A Sweet, Day Fragrance

The other day I talked about Jo Malone’s Dark Amber and now I want to mention its counterpart-Lotus Blossom and Water Lilly, the fragrance to wear during the day. I like the light floral scent. It has a flirty essence too, but it's not as sensual as the Dark Amber. It’s still great to wear, whether to work, on a day trip or just to smell nice while staying home all day in your pj’s.

I think it's good to have to both on hand, especially since you could mix the fragrances together. A Jo Malone rep instructed me to put on the Dark Amber first, since it’s heavier, and then apply the Lotus Blossom. The result gave an interesting scent that I couldn't pinpoint, but loved anyway. Why not give it a try?

A Great Evening Fragrance

I tried Jo Malone's Dark Amber cologne a few months back at Sniffapalooza. The rep explained to me that it's their evening fragrance and I could smell why. It's part of their Kohdo Wood Collection, and it has a unique smell. They describe the scent as a "sensual and calming blend that encourages a sense of tranquility." There is a dark essence to it, but it's not too powerful, as if you'd smell like you bathed in it.

To me, this fragrance is more flirty than any other with a floral scent. I love floral scents, but it's good to switch it up sometimes. Dark Amber complements an exciting evening out, and I am sure people will notice it. I know it will be perfect for the awards ceremony I'm going to this week! If you purchase online, complimentary shipping and a cologne sample of your choice is included. Enjoy!

IMAN's Global Chic Sandals

I recently attended a press preview of holiday and signature collections and fell for IMAN's Global Chic sandals. I notice this style of sandal on pretty much every one's feet nowadays and I can see why. They are perfect for those who want an elegant, yet simple look without burning a hole in their pockets. I think the sandals are right for both a casual day or classy night out. Even though these are garnished with a lot of gold, they only cost $39!

These sandals and other items are sold exclusively on HSN, so you can buy them online. But there's no shame in watching HSN either. On Saturday, July 12th, IMAN will appear on HSN, unveiling new bags and accessories, so check your local listings to see what time to tune in!

The Ultimate Girl's Night Out

There's nothing like hanging out with your best gal pals, but imagine taking that experience to a higher level. You can do just that with Shecky's Girl's Night Out. This event is in NYC from June 23rd-June 27th, from 5-10pm. It's a great way to unwind from a long day. It's like fusing happy hour with shopping. Picture sipping on complimentary cocktails while sampling products, beauty services, getting in on unbelievable sales from emerging designers, and fun giveaways. I am not making this up!

You and your friends would get spectacular goodie bags too, but unfortunately, the Deluxe Goodie Bag tickets are sold out. I think it's still worth it to go, goodie bags or not. General admission is $10 in advance and $20 at the door. Tickets are selling fast as word gets out, so hurry. But if you're not in the NYC area and feel you're missing out, don't fret. This event is held in other cities as well, so click here to see when it's coming to a city near you. Enjoy the fun ladies!

Semi-Annual Sale at Victoria’s Secret

It’s that time of year again! Victoria’s Secret is having their semi-annual sale! I love their sales because there are a whole bunch of great deals. You can get 25%-50% off bras and underwear and even more savings in their clearance section. You can also get deals on swimwear, clothing and their Secret Garden beauty line.

Some offer codes for you: Free shipping on U.S. orders of $100 or more when you enter the code SEMISALE at checkout,valid through June 19th. Also take an extra 25% off Body by Victoria bras, by using offer code BODY25 at checkout, valid through June 15th.

Happy shopping!

Get Bitten by SJP

Bitten is Sarah Jessica Parker's unbelievably affordable clothing line. Exclusively sold at Steve & Barry's, the collection includes apparel, shoes, and accessories. But don't expect the high fashions of her onscreen alter-ego, Carrie Bradshaw. Her line offers casual styles and I like them. Some of the looks do gear towards teens and women in their early twenties, but there is something for everyone.

I went in there looking for a summer dress, but there weren't many to choose from. I discovered some jewelry, though, and lucked out on a sale of 3 pieces for $15! There was so much to choose from, I had trouble making a decision. But I finally did and I've been wearing a necklace I bought everyday.


Everything in the collection is $20 or less and the quality is great. Sizes range from XS-XXL for tops and 0-22 for bottoms. It might be worth it to Get Bitten!

Moisturize with Laura Mercier's Souffle Body Creme

Laura Mercier's Almond Coconut Milk Souffle Body Creme is an amazing product I found when I went to Sniffapalooza in April. I tried the French Vanilla first and then tested the Almond Coconut. I was in heaven. The creme quickly absorbed into my skin and it didn't feel heavy at all. I couldn't believe something so lightweight could smell that great! The scent made me crave cookie dough and I wanted to eat my hand. I must've sniffed my hand 20 times. I couldn't help it! My skin was smooth all day long and I still smelled remnants of the creme at day's end.

