If the Shoe Fits

A message to my readers

2009-11-11T08:30:00.002-05:00

A bit of personal news to share today: my last day at the Observer is Friday.

I've had the pleasure of witnessing incredible change on Charlotte's retail landscape since arriving at the Observer in 1998. Concord Mills wasn't around back then, SouthPark was considerably smaller and I used to order my Kiehl's online (or have it shipped by my family in Michigan).

It has changed a lot in the two years I've been lucky enough to be the Style editor.

I'm not leaving Charlotte – my family and I have grown to think of this town as home. I will continue to focus on writing about fashion and beauty, just in a different forum.

Some things, thankfully, will never change. On that list is my appreciation for the readers who took the time to e-mail, call and post on my blog.

We might not always agree, especially when it comes to men's facial hair, but the exchange of ideas this job has afforded me is priceless.

Longtime Observer writer Cristina Bolling will be covering style news. If you have story ideas, e-mail style@charlotteobserver.com.

You can find me at rachelsutherland.net, Twitter, Facebook or send e-mail to rachel@rachelsutherland.net.

Eva Mendes is Tastee

2009-11-10T12:52:00.002-05:00

Charlotte-based Tastee Cosmetics is expanding it's reach again. The line debuted on QVC in July.

Now, the line is available at Douglas Cosmetics stores in Westport, Conn., Philadelphia and Center Valley, Penn., Marlton, NJ and Washington, DC.

Founder Jami Svay says the line has also been introduced to celebs, including Eva Mendes, Jessica Alba, Reese Witherspoon, Selena Gomez, Mo'Nique and Kirsten Dunst.

BIG ONE-DAY SALE: Neiman Marcus SouthPark will have a one-day sale, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. Save as much as 40% off regular-priced merchandise throughout the store for one day only. This includes denim, cashmere, Tory, Ralph Lauren, DVF, Trina Turk, Leifsdottir, Kay Unger, Akris Punto and Armani Collezioni and more. Exclusions will apply.

Cosmetics will be included in this sale for the first time ever at 20 percent off. The following cosmetic lines will be marked down: Shu Uemura, Armani Beauty, La Prairie, YSL, Orlane, Estee Lauder, Sisley, Kiehl's, Laura Mercier, Cle de Peau, ReVive, Lancome, Guerlain, Trish McEvoy, Bobbi Brown, Christian Dior, Amore Pacific, Chantecaille and La Mer.

TRUNK SHOW: Tara Davis, designer of the FLOW by Tara Davis line, will showcase her Fall 2009 collection, 5-9p Nov. 20 at Modern Salon and Spa-Metropolitan. Bring a canned good or non-perishable item for entry, to be donated to City Dive, Inc. The fashion show will begin at 7p.

Free Friday: Alicia Silverstone EcoTools set

2009-11-06T09:00:00.004-05:00

Up for grabs this week is the limited edition Alicia Silverstone EcoTools 5-piece brush set. The set includes a hemp bag and four brushes. The lining is made with recycled plastic. The brushes have sustainable bamboo handles and 100% cruelty-free bristles.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain ECOTOOLS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Empowerment, scholarship and beauty

2009-11-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

If you're a high school senior with a passion for fashion (design or marketing, merchandising and retail management), you could win a full-ride scholarship to the Art Institute of Charlotte.

The local winner will be entered in the national competition, where prizes include a scholarship to study fashion marketing and management at the Art Institute, a tour of Seventeen magazine, $500 shopping spree, lunch with a style professional and a visit to NYC during Fashion Week.

Deadline for entry is Nov. 20. Complete details for entry can be found here or by calling the Admissions Department of The Art Institute of Charlotte at 704.357.8020.

DOVE REAL BEAUTY WORKSHOP: The 3rd annual Dove Real Beauty Workshop for Girls, hosted by UNCC's Gender Excellence Learning Community, will be 1-4p Dec. 5. How can we encourage young girls, teens and women everywhere to embrace a more positive image of themselves, both inside and out? This awesome event, which fills up quickly, is a great place to start. It is free to girls (ages 10-13) and their female mentors: moms, stepmoms, sisters, friends, aunts, etc. It will be held at Breathing Room Yoga Studio, 214 W. Tremont Ave. Advance registration is required. Send an email to: dovegenx@gmail.com.

BENEFIT FOR YOU: Meet beauty experts Maggie and Annie Ford Danielson, Benefit global trend artists, 11a-3p Nov. 14 at Belk SouthPark. Get expert advice on everything beauty: from how to discover your signature fragrance from the new Crescent Row collection to mastering your perfect makeup look. Along with free cosmetic consultations, there will be a free gift with purchase of more than $55 during the event. Space is limited. Call 704.364.4251, ext. 8240 for reservations.

NCDT Runway For The Ballet

2009-11-03T12:05:00.000-05:00

The NC Dance Theatre is staging its third Runway for the Ballet at 5 p.m. Sunday in the Booth Playhouse at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center.

Apparel from Capitol, Scout & Molly's, Black & Blue, ChezElle and E Martini will be featured, interspersed with excerpts from NC Dance Theatre's Innovative Works.

Ramona Holloway of 107.9 WLNK's "Matt and Ramona Show" will emcee. Tickets start at $30, and include complimentary food and wine. Click here for event details.

Free Friday: $100 gift card for Shapes Salon

2009-10-30T08:30:00.002-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a $100 gift card for a free massage or facial from Shapes Salon & Day Spa on Providence Road.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain SHAPES in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Buff Faye's drag-tastic Halloween

2009-10-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

Buff Faye (lower left) and her festive Halloween crew

I finally, finally(!) met Buff Faye.

She's the long-lost sister of Tammy Faye (rest in peace), and Buff's just as fabulous as you'd expect the winner of the Ms. Crown Royal Rugby Pageant 2008 and Miss $1.98 Pageant at the HideAway in Rock Hill, SC, to be. You may also recall she was in the top 25 of RuPaul's national Drag Race competition this summer.

Now, she and her band of divas sing, dance and serve a killer brunch once a month during Buff Faye's Drag Brunch at Hartigan's. I was lucky enough to see the crew in action earlier this month, in full camp drag/Halloween glory.

Here's your chance to check out the special encore: Buff and her crew are doing it one more time at a Halloween event 7-10p Thursday, Oct. 29.

Check it out. And tell Buff I sent you!

Organica Deluxe pop-up @ Poole

2009-10-27T13:54:00.006-04:00

Poole Shop and Organica Deluxe recently announced their partnership on a pop-up shop to open Nov. 12 in Phillips Place.

What's a pop-up shop? Comme des Garcons designer Rei Kawakubo is credited with starting the guerrilla retail experience a few years ago -- temporarily setting up shop in an unexpected place.
Organica Deluxe, the Charlotte-based online store for eco-friendly luxe gifts, will set up shop inside Poole's south Charlotte store. On Nov. 12, Organica's entire product line will be in the store.

Through Dec. 24, OD will stock its most popular products in store. And online orders will be available for pickup in the store, with no delivery or shipping charges.

"We are excited to offer Charlotte customers this unique service," Poole Shop owner Laura Vinroot Poole said in a press release. "We love Organica Deluxe's beautiful packaging and especially their delicious ginger cookies. Anyone looking for gorgeous and green gifts will find exactly what they want."

Founded by Jane Hunter and Wendy James in 2008, Organica Deluxe sells home decor, accessories, baby items, flowers, food and wine ($10-$650). The site has been featured on Daily Candy and CNN. Celeb fans include Sigrid Olsen and Constance Zimmer.

Stella McCartney for GapKids in Charlotte?

2009-10-26T14:08:00.004-04:00

Is that a real fox he's holding? No matter -- look at that marching band jacket! Too cute!

As the mom of two bebes (well, not really babies anymore -- my son is 6, my daughter 4), I can tell you with authority there is room for improvement when it comes to children's clothing.

There's only so much train/construction theming for boys or pink/purple florals for girls that a stylish mum can take before losing it completely.

Enter Stella McCartney, daughter of Sir Paul, mother of three (Miller, 4, Bailey, 2, and Beckett, 1) and creator of an uber-delicious eponymous line. Now, she's teamed with GapKids for a children's capsule collection that may just send me into fits, in a good way.

Marching band jackets? Tulle skirts? Cozy knits and kid-pleasing boots for stomping around (with trend-perfect neon yellow laces)? I am in.

The collection ($14-$128) should be hitting stores by Nov. 3, and I've been told by a well-placed source the SouthPark location will be one of just a handful of stores in the Southeast to carry the line.

Free Friday: $100 spa gift card

2009-10-23T08:31:00.000-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a $100 gift card to Edamame The Maternity Spa at Destination Maternity, which has a location at Sharon Corners in South Charlotte. Edamame The spa offers an extensive menu of luxury treatments for the expectant woman and focuses on the fusion of body, mind and spirit. Treatments include facials, massages and enhancements, all provided by certified massage therapists and estheticians. It's not just for preggos: Many non-pregnant clients return to the spa after pregnancy for post-natal treatments.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain SPA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Get ready for Bags & Baubles

2009-10-20T10:39:00.001-04:00

Looking for a nearly guilt-free indulgence? Head over to the Assistance League of Charlotte's fourth annual Bags and Baubles sale, 9a-4p Saturday, Oct. 24 at its thrift shop, 3600 S. Tryon St.

The ALC is a nonprofit volunteer organization that assists children in need through its five philanthropic programs: Operation School Bell, Operation Check Hunger, Mecklenburg County Teen Court, Outreach and a college scholarship program.

And they've got some killer style. They've collected gently used handbags, jewelry, shoes and accessories for the sale. The list of designers is impressive. Here's just a handful of the names that will be on the sales floor: Donald J. Pliner, Dooney & Bourke, Coach, Hartmann, Maud Frizon and Lulu Guinness.

Word on the street is there's some David Yurman and vintage Eisenberg Ice jewelry in the mix too.

Perry's of SouthPark will be on hand for appraisals and gold/silver buybacks. ALC is still accepting donations of gently used jewelry, accessories and handbags for the sale. Click here for more information.

Having shopped the sale before, here are a few things I think you should consider before you go:

Get there early. Don't arrive at 9a on the nose and expect to walk right in.

Be courteous. It's just plain rude to sweep up an entire rack of bags on to your arm and cart them off, only to weed through and put the castoffs back. Manners, please.

Remember it's for charity.

Bob Ellis to close at SouthPark

2009-10-19T13:38:00.008-04:00

Sadly, the economy is claiming another Charlotte retail fatality.

The luxe Bob Ellis Shoes in SouthPark mall will close, says store manager Joel Prystowsky. Employees began telling customers late last week. The King Street location in Charleston will remain open.

Christian Louboutin Charme Black suede ankle boot

Bob Ellis has been in Charlotte for more than 11 years, opening first inside Coplon's Phillips Place space, then moving to a spot near Nordstrom inside SouthPark about five years ago.

It is a chic spot to find some of the most fab footwear: Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin and Yves Saint Laurent are just a few of the lines in the store.

The decision to close was made by owner Barry Kalinsky, Prystowsky says, and came as a surprise to employees.

The timeline for closure (and clearance markdowns) has yet to be determined, he says.

Free Friday: VIP package for Simon Fashion Shows

2009-10-16T08:30:00.001-04:00

Today's giveaway is a two-fer. Up for grabs are two VIP packages to Simon Fashion Now, a celebration of style and fashion scheduled for Oct. 23-24 at SouthPark mall. Included in each package: One $150 Simon gift card; two reserved seats for a runway show on Friday or Saturday and dinner for two at McCormick & Schmick's ($50 value, alcohol and gratuity not included).

