The Boots That Changed My Life

I have a confession to make: I chucked my ever-so-warm UGG’S aside yesterday when I realized that although they may be warm, they’re sure not meant for walking in the snow. I know this for fact because I took the trash out yesterday while wearing them and when I stepped foot back inside they were soaking wet…and smelled like wet dogs. My solution to this problem: Sorel boots! They’re warm, waterproof, comfy and stylish – what more could you ask for?

The best part – the Sorel Tivoli Boots are only $100. There are tons of styles and designs so do your feet a favor and check out Sorel.com.  They’re a great alternative for the Hunter rain boots and UGG’S that everyone in America has!

My Current Obsession: Holiday Gift Guides

I know the Holiday season has arrived when the December magazines hit newsstands with their drool-worthy gift guides. Perhaps if I didn’t spend all of my money on hoarding the December issues, I could afford some of their offerings! I’ve narrowed it to my top 3 magazine picks this year so you don’t have to buy them all like me! Read below for my favorites in People Style Watch, Real Simple and InStyle.

1) People Style Watch – My top pick as I “oohed and ahhhhed” over every single page. I fell in love with the items below, especially the Andy Warhol Dom Perignon – what a great gift for art (champagne) lovers!

(clockwise from top left to right)

American Living Red Stripe PJ Set, $42.99 ON SALE; 2002 Dom Perignon Andy Warhol Tribute Champagne, $149 each; Z Gallerie Veneto Suitcase Set, $59.95; Lord & Taylor Notched Bow Leather Gloves, $59.99 ON SALE;  Jonathan Adler “Carb” and “Caffeine” canister set, $34.95 ON SALE;

2) InStyle – One of my regular monthly reads, it’s no surprise that their gift guide made my top 3. It does every year.

(clockwise from top left to right)

XOXO Organic Pillow Cover, $29; Bistro Juicer, $70; Polaroid 300 Instant Camera, $90; Ty Decorative Shower Curtain, $32; Calvin Klein Radiant Salt and Pepper Set, $50

3) Real Simple – Their gift guide is always chock full of amazing and unique gift ideas. There’s a section that features 100 gifts for under $50 this year, making shopping easier on our wallets this year. Thanks, Real Simple!

(clockwise from top left to right)

Heirloom LA’s Lasanga Cupcakes, $36 for 6; Palomino Tea Cup & Saucer, $30; F1 Seat Pak, $28 Plyboo Serving Board (California pictured, other states avail.), $40; Brodmann Blades Ping Pong Set, $90; Modern Alchemy Zodiac Candles, $24 each

Happy Holiday shopping and feel free to leave any great gift suggestions below. I’m always looking for interesting things!

BCA Finds For Everyday Use

You don’t have to purchase something that you’ll never use again just to show your Breast Cancer Awareness Support. There are tons of items that you’ll be able to use throughout the year, so shop wisely! Below are some of my fun finds that can be used everyday:

Believe it or not scarves are always in style no matter what season it is. I use them in summer to jazz up sun dresses, and in winter to keep my neck warm. This Lindsay Phillips Belleview Scarf ($25) is a vibrant pink and orange color and looks amazing with a plain black dress. For the month of October 25% of the purchase price will go to The Young Survival Coalition and The Mammography Voucher Program at Morton Plant Mease Hospital. You can justify it as an amazing new wardrobe piece that will help fight Breast Cancer!

I am pretty much obsessed with my new Philips Sonicare Toothbrush ($59.99) and I’ve never felt like this towards a brush before. Not  only am I cleaning my teeth, but Phillips Sonicare is a proud sponsor of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. In support of Breast Cancer Awareness month in October 2010 and 2011, the company will donate $100,000 to fund breast cancer research. Brush away for BCA!

If there’s one thing I don’t leave home without, it’s my Smashbox Lipgloss. This Limitless Long Wear Lip Gloss in Forever ($21) was created in a limited edition package, and all proceeds from the month of October will go toward the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Not only does the gloss stay on for hours upon hours, but also protects with SPF 15. This gloss looks stunning on top of a dark red lipstick – you’ll fall in love, I promise!

