B Smart: Fashion outlet shopping

What women will do during a sample sale is unspeakable. How often we will click the refresh button waiting for the online sale to start is ridiculous. And the distance we will go out of our way to check out the outlet malls is embarrassing.

Outlet malls are the destination of merchandise that wasn't sold in original retail stores. Some may view this as a bad thing. Why would you want to buy it if no one else wanted it? This is sometimes true but also a facade keeping you away to the secrets of outlet shopping.

Outlets are filled with the classics that cycle throughout the store all year round. This is the best time to buy off-season merchandise and find classics for less. Denim is a great find at outlets because denim will never go out of style and will be a constant in your wardrobe. If you're shopping at the outlet malls in the spring then don't shy away from leather boots and coats that you could wear in the upcoming Fall season.

At the peak of the Spring season I took a road trip to Los Angeles and had to stop by the Desert Hills Premium Outlets. This center is filled with outlets by 7 For All Mankind, Barneys New York, Dolce & Gabbana, J Crew and William Rast. Diane Von Furstenberg also added an outlet to these stores and was the first on my destination list.

DVF is known for her wrap dresses so while the print may be last season's, this is a classic silhouette that will last years. Remember, no one knows what time you bought it, even if they know which season it is from. My lucky find from my trip was the DVF maxi dress. The print is bold and with great colors and the classic silhouette has been perfect for hot summer days. Did I mention it has pockets? Everyone loves a dress with pockets.

Chances are there are some outlet malls right outside your city that are waiting for a day trip. Grab your girlfriends and have a road trip. Find all the locations of the Premium Outlets here. Find the fall classics before they return to stores full price. Because while we know how we act in a sale, you may have forgotten how women act when hot new merchandise comes in and leaves quick. Brace yourselves.

B Emotional

Confession-- I'm an emotional shopper.

When I am sad... I shop.
When I am happy... I shop.
When I am lonely... I shop.
When I want to celebrate... I shop.
When I'm stressed... I shop.


In a week filled with projects, tests, work, events, and pay day (the instigator) I found myself building up my my online shopping bag to de stress and liven up my day! Here are a few things I found along the way...

Purchased on a quick whim after seeing it online I knew I had to have this neon pink sweater. Neon is one of my favorite things this summer (as you have already read) and the pink cardigan by J. Crew is a MUST and lifted my spirits instantly. 2 points for emotional shopping!

When I'm looking to for instant gratification I am rarely dissapointed by Urban Outfitters. Last Fall I found my beloved snake skin watch and I am again drawn to Urban's great source of time. I couldn't decide between the tortoise or the gold (that I've been coveting for sometime now) so I went for both! The metal and tortoise will be much cooler on my wrist than my already cloth band this summer.

Continuing on my urban binge I stumbled upon a floral scarf. I'm obsessed with everything floral patterns right now and when it showcases my favorite orange and corals this season I am obligated to add it to the cart!

Summer dresses are an instant mood booster! You feel girly, comfortable and they keep you cool. I couldn't resist this Silence & Noise bustier dress that just might be perfect for some graduation party events. And how you can you resist a dress with pockets- bonus!

And here is what remains on my wish list for a REALLY bad day. 3.1 Philip Lim Belted Twist Hem Skirt. Perfect for summer and every cute floral print tank I have and just waiting for a bad day to justify the purchase!

B Collaborative

There has been a few times when two great individuals have put their energy together to create brilliance. Such as Beyonce and Jay Z, Stella McCartney and Gap Kids (have you seen the shopping bags? adorable) and now there is Jonathan Adler and Seven for all mankind.

If you caught on to the home decor tv show craze then chances are you have seen Jonathan Adler as the Top Design judge. He has made his own success in home design where he is known for bright colors and bold patterns.

Now the decor maven is pairing with Seven for all mankind for a new line due out shortly. Adler's good eye for color and patterns compliments Seven's american industrial aesthetic. Add the belt and scarf to my shopping list-- I can't wait!

private residence designed by Jonathan Adler

B Perfect

RJ Graziano Long Beaded Layer Necklace available at Nordstrom

Everyone always has a 'go to' item. I found mine while shopping for an ensemble appropriate for a bridal shower. It was a last minute add on that I found to compliment my upcoming spring wardrobe perfectly! Pair it over a t-shirt, dress or behind a blazer. I've already done it all and can't wait to wear it this weekend. It's just the perfect accessory to be that finishing touch!