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain SIMON in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

No sleep for fashion in CLT

2009-10-14T12:33:00.000-04:00

ooooohhhhhh.... a pretty Cordani boot.

Fashion and style never sleep in Charlotte. Witness:

DESIGNER VISIT/TRUNK SHOW: Cordani designer and owner Michael Ciccia will be part of a Cordani trunk show 10a-6p Friday, Oct. 16 at Step by Sloan on East Boulevard. If you think fashion means giving up comfort for style, than you need to check out Cordani footwear, which for fall means boots, pumps, flats and clogs.

MAKEUP ARTIST VISIT: Susan Posnick Cosmetics national makeup artist Brandy Nolen will be doing complimentary makeovers at Jeffre Scott Apothecary on Friday and Saturday. Nolen will be at the Myers Park store 11a-4p on Friday, Oct. 16, and the Piper Glen store 11a-4p on Saturday, Oct. 17. Spend $35 or more and receive a free lipstick. Call 704.339.0010 to reserve a spot.

SMILE! The Flock Apparel is holding a public photo shoot project on the corner of Trade and Tryon streets, 5-9p Friday, Oct. 16. The event is an effort to "bring art and life to the city of Charlotte," says founder/designer CiGi.

TRUNK SHOW: Paul Simon for Women will host an Audrey Talbott Fall Sportswear Trunk Show 9:30a-6p Wednesday, Oct. 21 and Thursday, Oct. 22. Details: 704-333-6139.

FASHION NOW: SouthPark mall celebrates fall fashion and trends with this series of fashion shows and interactive entertainment, 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 and noon-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Friday's “Trends & Friends Night” will feature runway shows and more. Details: 704-364-4411.

Fashion Q&A: Leggings age limit?

2009-10-12T14:48:00.003-04:00

A reader recently wrote asking for advice:

"I am almost 55 and wondering if leggings are appropriate for women my age? I think they are cute and looks like they would keep your legs warm! I don't want to wear something that makes me look like I'm TRYING to look too young."

I too love leggings. And I also wonder if they are appropriate (I'm in my mid-30s). My answer for both of us is yes, but that's a yes with an *. By styling them and accessorizing properly, you can make leggings look very adult. Here are a few tips:

Knit leggings are technically pants, but unless you are a toothpick or under the age of 18, think of them more as tights and dress accordingly. Go ahead and use Lindsay Lohan and Lady Ga-Ga as examples of what not to do when it comes to tights abuse or skipping pants all together.

Pair leggings with tunic-type tops that hit your leg between your upper knee and mid-thigh. Wear leggings under a dress (nothing longer than mid-knee).

Chose full-length (to the ankle) leggings rather than cropped.

Leggings worn with a high-heeled boot or shoe can lengthen the leg, especially when when done in monochrome. You can't go wrong with black leggings. You can go wrong with patterns and bright colors. Be mindful.

The higher the heel you wear with leggings, the more sophisticated your look will be. That's not to say you need to sacrifice comfort for style: instead of ballet flats with leggings (which is cute), swap in a pair of riding boots. Instant chic.

Regardless of age, resist the urge to wear leggings with athletic shoes/gear. This is not 1984, and despite the ripped sweatshirts making the rounds, you are not in the movie "Flashdance" or a Jane Fonda workout video.

If you've got ample hips or behind, you can still make leggings work, but you need to watch with what you pair them. As Tim Gunn says, focus on fit. Do not wear leggings with a body-hugging top or sweater unless you want to draw attention to your backside. Instead, work with the boxy-big-shouldered '80s vibe right now. An oversized black jacket adds a stylish layer to leggings and a kicky dress.

Suggestions? Thoughts? Let's hear 'em!

Free Friday: Fierce Style

2009-10-09T08:30:00.000-04:00

Up for grabs is a tickity-tack, hot tranny mess of a book: "Fierce Style: How to Be Your Most Fabulous Self," by Christian Siriano. No, actually, it's quite sweet and full of tips on owning your look and "Finding Your Inner Ferocia."

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain FIERCE in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Project Runway for Macy's

2009-10-07T10:33:00.000-04:00

Model Katie Sticksel wearing Irina Shabayeva's INC design

"Project Runway" designer Irina Shabayeva, 27, scored a quite an opportunity with a recent win on the Lifetime show: One of her creations will be sold by Macy's as part of the INC International Concepts holiday collection.

Irina’s dress is made of rayon matte jersey, with an asymmetric hem and a butterfly embellishment. It will be available in sizes small through x-large, retailing for $139.

The dress is up on the Macy's site now, and will be available for purchase in select Macy's stores and online in early December.

Bra-fitting: Get it done.

2009-10-06T12:40:00.003-04:00

Seems I've hit a ill-fitted, poorly supported nerve. And I can't wait to spark more discussion on the topic of bras. I wasn't surprised to find that my voicemail inbox was more than half full, or that the e-mailed responses to my bra column continue to pour in to my Outlook.

So, let's continue this dialogue. Here are my answers to a few questions posed by readers. I'll post more answers next week. More questions or comments? Post below!

Where do you get the perfect fit?

I went to the Lingerie Shop near Phillips Place which closed a few years ago. Since then, I've been buying my bras at Nordstrom. I found a sales associate with a body shape that is similar to mine, and I call in advance to make sure she'll be there before I go. I've brought clothing with me (if I'm buying a bra for a specific dress or top), and I don't feel guilty about spending as much time as I need to get the perfect fit.

I can't stress enough how important it is to be sized properly. You'll tend to have the best luck at department (Belk or Dillards) or speciality stores (like IC London or E Martini).

Talk about prices at boutiques and department stores. They seem so high.

Think of bras the same way you think of shoes or handbags. They are investments. When you pay more, they will last longer, wear better and look better. That couldn't be more true with bras.

Sure, $60 for something few people besides you will see seems like a lot, but it's not when you consider this: If cared for properly, you shouldn't need to replace it for 2-3 years.

Lets do the math (please remember, this is an example): Buy four $60 bras once = $240. Buying four $30 bras every six months for 2 years = $480.

Boris & Natasha fetes 10th anniversary

2009-10-02T15:07:00.005-04:00

A crazy, curly fist-sized ring from Darrell Roach

Just a few of Elizabeth Cannon's pieces at Boris & Natasha

Boris & Natasha, one of Charlotte's true originals, is celebrating 10 years of business in Plaza-Midwood. The eclectic, tough boutique carries Anna Sui and Tibi right next to accessories from a bevy of local artists, some of whom are exclusive to B&N.

To fete the birthday of the funkiest shop on the block, owner Hope Nicholls is celebrating with jewelry trunk shows every Saturday in October, to give shoppers a chance to meet a few of the local artists.

Up first on Saturday, Oct. 3 is the crazy cool lost wax casting work of Don Grubbs, a baggage handler who creates impressive silver jewelry when he's not at the airport.

On deck for Oct. 10: the incredibly detailed, highly hand-crafted work from Elizabeth Cannon, featuring stunning bib necklaces with suede, felted flowers and hand-crafted glass beads.

Up for Oct. 17 is stunning metalwork of Darrell Roach, who recently showed his work during a fashion show by "Project Runway" alum Korto Momolu and Charlotte's Flow by Tara Davis.

And on Oct. 24, stop by and check out the brilliantly deconstructed/reconstructed vintage jewelry from Mavis Beard.

Trunk shows are 11 a.m. -7 p.m. each Saturday at 1214 Thomas Ave. Call 704.375.0079 for more details.

Free Friday: Breast Cancer awareness

2009-10-02T06:30:00.004-04:00

To honor National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're giving away pink goodies that raise awareness of the disease: Nygard printed jersey top, valued at $34, and a pair of Karen Neuberger KN Cares pink ribbon socks, valued at $7.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain BCA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your contact information in the comments section on the blog.

OMG! "New Moon" gear is here!

2009-09-30T09:30:00.001-04:00

"The Twilight Saga: New Moon" apparel and jewelry collection will be available online starting Oct. 1 and in Nordstrom stores on Oct. 15. Pictured: "New Moon Eternal Love" fitted boyfriend tee, $32.

Just because I never hopped on the crazy train that is "Twilight" fandom doesn't mean I don't appreciate a good vampire story. I'm more of a "True Blood" girl.

Regardless, I know a rabid niche market when I see one, and so does Nordstrom. The department store is launching an exclusive fashion and jewelry collection inspired by the upcoming film "The Twilight Saga: New Moon," which is set to debut on the big screen Nov. 20.

The collection, available online Oct. 1 and in stores Oct. 15, includes fitted screen tees, tanks, hoodies, dresses, jackets, as well necklaces, bracelets earrings and key fobs.

Also, in stores now, is the Luna Twilight beauty collection, which includes lip plumpers, lip stains and color palettes that have been created using characters from the movie, including Bella, Alice, Victoria, and Rosalie.

Luna Twilight Cosmetics Collection (from left): Mortal Glow Blushing Cream, $22. First Light Body Glow, $34. Just Bitten Staining Balm in Pink, $18. Femme Fatale Lip Gloss in Rich Burgundy, $20. ‘Rosalie’ Color Palette, $28. Gleam Metallic Mascara in Reflective Black, $22. In Nordstrom stores and online starting Oct. 1.

It's time to tie one on

2009-09-29T08:45:00.000-04:00

My computer-savvy colleague asked me for scarf-tying guidance a few days ago, right on the heels of a question from another about scarf shapes and uses.

That's right accessory-fiends, it's time to bust out your favorite scarves! I am so very excited to see the temps dip enough to make scarves comfortable for wear in the Carolinas.

Here are a few tips if you love the look, but don't feel confidant in your ability to pull it off:

When it comes to scarf length and size, the longer and bigger the better.
Decide how you want your scarf to look. Long, rectangular scarves are more versatile than squares. But, squares can be easier to tie.
The key to wearing knit scarves is the casual vibe -- when they're done right, they look effortlessly messy, which works in your favor as a newbie.
This is less of an issue in the Carolinas (and even then, not until it gets considerably colder), but be mindful of the thickness of knit scarves. Some nubby, chunky knits don't do well when doubled or bunched around your neck.
There's only one way to build confidence in your scarf-wearing and tying ability. Using a photo of a celeb or someone who's scarf style you'd like to bite, and practice, practice, practice. Set yourself up in front of a mirror and get busy.

What are your scarf-wearing tips? Tying silk scarves are a whole 'nother issue to tackle on a different day ...

Free Friday: Alice + Olivia bag

2009-09-25T08:30:00.001-04:00

This weekend (Sept. 25-26) is the HIP Event at Neiman Marcus. Spend more than $500 on any full-priced women's contemporary sportswear or dress collections and you'll recieve a NM exclusive Alice + Olivia bag full of goodies, including a Marc by Marc Jacobs T-shirt and accessories from See by Chloe and Catherine Malandrino. Or, thanks to the folks at NM SouthPark, you can enter to win one of the Alice + Olivia bags on Free Friday.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your e-mail must contain ALICE in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.

Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.

E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.

Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Baby: I'm a Star?

2009-09-23T11:30:00.001-04:00

Kellen was one of the winners in the Gap 2008 casting call.

Gap recently launched it's fourth annual Casting Call to find the new faces of the Gap Kids and babyGap lines. Click here for full contest details. Deadline for entry is Oct. 22.

The contest is open to babies (children age four and younger) and kids (ages 5-10). Winners will be featured in Gap's store windows. This year, there's a new fan favorite award, based on votes cast here. Four winners (one boy and one girl in each age category) will be decided by popular vote.

