14

Jun

Muhammad Ali and grandson pose for Louis Vuitton

Let’s all say it together: “Awwwww!”

Ali and his grandson Curtis Conway, Jr.  join a list of other celebrity and iconic supporters of the posh brand including Angelina Jolie and Pele.  The ad campaign – with photos shot by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz -was captured at Ali’s Phoenix home and launches today.  And that haute bag? It’s the Keepall 50, priced at $1630 and can be customized with stripes and/or a monogram.  You can purchase  it online at Louis Vuitton; the luxury brand is also sold at Birmingham’s Saks Fifth Avenue, located at the Summit.

Image via The Wall Street Journal

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24

May

Chic Essential: The Caftan

We’re not talking muu-muus here.  Caftans (and tunics) are to your spring and summer wardrobe what sheath dresses are for the working girl: a definite must have.  You can throw one on and with minimal effort, you’re basically done.  Whether you choose a pretty pattern or a solid color, an already-embellished version or add your own statement necklace or cuff, you can rock these to run errands, lounge by the pool or beach (they make great swimsuit cover-ups and are easy to pack), or to a backyard soiree.  (Side note: my grandmother LOVES them, and gives longer styles as presents.  They make fabulous hostess gowns and just scream “Have cocktails in the casbah with me, dahling.  Or a daiquiri on the patio. Your choice.”)

Love your legs? Then by all means, bare them: caftans easily mimic mini dresses.  If you’d like more coverage, wear them over shorts, jeans, linen slacks, palazzo pants or leggings.  They’re just that versatile and can go from casual to polished with a change of accessories and shoes.  Wedge sandals, canvas espadrilles, or capri sandals (metallic, brightly colored or bedazzled leather flip flops) are all you need to complete the look.  Be  sure to layer sheer fabrics with a cami underneath, and if the flowy style threatens to swallow you up, belt it!

What’s also lovely is this easy style is flattering on all body types! I am loving the bright, v-neck versions at Old Navy right now, which have slits at the sleeves and hem and are priced just under $20 before tax!  Having tried the orange print on, I advise that you go a size up for comfort and note the polished cotton doesn’t offer any “stretch.”  Want to spend a little more? Tory Burch’s offerings are synonymous with wearable, effortless chic.  And you can always search Ebay or your favorite consignment outpost for groovy vintage options.  If you’re really adventurous and want to break out your sewing machine, you can scoop a vintage pattern via Etsy and create your own!

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Side note: this beaded Victoria’s Secret caftan is now in my closet and is as airy as a summer breeze (it will be worn with white skinnies and shorts).  The black on white Venus Swimwear version mimics the classic Tory Burch pattern and is my new beach cover-up;  it was a steal at $19!

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18

May

Joseph Abboud to visit Belk/Riverchase Galleria May 24

Designer Joseph Abboud

Gentlemen,  mark your calendars for this special event:

Menswear designer Joseph Abboud will showcase his new line, Black Brown 1826, at the Belk/Riverchase Galleria next Thursday.  The contemporary menswear line is sold exclusively at Belk and Lord & Taylor stores.  The event (okay, it’s a party!), which begins at 6 PM, will feature fabulous prizes, music, craft beer tasting from Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and even complimentary cigars for the first 50 guests.  Guests will have a chance to win a $500 Black/Brown 826 wardrobe and a weekend trip to Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge!  Appetizers and wine will be on deck via the B&A Warehouse.

Guys, if you’re stuck in a style rut (I mean, how many times can one wear khaki pants and a blue shirt? Come on.) then you need to be at Belk next Thursday from 6 PM to 9 PM.  Black Brown 1826 is advertised as “clothing and sportswear designed for the way real men really live,” and includes a range of options for the well-dressed gent: suits, dress

If you look like this, you need to be at the Black Brown 1926 launch. You’re welcome.

shirts, outerwear, shoes and accessories, as well as more business casual-type offerings and even golf polos.  It’s not so edgy that you’ll feel like you’re wearing Gordon Gartrell, but the line certainly has pieces that will freshen your spring and summer wardrobe.

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15

May

FYI: eBay Fashion Vault Features Kardashians’ Kloset

Silver and rhinestone chain mail evening bag by Jimmy Choo

No, you won’t find what’s left of Kanye West or Bruce Jenner’s dignity inside. 

Ebay is offering up Kim and Kourtney’s kouture kast offs to  the bidding public.  Designer bodycon dresses, skirts, blouses, shoes and handbags are up for grabs through May 21.

What is Fashion Vault, exactly?  From the site:
“Fashion Vault hosts weekly and special fashion events of branded clothing, shoes, and accessories. Our selections range from exclusive collections (only sold on eBay), to special access events and one-of-a-kind items. Check back often to shop our deep-discount blowouts and save up to 85% off retail (manufacturer’s suggested retail price).