B Instinctive

Yesterday was a mix of emotions for me as I anxiously anticipated the arrival of new DV by Dolce Vita boots. Just a week ago I saw the boots when Nordstrom started a big shoe sale online. I had seen the boots at 8 am bright and early and when I went back to show a friend, they were sold out! Right away I regretted not going with my instinct. But thankfully the online retail world worked in my favor and they magically reappeared in stock when I checked the next morning! I couldn't let myself hesitate another time, boots were purchased.

I have had this similar issue with another pair of black boots I had a huge obsession for months with. It was a tragic love affair of never in my size, debating the price towards end of the season, out of stock, color not an option. The shoe is a Corso Como Rachel II tall boot. So many of my coworkers had bought the boot and every time they've been worn I just swooned over them with gaga eyes. When the Nordstrom sale appeared the other day and I set my eyes on the DV by Dolce Vita on sale I gave up on my love affair with Corso Como.

Ordering anything online is the biggest tease. You add it to your cart and pay the fee and if you don't want to pay for express shipping wait 5-8 business days for them to arrive. Every half hour I was checking my tracking number on ups.com and awaiting for "In transit" to change "Delivered". At approximately 3:30 pm yesterday, it happened.

Unfortunately I learned a great lesson in online shopping. The boots just did not meet my expectations and my new item high dropped low. They did not fit how I imagined and just was not worth the money spent. Looks can be deceiving. To try to pick up my mood I thought I'd take a last over Nordstrom.com to find a possible replacement. Again browsing through the 'boot shop' I passed by the Corso Como boots. I playfully clicked for more information and scrolled to see what sizes were available. 7.5!!!! I stared in disbelief and instantly added to shopping cart. I knew this must mean it was meant to be and learned my lesson in online shopping. I chose Saturday delivery, no more waiting 5-8 business days.

B Judging

Don't judge a book by its cover.

A quote we have all heard time and time again. But I have to admit, I do judge. When I browse borders I do wait to see what catches my eye. There is a reason why publishing sets asides a budget for book cover shoots. We're all about appeal and of course my favorite part of this appeal is the ones that have two handles on one side and come with something new inside! A shopping bag of course!

Not that I'm an expert but I have one theory about retailing, its all about the bag. Can you imagine walking into a Neiman Marcus and coming out with a plastic bag stamped with thank you three times? Exactly. There's something to say about a well made bag or gift wrap. It is a catch to persuade you and promote their brand imagine and I think its brilliant! I realized that I was a victim of this marketing strategy when I realize I have about a dozen robin egg blue boxes around my room. Every girl wants a gift in blue box with white ribbon oh and with the name Tiffany & Co. on it.

I grew up in the packaging/boxes world so maybe this is why I love shopping bags (my dad will get a kick out of that one) but I do have quite the pile up in my closet. But only of the good ones, I keep them so that I can reuse them if needed or they just look pretty! Some of my favorite packaging just happen to coincide with my favorite retailers. Tory Burch had the most amazing gift boxes I noticed this last Christmas when shopping for my mom. Honestly I wanted to give her the presents in hallmark gift bag and keep the boxes for myself! Another similar retail Kate Spade also seems to out do themselves on this one as well. Just the other night I walked away from the store with the most adorable small retail bag.

It says a lot for a company who cares how their product is packaged and exiting the store. It is possibly one of the most expensive parts of the business that some companies don't think about. But personally its the reason I, as a customer, return to the store and most always leave with the perfect package.

B Gifted

Roses are red, Violets are blue
All I want for Valentine's Day is a pair of Jimmy Choos!

The Jimmy Choo 24/7 was created for the purpose of what it is titled after, Twenty Four Seven! Jimmy Choo has taken their most popular styles from the past and re created them with more color options. There are enough options to ahve a new pair for every day of the week! I know I know.. wishful thinking.

B Picky

I have had the reputation of being very picky. I am very certain to what I may eat and when (never leftovers) and I prefer well made denim that give me the perfect fit compared to the pair you will have to re wash before every wear. Though I remained picky in my shopping choices in 2009 that doesn't mean I didn't let some cases slip by me. That is why I have created some essentials for 2010. Some may be what you might call 'resolutions' but others are just pure items I don't want to live without in the next decade or season.