Think your darling son or daughter has what it takes to be a superstar? Here are a few kid-specific photo-taking tips from pro photographer Stefano Azario:

Get Close: Zoom in to get as close as possible to your subject’s face so it’s clearly visible. If your subject’s too far away, they’ll get lost against the background.

Show Personality: Memorable photos let your subject’s personality shine through. Avoid stiff smiles and forced poses as they can come across as artificial and generic. Instead, take your time and follow your subject as they relax in or move through an environment that’s comfortable to them. Also, avoid hats – they’re cute but we want to see faces and hair.

Watch the Background: Shoot the photo against a simple background so your subject really stands out. Don’t forget to move anything nearby that might be distracting.

Try Different Angles: Try angling the camera or shooting from different perspectives to make your photos more memorable. It’s also important to photograph kids at their eye level rather than standing over them.

Use Natural Lighting: Sunlight is much more flattering than indoor lighting. Use filtered, natural light to enhance colors and skin tones. Try not to shoot with the sun behind the camera as it will likely make the subject squint and will also cast strong shadows.

Steve Madden coming to Charlotte

2009-09-22T14:10:00.004-04:00

You love his shoes, now meet the man behind those fabulous kicks.

Steve Madden, the man behind the genre-crossing shoe line, will be at Belk SouthPark on 2-3:30p Saturday, Sept. 26, along with BET VJ Julissa Bermudez. There will be giveaways, trend talk and free T-shirts, among other goodies. The party will be on the third floor in the ladies shoe department.

This should come as no surprise, but I have adored his shoes since the mid 1990s, when I was a recent college grad and obsessed with a pair of Spice Girls-esque fat-heeled, platform, ruby-red patent loafers. (Cut me some fashion slack -- that was the look then!)

I still have my suede, wooden-heeled platform Maddens I wore on my first trip to Italy ages ago, and I love them just as much as I do the rad slouchy, buckled-laden biker boots I picked up at the Madden store in Charleston a few seasons ago.

Other happenin' events on the horizon:

ALCHIMIE FOREVER EVENT: Ada Polla, founder and creator of Alchimie Forever skincare, will be on hand 11a-4p Thursday, Sept. 24 and Friday, Sept. 25 for beauty events at Jeffre Scott Apothecary locations in Piper Glen and Myers Park. Both days, there will be complimentary mini facials and a gift with purchase of more than $75.

WAXMAMA LAUNCH PARTY: Celebrate the launch of the daily e-magazine Waxmama.com with a party at 6p Thursday, Sept. 24, at Therapy Marketplace and Café. The first 50 guests will get a free goodie bag. Entry is free, but guests are asked to add their names to a guest list by emailing their party information to info@waxMAMA.com.

FEVER EXTRAVAGANZA: The hair and fashion show starts at 6p Sunday, Sept. 27 at the Blake Hotel. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and performances by Calvin Richardson and Beverly. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will benefit RAIN. Tickets and details: Fresh Kutts on The Blvd, 204 West Blvd., 704.347.1891.

Get Brief for charity

2009-09-18T17:35:00.001-04:00

Round up you friends and mark Oct. 23 on the calendar -- this promises to be quite an event. It's time for Brief! A Fete for Fashion Benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Dreamed up by the fabulous Dan Mauney, the event will feature male models wearing underwear (and other lounge wear) from Diesel, Theory, Hugo Boss, Armani, 2Xist, Calvin Klein and Hanes, among others.

The party starts at 7 p.m., the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Oct. 23 at Extravaganza, 1610 N. Tryon St. Tickets go on sale Sept .21 and are $200, $50 and $25. For tickets or more information, click here.

Cystic Fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems of approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. More than 10 million Americans are symptomless carriers of the defective cystic fibrosis gene. The disease occurs in one of every 3,900 live births and about 1,000 new cases of CF are diagnosed each year.

Free Friday: T3 Featherweight Dryer

2009-09-18T08:30:00.000-04:00

To celebrate its five-year anniversary, T3 has offered up a Featherweight hairdryer, valued at $200.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain T3 in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Are you open to a peep-toe?

2009-09-15T16:40:00.005-04:00

MICHAEL Michael Kors Jamesport bootie

I've been fixated on boots since writing about them in a recent Style section.

But, to tell you the truth, it doesn't take an assignment to make me obsess about shoes, particularly boots. If you were privy to the incessant internal dialogue I have pondering the heel width, height and design elements of footwear, you might think I need help.

The latest source of shoe-specific debate I've been waging with myself was sparked by an honest question from my mom: What's up with peep-toe boots? Her take, based in a Midwestern reality that involves lots of snow, is that they simply aren't practical or even cute.

I love the peep-toe on pumps and even now on boots. It's an unexpected twist on a classic silhouette that adds a bit of edge. And, in places like Charlotte, it's a great seasonal transition shoe.

Without tights, peep-toe boots can work with skirts, leggings and dresses. Once it gets a bit cooler, adding contrasting tights (bright colors are popular, like electric blue and hot pink) will kick up the attitude of your look.

What do you think about the peep-toe boot? A favorite brand or style?

Free Friday: Boots products

2009-09-11T08:30:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is Boots Original Cold Cream and Boots Original Skin Tonic.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain BOOTS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Kristin Davis, Belk end relationship

2009-09-09T13:10:00.003-04:00

"Sex and the City" star (and S.C. native) Kristin Davis and Belk have parted ways, according to New York Magazine.

The Kristin Davis Collection was expansive, and included jewelry, accessories, shoes, intimates and clothing. The line was scheduled to be part of the Style 360 event at New York Fashion Week, but word came from event organizers late last week the fashion show had been cancelled.

It was just about a year ago that I spoke with Davis in Charlotte as she readied to celebrate the launch of her line with a fashion show at the Blake Hotel.

The fall 2009 collection will be the last available in stores.

What do you think of the announcement? Of the line? I never got around to buying anything from it, but did lust after a few pairs of shoes.

Charlotte's got style

2009-09-08T09:13:00.000-04:00

Fashionable events continue to bust out all over Charlotte. Here's a few more:

Fashion's Night Out

Neiman Marcus at SouthPark and Lotus boutique on East Boulevard will be participating in Thursday's global celebration.

All 40 Neiman Marcus stores across the country are participating in the initiative to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence and infuse the industry's economy. From 6:30-10 p.m. the Charlotte store will host fashion presentations, trunk shows, beauty makeovers, caricature artists, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and more. The exclusive Fashion’s Night Out T-shirt will be available for sale during the event -- 40 percent of the proceeds will benefit the National Sept. 11 Memorial & Museum.

At Lotus, from 7-11p there will be music and drinks and the first 20 people through the door will receive Lotus gift certificates. Morgan Fogarty is scheduled to cover the event live for Fox News Charlotte.

Accoutrement

Potion and Bella Ropa boutiques for a night of high fashion and fab beauty products at Accoutrement, 7-9 p.m. Sept. 24 at Birkdale Village in Huntersville. The style experts will use models to showcase the latest in fall fashion and beauty, including jewelry from Genia of Silver Girl Designs.

Free Friday: EcoTools set

2009-09-04T08:30:00.001-04:00

After a brief hiatus (a girl has to use her vacation time or lose it!), Free Friday is back. Thanks to the faithful who let me know I was missed. Or, at least the chance for free stuff was missed. Anywho, this week's prize is a pouch of Ecotools beauty products, including body wash, body lotion, intensive hand cream and body mist.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain ECOTOOLS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Project Runway: Three strikes

2009-09-03T23:15:00.000-04:00

Ra'mon! Ra'mon! So glad you ditched that Catwoman suit!

Well, well. Apparently the inability to sew isn't exclusive to Fashion Show designers.

Mitchell finally got was was coming to him for his inability to focus, design, and oh yeah, SEW. First it was the smocking, then the horrid maternity shorts that could easily accommodate a person in each of the legs. Then, he admitted to the camera he chose Ra'Mon as a partner because he expected to be carried through the challenge.

Oh honey, no. If you're going to rock a cocky bravado, please, please have the skills to back it up.

For all the drama that was promised, I was thought it was pretty standard Project Runway fare: lippy designers not wanting to share or collaborate with others. Qristyl and Epperson nagged each other like an old married couple. As much as I want to like Qristyl's work, I am not feeling anything she's done thus far.

And, with each passing week, I'm feeling more confident that Ra'Mon might be the winner, especially since he's showing at New York Fashion Week. I'll be checking out his show (as well as the shows of fellow PR alums Christian Siriano and Malan Breton) during the semi-annual festival of fashion which starts Sept. 10.

Thoughts? Have you been watching "Models of the Runway?" What's your take on that show?

GIVEAWAY! Love Project Runway? Prove it by rockin this American Apparel black hoodie T with an embroidered PR logo. To enter, send an email with RUNWAY in the subject field to style@charlotteobserver.com. Email must include full name, mailing address and phone number. One entry per email address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.

"Real" women cause a stir. Really?

2009-09-02T08:30:00.007-04:00

Seems people can't get enough of Lizzie Miller and her "real" belly.

Glamour Magazine ran photo of "plus sized" Lizzie in the September issue and has sent the latest wave of body honesty and adoration through the fashion world. Lizzie -- who is a size 12-14, certainly not plus-size by realistic, American standards -- was featured on morning talk shows, explaining her pooch.

Photo by Walter Chin, Glamour magazine

Now, the New York Post is reporting Lizzie and a band of fellow non-size-two models were seen shooting pics (including buzzed about model/author Crystal Renn) -- gasp -- in the nude in New York recently, supposedly for an upcoming Glamour spread.

I am always on board for honest, truthful discussion of body image and the reality of the American female form, but I am conflicted about this Lizzie/Glamour situation. In much the same way I was when Anna Wintour dressed Adele for the Grammys or the Gossip lead singer Beth Ditto was the darling of Paris Fashion Week.

Is the intent honest or a grab for headlines? Is it more fetishisizing of larger women? Is mainstream fashion really ready to embrace "real" bodies?

Thoughts?

Lucky magazine coming to Charlotte

2009-08-31T14:51:00.007-04:00

Lucky Magazine and I.N.C are teaming up for a special event at Macy's SouthPark on Sept. 26.

Wow. A girl takes 2+ weeks off, come back to work and suddenly fall fashion season in the Carolinas is in full swing! My Outlook was packed (no lie -- it was shut down at least once for being too full, and another time there were 450-ish emails waiting on me) with notice of events.

Here are a handful of stylish happenings:

NINA MCLEMORE TRUNK: Paul Simon for Women will host the Nina McLemore Fall trunk Show, 9:30a-6p today, Sept. l and Wednesday Sept. 2 at its Myers Park store. Nina McLemore is known for her classic, colorful jackets for daytime and special events. Each style
is specially designed to flatter a variety of shapes and sizes.

LINDA CUNNINGHAM TRUNK: Coplon's at Phillips Place will host a Linda Cunningham trunk show on Thursday, Sept. 3 and Friday, Sept. 4. The designer, who specializes in custom cocktail and special occasion dresses, will be on hand.

CNCFW: Charlotte Fashion Week returns for a second time with an international designer lineup and a new venue: The Mint Museum. Sept. 10-12, general admission tickets are $35-$50; VIP are $50-$180.

LOOK AT HER POWER: The annual fundraiser for Dress for Success Charlotte and sneak peek of the Southern Women's Show will be Thursday, Sept. 17 at The Park (formerly the Charlotte Merchandise Mart). Among the highlights will be fashion shows and empowering talk from honorary chair Andie MacDowell and keynote speaker Cynthia Marshall. Don't forget the networking, drinks and freebies, too, to benefit a great cause. $40.

FASHION'S NIGHT OUT! Scout & Molly's and Waxmama.com are teaming up for a night of wine, food, fashion, music and deals. 6-9p Thursday, Sept. 17 at the store in the Morrison development. There will be a DJ, freebies and goodie bags.

