Men's Fashion Friday: Boutique Shopping

If you're a guy that despises shopping because you hate mall crowds, you're not the only one.  In the event you are not already aware, boutique shopping is not just something for the ladies. Enjoy the luxury of specialized merchandise in smaller spaces and escape from the hoards of clothes and crowds that seem to permeate through our larger retailers. Step into a specialty shoppe and you might never enter a mall again.  Take a peak below at some featured boutiques...

ALBAM 
 Modern Crafted Clothing, London

When a guy goes out of his way to show you his newly acquired handmade Deck Chukka Boots he purchased while on a trip to London, then you know it's a store to talk about. Especially since these remarkable shoes were handmade in the United States!

If you are visiting London, Albam has locations on both the East and the Westside. This boutique is knocking on its third year since opening doors and has made quite an impression with its quality apparel.  In an attempt to stay as close to home as possible, production of styles occur in Great Britain as well as the USA, Portugal and Italy. You might not see many of these locations printed next to"Made in the..." on tags but, Albam is communicating that quality products don't just come from the "Far East."

This retro-edge boutique is strictly menswear. Shop your knits, outerwear, shirts and accessories all in one stop. Visit their website to learn more about their fascinating philosophy and to browse their unique collection.

THE GLASS BOUTIQUE

Not up for malls or boutiques? Visit The Glass Boutique website where the best of the best items are handpicked and featured for your purchase. Yes, it's European, but if you are on the forefront of fashion and can't take a trip across the pond, then enjoy these luxury designs from the web to your wardrobe! Some familiar brands are featured, but go out on a limb and get that authentic fancy European brand to switch it up. Besides, with a no hassle return policy and low international shipping fees, it might be worth it to take that leap... across the pond!

FAB'RIK

fab'rik is a popular franchise that is expanding its southern Atlanta roots across the nation. When you walk in, you feel as though you are entering a private boutique closet as you are greeted with cozy couches and a complimentary glass of your favorite vino. Delicate lighting and urban chandeliers illuminate the boutique just right so you really do feel like you're shopping in the comforts of your home. Immaculate drapes cover the floor-to-ceiling dressing rooms for ultimate privacy, while at the same time adding another layer of comfort.

Here's the hot part: aside from their designer denim, everything in the store is under $100! Affordable boutique shopping at its finest. Delight yourself in high fashion button downs, the trendiest denim, tee's, accessories and shoes without the guilt of shelling out a fortune for the normal high-end boutique price points. Both men's and women's apparel is sold here, but it still remains simple and uncluttered. So, both you and your girl can make a one stop shop!

Boutiques offer a more special shopping experience and tend to have a greater ambiance than larger department and chain stores. Most are located in smaller strip malls while some stand alone. Try walking in to one the next time you're on the hunt for a new item. You might be surprised how much more relaxing, enjoyable and even personal specialty shopping can be!

For you coupon clippers, check out www.RetailMeNot.com to see what savings you can snip while out shopping!

Rent the Runway

Ever dream of fashioning the clothes you see on the runway but know you don't have the funds to maintain a high maintenance wardrobe?  Well, Ta-Da! Dream granted...you're wish is Rent the Runway's command!

Take a trip down the catwalk at www.RenttheRunway.com and get new looks shipped directly to your door at the click of your mouse! This special club requires a request for membership but once you are accepted you instantly enter a virtual closet with an array of designer delights to choose from! What an easy and fun way to expand your wardrobe.

Even better is the extra touch of service added in.  Of course, nothing comes free so there will be a membership fee. But, once you select a garment, RTR will ship it to your doorstep at your requested delivery date with two size options to make sure you get the perfect fit! Then, once your done flaunting that A-list designer item, just leave the dry cleaning up to RTR and mail it back with their pre-paid label. That's less hassle than borrowing it from a friend, dropping it at the cleaners, picking it back up and then returning to the rightful owner, wouldn't you agree?

Sign up now so you can get that runway ensemble for your holiday socials and that glitzy couture for New Year's Eve. You might not have a million bucks, but now you can certainly dress like it!

25 Days till Christmas = 25% Off

When December rings, December brings new trunk show specials!  Shop online at my December trunk show and qualify to redeem new party perks!  Holiday items are discounted 25% off when you spend $50 or more at a trunk show.  No need to attend one in person, I have set up a virtual trunk show online so anyone can shop. Stay away from the holiday traffic and click away in the comfort of your home. Quality jewelry ships prepackaged in irresistible Stella & Dot gift boxes so even the wrapping is already done for you! 

