Posted in Fashion, MyxTV, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable fashion, best festival fashion trends, bohemian style, festival fashion, festival looks for less, hipster style, myx tv, style shoe expert kara birkenstock, style tips, your gal kara on April 23, 2014| Leave a Comment »
Festival Fashion Must Haves 2014
Festival season is in full swing! With Coachella behind us, there’s a slew of amazing music events in the months ahead that require the right festival attire. No matter if you’re headed to the desert or the big city, or just want to look like you’re part of the in-crowd, proper festival style is a must. Channel your inner bohemian hipster with the following fashion essentials.
Maxi Dresses, $19 & Up Lulus.com
To read more Festival Fashion Must Haves, click here.
Posted in Fashion, Positively Celebrity, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable fashion, celebrity designers for less, designation kohls, designer collaborations, emma roberts, julianna margulies, katie holmes, narciso rodriguez kohls, style shoe expert kara birkenstock on November 7, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Narciso Rodriguez for Kohl’s Hits Stores Today
Narciso Rodriguez has collaborated with budget friendly retailer, Kohl’s, for a limited edition line that is available in stores today! As the first designer to participate in Kohl’s DesigNation program, Rodriguez has set the bar high with his modern yet minimalist collection.
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Rodriguez’s capsule collection was inspired by his recent trip to Istanbul, with the sights and sounds of the city reflective in each piece. With clean lines, bold colors and structured yet sexy silhouettes, the collection exudes elegant sophistication. Each garment is designed with the female body in mind, perfectly crafted to fit flawlessly and accentuate in all the right places.
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Hollywood fashionistas are already fans of Narciso Rodriguez’s designs for Kohl’s! A-listers Julianna Margulies, Katie Holmes and Emma Roberts showed their support for the Cuban-American designer at the official New York City launch party in October.
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With items ranging from $30 to $150, there is definitely something for every budget and style. Here are more highlights from this affordable collection:
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DesigNation will showcase fashion lines by renowned designers, drawing their inspiration from cities across the globe. Next up, Derek Lam shares his fashionable take on Rio for Spring 2013!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shopping, Tall Fashion, tagged affordable fashion, affordable tall clothing, break tall stereotypes, long tall sally, long tall sally pop up shops, shoe expert kara birkenstock, stand tall week 2012, style expert kara birkenstock, tall girls documentary on April 16, 2012| Leave a Comment »
Stand Tall Week is April 16th – 22nd
Have you ever opted for flats instead of heels so that you didn’t stand out in a crowd? Surprisingly, 72% of tall women in the US have downplayed their height by wearing flat shoes or slouching when in social situations (Long Tall Sally).
Today marks the start of Stand Tall Week, a 7 day celebration that encourages women to embrace their height. Presented by Long Tall Sally, this week long initiative will include a limited time pop-up shop in New York City, an exclusive premiere of the documentary film “Tall Girls,” as well as great deals on the latest spring and summer collections on LongTallSally.com.
The official Stand Tall Week website has fun facts and figures about living the tall life, as well as an opportunity for women to share their personal stories and pictures to inspire their fellow fashionistas.
No matter if you’re 5’2” or 6’2”, there’s definitely something to learn from Stand Tall Week! Ladies, it’s time to stand tall and proud!
Posted in Charitable Finds, Family, Fashion, Kids Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, tagged affordable fashion, avon empowerment necklace, celebrities that give back, celebrity products that give back, charitable finds, design your own shoes, fashionable charitable finds, iheartkids, milk & honey shoes, reese witherspoon, save americas mustangs. rachael ray, shoe expert kara birkenstock, shop for a cause, soles4souls, style expert kara birkenstock, three dots scarf, yum-o organization on March 30, 2012| 5 Comments »
Fashionable Finds That Give Back – Spring 2012
While we all love to shop for the latest trends and fashion finds, it’s empowering to know that certain purchases can make a difference in the world. We should all strive to be socially responsible shoppers, and with so many products available, it’s now easier than ever. Here are a few of my favorite fashion finds that really give back!
Avon Empowerment Necklace
Avon Ambassador and Oscar winning actress, Reese Witherspoon, recently unveiled the “Empowerment Circle of Support Necklace” ($5, Avon.com) to raise funds for the Avon Speak Out Against Domestic Violence program. The delicate silver-tone necklace features the infinity symbol, representing the unlimited potential a woman can achieve without violence in her life. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the necklace will be donated to the Avon Foundation, for programs dedicated to ending domestic violence against women. This beautiful piece of jewelry is an affordable way to support this worthy cause affecting women all over the globe.
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iHeartKids Tee
Soles4Souls and iHeartKids have teamed up to help those in need of one basic necessity, shoes. The two organizations recently launched the T-Shirt Project, a design competition giving kids of all ages the opportunity to submit their unique artwork for consideration. A colorful collection of some of the best drawings is now available for purchase online! A portion of the profits from the limited edition iHeartKids Tee ($20 -$22, iHeartKids.com) will benefit Soles4Souls. By purchasing one shirt (available in kids and adult sizes), five pairs of shoes will be given to deserving people all around the world.
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Three Dots Scarf
Three Dots (a fashion brand known for their luxurious contemporary knitwear) and Saving America’s Mustangs have come together to bring much needed awareness to the mistreatment of wild horses in the USA. By purchasing their American-made, Watercolor Silk Scarf ($60, ShopThreeDots.com), half of the purchase price will be donated to Saving America’s Mustangs. Funds raised from the sale of this versatile scarf (available in two colors) will go towards the preservation and protection of this iconic American animal.
