Enter to Win Today!
We've all been there-you get a heart-shaped box of chocolates and graciously thank your Valentine with hidden disappointment. Make sure you get or give the most incredible Valentine's Day gift by winning this beautifully crafted Heart-Shaped Garnet and Diamond Pendant in 18k white gold from Blue Nile.
If you want to be the lucky in love winner, tell us about your best or worst Valentine's Day experience when you post your comment below by 11:59 pm PST, February 14.
ShareThis
It wasn't too long ago The Knot Wedding Shop wrote a 
What I'm Wearing
Guest Blogger Erica from 
There are few woman I envy, and fewer lives I would swap for my own. Being rich, famous, and the owner of a huge wardrobe means nothing without talent, which is why Jenna Lyons is my inspiration. As Creative Director of 
For years I've been in love with Tracy Reese clothes. The bold prints and flattering cuts have the gusto of DVF, yet the line itself is understated. Of-the-moment silhouette's are ignored in lieu of patterns like the A-line dress, and prints are a modernized version of what's been done before whether it's a floral, animal, or other. In other words her pieces just work and they take little creativity or thought on my part which as you can imagine is a huge relief. Much as I want a certain ease in which to dress I also want a certain ease in which to decorate so I was happy to stumble across Tracy Reese Home while shopping at 
Jorts. Yup, sorry guys, jeans shorts are pretty much not ever okay. Least of all when they're gigantic. Stick with cotton, khaki, or something simple like Dickies. 
You never know what you'll find while shopping for platform shoes.
Most of you know me as Bill, the blogmaster general here at the Ebates blog. I lead a somewhat silly life filled with free shipping deals, random merchants, and the occasional bizarre find on 
Bows have been in fashion for a few months now, and my affinity for them (which I have blogged about 
But I digress. It is cold, so it's time to fix the ol' wardrobe accordingly. When it gets cold like this, there's one thing that always restores me to the oven-like warmth I enjoy most of the time: 
This installment of I Want It Now is dedicated to staying warm. Winter temperatures have officially hit San Francisco, and although my wool jacket fights hard against the cold, it's no match for the wind blocking, cold shattering abilities of a puffer jacket. Filled with goose down or polyester (which is surprisingly warm, and perfect for vegetarian folk) puffer jackets are a must-have this Winter. If you think this style of jacket belongs on ski slopes or in playgrounds, Angelina Jolie, Jennifer Aniston, and Isla Fischer prove otherwise. Below are just a few of the countless option available through Ebates merchants.
One of my favorite fashion blogs is 
Bib necklaces are everywhere this season. Packed with jewel accents, they're a perfect addition to any holiday party outfit. This 
Michelle Obama's ability to make the perfect fashion statement is no longer news, as she hits the mark every time. The First Lady always looks pulled together, classic, and perfectly appropriate for the event for which she is dressing. But the gown she wore last night at a State Dinner held for the Indian Prime Minister set an entirely new precedent; it was nothing short of stunning. Designed by Indian American designer Naeem Khan, the perfectly tailored sheath-style dress sparkled in a gold-cream color with silver overlay. And the first lady glowed and so perfectly represented American fashion and style. 
Let it be known I am a sucker for larger-than-life movies. So much so that I can remember the very first time I saw "Gone With The Wind", and my excitement when networks like ABC would broadcast "The Ten Commandments" commercial free. What I loved most about epic stories like those of Rodgers and Hammerstein and Cecil B. Demille were the elaborate costumes. With Halloween around the corner, I'm in costume planning mode, but a school girl Britney Spears or sexy nurse is not for me. Instead I'll emulate the beautiful Anne Baxter as Nefretiri. 
There are those moments for even the most seasoned shopper where fate or the proverbial shopping gods seem to step in and bring you deal that is nothing short of amazing. Two factors need to be present for this to happen: one is that a good sale needs to cross your path, and two is that you really, really need to covet something. 