Events are held for a brief time only—and quantities are limited. If you see something that catches your eye, act fast before it sells out!

And to make these deals even better, shipping is usually free.

Fashion Vault members get perks like:

  • Early access to events—Don’t miss out on the chance to shop the best items each week
  • Exclusive coupons and promotions
  • Members-only secret sales, special events—From time to time, we’ll hold secret sales and special events just for members. Share the love and invite your friends to join!”

You’re welcome.

Image via Ebay Fashion Vault

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26

Apr

Haute deals to be found at tonight’s Bargain Bash

Calling all savvy shoppers and bargainistas!  The Junior League of Birmingham’s Bargain Carousel (AKA “Birmingham’s Biggest Garage Sale”) is this weekend! From clothing for the whole family to gently used baby equipment, toys, housewares, furniture, exercise/sports equipment to electronics and more, you can find SERIOUS deals at the former Mazers location on Greensprings.   And the proceeds benefit the Junior League’s community projects!  

 Full disclosure: as a new member of The Junior League, I had an opportunity to volunteer at the venue last weekend in Ladies Clothing, and was able to get a sneak peek at some of the deals.  And there was plenty to love, including brand new and “gently loved” items by Ann Taylor, J. Crew, Bebe, and Kristin Davis for Belk. There was a fabulous bronze bedazzled top by Ann Taylor, an ivory evening gown with jet beading and a cowl neckline, straw handbags and white denim that are perfect for Spring and Summer, and a lovely LBD with jeweled neckline by David Meister.  Love vintage? I spotted a lime green and orange Christian Lacroixknit set and a to-die-for wool coat with mink collar (from a former Birmingham department store!) Some of the items still sport their original sales tags.

Jade and gold Bebe blouson top

Sundresses, separates, casual pieces and cocktail wear have been separated to give shoppers a taste

"Girlfriend" strikes a pose in David Meister LBD and vintage coat.

of how to mix and match when one has a budget, a little time to look and a lot of creativity!  One of my duties involved dressing the mannequin in Ladies Clothing, whom we nicknamed “Girlfriend”; what do you think?

Bargain Carousel kicks off TONIGHT with the Bargain Bash, featuring “show-stopping” deals ahead of the official sale dates this Saturday and Sunday.  Amanda LeBlanc of the Style Network’s The Amandas, will appear from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and will organize certain pieces from the sale into a display. The event will also feature a silent auction, cotton-candy cocktails and carnival treats; feel free to come dressed in casual attire.  VIP Patron Tickets allow guests in for 6 P.M. shopping and are $40; general admission tickets for 7 P.M. entry are $30; click HERE to purchase.  Note: items will be sold for double the price marked during the VIP Patrons’ Party and Bargain Bash. 

Bargain Carousel welcomes weekend shoppers this Saturday, April 28 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 P.M.  Tickets can be purchased at the sale site this Friday from 3:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M, and there is a four ticket limit on advance tickets.  Expect plenty of bargain hunters when the doors open, but purchasing a numbered ticket ensures your spot in line.  Admission is free this Sunday, April 29; doors will be open from 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. 

The former Mazers Superstore is located at 816 Greensprings Highway in Homewood.

See you there!

Images via The Junior League of Birmingham and yours truly

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25

Apr

Red Haute: The Shops at Target Launch May 6

Have you ever wished all the fabulous, one-of-a-kind boutiques you’ve found during your travels or in various places you’ve lived were in ONE convenient location?  Wish no more! 

Target puts an innovative twist on its commitment to “great design at affordable prices” and changes up its designer collection approach by launching The Shops at Target, a six week collaboration which will feature 400 chic, limited edition pieces from select shops around the country.  Look for “bohemian-chic” housewares from Connecticut’s Privet House, clothing from Miami’s The Webster, Cos Bar from Aspen (featuring high-end cosmetics), sweet treats for humans from The Candy Store from San Francisco, and sweet treats for your pooch from Boston’s Polka Dog Bakery.  Store displays in Target will highlight each shop’s unique appeal, and items will sell in the $1-$160 range. 

Get it while it’s haute; the collection closes June 16!  View The Shops at Target Gift Guide HERE, and watch a preview of the line below:

Image via Target

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24

Apr

Pop the champagne (and pass the sequins)!

It’s Same Chic Different Day’s 200th post (and our 75th at AL.com)!

To celebrate, I bought myself something special: a pair of sequined harem pants. Why, you ask?  No, I am not headed to Vegas or auditioning for a Dynasty reboot (although, how fabulous would that be?!). 