Rachael Ray’s Milk & Honey Shoes
Foodie and TV Personality Rachael Ray teamed up with Milk & Honey Shoes to raise money for a cause close to her heart, the Yum-o Organization! Rachael combined her two loves (shoes and food) to create this fabulous chocolate brown platform pump with snakeskin print. For each purchase of “The Rachael Heel” ($195, MilkandHoneyShoes.com), 100% of the profits will be donated to this wonderful organization that empowers kids and families to develop healthy relationships with food and cooking.
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable celebrity style, affordable fashion, american girl in paris, celebrity looks for less, designer clothes for less, jason wu black cat, jason wu for target collection, jason wu for target collection review, michelle obama inauguration gown, milu black cat, shoe expert kara birkenstock, spring 2012 fashion trends, style expert kara birkenstock, target designer collaborations on February 9, 2012| 1 Comment »
Jason Wu Collection Now Available At Target…If You’re Lucky!
If you’re a frugal fashionista, you’ll be happy to know that Jason Wu’s capsule collection for Target launched on February 5th! Most known for designing the beautiful white gown that Michelle Obama wore to the Presidential Inauguration Ball in 2009, Wu’s line for Target brings high fashion to the masses, with clothing and accessories ranging from $19.99 to $59.99. But since the limited edition collection hit stores on Sunday, shoppers have been finding that many of the most coveted styles and in demand sizes have sold out fast! If you want to score a piece of fashion history, head to your local Target or Target.com ASAP! Jason Wu for Target will only be available through March 6th, if it even lasts that long!
The Target website features all the best looks from the Jason Wu collection, and even some exclusive online styles that have hit the site in the last few days. The collection is ultra feminine with clean lines and exquisite details, reminiscent of an American girl in Paris! The pieces are easy to wear and figure flattering.
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One of the most popular looks of the line is this gold textured blouse and black pleated skirt ($29.99), as featured in the Jason Wu for Target television commercial. This look is sexy and sophisticated, perfect for an evening out on the town!
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Wu’s use of nautical colors is both playful and romantic, as seen with the following two looks. This navy floral skirt ($29.99), red silk blouse ($26.99), and cardigan would be pretty for the office or even a spring wedding.
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This Americana striped tee ($19.99) and cuffed shorts are a fun, relaxed look for a weekend lunch with friends.
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One of Target.com’s exclusives is this flirty spotted sleeveless dress with black belt ($39.99). Pair this versatile shift with wedges for day or with black pumps and a blazer for night!
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Many fashion insiders are predicting that Jason Wu’s signature black cat, Milu, will become an industry icon! The mischievous cat is featured on this tote, tee, and silk scarf, which are only available in stores. Tres chic!
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Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Positively Celebrity, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable celebrity style, affordable fashion, affordable versace, beyonce, celebrity looks for less, designer clothes for less, designer fashion finds, designer shoes for less, gisele, jennifer lopez, versace for h&m on November 4, 2011| Leave a Comment »
Versace for H&M Debuts November 19th
Versace, the iconic Italian fashion house with celebrity fans like Beyonce, Gisele Bundchen and Jennifer Lopez (remember that show stopping green dress with plunging v-neck?), is debuting a more affordable collection at select H&M stores on November 19th. Known for their sexy statement dresses, bold graphic prints, and outfit making accessories, Versace hits the budget friendly retailer just in time for frugal shoppers to get a fabulous holiday look for less!
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Highlights of the new line include simple item pieces with a twist, like this chic black pleated silk skirt ($69.95). What makes this so very Versace are the delicate metal corners that embellish each pleat on the hem. This is definitely not your average black skirt! Tuck a collared shirt into this skirt for an office look, or pair it with a sparkly tank and killer heels for a night on the town!
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Leggings ($29.95) are also an essential item in the line, and a great way to play with fashion without breaking the bank! Bold patterns and geometric studs adorn these affordable must haves, all in a comfortable stretch fabric with a slight sheen. Add some drama to your everyday look with these fun and funky leggings!
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If you’re looking to make a statement this New Years Eve, try one of these dazzling party dresses! This hot pink sleeveless dress ($199) is flirty and feminine, the perfect dress for any holiday party. The silk, sheath style dress has festive metal studs and a standout gold zipper on the back.
For an option that really says Versace, try this silver metal mesh dress ($249) that is dramatic, sexy, and sparkly! The knee-length style comes in a mesh-like metal fabric, with a draped neckline, cross back straps and chiffon lining. Wear it with a belt to show off your curves, or with tights and booties for an edgier look.
The Versace for H&M collection also features shoes, jewelry, and accessories (from $19.95 to $149), as well as specialty items for men and home.
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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 on August 26, 2011| Leave a Comment »
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!
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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!)
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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!
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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 on June 27, 2011| Leave a Comment »
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!
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Posted in Fashion, Fashion Week 2011, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable fashion, affordable spring fashion, best spring fashion trends, breastplate necklaces, celebrity looks for less, envelope clutch, peasant tops, shoe expert kara birkenstock, spring 2011 accessory trends, spring 2011 fashion trends, spring 2011 shoe trends, style expert kara birkenstock, top 5 fashion must haves for spring 2011, wedges, wide leg jeans on April 13, 2011| Leave a Comment »
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
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.
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2. Peasant Top
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.
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3. Wedges
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!
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4. 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!
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5. Breastplate Necklace
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!
Posted in Fashion, Pete & Brenda: Get It Done Girls, Shoes, Shopping, Style Tips, tagged affordable accessories, affordable fashion, affordable fashion finds, andrea woroch, best new online boutiques, best new shopping websites, best shoe shopping online, dsw shoes, myshoes.com, new shopping sites, project runway christian siriano, renae virata, sendthetrend.com, style expert kara birkenstock, travelista, wearevertheweather.com, what to pack for vacation 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!
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!
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!
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!
Kara Birkenstock 