September 1, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Designer Shoes That Give Back – Fall 2011
As much as fashionistas love buying new shoes, there’s nothing better than knowing your style purchase will help a worthy cause. Shoe designers from Nine West and Stuart Weitzman are literally putting their best foot forward by teaming up with renowned charity organizations, to help raise money for breast and ovarian cancer. Read on to learn more about these limited edition shoe finds, and how your money will make a difference one pair of designer shoes at a time!
Nine West Runway Relief Riding Boots
Riding boots are a style staple for every fashionista! This fall, look rocker chic in a pair of edgy riding boots that not only look good, but also give back to a fantastic organization. Affordable and chic shoe retailer, Nine West, has paired up with Fashion Targets Breast Cancer for a limited edition line of hot off the runway gear that helps to raise money for this worthy cause. The Nine West Runway Relief collection features a casual and sexy tank for $25, a super cool messenger bag for $59, and my personal favorite, military inspired riding boots for $199.
These boots are bold, rugged, and super sexy, the perfect complement to fall’s hottest fashion must haves! 100% of the proceeds from the Runway Relief collection benefits Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, which helps to raise awareness and funds for the breast cancer cause. Join the Runway Relief movement with supermodels Carolyn Murphy and Chrissy Teigen! Shop the collection at Nine West stores nationwide and online here.
Stuart Weitzman’s Young Hollywood Cares Collection
Luxury footwear designer Stuart Weitzman, teamed up with 4 of the hottest young starlets to design and create the Young Hollywood Cares Collection! The exclusive shoe collection inspires the style savvy to shop to save lives, with 4 beautifully unique styles that are fit for every woman.
If you’re searching for a new boot for fall, you have to check out Hayden Panettiere’s design, a black suede platform ankle bootie with striking metal accents ($498). Or if you’re looking for a statement shoe to make a lasting impression, try Olivia Palermo’s sexy, satin strappy sandals with pink feather details ($425).
Scarlett Johansson and Michelle Trachtenberg also helped to design runway ready looks. 100% of the proceeds from each stylish design goes to ovarian cancer research at the Folkman Research Institute. The Young Hollywood Cares Collection is available exclusively on the Stuart Weitzman website and in select Stuart Weitzman boutiques.
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping | Tagged carolyn murphy, celebrity shoes for charity, chrissy teigen, designer shoes for charity, fashion targets breast cancer, folkman research institute, hayden panettiere, michelle trachtenberg, nine west runway relief riding boots, olivia palermo, scarlett johansson, shoe expert kara birkenstock, shoes that give back, stuart weitzman young hollywood cares collection, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
August 26, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Back to School Fashion 2011 – Basics on a Budget
Students of all ages are returning to school in the next few weeks, and while books and classes are key, there’s nothing more important than the fashion! Since most students are on a tight budget, they (or their parents) can’t afford to buy a whole new wardrobe. Whether you’re rockin’ the playground or the dorm room this fall, here are three must have items which are both versatile and affordable!
Denim – Colored & Flares
Each season brings new fashion trends, but for busy and active students, jeans are a must have for back to school! If you’re a trendsetter at heart, you must own a pair of colored jeans for fall. Walk on the wild side with a pair of bold cobalt blue skinnies or royal purple jeggings, both would look great with a graphic tee, cardigan or blazer. Go casual with a pair of sneakers or dress them up with boots for a funkier look! These lovely jeggings are just $16.50 from Kmart.com!
If colored jeans aren’t your style, but you still want to add some new denim to your wardrobe, opt for a pair of flare jeans. Skinnies have been all the rage for the last few years, but wider legs, flares, and boot cuts have officially made a comeback. These jeans are more relaxed than their super fit counterparts, and can be worn with just about everything. For girls, go for a bohemian vibe with flare jeans and a peasant blouse. And for boys, be the epitome of casual cool with boot cut denim and a cotton tee. Check out Old Navy to stock up on jeans starting at just $10! (Use promo code THANKS on the Old Navy website to get an additional 30% off!)