Much to my delight, there is more to Fall trends than ripped denim, leather pants, and a continuation of the 80's. Although I've had a blast dressing like an extra from This Is Spinal Tap, I'm happy to know that designers like Zac Posen, Alber Elbaz, and John Galliano have moved past the decade of excess toward a more feminine way of dressing. Influenced by the 1940's, this Fall there are plenty of rich fabrics, tailored suits, and reminders of old Hollywood glamor to soften up the most edgy of women. Good thing Ebates has 1200 merchants, including 
So what can you save on? Really, it's just about everything. I couldn't help but be excited by the site of an 
It's clear what format won the HD video war of 2008; now the question is "have you upgraded yet?" If your answer is still "no," you're in luck. Why? Since you waited so long for your newest HD player, you can skip out on all the bulky, featureless Blu-Ray players and head directly to the cream of the crop: the 
Webster's Dictionary defines the word "variable" as something that is subject to variation or change. The chaotic weather of Spring and the erratic market are variables that effect my wardrobe and my wallet. In a world of change, it's nice to know there's one thing I can depend on: 
Also, welcome 
So today I went on a little quest for a few shirts that I knew I could not only make look good with the proper hat, but also that wouldn't put much of a ding in my wallet. The first one I found was at Old Navy; their 
The other 
With a stock of designer brands that rivals high-end department stores, 
I have had my eye on this 
There isn't much to be said about Nike that hasn't already been mentioned somewhere on the Internets. In truth, they're the biggest name in sports apparel and shoes, and you just can't beat their style which ranges from "innovative" to "timeless." Considering more people would likely recognize the iconic Nike swoosh than the the last four presidents, it's no surprise that everyone wants a 
It's not uncommon for someone who hears "I work in fashion" to conjure up images of sprawling closets a la Carrie Bradshaw, or fits of delirium a la Rebecca Bloomwood in Confessions of a Shopaholic. As much as I would love to have a fraction of the clothing as those fictitious characters, fashionistas like myself are bound by the same fiscal responsibility as everyone else. We too must shop within budget, searching out the best 
A great way to make your wardrobe uniform a little less drab or spice up some older items in your closet is to pick up some accessories. I can think of no better place to start shopping for accessories than Ann Taylor, where not only will you get 
My first year in college I had a roommate who would spend her Saturday mornings clipping coupons and filing them into a coupon organizer. At the time, I remember thinking her behavior was extremely strange (little did I know that "sport" coupon clipping was only the tip of the iceberg of her oddity). Not that coupon clipping is necessarily abnormal, but its the last thing you would imagine to see stumbling into the dorm room of an eighteen year old away from home for the first time. Plus, there was something very compulsive, yet totally methodical, about the clipping and filing; it was like a coupon frenzy. Oh the things I've seen! 
Having once been a picky teenager, I understand the importance of choosing the right dress. I recommend heading over to 
The beauty of the 
Always the backbone of fashion, denim has gotten a major facelift this season. Past favorites like high waisted, and skinny denim are being overshadowed by mega hits such as the boyfriend jean. The plethora of newcomers is making every woman's 
This Spring, women everywhere are stepping out in jeans that evoke a time when coffee was the preferred drink, and androgynous dressing was all the rage. I'm talking of course about the era of grunge, and this season's distressed jean will have you looking like you're with the band. Earmarked with tears, fading, even holes, this jean has a no frills vibe. The Siwy Hannah jean to the left, is one of my favorite examples. You'll find it at 
When out of reach garments become obtainable, it sends my brain into a covetous state, haunting my thoughts until said item is either purchased or sells out, the latter of which sends my brain into a depressed state. Of the several hundred or so items I covet on a daily basis, few stand out as being truly excitable. This 
This past Friday marked the first day of Spring, and I was overcome with the urge to de-Winter myself and my life. Let me say this: I do not care if I freeze my "buns" off, I am throwing every bit of Winter clothing into a plastic bin and will say adios to it until further notice. I plan on making it as dramatic and ceremonious as possible, too. I felt that I was wholeheartedly on board with the project until I realized that however much I wanted to feel the transition of the seasons, one big part of me would not participate... my dry Winterous skin! 
