Michael Kors is All That: Part II

Reason #2:

His New Blog

I am proud to say that my love affair with Michael Kors began long before he became a household name, through his role on Project Runway alongside Heidi Klum.  I noticed his classic, classy clothing and accessories years ago and quickly became a convert (At Filene's, in Boston, before Macy's devoured my former favorite department store).  These days, Michael Kors runs a veritable fashion empire, with three separate lines, stores in 58 countries, and a huge product offering that now includes jewelry (see post "Part I").

A few weeks ago, to top it all off, Kors launched a travel blog called Destination Kors.  The blog is fantastic, with links to the Michael Kors Kors YouTube channel, photos of each look from his new collection, pictures and blurbs from his "Travel Diary" and more. I especially love the Weekly Style Tip and the street style photo roll, "How do You Wear MK?"  This fantastic blog was clearly the next move in what has been a career full of growth and success: 

About Michael Kors

Michael Kors now has a whopping 83 "lifestyle" stores in the United States, that carry his Michael Kors, MICHAEL Michael Kors and KORS lines of ready-to-wear, shoes and accessories.  This is not even including the countless specialty and department stores that carry Michael Kors, or outlets.  Michael, Michael, everywhere!

You know a designer has made it big when the Council of Fashion Designers of America presents them with one of its annual awards.  Last year, in 2010, Kors won the CFDA's Lifetime Acheivement Award, an incredibly prestigious honor whose past recipients include Calvin Klein, Karl Lagerfeld, Diane von Furstenberg and Caroline Herrera.  The Lifetime Acheivement Award is presented to designers who have offered a "lifetime" of consistent, creative influence and dedication to fashion.  At 50, Kors is the youngest ever to win.  I love how each winner brings something different to the fashion forefront.  As far as Michael Kors' contribution, I will always adore his simple, structured handbags, modern women's wear and affordable/beautiful watches.

For Value-Seekers
For economically-minded shoppers, the MICHAEL Michael Kors line of handbags especially offers incredible value.  Full sized bags range from $178 (totes) to $498 (satchels), with a selection of clutches and cross-body bags for between $68 and $198.  My favorite picks for this fall are the Small Saddle Messenger Bag in Peanut ($198), perfect for roaming around on the weekends, and the top-handled "Margo," in Luggage, soo amazing for a polished professional look.  An MK bag, given the proper care, can be used for a lifetime!  For the best deals, monitor sales at department stores where Michael Kors is sold. 

Michael Kors is All That: Part I

Reason #1:
His new jewelry line!

Jewelry can be tricky.  Cheap jewelry breaks or turns your skin green, and expensive jewelry is, well, expensive.  I think it's important with every element of fashion to mix high- and low-end items, but this category proves to be especially difficult because a mid-level product selection has been hard to find, in my experience.

Michael Kors has solved this problem for me with his amazing new line of jewelry, which includes rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets in both gold and silver.  Prices fall largely between $45 - $195, with a handful of more expensive items.

The reason why this line of jewelry is awesome is the same reason why Michael Kors in general is awesome: he offers simple, beautiful things at great prices.

I especially find these two rings to be fabulous: Silver Buckle Ring ($45) and Golden Chain Ring ($55).

The line is also carried at Bloomingdale's, so if you're looking for an even better deal, watch the sales and use your Bloomie's card to be eligible for greater discounts.

One note to say that I do wish there was a bit less logo with some of the pieces, but if you stick with the subtle and classy ones (no big "MK's"), you'll do wonderfully in my book!

Retail Store Credit Cards

Caution, shoppers!  Retail store credit cards, just like regular credit cards, can lead to a giant, sticky financial mess.  But if you can carefully evaluate your options and take into account your shopping preferences and the level of benefits offered, you can save.  I don’t have the resources to provide a thorough analysis of all store credit cards offered and the pluses and minuses of each (though a Google search will yield great results), but I can walk through my own store card history to offer some insights.

Past

Over the years, I’ve had a number of store credit cards.  My first two were Express and Victoria’s Secret.  I don’t regret opening either; I was probably 18 when I opened both of them and they helped me build my credit score, which is very important!  My parents raised me to be responsible with my money, so I only ever bought what I could afford and paid my bill in full and on time.