OPI Nail Polish: 2009 may have created a nail polish junkie in myself that I cannot walk into a beauty supply store without a new shade. OPI nail laquer always has the best colors embarking on new trends without mentioning their adorable titles!

J Brand Denim: On days where work will keep me from wearing blue denim, you can find me in my black skinnies. I live in them, I sell them constantly because they are the best fit I've had. So comfortable and flattering they are essential to your closet to break the mold of blue denim. Though there is a reason why blue denim is a classic and J Brand does the classic justice. While J Brands are known for running a bit small unlike many other denims, it is rare that they will stretch out. J Brand's spring washes are going on my NEED list.

Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant: Never thought I'd write about deodorant on my blog huh? Well don't skip over this. There are a few things that stick with you from high school. Those that do are very important to you and this is one of them. For years I have done nothing but rave about this Donna Karan deodorant! I can't live without it. It lasts forever, doesn't have that annoying deodorant smell and goes on easily. You would have to think this a great product for $18. I know it sounds crazy but it lasts forever and will out beat any cheap product at the drugstore. If you want to wait for a deal, almost every year Nordstrom sells a pack of 3 of the product for their Anniversary Sale. I buy a new pack every year and it lasts me more than over the year.

B Preppy

Lately I have been very into the rocker look as you can tell by my obsession with my new leather jacket and all things studs. Though everytime I pass by a J Crew I can't help wanting to take a mini vacay to the Hamptons.

Now my aim is not to be one to step right outside an episode of Gossip Girl but Blair Waldorf is a great piece of impsiration. J Crew has the best selection of preppy favorites. J Crew offers most of their basics in array of colors so what does a girl choose with so many options? Navy. Too boring? If you don't own any conservative basic cardigans, navy is a great place to start and such a great shade to compliment with the burnt oranges and bright yellows coming into Spring.

There are a number of different ways you can wear a cardigan. Place it over a cinatge tee you've had for years and give the basic hoodie a rest. Or tone down the top you wore last Saturday night and let it see the afternoon casually.

For my recent obsession with preppy I conveniently tied in my new favorite trend of mixing prints. A pinstripe button down screams prep but paired with a floral sweater from Anthropologie, it gives it a bit more interest and less predictable. While in J Crew don't pass by their accessories, I am in love with their jewelry, hair accessories and belts. Nothing like a classic preppy piece to mix up your wardrobe.

B Trendy

While the groundhog alerted us today that we have 6 more weeks of winter, it is never too soon to start planning your spring wardrobe! I anxiously can't wait for the new spring shipments to come into the stores and once they do I'll be grabbing prints left and right. Mixing prints is a hot trend for spring. Shopbop.com gave a few tips on mixing patterns this spring.

• Play with complimentary graphic prints
• Pair prints with similar sensibilities for a pulled-together look
• Polka dots and stripes are a playfully irreverent pair
• Stay int he same color family
• Do variations on a theme in cool neutrals. Add a bright bag for contrast
• Try two tones of the same print
• Choose subdued hues for a sophisticated look

More highlights of spring fashion to come: denim distressed vests, cross body bags, lace and sheers

B Reinvented

Every brand goes through a cycle. After their initital launch there is a perception about them that is created and if we all have listened to Heidi we know that in fashion, "One day you are in and the next day you are out." To prevent the out AG Adriano Goldschmied jeans has created themselves a new image. I too myself have become reinvented by returning to my former place of employment retail department store heaven formally known as Nordstrom. This is a plus for you too blog readers as now being first hand in the line of retail I am the last thing that comes between you and walking off with those new jeans so prepare to read even more about my new obsessions.

A plus of returning to retail heaven has been learning about new launches of denim and clearly one of those was AG. All of AG jeans are made in the U.S. in their own facility in Southgate, CA. A rare find for premium denim these days. One of my favorite facts I learned about AG is that they are the only denim label that has 2 different back pockets on every pair of bottoms. There is a significant difference between their left and right pocket that creates the best illusion of your bum!