Making the best out of your wardrobe while on a budget requires some give and take. For instance: I can skimp on the sandals that might get worn one season and destroyed, and instead splurge on items that will spruce up some of my older garments and favorite t-shirts. Finding such things, however, is not always easy. With the help of a trusty and equally obsessed co-worker, I came to the final decision to splurge on a pair of jeans that, knowing my denim obsession and propensity to wear jeans just about everyday, I would get my use out of. I was unsure about which pair of jeans I was going to buy, but I knew that after season upon season of tight and dark jeans, I was ready to lighten up. I immediately liked these 
When it comes to purchasing handbags, I always play it safe. Trendy colors and lots of embellishments will date a bag faster than your bank can bill you. It's for this reason I choose handbags in neutral colors with minimal accessories. This 
Always a destination for the hottest clothing and accessories, NJC has added 
Years of riding crowded city buses have taught me two things. The first is that bus etiquette 101 should be taught in every school, the second is that most people do not pay enough attention to their shoes. While I can only suggest ways to rectify the first offense, the second is quite easily remedied thanks to 
The festivities begin at 
For oh so long, the words "technology" and "fashion" have stood at opposite sides of the fashion spectrum. Of course I'm not talking about the big name fashion designers, who have long haphazardly tossed technology into their lines with 
Last Spring I was all about hippie chic, and although dressing like I had just returned from Woodstock was extremely comfortable (read: lazy), my friends convinced me that my look was more hobo than boho. This year I'm striving for a more polished look, but a troubled economy means I'll need to focus on my bank account first. The key to changing your style in hard economic times relies upon a few good pieces. This 
My obsession with designers on a discount stems from the belief that no label or price tag is too good for the sale bin. Eventually everything gets marked down and shipped to stores catering to discounted goods. While this is all fine and well, the process involves constantly hitting the pavement and waiting (always waiting) for sales. Thanks to 
With terms like "Wardrobe Rejuvenation" and "Recessionista" being thrown around left and right these days, it is interesting to take a moment to consider what they actually mean, beyond just being pop culture catch phrases. Long before the economic crisis, frugal fashionistas were adding a few of-the-moment pieces to their existing wardrobe to stay both in style for the season and on top of their finances. This manner of shopping requires the belief that less is more as far as the wardrobe goes. Most women should invest in classic, timeless pieces that are made well and will last forever. Then, add a few trendier items per season. 
With reports that the Academy awards would be scaled back this year due to the economy, it certainly didn't feel like the fashion choices worn by the stars were anything less than totally glamorous and absolutely stunning. One of the biggest trends gracing the red carpet was lavish, statement jewels and embellished details. My favorite jewels of the night were spotted on Heidi Klum and Angelina Jolie. Both wore bold jewelry that totally popped and stood out against their dresses. Angelina's paired her simple Elle Saab Couture gown with stunning 65-carat Colombian Emerald ring with 115-carat matching earrings by jeweler Lorraine Schwartz. The jewelry looked magnificent with her partial up-do and simple-old Hollywood style dress, resulting in a simple,chic and absolutely Oscar-appropriate look every woman can lust for. The look is something anyone can achieve, when you go for a neutral, monochromatic outfit and contrast the look with a bright and bold accessory. When done well, like with Angelina, the look can be nothing short of gorgeous. Find emerald adornments of your own at 
When thinking about Spring clothing, 
thinking about Gap, I think pastel hues, flowing fabrics and classically chic clothing (I also think about socks; they have great socks, by the way). This Spring is actually no different. This year, more than ever, the Gap captures the essence of Spring 2009 with their loosely tailored menswear-inspired pieces, wide leg-slouchy trousers, pastel-striped cardigans and floral printed tops, all of which are layered and mixed and matched to perfection, seen left in runway photos. And, good news for anyone who missed out on last Spring's major hit: the Pierre Hardy-designed Gap sandals that sold out almost immediately are back and available in several hot hues. 
Every four months (give or take a few days) the Ebates office is buzzing with the sound of thousands of checks rapidly being printed, folded, and stuffed into an envelope for shipment to the smartest shoppers in the world. Check time is a guilty pleasure of mine because it allows me to spend money on things that I would otherwise shy away from. With the economy like it is, purchases that are not considered a necessity have been all but forgotten. Well, maybe not forgotten, but you get the idea.
