take in all of the neon brights in the accessory section of the store! 

Jewelry is helpful when you want to add a touch of a trend to your look. Hence, these neon bangle bracelets by Ettika. The colorful ribbons and sparkly crystals make for an eye-catching combination. 

Neon accessories are current and stylish... as well as an antidote to turn that frown upside down :)

Follow this link to explore Ettika's current product offering:

http://www.ettika.com/home.php

Top It Off

Charlize Theron. Michelle Williams. Busy Phillips. What do these lovely ladies have in common? Yes, all three are actresses. Let's take it one step further... as pictured above, each blondie wore a headband to complement their glamorous Golden Globe Award Show look last month. Even celebrities appreciate fashionable and functional accessories!

Headbands: a stylish solution to bring some bling to your wardrobe, while keeping your hair in place... or at least out of your face ;) Nordstrom is currently selling this "Vixen Flower" headband by Tasha:

The nature-inspired design with shimmery beads elevates a simple outfit. As my dad would say, "it picks it up a notch." 

So, as you hit the town or attend an Oscar party this weekend, consider wearing a unique headband to top off your outfit. You will most likely be right in step with those Hollywood starlets walking down the red carpet at the Kodak Theatre on Sunday.

Link to Tasha "Vixen Flower" Headband (in multiple color ways):
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/tasha-vixen-flower-headband/3208733?origin=related-3208733-6012975-0-1-1

Additional info about the Featured Golden Globe Stars:
http://news.instyle.com/2012/01/16/golden-globes-beauty-trend-hair-accessories/

Flower Power

Dreaming of a warm, sunny, beach getaway? If your dream becomes a reality, you may want to pack this "Guadeloupe Flower" bag, by mar Y sol Tote, with you. I couldn't help but smile when I found this cheery color raffia tote with oversized flower petals. What a refreshing take on a traditional Spring symbol!

Even if a Spring Break vacation isn't in the cards for you this year, at least celebrate the season by bringing a touch of flora to your wardrobe. Just like a breath of fresh Spring air ;)



Link to mar Y sol Tote's "Guadeloupe Flower" bag (in multiple colors):
http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/mar-y-sol-tote-guadeloupe-flower?ID=584300&CategoryID=22173#fn=spp%3D26%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D52

Blue Suede Shoes

Blue suede shoes. One of the latest trends. Not to mention a title of a well-known tune sung by Elvis Presley:

"Well, it's one for the money,
Two for the show,
Three to get ready,
Now go, cat, go.

But don't you step on my blue suede shoes.
You can do anything but lay off of my blue suede shoes."

The songwriter, Carl Perkins, scripted an important message about preserving this fashionable footwear in 1955. Fast forward to 2012 and the song lyrics still apply. Blue suede shoes come in different styles today - flats, heels, wedges. One example is pictured above - Madewell's "Suede Sidewalk Skimmer." A bold pop of color that can uplift a neutral wardrobe... score!

Festive shoes only deserve to be broken in with an appropriate dance party. Perhaps to this song. Just make sure you protect your tootsies.



Madewell - "Suede Sidewalk Skimmer":
http://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/SHOESSANDALS/skimmers/PRDOVR~64082/64082.jsp

Additional Blue Suede Shoe Styles:
http://fashionetc.com/fashion/shopping/4293-blue-suede-shoes-spring-2012-trend

"Blue Suede Shoes" Lyrics to Entire Song (quite entertaining!):
http://www.lyricsfreak.com/e/elvis+presley/blue+suede+shoes_20049053.html

A Precious Metal

A couple of weeks ago, I watched a segment on CBS' 60 Minutes entitled, "Precious Metal: India's Love Affair With Gold." This program explained the cultural importance of gold in India, the largest consumer of this precious metal. Gold, the most malleable metal on earth, is considered sacred in India. Clips from a traditional Indian wedding were featured, highlighting how gold jewelry is worn to represent wealth, honor and purity. During one of the interviews, a woman said "no gold, no wedding." It was eye opening to me to see how something I take for granted in my accessory drawer has deep historical meaning in the second most populated country (1.2 billion people to be exact!).

Needless to say, I now view gold in a different light. Hence my desire to feature a gold accessory in one of my blog entries. Chloe + Isabel's "Pom Pom Chandelier Earrings" (pictured above, $34) are a fashionable design - one that can be worn from day to evening. Hooray for versatility! While gold metal is a treasure, these delicate earrings are an affordable substitute for the real deal.

As mentioned in the 60 Minutes piece, Indians view gold as an investment, not an expense. Hmmm. Perhaps a viewpoint to adopt. ;)



Watch CBS' 60 Minutes Segment - "Precious Metal: India's Love Affair With Gold":
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7398482n

Check out Chloe + Isabel's "Pom Pom Chandelier Earrings" & the rest of their jewelry line:
http://shop.chloeandisabel.com/products/E062G/pom-pom-chandelier-earrings

A Star in Stripes

The third Monday in February. Presidents' Day. Stars and Stripes.

Not only are stripes represented in the American flag, they are everywhere you turn these days! Bold and thin, multi colored and two tone, allover and small accents.

There are various accessory avenues both men and women can take to feel like a star in their stripes. For example, while at church yesterday, I was momentarily distracted by a gentleman sitting a few pews ahead of me. He was traditionally dressed in a neutral blazer and khakis, but wearing bright kelly green and white striped socks! Maybe they were the only clean pair he had, but I prefer to believe that he was making a playful fashion statement :)

If the ladies are not compelled to go the sock route, they can look to other stripe accessories, such as shoes and purses. Look at the fashionista captured in the above image. Her stripe Kate Spade Karolina heels and bag are... expensive! Noted. But what a classic and clever angle to subtly bring stripes into a wardrobe.

Here's to George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and the freedom of expression... i.e. personal style!




Featured Photo From:
http://www.vtwonen.nl/blog/vtwonen-loves-blogs/kate-spade.html

Striped Kate Spade Products:
http://www.katespade.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-Kate-Site/default/Search-Show?q=stripes&cgid=kate-spade