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Archive for the ‘Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls’ Category

Cool & Creative Shopping Sites

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on November 5, 2010| 3 Comments »

Cool & Creative Shopping Sites

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the many new shopping websites and online boutiques popping up daily. Which offer the best deals for budget minded fashionistas? And which are the easiest to navigate? For those who would rather hit the Internet instead of the mall, here are three inventive and stylish websites sure to make your life easier next time you need some serious retail therapy!

myShoes.com

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Launched in February 2010 by fellow shoe addict, Andrea Woroch, myShoes.com is a seriously smart search engine exclusively for women’s shoes. Visitors can use the Shoe Stylist to create a custom search for the exact shoe they’re lusting for. Sort by style, heel height, color, brand, details & materials, and price – within a few clicks, myShoes.com will show you the shoes and prices available from hundreds of stores and brands, from Zappos and Nordstrom’s to DSW. myShoes.com makes online shoe shopping easy and effortless, bringing you streamlined results in one location. Check out the results for this fabulous nude platform pump – it’s available at nine stores but everything you need to know is filtered on myShoes.com! You’ll never have to jump from one site to another to compare prices, shipping, coupons, or return policies – myShoes.com is truly a shoe lover’s best friend!

SendtheTrend.com

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Launched in September 2010 by Project Runway alum, Christian Siriano, SendtheTrend.com is a monthly membership site for chic and affordable accessories. After taking a short style survey to determine your fashion needs and interests, SendtheTrend personally selects exclusive jewelry, scarves, and sunglasses that fit your style profile. Visit your gallery to view all of the accessories chosen for you, all for just $29.95 each! Choose to buy one, two, or ten, all at a set price of $29.95 each, and that includes free shipping! Your SendtheTrend membership begins after you purchase your first item. On the 1st of each month thereafter, members receive a personalized email with fresh new accessory finds, so you’ll always be on top of the latest trends! For members who don’t want to commit to a new accessory every month, or if you don’t find something you like in your gallery, just opt to “skip” by the 5th of the month. SendtheTrend.com is an easy and hassle free way to shop for the hottest fashion accessories, hand selected by some of the biggest names in the business!

WearevertheWeather.com

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Launched in September 2010 by fashion forward travelista, Renae Virata, WearevertheWeather.com is an ingenious site that helps women determine what to wear, based on the weather in a particular city. Get a “fashion forecast” for New York, London or Hong Kong by using the easy My Stylist tool. Enter a specific location, date and type of occasion, and the smart tool will show you a plethora of style options for you to choose from. Users can create tons of different outfits, save, print, and even share the looks with their friends via email, Facebook and Twitter. And of course, no shopping site would be complete without the ability to click through and purchase all the items you desire. Virata hands selects each item featured on the site, and updates the selection weekly so you’ll always be well dressed, rain or shine! WearevertheWeather.com is a fun and resourceful site that is perfect when planning for your next vacation, weekend getaway, or anytime you’re travelling and just don’t know what to pack!

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Spooktacular Halloween Cocktails

Posted in Entertaining, Food, Halloween 2010, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, tagged , , , , , , , , , on October 29, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Spooktacular Halloween Cocktails

Whoever said Halloween is just for kids? With more adults partaking in the ghoulish festivities than ever before, I thought it’d be fit to share some creative and delicious new libations. For all the Halloween hosts who want to impress their guests with the latest in cool and creepy cocktails, try out the following recipes! And remember, you can also serve these sans alcohol for an equally spooky treat!

Spiced Pumpkin Martini

Courtesy of Mixologist Claire Smith, Belvedere Vodka

2oz Spiced pumpkin infused Belvedere vodka*

1 oz Puree*

1 oz Spiced syrup

1 Slice of fresh ginger

Muddle ginger with the syrup in the base of a cocktail shaker. Add pumpkin infused Belvedere and shake with cubed ice. Serve in a martini glass and garnish with a slice of ginger.

*Spiced pumpkin infused Belvedere
Roast a 500g pumpkin (braised with honey) at 200 degrees Celsius for 45 minutes.  Remove from oven and place roasted pumpkin contents into a small saucepan with bay leaves, cover with 200g of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour. Remove the bay leaves and blend with 500g of Belvedere Vodka. Pass through a muslin cloth to remove pulp and use. Keep refrigerated.