My tastes have changed, of course, and I don’t have either card anymore.  I haven’t shopped at Express for years, so that was the first to go.  For those of you that haven’t read up on your credit 411, cards will automatically shut themselves down if they go unused for a few years.  Click here for more tips on how to maintain a good credit score.  Your best bet is to cut up the card, monitor the account to avoid fraudulent use, and wait.  Unfortunately, it actually costs you points on your credit report to call and close them, so if you can wait, do it.  As for the Victoria’s Secret card – yes, I do buy underthings – but I don’t shop the store’s catalog extensively, as some of my friends do, and didn’t see the point, so I put that card away years ago as well to close on its own.

Present

Currently, I have two store credit cards – Bloomingdale’s and Old Navy.  I know, they see to be on pretty opposite ends of the spectrum, but both offer amazing benefits and I use them all the time!

I opened my Bloomingdale’s card during the summer of 2006, on a trip to New York City, while I was still an undergraduate student in Boston.  I was at the 59^th Street flagship location with a friend in the Marc Jacobs designer handbag shop.  Bloomingdale’s always offers 10% off your purchases for the day that you open your card; but, during certain sales, they offer up to 15% or even 20%!  I spotted this awesomely enormous, luggage brown bag that was marked down.  With my new card discount, I paid just over $400 – a steal for a $1,000+ designer bag.  This bag has been a staple for my wardrobe, and the credit card has been a staple for my shopping!

Bloomingdale’s cardholders receive a number of great benefits:
*Free shipping on online orders of $150 or more, all the time
*Additional discounts during "Private Sale," for cardholders only
*A point system with rewards certificates that can be used like cash
*Membership in the "Shoe Club" with 25% off a full-priced pair of shoes for every five pairs that you buy
*Advanced access to sale items through "pre-sale"
*And more!

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I opened my Old Navy card two years ago.  I had used a friend’s card before (thanks, C!) and already knew how great the discounts and rewards were.  Sometimes I really wonder how Old Navy makes any money because their products are so inexpensive to begin with and my card offers additional discounts!  Old Navy also has a reward points program, and I love redeeming the $10 certificates that I receive in the mail.  Also, twice a year the "Stuff and Save" sale offers cardholders 30% off the entire store! 

Another great benefit is that I can use my Old Navy card at Gap, Banana Republic and Piperlime.com as well, since they are the same company.  Every Tuesday, I can receive an additional 10% off purchases at any of the four stores!

Future

My tastes and shopping preferences will surely change as they have so far, so down the road I will likely open new accounts or close the ones I have.  No matter what, I will always keep in check the number of total accounts I have open and only ever go for ones that provide top notch benefits!

Trend Alert: Tights!

I’ve been reading my fashion magazines and blogs avidly, of course, and the thing I’m most excited about for the coming Fall and Winter is… tights!  This year, shoppers will be presented with dozens of varieties of hosiery in different colors, patterns, thicknesses, etc. 

Pop Culture

The emphasis on legwear can definitely be traced to popular culture. For several years now, the outfits of Gossip Girl’s Serena van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf have been revved up with great legwear.  More recently, the Middleton ladies have received attention for their decision to wear nylons, something considered a bit unnecessary and even passé by many.  Though not a huge fan of nude hosiery myself, I am embracing this new spotlight on tights!

New Collection

Speaking of Gossip Girl, the show’s costume designer, Eric Daman, is teaming up this year with DKNY to release a capsule collection of hosiery.  The legwear will be priced affordably, at $15 - $24, and will come in a variety of fun patterns and lengths.  You can shop the collection this fall in stores or online with DKNY, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom.

Affordable Basics

Hue brand is my go-to favorite for basic black tights because they are of great quality.  Instead of coughing up department store prices, I pay about $10 for a two pack at stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s or Filene’s Basement. 

Mix & Match

I usually wear skirts to work, so tights are already a staple for me in the winter.  Obviously they are great because they keep you warm, but they also provide shape and support, and add an additional style element to your outfit!  I’m always tempted to wear plain black tights, but things get much more interesting when you incorporate different tones and designs.  Navy is a great color to start with, as it’s not a bright hue and will pair well with most colors.

