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Archive for the ‘Shopping’ Category

GAL Travel Tips Summer 2011

Summer travel season is officially here! If you’re looking to find a great deal but don’t know where to start, read on to discover a fantastic new site that will certainly make searching for flights easier! And after you’ve saved so much money on airfare, discover which must have fashion and beauty items you’ll need to make your trip complete!

Travel Deals Made Easy

bing-logo

With all of the new travel search engines and websites available, it’s difficult to know which ones to trust. One of the most innovative to hit the web lately is Bing Travel, a portal dedicated to locating the best deals in travel. Not only can you search for flights, hotels, and packages, but you can compare hundreds of search engines at one time, eliminating the need to jump from site to site. But by far the coolest feature of Bing Travel is their Price Predictor tool, which tells you if you should buy now or wait, depending on whether the fares will increase, stay the same, or decrease. According to research, Bing’s Price Predictor tool is about 75% accurate, saving customers an average of $50 per transaction. Other nifty features of Bing Travel? Their Rate Indicator tool tells you if hotel rates are a good deal by comparing current and past rates. There’s also a fantastic travel blog, feature articles and photo gallery, definitely worth checking out!

Bing Travel

Functional Fashion

Mossimo Conv Dress Mossimo Conv Dress2

Deciding what to pack for vacation is never easy. How many outfits will I need and for what occasions? For those that want to keep it light, opt for a convertible dress, many of which can be worn 8 ways or more. These brilliant designs are versatile, comfortable, fashionable, and the perfect neutral palette to accessorize with shoes and jewelry. Wear a convertible dress like this GAL find by Mossimo (Target, $23.99), as a cover up when you’re lounging poolside and then as a sexy halter dress for night. Some styles can even be worn as skirts like this GAL find by Elan (Amazon, $32.99), which would look great paired with a basic or embellished tank. The possibilities are truly endless! Not only are these dresses fashionable, but they’re practical as they take up little space and can be worn so many different ways. Once you have your convertible dress, all that’s left to pack are a couple pairs of shoes, jewelry, a few other basics, and you’re good to go! This is one fashion item that every savvy traveler should own!

Elan Conv Dress Elan Conv Dress2

Travel Sized Beauty

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If you can’t live without your daily moisturizer or luxury shampoo while on vacation, but don’t want to lug around a full size version of your favorite product, then 3floz.com is for you! This genius website offers more than 50 well known companies’ hair, skin, and body products in TSA approved 3 oz. packages, the perfect size for your carry-on luggage! From Alterna to Ole Henriksen, you’ll find all your favorites in one convenient place. Select as many travel sized items as you want for your customized carry-on, or purchase a kit from some of the most coveted beauty brands in the business. With products from women, men, and baby starting at $5, the whole family can stock up on essential beauty items without breaking the bank!

3floz.com

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GAL Star Style – Jennifer Lopez

One of my favorite celebrities and style icons is Jennifer Lopez, a singer, actress, mogul, mom, and of course, the newest judge on American Idol! The former “Fly Girl” and People Magazine’s “Most Beautiful Woman” is a lady who always dresses to impress. Read on for some easy fashion tips and suggestions, so that you too can dress like Jenny from the Block!

jennifer-lopez-people mag cover

Whether she’s on the red carpet at the Grammy’s or American Idol, Jennifer knows how to show off her best assets…her legs! It’s important for woman to recognize what their body type is and which areas they should highlight the most.

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For Ms. Lopez, it’s her legs, and she loves to wear mini dresses and shorts that are the perfect length to look both sexy and sophisticated. She balances her ensembles by pairing leg baring looks with long sleeves and tailored jackets.

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These silk shorts from Express would look amazing on Jennifer, and on anyone who wants to be flirty and fabulous this summer!

express belted shorts 59.90

A glamorous diva at heart, JLo loves to make a statement! And no matter how much sparkle she’s rockin’, she still manages to look classically chic. On the Venus red carpet, she paired a dazzling skirt with a neutral beige blouse.

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For the American Idol finale, she looked stunning in a nude jumpsuit with just a hint of bling.

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Take a cue from Jennifer when wearing metallics – go for subtle hints of sparkle and balance out sequins by wearing metallics with basic neutrals.

macys bcbg sequin dress 179.99

Even when running around with her twins, Jennifer always looks put together. A fashion forward mom, Jennifer keeps it simple in maxi dresses, shorts, and sandals.

jennifer-lopez with daugther 2

A romper or jumpsuit is a super comfortable option for busy moms on the go like JLo. They’re both fashionable and functional, the perfect combination!

jennifer lopez with daughter

This dark khaki colored jumper is sweet and sassy, just like Jennifer! Check out Macys.com for more fab jumpsuits under $50!

macys jolt romper 44

Jennifer’s mommy style wouldn’t be complete without her signature oversized sunglasses! Even if you think you’re too busy to dress up or accessorize, nothing tops off a look better than a great pair of shades. Sunglass Warehouse is a fantastic place to get all of Jennifer’s favorite styles for under $20!

jennifer lopez with son sunglass warehouse aviator 15.95

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Must Have Shoes For Summer 2011

With summer just days away, it’s time to start thinking about the most essential fashion item of the season…shoes! The best way to kick off your summer wardrobe is to have a fabulous pair of shoes. My favorite retailer, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, is your one stop shop for all of your summer shoe needs, with the latest trends for both men and women at unbelievable prices!