 

Spiced Pumpkin Martini

Jack O’ Lantern

Courtesy of Regional Beverage Director Damon Dunay, The Empire Hotel, NYC

2 oz Jack Daniels

2 Sugar cubes

Orange Bitters

½ oz Lucid Absinthe

Coat a rocks glass with Lucid Absinthe by rotating liqueur around glass. In a cocktail shaker, place sugar cubes and two dashes of Orange Bitters. Crush cubes with a muddler. Add Jack Daniels and ice cubes and stir until combined. Strain and serve over ice in the rocks glass. Garnish with a Jack O’ Lantern face carved out of an orange (an orange slice or peel works too).

 

Jack O Lantern

Alien Cooler

Courtesy of Mixologist Jon Ojinaga, Redwood Room at Clift Hotel, San Francisco

1 ¼ oz Crop Organic Vodka

¾ oz Veev Acai Liqueur

¾ oz Lime juice

¾ oz Simple syrup

Soda (fill with)

2 Pinches of julienned cucumber

1 Cucumber slice

Combine all ingredients in a tall Collins glass with ice. Fill with soda. Stir to mix cucumber in the glass. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

 

Alien Cooler

Basil Hayden’s Bloody Mary

Courtesy of Basil Hayden Bourbon

1 oz Basil Hayden’s Bourbon

2 Dashes of celery salt

2 Dashes hot sauce

2 Dashes Worcestershire sauce

1 Teaspoon wasabi

Tomato juice

Celery, lime wedge & blue cheese olives

Rim a pint glass with lime juice and celery salt. Fill with ice to the top. Add Basil Hayden’s(R) Bourbon, celery salt, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and wasabi. Fill remainder of the glass with tomato juice. Stir well. Garnish with celery, lime and blue cheese olives.

 

basil hayden bloody mary

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Affordable Halloween Costumes 2010

Posted in Fashion, Halloween 2010, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , , on October 22, 2010| 2 Comments »

Affordable Halloween Costumes 2010

The best part about Halloween is dressing up like someone you’re not! Whether your costume choice is sexy, quirky, or gothic, nobody likes to break the bank for one night of ghoulish fun. With a little bit of creativity, you can dress the part using items you have at home mixed in with a few affordable accessories from your local Halloween Superstore. Just be sure to check for coupons and online codes before shopping!

Thanks to consumer savings expert, Andrea Woroch, for letting us know about PromotionalCodes.com, which has online discounts for every outlet from Costume Kingdom and Spirit to Halloween Express!

Lady Gaga

The fashionably eccentric pop star is the number one costume choice for Halloween and for good reason! From her crazy hair styles to her out of this world fashion statements, there’s plenty to choose from when dressing up like this dainty diva.

What you need…

A great wig, a la Lady Gaga. Whether you want to rock her classic long bangs or go funkier with yellow highlights, your wig is the must have accessory to set you apart from the rest! ($7.95 – $19.95)clip_image002

Also distinguishing you as the peppy pop princess are a pair of her signature sunglasses. Lady Gaga is known for going bold in big, statement frames. With any of these shades, you’ll definitely put on your best poker face! ($8.46 – $13.46)

What you have…

Now that you have the signature Lady Gaga accessory pieces above, all you need is a sleek outfit. Go simple with black leggings, a black one shoulder tank, a black blazer with strong shoulders, and some killer black pumps. Top off the look with a strand of pearls and some fingerless gloves! If you’re feeling like being more creative, check out Rain Blanken’s article on About.com for 10 Lady Gaga Costumes you can make at home!

 Snooki (Jersey Shore)

Whether you love MTV’s Jersey Shore or not, there is no doubt that the cast members are memorable! The leader of the pack, Snooki, stands alone as having the most recognizable style, making her look popular and easy to replicate.

What you need…

The “Snooki bump” is the signature hairstyle of this outrageous Jersey girl. If you’re a brunette, all you need is a lot of hairspray and a possibly a Bumpits for the ultimate lift. For all others, a Snooki wig is the easiest way to achieve the look. ($16.95 – $20.95)clip_image004

GTL baby! The Jersey Shore motto of “Gym, Tan, Laundry” will further set you apart as the outspoken Snooki. Be sure to load up on self tanner and bronzer because your look won’t be complete without an orange glow! ($5.00 – $10.00)

What you have…

Anything tight and short should do! Opt for a black, leopard or other animal print dress, paired with sky high platform pumps. Or, pair a black mini with a leopard print tank for the same effect. Just don’t forget to emphasize the cleavage! Finish off your Snooki makeover with thick black eye liner, gooey lip gloss, and more bronzer! Fist pumping and carrying a red plastic cup is optional.