This year, there will be no shortage of places to purchase your new assortment of tights!  I found a surprisingly comprehensive selection of tights at the local convenience store!  And wow, check out this crazy wall of tights in seemingly every shade at American Apparel!

Sleek & Chic

Probably my biggest hesitation with tights is that I’m worried that too much pattern will somehow flatten my figure and make me look bigger.  Eek!  We don’t want that.  First of all, unless you’re model-thin, stay away from any horizontal pattern but definitely go for vertical stripes as they will be thinning!  Second, when opting for a patterned tight, most of your options will be in black.  This is good, because black is flattering on its own.  Wear funkier black tights with black heels – this will elongate the leg – problem solved!  Oh and… have fun!

Tour de Fashion

This fall for fashion week, the Fashion Center offered free, one-hour rides on bespoke bicycles designed by the likes of Diane von Furstenberg, Elie Tahari, Thom Brown and Betsey Johnson. 

The reason behind this offering was that "all eyes are on New York City, and there is no more appropriate occasion to highlight the wealth of talent and history we have here in this neighborhood.  Tour de Fashion is a spectacular and innovative celebration of the Fashion District as the home of American fashion," according to Barbara Randall, president of the Fashion Center's Business Improvement District.

The Fashion Center BID promotes the positive development of the district by providing marketing and promotional programs, among other resources, to companies in New York City's historic "Fashion District," between 35th - 41st Streets, and 5th - 9th Avenues.

At the end of this interactive experiment, the bicycles will be auctioned off, with benefits going towards the CFDA's Incubator Program which "supports the next generation of designers in New York City."

My favorite bike is by Rebecca Minkoff, with a leather handbag up front to store personal items, and a studded box in the back!

Fashion Diffusion

It used to be that if you wanted to buy designer, you had to shell hundreds or thousands of dollars.  Not anymore! 

Within the last five years or so, a fashion miracle has occurred:  mass retailers began collaborating with higher-end brands to introduce collaborative “diffusion” lines to the market.  Target, with its “GO International” lines, was a pioneer of this concept, partnering with seventeen different designers since 2006 including cult favorites like Proenza Schouler, Rodarte and Zac Posen. 

These days, stores from Macy’s to Crate & Barrel are launching these partnerships.  In the shadow of this recession, it makes sense than ever.  Consumers are less confident and fashion companies need to keep revenues from plunging and diffusion lines create excitement and drive sales.

As amazing as diffusion lines are, you need to remember not to loose your head when shopping.  Fashion-forward deal-seekers are likely go crazy in this sort of situation, myself included, and end up spending too much money on things they don't even really like or need.  Read my pros and cons below for a thoughtful shopper’s analysis on the topic.

Diffusion Lines: Pros

That’s an easy one: diffusion lines represent affordable luxury – designer items at great prices.  Diffusion line items are generally only offered for a limited time at limited quantities, so the most in demand pieces are that much more special! 

Diffusion Lines: Cons

Where could you go wrong?  You'd be surprised!

The first problem with diffusion lines is that although they are made for the masses, they demand is often much higher than the quantity, especially in New York City and other urban areas where high concentrations of fashionistas abound.  Additionally, these collections are also often debuted during business hours, which – let’s face it, makes things hard for those of us who work traditional weekday jobs. 

Another issue I’ve struggled with in the past is that after going to the trouble of getting to the store, I don’t necessarily love the product selection.  There’s a feeling of pressure to buy something since you’ve come this far, even if your size is sold out or the pieces are not really your style.

Finally, just because an item is being sold at a mass retailer, doesn’t mean the price is a regular mass retailer price.  Diffusion line items, although cheaper than the regular designer pieces, can easily be twice as expensive or more than what is normal at a given store. 

Recommendation

If your Absolute Favorite Designer Ever is doing a diffusion line, knock yourself out.  Pull out all the stops!  Do what it takes to make sure you have the chance to shop the collection. 

