June 21st, 2011 §
By: Becca and Cori Sue
Nerd alert! We both have iPads. Cori Sue actually uses hers for serious things like work and school, while Becca’s iPad gets more play from her cat these days (for real, those mouse apps will amuse your cat for hours).
No matter how you’re using it, you must accessorize your new toy. Luckily, there are practicable and adorable cases for you to swathe your new baby in, but also make it easy to pull out and read on the metro, coffee shop, or wherever you take it.
Cori Sue’s Picks
You could opt for a classic gold metallic leather case Graphic Image. Ipad Cover, $130, Cambria Cove.
Photo credit: Cambria Cove
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
I’m loving this Indian gold-patterned case that comes in pink, turquoise, navy or nude. Mumbai Ipad Case by Stephanie Johnson, $60,
Cambria Cove or
Bloomingdales.
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
And, saving the best for last, you can personalize your own canvas or leather (or leopard)
iPad case at Iomoi—pick your stripe, pick your logo and add your monogram, should you so desire. They have quirky designs like monkeys with umbrellas and dancing elephants—what more could you ask for?
Photo credit: Iomoi
Becca’s Picks
So this is pretty cool: BOOK for iPad is a hand-made hard cover book jacket, with a 100% wool felt sleeve tailored to the iPad on the inside. Each one is hand-crafted to order, so you can personalize it with your own “title” on the spine. $99 to $119, depending on customization.
Photo credit: BOOK for iPad
I’m a sucker for Kate Spade anything. Currently, my iPhone is sheathed in the most adorable polka-dot hard plastic case. So it only makes sense to complete the case collection for my Apple devices in Miss Spade, right? Her iPad case is just as lovely, covered in funny little classified ads. $85.
Photo credit: Kate Spade
I’m also loving the Michael Kors line of iPad cases. There is this fabulous python case, but also a gold one and a black one available. They’re super functional with the zipper, and the price point won’t make you feel guilty about throwing it in your bag. $130.
Photo credit: Michael Kors
And now I’m going to imagine I have pots of money. For the love of Gwo, I lust for this lux alligator iPad sleeve. It’s got a secure snap button and the front is embossed with the Burberry Prorsum logo. Drool. $4,195.
Photo credit: Burberry
March 3rd, 2011 §
By: Cori Sue
There are some “trends” that are so ingrained in my fashion sensibilities that I often wonder what the heck I did before said trend became popular. For instance metallics—how did I accessorize before metallics came to be? How did I tie my outfits together and coordinate my jewelry, clutch, and shoes for cocktail parties? My favorite accessories are gold, I literally have no idea how I survived beforehand.
I feel similarly about ballet flats. I was in Florida, so I wore flip flops. But, what did the rest of you wear on your feet when it wasn’t summer (sandals), winter (boots), or you weren’t dressed up (heels)? And, for the love of god, please don’t answer that question with the words “loafers” or “clogs.” But, seriously, ballet flats are the perfect go-to-shoe to wear the majority of the year at all times and places—to brunch, to the office, to run errands, to meet up with friends, or to go out. They are cute, classic and (usually) comfortable.
Before ballet flats were popularized by Tory Burch’s Reva, they were just that, shoes ballerinas wear to ballet class. In honor of their notable origin, I’ve picked out some pale pink ballet flats for you to wear this spring—because the blush shade is popular again this season.
And, regardless of your stance on the color pink, the lighter shades of blush can be worked into your wardrobe as a neutral color to match with practically everything.
Belle by Sigerson Morrison Captoe Ballet Flats, $225, Bloomingdales.
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
Kors Michael Kors Erin, $150, Zappos.
Photo credit: Zappos
Pour La Victoria Erna Ballet Flats, $136. Bloomingdales.
Photo gredit: Bloomingdales
Enzo Angiolini Ceron Ballet Flats, $89, Bloomingdales.
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
Corso Como Festive Ballet Flats, $59.99, Bloomingdales and Zappos.
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
Cap toe patent ballet flats, $39.99, Gap.
Photo credit: Gap
January 4th, 2011 §
By: Cori Sue
Unless you’ve been hiding under a proverbial fashion rock, you may have noticed the preponderance of a certain neutral, camel, popping up in stores, runways, and sidewalks since Fall. Fall fashion was all about a return to classic, no-fuss styles (with the notable exception of sequins, which were everywhere), and classic camel fit the bill. Camel was dubbed the fashion color for the fall and winter—a perfect neutral that complements everything in your wardrobe. Some of my favorite go-to fashion folk,
Net-a-Porter,
Shop Bop, and
Saks Fifth Avenue created camel online shops where you can snag shirts, skirts, coats, accessories and more in this season’s it color. (Below, the Michael Kors look that launched our addiction.)