Breast SOS ($65 for 3oml), a signature product from all natural skin care line La Isha, is a must for every woman who wants to keep their breast and decolette area looking youthful. It helps improve overall color, texture and moisture retention of the skin, and helps to eliminate the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discolorations and restore a tighter, springy resilience. It’s also a favorite amongst Breast Cancer victims as it helps to make breast reconstruction more comfortable for patients with its soothing essential oils. A portion of Breast SOS proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer Fund.

Happy Breast Cancer Awareness shopping!

xoxo,
JR.

Boots, A Dress and A Handbag For Under $100?

Yes, that’s correct. I was able to visit Target while back home in NC. It’s a privilege coming from NYC since you have to travel pretty far by subway to get to a store, and all of the good stuff (especially the designer labels) is gone within a day. Plus it’s extremely hard to carry a lot of stuff on the subway ride home. Anyhow, here are my fabulous finds – all for under $100 total:

There were only 2 pairs of these Dolce Vita Buckle Ankle Boots for Target ($34.99) left and thankfully one of the boxes had my name written all over it. They’re very comfortable, and will look awesome this fall with some of my favorite summer dresses and a blazer.

Nude is the new black so I was extra excited when I saw this Xhiliration Ruffle Dress in Nude ($21.99). It’s a great color for every season and I plan on getting a lot of wear out of this. Cute in summer with some sandals and wavy beach hair, and sexy in winter with tall boots, leggings and smokey eyeshadow.

Can you imagine the disappointment on my face when I scrambled to get online the day Mulberry for Target went on sale, only to find that the Cerise Leopard Crossbody was SOLD OUT ($34.99). I was lucky enough to find one in the Raleigh, NC Target but also discovered Milo.com, a genius website that locates hard to find items within your local area.

What would we do without Target?! Stay tuned for several more great finds for Breast Cancer Awareness month.

xoxo,
JR.

Show Your Support For BCA In A Fashionable Way

During the month of October I’ll be showing several great products that you can purchase to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness. There’s something for everyone, including the Fashionista, the cook, the outdoors person, the electronics lover, the sports fanatic and so on.  See below for some fashionably fun (and practical) ideas:

Betsey Johnson created a limited edition oversize tote bag ($75) for her 2010 Breast Cancer Awareness collection. This fashionable carry-all will fit just about anything and makes for a great weekend bag as well.  A portion of the proceeds will support two of Betsey’s favorite charities: the National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund and the Weill Cornell Breast Center of the Iris Cantor Women’s Health Center at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, where Betsey herself was treated.

Check out the other items in Betsey’s Breast Cancer Awareness collection. Each item is imprinted with her personal declaration, “I’m A Survivor.

BCBG teamed up with Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and created these chic BCBG “Dream” sunglasses ($120). They’re the perfect way to show support while protecting your eyes from the sun and they also have inspirational words and phrases are printed on the inside of the glasses. 25% of retail sales from each pair will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure with a guaranteed minimum donation of $50,000.

Simply Vera by Vera Wang for Kohl’s is offering this adorable sequin coin purse ($10) for the month of October in order to show off your support. I hate big bulky wallets and always drop my change in the bottom of my purse, so this is great to cure my habit of loose change…and will help to find a cure for cancer too! It comes in several  great colors including Begonia Pink, Lipstick (pictured above), Rose Shadow and Silver.

100% of the net profit from the sale of this item will support the fight against breast cancer. Visit the Kohl’s Cares® site to learn more.