AG is reinventing themselves to a younger market and have been worn by many celebrities. Some of the celebrity favorites are the tomboy boyfriend fit and also the Premiere skinny style which is my favorite with their 7 year wash. The jean was processed and baked (yes they put them in an oven) to look as if they've been worn for 7 years. Another great part of AG's processing is their 3D whiskering. Some jeans have the whiskering on their jeans all in the wrong spot but AG has put each pair of their jeans on a human walking simulator that creates the vintage wash in the all the right places.

With this new launch of a new look, AG Adriano Goldschmied is reinventing themselves the right way back into the fashion industry. Their denim is continually being mastered to be the fest fit they can be with the best techniques and fabrics. Everyone gets a second chance and AG has gotten it right.

B Delicious

So we all know that when we have money to spend our first thought is either new shoes, that handbag we've been lusting over or a new top for our night this weekend, have you had a time when your first thought is "I gotta have that cookbook?" I doubt it. But now beware fashionista's this all may change.

Already this year the CFDA brought us Fashion's Night Out, now they're giving us the American Fashion Cookbook! Now just this book over 100 recipes by your favorite designers such as Diane Von Furstenburg, Zac Posen, and one recipe I can't wait to try "Croissant French Toast". Now don't think that is all I'm telling you in this blog post. You think I'm going to let you go into that kitchen without looking fabulous? Don't be silly...

Turn in your "Kiss the Cook" apron and start making a statement in the kitchen. Anthropologie has some of the best kitchen accessories around, now I know I'm biased because this retail store is probably mentioned in every blog but I promise you I am not sponsored (I wish!). The Toile Full Apron is the perfect thing to protect your new Philip Lim dress while cooking up a storm. Also, try Sur La Table for all your cooking utensil needs and of course another cute damask print apron.

Don't underestimate where you could find a great conversation piece. After watching Man Shops Globe, I look at everything in Anthropologie wondering where it came from. For a limited time the retail chain is featuring Paint By Number plates from the print series "111 Reasons Why To Love You" by Trey Speegle. If you are like me you're already wondering how this series got started, now put that on the table and let the conversation begin.

B Reminded

There are certain scents that remind you of the Holidays. It may be a scent from your mother's homemade cooking, or the fire burning in the fireplace or the smell of peppermint coming from the candy canes. So when you don't live at home anymore, don't have a fire place and try to keep candy out of your house, your best resort is holiday scented candles!

I recently just purchased the White Chocolate Mousse candle from Anthropologie and it is heaven. Just last night I was cuddled in my bed, reading a good book and burning my candle. I almost got to pretend there was snow on the ground. If the scent isn't great enough, leave it to Anthropologie for creating a creative tin that makes you want to pull on your cable knit sweater. Holiday season has the best scents such as Wonderful Cookie also for which I purchased for my kitchen. Someone wasn't lying when they said "this is the greatest time of year".

B Caught

I have a bad habit of putting myself in my head and not being able to forget it and till I get it. One night just browsing online at my favorite virtual retailers (never a good way to start) I had this mission to find the perfect leather gloves. I didn't want to be caught red handed (pun intended) in a hideous pair so thankfully I had some inspiration. One of my favorite scenes of the Sex and the City: Movie was when Carrie is running to meet Miranda just in time for midnight, that's friendship. Carrie is shown rocking her iconic fur coat and a pair of white gloves and booties. Who looks this fabulous racing through the snow after they've just awoke? Only Carrie...

Well so I found a lot of options. One of my favorite websites is shopstyle.com because they bring up all your options over the whole internet. Throughout Sex and the City, Carrie has different styles of gloves and I was determined to mind a short cropped leather glove. There were the options that were clearly out of my price range. Such as the $145 Dents Studded Leather Bow Gloves, but seriously if you had the money to spend how to die for are those?

The motorcycle cut off finger tip gloves have been making their comeback to the runway and Alexander Wang even incorporated this trend with his own clutch. You would never lose this clutch at a bar ladies but again $999 was a little out of my price range. So I was waiting for that light bulb moment and then shopstyle did it for me. They previewed a cute pair of studded leather gloves from top shop for only $36. I thought, Top Shop! how could I forget to look there. While I liked the studded leather gloves, I needed ones I loved. And then there, Deep V Kid Leather Glove  in nude was found. I don't white cream or white leather for a couch but in a pair of gloves or hand bag I can't help but imagine luxury. And these are the perfect inspired replica for my Carrie Bradshaw gloves I fell for. All these gloves needs are a new fur vest...