Photo credit: Michael Kors
Camel is more than boring old khaki—it’s warm, rich, classy, and classic. You can add a piece to your wardrobe to wear now, and we guarantee it’ll still be in your closet years down the road. So, if you’re looking for some much-needed respite from the daily grind (how hard was it to get out of bed this morning?), we suggest some online shopping. (There’s lots on sale!) Here are the camel pieces I’d love to add to my wardrobe.
A classic, knee-length wool coat that instantly makes you feel both warm and chic like those from DVF (sale-$486), J.Crew ($325), Michael Kors ($250), and Ann Taylor (sale-$199).
Photo credit: DVF
A soft cardigan—whether a short and classic Jackie O style from Ann Taylor ($59.50) and Gap (sale-$39) or a long boyfriend cardigan with preppy touches like elbow patches and leather knob buttons from Rugby (sale-$99).
Photo credit: Rugby
A seasonless utility skirt like this runway piece by Derek Lam (on sale but still far our of our price range at $525) or a slightly more affordable version by Tracy Reese ($245). (Hey, we call it the Lust List for a reason.)
Photo credit: Shop Bop
And, of course, because we Bitches love dresses, a classic camel sheath like those by Catherine Malandrino ($475), DVF ($385) and Milly (sale-$172) to dress up or down for the office or for a romantic dinner for two.
Photo credit: Shop Bop
May 18th, 2010 §
By: Cori Sue
I don’t wear a watch. Who does, these days? Over the past few years, I’ve gathered that men’s leather watches are all the rage for chic European women. Although my search for the perfect oversized leather watch continues, I’ve come across a new trend: gold-toned oversized watches. And, after deep consideration, I’ve decided they’re a great investment. They go with everything, you will look in-style yet professional, and some attractive stranger may just ask you for the time!
I digress. Below, our selections.
For starters, Michael Kors has about a dozen different styles of gold-toned watches available right now, and they are all super cute. Men’s Oversized Watch, Michael Kors, $250, Shop Bop.
Photo credit: Shop Bop
Blade Watch, Marc by Marc Jacobs, $225, Shop Bop
Photo credit: Shop Bop
Oversized Watch, Freelook, $250, Shop Bop
Photo credit: Shop Bop
HRH Goldplated Bracelet Watch, Juicy Couture, $250, Saks Fifth Avenue
Photo credit: Saks Fifth Avenue
May 13th, 2010 §
By: Cori Sue
Oh, the espadrille, my footwear staple for many years, you have finally returned to me. After a brief (say, 2 year) stint on the out list, the espadrille is in again. (Thank goodness I saved all of mine!) This spring, they’ve jazzed up the espadrille with stripes, flowers, tribal motifs, and even snakeskin. Because, we’re so over boring footwear.
The espadrille: comfy, sexy, springy all in one straw-laden wedge.
Kate Spade Candice, $225, Zappos
Photo credit: Zappos
Kate Spade Blooming, $225, Zappos
Photo credit: Zappos
Franco Sarto Cool, $89, Zappos
Photo credit: Zappos
Franco Sarto Creed, $89, Zappos
Photo credit: Zappos
And, if you’re looking for a safe, trend-free bet, go with MICHAEL Michael Kors Juniper Espadrille ($140, Zappos) in a lovely light gold that will go with everything in your closet.
Photo credit: Zappos
April 15th, 2010 §
By: Cori Sue
I fell in love with Charleston years ago, on my first visit while in college. A mere four-hour drive from Chapel Hill, Charleston was the perfect place for a quick weekend getaway– lovely southern charm, beaches, fun bars, delicious seafood restaurants, and, most importantly, great shopping. So, when I was there this weekend I decided to put together a shopping guide for you, lovely readers, should you choose to head South to the land of croakies, boat shoes, palmettos, and Lily Pulitzer.
Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
Downtown Charleston centers around King and Market Streets. King Street has all your typical shopping– Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, Anne Taylor, Victoria’s Secret, BCBG Max Azria, JCrew– along with a few high end options– Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vuitton and BCBG Max Azria. But, in the days of free-overnight-shipping -is-a-mouse-click-away, I seek not a mall brand but instead a unique boutique where I can pick up something special.
Jewelry
Hand Picked, Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
In the way of boutiques, Charleston, a true southern belle, does shoes and jewelry best. There are a variety of boutiques that sell all, or mostly, costume jewelry at afforable prices. Granted, some of it can be kitchy and tacky, but there are plenty of very cute, very affordable baubles to complement, or accent any outfit in your closet. And, of course, we are in Charleston, so each store has a section dedicated solely to pearls.
Hand Picked, Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
My three favorites are: Hand Picked, 333 King Street; Vanity Accessory Boutique, 370 King Street; and Willy Jay’s, 300 King Street. (Willy Jay’s also sells clothing but I strongly suggest you avoidit. But! Their statement earring selection is wonderful!)