You can feel and look great with all of the items above and you’ll definitely be putting your hard-earned dollar towards a good cause. Be sure to do your on charities before making a purchase to make sure they’re legit. And stay tuned for more BCA finds throughout the month of October. Happy Shopping!

xoxo,
JR

Mad About Janie Bryant: Dress Just Like Joan, Peggy & Betty

When I heard that Mad Men costume designer Janie Bryant was creating a clothing and accessries line for  QVC,  I became overly excited. Each episode leaves me wanting to head straight to Saraz Closet to search for a Joan-like ensemble.  Her line is called Janie Bryant MOD and the looks are inspired by the 50’s and 60’s with a Mad Men flare. Not only can you now look like your favorite Mad Men character, but you won’t go bankrupt with these fabulous pieces. The collection is very simple and offers lots of layering items in order to accentuate what you already own! Check it out:

Bring out your inner-Joan with the Janie Bryant MOD Reversible Swing Coat ($112). Perfect for wearing over a cocktail dress during fall, and even cute paired with some jeans and riding boots. Slap on some red lipstick and you’ll be instantly transformed. The coat pictured above reverses to a chocolate color – 2-in-1 is always good!

I secretly love Peggy’s innocent “Secretary” look, she pulls it off so well on the show. Janie Bryant created this awesome cardigan ($83.25)  that has a detachable faux fur color. This is a classic sweater that will take you from day to night. Wear it to work without the fur for a more reserve look, and attach the fur for after work festivities for a more sassy vibe.

My favorite collection peice – the MOD 2 Button Faux Fur Coat ($144). It looks just like my grandmothers coat and I can picture Betty strutting around town in this with Sally and Bobby. A great addition to everyone’s winter wardrobe.

My favorite Betty look so far – she looks  sexy and seductive and the jewels are to die for. Janie Bryant created the MOD Timeless Bead Necklace ($44.50) and Timeless Drop Earrings ($29.50) which almost mimic the look pictured above. I am a sucker for vintage and vintage inspired jewelry, and these will definitely be mine soon!

Obsessed yet? There are also a few bags, hats, etc. that weren’t mentioned above – be sure to check them out on QVC.com

xoxo,

JR.

Freebie Of The Week: Foot Petals Sweaty Pedi & Pedi Fume

Fall is here, which means your tootsies are about to be covered up for the next few months. I hate having my feet trapped in winter boots and closed-toe heels. My feet feel sweaty and cooped up, but luckily I’ve found two great products to help my feet out: Foot Petals Sweaty Pedi and Pedi Fume. Read on to find out more about these handy products, and to see how to get them for FREE!

Not only does Foot Petals Sweatly Pedi ($9.95) absorb icky foot perspiration but also helps prevent those very unwanted blisters. It’s also mess-proof and hands free, so spray the amazing Lavendar and Vanilla scent anytime to calm and comfort your tired soles.

And Foot Petals Pedi Fume ($9.95) helps refresh swollen feet with a time release cooling sensation (great for the gal who’s addicted to heels)! The Jojoba wax can also prevent and calm razor burn on the legs, and Arnica helps to quickly heal bruises and relieves muscle pain. This 3-in-1 wonder gel has a hands free applicator and works hand in hand with Sweaty Pedi.

How to win these products:

Simply enter your name below under the red “response” tab below, and one lucky winner will be chosen on Friday, October 1st at 5pm EST. The winner will be notified via email for address verification. Spread this contest around on Facebook and Twitter, and GOOD LUCK! Stay tuned for more great giveaways in the future.

Prize details: One lucky winner will receive Foot Petals Sweaty Pedi and Pedi Fume, valued at $19.90

xoxo,
JR.

On My Fall Wardrobe List: A Faux Leather Jacket

Sure, pleather used to be un-cool and it was a crime to be caught dead in something faux, but this fall it’s quite the trend. I found some really cool ones for under $100, as opposed to that lovely $550 Alice + Olivia Luiza Leather Jacket at Bergdorf’ I’ve been drooling over. It’s quite trendy too, so spending that much money on a jacket that I may only wear for one season seems crazy. I can purchase a couple faux leather jackets this season, not feel guilty, and still look super stylish!

Check out these fun faux picks:

This Arden B Leatherette Ruched Jacket ($69.99) hardly looks fake with it’s deep, rich chocolate color and gold metalware. The perfect jacket to pear with jeans and a pair of aviator sunglasses. And right now you can buy one, get a second for $10 – WHAT A DEAL! Perfect for a fall birthday gift or you and your bestie can split the cost of $79.99 and both walk away with the bargain of the century.