The creme is available in these and other flavors (I mean, scents) in 12oz jars and it costs $55. This is one that will last long because you just need a little bit. Besides, you might not want cake on too much, since the fragrance is a bit strong. Check out Laura Mercier for other souffle scents and products. Enjoy!

Trendy Hollywood Jackets for Less

I have to admit, when I see a celebrity wearing a gorgeous coat, I want it for myself. But then I imagine the tons of money they paid for it, and the thought quickly goes out of my mind. Thankfully, eDressMe, One Stop Plus, and Weather Proof Garment Co. have some of those trendy coats at lower prices. Houndstooth (see above pic) is a style that is not going away for the moment. I found this jacket at One Stop Plus for only $34-$39. I think the jacket is fabulous and can jazz up any outfit. They have other types of coats and jackets as well, and their prices range from $30-$169.

I also browsed eDressMe, and they have plenty of stylish coats, but their prices are higher than One Stop Plus. However, they do have some amazing sales. This trench coat, pictured on the right, was originally $95, but now it's only $50! I couldn't believe the price when I saw it either. I noticed that trench coats are becoming popular again, so if you want it, I would hurry before it sells out.


Finally, Weather Proof Garment Co has coats for women and men. They have great looking coats, (goat suede, autumn quilt and others) but I couldn't find any prices for them on their website. They do sell their clothing at most major department stores and online at Net Jackets, where prices range from $59-$125. So the next time you covet a celeb's coat, check these websites to see if they have a similar styles. You never know.

Don't Break A Sweat With Reebok

If you’re like me, you don’t put much thought into what you wear when you’re working out. But after last week, I am a new woman. I had the opportunity to try out Reebok’s new launch of athletic clothes. I wore one of the new shirts (similar to the one on the right), a pair of leggings, and sneakers. I was very comfortable. I took a one hour dance class and sweated a lot! But amazingly, you couldn’t tell that by looking at my clothing. There was a minor spot of sweat, but that was it. I usually have sweat spots all over, but Reebok’s clothing kept me dry.

Their goal is to make you feel comfortable throughout your journey of well-being. They feel that functionality is important and want to make clothes that reflect the American fitness lifestyle. So their apparel is made based on the categories of Fitness, Performance, Running, Compression, Team Sports, and Active Lifestyle.

For example, someone who is just starting a regular workout routine, would buy something from Fitness, because that is designed for the core basics of everyday activities. And of course Running is perfect for the avid runner because they have shorts and tanks that have mesh down the side, so air will flow in and out, making it more comfortable. Besides providing mesh ventilation, the clothes also have components of stretch and Play Dry moisture wicking (which is why I was dry).

They have shirts, tanks, shorts, leggings, hats, jackets, pants, and accessories, which come in various colors and prints. They're so affordable; prices range from $8-$45! This apparel is only available at Dick's Sporting Goods, so stop into the nearest one or shop online.

K Street’s Custom Fit Tees

I don’t know about you, but I always have a problem with tee shirts. I have a small frame but am well endowed, so I sometimes have to opt for a larger size just to accommodate my chest. The tee shirt can be too big on me sometimes. But there is a solution: K Street.

The founder, Kari Weiner, believes tees shouldn’t come in just small, medium, and large, because women have varying shapes and sizes. The tees are made by chest, waist, and hip measurements. All you do is provide your bust and waist size and then your shirt is made to order! Even better, the shirts are made of pima cotton, which is a high quality fabric that is durable. The tee fits me perfectly and is so soft and comfortable. I’ve worn it twice already. So check out K Street to read more about the company and shop for their tees!

Stylish Bags at Accessory Bug

Want a new bag to go with a new outfit? Why go out and search endlessly, when you can relax at home and shop online at Accessory Bug? Owned by Cathy Chiang and Peter Lin, this online store is a woman's dream! They have designer-inspired handbags (Burberry, Jimmy Choo, Prada, Chanel, and more) at ridiculously affordable prices. You can take your pick of clutches, shoulder bags, satchels, and even motorcycle bags to bring an edge to any look. They have other kinds of bags, including those for prom and wedding occasions.

But that's not all. They sell stylish belts, wallets, and wristlets too. There is a reasonable $5 flat rate for shipping. To get more savings, use this 10% off coupon code: aprsale. But don't wait too long because this offer expires on May 31st, 2008. Click here to browse their selection and to sign up to receive coupons, promotions, and their newsletters.