Vanity. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
All three stores have dozens-nay-hundreds of jewels– statement necklaces, bracelets, earrings of all shapes, colors, sizes, and forms. They also offer great gifts and stocking stuffers that Southern boutiques do so well– hostess napkins, purse hooks, sunglass cases, and such.
Shoes
Bob Ellis Shoes. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
In the way of shoes, Bob Ellis Shoes is a Charleston shopping institution (in business for more than 55 years) and a shoe lover’s dream. The boutique, located at 332 King Street, carries men’s and women’s shoes as well as handbags and has a serious selection of the big three— Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and Jimmy Choo. Their selection is vast– with all types of heel heights, sizes, styles, and widths (for those with narrow or fat feet)– and they have plenty of cute shoes that we writers/”normal people” can afford.
Shooz. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
Down the road, Shooz, 317 King Street, caters more to the twenty-something, trendier shoe shopper. The precious boutique’s carries predominantly cute heels and flats by Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Sam Edelman, Butter– along with a wide selection of Jack Rogers and cowboy boots (necessities for the Southern collegiate). Their selection is well thought-out, well laid-out and well-priced.
Clothing
As far as clothing boutiques, Luna is my happy place. A great boutique with a few locations on the Southeast — Charleston, Charlotte, Atlanta, and (yay!) Bethesda– the store is the perfect place to pick up a cocktail dress, sundress, great pair of designer jeans or a new set of gold statement earrings. Brands include– Trina Turk, Milly, Hype, Hudson, William Raste, Paige, and much, much more. Down the road, Biton, at 275 King Street, is a little daunting with its hard-core metro mannequins in Ed Hardy-esque “going out” attire. Despite this intimidation, upon entering, I was suprised to find a great selection of designer jeans, Missoni dresses, Marc Jacobs bags, and Bond No. 9 perfume. However, everything else in the store was ghastly.
Palm Avenue. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
Lastly, no shopping trip would be complete without a trip to Palm Avenue, a Lily Pulitzer signature boutique. Yes, Lily Pulitzer. (When in Rome…) While most of their prints (such as this one) make many fashionista turn and run in horror (see below), I find a select few of their sundresses, such as this pink shift with gold embroidery, to be great “brunch dresses.”
Palm Avenue. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
However, I head to Palm Avenue not for the Lily but for the selection of Trina Turk, Calypso, Matty M, and occassionally Milly dresses located near the back of the store. (I lusted after many). The store is also great for gifts– a dress for my new baby niece or a pair of brightly colored reading glasses for my aunt in South Florida.
Gifts and Decor
Christophe Chocolatier. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
Also in the way of gifts, it’s not a bad idea to bring some chocolates from Christophe Chocolatier, , located at 363 1/2 King Street, home with you to those you left behind. Owned by a French chocolatier and his wife, Christophe’s artisan chocolates are as lovely as they are delicious.
Christophe Chocolatier. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
Chocolate high heels, Eiffel towers and bunnies give way to truffles and a wide selection of hand-painted chocolates whose bold flavors include Earl Grey Tea, Strawberry Marshmellow, Mango Rum, and many more.We sampled were caramel-sea salt, 72% dark chocolate, coffee, and praline (divine).
Pierre Deux. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
The loveliest interior decor shop is Pierre Deux, located at 279 King Street. The store is decidedly “French country” with lots and lots of toile. I loved the vanities, arm chairs and footed, striped couches. Even if toile couches aren’t your cup of tea, Pierre Deux is a great store just for browsing.
Pierre Deux. Photo credit: Cori Sue Morris
April 12th, 2010 §
By: Cori Sue
Not to take rain on your parade, but, I tend to equate spring on the East Coast with rain. Having lived in Florida, North Carolina and D.C., I have come to the conclusion it rains, a lot, February through May. As such, I have worked out some necessary essentials to remain fashionable despite the downpour.
The number one spring essential: the trench. Perfect for rain or shine, the trench is light-weight, making it perfect for spring. Requirements for the perfect trench: khaki/neutral in color (it goes with everything), long enough to go over skirts and dresses (short ones will hit at an awkward spot), belted (to accentuate the waist), and a durable, quality material (you want your trench to look classy and lasting, not cheap and trendy).
The (sigh) unattainable mecca of trenches, by Burberry ($795, Nordstrom, Burberry, Bloomingdales).
Photo credit: Nordstrom
This season Tory Burch did a great take on the classic coat. ($495, Bloomingdales or Tory Burch).
Photo credit: Bloomingdales
Michael Kors, synonymous with classic, affordable American-chic, is always a safe bet. ($199, Michael Kors).
Photo credit: Michael Kors
And, the wild card: Anthropologie‘s Two Paths Trench updates the traditional trench by adding tiers. ($188, Anthropologie).
Photo credit: Anthropologie
Happy Shopping!