Simply click here for my E-Boutique

Select "Find Your Hostess"

Enter: Wish List 

Shop the site until December 17th to receive your order in time for Christmas! Spend an easy $50* or more and you will be prompted to choose your December Party Perks:

The Deco Squares Ribbon Necklace is a fabulous holiday piece and a great gift! Get this glitzy stocking stuffer for $74* (originally $98)! 

Our Ribbon Wrapped Deco Ring is the perfect compliment to the Deco Squares Necklace! Purchase this fabulous finger bling for only $29*! (originally $39)

The Greta Single Strand Necklace is 40 inches of dazzling Czech stones and glass beads. With it's incredible length you can wrap it or wear it long! Get this item for $52*! (Originally $69) What a style steal!

Shape-Up with Spanx Shapewear!

Did you just start trying on new LBD's for your upcoming holiday parties and quickly realize that you aren't in the shape you'd like to be in? Looking in the mirror can be depressing, especially when you're trying to look your absolute best. Well, don't fret! Go ahead and indulge in all your holiday delights and temporarily tuck away those extra pieces with quick fix shapewear!


The booming industry of shapewear offers products that will nip and tuck you without going under the knife.  Shape up your thighs, your butt and your tummy by slipping on a simple garment that constricts everything that might be "out of place!" Consider this a cost-effective plastic surgery alternative!

Spanx's new Slim Cognito Shapesuit will tuck any unwanted flub from head-to-toe! This seamless bodysuit works like a slip, compressing specific areas for a smooth look. The straps are adjustable and it's even equipped with a removable underwire so you can control your lift!

If you want the compression without the full bodysuit, Spanx also has a Slim Cognito Seamless Mid-Thigh Suit. This compression piece will shape your hips, slap in your thighs while also tightening and lifting your bum! The design is smart enough to completely eliminate unwanted bulges. Wear this under trousers, skirts, dresses and even shorts!

You might be expecting, but you don't have to completely look like it! Hide that babyweight with Power Mama from Spanx! The sizing system allows you to wear this shapewear throughout your entire pregnancy.  Simply pick your "pregnancy size" and your shapewear will expand when you do.  Even better, Power Mama doesn't just provide shaping but also provides lower back support. Don't go 9 months without this!

Get super sleek support with Spanx Hide & Sleek Hi Rise Panty!  Tuck in your tummy with this garment and avoid panty lines with its thong back. No need to wear an entire body suit when your only concern is the desire to tuck your tummy. Light, invisible, simple and remarkably comfortable!

Hot Items on Sale!

Have you had your eyes on a treasure at Stella & Dot but didn't exactly want to make the move to get it just yet? Perhaps it's an item that was recently added to our sale section!  Shop our new discounted jewels because with these discounts, you can stock up even more on the jewelry you've been dreaming of.  This won't last forever so act fast before it's too late!

Shop the entire sale section by clicking here! Below is a sneak peak of some fabulous finds & style steals! 

Sofia Pearl Single Strand Necklace is a string of hand-knotted pearls and shimmering glass beads, stylishly finished with a pave encrusted screw closure clasp. 

Price: $69.00  $52.00

The La Coco Brooch Necklace is a fabulous versatile item!  This entire piece can be worn 8 different ways! The double strand, 14k gold vermeil necklace has a removable bracelet chain and a floral glass brooch. Play with this piece and wear it how you wish.

Price: $118  $88

Since the La Coco Brooch is a style steal at only $88, why not purchase the Bloom Flower Brooch to switch up the look? Simply swap out the brooches and it looks like a brand new necklace! Hand painted enamel and dazzling Czech crystals decorate this flower. With these amazing sale prices, it's almost as though you got the La Coco Brooch Necklace with the Bloom Flower Brooch for free!

Price: $39 $29

 Don't let this sale item pass you by! The Alana Embroidered Cuff is hand embroidered with Swarovski crystals and glass beads. The silky fabric is luxurious and comfortable. At this price, there is no excuse to not indulge! Won't this look dazzling with your LBD?

Price: $118  $78

Calling All Men!!

Us ladies love when our guys put thought into the gifts they give us.  So, just for you men, I have made it easy this holiday season to shop for the ladies in your life! You can skip the mall crowds and ditch the holiday traffic. 

Now open is the Holiday Trunk Show! You can easily shop online for celebrity-coveted Stella & Dot jewelry that has been featured all over high fashion magazines such as InStyle, Marie Claire, Redbook and Oprah as well as on shows like The Today Show and Rachael Ray.

Anyone can enjoy this hassle-free shopping experience by visiting my E-boutique:

Click Here For My E-Boutique

Select "Find Your Hostess" on the right

Enter: Wish List

Order anytime between today and December 5, 2009:

* Receive flat-rate, 2-3 day shipping for $5.95
*Items prepackaged in irresistible Stella & Dot gift boxes so the wrapping is already done for you!
*More than 50% of the line is under $50, most under $40
*Great stocking stuffers*Personalized gift messaging available
*Spend $50 or more and qualify for party perks!