Every woman can be defined by three things: their drink of choice, the car they drive, and their greatest pleasure. These three things make a triangle of one's personality, with each point relating to the next. For example, a woman who enjoys a fancy $15 drink will most likely drive a sports or luxury car and derive the greatest pleasure from buying something expensive. My personality triangle consists of Stella beer, a used Ford hatchback, and finding 
Have you ever seen that 
Obsessions are like dirty habits. Everyone has them, yet no one likes to talk about them. Like most normal people (and I use the term normal loosely) I too have a handful of obsessions that dictate my life. From coffee to 
Although today is meant to be filled with high fructose corn syrup, overbearing perfume, and depressed singles, I'm going to step outside the box and not succumb to the frenzy that is Valentine's Day. After spending two years in overpriced and overcrowded restaurants, the bf and I gave up on going out for a special night. Like a true couple, we now 
Not since the Chia Pet, has an infomercial-born pop culture beast taken over our sensibilities quite like the Snuggie. For those of you who do not know what a Snuggie is, refer to the the picture at left. A Snuggie, (depending on who you are asking), is essentially an over sized blanket with arm holes, so that one can be warm and snuggly whilst eating, answering the phone, giving enthusiastic high-fives at sporting events, eating ribs, working out (not recommended), knitting, playing board games, checking blood glucose levels, and much, much more. Or, for other people, it is nothing more than a bathrobe put on backwards or a warm and fuzzy hospital gown. Regardless of which group you fall into, the Snuggie has arrived and is enjoying every second of its fifteen minutes of fame. According to a 
Part of being "in the know", is knowing that fashion isn't just about expensive labels, snobby boutiques, and too-cool-for-school sales people. Fashion is an art form, and can't be held to just one stereotype. It can, however, be found in flea markets, mass retailers, on the sidewalk, and sitting on the shelves in 
Writing about wedding dresses is something best left to two groups of women. Those who have walked down the aisle, and those who are planning to walk down the aisle. I belong to group three which I like to call the delusional group. There is no wedding, no fiance, and not even a suitor who could be coerced into becoming a fiance. The only aisles I walk down happen to be at my local grocery store. Regardless of this slight oversight, I shop for wedding dresses on a fairly regular basis. Like I said, delusional.
Besides wanting to look like I don't shop at David's Bridal, there's something utterly romantic about a garment made so long ago. There's no argument that the quality of lace and beading is simply unparalleled in today's clothing. When I do someday walk down an aisle not filled with canned pork and beans, I want to look unique and not mass produced. This is where 
My personal favorite of the ladies in bold brights was Kate Winslet. I think the color was magnificent and the dress also fit her figure perfectly resulting in the one of the best dressed stars of the night, and even of the entire awards season. We can all take a cue from Kate Winslet's electric blue Narciso Rodriguez gown to update a lackluster wardrobe. Electric blue is a great color to incorporate into your closet because it flatters a spectrum of skin tones and works for day and evening. Most importantly, the color strikes an ideal balance between classy and playful for the ultimate statement.
The L Mansion Hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco is one of the premier spots for those seeking luxury in one of the world's most exotic locations. The photo to the left shows the opulent lobby, where the colorful mosaics and ornate architecture hint at another time. In other words, this photo represents my idea of the perfect vacation. When planning a vacation, attire goes hand in hand with location, and can set the tone of the trip. A Winter getaway to Aspen requires cozy knit socks, cashmere wraps, and heavy wool cardigans perfect for sipping coffee on the veranda. A trip to St. Tropez requires clothing fit for the beach as well as late night parties. Clothing choices, like vacations, are meant to make a woman feel amazing, and nothing does this better than Cruise/Resort Wear.
Judging by America's reaction to Michelle Obama's stunning appearance last night, I was not the only person to immediately gasp in awe at how beautiful and classy she looked for the inaugural events. Collectively, did we all smile then, when the first thing out of the new president's mouth was "First of all, how good-looking is my wife?" The comment was so sincere and so true that we all couldn't help but be proud of the first couple of the United States. 
When the deal's as good as an extra 30% off all items at Tobi, there's nothing stopping me from stocking up for Spring '09. Hey, why pay full price when you can look as chic for half? It's this mentality that had me scouring Tobi in search of something new and fresh to take me out of my Winter woes. Whether it's something new, or something tried and true, there's plenty to get you digging the cyber way. 
The first lady, looked beautiful and very appropriate in a gorgeous yellow ensemble designed by Cuban-born, New York based designer Isabel Toledo. The outfit makes a statement without being too flashy, it fits her figure perfectly, and it shows off her sense of style and affinity for color. Michelle's impeccable, consistent fashion choices pay off because it seems that she knows very well what works for her body and her personal taste is clearly defined. She is the epitome of simple elegance blended with the the all-important touch of personal taste. 