BELK GIRL'S NIGHT OUT: Fall fashion is the focus of the festivities planned for the semi-annual event at the SouthPark on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Rafaella’s creative director Richard Metzger will also be on hand. More details to come.

LUCKY (FALL) GIRL! Lucky and INC experts will be on hand for the INC Fall fashion preview at Macy's Southpark, 2-4p Saturday, Sept. 26. A professional photographer will photograph customers for feature placement on LuckyStyleSpotter.com. Also, customers will receive a Lucky necklace with any INC purchase of $75 or more the day of the event (while supplies last).

Project Runway: LiLo? Really?

2009-08-20T22:44:00.006-04:00

I'm a sucker for a hard work ethic and non-traditional path to success. Christopher from Shakopee, you might just be my favorite!
Oh wait ... it's too soon to call it!

My excitement about the return of Project Runway hit the skids when I saw the guest judge, Lindsay Lohan. Really? That's the best you can do, PR folk?

But my LiLo hateration receded quickly when she became a source for unintentional comedy. Like when she couldn't hide her disdain for Qristyl's suggestion that the designer's flamenco Grimace dress would be a great red carpet look for LiLo.

Or when the stretch-pants enthusiast started lecturing designers on the runway about appropriateness. Hello kettle? It's pot.

Anyway, the designers did fairly well in the first challenge of Season Six. The show took advantage of it's left coast setting, having the designers create red carpet-worthy looks. There were a lot of design missteps, but when the herd is this big, it's to be expected.

Along with watching Project Runway for the first time in almost a year, I was also explaining the show to three newbies - my husband, brother and sister-in-law. Early on, my non-fashiony brother picked the short, sassy look Christopher from Shakopee.

I was pulling for the fab, flowy, old Hollywood look put together by Irina.

And I was a little startled that smocking was utilities so heavily by Mitchell. But, then again, he is from Savannah, and smocking is very beloved by Southerners, but pretty much only on bishops and jon jons.

Perhaps my brother is a fashion savant -- Christopher's "cute" and "edgy" dress won the first challenge. And Miss "I don't sketch" Ari got the boot. Or was she dismissed because she looked freakishly similar to LiLo's on-again-off-again girlfriend Samantha Ronson?

So what did y'all think? Who is a contender? What about Ra'mon? He's showing his line at New York Fashion Week in September. What do you think that means, if anything, given that the time table for this season was so skewed?

I die. She's back.

2009-08-18T15:30:00.000-04:00

Oh Rachel Zoe, catch-phrase-happy stylist to the stars, I was wrong. So very wrong.

I couldn't get into the first season of "The Rachel Zoe Project" on Bravo. Why? I dunno.

Distracted by other trash-tastic fashiony reality shows (yes, "Stylista" I'm talking to you)?

Burned out on wee female stylists with big hair and giant Starbucks cups? Perhaps.

Whatever the reason, I am here to confess my RZ sins and proclaim myself a bananas convert.

After watching a screener of the first two episodes of the new season, which debuts at 10 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, I am programming the DVR. How's that for commitment?

Of course there's drama. Assistant drama with Taylor and Brad, spending drama when hubs Rodger Berman attempts to put RZ on a shopping strike, dress drama when gowns are hard to find for red carpet season. There's also plenty of cattiness and the emergence of Brad as a fierce fashionista.

Oh forgive me! I have misjudged someone who has the stones to ask Uncle Karl to recut a couture Chanel gown to her liking. I die.

Free Friday: Organix products

2009-08-14T07:15:00.000-04:00

This week's prize is a selection of Organix hair products, including Revitalizing Pomegranate Green Tea Styling Whip, Shampoo and Conditioner.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain ORGANIX in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Rodarte at Target

2009-08-13T06:30:00.003-04:00

I was a giddy little Twitterer when I read that the fab Mulleavy sisters (above), designers of the of-the-moment Rodarte line, would be doing a Go International line at Target, due to hit stores in December.

On one hand, I'm geeked thinking about the possibilities (and the prices). Their work manages to be futuristic, chic and relatable to modern women. But I've been trying to temper my expectations and enthusiasm. Not because Rodarte isn't incredible, but because it's hard to make high fashion translate well to a low price point.

I was beside myself to check out the Alexander McQueen Target collection at a warehouse preview party during New York Fashion Week in February. The party was great -- there was a band, lots of champagne -- but the clothing? Not so much.

I so badly wanted to buy something, but couldn't find anything that rocked my world in quality, style or fit. Really? This coming from a man who has never created a pair of shoes or a handbag for which I haven't lusted.

What's been your experience with diffusion lines?

Dreaming of boots

2009-08-12T08:30:00.000-04:00

Those killer Hayden-Harnett Madeline riding boots are calling to me from the closet. So are the Frye Ava pumps I picked up at a killer discount. Or that batwing sweater I snatched up recently. Or the black dress that makes me think I'm channelling Vivienne Westwood.

So come on all ready fall! I need some dramatically cooler temps before I can trot out my end-of-season finds.

The thing is, we've got a ways to go. It's hot in Charlotte, so hot that a forecast for 83 seems like a cold front is moving in.

Besides repeatedly trying on your new boots and sweaters in the air-conditioned comfort of your home, what do you do to fight the impatient urge for summer to end and fall to begin?

Free Friday: Jovoy Poudre set

2009-08-07T07:30:00.000-04:00

This week's prize is a Jovoy Poudre set, which includes a 1.7 oz eau de parfum and a 2.7 oz perfumed body milk. Poudre is a floral woody fragrance with hints of mimosa, almond and violet. Jovoy Paris, a perfume house originally founded in 1923, was resurrected in 2006. The set has a retail value of approximately $130.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain JOVOY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Local makeup artist is a smash

2009-08-06T12:10:00.007-04:00

Charlotte makeup artist Heather Hawkins was recently named one of the winners of the Face of Smashbox cosmetics competition. One model, makeup artist and photographer received an all-expenses paid trip to Los Angeles to work on a Smashbox photo shoot directed by Smashbox chief creative officer Davis Factor. In addition, each walked with $1,000 in Smashbox products and a one-year subscription to Dripbook, a worldwide community of professional visual artists.

Makeup artist Heather Hawkins touches up Conan O'Brien during his visit to Charlotte in February. (TODD SUMLIN - tsumlin@charlotteobserver.com)

THAT'S TASTEE: The national profile of Jami Svay, a Charlotte makeup artist and owner of cosmetics line Tastee, continues to rise. Her organic lipbalms were recently featured on QVC again after making their debut on the shopping network earlier this summer.

ANNIVERSARY SALE: Dot's Women's Wear in Hickory is celebrating 45 years in business with a sale 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7 and Saturday, Aug. 8. Fifty-70 percent off all summer merchandise, 25 percent off fall merchandise. 2105 Catawba Valley Blvd. Hickory. (828) 324-6490

VINTAGE DIY SALE: I am so wishing I didn't already have a full weekend, or you'd certainly find me making the trip to Roulette Vintage in Carrboro. The store is kicking off its second annual DIY Sale with a preview 7-9p Friday, Aug. 7 (sale runs through Sunday, Aug. 9). If you like to craft, can sew on a button, or just have a great seamstress, you'll find clothing, accessories, fabric, patterns, do-dads and buttons on sale. 118 1/2 E. Main St., Carrboro (919)933-8836.

SIDEWALK SALE: Donald Haack Diamonds & Fine Gems will hold its third annual Super Sidewalk Sale on Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15 at its showroom SouthPark store. The family-friendly event will feature savings on fine jewelry, giveaways, and free homemade ice-cream from PW’s of Rock Hill (noon-4 p.m. both days). 704-365-4400.

Back to school already?

2009-08-05T09:00:00.003-04:00

Girls knit headband, $10.50 (for two); long-sleeve ribbed T-shirt, $12.50; knit skort, $16.50; Mary Janes, $34.50 and tight-fit leggings, $12.50; Lands’ End, landsend.com

A timeless favorite takes center stage this year for back to school fashion. It matches everything and is always a good investment. It’s a budget.

We’re not talking bargain basement cheap type of budget, but the kind that means examining your finances, taking stock of what your children have in their closet and shopping smart.

Once you set the number, make sure you stay committed to meeting it. "Bring your child into the conversation and they’ll really learn," says Michele Casper, director of public relations for Lands' End. "It’s not the sky is the limit this season. … The idea is that kids need to prioritize and parents need to prioritize."

Identify big ticket needs first. Shoes can backpacks can have the highest price tags, Casper says. Are those new sneakers absolutely necessary if it means there will only be enough left for a few shirts?

Involve your children in planning before you get to the store. "Really working together with your children will give them a great understanding," Casper says. "Children will know the value of money, and it helps parents avoid temper tantrums while shopping. When you’ve got a pre-established agreement, children comprehend it."

Pick a color scheme and stick to it. You don’t want your child to end up with a closet full of items that don’t match anything, Casper says. If your daughter likes pink, look for complementary colors in the same family, add in a few prints or stripes, and you’re building an interchangeable wardrobe.

Buy better, buy less. Pay attention to construction and mate-rials and buy the highest quality your budget will allow, says Carole French, owner of children’s boutique Magic Windows. The clothing will wear better longer. Classic silhouettes in natural fibers such as cotton stand the test of time in wear-and-tear and fashion, she says.

Think outside the box. Adding layers over or under clothing is the key to giving a ward-robe legs, Casper says. For early fall, when the weather is still warm in the Carolinas, you could pair a short-sleeve graphic T-shirt with jeans for your son. As the weather cools, put a long-sleeve T-shirt under, a printed woven shirt on top or add a hoodie sweatshirt.

Don’t discount used. Not everything needs to be replaced every year. If you’re looking to eek out a few years wear out of backpacks and lunch boxes, go for solid colors. Sew on character patches or embellishments to personalize. Consignment sales (usually held in the spring and fall) are excellent sources of gently used children's clothing at a fraction of the retail price.

What are your tips for back to school shopping?

Read more about tax-free shopping in the Carolinas in Thursday's Style section.

Free Friday: DKNY Be Delicious fragrance

2009-07-31T07:30:00.001-04:00

This week's giveaway is a limited edition Pop Art bottle of DKNY Be Delicious fragrance. The sweet, clean fragrance has notes of apple, cucumber, rose, sandalwood and white amber, among others. It has a retail value of $55.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain DKNY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Getting the hang of things

2009-07-30T21:34:00.005-04:00

Uh, no.

I shouldn't even admit this. But hopefully my embarrassment will help prompt others into action.

Until recently, that rickety coat rack I picked up at Metrolina about 10 years ago (with intentions of refinishing, you can see how far I got) is what I've been using to store my handbag collection.

Gah! It hurts my eyes to even look at it now! I'm so ashamed. Here I am, climbing on the soapbox to preach the gospel of "quality not quantity" and "care for your high-quality items and they'll last a lifetime" and I've got my leather bags piled on top of each other and hanging by their straps.

Dust, stress on the straps, sunlight, drying of leather -- these are all things that can harm your bag if not stored properly.

I finally got my act together and worked out a storage system (yay IKEA). I went a little crazy with the label maker, but there is now dust-free, stress-free order to my bags. It may not be the prettiest option, but I don't anticipate losing track of any bag again, or frantically throwing all the bags on my bed to get to the bottom of the pile like I did all the time with the elaborate rack "system."

How do you store your handbags? Any tips to share?

Muuuuuuch better!

I am Samantha Baker. No, Baby Houseman.

2009-07-27T16:39:00.004-04:00

Oh Baby, you're so chic!