Wedges

Nothing says summer better than a cool pair of wedges! The epitome of summer style, wedges are fashionable and versatile, the perfect shoe to take you from day to night. This season’s wedges are neutral with bohemian inspiration. Look for natural soles in rope, cork, and wood, with sexy straps in tan, taupe, and brown.

JS Wedge 59.95 DSW Tahari Wedge 74.95 DSW

Sandals

You can’t talk about summer shoes without mentioning a great pair of sandals. Continuing on with the 70s inspiration from spring, this season’s sandals are simple and stylish, the perfect combo for summertime! Look for sandals in leg lengthening tones with thin gladiator straps and ankle details.

SM Sandal 59.95 DSW KK Sandal 34.95 DSW

Boat Shoes

The ideal shoes for summertime barbeques, sailing trips, and lazy days on the beach are classic and casual, boat shoes! Perfect for both men and women, these shoes have a nautical, Americana vibe, with enough comfort and style to last you through Labor Day!

Rock&Candy Boat Shoe 29.95 DSW Skechers Boat Shoe 44.95 DSW

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Summer 2011 Accessory Trends – Watches

Watches have officially made a comeback for summer, not only as a timepiece, but as a style statement and essential accessory! Watches are both functional and fashionable, plus they’re the perfect accessory to show off your personality. No matter if you’re a sophisticated, sporty, or glamorous gal, there’s definitely a watch to fit your lifestyle!

For classic style setters like Reese Witherspoon, try an oversized gold watch to complement your looks day to night.  This champagne dial watch from Fossil is simple and sophisticated!

Reese Witherspoon_Classic Fossil Gold Watch 95

If you love feminine accents like Natalie Portman, wear a watch in the hottest hue of the season, rose gold.  This rectangular face watch from Fossil is sweet and ladylike!

Natalie Portman_Classic Feminine Fossil Rose Gold Watch 85

For fashionable divas like Jennifer Lopez, add some bling to your look with a gold bracelet style watch with dazzling rhinestones.  This cuff style watch from the Jennifer Lopez Collection is stunning!

Jennifer Lopez_Fashionista Jennifer Lopez Gold Watch 52.99 Overstock

If you’re a sexy glam gal like Beyonce, try a mixed material watch with leather and gold chains.  This double wrap watch from Guess would definitely add some spice to any outfit!

Beyonce_Fashionista Guess Chain Watch 95

And if you live to rock bold tones like Katy Perry and Rihanna, have some fun with the playful and colorful styles of summer!  Nixon and Swatch watches are big celeb favorites and are super affordable too!

Katy Perry_Color Nixon Colorful Watch 
Rihanna_Color Swatch Turquoise Watch

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Positively Celebrity Launches App!  Available on iTunes Now! 

Since March of this year, I’ve had the pleasure of being a Fashion Editor for Positively Celebrity, a fantastic new website with a positive take on the world of celebrities and pop culture!  As Fashion Editor, I have the opportunity to feature the best dressed stars, style trends, and tips on how to achieve the celebrity look for less! 

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I’m so excited to announce that the Positively Celebrity Smartphone App has officially launched, so those on the go can have full access to all the celebrity news, beauty, fashion, and fitness tips 24/7!  Download the App by clicking here!

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Here’s a taste of what the Positively Celebrity App has to offer:

–Exclusive how-to videos from established experts on the latest beauty secrets, celebrity fitness tips and current fashion trends.
–Daily blog posts that celebrate the good things celebrities are doing to be inspiration to all.
–Exciting red carpet footage from Hollywood’s biggest movie premieres, press junkets and award shows.
–The latest entertainment news and tv/movie reviews.
–Extensive info about reputable celebrity charities for incredible causes and how you can be involved.
–Guide to celebrity hot spots around the world where you can vacation, dine or party like a real rock star.
–Links to where you can purchase budget-friendly celebrity-inspired fashion.
–Celebrity Twitter Feed so you can keep up to date with all your favorite celebs and much more!

Check out the Positively Celebrity App for exclusive vlogs from yours truly, Your GAL Kara!  Follow us on Twitter too @positivelyceleb!