I've always thought award shows such as The Golden Globes to be very educational. Not only are they a chance to view the latest designer frocks soon to be knocked off and selling in my price range, but they're also a chance to catch up on the world of movies. My relationship with the movies is much like my relationship with the gym. After a firm commitment to going "I will see that movie and do some squats", amnesia sets in regarding said plan, thus creating a renewed commitment. The more I evaluate my life, the more I see myself as prime Dr.Phil material.
For those who like to take a walk on the wild side, Mrs.Gotham herself Maggie Gyllenhaal's dress was sure to delight. If leopard print is what you crave, this 
Having worked in the fashion world for almost a decade now, I am well aware that trends are usually forecasted six to seven months ahead of time. For example; September 2008 was technically the Spring '09 Fashion Week, and the week of February thirteenth will host the Fall '09 shows at Bryant Park. The upside to such a pre-view of what's to come is the ability to thoughtfully plan my wardrobe for the upcoming season. The downside is walking out of a store with newly purchased sandals when there are still two feet of snow on the ground. I don't know about you, but staring at shoes for three months is not my idea of money well spent, and considering the rapid rate at which I get "tired" of my clothing, items need to be wearable ASAP. It's inevitable that I will buy spring- like clothing far ahead of time, yet buying what I like to call hybrid clothing should take me from Winter to Spring with relative ease. Case in point: the 
loose, sheer, and can be worn from the beach to the club. After all, vacation dressing is about the illusion of looking like you couldn't be bothered to dress up, of course with the opposite being true. This 
As part of making the outside as fabulous as the inside, I find it best to choose pieces that express my favorite qualities. Pieces such as this 
particular is this 
1. Number one on my list would be a gift card to beauty heaven, also know as 
who have been faithfully reading my blog (bless you) will know all about my obsessive tendencies to hunt through this site on a daily basis. Top on my list of items from this mega cool website is the 
3. The next give-it-to-me Gift Card is none other than electronics central; 
This time of the year always has me running around and making rash purchasing decisions far more frequently than is normal for me. Try as I may, when it comes to shopping, I become bi-polar and have several different personalities all screaming opposites while I try to decide on a piece. "Buy it, it looks great!" "No, you'll have to shorten the length!" "Who cares, make it work!" As overwhelmed as I can be, it's a wonder sales people don't find me under a heap of clothes mumbling about a tailor and drooling.
If, like me, you have a tendency to get stir crazy around the middle of January, there are a few reasons for this occurrence. After the buzz (and hopefully weight) of the holidays goes away, there's nothing exciting or joyous about the next two or three bitter cold months ahead. Yes, there is Valentine's Day and Easter as well, but neither of these festivities cause the same month-long hysteria quite like Christmas. In fact, people are so consumed by the gift-giving frenzy that no one even seems to notice the mercury steadily dropping. By the time January fifteenth rolls around, all that's left are bulging bellies and the phrase "It's freezing outside."
I found this 
The Spring 2009 Collection promises chic and affordable handbags from printed satchels (pictured left) for just $49.99 and sleek clutches like this one for just $29.99, both of which come with 4% cash back, of course. 
Pick up this Sonia tote for 45% off, now just $297. You'll enjoy 4% cash back in your wallet after saving $243 off the original price. Now I'll have no problem keeping my resolutions about smart shopping and saving money. But shopping less? No way. 
lighthearted day.
rustic that beckons me to sit and stay a while. This 
Naturally when it comes to fashion, I say that just as there are many different styles of holiday parties, so should there be many different styles of holiday dresses. After all, do you really want conservative Uncle Ned seeing you in the sparkling mini dress purchased for your best friend's mixer? I think not. 
Although Amy Winehouse said no, no, no to rehab, she has said yes to great fashion. Her style is much like her music. Colorful, retro, and full of soul. As if her 60's beehive hairstyle wasn't eye catching enough, Amy's rock-a-billy/ 60's Motown fashion is done in the only way she can: amazingly.
This fun, festive, and chic 
What ideas do you conjure up when asked about hippies? Every generation has their stereotype of what a hippie is or looks like, and if you're around the age of my parents, then you would most likely think back to the Summer of Love, The Grateful Dead, or Janis Joplin. If you're from a younger generation, than anyone with dreads shopping at the organic co-op could be a tree hugging, non-showering hippie. Living in San Francisco can blur the line between what is authentic hippie-ism, and what is not. Over the past few years the fashion world has taken the hippie style and turned it into a mainstream, even trendy phenomenon. Luxe design houses such as Gucci have presented billowy floor length dresses, fringe leather pants, and paisley print tunics. Not only has dressing like a hippie looked so good, but it never cost this much either. The days of handmade, hand-me-down garments are all but gone. In it's place is what can only be described as hippie on a hanger fashion.