As a rabid consumer of '80s teen movies back in the day, I aspired to have the wardrobes of a slew of my favorite heroines.

Among my top picks: Samantha Baker from "16 Candles," Watts from "Some Kind of Wonderful," Andie from "Pretty in Pink," Cindy Mancini from "Can't Buy Me Love" and Baby Houseman from "Dirty Dancing," just to name a few.

I remember clear as a bell -- it had to have been 7th or 8th grade -- when I found the Camp Beverly Hills red/white striped boat neck shirt and matching red french terry skirt at Jacobson's in Village in Grosse Pointe. I was beside myself: It was as close as I was going to get to the striped shirt Baby Houseman wore in "Dirty Dancing."

I proudly rocked that outfit at a War Memorial Dance with a pair of white Keds (just like Baby wore).

Fast forward more than 20 years. I recently picked up a copy of "Dirty Dancing" in anticipation of a girls weekend trip to Lake Lure (where they shot some of the film).

I watched it again and STILL loved all the clothing. Oooh! Cuffed denim shorts on the bridge when Baby's practicing dancing! A white peasant top with white jeans (and those Keds again)! A crisp white shirt and high-waisted denim shorts!

Not to go too deep, but quite a few of her looks are popular right now. Was Baby a fashion savant, or are we simply in a retro silhouette cycle? Am I the only one who covets clothes of people who don't exist?

All I can say is that if someone has a line on the shredded pink outfit Samantha Baker (Molly Ringwald) wore to the dance in "16 Candles" you must call me. Now.

Free Friday: Yves Rocher prize packs

2009-07-24T07:30:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is a two-fer: Two lucky winners will receive an assortment of decadent Yves Rocher products. Among the items that may be included: AOC Olive Oil Body Exfoliant, AOC Olive Oil Silky Body Cream, bath fizzies and fragrance.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word ROCHER in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

TFS: It's Finally Over!

2009-07-23T23:00:00.001-04:00

The Fashion gods have answered our prayers: Bravo's "The Fashion Show" wrapped up Thursday night.

And, with 52 percent of the vote, Anna (above) was chosen by America as the winner. Yawn.

Anna was the most consistent designer and often the most quiet. She was a sly, silent schemer who clearly understands saleability and classic design. Kudos!

All this non-drama and horrid design, lighting and production has left me with a bad taste in my mouth for "reality" fashion. I am not even sure *gasp!* if I can muster the normal enthusiasm for the return of "Project Runway" in August.

Thoughts?

A few of my favorite things

2009-07-23T10:25:00.004-04:00

I am a product junkie. I love discovering new (to me) products. Also, much to the chagrin of my friends and family, I love working into conversations references to my new favorite foundation or bronzer.

Here are a few products with which I am currently obsessed:

Benefit PosieTint: I thought nothing could shake my love of Benetint, the reddish cheek and lip tint that looks like a bottle of nail polish. That was until I tried it's pinkier cousin, PosieTint. Love love love the subtle pink on the cheeks. The super sheer pink looks great on lips, too, and is a great foundation for clear gloss.

Diorshow mascara: The women in my family bonded recently over our shared love of this fab mascara. My cousins and I fussed so much about the product, my mom tried it too, and is now hooked. We of the blond eyelashes love big, fat, eye-opening lashes, and this product delivers with little effort.

What are some of your recent favorites? Do tell!

Free Friday: Burberry Summer fragrance

2009-07-17T07:30:00.001-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a bottle of Burberry Summer eau de toilette, a fragrance with hints of citrus, green apple, water lily, white musk and moss, among others.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word BURBERRY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Occupational hazards: Models

2009-07-16T16:04:00.000-04:00

Cabine of Christian Dior, 1957, by photographer Loomis Dean is among the works included in the "Model as Muse" exhibit at the Met in New York City. (Courtesy of Time Life Pictures / Getty Images)

How hard can it be to model, right? You're thin, you walk around in fabulous clothes, you spin and smile. You'll think differently after checking out this slide show (thanks to fashionista.com for the linkage).

If you're in NYC before Aug. 9, make sure to check out Model as Muse is at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

TFS: Then there were four

2009-07-15T14:48:00.012-04:00

You sir, are no Alber Elbaz.

The end is near! The end is near! Thank God!

I finally caught up on The Fashion Show (again with the TV drama -- we switched from DirecTV to Dish Network. See me repeating "Change is good. Change is good"), and there was finally some real, legit drama!

Praise be, Yabba-Dabba-Do Johnny finally got his egotistical, no-sewing behind tossed off the show. Just a tip, Mr. "I've Got Investors" -- If you're going to shamelessly rip off Lanvin, it's best not to articulate it to your fellow contestants.

Or repeat it in front of a camera. Or do it at all.

Here's the Lanvin dress actress Maggie Gyllenhaal wore to the Golden Globes that may or may not have inspired Johnny.

Tomorrow night, we'll get a look at the collections of the final four -- Daniella, Reco, Anna and James-Paul. Then, viewers will vote to pick the winner.

The countdown is ON!

In other fashion competition news, Project Runway announced the contestants for the return Aug. 20 on Lifetime. Among the 16 is Charleston designer Carol Hannah Whitfield, who participated in the inaugural Emerging Designer show at Charleston Fashion Week in 2008.

Free Friday: Maca Root for the men

2009-07-10T07:30:00.001-04:00

This week's giveaway is a pair of products from The Body Shop, For Men Maca Root Face Was h and For Men Maca Root Shave Cream. The set has a value of more than $25.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word MACA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

CLT makeup artist tapped for Fashion Week

2009-07-09T14:32:00.003-04:00

Makeup artist Samantha Smith, owner of Potion beauty boutique at Birkdale, was recently chosen to work her magic at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim at the Raleigh Hotel in Miami Beach.

On July 18, she'll joining the BECCA cosmetics makeup artistry team to beautify runway models during the annual swim wear event, which will be showcasing looks for the 2010 season.

Her fab store in Huntersville carries the equally killer line (I am a serial lover of all things BECCA -- like this and this and this) that is a perfect fit for swimsuits and summer weather.

Free Friday: Fruits & Passion products

2009-06-26T07:45:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is a collection of products from Fruits & Passion, including Carrot Cream Body Wash, Carrot Nourishing Butter, Foaming Exfoliant and Energizing Leg Gel. The set has a retail value of more than $65.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word FRUITS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Sales bust out all over Charlotte

2009-06-24T14:00:00.001-04:00

There's tons happening on the fashion scene in Charlotte. Get these events on your calendar:

Wine & Heels: Heels.com, the Charlotte-based shoe Website is offering more than 50% off hundreds of designer shoes at their event tonight, June 24, 6-9p. There will be $5 wine specials, too. Wine Loft 2201 South Blvd. RSVP to linda@heels.com.

Carolina Warehouse Sale: More than 20 Charlotte boutiques are participating, offering designer apparel at 75-85 percent off. Read more about the sale in Thursday's Observer or peep the mention on Vogue.com. Public sale starts 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27.

The Villages of Southend Block Party: Retailers in the Villages of Southend are throwing a block party, 5-9p Saturday, June 27. Among those participating: Bead Me, Three Little Birds, Bella Bridesmaid and more.

Sales at Gap Outlet, BR Factory Store: Starting June 30, two stores at Concord Mills will be offering July 4 sales. At Banana Republic Factory store, the entire store will be 40 percent off through July 6. At Gap Outlet, the entire store will be up to 70 percent off through July 9.

Gold Rush Party: Donald Haack Diamonds Fine Gems will host a weekly gold party every Friday in July and August from noon-6p at the store across from SouthPark mall. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served while you can sell your unwanted gold. All transactions are confidential.

Free Friday: True Religion for Women

2009-06-19T07:30:00.000-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a bottle of True Religion for Women fragrance. The layered scent has sweet-tart properties, as well as warm woods and skin-like musks with notes of Bergamot, Freesia and Amaryllis, among others. It has a retail value of more than $55.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word TRUE RELIGION in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

TFS: I so want to care about this show

2009-06-18T23:09:00.003-04:00

The winning look, designed by Haven and Anna.

I really, really want to care and be excited about "The Fashion Show."

But I just can't. Not even after what is probably the best episode of the season so far. I can't get excited about anything, heck, I can't even remember the designers names. How's that for holding my attention.

The best I can do is generalities: There's the Valley-Boy-Fred-Flintstone-Wilma-bun-can't-sew-dude, the whiny, self-important-recent-college-grad; The 80s-throwback-girl-who-can't-sew and Merlin, whom the adorably insightful Tom and Lorenzo refer to as "Chicken Diva."

Yes, James-Paul's partner deserved to go home for the fish-scale dress that would give even the skinniest model some massive junk in the trunk. And yes, 80s-throwback-girl-who-can't-sew and her partner deserved to win for their jacket/shorts combo (here's a tip: culottes haven't been cool since I wore them in third grade).

I've heard nothing but crickets when I post about this show ... is anyone watching besides me? Or have you all taken a break from fashion TV until the August return of "Project Runway?" Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

Korto Momolu to visit CLT

2009-06-17T11:56:00.014-04:00

"Project Runway" alumna Korto Momolu will be in Charlotte in August.

Grab a pencil and your calendar -- there's mess of stylish events coming up in the Queen City.

JEWELRY ARTIST Stephanie Albertson will be in-store for a trunk show 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20 at Hotham in the Morrison development at Sharon and Colony roads. Albertson's jewelry (below) is handcrafted in 22K yellow gold, diamonds and colored gemstones, and has been featured in Town & Country, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W. An Elizabeth Showers trunk show will be at Hotham as well. Details: 704.366.3440.
SHOPPING EVENT: Morrison is hosting a Ladies Night Out shopping event 6-9 p.m., Wednesday, June 24, which will include discounts, freebies and drinks for women only. Ramona Holloway from 107.9FM The Link will be hosting the event. Details here.
"PROJECT RUNWAY" favorite Korto Momolu will be part of Passion Fashion 09, scheduled for Aug. 6 at the Harris Conference Center, 3216 CPCC Harris Campus Dr. Also participating in the fashion show event will be Charlotte designer Tara Davis (Flow by Tara Davis) and Savannah, Ga. designer Cate Lyon of Cate Lyon Studio. VIP tickets are $90 (available until June 20) and include front row seating, a meet-and-greet with designers and other perks. Regular tickets are $45. Event details here or call (877) 298-2220.
PRENATAL PEEK-A-BOO: Community Yoga is holding a free educational event 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 11. The event will include information on prenatal yoga, natural childbirth and Hypnobabies classes, doula care and labor and delivery. Mini-makeovers and pregnancy skincare advice is complimentary by makeup artists from Potion Beauty. Free goodies available from Potion Beauty and Wry Baby, maker of hip baby clothes and parenting accessories. RSVPs appreciated at Community Yoga's Facebook page online. Details: 20823 N. Main St., Cornelius; 704-491-4749.
Tickets are on sale now for Charlotte NC Fashion Week, scheduled for Sept. 10-12 at the Mint Museum. Barbara McKay has signed on guest emcee. Luis Carlos Machicao of Machiçao Couture, Kimberly Pixton of Pixton Bridal Couture and Shinikki Peterson of Lujeanik Designs are among the designers who will be sharing the runway. Tickets are $35-$180. Click here for details.

Free Friday: Bumble & Bumble hair products

2009-06-12T07:45:00.000-04:00

AMC recently announced the return of "Mad Men" on Aug. 16. In honor of the stylistic, retro drama, here's a few freebies to help you (or your dad, or father ... you know Father's Day is June 21) get your Don Draper on: Bumble & Bumble BB Gel and Gellac, with an estimated retail value of more than $50.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word GEL in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

TFS: So predictable

2009-06-11T23:42:00.006-04:00

Ugh. I am so uninspired by this episode of "The Fashion Show," I can barely muster the strength to write this post.