Otherwise, proceed carefully, keeping in mind my points  above.  When possible, check out the goods online in advance to see if you like the product selection.  Also, never buy something because you feel like you should - that rule applies to all fashion purchases, not just diffusion lines.  Finally, instead of getting caught up in short-term offerings, check out stores that regularly collaborate with outside designers.  The Simply Vera by Vera Wang collection at Kohl’s and Christian Siriano for Payless Shoe Source are some of my personal favorites.  

Diffusion Line Alert!

Check out the new Missoni for Target collection, which premiered during Fashion's Night Out in New York City.  The collection, which features a record 400+ items including women's, men's, children's and home, will be available in stores and online today (through October 22nd)!  Click here for the online lookbook.

FNO Recap

The crowds were raging! The champaign was flowing! The DJ's were spinning!

I have to say, my favorite part of Fashion's Night Out was this GINORMOUS Mulberry blow-up bag, literally about eight feet tall.

Also, little Mulberry-bag-shaped mylar balloons inside their new store!  So cute!

I didn't buy anything, but this French Connection wool shift dress did catch my eye.  It would be amazing for work this winter and it's on sale for $89 from $148!  The dress will be amazing to wear with white or colored button-downs, fun belts and/or fun tights!  I think I may just find myself buying this dress before the weekend is up...

All About Belts

Belts are one of my favorite accessories.  A belt can complete an outfit by adding an extra pop of color and by completing your style statement.  I especially love belting at the waist because it really accentuates the feminine figure and also give an ensemble a true “finished” look.  If you need some help in the Belt Department, read on for some tips!

The Staples

Everyone should have one brown and one black leather belt.  Don’t be cheap with these because they are basics and you will use them often, and for years.  Department stores like Lord & Taylor have great standard belt options.  I especially love the store's online search tool which lets you narrow down your query by designer, color, size and price range - from your couch!  Individual brands with great selections include Cole Haan and Banana Republic.

The Add-Ons
In addition to brown and black,  I also recommend other shades of the neutral family (browns, cream, etc.) and if you wear gold, a belt in that shade as well.  These are two of my favorite skinny leather belts, both on sale at J. Crew for about $40 each.

The Extras

For colorful belts, I encourage buying inexpensive and synthetic styles.  Unsurprisingly, I’ve had great success at Forever 21 and H&M.  These two belts were about $5 and $10 those stores, respectively.

Ribbon Belts

I adore the ultra-feminine look of a ribbon belt, tied in a bow at the hip (to the side) or waist (in the middle).  This look is not for everyone, but if you enjoy this feminine style, head to the Fashion District in NYC, or your nearest fabric shop, to stock up on DIY belts made simply from lengths of ribbons in your favorite colors.  Read my Steals for Under $20 post for other inexpensive ideas.

Custom Belts

There is a very cool store on Prince Street in Soho called Badichi.  There, you can choose your own belt material, color, size and buckle for a fully customized belt!

Is-A-Belt

This company totally read my mind!  Their product is a thin, clear adjustable belt that holds your pants up invisibly.  This is great if you are wearing a snug or sheer top through which a chunky belt would be noticeable.  In order to hold up your britches but keep your outfit "smooth," put on the Is-A-Belt and voila – problem solved.

The company also now makes other invisible fashion fixes which are definitely worth a look!

Get a New Wardrobe for $30

Need new options?  You can revitalize your wardrobe with less than $30!

Instead of buying new things, we're going to work with what we've got.  You know how people miss obvious spelling and grammatical errors on papers they've read over and over?  With your wardrobe, it's the same thing!  We get into the habit of pairing the same colors and materials together over and over and we forget to change things up and combine things differently.  Your action plan is below.

First: Call a friend whose sense of style you trust. Tell her that you need her help (flattery gets you everywhere) and invite her to your place for wine and cheese (that's where the $30 comes in).  Set a date - you'll need two or three hours.

Second: Prep your closet in advance.  Do your laundry and dry-cleaning, and make sure everything is organized.  Get rid of things that are worn out or don't fit.  Click here for more advice on how to whip your wardrobe into shape.