B Sparkling

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Halloween is over and gone with and already this morning both Anthropologie and Nordstrom have announced free shipping throughout the holiday season. Along with free shipping comes my favorite part, holiday look books! If looking through the glossy pages of your favorite retailers decked out with glitz and glamour of the holiday season doesn't get you excited then I don't know who you are. My favorite look book so far and definitely not my last is Henri Bendel! The glorified New York City department store debuted their holiday look book online today and showed everything I may want for my holiday festivities.

I never collected snow globes as a child but if I was introduced to Henri Bendel's snow globe at an early age I am sure it would've been something I'd be asking for. How can you not love snow and a signature brown and white striped bag? The look book was dripped in nothing less of sparkles and was full stocked with all this holiday's must haves. Also featured in the look book, a new Rebecca Minkoff clutch I saw on Luna Boston just last week and raised the standards for my holiday party clutch for 2009. The talented designer was lucky to have two handbags featured on the Henri Bendel lookbook.  If Fall was waiting for Vogue's September Issue, Winter was waiting for Bendel's holiday look book!

B Captured

Here's my favorite headline of the week!

Fashion's Night Out to Be Repeated in 2010

If you've missed it and been living in a hole the last couple months. Fashion's Night Out was event organized by New York City and the CFDA that brought all retailers together for one night and celebrated shopping! Have you heard of a better reason to celebrate? On September 9th of this year more than 700 retailers stayed open past 11 pm. Designers were in their own stores joining in the madness, free give aways and makeovers were at different locations.  The Olsen twins were making drinks at Bergdorfs and Taylor Momsen played a small concert with her band. Thankfully the New York City mayor and CFDA have agreed to a repeat in 2010. For those of us who unfortunately don't live in the city that never sleeps, book your ticket now. I'll see you NYC for Fashion's Night Out.

To read more go to WWD

B Spooked

It's not a secret that Halloween is not my favorite holiday but if I would've seen this Tory Burch pumpkin earlier I would have definitely gotten in the spirit! After some last minute inspiration I searched the web to find 3 different costumes of 3 very worthy charachters to dress up as this halloween!

Queen B is set to rule another night on Hallow's eve. Blair Waldorf is a character that is dressed to tee and never has an accessory out of place. All of Blair's costume can be found on Forever21.com and just don't be scared to mix patterns while of course her signature headband can not be misplaced.

Who hasn't tried dressing up as Carrie Bradshaw since Sex and the City's debut in 1998? If you saw the recent glamour issue in the last year of Emma Stone dressing up as whoever Carrie then you too looked at it and wanted to be fashion icon. This skirt is iconic during the series and very hard to replicate though I got lucky on target.com with this is Issac Mizrahi skirt. With just a few alterations and killer shoes you are ready to be Carrie.

 

The first Halloween inspiration I had was from Regis & Kelly and their Rachel Zoe spoof! Kelly was as always hilarious and reenacted Rachel to a tee. A fur vest is essential to be bananas and any oversized accessories work all found on CharlotteRusee.com. Have a boy sidekick? Get him to throw on a bow tie and metallic dress shoes, Brad and Rachel will be to die for this Halloween!

B Cozy

I apologize for the small absence from my blog but just last month I was blogging about everything I'm lusting after for Fall and I have finally began to enjoy them! The leaves are changing (in Seattle), Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back and everything is soft and knitted. I have been on a hunt for a beret for quite some time but it wasn't till yesterday where I found the thick knitted beret from Gap that was love at first sight.

It's moments like these is why I love Fall. Fall requires everything to be warm and comfortable. Have you seen so much think cable knit any where else this season? Everywhere I turn there is an oversize sweater or knit ugg boots! Now I know how guys feel about ugg boots, they hate them and I think every women's response to this negative comment is "but they're comfortable!" And I totally agree ladies. Just don't take the uggs out for a night on the town. Though I'm tempted with these knit boots but that will just have to be a night in next to the fire.