Parisian culture is something that I have been obsessed with for as long as I can remember. For anyone familiar with Paris, it's not hard to understand why I would be in love with the city in which love began. Where else in the world are there so many iconic scenes? The winding cobblestone streets adorned with romantic cafes, the open markets ripe with the smell of fresh baked baguettes. Yes, if I was meant to be anywhere in the world it is Paris. However, being that I am très broke, I've had to find other ways to satiate my appetite for all things Parisian. Aside from French cuisine (which I indulge in daily via La Boulange), I have always had a fondness for classic French apparel, such as the beret. 
Sometimes writing this blog can be a bit tricky, and I wonder if those reading it (you) are really as amazed as I am by all the deals and fantastic items to be found at 
If, like millions of Americans, you've been following the election, you will have noticed there's something different about Michelle Obama. Something fresh, and not seen since the days of Jackie O. That difference is style, and the dress she wore on election night was no exception. While some have criticized the dress, calling it unflattering, or going so far as to compare it to a Halloween costume, I personally adore the Narciso Rodriguez frock, and think it was a winner just like her husband. Not only does this dress flatter her hourglass figure with it's emphasis on the waist, but the ombre fabric is one of fashion's hottest trends right now. Luckily with 
Every woman has a list, or many lists for that matter. Lists of clothes to buy, hairstyles to try out, make-up to test, etc. Lists are what keep many of us going, especially in these hellish economic times. A list is less like bunch of tasks, and more like an ongoing fantasy. Can't afford to buy that Diane Von Furstenberg coat? Put it on the list. Don't have $50 for the new Dior moisturizer you're dying to try? Put it on the list. Instead of wallowing in self defeat, think optimistically. After all, if you can't buy it now, you can always buy it later. What happens if the item you've been coveting sells out? Well, if you're anything like me, there's always a back up item to be loved and quickly added to the list. 
Being that today is Halloween and the whole world (including the 
While browsing around Tobi, I came across this dead ringer by uber cool leather company S.W.O.R.D. Not only do they hold the title for the best company name ever, but they also hold the title for the best leather jackets. This one known as the 
In the world of fashion there are items that are considered eternally chic such as the little black dress, or a crisp white button down shirt. These are pieces that can be worn every year, every decade, and for almost every occasion. The opposite of these items are fad pieces, or items that are hot one minute, and cold the next. These items can frequently be seen on top ten lists, or the do's and dont's section of any fashion magazine. Two of these hit-or-miss pieces are the bell bottom jean and the clog. Ten years ago the clog was not only cool, but it was everywhere, in magazines, on the streets, and in the movies. After a brief stint it became passe and went into hiding until it recently reared it's head in fashion magazines such as Lucky. I got rid of my clogs, as did most people I know, yet my mother has stayed true, donning her clogs no matter what the trend. I would always chalk this up to her being a descendant of the 1970's, a time of flannel shirts, bell bottom jeans, and AC/DC. Her closet has proven great for vintage saddle bags, or paisley print tunics, yet I could never bring myself to "borrow" a pair of her clogs. It's not that I stopped loving the ease with which they slipped off, or the thick leather of which they were made, it's just that, well, I didn't want to look out of
Before you leave Saks.com, pick up this gorgeous 
of fireplaces roaring are just two of the wonderful enjoyments Winter brings. On the other hand, freezing your butt off, and having scaly hands like a fisherman is not so positive. Being a hand must be a rather depressing life. Hands are constantly neglected and abused by the elements, always dirty, and carrying germs. Yes, if I were a hand, I think I would be in some serious need of hand therapy; a little TLC perhaps. With November approaching, save hands from sudden doom with this prescription: take one part warmth and add one part moisture. The warmth is in the glove, and in particular these 
The second ingredient to healthy winter hands is moisture, moisture, moisture. Harsh winds and dry households wreak havoc on the skin, so protect your largest organ with 
Finally, the easiest shirt to wear. Even its name hints at it's simplicity: the 
re? No.