Custom Kicks
Nothing says back to school fashion than a new pair of shoes! Sneakers and tennis shoes are a must, but can you imagine making a statement in your own set of customized kicks? America’s favorite sneaker brand, Converse, gives students the opportunity to design their own sneaks on their website. Whether you prefer Chuck Taylors, All Stars, or Purcells, you can show off your creative spirit in their interactive design studio.
The ten step process let’s you select everything from the color of the body and lining to the laces, with 26 colors and 22 prints to choose from. With prices starting at just $45, you’ll be styling in your very own custom creation without breaking the bank! And you can rest assured that nobody else at your school will have the same pair of shoes!
All Purpose Backpack
A sturdy, all purpose backpack is essential for students of all ages. Backpacks not only hold your books and homework, but it’s also the perfect place to show off your personality with fun colors and prints. Both functional and fashionable, backpacks are a student’s permanent accessory, so you might as well invest in one that you really love. Whether you’re looking for a simple bag or one with all the bells and whistles, Zappos.com is the place to find the perfect backpack this fall. With more than 650 styles under $50, there is definitely one for everyone!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips | Tagged affordable accessories, affordable fashion, back to school fashion 2011, back to school fashion on a budget, back to school trends, backpacks, colored denim, custom converse, design your own sneakers, flare jeans, kmart, shoe expert kara birkenstock, student style, style expert kara birkenstock, zappos | Leave a Comment »
August 11, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Fall Shoe Trends 2011
The hottest shoe trends for Fall are updated versions of old classics, from menswear inspired loafers to ladylike heels. When the weather cools off this September, be ready to put your best foot forward in the following must have styles!
Menswear
Classic shoes with tomboy inspiration are a must have for every fashionista this Fall, as they’re both stylish and versatile. This season, look for chunky heeled loafers, sexy plaid pumps, and modern flat oxfords that can be dressed up or down. Try this trend with a crisp pant suit for the office, or with a pair of boot cut jeans and a blouse for a night on the town!
Lace Up Boots
Continuing on with the menswear inspired trend, lace up boots and booties are another must have style for Fall! These boots are a little bit rugged and whole lot of sexy, the perfect combination for the cooler months ahead! Look for styles with fur, shearling and other cozy accents, sure to make your feet feel fabulous all season long! Try a pair of neutral boots in tan, brown, or black, or for a pop of color, have some fun in the hottest hue of the season, cobalt blue!
Ladylike
Add a dash of sass to your look with Fall’s feminine heels, pumps, and flats! Look for sexy stiletto heels with ladylike bows and ruffles, classic t-strap pumps, and flats with romantic lace details. These pretty shoes are a must have style for the office, and the perfect complement to a sleek sheath dress. To glam up a date night look, try a flirty pair of heels in fiery red or hot pink!
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July 22, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Celebrity Products That Give Back
Some of the biggest names in Hollywood are taking charity to heart, working with worthy causes across the globe to make a difference. With the following charitable finds, you can be a savvy and socially responsible shopper all at the same time. Here are some of my favorite celebrity endorsed products that really give back!
Skechers Shoes & Soles4Souls
Skechers and Soles4Souls have teamed up to collect shoes for people in need around the world. Celebs like Zach Braff and Donald Faison are spokespeople for the charity organization, while stars like Jessica Alba and Kim Kardashian support the mission as well.
With more than 300 million children around the world without shoes, Skechers and Soles4Souls are making a difference, one pair at a time. For every pair of Skechers BOBS Shoes sold (starting at $34.95 on DSW.com), Skechers will donate two pairs of shoes to those in need. BOBS, stands for Skechers’ charitable mission, Benefitting Others By Shoes. The festive shoes come in an array of colors, fabrics, and styles, and are a fashionable way to support a worthy cause!
MAC Cosmetics & MAC Aids Fund
MAC Cosmetics launched their Viva Glam lipstick collection in 2004, to support the many men, women and children living with and affected by HIV and AIDS around the world. As the official “Viva Glam Goddess,” Lady Gaga recently launched her own signature shade, a very wearable warm beige color that complements every skin tone.