Fall leaves the air crisp and fresh and fall fashion is leaving us cozy and warm. My newest obsession is driving with the convertible top down with the heat on high. Its the perfect way to enjoy this great weather and staying cozy! I am dying over everything I see that has the smallest influence of fall weather musts. I am almost getting ready for full on winter. Bring on the hats, gloves, scarves and boots!

B Accessible

Just this last week Barney's New York opened their first location in Scottsdale, AZ. Viewing the store you were captivated by the original visuals and unique layout of the legendary department store. Though much smaller than their Beverly Hills location, Barney's brought the high status to an American mall that is transforming to be a must travel item. And while Barney New York's vendors are not always accessible by the average shopper, the designers who created their name by the help of the department store are creating new fashions at a new price point.

The hype of Jimmy Choo's accessory line for H&M has been a big topic of conversation for all fashion publications. The sleek advertisements are gracing the pages of Vogue and Elle and November 14th is marked on everyone's calendars. In a article from Women's Wear Daily, Tamara Mellon founder and president said "It was a challenge for us to create high-quality pieces at an H&M price point.” Wow am I glad that she decided to take on a challenge. The pieces were designed off the same woman who inspired Jimmy Choo's Fall line "She's rock 'n' roll, a little punk". I think some people may see the price points for the Jimmy Choo for H&M still out of their price range but it is for this reason they aren't completely cheap because Jimmy Choo still wanted to make a great product. The value of these products should be judged on more than just the label and really evaluation the quality and aesthetic. If the quality is well made compared to a disposable product and design is innovative and trending then I think this Jimmy Choo for H&M will be very successful with great products and not too mention the overwhelming publicity received over the collaboration.

Collaboration must be a trending item because everywhere I turn a designer is merging with a new idea. Just this last week the buzz about Christian Louboutin designing for Barbie continued. He has been granted the position of being Barbie's God Father for the year. Can you imagine the birthday presents? The designer designed 12 Christian Louboutin Barbie shoes that are being sold separately from the Louboutin jewel-thief themed barbie debuting in December. I was never a Barbie collector but I just may need this Barbie with red soles packaged in a Christian Louboutin shoe box.

Louboutin isn't the only designer creating new looks for a different customer. The newly awarded at the CFDA awards duo Rodarte are designing for Target! Their line will debut on December 22 of this year and I can't wait to get my hands on their tights and bow belt. I love how designers are challenging themselves with different markets and becoming more accessible to me and their beloved followers. The design world is showing an enormous amount of talent that has no end of expanding and no one is complaining at my end.

B Ringing

It's not time to ring in the new year yet but that doesn't mean you can't be showing that firework sparkle on your fingers. Everywhere I turn I see cocktail rings on every hand. What I am really loving right now is that you can wear more than just one and not look like a gypsy. I have worn a pair of rings on my right hand for the past 5 plus years. These rings were both given to me by my sister on special events. These Tiffany rings are very understaed with the smaller diamond and pink sapphire but carry a great dear of sentiment. So though they won't be leaving my hand anytime, I still have 9 fingers to dazzle!

Marc Jacobs is always the key to my heart so I am loving his Pave Heart Ring under his Marc by Marc Jacobs line. Some of this other jewelry is so unexpected and reinvented. Have you seen his zipper earrings yet? Everything is so innovative and most all his rings I want to pile on my fingers.

And if you're looking to spread your wings, look at CC Skyes Angel Wing ring. I first found this ring on another website in passing a week ago and saw it was already sold out. Then when I decided to write this blog I had to search the web to remember who it was by and I should have assumed it was CC Skye. The jewelry has a great way of molding metal to trendy accessories you'd want to put on every limb.

Shopping online always gets me into trouble. Its almost worse than walking into the mall because recommendations are made for you and end up appearing easily on the right side of your screen with a perfect connection to your next want. This is how I found the Goldmine ring. I apologize for the horrible line but how could you not want this ring? The dark stones contrast with the bright gold and I am definitely reserving a place on my finger for this one.

I think a big myth with wearing rings is that until you are wed you need to keep your ring finger on your left hand open. Well all my single ladies, this doesn't have to happen and if you need a little love then you'll fall for Erica Anenberg's Je' Taime twosome ring. This ring was made for two, two fingers. I admittedly couldn't help myself but purchase this ring and am anxious for its arrival. Nothing wrong with giving yourself a little love.