Beautiful Gems for a Bargain Price

Are you looking for some jewelry for a friend, spouse, or even yourself? Want to purchase from a selection of tanzanite, rubies, smoky quartz, topaz, diamonds and more? How about getting these gems for a fraction of their worth from Gems TV? I worked there last year for 9 months and I am telling you the jewelry is 100% authentic. How can something worth $4,000 be sold for $500? They have a vertically integrated retail system. Their jewelry is made in Thailand and is shipped to their stations in the UK, Japan, and the US. In other words, there is no middle man so they can sell the items at a much lower price.

Many people don't believe it's real (even my mom, until she became a regular customer), but the bubbly presenters encourage people to appraise the jewelry they purchase and then email the company with their results. Those who do so are shocked to find out, for example, that a paraiba tourmaline ring they bought for a little over $2,000 is actually worth $30,000!

Join in on the fun and get in the game! The game is a reverse auction because the prices start high and then crash down. But there is only a limited amount in a game and you must be quick with your purchase before they’re all gone. You can call in or play along online.

They are constantly having sales and the jewelry is beautiful, believe me, I've seen it with my own eyes and have made a couple of purchases. I’ve never known there were so many types of gems out there. I also learned that tanzanite (a rich blue color) is the original engagement ring and I now know that’s what I want, instead of a diamond. So log on here to find out more information about the company. Have fun shopping!

The Scent for Spring

Today is the first day of Spring and I cannot wait until the weather warms up even more! I believe having the right scent goes hand in hand with the new season. The right scent for me? Beauty Rush's Body Double Mist, by Victoria's Secret.

This fragrance comes in an array of flavors, from Strawberry Fizz to Candy Baby, but my favorite is Slice of Heaven. It has that sweet, yet subtle smell of vanilla. The mist has two layers of skin conditioners that also give off that sexy scent. No matter how much you put on, you won't smell like you've bathed in it-that's how light it is!

I've had my bottle for 7 months now and I still have more than half left, even though I use this fragrance often! They sell it in the stores and online, so click here to check it out! Right now Victoria's Secret is having an online sale where you could buy any 2 of the body mist, body glimmer wash, or body whip moisture cream for $18. Or perhaps you can make a trip to the store because they're always having a sale on their beauty products. Happy Spring!

Hunt For The Perfect Skinny Jeans

Let’s face it, skinny jeans is a fashion trend that is going to stick around for a while. With them you could dress sexy or casual depending on what shoes or top you wear, and they flatter your figure. I wanted to get in on this, so I asked my friends where they got theirs from and started my hunt. Little did I know I was in for a real hunt for skinny jeans.

My first stop was Urban Outfitters but their price was out of my league. Next stop, H & M. I tried on a pair, but was disappointed because they didn't fit. It wasn't until I put them back on the rack that I noticed they had the same ridiculous price as Urban Outfitters. I told one friend that my last attempt would be Express. My best friend bought a couple of jeans from there a few weeks ago, so I should have the same luck, right? Guess what? They were expensive too! Did these stores conspire together to have the same unreasonable price? In a matter of a few weeks, their jeans were $40 higher than when my friends purchased them. I went home sulking, but I didn’t give up.

I went online to Forever 21 and browsed their jeans selection. I found a pair, and remembering my H&M fitting fiasco, I ordered the highest size available. A week later I received them and they fit perfectly! I loved them so much I ordered two more in different colors just in case Forever 21 decided to jack up their price too. Even with taxes and shipping, I still saved $68 that I would have spent at the aforementioned stores. Click here to begin your quest for affordable skinny jeans.

Natural Ingredients Are Hair's Best Friend

After spending too much time being a guinea pig for any hair product that I come across, I opted to go for natural ingredients. I now shop for hair products the same way I do when I grocery shop, by looking at the ingredients. That's how I came to love Carol's Daughter.

I purchased the Rosemary Mint Shampoo with Sea Moss, Hair Milk, and Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner. Rosemary and Lavender extract, soy bean oil, and sweet almond oil are a few of the components that make up these products. The few chemicals are at the end of the list, which is a good sign. I noticed a difference after the first wash. My hair is softer, moisturized and easier to manage. What’s more, the leave-in conditioner smells great and it’s light enough to spritz on everyday to condition my hair.

My hairdresser led me to use these products and advised me that if a shampoo lathers too quickly, it has many chemicals in it. I have to admit it did take a bit for this shampoo to lather, but it cleansed my hair. Carol's Daughter offers other beauty products such as lotions, oils, and fragrances. So shop online or visit the store in Brooklyn or Harlem and be in for a treat.

Funky Clothes and Art Shows

I love discovering new gems. I'm adding Harriet’s Alter Ego that list.

It all started when I received an invitation to attend a free art show. Imagine my surprise when I stumbled upon a boutique instead of an art gallery! This neon green colored shop immediately stands out on the block in its quaint Brooklyn neighborhood. Owned by Hekima Hapa and Ngozi Odita, they have an eclectic mix of in-your-face prints and colors in clothing, bags, belts, hats, and jewelry. My best friend was set to purchase a pair of pink pearls ($10) but then quickly remembered she gave up shopping for Lent.