Flo (Progressive Insurance Commercials)

Sometimes the best costumes are the ones that make people say “Oh yeah, aren’t you (fill in the blanks)?” After hundreds of national advertisements for Progressive Insurance, it seems that “Flo” is one of the most recognizable TV commercial characters in ages. Her upbeat spirit is as identifiable as her quirky wardrobe, which makes “Flo” another easy and affordable costume for Halloween!

What you need…

Check out Progressive Insurance’s website for a fabulous description of how to “Dress Like Flo,” listing the ten items you need to resemble the friendly superstore cashier. Like the other iconic characters mentioned above, “Flo” has a few signature style items that make her unique.clip_image006

A plain white apron with the Progressive logo is the giveaway, and can be made at home for under $15. Or, go the easy route and purchase one from Amazon.com ($19.99)! Bedazzle the apron with her other distinctive items, an “I Love Insurance” pin ($0.79) and a “Tricked Out Name Tag” ($9.95)!

What you have…

All you need to complete the look are items that you already have in your closet! Wear a white short sleeved polo shirt, white slacks (khaki will work too), black sneakers (Converse preferred), and a navy blue headband. Finish it off with some bright red lipstick and black eyeliner and you’ll be good as “Flo”!

Edward Cullen (Twilight)

This is an extremely easy look for any man that wants to dress as one of the sexiest and most sought after movie characters of the last year! Rain Blanken breaks it down perfectly on About.com, but all you really need to concentrate on is your hair, makeup, and attitude.

What you need…

Edward Cullen is a “Twilight” vampire, thus he has pale, glittering skin. You canedward cullen opt for traditional white vampire makeup, or go for a lighter look by dusting on white and silver eye shadow ($4.99) all over your face. Add drama to your eyes by applying black eyes shadow or eyeliner around the outside edges. Keep your lips dry and pale. If you want the full vampire effect, rock a pair of vampire fangs ($2.95) to complete the look.

What you have…

Since this look is mainly about perfecting Edward’s face, keep your wardrobe simple. For confident men, wear a pair of black pants or denim with no shirt, or a button up shirt worn open. You can continue the makeup from your face on your neck and chest for the total effect! For a messy, Twilight worthy hairstyle, wet your mane and tousle it with gel. Then, get Edwards lift by teasing your hair with hairspray and setting it with a hair dryer.

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Celebrity Handbags for Less

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on October 13, 2010| 2 Comments »

Celebrity Handbags for Less

When you flip through the pages of your favorite magazine, you’re likely to see Hollywood A-listers sporting amazing designer duds and luxe handbags. As I’m your Glam, Affordable, and Luxurious resource, I’m always on the hunt to recreate these looks for less! Thanks to fab website, Handbag Heaven, we can all tote celebrity studded bags without the hefty price tags! Here are some of their most popular styles under $70!

Chanel Quilted Handbag

The design team at Chanel created an elegant and feminine quilted handbag, popular with stars like Katy Perry, Mischa Barton, and Lauren Conrad. The combination of the black quilted leather and gold chain strap make this a classic and sophisticated purse for true fashionistas. For those who can’t afford the $1500 price tag, Handbag Heaven’s Classic Quilted Shoulder Bag is almost an exact replica, but it’s more versatile and affordable! At just $54.95, the shoulder bag is available in black, cream or red and is made of soft, quilted leatherette. The bag also features a gold/leatherette chain shoulder strap and bold hardware. The best part is that this GAL find is actually three handbags in one! Wear it as a shoulder bag with a double chain strap, or for a longer cross body look, extend the chain into a single chain strap. Finally, this beauty can also be worn as a super sized clutch, simply by tucking the chain inside the bag!