By simply placing an order, you will automatically be entered to WIN the HOST REWARDS: 25% back in FREE jewelry will be raffled off to customers! (no minimum purchase) 

Stuck on ideas?
Have someone who is a trendsetter? Shop our new launches here!
Does your lady like to make a statement? Invest in a fabulous statement necklace for her!

Deco Squares Ribbon Necklace. Great for holiday parties or a touch of sass to any outfit. She will be so impressed that you "researched this necklace" after you saw it in  featured in Lucky Magazine at the checkout line! (wink, wink...)

The Ribbon Wrapped Deco Ring is one of many trendy rings that make the perfect stocking stuffer! Perhaps you saw this in Lucky Magazine and realized it matched the necklace you liked for her! Click here to shop more rings!

Spell out your love with a Signature Charm Set. Choose from a variety of bases and charms to create your own personal message. A great sentimental touch that inevitably takes a bit more thought to put together.

The collection doesn't come even close to stopping here! The selection at Stella & Dot is versatile and satisfies the style of any shopper! Don't delay in purchasing something for your loved ones today.  They will thank you for your thoughtfulness in getting them a quality piece of jewelry!

Receive 25% off for 3 Days Only!

Happy holiday shopping from Stella & Dot!

Launched this morning is a THREE DAY offer for 25% off online orders placed by November 27, 2009!

Simply click here for my e-boutique and at check out, enter PROMO CODE: FAMILY09

This is the perfect time to get a jump start on your holiday shopping!  Stella has great stocking stuffers, charming treasures and celebrity-coveted jewelry galore! Items come prepacked inside irresistible Stella & Dot gift boxes which means the wrapping is already done for you!

Don't let this one time, limited opportunity pass you by! Go to my site today and shop away!

Holiday Cleanse: Body & Beauty Boosters

With year end parties, dinners and mixers, you can lose track of the body you worked so hard to maintain throughout the year.  In between your 'holiday hopping', be sure to tune into yourself and revamp your system with some body and beauty boosters. Consider these quick tips a way to resuscitate your health.

Tomatoes aren't just for your marinara sauce. This super fruit is packed with antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin C and natural acids which will help keep your skin clear and your oils balanced. Give yourself a fast facial by taking a sliced wedge or some crushed tomatoes and running them over your face.

Apparently tomato extracts work so well, the popular Burt's Bees brand bottled it! They have an entire tomato line which includes toner, soap, creams and sprays. So, while you start prepping that sauce, go ahead and give yourself an organic facial!

  Like many other things from history's past, tea tree oil has evolved into an extensive product line including oils, creams, soaps and gels. This natural oil is an intense antioxidant that serves as a quick "medical fix" for several things. Tea Tree Oil is a concentrated formula that can be used to clear acne, athletes foot and cuts.  So, if you are stressing this holiday season, traveling to lots of hotels or happen to cut yourself while wrapping presents, have some tea tree oil handy for an instant cure.

   Paul Mitchell's line  of Tea Tree products is my favorite on the market.  Keep your entire body soft and hydrated with tea tree soap or, have a conditioning shave with tea tree shaving cream.  One of my favorite tricks is to mix in a few drops of tea tree oil with your body lotion and apply to your skin after your shower, or even to your facial moisturizer to help keep your skin clear!

Go ahead, dive into a piece of that apple pie at your Thanksgiving dinner.  We all know that vitamin C is good for you and apples are packed with it.  By biting into a crisp apple or enjoying a slice of that gooey apple pie, you'll be treating your body and your palate. Vitamin C restores skin cells and continues to keep them protected.  So why not satisfy both your sweet tooth and your skin?

Don't just carve your pumpkin this season, make sure to eat it too! Pumpkins get their orange color from an ingredient called carotenoids. Carotenoids help "neutralize free radicals" so that cells are protected against damage.  Even better, pumpkins are saturated in other nutrients such as fiber, iron and zinc and can even help fight cataracts. So instead of throwing away all that great pumpkin meat after you are finished carving it, make it into a pumpkin pie!

I was recently introduced to Oil of Olay's Regenerist Microdermabrasion & Peel System and it was everything I didn't think it would be, but more!  This two-step system works together to will leave your skin feeling refreshed and cleansed. In the first step, you apply the derma-crystals. In the second step, you add the activator serum.  The directions are easy and in minutes your skin will feel conditioned and instantly renewed. With continued use you will noticed an improvement in the texture and appearance of your skin. This has definitely hit my list for Holiday-Must-Haves!