I wanted to own something that said “risk taker” (oh, and “lover of sequins”).  I don’t wax poetic and get all mushy about getting to write this blog, but starting it represented a a huge risk for me and an opportunity to step out on faith.  Each day is sort of a “If you post it, they will come” moment.  Will you like it? Will you hate it?  Will you READ it? Will you try something different in your own life or wardrobe?  That’s the goal.

So, the pants.  I saw them a while back, as J. Crew sold a ridiculously glamorous pair silver pair for over $600 last year.  I filed them away in my mental “Obsessing Over but Out of the Budget” file until I happened across a look-alike pair in black.  For $40.  Sold!

So (once again) I’m stepping out on faith, my personal sense of style, and the fervent hope that my life will soon include someplace ridiculously glamorous to sashay around in them (or break out in a mean Chinese Typewriter).  And if not, I’ll just wear them while I sit on my sofa and write these posts. 

XOXO, Alexis

Images via J.Crew and CalypsoThreads

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11

Apr

Give Rainy Weather the Boot!

April showers may bring May flowers, but they can also ruin your flats, booties and stilettos!  So why not invest in a super cute pair of rubber rain boots (also known as wellies, because they were named after the Duke of Wellington)?  Whether you opt for a solid color in a neutral or bright shade (I’m loving Hunter’s bright pink pair), grab a patterned pair in polka dot or houndstooth, or let your inner fierce kitty roar in leopard, these boots will keep your feet dry.  If you don’t like flats, there are even wedge versions available.  And they’re suited for jumping into a puddle, if you get the urge. 

Find your own pair at local retailers like Belk and Macy’s, big box stores like Target or online at Zappos.com.  How to wear them?  I love to keep it casual; I wear my Coach pair with leggings or denim. And to be honest, I wear them even when it isn’t raining, because they’re extremely comfortable and IMO, a little more pulled together than Uggs.  How to keep them nice and shiny? Well, to remove the film that often appears on rain boots after they’ve gotten wet, spray with Armor All  Original Protectant (yes, the same kind used to clean your dashboard) and wipe off with a clean, soft towel.

If rain boots are just not for you, be sure to waterproof your shoes.  Fab Sugar offers a quick tutorial here.

Image via Zappos

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03

Apr

The Look for Less: YSL Tribute Sandals

Haute mommy Christina Milian (The Voice’s social media correspondent) gives us a POP! Of color while out and about in LA in neon pink skinnies and towering heels. 

Love the look of her YSL Tribute stilettos (available at Net-a-Porter) but not the $795 (plus tax and shipping charges, darlings!) pricetag?  Check out a similar pair: “Toleo” by Vince Camuto in snake-embossed beige and “Mojito”  mint green (a very hot color for Spring).  The 4″ heel, 1″ platform is available at Macy’s and Dillard’s online, for $98 (yes, plus tax and shipping.  Macys.com does not have the mint green pair).

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Images via YBF, Net-a-Porter and Dillards

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26

Mar

Mad Men Season 5 Airs; SCDD Shops!

Mad Men’s highly anticipated, hotly debated Season 5 aired last night and – without giving anything away- it’s safe to say “the time’s, they are [definitely] a-changing.”  SCDD won’t parse the details and speculate about future plot twists here (that could go on forever, as internet chatter about the newest season hit fever pitch the past few months).  Nay, we’ll celebrate the show’s pitch-perfect attention to detail.  I squealed out loud when I saw little Sally Draper’s sunshine yellow Springmaid bed sheets; my parents had the exact same set which they received as a wedding gift.  Want a set of your own?  Check them out on Etsy HERE (alas, this listing ’tis only the flat sheet).

What other era-perfect goodies did I browse?  How about Joan Holloway Harris’ signature statement piece: the gold pen necklace?  Femme fatale attitude sold separately.  Or how about that super chic pram she strolled her new baby around town in?  This Silver Cross Balmoral pram sold by Posh Tots “combines stately elegance with an air of true nostalgia” and retails for $3,995 (although it’s missing the little privacy curtain).

In the age of iPhones, crackberries and Androids, how many of us maintain a hardcopy desk calendar or handwritten schedule?  Pete’s secretary Clara had a nifty trifold version, and Kate Spade periodically offers a similar pink version. This one is on Ebay.  Or might you be interested in playing solitaire with a real deck of cards for a change?

Wondering what to get the man who has everything (including a secret identity)? Then a pure badger shaving brush or silver-topped walking stick may be right up your man’s sartorial alley. And if you’re planning to serenade him with his own special “Zou Bisou Bisou” moment, this dress by Posh Girl Vintage is close-up ready.

For more Mad Men clothing and cosmetics, check out the collections at Banana Republic and Estee Lauder.

I have an early meeting with Coca Cola on Staten Island,

Alexis

Images via AMC TV

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C'est Si Bon/Fashion Flashback/Shopping is My Cardio

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