Everyone from Vanessa Hudgens, Victoria Beckham, and Lady Gaga has been spotted around Hollywood with the signature Balenciaga Satchel. The oversized compartment and sleek styling of this handbag make it popular with fashion savvy celebs. Luckily, Handbag Heaven has an exact replica for just $53.95! The Broad Ripple Satchel might as well be the long lost twin of Balenciaga’s version because the resemblance is uncanny! This must have handbag comes in six shades, and features all the bold, gold hardware and zippers that make the original such a fashion statement. If you’re on the go, grab the 5 inch wrapped handles and wear it on your wrist or over your shoulder. Or, for a more relaxed feel, attach the longer strap (included) and rock your bag in comfort, all day long.

vanessa hudgens_balenciaga-1895 Broad Ripple Satchel_53.95

Hermès Birkin

The Hermes Birkin has been the most coveted handbag of the last decade. After a notable appearance on Sex and the City, and socialites such as the Hiltons and the Kardashians as fans, this “it” bag has become the most difficult fashion item to own in Hollywood! With prices ranging from $9,000 to $150,000 for this handmade, fashion treasure, it’s not surprising that a majority of us can’t even imagine toting this gem, until now! Handbag Heaven’s Gina Buckle Satchel features exotic embossed leatherette that gives the bag an edgy elegance. At $67.96, this affordable find is available in cream, navy, or black. The Gina is truly the epitome of style and a classic addition to any woman’s wardrobe.

Hilary Duff_birkin_9000 Gina Buckle Satchel_67.96

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Military Inspired Fashion for Men – Fall 2010

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , , on October 7, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Military Inspired Fashion for Men – Fall 2010

Military inspired fashion is the biggest trend this season! For men, the key looks are smart and sophisticated with a rugged appeal. As an added bonus, many designers are paying tribute to the US Military by giving back! From stylish military jackets to a line of specialty colognes, fashion forward men will look ultra chic while paying tribute to those who inspired this fashionable Fall trend.

1.  Wool Blend Bomber Jacket ($69.50, Old Navy)

Nothing says Fall better than a great jacket! This modern coat features military inspired details, from epaulets and button flap patch pockets to the rib knit trim on the sexy stand up collar. This affordable jacket is a must have for Fall, and would look great with a pair of dark denim jeans for a fashionable night on the town!

Mens Wool Blend Bomber_Old Navy_69.50

 

2.  Army Bag Bow Tie ($46, Hugh Simms)

For the man who doesn’t like traditional ties, LA designer Hugh Simms has created a unique twist on the classic accessory. His signature army bag bow tie is made from recycled military bags. The green, 100% cotton fabric has a worn look and contains the markings of real US soldiers. This bow can be knotted for a preppy look or worn undone with a collared shirt for a more casual, modern appeal.

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3.  Timex Expedition Military Watch ($100, Timex)

When it comes to accessories, a classic watch is an essential fashion item for every man’s wardrobe. This casual and versatile watch from Timex is reminiscent of World War II-era aviation equipment. The canvas band and bold face make this watch a stylish standout, and versatile enough to wear to the office or the hiking trail.

military classic red_timex_100

4.  Distressed Army Cap ($24, Take Flight Boutique)

Like women and their shoes, a man can never have too many hats! This handmade cadet style cap is cool and casual in a light khaki fabric. The distressed peace sign adds a unique element, and is also a reminder that a portion of the proceeds from the hat goes to Home for Our Troops. This non-profit foundation builds specially adapted homes for severely injured veterans.

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5.  The American Line Colognes ($45, The American Line)

Pay tribute to the millions of active and veteran servicemen with The American Line, the officially licensed colognes for each branch of the US military. The collection features fragrances inspired by the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. The scents are strong and masculine, with notes of sage, sandalwood, and cedar. Every sleek bottle is complete with the seal of each branch, and have clever names such as Patton (Army), Devil Dog (Marines), and Liberty (Navy). The American Line also donates a significant portion of their proceeds to the US Veterans Administration.

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6.  SM Men’s Justt Boot ($79.95, DSW Shoes)

These classic combat boots are a fun and comfortable way to sport the military trend! This lace up boot is fashionable and functional with the canvas stripe detail, round capped toe, and rugged rubber soles. This is a great everyday boot for Fall, and would look perfect with the military inspired bomber jacket above!