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GAL Star Style – Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon is not only an Academy Award winning actress and newlywed, but also a style savvy southern gal! This New Orleans native always hits the fashion mark, whether she’s running around town with her two kids, or accepting her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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Her star style is impeccable, and fashionistas everywhere can definitely learn a thing or two from this woman on the go! As your Glam, Affordable, and Luxurious resource, I searched the internet to find the best sites to achieve Reese’s style on a budget. I didn’t have to look far once I discovered JCPenney, your one stop shop for fabulous celebrity looks for less!

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Reese’s daytime style is California cool, with casual looks like a denim skirt, striped tee and red flats. Striped tees are a great basic for every woman because they’re classic and easy to wear. Women of all shapes and sizes can wear horizontal stripes too, despite what you might think. Just remember, the smaller the stripes the thinner you’ll look! Also, look for tops with diagonal stripes at the waist and hips, which has a slimming and body lengthening effect. This long sleeve top from JCP.com would look great with everything from shorts and jeans, to a sexy little mini. Take a cue from Reese and sport this Americana trend all year long!

Bisou Long Sleeve Top_JCP.com_24.99

It’s not a surprise that Reese’s favorite accessory is her signature fedora. Whether paired with a printed sun dress or a tank and miniskirt, Reese tops off many of her daytime looks with this laidback hat.

Reese_day5 Reese_day6

A fedora is a fun way to add a little attitude to an ordinary outfit, or when you’re having a bad hair day! Try one instead of a baseball cap for day, or as a chic accessory to top off your evening look. For an affordable take on Reese’s boho fedora, try this lightweight version from JCP.com!

Fedora_JCP.com_13.99

The “Water for Elephants” star has a red carpet style that’s a statement of feminine elegance. Ladylike silhouettes and refined embellishments help to make Reese a red carpet favorite. Opting for gowns that fit to flatter, Reese shows off her figure best in sheath and a-line styles.

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These two shapes will complement every woman, because they hug your body in all the right places. Sheath dresses are a sophisticated way to show off your curves, while a-line skirts cinch in your waist to create beautiful lines. This a-line dress from JCP.com features a soft metallic hue with feminine details, Reese’s ideal combination for the red carpet!Strapless Dress_JCP.com_74.99

Reese looked like a Hollywood princess at her recent nuptials to Jim Toth. Forever a romantic, Reese came down the aisle in a stunning, blush hued Monique Lhuillier gown with a Chantilly lace corset and tulle a-line skirt.

Reese_wedding_people mag Reese_wedding_people mag2

Reese’s bold move to wear color on her big day is quickly setting trends for future brides to be and prom goers alike! This delicate hue would look amazing on all skin types, as the pink tones help to bring out your natural radiance. When dressing for special occasions, don’t be afraid to go outside the box and try something new. The most important thing is to be comfortable, and wear what makes you feel beautiful, inside and out! To get Reese’s wedding look for less, check out this gorgeous gown with sweetheart neckline, also from JCP.com!

Gown_JCP.com_64.99

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Top 5 Fashion Must Haves For Spring 2011

 

Spring is officially here! With all of the hottest trends in fashion, it’s difficult to decide which items to invest in. Well, not to fear style savvy ladies, here’s a rundown of the most versatile and stylish fashion items for the warmer months ahead.

1.  Wide Leg Jeans

Gap Vintage Flare Jeans_69.50

Thanks to the 70s influence in fashion this spring, wide, flare and fuller leg jeans are making a comeback. Thank goodness for the fact that fashion always comes full circle, because many of us probably have a few pairs of wide leg jeans already in our closets. While skinny jeans will continue to be a strong trend, it’s all about creating womanly curves with fuller leg jeans for spring! Dress up your wide leg jeans like Kim Kardashian, with a feminine blouse and a sophisticated belt.

Kim Kardashian pit and about in Beverly Hills celebutopia

2.  Peasant Top

White Peasant Top_Anthropologie_78

If you can only buy one fashion item this spring, I’d recommend the peasant top. The easy shape and versatility makes this piece great with shorts, skirts, or pants. And the boho chic flair will make you feel carefree on the hottest spring days. Coming in an array of colors, from simple white and bright chartreuse, to bold prints, a festive peasant top is the ideal addition to every fashionistas spring wardrobe. Take a cue from stylish stars like Taylor Swift and Vanessa Hudgens, who pair soft peasant blouses with skinnies for a cool and casual look.