Enough with the whiny designers.

Enough with the head-scratching quickfire challenges. Oh wait, that's another Bravo show, "Top Chef."

Enough with the pseudo drama. What's that you say? How about the horrible manufacturing of drama that isn't there through "creative" series editing. Merlin was in tears over his ignorance about "Mean Girls." He and Danielle take turns gnashing their teeth, pitching mini-fits, and before you know it, the very person that is shown as the weak link has won the challenge.

Enough with the self-absorbed, uninformed designers. Angel not knowing what B-girls are was sad and insulting, but not nearly as offensive as Johnny's boorish bravado.

Thank goodness -- Just a few more months until "Project Runway" returns.

Racing with RuPaul

2009-06-10T16:45:00.000-04:00

With the click of your mouse, you can help a Charlotte diva land a spot on season two of "RuPaul's Drag Race" on Logo.

The brilliant Buff Faye, also known as Campus Pride founder and executive director Shane Windmeyer, wants to be on the reality competition show that debut last summer.

Now through June 24, vote for Buff Faye once a day to help her land a spot on the show. Buff Faye, who is best described as a camp drag queen, is among more than 700 other contestants in the online competition for a spot on the show.

“What could be more fun than a drag race this summer?” Windmeyer said in a press release. “Buff Faye is proud to represent Campus Pride in the online competition for RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 2. Sometimes it takes wearing heels and a dress to make a difference.”

The first round of voting ends June 24, with the top 100 moving onto the next round. Round two runs through July 1, with the top 25 vote getters entering the final round. The top vote-getter by July 8 will be on the show.

Primp Your Papa

2009-06-10T11:04:00.004-04:00

Some fathers behave like stray cats when it comes to style. Any sudden movements or big changes and they're running for cover. We know most dads want to be a bit more hip, but don't want to ask for help.

Here are two ideas to help coax daddio out of his fashion-deprived dark space this Father's Day (June 21). You'll increase his chic factor without forcing him too far outside his comfort zone.

Be sure to check out Thursday's Style section for more tips.

Nordstrom Guide to Men's Style: Every woman knows if you want to teach your husband or father something about style, you get someone else to do it for you. Enter expert author Tom Julian who demystifies fashion in a info-and-photo-packed tome that helps men define their personal style. Along the way, he tosses in tips on proper clothing care, sizing and how to iron a shirt. $19.95. Nordstrom SouthPark, 704-442-6000.

J Crew Timex Military Watch: It's subtly retro and at the same time classically modern. The legendary American watchmaker Timex made this 1940s-inspired timepiece exclusively for J Crew. The face is distressed, the watch case is stainless steel and it has a nylon band. It's water resistant, too. $150, jcrew.com only.

Free Friday: Pureology Essential Repair System

2009-06-05T07:15:00.000-04:00

This week's freebie is a collection of products from Pureology's EssentialRepair line, including shampoo and conditioner, Colourmax UV Hair Colour Defense and Instant Repair Leave-in Conditioner. The line is for use with color-treated hair. Products are free of sulfates and salts, but also feature organic botanicals. The set has an estimated retail value of more than $90.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word PUREOLOGY in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

TFS: Real people are scary

2009-06-03T16:45:00.010-04:00

I couldn't blog about The Fashion Show last week because my DirecTV was struck by lightning. Sounds like some crazy, made-up the-dog-ate-my-homework excuse, but it's true! But it looks like I missed a rather boring week. Buh-bye Panty Christ.

Thank goodness the DirecTV was operational this week, so I could fully witness the ridiculousness that is these transparent designers. Holy train wreck! If this level of self-absorption continues, I'll stick around till the end of the season for sure.

My favorite quote of the night was from Johnny (above) upon learning that they'd be designing for -- gasp! -- real women, not models. "I'm very scared because I don't really work with real people." Huh.

Oh wait! It gets better ... James-Paul gets the award for most dramatic overstatement. Having to design for "real" women "is like asking Jesus Christ to work with Satan."

Thankfully Isaac Mizrahi reminded them that those scary "real" women with boobs and thighs are the ones who will buy their clothes.

In the end, Keith got the boot for his uninspired dress. And Daniella, for all her whiny, post-college hubris, ended up designing the winning look using the hot color combo of black and blue.

What's your take on The Fashion Show?

Crocs mea culpa

2009-06-02T16:48:00.000-04:00

These Malindi Crocs have me wavering on my anti-Crocs stance.

I have been firmly in the anti-Crocs camp for some time now, making my disdain for the plastic shoes known again and again.

And, I should have known that my vehemence would come back to bite me in the behind.

Well, Crocs lovers, that day arrived on May 16, in the infield at the All-Star race at Lowe's Motor Speedway. I spotted these adorable leopard print ballet flats, and when I asked the wearer for details, she said they were Crocs. Wha????

Since then, I've gone back and forth about buying a pair. I've gone to a sports store and tried them on. They would be great alternatives to flip-flops (which are quickly becoming my most hated shoe, second only to Crocs). But I just can't pull the trigger.

About what fashion item have you had a change of heart?

I also said I wouldn't wear summer scarves and now I adore them (regardless of season, actually). Same goes for gladiator sandals (mine are very loosely glads -- faux snakeskin, and they don't crawl up my leg).

Maybe, before long, those Crocs will join my list of never-say-never style choices. What do you think?

Free Friday: Vera Wang fragrance

2009-05-29T08:30:00.000-04:00

This week's freebie is a 1.7 oz bottle of Vera Wang Look eau de parfum. The bold fragrance has hints of mandarin, greens, Golden Delicious Apple, vanilla, oakmoss and patchouli, among others. The bottle has an estimated retail value of $70.

The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your e-mail must contain the word VERA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.

Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.

E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.

Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Office flip-flop faux pas

2009-05-27T11:43:00.010-04:00

Charlotte's starchy conservatism lends itself well to the suits, tights and heavy layers of winter. But when the temperatures rise, it seems for some women, common sense gets packed away with the wool coats.

“What ever the temperature, you still have to dress in a professional manner,” says Hal Rubenstein, fashion director at InStyle magazine. “There is a tendency in the summer to slack off, but you have to have sense of pride. If you have to make an excuse for how you are dressed at work, you frankly chose wrong.”

Fashion and business experts, and even hip-hop icon Joseph “Rev. Run” Simmons (who weighed in on Twitter recently) share the same piece of advice: Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.

GUIDELINES: Check your office dress code policy. Check your attire against that of your colleagues and adjust.
FIT, FUNCTION, FABRIC: It's distracting if your clothing is too tight or too loose, and you're constantly adjusting. Make sure items are properly fitted and laundered.

SKIP THE STRAPPY: There is no place for tank tops and spaghetti straps in the office. Bare shoulders are acceptable dependant on the ensemble, like a well-fitted shift dress.

LAYER: Think of jackets and sweaters as accessories, author Sherrie Mathieson says. They offer coverage on your torso, provide great detail and deflect attention from the upper arms.

HOSE OR NO HOSE: It's a matter of personal preference unless included in a dress code. If you're going to wear stockings in the summer, Mathieson says, make sure they are as close to your skin tone as possible. Any darker, and it looks fake.

FOOTWEAR: A heeled sandal is acceptable if there is a back on it, InStyle's Rubenstein says. Shoes that make noise when you walk are a no-no.

Read the full story in Thursday's Style section.

(PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY TODD SUMLIN -- OBSERVER)

Would you do jeggings?

2009-05-26T07:45:00.002-04:00

Leggings that look like super-skinny jeans? Oh no.

Hills star Whitney Port recently rocked the hipster hybrid with success. The rest of us fashion mortals, notsomuch.

While the allure of super comfy pants is strong, there is something so dangerous and wrong about jeggings. Or is it leans?

Would you wear stretchy lycra leggings that have a fake seam and denim wash?
Photo courtesy of Splash News.

Free Friday: Beautorium gift bag

2009-05-22T07:15:00.000-04:00

This week's freebie is a reusable tote from Beautorium, a natural and organic beauty company based in Charlotte. The bag is packed with products including Dr. Hauschka's Daily Body Care Kit, Pangea Organics Ecocentric Lipcare, Cattier Nuage Celeste foaming face cleanser and Juice Beauty Organics to Clear Skin set. The prize has an estimated retail value of $95. And, you'll be in the company of celebs -- MTV Movie Awards presenters will recieve Beautorium fair-trade bags at the show on May 31 in Los Angeles.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word BEAUTORIUM in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

The Fashion Show: Week 3

2009-05-21T23:09:00.004-04:00

I am not a fan of the winning look from Panty Christ Andrew. And even less of a fan of the bizarro combative vibe going on between Daniella and Andrew.

Memo to "Fashion Show" designers: Dios mio, just shut it!

I am not a designer, but I am embarrassed for you. You are not doing yourself any favors by spewing your entitled, out-of-touch anti-sewing stance.

In case you've forgotten, YOU are a DESIGNER. If you can't sew, don't want to sew, or think sewing is beneath you, you shouldn't be on this show.

And, while I'm up on the soapbox using the tone of voice I usually save for my toddlers, let me also remind you that no one cares that you don't want to make an "Inspector Gadget" jacket. It's called a challenge for a reason.

What we would like to see is you, oh I don't know, maybe, sew?

Big kudos to the classically chic designer Norma Kamali, who put annoying tattletale Daniella in her place and helping the judges make an example out of Markus, who blamed his lack of sewing skills on Central Saint Martins, where he attended college.

I love the looks of Team Crazy as one contestant called the team. James-Paul's sleeping bag coat was my favorite look of the night.

What was your favorite look?

Vintage jewelry love

2009-05-20T16:39:00.004-04:00

If you're looking for one-of-a-kind, locally-made jewelry, be sure to check out the Mavis Beard trunk show at Boris & Natasha, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.

I wrote about Mavis last year, and have been quietly obsessed with her work ever since.

Her pieces have an inventive, vintage aesthetic that is thoroughly modern.

eBay to the rescue

2009-05-19T07:30:00.000-04:00

I have these in green patent, but pony hair might be too hard to resist!

I have a bit of a shoe fetish.

I love them all, especially heels.

So to keep my husband happy and allay my wicked non-practicing Catholic tendency to feel guilty, I do a twice a year shoe purge and sell the unworn (not unloved!) on eBay.

When I took this style editor job almost two years ago, I sold every pair of shoes in my closet on eBay and used the money to feed my need for 3+ inch heels, especially in patent.

I just packed off five pairs of shoes -- including an insanely fab pair of Frye mules -- to eBayers all over the country. It was incredibly freeing. So what if I shouldn't have ever bought those mules (they were a full size too small), at least I was making something on them. And more importantly, they were out of my house!

I felt so altruistic. Those buyers got killer deals (those mules retailed for $175 ... I think they sold for $25-ish), and in return, I got more closet space. At least for the moment.

I'm already planning my purchases for end-of-summer sales.

What do you buy and sell on online?

Free Friday: Aveda Sun Care Kit

2009-05-15T07:30:00.000-04:00

It's never too soon to start taking care of sun-stressed tresses. Up for grabs this week is an Aveda Sun Care kit (valued at $72) which includes Hair and Body Cleanser, Protective Hair Veil and After-Sun Hair Masque.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your e-mail must contain the word AVEDA in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.

Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.

E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.

Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

The Fashion Show: Week 2

2009-05-15T00:30:00.000-04:00

I'm into "The Fashion Show" now for real. The claws have come out, the whiny, entitled-no-sewing designers are showing their true colors.