All of the proceeds from the sale of Viva Glam Gaga Lipstick ($14.50, MACCosmetics.com) goes to the MAC Aids Fund, which supports innovative programs to help those affected by HIV and AIDS. The money collected from one tube of Viva Glam lipstick can be used for 37 deliveries of dietetically sound meals, or even supply one woman a month’s worth of public transport to take her to and from doctor’s appointments. Embrace your inner Gaga and look fierce while giving back!
Philosophy & Joyful Heart Foundation
Emmy award winning actress Mariska Hargitay is known for playing Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, a woman who specializes in investigating sexually based crimes. Through her work on the show, and the countless appreciation letters from sexual abuse victims all over the world, Mariska founded the Joyful Heart Foundation in 2004.
The foundation has teamed up with skincare brand Philosophy, on the special edition Joyful Heart Shampoo/Shower Gel ($24, Philosophy.com). The delicate shampoo/shower gel/bubble bath has a soft peony scent, a soft combination of fresh, feminine, floral notes. 100% of the proceeds go towards healing survivors of sexual and domestic abuse, and helping them to reclaim their lives. Bring some joy to others hearts while pampering yourself with this light and refreshing shampoo!
Posted in Beauty, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping | Tagged affordable beauty products, celebrities that give back, celebrity products that give back, charity finds, joyful heart foundation, lady gaga viva glam lipstick, mac aids fund, mariska hargitay, philosophy, shoe expert kara birkenstock, skechers bobs, soles4souls, style expert kara birkenstock | 1 Comment »
July 15, 2011 by karabirkenstock
Keep Cool Beauty Products – Summer 2011
With temperatures reaching record breaking heights this summer, many of us are looking for ways to stay cool! Beat the scorching summer heat with the following GAL beauty finds, affordable must have products for savvy women everywhere!
Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Special Shampoo ($20.61, Drugstore.com)
At the end of a hot summer day, there’s nothing like refreshing with a cool shower! And there’s no better addition to your bathing regimen than Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Special Shampoo. This invigorating shampoo is the perfect antidote to a long day in the sun, full of tea tree oil, peppermint and lavender to revive your mind and body. The shampoo tingles when applied, cooling your head while the intoxicating aromas lift your spirits. Great for all hair types, Paul Mitchell’s Tea Tree Special Shampoo is a real treat for the senses. Trust me when I say your hair will look, feel and smell clean all day with this fantastic product!
GAL Tip: Drugstore.com offers their customers FREE SHIPPING when you spend $25 or more!
Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock ($9.89, Drugstore.com)
We all know how important it is to protect our skin from the harsh rays of the sun. But after sweltering in the summer heat, there’s nothing more uncomfortable than slathering on a thick, icky sunscreen. With Neutrogena’s Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock, you can reapply your sunscreen throughout the day with no mess, while protecting and cooling your skin all at the same time! This lightweight, waterproof formula is easy to apply, and the cooling sensation is a pleasant surprise to sun drenched skin. This ingenious sunblock is so refreshing, you’ll actually look forward to putting it on!
C. O. Bigelow Mentha Lip Shine ($7.50, Bath & Body Works)
The last thing a woman wants to do in the middle of summer is put on a heavy lipstick. Nothing can ruin your mood, or your smile, than a cakey, matte lipstick! Luckily, the folks at Bath & Body Works have an assortment of incredibly light and minty lip shines that are the answer to this beauty dilemma. C.O. Bigelow’s Mentha Lip Shine is the ultimate three in one lip product, combining high gloss, incredible moisture, and long lasting breath freshening. This affordable lip moisturizer has an invigorating, cooling sensation when applied to lips, and the gloss is just the right amount of shine for everyday use. Plus, C.O. Bigelow’s Mentha Lip Shine also does a great job at freshening breath, perfect when you don’t have a mint or piece of gum handy!