After browsing through the store, we went into the back to check out the art of Nathaniel M. Quinn. Their art gallery opened in 2006 and helps new artists showcase their work. It doesn't hurt that they had an open bar too. Click here to find out more information. Grab a friend and make a trip to Harriet's Alter Ego for a fun day of shopping.

Fortunate for fortunoff

Am I the only person who daydreams about being able to afford that $16,000 square cut ring from Tiffany’s? Of course not. One of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City is Tiffany's on W 57th Street. It's been idolized by many thanks to the book and movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's. Walking around in the store lets us live out our fantasy and we pretend that we can afford to buy their jewelry. Thankfully there is a store that makes that a reality. After your "tour" of Tiffany's just walk across the street to fortunoff, from where you could actually leave with a purchase. It amused me to see that fortunoff has opened a location diagonally across from the iconic Tiffany's.

I decided to check out fortunoff. When I walked in, I immediately felt out of my element. My jeans and sneakers were no match for the neatly coiffed staff. A young woman gave me a warm welcome, handed me a store map (They have three levels.), and after getting over my silly notions, I looked around. Liking the superb presentation of the jewelry, I simply gazed at it as it gleamed before me. A particular sapphire ring caught my eye (similar to the one on the right), being that blue is my favorite color. After drooling over it, I went upstairs to look at the wedding gifts and baby registry. They had fine and casual china, silver flatware and a baby fortunoff section, as well as more jewelry to tease me with.

There's more to fortunoff than jewelry, baby, and wedding registry. Click here to peruse their array of home décor and artwork, the gift gallery, gazebos(wow, really?), the list goes on. So if you live in New York City or plan to visit, stop in fortunoff and give it a try. Happy savings!

Bead for Life: Ending Poverty Through Creativity

I just purchased a long beaded necklace which helped in getting rid of poverty in Uganda. How, you say? Through the Bead For Life organization, whose goal is to eradicate poverty through creative means. Instead of just accepting donations, they empower women (who have been through situations I cannot imagine) to create beads from recycled paper: old calendars, magazine pages, and even cereal boxes. These beads, which boast bold colors of red, orange, pink, blue, green, purple and more, become necklaces (long, short, flat, or circular), bracelets and beaded jewelry bags.

The profits they receive from selling their jewlery go toward their own community projects and six other organizations in Uganda. Do you want to get involved yourself? Why not have a bead party? At a bead party you could sell a bunch of bracelets and necklaces to family and friends. Another suggestion from the organization is to set up a table at a community event and reach out to others there.

In addition to selling jewelry and handbags, Bead for Life sells note cards, envelopes, and a CD filled with 16 original songs from their own choir. I also like the idea of buying a bag of beads from them and having an arts and crafts night with the family. There are so many facets to this wonderful organization, so please click here to read their stories and other ways to help.

Are You Madewell?

Yesterday I went somewhere I've been meaning to get to for some time now. I went to a store called Madewell.

Madewell was originally a high-quality workwear company founded in Massachuessets in 1937. In 2003 J Crew acquired the name and, pretty soon, Madwell stores began opening around the country.

Well, now Madwell has arrived here in New York City! The company recently opened a temporary store down in Soho, at 532 Broadway, and will be moving to permanent headquarters a few blocks away early in 2008.

Think of Madwell as J Crew's laid-back cousin. Where J Crew is more uptown preppie, Madewell is downtown chic. They're known for their perfectly cut jeans and their scarves are starting to get a lot of play now as well. They also have some of the cutest t-shirts I've ever seen.

Soho's always tough to get to from where I live, but once I got down to the store I felt it was definitely worth my trip. I think you'll feel the same way.

One more thing: If you live in or near New York City, you'll have the opportunity to win something really cute from Madwell! Check back here soon to find out what it is!

Buzzing off for now...

Have Yourself An Eco-Friendly Christmas

Looking for an eco-friendly place to shop online this holiday season? Well, Tobi might be just the place for you.

Tobi's Eco-Tobi page features dozens of environmentally-friendly products, from the worlds of fashion, accessories and beauty, including Nvey Cosmetics and Threads For Thought organic cotton tees. Also, if you spend $250 you can receive free gift wrapping. And, of course, the gift boxes are eco-friendly.

This company was the last one I was introduced to at the press preview I attended a little over a month ago. Their representative gave me a Threads For Thought tee and a beautiful pan of Nvey eyeshadow. I also learned that Sarah Jessica Parker and Jessical Biel are big fans of the site. So, have a look!

Buzzing off for now...happy shopping.