Little Kristin (whom Tom and Lorenzo on Project Rungay called "Strawberry Shortcake") couldn't take Isaac's honesty after one challenge and skipped out.

For the rest of the designers, sewing was an issue again. I am still amazed by how OK these "designers" were with not being able to sew. Like they were too good, too rockstar to sew! That's what the non-fabulous people do.

Johnny R.'s disgusting hubris caught up with him after he sent a dress down the runway that was held together by safety pins (and not on purpose). When judges took him to task for it, he sassed Isaac with: "I didn't know this was going to be America's Next Best Seamstress."

Oh no he didn't!!!!

What's your take on "The Fashion Show"?

Bellinis, Jennifer Garner and 60% off

2009-05-13T15:11:00.007-04:00

CELEB-BABY SPOTTING! Serephina Affleck, daughter of Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck, was spotted recently in Boston using a Bella Tunno Binker. Bella Tunno is a Charlotte-based company, founded by the infinately talented and stylish Michelle Tunno Buelow.

New markdowns at Capitol start Thursday: spring merchandise will be 60 percent off.
Dillard's SouthPark is having a Swim Day event 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, May 16, which will feature giveaways, refreshments and music. Details: 704-365-3111.
Potion at Birkdale is welcoming licensed esthetician and makeup artist Stefanie Lee by serving bellinis and dishing out deals on Saturday, May 23. You'll get 15 percent off future skincare appointments booked Saturday. For those of us who love the talented Rhonda Green, don't fear -- she's not going anywhere!
Deadline for applications to the Lotus Look Campaign has been extended to Sunday, May 17. The model search kicks off May 20 at Suite at Epicentre. Prizes include a modeling contract, portfolio photography and more. Details and entry forms available at Lotus on East Boulevard and Civilian at Phillips Place.

Petal Pet Palooza

2009-05-12T10:23:00.002-04:00

Petal boutique on East Boulevard is having a Pet Palooza Party, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Wednesday, May 13, to benefit the Humane Society of Charlotte.

Wine and cupcakes will be served 4-7 p.m., and of course, there will be treats for four-legged friends too!

If you donate $10, you'll receive $30 off a purchase of $100 or more.

Details: 704-817-8871

Free Friday: Valentino fragrance

2009-05-08T07:00:00.001-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a bag full of goodies: a Neiman Marcus blue tote with fragrance samples (free with the purchase of $75 or more in the fragrance department through Saturday), a full-sized bottle of Valentino Eau de Parfum and two tickets to the Bag Ladies Luncheon Friday, May 15 at the Westin.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word FRAGRANCE in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.
Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

The Fashion Show: So here we go

2009-05-08T00:18:00.000-04:00

OK babies ... did you watch Thursday's premiere of "The Fashion Show" on Bravo? What do you think? Here's my take:

LOVES

The honesty of Isaac Mizrahi and Kelly Rowland. They can't even wait to leave the work room before busting out in giggles over some of the designs.
My mid-30s self is getting a much needed crash course in proper suiting. How else could I have possibly known that silk harem pants, a navy bolo jacket and a horribly fitted reversible tube skirt are the essentials that are missing from my closet?
The presence of a "Top Chef" style digital clock mounted on the wall. Where's Tom Cholicchio?
"We’re just not buying it," Mizrahi told the first designer kicked off, "Buh bye darling."

HATES

Andrew's excessive cockiness and overconfidence are grating. Anyone who willingly calls themselves "the panty christ" needs to be slapped. Hard.
The number of contestants calling themselves designers who are lacking in a substancial area for designers: SEWING. You can't understand fabric and fashion until you understand sewing. Simple.
The breast-centric design of Jonny D.

MY PICK TO GO ALL THE WAY: Hands down, it's Vivienne Westwood-inspired James-Paul. Sure, he wears wooden shoes with white tube socks, and his ensemble descriptions smack of pretension, but he's got an edgy, fresh design aesthetic that I dig.

Fashiony deals, events

2009-05-07T11:20:00.000-04:00

For Mother's Day (it is Sunday), Dillard’s will be giving away a box of luxe bath salts as a gift with purchase of KN Karen Neuberger products when shoppers spend $50 or more.

Spring is here, and so are sales and style events!

Coplon's at Phillips Place is having a 25 percent off designer sale right now.
Starting May 20 at Nordstrom stores and online, save 33% and more on shoes, apparel and handbags from the fabulous brands you love for women and kids. Shop in store and online.

A TASTE FOR FASHION: Morrison & 107.9 The Link are hosting weekly fashion shows every Thursday in May. Come out to see fabulous couture, sip on fine wine, and enjoy Morrison restaurants. Admission is free. Proceeds from wine & beer sales will benefit the Western NC Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. May 7: Hosted by Candy from Candy + Potter; May 14: Hosted by Sheri from Bob & Sheri; May 21 and 28: Hosted by Ramona from Matt & Ramona. Morrison is at Sharon and Colony roads in Charlotte.

BREAST CANCER BENEFIT: Wacoal's Fit for the Cure event is back in Charlotte, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, May 8 at Neiman Marcus SouthPark. Fittings are free. For each fitting, Wacoal will donate $2 to Komen for the Cure for breast cancer research and outreach programs. An additional $2 will be donated for each Wacoal bra or shapewear piece purchased.

FOOD DRIVE: Circa Boutique, Coco Fleur, Britches and Boots and Hi Style are hosting a food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank May 8-10. There will be food drop-off locations at each store for newly packaged or canned foods. All boutiques will offer up to 75 percent off on merchandise. The Fountains is at the corner of Ardrey Kell and Tom Short roads. 704-845-0433.

MONET FOR MOM: Children can create a special Mother’s Day card in the style of the great Impressionists at the Mint Museum's Family Fun Saturday: Monet for Mom.
Every second Saturday of the month, families are invited to drop by the Mint’s classroom studios to do art activities together and explore the exhibitions on display. On Saturday, May 9, children can paint a postcard in the style of Impressionist artists and write a message for their mother or someone special in their lives. Families with children of all ages are invited to drop in anytime between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The event is free for children when accompanied by a paying adult and free for museum members.

SPRING MAKEOVER: Just in time for Mother’s Day, SouthPark hosts a special Spring Makeover event on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. in Center Court. Shoppers in need of a new look for spring can learn about the season’s latest styles and trends from SouthPark’s hottest cosmetic and skincare stores. Representatives from more than a dozen retailers will be on hand to offer free product samples, make-up tips and register-to-win prizes.

GIRL TALK FUNDRAISER: Delight in fine wine and decadent chocolate at Girl Talk's 3rd Annual Chocolate and Wine Tasting, Thursday, May 14, 5:30 p.m-8:30 p.m. at Morton's, 227 W. Trade Street, uptown Charlotte. All proceeds benefit Girl Talk Foundation, Inc., serving close to 700 young girls each year through self-esteem building programs. $40.

TOMMY BAHAMA PARTY: Take a vacation to the Ballantyne Hotel Gallery Restaurant & Bar on Friday, May 15 at 7 p.m. with a summer fashion show from Tommy Bahama, live entertainment, Tommy Bahama rum-based cocktails, a themed menu and prizes. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Charlotte Chapter of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), dedicated to finding a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research.

Armchair fashionistas unite!

2009-05-05T11:25:00.004-04:00

Charlotte's own Brooklyn Decker walked the red carpet at the Met's Costume Institute Gala with (and wore an ensemble by) designer Derek Lam. (style.com photo)

I've been trying to forget the dreary Charlotte weather by making my way through Style.com's 145-image slideshow from last night's Costume Institute Gala in New York. My hits? There were many, but I especially liked pregnant Heidi Klum in J. Mendel and model Nadja Auermann in Lanvin.

I was not in love with the Marc Jacobs-for-Louis Vuitton looks of Leighton Meester, Kerry Washington and Madonna. All three looked like they belonged in a twisted harlequin circus, perhaps run by Marilyn Manson. New York magazine's The Cut blog described Madge's look as "a cleaning lady moonlighting as a stripper who washed her Xanax down with one too many margaritas before she changed outfits."

Good times.

What's your take? Who's your fave? Nothing keeps the spirits up on a gloomy day like a little armchair fashion criticism!

Free Friday: Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess

2009-05-01T06:30:00.000-04:00

Up for grabs this week is a tan-riffic set of Estee Lauder products from the Bronze Goddess line. Included: Self-tan lotion for face, self-tanning milk for body and a soft matte bronzer compact. The set has an estimated retail value of more than $80.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your e-mail must contain the word GODDESS in the subject field of the e-mail. Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.

Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.

E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing. One entry per e-mail address, please.

Only the winner will be contacted. Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Mother's Day is almost here

2009-04-29T12:31:00.007-04:00

Davidson artist Bonnie Boardman's initial necklaces are $59 for gold, $50 for silver. They are available at Monkee's of Lake Norman, 624 Jetton St., Davidson, 704-896-7779 and Poppies, 16926 Birkdale Commons Parkway, Huntersville, 704-896-3433.

Don't wait until the last second to honor your mum with a gift -- she may say she doesn't need or want anything, but she does.

Every day, but especially on May 10, she wants to know you are thinking of her. One way to do that is with a piece of personalized jewelry.

Some pieces, like birthstone necklaces and add-a-bead bracelets allow for more subtle forms of personalization. Engraved or stamped accessories announce her familial pride to the world.

Be mindful of one caveat with personalized accessories: Since pieces are customized, plan on having a minimum four-five day wait for items to be completed.

One of my favorite places to find funky, unique gifts is Etsy. That's where I found the SpoonerZ line, which remakes silverware into crazy cool bracelets, pendants and other accessories.

Check out more examples of personalized jewelry in Thursday's Style section.

Non-jewelry options abound, too. Of course, there's gift cards, but how about a copy of Sara Ellington and Stephanie Triplett's "Must Have Mom Manual" or a fab journal from local company Carolina Pad?

Friends in fashionable places

2009-04-28T11:03:00.005-04:00

One of my girlfriends recently moved to Atlanta. And she has wasted no time taunting me about the retail therapy available there.

Sure, her email updated me on her new contact information, but she also slipped in the following reminders that we don't have an H&M here.

Animal-print lined shoes? Tables of accessories? Gah! She knows me too well! There might be a trip to ATL to visit in the near future!

Free Friday: Clarins firming products

2009-04-24T06:30:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is a Clarins firming duo. One product is for your body and the other is for your face: High Definition Body Lift and Extra-Firming Tightening Lift Botanical Serum.

Who doesn't love free stuff? The rules for entry are as follows: To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.

Your e-mail must contain the word Clarins in the subject field of the e-mail.
Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing.
One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Belk adds Assets

2009-04-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Belk announced this week they will start carrying Assets, the lower-priced sibling line of the miraculous Spanx.

For those not in the know or blessed with enough perfection to not need them, Sara Blakely created footless hose nearly nine years ago, called them Spanx and launched a shapewear revolution for women.

The products smooth and shape while keeping comfort paramount. Both lines now include full-leg tights, hose, camis and other specialty shapers.

Denim for dummies

2009-04-21T11:03:00.004-04:00

You too can look like Katie Holmes in distressed denim shorts: Get to the Goodwill and grab a pair of scissors, and you'll be all set!

My quest for the perfect T-shirt (that's a whole 'nother post for a different day) recently took me to Old Navy, where I laughed out loud when I saw the table full of distressed, frayed denim shorts.

There were a few reasons for my giggles. One, I lived in cutoffs in the summers of my high school and college days. Longer, cuffed, frayed, you name it, I wore it. I especially liked to pair with an over-sized Polo shirt, you know, to keep it preppy and sharp.