Almay Wake Up Hydrating Makeup ($12.99, Drugstore.com)
During the summertime months, women are always looking for ways to lighten up their makeup routine. Almay Wake Up Hydrating Makeup is a new mineral powder foundation that not only provides flawless coverage, but it cools your skin when applied. Mineral foundations are becoming increasingly popular as they’re more lightweight than traditional makeup. Almay’s Wake Up is infused with cucumber, minerals, aloe vera, and green tea extracts to help refine and smooth skin, while the added hydrating water provides an instant cooling sensation. The product even has SPF 13, so you receive extra sun protection with every use. This inventive makeup is a definite must for your cosmetics bag!
Posted in Beauty, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shopping | Tagged affordable summer beauty products, almay wake up hydrating makeup, beat the summer heat, co bigelow mentha lip shine, keep cool beauty products for summer, neutrogena fresh cooling body mist sunblock, paul mitchell tea tree special shampoo, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, tips to stay cool this summer | Leave a Comment »
July 7, 2011 by karabirkenstock
GAL Travel – Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country (CA)
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s world renowned vineyards is the Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country. Just 125 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Ynez features breathtaking views, intimate wineries, and charming inns, the perfect destination for wine lovers and foodies alike. In 2004, Santa Ynez Wine Country gained celebrity status when it was featured in the hit film, Sideways. Whether you’re a movie buff, a wine connoisseur, or simply looking to experience a beautiful part of Southern California, Santa Ynez is a must see! For a Glam, Affordable, and Luxurious take on the Santa Ynez Wine Country, here are my GAL Travel recommendations for your next trip!
Posted in Food, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Restaurants, Travel | Tagged affordable travel, affordable travel expert kara birkenstock, affordable wine tasting, gainey vineyards, gal travel, hitching post 2, lifestyle travel expert kara birkenstock, meadowlark inn, panino solvang, santa ynez wine country, sideways wine tours, sunstone vineyards, wine valley inn solvang, zaca mesa vineyards | Leave a Comment »
June 30, 2011 by karabirkenstock
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
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!
Functional Fashion
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!
Travel Sized Beauty
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!
Posted in Beauty, Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shopping, Style Tips, Travel | Tagged 3floz.com, affordable travel, best online travel deals, best travel search engine, bing travel, convertible dresses, elan convertible dress, mossimo convertible dress, price predictor on bing travel, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, summer 2011 fashion accessory trends, travel sized beauty products, travel tips | 1 Comment »
June 27, 2011 by karabirkenstock
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!
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.
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.
These silk shorts from Express would look amazing on Jennifer, and on anyone who wants to be flirty and fabulous this summer!
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.
For the American Idol finale, she looked stunning in a nude jumpsuit with just a hint of bling.
Take a cue from Jennifer when wearing metallics – go for subtle hints of sparkle and balance out sequins by wearing metallics with basic neutrals.
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.
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!
This dark khaki colored jumper is sweet and sassy, just like Jennifer! Check out Macys.com for more fab jumpsuits under $50!
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!
Posted in Fashion, GAL Star Style, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shopping, Style Tips | Tagged affordable celebrity style, affordable fashion, celebrity looks for less, gal star style, how to dress like jennifer lopez, jennifer lopez look for less, jennifer lopez red carpet style, jennifer lopez style guide, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock | Leave a Comment »
June 9, 2011 by karabirkenstock
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.
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.
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!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips | Tagged best shoe shopping online, boat shoes, dsw shoes, sandals, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, summer must have items, summer sandal trends 2011, summer shoe trends 2011, wedges | Leave a Comment »
May 19, 2011 by karabirkenstock
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shopping, Style Tips | Tagged affordable accessories, affordable watches, best accessory trends, celebrity looks for less, celebrity watches, guess watches, jennifer lopez collection watches, nixon, reese witherspoon gold rolex, shoe expert kara birkenstock, style expert kara birkenstock, summer 2011 accessory trends, swatch | Leave a Comment »
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Kara Birkenstock 