She has been dubbed "Commander in Sheath" by Vanity Fair, and was featured in the April issue of Vogue as their "It" girl. Everywhere you look, Michelle Obama is winning over Americans with her streamlined silhouettes, and use of bold accessories. Her panache for oversized pearls, and 60s inspired frocks has led Andre Leon Talley (Editor At Large for Vogue) to compare her fashion sense to that of
to Jackie 0. Whether dressing for the Democratic National Convention or various fundraisers, Michelle Obama arrives in style and has worn designs by Maria Pinto, Isabel Toledo, and Thakoon Panichgul to name a few. Despite her love for designer goods, Mrs. Obama
is no stranger to bargain shopping. The Donna Ricco dress she wore on The View cost a mere $148, and sold out of 
If there is one true statement to be made about east coasters, it's that we are creatures of habit. If there is a second true statement about us, it's that our lives are dictated by the seasons. The seasons, after all, affect our activities, moods, and wardrobe. It's for this reason that every Fall we put away our summer clothes and pull out sweaters, turtlenecks, and other cold weather items which we have not seen for months. For me, the process was actually quite fun, as I always found things that were nearly forgotten. Seeing the cashmere sweater I lived in, or the suede coat I couldn't take off was like seeing old friends again. This all came to a sudden halt when I moved to San Francisco and realized that the City by the Bay was in a constant state of Spring. Some rain, some cold, mostly mild, never 
If you're ever lucky enough to find a seat, it is most likely covered by someone else's coat, who will then rip it out from underneath your bottom as if you have a secret vendetta against long coats. If only everyone could own a chic jacket like this 
For most women, the road from college to adulthood is often a bumpy one, filled with emotional ups and downs as self-discovery rears its head. The fashion road from college to adulthood is usually disastrous and filled with such debacles as ultra low rise pants or cropped shirts. Luckily there are stores like 
In fashion, there is something known as "effortless dressing," which means, quite literally, dressing without any effort. The look is always basic yet chic, and fashion magazines seem to devote countless articles to attempting to dissect the haphazard style. Femmes fatales such as Kate Moss or some Parisian woman can be photographed wearing simply a t-shirt and jeans, yet they look glamorous and pulled together. To the untrained eye, effortless dressing may appear an easy feat to pull off, but it is actually much harder to do. Looking as if less than five minutes was spent getting dressed involves having a few key pieces, without which the look would not be able to be achieved. Some of these necessary staples are a black blazer, a dark skinny jean, and a proper fitting white t-shirt. The t-shirt is actually the hardest thing to find, since it must be the perfect balance of fitted and loose. 
One of the many things I find amusing about our culture is the dedication of entire weeks for random causes. We've all heard of National Secretary Week, National Small Business Week, or my favorite, National Singles Week. It's as if some married CEO thought of a list of things he or she wouldn't want to be and dedicated one week to each of them. While I'm all for praising people, a string of questions come to mind: are these special weeks meant to raise awareness, or are they meant to be some form of pity? If they are meant to raise awareness, isn't that then just a form of pity? As if to say "Hey secretary, you'll never be CEO, so here's a week for you", or "Hey unmarried person, feeling lonely? We gave you a week!" The whole thing just seems rather odd, but like I said, amusing in a cynical way.
So, after looking to the skies for a fairy tale and realizing Prince Charming must have missed his flight, I created my own "happily ever after" and purchased this diamond ring from where else? 
Much like Mr. Rogers, I have a fondness for cardigan sweaters; and if it was acceptable, I could potentially wear one every day. Today I am wearing my most prized cardigan, an Alexander Wang circa 2005. Each time I wear it, I become more aware of its fragile, lovable condition. But the reality that one day this sweater will become too lived-in and loved to wear out into the neighborhood is looming. I must find a suitable replacement. While looking at one of my favorite shopping destinations, 
If you get a little chilly, just pull out your Fruit of the Loom zip-up hoodie, also from Wal-Mart, for just $10.84. You can go hog wild and buy all four colors for under fifty dollars. That way, if you're like me and spill coffee on everything you wear, you won't be heartbroken that the sweatshirt that cost you a day's salary was ruined by your morning cup of joe. Instead, you can cut out that morning cup of coffee for a week and have enough to buy another one of these. 
Despite my love of vintage and all things quirky, one of my favorite designers is still none other than Mr. 