The Bisou Bisou Ruffle Pleather Jacket from JC Penny looks strikingly similar to the Alice + Olivia jacket I’ve been eyeing, and is on sale for $49.99. It’s a bit feminine and perfect to wear over a dress with some heels for a night out on the town.

I must confess that I’m a bit obsessed with the designers on QVC these days. K-Dash, the Kardashians very own clothing label, made it’s debut on QVC during Fashion Week and has been a huge success. This K-Dash Faux Leather Motorcycle Jacket is just what I need for riding on my boyfriend’s new bike (if he’ll let me that is). The studded metal on the collar makes it uber sassy, and also comes in an Army Green shade. ON SALE for $89.96!

Forever 21 is always a great place to find affordable, trendy items – you just have to have patience to weed through the crowds and half of the Jersey Shore-like outfits for the good stuff! Their version of the Faux Leather Jacket offers a tailored-like fit and is girly yet tough looking at the same time. The most recession friendly by far at $32.80!

And if you can’t get over the pleather factor but can’t shell out a few hundred bucks for the real thing, try thrifting around (one of my favorite hobbies). This vintage 80’s Leather Bomber Jacket is only $89 – who can resist leather from the 80’s?! Check your local Salvation Army or search online – there’s tons of vintage stores and Etsy.com is a great place to start.

Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

JR.

Win This: Foot Petals Stiletto Stylist Kit

How would you like to walk around on cloud 9 all day, while still looking stylish in your platform heels? Well here’s your chance to win a Foot Petals Stiletto Stylist Kit ($44.95) that I recently raved about!

Stiletto Stylist Kit in Black

This fabulous kit contains the follwing (click on the link to read more):

1 Tip Toes
1 Killer Kushionz
2 Strappy Strips
1 Heavenly Heelz
1 Haute Heelz
2 Sole Stopperz

To enter for a chance to win, all you have to do is enter your name in the “response” area at the bottom of this post (in burgundy)! I’ll pull a number out of a box on Friday based on total number of entries, and will announce the winner that afternoon. Good luck, and spread the word – this is one kit you definitely want handy in your closet.

xoxo,
JR.

The Pumpkin: Light It, Sip It, Eat It, Bathe In It!

In order to celebrate the first official day of fall, I wanted to express my love for the Pumpkin as it always reminds me of the cool fall days ahead. With so many pumpkin products out there, these are a few of my absolute favorites:

Light it: Slatkin & Co. Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin Candle is an amazing scent of spicy pumpkin puree with sweet butter and vanilla cream all blended together – hungry yet? I leave this candle in my kitchen and light it at night when I’m reading on the couch. It’s super relaxing, lasts up to 65 hours of burn time and is only $19.50. I am really picky when it comes to candles, so you can trust that this scent won’t let you down!

Sip It: There’s nothing like a pumpkin spice latte and Starbucks knows how to win me over every year. While I’m not a fan of the rest of their coffee drinks, I can’t resist this warm latte on a cool night mixed with espresso, pumpkin, spices, steamed milk and sweetened whipped cream.

Eat It: How mouth-watering does a pumpkin spice cupcake with a maple-infused cream cheese frosting topped with a fondant maple leaf sound? This is my favorite cupcake on earth, and it happens to be all the way in DC. Although there are many different choices of delicious cupcake shops in NYC, Georgetown Cupcake beats them all by far. Order online for nationwide shipping ($26 for a dozen of your choice, and $29 for shipping). It’s worth it, I promise.

Bathe In It: Philosophy has some of the most amazing scents in their collection of body washes including Cinnamon Buns, Cookies N’ Creme and Cherry Angel Food Cake just to name a few (and they smell just as good as they sound.) Leave it to the brand to create a decadent Pumpkin Spice Muffin and Caramel Apple duo for Halloween for a mere $20. Best part is that you can use these for shampoo, body wash AND bubble bath (mix them together for a delicious fall bath).

What reminds you of fall?

xox0,
JR.