Taylor Swift Peasant Blouse Vanessa Hudgens_Peasant Top

3.  Wedges

Coconuts Wedge_DSW_44.95

Nothing says spring than a fantastic pair of wedges! Laidback, hippie chic styles are in for spring, from wedges with wood and cork soles to sandals with woven straps. Add a wedge to your shoe closet and you’ll be good through summer. Easily worn with both casual and dressy outfits alike, you can walk around all day in a wedge as they’re more comfortable than traditional high heels. Jennifer Aniston likes to show off her toned legs with shorts and neutral wedges, while Kate Hudson proves you can still be stylish when running errands with the kids!

SPL116667_014 Kate Hudsdon Wedges

4.  Envelope Clutch

RockerInsp_Envelope_jj winters envelope clutch

The must have handbag for spring is the envelope clutch! Slim, sleek and sophisticated, the envelope bag is a classic wardrobe staple that goes with everything. Available in an array of colors for spring, and featuring embellishments from feminine rosettes to rocker inspired studs, there’s definitely a style for everyone. The envelope clutch is also the perfect bag to take you from day to night. For day, wear your bag slung across your body like Miley Cyrus, and at night, tuck in the strap for a sexy clutch like Victoria Beckham!

Miley Cyrus Envelope Bag Victoria Beckham Envelope Bag

5.  Breastplate Necklace

Burnished Medallion Necklace_Ann Taylor

Statement jewelry is taken to new heights this spring with super sexy, breastplate necklaces! While long, layered chains and necklaces will still be on trend, the pure simplicity of the breastplate necklace will be enough for every fashionista to add one to her jewelry box. A bold combination of mixed metals and medallions, this worldly inspired look is just the right amount of bling to transform any outfit! Jennifer Lopez knew how to rock her brass and crystal Lanvin breastplate necklace, by keeping the rest of her accessories simple!

Jennifer Lopez Breastplate Necklace

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Spring 2011 Accessory Trends – Breastplate Necklaces

The hottest jewelry trend for spring is bold and definitely makes a statement! While long, layered chains and necklaces will still look pretty, the must have jewelry item for the sunny months ahead are breastplate necklaces. A bold combination of mixed metals and medallions, this worldly inspired look is just the right amount of bling to transform any outfit!

Brass Bar Necklace_YochiNY

Look like a modern goddess in a flowing white maxi dress paired with this Grecian inspired breastplate necklace from Jennifer Elizabeth.

Jennifer Elizabeth Brass Athena Necklace_MaxandChloe

The perfect complement to the boho chic peasant blouses of spring is a cool and casual necklace. For an easy look, try a gold chain medallion like this one from Fossil.

Fossil Vintage Box Necklace_Zappos

The retro glam feel of this Sachin + Babi breastplate necklace would complete any evening look, from a soft fringe dress to a pretty blouse.

Sachin Babi Link Chain Necklace_Neiman Marcus

This Chan Luu fringe necklace with rhinestones would add some serious drama to your little black dress. So simple and sexy, there’s no need for any other accessories with this statement making piece!

Chan Luu Necklace_Zappos

The key to wearing these bold necklaces is to let them shine! Feel free to mix and match, pairing chains in mixed metals, medallions in different colors, and necklaces of all lengths. Have fun accessorizing for spring!

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Spring 2011 Accessory Trends – Envelope Handbags

The latest handbag trend for spring is super stylish and versatile, and the perfect piece to add to any fashionistas closet! The oversized hobos and satchels from last season will still be on trend, but the newest “it” bag for spring is the envelope handbag! Slim, sleek and so sophisticated, the envelope bag is like a great pair of black stiletto pumps, a classic wardrobe staple that goes with everything.

For spring, envelope bags will come in a rainbow of fun colors, from neon pink, orange and teal to more neutral tones like yellow and tan. This trendy envelope clutch from TopShop is an affordable option for those that don’t want to break the bank.

Colors_Envelope_topshop envelope clutch

There’s nothing more chic and classic then reptile accessories, and the Rampage Embossed Faux Leather Clutch is no exception. Popular on both shoes and handbags for spring, exotic skin accessories are items that every style savvy gal should have in her wardrobe!

Reptile_Envelope_rampage envelope clutch

Bold, rocker inspired details will also be a big trend. Chains and chunky zippers are a fun way to add edge to your look, like on the Anderson Zipper Clutch from Handbag Heaven.

Envelope_Anderson Zipper Clutch_Hangbag Heaven

For an unexpected pop of color, have fun with the 70’s inspired color block trend. Clutches like this one from Lipsy feature pretty color combinations, and would definitely add some spice to a date night ensemble.

Color BLock_Envelope_lipsy color block envelope bag

For a more casual look, opt for a cross body envelope bag with a versatile strap like the Kate Envelope Bag from Handbag Heaven. This laidback style would be perfect for everyday activities like running errands or shopping till you drop!

Crossbody_Envelope_handbag heaven kate envelope bag

No matter what your style, there is definitely an envelope bag for every fashionista! Happy shopping!

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