SM Mens Justt Boot_DSW_79.95

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GAL Find of the Week: Sophisticated Scarf for Men

Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , on October 4, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Thanks to the popularity of AMC’s “Mad Men,” a well dressed gentleman has never been sexier.  Aside from a great tie and a beautiful pair of cufflinks, a stylish scarf is a fashion staple that every man needs in his wardrobe.  The Linox scarf ($49.99) from Ian Saude is a lightweight, cashmere blend scarf in a classic herringbone pattern.  The crinkled texture lends a contemporary feel and would dress up everything from a sophisticated suit to casual denim.

 

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GAL Eats – Affordable Italian in NYC (New York, NY)

Posted in Food, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Restaurants, Travel, tagged , , , , , , , , , , on September 24, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Click here to read my review of three delicious and affordable Italian eateries in NYC! http://wp.me/PR9nE-8X  For more food and travel related posts, check out Kara’s Korner!

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Top 5 Fashion Must Haves For Fall 2010

Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Style Tips, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on September 17, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Top 5 Fashion Must Haves For Fall 2010

Fall is a fabulous time for fashion!  As the weather cools off, fashionistas can look forward to switching out their Summer gear for lush fabrics, warm colors, and the most popular trends of the season.  From military jackets to feminine frocks, this Fall is all about contrast – having fun with fashion by mixing and matching the hottest looks! 

1.  Skinny Cargo Pants

Skinny cargos are the new “it” pants for Fall!  Since your closet is probably already full of jeans and trousers, these pants will add something casual and sexy to your wardrobe in one piece.  Wear them to the office with a fitted blazer or out on the town with a flowy blouse and sexy ankle booties.  This pair from the Gap comes in army green or black and is just $49.50 – a great price for the biggest must have fashion trend of the season!  

2. Fab Jackets

Don’t be overwhelmed by the many fabulous jackets available for Fall!  From sexy military inspired jackets to ladylike tweed coats, there is definitely a style to fit your personality.  This season’s jackets are super versatile, and can dress up everything from a dress to jeans and a tee.  Look for fun embellishments like the hardware on this jacket from Express, or the dazzling stones on this boucle number from American Eagle!

 

3.  Feminine Skirts

Romantic details were a huge trend this past Spring/Summer.  For Fall, the sweetest skirts feature draping, ruffles and rouching with feminine flair!  These pretty pieces pair great with an elegant blouse, or mix it up with a menswear inspired vest and oxfords.  Top off either look with a few long strands of pearls and you’ll definitely be turning heads!  This chiffon version from Banana Republic is delicate and beautiful in a plum shade for the season.

4.  Slouchy Cardigans

The slouchy cardigan is a warm and cozy way to dress up for Fall.  From chunky knits to luxe flyaway versions, this trend is fashionable and functional.  These cardis can be worn open for a casual appeal, or cinched at the waist for a more sophisticated and body conscious look.  This heather grey flyaway from Express has a long, modern shape and would look great on every woman.

 5.   Leopard Accessories

Leopard print accessories graced the Fall runways on everything from scarves and handbags to sexy high heels.  An easy way to spice up any outfit, leopard print is timeless and classic.  Just be sure to keep the rest of your look simple – no need to rock the print from head to toe!  This fierce and affordable scarf ($8.02) would look great with denim and boots, or a sheath and pumps for work. 

 

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GAL Find of the Week: Cool Sunglasses for Less

Posted in Fashion, GAL Find of the Week, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, tagged , , , , on September 14, 2010| Leave a Comment »

Wayfarer sunglasses have been a fashion favorite ever since Tom Cruise rocked them in Risky Business!  These days, stars from Katy Perry to Taylor Lautner are loving the laid back and relaxed feel of these classic shades.  While the original label that makes these charge over $100, Sunglass Warehouse has an equally hip and cool pair for just $12.71!  Available in black or tortoise, you can stock up on a few and it won’t hurt your wallet when you lose a pair in your car or at the store!

   

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Fashion’s Night Out at DSW Union Square 9.10.10

Posted in A Day in the Life, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, tagged , , , , , , , on September 6, 2010| Leave a Comment »

I’m hosting the Fashion’s Night Out event at the DSW Union Square store in New York City, this Friday September 10th at 6pm!  If you’re in the NYC area, stop by for a fab night of shoe shopping as everyone will receive 10% off their entire purchase.  Also, enter for a chance to win great prizes, one being FREE SHOES FOR A YEAR!  If that’s not a reason to join us, I don’t know what is! Hope to see you there : )

 

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