I dabbled in bleaching and tie-dying the denim shorts as well. Not always with a lot of success.

But the reason I didn't get too bent about the dye jobs gone wrong, was that all of my cutoffs started as denim pants, and all came from Salvation Army or Goodwill thrift stores.

There's no reason to buy faux distressed when you can get the real thing for $3 a pair second hand! All you need to make a pair of rescued jeans into cutoffs is a decent pair of scissors and a mirror.

You'll be chic in a minute. And your style will be even sweeter since you saved a bundle.

Free Friday: Crocs Cabana sandals

2009-04-17T06:45:00.000-04:00

While they have never been my style, I know Crocs fans are legion. So those diehards will enjoy this week's giveaway: a pair of Crocs Cabana sandals, size 8 in black. They run a little big (fit more like an 8.5 or 9).

Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I gave away all kinds of goodies every Friday. It's time to bring it back, with a few minor changes. This time around, there is no trivia question. The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word CROCS in the subject field of the e-mail.
Include your name, phone number and mailing address in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing.
One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Drew + Grey Gardens = love!

2009-04-16T12:00:00.000-04:00

Drew Barrymore as little Edie Bouvier Beale in the new film "Grey Gardens" which debuts Saturday on HBO.

I have only seen the 1975 documentary "Grey Gardens" once, but I was stunned into submission, and sat silent and still for the entire 100 minutes. I was riveted by the story of big Edie and little Edie Bouvier Beale, relatives of Jackie Bouvier Kennedy who live in squalor in their 28-room East Hampton estate.

The documentary is full of fear, sadness, bitterness, wildlife in doors and desolation, but it's also full of uncompromising style. Regardless of their surroundings, clothing and accessories were a large part of the lives of the mother-daughter duo.

You can bet I'll be glued to my seat again at 8 p.m. Saturday when "Grey Gardens" a film based on the story of the Beales and that documentary debuts on HBO. The crazy-fabulous Drew Barrymore plays little Edie, Jessica Lange plays her mother, big Edie. Jeanne

Have you seen the documentary? What did you think? Will you watch on Saturday?

Fashion fashion everywhere

2009-04-15T12:28:00.004-04:00

Here's a few fashiony events on the horizon:

Girls’ Night Out: The free event, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16 at Belk SouthPark, features catering by The Side Porch as well as music, discounts and giveaways. During event hours, guests receive 20% off purchases of sale- and regular-priced women’s contemporary items, including designer brands such as BCBG, Free People and Karen Kane, with limited exclusions.

My Black is Beautiful: The free, interactive event hits Charlotte on Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Park, 2500 E. Independence Blvd. Among the activities planned are panel discussions led by actress Tasha Smith, from Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married” and “Daddy’s Little Girls,” and a variety of beauty and health activities. "My Black is Beautiful" is a national campaign to ignite and support a conversation by, for and about black women and the way they are reflected in popular culture.

Charlotte Fashion Week model search: Charlotte, NC Fashion Week is back for a second year (Sept. 10-12 at the Mint Museum) and the search is on for a spokes model. The latest round of auditions will be 6-9p Wednesday, April 22 at Phil and Tony's, 2224 Matthews Township Parkway, Matthews; 704-541-3111. Please check website for model requirements (male and female applicants are wanted), bring comp cards and portfolios and be prepared to walk.

Billy Reid Evening Social: All of the smells, sounds, and charm associated with the brand will come alive for this free event, 6-9p Thursday, April 30 at the SouthPark store. Celebrate the designer's Southern roots with bourbon by Woodford Reserve, food from Price's Chicken Coop and live music. Details: 704-365-6311.

Free Friday: Olay anti-aging skincare

2009-04-10T06:30:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is the Olay Professional Anti-Aging Starter Protocol, a three-part daily skincare program using Age Repair Lotion SPF 30, Eye Restoration Complex and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word OLAY in the subject field of the e-mail.
Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing.
One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

New JLC WearHouse to open April 27

2009-04-09T16:34:00.000-04:00

The Junior League WearHouse, which recently announced plans to move the store after 15 years in Elizabeth, will open at the new location in Plaza-Midwood on Monday, April 27.

Started in 1936, the WearHouse sells new overstock and donated used clothing for men, women and children, as well as home decor.

To celebrate the move to 1117 Pecan Ave. (the former Sherwin-Williams building), there will be a grand opening party 4-7 p.m. April 30. In addition, all merchandise will be 20 percent off April 30-May 2.

The store will be open at it's current Fourth Street location until April 23, then close for the move and reopen Monday, April 27 at the new location.

I haven't been inside the new space yet, but those who have tell me it's bright, spacious and there is ample parking.

Spring fever: Accessories

2009-04-08T13:30:00.007-04:00

(TODD SUMLIN PHOTO -- CHARLOTTE OBSERVER)

Animal prints, especially reptilian-influenced, are a strong spring trend this year. And, as a bonus, well-placed animal print is timeless.

There is no reason to have to choose between fashion and frugality this spring.

The key is accessories. Handbags, shoes, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, belts, scarves, sunglasses, headbands – the list is seemingly endless. So are the opportunities.

Read more about the flexibility of spring accessories in Thursday's Style section.

Accessories can breathe life into your existing wardrobe. With the switch of a pair of shoes, a belt or handbag, your look can go from rocker chic to ladies who lunch in an instant.

A shift dress can be reborn with the addition of a funky belt. No one knows that better than first lady Michelle Obama, who gave her black, studded Azzedine Alaia belt a workout during a recent trip to Europe.

My faves? Shoes, of course, followed closely by handbags. Quickly picking up steam are scarves, big necklaces and earrings.

What are your favorite accessories?

Free Friday: Flora by Gucci fragrance

2009-04-03T06:30:00.001-04:00

This week's giveaway is a bottle of Flora by Gucci eau de toilette. The fragrance has hints of citrus, peony, rose and sandalwood.

Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I gave away all kinds of goodies every Friday. It's time to bring it back, with a few minor changes. This time around, there is no trivia question. The rules for entry are as follows:

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word GUCCI in the subject field of the e-mail.
Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing.
One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

"Project Runway" vs. "Fashion Show"

2009-04-01T13:03:00.008-04:00

Do you think they'll fight over who gets to play Michael Kors, Nina Garcia and Heidi Klum? I'm thinking Kelly and Fern can hang when it comes to dismissive eyerolls and grunting a la Miss Nina.

UPDATE: So, I log off for a sec and find out that "Project Runway" has been given the OK to move to Lifetime. No word on an air date yet.

Bravo today issued a press release announcing "The Fashion Show," which will debut on the cable network at 10 p.m. May 7.

Fifteen designers will compete for $125,000 and a chance to have their designs sold in the retail market on the show. Hosts will be designer Isaac Mizrahi, singer Kelly Rowland and Fern Mallis, Senior Vice President of IMG Fashion.

Harper's Bazaar is involved, too: the magazine's Special Projects Director Laura Brown will decide the winner of the Mini Challenge every week. Participants will also face an elimination challenge.

Check out the designers here. There are no Charlotteans on the list; Southern designers in mix are from Atlanta and Tennessee.

Will you watch the new show? Will you cry for Nina, Tim Gunn and Mr. Kors? Or are you hoping that Isaac, Kelly and Fern and come up with something more fresh than "Auf wiedersehen."

Topshop fever builds

2009-03-31T16:40:00.001-04:00

Topshop Python-snake high sandal (leather), $190

With a hefty dose of cheeky confidence, British clothing store Topshop will open it's first American store on Thursday in New York City.

When asked during a press event during New York Fashion week in February, what Topshop has that Target doesn't, owner Sir Philip Greene said: "Fashion."

Comparing the two is as appropriate as comparing apples and oranges. Same could be said of comparing Topshop and H&M, probably the closest chain in the US to Topshop's quick-moving, fashion-forward approach.

While Topshop and H&M apparel is distinctly chic, the chains differ at the cash register. Leather goods are commonplace at Topshop, shoes in the $200 range are not uncommon. At H&M, low prices ($2.90 lattice-work earrings, for example) make the of-the-moment clothes even more attractive.

Greene says Topshop, which is the home of the rabidly-popular Kate Moss line (she's expected to attend the NYC store opening), has a business model and focus that is unique: stores get new merchandise every 7-10 days, and the 2,900+ stores worldwide receive more than 11,000 deliveries a week.

The NY store, at just under 30,000 square feet, came with a price tag of more than $20 million, Greene says. On the horizon for the States are another 12-15 flagship stores, eventually.

"We don't need to be aggressive," he said.

Topshop Fluoro Bloom Dress, $90

Charleston Fashion Week: Bigger, better

2009-03-30T09:34:00.000-04:00

Models take the final walk during the Troubadour show as part of the Emerging Designers show Saturday at Charleston Fashion Week.

Three years in, Charleston Fashion Week doesn't show any signs of slowing down. This year was bigger than the two previous in attendance and star power. Organizers said they expect attendance figures to hover near 5,000 for the week-long event.

Among the celebs on hand: designers Cynthia Rowley, Mary Norton, Charlottean (and former CFW Emerging Designer competitor) Ashley Reid and Mychael Knight, Lacoste USA CEO Robert Seigel, costume designer Dana Campbell and Wayne Newton.

Charlotte had connections all over the event -- Emerging Designer contender Lindsey Carter is the co-founder of Carter Humphrey, a sporty/fashion line based in Charlotte. Jewelry from Jane Pope, formerly of the Queen City, accompanied ED clothing on the runway.

Swimwear designer Maria Dobrzanska Reeves won the ED competition.

The polished Charleston event left me wondering what it would take for Charlotte to have the same experience. Charlotte Fashion Week got off to a shaky start last year in September. Event organizers recently announced plans to hold the event again.

What does Charlotte need to put together an event on par with Charleston Fashion Week?

Kim Kardashian + me = BFFs?

2009-03-27T13:30:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that I'm about to add Kim Kardashian to my list of body heroes. Huh?

But her honest, "So what?" response to the the fuss over untouched/retouched magazine photos is down right endearing.

Sure, the "leaked" photos could be just be a publicity stunt to raise awareness about her new workout DVDs. Regardless, it's another chance for everyone to be reminded just how much retouching/reworking goes into the notion of perfection.

What's your take?

While you're considering, watch how "beauty" comes to pass in this Dove video.

Free Friday: Lilly Pulitzer Wink fragrance

2009-03-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

This week's giveaway is a 1.7 oz bottle of Lilly Pulitzer Wink eau de parfum. The fragrance has notes of pear nectar, freesia, rose, lily, violet, amber and musk.

To enter, send an e-mail to style@charlotteobserver.com. Entries sent/posted elsewhere will not be considered.
Your e-mail must contain the word LILLY in the subject field of the e-mail.
Include your name and phone number in the text of the email.
Entries must be received by 4 p.m. Friday. Entries sent after the deadline will not be considered.
E-mails that meet the stated criteria will be entered into a random drawing.
One entry per e-mail address, please. Only the winner will be contacted.
Please do not post your answers and contact information in the comments section on the blog.

Isaac Mizrahi is coming to Charlotte

2009-03-25T10:30:00.000-04:00

The colorful designer with the magic touch -- Isaac Mizrahi -- is coming to Charlotte.

Mizrahi, star of the fashion doc "Unzipped," single-handily created a new genre of high fashion (for low-prices) when he launched his now defunct low-price line at Target. He's now being credited with reinvigorating the Liz Claiborne brand, of which he became creative director in 2008.

He'll be part of a Liz Claiborne New York fashion show at Belk SouthPark at 1 p.m. April 18.

Admission is free, but reservations are required by calling 877-235-5073. Seating is limited.