Third: Fill in your friend - she's going to be your Wardrobe Consultant.  The goal is to bring a fresh perspective to your clothes, shoes and accessories.  Give him or her access to your closet, and let them get to work making suggestions on what pieces would go together nicely.  You’ll be surprised at how many new outfits someone else can pull out of your closet!

Finally: Swap with your friend!  Make a date to liven up her closet in the next few weeks.  Drinks on her this time!

Here are some fun pairings I’ve come up with in my own closet. 

At first I thought the bright and dark contrast of this skirt and sheer top would be too much.  But as I put the two pieces together, I noticed that the lighter yellow shades in the top paired really well with the bright hue of the skirt.  This will be great for Fall!

My Mom told me when I was younger, that when she was a girl, her mother gave her this piece of fashion advice, “Red and pink, you stink!”  I disagree.  I actually love putting together different colors within the same family, like this off-white top with navy polka dots and bright blue cardigan. 

Finally, this bright yellow top has been tough to figure out, but it actually looks great with this green skirt.  I especially love the way the feminine ruffle contrasts with the tougher look of the skirt's paneling and brass buttons.

A few more ideas before you go...

Tip: Reference a J. Crew catalog or the website.  The brand does an excellent job of pairing unexpected, bright colors!  Your style doesn't necessarily have to be as preppy, but you can take cues from their color and material match-ups.

Extra: Set aside five items that you love but have had trouble figuring out how to wear.  You can be your own Wardrobe Consultant be singling out these items and actively 

I do this all the time.  If I'm really stumped I will literally hold something up against every top I own until I see a connection.  If you love something, it'll be worth it!

One More Thing: Gray goes with everything!  And it's classic.

Fall Fashion Fun

For its Fall 2011 collection, the French brand LANVIN decided to do something a little different.  And by a little, I mean a lot.  Please, please, please click the link below to watch LANVIN's YouTube video of both female and male supermodels dancing to the tune of "I Know You Want Me" by Pitbull in various ensembles from the line.  Yep, it's amazing!

LANVIN Fall 2010 Collection

How is this related to affordable fashion you ask?  I've given it some thought and, yes, there is a correlation.  This video reflects the way that online and social media are influencing the way the world is beginning to think about communication.  Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Foursquare, etc. represent the future of online communication. Get with it, people!  Not only do these channels offer a great way to converse directly with the brands you love, there are also exclusive products, deals and experiences on the sites!  

Example A: Those who "Like" Diane von Furstenberg re eligible to buy a Facebook-only dress (one every month!).

Example B: Gilt Group offers certain sales to it's Facebook users only!

Example C: For Fashion Week earlier this year, Foursquare users were entered for a chance to win tickets to the designer's show by friending him first, then checking in at any Marc Jacobs store.  Four winners were chosen!

 

Fashion homework: go "Like" your favorites now!

Fashion's Night Out - Be There!

Question: What is Fashion's Night Out?

Answer: Fashion's Night Out is a "fashion party" founded by Vogue Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, in 2009 to support the fashion industry through the promotion of full-priced merchandise.  The event has gained momentum in the last two years and now extends to 18 countries around the world.

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Question: When is Fashion's Night Out this year?

Answer: Fashion's Night out will take place on Thursday, September 8 between 6 - 11pm.

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Question: Why should I participate?

Answer Part 1: Per FNO's website, "to promote retail and restore consumer confidence."  Just like we need fashion, fashion needs us...

Answer Part 2: For the chance to meet designers, musicians and other celebrities and encounter other unique shopping experiences! NYC participants this year include Rachel Zoe, Adriana Lima, François NARS and Isabel Toledo.

Answer Part 3: There will be free things! A teeny NYC sample selection:

- Champagne at Michael Kors stores

- A Joss Stone concert at Macy's

- Updoes at the Rebecca Minkoff Braid Bar at Saks

- Ice Cream from the Marc by Marc Jacobs truck at Bloomingdale's

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Question: There seems to be a lot going on, how do I know where to start?

Answer: It would be wise to scope out participating retailers in advance, especially in NYC and other cities that have a lot going on.  Check out FNO's amazing "Planning Your Evening" tool to help!

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Add Fashion's Night Out to your calendar NOW!