Men's Fashion Friday: Shades

The trend for men's sunglasses for 2009 doesn't skew too far from that of 2008.  Retro styles and aviators remain popular for ready-to-wear, while the modern, futuristic looks continue to impact the sporting market.  As we all know, Ray-Ban made popular the aviator look and they continue to maintain the classic style with making little to no changes to the design. On the flip side, other avid designers, such as Tom Ford, tend to update the trend in the aviator look by implementing various design elements to the bridge, tweaking the shape of the lens, and even stylizing the arms. 

Tom Fords 2009 Aviator James Bond Style is the hot item this season in men's sunglasses. The dub "James Bond" was credited because Daniel Craig sported this style in the 007 movie Quantom of Solace.  This style is classic and pays tribute to the heritage aviator shape and compliments the look of nearly any man.

Bulgari's 5007 style has a classic aviator shape but is more athletic. Compared to Tom Ford's style, you can see that the lenses have a slightly different shape, resulting in a more modern aviator look, however, consumers can easily classify this as an aviator style.

Prada offers a chunkier, more retro style. If you are trendier and like to defer from "classic", this style is definitely a statement. With gradient lenses, a one-piece look and athletic striped detailing on the arms, these shades will make a fashionable impact on anyone.

Oakley Elite. Period.

The innovation continues, the patents grow, the research proves in creating salable, reliable glasses. Technology and impeccable designs break through in Oakley's Elite Collection. Designs remain sleek and continue to be craved by consumers and unsuccessfully knocked off by those who only wish they could fathom such stylish innovation. Can you imagine a pair of glasses made of material that is "thinner than human hair and stronger than tensile steel?" So much impact is compressed into this collection that I cannot begin to justify describing it with my own words.  Please, click the Oakley Elite link above and enter a world of unsurpassed invention where prices rise up to $4,000!

Rinette Azizo's "Band Stand"

While flipping through WWD,  I came across an article highlighting fashion designer, Rinette Azizo. I instantly became intrigued and as I continued to read the article about her I quickly learned why WWD wanted to do a piece on her. 

Rinette has created the ultimate way to add flare to your hair with custom made headbands. But, not just any headbands.  No two pieces are alike as each piece is hand-crafted and uses the finest materials from silks and velvets to delicate crystals and feathers.  The design inspiration is both playful and thoughtful in order to make each piece a treasure of its own.

Azizo's acclaimed "Band Stand" business is something you might consider as the millennium's "modern-day headpiece." Forget the bulky monstrosities that were top heavy from years ago.  Buy into one of RA's headbands and you're hair will curl itself for you!

 Azizo's headbands were an instant hit and locals from her hometown of Brooklyn, NY quickly started requesting custom pieces.  Azizo emphasizes that she wants girls to "be noticed in a nice way" and these couture headbands are a fabulous fix for making that kind of statement.  

Brides also started requesting headpieces for their weddings and, with that, came the birth of the bridal collection!  Sass up your gown with a Spanish inspired flower or a crystal encrusted piece with exquisite pleating detail. Each style is delicate and classy, adding the perfect touch to any bridal gown. 


Shop Rinette Azizo's collection by clicking here and become a party of the Band Stand craze!

Pretty Presents

 

Stock up on your pretty presents with Stella & Dot! Your items are already ship-to-share ready with jewelry prepackaged inside Stella's adorable gift boxes! What girl wouldn't want to see our version of the "little blue box" peeking out of her stocking?

We have everything you need for every girl in your life.  Moms, sisters, grandmas, girlfriends, granddaughters, and nieces! Even your boss and your best friends, your wife and your in-laws! While you're at it, why not throw something special in the mix for you too?

 

The Sofia Cluster Bracelet is great for mom's, mother-in-laws and that fashionable grandmother of yours! A collection of freshwater pearls and smokey glass baubles are hand wrapped together to create a cluster of class!  Pair it with the Sofia Cluster Ring to complete the set!

 The Juliette Necklace is great for your sister or best friend. A hand-cut smoky quartz briolette stone hangs from a 14k gold vermeil chain.  The delicate rope chain is characterized with a collection of links near the drop of the stone and the clasp.  For an extra special touch, throw in the Perfect Faceted Earrings in Smoky Quartz for a complete set!

Wrap up someones wrist with the Alana Embroidered Cuff. Swarovski Crystals and glass stones are hand-embroidered into silk fabric to create the ultimate in luxurious wrist candy.  This cuff is assembled in the same couture houses as Lanvin, Prada, Dior and Jason Wu, however, we are bringing couture to you without the hefty pricetag!